Manaslu Annapurna Three High Passes Trek combines three beautiful trekking that encircle the central Himalayas, the mighty Annapurna region. It incorporates off-beat Manaslu Circuit Trek, off-beat Nar Phu Valley Trek, and the most popular Annapurna Circuit Trek.
If you plan either of these treks individually, it can take 12-14 days alone. However, on the 20 days of the Manaslu Annapurna Three High Passes Trek, you'll complete all three treks. Moreover, you'll climb Kang-La, Thorung-La, and Larkya-La, three beautiful High Passes of the Annapurna region.
However, the ecstasy of embarking on this majestic 20-day adventure is not for every trekker. Only trekkers with high-altitude trek experience are the best fit for this trek. It's among the most challenging treks because you must cross three high passes.
This trek progresses through the steamy lowlands, rugged high-altitude terrain, freezing high passes, beautiful gorges and valleys, mountain deserts, and unblemished secluded villages of restricted areas in Nepal.
Let's dissect the topic "Manaslu Annapurna Three High Passes Trek" with three beautiful trekkings first.
If one trek Nepal trekker admires the most, there's no other than the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The popularity of this trek is rising each day. The beautiful gorges, terrace farmlands, hamlets, and off-beat trail make it a must-explore trek in Nepal. Furthermore, the beautiful Samagaun village, Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, Mt. Manaslu, the 8th highest mountain, and Larkya-La are the significant highlights of this trek.
Since it's a circuit trek, you'll start from Machhakhola and end at Dharapani. In between, you'll enter a restricted area, Manaslu Base Camp, cross Larkya Pass, and trek down to Bimthang. It's a moderate-grade, arduous trek that rewards you in more significant ways.
Instead of doing the complete circuit, once you reach Bimthang, you'll trek into the Annapurna region from Tilje to Nar Phu.
Nar and Phu are two isolated villages in the Northern Annapurna region. Luckily, the Nar Phu Valley is still far from the bustling trekkers. As of this, you can cherish the Tibetan-influenced culture, lifestyles, mountain panorama, raw natural aesthetics, and unmatched tranquility.
Enriched with centuries-old Buddhist monasteries and three of the world's highest mountain panoramas, Nar and Phu villages offer exquisite adventure to you.
Unlike the more extended Nar Phu Trek, on the Manaslu Annapurna Three Passes Trek, you'll trek from Meta to Nar without visiting Phu. As both the places are almost identical, avoiding Phu's visit saves three trek days.
You'll trek to Ngawal from Nar Village by crossing Kang-La, a 5,320-meter-high Himalayan Pass. From Ngawal, you'll be on the
Annapurna Circuit Trek, often termed the Annapurna Round Trek, is among the most beautiful treks in Nepal. Annapurna is everyone's favorite, the heaven of mountains, inspiring landscapes, freshwater lakes, deepest gorges, and valleys. You'll love the affluent amenities at tea houses, a handful of meal choices, and comfortable overnight accommodation.
You'll trek along the mountain deserts, Kali Gandaki Gorge, apple orchards at Marpha, sacred Muktinath Temple, and beautiful Jomsom.
Unlike regular treks, the Annapurna Circuit on Manaslu Annapurna Three Passes Trek completes in five days. You'll trek to Manang, Thorung La, Muktinath, and Jomsom and reach Pokhara in five days.
Of the three passes you'll cross on Manaslu Annapurna Three Passes Trek, two are in the Annapurna region, and one is in Manaslu. Kang-La Pass and Thorung-La Pass are in the Annapurna region. Larkya-La is in Manaslu Circuit. First, you'll trek to Manaslu, cross Larkya-La, trek to Nar Phu, cross Kang-La, trek to Manang, and cross Thorung-La.
Here are some insights on these three different passes, their altitude profile, and difficulty.
Larkya-La is the highest point you'll reach while in Manaslu Circuit Trek. It's among the toughest and longest Himalayan Passes, and crossing it takes 6-7 hours. It sits between Dharmashala and Bhimtang at an altitude of 5,106 meters. And out of three passes on this trek, it ranks third.
Larkya La is also a viewpoint in the Manaslu region. You'll see Mt. Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II from here.
You'll stop at Sama Gaun for acclimatization before trekking to Dharamshala and crossing this pass. On doing so, you'll not get altitude sickness while crossing the pass.
Kang La is the most arduous of the three passes on Manaslu Annapurna Three Passes. Its steep cross sections with exposed ridges make crossing it challenging. However, for an experienced trekker, it's a pure joy to travel.
It sits over 5,306 meters in the Manang district. You'll cross Kang La from Nar Village. This pass links the Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trek route in Ngawal.
The top of this pass is highly rewarding and offers panoramic Annapurna mountain scenery. Annapurna III, Himlung, Manaslu, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak are prominently visible peaks from Kang La.
Thorong La Pass sits in Damodar Himal, at an altitude of 5,416 meters. It bridges Manang and Mustang. Crossing this pass, you'll reach Muktinath and Jomsom. Apart from trekkers, the local traders also cross this pass on a regular basis.
Apart from Annapurna Circuit Trekker, Thorung Pass is popular among Tilicho Lake Trekkers. Most trekkers on Tilicho Lake visit Thorung La and return to Yak Kharka instead of trekking down to Mustang and completing the circuit.
Also, trekking to Thorung La is easier than trekking to the other two passes. As Annapurna Circuit Trek is a more popular trek, trails here are more developed than in Manaslu and Nar Phu.
The top of Thorung La blesses trekkers with the most beautiful panorama of the entire central Annapurna range. Mountains like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Nilgiri are best seen from the top of this pass.
Through beautiful valleys, high-altitude hamlets, three passes, two restricted regions, a deserted landscape, and a multicultural experience, you'll return to Kathmandu. You'll complete a junket that others achieve in three treks in a single go. You'll get the once-in-a-lifetime experience of two beautiful trekking regions of Nepal, Manaslu and Annapurna.
The Manaslu Annapurna Three High Passes Trek is an exhilarating journey that combines the remote and less-traveled trails of the Manaslu region with the iconic Annapurna Circuit and Three High Passes. Here are some highlights of this challenging and rewarding trek:
The trek offers a stunning array of landscapes, from lush green valleys and terraced fields to rugged alpine terrain, high passes, and glacial lakes. You'll witness the dramatic contrast as you traverse through various ecological zones.
Encounter diverse ethnic communities and experience their unique cultures and traditions. Villages along the trail are inhabited by Gurung, Magar, Tibetan, and other ethnic groups, each with its own language, customs, and architecture.
The trek takes you through the Manaslu Conservation Area, a pristine region rich in biodiversity. It's home to diverse wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, and various species of birds.
Visit the base camp of Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world (8,163 meters). The towering summit and surrounding peaks create a breathtaking backdrop, offering stunning views that make the arduous journey worthwhile.
Cross the formidable Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters), the highest point of the Manaslu Circuit. The pass offers panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, including Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II.
Connect with the famous Annapurna Circuit, one of the most renowned trekking routes in the world. Marvel at the majestic Annapurna massif, including Annapurna I (8,091 meters), and enjoy the company of fellow trekkers from around the globe.
Challenge yourself with three high passes on the Annapurna Circuit: Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), Kang La Pass (5,360 meters), and Tilicho Pass (5,200 meters). These passes offer breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment as you conquer each one.
Explore Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world (4,949 meters). The deep turquoise waters surrounded by towering peaks create a surreal and awe-inspiring scene, making it a must-visit destination on the trek.
Experience the warm hospitality of the local people as you stay in tea houses and interact with villagers along the trail. Enjoy hearty meals and cozy accommodations while immersing yourself in the rich culture of the Himalayan region.
Completing the Manaslu Annapurna Three High Passes Trek is a remarkable feat that will leave you with a profound sense of achievement and memories to last a lifetime. It's an adventure that pushes your limits and rewards you with unparalleled natural beauty and cultural immersion.
After breakfast at the hotel in Kathmandu, you'll start the trek with a drive from Kathmandu to Dobhan. The distance is 210 KM. You'll drive along the beautiful Budhi Gandaki Gorge and thick woodlands. You'll stop at Soti Khola for lunch.
From Dobhan, you'll trek to Jagat for four hours, covering a 7 km distance. You'll stop overnight at a tea house in Jagat.
As usual, you'll start the trek early, at 7:30, after breakfast at the tea house. From Jagat, you'll trek to Sirdibas Village. The Buddhist Mani Walls, prayer flags, a panorama of Shringi Mountain, and locals are the focal attractions of Sirdibas.
You'll stop for lunch at Philim before trekking to Ekle Bhatti, Nyak, and Deng. The section between Philim and Deng has beautiful waterfalls, mountains, Sierra views, and cascading rivers.
Overnight at a tea house in Deng.
After leaving Deng, you'll cross a beautiful suspension bridge and trek to Rana and Bihi Phedi. You'll trek further to Ghap Village, crossing several active landslide zones.
You must be extra cautious at these sections and trek along the group, following the guide's instructions.
After crossing the landslide zone, you'll reach a river from where the trail ascends to Namrung. From here, through the uneven trail, you'll trek for one and a half hours to Namrung.
Namrung is the best place on the Manaslu Trek to stay, as good tea houses serve cappuccino and wifi. Overnight at a tea house at Namrung.
The Tibetan-influenced culture and lifestyle become more visible as you start the trek to Lho. You'll trek to Banjam village and climb to Lihi and Sho. Between these villages, you'll pass a handful of terrace farmings, lush forests, and Nubri people, the ethics of Manaslu.
You'll have your restricted area permit checked at Namrung.
Lho Village greets you with a beautiful panorama of Mt. Manaslu and Nagdi Chuli, also known as Peak 29.
Overnight at a tea house in Lho.
You'll trek to Sama Gaun from Lho via Pungen Glacier. But first, you'll have breakfast at the tea house in Lho.
After leaving Lho, you'll trek to Shyala, a beautiful village before Sama Gaun. The trek progresses through beautiful oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. One hour from Shyala takes you to Sama Gaun, where you'll stop for overnight accommodation.
Acclimatization at Sama Gaun is a must, so you'll stop here on this day. You'll trek to Manaslu Base Camp as part of the acclimatization hike.
It sits north of Sama Gaun, from where you'll see Mt. Manaslu, Sama Gaun, Pungyen Glacier, and Birendra Lake.
You'll start the acclimatization hike after breakfast. As you'll return late and there are no tea houses en route, you'll need to carry a packed lunch for the day. To assist, your trek porter carries the packed lunch of the entire group.
Overnight at the tea house in Sama Gaun.
Trek to Samdo showcases the beautiful Yak pasturelands on the lap of mighty mountains.
You'll start the day with breakfast at a tea house in Sama Gaun. You'll leave the tree line and trek on high-altitude terrain. You'll cross a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki River and trek to White Kani. White Kani is a beautiful village with more Yaks and fewer people.
A one-and-a-half-hour walk from this village takes you to Samdo. Samdo is a beautiful Tibetan refugee village that sits ideally with a panorama of Mt. Manaslu on the backdrop.
Overnight at a tea house in Samdo.
You'll start the trek early. Departing from Samdo to Larkya Bazaar, you cross several mini-streams along the picturesque trail. You'll reach Larkya Bazaar and stop for lunch. This place used to be a trading center between Manaslu and Tibet.
Past Dharamshala, you'll gain some altitude climbing to Dharamshala. This palace contains wonders like a stone-carved bed and the chain of scenic mountains in the Mansiri Range. It's the last stop before crossing Larkya La.
Overnight at a tea house in Dharamshala.
You'll leave Dharamshala early, around 5 am. It's a long day's walk to Bimthang via Larkya Pass.
After leaving Dharamshala, you'll trek to Cho Chanda. From here, you'll start crossing the pass, which takes 5-6 hours. Also, traveling in this section can be difficult for most.
From Larkya La top, you'll get the awe-striking view of Himlung Himal, Gyagi Kung, Annapurna II, and Kang Koru. You'll also stop at the Larkya Pass landmark for photographs.
The remaining section of the trail now becomes more straightforward as its entire downhill walk to Bumthang. However, you must be careful if the trail is snowy and slippery.
To recover from the longest day walk, you'll get happy meals and hot drinks at Bimthang. Settle in for overnight accommodation at Bimthang.
Instead of trekking to Dharapani, you'll walk to Tilje, in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
After breakfast, you'll start the downhill trek to Tilje. It's a long day hike.
The temperate forest reappears, you'll feel warmer, and you'll trek along the pine and rhododendron forests. You'll spot the terrace farming once you reach Kharche.
After uneven ascend and descent, you'll trek along the Marshyangdi River.Overnight accommodation at Tilje.
The authentic colors of the Annapurna circuit unfold as you start the trek from Tilje. You'll see Annapurna II, Mt. Manaslu, and other beautiful mountains. You'll trek along beautiful villages like Thanchowk, Marshyangdi River Shore, Bagarchap Village, and Timang. You'll also pass by countless mani walls, prayer flags, people, and their lifestyles.
You'll settle in for overnight accommodation at Koto Village. You'll get a panoramic view of Mt. Annapurna, Manaslu Range, and Lamjung Himal from here.
Past Koto, you'll enter the Nar Phu Valley, a restricted region. You'll start the trek with breakfast and carry the packed lunch for the day. There are only a few tea houses between Koto and Meta.
You'll trek along Nar River, steep cross-sections, cave shelters for pilgrims, and a thick forest. As you approach meta, the treeline decreases and opens up the beautiful panorama of mountains.
You'll pass through a beautiful pine forest and a dancing waterfall and reach Meta Village. It's a small yet culturally enriched village. You'll settle in for overnight accommodation at the tea house.
You'll start the trek early as you'll trek more than 15 KM in 8 hours.
After leaving Meta, you'll descend to a river through a narrow gorge and trek north. The uneven ascending and descending trail takes you to a withered landscape with Chortens and Mani walls.
You'll cross a suspension bridge and reach Nar village. You'll settle in for overnight accommodation at a tea house.
You'll start early, around 5 am, to cross the pass before mid-day. Past mid-day, the wind blows strong at the pass, making crossing it difficult.
En route, you'll notice several Yak herders and pasture lands.
The picturesque top of Kang La Pass is decorated with prayer flags. Also, the Annapurna III-IV, Machhapuchhre, Tilicho Peak, and the landscape of Manang appear awe-struck.
From the pass, you'll trek down to Ngawal. Overnight at the tea house in Ngawal.
From Ngawal, you'll trek down to the Marshyangdi River. You'll trek along the pine forest of Mugji, a 500-year-old Braga village, and trek to Manang. It's a short day hike with easy trekking.
Once you reach Manang, you'll settle at a tea house for overnight accommodation.
During the evening, the sunset over Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Pisang Peak, and Tilicho Peak is worth the watch.
The Manang to Yak Kharka trek is a moderate-grade walk for 8 hours.
After breakfast, you'll start the trek to Yak Kharka. The first section of the route sees you ascending to high pasturelands. From here, the trail descends to the Ghyanchang River. Past this river, the trail climbs again along the juniper bushes. Another one-and-a-half-hour walk takes you to Yak Kharka.
Yak Kharka. It is a beautiful place to stop by. You'll settle in at a tea house for overnight accommodation.
Thorong High Camp is the last settlement before trekking to the pass and Muktinath.
After breakfast, the trek resumes as you walk to the end of Ledar. The mountain panorama becomes closer and more apparent as you reach the last settlement of Ledar.
You'll get a great view of Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Chulu Peak.
Ninety minutes walk from Ledar takes you to a wooden bridge at Kone River. You'll trek to Thorong High Camp on a zigzag route from here.
You'll settle in at a tea house at Thorong High Camp for overnight accommodation.
It's the longest day on the entire Manaslu Annapurna Three Passes Trek.
To escape the windy afternoon at the top of Thorong La, you'll start the trek around 4 am. The trails are difficult to ascend due to ice blocks, water streams, and a gully of snow melt from Thorong Peak. The remaining route till the pass is a glacier moraine.
Thorong La Pass offers a view of Dhaulagiri, Bhrikuti, Damodar Himal, and the mighty Annapurna mountains.
From the top, you'll descend to Muktinath along the grassy meadows of Mustang. You'll stop at Rani Pauwa in Mustang, close to Muktinath Temple.
Overnight accommodation at a tea house in Rani Pauwa.
Sunrise on Mt. Dhaulagiri is worth waking up in the morning. You'll start the trek to Jomsom via Lupra Village. It's a complete downhill hike to Jomsom. You'll stop at Lupra for lunch.
The trail progresses through the beautiful Kali Gandaki gorge.
You'll reach Jomsom around 4 pm. If you like strolling around, you can visit the apple orchards in Marpha.
Settle in for overnight accommodation at a tea house in Jomsom.
With breakfast in the morning, you'll take the flight to Pokhara. Jomsom-Pokhara's flight time is 20 minutes, and Pokhara-Kathmandu's flight time is 25 minutes.
Note: If the weather turns unfavorable for the flight, we'll arrange a jeep ride from Jomsom to Pokhara.
You'll have your lunch at Pokhara. After lunch, you'll take the flight to Kathmandu.
Upon reaching Kathmandu airport, you'll get a complimentary airport-to-hotel transfer on a private vehicle.
With this, your 20-day Manaslu Annapurna Three Passes Trek ends.
Best Seasons: The best times to trek the Manaslu Circuit are in the pre-monsoon (spring, March to May) and post-monsoon (autumn, September to November) seasons. These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and optimal trekking conditions.
Winter Trekking: Winter (December to February) is possible but involves harsh conditions, including heavy snow and extremely cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.
Monsoon Trekking: Trekking during the monsoon (June to August) is generally not recommended due to heavy rain, leeches, and the increased risk of landslides.
Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Required for the Manaslu region, costs vary depending on the season (e.g., USD 100 for the first week and USD 15 for each additional day in September to November; USD 75 for the first week and USD 10 for each additional day from December to August).
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): Approximately USD 30 per person.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Approximately USD 30 per person.
Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS): Not required due to the RAP, but it’s always good to check the latest regulations
Physical Difficulty: The trek is considered strenuous due to its long duration, high altitudes (up to 5,135 meters at Larkya La Pass), and remote terrain.
Technical Difficulty: No technical climbing skills are required, but good physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience are highly recommended.
Acclimatization: Essential to avoid altitude sickness. It’s advisable to follow a slow ascent, include acclimatization days, and stay hydrated.
Teahouses: The primary form of accommodation, offering basic rooms with shared bathrooms. Facilities improve as tourism infrastructure develops, but they remain simple and functional.
Camping: Less common but an option for those seeking a more remote experience. Requires bringing your own equipment and possibly hiring additional support staff (guides, porters).
Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth highest mountain in the world, along with other peaks like Himalchuli and Ganesh Himal.
Cultural Experience: Rich cultural encounters in the Tibetan-influenced villages, monasteries, and traditional lifestyles of the local people.
Larkya La Pass: Crossing the high and challenging Larkya La Pass (5,135m) is a major highlight, offering panoramic mountain views.
Essential Clothing: Layered clothing (base layers, insulating layers, waterproof/windproof outer layers), thermal wear, trekking pants, gloves, and a hat.
Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support, trekking socks, and gaiters for snowy conditions.
Gear: A good quality sleeping bag (rated for -15°C or lower), trekking poles, a headlamp with extra batteries, a water purification system, and a first aid kit.
Miscellaneous: High-energy snacks, rehydration salts, personal toiletries, a camera, and a travel insurance policy that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
Teahouse Meals: Teahouses typically offer a menu of basic yet nourishing meals, including dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, pasta, soups, and porridge. Expect a mix of Nepali and Tibetan cuisine.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarians are well catered to, but vegans and those with specific dietary needs should bring some supplementary snacks or food items.
Guides and Porters: Hiring a licensed guide and porters not only enhances safety but also enriches the trekking experience with local knowledge and support.
Communication: Satellite phones and local SIM cards with coverage in remote areas can be crucial for emergency communication.
Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical treatment, and helicopter evacuation is essential.
Altitude Sickness: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of altitude sickness and follow proper acclimatization protocols. Immediate descent is crucial if severe symptoms develop.
Starting Point: The trek typically starts at Soti Khola, accessible by a 7-9 hour drive from Kathmandu.
Ending Point: The trek often ends at Dharapani, from where trekkers can drive to Besi Sahar and then to Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Transport Modes: Private jeeps are the most comfortable but expensive option, while local buses are cheaper but less reliable and comfortable.
Leave No Trace: Follow principles of responsible trekking to minimize environmental impact, such as packing out all trash and avoiding single-use plastics.
Cultural Respect: Show respect for local customs and traditions, seek permission before taking photographs of people, and dress modestly, especially in villages and religious sites.
Teahouse Meals: Basic yet nourishing meals, including dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, pasta, soups, and porridge. Expect a mix of Nepali and Tibetan cuisine.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarians will find sufficient options, but vegans and those with specific dietary needs should bring supplementary snacks or food items.
Guides and Porters: Hiring a licensed guide and porters enhances safety and provides support, especially in challenging areas.Communication: Satellite phones and local SIM cards with coverage in remote areas can be crucial for emergency communication.
Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical treatment, and helicopter evacuation is essential.
Altitude Sickness: Recognize symptoms and follow proper acclimatization protocols. Immediate descent is necessary if severe symptoms occur.
Starting Point: The trek typically starts at Besisahar, accessible by a 6-7 hour drive from Kathmandu.
Ending Point: The trek often ends at Jomsom, from where trekkers can fly to Pokhara or continue to Nayapul and then drive to Pokhara.
Transport Modes: Local buses and private jeeps are common. Flights from Jomsom to Pokhara are available but can be affected by weather conditions.
Leave No Trace: Follow principles of responsible trekking to minimize environmental impact, such as packing out all trash and avoiding single-use plastics.
Cultural Respect: Show respect for local customs and traditions, seek permission before taking photographs of people, and dress modestly, especially in villages and religious sites.
Water Safety: Always purify water before drinking using purification tablets or filters.
Vaccinations: Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccinations. Consider vaccines for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and other region-specific diseases.
Personal Medications: Bring a sufficient supply of any personal medications you need, as pharmacies are sparse in remote trekking areas.
Wildlife: The region is home to various species such as blue sheep, snow leopards (rarely seen), Himalayan thar, and diverse bird species. Observing these animals in their natural habitat is a unique experience.
Best Seasons: The ideal times to trek are during the pre-monsoon (spring, March to May) and post-monsoon (autumn, September to November) periods. These seasons offer stable weather, clear skies, and optimal trekking conditions.
Winter Trekking: Possible but challenging due to cold temperatures and snow, particularly in high passes.
Monsoon Trekking: Not recommended due to heavy rainfall, risk of landslides, and slippery trails.
Restricted Area Permit: A special permit is required for Nar Phu Valley. Costs vary depending on the season (e.g., USD 100 per week per person from September to November; USD 75 per week per person from December to August).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Approximately USD 30 per person.
Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Required and costs around USD 20 per person.
Physical Difficulty: This trek is considered strenuous due to long trekking days, high altitudes (up to 5,315 meters at Kang La Pass), and rugged terrain.
Technical Difficulty: No technical climbing skills are required, but a high level of physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience are strongly recommended.
Acclimatization: Crucial to avoid altitude sickness. It’s essential to follow a slow ascent, include rest days for acclimatization, and stay hydrated.
Teahouses: Primary accommodation along the route, offering basic rooms with shared bathrooms. Facilities in Nar and Phu villages are more primitive compared to other trekking regions.
Camping: An option for those seeking a more remote experience. Requires carrying your own camping gear and possibly hiring additional support staff (guides, porters).
Scenic Beauty: Breathtaking views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and other peaks.
Cultural Experience: Rich cultural encounters in the Tibetan-influenced villages of Nar and Phu, with their unique traditions, monasteries, and architecture.
Kang La Pass: Crossing the high Kang La Pass (5,315 meters) offers panoramic mountain views and a sense of achievement.
Essential Clothing: Layered clothing (base layers, insulating layers, waterproof/windproof outer layers), thermal wear, trekking pants, gloves, and a hat.
Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support, trekking socks, and gaiters for snowy conditions.
Gear: A high-quality sleeping bag (rated for -15°C or lower), trekking poles, a headlamp with extra batteries, a water purification system, and a comprehensive first aid kit.
Miscellaneous: High-energy snacks, rehydration salts, personal toiletries, a camera, and travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
Teahouse Meals: Basic yet nourishing meals are offered in teahouses, including dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, pasta, soups, and porridge. Expect a mix of Nepali and Tibetan cuisine.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarians will find sufficient options, but vegans and those with specific dietary needs should bring supplementary snacks or food items.
Guides and Porters: Hiring a licensed guide and porters enhances safety and provides support, especially in remote and challenging areas.
Communication: Satellite phones and local SIM cards with coverage in remote areas can be crucial for emergency communication.
Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical treatment, and helicopter evacuation is essential.
Altitude Sickness: Recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness and follow proper acclimatization protocols. Immediate descent is necessary if severe symptoms occur.
Starting Point: The trek usually starts from Koto, accessible by a 7-9 hour drive from Kathmandu via Besisahar.
Ending Point: The trek typically ends at Ngawal, from where trekkers can continue on the Annapurna Circuit or return to Besisahar and then to Kathmandu.
Transport Modes: Private jeeps are the most comfortable but expensive option, while local buses are cheaper but less reliable and comfortable.
Leave No Trace: Follow principles of responsible trekking to minimize environmental impact, such as packing out all trash and avoiding single-use plastics.
Cultural Respect: Show respect for local customs and traditions, seek permission before taking photographs of people, and dress modestly, especially in villages and religious sites.
Water Safety: Always purify water before drinking using purification tablets or filters.
Vaccinations: Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccinations. Consider vaccines for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and other region-specific diseases.
Personal Medications: Bring a sufficient supply of any personal medications you need, as pharmacies are non-existent in remote trekking areas.
Wildlife: The region is home to various species such as blue sheep, snow leopards (rarely seen), Himalayan thar, and diverse bird species. Observing these animals in their natural habitat is a unique experience.
Physical Difficulty: Moderately to highly challenging due to long trekking days, significant altitude gain (up to 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass), and varying terrain.
Technical Difficulty: No technical climbing skills required, but good physical fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience are highly recommended.
Acclimatization: Essential to avoid altitude sickness. Slow ascent, acclimatization days, and staying hydrated are crucial.
Teahouses: Main form of accommodation, offering basic rooms with shared bathrooms. Facilities range from very basic to moderately comfortable, depending on the village.
Guesthouses and Lodges: In more developed areas, such as Manang and Jomsom, you may find slightly more upscale guesthouses with better amenities.
Scenic Diversity: Stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Marsyangdi River, and diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to alpine terrain.
Cultural Experience: Rich cultural encounters with diverse ethnic groups, including Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali people, with their unique traditions and lifestyles.
Thorong La Pass: Crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), offering panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment.
Muktinath Temple: A significant pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Essential Clothing: Layered clothing (base layers, insulating layers, waterproof/windproof outer layers), thermal wear, trekking pants, gloves, and a hat.
Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support, trekking socks, and gaiters for snowy conditions.
Gear: A high-quality sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or lower), trekking poles, a headlamp with extra batteries, a water purification system, and a comprehensive first aid kit.
Miscellaneous: High-energy snacks, rehydration salts, personal toiletries, a camera, and travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
Nepal , Annapurna Region
Nepal , Annapurna Region
Nepal , Annapurna Region
