Upon your arrival at the airport, our company representative will warmly greet you and ensure your smooth transfer to the hotel. It is at the hotel that you will have the pleasure of meeting our team. In the evening, around 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., we will organize a pre-trek briefing. This gathering provides an excellent opportunity to familiarize yourself with the other members of your group before we all proceed to enjoy a delightful dinner. The welcome dinner will feature authentic Nepalese cuisine accompanied by captivating cultural dance performances, immersing you in the rich cultural traditions of Nepal.

Today, you will have the opportunity to explore Kathmandu with our experienced city tour guide. Our itinerary includes several remarkable sites:

• SWOYAMBHUNATH, also known as the Monkey Temple, is perched atop a hill and can be reached by climbing a long set of steps. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu.
• BOUDHANATH STUPA is adorned with traditional Gompas adorned with vibrant prayer flags. It serves as a focal point for Sherpas and Tibetans who partake in the spiritual practice of circumambulating the stupa (koras).
• PASHUPATINATH, a sacred Hindu temple, is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River and features ghats where cremation ceremonies take place, offering a unique glimpse into Hindu rituals.
• KATHMANDU DURBAR SQUARE, one of the ancient capitals of the Kathmandu Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vibrant square showcases a harmonious fusion of Hindu and Buddhist temples, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

With our knowledgeable guide, you will gain insights into the historical, religious, and architectural significance of these iconic landmarks. Prepare to be captivated by the unique charm and spiritual ambiance of Kathmandu.

After breakfast in Kathmandu, the journey to Tal takes you from the bustling capital into the heart of the Annapurna region, offering dramatic landscapes along the way. The 236 km drive takes 8–9 hours and starts with a scenic 3–4-hour ride on the Prithvi Highway toward Mugling, passing terraced hills, rivers, and lively bazaar towns. Early departures (around 7:00 AM) help avoid traffic at Nagdhunga Pass and allow for a riverside breakfast in Kurintar along the Trishuli River. From Mugling, the route continues through Dumre and Besisahar, the last hub for fuel, supplies, and paved roads. Beyond Besisahar, the journey becomes adventurous as the road turns into a rocky dirt track, navigable only by a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle, passing through Syange and Chamje. You may encounter landslides or need to change vehicles, but the route offers stunning views of rice fields, traditional villages, and the Manaslu massif (8,163 m). Finally, the road opens into the serene Tal plateau, a village framed by a beautiful waterfall and river. Here, trekkers complete the required Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) permits and settle into a lodge for the night, ready to start the trekking adventure refreshed.

After breakfast in Tal, the journey begins by leaving the waterfall-fringed plateau and crossing a bridge over the Marsyangdi River, following a dramatic cliff-side and zigzag trail with occasional views of the Manaslu Himal ranges on clear days, passing Karte village, rocky terrain, a suspension bridge, and a narrow gorge before reaching Dharapani (around 1,860–1,965 m), the important junction where the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek meet and permits are checked at the ACAP checkpoint, with Lamjung Himal (6,993 m) visible in the distance; from here, the valley gradually narrows and a short, mostly flat walk along the riverbed leads to Bagarchhap (2,160 m), known for its Tibetan-style houses, long mani walls, the Diki Gompa, and marking the transition from the humid lower valleys to the drier Upper Marsyangdi, where the first clear views of Annapurna II often appear; the trail then gently climbs through rhododendron, fir, and changing conifer forests—including blue pine, spruce, oak, and chir pine with its long silver needles—to the quiet village of Danagyu (2,300 m), a pleasant lunch stop surrounded by apple orchards, before tackling the day’s most demanding section with a choice between a longer gradual road or a steep forest trail of switchbacks through ancient pines, ultimately rewarding your effort as the path levels out at Timang (2,750 m), a charming ridge-top village offering superb panoramic views of Manaslu, Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and the converging massifs of the Marsyangdi valley, best enjoyed when arriving by mid-afternoon as sunset often lights up Manaslu’s peaks.

The trek day starts in Timang with a spectacular sunrise view of Mount Manaslu and Lamjung Himal, one of the finest mountain panoramas in the Annapurna Circuit. From Timang, the trail follows an easy, scenic route through pine and fir forests to Thanchok, a traditional village with stone-paved paths and apple orchards, ideal for a short tea break. The path then descends and narrows toward Koto, an important junction and permit checkpoint that serves as the gateway to the remote Nar-Phu Valley, set beneath the impressive face of Annapurna II. From Koto, a gentle walk leads to Chame, the administrative center of Manang, reached by crossing a bridge over the Marsyangdi River decorated with colorful prayer wheels. With an early arrival, trekkers can enjoy Chame’s facilities, including natural hot springs, bakeries, gear shops, pharmacies, and reliable Wi-Fi. Along the way, the trail also passes through villages such as Bagarchhap and Danaque, crossing suspension and wooden bridges, fields, and pastures, adding cultural depth and scenic variety to this rewarding Annapurna trekking day.

After breakfast in Chame, the trek to Upper Pisang begins with a scenic walk-through pine forests to Bhratang, famous for its apple orchards and the Agro Manang Farmhouse offering fresh apple products. The trail then climbs along a dramatic cliff above the Marsyangdi River, revealing the towering Paungda Danda, known as the Gateway to Heaven. Continuing through forests and meadows to Dhukur Pokhari, trekkers take the higher route to Upper Pisang, where traditional stone houses and sweeping alpine landscapes await. Upper Pisang is renowned for panoramic Himalayan views, including close-up sights of Annapurna II, and its hilltop monastery provides an authentic cultural experience in Nepal’s Annapurna region. Along the way, the trail features waterfalls, suspension bridges, and rock-carved paths, offering stunning vistas of Annapurna II, III, and IV. This journey through pine forests, picturesque meadows, and charming lodge settlements like Bhratang and Dhukur Pokhari makes the Upper Pisang trek a must-experience adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

Today’s focus is acclimatization as we prepare for Pisang Peak, taking time at Upper Pisang (3,300) to help our bodies adjust to the higher altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. The trek offers a perfect blend of Himalayan adventure and cultural immersion: start with a short, steep hike to Pisang Gompa (3,350 m) for gentle acclimatization and breathtaking views of the North Face of Annapurna II (7,937 m), then, for those feeling strong, follow the High Route ridge hike toward Ghyaru (3,450 m) through dry juniper shrubs to a mani wall or scenic viewpoint, pausing 30–45 minutes to hydrate and enjoy the panorama. Back in the village, wander Upper Pisang’s medieval stone alleys, where traditional Tibetan-style homes, women weaving wool, and yaks being herded showcase authentic local life. Along the way, trekkers are treated to sweeping vistas of Annapurna and Gangapurna, peaceful monastery courtyards, and alpine landscapes. Tonight, we rest in Upper Pisang, fully prepared for the next stage of the Annapurna region trek. This combination of gentle acclimatization, high-altitude hiking, and cultural exploration makes Upper Pisang a must-visit stop for anyone trekking in Nepal.

Leaving Upper Pisang, the trail climbs steeply north through thin pine and juniper forests, quickly rising above the village rooftops and opening clear views of the dramatic north faces of Annapurna II and Annapurna IV. As the treeline fades, the route crosses open alpine pastures (Kharka) used by Manangi villagers for summer yak grazing, with rugged terrain of grass and loose rock and an altitude gain of over 900 meters, making a slow and steady pace essential for acclimatization. The day ends at Pisang Peak Base Camp (4,380 m), set on a flat grassy plateau below the southwest ridge, where tents replace lodges, the mountain silence takes over, and after a short acclimatization walk, climbers check their gear and rest in well-equipped camps in preparation for the move to High Camp.

From Pisang Peak Base Camp, the trail climbs steeply up the Southwest Ridge, leaving grassy Kharkas for rocky scree where a slow, steady pace is vital in the thin air. Over 4–5 hours, climbers reach the ridge saddle, where snow or ice may require fixed ropes, while the panorama opens over the Manang Valley with breathtaking views of Annapurna II and Annapurna IV. The journey ends at High Camp (5,400 m), perched on a narrow rocky ledge where tents are carefully pitched, water is melted from snow, and strong winds are common. Here, guides prepare and inspect all climbing gear in advance, ensuring climbers are ready for the summit push, while everyone rests in well-equipped tents after the challenging ascent.

A contingency day at Pisang Peak gives climbers extra time for safety and acclimatization. If bad weather, high winds, or snow make the summit attempt unsafe, climbers use this day. It also helps climbers adjust to the high altitude, reducing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). During this day, climbers can rest, organize and check their gear, review safety procedures, and practice using crampons, ice axes, and ropes with guidance from experienced Sherpas. Some teams take a short acclimatization hike to nearby ridges or snow slopes to stay fit and prepare for the summit. This extra day ensures climbers are fully ready and confident for a safe ascent of Pisang Peak.

The climb from Pisang Peak High Camp starts early in the morning under headlamps, moving quickly from steep rocky terrain onto snow and ice. Climbers use full mountaineering gear—harness, crampons, and boots—following the Southwest Ridge and often using fixed ropes while carefully managing the thin air at 5,800 m. As dawn breaks, the slopes steepen into the final snow pyramid, where jumars help ascend the 45°–50° snow and ice slopes to reach the narrow summit at 6,091 m. From the top, the panoramic views include the Annapurna Massif—Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and distant Manaslu. The descent involves rappelling or down-climbing technical sections to High Camp, then a 1,000 m drop to the grassy, oxygen-rich Base Camp (4,380 m), completing an 8–10 hour summit day. With experienced Sherpa guides leading the way, this is the pinnacle of the Pisang Peak expedition, offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable climbing achievement.

After leaving Pisang Peak Base Camp, the descent begins along steep slopes toward the valley floor, following alpine pastures toward the village of Ghyaru (3,670 m). This section of the Annapurna High Route feels like a skywalk, with the towering Annapurna range flanking your left side. From Ghyaru, the trail continues along a high ridge to Ngawal (3,660 m), passing ancient mani walls and colorful prayer flags. Ngawal is a medieval-style village perfect for a lunch break, offering views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna while enjoying local Manangi bread or hot soup. The trail then descends gradually to Braga, where the 600-year-old cliffside monastery with hundreds of Buddha statues is worth a 30-minute visit. Finally, it’s a flat 45-minute walk into Manang (3,540 m), the region’s main hub, where trekkers can enjoy modern amenities like bakeries, cozy tea houses, cinema screenings, and altitude safety briefings from the Himalayan Rescue Association before continuing toward Thorong La.

After breakfast in Manang, the trek to Gunsang (3,950 m) takes about 1–1.5 hours, beginning through the upper gate and following a well-marked path along the Jarsang Khola valley. Enjoy sweeping views of the Manang valley floor and the majestic Annapurna III and Gangapurna peaks. Gunsang makes an ideal spot for a quick tea break before entering the 4,000 m+ high-altitude zone. From Gunsang, a 1.5–2-hour trek across alpine pastures leads to Yak Kharka (4,050 m). Along the way, cross a small wooden bridge over a stream and watch for blue sheep grazing on cliffs, Himalayan Griffon vultures circling overhead, and summer-grazing yaks. Yak Kharka is a popular lunch stop, though continuing to Ledar can make the next day’s ascent to Thorong Phedi easier. The final hour to Ledar (4,200–4,250 m) is a short but gradual climb, leveling out at this quiet settlement nestled among the peaks. The sparse high-altitude vegetation signals the transition into the alpine environment and previews the challenges ahead. For optimal acclimatization, trekkers are encouraged to follow the “walk high, sleep low” principle by hiking 100–200 meters up the ridge behind the lodges after dropping bags and having soup, then returning to sleep in Ledar. This stretch through the Jarsang Khola valley, past Tenki, and into Ledar offers awe-inspiring views, encounters with alpine wildlife, and a gentle introduction to the high-altitude terrain leading toward the famous Thorong La Pass, making it a highlight of the Annapurna Circuit trek.

After breakfast in Ledar, the trail to Thorong Phedi (4,450 m) takes approximately 2–2.5 hours, climbing steadily along the Jarsang Khola. Trekkers cross a wooden bridge and navigate a scree- and landslide-prone section where caution and steady movement are essential. Thorong Phedi is a small settlement ideal for a rest or lunch stop before the final ascent to Thorong High Camp (4,850 m). The 1–1.5 hour climb from Phedi follows the steep “Vertical Zig-Zag,” requiring small, rhythmic steps to maintain a steady pace. High Camp offers spectacular valley views and sunset panoramas, though some trekkers prefer staying at Phedi for safer sleep and better acclimatization. Essential tips for this section: eat early, dress in layers for extreme cold, bring a headlamp, gloves, and insulated water bottles, and avoid alcohol. Though the distance is short, the high altitude makes the trek slow and purposeful, giving trekkers time to acclimatize and take in the dramatic Annapurna Himalayan scenery in preparation for the early ascent to Thorong La Pass the following day.

Early in the morning, between 4:00 and 5:00 AM, begin the ascent from High Camp to Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), which typically takes 2–4 hours. The trail is a steady uphill climb over snow and rocky terrain, marked by prayer flags and trail poles. At this extreme altitude—where oxygen levels are roughly half of sea level—frequent rest breaks are essential to acclimatize and maintain energy. The summit of Thorong La is marked by a mound of colorful prayer flags and a sign declaring the highest trekking pass in the world, with the highest tea house offering a welcome cup of tea. From the pass, the descent to Phedi takes 2–3 hours over steep, slippery terrain, making trekking poles essential to protect knees along the 1,600 m vertical drop. Small tea houses like Chabarbu provide opportunities for brief rest. The final 1.5–2 hours to Muktinath (3,760 m) descend into the dry, orange-and-brown desert of Mustang, resembling the Tibetan Plateau. At Muktinath, pilgrims and trekkers can visit the sacred 108 Sprouts for ritual bathing, witness the Eternal Flame inside Dhola Mebar Gompa, and explore the pagoda-style Muktinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Visiting during the September–October festival period adds vibrant energy to the site. Vital tips for Thorong La Pass: start early to avoid strong midday winds, protect against snow blindness with quality sunglasses, keep water bottles insulated to prevent freezing, and monitor your body carefully—any extreme confusion, loss of coordination, or persistent cough requires immediate descent. Climbing Thorong La is a highlight of the Annapurna Circuit trek, marking the expedition’s highest point and rewarding trekkers with panoramic Himalayan vistas. Muktinath itself is a culturally and spiritually significant site, revered in Hinduism as the “God of Salvation” and in Buddhism as a symbol of Nirvana, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage and harmonious coexistence of religious traditions.

After breakfast in Muktinath/Ranipauwa, the final day of the trek heads toward Lubra, combining high ridges, scenic descents, and cultural experiences. From Muktinath, the trail turns south to Jharkot and climbs steadily to Lubra Danda, the high ridge with some of the best panoramic views in Lower Mustang, including Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak. The path then drops steeply into the scree-filled Panda Khola Gorge, where trekking poles are helpful, and the landscape shifts to vibrant reds and ochers. At Lubra Village, trekkers can explore one of Nepal’s few remaining Bon communities, visiting the Yungdrung Kundun Monastery, where rituals are performed counter-clockwise, offering a peaceful and authentic experience. The trail then follows the Panda Khola riverbed to meet the wide Kali Gandaki River and continues south along the breezy valley to Jomsom, the Mustang district headquarters. This route combines breathtaking Himalayan vistas, traditional village culture, and scenic river valleys, making it a memorable conclusion to the trek.

Early morning departures between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM offer the best chance for clear skies on the 15–20-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, flying through the world’s deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki, between the 8,000-meter peaks of Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri. A left-side seat gives the best views of the Annapurna Massif, while flights are weather-dependent, with a 4WD Jeep transfer as a backup in case of delays. Upon arrival at Pokhara Domestic Airport, the dry, cold air of Mustang gives way to the warm, subtropical breeze of the valley. A short 5–10-minute drive or hotel-arranged shuttle brings trekkers to Lakeside Pokhara, where they can relax, explore the scenic area, and enjoy attractions such as Mahendra Cave, Davis Fall, and the beautiful Phewa Lake while soaking in the stunning views of surrounding Himalayan peaks.

After breakfast in Pokhara, drive to Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital and cultural center. This overland journey follows the Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers, passing through important locations such as Dumre, the gateway to the hilltop town of Bandipur; Mugling, a major highway junction and popular stop for traditional Nepali Dal Bhat; and Kurintar, the base station for the Manakamana Cable Car and a hub for Trisuli River rafting. Following Galchhi, the road ascends toward the Kathmandu Valley, with the Nagdhunga-Sisne Khola Tunnel significantly shortening travel time. Take in panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley before driving to your hotel in Kathmandu or Thamel, where traffic may affect arrival time.

Today, we have a free day to explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu on our own. You may want to spend the day indulging in some souvenir shopping, wandering around the colorful streets and bazaars, or enjoying the local cuisine. You could also visit some of the popular tourist attractions in the city, such as Bhaktapur or Patan, which showcase Nepal's rich cultural and historical heritage. Alternatively, you could engage in other activities like hiking, biking, or adventure sports, or simply relax and rejuvenate in one of the city's many spas and wellness centers. Whatever you choose to do, make sure to soak up the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of this wonderful city.

Today, we will transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for our departure. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will gather our belongings and make our way to the airport. We will ensure that we reach the airport well in time to complete all the necessary formalities and board our flight. Before we bid adieu to this enchanting country, take one last look at the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and take a moment to appreciate the warm hospitality and kindness of the Nepalese people. This marks the end of our tour, and we hope you had a memorable and enjoyable time in Nepal.