Besisahar to Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Besisahar to Annapurna Circuit Trek is an incredible and varied journey through nature, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls, offering an authentic Himalayan experience. From Besisahar to Annapurna Circuit is a fascinating journey that encompasses the Annapurna region and takes place within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Starting from the village of Besisahar, the trek passes through the lowland and enters higher elevations as it proceeds. Similarly, Thorong La Pass, at 5,416 m/ 17,769 ft, is the highest point on the trek, reaching the edge of the Tibetan plateau.

Besisahar is the first major settlement where trekkers heading to the Annapurna Circuit arrive. With well-connected roads, it also serves as a transportation hub in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Besisahar is important for trekkers heading to the Annapurna Circuit because all traditional routes to the Circuit begin at the village, making it the primary entry point. In addition, Annapurna Circuit is one of the iconic and diverse treks in Nepal that spans over 160-230km, depending on the specific itinerary plan. Furthermore, the trek offers jaw-dropping views of Mount Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, and many other surrounding peaks. 

About Besisahar

Besisahar, at an elevation of 760m, is the district headquarters of Lamjung District in Gandaki Province of central Nepal. It is a charming town that lies along the banks of the Marshyangdi River and is surrounded by scenic hills and valleys. Lying 176 kilometers west of Kathmandu Valley and 106km from Pokhara, Besisahar is easily accessible from both the cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara, making it a convenient starting point for trekkers heading to the Annapurna region. Likewise, the charming town has a range of services and facilities to cater to trekkers’ needs, from lodges, hotels, restaurants, and shops. 

Starting the Annapurna Circuit from Besisahar

The Annapurna Circuit Trek starts from Besisahar and follows a traditional route, following the Marshyangdi River northward. In the initial phase, the route passes through various villages and forested hills, and as it ascends, it passes through alpine meadows, deep gorges, and rugged high mountain passes. The first few kilometers of the trek to the Annapurna Circuit from Besisahar follow a dusty road to Ngadi via a busy route. 

From Ngadi, the trek continues along the Marshyangdi River valley, passing through villages like Bahundanda and Jagat. From there, the trail leads to Chame, the administrative headquarters of the Manang district. Afterward, the trail takes you to Dharapani, then to Manang, a picturesque valley in the Annapurna region of the Himalayas. The trek continues towards the Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek from Manang via Yak Kharka, Ledar, and Thorong Phedi. After crossing the highest point, the trail descends to Muktinath. The final trek on the journey includes descending to Jomsom from Muktinath and getting back to Pokhara, then to Kathmandu. 

Route Highlights from Besisahar to Annapurna Circuit

The journey from Besisahar to the Annapurna Circuit is one of the most scenic and enchanting trekking experiences in Nepal’s Himalayas. Each step of the trek offers trekkers new views and learning, and the landscape transforms stunningly in both geography and elevation. The picturesque village of Besisahar provides a view of lush hills and access to the Marsyangdi River. Bhulbhule and Ngadi are charming villages that offer glimpses of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Likewise, Chamje features steep canyon walls and roaring rapids of the Marsyangdi River. Similarly, Dharapani is a key location along the way, where the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuits intersect.

Thorong La Pass is the ultimate highlight of the trekking route to Annapurna, challenging yet rewarding, offering a 360-degree view of snow-covered peaks and glacial valleys. As the trail descends from Thorong La, Muktinath, Jomsom, and Kali Gandaki highlight the returning route. All in all, lush subtropical valleys with banana trees, rice paddies, dense forests, waterfalls, and suspension bridges are the major attractions in the lower trail section. Temperate forests with towering cliffs, rhododendron groves, and pine-covered forests are key attractions in the middle section. The alpine landscape, which has rocky terrain, a glacial river, and snow-topped peaks, is the allure of the upper section. 

Distance and Duration to Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is an iconic trekking destination that traditionally takes 15-18 days in a round trip, depending on the specific itinerary chosen. Likewise, depending on the route, the trek covers a 160-230km distance. Starting from Besisahar, the trek ends at Jomsom or Nayapul (if it continues to Ghorepani). Here is the approximate trekking distance between major stops on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, starting from Besisahar and ending at Jomsom: 

You can even go through the short Annapurna Circuit trek if a long itinerary doesn’t suit you.

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Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

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Transport Shortcuts and Jeep Options

Alternative Starting Points (Optional Section)

Other than Besisahar, there is another alternative starting point for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Chamje is one of the common alternative routes that trekkers can choose instead of trekking. Jeep from Besisahar to Chamje is available, and this is a shortcut to the usual trek. The pros of this alternative are that it cuts out the dusty road walk from Besisahar and makes it a good spot to start acclimatization. In contrast, the cons of choosing it are that the road is bumpy, and travelers miss the lower elevation landscape and its beauty. 

Another alternative to Besisahar as a starting point is Dharapani. Travelers can take a jeep from Besisahar via Chamje, which takes 3-4 hours. The pros of choosing this alternative are that it balances saving time and experiencing parts of the Annapurna Circuit. Yet, its cons involve longer travel by jeep and missing the early section that showcases the majesty of the Marshyangdi River valley‘s transformation. Furthermore, Chame is another popular starting point for the Annapurna Circuit for those who want to skip the longer trek and complete the trip quickly. Beginning at Chame, it saves 2-3 days of walking, but the chances of altitude-related issues are high, and the cost of the jeep ride is high. 

Conclusion

Starting the Annapurna Circuit from Besisahar offers a complete experience in the Annapurna region. From the subtropical forests and terraced fields of the lower area to the high alpine meadows, the journey provides the best view of the region’s natural beauty. Likewise, starting from Besisahar, the trip lets one witness the authentic Gurung and Magar villages of the lower areas and interact with locals. While many choose to skip the Beshishar section to save time, beginning from Beshishar allows for good acclimatization, deeper cultural insights, and an authentic taste of the Himalayas with a real taste of accomplishment.