The Annapurna Circuit follows the Marshyangdi valley upstream, crosses Thorong La, and returns by way of the Kali Gandaki, the Ghorepani ridge and Pokhara. Terraced farmland gives way to pine and rhododendron forest, then to the dry, Tibetan-influenced country around Manang. Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries, mani walls and chortens mark the change in culture. It suits fit, well-prepared walkers who want a long, varied route and are comfortable with simple teahouse lodging, early starts and a pass day of 8–9 hours on foot. A rest day in Manang is built in for acclimatisation, and the final days descend to lower, warmer country
Highlights
- Thorong La day: Leave Thorong Phedi at around three in the morning for the longest and most demanding walk of the route
- Rest day in Manang: Choose from short acclimatisation hikes, with an optional visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association at Vraga to learn about altitude sickness.
- Muktinath: Sleep at a place of pilgrimage sacred to both Hindu and Buddhist visitors, directly after the pass
- Culture by altitude: Move through Gurung, Magar, Thakali and Tibetan-influenced communities, from Hindu temples to monasteries, mani walls and chortens.
- Tatopani to Poon Hill: Soak in the hot springs, climb through rhododendron forest to Ghorepani, then rise early for the Poon Hill viewpoint