Annapurna Three Pass Trek

Annapurna Three Pass Trek – An adventurous and challenging treks in remote Himalaya of Nepal

Annapurna three high pass trek is one of adventurous and strenuous hiking trail in Annapurna region of Nepal. The three pass hiking trail is protected under Annapurna conservation area, the first and the largest conservation area in Nepal. This trek is suitable for seasonal hikers who wish to trek on less-trodden and remote trail of Nepal. Namun Bhanjyang Pass (5,560m), Kang La Pass (5,306m) and Mesokanto La Pass (5,330m) are the ultimate objectives of the trek,however we have another options trekkers can choice high pass routs are Namun La pass -Teri La pass 5,595 m and Saribung La pass 6,042 m.

Trekking in Annapurna three pass can be challenging as the tourism infrastructure is very basic and organized trips are important. At some point of trail, camping is needed; being all the stuffs – Kitchen, tents and other gears carried by porter. But the rewards are incredible – fascinating Gurung culture, some of the ancient monasteries, rare wildlife, spectacular mountain views, challenging three high passes and a real sense of wilderness. 

Annapurna 3 pass trek initiates from Kalikasthan and concludes at Jomsom (2,750m). The trail meanders through the forested route of rhododendron, oak and birch, pass several ethnic villages, monasteries, temples and rivers. As we start gaining elevation, forest gives way to scrub vegetation and mountain comes full into view. Agriculture and architecture changes accordingly. The challenge increases with every high pass.

Starting from Kalikasthan, it takes 6 days to reach the base camp of Namun La Pass. On the way, we halt one more night at Dharmasala as a part of acclimatization and preparation for our journey. We get to admire the outstanding views of Annapurna IV (7,525m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Machhapurchhre (6,997m), Annapurna III (7,555m) and Lamjung Himal (6,988m).

We cross the Namun La Pass with panoramic view of mountain vistas and alpine landscapes. We then take a gradual descend to Koto, a popular trail in Annapurna circuit. We hike to surrounding areas and explore the village to get acquainted with local culture and tradition.

Next, we walk on a trail to Naar Phu which was restricted for trekkers until 2003. Highly isolated from other region, Naar and Phu are small villages where yak herding and agriculture are the main source of livelihood rather than tourism. The trekking trail follows narrow alley, gorges, and medieval villages and passes chorines, herds of blue sheep to reach the region’s highest trekking passes.

We join the trail to Khangar village to cross the Kang La Pass (5,306m). The ascending route to Kang La Pass is quite strenuous but the outstanding views from the top of the pass compensate the trek. Pisang Peak (6,091m), Chulu (Far east 6,038m), Chulu east (6,429m), Chulu Center (6,584m), Tilicho Peak (7,134m), Kangaru Himal (6,981m) and Himlung Himal (7,126m) are the grand displays of Kang La Pass.

Then we head towards Tilicho Mesokanta La (5,330m) through the Manang village. Tilicho Lake at 4,990m is one of the highest lake in the world. We camp nearby the sore of the lake. This spectacular trek ends after crossing Mesokanta La Pass and descending down to Jomsom.

Best Season for Annapurna Three Pass Trek

September to November and Last of March to May are the time of the year to trek Annapurna three Pass. The weather during these seasons are good and so are the views. The blooming rhododendron in spring adds another dimension to the trek.

Winter brings lots of snows making it difficult to trace the path and cross the high pass. Heavy downpour in Monsoon might create the risk of landslide and avalanches. But it might be suitable for keen botanist.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to the hotel

Day 02: Drive to Kalikasthan via Pokhara, Overnight in Kalikasthan

Day 03: Trek stars: Kalikasthan – Lamakhet, Overnight in Kalikasthan

Day 04: Lamakhet – Sikles (1,980m), Overnight in Sikles

Day 05: Sikles – Tasha 2,420 m, Overnight in Forest Camp

Day 06: Tasha --- Dharmashala -3,540 m.

Day 07: Dharmashala- Kori 3,700 m (walk just 2 hrs best for Himalaya panorama and Pokhar city. 

Day 08: Kori --Thulo tal -3,960 m 

Day 09: Thulo tal -Thurchu or Boksi tal -4,010 m. after passing 4,550 m

Day 10: Thurchu - Phedi via Namun La pass 4,220 m

Day 11: Phedi  – Koto, Overnight in Koto 2,610 m

Day 12: Rest day at Koto, Overnight in Koto

Day 13: Koto – Meta, Overnight in Meta 3,570 m

Day 14: Meta – Nar village 4,110 m.

Day 15: Nar village -Kang La phedi -4,690 m.

Day 16: Kang La phedi -Kang La pass -Nagwal -3,660 m.

Day 17: Nagwal---Mangng 3,550 m.

Day 18: Mangng -Tilicho base camp 4,110 m.

Day 19: Tilicho base camp -Tilicho Khola base camp ,5,030 m.

Day 20: Tilicho khola basecamp -Mesokanto La -Kharka ,3,800 m.

Day 21: Kharka - Jomsom 2,720 m.

Day 22: Jomsom - Pokhara 820 m.

Day 23: Fullday sight seeing

Day 24: Pokhara -Kathmandu 

Day 25: Kathmandu full day sight seeing 

Day 26: Final departure.

Cost Includes

• Accommodation at Kathmandu on B & B basis
• Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
• City tour by private transportation
• All ground transportations as per itinerary
• All necessary paper works and permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permits (ACAP) and TIMS)
• An experienced and government registered guides and local porters
• Guide and porter: salary, insurance, transportation, accommodation and food
• All meals during the trek
• Supplementary snacks (cookies, energy bars and fresh fruits)
• All the camping equipment including camping gear and kitchen
• Highly expert cook
• Medical kits
• All local and government taxes

Cost Excludes

• City entrance fee at Kathmandu
• Tour guide
• Hot shower during trek
• Boiled water
• Personal nature expenses: alcoholic beverages, laundry, telephone bills and more
• Tipping for guides and porters (not compulsory but expected)
• Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
• Nepal entry visa fee
• International flights