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13-day Annapurna Circuit by road

13
days
The Annapurna Circuit is known around the world for its beautiful, varied landscapes and diverse cultures. This exciting itinerary is an affordable option as you travel to the Annapurnas and then back to Kathmandu by car. On the trek you can look forward to hiking through pretty forest, walking thrilling contour paths among towering peaks, and finally crossing the famed mountain pass Thorung La.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu

Your guide fetches you from the airport and drives you to the hotel in Thamel. We have dinner together and discuss the adventure ahead.

Kathmandu large stupa prayer flags Nepal
Monkey on stupa in Kathmandu

Day 2: Drive to Besisahar then Chamje (7-8 hr)

A long drive today from Kathmandu to Chamje (1,430 m), the road trailhead for this version of the circuit. The journey passes through Besisahar and the Marsyangdi Valley, giving you your first taste of the dramatic gorge landscape.

Day 3: Drive to Chame (4 hr) then trek to Pisang (5-6 hr)

We drive further up the valley to Chame (2,710 m), then begin trekking to Pisang (3,200 m). You pass the spectacular Paungda Danda cliff face and enter the wide Manang Valley, with your first stunning views of Annapurna II appearing ahead.

Annapurna Circuit Nepal
Annapurna Circuit village Nepal

Day 4: Trek to Manang (5-6 hr)

Today’s hike via the high route through Ghyaru and Ngawal offers exceptional views of the Annapurna range. We arrive at Manang (3,500 m), a lively village with many teahouses, good food and a medical clinic.

Day 5: Acclimatisation day in Manang

An essential rest day. Hike to Gangapurna Lake (3,700 m) for acclimatisation, attend the altitude sickness talk at the clinic, or explore the village surroundings. Rest well in preparation for the pass.

Annapurna Circuit mountains Nepal
High mountain Nepal

Day 6: Trek to Thorung Phedi High Camp (3-4 hr)

A short but important day of ascent to High Camp (4,925 m) below Thorung La. Hydrate well and sleep early tonight as we leave before sunrise tomorrow.

Day 7: Cross Thorung La and trek to Muktinath (7-8 hr)

The summit of the trek! We cross Thorung La Pass (5,416 m) at dawn, enjoy panoramic Himalayan views, then descend 1,600 m to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath (3,710 m), revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Thorung La Pass Nepal
Nepali village of Muktinath

Day 8: Drive to Jomsom via Kagbeni (2-3 hr)

We drive down the Kali Gandaki Gorge to Jomsom (2,743 m), stopping at the fascinating ancient village of Kagbeni en route. Jomsom is the main town of the Mustang region, with a distinctly Tibetan feel.

Day 9: Trek to Marpha and drive to Tatopani (5-6 hr)

We visit apple-orchard filled Marpha village, famous for its apple brandy and cider, then drive south through the epic Kali Gandaki Gorge to Tatopani (1,190 m). Hot springs await — a perfect reward after crossing the pass!

Kali Gandaki Gorge Annapurna Nepal
Nepal village terraced fields

Day 10: Drive to Pokhara (4-5 hr)

We drive from Tatopani to Pokhara through more spectacular scenery. This pretty city is known for its tranquil Lake Phewa, vibrant markets, spas, temples and sporting activities. In the evening, why not take a canoe out onto the lake?

Day 11: Drive to Kathmandu (7 hr)

It’s back on the road today as you drive through more spectacular and rugged terrain to reach Kathmandu. In the evening, once you’ve settled into your hotel in Thamel, why not head out for a final group dinner?

Colorful boats or canoes on on the Phewa Lake in Pokhara, Nepal
Kathmandu Nepal

Day 12: Drive to Kathmandu (7 hr)

Today is about making the return journey to Kathmandu. So it’s time stock up on snacks, get comfortable in the vehicle, and enjoy the rolling hills, rice paddies and villages that dominate the landscape during this, your final road trip.

Day 13: Departure day

It’s time to pack up your belongings as well as many indelible memories and head to the airport. We take you to the airport and wave you off, with the hope to host you in Nepal once again for another of the many incredible Himalayan treks on offer in this magical land of mountain giants.

Man and bird at Durbar Square, Kathmandu, Nepal

Price Includes

Airport transfers

All road travel

All accommodation

Drinking water on trek

Experienced, English-speaking trek guide

Porter

All taxes and permits

Group medical supplies

Group route map

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Price Does not Include

International airfares

Nepali visa

Traveller's insurance

All meals and drinks

Wi-Fi on trek

Trek guide and porter tips

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