- Cross the iconic Thorong La Pass at 5,450 meters
- Experience dramatic landscape transitions from subtropical valleys to high alpine desert
- Explore traditional villages of Jagat, Chame, Pisang, and Manang
- Acclimatization day in Manang for safe altitude gain
- Visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath
- Scenic drive to Pokhara and optional exploration
- Professionally managed trekking logistics by Altinepal Treks
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK WITH THORONG LA PASS 5,450M | Altinepal Treks
Country
Nepal
Level
moderate
Duration
16 Days
Altitude
5,450 M
Group Size
2-12
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
Highlights
Overview
The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Thorong La Pass is one of Nepal’s most renowned high-altitude trekking adventures, combining the full cultural and geographical diversity of the Annapurna Circuit with the iconic crossing of Thorong La Pass. Crossing Thorong La at 5,450 meters is both a physical achievement and a visual reward, offering panoramic Himalayan views and a remarkable transition between distinct cultural and geographical landscapes.
With Altinepal Treks, this journey is carefully structured to ensure gradual acclimatization and safe progression. The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu into the Annapurna region, gradually ascending through forested valleys, river gorges, and traditional Gurung and Manangi villages. As altitude increases, the terrain shifts to alpine meadows and high-altitude desert landscapes characteristic of the rain-shadow region beyond the Annapurna range.
A dedicated acclimatization day in Manang prepares trekkers for the ascent to Thorong Phedi and the challenging crossing of Thorong La Pass. The descent to Muktinath introduces a culturally significant pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The trek concludes with a scenic drive to Pokhara and return to Kathmandu.
This journey is ideal for adventurers seeking the complete Annapurna Circuit experience enriched by the achievement of crossing Thorong La Pass, supported by experienced local guides and professionally managed trekking logistics from Altinepal Treks.
Itinerary
Your Annapurna adventure begins the moment you land at Tribhuvan International Airport. Our guide meets you at arrivals and transfers you to your hotel in Thamel. The remainder of the day is yours; unwind after the flight, take a gentle stroll through Kathmandu's vibrant streets, and settle in ahead of tomorrow's preparations.
Hotel
Welcome Dinner
A full day of practical preparation. Our experienced trek leader conducts a thorough gear check and reviews all required permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card. You'll receive a detailed route briefing covering daily distances, altitude gain, accommodation, safety protocols, and what to expect at high elevation. A great opportunity to ask questions and meet fellow trekkers.
1350 m
Hotel
Breakfast
An early start for a scenic 10–12 hour overland journey northwest through the Marsyangdi river valley. The road winds past terraced hillsides, suspension bridges, and traditional Gurung villages; a gradual immersion into the landscape that will define the weeks ahead. Jagat, perched on a natural terrace above the river, serves as our overnight stop and the official trailhead.
1340 M
Lodge/ Teahouse
BLD
The first full day on foot traces the Marsyangdi Gorge through cascading waterfalls, emerald terraced fields, and stone-paved villages. You'll cross a series of wire bridges and pass through dense subtropical forest as the valley begins to deepen. The walk takes approximately 6 hours, and Dharapani; at the confluence of the Marsyangdi and Dudh Khola; marks the gateway to the Manang district.
Lodge/ Teahouse
BLD
A gradual 6-hour ascent through broadleaf and pine forests with steadily improving mountain views. The first dramatic profiles of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II come into view as the valley narrows. Chame is the administrative headquarters of Manang District; a lively village with well-stocked teahouses, bakeries, and hot springs perfect for tired legs.
Lodge/ Teahouse
BLD
One of the most visually dramatic sections of the circuit. The 5-hour trail enters a deep gorge framed by towering rock faces, passing through dense pine and fir forest before emerging to the spectacular curved rock wall of Paungda Danda. Pisang offers the first sweeping views of Annapurna II (7,937 m) and Pisang Peak; and the crisp high-altitude air signals you've entered a different world.
Lodge/ Teahouse
BLD
The route from Pisang offers a choice of high or low trails; both reward you richly. The high trail passes through Upper Pisang and Ghyaru, yielding staggering panoramas of the Annapurna massif reflected in Gangapurna Lake. The low trail winds through Hongde and Humde. Both paths converge at Manang after 6–7 hours, a large, well-serviced village and the last major settlement before Thorong La.
Lodge/ Teahouse
BLD
A planned rest day here is not optional; it is essential. Altitude acclimatization above 3,000 m follows the "climb high, sleep low" principle. Your guide leads a half-day hike to Gangapurna Lake (3,700 m) or Ice Lake (4,600 m) to help your body adjust. Manang also hosts a daily Himalayan Rescue Association altitude talk, which all trekkers are strongly encouraged to attend.
Lodge/ Teahouse
BLD
Leaving the tree line behind, the trail ascends in 3–4 hours into open alpine terrain dotted with yak pastures and juniper scrub. The shorter walking day is intentional; a slow, measured climb to allow continued acclimatization. Yak Kharka ("yak pasture") sits on an exposed ridgeline with commanding views of Chulu East and West peaks. Nights here are cold; evenings in the teahouse are warm with shared stories.
Lodge/ Teahouse
BLD
A steady, purposeful 4-hour ascent to the base camp of Thorong La. The landscape turns stark and lunar, the air noticeably thinner. Thorong Phedi; meaning "foot of Thorong"; is a cluster of teahouses that fills with anxious energy each evening as trekkers from across the world prepare for the biggest day of the circuit. An early dinner and early bedtime are highly recommended; tomorrow's pre-dawn start demands it.
Lodge/ Teahouse
BLD
The defining day of the entire circuit; and one you will never forget. Departing by headlamp around 4–5 AM, you climb steeply in the pre-dawn darkness to the prayer-flag-draped Thorong La Pass (5,450 m), the highest point of the trek. The sunrise over the Himalayan giants is breathtaking and surreal. From the pass, a long, knee-testing descent of nearly 1,800 metres leads to Muktinath; a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists; where warmth, hot food, and a profound sense of achievement await. Total walking time: 10–12 hours.
Lodge/ Teahouse
BLD
After the high-altitude exertion of the past days, an 8–10 hour scenic jeep ride carries you down through the dramatic arid landscapes of the Mustang region; cliff-hugging roads, the Kali Gandaki Gorge (the world's deepest), and the apple orchards of Marpha and Jomsom. Arriving in Pokhara, the serene lakeside city framed by Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), feels like a well-earned return to civilisation.
Lodge/ Teahouse
BLD
A carefully planned contingency day to absorb any delays caused by weather, illness, or road conditions earlier on the route. If not needed, this becomes a well-deserved leisure day in Pokhara; take a boat out to Phewa Lake, visit the World Peace Pagoda, indulge in lakeside cafés, or simply rest your legs and reflect on the journey.
Mountain treks in Nepal are inherently subject to the will of weather and terrain, and this day ensures your international flight connections remain protected. If the previous days passed smoothly, use this time to explore Pokhara at leisure or arrange optional activities such as paragliding or an ultralight flight over the Annapurnas.
Hotel
Breakfast
A short, spectacular 25-minute mountain flight returns you to Kathmandu. On a clear morning, the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges are visible from the aircraft window; a final, fitting farewell to the mountains you have just traversed on foot. Back in Kathmandu, the evening is yours for a farewell dinner and last-minute shopping in Thamel.
Hotel
Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
Your AltiNepal team arranges a timely transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. We recommend scheduling international flights in the afternoon or evening to allow a comfortable morning in the city. We hope you carry with you not just memories of the mountains, but a piece of Nepal's warmth, spirit, and sky.
Breakfast
Includes
Airport pick-up and drop-off services
Three nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
One night hotel accommodation in Pokhara
Lodge accommodation during trek on twin-sharing basis
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking day
Domestic airfare Pokhara–Kathmandu
Experienced trekking guide
Insurance coverage for guide and porters
Porters (one porter for every two trekkers)
Company duffle bag and sun hat
First aid kit carried by the guide
All required trekking permits
All applicable local and government taxes
Excludes
Personal travel and medical insurance
International airfare to and from Nepal
Nepal entry visa fees
Personal expenses such as hard and cold drinks
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Hot shower charges during the trek
Personal trekking equipment
Internet and telephone usage charges
Gratuities for trekking staff (USD 200 per member recommended)
Notes
Trek Difficulty: Moderate to challenging due to high pass crossing
Acclimatization: Proper rest day included in Manang
Best Seasons: Spring and autumn provide stable weather
Fitness Level: Good physical fitness recommended
Customization: Itinerary can be adjusted based on schedule and preferences
Licensed and experienced local trekking guides
First aid kit and altitude monitoring
Insured guides and porters
Structured acclimatization plan
Emergency evacuation coordination if required
