A long loop around the Annapurna massif, from green rice terraces to the high, dry Manang valley and over the Thorong La pass at 5,416 m to the temple town of Muktinath.
15–20 walking days · highest point Thorong La 5,416 m · Challenging · best months Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov · Start and end: Besisahar → Jomsom · Protected area: Annapurna Conservation Area
Bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar (6–8 hours). Roads now reach Manang on one side and Muktinath on the other, so many trekkers drive part of the way. From Jomsom you can fly to Pokhara in the morning.
Thorong La is high and the weather can turn fast: a blizzard in October 2014 killed more than 40 people. Cross early in the morning, before the wind picks up, and acclimatise in Manang. The pass is often blocked by snow from December to March.
A licensed guide is required on this trek (Nepal Tourism Board rule since 31 March 2023).
Most of these treks go above 3,000 m. The US CDC advises: once above 3,000 m, sleep no more than 500 m higher each night, add an extra day for every 1,000 m you gain, never go higher with symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness), and go down if they get worse.
Fees and rules checked on 2026-11-02.
Trekking and sightseeing in Nepal
General guidance from the sources listed, not a guarantee. Rules, fees and trail conditions change; confirm with the official source or a registered trekking agency before you go.