Board our private vehicle for an early morning drive alongside roaring river gorges to Besisahar. Upon reaching Besisahar, change to a local 4x4 vehicle to navigate the rugged mountain roads up to Chame. Enjoy your first massive views of Mount Manaslu and step onto the actual trail through fresh pine forests.

Max altitude

2,670m/8,760ft

Begin walking through deep pine forests along a trail carved directly into the rock face. Walk past the giant, curved rock face of Paungda Danda, a dramatic geological formation. The trail then opens up as you enter a distinct Tibetan-influenced valley and settle into Upper Pisang.

Max altitude

3,300m/10,827ft

Take the panoramic upper route through the ancient village of Ngawal. This path offers incredible high-altitude ridge perspectives of Annapurna II, III, and IV. Descend gradually into the flat valley floor to reach the bustling trekking hub of Manang.

Max altitude

3,540m/11,614ft

Rest your legs today but keep moving to adapt to the thinner air. Take short acclimatization hikes to the emerald Gangapurna Lake or the steep Chongkor Viewpoint. Spend your afternoon exploring the local stone houses, visiting the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic, or enjoying a warm bakery treat.

Max altitude

3,540m/11,614ft

Branch away from the main Annapurna Circuit trail and head toward the wild blue waters of Tilicho. Pass through the settlement of Siri Kharka before carefully navigating the famous "landslide zone." This section features a narrow, stark trail carved directly into towering scree slopes with otherworldly rock pillars.

Max altitude

4,150m/13,615ft

A steep, freezing 4:00 AM alpine start under the stars to reach Tilicho Lake. Arrive early to witness the bright turquoise glacial waters framed by the massive Tilicho Peak before afternoon winds pick up. After soaking in the views, descend back past the base camp to sleep at Siri Kharka.

Max altitude

4,919m/16,138ft

Follow a high, panoramic cross-country trail that allows you to rejoin the traditional Annapurna Circuit route without doubling back to Manang. Cross old suspension bridges and watch for herds of blue sheep grazing on the slopes before reaching the pastures of Yak Kharka.

Max altitude

4,050m/13,287ft

Enjoy a short, slow, and measured uphill crawl through a desolate, high-alpine landscape. The trail brings you to the very base of the pass at Thorong Phedi. Save your energy, hydrate well, and go to bed early in preparation for the big climb tomorrow.

Max altitude

4,540m/14,895ft

The most challenging and rewarding day of the entire trek. A grueling pre-dawn climb leads to the prayer-flag covered apex of Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Enjoy panoramic views over the vast Mustang valley before making a massive 1,600m descent to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple.

Max altitude

5,416m/17,769ft

Board a rugged, full-day local jeep or bus drive down through the world's deepest gorge (Kali Gandaki). Watch the arid desert landscape of Mustang transform back into lush green hills. Arrive by evening at your hotel in Pokhara for a hot shower, a cold beverage, and a comfortable bed.

Max altitude

3,760m/12,336ft

Bid farewell to the mountains and travel back to Kathmandu. Check into your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon for self-exploration. Do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel, visit ancient temples, or celebrate your successful journey with a farewell dinner hosted by Himal Trek Nepal.

Max altitude

1,400m/4,593ft

Enjoy your final breakfast in Kathmandu. A Himal Trek Nepal representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport exactly three hours before your scheduled flight time, marking the conclusion of your journey.