Kathmandu to Pokhara Annapurna Circuit Trek

Day 01: Drive to Chame (2,670m/8759ft), (242 km), (12h)

The Shortest Annapurna Circuit Trek, Nepal begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Chame. Chame is the headquarter of Manang district and is the Annapurna Circuit trek start point as per this package. The drive from Kathmandu to Chame (around 242 kilometers) takes around 11 to 12 hours (including lunch and short toilet breaks). Therefore, this journey begins early in the morning with a pick up from your hotel around 6:30 AM -07:00AM in a private jeep. 

The first part of the journey (about 135 kilometers) is on the Prithvi Highway that runs along the Trisuli River, winding through the western hills. The journey unfolds with a captivating landscape. From Dumre, the road to Chame branches off north continuing on a Bhanubhakta Acharya Highway to Chame. The road till Besisahar is good, however, the stretch from Besisahar to Chame is dominated by rugged off-road terrain. Thus, this stretch is both scenic and adventurous and full of diverse landscapes, vegetation and cultural groups that can be distinguished from their housing styles. You can stop for lunch and short toilet breaks along the way. Once in Chame, you will check into the lodge, have dinner and call it an early night. Overnight in a lodge in Chame. 

Meals: Lunch and Dinner 

Day 03: Trek to Ngawal via Ghyaru (3,660m/12,007ft), (10km), (5h)

Trek from Lower Pisang to Ngawal on the Annapurna Circuit trail is equally scenic and challenging. This section offers some of the most camera-worthy views of the Annapurna Peaks and the supporting landscape. On this day, you will walk a distance of approximately 10 kilometers. For an average hiker, it’s only about a 5 hour trek.

Beginning after breakfast at the lodge in Lower Pisang, the journey to Ngawal begins. Lower Pisang to Ghyaru, which is the first leg of the journey, is about 5 kilometers and can be achieved in around 2 hours. It’s challenging, compared to the second leg. From Lower Pisang, crossing the Marsyangdi River, you will head towards Ghyary. The trail up till the Mani wall is not too difficult. But as you walk past the Mani wall, the walk is on a steeply ascending switchback trail all the way up to Ghyaru. Ghyaru greets you with one of the best view points to witness the mesmerizing beauty of Annapurna II and lush green forest below and the valley. After spending some time here, you will now make your way to Ngawal, located roughly 5 kilometers from Ghyaru. But first you will hike to the pass, which is the highest point of this trek. From the pass it’s mostly downhill to Ngawal. Taking in the breathtaking view of Annapurna II, surrounded by majestic peaks, lush green slopes and a vast valley, about a two hour down-hill walk on a gently ascending trail will take you to Ngawal, where you will check into the lodge for dinner and overnight stay. 

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 

Day 05: Acclimatization day in Manang

Since you will be gaining only a little less than 2000 meters in altitude in the following three days, acclimatization in Manang is mandatory for the success of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Due to the number of side-hike options this town offers, Manang makes a perfect spot on the trail for acclimatization. Therefore, today you will go on an acclimatization hike and expose your body to further altitude. 

Manang offers excellent opportunities for both half-day and full-day hikes. For a shorter adventure, you can explore the Gangapurna Lake lookout, the 100 Lama Monastery viewpoint, or the monastery above the Braga Village- all offering rewarding views and cultural insights. However, if you are up for a more challenging option, a full-day hike to stunning Ice Lake is highly recommended. Based on your preference, your guide will lead the way, ensuring a memorable experience. After the hike, you’ll return to your lodge in Manang for an overnight stay. 

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 07: Trek to Thorung Phedi (4,525m/14845ft), (5km), (2-3h) or High Camp(4,925m/16,158ft), (6km), (3-4h)

Today’s trek is from Letdar/Ledar to Thorung Phedi. From Ledar, whether you continue to Thorung Phedi or push a little further to the High Camp, this section marks the shortest trekking day of the Annapurna Circuit. It is also your final night in Manang district and the highest overnight stay of the trek. Therefore, at this altitude, the oxygen level drops to nearly 55%, so expect shortness of breath, a faster heart rate and fatigue even without much exertion. 

After breakfast, the trail from Ledar follows a narrow path along the river before descending to a suspension bridge. Once across, the route climbs steeply to a small tea house, a good spot for a short rest. Beyond here, the trail passes through landslide-prone areas-take extra care and follow guide’s instruction closely. Not long after, you’ll arrive at the Thorung Phedi, about 5 kilometers from Ledar. The trek usually takes 2-3 hours with a moderate elevation gain of around 325 meters. 

For those who prefer a shorter ascent on the following day, it’s possible to continue another kilometer to the High Camp. This involves a steep climb on loose, rocky switchbacks, adding roughly  1 to 1.5 hours to your day and an elevation gain of about 725 meters. However, since sleeping conditions are better at lower altitude, staying overnight at Thorung Phedi is generally recommended. 

Settle into a lodger for dinner and an early night’s rest, preparing for the big crossing over Thorung La Pass the next day. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 

Day 09: Trek to Lubra Valley (2,790m/9,153ft), (7km), (3h) and drive to Jomsom (2720m/8,923ft), (1h)

Today the journey is from Muktinath to Jomsom. However, you will first trek to Lubra Valley before heading to Jomsom. Libra Valley is one of Mustang’s hidden gems- a pristine Bon village that dates back to the 12th century. Unlike most Himalayan communities, the people here still practice Bonism, an ancient Tibetan-origin spiritual tradition that blends animism, nature worship, Shamanism and elements of Buddhism. This makes Lubra one of the few places where you can truly experience the living heritage of this unique religion. 

After breakfast in Muktinath, you’ll hike about 7 kilometers southwest to reach the village. The trail first ascends to a small pass before descending into the valley, where you’ll find this beautiful settlement of just 14-15 families. To immerse yourself in Bon culture, visit the Yungdung Phuntsok Ling Monastery and Gon Phuk, a small cliffside temple above the village. Both offer fascinating insights into the spiritual traditions and way of life preserved here for centuries. 

Once you’ve explored Lubra’s monastery, temple and traditional houses, the trail leads down to a bridge. Crossing the bridge, a short drive of about an hour will take you to Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang. Known as one of the windiest places in Nepal- especially in the afternoons- Jomsom is best enjoyed at a slower pace. Upon arrival, you’ll check into a lodge for some well earned rest. Later in the evening, you can wander around town and soak in the unique atmosphere of this windswept Himalayan hub. Overnight stay at a lodge in Jomsom.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner