Annapurna Circuit Trek is an epic journey that gives trekkers a full taste of the Annapurna region. Often listed among the best treks in the world, the Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a truly unique trekking experience, passing through several different landscapes, including the desolate Lower Mustang area. Also, you get to cross over the highest pass in the Himalaya - Thorong La Pass (5416 meters). This adventurous trek connects the Annapurna region and the Mustang region, providing some culturally and spiritually famous destinations for the journey. Improvements in roads over the last years have slightly shortened the treks from its original length, also improving access to the region. In its earlier form, the trail began in the tropical forests at 600 m, passing through Hindu villages into Tibetan Buddhist ones. The cultural diversity of the trek, though, has remained the same. The total distance of the route today is between 160-230 km (100-145 mi).
Annapurna Circuit Trail begins from the lower Annapurna region, in Bahundanda to be exact. The Marshyangdi river valley makes up the base of the trek. Cascading waterfalls, dense sub-tropical forests and flowing streams fill us with great energy as we begin the trek. The trail then leads us through the Manang region, where Tibetan Buddhist settlements begin to appear. The real adventure begins once you reach to Phedi after passing through cattle and yak grazing meadows. A major highlight of our journey is crossing the Thorong La Pass, a true thrill. Sometimes the slope can be slippery, adding to the adventure. The high pass offers magnificent views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m) Manaslu (8163m), Annapurna II, Mt. Annapurna III, Mt. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Machhapuccre, Hiunchuli, Lamjung Himal, Tukuche peak, and Tilicho peak. We are then lead to the famous Muktinath Temple, where Hindus and Buddhists from all over India and Nepal are making a pilgrimage. Muktinath has a truly special feeling about it. Then, the trail goes through the Kaligandaki Gorge and ends in Nayapul after visits to Ghorepani and Poon Hill.
Annapurna Circuit Trekking is possible throughout the year, but Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) provide the best weather. During the Spring, there is a bit more color and the rhododendrons are blooming, and in the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer. Annapurna Circuit Trek requires fitness and acclimatization to avoid acute mountain sickness. Shepherd Holidays arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.