There are taking your breath away all the way to town on the Annapurna Circuit, but some of the best -- and least crowded -- vistas are found just out of view from the main trail. These clandestine vantages are as stunning and, most importantly, have a significant purpose (getting higher): acclimatization. By taking a day to hike the flanks of Manang and other major villages, you improve your safety and get more out of the Annapurna Region. These hidden nooks & corners make all the difference between completing a trek and truly understanding the beauty that is the Himalayas.

The Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) Acclimatization trek

The best secret for views and acclimatizing is the walk to Ice Lake (Kicho Tal). This strenuous day tour from close to Manang (3,540m) is a steep climb up to $4,620\text{m}$. It’s also a steady ascent for a “trek high, sleep low” tactic. The payoff is a stunning 360-degree visage of Annapurna II, III, and IV, along with Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak, mirrored in the placid alpine lake. Begin early and bring plenty of water because this 7-8 hour out-and-back is a tough one, but definitely worth it.

Upper Pisang's Hidden Monastery Vista

From Chame, when trekking, take the higher path through Upper Pisang,  not the lower valley route, the Manang way. This deviation is much better, gives a much better view, and is away from the road. The actual secret viewpoint overlooks the pretty Ghyaru Monastery, which can be reached simply through a small, steep climb above Upper Pisang village. You are then rewarded shortly with the first amazing, immediate close-range vieofto the gigantic Annapurna II, which fills the valley.

The Tilicho Lake detour: the mother of all side treks

For those with an extra 3-4 days, a side trip to Tilicho Lake ($4,919\text{m}$) is the Annapurna Region’s best “secret” view. This route branches off from Manang and leads to one of the highest lakes in the world, surrounded by huge, stark peaks. It does, however, necessitate an overnight stop at Tilicho Base Camp — but the turquoise water below the peak of Tilicho is unmatched and far less populated than the end points on the primary circuit.

Muktinath to Lupra Valley Descent

After crossing Thorong La Pass, most trekkers drop straight down to Muktinath and take a jeep. To find a secret off-the-road view, follow the Muktinath to Jomson trail and reach Lupra Valley. The route goes through the beautiful and culturally prosperous village of Lupra, one of the last traditional Bon villages in the region. The alternative route provides more isolated views through the dry Kali Gandaki Gorge before linking with the standard trail just south of Jomsom.

Is Manaslu visible from the Annapurna Circuit?

Yes, you may get glimpses of Manaslu in some stretches of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, but definitely not as startling as the Annapurna and Dhaualgiri ranges. The most stunning views are from sections at higher altitude, like the Thorong La or near Manang. In clear autumn or spring weather, visibility is better, but sometimes Manaslu is partially obscured by weather or other mountains, so sightings are intermittent rather than guaranteed.

What part of the Annapurna Circuit is the hardest?

The most difficult part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek  is usually getting over the Thorong La Pass, at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). Due to the long climb, altitude, and often cold weather, it is the most difficult part. Hikers need to acclimatise sufficiently before climbing in order to decrease the risk of altitude sickness. Additional challenging sections are extreme up and down trekking towards Thorong Phedi before the pass and from Muktinath on, plus lo, ng hard days over rocky or difficult trails, especially in higher areas of the trek.

Is the Annapurna Circuit possible for novices?

Sure, beginners can whole the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal — but only with ok education, fitness, and careful planning. For newcomers, it’s exceptional to ease into your trek and take a couple extra days at a better elevation on relaxation days or rent a manual or porter to help you through the transition. A trek during the safer seasons – autumn (September–November) or spring (March–May)—would be more comfortable. Trekking button nose over flat Moose Mountain, train walking at what you feel is a good pace, and listening to the body, walking and trekking it as a first-time hiker.