Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, travelers are warmly welcomed by their guide and driver. After clearing immigration and collecting luggage, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the city, where you can rest, refresh, and recover from your international flight. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, the main tourist hub, or enjoy a traditional Nepali meal at a local restaurant.

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a fascinating city that blends ancient culture with modern life. You’ll notice the bustling markets, colorful temples, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and historic architecture as you walk through its streets. This day is primarily for adjusting to the city’s rhythm, resting, and preparing for your upcoming trekking adventure or sightseeing tour. Your guide will also provide a briefing on the trek ahead, including tips on packing, acclimatization, and local customs. Overnight stay is at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu, offering a convenient base to begin your Nepal journey.

Your day starts early in Kathmandu, where the city slowly wakes up with the sound of temple bells and morning traffic. After breakfast, you hop into a private vehicle arranged for your Annapurna Circuit Trek, ensuring comfort and enough space for your backpacks. The first stretch heads west on the Prithvi Highway, a well-paved road that follows the roaring Trishuli River. You pass through Kathmandu’s outskirts, rice fields, terraced farmlands, and small settlements like Naubise and Malekhu, famous for its fish. This part of the drive is smooth and scenic, giving you a peaceful start before the adventure kicks in.

After 4–5 hours, you reach Besisahar (760 m)  the official starting point for many trekkers beginning the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Here, you stretch your legs, enjoy lunch, refill water, and prepare for the next adventurous section. From Besisahar onward, the journey changes completely. The road becomes a rugged jeep track carved into cliffs and riverbanks, leading through traditional villages like Khudi, Bhulbhule, and Syange. The drive gets bumpy, but the scenery becomes dramatic — deep gorges, waterfalls pouring directly onto the trail, and the emerald-colored Marshyangdi River flowing beside you.

As you continue toward Jagat, the landscape shifts from low-hill forests to rocky cliffs. The air gets crisper and cooler, and the road narrows, sometimes forcing the jeep to slow down to navigate waterfalls splashing across the track. Finally, you enter Tal, a beautiful village sitting on a wide valley carved by the Marshyangdi River. The moment you arrive, you’ll notice a sudden openness  a flat river plain surrounded by steep cliffs.

You’ll check into a cozy teahouse, sip warm tea, and enjoy the peaceful village vibe. Tal is known for its prayer wheels, stone houses, and relaxing sounds of the river, a perfect place to rest before your trekking journey continues deeper into the Annapurna region.

Your day begins in the peaceful riverside village of Tal, where the trail follows the Marshyangdi River through a wide valley before narrowing into dramatic cliffside paths. You walk past Karte and along rock-carved sections with waterfalls thundering beside you, eventually reaching Dharapani, one of the busiest entry points of the Annapurna Circuit. After a short break and checkpoint registration, the trail continues through Bagarchhap and Danaque, where the landscape shifts from subtropical to tall pine forests and the first major views of Lamjung Himal appear.

From Danaque, the climb turns steep and challenging as you gain serious elevation through dense forests filled with fir and rhododendrons. This final ascent is the toughest part of the day, but every step brings cooler air and wider mountain scenery. After 1.5–2 hours of uphill trekking, you finally reach Timang, beautifully perched at 2,750 m. The village offers a panoramic viewpoint of Manaslu and surrounding peaks, making the long day’s effort incredibly rewarding.

Leaving the peaceful pine-covered village of Timang, you start your day with a gentle walk through cool forests filled with birdsong and crisp mountain air. The trail offers constant views of Manaslu and Lamjung Himal, making the morning incredibly scenic. Soon you reach Thanchok and then continue to Koto, the gateway to Nar Phu Valley. After checking in at the police checkpoint, the trail becomes wider and easier as you approach Chame, the headquarters of Manang District. Chame is lively, filled with bakeries, lodges, and shops, and offers spectacular views of Annapurna II towering straight above the village.

From Chame, the route continues through dense pine forests and across long suspension bridges hanging over the roaring Marshyangdi River. One of the highlights is walking beside a massive natural rock wall called the Paungda Danda, a smooth grey cliff rising like a giant curved shield. As you follow the valley upward, the scenery becomes more alpine with wide-open meadows and crisp winds. Eventually, you reach the tranquil village of Dukhure Pokhari, beautifully set against a backdrop of glowing peaks and surrounded by open plains where yaks graze peacefully. It’s a perfect, quiet stop to unwind after a refreshing and scenic trekking day.

Leaving Dukhure Pokhari, you step into one of the most iconic sections of the Annapurna Circuit wide Himalayan valleys, golden meadows, and towering peaks on both sides. The trail is gentle at first, winding through open grasslands where yaks graze and tiny streams cross your path. As you move higher, the views of Annapurna II, III, and Pisang Peak become more dramatic, especially when the morning sun paints them in soft layers of orange and gold. Soon, you approach Lower Pisang, marked by its scattered houses, mani walls, and fluttering prayer flags. The trail then climbs gradually towards Upper Pisang, which sits higher on the ridge, offering a superb panoramic view of the whole valley below. From here, the views are jaw-dropping massive glaciers, vertical rock faces, and the entire sweep of the Annapurna range right in front of your eyes.

From Upper Pisang, the trail becomes steeper and more rewarding as you begin ascending the famous high route towards Ghyaru. This climb is steady and brings you above the forests into open landscapes filled with juniper bushes and windswept ridges. Every few minutes, you find yourself turning around because the views just keep improving, this part is often described as the most beautiful stretch of the Annapurna Circuit. After reaching the ornate stone village of Ghyaru (filled with ancient houses, Buddhist chortens, and narrow alleys), the path traverses high mountain slopes with constant Himalayan vistas. This undulating trail keeps your legs working, but the scenery is worth every step. Finally, you descend gently into Ngawal, a peaceful village known for its Tibetan-influenced architecture, quiet gompas, and wide views of the Annapurna giants. It’s an ideal overnight stop—high, quiet, and incredibly scenic.

Leaving Ngawal, you immediately feel the calm of the high-altitude desert, wide, quiet valleys with almost no trees and the kind of crisp mountain air that makes every breath feel fresh. The trail starts with a gentle descent through stone houses, old mani walls, and open fields where dzos graze lazily. As you walk, you get sweeping views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the massive valley leading toward Manang. The terrain becomes beautifully open, with sandy trails, scattered juniper shrubs, and long stretches where you can see the path snake far ahead. You pass the tiny settlement of Julu, followed by stretches of old-fashioned barley fields and charming side trails decorated with prayer flags. The trail is mostly easy but keeps you alert with a few rocky sections and mild ups and downs.

As you come closer to the main Manang valley, the scenery becomes even more dramatic. The trail gradually joins the lower route near Braga (Braka) one of the most culturally rich villages in the region. Here, the ancient Braga Monastery stands proudly on a cliff, offering stunning views over the entire valley. Many trekkers stop here for tea while soaking in the quiet Tibetan Buddhist atmosphere. From Braga, the path to Manang is wide and flat, following a pleasant contour along the valley wall. The final stretch is incredibly scenic, with Gangapurna Glacier and its turquoise lake visible on your left. Eventually, you reach Manang, a vibrant Himalayan town filled with bakeries, cozy lodges, traditional stone houses, and endless mountain vistas. The village is lively and culturally rich perfect for rest and acclimatization.

The journey from Manang (3,540m) to Ledar (4,200m) is one of the most important acclimatization steps on the Annapurna Circuit. As you leave the busy and vibrant Manang village behind, the trail gradually climbs above the tree line, giving the landscape a more rugged and alpine feel. You’ll walk through open meadows, dry hillsides, and occasional yak pastures, with the air getting thinner and cooler as you gain altitude. Even though the trail isn’t extremely steep, the higher elevation makes the hike feel more challenging, so steady pacing and regular water breaks are essential.

Along the way, you’ll pass through small settlements like Gunsang, a peaceful spot that offers wonderful views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna. The trail continues to ascend slowly, often hugging the hillside, with dramatic drops on one side and snow-covered peaks towering above. As you move closer to Ledar, you'll notice the vegetation getting sparser, replaced by rocks, shrubs, and hardy alpine plants. Throughout this route, you might come across grazing yaks and blue sheep on the cliffs if you’re lucky.

Once you reach Ledar, you’ll settle into a cozy high-altitude teahouse village with only a few lodges. It’s windy and colder here, but the atmosphere is calm and perfect for resting before the next big push toward Thorong La Pass. Most trekkers spend the afternoon relaxing, hydrating, and preparing for the higher climb to Thorong Phedi the following day. The night sky in Ledar is incredibly clear, making it a great spot for stargazing before you head to bed early.

Leaving the high-altitude village of Ledar (4,200 m), the trail becomes noticeably steeper as you begin your approach toward Thorong La Pass. The morning air is crisp, and every breath reminds you that you’re entering extreme high-altitude territory. The path winds through dry, rocky slopes, open alpine meadows, and a few scattered yak pastures. The landscape is barren yet stunning snow-capped peaks surround you on all sides, including Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Tilicho Peak, and the turquoise waters of small glacial streams reflect the clear morning sky.

As you climb, you’ll notice prayer flags appearing along the trail, fluttering in the wind and guiding trekkers toward the base camp. The path is mostly gradual but can feel challenging because of the high altitude. There are small teahouses and lodges near Thorong Phedi, where you can rest, hydrate, and have a warm meal before attempting the pass the next day. The surrounding mountains create a majestic backdrop, making the effort to reach 4,500 m incredibly rewarding. Once at Thorong Phedi, trekkers often take time to acclimatize, enjoy the crisp mountain air, and watch the sun illuminate the towering Annapurna peaks.

The day starts very early at Thorong Phedi (4,500 m) often around 4:00–5:00 AM to ensure you reach Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) safely in daylight. The trail immediately climbs steeply, winding through rocky scree, loose gravel, and scattered boulders. The air is thin and cold, and each step requires careful pacing to conserve energy and minimize the risk of altitude sickness. Prayer flags, mani walls, and small chortens mark the route, creating a spiritual atmosphere that blends beautifully with the surrounding high Himalayas.

As you ascend, the panoramic view is breathtaking: snow-capped peaks like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna I rise dramatically on the horizon, and the high desert landscape of Upper Mustang stretches below. Reaching Thorong La Pass, trekkers are greeted with a mix of relief and awe the pass stands at 5,416 m, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. After a short rest and plenty of photos, the trail descends toward Muktinath (3,800 m), passing arid, rocky slopes, small streams, and scattered Tibetan-style villages. The descent is long but less strenuous than the climb, offering spectacular views of the valley below. Upon arrival in Muktinath, trekkers can explore the famous Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, as well as enjoy the local tea houses and lodges for a well-deserved rest.

Leaving the sacred town of Muktinath (3,800 m), the trail descends gently through the arid, high-altitude desert of Upper Mustang. The morning offers stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak, with wide-open valleys that feel both vast and serene. The landscape is dotted with traditional Tibetan-style villages, small gompas, and mani walls that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. The trail passes through sparse vegetation, rugged cliffs, and shallow streams, giving trekkers a sense of walking through a remote Himalayan desert.

As the day progresses, the descent becomes more pronounced, leading to the bustling market town of Jomsom (2,720 m). This section of the trail is lined with lodges, tea houses, and small cafes, offering trekkers a comfortable place to rest and enjoy local cuisine. On clear days, the Kali Gandaki River sparkles below, flanked by some of the tallest Himalayan peaks on both sides, creating one of the deepest river gorges in the world. The final approach to Jomsom offers panoramic views of the valley, surrounding cliffs, and terraced fields. Upon arrival, trekkers can explore the town, shop for local handicrafts, and prepare for either a flight to Pokhara or further trekking.

After completing the awe-inspiring Annapurna Circuit & Thorong La Pass trek, you leave the charming town of Jomsom (2,720 m) for a scenic drive or short flight to Pokhara (820 m). The drive takes you along the Kali Gandaki River Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world, flanked by towering peaks like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna I. The road winds through barren cliffs, terraced fields, and traditional Tibetan-style villages, giving trekkers a last glimpse of the rugged Mustang landscape. If you take the flight, the aerial views are spectacular: the snow-capped Himalayas glistening in the sunlight and the deep gorge snaking below—perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Once in Pokhara, the city welcomes you with its vibrant lakeside area, lush greenery, and views of the Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre). After a short break, you board a domestic flight to Kathmandu (1,400 m), offering a bird’s-eye view of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Langtang ranges, as well as the valleys and terraced farmlands of central Nepal. Upon landing, you can enjoy the bustling capital city, reflecting on your trek’s highlights and breathtaking Himalayan experiences. This combination of scenic flight and drive provides a smooth and memorable end to the Annapurna Circuit adventure.

• Distance (Road): ~115 km (Jomsom to Pokhara)

• Flight Duration: ~25–30 min (Jomsom to Pokhara), ~25 min (Pokhara to Kathmandu)

Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, is a treasure trove of culture, history, and architecture. During your sightseeing day, you will explore iconic landmarks such as Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world, and the Boudhanath Stupa, a spiritual hub for Tibetan Buddhists with its magnificent prayer wheels and colorful monasteries. You can also visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, where centuries-old palaces, temples, and courtyards reflect the rich artistic heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. Along the way, enjoy glimpses of local markets, traditional Newari architecture, and lively street life, giving you a taste of Nepalese culture before or after your trek.

Note: You can choose to do Kathmandu sightseeing before your trek or after it concludes, but only one day of sightseeing is included in the package. If you wish to explore the city on both days, additional charges may apply. This flexible arrangement allows you to either acclimatize and prepare for your trek while discovering Kathmandu or relax and soak in the culture after completing your Himalayan adventure.

After an unforgettable trekking adventure in the Himalayas, it’s time to bid farewell to Nepal. Your journey concludes in Kathmandu, where you will be assisted by Nepal Voyage Treks staff for your airport transfer. Whether you are catching an international flight home or continuing your travels, our team ensures a smooth and comfortable departure.

This moment is perfect to reflect on your journey memories of towering Himalayan peaks, cultural encounters with local communities, serene mountain villages, and the thrill of crossing high passes. You leave Nepal with not just photographs but experiences that will stay with you forever. Nepal Voyage Treks thanks you for trusting us with your Himalayan adventure and wishes you safe travels and happy memories.