If it’s a clear day when you are flying into Kathmandu, then your tour begins right from the skies itself. The sights from the windows of our jet shows us glimmering snow-capped mountain peaks spread out down below us, giving us the first thrills of our just begun vacation, sparking off a whole reaction of unforgettable experiences that stay with us for some time to come. As soon as your plane hits the tarmac of Tribhuwan International Airport, Mountain Sherpa Trekking and Expeditions office representative and driver will be on standby to meet and greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The rep will help you check into your designated hotel, and after going to our rooms and refreshing ourselves we will be briefed about our daily activities. The rest of your time is free to move around the neighborhood and get familiar with your surroundings. In the evening we will meet our senior trek guide who will brief the group about details related to our trek. Your first overnight in the ancient city of temples, probably the most in the world. Breakfast

Our trek personnel will arrive at your hotel at 7am in the morning to pick you up. After a 7-hour lovely scenic drive (185 km) from Kathmandu, we reach Besishar. On arrival at Besisahar we will witness some stunning snow-capped mountain panorama of the Lamjung Himal. Overnight at a guesthouse - B. L,D

After breakfast, we set off on an exciting jeep ride from Besisahar to Dharapani, covering about 38-40 kilometers (24-25 miles). The journey, lasting around 5-6 hours, takes us along a rugged, unpaved road—an adventure in itself! Though bumpy at times, the stunning scenery along the way more than makes up for it. We'll pass through charming villages, lush terraced fields, and cascading waterfalls, all while soaking in spectacular mountain views. The remote terrain adds to the thrill, making this drive the perfect prelude to the trek ahead!

The trek from Dharapani to Chame is one of the most enchanting sections of the Annapurna Circuit, stretching about 15 kilometers. Over the course of 5-6 hours, you’ll journey through a mix of serene villages, lush forests, and dramatic mountain scenery.

Starting from Dharapani, you’ll soon reach Bagarchhap, a peaceful Tibetan village with charming stone houses and a monastery nestled among the hills. As you ascend to Danaque, the trail becomes steeper, but the reward is worth it—the first breathtaking glimpses of Manaslu and Annapurna II appear in the distance.

The climb continues to Timang, where majestic views of Mt. Manaslu rise above the pine forests, creating a peaceful, awe-inspiring atmosphere. Beyond Timang, the trail eases out as you pass through the quiet village of Thanchowk, surrounded by tall pine trees and glimpses of distant peaks.

At Koto, the gateway to the Nar-Phu Valley, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering cliffs and stunning peaks, a perfect prelude to the beautiful end of the day in Chame. This bustling village, set against the backdrop of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II, is the ideal place to relax, with natural hot springs awaiting tired trekkers. Every step of this trek offers a preview of the stunning natural beauty that lies ahead on the Annapurna Circuit.

The trek from Chame to Upper Pisang is a mesmerizing section of the Annapurna Circuit, ascending to an altitude of 3,300 meters (10,827 feet). Spanning about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles), this 5-6 hour journey offers ever-changing landscapes and unforgettable views.

Leaving Chame, the trail gradually rises through dense pine forests, offering crisp mountain air and stunning vistas of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. The path winds alongside the Marsyangdi River, with beautiful riverside scenery and the occasional suspension bridge adding to the adventure.

As you climb higher, the forests give way to more open, arid landscapes. Nearing the village of Bhratang, you'll witness an awe-inspiring sight—the Paungda Danda rock face, a smooth, curved wall of rock towering 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above the river, a striking natural wonder. From here, the trail gently ascends towards Dhikur Pokhari, where you can pause to enjoy sweeping views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna III.

Approaching Upper Pisang, the landscape becomes more rugged and alpine, with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Nestled against the mountains, Upper Pisang offers captivating views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. The village itself is filled with traditional Tibetan-style stone houses and a beautiful monastery, making it a perfect place to absorb the serene mountain atmosphere. Every step of this trek offers an authentic Himalayan experience, preparing you for the higher-altitude challenges ahead.

The trek from Upper Pisang to Manang via Gyaru is a spectacular journey through diverse landscapes and high-altitude beauty. Covering around 17 kilometers (10.5 miles), it typically takes 7-9 hours to complete.

Starting from Upper Pisang, the trail ascends through the arid, high-altitude terrain. The first leg of the trek takes you to Gyaru, a charming village perched high on a ridge. From here, you'll be treated to panoramic views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and the dramatic Pisang Peak. The village itself is known for its traditional Tibetan-style architecture and serene atmosphere.

Leaving Gyaru, the path continues to wind through the high desert landscape, offering breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna range and the Marsyangdi Valley below. As you climb, you'll cross several ancient mani walls and pass through small villages with vibrant cultural heritage.

Upon reaching Manang, located at 3,540 meters (11,614 feet), you'll be greeted by its impressive backdrop of snow-capped peaks and the expansive valley. Manang, the largest settlement in the area, features a variety of guesthouses, a monastery, and a unique blend of traditional Tibetan culture and modern amenities. The stunning mountain views and the vibrant atmosphere make Manang a memorable highlight of the Annapurna Circuit.

Rest and acclimatization in Manang are essential for preparing for the higher altitudes ahead. Located at 3,540 meters (11,614 feet), Manang provides an ideal base for acclimating to the increasing altitude and exploring the surrounding area.

While in Manang, take advantage of the opportunity to hike and explore the local region. A popular short hike is to the Gangapurna Lake, a tranquil spot with stunning reflections of Gangapurna and Annapurna III. The trail offers beautiful views and a peaceful environment, ideal for acclimatization.

You can also visit the Manang Monastery, which houses ancient Buddhist artifacts and provides a glimpse into the spiritual life of the local community. The monastery offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and is a great place to immerse yourself in local culture.

Another worthwhile hike is to the Boch Village, located on the opposite side of the valley. The hike provides spectacular views of the Annapurna range and gives insight into the traditional lifestyle of the people living in this high-altitude region.

Exploring Manang itself reveals a unique blend of traditional Tibetan architecture and modern facilities. The town has various guesthouses, cafes, and shops where you can relax, enjoy local food, and interact with fellow trekkers.

This period of rest and exploration helps your body adjust to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and preparing you for the next leg of your trek.

The trek from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp, covering about 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) in 6-7 hours, is a challenging yet rewarding journey. It involves significant altitude gain, with an initial descent followed by a steep climb through rocky terrain and alpine meadows. The trail crosses the Marsyangdi River and ascends towards Khangsar, a village perfect for a short break.

From Khangsar, the route continues uphill through rugged, high-altitude terrain with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The final stretch to Tilicho Base Camp, at 4,150 meters (13,615 feet), is steep and rocky. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Tilicho Peak and the high-altitude landscape. The base camp, with basic facilities, offers a chance to rest and acclimate before continuing your adventure.

The trek from Tilicho Base Camp to Mesocanta High Camp takes approximately 4-5 hours. This trek involves a significant altitude gain and requires careful acclimatization.

Starting from Tilicho Base Camp at 4,150 meters (13,615 feet), the trail ascends steadily through a rocky, alpine landscape. As you climb, the terrain becomes increasingly rugged with loose gravel and boulders, so a steady pace and careful footing are essential.

The path offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Tilicho Peak and the Annapurna range. After a steady climb, you'll reach Mesocanta High Camp, situated at around 4,800 meters (15,748 feet). The high camp is typically set up with basic facilities, either in lodges or tented camps, providing essential shelter and a place to rest.

At Mesocanta High Camp, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, making it a stunning spot to prepare for the next stage of your trek. The camp provides a crucial rest point and acclimatization opportunity before continuing to higher altitudes.

The trek from Mesocanta High Camp to Yak Kharka is a challenging yet rewarding part of the Tilicho Mesocanta Pass trek. This section typically takes around 6-7 hours to complete and involves a significant altitude gain and descent.

Starting from Mesocanta High Camp at approximately 4,800 meters (15,748 feet), the trek begins with a steep ascent towards the Mesocanta Pass. The pass itself is situated at an altitude of about 5,300 meters (17,388 feet). The trail to the pass is rugged, with rocky and snowy sections depending on the season, requiring careful navigation and good acclimatization.

At Mesocanta Pass, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Tilicho Peak. The high-altitude environment here offers a dramatic and serene landscape, making the strenuous climb worthwhile.

From the pass, the trail descends steeply through a rocky and sometimes loose terrain. The descent can be challenging and requires steady footing. The path eventually leads to Yak Kharka, located at about 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). Yak Kharka is a more remote area with basic accommodation options, usually in tented camps, and offers a place to rest and acclimate before continuing on the trek.

This leg of the trek is a vital component of the Tilicho Mesocanta Pass journey, offering stunning high-altitude views and an opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Himalayas.

The trek from Yak Kharka to Jomsom is a significant descent that typically takes around 4-5 hours. This section of the trek involves a descent from the high-altitude environment of Yak Kharka to the more temperate and lower altitude of Jomsom.

Departing from Yak Kharka, which sits at about 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), the trail initially descends through a rugged, arid landscape with sparse vegetation. The descent is often steep and rocky, with loose gravel and uneven terrain, requiring careful navigation.

Jomsom, located at approximately 2,700 meters (8,858 feet), is a larger town with more developed facilities, including numerous guesthouses, restaurants, and shops. It serves as a key hub for trekkers, providing essential services and a place to relax after the rigorous trek.

The drive from Jomsom to Tatopani by jeep covers approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) and typically takes around 6-7 hours, depending on road conditions and weather. This route follows a winding, unpaved road that descends through varied terrain from the high-altitude region of Jomsom to the lower elevations of Tatopani.

Leaving Jomsom, situated at about 2,700 meters (8,858 feet), the road initially follows the Kali Gandaki River valley, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and river. The drive is characterized by steep descents, narrow roads, and occasional rough patches, making a 4WD vehicle or jeep necessary for navigating the challenging terrain.

As you descend, the landscape changes from the arid, high-altitude environment of Jomsom to more lush and green surroundings. The journey takes you through small villages and terraced fields, with occasional river crossings and dramatic cliffside views.

Upon approaching Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs, the road becomes less rugged, transitioning into a more settled and accessible area. Tatopani, situated at around 1,200 meters (3,937 feet), offers a relaxing environment with opportunities to soak in the therapeutic hot springs, providing a soothing end to the jeep ride.

This drive offers a scenic and adventurous transition from the high Himalayas to the lower subtropical zone, showcasing a diverse range of landscapes and providing a comfortable way to reach Tatopani.

The drive from Tatopani to Pokhara covers about 90 kilometers (56 miles) and takes approximately 4-5 hours. This journey involves a mix of paved and unpaved roads, offering diverse landscapes and varying road conditions.

Starting from Tatopani at 1,200 meters (3,937 feet), the route initially ascends before descending into the Kali Gandaki River valley. The road winds through hilly terrain and small villages, providing scenic views of terraced fields and lush greenery.

As you progress, the road becomes smoother and more paved, following the river and passing through several towns. The drive features occasional river crossings and picturesque vistas of the river and surrounding hills.

Approaching Pokhara, located at 820 meters (2,690 feet), the road becomes more developed. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a luxury hotel in the centrally located lakeside area. This location offers easy access to restaurants and attractions, including the serene Phewa Lake and the vibrant lakeside district, providing a comfortable transition from the remote mountain region of Tatopani to the scenic and bustling environment of Pokhara.

Today is your well-deserved rest and relaxation day in Pokhara, the perfect antidote after your challenging trek. Nestled by serene lakes and surrounded by stunning landscapes, Pokhara is ideal for unwinding and rejuvenating.

Begin your day with a soothing Ayurvedic massage, arranged by our guide, to ease the tension and fatigue from your trek. This one-hour session will help you relax and revitalize, setting the tone for a restful day.

Afterward, enjoy a half-day tour of Pokhara, where you’ll explore the city’s highlights and embrace its tranquil charm. Take in the breathtaking views, visit local attractions, and immerse yourself in the vibrant lakeside atmosphere.

The rest of the day is yours to discover Pokhara at your own pace. Wander through the lively lakeside area, enjoy the beautiful Phewa Lake, and savor the local cuisine at charming cafes and restaurants. This day of relaxation is your chance to fully unwind and soak in the beauty of one of Nepal’s most enchanting cities.

After enjoying a delicious buffet breakfast at our luxury hotel, you'll be transferred to Pokhara’s domestic airport, just a 20-minute drive from the hotel. From there, you’ll board a scenic 25-minute flight to Kathmandu, offering stunning aerial views of the Himalayas and lush landscapes.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, your day will start with visits to two of the city's most iconic and spiritual sites: Pashupatinath and Boudhanath. Pashupatinath, a revered Hindu temple complex along the Bagmati River, is known for its intricate architecture and sacred atmosphere. Boudhanath, with its massive stupa and vibrant surrounding Tibetan community, offers a serene and culturally rich experience.

In the evening, you’ll have the chance to explore Kathmandu’s lively local markets. Stroll through Ason and Thamel, where you can ride a local rickshaw and immerse yourself in the bustling street life. Our expert guide will help you navigate these vibrant areas, offering insights and local knowledge as you experience Kathmandu like a local.

After enjoying a delightful breakfast, prepare for an enchanting exploration of Kathmandu Valley’s rich heritage. Today’s journey takes you to two of the valley’s most captivating sites: Patan and Bhaktapur.

First, we’ll venture to Patan, renowned for its stunning Durbar Square, an architectural masterpiece brimming with intricate carvings, ancient temples, and bustling local life. Stroll through the square and marvel at the historic Newari craftsmanship, while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this culturally rich city.

Next, we’ll head to Bhaktapur, a living museum of medieval Nepalese architecture and art. Wander through its majestic Durbar Square, adorned with exquisite temples and palaces. Bhaktapur is famous for its well-preserved heritage and traditional crafts, including the iconic pottery and woodwork.

Immerse yourself in the timeless charm and history of these remarkable sites, each offering a unique glimpse into Nepal’s storied past and vibrant present.

After breakfast, our representative and office vehicle will be ready at your hotel to transfer you to the airport for your connecting flight home. It has been our absolute pleasure serving you, and we at Mountain Sherpa Trekking deeply value the connection we’ve built during your time with us.

Thank you for choosing us as your travel partner and for exploring the incredible country of Nepal. We trust that the Tilicho Mesocanta Pass trek, combined with your cultural experiences, has created unforgettable memories for you.

Sayonara, friends! Until we meet again, we wish you safe travels and many more adventures.