Day 01Arrival in Kathmandu (1,365 m)
Depending on how you plan to arrive at Kathmandu, we will arrange for you to arrive at your hotel.
If you're flying into Tribhuvan International Airport, you'll be greeted by our representative holding an "Everest Sherpa Expedition" sign at the opposite railing of the terminal gates. You'll then be transferred to your hotel in Thamel.
A program briefing with your group will be held in the evening. Late arrivals will have their briefing and group meeting at breakfast the following morning.
- Accommodation: Hotel Manaslu, Deluxe Heritage & Boutique Hotel 4 star
- Meals: Welcome Dinner
- Transportation: Private Transfer
- Driving Duration: 35 minutes
Day 02Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760 m). Change vehicle and drive to Jagat (1,300 m)
The Annapurna Circuit trek begins with a scenic drive following the Trishuli River, winding through valleys and alongside its banks, offering glimpses of rural Nepali life. From Dumre, the track follows the Marsyangdi River to Besisahar (760m), a small town and the capital of Lamjung district.
From Besisahar, the journey continues with a change of vehicle, for the onward drive to Jagat. This leg of the journey is a bit challenging, as the road becomes rougher and steeper. The drive continues alongside the Marsyangdi River, crossing suspension bridges and navigating hairpin bends. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Jagat
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Transportation: Private Transfer
- Drive: Kathmandu to Besisahar (175 km; 5-6 hrs)
- Drive: Besisahar to Jagat (34 km; 2.5 hours)
Day 03Drive from Jagat to Danakyu (2,300 m) & trek to Chame (2,610 m)
You'll continue the drive on the dirt road which follows the Marsyangdi River and pass through the villages of Chyamche, Tal, Dharapani, and Bagarchap, to arrive at Danakyu. While this was once a promising trekking trail, recent road construction makes driving the preferred option.
After a short rest, you'll begin trekking the Annapurna Circuit. Starting in the verdant lower valleys, the trail quickly crosses the Danakyu River and ascends through a mixed forest of pine, rhododendron, and siris trees, alive with birdsong, to Timang. This village offers 360-degree views of mighty Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest mountain, and the Annapurna range.
As you climb, the valley narrows and steepens, and the landscape becomes more alpine. The path winds up rocky inclines and across swaying suspension bridges, leading to Koto, a picturesque village nestled below Annapurna III. A short 30-minute walk brings you to the charming village of Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. Nestled amidst cliffs and peaks, Chame offers stunning views of Annapurna II (7,937 meters) and Lamjung Himal (6,983 meters), while the roaring Marsyangdi River flows below.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Chame
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Transportation: Private Transfer
- Drive Distance: 20.5 km
- Driving Time: 1 hr
- Trekking Distance: 12 km
- Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
Day 04Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)
After a delicious breakfast with a breathtaking view of Lamjung Himal, the day's trek offers constant visual treats. Snow-capped peaks tower over the turquoise Marsyangdi River and you'll be surrounded by fragrant pine forests. The dramatic shift in landscape with increasing altitude becomes truly apparent.
The trail then passes through Bhratang, a charming village known for its apple orchards, thriving even in the winter due to the unique climate and soil. After Bhratang the valley's shape transitions from V-shaped to U-shaped, revealing the majestic Annapurna range.
Continuing along the Marsyangdi River, the trail ascends to Dhukur Pokhari, boasting an iconic view of Paungda Danda (Swarga Dwari or "gateway to heaven"). This smooth, slate rock face, also called the Great Wall of Pisang, was formed by an ancient lakebed uplifted during the Himalayas' formation. Locals believe it's a passage to the afterlife.
After crossing a suspension bridge, the trail gradually climbs to Upper Pisang, where you can explore a newly constructed gompa and a 250-year-old one. The crisp mountain air and stunning vistas, while invigorating, can make breathing a bit challenging at times.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Upper Pisang
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Trek Time: 6-7 hours
- Distance: 14.5 km
Day 05Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540 m) via Ngwal (3,660 m)
Weather permitting, you'll likely wake to stunning views of Lamjung Himal and Tilicho Peak, with the Annapurna range stretching out below.
This area, north of Upper Pisang, lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna range, a dry, almost desert-like landscape known as the Trans-Himalaya.
From Upper Pisang, two trails exist—one north, one south of the Marsyangdi River-rejoining at Mungji. For superior mountain vistas, you'll take the northern route. The initial climb to Ghyaru is steep and challenging, but the close-up views of towering peaks make it worthwhile. A beautiful lake along the way adds to the experience.
The trail from Ghyaru to Ngwal briefly connects with a dirt road, but the stretch is short. Beyond Ngwal, the landscape dramatically transforms, revealing massive rock formations and a desert-like environment.
From Mungji, the trail continues past the charming, partially hidden village of Braga (3475m) to nearby Manang (3500m).
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Manang
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Trek Time: 8-9 hours
- Distance: 19 km
Day 06Acclimatization Day at Manang - Excursion to Ice Lake (4,610 m)
Manang offers various acclimatization hikes, but the challenging trek to Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) is arguably the most rewarding. The demanding climb is compensated by spectacular panoramic views.
The hike begins by returning to Braga and then taking a side trail behind the village stupa. This path ascends above Braga, opening up sweeping vistas of the mountains across the valley. The steep trail continues upward, reaching the Lower Ice Lake approximately 3.5 hours from Braga.
After a break and lunch, the final ascent leads to the Upper Ice Lake. A small stupa on the lake's shore offers a welcome surprise and reflects the resilience of the local people. The return journey follows the same trail back to Manang.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Manang
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Trek Time: 7-8 hours
- Distance: 16 km
Day 07Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,018 m)
After leaving Manang, the last point accessible by jeep on the Annapurna Circuit, you will continue towards Ghusang and ultimately Yak Kharka. While relatively short, this hike offers increasing rewards as you approach the towering mountains.
The initial climb to Ghusang involves a challenging 400m ascent. However, the remaining trek to Yak Kharka is considerably easier, gaining approximately 250m over about 2.5 hours.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Yak Kharka
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Trek Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: 11 km
Day 08Trek from Yak Kharka to Phedi (4,450)
The trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi, a distance of approximately 6.5 km, typically takes about three hours. This relatively short hike is intentionally designed to allow you to properly prepare and rest before the challenging crossing of Thorung La to Mustang.
Although Thorung La is often considered a beginner-friendly trek in Nepal, proper preparation is still crucial. A key guideline is to ascend no more than 500 meters in elevation per day for overnight stays. While this means an earlier start the following day compared to those who overnight at Thorung High Camp (4,850 m), you'll benefit from improved sleep quality at the lower altitude of Thorung Phedi.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Thorung Phedi
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Trek Time: 2-3 hours
- Distance: 6.5 km
Day 09Thorung La Pass: Trek from Phedi to Ranipauwa village (3,700 m) via Thorung La (5,416m)
An early start with a quick breakfast and tea prepares you for the challenging yet rewarding trek across Thorung La pass. This is one of the most demanding days, but the effort is more than compensated by the incredible views.
Reaching the pass summit rewards you with breathtaking panoramic vistas. The Mustang and Kaligandaki valleys unfold below, framed by a tapestry of snow-capped peaks stretching towards the Tibetan plateau.
Across the pass, the trail traverses a long, grassy slope, switch backing down towards lower Mustang and the peaceful village of Ranipauwa. Just before the village lies Muktinath, a significant pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus, nestled amidst rugged mountains and offering unparalleled views of Dhaulagiri, the world's seventh-highest peak.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Ranipauwa
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Trek Time: 8-9 hours
- Distance: 15 km
Day 10Morning excursion to Muktinath Temple (3,760 m), and continue to Lupra (2800m; 4-5 hrs)
Drive from Lupra to Marpha (2,670 m - 32 km; 1hr)
If you didn't visit Muktinath Temple and Tsechen Kunga Choeling Gompa previous day, we recommend a pre-breakfast trip this morning. You can also explore the nearby Jwala Mai Temple, known for its eternal flame burning within the temple complex. Jwala Mai is believed to be the only place on Earth where all five elements—fire, water, sky, earth, and air—are present together.
After breakfast, you’ll bypass the busy dusty road out of Jomsom to instead visit one of the gems in the Lower Mustang Region.
Tucked away in the Panda Khola gorge, between Kagbeni and Jomsom, lies the secluded village of Lupra. Off the beaten path of the popular Mustang and Annapurna Circuit trails, Lupra offers a tranquil experience, free from crowds. A highlight here is the ancient Bon Po monastery, a rare glimpse into a pre-Buddhist tradition seldom seen in Upper Mustang and the Dolpo region. After exploring Lupra and immersing yourself in its unique atmosphere, you’ll drive along the Kali Gandaki River to Marpha, a beautiful village famous for its apple orchards.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Marpha
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Trekking Distance: 20 km
- Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
- Transportation: Private Transfer
- Drive Distance: 32 km
- Driving Time: 1.5 hr
Day 11Trek from Marpha to Kalopani
Today’s hike offers a more secluded experience compared to the bustling Annapurna Circuit highway. The route from Marpha to Kalopani follows a historic, mostly forgotten section of the ancient Silk Road, which once connected India to Tibet and China via the Kali Gandaki gorge. Before a motor road was built to Jomsom, trekkers on both the Annapurna Circuit and Upper Mustang treks regularly traversed this path.
The trail itself is a constant up and down, dipping to the riverbed and then climbing through a mixed forest of pine, sisau, and rhododendron trees. It occasionally intersects the motor road before returning to the riverbank. Keep an eye out for ammonites – fossilized shells –found in the riverbed.
Kalopani, once a bustling hub during peak trekking season, is now a quiet and often overlooked village. You’ll likely find yourself with the lodge almost entirely to yourself, enjoying unparalleled views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Kalopani
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Trekking Distance: 20 km
- Trekking Time: 6 hours
Day 12Drive from Kalopani to Tatopani hot spring (1,190 m), and trek to Shikha (1,935 m)
After breakfast, a jeep ride takes you to Tatopani, passing through Lete, Dhaiku, and Ghasa. After a short rest, the trek resumes, briefly following the road before crossing the Kali Gandaki River to reach the ACAP permit checkpoint. From there, the trail climbs steeply through a forest, then winds past scattered houses and terraced fields until it rejoins the road.
The route then gently follows the motor able road to Ghara. From Ghara, a well-marked hiking trail leads to Shikha, a charming village with terraced farms and small houses overlooking the valley. Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South provide a stunning backdrop on the horizon.
- Accommodation: Local Lodge at Shikha
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Transportation: Private Transfer
- Drive Distance: 22 km
- Driving Time: 1 hr
- Trekking Distance: 9 km
- Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
Day 13Trek from Shikha to Mohare Danda (3,313 m)
From Shikha, the trail ascends steeply, a seemingly endless staircase leading to Ghorepani (2,750 m).
From Ghorepani, you'll hike for about 45 minutes along the Poon Hill trail, enjoying magnificent views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. You'll then turn left, entering a rhododendron forest. The trail gently undulates along the ridge's steep, grassy paths, eventually reaching Mohare Danda where you’ll stay overnight for a splendid sunrise and sunset view over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs.
- Accommodation: Home stay at Mohare Danda
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Trek Time: 6-7 hours
- Distance: 11.5 km
Day 14Trek from Mohare Danda to Lespar (2,100 m)
It’s all downhill from here. Continuing on the Mohare Danda ridge, you will follow the trail through the forest to arrive at Hampal Pass (2,990 m), and descend via a stone staircase to arrive at Lespar.
- Accommodation: Home stay at Lespar
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Trek Time: 5 hours
- Distance: 9 km
Day 15Trek from Lespar to Patichaur (1,094 m), and drive to Pokhara
The trek from Lespar to Patichaur is the final day for your Annapurna Round Trek. Bidding farewell to the mountains you’ve called home for the last 14 days, you’ll finally arrive back to “civilization” in Pokhara.
The trail out of Lespar descends all the way to Patichaur with some slight undulations. The trek can be tiring, primarily as you’re hiking in lower elevation, but is rewarding in terms of the views of terraced fields and far off mountains.
From Patichaur, you’ll drive to Pokhara where you’ll have the rest of the evening by yourself to explore.
- Accommodation: Lakeside Hotel in Pokhara
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
- Trekking Distance: 12 km
- Trekking Time: 4.5 hours
- Transportation: Private Transfer
- Drive Distance: 48 km
- Driving Time: 2-3 hours
Day 16Flight Pokhara to Kathmandu
After a leisurely morning in Pokhara, you will fly back to Kathmandu in late afternoon.
The whole day is free for you to explore the sights and the sounds of the city.
- Accommodation: Hotel Manaslu, Deluxe Heritage & Boutique Hotel 4 star
- Meals: Breakfast
- Pokhara - Kathmandu Flight Duration: 25 min
- Transportation: Private Transfer
- Driving Duration: 35 minutes
Day 17Free day in Kathmandu
You’ve the full day at leisure in Kathmandu. In the evening, we’ll gather together with your guide to for a farewell dinner celebrating your trip in Nepal.
- Accommodation: Hotel Manaslu, Deluxe Heritage & Boutique Hotel 4 star
- Meals: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
Day 18End of Trip
Your adventure in Nepal ends today.
Based on your flight schedule, we will provide a transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. If you have a later flight, you can spend some extra time exploring Kathmandu’s cultural heritage.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Transportation: Private Transfer
- Driving Duration: 35 minutes
Important Note: The itinerary presented above is a suggested plan and can be customized according to your preferences. At Everest Sherpa Expedition, we understand that every adventurer is unique. If you have specific needs or wants, or if you wish to modify the number of days and explore different destinations, our team is here to help. We are committed to creating the best possible experience for you. Contact us to discuss your ideas and embark on a personalized adventure.
