The field notes
A journey with rhythm
Private guiding, thoughtful pacing, and enough room to absorb each place rather than simply pass through it.
PrivateThoughtfulLocal
Journey overview
The experience at a glance
The Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days is a high-altitude adventure through one of Nepal’s most varied Himalayan landscapes. This shorter route will cover the best part of the classic Annapurna Circuit (Chame, Upper Pisang, Ngawal, Manang, Thorong La Pass and Muktinath) from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It is meant for active trekkers who want the most memorable part of the route, but not without a day of acclimatization in Manang.
The journey starts with an overland journey from Kathmandu through Besisahar to Dharapani, where the trek officially begins. From Dharapani, the trail follows the Marsyangdi Valley through pine forests, riverside settlements and traditional mountain villages before we reach Chame, the administrative centre of the Manang District. As our route continues towards Upper Pisang, the landscape gradually becomes drier and more alpine, and Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Lamjung Himal and Pisang Peak start to dominate the skyline.
Instead of following the lower valley directly to Manang, the Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days takes the more scenic upper route through Ngawal. This beautiful path has great views over the Annapurna range and passes traditional stone-built villages, monasteries, cultivated fields and high mountain pastures. A night in Ngawal also assists in acclimatization before arriving at Manang at 3,540 metres.
A well-structured acclimatization day in Manang will help you to understand your body and adjust for the higher elevation. You may hike up to Gangapurna Lake and a viewpoint, or go to Manang village and its surrounding area. This day is crucial to the preparation for Thorong La.
From Manang, on the other hand, the trail climbs up Gunsang and Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi slowly but steadily. Vegetation is growing very sparse as you are introduced to a picture-perfect landscape of alpine meadows, rocky slopes and snow-covered peaks. Walking slowly and carefully and following your guide’s advice is really important during this part of the trek.
The most defining moment of this short Annapurna Circuit Trek is crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres. It starts off at sunrise and involves a challenging climb to the prayer flag-covered pass and then a long descent to Muktinath. It is amazing to make it to the top and see the whole Annapurna and Mustang landscape from above. Muktinath is a place of worship for Hindus and Buddhists and it is a very cultural ending to the walking.
From Muktinath, you travel through the Kali Gandaki Valley to Pokhara and pass through the mountain villages like Jomsom, Marpha and Tukuche. The changing landscapes—from the desert areas of Mustang to green hills and subtropical valleys—illustrate the geographical diversity of the Annapurna region.
Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days is tough, and a lot of physical fitness, preparation, and high-altitude travel insurance is required. But for well-prepared travellers looking to take a short Thorong La Pass trek, it provides an excellent combination of Himalayan views, traditional culture, physical challenge, and adventure at high altitude.
Trip highlights
What makes this journey
- 01
Cross Thorong La Pass - 5,416 m. Conquer the iconic Thorong La Pass, the highest point and ultimate adventure of the Annapurna Circuit.
- 02
Spectacular Annapurna Mountain Views. The view of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak and surrounding Himalayan peaks is amazing!
- 03
Traditional Himalayan Villages. Discover the unique culture, architecture and mountain lifestyle of Chame, Upper Pisang, Ngawal, Manang, and Muktinath.
- 04
Dramatic Landscape Diversity. Tour through lush forests, deep valleys, alpine meadows, rugged mountain terrain, and the high-altitude landscapes of the Mustang region.
- 05
Kathmandu to Pokhara Adventure. And a full Himalayan journey, starting in Kathmandu and ending in Pokhara, with the holy pilgrimage site of Muktinath along the way.
Places covered
Destinations on this trip
The places this journey moves through, in the order they shape the experience.
Kathmandu
Beshisahar - Chame
Pisang - Manang
Churi Letar - Thorang Phedi
ThorangLa - Muktinath
Kagbeni - Jomsom
Day by day
10 days
Walk the route one day at a time — meals, overnight stays, and the details that shape each stage.
Start your Annapurna adventure with a drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. The Prithvi Highway leads you along the Marsyangdi River and through Besisahar and several picturesque mountain villages. The road gradually enters the Annapurna region with green hills, waterfalls, valleys, and rivers. Overnight in Dharapani.
- Meals
- Full Board
- Overnight
- Lodge in Dharapani
- Distance
- 215 km
- Altitude
- 1,860m
NoteMountain Road: Kathmandu - Besisahar - Dharapani. Distance: about 215 km. 9-11 hours drive.
Starting with pine and fir forests, walking through traditional villages and crossing many streams. The trail follows the Marsyangdi Valley to Chame, the administrative center of Manang District. Along the way, watch Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Overnight at Chame.
- Meals
- Full Board
- Overnight
- Lodge in Chame
- Distance
- 14 km
- Altitude
- 2,710m
NoteDistance: Approx. 13-14 km Trek: 5–6 hours
Today’s trail rises slowly through pine forests and tight valleys. As we approach Pisang, the landscape becomes drier and more alpine. Follow up to Upper Pisang, where you can see the traditional village and the spectacular view of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Pisang Peak. Overnight at Upper Pisang.
- Meals
- Full Board
- Overnight
- Lodge in Pisang
- Distance
- 13 km
- Altitude
- 3,300m
The beautiful upper trail leads to Ngawal, one of the most beautiful parts of the Annapurna Circuit. It goes up over the Marsyangdi Valley with beautiful views of the Annapurna range. Pass through traditional settlements and yak pastures and reach the village of Ngawal. Overnight at Ngawal.
- Meals
- Full Board
- Overnight
- Lodge in Ngawal
- Distance
- 10 km
- Altitude
- 3,660m
NoteDistance: 9-10 KM, 4-5 hours of walking
Continue through the high Himalayan landscape to Manang. The trail meanders through traditional villages and cultivated fields in the valley and the mountains. We visit the village and take time to see Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and the mountains around it, and spend time in Manang and see the village in the morning and evening. Overnight at Manang.
- Meals
- Full Board
- Overnight
- Lodge in Manang
- Distance
- 9 km
- Altitude
- 3,540m
NoteDistance: 9-11 KM | Walking: 4-5 hours
Manang needs a well-deserved acclimatization day to prepare for the higher elevation ahead. A short hike is suggested to help your body adjust to the altitude. You may take an acclimatization hike to Gangapurna Lake and a nearby viewpoint, or hike towards Ice Lake depending on fitness, weather, and your guide’s recommendation.
Overnight at the lodge in Manang.
- Meals
- Full Board
- Overnight
- Lodge in Manang
- Altitude
- 3,540m
NoteElevation: Manang - 3,540 m. Hiking: 3–5 hours optional.
Leave Manang and gradually climb into the high alpine zone. The trail passes through Gunsang and Yak Kharka and offers a more dramatic view of the surrounding mountains. The landscape is more barren as you go up. Walk slowly and confidently so that your body adapts to the altitude. Overnight at Yak Kharka.
- Meals
- Full Board
- Overnight
- Lodge in Yak Khakra
- Distance
- 8 km
- Altitude
- 4,050m
NoteHigh-altitude, walk slowly, stay hydrated | Distance: 7-8 KM | Walking: 4-5 hours
Today is a shorter but important acclimatization day before crossing the Thorong La Pass. The trail climbs slowly along the mountainside heading for Thorong Phedi, the final settlement before the pass. Depending on conditions and energy levels, hiking above Phedi could be possible. Plan for an early start the next morning. Overnight at Thorong Phedi.
- Meals
- Full Board
- Overnight
- Lodge
- Distance
- 8 km
- Altitude
- 4,450m
NoteHigh-altitude, walk slowly, stay hydrated.
Start early on the most difficult and satisfying day of the trip. The trail steadily goes toward the impressive Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), which is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit. Once the pass is reached, there are picturesque views of the Himalayan ranges in the background, and then the long trek to Muktinath. Muktinath is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. Overnight at Muktinath.
- Meals
- Full Board
- Overnight
- Lodge in Muktinath
- Distance
- 17 km
- Altitude
- 3,800m
NoteThe highest point: Thorong La Pass - 5,416 m. Walk slowly, stay hydrated | Distance: 15–17 km | Walking: 8–10 hours.
After breakfast, start the scenic drive from Muktinath to Pokhara. The route goes down through the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing Jomsom, Marpha, Tukuche, and Tatopani before continuing toward Pokhara. The landscape changes quickly from the high Himalayas to the valley and subtropical countryside. Arrive in Pokhara in the afternoon or evening, marking the end of your Annapurna Circuit adventure.
- Meals
- Breakfast & Lunch
- Overnight
- Hotel
- Distance
- 175 km
- Altitude
- 822m
NoteDrive: 8–10 hours, depending on road conditions and the type of transportation.
Private vehicle & English-speaking guide throughout · Beshi Shahar to Pokhara
Trip essentials
What your journey covers
A clear split between what we arrange and what you budget yourself.
- Airport transfers – Pick up and drop upon arrival and departure
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during trekking
- Accommodation in tea house or lodges during trekking, one night hotel in Pokhara
- Private transport from Jomsom to Pokhara
- Private Transport from Pokhara to Kathmandu (Flight Optional with an additional cost)
- English speaking license holder trekking guide, Necessary porters and their all expenses
- TIMS and National park permit fees
- Supporting staffs (Trekking guides, cook and porters) and their necessary insurance, accommodation, meal, allowance, and salaries
- Accommodation & Meals in Kathmandu
- Sightseeing tours in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- International Flight and Departure Tax
- Lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Personal gears and clothing such as sleeping bag, walking stick and etc
- Travel/Medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
- Rescue if needed
- Personal expenses caused by weather, laundry telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks, tips and etc.
Before you go
