The 3 Passes Trek Annapurna is a 24-day adventure through some of Nepal’s most remote and stunning Himalayan landscapes. This challenging route crosses three major high passes—Namun La (5,560m), Kang La (5,306m), and Mesokanto La (5,330m)—linking the traditional Gurung village of Sikles with the hidden Nar–Phu Valley and the surreal Tilicho Lake before finishing in Mustang’s windy town of Jomsom. The 3 Passes Trek Annapurna offers trekkers a rare opportunity to explore unspoiled trails, encounter Tibetan-influenced culture, and enjoy dramatic mountain views far from the crowded commercial routes. Ideal for experienced trekkers, the 3 Passes Trek Annapurna combines raw adventure, cultural depth, and true Himalayan wilderness in one unforgettable journey.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in, you’ll meet your trek leader for a trip briefing and check your gear. If time allows, explore Thamel’s bustling markets or visit a nearby stupa.
Start early for a long drive west, passing through scenic hills and river valleys to Pokhara, and then continue to Sikles, a traditional Gurung village nestled against the Annapurna range. Settle into a local guesthouse and enjoy the mountain hospitality.
Drive by tourist bus or car to Besisahar following wild hairpin bends to reach Besisahar. Overnight in Tent/Tea House Lodge. 6 hour
Walk by the newly built road tracks towards Bhulbhule where you stop for the Lunch. Walk along the Marsyangdi River to Naadi, crossing suspension bridges and a deep river gorge climb up hill to Bahundanda. Overnight in Tent/Tea House Lodge.
Spend the day exploring the nearby ridges and resting. Short hikes and breathing exercises help your body adapt to the thinner air. Enjoy photography, journaling, or chatting with locals and other trekkers.
Trek through alpine meadows and rocky landscapes toward Boksi Taal, a beautiful high-altitude lake. The route becomes steeper and more rugged. Camp near the lake with dramatic views and a remote wilderness atmosphere.
Continue climbing through barren landscapes with striking rock formations. Reach the base camp below Namun La Pass. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the big crossing tomorrow. Expect cold temperatures and starry skies.
Start early for a steep, challenging climb over the high pass. From the top, enjoy spectacular views of the Annapurnas and Lamjung Himal. Carefully descend to the other side (Phedi), a quiet valley below the pass.
Descend gradually through rhododendron and bamboo forests. You’ll re-enter villages and eventually arrive in Koto, a gateway to the Nar–Phu Valley and a chance to reconnect with modern comforts like hot meals and phone signal.
This day begins with a hard steep ascent to the abandoned Kyan village Bhaku, where there is a nice long mani wall. We continue on an amazing tunnel carved rocky path 70 meters above the river and then decent to the riverbed, we follow the riverbed and pass some Mani Chrotens. We then climb up from the riverbed to the Phu valley entrance door (Phuohi Yalgoe). About an hour from the valley entrance we cross the Phu Khola and begin climbing up to the village. Phu village consists of about 30 houses. We camp near the river. Overnight inTent.
Enter the restricted Nar–Phu region after crossing a narrow suspension bridge and steep gorge. The trail climbs through pine forests and past several beautiful waterfalls before reaching the high plateau village of Meta.
Continue across dry, barren landscapes with unique rock formations and ruins of ancient settlements. The trail to Kyang is relatively gentle but exposed, offering sweeping views of Kangaru Himal.
A scenic walk along the river brings you to Phu—a remote, walled village full of Tibetan culture, prayer flags, and ancient stone houses. Visit Tashi Lhakhang Monastery and interact with locals herding yaks and sheep.
After exploring Phu, return to Kyang by retracing your route. Enjoy different lighting and angles on the landscape you passed earlier.
Cross a scenic ridge and descend into the vibrant village of Nar, known for its culture, yak herding, and traditional attire. Visit local monasteries and prepare for the next major pass.
Begin before sunrise to cross the spectacular Kang La Pass, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. The descent to Ngawal is steep but scenic, passing through pastures and prayer flag-lined paths.
Enjoy a short trek to Manang, a well-developed town on the Annapurna Circuit. Rest at a guesthouse, grab a coffee or bakery treat, and explore its gompas, medical post, or cultural museum.
Spend the morning resting or walking around Manang, then head to Tare Gompa, a rarely visited and peaceful monastery above the Marsyangdi valley, offering spiritual insight and solitude.
Follow a narrow and dramatic trail along cliffs and landslide zones to reach the remote base camp below Tilicho Lake. Watch out for wildlife like blue sheep and lammergeiers.
Climb early to see Tilicho Lake—one of the world’s highest and most beautiful lakes. After taking in the surreal views, continue upward to High Camp in preparation for Mesokanto La.
A long and challenging day. Cross the final high pass, Mesokanto La, with panoramic mountain vistas. Descend steeply into Mustang, entering a drier landscape with views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri.
Make your way down through rocky terrain and scattered settlements to Jomsom, a bustling town where your trek ends. Enjoy a hot shower and a celebratory meal.
Catch an early flight to Pokhara, then drive back to Kathmandu. Rest, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a farewell dinner in the city.
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Depart with unforgettable memories of Nepal’s remote mountain trails and high Himalayan passes.
