AITO: The Association of Independent Tour Operators
Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna Circuit Overview

This is the classic Annapurna Circuit trek crossing the high pass of Thorong La at 5,416m. On this Annapurna trek, we follow the Kali Gandaki valley then ascend to the viewpoint at Poon Hill.

Trekking Annapurna Circuit offers a cross-section of Nepal Himalaya. The mountain views include Lamjung, Himalchuli, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machapuchare. The Annapurna Circuit walk starts several hours driving beyond Besishar town at the village of Jagat. You hike through Gurung villages surrounded by terraced fields in Marsyangdi valley. The trail enters the pine forest and higher up into the alpine zone around Annapurna. After Pisang village, we enter a Buddhist region. You will see colourful prayer flags, mani walls, and monasteries along the way. We spend three nights at Manang for essential acclimatisation. During the days we explore the area around Manang walking to the Ice Lake and Khangsar village. The highest point is the day crossing the Thorung La pass at an altitude of 5,416m. After crossing the pass you enter an arid landscape in the Himalayan rain shadow. We walk down the Kali Gandaki gorge located between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs. Annapurna Circuit hike is a lodge-based where you stay in the local tea houses along the way.
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