About this trip
This trek takes you around the Annapurna massif, crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416m and dropping into the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest valleys in the world. Over two weeks you walk through rhododendron and oak forest, past terraced villages, with Annapurna I-IV, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Machapuchare rarely out of view.
You gain altitude gradually, village by village, with a built-in acclimatisation day at Manang before the push over the pass. Along the way you pass through communities with their own distinct cultures and languages, and visit Muktinath, a shared Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site.
The trip starts and ends in Kathmandu, with a day exploring the valley's sights before you head out to Syange to begin walking, and a scenic drive back from Pokhara at the end.
What you'll do
- Cross Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, the trek's highest point
- Walk through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, among the deepest valleys on earth
- Visit Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world
- See Annapurna I-IV, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Machapuchare up close
- Visit the Hindu and Buddhist holy site at Muktinath
- Spend a day sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley before the trek begins
- High-altitude trek with a gradual ascent and a dedicated acclimatisation day at Manang
- Long trekking days over varied terrain, from forest trails to exposed high-altitude passes, so a reasonable fitness level helps
- Runs over Christmas and New Year as well as other dates, with village teahouses and changing altitudes throughout
Worth it if you want a well-organised trek with genuinely flexible, knowledgeable guides who tailor the pace to you. Think twice if you can't handle intense cold in winter months.
- Guides consistently go above and beyond: named guides like Dawa Sherpa and Raju Mainali are flexible about rest days, itinerary changes, and actively share knowledge of flora, fauna, and local culture.
- Tea house standard stays clean, comfortable, well-maintained; food quality high with Nepali dishes and international options catering to dietary preferences throughout the trek.
- February trek is very cold; pack accordingly and expect harsh weather, though one reviewer noted good conditions made for comfort.
- Off-season trekking (non-peak months) means fewer crowds and a more immersive experience, though accommodation availability may vary by season.
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Getting there
Opens Trip.com, pre-filled — one-way so you can book your return whenever. Prices & booking shown there.
Where to stay
A night before your tour in Kathmandu · 20 Jul – 21 Jul
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