Kathmandu: 10-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass

Planning a trek through Nepal’s iconic Annapurna Circuit? This 10-day journey, offered by MTA Trekking, promises an adventure filled with spectacular mountain vistas, cultural encounters, and the thrill of crossing one of the world’s highest passes, Thorong La at 5,416 meters. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or an enthusiastic first-timer, this tour has a lot to offer.

We love the way this trek balances challenging high-altitude passes with immersive cultural stops, provides experienced guidance, and includes comprehensive logistics for a smooth experience. The scenic variety—from lush valleys to rugged mountain deserts—ensures you’ll find something breathtaking at every turn. The value for the price ($408 per person) is also impressive, given the included permits, accommodations, and expert guiding.

That said, the high-altitude crossing demands physical readiness and acclimatization. If you’re not prepared for the physical and mental challenge, this trek might be tough. It’s best suited for travelers in good health who want an authentic and well-supported Himalayan adventure.

If you’re craving a journey that combines natural beauty, local culture, and some serious mountain bragging rights, this tour could be a great fit. Just pack your sense of humor and a pair of sturdy hiking shoes.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery: Expect a variety of landscapes, from lush green valleys and Tibetan villages to rugged high-altitude terrains.
• Expert-guided: Knowledgeable guides like Ghanshyam and Chakra ensure safety, local insight, and cultural richness.
• Well-organized logistics: All transportation, permits, accommodations, and meals are included, making the trip hassle-free.
• Altitude acclimatization: The itinerary incorporates rest days and gradual altitude gain, crucial for avoiding AMS.
• Authentic local interactions: You’ll visit traditional villages like Chame, Upper Pisang, and Manang, experiencing Nepali hospitality firsthand.
• Great value: For $408, you get a comprehensive package with all essentials plus a farewell dinner in Pokhara.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Kathmandu to Besisahar and Dharapani

The adventure kicks off with a bus ride from Kathmandu to Besisahar, taking approximately 7-8 hours. This journey already sets the scene, as you leave behind the city’s chaos and head into the Nepali countryside. Expect lush forests, terraced hills, and quaint villages en route, giving you a taste of the rural life that awaits.

From Besisahar, a shared jeep whisks you to Dharapani, the starting point of your trek. This transfer not only saves you effort but introduces you to the local transport style—an adventure in itself.

Dharapani to Chame

Day 2 involves about 6 hours of walking. The path winds through grassy fields with views of Annapurna II, offering a gentle start. You’ll pass Bagarchhap, a traditional Bhote village with a Buddhist temple, adding some cultural flavor. Trekking through oak and pine forests, you’ll reach Chame at 2,670 meters. This leg is perfect for acclimatization, and the first glimpses of Himalayan peaks will excite you.

Review insights: One traveler mentioned being well cared for by guide Chakra, who adeptly managed acclimatization and suggested avoiding junk foods at higher altitude—a smart tip for anyone planning this.

Chame to Upper Pisang

Day 3 involves a scenic 5-6 hour trek. Expect panoramic views of Lamjung Himal from the trail, passing through orchards and small villages like Bhratang. Ascending gradually, you’ll arrive at Upper Pisang, a charming village that offers a perfect spot to enjoy the mountain scenery and relax after a day of walking.

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Upper Pisang to Manang

This segment, roughly 5-6 hours, introduces you to the stunning Manang Valley. The route offers striking views of Tilicho Peak, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV. You’ll cross the Marsyangdi River on a wooden bridge, and pass through Mungji and Braga villages, known for their traditional architecture.

Authentic touch: Travelers have praised guides like Ghanshyam for their local knowledge, which enriches the experience—sharing insights about the villages and mountains makes each stop more meaningful.

Acclimatization & Rest in Manang

Spending a day in Manang is vital. It’s at 4,050 meters, so a rest day helps prevent altitude sickness. Optional activities include visiting local attractions or taking short side hikes, like exploring Gangapurna Glacier Lake. Reviews highlight the importance of proper acclimatization, with experienced guides advising rest and hydration strategies—something that can’t be overstated in high-altitude treks.

Manang to Yak Kharka

A shorter day—around four hours—this trek takes you to Yak Kharka at the same altitude, but climbing higher still. The ascent offers sweeping mountain vistas, and the physical challenge makes it clear how altitude affects your breathing and energy levels. The key here is pacing yourself, as one reviewer noted, “Proceed carefully and slowly” to avoid fatigue.

Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi

The trek continues for around 4-5 hours, gradually ascending to Thorong Phedi at approximately 4,450 meters. This stage is all about preparing for the big crossing. The views are spectacular, and you’ll notice the thinner air and the need for careful breathing and hydration.

Crossing Thorong La Pass

Day 8 is the highlight—and the most demanding—crossing Thorong La at 5,416 meters. Expect a challenging ascent, but the payoff is immense: standing on one of the highest mountain passes in the world, with panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Mustang Valley. Reviewers emphasize the importance of guide support here, with Ganshyam or Chakra helping pace the group and suggesting acclimatization strategies to make it manageable.

Muktinath to Jomsom

Descending from the pass to Muktinath, you’ll experience the arid landscape of Mustang, along with a visit to the sacred temple. The walk to Jomsom is scenic, about 7-8 hours, with opportunities to explore Kagbeni. The landscape here changes dramatically, providing a stark, rugged beauty that’s uniquely Himalayan.

Jomsom to Pokhara

The final leg involves an 8-hour bus ride back to Pokhara. It’s a bus ride that can be long, but it’s well worth it for the chance to relax, share stories, and reflect on your journey. A farewell dinner in Pokhara wraps up the trek on a convivial note.

Experience Quality and Guidance

Throughout the trek, the guides shine with their deep local knowledge, ensuring safety, cultural insights, and personalized support. As one traveler shared, Ghanshyam was “really kind” and trained them well to handle altitude, while Chakra’s experience kept everyone safe and motivated. The inclusion of porters who carry heavy loads allows trekkers to focus on the experience rather than logistics, and reviews confirm their importance—”He always accompanied our female companion, carrying two bags weighing 10kg each, supporting us at high altitude.”

Accommodations & Meals

Staying in tea houses and lodges along the trail offers a genuine taste of mountain life. Meals—covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, often featuring local Nepali dishes. Travelers consistently mention enjoying the food, which keeps spirits high during long days. The post-trek stay at Hotel Orchid in Pokhara adds a touch of comfort after days on the trail, and the farewell dinner is a nice communal end to a demanding journey.

Transportation & Logistics

All transport between major points—from Kathmandu to Besisahar to Dharapani—is included, making the trip convenient. The tour also covers permits and Tims cards, removing last-minute hassles. The overall organization receives praise for its smoothness, making the experience accessible even for those new to Nepal trekking.

Value for Money and Overall Experience

At $408, this tour offers considerable value, especially given the comprehensive inclusions—permits, transportation, guides, accommodations, meals, and emergency rescue. Many reviewers noted that the guides and porters made all the difference, helping them approach the high-altitude crossing safely and comfortably.

Participants praised the experienced guides like Ganshyam and Chakra, highlighting how their local expertise, support, and safety advice contributed to successful trekkings. The stories of crossing Thorong La, with its demanding altitude but stunning vistas, are a testament to how well-organized and supportive the tour is.

While the trek is physically demanding, the itinerary’s gradual altitude gain, rest days, and professional guidance make it manageable for most healthy travelers. The inclusion of acclimatization days and optional short hikes in Manang are smart touches, avoiding the common pitfalls of high-altitude treks.

Who Should Consider This Trek?

This experience is perfect for those who are physically fit, eager to see one of Nepal’s most iconic routes, and prepared for the challenge of high-altitude trekking. It’s suited for travelers who value local interactions, stunning mountain scenery, and professional support. The tour is less ideal for children under 15 or anyone with respiratory issues, altitude sickness, or limited mobility.

FAQ

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
While it’s accessible with careful acclimatization, some trekking experience and good physical condition are recommended due to the high pass crossing and altitude.

What is included in the price?
The $408 covers permits, all transportation, accommodations in tea houses and lodges, meals during the trek, a guided tour with experienced guides, and emergency rescue assistance if needed.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
Yes, trekking gear, hiking shoes, warm clothing, and other essentials are not included, so bring your own or rent gear in Kathmandu.

How do guides assist during the trek?
Guides like Ganshyam and Chakra are well-versed in local terrain, altitude management, and safety. They also provide cultural insights, support, and help pace the group for a safe crossing of Thorong La.

Is it possible to cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Can I extend this trek?
The tour is designed as a 10-day package, but you can consider extra days in Pokhara or Kathmandu to relax or explore more.

Final Words

This 10-day Annapurna Circuit trek is a solid choice for travelers seeking an authentic Himalayan adventure packed with breathtaking scenery, cultural richness, and expert guidance. Its well-structured itinerary balances challenging high-altitude passes with acclimatization and local immersion, making it accessible yet rewarding. The inclusion of experienced guides and porters, plus good value for money, ensures you’ll feel supported throughout your journey.

If you’re ready to tackle one of the world’s most famous trekking routes and want a tour that offers both adventure and cultural insight, this experience is worth considering. Just remember, proper preparation and a positive attitude are key to making the most of this Himalayan expedition.

Ready to embrace Nepal’s mountains? Pack your gear, get your spirit ready, and prepare for the kind of adventure that stays with you forever.

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