Annapurna Circuit with Poon Hill Trek

Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. As you land in the valley, you will immediately notice the smell of ancient monuments, sculptures, artistic temples, and magnificent art.

If you come by air, our staff will wait for you outside of the airport terminal. He/she stands there by your nameplate and the company name. They will greet and warmly receive you. Then they will support you with transportation to transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.

Take a rest and gather the energy to walk on the trails. Also, if you have some personal gear to buy, you can go shopping in Thamel in the evening. You will spend the night in a hotel.

In the sightseeing tour, we will cover some UNESCO-listed world heritage sites in Kathmandu like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. The sightseeing tour shall be very explorative and informative. One can get some unique insights into the art, culture, and history of Nepal. Kathmandu Durbar Square depicts Nepal’s rich history and the subtle taste of Malla kings in terms of art and architecture.

Swayambhunath stupa and Boudhanath stupa reflect the richness of the Buddhism religion prevalent in Nepal, and the Pashupatinath temple is a center for all the Hindu people worldwide. Nepal is a country with Hindu people dominance. Hence, the temple is honored with much respect and pride.

At last, we head to Boudhanath stupa, a colossal stupa put on a three-layered Mandela. We visit all these dazzling heritage goals and end our day with a drive back to your hotel. Tonight, spend your time a hotel in Kathmandu.

After breakfast at the hotel, the guide will pick you up for a drive to Besisahar. We drive to the location by private vehicle along the route of the Prithvi Highway.

During your drive, the Trishuli River will accompany you for hours. Then the pleasing beauty of hills, mountains, farmland, bridges, fruit sellers, and quiet villages will be there with you during the other hours of driving. After 6-7 hours of driving, we will reach Besisahar.

From Besisahar, we head to Jagat, the beginning point of our Annapurna Circuit Trek. Jagat is a beautiful place nestled between the lofty peaks of Annapurna and Manaslu. We take around 8–9 hours to reach Jagat from Kathmandu, covering a distance of 185 km approx.

When we arrive at our destination, our guide will take us to your guesthouse. Freshen up, make yourself comfortable and collect energy for trekking. Getting excited for the days to come, we will spend our nights there with a cozy, warm sleep.

Then, we continue our drive to Dharapani at a height of 1960 m. The route passes through impressive wide valleys. For today, we will stay at the guest house in Dharapani and spend the night there.

After a local morning meal, we resume our Annapurna Circuit Trek route. Tie up your shoelaces and get ready for a long trekking day. Today, we cover 17 km of the journey and climb over 700 m of altitude.

We pass through beautiful villages such as Bagarchhap, Danakyu, Timang, Thanchok, and Koto. Get along with the presence of subtropical forests, arid landscapes, bizarre rock formations, and majestic panoramas of the great Himalayas.

First, we hike for 2 hours to reach Timang at an altitude of 2750 m. Enjoy the beauty of nature as we pass through the Marshyangdi river valley. From Timang, we walk for 1 hour and 40 minutes to Koto, at a height of 2600 m.

Finally, with outstanding views of Mt. Manaslu (8156m) and Ngadi Chuli (also known as Peak 29), we reach Chame in about an hour. Chame is the administrative headquarters of Manang District, rising at an altitude of 2670 m. We relax and enjoy our food in the guesthouse and spend the night there.

Today's major highlights are the huge apple orchard, Paungda Danda rock, majestic mountain vistas, prayer wheels, and deep pine forests.

First, the day begins in a village, past prayer wheels into the forest route. We hike under the Lamjung Himal along the vertical rocks of the Marsyandi valley near the Paunda Danda Rock. The rock towers over 1500 m. Locals refer to it as the "Gateway to Heaven."

Following these breathtaking views, we set out on a four-hour hike to lower Pisang. The route is simple and easy compared to other days. Then, traveling through the pine forest, we go to Upper Pisang. We take some rest, enjoy the views, and walk back and stay at the guesthouse. Spend the night at the lodge under the beautiful peaks.

The entire Annapurna Circuit trekking route we will walk today is decorated with natural and cultural heritage. First, we move to Ghyaru at an altitude of 3,730 m. It takes around 2 hours. As we move through, you can feel the influence of the Tibetans and Buddhists. We pass through green forests, and beautiful mani walls with stone tablets inscribed with mantras.

After that, we trek to Ngawal, which takes us around 1 hour and 35 minutes. The path climbs upward at a much steadier incline. From there, we tumble down to the valley, crossing the forest for 2 hours to Braga. We will spend some time in Braga. There are stupas and a beautiful monastery. After we explore Braga, we walk for half an hour to reach Manang, our last point for today.

Today, there's the option of two routes to follow from Pisang to Manang: the southern route and the northern route. The southern trail is easier and less demanding than the northern trail.

You will choose to go in any of these ways. Also remember, our guide can use any route depending on the present situation over there. Spend the night in Manang at a comfortable local hotel.

Day 7 is our acclimatization day or rest day. This is a rest day to adapt to the local changing environment. If you are interested, we will do a few days’ walks. Some possibilities include hiking to Praken Gompa. Another option is to attempt a challenging hike to Ice Lake (4500m). Also, the guide will arrange some small hikes in the afternoon.

There are many guest houses, coffee shops, hotels, and restaurants in Manang. Today, enjoy small hikes, and food, and talk to local people to get to know their lifestyle. If you want to buy some gear, you can do so as there are many small shops. Relish your day and watch the sunset from your residence in the evening.

From Manang, we start our journey to Yak Kharka. We pass tall trees on our way toward the alpine grass and junipers. We pass through villages to grassy meadows where horses and yaks graze.

From Manang, we reach Ghunsang, which takes around 2 hours. We enjoy views of snowy mountains, the river meandering through the valley, and a small lake.

Soon you will be ahead of the Firs and junipers. Also, there are no vehicles or village settlements, so you just have clear views of the stunning peaks all around you. During the day, you will get to know Tibetan Buddhism and its presence on the route. There are no longer any day walks for today.

So, walking slowly, we will climb to Yak Kharka (Yak Huts). It is the yak herders' place. They bring their yaks or other animals to graze in the grassy meadows. Tonight, sleep comfortably at local lodgings. Drink plenty of water at regular intervals. From today onwards, you may feel a sign of high altitude, so if you see any symptoms, explain them to your guide.

This is another short day of trekking on the Annapurna Circuit Route. It also aids in acclimatization. First, we hike to Ledar, then to Deurali Tea House, and finally to Thorong Phedi.

We begin our journey in Yak Kharka, where we begin our journey in Yak Kharka.To Deurali Tea House, passing through Jarang Khola and similar views of mountains, bridges, grassland, and rivers. As we hike further, the scenery becomes wider and more beautiful.

After 3–4 hours of walking, we reach Thorang Phedi at an altitude of 4,600 m. "Phedi" means base in English. Thus, Thorang Phedi is the base of the Thorang La Pass, our tomorrow's goal. If you are lucky enough, we may glimpse blue sheep, snow leopards, Lammergeyers, and griffons.

Tonight, we will spend the night at a lodge.

Today we rise early and begin our Annapurna Circuit Trekking journey. We hike from Thorong Phedi to High Camp, then cross the two Thorong-La Passes and hike to Muktinath to spend the night. Thus, you may feel tough as you pass through strong winds in the upper region.

First, we walk to the high camp, which takes around 50 minutes. It's a kilometer of uphill walking. From the high camp, we walk to the transit point at Thorang La Pass, the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

The pass reveals views of snowy mountains extending into the Tibetan territory. At the summit, you see prayer flags and congratulatory messages. Appreciate your achievements so far and enjoy the beauty of the mountains. Take some pictures and celebrate the success with your group members.

We begin our trek to Muktinath after spending some time at the mountain pass. The route is full of snow, mud, and loose gravel. The road is very slippery in places, so keep your walk slow and balanced. We have views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and the heavily glaciated peak of Khatungkang to motivate you and keep your focus on the trails.

We arrived at Muktinath (3800 m) after five hours of walking. This is a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The major attractions of the site are the Jwalamai temple, with a spring and an eternal flame, and the 108 water spouts that pour holy water. Every year, over 1,000 disciples come to visit this place. Enjoy the religious site, and tonight we will spend our time at a hotel.

Today, we start our journey by passing through ancient caves and traversing through Kagbeni village in the Kali Gandaki valley. The road is gravel and dusty. From Kagbeni, we start our journey to Jomsom, which is a distance of 10 km. Jomsom is a small town in the Himalayas. There is a comprehensive school and a beautiful monastery, along with an entire row of little shops and guesthouses. The place is busy with travelers.

From Jomsom, we cross to Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is the deepest George in the world. You will pass through many authentic villages. The houses are white with wooden window shutters. Finally, we reach Marpha, the land of apples.

After crossing the river and climbing over some massive boulders, we arrive in Kopchepani in 2 hours. Along the route, we drive through small villages and small grasslands. As we pass through green, forested areas, we get a glimpse of the dusty road that notifies us we have reached Kopchepani.

Enjoy some of the surrounding scenery and take pictures and videos of mountains, houses clinging to the green slopes, and waterfalls. Also enjoying the view of the Rupse waterfall streaming down right underneath the dusty track, we drive downhill.

Later, we pass through more populated local villages on our way to Tatopani. It is a beautiful place with gardens, flowers in bloom, and lots of greenery.

After we arrive, we rest in the hotsprings and end our day with a walk around villages.

The trek from Tatopani to Sikha begins with a steep ascent, quickly leaving behind the noise of road construction as it winds through terraced fields and lush greenery. As the trail climbs, trekkers pass through the peaceful village of Guthre, where vibrant flowers and stunning valley view’s offer a brief respite. Continuing uphill, the path leads through the spread-out village of Ghara. The final stretch to Sikha is challenging but rewarding, with panoramic mountain views and the village’s charming houses providing a serene and welcoming end to the day's journey.

After you arrive, you will check-in the teahouse.

After breakfast, we continue our journey, crossing the river and the forest area to Ghorepani. We pass through a small farmhouse and climb stone steps at some points.

Continuing our Annapurna Circuit Trek journey with the views of the surrounding mountains, pockmarked with houses clinging to the slopes, we cross Chitra village.

As the route is long, we stop at least three times for tea or lunch. Today we have to climb some major sections of the hill. If you have any difficulties, explain them to your guide.

We arrive in Ghorepani, the busiest village on the Annapurna Circuit, after 7 hours of walking and climbing. Tonight, spend some quality time at a guest house in Ghorepani.

In the early morning, we continue our classic Annapurna Circuit journey to Poon hill. This is going to be the last trip on the travel package. We will hike through different villages all along the trail, observing the local culture of the people.

This is the shortest trek, taking you to Gurung and Magar villages. The hike is easy, passing through a farm field, a forest of pine and oak, and different species of rhododendron flowers. On the entire journey, you will see panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhare, and many other peaks.

The major attraction of this trip is Poon Hill itself. Enjoy the sunrise view from Poon Hill. Enjoy the sunrise view from Poon Hill. After watching the sunrise from Poonhill, we will then step back to Ghorepani. From there, we travel to Nangethanti, Birethanti and then to Ulleri. Passing through the terraced fields and some well-maintained trails, we reach Ulleri in a few hours.

From Ulleri, we take a Jeep and drive to Pokhara. After you arrive in Pokhara, you can visit the lakeside to enjoy the panoramic views of the lake, hills, and dense surrounding trees.

You'll find many excellent shops and malls around there. Have a look and do some shopping. Tonight, pack your bag and get ready to go to Kathmandu with a relaxing warm sleep at a pleasant hotel in Pokhara.

After breakfast, we drive to Kathmandu via the same route as the Prithvi Highway. Enjoy the last moments of your Annapurna Circuit Trip from the window, with views of green hills and the Trishuli River. Soon, after about 5–6 hours of driving, we arrive in Kathmandu, the starting and ending point of your classic Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Then, the guide will drop you off at your hotel. There are no other programs for today. Thus, either take some rest or visit some places in Kathmandu. You can go shopping around Thamel to buy some gifts from Nepal for your family. Tonight, recollect the trekking memories and have a good time at a magnificent hotel in Kathmandu.

Note: You can also opt out for a flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara. The flight cost will be additional.

It’s an extra day in Kathmandu just for contingency. Sometimes, things may not go as swiftly as intended. Sometimes flight delays/cancellations, poor weather, or ill health can cause a barrier to your journey. Hence, a contingency day on the trip will always be helpful. In case you finished the trek on time, you can use this day for resting or shopping in Kathmandu.

I'm sorry to say that your tour ends today. You will have two options for today: fly home or continue your vacation in Nepal. If you have any plans, please let us know about them.

Our representative will drop you off at the airport 3 hours earlier than your scheduled flight. We hope you had a great time and enjoyed our trip. Thank you and have a safe journey.