Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass

Highlights

One of the highest points on the Annapurna circuit is Thorong La Pass (5416 m).

Views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu, are breathtaking from the pass.

Along the route, come across the Marsyangdi River, stunning waterfalls, and quaint villages.

Up-close looks at some of the highest peaks in the world, such as Machhapuchhre (6993 m), Manaslu (8163 m), Dhaulagiri (8167 m), and Annapurna II (8091 m).

Possibility to fully experience the distinct customs, hospitality, and culture of various ethnic groups, such as the Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis.

The 3,800-meter-tall Muktinath Temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu.

The chance to sample delectable apples and apple-related products.

Come across yak caravans, which are a common means of transportation in the high Himalayas, transporting goods.

Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass is also known as condensed form of the classic Annapurna circuit trek. This well-liked and strenuous trekking route in Nepal passes through the Thorong La Pass and the Annapurna mountain range.

Typically, the journey starts in the village of Besisahar. You will hike through quaint villages, verdant rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and multiple river crossings from Besisahar. You will travel through areas with breathtaking views of Annapurna Ⅱ (7937 m), Annapurna Ⅲ (7555 m), and other peaks, including Sirung, Chamje, Dharapani, Chame, and pisang. You will arrive at Manang, a lovely village with Tibetan influences and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, after Pisang.

Crossing the Thorong La Pass, the trek’s highest point at 5416 m (17769 feet), is the highlight of the Annapurna semi-circuit hike. Because of the high altitude, steep ascent, and erratic weather, crossing the pass is a demanding and thrilling experience. At higher elevations, snow and strong winds are common, adding to the pass’s difficulty. Trekkers seeking adventure and the beauty of the Himalayas will find that, despite the difficulties, reaching the summit of Throng La Pass rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, making the journey genuinely unforgettable.

Following the traversal of Throng La Pass, the trail descends to Muktinath, a Buddhist and Hindu holy site. Perched at an elevation of 3710 meters, the temple is home to 108 sacred water springs. Bathing in these springs is considered a blessing and a means of purging sins for devotees. Additionally, it is said that going to this temple will free oneself from the cycle of birth and death. The temple is a singular and spiritually charged location, set amid striking scenery and encircled by snow-capped mountains.

The semi-circuit trek from Muktinath connects with the conventional Annapurna circuit route, descending to Jomsom before reaching the well-known trekking destination of Pokhara. All things considered, the Annapurna Semi- Circuit trek through Thorong La Pass provides a quicker and easier option that still lets you take in some of the most stunning and varied scenery the area has to offer. It is a well-liked option for people who are pressed for time but still wish to take in the breathtaking scenery and rich culture of the Annapurna region.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is required for any trek in Nepal, including the semi-circuit Annapurna Trek via Thorong La Pass. There will be high-altitude trekking during the trip, which could be hazardous and physically taxing. In the event of an accident, a medical emergency, a delayed or canceled flight, or lost or stolen luggage, travel insurance can provide financial protection. Make sure your travel insurance includes coverage for emergency helicopter evacuation and high-altitude trekking when purchasing it for the Annapurna semi-circuit trek.

Guide and Porter

Although it is possible to complete the Annapurna circuit on your own, hiring porters or local guides is beneficial. They can provide you insightful information about the customs, history, and culture of the Annapurna region. They can elucidate the significance of festivals, monasteries, and other cultural features you come across during your travels. They also know the alternate routes and the state of the trails. In a similar vein, a porter helps you hike with a lighter load by carrying your bulky backpack. Therefore, if you’re looking to hire a licensed trekking guide and porter with insurance who is highly experienced, helpful, friendly, and speaks English, you can get in touch with Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Pvt. Ltd.

Foods and Lodging

The trail to the Annapurna circuit is well-served by teahouses and lodges that offer hikers lodging and food. Basic but comfortable lodging and a wide selection of food options, including both local Nepali dishes and international cuisines, are typically available.

Permits

To trek in the Annapurna region, you will need two main permits:

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
The Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS).

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness usually happens when you ascend to a high altitude too quickly. At high altitudes, your body tries to adapt to the lower oxygen levels and lower air pressure, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and nausea. One should take the initiative to inform the guide as soon as possible about this illness.

Best time to trek

The seasons of March to May and September to November are ideal for completing the Annapurna semi-circuit walk via Thorong La Pass. Spring is the ideal season to tackle high-pass treks. The days are getting longer, the temperature is starting to rise, and there is more sunlight. Similar to this, Nepal’s best times to go trekking are in the fall. Lower elevations are still warm, while the high mountains remain frigid. The trees’ leaves will change to yellow, orange, red, and brown, creating vibrant hills.

Itinerary

If you're looking for a tailor-made trip or want to customize this itinerary, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help you create the perfect holiday plan. Contact us anytime!

Day 1

Arrival at Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

The Kathmandu Valley in Nepal is a small city made up of three districts, but it is home to numerous World Heritage Sites. When you arrive at the airport, our representatives will greet you warmly and take you to the hotel of your choice in Kathmandu. On this day, you'll be getting lots of rest and getting ready for the journey ahead tomorrow.

Day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Khudi via Besi Sahar

From Kathmadnu, we will travel early to Khudi [850 meters], the starting point of our trek. We will be traveling towards Khudi after arriving at the stunning city of Besisahar [823 meters], which should take us about 30 minutes. We will be able to see a variety of mountain peaks during the eight-hour drive, though they will be closer in the coming days. We are going to spend the night at a guest house in Khudi.

Day 3

Trek from Khudi to Sirung

Hiking up to the 2200 meters Sirung takes 5 to 6 hours. As we get closer to Manasalu, the views of the mountains will become more detailed and we will cross a few suspension bridges and waterfalls. We are going to have a great time staying at a Tamang settlement called Sirung. We will enjoy the cultural events hosted by the locals here in Sirung, as well as the views of Nadi Chuli and Manasalu that are visible from the town.

Day 4

Trek from Sirung to Chamge

We will have lunch in the stone village of Jagat, which is reached by following the trail that runs alongside the Marshyangdi River, and then hike up to Chamje for an overnight stay. We will hike for four to five hours today, reaching the highest point at 1425 meters in Chamje, where we can also take in the breathtaking waterfall.

Day 5

Trek from Chamje to Dharapani

Once more, as we enter the Manang District, we will hike along the Marshyangdi River to Tal (16750 meters), where a sizable waterfall can be seen in a small village. After a 5- to 6-hour walk, we will cross a level valley and ascend a stone stairway to 1860 meters today before arriving at Dharapani, which is where we will rest. In Dharapani, we'll be lodging at a tea house.

Day 6

Trek from Dharapani to Chame

Our destination for the day is Chame (2660 meters), which serves as the Manang District headquarters. We'll carry on through the Tamang village (2360 meters) and the lovely pine forest to Chame (2660 meters). From Chame, we will be able to see the breathtaking views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. In addition to exploring the market, we'll spend the night at a tea house and enjoy an evening soak in a natural hot spring.

Day 7

Trek from Chame to Pisang

Today, we will cross the Marshyangdi River and carry on with our hike through a stunning forest of pine and spruce. The trek will ultimately come to an end at Pisang, a village situated at an elevation of 3185 meters. After four or five hours on foot, we will spend the night at a tea house in Pisang. Throughout our trekking, we will be taking in the views of Mount Annapurna.

Day 8

Trek from Pisang to Manang via Ngwal

There are two routes that go from Pisang to Manang (3480m), but you can take either one as they both offer the best views. We will be leaving the lower route and traveling the upper route, which will lead us to Hume and Braga village, where we will see Tibetan-styled homes and a 600-year-old monastery. After a four to five hour walk from Pisang, we will arrive at the picturesque village of Manang, where we will spend the night at a tea house.

Day 9

Acclimatization day at Manang

We will be exploring the village of Manang and mingling with the locals for one more day. We'll be able to acclimate our bodies to the altitude by staying an extra day. You will be thrilled by the fantastic views of Gangapurna Lake and the Annapurna Mountains that you can see from here. In Manang, we'll spend the night at a tea house.

Day 10

Trek from Manang to Churi Lattar / Yak Kharka

Following a fantastic stay in Manang Village, the trail begins its nearly 2000-meter ascent to the Throng La. From Manang, it passes over a stream and the Mane Stone before reaching Tenki Manang. The hike continues through the tiny village of Gunsang, where you can stop for a quick cup of coffee or tea. You will stop at Yak Kharka, also called Kochi, today. From there, it will take an additional 01 hours to get to Churilattar. Stay at the tea house for the night.

Day 11

Trek frtom Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi Thorong High Pass

The trek begins with a few gentle ups and downs after breakfast at the teahouse and ends at 4310 meters when it crosses a stream on a wooden bridge. The route heads to Thorong Phedi (the foot of the hill) via a narrow path across a high, unstable slope following a brief climb on a good trail to a teashop. It will be simpler tomorrow if you complete the journey to Thorang High Camp today if you are feeling well. Stay at the tea house for the night.

Day 12

Trek from Thorong la Phedi to Muktinath via Throng-La Pass

Another highlight of this trek is crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass, which is located at an astounding elevation of 5,416 meters/17,764 feet. To navigate the icy high-altitude trail, it is imperative to set out early. However, the breathtaking views of the mountains more than make up for the taxing hike along the difficult trail. By dusk, we arrive at Muktinath, a significant Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage site. There is a Vishnu temple and a monastery close by, so we can take a stroll around the area.

Day 13

Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom via Jharkot

The walk to the Jomsom routes is not too difficult, but it can get tiresome in a strong wind. The trail quickly descends to the Eklai Bhatti before continuing to Jomsom via the Kali Gandaki. The Mustang district's administrative center is located in Jomsom. You will have the opportunity to visit the Mustang Eco Museum in the afternoon. Stay at the tea house for the night.

Day 14

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

Your guide will pick you up for breakfast this morning and drive you to the airport for a quick but picturesque flight to Pokhara, a lakeside city that is Nepal's second-most popular tourist destination after Kathmandu. Following refreshments, you'll go on guided valley sightseeing tours. Spend the night at the hotel.

Day 15

Drive Back to Kathmandu from Pokhara

Day 16

Departure at Tribhuvan International Airport

Inclusions

What's included

The facility of pick and drop from airport to hotel and vice versa
2 Night hotel B/B in Kathmandu
1 Night hotel B/B in Pokhara
3 meal a day, lunch, dinner, breakfast and 3 cups of tea or coffee a day during the trek
one guide ( Experience and less holder, insurance, salary, and all food, and accommodation )
Accommodation in tea house/ lodges
from Kathmandu to Khud by local bus (if you want to by jeep pay for Extra cost )
from Jomsom to Pokhara by Fly and from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus
Equipment (sleeping bag and down jacket and trekking map )
The permit fee for trekking and TIMS card
All government tax and company service charge
Farewell Dinner(Nepalese Cuisine)
Medical support kit box

Add-ons

What's not included

International airfare and visa fees
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Personal expenses of bar and beverage bills, wifi, hot shower, bottle of water, extra porters, laundry or any other things which are not mentioned by the company
Your trekking gears and extra nights in a certain destination
Your travel insurance which should include the emergency rescue
Tips for your guide and porters
Entrance fees during the sightseeingExtra expenses due to any event such as strikes, weather conditions, or flight delays

FAQs

When is the best time to trek?

The best time to trek is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and clear. The monsoon season is not recommended because of the unpredictable climate and high risk of natural disasters

How difficult is the trek?

The Annapurna Circuit trek is moderately difficult to challenging in some parts. The most difficult part is crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.

How long does the trek take?

The trek can take 10 to 22 days to complete.