Annapurna Circuit Plus Sanctuary Trek

Only a few places in the world offer a variety of superb natural beauty as the Annapurna Region. This magnificent trek takes you through distinct scenery of rivers, flora, fauna and above all-majestic mountains.  This trek goes counter-clockwise and reaches its summit in Thorung La (pass) at the height of 5,416m, or 17,769 feet. On this route, you’ll pass mountains like Manaslu (an 8,000-plus meter peak), Langtang Himal, Annapurna II and IV, Annapurna III and Gangapurna, and, of course, Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri -- passing through rivers with the world's deepest gorge in between those two 8,000-plus meter peaks. Poon Hill, at the end of the trek, affords views of those two mountains, as well as South Annapurna and Macchupucchre, the "Fishtail Mountain." The trek also goes through Buddhist villages where you can see friendly locals from different ethnic groups and Hindu holy sites, most notably the village of Muktinath, a holy site for both Buddhists and Hindus.

A Quaint, Timeless Place
Setting foot on the Annapurna trail is like stepping back in time. The trappings and distractions of modern society vanish. Life goes on in the mountain villages much as it must have a century ago. Gone are the sounds of cars, motorcycles, or machines of any sort. Here the sounds of rivers and waterfalls, of women tending gardens, children walking to and from school, men porting goods or playing cards is common. Local products are made by hand; buildings are erected without the aid of machines. Because everything has to be carried up the mountains on the backs of porters, luxury items such as sweets and beer are a bit scarce.

Views during this trek
As the route continues to the north of the main Himalayan range on to the high and dry Tibetan Plateau, the scenery is equally breathtaking. Its unique blend of crystal clear lakes is also an attractive sight not to miss.  The highest point of the trek is Thorungla pass at the top of the valley at 5,416m high. Due to the difficulties of crossing the pass, the circuit is usually walked in a counter clockwise direction. Traveling clockwise the longer ascent and shorter descent from west to east is too much for many people to manage in one day.
As you descend to the west at Muktinath from Manang, you will continue to the barren Tibetan-like village of the Kali Gandaki River- the world's deepest gorge which passes between the giant Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. After you cross the Thorung-La pass from Manang to Muktinath the final seven days of the circuit trek are the same as the Jomsom Trek from Pokhara, but in reverse. Moreover, the way to the sanctuary is through a patty of rice fields, misty forests & tiny local villages. Once you reach there, you can also go explore the surrounding glaciers and view points!