The Annapurna short round with Ice Lake Trek offers an unforgettable journey through the Annapurna and Mustang regions, blending towering Himalayan summits with rich cultural experiences. The trek begins in verdant valleys and traditional mountain villages along the Marsyangdi River, passing through diverse landscapes to reach Manang, the region’s largest village and a key stop for acclimatisation. Local legends speak of guardian spirits watching over the surrounding heights, with villagers still performing rituals to honour them. From Manang, the trail continues through the Marsyangdi Valley before ascending toward Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), allowing ample time for acclimatisation to ensure a safer and more comfortable crossing.
After crossing Thorong La Pass, the route descends into the Kali Gandaki Valley, home to the world’s deepest gorge and famed for its fossil-rich cliffs. The sacred site Muktinath, renowned for its temples, eternal flame, and 108 holy water spouts, adds spiritual significance to the journey. Local stories say the flame has burnt for centuries, protecting the valley and its people. The trek then entered the arid Mustang region, known for its desert-like landscapes and strong Tibetan influence. Villages such as Lupra, one of Nepal’s last Bon communities, reveal ancient spiritual practices and mountain traditions. Legends speak of monks meditating in hidden caves for decades and sacred stones granting blessings to passersby.
The journey concludes with a scenic drive through the Kali Gandaki Valley, crossing the famous village of Marpha, celebrated for its apple brandy, characteristic village architecture, and apple orchards, before arriving at the rejuvenating hot springs at Tatopani-“Tato” meaning hot and “Pani” meaning water in Nepali - offering a perfect, relaxing finale to this extraordinary Himalayan adventure.
Arrive Kathmandu (1350 m). Transfer to the hotel
Your memorable holiday begins in Kathmandu. After arrival, you will have time to freshen up before meeting your guide for an afternoon briefing. This is the perfect moment to organize your trekking gear and prepare your bags for the journey ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning
Transport : 20 M drive hotel
Kathmandu - Besi Sahar (760 m) - Dharapani (1860 m)
Early morning departure to Besisahar along the main highway between Nepal and India. Passing through villages, we change jeeps at Besisahar. Beyond this point, the road becomes a stony track, bumpy but lined with rice fields and traditional villages. Occasional landslides may cause delays or vehicle changes, so it’s best to follow the Nepalese example and stay cheerful. We finally arrive at Dharapani and settle into the lodge
Dharapani - Chame (2700 m)
After breakfast, we climb to Timang througout the Danaquev, at the end of the Marsyangdi Gorge. The trail then becomes gentler, passing from pine forests to drier hills. Chame, the largest settlement beyond Besisahar, is the district headquarters of Manang.
Chame - Lower Pisang (3200 m)
After breakfast, the trail follows the Marsyangdi River through pine forests to Bhratang, famous for its apple orchards. The valley then opens up to the impressive Paungda Danda rock face. After crossing a suspension bridge, we climb to Dukur Pokhari (3,240?m) for lunch with spectacular mountain views, before gently descending to Lower Pisang (3,200?m). You can also visit Upper Pisang to see its monastery and enjoy broader views. This stage combines forested paths, river scenery and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Pisang - Ghyaru (3720) - Tibetan village of Ngawal (3661 m)
Today is one of the most scenic days. We climb steeply to Ghyaru, a small Tibetan village at 3,720?m, with amazing mountain views and traditional stone houses. From Ghyaru, the trail crosses open hills to Ngawal (3,661?m), a larger village with a beautiful monastery and ancient stone buildings. This quieter route offers great scenery and helps your body acclimatise before we continue to Manang.
Ngawal - Braga Monastery - Manang (3542 m)
After breakfast, we follow a scenic, gently descending trail from Ngawal, winding through open alpine terrain with scattered juniper trees, mani walls, and sweeping views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna. After about 1.5 hours, we reach the historic village of Braga, where a 600-year-old monastery perched on a cliff is well worth a short visit for its spiritual atmosphere and outstanding views. From Braga, the trail becomes easy and mostly flat, following the Marsyangdi River until we arrive at Manang, a lively village and important acclimatisation stop on the Annapurna Circuit.
Ice Lake (4610 m) Acclimatization day in Manang
From Braga or the small village of Manang, the trail climbs steeply through alpine meadows. The high altitude and rough terrain can make the path challenging. The main highlight is a glacier lake with clear turquoise water reflecting the surrounding peaks, with views of Gangapurna and the Annapurna range, including Annapurna II, III, and IV. For an easier option, Gangapurna Lake is shorter to reach and ideal for a quick visit or acclimatization. Alternatively, you can choose to rest in Manang to recover and prepare for the next stage of the trek.
Manang - Leather (4217 m)
Today is a short, easy trek to help your body acclimatise to the altitude. You will walk through dry, rocky,, high-altitude desert, very different from forests and meadows. Along the way, you may see eagles, marmots, yaks and blue sheep. The slow pace allows you to enjoy the mountain views and rest before the next climb.
Leder - Thorung Phedi (4500m) At the bottom of Thorong La
Today is another short but important day on the Annapurna Circuit. The trek brings you closer to Thorong La Pass (5,416?m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful views of snow-capped peaks, glacial rivers, and the dry, high-altitude landscape. Mountains such as Thorong Peak (6,144?m) and Khatung Kang (6,484?m) rise on the horizon, adding to the excitement of this stage.
Thorung Phedi - Thorong La pass (5416 m) - Muktinath (3760 m)
Starting very early, you climb steadily to Thorong La Pass at 5,416?m, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. At the top, you will see colourful prayer flags, a Buddhist stupa, and stones left by trekkers. Take a break to enjoy the amazing views of snowy mountains and valleys. After the pass, the trail goes down sharply to Chabarbu, passing meadows and a deep gorge, then rises a little before reaching Muktinath. Muktinath is a sacred place for Buddhists and Hindus, known for its old temple and natural springs. It is a tough but very special day.
Muktinath - Lupra (3000 m) - Drive to Tatopani (1200 m)
Tatopani - Drive Pokhara 800 m (Free day in Pokhara)
If this is a combined group, it’s time to say goodbye (group + Nepali team). Then take a car or jeep to Pokhara. This is a great chance to explore the beautiful city and enjoy views of the Himalayan ranges from lakeside cafés and bars. If time allows, you can also enjoy boating on the calm lake, where the water reflects the stunning Fishtail Mountain.
Near the international airport, you can visit Davis Falls and the International Mountain Museum, which features the history of the Himalayas and local ethnology.
Pokhra- Kathmandu
Kathmandu - Souvenirs day | Sightseeing Day.
If you choose sightseeing, this full-day cultural tour offers a well-rounded experience of Kathmandu’s history, spirituality, and art, guided by a certified expert who will enrich your understanding of the city’s unique heritage.
Suggested itinerary (maximum three sites per day):
- SwayambunathThe price includes a certified cultural guide, a reserved vehicle, and a professional driver for the day.
Pricing per person:
2 - 3 People: €70Final Departure / Back to Native Land
Other journeys you may also like, hand-picked to match this trip.
