Annapurna Circuit Trek with Heritage Highlights

When you reach Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will be present to greet and support you. They will assist you in transferring to the hotel you have booked. Upon check-in at the hotel, you will take a rest and later attend a tour briefing. The rest of the time is for you to unwind and enjoy at your own pace, engaging in personal activities of your choice.

Start your day early to beat the crowds and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the main Kathmandu Durbar Square which is also a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES. As you enter, you'll be greeted by the grandiosity of the ancient palace complex. Take a moment to marvel at the impressive architecture that dates back to the medieval Malla period.

Then, we will proceed to Swayambhunath which is also known as the Monkey Temple, a sacred Buddhist stupa perched atop a hill. Climb the 365-stone steps to reach the stupa and be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Explore the beautiful stupa, pagodas, and shrines, and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance.

Lastly, you will visit Baudhanth Temple. It is also listed on the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES. It is nice to wander around this beautiful stupa and have lunch at one of the rooftop terraces.

In the morning, we will depart for Syange in a private vehicle. The journey will take approximately seven hours as we navigate through winding roads in the hills, making stops for lunch and snacks along the way. As we pass through numerous charming towns nestled amidst lush green hills, rest assured that you will be captivated by the scenic beauty. Once we reach Besisahar, it will take about an hour to reach the picturesque village of Syange. Here, you will be treated to breathtaking views of Mount Annapurna II, Mount Machhapuchhre, and Mount Lamjung, adding to the enchantment of the place.

The journey from Syange village to Dharapani typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, encompassing scenic stops at Jagat, Chyamche, Tal, Kyodo, and Karte (Khotro). As we traverse this path, you'll experience a mix of ascending and descending terrain. However, rest assured that the route is relatively easy and offers stunning natural beauty along the way. Dharapani is nestled at an elevation of 1,860 meters above sea level, providing a picturesque setting for you to enjoy during the journey.

It takes 5 to 6 hours to reach Dharapani from Syange village. You will trek all the way through Jagat, Chyamche, Tal, Kyodo, and Karte (Khotro). Dharapani is situated at an elevation of 1860 meters above sea level. From Syange to Dharapani, the path is going up and down, but it is easy.

Today, the trek begins through a steep, narrow valley, surrounded by forests. You'll witness the stunning Paungda Danda rock face, shaped by glacial erosion. Moving forward, we'll enter the peaceful upper Manang Valley, and continue our ascent to Pisang, a bustling village. Pisang offers a variety of lodges with delightful meals that will challenge your taste buds.

Our journey will now take us towards Manang, following the route via Ngwal or Ghyaru. This path offers breathtaking vistas of the majestic mountains and a stunning panoramic view of the valley. As we continue along the trail, we'll be walking alongside the northern bank of the river, eventually reaching Ngwal. Here, you'll have some free time to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of nature, with opportunities to explore and appreciate its rawest form. Take this chance to fully soak in the awe-inspiring surroundings.

We will spend a day in Manang for rest and acclimatization. If conditions permit, we can partake in a short boating tour at Gangapurna Lake, adding a touch of serenity to our experience. There are also several monasteries scattered around the area, which you can visit to immerse yourself in the local culture and spirituality. Alternatively, you can simply revel in the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Himalayas, enjoying the magnificent views they offer. It is highly advisable to take note of the advice provided by the Himalayan Rescue Association to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay in Manang.

Today's trek will involve crossing a stream and ascending towards Tengi. As you continue your ascent, you'll gradually leave behind the Marsayangdi Valley and arrive at Ghunsang (3950m), a quaint little village. Along the way, you'll pass through scattered forests adorned with barberry, juniper, and rose, adding to the natural beauty of the surroundings. Crossing a sizable stream, you'll eventually reach Yak Kharka (4000m). From there, it's a one-hour walk to reach Ledar, where you can take a well-deserved rest and soak in the tranquility of the area.

As we begin our trek, the trail initially follows the right side of the valley until we cross a suspension bridge. From there, the trail continues on the left side of the valley, leading us to Throung Phedi at an elevation of 5416 meters. From Throung Phedi, we will continue for approximately 1 hour, ascending straight up to reach the High Camp. Throughout the day, you'll be treated to magnificent views of the Throung Peak and other surrounding mountains, adding to the awe-inspiring beauty of the journey.

Crossing through Throung-La 5416m/17764ft world's largest pass Even though the trail ascends steeply. We can see the Dhaulagiri Massif right straight in the west from the pass.

Today, we start our trek early, crossing the Throung-La Pass (5416m/17764ft), the world's largest pass. The steep ascent rewards us with breathtaking views, including the impressive Dhaulagiri Massif. Descending from the pass, we will reach Chirabu village before finally arriving at the revered settlement of Muktinath. Muktinath holds great religious significance and serves as a pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Hindus. Here, you'll encounter Tibetan traders, and holy Sadhus, and witness the rock piles left by visitors seeking blessings for their future lives.

Start your morning by visiting the Muktinath Temple, a significant site for both Hindu and Buddhist religions. Explore the Buddhist Monastery and witness the famous natural gas flame of Muktinath, while enjoying clear views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains. Then, embark on an easy downhill trek to Kagbeni, passing Tibetan-like villages along the way. Take time to discover the Monastery, interact with the locals, and experience the local culture. Finally, head to Jomsom for a flight to Pokhara the next morning.

As per the flight schedule, you will proceed to the airport for your flight to Pokhara, which is approximately a 30-minute journey. While onboard, you'll have the opportunity to admire the scenic mountains and catch glimpses of the Tatopani/Ghorepani trail. Once in Pokhara, check in to your hotel. You have the entire day to explore the city at your leisure. Take a leisurely stroll around the lakeside area and enjoy the charming ambiance. Make the most of your time by boating on Phewa Lake, where you can witness the captivating reflections of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri Mountains on the serene waters.

The Pardi Khola is the outflow from Phewa Lake, and at Devi’s fall, it disappears into a mysterious cavern in the ground, creating magnificent sprays.

It is the sacred cave in Pokhara.

The Museum with history of Mountaineering and more of its attraction.

Today, you will be sightseeing the beautiful Pokhara. The enigmatic David’s fall is a few minutes' drive away. The Pardi Khola is the outflow from Phewa Lake, and at David’s fall, it disappears into a mysterious cavern in the ground, creating magnificent sprays. Another attraction is the Seti Gandaki River, which flows right through the heart of the town. The limestone in the soil gives the river its milky color. At certain spots, the Seti Gandaki runs completely underground. There are a number of Tibetan settlements around Pokhara that sell handicraft goods & Tibetan carpets. Today we will visit David's Waterfall, Gupteswor Mahadev, International Mountain Museum, which is the major attraction for sightseeing in Pokhara.

Begin your day with an early morning drive to Sarangkot, where you'll witness the serene and enchanting sight of the city before sunrise. Prepare to be amazed as the first rays of sunlight gently touch the magnificent backdrop of mountains. From Sarangkot, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and other majestic peaks. Enjoy the tranquil and magical atmosphere of this scenic location.

Pokhara Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist pagoda-style monument on Anadu Hill of the former Pumdi Bhumdi Village Development Committee, in the district of Kaski.

Today, you will start off with an early drive to Sarangkot to capture the tranquil and magical view of the city before sunrise and also to view the first rays of sunlight hitting the mountains in the background. Sarangkot offers panoramic views of the Annapurna, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and other mountains. Thereafter, we will go boating at Fewa Lake and we will hike towards Peace Stupa. Pokhara Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist pagoda-style monument on Anadu Hill of the former Pumdi Bhumdi Village Development Committee, in the district of Kaski. The boat trip crossing Phewa Lake from Pumdi Bhumdi Bay to Phewa Ghat lasts up to half an hour, and it is a good opportunity to enjoy the sight of Himalayan peaks reflecting on the water. It is also a relaxing way to end a hiking day and a panoramic loop at the World Peace Pagoda.

On this day you will have a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, starting from Pokhara after breakfast. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you will be then transferred to your respective hotel and have a rest. In the evening, you can stroll around the downtown area in Thamel.

You’ll be driven to one of the ancient cities inside Kathmandu Valley i.e. Patan Durbar Square for sightseeing. In Patan, you will be visiting other UNESCO World Heritage sites: Krishna Temple and Patan Durbar Square. Later on, visit the Patan Museum.

Then after we will be visiting Bhaktapur, you will be amazed by the architecture, as until today the city has been able to be kept intact in its old form. You can observe the old wood-carved buildings all around Bhaktapur. Explore the surroundings and afterward visit the Nyatapola Temple, one of the biggest temples in Nepal.

While exploring the area, don't miss the opportunity to visit Pottery Square, where you can engage in a pottery-making class using traditional methods. Immerse yourself in the art of pottery as you learn to design your own pot. With guidance, you can shape your creation and even enhance it with intricate patterns and inscriptions. Get hands-on with this ancient craft and unleash your creativity in crafting a unique pottery masterpiece.

Your trip will come to an end today. You will be advised and assisted with your onward travel arrangements and transfer to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport by private transport around 3 hours before your flight schedule and flight back to your home/other travel destination. Have a safe journey onwards.