Crossing Thorong La Pass and Exploring Diverse Landscapes
Often voted one of the best long-distance treks in the world, the Annapurna Circuit circumnavigates the Annapurna Massif. It exposes trekkers to an incredible variety of climates, from subtropical jungles to the arid, Tibetan-like plateaus of Manang and Mustang.
Starting in the lush green valleys of Lamjung, the trail winds north towards Manang. The crown jewel of the trek is the crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, the highest point of the journey. The descent takes you into the holy Muktinath region and down through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.
The circuit is a cultural odyssey. You begin in Hindu-dominated villages in the lower foothills and gradually ascend into Buddhist regions heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. The monasteries of Manang and the temples of Muktinath showcase the religious harmony of Nepal.
While road construction has shortened the classic route, new NATT (Natural Annapurna Trekking Trails) have been developed to keep trekkers off the road. It is highly recommended to use these side trails to experience the peace and beauty of the region away from jeep tracks.
For those with 12-16 days who want to see the most diversity Nepal has to offer—both in nature and culture—the Annapurna Circuit remains the gold standard of trekking.
