How to get to the Annapurna Circuit? Trekkers ask this most common question before starting their journey on the Annapurna Circuit. The Annapurna Circuit is a popular Nepali trek that offers stunning views of subtropical forests, agricultural fields, and the world’s deepest river.
Table of Contents
The trail passes through Manang, where the Manaslu range, Tibetan Buddhist villages, and forests are visible. As the trail heads towards the high Thorong La Pass, the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Tilicho Peak can be seen.
The trail continues to Mustang, the Hindu pilgrimage town of Muktinath, and down the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing the village of Marpha with its small monastery, narrow cobbled streets, and apple orchards.
You’ll reach Poon Hill, from where you can see over 20 of the highest mountains within the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. During the trek, you’ll have proper acclimatization before trekking the 5,414-meter Thorong La pass. It is a long trek with an average day of 6-7 hours and is recommended for good essential physical fitness.
During the trekking time, you’ll see different landscapes, villages, and peoples, and you’ll be able to discover the different aspects, cultures, and landscapes of Nepal. The villages of Jharkot and Kagbeni provide insight into the Buddhist culture of Nepal.
So there is the answer to many trekkers’ queries, how to get to the Annapurna Circuit:
By Bus:
One of the easiest and most common ways to get to the Annapurna Circuit is by taking a bus. From Kathmandu, you’ll take a long and beautiful ride towards Besisahar, which is the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. The bus ride provides stunning views of the diverse landscapes of Nepal, leaving the bust city areas you’ll reach a peaceful and beautiful town. The bus route provides an affordable and authentic experience for trekkers.
By Private Car/ Jeep:
If you seek a more comfortable and efficient way to reach the Annapurna Circuit, private cars or jeeps are for you. You can hire a private vehicle in Kathmandu and enjoy a personalized journey to Besisahar, allowing for flexibility in schedules and stops at picturesque viewpoints. Taking a Private car/ jeep is the best option for you if you don’t want to experience the crowded conditions of public transportation. upon reaching Besisahar, you can continue your journey on foot or arrange for a jeep to take you further into the circuit.
By Flight:
If you have limited time or a preference for convenience, flying to Pokhara is your option. Pokhara is a starting point for the Annapurna Circuit. You can book a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes approximately 25-30 minutes. After landing in Pokhara, you can easily have transportation to Besisahar. Choosing a flight for Annapurna Circuit allows you to start your trek quicker and you can avoid the long bus ride.
Detail Itinerary:
Day 1:
Your adventure begins as you step foot in Kathmandu Airport and Tribhuwan Airport. Our team members will welcome you at the airport with a garland and drive you to the hotel. After reaching the hotel, you’ll take some rest and be briefed about the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and if you have time, you can explore the Thamel area.
Day 2:
You can customize your itinerary on how to get to the Annapurna Circuit on the second day as you can choose the means of transportation on this day. Commonly we leave Kathmandu and go for Besisahar, which is known as the gateway of the Annapurna Circuit by bus. The journey from Kathmandu to Besusahar takes about six hours and covers a distance of 178 kilometers. Along the way, you’ll see the different landscapes, along the route, from the disruption of the city to the peacefulness of nature.
Day 3:
The third day is all about driving from Besishahar to Chame. You’ll cover a seven-hour, 68-kilometer journey. Chame is a wonderful place to relax and get in touch with the perfect surroundings as it is situated among nature’s beauty. you’ll pass through Marsyangdhi Valley and some beautiful waterfalls.
Day 4:
Your actual trekking journey will start on the fourth day, as you’ll trek towards Pisang from Chame. After trekking for a six-hour hike and covering 13.5 kilometers, you’ll reach Pisang. During the trek, you’ll pass through Apple Ranch, Bhratang, and Dhikurpokhari and pass through a suspension bridge. Your trek will be more pleasing as you’ll see Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Pisang top on the route.
Day 5:
From Pisang, you’ll move towards Manang. Pisang is the starting point of Manang. On this day, you’ll trek to a Tibetan-style town in Braga. The Gompa of the region showcases an extensive collection of statues roosting on a high bank, providing a panoramic view of the town. After 5 hours of walking and covering a 16km distance, you’ll reach Manang and stay overnight there.
Day 6:
On this day, you’ll go for acclimation on the Manang; you’ll spend the entire day taking relaxing walks and enjoying the stunning view of the town, and the daytime is perfect for accumulating height. On this day, you’ll explore Gangapurna Lake or Monk Place. You’ll explore the local culture, visit monasteries, and take short hikes in the region to get used to the higher altitude.
Day 7:
After leaving Manang, you’ll start your journey towards Ledar. After trekking for some hours, you’ll reach Tenki. Before reaching Ledar, you’ll pass through Marsyangdhi Valley and Jarsang Khola Valley. The 10-kilometer trek takes five hours to complete and provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 8:
Leaving Ledar, you’ll trek towards High Camp. The route passes through the waterway at 4,310 m, and you’ll ascend to Thorang Phedi at 4,525m. After some hours of trekking, you’ll reach Thorang High Camp, at 4,880m elevation. After trekking for 6 hours and covering 7km distance you’ll reach High Camp. Your overnight depends upon how the altitude is influencing you; you’ll either stay at High Camp or Phedi.
Day 9:
This day will be your most iconic as well as challenging but rewarding as you’ll pass the world’s biggest pass, which is Thorong La Pass. You’ll start your journey early in the morning and pass through the Thorong La Pass. After some trekking down, you’ll get an amazing view of Dhaulagiri Mountain from the pass. After some time, you’ll reach Chairabu town, which is located at the base of the pass. After Chairabu, you’ll reach Muktinath and visit the Muktinath temple and area, or you can visit it the next morning. The eight-hour and 15km trek provides you with a view of mountains including Thorung Crest, Dhaulagiri, and Muktinath Himal.
Day 10:
Your other destination will continue until you reach Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. The trek will be decent, with changing landscapes, and you’ll pass through towns like Jharkot and Kagbeni. After Kagbeni, the trek will pass through a breezy valley and you’ll reach Jomsom. On this 6-hour and 18km trek, you’ll get an excellent view of Nilgiri North, Tukuche Top, and Mount Dhaulagiri.
Day 11:
From Jomsom you’ll get a flight to Pokhara, after 25 minutes of flight from Jomsom you can rest and relax at the lakeside of Pokhara
Day 12:
From Pokhara, you’ll drive to Kathmandu and reach Kathmandu after 7 hours of driving and covering a 210 km distance. After reaching Kathmandu you can explore the famous areas of Kathmandu.
Day 13:
On this day, we’ll say goodbye to you with Khada. Our representative will drop you off at the airport, and you’ll fly back to your home country.
What people are preferring in Annapurna Circuit Trek
Nowadays, it seems that many trekkers prefer the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake. Tilicho Lake, with an elevation of 4,919 meters, is one of the highest lakes in the world. Its beautiful blue waters are surrounded by rocky peaks, creating unique views. The journey from Annapurna Circuit to Tilicho Lake is challenging, but the sense of satisfaction that comes with discovering this hidden gem is unmatched.
Why people are choosing Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho?
Best Combination:
The combination of Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake provides two of the best destinations, including the classic beauty of the circuit and the unique charm of the lake, which attracts many trekkers nowadays.
Diverse Scenery:
The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho passes through different landscapes, including subtropical forests and terraced farms, as well as high-altitude areas and glacial lakes.
Less Crowd:
Compared to a normal Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake sees fewer trekkers, providing a more peaceful and personal experience.
Major Highlights Of Trek
- visit ancient Buddhist monasteries like Braga Monastery in Manang and Muktinath Temple.
- Amazing Mountain Views including Mount Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna.
- Diverse Landscapes from subtropical forests and alpine meadows to barren landscapes
- Passing Thorong La Pass
- Rich Cultural Experience
- Gateway to Conservation Area
- The warm hospitality of the locals
