Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass

Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La pass refers to a shortened version of the traditional Annapurna circuit trek . It is a popular and challenging trekking route in Nepal that takes you through the Annapurna mountain range and the Thorong La Pass. The trek usually begins from the village of Besisahar. From Besisahar, you will trek through charming villages, lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and numerous river crossing. You will pass through places like Sirung, Chamje, Dharapani, Chame, and pisang, which offer incredible views of Annapurna Ⅱ (7937m), Annapurna Ⅲ, (7555 m), and other peaks. After Pisang, you will reach Mananga beautiful village with a Tibetan influence and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

The best part of the Annapurna semi circuit trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass at an altitude of 5416 m (17769 feet) which is the highest point of the trek. Crossing the pass is challenging and exhilarating experience due to the high altitude, steep ascent, and unpredictable weather conditions. Snow and strong winds are common at higher altitudes, making the pass even more challenging. Despite the challenges, reaching the summit of Throng La Pass rewards you with unforgettable panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, making the journey truly memorable for the trekkers who seek adventure and the beauty of the Himalayas.

After crossing Throng La Pass, the trek descends to Muktinath, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is situated at an altitude of 3710 m and the temple houses 108 water springs which are considered holy. Devotees take baths in these springs as it is believed to cleanse them of their sins and bring blessings. It is also believed that visiting this temple grants liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The temple is located amidst impressive landscapes, surrounded by snow- capped mountains,
making it a unique and spiritually charged destination. From Muktinath, the semi- circuit trek joins the traditional Annapurna circuit route and proceeds downs to Jomsom and then to the popular trekking town of Pokhara. Overall, Annapurna Semi- Circuit trek via Thorong La Pass offers a shorter and less challenging alternative that allows you to experience some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes of the region. It is a popular choice for those who have limited time but still want to experience the stunning landscapes and culture of the Annapurna region.

Best Season for Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass

The best time for the Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass is during spring and autumn, respectively, in the months of March to May and September to November, when the weather is stable and the views are at their best. In spring, the trails wear a vibrant look due to blooming rhododendrons amidst pleasant temperatures and clear skies. In autumn, the post-monsoon clarity gives great mountain views, comfortable weather, and vibrant local festivals like Dashain and Tihar, adding a cultural touch to the journey. Winter, from December to February, is pretty challenging because of the heavy snowfall at Thorong La Pass (5,416m), while the monsoon, between June and August, is also unfavorable due to continuous rain, landslides, and leech-infested trails in the lower regions. Hence, the spring and autumn seasons are apt times to trek for safety and comfort, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass – Alternative Routes

The Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via the Thorong La Pass has many other ways where trekkers can make it their own, depending on time, difficulty, and interest. A popular variant from the classic route is the Tilicho Lake Route, which means making an extra excursion to the world’s highest-altitude lake 4,919m. This trail traces the classical Annapurna Circuit and then diverts at Tilicho Lake and meets the trail again at Yak Kharka. This gives one the great high-altitude scenery, a good acclimatization, and a more adventurous feeling prior to crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. The other is the Nar Phu Valley Route that takes trekkers via the remote villages of Nar and Phu with its rich culture to show a peek into Tibetan-influenced lifestyles. This route follows the Kang La Pass at 5,240 meters and connects back to the main circuit via Manang. It’s recommended for those trekkers seeking solitude and heading off the beaten track.

Trekkers seeking a shorter and more comfortable way out can exit by flying from Jomsom to Pokhara after crossing Thorong La Pass and visiting Muktinath, skipping the long and tiresome jeep drive through lower Mustang. While for those with more time, the route can go down via Tatopani to enjoy the natural hot springs and go up to Ghorepani and Poon Hill for a well-known sunrise viewpoint with magnificent views of the ranges of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Each of these options adds something special in the trek-in terms of scenery, culture, and difficulty-makes the Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek quite adaptive to different trekking tastes.

Travel Insurance for a Safe on Trekkers

Any trek in Nepal, including the Annapurna semi circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass, needs travel insurance. The trek includes high-altitude trekking, which may be physically challenging and dangerous. Travel insurance can cover you financially in the event of an accident, a medical emergency, a flight cancellation or delay, or lost or stolen luggage. When buying travel insurance for the Annapurna semi circuit trek, ensure that it covers high- altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation.

Guide and Porters for the safety on Trekkers

While the Annapurna circuit can be done independently, it’s helpful to hire local guides or porter. They can provide you valuable insights into the local culture, traditions, and history of the Annapurna region. They can explain the significance of monasteries, festivals, and other cultural aspects you encounter along the way. Moreover, they are familiar with the trail conditions and alternate routes. Similarly a porter carries your heavy backpack, and allowing you to trek with a lighter load. Therefore, you can join Nepal holiday treks and tours Pvt. Ltd. for hiring a highly experienced, helpful, friendly, and English speaking, licensed trekking guide and porter with their insurance.

Healthy Meals and Lodging at Annapurna semi circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass

The trail to Annapurna circuit is well – served with teahouses and lodges, providing accommodation and meals for trekkers. You can generally find basic but comfortable lodging and a variety of food options ranging from local Nepali dishes to International cuisines.

Permits During the Annapurna semi circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass

To trek in the Annapurna region, you will need two main permits:
1) The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
2) The Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required by all travelers who are traveling to the Annapurna region. The cost of the permit is as follows:

• For foreigners (non-SAARC countries): NPR 3,000 per head
• For SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 per head
• For Nepali: NPR 100 per head
• You can obtain the ACAP permit from:
• Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara
• Checkpoint at entry points of the Annapurna region

Altitude Sickness During the Treks

Generally altitude sickness occurs when you travel to a high altitude too quickly. Headache, nausea, tiredness etc are the symptoms occur when your body tries to adjust to the lower air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. When it comes to this illness, one should be pro-active and notify the guide as soon as possible.

Best time to trek

The best time to undertake the Annapurna semi circuit trek via Thorong La Pass is during the spring (March- May) and autum (September- November) seasons. Spring is the best time to tackle treks with high passes. There is stronger sunlight, temperature begins to rise and the days grow longer. Similarly, the autumn months are the peak trekking seasons in Nepal. The high mountains are still cold and lower elevations are still warm. Leaves on the trees will turn yellow, orange, red, and brown, making colorful hills.

Why choose the Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass?

This is the best Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass for trekkers who want to enjoy the beauty of the Annapurna region without completing the full circuit. Multiple landscapes along this trekking route, all the way from the lush green forest and terraced fields to the high-altitude desert of Manang and breathtaking Thorong La Pass (5,416m), make it worth trying. It provides magnificent mountain views: Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare; cultural insight through traditional Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced villages. The route is also flexible, with options to visit Tilicho Lake, explore the remote Nar Phu Valley, or shorten the trek by flying from Jomsom to Pokhara. Be it adventure, culture, or breathtaking scenery, this trek offers a fascinating experience in the Himalayas.

Difficulty level of Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass

Annapurna Semi Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass is considered a moderate to challenging trek since one has to do high altitude, long trekking days, and varied terrain. The trek starts from low altitude at Besisahar, at 760m, and gradually climbs to the highest pass, Thorong La at 5,416m; this requires good acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. The trails contain steep ascents and descents with rugged pathways, especially the Manang, Yak Kharka, and Thorong La Pass, due to thin air. The trekker should be quite fit and in good endurance as the distance walked daily takes up to 5-8 hours, with a few portions such as crossing Thorong La, which take even up to 10 hours if the weather conditions are unfavorable.

Though challenging, it is possible for trekkers with previous experience or great determination. Pre-trek preparation like cardio, strength training, and altitude acclimatization can go a long way in making the trek quite enjoyable. Compared to camping-based treks, this is far more comfortable with accommodations in teahouses along the way; food and a place to rest are provided. Moreover, engaging the services of a licensed guide and porter will aid in managing the physical demands and make the trek less dangerous, especially in high-altitude areas. Although winter snow and monsoon rains might make the trek a bit difficult, choosing the best seasons-spring and autumn-means safer and more enjoyable conditions while trekking.