Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit follows the Marsyangdi river up from Besisahar through subtropical valleys into the dry, Tibetan-style landscape of Manang, crosses the Thorong La pass (5,416 m) and descends to Muktinath and the Kali Gandaki valley in Mustang. It passes through an astonishing range of climates and cultures.

Roads now reach much of the route, but alternative footpaths (the NATT trails) avoid most of the traffic. Allow for acclimatisation in Manang before the pass, and do not cross in bad weather — the pass has claimed lives in sudden storms.

Route at a glance

Besisahar – Bhulbhule – Jagat – Dharapani – Chame – Pisang (upper or lower) – Manang (rest days) – Yak Kharka – Thorong Phedi or High Camp – Thorong La (5,416 m) – Muktinath – Kagbeni – Jomsom – Marpha – then onwards by road or on foot via Tatopani and Ghorepani to Pokhara. Side trips include Tilicho Lake, the Ice Lake above Braga, and the Nar–Phu valley.

What to see and do

Watch the landscape change from subtropical valleys with rice terraces and waterfalls to pine forests and finally the high desert of Manang and Mustang. Visit Braga's ancient monastery, the medieval village of Upper Pisang, Muktinath's temple and the apple orchards of Marpha.

Good to know

ACAP permit required. Cross the Thorong La early in the morning (starting 4–5 am) to avoid strong afternoon winds, and never cross in poor weather or with signs of altitude sickness. Many trekkers now take jeeps for parts of the lower route; the NATT side trails keep you off the road.