The classic Annapurna Circuit trek first became accessible to the world of adventure travelers as recently as 1977, when the Nepalese Government derestricted the Manang Valley, which had previously been closed on account of its proximity to the Tibetan border. Providing a combination of spectacular high mountain scenery, picturesque lowland farms and villages, a wealth of cultural interest and a challenging pass crossing, the Annapurna Circuit trek is justifiably popular. Having carefully reworked the itinerary, we can now offer this world-famous trek within a 3-week period. After a sightseeing day in colourful Kathmandu, we start out from Besisahar, ascending the surprisingly wild and unspoiled Marsyangdi Valley to reach the north side of the Annapurna Massif. In terms of its sheer scale, the valley of the Marsyangdi is surpassed only by the valley of the Kali Gandaki which we trek through on the second part of this exceptional trip.

Throughout our walk, we enjoy regular contact with friendly villagers, as well as everchanging panoramas of some of the world's greatest peaks, including Manaslu and the Annapurnas. Even from Pokhara, the views are tremendous, with Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I and Manaslu dominating the northern skyline. Travelling from the Hindu-dominated farmland of Nepal's "middle hills" into the high alpine world on the north side of the Annapurnas, which is the domain of Tibetan Buddhism, this trip also offers exposure to the whole range of trekking environments for which Nepal is famous. Beyond the Tibetan Buddhist village of Manang, the high point of the trip is reached after a stamina-sapping ascent to the Thorung La (5416m.).

We then descend to the deep valley of the Kali Gadaki, where a wealth of new experiences awaits us – the first of which is the bizarre collection of temples at Muktinath, at the base of the pass. Trekking through the Kali Gandaki Valley for 4 quite leisurely days, we then climb to cross the ridge at Ghorepani and make the traditional excursion to Poon Hill for spectacular dawn views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurnas. Finally, arriving at Nepal’s second city of Pokhara, there is time to enjoy the splendid Fish Tail Lodge with its magical views of the Annapurnas, reflected in the waters of Phewa Tal.