Annapurna Circuit: The classic trek in the Annapurna region is the Annapurna Circuit. The trek encircles the famous Annapurna massif passing through sub-tropical plains in the Himalayan foothills, trans-Himalayan Manang and then entering Mustang Valley crossing the highest elevation Thorang – La pass ( 5416m ). The trail then joins the Kali Gandaki river that flows through the deepest gorge on earth.

The trek may take 15 to 22 days starting in Kathmandu and finishing in Pokhara. An entry permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area Project ( ACAP ) is needed for the trek. Most trekkers start the trek by taking bus to Besisahar that takes about 6-8 hours from Kathmandu.

The trek from Besisahar follows the partly constructed road as far as small market town of Kudhi. The first few days of the trek follow the Marshyangdi river. The feature of this section of the trek is the lush green valley inhabited by Gurungs along with sizeable number of other ethnic groups. The trekkers may be enthralled by countless high water falls that cascade into main river while the skyline is dominated by the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges.

From Manang the trail goes uphill through high alpine pastures until the small teahouses at Thorang Phedi. The following day trip is towards Thorang La pass the highest elevation en route. From Thorang pass starts the long descent up to Muktinath for night stay. There are good number of teahouses at Muktinath as the place being a very popular pilgrimage for both Hindu and Buddhist. From Muktinath you can see the skyline to the west dominated by Dhaulagiri range while to the north can be seen arid hills of Upper Mustang. The trail leads down through the villages of Jharkot and Eklebhati inhabited by the people of Tibetan stock and finally reaches the banks of Kali Gandaki river. The Kali Gandaki banks are inhabited by Thakali people.

Grade: Moderate to Adventurous
Mode of operation: Tea house and camping
Season:  Mar, Apr, May, early Jun, late Sep, Oct, Nov