Pisang is one of those special stops in the Nepalese Himalayas that offers more than just stunning scenery. It’s a key point along the Annapurna Circuit, making it a favorite for trekkers who want a mix of dramatic mountain views, traditional Tibetan architecture, and authentic Himalayan culture. What makes Pisang stand out? Its proximity to the world’s highest lake, Tilicho, and its position on some of the most iconic trekking routes give visitors a real sense of adventure and discovery. Plus, with tours like the 14-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, you’ll experience everything from lush forests to arid deserts, with plenty of cultural stops along the way.
If you’re planning a trek in Nepal, Pisang offers a perfect base or waypoint, whether you want to challenge yourself on high passes or learn about local traditions. We’re especially fond of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake for its breathtaking views and diverse landscapes, or the shorter, more manageable 12-Day Annapurna Circuit that packs a punch without taking too much time. Below, we walk you through the best tours to consider for your Nepalese adventure.
1. Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake :Best Trek in Nepal
Starting at number one, this trek offers unmatched mountain views, cultural encounters, and the thrill of crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters. Over 12 days, you’ll traverse a landscape that shifts from subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts, culminating with a visit to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes on earth at 4910 meters. The route includes famous highlights like the world’s widest pass and the highest lake, making it a favorite for adventurous travelers. The itinerary includes scenic drives, village visits, and plenty of opportunities to experience local Himalayan culture. With a 5/5 rating based on two reviews, travelers praise the guides’ professionalism and the trip’s life-changing scenery. For those seeking the full Himalayan experience with cultural depth, this trek is hard to beat.
Bottom line: Perfect for seasoned trekkers craving comprehensive Himalayan scenery and culture, with top-rated guides and dramatic high-altitude crossings.
2. 12-Days Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
Number two on our list is a condensed version of the classic route, ideal for travelers with limited time but still eager to see Nepal’s iconic landscapes. This 12-day trek focuses on the core highlights such as the village of Pisang, the descent into Manang Valley, and crossing the Thorong La pass. It’s especially suited to those who want a quality experience without sacrificing the cultural richness of villages and monasteries. The trek offers panoramic views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal, plus visits to ancient monasteries. At $900 per person, it’s a good balance between cost and adventure, rated 5/5 by reviewers who praise the scenic diversity and cultural authenticity.
Bottom line: Great for trekkers short on time who still want to experience the full majesty of the Annapurna region, with manageable logistics and authentic villages.
$900 per person
3. Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days From Kathmandu or Pokhara
This 10-day option is for travelers looking for a robust but accessible trek. It kicks off either from Kathmandu or Pokhara, offering flexibility for travelers. It features the spectacular Thorong La pass at 5416 meters, along with close-up views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. It’s a well-rounded trek that includes hot springs at Tatopani and visits to unique villages like Manang. The $579 price point makes it attractive, and reviews highlight the excellent organization and memorable scenery. It’s perfect if you want a high-altitude adventure with a good mix of cultural stops and stunning mountain vistas.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a full Himalayan experience in a manageable 10-day schedule, with a good price and reliable organization.
$579 per person
4. Annapurna Circuit Trek – 12 Days
At number four, this trek offers a classic 12-day route around the Annapurna massif, crossing the mighty Thorong La and exploring the Kali Gandaki valley. It’s a favorite among seasoned trekkers for its diverse landscapes and cultural richness. Highlights include visits to remote villages, hot springs, and the sacred temple at Muktinath. For $899, it provides a comprehensive experience of the Annapurna region’s natural beauty and spiritual sites. The route takes you through lush forests and arid highlands, giving a true sense of Nepal’s varied terrain.
Bottom line: A solid, immersive trek suited for experienced hikers wanting a full circuit experience with cultural highlights woven throughout.
$899 per person
5. Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days
Number five is a longer, more leisurely version of the classic trek. This 14-day journey dives deeper into the region’s cultural diversity, passing through villages like Manang, Pisang, and Kagbeni. It includes crossings of high mountain passes like Thorong La, with extensive time to appreciate the tranquil villages and mountain vistas. The route offers views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri and visits the sacred Muktinath Temple. At $1320, it’s a premium experience for those wanting to take their time and soak in every detail of the landscape.
Bottom line: Best for trekkers with plenty of time who want a thorough exploration paired with cultural and spiritual encounters.
$1,320 per person
6. From Kathmandu: 10-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek
This 10-day trek starts from Kathmandu, making logistics easier for many travelers. It includes crossing the Thorong La pass and offers sweeping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The route passes through remote villages where you can experience Tibetan-influenced culture, and the journey culminates at Muktinath. The $980 price reflects a comprehensive experience with excellent logistical support. Reviewers highlight the stunning mountain scenery and the sense of achievement crossing the high passes.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those starting in Kathmandu, combining adventure with culture.
$980 per person
7. From Kathmandu: 12-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek
Rated 4.2/5, this 12-day trek from Kathmandu covers more ground, including the Manaslu range, and offers views of over 20 high mountains. The route combines lush forests, river gorges, and high passes, with visits to remote villages such as Manang. It is praised for its varied scenery and cultural richness. Pricing at $695 makes it appealing, especially for those who want a comprehensive experience without the longer duration.
Bottom line: A worthwhile choice for trekkers interested in mountain views and diverse Nepalese cultures, with a good balance of length and sights.
$695 per person
8. From Kathmandu: 12-Day Scenic Annapurna Circuit Trek
This trip is rated 5/5 and features stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It takes you into the culture-rich regions of Manang and Mustang, crossing the Thorong La at 5416 meters. The route incorporates visits to lake cities and ancient monasteries, with an emphasis on scenic landscapes and cultural depth. The $906 price reflects the high quality of experience and the opportunity to see some of Nepal’s most spectacular mountain scenery.
Bottom line: For travelers who prioritize scenery and culture, this trek is a top pick.
$906 per person
9. From Kathmandu: 9 Day Annapurna circuit & Tilicho lake Trek
This 9-day journey emphasizes Tilicho Lake, one of the Himalayas’ highest lakes, combined with the classic Annapurna Circuit. It offers views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri and passes through several traditional villages. The highlight is the Mesokanto-La Pass, another high-altitude crossing. At $632, it strikes a balance between adventure and time, with reviews noting the awe-inspiring lake and scenic routes.
Bottom line: Ideal for those eager to see Tilicho Lake without a long trek, with a focus on high-altitude scenery and cultural stops.
$632 per person
10. From Kathmandu: Annapurna Circuit Trek with Accommodation
This 12-day trek includes accommodations in comfortable lodges, making the experience more relaxing. It covers subtropical forests, river gorges, and high mountain passes, with a route through regions like Manang and the Thorong La. The $520 price makes it a budget-friendly option that still delivers spectacular mountain views and cultural experiences.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a more comfortable stay, with reliable logistics and scenic highlights.
$520 per person
11. From Kathmandu: 8 Day Private Annapurna Circuit Trek
Rated 5/5, this 8-day private trek offers a shorter but intense experience. It covers Thorong La and includes diverse landscapes and cultural encounters. The highlight is the highest pass at 5416 meters, with a focus on personalized service. The $723 price reflects the private guide and customized experience.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a shorter, private trek with high-altitude challenges and culture.
$723 per person
12. Kathmandu: Annapurna Circuit 15-Day Guided Trek all inclusive
This all-inclusive guided tour spans 15 days, allowing plenty of time for detailing every aspect of the Annapurna region. It includes visits to monasteries, hot springs, and the Muktinath Temple, with extensive cultural and scenic exploration. The price of $1,145 makes it a premium experience for those who want an all-inclusive, hassle-free trek.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who value guided convenience and want to explore every corner of the region comfortably.
$1,145 per person
13. Short Annapurna Circuit Trek 09 Days
Rated 4.3/5, this 9-day trek hits the highlights of the Annapurna Circuit, crossing Thorong La, and passing through villages like Manang and Pisang. It’s ideal for those with limited time but who want to experience Nepal’s diverse landscapes. The route includes high-altitude passes and scenic mountain views, with a price of $426 making it accessible for many.
Bottom line: Perfect for busy travelers who want a condensed but satisfying Himalayan adventure.
$426 per person
14. Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake- 17 days
Finally, the longest route on our list offers an extensive 17-day journey including Tilicho Lake and the Thorong La Pass. It explores villages like Manang and Kagbeni, with visits to Muktinath Temple and breathtaking mountain vistas. The route is suited for serious trekkers prepared for a more prolonged experience, with a price of around $300 per person.
Bottom line: For dedicated trekkers wanting an in-depth Himalayan experience with plenty of time to enjoy each stop, this is an excellent choice.
$300 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When deciding among these options, consider your fitness level, time availability, and interest in cultural experiences. If you want to see Tilicho Lake and love high-altitude crossings, the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake or the 17-day version are your best bets. For a shorter trip, the 9-day routes or the 8-day private trek offer a solid experience without requiring weeks of travel.
Budget-wise, shorter treks like the 12-day options and the 8-day private trek are more affordable, but longer routes provide richer cultural encounters. If comfort matters, the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Accommodation offers cozy lodges and reliable logistics.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak trekking seasons in spring and fall, to secure the best permits and accommodations. Remember, high-altitude trekking demands good physical preparation—train your legs and lungs beforehand.
As you can see, Pisang and its surrounding Annapurna region host a variety of tours tailored to different levels of adventure, interests, and time commitments. Whether you’re after an intense high-altitude challenge or a cultural stroll through Himalayan villages, you’ll find a trek that fits. With the right planning, your Nepal adventure will deliver memories as towering as the mountains themselves.