Horse Riding Annapurna Circuit Trek

Your journey begins when you land at Tribhuvan International Airport. Our representative will meet you at arrivals—look for the Everest Hikes sign with your name. We'll transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu's bustling tourist district.

After settling in, we gather for a welcome dinner where you'll meet your trek coordinator and fellow group members. This is an informal introduction—no pressure, just good Nepali food and conversation about what's ahead. If you're tired from travel, rest is more important than sightseeing.

From our experience: Kathmandu's altitude (1,300m) is mild, but jet lag affects everyone differently. Sleep well tonight—tomorrow is preparation day.

This day is crucial for preparation, not just tourism. In the morning, we conduct a thorough gear check. Our guide will review your equipment, ensure you have proper layers for high altitude, and help you rent or purchase anything missing. Thamel has excellent trekking shops if you need last-minute items.

The trek briefing covers:

-Daily schedule and what to expect on horseback
-Altitude acclimatization strategy
-Horse riding basics and safety protocols
-Emergency procedures and communication

Optional sightseeing: If time permits and you're interested, we can arrange visits to Kathmandu's UNESCO sites—Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, or Kathmandu Durbar Square. These provide cultural context for what you'll see in mountain villages. However, rest and preparation take priority over sightseeing.
The afternoon is yours to rest, organize your pack, and mentally prepare. We recommend a light walk around Thamel to stay active, but don't overdo it.

The long drive begins early—usually around 6-7 AM to avoid afternoon traffic. The route follows the Prithvi Highway to Dumre, then turns north along the Marsyangdi River valley toward Besisahar and eventually Chame.
What the drive is actually like: The first few hours pass through green hills and terraced farmland. Past Besisahar, the road becomes rougher—unpaved in sections, winding, with occasional construction delays. You'll cross numerous suspension bridges and pass through small Gurung and Manangi villages. The landscape gradually transitions from subtropical to temperate forests.
From our years running this route, we know this drive tests patience. The roads are bumpy, dust seeps into the vehicle, and progress feels slow. Bring entertainment, snacks, and flexibility with timing. We stop for lunch in Besisahar or Dharapani—simple dal bhat or noodles.
Chame (district headquarters of Manang) sits in a narrow valley surrounded by pine forests. When you arrive in late afternoon, you'll check into a local teahouse—basic but clean rooms, shared bathrooms, and communal dining areas. The evening is for rest and your first proper mountain dinner.
First altitude note: At 2,670m, some guests notice slightly thinner air, but altitude symptoms are rare here. Drink plenty of water.

Morning preparation: After breakfast, you'll meet your horse and horseman. Our guide provides hands-on instruction: how to mount from the left side, how to hold the reins gently (these horses respond to light pressure), how to lean back on descents and forward on climbs. Most importantly, how to trust your horse—they know these trails far better than you do.
The ride: You depart Chame following the Marsyangdi River through mixed pine and oak forests. The trail alternates between wide sections and narrower paths carved into cliff sides. You'll cross several suspension bridges—the horses are accustomed to the swaying, though it might feel unsettling at first.
Scenery includes glimpses of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II through the trees. You pass through Telekhu and Bhratang, small settlements where locals might be working in fields or repairing trails. The culture here is Gurung and Manangi—you'll notice distinct traditional architecture.
Lunch break: Usually at Dhukur Pokhari, where we stop at a teahouse for rest and a meal. The horses are fed and watered here.
The afternoon section opens into wider terrain as you approach Pisang, which sits where the valley broadens dramatically. Pisang has two sections—Lower Pisang where we stay (at the valley floor) and Upper Pisang (perched on the hillside with better views but accessed by steep trails).
Evening in Pisang: The teahouse provides a warm dining room with a central bukhari (wood stove). Your legs and backside will likely be sore—this is completely normal for first-day riders. Stretching helps. The evening meal is communal, and early sleep is recommended.

Today the landscape transforms into the high alpine zone you came to see.
Route options: From Pisang, there are two trails to Manang—the lower direct route through Hongde and Mungji, or the upper scenic route via Ghyaru and Ngawal. Weather and trail conditions determine which we take.
Upper route (when conditions allow): This climbs to around 3,700m, passing through Ghyaru—an ancient village with a monastery perched on ridges offering spectacular views of Annapurna II, III, and IV, plus Gangapurna. The riding here is more exposed but incredibly scenic. We descend through Ngawal (another traditional stone village) before rejoining the main trail.
Lower route: Faster and more direct, following the valley floor with consistent views of the river and surrounding peaks.
Both routes converge before Braga, where you'll see one of the region's oldest monasteries—Braga Gompa—sitting on a hillside. The ride continues past chortens (Buddhist shrines) and mani walls (stone walls carved with Buddhist prayers) as you enter Manang valley proper.
Manang arrival: Manang (3,540m) is the major village before Thorong La—it has shops, bakeries, even a small medical clinic. The village sits in a wide, barren valley surrounded by massive peaks: Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak dominate the skyline.
You'll notice the cultural shift—architecture becomes more Tibetan, prayer flags are everywhere, and locals speak a distinct Manangi dialect alongside Nepali. The teahouses here are better equipped than earlier stops, with options for hot showers (usually solar-heated).
Evening routine: This is your last comfortable village before higher camps. Charge devices, buy any needed supplies, and rest well. Tomorrow is acclimatization day.

This is not a rest day—it's an active acclimatization day, which is crucial for your safety on higher sections.
Why this matters: The principle "climb high, sleep low" helps your body adapt to altitude. We take you higher during the day, then return to Manang to sleep at the same elevation.
Typical activities:
Option 1 - Gangapurna Lake ride/hike: A short ride or 2-hour walk to this glacial lake (3,570m) fed by Gangapurna glacier. The turquoise water and hanging glacier create stunning photographs. From our experience, this is the most popular acclimatization option.
Option 2 - Praken Gompa hike: A climb to around 3,950m to visit this small monastery with panoramic valley views. This is more strenuous but provides better altitude exposure.
Option 3 - Ice Lake (Kicho Tal): For very fit guests, this is a tough 4-5 hour hike to 4,600m. We rarely recommend this unless you're experienced with altitude.
Afternoon: Return to Manang by early afternoon. Rest, hydrate, eat well. Your body is working hard even when you're sitting still—making extra red blood cells and adapting to lower oxygen.
What we watch for: Headaches, nausea, unusual fatigue, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite. Mild symptoms are normal at 3,500m, but we monitor everyone carefully. If symptoms worsen, we have contingency plans.
Some guests want to skip acclimatization and push straight to higher camps. We don't allow this—the risk of severe altitude sickness increases dramatically without proper adaptation. This day might feel slow, but it's one of the most important for summit success.

The environment changes noticeably today as you enter true high-altitude terrain.
Morning departure: We leave Manang after breakfast, riding through an increasingly barren landscape. Trees disappear, replaced by hardy shrubs and alpine grass. The trail climbs gradually through Tengi and Gunsang—tiny settlements that are barely more than a few stone buildings used by yak herders seasonally.
The landscape: This section feels lunar—dry, rocky, with dramatic cliffs and the constant sound of wind. To the north, the Chulu peaks rise impressively. The trail follows the Jharsang Khola (river), crossing it on wooden bridges that creak reassuringly under the horses' weight.
From our experience guiding this section, the altitude becomes noticeable here. You might feel short of breath even while riding. The air is noticeably thinner. Your horse moves slower—this is intentional and appropriate for the altitude.
Ledar arrival: Ledar (4,200m) is small—just 2-3 basic lodges serving trekkers and horseback groups. There's nothing else here except yak pastures and mountain views. The lodges are simple: stone walls, tin roofs, small rooms with twin beds and multiple blankets.
Evening at 4,200m: The temperature drops significantly at this altitude. Dining rooms are heated by yak-dung stoves—not glamorous but effective. Meals are simpler up here: dal bhat, soups, simple noodles. Your appetite might decrease (common at altitude).
Sleep can be difficult at 4,200m. You might wake frequently, feel shortness of breath lying down, or experience mild headaches. This is your body adjusting. We check on everyone's condition before bed and in the morning.

Today brings you to the final camp before Thorong La Pass—and the altitude becomes serious.
Ledar to Thorong Phedi: The trail continues following the river, gradually climbing toward Thorong Phedi (meaning "foot of Thorong"). This section is rideable in good conditions, though narrow in places. You cross wooden bridges over gorges—the horses step carefully, following their handlers' guidance.

Thorong Phedi sits at 4,420m in a rocky amphitheater. This used to be the standard pre-pass camp, but most groups now push to High Camp for better acclimatization positioning.

Thorong Phedi to High Camp: This is where riding gets difficult. The trail climbs steeply up switchbacks carved into the mountainside—approximately 380m elevation gain in just 1-1.5 hours.

Reality check: From our years on this route, most guests walk this section. The trail is narrow, rocky, and steep. Some horses can manage it with experienced riders, but many groups lead horses unburdened while trekkers walk. This is not a failure—it's sensible mountain practice.

High Camp arrival: Thorong High Camp (4,800m) sits on a ridgeline with commanding views of the valley below and the route to Thorong La above. The lodges here are extremely basic—stone walls, thin mattresses, no running water except in the dining area. Bathrooms are outside pit toilets that freeze at night.

Pre-pass preparation: This evening is critical. Our guide briefs everyone on tomorrow's plan, checks all gear, and monitors altitude symptoms carefully. At 4,800m, everyone feels the effects: headaches, mild nausea, shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping.

What we prepare for pass day:

-Wake-up time (usually 3:30-4:00 AM)
-Breakfast arrangements
-Layering strategy for pre-dawn cold
-Water and snack supplies
-Emergency protocols

Sleep is difficult at this altitude. You'll likely wake multiple times, feel your heart racing, and breathe heavily even at rest. This is normal, but uncomfortable. We don't push anyone who shows serious symptoms—safety always overrides summit goals.

The sky at 4,800m is remarkable. Stars feel close enough to touch, and if you step outside despite the cold, the Milky Way stretches brilliantly overhead.

The big day—the highest point of your trek and the most physically demanding.

Early morning (3:30-4:00 AM): Wake-up in darkness and cold. The temperature at High Camp can be -10°C to -15°C before dawn. You dress in layers: base layer, fleece, down jacket, windproof shell, warm hat, gloves. Breakfast is quick—porridge, bread, tea—because appetites are suppressed at this altitude.

By headlamp light, you begin. The trail climbs 616m from High Camp to Thorong La Pass. This takes 2.5-4 hours depending on your pace and conditions.

The climb: This section is almost entirely walked, even on a horse trekking itinerary. Here's why: the trail is steep, rocky, often icy, and the altitude makes every step deliberate. The horses are led behind or alongside the group, unburdened for safety.
You climb slowly—pole, pole (slowly, slowly in Swahili, adopted by mountain guides everywhere). Your breathing is heavy, your legs feel leaden, but the pace is manageable if you don't rush. The sunrise—if weather cooperates—illuminates the peaks around you: Gangapurna,

Annapurna III, Chulu East and West.
Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,769ft): You reach the pass marked by prayer flags streaming in the wind, a stone cairn, and incredible views in all directions. On clear days, you see Dhaulagiri to the south, the Annapurna range to the east, and the barren Mustang plateau to the north.

This is an emotional moment for most trekkers—relief, accomplishment, exhaustion, and awe mixed together. Photos, prayers, celebration. But you cannot linger long—the wind is fierce, the cold penetrating, and you're still at dangerous altitude.
The descent: The way down to Muktinath is long—roughly 1,600m over 4-5 hours. The first section down to Chabarbu is steep and rocky. This is hard on knees and requires careful footing.

From our experience, some guests remount horses for portions of the descent, especially once you reach wider trail sections below Chabarbu. However, many prefer to walk down to protect their knees from the jarring motion of riding downhill on steep terrain.
Muktinath arrival: You reach Muktinath (3,800m) by afternoon—exhausted but successful. Muktinath is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple complex features 108 water spouts (pilgrims bathe under these for purification) and a natural eternal flame fed by underground gas.

The lodges here are significantly more comfortable than High Camp—actual mattresses, sometimes heated rooms, better food options. Your body immediately feels the benefit of descending 2,000m from the pass.
Evening: Rest, celebrate quietly, and process what you've accomplished. Many guests sleep deeply for the first time in days now that you're below 4,000m.

After yesterday's intensity, today feels almost luxurious—a genuine riding day through fascinating landscape.
Route: From Muktinath, the trail descends through Jharkot—a medieval-looking village with narrow lanes, ancient monastery, and traditional Tibetan architecture. The landscape here is high desert: brown, dry, windswept, almost more Tibetan than Nepali in character.
You ride past Kagbeni, a fortified village at the entrance to Upper Mustang (a restricted area requiring special permits). Kagbeni sits where the Jhong Khola meets the Kali Gandaki River. The village feels frozen in time—earthen walls, narrow alleys, prayer flags snapping in constant wind.
The Kali Gandaki Valley: This section follows the Kali Gandaki River through the world's deepest gorge (between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri). The riding is mostly flat, on wide trails, with dramatic mountain walls rising on both sides. The wind here is legendary—especially in the afternoon.
Weather timing: From our years operating this route, we always start early from Muktinath. The Kali Gandaki Valley channels wind that intensifies after 11 AM, bringing dust, strong gusts, and difficult riding conditions. Morning rides are calmer and more pleasant.
Jomsom arrival: Jomsom (2,720m) is the district headquarters of Mustang—a real town with shops, bakeries, even small hotels. This is where your horse trekking officially ends. You'll say goodbye to your horses and horsemen here.
The evening in Jomsom is relaxed. You can shower properly (lodges have hot water systems), eat varied food (apple pie is a Jomsom specialty), and sleep at a comfortable altitude. Many guests feel energized being back below 3,000m.
Tomorrow's flight consideration: Jomsom has a notoriously weather-dependent airport. Flights to Pokhara operate in morning windows when wind is manageable. We brief you on this and potential backup plans.

Morning flight: Jomsom's airport is one of the world's most challenging—high winds, short runway, surrounded by mountains. Flights operate only in early morning (usually 6:30-9:00 AM) before winds intensify.

The flight itself is spectacular: you fly through the Kali Gandaki Gorge between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, with mountain walls rising on both sides. The small propeller aircraft (usually Twin Otter or Dornier) provides window views for everyone. The 20-minute journey feels both thrilling and slightly nerve-wracking.

Weather delays: If morning weather is poor (clouds, excessive wind), flights are delayed or cancelled. This is common and frustrating but necessary for safety. Backup option: We arrange a jeep drive to Pokhara (8-9 hours on rough roads following the river valley). This isn't comfortable but gets you to Pokhara the same day.

Pokhara arrival: Pokhara (822m) feels tropical after high-altitude camps—warm, green, lakeside. You check into a hotel near Phewa Lake with actual amenities: hot showers, soft beds, varied restaurants.

Afternoon in Pokhara: This is yours to enjoy. Common options:

-Walk along Lakeside—cafes, shops, lake views
-Visit Phewa Lake by boat
-See Davis Falls or Gupteshwar Cave
-Simply rest and recover

From our experience, most guests appreciate this transition day. The altitude is gone, comfort is restored, and you can process the trek before returning to Kathmandu's chaos.

Morning departure: After breakfast, we begin the return drive to Kathmandu. The route follows the Prithvi Highway—the main road connecting Nepal's two largest cities.

The drive: You descend through lush hill country, passing terraced fields, small towns (Mugling, Kurintar), and the Trishuli River. The road is paved but winding, with frequent bus and truck traffic. We stop for lunch around Mugling or Kurintar—simple roadside restaurants with dal bhat and noodles.

As you approach Kathmandu Valley, traffic increases. The final hour can be slow, navigating through outskirt towns and eventually Kathmandu's congested streets.

Evening: We transfer you to your hotel, allowing time to rest and clean up before the farewell dinner.
Farewell dinner: This is our tradition—a final group meal at a Nepali restaurant, often with cultural performances (traditional dances, music). It's a chance to reflect on the journey, exchange contact information with fellow trekkers, and thank guides and staff.

The food is authentic Nepali—dal bhat thali, momos, various curries—and the atmosphere is celebratory. We present certificates of completion and share memories from the trail.

Trek conclusion: After dinner, the official trek ends. Your hotel room is available, and tomorrow you're free to depart, extend in Nepal, or begin independent travel.

From our perspective as guides, this evening is when the accomplishment settles in. You rode horses through the Himalayas, crossed a 5,416m pass, and experienced mountain culture few people ever see. That's something to carry forward.