Want to make your Annapurna Circuit Trek a bit more adventurous, exciting and unforgettable? Additionally, there are several excellent side trips along the main Annapurna Circuit Trek route that can make a big difference. What's more, these side trips not only take you to hidden lakes, quaint villages, and panoramic view points but also provide a fantastic opportunity for acclimatization.
Now let’s see popular side trips on Annapurna Circuit Trail one by one:
Have you thought of going off the beaten path of the Annapurna Circuit Trek? Moreover, a side trip to Punkar Lake along with a visit to Bimtang and Goa villages is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding extension treks possible along the main circuit.
Furthermore, this rugged off-beat trek leads you through isolated terrains and remote villages, where you get to witness the pristine, untouched natural beauty of the mountains along with the traditional life of its inhabitants that has remained untouched by mass tourism.
What you would discover during this side trip:
Punkar lake with its mesmerizing reflections against the towering mountains in high altitudes
Enchanting traditional village Bimtang
Peaceful village of Goa
Surreal vistas of snow-capped mountains and glaciers
Incredible opportunities to adapt and acclimatize as well as capture breathtaking pictures
Actually, this side trip is moderately difficult but has immensely rewarding experiences; therefore, it's ideally suited for trekkers who wish to add some serious depth and a dash of adventure to their Annapurna Circuit experience.
Likewise, walking through these remote villages further provides you a chance to interact and know more about the mountain life and culture that makes for an unforgettable part of your Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Have you ever dreamt of visiting one of the highest lakes in the world? Moreover, this side trip from Manang to Tilicho Lake is arguably one of the most sought-after and breathtaking extensions on the Annapurna Circuit.
Furthermore, the lake rests at an impressive altitude of 4,949m (16,237 ft), and reaching it is an achievement that many trekkers relish.
Tilicho Lake Trek details
| Parameter | Detail |
| Start Point | Manang (3,540 m / 11,614 ft) |
| Maximum Elevation | 4,949 m (16,237 ft) |
| Round trip duration | 2 to 3 days |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Strenuous |
| Best time | April-May and September-November |
Reasons why you should visit Tilicho Lake:
World's highest lakes
Enchanting turquoise lake surrounded by snow peaks
Awesome views of Tilicho Peak and the Great Barrier
Great opportunity for acclimatization for the Thorong La Pass
Tranquil, pristine environment of high altitudes
In fact, the trek from Manang to the Tilicho Base Camp and then to the lake is both arduous and picturesque and it is highly recommended for fit trekkers who wish to make their Annapurna Circuit trip extraordinarily awe-inspiring.
In a nutshell:
In conclusion, the Punkar Lake and Tilicho Lake side trips can certainly transform your usual Annapurna Circuit trek into something much more adventurous and satisfying than you could have ever imagined, and not only do they assist you in acclimatization, but they also provide some of the best memories from the trek that can last a lifetime.
Are you seeking for a challenging but so rewarding day trek during your stay in Manang? Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) hike is arguably one of the most popular and visually outstanding acclimatization treks of the whole Annapurna Circuit. The altitude of this high alpine lake is 4,600 meters and from it you will experience phenomenal views of the peaks in its surroundings; making this one of the most favorite hikes among the trekkers seeking for both challenging workout and breathtaking scenery.
What to see on Ice Lake Trek:
One of the most beautiful alpine lakes on the Annapurna region
Amazing panoramic view over Annapurna II and III and over Tilicho peak
Excellent trail for altitude acclimatisation before Thorong La
Peaceful and far less touristic than Tilicho Lake
Dramatic rocky landscapes and high alpine meadows
In fact, the walk from and to Manang takes 6 to 9 hours. Therefore, you should make the attempt only after some rest and hydration and keep in mind the path is really steep in places, but totally worth the struggle for that magical view at the end.
In general the Ice Lake hike is for fit and ambitious trekkers looking for a truly unforgettable side experience during the acclimatization day.
Would you be keen to experience a quiet, apples-growing village in off the usual trekking path? Exploring Bradang village provides a pleasant and peaceful cultural experience during your Annapurna Circuit Trek. Bradang is renowned for its beautifully-kept apples orchards and warm-hearted villagers; making this a unique place to discover a traditional life within the Manang Valley.
What to see on Bradang village:
Amazing apple farms and its fresh produce
Traditional Manangi stone houses and architecture
Peaceful ambience with minimal trekkers
Wonderful local interaction with families
Beautiful vistas towards Annapurna massif
In fact, Bradang village is only 40 minutes walk away from Manang and so it constitutes for an amazing half day or full day trip. Some trekkers love to taste the fresh apples and all of their produced derivatives straight from the gardens. Therefore, visiting Bradang village would be the perfect "sweet" addition to your Annapurna Circuit itinerary, allowing you a closer touch with local culture.
Are you up for another destination beyond Manang to a less crowded but truly traditional village? Khangsar is one of the most authentic villages found in the upper part of the Manang Valley. At an altitude of 3,730 meters Khangsar village feels like a step back in time; offering a far more traditional atmosphere than the slightly busier Manang village.
What to see on Khangsar village:
Very old stone houses and its ancient monastery
Fabulous views over Annapurna II, III and Gangapurna
A significantly calmer and more traditional setting than Manang
Friendly interactions with local inhabitants
Fantastic high alpine scenery decorated with prayer flags
Actually, walking from Manang to Khangsar and back will take 5 to 7 hours and would thus count for a good acclimatisation walk. This village represents for the trekkers an amazing opportunity to be in touch with real local life in these challenging conditions. Hence, visiting Khangsar village is for every culture-loving trekker who appreciates tranquility and less-travelled places on their Annapurna Circuit hike.
Would you like to visit a sacred site which is related to one of the most revered Saints in the Tibetan Buddhism? Additionally, trekking to Milarepa Cave is a spiritually fulfilling, and not a very hard side trip from Manang which combines history, culture, and nature at its best.
Furthermore, it is believed to be a cave where the great Tibetan yogi and poet Milarepa had meditated during his travels across the Himalayas. Thus it is a very sacred spot for the locals Buddhists and for any visitor, it will offer an atmosphere of profound peace.
Things you'll get to see at Milarepa Cave
Sacred and historic meditation cave
Breathtaking view of the Manang Valley
Ancient statutes and artifacts
Quiet place with minimal crowd
Good for light acclimatization hike
Actually, it takes about 3 to 4.5 hours round trip from Manang. Therefore, this could make a perfect half-day trip. It is moderately steep and has clear trail and hence easy for any trekkers with average level of fitness.
In conclusion, a visit to Milarepa Cave will definitely add a spiritual element in your Annapurna Circuit journey.
Have you been looking for a short yet spectacular day trip with perhaps the best views in the entire Manang Valley? Additionally, hiking up to Chonkar View Point along with Gangapurna Lake is arguably one of the most scenic acclimatization treks from Manang.
Furthermore, you will get to enjoy incredible, up-close views of the Gangapurna Glacier and also the striking turquoise Gangapurna Lake which is why this place has become so popular among photographers and trekkers heading for the Annapurna Circuit.
Highlights of the Chonkar View point & Gangapurna Lake trip
Outstanding views from Chonkar View point
Beautiful turquoise colored Gangapurna Lake
Impressive Gangapurna Glacier and the icefall
Wonderful photo opportunity
Easy-to-follow and clearly marked path
Actually, the round trip will take between 3 and 5 hours to complete, which makes it a fantastic choice for a morning or afternoon stroll. It also takes you through lovely pine forests and meadows.
Therefore, this side trip during Annapurna Circuit Trek is strongly recommended if you wish to get the most outstanding views for an optimum amount of time with a minimal effort required for an outstanding acclimatization journey and lasting memory.
Would you like to witness an ancient cave monastery perched on a cliff-side while in Manang? Additionally, hiking up to Praken Lama Cave (often known as 100 Lama cave) is a spiritually rich, and a visually remarkable side trip that many trekkers cherish during their Annapurna Circuit expedition.
Furthermore, this is a cave monastery situated high up on the cliff and is considered to have been a place of meditation for a hundred lamas. Thus it is brimming with a great deal of spiritual energy and provides astounding views of the whole of the Manang valley.
Must-see at Praken Lama Cave
A historical cave monastery with deep spiritual roots
Breathtaking bird's eye view of the Manang Valley
A place of sacred peace and quiet
Ancient Buddhist artifacts and statues
Moderately steep but rewarding climb
The entire trek from Manang would take around 3 to 4 hours to complete. It is a suitable half-day trip for most trekkers and the hike up the final part to the cave is somewhat steep but the views from the top do make up for it!
Thus, a visit to Praken Lama cave is highly recommended as a worthwhile stop that offers cultural richness, spiritual fulfillment, and a chance to experience one of the most astounding views of the Manang Valley, and is excellent for an acclimatization hike.
Would you like to explore an old, remote and traditional village near Muktinath once you crossed the Thorong La pass? In fact, hiking to Jhong Village is one of the most memorable side trips with few tourists in Muktinath.
Furthermore, Jhong is a wonderful place with its traditional houses made of stone and an ancient gompa situated on a ridge offering cultural immersion and astonishing mountain views.
Highlights of Jhong Village Trek
Tibetan architecture, stone built houses
Ancient Jhong Gompa with intricate murals
Wonderful views of the Kali Gandaki Valley
A quiet ambiance away from crowded villages
An introduction to the local Tibetan and Thakali lifestyle
Round trip from Muktinath normally takes from 3 to 5 hours so it is perfect for a half day excursion. In addition to that, this trek is of a moderate difficulty with a smooth elevation profile, hence suitable for any level of trekking.
Hence, the visit to Jhong Village would add an authentic touch and provide cultural stimulation to your Annapurna Circuit trip, just after the exciting challenge at Thorong La pass.
Explore Jharkot Village
Have you ever dreamed of exploring a very old and historic settlement near Muktinath? Moreover, a short trek to Jharkot will make you feel as though you are traveling back in time to a medieval setting with amazing Tibetan architecture.
Moreover, Jharkot is a charming settlement known for its fortified buildings and very old Buddhist monastery, which seems like a historical village untouched by the outside world.
Highlights of Jharkot Village
Fortified houses typical of Tibetan culture
An age-old Jharkot Gompa with remarkable statues and art pieces
A mesmerizing backdrop of Mt. Nilgiri
Typical village paths and alleys surrounded by old stone buildings
An area with historical significance to the trading of goods
Actually, the trek from Muktinath to Jharkot can take between 1 to 1.5 hours each way, making it a convenient side trek and a must-see. It is situated at a high altitude that would aid in acclimatization.
Therefore, a trek to Jharkot is a brilliant addition to your trip to Muktinath and will undoubtedly increase your appreciation for the history of the Himalayas.
Are you ready for a spiritual adventure in one of the oldest settlements within the Kali Gandaki Valley? Moreover, the excursion to Lubra Village is an amazing hidden treasure offering a truly unique and unforgettable cultural experience that can be found not far from Muktinath.
Furthermore, believed to be one of the very old villages in the region, Lubra is renowned for practicing the ancient Bon religion, the pre-Buddhist spirituality, which will offer you the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a living cultural heritage.
Highlights of Lubra Village
Among the most archaic villages in the entire Annapurna Region
Thriving practice of ancient Bon religion
Typical, stone-built houses with original designs
Authentic, humble local communities
A stunning, wide panorama of the Kali Gandaki Valley
In fact, this trek from Muktinath to Lubra typically requires from 2 to 3 hours one way and can be planned as an entire day or a half day excursion. The scenery throughout the trek is lovely and great for the keen photographer.
Hence, Lubra Village trek is enthusiastically recommended to those cultural explorers, who are looking to dig into the more deeply rooted aspects of Himalayan culture beyond just the world-famous Muktinath Temple.
Ever dreamed of visiting a traditional, less-touristy village near Jomsom? Furthermore, exploring Thini Village (or Thini Gaon) provides one of the most authentic cultural experiences in the Kali Gandaki Valley.
Actually, Thini is one of the oldest villages in the region and is renowned for its well-preserved traditional architecture and rich Thakali culture, offering a peaceful retreat from the slightly more bustling Jomsom town.
Highlights of Thini Village
Ancient stone houses with intricate wooden carvings
Traditional Thakali way of life
Breathtaking views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri
Old monastery and chortens
Welcoming local community
Likewise, a typical hike from Jomsom to Thini Village takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way, making it an ideal half-day excursion. The trail itself is relatively easy and unfolds with picturesque valley views and sprawling apple orchards.
In conclusion, visiting Thini Village is an opportunity to experience a piece of genuine local life and ancient traditions that are slowly disappearing from more commercially oriented locales. Highly recommended for culture-loving trekkers.
Have you pictured yourself at a tranquil, sacred lake near Jomsom? Additionally, the short hike to Dhumba Lake is a serene and spiritually significant side trip that many trekkers find rewarding after navigating Thorong La Pass.
Actually, Dhumba Lake is a modest yet picturesque high-altitude lake, nestled amidst rugged peaks and adorned with vibrant prayer flags. It exudes an aura of peace, perfect for quiet contemplation.
Highlights of Dhumba Lake
Calm, jewel-toned turquoise water
Surrounded by colorful prayer flags and chortens
Peaceful, sacred atmosphere
Stunning mountain vistas
Short, easy trek from Jomsom
Dhumba Lake Trek Details
| Aspect | Details |
| Starting Point | Jomsom (2,700 m / 8,858 ft) |
| Lake Elevation | Approx. 2,900 m (9,514 ft) |
| Round Trip Duration | 3 - 4 hours |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
Here, the path to Dhumba Lake is clearly marked and not overly steep, making it accessible to trekkers of most fitness levels. As it is considered a sacred site by locals, visitors are expected to be respectful and keep the area tranquil.
Overall, a visit to Dhumba Lake offers a calming and refreshing interlude on your Annapurna Circuit Trek, particularly after the challenging descent from Thorong La Pass.
Now that we've explored the various side trips that can be added to your Annapurna Circuit itinerary, let's review how these detours can transform your trekking experience from good to truly great.
Adding side trips to your trek not only helps you acclimatize better, but also takes you away from the busier main trails, allowing you to discover some hidden gems, meet locals on a deeper level, and truly immerse yourself in the Annapurna region. Many trekkers claim that their favourite parts of the trek were the detours they added along the way.
Why doing Side Trips during Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Excellent acclimatization opportunities before Thorong La
You can stray away from more crowded main trails
Greater cultural understanding and a connection with local traditions
An experience you can't find anywhere else
Unforgettable trekking memories
Top Side Trips on Annapurna Circuit Trek: Comparison
Here's a handy comparison to help you decide which side trips are right for you:
| Side Trip | Location | Approximate Duration | difficulty | best for | Highlight |
| Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) | Manang | 6-9 hours | Moderate | acclimatization & views | Stunning turquoise lake |
| Tilicho Lake | Manang | 2-3 days | strenuous | adventure lovers | Highest lake in the world |
| Gangapurna Lake | Manang | 3-5 hours | easy-moderate | photography | glacier & lake views |
| Praken Lama Cave | Manang | 3-4 hours | moderate | spiritual experience | ancient cave monastery |
| Khangsar village | Manang | 5-7 hours | moderate | culture & peace | traditional village |
| Jhong village | Muktinath | 3-5 hours | easy | culture | traditional village architecture |
| Lubra village | Muktinath | 4-6 hours | easy-moderate | ancient traditions | Bon religion & old village |
| Dhumba lake | Jomsom | 3-4 hours | easy | relaxation | sacred lake |
Recommended Side Trips by Trekker
Here are a few suggestions for each type of trekker:
First-time trekkers: Gangapurna Lake, Praken Lama Cave, Jhong village.
Adventure seekers: Ice Lake, Tilicho Lake, Kang La Pass (from Nar Phu).
Culture lovers: Khangsar village, Lubra village, Thini village.
Photographers: Ice Lake, Tilicho Lake, Gangapurna Lake.
Final Recommendation
Therefore, don't make the mistake of only trekking on the main Manaslu circuit trail and you'll have 1-3 more side trips added to your Annapurna Circuit trek according to your time and fitness. Adding side trips does help in keeping you safer via acclimatization and is the key to the success of your overall trekking experience in Annapurna. The real moments and beauty in trekking are the off-beaten paths. Choose carefully, tread lightly and have fun making your own adventure in the stunning Annapurna region. Happy trekking!
