Annapurna Three High Pass Trek — Guided Trekking Tours in Nepal: Adventure Awaits

Overview
Itinerary
Price Details
FAQ
review

trip code
TG103
difficulty
Moderate
Trip Style
Group
Start in
Kathmandu
end in
Kathmandu
group size
1-20
max altitude
5,416 meters (17,769 feet)
Accommodation
Lodge,Tea Houses
Best Season
September, October, November and December and March, April and May.

Overview

The Annapurna Three High Pass Trek is one of the prettier adventures right into the heart of the Annapurna region in Nepal. Renowned for its panoramic landscapes, varied cultural showcase, and demanding terrain, this trek is highly recommended for both avid trekkers and lovers of nature alike. This trek generally lasts for 16-20 days and provides an unparalleled experience, combining high-altitude passes with lush valleys and traditional villages.

Breathtaking Scenic Views
The trek offers spectacular, panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the world, such as Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. With several viewpoints, each with its unique perspective, photos could get incredible.

Three High Passes
There are three challenging and famous passes on this trek Thorong La (5,416m), Kang La (5,321m), and Chulu West Pass (6,419m). High passes are usually physically demanding yet exhilarating in the sense of achievement that one feels afterward.

Rich Cultural Experience
While trekking through different topography, you will come across various ethnic communities like Gurung, Thakali, and Magar. Be part of their rich culture and traditional hospitality and taste the cuisine of the people of the land.

Beautiful Natural Landscapes
From humid rhododendron forests with waterfalls to arid high-altitude deserts with terraced fields, the Annapurna region boasts all types of ecosystems. Different scenery pops up every hour or two, which makes the trek exciting and memorable.

5. Wildlife Encounters
The Annapurna Conservation Area is a habitat for different wild animals like the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and various bird species. Watch for these magnificent creatures along the trail.

Trip highlights

The Annapurna Three High Pass Trek is an amazing adventure, and the key to such expeditions is altitude management. With necessary precautions taken, proper acclimatization, and awareness of the symptoms, altitude sickness can be avoided, hence making this trek fully enjoyable with breathtaking beauty and adventure. So, prepare well and enjoy your trek through one of Nepal’s most stunning regions!

Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,769ft)

Highlights: This is the highest point in the trekking, but panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges can be viewed.
Altitude Issues: Being the highest altitude, proper acclimatization must be done before crossing. One extra day at Thorong Phedi is better for acclimatization.

Kang La Pass (5,321m / 17,457ft)

Highlights: The pass offers great views and also provides a less-traveled route; hence, it’s among advanced trekkers’ favorites.
Watchful of Altitude: Much the same as Thorong La, proper acclimatization should be done. From Yak Kharka to Kang La, one needs to walk at a comfortable pace and keep an eye out for symptoms of altitude sickness.

Chulu West Pass (6,419m / 21,055ft)

Best view The highest pass of the trek, which requires more technical skills and proper equipment.
Altitude Considerations: This is a serious climb, and proper acclimatization and preparation is called for. Spend extra days in lower elevations to acclimate to the altitude.

itinerary

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day 1

Arrival Kathmandu (1,350m/4,429ft)

On arrival in Kathmandu. Preparation for treks, sightseeing, and getting permits and supplies. Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.
day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,300m/4,265ft)

A long drive from Kathmandu to Jagat via Besisahar along the Marsyangdi River takes around 6-8 hours of time. Overnight at a teahouse.
day 3

Jagat to Dharapani (1,860 meters / 6,102 feet)

Trek through small villages and rice terraces with forests. The trail ascends gently to reach Dharapani. Trekking hours 5-6 hours
Overnight at teahouse.
day 4

Dharapani to Koto (2,610 meters / 8,563 feet)

The trail follows via several Tibetan villages, offering spectacular views of the Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and other peaks. Trekking hours: 5-6 hours, Overnight at teahouse.
day 5

Koto to Meta (3,560 meters / 11,680 feet)

Begins the real trek to Nar Phu Valley along suspension bridges, and climb along trails into forests and gorges. Hours of Trekking 6 -7 hours. Overnight at a teahouse.
day 6

Meta to Phu Gaon (4,080 meters / 13,386 feet)

This portion of the trail takes one into remote country, and stunning views abound-Kanguru, Himlung, among other high peaks. Walk through Tibetan villages with their infuriated guard dogs to cross the Nar Phu Khola to the west bank. Hours of Trekking 6 -7 hours. Overnight at teahouse in Phu Gaon.
day 7

Acclimatization Day in Phu Gaon

Acclimatization Day. Rest and roam around Phu Gaon Village, visit the local monastery, and immerse into the cultural atmosphere of this Tibetan-influenced village. Overnight at Phu Gaon.
day 8

Phu Gaon to Nar (4,110 meters / 13,484 feet)

A morning’s descent down the valley with several river crossings brings us upward again to the village of Nar. The road is quite pleasant as it offers serene views of Pisang Peak and other Himalayan giants. Trekking time: 5-6 hours. Overnight at a teahouse.
day 9

Nar to Kang La Pass (5,306 m / 17,408 ft) to Ngawal (3,660 m / 12,007 ft)

Early start to cross the Kang La Pass. The pass offers incredible views of the Annapurna Massif. Down from the pass in a very steep descent to the village of Ngawal. Trekking hours: 7-8 hours Overnight at a teahouse.
day 10

Ngawal to Manang (3,540 m / 11,614 ft)

A moderate trek through the old Tibetan villages, slowly making your way down to Manang, one of the most popular villages along the Annapurna Circuit. Trekking Hours: 4-5 hours. Overnight at the Tea House.
day 11

Manang to Khangsar (3,760 meters / 12,336 feet)

The trail exits the Annapurna Circuit as you make your way towards Khangsar, the gateway village to Tilicho Lake. Trekking Hours: 4-5 hours. Overnight at the Tea House.
day 12

Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 meters / 13,615 feet)

Catalog of Tilicho Base Camp via steep trail with spectacular surroundings, peaks, and glaciers. 5-6 hours of trekking Overnight stay at a teahouse.
day 13

Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m/16,138 ft)

Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m/16,138 ft) cross Tilicho Pass (5,320 m / 17,454 ft), descend to Yak Kharka.
Boating day. Starts with an early climb upwards to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest altitude lakes in the world. From there on crossing Tilicho Pass offering spectacular panoramic views and culminates down at Yak Kharka. 8-9 hours of trekking Night in a teahouse.
day 14

Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,525 m / 14,842 ft)

More trekking upwards Marsyangdi River valley to Thorong Phedi, the last stoppage before Thorong La Pass. 4-5 hours of trekking Night to be spent at a teahouse.
day 15

Thorong Phedi to Mesokanto La Pass (5,099m / 16,729 ft.)

descend to Jomsom (2,720m / 8,923 ft.) Cross the Mesokanto La Pass-the last of three passes. Cross it and descend toward the Kali Gandaki valley to finally reach Jomsom. 7-8 hours of trekking Overnight at a teahouse in Jomsom.
day 16

Jomsom to Pokhara (820m / 2,690 ft.)

Jomsom – Pokhara (20 minutes flight) Free day at Pokhara, sightseeing in this lovely lake city, Overnight hotel stay in Pokhara.
day 17

Drive back or fly to Kathmandu

Drive or fly back to Kathmandu (30-minute flight, 6-8 hour drive). Hotel stay overnight in Kathmandu.
day 18

Final Departure to Home

Final airport departure from Kathmandu to your onward destination.

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Price Included

Permits
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card
Accommodation:
Teahouse or lodge accommodations along the trekking route.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek (usually local Nepali cuisine).
Guides and Porters
Services of an experienced trekking guide.
Porters to carry your luggage (typically one porter for every two trekkers).
Transportation
Airport transfers in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Land transportation to and from the trekking starting point (Nayapul).
Medical Kit
Basic first-aid kit for emergencies (provided by the trekking agency).
Emergency Support
Arrangements for emergency evacuation in case of altitude sickness or injury.
Group Gear
Shared equipment like tents, cooking gear (if applicable), and dining tents (for camping treks).
Local Taxes and Fees
All government taxes and service charges

Price Excluded

International Flights:
Round-trip airfare to and from Nepal.
Travel Insurance:
Comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking activities, emergency evacuation, and medical costs.
Personal Expenses:
Snacks, beverages, and meals in Kathmandu or Pokhara not included in the trek.
Tips:
Gratuities for guides and porters (customary but not mandatory).
Gear Rental
Costs for renting trekking gear (if needed), such as sleeping bags or trekking poles.
Visas
Nepal visa fees (available on arrival or online).
Additional Activities
Optional excursions in Pokhara or Kathmandu (e.g., paragliding, sightseeing).
Wi-Fi and Charging
Charges for Wi-Fi and device charging in teahouses (if available).
Alcohol and Luxury Items
Costs for alcohol, hot showers, and other luxury items during the trek.
Extra Days
Costs for additional days spent in Nepal beyond the trek itinerary.

FAQ

What is Annapurna Three High Pass Trek?

Annapurna Three High Pass Trek is one of the most adventurous treks in Nepal that comprises awe-inspiring landscapes by crossing three high passes Thorong La, Kang La, and Chulu West. This trek offers great views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges with varieties of cultural experiences that can be shared with the local communities.
How difficult is the Annapurna Three High Pass Trek?

High altitude and multipart terrains are involved in this trek therefore, this trek is graded challenging. The trekkers should be in good physical condition and have some trekking experience. Proper acclimatization is a must to avoid altitude sickness.
What is the best time to trek the Annapurna Three High Pass?

It is best to trek in the spring season, starting from March to May, and in the autumn season, starting from September to November. These months offer stable weather with clear skies and mild temperatures, which really help during your trek.
How physically demanding is the altitude of this trek?

This is an above 6,000 meters altitude trek, specifically at Chulu West Pass at 6,419m. Proper acclimatization is needed by the trekkers, with knowledge of symptoms for altitude sickness, such as headaches and nausea. The gradient of ascent must be slow while having enough hydration.
Do I need a guide to do the Annapurna Three High Pass Trek?

While it is possible to go independently, it is generally recommended at least to hire a local guide. A local guide will more than gladly share his knowledge of the local culture, but he also will make sure that safety is guaranteed and he will be very useful in remote areas.
What permits do I need for the trek?

The two main permits required for trekkers are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These are available in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
What should I pack for the Annapurna Three High Pass Trek?

Basic things to be packed are waterproof trekking boots, warm clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, first-aid kit, and water purification system. Don’t forget trekking poles and a reliable back pack in which you will carry your gear.
Is the trekkings in Annapurna region safe?

Yes, the Annapurna area is safe for trekkers in general, but it is also always important to be up to date with weather conditions, local guidelines, and your health, especially concerning altitude sickness.
Is there any accommodation available along the way?

Yes, there are teahouses and lodges dotted along the entire route of the trek, offering basic accommodations together with meals. It comes highly recommended that one should book in advance during the peak seasons for trekking, so at least one secures a place.
How long does the Annapurna Three High Pass Trek take?

The trek generally takes 16 to 20 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization needs. This timeframe includes travel to and from