Destination

Annapurna Region
Trip Duration

27 Days/ 26 Nights
Trekking Grade

Challenging
Max. Altitude

5,560m/18,241ft.
Best Season

Spring/ Autumn
Min. Group Size

2 Max 12
Accommodation

Basic Teahouse/ Camping
Meal

All Included
Trip Activity

Adventurous Treks

Highlights of Annapurna Three High Passes Trek

Cross three of the thrilling highest passes of western Nepal, Namun La, Kang La, and Mesokanto La Pass
Visit some of the ethnic Gurung community living in the villages of Taprang, Khilang, and Sikles in the foothills of the Annapurna Range
Trek alongside the crystal-clear gushing water of Marsyangdi River
Majestic views of the highest mountains in the world above 8000m like Annapurna I (8,091m/26,545ft), Manaslu (8,156m/26,758ft), and Dhaulagiri (8,176m/26,824ft).
Visit the world’s highest altitude lake; Tilicho Lake, at an elevation of 4919m
Walk on a unique terrain with views of Lamjung, Macchapuchre, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak in the Annapurna trekking trail
Explore the remote and restricted Nar and Phu villages passing by scenic gorges and canyons
Visit the culturally and historically significant Tashi Lhakhang Gompa Get a chance to observe Blue Sheep, Musk Deer, Tibetan Wolf, Leopards in the biodiversity hotspot of Annapurna Conservation Area.

The Annapurna Three High Passes Trek – 25 days

The Annapurna Three High Passes Trek is a challenging trekking experience in the remote Annapurna mountain range, located northwest of Kathmandu. This relatively new trekking route passes through some ancient settlements and unique terrain and is also known as the Annapurna Hard Way Trekking. As the name suggests, the trek crosses three major high passes, including Namun La at 5,560 meters/18,241 feet, Kang La at 5,306 meters/17,408 feet, and Mesokanto La at 5,330 meters/17,486 feet.

The trek begins at Sikles village and then proceeds to cross the first pass towards the Marsyangdi River Valley. Eventually, the route heads towards the Nar Phu Valley and crosses the second pass towards Manang. From there, the third and final high pass is admirable, which takes you to Mustang. You can see some of the highest mountains above 8,000 meters/26,246 feet like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu from close by. The route passes through ancient villages inhabited by ethnic Gurung, Magar, Tibetan Buddhist, Thakali communities.

Moreover, you can enjoy the pristine beauty of Nar and Phu villages isolated from the rest of the world. The breathtaking view of the world’s highest lake, Tilicho Lake, is another major attraction of the trek. At the end of each challenging day’s trek, you are blessed with breathtakingly incredible views.

The Annapurna Three High Passes trek is for those who have previous trekking experience at high altitudes and are physically fit. The trek route takes you over some high mountains and difficult rocky passes. You can see a wide range of climatic zones from subtropical forests to the dry Tibetan plateau. If you are looking for a technical and new trekking route in Nepal, the Annapurna Three High Passes trek is the best one for you.

Annapurna Three High Pass Itinerary Overview

The Annapurna Three High Passes Trek is a new trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The 25-day trek combines parts of authentic trekking routes such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Nar Phu Valley Trek, which extends from the Mesokanto La Pass to Mustang. From culture to nature, this stimulating and exciting trek has it all.

The journey begins with a visit to Kathmandu after you arrive in Kathmandu city. From the capital city, you will travel through Pokhara, the city of lakes, to Sikles village. The trek eventually reaches the forest camp Dharamshala in the northwest, passing through lines of lush green trees. From here, take your first acclimatization or rest day as the altitude increases significantly.

The trek continues to Boksi Lake then to Namun La Base Camp. The first challenge is appreciated as you cross the Namun La high pass and head towards Namun Phedi. Triumphantly, you will reach Namun Phedi, then Koto village in the Marsyangdi River valley. After a day of sightseeing in Koto, continue to Meta village and then Kyang village. From Kyang, you enter the remote and restricted area of Phu village. After exploring, return to Kyang, then trek to Nar village, which is just as remote as Phu. After a unique experience, the trek will move on to the second challenge of crossing the Kang La high pass towards Ngawal.

After a tiring but glorious adventure, head to Manang village. Explore the Gangapurna glacier, then visit the Tare Gompa monastery. Trek uphill to Tilicho base camp, then descend to the sapphire blue Tilicho lake, considered the highest lake in the world. After the fruitful views, trek to Tilicho high camp, then tackle the third and final high pass of the trek, the Mesokanto La pass, towards Chauri Kharka. Finally, head to Jomsom to end your amazing Three Passes trek in Annapurna. Fly to Pokhara, then return to Kathmandu city to end the journey.

Why choose this trek?

Unique combination: This trek combines the remote beauty of Annapurna Three High Passes with the spiritual allure of the iconic Tilicho Lake.
Challenging adventure: Crossing three pass high-altitude ghats and visiting one of the highest lakes in the world makes this trek a true test of endurance.
Cultural richness: Experience the diverse cultures of the Annapurna Three High Passes, including Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism.
Stunning views: From lush green valleys to snow-capped peaks, this trek offers unparalleled natural beauty.

Annapurna Three High Passes trek today for an unforgettable adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenge. This trek is a true testament to the grandeur of the Himalayas and the spirit of exploration.

Best time for Annapurna Three High Pass trek

The best time for Annapurna Three High Passes trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months have stable weather, clear skies, and optimal trekking conditions.

Preparation and Tips

Physical Fitness: This trek is tough and requires good physical fitness. Regular cardio and strength training is recommended.
Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is important to avoid altitude sickness. Follow the itinerary and stay hydrated.
Packing Essentials: Pack warm clothes, sturdy trekking boots, a good quality sleeping bag, and altitude medicine.

AVAILABILITY

DO YOU HAVE A BIG GROUP? We’re here to help! Contact us to discuss availability and group pricing options.

COST DETAILS: (price of the trip)

The cost of the trip always depends on the size of the group, the hotel accommodation category and the desired budget of the client.
The itinerary included in the package offered by AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions is a guideline and standard format, which can be modified according to your time and needs.
The itinerary can be changed after mutual understanding between AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions and the client. Additional activities can also be added or subtracted as per the client's request before the tour confirmation.
If the client wants to add some services, we will charge him for those additional services and if he wants to subtract some services, we will remove the charges accordingly.
Our package cost is published in the itinerary full board services for the client to understand better.
For any information on your selected package, please contact us.

ACCOMMODATION

We will stay in Kathmandu at Hotel Vajra and Pokhara Hotel Mount View or similar category, which will be tented camp for trekking. All this is included in the cost of the trip. While foam mattresses will be provided for tent camping. We will also provide pillow, dining tent, table, chair, solar light, shower tent, toilet tent facilities for your convenience once you reach the camping. And (cooking utensils and more)

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, your accommodation will be on a twin-sharing basis and if you wish to have a single room, upon request you will have to pay a single supplement as mentioned in the trip cost. For Trekking, in case of single by default, a single tent will be arranged for you at no extra cost.

MEALS ON THE TREK

We will serve typical Nepali cuisine, various ethnic dishes as well as all kinds of international dishes (Tibetan, Chineses, Continental, Italian, and so on, Indian cuisine) from pizza and chips to apple pie. And we will enjoy a variety of hot drinks and breakfast, including bread, eggs, pancakes, muesli, granola, konflux, porridge as well as hot milk with fresh fruits. And a hot lunch will be served on the way to our next destination. Upon reaching the destination, dinner and breakfast will be served at the campsite where we will spend the night. During the tented camping, freshly cooked hygienic food or packed food (as per the conditions) will be provided. However, in Kathmandu and Pokhara, we will only provide breakfast. Because you can taste the food you like, as there are high-quality delicious foods from different countries available. Therefore, you will have to arrange your own lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

DRINKING WATER

We provide boiled water for drinking purposes on all our climbing time, homestay or camping treks. We strictly discourage the use of single-use plastic bottles such as mineral water on all our treks. Therefore, carrying a hot water bottle is highly recommended.

INFO RELATED TO THIS TRIP

Expand all

How Hard is it to trek to Annapurna 3 High Pass?

Annapurna 3 High Passes Trek is graded challenging because it involves crossing three high passes, each over 5,000 meters, and trekking at high altitudes (4000m) for several days. The trek requires daily walks of 5 to 6 hours, with longer days of 6 to 7 hours when crossing the passes. While you don’t need previous trekking experience, you should be reasonably fit, enjoy long walks, and be prepared to adjust to high-altitude conditions.

What is the best time to trek to Annapurna 3 High Pass?

The best time to trek Annapurna 3 High Pass is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) months when the weather is favorable and suitable for climbing at high altitudes. These seasons offer crystal-clear mountain views with clear skies. The trek can also be done in February and early September but the trek is best done during the above months. The temperature during Autumn varies from lowest -10 degree Celsius at Namun La Base Camp to warmest 25 degree Celsius at Siklies /Jomsom. Read more about the best time to visit Nepal

Who Are my Guide to Annapurna 3 High Pass Trek?

You will be led by our highly experienced and dedicated Annapurna Trekking Leaders, who have years of experience having visited Annapurna 3 High Pass multiple times. All of our guides are full-time employees, not freelancers, and are local experts fluent in English. They will be led by guides with extensive knowledge of the mountain, its people, culture, health, hygiene, and most importantly, your safety.

What Kinds of gear are needed to Annapurna 3 High Pass trek?

Annapurna 3 High Pass trek is a camping trek. Unlike the teahouse trek, you will not be sleeping in teahouse/lodge but at camping tent. Although it may not be as cold an experience as in peak climbing but again, you need to be prepared with the right clothes. Please visit our gear packing lists for Annapurna 3 High Pass trek.

Is my Annapurna 3 High Pass trek Guaranteed to operate?

Absolutely yes! Our book trips are guaranteed to run. We are a tailor-made company so, don’t hesitate to reach out to us to help you with your travel decisions. Unless there are circumstances beyond our control such as political unrest, natural disasters, epidemics, pandemics or weather disasters, our trips are 100% guaranteed to operate.

Is there an age limit for Annapurna 3 High Pass?

No, there is no age limit for the Annapurna 3 High Pass trek, however, you must be in good physical health and have a positive attitude. We recommend that you visit your doctor before your visit and obtain the necessary permission and advice, as well as take medications when traveling at high altitudes. Learn more about medications

How we communication in case of emergency?

Land-line and mobile phone services are available in Nepal. Network covers Kathmandu, major cities and towns and most of Nepal, except some rural Himalayan places. Nepal Telecommunications Corporation is the national service supplier. There are also private service suppliers such as Hotels and private communication centers also provide long distance telephone, internet and fax facilities. For calling from outside, country code for Nepal is “977” and the area code for Kathmandu is “1”. To call Nepal from other countries: 00 + country code (977) + city code + telephone number….etc.

Do I need travel insurance for Nepal Trekking?

Yes: We advise all our clients to get travel insurance that covers up emergency evacuation that may be needed in case of the occurrence of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) or any other reasons in high altitudes where there are no other means of transportation available. It is advisable to review carefully the insurance and its coverages before making the final decision. Carry proof of your insurance with you on the holiday and you must ensure that your insurance provides an adequate level of protection and covers you for the activities involved. More information: Travel Insurance

What if I cancel the trip, do I get my refund?

We offer a lifetime deposit policy which gives you the flexibility to transfer your deposit to anyone or any other trip. If you wish to cancel your booked trips, certain cancellation fees apply. Please see our booking terms and conditions for detailed information.

How can I book trip to Annapurna 3 High Pass?

All bookings are made through AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions Pvt. Ltd. based at Boudha 6, Kathmandu, Nepal. To book your holiday you need to send us a completed booking (enquiry) form or email us directly with details. For more information. Learn more about our booking with confidence.