Annapurna Circuit Trekking

This classic 3-week adventure leads you through a diverse range of mountain cultures, scenery and climatic zones. From the stark topography of the Tibetan plateau, to the Kali Gandaki gorge and the dramatic scenery of the Annapurna massif, we are spoilt for choice in a deeply beautiful region steeped in history, culture and tradition.

After a few days in Kathmandu, we board our minibus and drive to the road head at Besisahar - and to the lush terraced fields of the lower Marsayangdi River valley. We set trail here and follow this ancient river as it cuts through the main Himalayan chain. Bamboo and tropical vegetation accompany us as we ascend through the verdant mid-hills into alpine forest and then up higher into alpine meadows. Soon the temperate climate gives way to the arid desert conditions in the Manang district, home to centuries old Buddhist temples and medieval villages.

We continue in the footsteps of the ancient salt traders over the Throrung La pass. At 5,416m it is one of the highest trekking passes on earth, but the views from the top of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) are just stupendous. On the way down to the Kali Gandaki gorge, we visit the temple complex in Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is a favourite pilgrimage destination for many of the faithful.

Continuing our descent, we arrive at Kagbeni and the junction of the Jhong Khola and Kali Gandaki Rivers (2,800). We are now in the deepest valley in the world. To the east, Annapurna (8,031m) sits astride the gorge, and on the west Dhaulagiri towers at 8,167m. Like sentinels of the Kali Gandaki River, they guide us south towards the lush lowlands.

We descend through pine and rhododendron forest to natural hot springs to soak away the dust of the trail and revitalise ourselves. We make a short ascent of Poon Hill for great sunrise views at the end of our trek, and remember with great satisfaction that we have just circumnavigated one of the most breath-taking mountain ranges on earth.