Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Trip Style: Tea House Lodge Trek
  • Transport: Private Vehicle / Tourist Bus
  • Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel + Tea House Lodge
  • Group Size: 2
  • Max Elevation: 5416m

Highlights

  • Clockwise Annapurna Circuit - New style to tour Annapurna Circuit
  • Close view of mountain ranges: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchre, Gangapurna, Tukuche, Manaslu, Nilgiri
  • Thrilling Thorong La pass at 5416m
  • The deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge
  • Muktinath Temple at 3800m
  • Diverse landscapes from green hills, alpine woods, riverbeds, valleys, barren deserted hills to snowcapped mountains
  • Encounter ethnic cultures and communities: Gurung, Thakali, Magar
  • Incorporates Attractive destinations: Tatopani, Marpha, Jomsom, Muktinath, Manang, Gangapurna Glacier Lake

Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise is the new concept and style of completing one of the most charming trekking routes of Nepal, Annapurna Circuit. Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise creates new challenges, adventures, and thrills for the trekkers.

Since Annapurna Circuit Trek opened in 1977, trekkers follow the route and itinerary that begins from Bensisahar, heads in an anti-clockwise direction to traverse through Manang district, cross Thorong La pass and enter Mustang district. Only a few of the trekkers have attempted Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise as the practice is of going anti-clockwise.

Nepal Adventure Team arranges and organizes the Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise for all adventure and nature lover trekkers. Initially, you drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and enjoy a night's stay at Pokhara. The next day, you will drive up to Tatopani and relax in the hot spring in Tatopani village. From Tatopani, you begin to trek bypassing villages such as Kalopani, Lete, Ghasa, Marpha, Jomsom, and Muktinath. You will be staying at the Muktinath area for acclimatization and stay at Mustang Phedi before passing Thorong La. Early morning, you head to traverse through Thorong La which is entirely surrounded by mountains, and drop at Manang district. You will rest as well as have sightseeing in Manang village and move downhill towards Pisang, Chame, Dharapani, and Bensisahar. You will drive to Kathmandu from Bensisahar.

Tale of Annapurna Massif and Annapurna Circumambulation

Annapurna is the name of the Hindu goddess, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati, and daughter of Himavat, king of mountains. Annapurna means the giver of food and nourishment where Anna means food/ grains and Purna means full, complete, and perfect. Locals believe that till the snow lasts on Annapurna Massif, the surrounding will be blessed with food and nourishment.

This turns Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise into Annapurna Circumambulation and trail of religious value. Because the Clockwise circuit of any sacred site is called Circumambulation and circumambulation is an integral part of Hindu and Buddhist devotional practice and holy deeds.

How is Annapurna Circuit Clockwise different from Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is widely popular and loved by trekkers around the globe. The mesmerizing beauty, wilderness, hospitality, and local culture has led Annapurna Circuit to be one of the most appreciated and liked trekking trail of the trekkers.

Every year number of trekkers land in Nepal to accomplish Annapurna Circuit Trail. The trail has always started from Bensisahar, crossing Manang District, passing Thorong La, traversing through Mustang District, and relaxing at Pokhara. And this route of Annapurna Circuit goes anticlockwise as per the direction. This route has been worked out, implemented, and popularized by everyone.

Nevertheless, for the new and unique experience, Nepal Adventure Team is arranging and organizing Annapurna Circuit Trail Clockwise where the trek begins from Pokhara, crosses the Mustang district, passes Thorong La, traverses through Manang district, and lands at Bensisahar.

This new style of completing Annapurna Circuit has the following features:

A new style to complete Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Unique Experience
  • Harder Climb
  • Extend the Challenge of Throrong La pass
  • More Adventure and thrill
  • Devotional practice and holy deeds in different religions.

Manang in Annapurna Circuit Trek

Manang District of Nepal is situated in the broad valley of the Marshyangdi River to the north of the Annapurna mountain range. The river flows to the east. To the west, the 5,416m/ 17,769 ft Thorong La pass leads to the Muktinath shrine and the valley of Kali Gandaki River. To the north, there is the Chulu East peak of 6,584 m (21,601 ft).

The development of a trail linking Manang to the Annapurna Conservation Area was finished in February 2011. Consequently, benefits the villagers and travelers.

From Manang, the usual route of Annapurna Circuit Trek continues to Thorung La at 5415 meters above sea level which connects Manang district to Mustang District by providing a route between Manang village and Muktinath village. This part of the trail of the Manang trek to Muktinath has been used by the locals for hundreds of years to transport huge herds of sheep and yak in and out of Manang.

The northern part of Manang town is more preserved in its old-style whereas; in the southern part, there are hotels, shops, and cybercafé.

Thorang La pass at 5416m in Annapurna Circuit Trek

Thorong La pass is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek as the pass lies at 5,416 meters connecting the two most beautiful arid valleys of Nepal: Mustang and Manang. The pass enables trekkers to circumambulate Annapurna Massif and enjoy the Annapurna Conservation Area with a long peaceful, beautiful, and adventurous trail.

Thorong La pass was opened to foreigners in 1977 then, each year thousands of travelers enjoy the trendy thrills of Thorong La. With all the excitement trekkers begin their trek too early in the morning as the weather is too windy at Thorong La afternoon and it is better to pass Thorong La in the first half of the day. The day to pass Thorong La is the tough one and sucks all the energy but the views, surrounding, and wilderness of Thorong La refill the heart and memories of trekkers to walk further. Lots of trekkers just attempt Thorong La Trek without completing Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Mustang in Annapurna Circuit Trek

Mustang District is widely liked and visited by both internal and external tourists due to its natural beauty, diverse landscape, culture, and religious values. The entire Mustang district is included within the Annapurna Conservation Area, the largest protected area in Nepal. Mustang is bordered by the Tibetan Plateau and sheltered by some of the world's tallest peaks, including 8000-meter-tall Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

Mustang is divided into two sub-regions, Lower and Upper. This is a high-altitude trans-Himalayan region spread over 3,640 square kilometers in area. 79.8 % of the Mustang area is covered by the Trans-Himalayan climate zone. (Read more)

Best Season for Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise

Autumn Season (October- November) is regarded to be the most favorable time to trek in Nepal and also in Annapurna Circuit Clockwise. At this time, summer starts to end and winter begins. The hotness and coldness of the trekking trail are mild showcasing its beauty to the fullest with a clear and blue sky, shining mountain ranges, colorful vegetation, and smooth path. There is no rain and snowfall to create difficulty during Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise. The average temperature is assumed to be 15 degrees Celsius. However, the attractiveness of the season attracts many trekkers and the Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise package is extensively booked. The trail is filled with trekkers and mostly crowded as autumn is the peak season for Trekking in Nepal.

Secondly, the Spring season (March-May) is the favorable time to trek in Nepal after Autumn Season as the weather is mild neither hot nor cold. At this time, winter starts to end and summer begins. The blue clear sky is seen to infinite distances touched by snowcapped mountains. Even the vegetation blooms with the new leaves and flowers. Rarely, rain and snowfall occur at this time so there is less difficult to traverse through Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise. However, trekkers may be disturbed by other trekkers as this is the peak season for Trekking in Nepal.

Thirdly, monsoon season is preferred by the trekker who wants to avoid crowds and busy trails of Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise. At this time, vegetation blooms at the fullest, there is greenery in most parts of the trails and the mountains shine brightly after a night of rain. The higher altitude area and certain parts of Mustang and Manang belong to rain shadow but the lower areas have the rainfall. Consequently, the trail is wet and slippery with a high chance of encountering leeches. Nevertheless, a guide will be there to lead and rescue you from a slippery path and leeches. Monsoon season is usually chosen to avoid crowds and cherish the blooming diversified flora.

Thorong La along with the higher areas of Mustang and Manang faces heavy snowfall during Winter Season (December – February) which creates difficulty in the trek. This makes fewer or almost no trekkers on the route and only the experienced trekkers travel at this time for Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise. The views are crystal clear and the mountain is filled with snow but the temperature drops to freezing cold.

Detail Itinerary

  • Day 01Kathmandu Arrival (1350m)
  • Day 02Drive to Pokhara (860m) - 6 Hours
  • Day 03Drive to Tatopani (1190m) - 5 Hours
  • Day 04Trek to Kalopani (2530m) 5/6 Hours
  • Day 05Trek to Marpha (2670 m) 5/6 Hours
  • Day 06Trek to Kagbeni (2804 m) 4/5 hours
  • Day 07Trek to Muktinath (3800 m) 4/5 Hours
  • Day 08Acclimatization Day in Muktinath (3800m)
  • Day 09Trek to Phedi (4190 m) 4/5 Hours
  • Day 10Trek to Manang Phedi (4540 m) via Thorong la pass (5416m) 8/9 Hours
  • Day 11Trek to Manang (3519 m) 5/6 Hours
  • Day 12Rest At Manang (3519 m) and Sightseeing
  • Day 13Trek to Pisang (3250 m) 5/6 Hours
  • Day 14Trek to Chame (2650 m) 5/6 Hours
  • Day 15Trek to Dharapani (1860 m) 5/6 Hours
  • Day 16Drive to Kathmandu via Bensisahar (800m) 8/9 Hours
  • Day 17Finale Departure
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  • Day 01 Kathmandu Arrival (1350m)

    Nepal Adventure Teams representative will be at Tribhuvan International Airport to welcome you in Nepal for Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise. Our team will lead you to your hotel for rest and refreshment.

    In order to wish you success and welcome you to Nepal, Nepal Adventure Team will organize a welcome dinner accompanied by a cultural program. 

    • Meals: Welcome Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: 1350m
  • Day 02 Drive to Pokhara (860m) - 6 Hours
    After breakfast, you will drive through Prithivi Highway to reach Pokhara. On the way, you will encounter and see the subway lifestyle, settlements, terrace farmland, hills, and ridges. The roadway goes along the Trishuli and Marshyangdi River. The road trip will give you a scenic ride and land you in Pokhara, the city of lake and mountain view. In the evening, you can stroll around the bank of Phewa Lake and view the sunset.
    • Meals: Breakfast
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Pokhara
    • Altitude: 860m
  • Day 03 Drive to Tatopani (1190m) - 5 Hours

    From Pokhara, further, you will ride to Beni-Baglung highway to reach Tatopani. The road trip will be accompanied by the hills, villages, view of Pokhara valley, and mountain. You will be riding along the Kali Gandaki river. From Beni, the off-road ride begins and juggles you till you reach Tatopani.

    Literally, Tatopani means “hot water”. The place is named so as it has a famous hot spring. After the tiring and juggling ride to Tatopani, you can relax on a hot spring and energize yourself for the rest of the Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise journey. 

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Tatopani
    • Altitude: 1190 m
  • Day 04 Trek to Kalopani (2530m) 5/6 Hours
    Along the way to Kalopani, you can enjoy several waterfalls (more during monsoon season June-August) as well as the views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri (especially during autumn and winter). The trek from Tatopani to Kalopani will lead you over the deep and wild canyon of Kali Gandaki. The trail showcase the magic of nature: how the Kali Gandaki disappears to a narrow gorge and flows with a roar through massif. You will observe the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge. As you reach Kalopani, you will feel the change in wind and surroundings. You might feel colder weather and chilly breeze in Kalopani. Kalopani is one of the rare places on the Annapurna Circuit with a view of the tallest of the Annapurna peaks. 
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Kalopani
    • Altitude: 2530 m
  • Day 05 Trek to Marpha (2670 m) 5/6 Hours

    The trek begins by crossing the river and leaving Kalopani village behind. Today's hike will be like a stroll through an old European forest than the lower Himalayas. The soft trail will mostly be flat passing through tidy villages. There was one significant uphill-downhill segment just nearby Suara, providing expansive views of the river valley. The trail is entirely decorated by gorgeous and tall pine trees swayed in the wind, the rush of the river accompanied the chatter of birds, frogs, and winds.

    As you enter the Marpha village, there will be more of a barren kind of hills and areas rather than the woods of pine trees. The village is entirely covered with stone houses and an apple garden. You can enjoy the local apple products at Marpha.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Marpha
    • Altitude: 2670 m
  • Day 06 Trek to Kagbeni (2804 m) 4/5 hours
    As you walk beyond Marpha, the change in landscape is totally visible. There will be shrubs, barren hills, near mountains, and darker Kali Gandaki river. You will pass by the headquarter of Mustang District, Jomsom. Jomsom has the army headquarters, banks, hospitals,s, and airports. Further, the steeper climb and downhill walk will land you in Kagbeni village. Kagbeni is just on the bank of the Kali Gandaki river having a high religious value to Hindu and Buddhist. Travelers often do fossil (Shaligram) hunting in Kagbeni.
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Kagbeni
    • Altitude: 2804 m
  • Day 07 Trek to Muktinath (3800 m) 4/5 Hours

    From Kagbeni, you will climb uphill to reach the Muktinath area. Bypassing Khingar (3400m) village, you will wee a dramatic village of Jharkot with large Chorten, gompa, and atmospheric animist totems. The trail ascends through a desert-like trans-Himalayan landscape to Ranipauwa.

    This day, you will walk less and rest to capitalize on the energy and cope with the increasing altitude. 

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Muktinath
    • Altitude: 3800 m
  • Day 08 Acclimatization Day in Muktinath (3800m)

    This day is separated to maintain good health and cope with the changing environment, weather, and altitude of trekkers. You will also have a short hike in the area which will be helpful to acclimatize. Undoubtedly, you will visit the famous and sacred Muktinath temple.

    Muktinath Temple is located on the top of the hill having 108 taps and 2 ponds in its temple compound. Mebar Lha monastery is also located in the area and regarded to be the Goddess of Fire. Hindu and Buddhist traditions claim Muktinath Temple to be the only place on Earth to host all five elements (fire, water, sky, earth, and air) from which all material things in the universe are made.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Muktinath
    • Altitude: 3800 m
  • Day 09 Trek to Phedi (4190 m) 4/5 Hours
    There is a common name “Phedi” on both the side of Thorong La Pass: Muktinath Phedi (in Mustang side) and Manang Phedi (Manang Side). So, you will trek to Muktinath Phedi from the Muktinath area and prepare for passing the Thorang La on the next day. You need to rest well and sleep early to begin the trek too early in the morning. 
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Phedi Muktinath side
    • Altitude: 4190 m
  • Day 10 Trek to Manang Phedi (4540 m) via Thorong la pass (5416m) 8/9 Hours
    This is a big day of Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise as you head to pass Thorong La and enter Manang district. You will begin your trek at 4:00 AM in the morning and climb up for 4-5 hours to reach Thorong La pass. Thorong La is the thrilling adventure and trail of the Annapurna Circuit journey. You will need huge strength and stamina to overcome Thorong La. Afternoon, the weather is not feasible and too windy to walk through so, you will have to begin trek early and pass Thorong La as early as possible. You will walk downhill for 3-4 hours to reach Manang Phedi and take a rest from the long walk.
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Manang Phedi
    • Altitude: 4540 m
  • Day 11 Trek to Manang (3519 m) 5/6 Hours

    From Manang Phedi, you will walk down the hill towards Manang village. The trail will entirely be filled with snowcapped mountain ranges and the crackling river. There is no vegetation and dense forest rather barren hills and shrubs. You will walk through a rough slippery stony trail up to Manang.  

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Manang
    • Altitude: 3519 m
  • Day 12 Rest At Manang (3519 m) and Sightseeing
    After accomplishing Thorong La, you will be able to totally relax properly at Manang village. This day is scheduled to make you relax as well as explore the nearby attractive place. Gangapurna will be too close and smiling at you in Manang village. You will also visit Gangapurna Glacier lake as well as climb the Glacier viewpoint. With a short hike around Manang village, you will stay and Manang for this day too.
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Manang
    • Altitude: 3519 m
  • Day 13 Trek to Pisang (3250 m) 5/6 Hours

    From Manang village, the downhill trek begins with the magnificent scenery. With the continuous walkthrough of fine woods, mountain views, rushing river, high stoned hill, you will reach Hongde. As you reach the flat valley of Hongde village, you can still feel the dry arctic climate. You will visit the old Braga monastery with old Buddhist relics, ancient wall paintings,s and stunning views of Annapurna Himalaya.

    Then, you will reach Pisang village with great scenery of mountains and surrounding landscapes. The entire trail will give you superb views of staggering Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna, Chulu’s, and Pisang peak. 

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Pisang
    • Altitude: 3250 m
  • Day 14 Trek to Chame (2650 m) 5/6 Hours

    After a warm breakfast, you will head towards Chame, headquarter of Manang District. The trail is filled with enchanting alpine forests of rhododendron and pine trees, following the Marshyangdi River.

    You will pass by Dhukure Pokhari, a small place with few teahouses and lodges overlooking Chulu’s and Pisang peak. Similarly, a downhill walk will lead you to Bhratang village and then Chame. You can see Apple Farm in Bhratang village on the way to Chame. You can enjoy fresh apple juice, apple pie, and other Apple products on the farm operated under Agro Manang Pvt. Ltd.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Chame
    • Altitude: 2650 m
  • Day 15 Trek to Dharapani (1860 m) 5/6 Hours

    From Chame, it is all the downhill trail bypass and crossing suspension bridges, ridges, hills, and woods. The trail along rhododendron and pine forest will traverse you through Bagachap, Danaque, and Temang village. More Buddhist culture enriched village with a grand view of Mt. Manaslu can be observed. You will also see the majestic Tal village which is a unique location on the bank of the river and the lap of hills. As you reach Dharapani, the weather will be warmer

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Dharapani
    • Altitude: 1860 m
  • Day 16 Drive to Kathmandu via Bensisahar (800m) 8/9 Hours

    Early morning, after breakfast you will head towards Bensisahar leaving the chilly weather and closeness to mountains behind. You will ride up to Bensisahar on a jeep and ride to Kathmandu on a bus.

    Within 8-9 hours, you will arrive in Kathmandu Valley. Nepal Adventure Team will organize a Farewell Dinner for your success of the Annapurna Circuit Trek Clockwise journey and bid you a warm farewell from Nepal with the hope to meet you on your next journey.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DInner, and Tea/Coffee in a cup
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Kathmandu
    • Altitude: 1350 m
  • Day 17 Finale Departure
    As per your international flight schedule, Nepal Adventure Team will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport.
    • Meals: Breakfast

What's Included

Included

  • All ground transportation (Airport transfer, Tourist Bus, Local Jeep, and bus)
  • Welcome, and farewell special dinner at a typical Nepali authentic restaurant
  • Food and Drinks (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea / Coffee in a cup)
  • Hotel and Accommodation (Tea/House Lodge during trek, 3 stars Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara)
  • Guide and Staff (En experienced, expert, government license holder trekking guide, strong porter and driver)
  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) fee
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)
  • Trekking equipment like a sleeping bag, trekking pole, and down jacket (if needed)
  • Company T-shirt, appreciation letter, and trek map
  • First Aid medical kit bag
  • All government VAT and Local taxes

Excluded

  • Nepal visa fee
  • International flight (airfare)
  • Extra drinks as alcoholic and non-alcoholic
  • Personal expenses like chocolate, biscuits, phone bill, toilet paper, and Etc.
  • Travel and rescue insurance

Client Reviews

  • Lars Müller
    Rating Review by: Lars Müller, Germany

    Incredible Journey on the Annapurna Circuit

    The route offered a fantastic blend of beautiful landscapes, challenging trails, and unique cultural experiences. Crossing Thorong La Pass was a thrilling achievement, and the views from the top were unforgettable.

  • Priya Mehta
    Rating Review by: Priya Mehta, India

    An Epic Adventure on the Annapurna Circuit!

    Trekking the Annapurna Circuit clockwise was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The varied terrain and ever-changing scenery were mesmerizing, especially the stunning views from the high passes. The small villages along the way offered a glimpse into the local culture and warm hospitality!!

  • noimage
    Rating Review by: Rajesh, India

    A Cultural Odyssey Amidst Nature's Majesty

    As a seasoned trekker from India, I was blown away by the stunning landscapes and diverse cultures along the way. The challenging terrain kept me on my toes, but the rewarding views of snow-capped peaks made every step worth it. Plus, the hospitality of the local communities added a warm touch to the experience. Definitely a must-do for any avid hiker!

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