Annapurna Seven Passes Trek - Epic 24-Day Himalayan Adventure

Annapurna Seven Passes

The Annapurna Seven Passes Trek is a demanding and extraordinary journey designed for experienced trekkers and adventure seekers. This extensive trek goes beyond the standard circuits, traversing off-the-beaten-path trails and crossing seven formidable high mountain passes, including Thorong La (5,416m), Kang La (5,320m), and Meso Kanto La (5,121m). It encompasses the diverse landscapes of the Annapurna region, from lush subtropical valleys to the arid, Tibetan-like terrain of Manang and Mustang. Trekkers are rewarded with absolute solitude in remote areas, profound cultural encounters with isolated mountain communities, and staggering, panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu ranges. This is the ultimate test of endurance and a truly once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan expedition.

Annapurna Seven Passes Trek

Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

Cross seven challenging high-altitude passes, pushing your limits in the Himalayas.

Trek through diverse terrains, from lush jungles to the stark, high-altitude desert of Mustang.

Experience genuine remoteness and solitude on less-traveled trails in the Annapurna region.

Witness spectacular, uninterrupted views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tilicho Peak.

Visit the pristine Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world.

Trail Logs & Itinerary

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Prepare for the expedition.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Gear check, permit acquisition, and an extensive briefing about the 7 passes trek.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Long scenic drive via Besisahar up into the mountains to Chame, the headquarters of Manang district. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Trek through deep pine forests and dramatic rocky landscapes to Upper Pisang.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Take the high route via Ghyaru for stunning views of Annapurna II and IV. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Early start to cross our first pass, Kang La, offering spectacular views, then descend to Manang.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Rest day to adjust to the altitude. Optional hike to Ice Lake or Gangapurna viewpoint.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Leave the main Annapurna circuit and head towards the Tilicho region.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Trek along a precarious landslide area to reach Tilicho Base Camp.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Hike up to the stunning turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

A challenging day crossing the Eastern Pass and setting up camp near Meso Kanto La.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Cross the formidable Meso Kanto La pass and make a long descent into Jomsom.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

A well-deserved rest day in Jomsom. Enjoy the amenities of this wind-swept town.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Trek north along the Kali Gandaki riverbed to the fortress town of Kagbeni.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Ascend to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath. We climb higher into the Marsyangdi or Kali Gandaki valley, where the landscape transitions into a dry, alpine rain-shadow area. Towering limestone cliffs and grand mountain vistas frame our path.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Climb to the legendary Thorong La pass, the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit, and descend to Thorong Phedi. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Descend into the valley and trek towards Ledar.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Ascend towards the Chulu range and camp at Chulu West Base Camp.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Cross another high-altitude pass in the region and descend to Yak Kharka.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Short trek as we navigate back towards the main trails.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Return to Thorong Phedi. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Take an early morning scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Drive back to Kathmandu and celebrate the completion of an epic trek. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

Trekking Day Max Elev: 5,416m

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Annapurna Seven Passes Trek

Inclusions

Airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle.
Standard teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek.
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking guide.
Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (TIMS, National Park Fees).
A comprehensive medical kit carried by the guide.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate the successful trek.

Exclusions

International flight airfare.
Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport).
Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory).
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters).
Tips for guide and porters (customary but not mandatory).

Frequently Asked Questions

What permits are required for trekking in the Annapurna region?

You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card. Our team secures these for you in Kathmandu before the trek, and they are covered by your booking fee.

How do we travel from Kathmandu to the Annapurna region?

The gateway is Pokhara. You can either take a scenic 25-minute domestic flight or a 6-to-8 hour tourist bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara. From Pokhara, we take private jeeps to the specific trailheads.

What is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit?

The highest point is the Thorong La Pass, situated at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 ft). It is a challenging day of walking but offers unforgettable panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Are ATMs available in the Annapurna region?

ATMs are available in Pokhara, Besisahar, and Jomsom. However, on the mountain trail itself, there are no banking facilities. You must carry sufficient cash in Nepalese Rupees to cover daily personal expenses.

What is the accommodation style in Annapurna teahouses?

Annapurna teahouses are cozy, family-run mountain lodges. Most have twin-share rooms with wooden beds, foam mattresses, and blankets. Many lower-altitude teahouses now offer attached bathrooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi.

Is altitude sickness common in the Annapurna region?

Altitude sickness can affect anyone above 2,500 meters. Our itineraries feature safe ascent rates and dedicated rest days. Our guides monitor oxygen saturation levels daily to ensure everyone acclimatizes correctly.

How do I access clean drinking water on the trail?

To limit single-use plastic waste, we discourage buying plastic water bottles. Instead, fill your reusable bottles with boiled water from teahouses or tap water treated with purification tablets or UV purifiers.