Major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

“Completing the Annapurna Circuit Trek is like finishing an amazing adventure story. ” – Anonymous 

Explore the Annapurna Circuit Trek to experience the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, where adventure meets tradition in one of the world’s most popular trekking trails.

More than just tranquil trekking trails, the Annapurna region is lined with many major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek. Beyond a normal trek from point A to point B, a 16-day Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary offers you a full circuit exploration of most of the Annapurna region. The Annapurna region has the most decorated places, passes, and temples, and the Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal holds the most amazing places to explore. With one day separated for acclimatization, you can visit many beautiful villages, glaciers, waterfalls, suspension bridges, passes, temples, and monasteries within these 16 days.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Introduction

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is situated in and protected by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). Starting from 800 m above sea level, the circuit trek goes up to 5,416 m at Thorong La Pass. With a total distance of 160-230 km, this 16-day circuit trek produces a lot of adrenaline and is responsible for numerous major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek for the trekkers who love challenges and adventures. This circuit trek offers the majestic views of the Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri Range, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), etc.

The highlighted places and major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek are the highest mountain pass in the world, Thorung La Pass, and the world’s highest temple, Muktinath Temple. The great part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek route is that you will reach the sacred temple, Muktinath Temple, after crossing the Thorong La pass on the day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal. There are many other fascinating major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek, some of which are mentioned below.

Major attraction of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Here is the list of 15 major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, along with their highlights:

Kathmandu and Pokhara city

To begin with, on our second day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary, there is one day of sightseeing of the beautiful Kathmandu valley. We will visit four of Kathmandu’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal. The Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, Swoyambhunath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. We conclude the trek after exploring the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek on the 14th day at Pokhara and take a breather at the lakeside.

Pokhara city is seen as a paradise city by foreigners.  Amid the beautiful Phewa Lake, here lies the Tal Barahi Temple, which is surrounded by hills and mountain ranges. People can visit the temple by crossing the lake on a rented boat. Other boat activities, such as Kayaking, canoeing, and surfing, are also available and are famous amongst the youngsters and foreigners. Lakeside is known as a relaxation hub for everyone. To relax after a hefty Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal, or any other journey to the mountains, Pokhara has the best hotels and restaurants, mostly near the lakeside, to prepare before the trek.

To further explore the magical city of Pokhara, you can visit the nearby gems, Devis fall, Sarangkot, World Peace Pagoda Temple, Pumdikot Shiva Statue, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Bindhyabasini Temple, and many more. You can extend your stay in Pokhara to visit the places after you have completed exploring the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Highlights

• Exploring the alleyways of the capital city, Kathmandu
• Touring inside the Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Visiting the famous Buddhist and Hindu stupas, Boudhanath and Swoyambhunath
• Visiting a sacred religious site, Pashupatinath Temple
• Visit Thamel, the busiest street for tourists and souvenirs
• Relaxing near the Phewa Lake in Pokhara.

Besisahar: Starting point to the Annapurna Region

Besisahar, located in the Lamjung district, is an important hub for trekkers. All the trading of essentials and supplies for the teahouses settled along the numerous trekking trails is carried out in Besisahar. The town, situated at 760 m (2,490 ft), with a population of over 44,500 people, provides all essential services for travelers, including trekking permits, accommodations, transport, and necessary gear and equipment for the trek. It is considered one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal as it is the starting point of the very trail and other major trails such as the Annapurna Base Camp trek and, Manaslu Circuit Trek.

The most captivating part of the place is that you can witness the striking snow-peak views of the Annapurna ranges and the Manaslu ranges. The mountains will be so beautiful that you will not want to leave the place anytime soon. Alongside the trails to the town, you will come across numerous beautiful waterfalls falling from the higher parts of the nearby hills. You will have an amazing experience with the natural shower as the Annapurna Circuit Trek route passes through these waterfalls.

This majestic experience of travelling beneath the waterfalls is also viewed as one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. To top this beautiful experience, at the end of the day, you will be joined by the locals and can experience the cultural and traditional accommodation and local foods from the Gurung and Magar communities, expanding your memories to the Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal.

Highlights

• It is known as the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary.
• It is also known as the gateway to the famous Gurung and Magar Villages.
• Numerous natural waterfalls can be seen throughout the Annapurna Circuit Trek route to Besisahar.
• Striking views of the Annapurna and Manaslu Mountain Ranges
• Visit the religious site: Lamjung Kalika Temple

Ghandruk Village: Trekking hub with cultural experience

Ghandruk is the best-recognised place by travellers all around the world. The best destination for a short hike from Pokhara to view the mountains a little up close. Ghandruk is considered one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek. It is also known as the “Gateway to the Annapurna Conservation Area” from where most the the major trekking trails in the Annapurna Region begin.

Ghandruk is a cultural village, home to over 6500 people and numerous traditional, authentic backgrounds of the Gurung and Magar communities. The village is expanded with the rugged yet serene landscapes, beautiful hills, views of the majestic mountains, and breathtaking trails to the hiking destination for the day. With these wonderful places to experience, most travellers consider this awesome village as one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek. Ghandruk is blessed with most of the things that travellers would like to experience, before and after a chilled stay near the lakeside.

Highlights

• The village is known as the gateway to the Annapurna Conservation Area.
• It is the key landmark of the Annapurna Circuit trek Nepal and the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
• Breathtaking views of the Machapuchare and Annapurna ranges.
• The village is rich with the Gurung community’s traditional lifestyle and cultural heritage.
• Explore the terraced farming landscapes and traditional stone architecture.

Ghorepani/Poon Hill: Short trekking trails alongside the Annapurna Circuit trek Nepal 

As the places are located alongside each other, travellers puts the beautiul trails of the Ghorepani and Poon Hill as one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This 4 Days Ghorepani Poon Hill Short Trek offers everyone the Ghorepani trails surrounded by the lush rhododendron forests and a beautiul paranomic view from the hill station at the top of Poon Hill.

Ghorepani, situated at the outskirts of Pokhara, is a well-known destination for a short hike before the trek and is also regarded as one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Ghorepani, also known as Ghode Pani, is located at an altitude of 2,874 meters (9,429 feet) above sea level. The village invites you with warm hospitality and a cultural atmosphere of the primarily inhabited Gurung and Magar communities.

On the other hand, Poon hill is a hill station, also regarded as the family tekking route. With having a moderate trekking trail, Poon hill is situated at an altitude of 3,210 meters (10,529 feet) above sea level. A two hours hike from Ghorepani, Poon hill is mostly known for having a view point at the top, from where you can experience the magical golden sunrise elevating over the Annapurna Ranges and Dhaulagiri Ranges. The travellers consider Ghorepani village and Poon Hill a beautiful short trekking trails and also one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek alongside the Annapurna circuit trek itinerary.

Highlights

• A popular short destination trek convenient for all trekkers. 
• Breathtaking views of the sunrise/sunset over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
• A popular panoramic hill station at the top to Poon Hill at 3,210 above sea level.
• Villages filled with Magar and Gurung communities, ready to help with their rich culture and hospitality.
• Recommended to traverse in the spring season to experience the fully dense forests with Rhododendrons.

Manang: A magical Himalayan village

A valley neighbouring the mountain giants, Manang is home to the culture and lifestyle of the local Manangi people, ancient monasteries, and beautiful landscapes. Manang, situated at the edge of the cliff at the north of the region, is 3518 meters (11,542 feet) above sea level. This wanderlust place is also known as the “Crown Jewel” of the Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal.

Manang Valley has more hidden places to offer. A mountain cave, numerous cultural Gompas, villages, and an apple farming environment make the valley one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The Milerapa cave is known for the best practices of meditation and spiritual transformation. You can learn more about the Milerapa cave in Where is Mount Kailash located? Talking more about the Manang Valley, here lies Khangsar, a remote village with a population of only over 300 people. However, the place has attracted many domestic and foreign visitors over the years because of its natural beauty of the surroundings, multiple access to the village, and diverse landscapes drifting from vibrant forests to droughty mountain terrains.

A Manang Culture Museum is also established here alongside the old monasteries like Braga Gompa and Parken Gompa. These places explain and spread information about the history of the Manangi culture. Having to learn about this historic information about the Manangi community and the places, trekkers rank the place as one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Highlights 

• Visit the Manang Culture Museum and learn about the history of the culture. 
• Explore Khangsar, a village with a population with moreover 300 people.
• Wander through the Milarapa Cave, which is mainly known for its meditation and spiritual transformation purposes.
• Visit the old monasteries: Braga Gompa and Parken Gompa
• Try the locally made pastries in bakeries. They are made from the homegrown apples.

Jomsom & Kali Gandaki Gorge

A bustling town situated in the Mustang district, Jomsom is famously known as the “Gateway to the Upper Mustang”. Located at an altitude of 2,700 meters (8,860 feet) above sea level, Jomsom functions as the commercial and administrative center of the region. As the population is estimated to be around 1,400 in 2025, the village also has an airport, which eases tourism and commercial activities for the locals.

Jomsom is a hub for travellers as the place is regarded as the entry point to major sites of the Annapurna Circuit trek route. With many historic sites to visit, such as Muktinath Temple, Thorong La Pass, Upper Mustang, it holds the places as one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Alongside the Jomsom, here also lies the great Kali Gandaki gorge.

Kali Gandaki gorge, situated adjacent to Jomsom, is considered the world’s deepest gorge. With an astonishing depth of 18,278 ft (5,571m), the gorge is situated between the two mountain giants, Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri I. Apart from being geographically significant, the Kali Gandagi George also holds religious and monumental values in the Hindu religion. It is believed that many of the sacred Shaligram stones (fossilized ammonites) can be found in the gorge. Having a mix of cultural presence, religious heritage, and attractions to tourists, pilgrims, and geology enthusiasts, this place is listed as one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Highlights

• Jomsom is famously known as the gateway to Muktinath and the Upper Mustang.
• It is famous for having the uniqueness of Tibetan and Nepali cultures blending wonderfully.
• It is also known for the extraordinary hotel Bob Marley.
• The Kali Gandaki Gorge, also known as the “Andha Galchi,” is the world’s deepest Gorge.
• High probability that the sacred Shaligram fossils to be found alongside the Gandaki River.
• Experience the scenic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
• Fly over the mountains from the Jomsom Airport.

Pisang Village and Chame Village

The Pisang village is one of the key points for acclimatization, included in many of the challenging treks. The Pisang village is also called the “Gateway to the Pisang Peak”. Divided into two parts, Lower Pisang and the Higher Pisang, the village is less crowded but culturally captivating when compared to other major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

From the Chame Village, trek to the Upper Pisang takes 5-6 hours of walking uphill to 3300 m (10,827 feet) above sea level. However, the Lower Pisang is only 100 m lower than the Upper Pisang. Offering a panoramic view of the Annapurna II and the Pisang Peak, the villages also hold the religious Tibetan monasteries and Chortens. With the prayer flags fluttering all over these monasteries, the traditional houses, mini entrance gates, and majestic views of the mountains, the Pisang village spreads positive energy through these surroundings.

Chame is the district headquarters of Manang. You can experience the full majestic views of the Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II.
There are many natural hot springs nearby where you can relax your body after the long treks. Eventually, walking through the Annapurna Circuit Trek route, you will come across the very famous Marsyangdi River. Having these amazing and interesting places in the Pisang and Chame villages, travelers will be keen to visit on their way to the Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal.

Highlights

• This village is separated into two parts: Upper and Lower Pisang
• Mostly traditionalized with the Tibetan culture
• Visit Ngawal, a village development committee, via the Upper Pisang route
• Less crowded and culturally captivating than other major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Glaze upon the full views of the Lamjung Himal, Annapurna III, and Gangapurna

Marsyangdi River

Marsyangdi River is famously known for creating an adrenaline rush while rafting with the powerful waves of the river, among tourists and locals. Every year, a handful of foreigners visit Nepal with the sole purpose of having the experience of the adventure in the Marsyangdi River. Located in the western part, the river covers 150 km, starting from Besisahar in the Lamjung district, and ends at Mugling, joining the Trishuli and eventually mixing with the Ganges River in India. However, the major drifts in certain parts of the river, the water flow, and its speed vary due to climatic change and seasonal weather.

Apart from extending powerful flows and currents, creating adventures and thrills for the people, the Marsyangdi river also supports the local communities with fresh water, and also helps the farmers with their agricultural purposes. There are a few Hydropower stations named as Marsyangdi Hydropower Station, generating 69 MW of electricity and 462.5 GWh of annual energy. When translating “Marsyangdi” in English, it means ‘raging one’. It can be one of the reasons why the locals and the foreigners with adventurous tastes are very fond of this river.

If you want the total adventure, then you can participate in the thunderous activity of rafting through the midst of this river. During the post-monsoon season, it is considered the best time for rafting when the water flows are moderate to high, while during the pre-monsoon season, Kayaking would be a better option when the flow of the river is normal. A few hours of the thrilling experience on the white waters of Marsyangdi, alongside providing hydroelectricity to the local community, has its name listed on the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek route.

Highlights

• The Marsyangdi River is famously known for the adrenaline rafting experience among tourists and locals.
• The river runs along the Annapurna Circuit trek, which adds some challenge and more beauty to the trek.
• The heavy flow of the river is maintained alongside the stunning George, with lush forests and waterfalls.
• It supports the local communities with fresh water and helps the villages with agriculture.
• Visit the major Hydroelectric Projects, including the Marsyangdi Hydropower Station.

Yak Kharka

The name “Yak Kharka” literally means “Yak Pasture.” The Yak Kharke is more of a meadow where the locals bring their yaks to feed in the green fields. On our Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary, we reach Yak Kharka on the 9th day before travelling to Thorong High Camp. As the Thorung La pass is the highest point of the trek, you can take some rest and spend a day in Yak Kharka to acclimate before the long hike. Yak Kharka is a high-altitude settlement situated at an elevation of 4,050 meters (13,287 feet) above sea level.

A remote yet beautiful place with only a population of a few hundred people (mostly yak herders), flora and fauna, Yak Kharka is a very peaceful and magical place to visit. The towering views of the Annapurna III and Gangapurna, greenery over the fields, and numerous yaks around make it a key point for the visitors to spend the day in their minimalistic small teahouses. The place can also be a very important resting place during the Annapurna Circuit Trek route, for adjusting to the thinning air before climbing towards the highest point, in the next days.

Highlights

• It is one of the main acclimatization stops and a major attraction of the Annapurna Circuit trek.
• A famous place known for having meadows to practice the traditional and rural way of Yak grazing.
• A very scenic view of the Gangapurna mountain can be seen from here.
• It is also known as the gateway to Thorong Phedi and Thorong La Pass.
• Numerous unique flora and fauna can be found at the high altitude of Yak Kharka.

Thorong La Pass

One of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the Thorong La Pass. It is regarded as the highest trekable mountain pass in the world. The pass situated at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level is also known as the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Most of the trekkers kick off the journey to the pass from Yak Kharka or Thorong Phedi, depending upon the situation of the climate. Mentioning the hardest point of the trek, Thorong La pass covers approximately 131 kilometres (81 miles). The Thorong La Pass also contributes to being the Gateway to the Sacred temple in the mountains: Muktinath.

It is difficult for the trekker to finish the pass without being exhausted. Travelling through the breezy wind, snow-capped mountain peaks, small teahouses for breaks, and walking through the snow of the mountains releases the pain. Trekking over the highest trekable mountain pass in the world is a hard pass to complete for amateur trekkers. However, enjoying the snow peaks, making lasting memories, interacting with the locals, fellow trekkers along the way, and eventually making it to the top, the trekkers consider the pass as the biggest part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Highlights

• It is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
• Witness the spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from here.
• The pass is considered the transition point between the two famous valleys: Manang Valley and Mustang Valley.
• The pass holds cultural significance to both the Hindu and Buddhist religions.
• A starting point to another landmark: the sacred Muktinath Temple.

Muktinath Temple 

Another majestic temple next to the base of Thorong La Pass in the Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary is the sacred Muktinath Temple. The temple is nestled at an altitude of 3,710 meters (12,172 feet) and is known as a religious temple for the Hindus and Buddhists. A sacred site serving spiritual significance for both religions, the temple is believed to be the Lord Vishnu temple in the Hindu religion, while it is mentioned that Guru Rinpoche meditated and obtained enlightenment in the Buddhist religion.

Along with the statue of Lord Shiva inside the temple, Muktinath is mainly known for a few other reasons as well. The Muktinath temple dates back to the 1st century AD, and it holds many historic moments. The Tibetan Buddhists consider the Muktinath temple amongst the 24 Tantric places. However, holding a rich history, the site is famously known for having 108 water spouts (Muktidhara) and two holy ponds (Mukti Kunda and Saraswati Kunda). There is a Buddhist temple located next to the Muktinath temple, Jwala Mai temple, featuring a naturally burning flame, symbolizing the power of the divine and endlessness.

Highlights

• It is a sacred site followed by both the Hindus and Buddhists religions.
• This famous pilgrimage site is also known as the Lord Vishnu temple in the Hindu religion.
• In the Buddhist religion, it is known as the place where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated and obtained enlightenment.
• The Tibetan Buddhists consider the Muktinath temple amongst the 24 Tantric places.
• Along with being a historic place, the site is decorated with 108 water spouts (Muktidhara) and two holy ponds.
• The Jwala Mai temple, a Buddhist temple located next to the Muktinath temple, features a naturally burning flame, symbolizing the power of the divine and endlessness.

Tatopani Hot Springs

The word “Tatopani” literally means “hot water” in Nepali. It is also a remote village in the Sindupalchok district. The Tatopani village is surrounded by lush green hills and rural landscapes nearby, offering a short getaway to relaxation after the physically demanding trails of the Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary. It is also the home to numerous natural hot springs, which are very famous amongst the foreigners and the locals. The pools are geothermal, meaning the place heats internally within the earth, and the water comes from the Kail Gandaki river to the pools.

As the pools are geothermal, the hot water of the Tatopani is often believed to heal the pain and has therapeutic properties that can cure some muscle spasms. Apart from curing joint pain, muscle aches, and having healing properties, Tatopani Village is also home to the Gurungs and Magars. Their authentic culture and the religious beliefs about nature charm the village, along with the traditional food and warm hospitality towards their guests. This place, situated in the lower Annapurna Circuit trek route, is a favorite place among trekkers and locals alike. Almost all of the visitors mention it as one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek route.

Highlights

• It is a naturally made geothermal pool, having properties to heal pain.
• Being in the hot springs is notably ideal for relaxing the muscles after trekking in high altitudes.
• Mostly popular for the resting stops on the Annapurna Circuit Trek route.
• This is a very scenic location alongside the Gandaki River.

Kagbeni

Highlights

• It is a historic desert-like village alongside the Gandaki River. 
• It is also known as the gateway to Upper Mustang, with the culture highly influenced by Tibetan culture.
• It is an important stop on the trek to Muktinath and Mustang, both culturally and visually.
• This place holds the ancient traditional marks, having numerous monasteries, statues of deities, a meditative atmosphere, and Buddhist murals. 
• This place is covered with limited communities but with beautiful landscapes and monasteries.

Marpha: Apple capital of Nepal

Highlights

• The Marpha valley is the home to the beautiful monasteries Nyingma monastery and Marpa monastery (Tsérok Monastery)
• The locally produced Marpha Apple Brandy and Apples are exported to major cities in Nepal and also to international countries. 
• Marpha is also best known for hosting authentic Thakali cuisine and food.
• It is a famous rest point and a popular hub amongst the trekkers
• Trekkers can buy the famous Marpha Apple Brandy and other items as souvenirs from the Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal.
• Scenic views of the Annapurna ranges and the Himalayan landscapes can be seen from the Marpha Valley.

Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake is located at an elevation of about 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) above sea level. It is regarded as one of the highest lakes in the world, which lies north of the Annapurna mountain range. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake is a natural wonder known for its crystal-clear waters. The lake, accessible through a challenging Annapurna Circuit trek route, and often considered a side trip or extension of the very trail.

The journey to Tilicho Lake is a very popular trek among adventure and nature-loving youngsters who want to explore Nepal’s alpine beauty. The Tilicho lake, being located at he high altitude, offers a peaceful and clean environment, which is why it is considered one of the major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek. The lake also holds religious significance, allowing the trekkers and pilgrims to visit the place very often.

Highlights

• Tilicho Lake is a part of the extended version of the Annapurna Circuit Trek route.
• It is one of the highest lakes in the world, situated at 4,919 m (16,138 feet) above sea level.
• The lake has turquoise-blue colored water, providing no aquatic life, which amazes everyone.
• The routes to Tilicho Lake are very challenging, with a scenic view of the Annapurna ranges.
• The place is remote and very peaceful.

Ice Lake (Kicho Tal)

Highlights

• The Ice Lake is located in the district of Manang.
• It can be a perfect destination for acclimatization before passing the Thorong La Pass.
• The place has the scenic beauty of the lake, with the majestic snow peaks surrounding it.
• The color of the water is crystal clear and seems almost as if it’s pure heaven water.
• It is less crowded than other major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Conclusion

Throughout the trial of the Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary, you have seen mountains, monasteries, temples, rivers, lakes, and locations with different local cultures and religions. Now, as the journey comes to an end, you have the memory of yourself enjoying every part of the trek. Make sure to give yourself credit for this huge accomplishment of completing the trek. These are just names on the list until the trekkers visit and explore the beauty of the Annapurna Region first hand. If you have not already, you can save this and carry the Major attractions of the Annapurna Circuit trek with you for your next visit to Nepal.