ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT – 21 DAYS (Fixed Scheduled Trek 2008 – 2009)

The classic route along the Marshyangdi, over the Thorung La (5416m) and descent of the Kali Gandaki Valley - 21 days

The Annapurna Circuit is the popular name for a 300 km trek in the Annapurna mountain range. The trek reaches an altitude of 5,300m on the Thorung La pass, touching the edge of the fabled Tibetan plateau. The trek is a magnificent plan, covering two different river valleys. It encircles the Annapurna Massif, crossing Thorung La [5416m], the highest pass on this trek.

The magnificent mountain scenery, seen at close quarters includes Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna [7455m] and Tilicho Peak [7134m].  Ten peaks of 600-800m rises from the Annapurna. Machhapuchhre looks breathtaking from this viewpoint as also the south face of Annapurna.

The trek begins at Besi Sahar and concludes at Kali Gandaki river valley. After a seven hours drive from Kathmandu, you reach the Besi Sahar in the Marshyangdi river valley. The trek finally concludes at Kali Gandaki river valley. En route, you pass along paddy fields and subtropical forests, view the beautiful mountain scenery, several waterfalls and gigantic cliffs, and experience fascinating village life. The entire trip is so exhilarating that you will be kept enthralled, day after day.

A moderate to challenging trek and sometime requires climbing up and down steep mountain paths. This trek can be done anytime of the year except during monsoon and winter, when the Thorung pass gets blocked by snow.

Taking a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara can shorten this trek. It takes just a day’s walk from Jomsom to reach Muktinath.