Annapurna Circuit treks completely circumnavigates the Annarpana massif, considered as classic treks by many trekkers. It provides a whole range of experiences from lowland paddy fields to the windswept valleys of the Manang district on to the high pass of Thorang la (5416 m).
This trek from Besisahar follows the partly constructed road as far as the small market town of Kudhi. An entry permit for ACAP is needed for the trek. Most trekkers start the trek by taking a bus to Besisahar which is a 6-8 hours drive from Kathmandu. The first few days of the trek goes along the Marsyangdi River.
The region has lush green valleys which are inhabited by Gurungs along with a large number of other ethnic groups. You encounter countless high waterfalls that cascade down into the main river while the skyline is dominated by the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges.
After the Thorong -La pass there is a steep descent to the holy pilgrimage site of Muktinath. A couple of days are spent trekking through the lower Mustang district and some very pretty Thakali villages towards the small town of Tatopani. Tatopani is renowned for its good food and hot springs for bathing.
The following day is a long one up to the settlement of Ghorepani for sunrise views followed the next day with an early morning trek to Poon hill for spectacular sunrise views of both the Dhaulagiri and Annapuna range. The last day we descended steeply to the scenic village of Ghandruk Village. The final day is a 6 hour trek to Nayapul & followed by a bus ride to Pokhara.
A group of 4 persons did the Annapurna Circuit trekking in Oct 2018 with NEC Travels and Tours arranged by Mr Madan. It was an excellent arrangement. Our Guide and porters are friendly & helpful. We enjoyed our trip. Highly recommended this company & Mr Madan for the Nepal trip.