Pokhara to Annapurna Circuit Trek, Itinerary with drive from Pokhara to Besi Sahar
Trip Overview
The Annapurna Circuit Trek from Pokhara is a rewarding trek that takes you through some of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes in Nepal. The trek starts with a bus ride from Pokhara to Besisahar to Bhulbhule, followed by a trek to Ngadi, Jagat, Dharapani, and Chame. As you climb higher from Chame, the air thins and the scenery transforms into a breathtaking tableau of arid desert-like landscapes. In Manang, you will stay one more day for acclimatization purposes.
Manang is located at 3519 meters above sea level. It’s a popular trekking stopover of trekkers for its stunning Himalayan views, ancient monasteries, and rich cultural heritage. From Manang, you continue trekking to Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi. From Phedi you’ll begin the climb to the highest point of the trek, Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
Thorong La Pass is the crowning jewel of this trek. When you reach the top of the pass you will feel a sense of accomplishment with the Annapurna range as your backdrop that will be indescribable. The pass is a high-altitude thrill, a place where you’re surrounded by a tapestry of peaks that seem to touch the sky, and the wind whispers the secrets of the ancient traders and pilgrims who once used this route. After the top of the pass, you’ll descend to Muktinath and Jomsom before making your way back to Pokhara.
Along the way, you’ll encounter the warm smiles and hospitality of the local Gurung and Thakali people, whose culture and traditions are as rich as the soil beneath their feet. Their teahouses and lodges provide comfort and sustenance, serving up hearty dal bhat that will fuel your journey and warm your soul.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is more than just a hike; it’s a journey of self-discovery, a chance to connect with the majesty of the mountains, and an opportunity to experience the unparalleled beauty of Nepal’s natural and cultural heritage. It’s a tapestry of landscapes, a symphony of sights, sounds, and smells that will leave you humbled and exhilarated in equal measure.
Highlights of Pokhara to Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit trek from Pokhara offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and diverse landscapes. Some major highlights of the trek include:
Thorong La Pass (5,416m): The highest point of the trek, offering stunning views of the Annapurna range and surrounding valleys.
Muktinath: A sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, known for its natural springs and stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.
Pisang Village: A picturesque village with ancient monasteries and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Manang Valley: A scenic valley with lush green forests, sparkling streams, and breathtaking views of the Annapurna range.
Annapurna I (8,091m) and Annapurna II (7,937m): Two of the highest peaks in the Annapurna range, offering spectacular views from various vantage points.
Jomsom: A bustling town with a rich cultural heritage, known for its ancient temples and stunning views of the Mustang Valley.
Chame: A scenic village with a rich cultural heritage, known for its ancient monasteries and stunning views of the Annapurna range.
These highlights offer a mix of stunning natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual significance, making the Annapurna Circuit trek an unforgettable experience.
Itinerary of Pokhara to Annapurna Circuit Trek
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Besisahar (820m). Drive 5 hours. Drive from Besisahar to Bhulbhule (840m). Drive for 1 hour. Trek from Bhulbhule to Ngadi (890m). Walking 1 hour. Overnight stay at Tea House. Meal: Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 2: Trek from Ngadi to Jagat (1300m). Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1860 m). Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 4: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2725m). Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 5: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3190m). Walking 6 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 6: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3500m). Walking 5 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 7: Day in Manang for acclimatization. Explore around Manang. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 8: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4090m). Walking 3/4 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 9: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi (4441m). Walking 4 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 10: Trek from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath via Thorang-la passes (5416m). Walking 7/8 hours. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 11: Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani by local bus. Distance around 64 km. Driving 4/5 hours. In Tatopani, you can visit dip and take a bath at Natural Hot Spring Water on the bank of Kali Gandaki River. Overnight at Tea House. Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. |
Day 12: Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara by local bus. Distance around 100 km. Driving 4/5 hours. Meal: Breakfast & Lunch. |
Excellent Himalaya Trek is a leading trekking operator in Nepal run by local tourism experts and Sherpas who have been organizing the Annapurna Circuit Trek from Pokhara to Pokhara providing the best services. Please contact us by email at [email protected] or WhatsApp at +977 9851203181 for further information about the Annapurna Round Trek from Pokhara and its updated cost.