Nepal

Trekking to the Annapurna circuit has only been possible since mid 1980’s when the Manang area was officially opened up to foreign visitors. For and all-round experience of the nature  and culture of Nepal this trek has a lot to offer. Starting in the lush Marsyandi valley, that separates the Annapurna range from that of Manaslu Region, the scenery is composed of lush cultivated fields with dense forests on either side. As you travel higher the valley becomes more rugged until the villages and forests finally give way to the arid hills of Manang. The Thorong La pass, at 5416 meters, marks the highpoint of the treks after which the trail joins the Kali Gandaki river that flows through the deepest gorge on earth.

Trekking which starts from Besishahar will cross Bhul Bhule, Tal, Chame before arriving at Manang where a compulsory rest day should be taken for acclimatization to the increasing altitude. From Manang, the trial passes through high alpine pastures until the small cluster of teahouses at Thorong Phedi is reached. An early morning start from here will allow you to reach Thorong Pass by mid-morning and then start the long descent across the slopes to Muktinath. The whole sections have no permanent settlements and shelter is hard to find. For safety, trekkers should never travel alone this section.

From Muktinath the views of the west are now of the Dhaulagiri range while to the north can be seen the arid hills of upper Mustang. A further six or seven days trekking down through Kali Gandaki, the deepest valley on earth, brings you to Pokhara. Settlements of particular interest below Muktinath are Jomsom with its airport, a possible exit point to Pokhara, Marpha with its fascinating medieval architecture designed to ward off the fierce winds that blow daily up the gorge and Tatopani with its hot springs.

There are a number of possible side trip that can be combined with the Annapurna circuit. Either from the Manang side or from below Jomsom it is possible to trek up to the high-altitude lake at Tilicho. You must allow at least four days for this trek and go with a trekking guide. Also on the eastern side of the Kali Gandaki there is a trial that leads to the original north Annapurna base camp that was used by the French expedition that first scaled the peak. On the western side of the valley treks to Hidden valley via Dhampus pass and to the Dhaulagiri icefall are also possible option. All of these site trips are suitable only for fit and experienced trekkers.