Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake

Day 1
 Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400M)

On day one, travellers will arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital city. Here, they’ll discover bustling streets filled with shops selling trekking and climbing equipment; towering mountains serve as a picturesque backdrop. Visitors from around the globe visit this vibrant metropolis to purchase high-quality gear for climbing expeditions; currency should be converted to Nepalese rupees as cash is the primary form of payment during treks. Taking this first day as an opportunity to acclimate to higher altitudes while meeting fellow trekkers as well as gathering essential details regarding an impending journey across Nepal’s breathtaking Himalayas.

Day 2
 Kathmandu (1,400M) to Chame (2,550M) via Besisahar (760M)

At 06:00 AM, we embarked on our escape from Kathmandu by leaving our hotels early and traveling ten minutes to a bus stop before boarding a local minibus for our journey via the Dumre-Besisahar-Chame Highway to Chame. Travel time from Kathmandu to Besisahar takes about six hours, with the first hour spent navigating through Kathmandu city. Beyond this point, the highway to Dumre, which spans 148 km, is generally smooth and comfortable, providing scenic views of lush green mountains, valleys, and villages as we gradually descend toward warmer temperatures at 300 meters. Terraced farmlands laden with crops begin to appear along this journey towards our final destination. As we progress, our ascent begins, eventually leading us to Besisahar at 760 meters via cities, towns, and increasingly rural areas. Depending on road conditions (ie, construction debris, monsoon damage, or landslides), the final 30 kilometres between Dumre and Besisahar may be rough or even unpassable at times. At Besisahar, we will stop for lunch and a quick respite before transitioning from a minibus to a shared vehicle due to the narrow and rugged roads ahead. Determining whether we spend the night in Besisahar or press on to Chame depends on our arrival time and road conditions. However, we should travel straight to Chame on the same day, as it offers a more serene and less developed environment that’s conducive for exploration and acclimatization to higher altitudes. Doing this also saves travel time; though Chame is only 66 km away due to poor road conditions, nevertheless, arriving will reward us with a picturesque village in Manang district – one of Nepal’s least densely populated regions. Trekking along the western edge of the Marsyangdi River provides an aesthetically pleasing path leading to Chame from Besisahar. However, some trekkers opt to start in Besisahar and follow it until they reach Chame. Unfortunately, however, this option is marred by frequent dust clouds caused by passing vehicles as well as exhaust fumes from passing vehicles. Therefore, it would be more advantageous to take a vehicle directly to Chame, giving your body time to adjust before beginning trekking from this quieter town. After driving about fifteen minutes from Besisahar, we find ourselves on a road surrounded by dense forests and verdant mountains, where rice and millet are being farmed on terraced slopes. Dotted throughout this picturesque scene are colourful stone and mud houses typical of Nepalese settlements. On one side of a winding river flows mountains filled with homes, fields, and livestock lie below, while dense forests cover its higher slopes in an array of fifty shades of green. As villages become smaller and further apart until they eventually vanish altogether, suspension bridges span the river, providing convenient passage between mountains; along the route are numerous waterfalls cascading down their slopes, with at least one appearing every 20 meters or so. Mountains in this region tend to collapse. Due to ongoing construction work, we must consider both the time needed for operating heavy machinery like JCBs as well as potential delays that may occur as we plan for their use. Even though unpaved roads without barriers may seem hazardous, they are captivating. Without fencing to block out their views down into deep gorges that line these roadways. Waterfalls transform muddy roads into treacherous paths, adding an element of adventure. After driving for around three hours, the sight of Chamje waterfall will indicate its proximity. Here you can take a break from driving before continuing forward towards our goal – reaching an elevation of 2,550 meters at Chame Village, approximately three more hours later.

Day 3
 Acclimatization at Chame (2,550M)

As the sun peeks out behind towering mountain peaks visible through your wooden window frame, Chame awakens as a charming town, providing welcome respite from driving on rough dirt roads. Lamjung Himal’s sublime presence shines especially brightly in this soft morning light. Rustic charm in the town is enhanced by stone houses, dirt roads, and the soothing sounds of a river. As evening approaches, sunsets become even more breathtaking with Manaslu North, Manaslu, and Phungi Himal peaks glowing brightly before dawn breaks. Chame’s well-stocked shops cater to your cravings with delicious snacks such as fried samosas and chips. Additionally, it’s recommended that you withdraw cash from Chame’s ATM as ATM options may become limited further along the trek. As an iconic stop along the Annapurna Circuit trek route, Chame boasts many lodges; however, food and drink prices have increased slightly relative to Besisahar (an increase that should continue throughout). At 9 AM, after enjoying a satisfying breakfast, we embarked on an excursion around our settlement to explore its surroundings and engage in some physical activity at higher elevations for optimal acclimatization. Chame View Point can be reached after a two-hour trek through dense pine forests with their steep terrain, where traversing it can be quite tricky. Beginning by passing through a village and fields of various crops, before reaching an increasing slope. No matter your approach, reaching the summit typically takes less than two hours. Chame View Point’s newly constructed platform affords breathtaking panoramic views of Lobuche Peak, Annapurna II, and Manaslu Mountains; these views can be enhanced further with prayer flags waving fluttering above towering trees that add visual beauty. A picturesque vista opens onto the tranquil village of Chame, nestled at its foot, flowing river and majestic mountains in the background, providing the setting for this picture-perfect landscape. Golden eagles soar overhead, adding another dimension of beauty. Ascending only takes 45 minutes; total distance walked is 6 kilometres, including ascent and descent. The village features two monasteries that add serenity, as dogs run freely, cows moo from houses nearby, firewood is neatly stacked in one corner, creaky wooden doors can be heard echoing around town as locals carry out daily tasks; taking a stroll through it reveals deep connections between Nepalese people and its towering mountains – relax for now because our real trek begins tomorrow – let it unfold before our real trek begins tomorrow, which promises exciting vistas all its own.

Day 4
 Chame (2,550M) to Pisang (3,150M)

Today is sure to be an eventful journey, filled with new sights to take in and significant distance to travel. After spending the night relaxing at our cozy tea house in Chame, we fuel up early with breakfast at 0630 AM before setting out on our journey by 0700 AM. As we leave the village behind us, we leave behind its vibrant prayer flags, stupas, and chortens and let the Marsyangdi river guide us through the valley. Annapurna II towers majestically overhead – its silence providing a striking contrast against this busy landscape. Due to recent infrastructure development, a dirt road now connects Manang, and we must adapt our route accordingly. Some traditional trekking treks have been damaged by landslides, so for much of the day we will follow this vehicle route instead, diverting wherever possible to avoid it. The path begins against an idyllic background of alpine trees, winding its way upward with occasional short descents. Along its journey, you’ll come across an abundance of mani stones and chortens adorned with Buddhist prayers inscribed onto them and placed beside roads, rivers, or mounds as offerings to local spirits. According to tradition, travellers should pass these structures on the left side, symbolizing Buddhism’s belief in the clockwise rotation of the universe and the significance of circular patterns throughout religious practices. As we neared three hours, we reached a suspension bridge spanning the river. These are often seen throughout Nepal’s rural regions and feature metal cantilevers that sway gently when the wind blows across them. As soon as we cross, we turn off the main road and enter a dense pine forest where a well-worn trek winds its way amongst the trees. Bird calls, pine scent, and the sparkling turquoise river create an incredible atmosphere as we trek along this section of our journey. Today’s route involves an ascent of over 600 meters with gradual ascents interrupted by steeper sections, offering several opportunities for rest stops and replenishment along the way. After about an hour of trekking through forest paths, we rejoin the main road. Paungda Danda is one of the main highlights of today’s trek, dominating its scenery all along the trek. Situated southeast of Pisang Peak, this peak stands out for its unique western rock face that soars 1,500 meters above Marsyangdi River – this massive rock surface, known as Great Wall of Pisang can be seen visible on your right-hand side as part of this massive rock surface known as Swarga Dwar (doorway to heaven) where local belief holds that souls ascend this wall before reaching paradise. Today, you can visit an interesting location known locally as Dhukure Pokhari or “the dove pond.” Its shape reportedly resembles that of a dove, hence its moniker; this characteristic shape becomes most apparent when water levels drop significantly. Adjacent to it lies a small stone temple adorned with prayer flags. Nearby settlement shares its name with the nearby pond and stands at an elevation of approximately 3,185 meters. An hour’s walk away, there is a junction with signs pointing in both directions: Lower Pisang and Upper Pisang. Lower Pisang, located at 3,200 meters, boasts charming stone and wooden houses, flowering trees, prayer wheels, traditional Tibetan Buddhist symbols, as well as tranquil surroundings including yaks, firewood stacks, and stunning mountain views. Meanwhile, Upper Pisang, located on the mountainside below Pisang Peak, offers visitors the unique experience of an evening prayer service at its monastery – both offer memorable encounters between nature’s grandeur and spiritual tranquillity.

Day 5
 Pisang (3,150M) to Manang (3,560M)

Today’s journey covers 16 kilometres and should take around five to six hours, starting off with breakfast at 6:30 AM. Tea houses along the Annapurna Circuit Trek offer comfortable accommodations and an assortment of food choices, providing travellers with an enjoyable travel experience. At 7 AM, after breakfast, our trek will start. Primarily following dirt roads towards Manang with occasional forays into trekking treks where available, the landscape shifts dramatically from lush alpine trees in Pisang to more rugged, earthy terrain in Manang. This region, nestled into the Himalayan rain shadow on the outskirts of Tibet’s plateau, boasts rugged cliffs, dusty treks, and unique vegetation that conjures images of Wild West-esque environments. There are two routes leading from Pisang to Manang; whichever trek follows through Humde is usually chosen as it takes you closer to town. As we explore Pisang village, passing stone houses and fields along a stone-paved path, we traverse its entirety. As we walk along the central walking path until reaching the village’s end, passing many prayer wheels placed along it, we then descend over a metal bridge over a river before ascending briefly back up again until reaching a chorten. Navigating through a wide track, making our way up what seems to be an endless climb, we make our way towards dense forest, veering off at any opportunity to take steeper routes to reduce road curvatures. At some point, the forest opens up into a suddenly different environment with dirt paths crisscrossing like river veins, towering rock faces, bushes dotting the landscape and scattered pine trees – an environment with the unmistakable sense that at any moment a ranger in cowboy boots on horseback might come trotting around a corner carrying his lasso! As we traverse more arid terrain now, we ascend gradually yet comfortably towards Bgoro Danda col (3,440m). Here, a spectacular panorama of Humde Valley with Chulu peaks as its backdrop will unfold before us. Ascending gradually towards Humde village with an airstrip that sees little use nowadays due to dirt roads being established through it, Humde marks our halfway point today’s trek and provides an excellent place for lunch breaks; there are restroom facilities within its walls as well. As the town dissipates, its scenery opens up to reveal a dramatic change in landscape – one where rugged, weathered spires rise from the earth like strange alien creatures, creating an otherworldly ambience. Terrain begins to transform into an earth-toned tapestry, with dry meadows’ rich hues of brown dominating the scene. Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna are majestic mountains that stand tall against the sun; Annapurna III and Gangapurna are particularly striking when seen from far away. When turning back around, Paungda Danda and Pisang Peak come into view once more. On the opposite side, an endless series of dry, jagged ridges seemingly sprawling endlessly under the sparkling snow-topped Chulu peaks are visible. Mungji (3,480M), an attractive village populated mostly by goats and suggesting its day’s destination may be within reach, is situated directly across from the river. Signposts here point towards Ice Lake and Milarepa Caves – two must-visit places to come back and explore on another day! From Mungji, it’s only a 30-minute stroll to Braka (3,500M). From there, it’s another journey through arid, open terrain where wild horses and yaks graze on any remaining greenery or just relax. This trek takes you past numerous chortens and mani walls before reaching a steep incline that leads you directly into Manang village – home of lodges, teahouses, and bakeries selling local bread! As you step through this sleepy village of roughly 200 residents, it feels like entering an alternate universe. Traditional stone and wooden houses, stone pathways, and rows of prayer wheels create an idyllic scene, drawing both locals and visitors alike to enjoy an idyllic afternoon reminiscent of indulging in an ice cream cone during a scorching city day. Manang is a charming village offering many amenities, from stores selling trekking equipment and services like visitor information centres and medical facilities, to tourist information services and medical facilities that may or may not always be staffed. Take advantage of any opportunities here to replenish funds or convert currency to NPR; exchange rates may not be as favourable. Make plans to arrive in Manang by afternoon; accommodations here are charming and welcoming, with delicious food offerings as well as charming cafes that specialize in top-quality coffee and desserts.

Day 6
 Acclimatization at Manang (3,560M)

Manang is an ideal destination to help acclimatize to its high altitude, but with so much to explore in and around Manang, your day off might become as busy and exhausting as any trekking day.

Day 7
 Manang (3,560M) to Shree Kharka (4,045M)

Today we will travel only 7-8 kilometers over an estimated 4-hour distance, so we can enjoy some extra rest after spending last night at Manang’s tea house, with its stunning view of Gangapurna and its glaciers right outside our window. At 08:30 AM, we will embark on our journey towards Shree Kharka, located at an elevation of 4,045 meters. Take five minutes to stroll through this charming medieval-style village for stunning scenery. Village dwellers lead visitors into expansive fields of crops where green blades dance in the breeze against a magnificent background of Gangapurna and Annapurna II-IV, with their snowcapped peaks shimmering brightly in sunlight. As we traverse further on our journey, a fork in the path presents us with two options – either an ascending road or steep, narrow treks, each offering stunning beauty and serenity. We opt for the latter route, a trekking path which leads us directly to a cable bridge spanning the river and then back onto a broad road, eventually arriving at Khangsar village and its marked metal gate entrance. Shortly afterwards, we arrive in a village, where numerous tea houses offer us warm hospitality and provide us with an opportunity to refuel. Nepal is well known for its archery tournaments, featuring locals clad in white robes showing their skills on an archery range, while football teams often compete against one another on wide open fields in friendly matches – both events drawing large crowds of locals, tourists, and trekkers alike. After 30 minutes since leaving Khangsar, we came upon another fork in our path with two options – a wide vehicle-friendly road and a steeper, narrower trek heading in opposite directions, each offering its benefits and challenges. After some thought and deliberation, we chose the latter, which, while more taxing for such a short stretch as 200 meters, proved a more direct and direct route. Notably, our chosen path eventually met up with the larger road, even though trek markers pointed in that direction. After an exhilarating 40-minute ascent, we eventually arrived at our day’s goal. The Shree Kharka trek was breathtaking, particularly after crossing a bridge, with majestic mountains looming ahead and creating the impression of walking into them directly. Along its narrow dirt path were vibrant wildflowers and bushes requiring careful foot placement on narrow dirt paths with careful foot placement needed. This leg of our journey was short and easy, with only moderately challenging terrain along its entirety. As evening temperatures dropped to around 6-7 degrees and lower at night, tea houses offered a cozy refuge complete with comfortable beds, nutritious meals, and thick blankets to help ease into their new environments and altitude. To ease into their surroundings and altitude, consider exploring nearby treks on dry brown mountains to help adjust.

Day 8
 Shree Kharka (4,045M) to Tilicho Base Camp (4,110M)

Today might seem like an easy day compared to your recent activities, but be mindful on the trek through loose mountains. Blue sheep and mountain goats may make your trek hazardous with their playful antics that cause rocks of all sizes to come tumbling down at unpredictable speeds. While adorable animals like sheep and goats may seem harmless at first glance, their behaviour poses serious threats; their colour blends in well with barren brown mountains composed of loose rock and mud, so be cautious to stay alert of potential dangers!

Breakfast typically occurs around 07:30, and we start our trek shortly before 08:00 AM, following an identical path as before. First, we ascend a 100-meter incline before reaching undulating terrain that resembles camelback ridges with multiple ups and downs. After approximately 30 minutes on our trek, we crossed a river using a bridge spanning a deep gorge with stunning views of its bubbling river below. In the landscape are dry mountains with mud pillars resembling termite mounds, forming an incredible scene for our adventure. Once across the bridge, the trek becomes treacherous, winding around an unforgiving mountainside without much vegetation to cushion its surface and eventually leading down into the gorge below. This challenging section lasts approximately 50 meters before we reach a more secure path, which gradually ascends and offers secure footing.

Today’s journey involves traversing treacherous paths that ascend and descend along the side of a rapidly degrading mountain, along narrow treks with increasingly limited views of majestic peaks. Soon enough, however, we find ourselves transitioning into an environment characterized by barren, rocky and arid mountains, where various shades of brown offer no stable foothold. Soon enough we find ourselves among mysterious towering mud formations which were so captivating from a distance; now appearing even more mysterious and ancient as we pass through them.

Nepal is an eclectic blend of languages and cultures, creating an international atmosphere. When trekking unfamiliar treks, you’ll encounter individuals speaking different dialects from various regions who quickly become friends as you make progress toward Tilicho Base Camp at 11 AM – an impressive accomplishment as many trekkers reach this remote mountain campsite within one day! However, take some time out after trekking a significant elevation change (over 400 meters!) to explore these barren mountain treks to help acclimate yourself for future days that will take your journey even higher up into the altitudes.

Day 9
 Tilicho Base Camp (4,110M) to Shree Kharka (4,045M) via Tilicho Lake (4,920M)

Day 9 will surely be exciting with an early 4:30 AM start and a packed breakfast in hand, setting off on our journey towards Tilicho Lake at an altitude of 4,920 m. As we trek, the trek winds its way upward through rugged, arid terrain characterized by loose moraine and steep inclines that require special consideration. As we ascend, breathtaking scenes reveal themselves beneath us: river valleys below and snowcapped mountains towering overhead. Morning air is crisp and dry, filled with the promise of magic as the sun begins its trek behind us to illuminate the landscape with warmth. But the terrain remains challenging, with landslides and stones making every step an endurance test. After 2.5 hours of navigating treacherous hairpin bends, we entered a snow-covered area where a steep and continuous climb began, ascending 800M in altitude. Finally, a signpost and a blue and white marker pole signalled our arrival near Tilicho Lake, filling us with excitement and anticipation!

But don’t be misled into thinking you are almost there; the lake remains hours away, its poles stretching out before you like an endless obstacle course. This landscape reveals itself as an expansive flat terrain covered by knee-deep snow that has been carved by fierce mountain winds into fascinating shapes. It resembles a frozen sea with waves suspended in time – an intoxicating sight. You see an endless sea of white spread out before you, only broken by vibrant colours from hundreds of prayer flags fluttering in the wind near a small temple, near a lake. Based on time of year and snowfall levels, Lake Titicaca can vary dramatically in appearance from year to year, from vibrant blue oasis to vast, glassy ice rink, obscuring its true beauty beneath a thick blanket of ice. While travelling from base camp to Lake Titicaca is no short journey, taking roughly 3-4 hours over its 6km distance, you will certainly be rewarded with breathtaking scenery!

After our brief excursion, we return to base camp, finding that the journey downhill was significantly faster. Within two hours we arrive back at base camp where we enjoy a welcome respite, refresh ourselves, enjoy lunch by the fire, and warm ourselves by it after our early morning adventure. While Tilicho Lake proved rewarding, now is the time to rejoin the main trek around Shree Kharka massif before setting out again towards Shree Kharka for the descent.

Shree Kharka, located 7 kilometres away, should take around two hours due to its familiar path and altitude decline. As we had to ascend and descend multiple times on Day 8, now is an opportune time to regain any lost altitude from previous descents. After exerting ourselves so much this morning, today might prove challenging, but still manageable. Our path to Shree Kharka narrows and becomes dusty again; be considerate to other trekkers by giving way, when necessary, as the trek only allows one trekker at a time. With towering mountains surrounding our trek routes looming large on all sides, it would be impossible to take it all in at once; hence, resting is highly advised as more long days lie ahead on our journey.

Day 10
 Shree Kharka (4,045M) to Ledar (4,240M) via Yak Kharka (4,000M)

At this point in our trek, we have completed 10 kilometres. The total duration should range between 6 and 7 hours as we depart the comfortable days of initial trekking towards an elevation of 5,416 meters – today marks the beginning of a difficult but ultimately exhilarating journey! Setting goals may prove challenging at first glance; once they are accomplished, though, you may find yourself yearning for more excitement on this exciting adventure! Following our restful rest day that stretched into the afternoon on Wednesday, we set out for Ledar at 8:00 AM this morning. The journey from Yak Kharka spans 10 kilometres, with another 3 kilometres needed to reach Ledar. Although Yak Kharka offers various accommodation options, it would be more practical for us to push further today and establish ourselves in Ledar for easier traveling tomorrow. Yak Kharka and Ledar have grown increasingly popular as rest stops for trekkers heading toward Thorang Phedi, as more recognition has been brought to bear on their difficulties. Now these villages boast cozy lodges and welcoming cafes for trekkers passing through. Though not overly steep, the altitude makes the climb feel exhausting. After an exhausting 30-minute ascent of 120 meters, we reached what had once been an enchanting village; now reduced largely to rubble. However, from this vantage point, the landscape opens up to reveal lush valleys ahead. The mountainside has been terraced carefully for agricultural purposes while large herds of wild yaks, horses, and blue sheep roam freely throughout this vast region.

After about an hour and a half of trekking, we finally reach the summit of a hill and are met with stunning views over the valley below. A serpentine river winds its way across a landscape, passing by a village at the base of rolling hills amidst lush emerald-green fields and strange termite mound-like formations. At last, we reached our destination. Before us spreads an impressive landscape dominated by the Gangapurna, Annapurna II-IV mountains towering overhead. From our lofty perch, we start the treacherous descent, giving up any elevation we had gained along the way. Once at the bottom, we cross a long suspension bridge that spans a river with high swinging arms, offering stunning views. At its opposite side lies a terrain change and an uphill battle to gain back lost altitude; luckily, there are numerous tea stalls scattered along our journey providing us with welcome relief to replenish energy reserves and give us strength. After our ninety-minute ascent, we reach Yak Kharka – an easily identifiable landmark with vibrant markers adorning rocks along the trek, ensuring an easy journey. Here you can decide to stop for lunch or continue to Ledar, just an hour away, where you can settle in and dine – be quick though as darkness sets early at Yak Kharka, bringing a sudden chill with it! Ledar lies ahead: just an easy trek across flat terrain with roaming yaks and horses that roam freely across flat terrain; after crossing a metal bridge lies Ledar: an oasis-like village offering tranquillity, whatever season may bring with it!

Day 11
 Ledar (4,240M) to High Camp (4,850M) via Thorang Phedi (4,540M)

This trek covers 6 kilometres and typically takes 4-5 hours to complete. Although its distance may seem short, arriving at High Camp with plenty of time in hand is important as accommodations (with only 110 rooms available) fill quickly during peak seasons; additionally, altitude sickness may slow our progress despite taking such a short route. At approximately 07:30 AM, our departure will commence. After ascending 150 meters, which typically takes 40 minutes to complete, a brief descent leads us onto a flat trek for approximately 10 minutes before we return downhill again. Take time to take in the sights, as failing to do so may mean missing an incredible panorama of Annapurna III and Gangapurna glistening with hues of red during a gorgeous Himalayan sunrise. At 50 minutes, we reached a fork in the road; here, there are two paths, with one leading straight ahead while the other deviates towards a suspension bridge. Both routes lead to the same destination, so choose the route based on your taste. If you enjoy crossing swinging metal bridges, the latter route might be best. After crossing the river, each path entails a steep incline of approximately 35 meters. Thorang Phedi is approximately 5 kilometres from Ledar and takes about two to 2.5 hours by bus or car to reach. Surrounding Thorang Phedi are rugged cliffs, crags, and ridges – hence its Nepali name of Phedi, which translates as ‘bottom of the pass’. Thorang Phedi offers accommodation options if needed; however, High Camp should be visited instead to reduce distance and altitude gain the following day and increase chances for successful acclimatization through gradual elevation gains on your journey towards Thorang La.

Accommodation and dining standards at both locations are comparable, so don’t let this influence your choice of where to stop for the day. Climbing High Pass involves an approximately 300-meter steep climb along a well-marked, rocky trek that should take no more than an hour if starting from Thorang Phedi at 10:30 AM and arriving by 10:30 AM; with ample time on this scenic trek home to blue sheep providing pleasant company along the way! However, any decision about proceeding directly to High Pass should be made collectively after taking into account each group member’s comfort with altitude adjustment and confidence when taking on the higher elevation challenge.

High Pass Lodge features 110 rooms that can comfortably house two to three guests each, along with four shared bathrooms and a large dining area that’s divided into multiple sections for easy navigation. Guests can dine on pancakes, pasta, pizza, and beer from their cozy interior while experiencing mountain breezes at this altitude. A brief acclimatization walk may help guests prepare for the pass ascent while enjoying mountain breezes at this altitude; visitors from different tea houses often gather in this dining area, where visitors gather together, socialize, read cards, or swap stories while having fun activities to keep guests busy for days.

Day 12
 High Camp (4,850M) to Muktinath (3,765M) via Thorang La Pass (5,416M)

Distance covered: 15.5 kilometres, total duration: 6.5 hours. On the previous night, everyone inquired about departure times, stops, weather forecasts, clothing layers needed, and dining preferences in a lively dining area from which all small groups and individuals moving towards a mountain pass congregated. By 4 AM this morning, all were up early enough to gather in their dining rooms with sleepy yawns and lively chatter filling the air, like one big happy family.

As soon as breakfast has finished at approximately 5 AM, our ascent begins. Since it’s still dark out there, we will climb using torchlight and should exercise extra caution on this narrow trek that may become treacherous due to ice or moraine formation. Assure your head-torch has enough battery power for at least several hours of travel ahead. If you stayed at Thorang Phedi, early departure may be required and more elevation gained; plan your supplies accordingly. As this climb can be strenuous and air dry, carrying at least two liters of water may help ease discomfort by keeping your throat hydrated. An hour of climbing through an unlit gully in darkness may be tiring, but as dawn arrives and unveils breathtaking views, energy returns in spades. Beholding the majestic mountains at first light can inspire awe, with Gangapurna and Annapurna III sparkling under the sun’s light. However, given that this climb is continuous and steep, finding a comfortable pace and rhythm may prove helpful for ensuring success.

The trek winds through soft, dusty mountains that seem almost delicate. As you progress, snow gradually appears in various shapes and forms – inspiring perseverance through colder temperatures. However, the final stretch to the pass may prove challenging due to deceptive false peaks; taking around three hours to cover this last four kilometre stretch. Pay attention to your body’s signals to ensure an enjoyable journey.

At Thorang La Pass, look out for rocks covered in prayer flags that mark your arrival. Once you reach that point and feel the strong wind pushing from all directions, you will know you have arrived at this well-known pass. Given its cold and harsh winds, it is wise to snap some photos, briefly celebrate, and enjoy some hot tea at the small tea house located there before beginning your descent back towards Muktinath, though remember this journey may take many hours.

Consider stopping to appreciate the breathtaking views along Kali Gandaki Valley’s winding trek, with its dramatic backdrop of mountain ridges and moraines. While there are countless mountains to see and identify, one of the main highlights is seeing Dhaulagiri Peak. Parts of the trek may become soft due to landslides; therefore, it is wise to keep an eye out for red and white markers on your way. As we transition from dusty mountains to verdant lands and rugged rocks, the scenery progressively transforms with each step we take downhill. At the end of a challenging descent with trembling knees comes an incredible sense of accomplishment; at which time hot showers await, as do delicious meals, plus Wi-Fi connectivity will soon return.

Day 13
 Muktinath (3,765M) to Jomsom (2,880M) via Lubra (2,990M)

Tomorrow we will complete 19 kilometres over 5 to 6 hours as the Annapurna Circuit Trek comes to a close, and tomorrow we board a bus back to Pokhara. Even if you think you have seen all its breathtaking sites along the way, be prepared for an incredible experience as every day of Annapurna Circuit Trek offers something different and stunning – we have selected Lubra as an idyllic route from Muktinath to Jomsom for this leg of our trek.

Today we won’t need to rush as our primary objective is Jomsom, a larger city located at lower altitude. In the morning we explore Muktinath – an acclaimed pilgrimage destination with sacred sites for both Hindus and Buddhists that holds plenty of surprises for visitors! There’s plenty to see and experience around Muktinath!

As we leave Muktinath for Lubra, the goal is to reach Lubra by lunchtime – an approximate journey time of 3.5 hours. As we leave town, we navigate our way through its bustling streets lined with cafes and tourists before taking an under-explored trek leading into the desert landscape on our left. As we pass towering mountains to our left and a valley to our right dotted with small villages, apple orchards, and livestock on either side, the scenery becomes increasingly stunning. Less travelled by trekkers than other paths, this trek may even remain completely alone until reaching Lubra village approximately halfway to Jomsom. This day’s trek features several steep ascents, but the amazing views of Dhaulagiri, the peaceful atmosphere, and the stunning landscape all combine for an enlightening and pleasurable experience. As we descend towards Kali Gandaki Valley, the scenery shifts into dry, rocky, and windswept terrain – quite the opposite view from lush surroundings!

Lubra stands out among other high-altitude villages for its breathtaking landscape and unique geography, making it truly unforgettable. Situated atop a rugged mountain slope, this small high-altitude village provides the ideal place to take a break, recharge your energy reserves, and avoid harsh winds. The main village can be reached via a long suspension bridge spanning the river to its left. A charming tea house can be found within this village, offering delicious homemade cuisine as well as providing insight into traditional village life. Be sure to experience their cuisine and their way of life; the valley is famous for its strong gusts that make each step an adventure! Once our lunch break has passed, we’ll cross the river and tackle its windy terrain, winding our way down Panda Khola before joining the main trek to Jomsom, where vehicles provide welcome relief from solitude in the mountains. By late afternoon, we should arrive in Jomsom’s bustling trading hub, where lodges are conveniently situated near its airport on its outskirts.

Day 14
 Jomsom (2,880M) to Pokhara (820M)

Journeying from Kathmandu to Pokhara by bus takes approximately 160 kilometres over narrow mountain roads. Beginning at 9:00 AM, local buses gradually traverse rugged terrain with views of lush valleys below; as we descend lower lands the temperature increases and surroundings become more crowded; landscape transitioning between larger villages and lush green mountainsides as the journey proceeds; expected arrival is around evening time so it is recommended to plan further travel for tomorrow.