Annapurna Trek: From Hidden Valleys to Thorung La pass

Welcome to Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal. Upon your arrival, our team ensures a smooth transition from the airport to your hotel in the bustling Thamel district.

Finalise your preparations for your Annapurna adventure. Specifically, this day is dedicated to ensuring you are fully equipped and thoroughly briefed for the journey ahead.

Today, we embark on a tourist bus journey to Besisahar. From there, a jeep ride takes us to the starting point of your Annapurna Trek.

Our trek begins in a gorge, following the Annapurna Circuit's main trail. As we reach Timang, the landscape gradually opens up, offering glimpses of the surrounding area.

Koto marks the checkpoint for our Nar Phu Valley permits. Once cleared, we subsequently trek into another gorge. From there, we continue heading towards our teahouse, which is located in a forest.

Today's trek is a remarkable journey through varied terrain. We begin by leaving the forest behind. Subsequently, we navigate steep gorges alongside rushing waters. As we gradually ascend, the gorge gives way to a barren landscape, offering expansive views of the surrounding terrain.

The trek to Kyang is a relatively easy hike with moderate altitude gain. You will walk along undulating trails that lead through the valley. As you continue your trek, the scenery will gradually become drier. Consequently, this increasingly arid landscape provides a captivating and unique trek.

Our journey takes us further into the heart of the Nar Phu valley. The impressive, snow-capped Kang Guru (6,981m / 22,904 ft) dominates the landscape, providing a stunning backdrop to our trek.

Shortly before reaching the village, we pass through an ancient stone Buddhist gate and a mani wall. This sight is reminding us of the region's deep spiritual roots. After that, we arrive at Phu Goan, a village with authentic Tibetan-style houses.

Phu Gaon, nestled in the heart of the Nar Phu Valley, and its surroundings offer plenty to explore.

Opposite the village stands a hill filled with carefully placed mani stones and chortens. Additionally, the Tashi Lakhang monastery is a significant site, although not always open. Moreover, the hill provides stunning vistas of the area. From here, you can spot the distant Himlung Himal and the secluded Mustang region.

For those seeking adventure, a lovely day hike to Himlung Himal base camp is possible. The trail is easy, with a gradual ascent, making it accessible for most hikers. As you approach, the isolated peak of Gyaji Khang dominates the view.

We track back our trail until our lunch break. Shortly after, we hike on a new trail that leads us to a wooden bridge.

Crossing the gorge, we reach the guesthouse situated next to the monastery. The rooms are clean, and the monks' cooking is delicious. Moreover, visiting the nearby monastery is a must.

A steep climb departing from the monastery marks the beginning of our short trekking day. Upon exiting the gorge, we reach an open area featuring chortens and mani walls. At the same time, the snow-capped Kang Guru provides a stunning backdrop.

As we follow the trail, Pisang Peak dominates the landscape. Similarly, Nar, like Phu, is an authentic village with Tibetan houses and surrounded by vast farmlands.

We begin our trek early in the morning, setting out while it's still dark. The first few hours involve a gradual ascent. As we approach the pass, the climb becomes increasingly challenging. During the ascent, take a moment to look back and appreciate the breathtaking mountain views.

Upon reaching Kang La pass, you'll be rewarded with a stunning panorama of the famous Annapurna range. After descending, we'll arrive at Ngawal and rejoin the main Annapurna Trail.

Today, the Annapurna Trek goes along a gravel road, offering an easy and pleasant walk. During your trek, you will see the famous Annapurna mountains with their beautiful views. Then, when you get to Braga, you can explore the old monastery there.

The trail to Yak Kharka is delightful, with an easy path and stunning views.

Today's trek is short but steep. You'll start with a brutal climb right from the teahouse. However, after three hours of hiking, you'll reach the final teahouse before the Thorung La pass. Once there, take plenty of time to walk around and even climb up to a nearby viewpoint.

This is the final high pass of the Annapurna Trek. We begin early, embarking on a long, gradual ascent. Upon reaching the pass, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Dolpo and Mustang regions.

Afterwards, a lengthy descent leads to Muktinath, where we'll visit the renowned temple and the must-see Buddhist site.

Despite the bus park at Muktinath, we choose to hike to Jomsom. Soon, we follow the trail, crossing a pass into the Lupra Valley. Here, you can visit the sole Bön monastery outside the Dolpo region.

As we take the final steps towards Jomsom, your Annapurna Trek concludes.

Our morning flight brings us to Pokhara. Once you've settled into your comfortable hotel, it's time to discover the city. Head to the hilltop World Peace Pagoda, delve into the mountain museum, or enjoy a relaxing walk by the serene lakeside.

A tourist bus transports you through Nepal's stunning landscape back to Kathmandu.

As your journey comes to an end, it's time for farewells. After that, we arrange a comfortable transfer from your hotel to Kathmandu International Airport.