Manang Annapurna Circuit - An Arcadian Haven
A popular rest day of the Annapurna Circuit stop, Manang. Located in Gandaki Pradesh of Nepal, and the northern part of the Annapurna region, specifically within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. It is surrounded by Xizang (Tibetan Autonomous Region) to the north, Mustang (the 5th largest district) to the west, Kaski to the southbound, and Lamjung to the east. Some of the eminent monastery present in Manang are Braga Monastery, Milarepa Cave Monastery, and Pocho Gumba.
Monastery around Manang
Braga Gompa, an ancient monastery in the region, is assumed to be over tercentenary. The monastery houses an assortment of invaluable relics, including clay statues (figurines) of Buddhas and Lamas, and complete sets of Kangyur and Tengyur texts written in gold. , is a part of the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.
Another spiritual shrine associated with the mid-millennium age Tibetan Buddhist yogi and poet is Milarepa. This cave is said to hold the myth that Guru Milarepa spent 6 years musing in this gompa and attained enlightenment. Located just near the cliff of Braka Gompa and close to Mt. Annapurna, and a lauded detour for trekkers on the Manang Annapurna Circuit.
Hiking to the Ice Lake of Manang, Kicho Tal. This Tal is a gratifying diversion from Manang valley and a fruitful addition to our 12-day short Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is a challenging hike (10-12 km round trip) but holds the reward of a stunning high-altitude lake (often frozen) and panoramic views of the giants.
The Longest Acclaimed Thorong La Pass (5416m) - A Gorgeous Mountain Pass
The Thorong La Pass (5416m/17769m) is a significant and tough challenge of the trip, but it is the most-loved and beautiful pass in the Annapurna trekking region. It’s located between the Manang and Mustang districts. The trek can be started from both sides, but more than 80% of trekkers start from Manang; starting in a clockwise direction from Dharapani and ending at Muktinath due to altitude reasons. Mountain views of Annapurna ranges (II & IV), Gangapurna, Tilicho peak, Pisang Peak, Lamjung Himal, Chulu West, and Chulu East can be seen at first as we hike. As we descend Mount Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Thapa peaks, among others, become noticeable after the pass. Khatung Kang and Yakawa Kang peaks are the peaks that form the pass.
One surprising fact is that the mountain pass is even higher than Everest Base Camp (5,346m), but it is not as high as the EBC Trek. In ancient times, this pass was used as a Trading route between Nepal and Tibet; actively, it has become mainly a trekking route for travelers.
Nepal Tilicho Lake Trek-Highest Lake in the Globe
Tilicho Lake of Annapurna is a fabulous, frigid high-altitude lake in Nepal. Situated at 4,919 m high, it claims the fame of being the highest lake in the world after Ojas del Salado and surely for the jaw-dropping views. Tukuche, Manaslu, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, fishtail, Annapurna South, I, II, III, and Tilicho Peaks are some of the prominent gigantic peaks seen from this site.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is almost conducted throughout the year. But the best time to go is spring and autumn.
Spring (March, April & May) is one of the most popular times to go on this trek. With rhododendrons and wildflowers in full bloom, it’s the best time to experience nature at its best. This is also a perfect time to see local farming communities in full swing.
Autumn (September, October & November) is another best time to go trekking here. You can witness perfect weather with a moderate climate all around. You can witness Mount Annapurna perfectly during this time with clear skies and stunning panorama.
You can also go on this trek during the summer as well. If you want to see greeneries and wildflowers in their natural form then this might be the perfect time for you.
Avoid end of December to end of February for the Annapurna Circuit. Heavy snowfall can block passes and trails, making trekking unsafe and challenging.
Why is Annapurna Circuit Trek good for you?
- It is one of the adventurous trekking routes in Nepal.
- This trekking route is quite challenging for a person.
- They have comfortable accommodations all over the route.
- It is a perfect high-altitude hike for beginners.
- Stunning and picturesque mountain views.
- Witness rich culture and traditional experiences.
- Experience diverse cultures, landscapes, terrains, and ecology.
Physical Fitness
As this route is quite challenging and strenuous, you have to be physically fit to go on it. It consists of difficult paths and steep trails. This trek will take you to an elevation of more than 5000 meters, so you might need to be physically and mentally sound.
Nepal Visa Information
It is important to note the details of the visa-acquiring process. Indians do not require a visa, whereas it is compulsory for all foreigners.
Requirements for the visa application are as follows:
- You need a valid passport with at least six months left before it expires and a passport-size photo. Make sure it has at least one blank page for the visa stamp.
- You must apply for your visa before reaching Nepal.
- You can pay the visa fee with either cash or a credit card.
- You can get a 30-day multiple-entry tourist visa by paying US $50 or its equivalent in foreign currency.
- Another option is a 90-day multiple-entry tourist visa that costs US $135.
- Online visa applications will remain in the system for only 15 days. The system will automatically delete it after 15 days. Thus, we recommend you submit the visa application only 15 days before your arrival date in Nepal.
- People from Nigeria, Ghana, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Somalia, Cameroon, Swaziland, Iraq, Ethiopia, Liberia, and Palestine may not get visas on arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport. Please contact your local Nepalese embassy to complete your visa application process.
- You can also contact the Nepal Embassy or Nepal Consulate in your country for prior information regarding visa requirements.
Arrival and Departure
Almost all countries are connected via air to Nepal. Once you arrive at the airport, our representative from Index Adventure will pick you up at the gate. They’ll drive you to your hotel and help with your check-in. Our package includes a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for two nights. The hotel is within walking distance of all the major attractions.
After your trip concludes, you will be dropped off at the airport from the hotel for your departure.
Trekking Permits
To go on this trek, you’ll need special permits to enter this region:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Trekkers' Information Management Systems (TIMS)
These Annapurna Circuit Trek permits are all included in your package so no extra charges will apply.
Trek Gears Preparation
For your Annapurna Circuit Trek with Index Adventure, pack sufficient hiking clothes due to no laundry services on the trail. Proper gear is essential for safety and comfort.
For a tailored packing list, check out our detailed guide.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty
The Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty is regarded as moderate-to-challenging, 12 to 21-day trek covering approximately 160–230 km (100–145 miles), culminating at the 5,416-meter (17,769 ft) Thorong La Pass. It is physically demanding, featuring daily 5-8 hour walks, steep ascents, and high-altitude risks, requiring good cardiovascular fitness and proper acclimatization, usually with a rest day in Manang.
Key Difficulty and Distance Metrics:
- Total Distance: 160 km – 230 km (approx. 100–145 miles).
- Duration: 12–21 days (typical itinerary).
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging.
- Maximum Altitude: 5,416m (17,769 ft) at Thorong La Pass.
- Daily Walking: 5–8 hours.
Difficulty Factors:
- Altitude Sickness: Risk is high above 3,500m. Proper acclimatization (e.g., in Manang) is crucial to avoid severe symptoms.
- Terrain: The trail features varied terrain, including steep, rocky, and uneven paths.
- Hardest Section: The crossing of Thorong La Pass, which involves a significant, high-altitude climb and steep descent.
- Road Construction: New dirt roads have reduced the trekking distance on certain, lower sections of the route
Accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit Trek
During your overnight stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll be accommodated in a 3-star hotel located in the tourist hub. It’s situated near shops, restaurants, currency exchange centers, banks, and ATMs.
While on your trek, you’ll find lodges along the way. They are usually family-run establishments and have a common form of accommodation. Rooms may consist of squat toilets or western-style toilets depending on the establishment.
They are basic and provide essential amenities, with most places having attached bathrooms and comfortable beds. It is recommended to carry a sleeping bag with you.
There is usually a wood fireplace in the dining or kitchen area, so you can stay warm during cold nights.
Meals during Annapurna Circuit Trek
Your breakfast is complimentary in Kathmandu and served buffet style inside the hotel. However, lunch and dinner are not included in Kathmandu, so you’ll have to arrange them on your own.
During the trek, your meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included in the package. You’ll be offered an assortment of dishes along the way. The most common is Dal Bhat (steamed rice with lentil soup) served with vegetables or non-vegetarian options, as well as vegan meals.
Note: If you’re allergic to anything or only eat gluten-free foods, you should inform your guide in advance. Get detailed information about what to have during Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Drinking Water Option on the Trek
You should drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water each day to protect your body from dehydration.
Even though plastic water bottles are available, we recommend against buying them. Safe drinking water stations are available at different places along the route. You can refill your bottles there.
You can also use purification tablets or portable filtration tools. Our guides will carry purification tablets, so you can ask them for assistance if you fill your bottle from natural springs or tap water.
Transportation to/from Kathmandu
Your drive starts from Kathmandu to Dharapani in a private vehicle. After your trek concludes, you’ll be transported to Pokhara from Muktinath via private jeep. From Pokhara, you’ll take a flight back to Kathmandu. The cost of all transportation is included in our package.
Acclimatization
We prioritize safety and follow all safety protocols. This trek can reach altitudes of up to 5,400 meters, so our itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Manang village. Our experienced guides will adjust the trekking pace according to your speed and stamina.
Trip Safety during Annapurna Circuit Trek
During this trek, our experienced guides with years of trekking experience will accompany you. In the event of an emergency, our guides are well-equipped to handle the situation and make informed decisions. Additionally, all our guides carry first-aid kits for immediate medical attention.
Internet & Mobile Network
The mobile coverage during Annapurna Circuit Trekking is quite good on this route. Network and internet infrastructure in this region are much better compared to many remote trekking areas. Wi-Fi is available in lodges, although it may be chargeable.
You can use SIM cards from providers like NCELL and NTC to buy internet packages. This is often cheaper than paying for Wi-Fi at every lodge.
You can buy SIM cards inside the airport or in Kathmandu. Make sure you carry a passport copy and a passport-sized photograph.
Electricity and Use of Travel Adaptors on the Trek
All lodges have electricity and you can charge your electronic devices there. However, charging facilities are limited and may not work sometimes due to technical difficulties.
The lodges usually charge an additional fee for charging electronic devices, and the price may vary from place to place. During peak season, you may have to wait because of high demand for charging stations.
We recommend bringing a power bank or backup battery pack in case of power outages or limited charging availability.
In Nepal, there are no flat-pronged wall outlets. The country mainly uses two-pin and three-pin plugs. The average voltage output varies between 220V to 240V with a frequency of 50Hz. We recommend carrying a universal travel adapter.
Hot Shower Availability
You can take hot showers in most lodges during the trek. In many places, you’ll need to pay an additional charge for hot water.
If you have a private room with an attached bathroom, showering is easier. However, if there is a shared bathroom, it can become crowded in the mornings since everyone usually wakes up around the same time.
We recommend carrying wet wipes as a backup option.
Money for the Trek
You can exchange or withdraw money in Kathmandu or Pokhara. There are very limited ATMs or banking facilities during the trek, so you’ll need to carry enough cash for the journey.
For personal expenses, approximately NPR 25,000 should be enough. You’ll need Nepalese Rupees for additional services such as showers, snacks, charging stations, internet/Wi-Fi, and drinks.
An ATM typically has a daily withdrawal limit of NPR 30,000 to NPR 50,000.
At the end of your trip, you may tip your guide and porter according to your satisfaction with their service.
Trekking Crew
We employ experienced guides and porters who are properly trained and licensed. Our guides have received training and mountain guide licenses from TAAN (Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal) and NATHM (Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management).
They have years of experience guiding both large and small trekking groups.
We also prioritize porter welfare. We ensure their loads remain within safe limits, provide fair wages, and support their training and family welfare.
Is Travel Insurance Needed for this Trek?
We strongly recommend proper travel insurance coverage for your trip to Nepal. Your insurance should include:
- High-altitude rescue coverage up to 5,400 meters
- Emergency evacuation services
- Hospital costs
- Accident and injury coverage
Please read all terms and conditions carefully before purchasing insurance.
Recommended Insurance Providers:
- USA & Canada: Tugo, United Health Care, World Nomads, Blue Cross
- Australia & New Zealand: Fast Cover, Allianz Australia
- Singapore: Ergo, World Nomads (Explore Plan Level 3)
- Europe: Europe Assistance, Austrian Alpine Club, Allianz Europe
- India: ICICI Lombard
Disclaimer: These are only recommendations based on our experience. You may choose any insurance provider after reviewing the policy details carefully.
Private/Group Tours
At Index Adventure, we organize both private and group tours. A single-person private trek may incur additional costs, whereas a private trek for two or more people usually does not require extra charges.
Private tours are flexible and allow you to follow your own schedule while staying within the itinerary. Group tours may include 2 to 10 people from different countries, offering opportunities to meet and interact with fellow trekkers.
Trip Extensions
If you want to extend your trip beyond trekking, Index Adventure offers a variety of tour packages according to your interests.
You can extend your trip with leisure days in Pokhara, a wildlife safari in Chitwan, or sightseeing tours around Kathmandu Valley.
You can also enjoy adventure activities like bungee jumping, rafting, paragliding, or ziplining.
Responsible Travel
At Index Adventure, we promote responsible and sustainable trekking practices. We support local businesses and communities by prioritizing local tea houses, homestays, and service providers.
We also focus on environmentally friendly travel by minimizing plastic usage and encouraging reusable materials throughout the trek.
We strictly encourage trekkers to avoid littering and help preserve the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Best places to visit on Annapurna Circuit Trek
The best places to visit on the Annapurna Circuit Trek include the high-altitude Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the sacred Muktinath Temple, and the scenic Manang village for acclimatization. Other top highlights include the turquoise Gangapurna Lake, the apple orchards of Marpha, and panoramic views from Poon Hill.
Key Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit:
- Manang Village: A vital stop for acclimatization with close-up views of Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Annapurna III.
- Thorong La Pass (5,416m): The highest point of the trek, offering breathtaking Himalayan vistas.
- Muktinath Temple: A significant holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists, featuring 108 water spouts and an eternal flame.
- Upper Pisang: Offers stunning panoramic views of Annapurna II and a traditional, quiet mountain atmosphere.
- Tilicho Lake (4,936m): One of the highest lakes in the world, often visited via a side trip from Manang.
- Tatopani Hot Springs: A relaxing spot to soothe muscles after the strenuous hike, located near the Kali Gandaki River.
- Marpha Village: Famous for its apple orchards, local apple brandy, and traditional white-washed houses.
- Kagbeni: A fascinating, ancient Tibetan-style village serving as the gateway to Upper Mustang.
- Chame: The district headquarters, known for its dramatic valley views, hot springs, and Apple orchards.
- Ice Lake (Kicho Tal): A challenging side hike from Manang offering panoramic views of the Chulu and Annapurna ranges
What are the Best Tips for a Successful Annapurna Circuit Trek?
- Prepare yourself physically and mentally 2 to 3 months before the trek.
- Carry protein bars and dried fruits for extra energy during the trek.
- Stay hydrated and avoid junk food, alcohol, expired snacks, and excessive dairy products.
- Travel responsibly by avoiding bottled water and minimizing plastic use.
- Follow your guide’s advice and take enough time for acclimatization.
- If you experience symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), immediately inform your guide.
- Explore Nepali culture and traditions through interactions with locals and guides.
- Choose the best trekking season for clear mountain views and better weather.
- Book early to secure better accommodation and trekking arrangements.
- Appreciate your guides and porters with tips for their hard work and support.
- Extend your trip with additional tours to Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, or Chitwan.
Thank you for considering Index Adventure for your upcoming adventure. We’re here to assist you every step of the way, so please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need help finalizing your trip.
