The Annapurna Circuit trek is an amazing walk through a diverse and culturally rich landscape, offering breathtaking views of the mountains, terraced fields, picturesque Gurung villages, and a wide variety of flora and fauna. Annapurna I (8091 m) in Nepal is the 10th highest mountain in the world, and the trail around it connects two deep river valleys, the Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki valleys (the deepest valley in the world).

It is one of the most popular treks in the world, passing through various vegetation and altitude zones, and is marked by cultural diversity. From Hindu villages in the foothills to the vibrant Tibetan culture around Manang. At its highest point, we will cross the famous Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m.

We will begin the trek with a drive by minibus or jeep from Kathmandu to the village of Tal, located in the beautiful Marshyangdi River valley. The next morning, we will start our trek. In the following days, we’ll pass through villages leading to Pisang, where the landscape will begin to change. The surroundings will become drier, with less vegetation, more yaks, and the landscape will take on a high-mountain character. We will also see several Buddhist monasteries.

We will make an acclimatization stop in the picturesque Gurung village of Manang, where we will visit an 800-year-old Buddhist monastery and enjoy views of Annapurna II and a glacier lake. 

From Manang, our route will lead upwards toward the Thorong La pass. After crossing it, we will descend to the sacred site of Muktinath, which is mostly visited by Hindus. From there, we will descend to the picturesque Tibetan village of Kagbeni (the boundary between Lower and Upper Mustang) and then to Jomsom. From Jomsom, we will take an early flight to Pokhara and then back to Kathmandu.

The Annapurna Circuit is considered a moderately challenging trek. It should be manageable for an average tourist. The daily ascents are not steep, and we’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the stunning, picturesque landscape.

Accommodation options on this trek are fairly good. Along the trek, we’ll stay in tourist lodges of the traditional Nepali standard. Accommodation in Kathmandu will be in a European-standard hotel. 

After the trek, we’ll explore the historical Buddhist and Hindu landmarks in the Kathmandu Valley and enjoy some well-deserved rest. The entire trek and ascent (departure/arrival) lasts 14 days, and we’ll undertake it in the company of UIMLA International Mountain Guide Michal Gabriž. We will also be accompanied by a mandatory local guide and porters, who can lighten your load by 10 kg per person. Of course, additional porters can be hired.The trek group is limited to a maximum of 9 people. 

After the trek, there is the option to spend a few days relaxing and going on a safari in Chitwan National Park.