Best Annapurna Circuit Trek Side Treks
Poon Hill Trek
Duration: 4-5 days
Max Elevation: 3,210m (Poon Hill)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Teahouses and lodges
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS
Starting Point: Nayapul
Ending Point: Nayapul
Total Distance: Approximately 40-45 km
The Poon Hill Trek is a famous sidetrack of the Annapurna Circuit. It offers magnificent panoramic views of the Himalayas. The total duration is about 3-4 days of small trekking with easy walking, fit for any level of fitness. Observe how the dawn hike to Poon Hill at 3210 metres gives a soul-stirring view of sunrise over the ranges of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
It has just the right blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. On the way up, you will pass through different landscapes and vegetation. However, the main view, Poon Hill, gives views unrivalled among peaks like Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri.
This is a very well-maintained trail with medium difficulty, so it is ideal for a family trek or for those who do not have too much time. It's great in terms of acclimatisation treks if you are going on higher adventures in the Himalayas.
Pros of Poon Hill Sidetrip
- Panoramic breathtaking mountain views
- It is short; hence ideal for beginners and families.
- It has a well-developed trail and comfortable tea house accommodation.
- Rich Gurung village culture.
- The place is accessible during the entire year.
- By comparison with other treks in the Himalayas, it's relatively easy.
- It can be combined with other longer treks of the Annapurna region.
- Perfect for acclimatization before higher altitudes treks
- Different landscapes and flora, especially the rhododendron forests, are in bloom during spring.
- The classic view of sunrise from Poon Hill.
How to Get to Poon Hill?
To reach Poon Hill, take a drive from Pokhara for about an hour and a half to Nayapul. From here, follow a moderate walk to Tikhedhunga (4-5 hours) and then on the next day to Ghorepani, 6-7 hours.
The next morning, from Ghorepani, start the trek to the Poon Hill viewpoint. Be at the top before sunrise. Use the same route while returning. This day-trip in itself can be done over 3 to 4 days so as to relegate enough time and enjoy the villages and scenery along the way. Start the final uphill climb to Poon Hill very early, at around 4:30 a.m., so that by the time sunrise kicks in, you shall be there. The overall time taken to trek from Nayapul to Poon Hill and back will amount to approximately 20 to 25 hours done over 3 to 4 days.
Ice Lake (Kicho Tal)
Duration: 6 hrs 45 minutes from Manang type
Max Elevation: 4,600m (Ice Lake)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Return to Manang (no overnight stay at Ice Lake)
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS (same as for main Annapurna Circuit)
Starting Point: Manang
Ending Point: Manang
Total Distance: Approximately 14-16 km round trip
Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) is one of the beautiful side trek options of the Annapurna Circuit and represents a very demanding day hike from Manang. This high-altitude lake provides trekkers with an ideal opportunity for acclimatisation before attempting the climb of Thorong La Pass.
The view of frozen lakes with the background of snow-covered peaks present a picturesque scene that is ideal for taking pictures. Ice Lake is often frozen except during the months from May to October; it turns into a crystal clear blue lake. This wonderful ice lake, situated above the yak pasture land, beautiful villages, is possible to reach after an uphill walk with spectacular views of Tilicho peak, Annapurna I, and Annapurna II, Khangsar Kang Peak, Chulu East, and the Far East peak, Pisang peak, Gangapurna.
Pros of Ice Lake Side Trip
- Great acclimatisation
- Breathtaking views on the Annapurna panorama
- Nice challenging day hike, adding some variety to the main trek
- Less crowded than the main Annapurna Circuit trail
- Unusual landscape at higher altitudes, frozen lakes
- Feel-good factor reaching the lakes
- Excellent photographic opportunity
How to Get to Ice Lake?
The route starts at Braga, the village to the north of Manang, and follows a steep path with blue and white markers. At some 3 hours' walk, trekkers will arrive at the Lower Ice Lake, where another few hundred metres up is the Upper Ice Lake. Return journey by the same route back down to Braga and then to Manang. Descent is quick but needs care on the steep land.
Tilicho Lake
Duration: 20 Days
Elevation: 4,919m (Tilicho Lake)
Difficulty: Challenging to Moderate
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Tea houses or Tented Camps
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS (same as for main Annapurna Circuit)
Starting Point: Kathmandu
Ending Point: Kathmandu
Total Distance: Approximately 35-40 km round trip
Tilicho Lake, at 4,919 meters, is unquestionably the most beautiful and one of the most coveted side trips along with the Annapurna Circuit trek. This beautiful glacial lake covers almost 3.5 square kilometers certainly.
This lake lies at the foot of Tilicho Peak, which forms a magnificent landscape that is sure to attract and make any visitor fall in love. The blue waters of Tilicho Lake reflect the snow-capped peaks around and will leave the visitors with their mouths agape.
Tilicho Lake itself hosts some amazing feats of human stature. Added to the beauty itself, in 2000, a Russian diving team set a world record for the highest altitude scuba dive here. This record was again broken in 2016 by a Polish diver at 5,985 metres in Argentina at Cazadero Lake. These feats have added to the mystique and allure of adventure seekers to this lake.
Pros of Tilicho Lake Side Trip
- High Altitude Scenery - Absolutely Breathtaking
- Great for Acclimatization
- Far Less Touristy than the Main Annapurna Circuit
- Moderately Challenging Trek, can be Adventurous
- Interesting Diverse Landscapes and Topography
- Great Photo Opportunities
- Feels Like a Rewarding Achievement to have Reached the Lake
How to Get to Tilicho Lake?
The usual Tilicho lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary begins from Kathmandu, continues with a drive to Syange and further trek via Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, to Manang along the Annapurna Circuit. After a day of acclimatisation in Manang, the next turning point takes a trekker towards Tilicho Lake via Siri Kharka, ultimately reaching Tilicho Base Camp. From there, one will have a hard day of walking up to Tilicho Lake. This side trip adds about 3-4 days to the standard Annapurna Circuit itinerary but compensates with a truly incomparable high-altitude experience.
Milarepa's Cave
Duration: 4-5 hours round trip from Bhraka
Max Elevation: 3,700m (approx.)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Return to Manang (no overnight stay at cave)
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS (same as for main Annapurna Circuit)
Starting Point: Bhraka village (near Manang)
Ending Point: Bhraka village
Total Distance: Approximately 8-10 km round trip
Milarepa's Cave is an interesting day-trip opportunity in the Annapurna region, steeped in legend and spiritual value. It is east of Bhraka. This cave is associated with the 11th-century Tibetan poet and yogi Milarepa. Legend has it that Milarepa meditated here, living on stinging nettles that turned his body green. This is reflected in traditional pictures of Milarepa with green skin.
Its spiritual history is not the only attraction one finds in this cave. One gets beautiful panoramic views from the cave overlooking the surrounding Himalayas. The stinging nettles that played such a large part in the ancient legend are still seen growing near the cave, serving the visitor with a tangible link to the story. A bow hung on the face of the cliff above the cave belonged to a hunter who became Milarepa's disciple after a transformative encounter.
Being an easy side trip, it would fit into an Annapurna Circuit trek very well for a contrast of natural beauty, cultural investigation, and spiritual mystery. Ideal for any person seeking to look a little deeper into this rich tapestry of Himalayan history and legend.
Pros of Milarepa Cave Side Trip
- Cultural and spiritual heritage encounter
- Scenic mountain views
- Easy hike for many trekkers
- Taste of history connected with Tibetan Buddhism
- Relaxing chance to investigate local legends and folklores
- Less crowded than some other side trips
- Encountering unique flora, including the legendary stinging nettles
How to Get to Milarepa Cave?
Drive or take a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then take another drive to Besisahar. From Besisahar, take the trail of the Annapurna Circuit via Dharapani, Chame, and Pisang to reach Manang. The cave is located east of Bhraka, a village near Manang, about 2 hours.
Marpha Village
Duration: 1-2 days (as a side trip from the main Annapurna Circuit)
Max Elevation: 2,650m
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Guesthouses and lodges in Marpha
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS (same as for main Annapurna Circuit)
Starting Point: Usually Jomsom
Ending Point: Return to Jomsom or continue on the circuit
Total Distance: About 8 km from Jomsom to Marpha
This day trip is situated at an altitude of 2,650 meters in Mustang District, Nepal, and most would find the scenery brilliant, accompanied by the backdrops of the Annapurna Circuit. Called "The Apple Capital of Nepal," this nice village exudes an exciting mixture of Tibetan-influenced culture and unique architecture, together with pure pristine natural beauty.
The village is characterised by flat-roofed, whitewashed stone houses and narrow alleys that speak of a different architectural style altogether. Rich in culture, Marpha has much to offer—from the monastery belonging to the Nyingma branch of Buddhism to its prayer wheels and traditional way of life.
Apple orchards surrounding the village form the mainstay of the local economy, with famous apple brandy and dried fruits.
It is a village that offers visitors the opportunity to visit its cultural heritage, including good views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri, with short hikes that can be made in the nearby pine forests or along the riverbed of the Kali Gandaki. This makes up a fine combination in the village between cultural immersion and natural beauty.
Pros of Marpha Village Side Trip
- Thakali and Tibetan authentic culture
- View of unique architecture
- Local food trialling and apple products
- Panoramic view of Himalayas
- Serene break from the main circuit
- Good scenic photo opportunity
- Assisting the local economy with handicrafts and produce
- Sacred experience of old monasteries
- Further hiking options around
- Acclimatisation at lower altitude
How to Get to Marpha Village (Annapurna Circuit route including Marpha)?
Starting from Besisahar, the circuit of Annapurna passes through several villages before reaching higher altitudes in a gradual gain. Via Ngadi, Jagat, and Dharapani to Chame and Upper Pisang, this route goes to Manang, which is the famous acclimatisation spot of this trip.
The next camps made after Manang are at Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi, then the strenuous Thorong La Pass, a height of 5,416 metres, before a downward journey to Muktinath and join the trail to Jomsom, district headquarters of Mustang.
The village of Marpha lies about 8 km south of Jomsom and can be reached after a short trek or in a jeep. Spend at least one to two days exploring the surroundings around Marpha before returning to Jomsom to take the circuit onwards or to take the flight back to Pokhara.
Muktinath to Lupra Valley
Duration: 1 day (as a side trip from the main Annapurna Circuit)
Max Elevation: 3,800m (approximate)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Basic teahouses in Lupra, or return to Muktinath
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS (same as for main Annapurna Circuit)
Starting Point: Muktinath
Ending Point: Lupra Village
Total Distance: About 11-12 km round trip
A side trek in Nepal's Mustang region, the Lupra Valley is located between Muktinath and Jomsom, offering a truly interesting experience to the enthusiast Annapurna Circuit adventurer. In the heart of this place lies the thousand-year-old Nyingma Buddhist sanctuary, called the Lupra Monastery, renowned worldwide among travel experts for its murals and woodwork and for the exorcism rite of "Lu Jins."
The natural beauty of Lupra with its dramatic landscapes, deep gorges, and peaks of the mighty mountains is something breathtaking. This village also has its importance, as it is linked with pre-Buddhist Bon religion; even up to now, a small community is following this antiquated faith. The Bonpo Monastery is a center for Bon teachings.
For a trekker, this could be a wonderful starting place for all those treks one would consider in the Mustang region because from here the trekkers can experience the splendor of the Himalayas, remote village life, and Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Pros of Lupra Valley Side Trip
- Cultural immersion into Tibetan Buddhist and Bon traditions
- Visit to the ancient Lupra Monastery
- Witness to unique "Lu Jins" exorcism rituals
- Scenic Himalayan landscapes and views
- Access to off-the-beaten-path adventure
- Start of different treks in the Mustang region
- Interact with local communities
- Photographic shots on cultural and natural scenes
- Chances of experiencing pre-Buddhist Bon practices
- Serene alternative to more crowded parts of the Annapurna Circuit
How to Get to Lupra Valley?
The journey to Lupra Valley usually starts in the trekking program as a part of the Annapurna Circuit. The trekkers begin in Besisahar, slowly heaving up through villages like Chame, Pisang, and Manang. From this route, one crosses the challenging Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres down to the famous pilgrimage site of Muktinath. From Muktinath, a less-travelled trail divides westward. Another 2-3 hour trek takes one to Lupra Village.
This detour can be completed in a day or two before rejoining the main circuit. En route from Lupra, trekkers can either return to Muktinath or carry on to Jomsom, from which they can further continue their journey onto the remainder of the Annapurna Circuit or catch transportation back to Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Kagbeni to Damodar Kunda
Duration: 7-8 days
Max Elevation: 4,890m
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Basic teahouses and camping
Permits Required: ACAP, TIMS, and Special Restricted Area Permit for Upper Mustang
Starting Point: Kagbeni
Ending Point: Kagbeni (round trip)
Total Distance: Approximately 100-120 km round trip
Damodar Kunda lies in the Damodar Himal, 4,890 metres above sea level, Mustang District, Nepal. The high-altitude lake is within view of the entire Annapurna Range, combining scenic beauty with spiritual significance. Damodar Kunda is a difficult but rewarding trip off the Annapurna Circuit, where trekkers will encounter a huge and diverse landscape from the rain shadow valleys and arid terrains to the snow-capped views.
The panoramic journey offers unrivalled vistas of the Annapurna range and the Tibetan plateau, with the imposing Damodar Himal (6,706m) dominating the northern skyline. There are 65 peaks in the area, creating a dramatic backdrop for the trek. Damodar Kunda is mentioned in the Barah Puran, one of the many volumes of Hindu scripture, which makes the area of great religious significance in Hinduism. As per the legends, Lord Krishna stated that the one who would visit and bathe in the lake would get rid from all his sins. This belief actually attracts mostly pilgrims.
Pros of Kagbeni to Damodar Kunda Side Trip
- Spectacular panoramic views of Annapurna and Damodar Himal ranges
- Visit to one of the most significant cultural sites of the Hindus
- Variation of landscape from parched valleys to high altitude lakes
- Explore the traditional Tibetan villages
- Observe occasional wildlife including some of the rarest Himalayan Species
- Less crowded in comparison to the main Annapurna Circuit
- Excellent stargazing opportunities above 4000 meters with crystal clear skies
How to Get to Kagbeni to Damodar Kunda?
The trek begins with a flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, then a short trek to Kagbeni. From Kagbeni, the trail turns north toward Upper Mustang and further east to Damodar Kunda. You will corss villages less travelled, like Tangbe, Tetang, and Yara, as you move up steep terrain and high passes before reaching these sacred lakes. Since it's a remote area and quite demanding, this difficult trek requires proper permits, acclimatisation, and preferably an experienced guide.
Nar-Phu Valley
Duration: 7-9 days (as a side trip from the main Annapurna Circuit)
Max Elevation: 5,322m (Kang La Pass)
Difficulty: Moderate-Challenging
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Teahouses
Permits Required: ACAP, TIMS, and Special Restricted Area Permit for Nar-Phu Valley
Starting Point: Koto (diversion from main Annapurna Circuit)
Ending Point: Ngawal (rejoining main Annapurna Circuit)
Total Distance: Approximately 90-100 km round trip
Hidden in the territories of Annapurna's region, the Nar-Phu Valley trek is an extraordinary adventure. The Nar-Phu wide valley brings a different essence for the trekkers to experience, like a virgin landscape and ancient Tibetan culture with pretty difficult trails. Only opened in 2003 for tourism, the Nar-Phu Valley offers an alternative trek from the classic and crowded Annapurna Circuit.
The trail is just superb, wading through narrow canyons, wide high altitude pastures, and old traditional villages frozen in time. Cultural richness and towering ruggedness make this Nar Phu Valley trek a perfect side trip for any adventure enthusiast to probe deeper into the wilderness of the Himalayas.
Pros of Nar-Phu Valley Side Trip
- Less crowded than the main Annapurna Circuit, it offers relative seclusion
- Exploration of pristine Tibetan Buddhist villages and monasteries
- Spectacular views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak
- A great variety of landscapes: forests, canyons, high-altitude deserts
- A chance to see some rare wild animals like blue sheep, snow leopards, and musk deer
- Cultural immersion in a traditional way of life in Tibet
- It is a challenging trek that will leave a wonderful sense of achievement
- Unique formation of rocks and geological features.
- Opportunity to cross the demanding Kang La Pass (5,322m)
- Can be combined with the Annapurna Circuit for a longer period of trekking experience
How to Get to Nar-Phu Valley?
The journey into the Nar-Phu Valley starts from Besisahar. One has to take a bus or private vehicle from Kathmandu or Pokhara to reach Besisahar. From Besisahar, the Annapurna Circuit trail is taken up to Koto. The path bifurcates here towards Nar-Phu Valley.
The route now turns up a narrow gorge, passing Meta and Phu, to finally reach Nar Village. After a side trip in the valley, trekkers usually cross the Kang La Pass to Ngawal, reaching the main Annapurna Circuit. You can either continue your circuit or return to Besisahar via Pisang and Chame.
Gangapurna Lake
Duration: 1-2 hours (as a side trip from Manang on the Annapurna Circuit)
Max Elevation: 3,540m
Difficulty: Easy- Moderate
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Tea House
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS (Same as Annapurna Circuit)
Starting Point: Manang village
Ending Point: Manang village
Total Distance: Approximately 2-3 km round trip
Gangapurna Lake, calm and picture perfect, is a nice side route from the greater part of the Annapurna Circuit and lies around Manang Village. It provides just the right opportunity for rest and acclimatisation that is required with breathtaking mountain scenery.
Looking in the direction of Gangapurna Lake, the eye would pay the most attention to the amazing greenish-blue color caused by glacial silt that is suspended in the water. This shade changes depending on the time of day and the weather. Currently, it is a very young glacial lake, formed about 50 years ago, taking in melt water from the towering Gangapurna Mountain.
A little bit more challenging, with an added experience, is the climb to the nearby Chongkor Viewpoint. From this point, just above the lake, one can witness the spectacular view of the Annapurna range, the Gangapurna glacier, and the lake itself. The ascent to Chongkor also helps in altitude acclimatisation, which will assist the trekkers of this circuit in moving to higher altitudes.
On the other side of the lake, one can notice different species of birds flying. The Himalayan Griffons and Lammergeiers are a treat to any wildlife enthusiast. The area is also covered with hardy alpine plants adapted to grow in the hostile mountain surroundings.
Pros of Gangapurna Lake Side Trip
- Very easy access from Manang village
- The duration is short—30 minutes one way—within the capability of most trekkers
- Scenic views of turquoise-coloured lake with mountain surroundings
- Opportunity to observe a relatively young glacial lake formation
- Chongkor viewpoint adds another dimension with panoramic vistas
- No extra permit hassles for this side trip
How to Get to Gangapurna Lake?
From the village of Manang, follow the signposted trail south to Gangapurna Lake. It is well-marked and takes about 30 minutes of easy walking. There is no special equipment required for the side trip, so it's something that most trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit should be able to do.
The Khayer Lake
Duration: 4-7 days before Joining Annapurna Circuit Trek Route
Max Elevation: 6,000m (19,685 ft)
Difficulty: Easy
Best Seasons: April-May and September-October
Accommodation: Camping (optional)
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS (Same as Annapurna Circuit)
Starting Point: Pokhara
Ending Point: Pokhara
Total Distance: Approximately 16-20 km round trip
It is one of those secret jewels of side hikes available on the Annapurna Circuit trek and offers some intrepid trekkers the unforgettable view from 6,000 metres of one of the most natural wonders in the area—Khayer Lake.
And upon reaching the Khayer Lake, it is just a visual treat—almost the most mesmerising sight—the exhausted and drained trekkers can relish to make the strenuous journey truly worthwhile. There is a transparent, alpine lake surrounded by tall mountains that unfold a scene perhaps unmatched in its beauty. Its crystal-clear water mirrors the mountains, creating just about a mirror-like effect: altogether a magical scene.
Besides, one can also camp beside the lake for a complete experience. Setting up tent in this high-altitude summer grazing area beside the lake allows the trekkers to spend more time taking in the scenery and viewing the gorgeous sunrises and sunsets of this remote Himalayan setting.
The side trip up to Khayer Lake captures the spirit of adventure that has brought so many travellers toward the Annapurna Circuit. It offers generous mixes of challenges and rewards, pushing trekkers past their borders but at the same time rewarding them with one of nature's great masterpieces.
Pros of Khayer Lake Side Trip
- Views of this beautiful alpine lake at 6,000 metres
- Challenging trek with a wonderful sense of achievement if one reaches the end
- High altitude camping in case one would want to do so
- Get to see the flora and fauna that only exist at such altitudes
- Good for acclimatisation before attempting higher passes
- Full day of adventure off the main circuit
How to Get to Khayer Lake?
The journey to Khayer Lake mostly starts from Pokhara. From here, drive to Nayapul and start your trek via villages like Ghorepani and Swata. The key stop is Kobra Danda at 4020 metres; from here, you proceed towards the base camp of Khayer at 4620 metres.
Quite a challenging and time-consuming trek of several days with stops for acclimatisation and other exploration. Return journeys are often also carried out with overnight stops at Chistibung, Dobato, Tadapani, and Ghandruk before heading back to Pokhara, then finally to Kathmandu.
The Dhaulagiri Icefalls
Duration: 2- 6 days days (as a side trip from the Annapurna Circuit)
Max Elevation: 3,540m (at the foot of the Dhaulagiri Icefall)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Mix of camping and tea houses
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS (Same as Annapurna Circuit)
Starting Point: South of Larjung village
Ending Point: Larjung village
Total Distance: Approximately 20-25 km round trip
This Dhaulagiri Icefalls side trek adds some real adventure to the Annapurna Circuit. It offers a chance to witness one of Nepal's most beautiful natural wonders. This challenging two-day excursion takes one to the foot of Dhaulagiri Icefall, with a view of Dhaulagiri I at 8,167 metres and more along the Annapurna range.
The trek begins south of the village of Larjung, bypassing the long suspension bridge over Ghatta Khola, before winding up through a variety of landscapes: lush forests, green pastures, and rhododendron pine woodlands. Then it becomes a steep two-hour climb to the icefall, opening up breathtaking views of the world's seventh-highest peak and surroundings.
This is the dramatic contrast to the Dhaulagiri region that offers some of the challenging terrain by way of the French Pass and Thapa Pass. This side trip is a combination of camping and teahouses to stay in, thereby giving varied experiences through beautiful villages, terraced fields, and forested hills.
This day-trip, added to an already varied Annapurna Circuit, enriches trekkers with less-travelled paths in the Dhaulagiri region and unique glacial formations. Great for tacking on time to your trek and testing your mettle in one of Nepal's most iconic mountain ranges.
Pros of the Dhaulagiri Icefalls Trip
- Views of Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna range
- Less crowded compared to the main circuit of Annapurna
- Varying Landscapes and ecosystems
- Challenging adventure treks
- Get up close to a tremendous icefall
- Experience in both rich culture and geography
- Panoramic mountain view and sunrise spots
How to Get to Dhaulagiri Icefalls Side Trip?
To incorporate the Dhaulagiri Icefalls trek into the Annapurna Circuit, start your journey in Kathmandu and drive to Beni (830m), the gateway to the Dhaulagiri region. From Beni, continue to Tatopani and trek to Kalapani (1,190m). The next day, hike to Nauli Kot (2,600m), which serves as the base for the icefall excursion. On day six, trek to the icefall and return to Nauli Kot before rejoining the main Annapurna Circuit route.
Guru Sangpo Cave
Duration: 5-6 hours (round trip as a side trip from Larjung on the Annapurna Circuit)
Max Elevation: 3,020m (9,908 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: No accommodation at the cave; return to Larjung for tea houses
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS (Same as Annapurna Circuit)
Starting Point: Larjung village
Ending Point: Larjung village
Total Distance: Approximately 10-12 km round trip
One of the most exciting side trips along the Annapurna Circuit Trek has to be the Guru Sangpo Cave. This mystical cavern is sure to be the one giving lifetime experience to trekkers in just a 2 hour 40 minutes' walk from Larjung. Take a visit to this cave, capturing the beautiful village of Naurikot and immersing you in the local landscape.
The moment one enters the cave, one feels entry to a different world. It feels a little scary, though very interesting. A small stream runs inside it; it enters the hidden cracks in the rock. Weird rocks resembling brains are sticking out at the walls. These weird rocks do feel creepiness inside the cave, and at the same time, it really is amazing to view.
What truly makes Guru Sangpo Cave special is its deep spiritual significance. It is considered to be a manifestation of the Tantric Buddhist concept called Yab-Yum, which represents the union of male and female energies. It means that the form of it is considered to be: strong rock walls are a symbol of the masculine force, while the water falling from them is symbolic of the feminine energy. It is believed that this cosmic union is what gave birth to unique forms of life inside the cave.
Indeed, deeper inside the cave, one's eyes will be treated to formations that resemble parts of the human body, thereby emphasising the Yab-Yum concept even more. Physical shapes take on spiritual ideas and give the visitor much to connect with in the understanding and experiencing of very real, profound concepts.
Pros of Guru Sangpo Cave Side Trip
- Unique geology
- Spiritual energy
- The surreal atmosphere
- It is a fairly short side trip off the main trail
- Opportunities for understanding and engagement with the beliefs and culture
- A place for personal reflection
- Scenic views of the surroundings
- A very nice rest in the shade from an uphill hike during the hot seasons
- It is a worthwhile enhancement to the entire Annapurna Circuit journey
How to Get to Guru Sangpo Cave?
The path to Guru Sangpo Cave starts in Larjung, one of the villages on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. From Larjung, take the village trail towards Naurikot-bound. This route takes you through some lovely landscapes and villages to give you a feel for rural Nepalese life. Crossing Naurikot, take the signposted path rising to the left for the cave. The whole journey from Larjung to Guru Sangpo Cave is approximately 2 hrs 40 mins of gentle walking.
Pisang Peak Base Camp
Duration: 4-5 hours (round trip from Pisang village on the Annapurna Circuit)
Max Elevation: 4,380m (14,370 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Seasons: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Camping (no tea houses at base camp)
Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS (Same as Annapurna Circuit)
Starting Point: Pisang village
Ending Point: Pisang village
Total Distance: Approximately 8-10 km round trip
The Pisang Peak Base Camp trek is an interesting side trip from the Annapurna Circuit main loop. It offers trekkers a taste of mountaineering at high altitudes without all the problems and hazards of technical climbing. Right from Pisang village, the trail passes through pine forests and across boulder fields with views of peaks surrounding the Annapurna range.
Soon, the landscape evolves into a rough alpine environment where these vistas open to panoramic and dramatic views. In this landscape lies the Pisang Peak base camp, resting at an altitude of 4,380 metres and used by people trying to ascend the peak. Also, for those who do not intend to climb higher, it is still worth going to Base Camp because of the great views and a certain sense of accomplishment. This side trip gives another dimension to the Annapurna Circuit, and trekkers can get a real taste of what high-altitude trekking is about.
Pros of Pisang Peak Base Camp Side Trip
Provides outstanding panoramic views of the Annapurna range
Trekking at high altitude
Less crowded as compared to the main Annapurna Circuit trail
Good opportunity for acclimatisation for higher altitude
Beautifully challenging yet achievable for most fit trekkers
Variation of landscapes from forests to alpine landscape
Mountaineering operations in full view
Excellent photographing opportunity
Feel when reaching the base camp
View of climbing challenge at high altitude
Get to Pisang Peak Base Camp
The climb of Pisang Peak and Annapurna Circuit trek begin by driving from Kathmandu to Bulbule. The villages encountered on the journey up to the base camp are Chamje, Dharapani, and Chame, where the trail ascends gradually, following the Marsyangdi River. From Upper Pisang, a day of acclimatisation is scheduled before reaching the Base Camp and High Camp of Pisang Peak. For the return journey, trek to Manang Valley and Yak Kharka, crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres. The route then passes down to the key pilgrimage site of Muktinath and ends in Tatopani, famous for its hot springs. The final leg is by road to Pokhara.
How to Add Side Trips On Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary?
Flexible planning strategies
Flexible planning strategies become important when one adds side trips to a basic itinerary. Add some extra days in your itinerary for unscheduled delays or making time for unplanned exploration. Research possible side trips before, but never close your mind off to local recommendations or changing conditions. This adaptability will further help you in seizing such opportunities that may pop up during your trek and really enhance the overall experience.
Time management tips
Good time management allows one to squeeze in side trips without compromising your overall trekking schedule. Get an early start on your daily treks, with much of the day remaining to make interesting sight visits or little detours. Prioritise side trips based on your interests and physical condition. Use acclimatisation days to have a longer exploration since you will best spend your rest time for a good cause while your body adjusts to altitude.
Physical preparation advice
If you do plan on adding side trips, be sure to prepare yourself physically. Before starting on your journey, train for aerobic endurance along with basic strength training. This will help you bear the extra stress that side trips can add on to your body. Be sure that while on the trek, proper acclimatisation is taken care of with the recommended ascension rate so as to prevent altitude sickness. Be very attentive to your body and feel free to change plans if you need to.
Reasons to Consider Side Trips on the Annapurna Circuit
Break From The Main Trail
Side trips are refreshing diversions from the much-beaten path of the Annapurna Circuit. These will provide you with opportunities to step out from the regime of day-to-day treks to discover hidden delights way back in the Himalayan wilderness. Whether it's an uphill climb to some high vantage point or a meandering layback to some isolated monastery, such breaks shall not only rejuvenate your spirit but add flavour to the journey. They can show views, geological formations, or natural settings unique and unusual enough that surely one might not get to experience them if they do not take these side trips off the main Annapurna Circuit Route.
Unique Cultural Experiences
While the Annapurna Circuit itself is packed with cultural encounters, side trips can often lead to more authentic and intimate experiences: you might be far-flung in some village off the beaten track where tourists rarely tread, take part in local festivals, or engage in traditional activities. These detours will allow one to come into contact with the many diverse ethnic groups residing here, with different customs, languages, and ways of life—from monasteries perched along ancient hillsides to hidden rivers or lakes highly revered by locals. Side trips afford deeper cultural immersion and understanding.
Less Crowded Routes
As the Annapurna Circuit's popularity grows, it's common for some stretches to get pretty busy during peak season. Side trips offer a chance to get away from these crowds and feel the isolation and tranquillity of the Himalayas. Along such less-travelled paths, one can walk in peace, closer to nature, and without hustle and bustle. You could find yourself alone on a trail, just you and breathtaking views of mountains, or in a hidden mountain square, on a quiet moment, watching life ramble along at its natural pace.
Additional Acclimatisation Opportunities
Side trips are very important in your acclimatisation process, especially when you approach the higher altitude sections of the Annapurna Circuit. Most of these day trips include ascents to higher altitudes followed by descents to your overnight camp. This "climb high, sleep low" concept is what helps the body's capacity to acclimate to increasing altitudes. Making these trips part of your rest days, or even better, doing them as part of a regular trekking schedule, will enhance your potential for acclimatising properly, which will reduce your risk of altitude sickness and ensure improved performance for overall trekking.
