Best Photography Spots on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Karan Gurung
  • Last Updated on Aug 14, 2024

 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the ideal treks to be done in the Annapurna Region. This trekking destination is one of the jaw-dropping trekking destinations, as there are great mesmerizing scenes you can witness while trekking on this route. On the way, you can see the gorgeous snowy mountain ranges like Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, etc.

The main high point of this trek is Thorong La Pass, which is known as the highest pass in the world and is situated at a height of 5,416 meters (17,769 ft) above sea level. The vibrant surroundings of Annapurna Circuit Trek due to the beautiful and colorful birds, flowers, and endangered species of wildlife will grab your attention, as you can rarely see that flora and fauna at any other place.

This trek offers the most diverse landscape, with beautiful scenery, greenery at the lowest part of the trek, and scenery like desert at the highest part. It is an adventurous experience and also carries stunning photography opportunities.

Photography Spots on the Annapurna Circuit TrekPhotography Spots on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Table of Contents

What are the best places for photography on the Annapurna Circuit?

There are many iconic places for photography on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This is the best advice guide for you, which will take you through the best photography locations on the Annapurna Circuit trek, ensuring you capture the most iconic and scenic spots along the way.

Besisahar (760m)

The starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is Besisahar, situated at a lower altitude. The scenic photo spots along the Annapurna Circuit are the lush green landscapes and terraced fields. As you start your journey on this trek, you will get to capture the vibrant local life and the first glimpses of the snow-layered mountains, which will make this journey beautiful.

Top Photo Opportunities in Besisahar

  • The Marshyangdi River, which flows through the valley,.
  • There are traditional Nepali houses and terraced farmlands.
  • First glimpse of the Himalayas from this place.

Jagat (1,300m)

Jagat is a gorgeous village located on the way to this trek, which offers stunning photography spots. This trek has appealing traditional houses, stone-paved streets, and an environment surrounded by greenery that make it an iconic photography spot on the Annapurna Circuit.

Top Photo Opportunities in Jagat

  • The traditional stone buildings and village life at Jagat.
  • The stunning views of the Marshyangdi River valley.
  • The place is surrounded by terraced fields and lush vegetation.

Chame (2,670m)

Chame is the district headquarters of Manang, which we can say is one of the best places for photography for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The dense pine forests and the mesmerizing views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal are so breathtaking that they surround this village and make it perfect for photographs.

Top Photo Opportunities in Chame

  • The pretty views of Annapurna II (7,937 m) and Lamjung Himal (6,983 m).
  • The dense pine forests and the Marshyangdi River.
  • There are traditional Buddhist monasteries and prayer wheels.

Upper Pisang (3,300 meters)

Upper Pisang is one of the most scenic photo spots for capturing stunning views along the Annapurna Circuit. This is a well-known village for its traditional architecture and the attractive views of Annapurna II and Annapurna IV. Pisang Peak (6,091 m) can also be observed from this place, which adds to the delightful beauty of the area.

Top Photo Opportunities in Upper Pisang

  • The esteemed monasteries of Upper Pisang with the background views of Annapurna II.
  • The panoramic and charming view of the Annapurna range.
  • There are traditional wooden houses and mani walls.

Manang (3,540m)

Manang is a place situated at an elevation of 3,450 meters that offers many top photo opportunities on the Annapurna Circuit trek. The town is surrounded by different landscapes than other places, with attractive views of Gangapurna Glacier and Annapurna III. Manang is a full mixture of natural beauty and cultural richness that makes it a must-visit photography spot on the Annapurna Circuit.

Top Photo Opportunities in Manang

  • The appealing views of Gangapurna Glacier and Gangapurna Lake.
  • Breathtaking views of Annapurna III (7,555 m) and Tilicho Peak (7,134 m).
  • There are traditional stone houses and monasteries.

Tilicho Lake (4,919 m)

Tilicho Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world and is a legendary photography spot on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The crystal-clear blue waters of the lake, surrounded by jaw-dropping snow-capped mountain peaks, create an astonishing landscape that feels surreal with your open eyes.

In short Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will not be able to visit Tilicho Lake, you can enjoy the magical view of this lake in the package of Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake.

Top Photo Opportunities in Tilicho Lake

  • The attractive, clear blue waters of Tilicho Lake.
  • Beautiful views of Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), which is surrounded by snowy mountains.
  • The high-altitude rugged landscape.

Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)

This is the highest trekking pass in the world, Thorong La Pass, located at an altitude of 5,416 meters. Thorong La Pass is one of the most challenging treks, but you can sense the feeling of achievement once you reach here. This is one of the major highlights of this trek, and you will enjoy it the most.

Top Photo Opportunities in Thorong La Pass

  • The jaw-dropping views, like the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges,.
  • Sunrise over the Himalayas.
  • The prayer flag around the trek route.

Ice lake (4,600 m)

Ice Lake, also known as Khicho Taal, We will visit this ice lake during our acclimatization day in Manang. This is the crystal-clear lake from which we can see the reflection of stunning views of mountain ranges. To reach Ice Lake, we have to walk through challenging routes with steep ascents at an elevation of 4,600 meters, but it is worth hiking once you reach there.

Top Photo Opportunities in Ice Lake

  • The captivating views of the Annapurna massif, including Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Mt. Chulo, and Tilicho Peak.
  • The clear reflection of the snow-capped mountains inside the water.
  • The stupendous Ice Lake.

Chhonkar View Point (3,800 m)

Chhonkar View Point is the nearest view point from Manang, located at a height of 3,800 m above sea level, which we visit during our acclimatization day. We can also witness the beautiful views of the renowned Gangapurna Lake as well as snowy mountain views.

Top Photo Opportunities at Chhonkar View Point

  • The amazing scenery of mountain peaks like Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.
  • The beautifully decorated prayer flags are in the viewpoint.
  • The golden color of the Himalayas during sunrise.

Muktinath (3,800m)

Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, is not only a spiritual destination but also one of the best photography locations on the Annapurna Circuit trek. The Muktinath temple and the surrounding landscapes provide a rich essence of photo opportunities.

Top Photo Opportunities in Muktinath

  • The Muktinath Temple has 108 water spouts.
  • The mesmerizing views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountains.
  • The enchanted village of Ranipauwa.

Kagbeni (2,804m)

Kagbeni, a charismatic village, is a full mixture of culture and stunning landscapes. The village's narrow routes, ancient monasteries, and views of the Kali Gandaki River make it one of the must-visit photography spots on the Annapurna Circuit.

Top Photo Opportunities in Kagbeni

  • There are ancient alleys and houses in Kagbeni.
  • The joining point of the Kali Gandaki and Jhong Rivers.
  • The alluring panoramic views of Nilgiri (7,061 m) and Dhaulagiri.

Marpha (2,670m)

Marpha, also known as the village rich in apple farming in Nepal, is a charming village with white-painted houses and narrow stone-paved roads. The village is surrounded by orchards, and the views of Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak make it one of the best places for photography on the Annapurna Circuit.

Top Photo Opportunities in Marpha

  • The alluring streets and houses of Marpha.
  • Apple orchards.
  • The lovely views of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Tukuche Peak (6,920 m).

 

Tatopani (1,200m)

Tatopani, a famous village for its natural hot springs, is a refreshing stop after returning from the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The village is surrounded by lush greenery, and the hot springs provide the best photo opportunity.

Top photo opportunities in Tatopani

  • There are natural hot springs.
  • The beautiful views of the surrounding hills and greenery terraced fields.
  • The Kali Gandaki River.

Ghorepani (2,874 m) and Poon Hill (3,210 m)

Ghorepani and Poon Hill are famous trekking points for their sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This location is one of the top photo opportunities on the Annapurna Circuit trek, with the golden Himalayas views due to the sunrise lighting up and reflecting in the mountains.

Top Photo Opportunities in Poon Hill

  • The golden hour of sunrise views from Poon Hill.
  • The attractive panoramic views of Annapurna South (7,219 m), Machapuchare (6,993 m), and Dhaulagiri.
  • The rhododendron forests surrounding Ghorepani.

 

Ghandruk (1,940m)

Ghandruk, one of the largest Gurung villages in the Annapurna region, provides a cultural and scenic spot for photographers. The traditional houses, stone-paved streets, and stunning views of the Annapurna range make it an iconic photography spot on the Annapurna Circuit.

Top Photo Opportunities in Ghandruk

  • The glorifying snowy mountain views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and Machapuchare.
  • There are traditional Gurung houses and a unique village life.
  • The local museum and cultural exhibits.

Photography Spots on the Annapurna Circuit TrekPhotography Spots on the Annapurna Circuit TrekPhotography Spots on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Conclusion

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a photographer's paradise, offering a diverse range of landscapes, cultural experiences, and breathtaking mountain views. By following this Annapurna Circuit photography guide, you can ensure that you capture the most iconic and scenic spots along the way. You can also read our top 10 must visit places in Annapurna Circuit, you should not miss these places.

From the lush greenery of Besisahar, the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, to the high altitude charm of Thorong La Pass, each location provides you with unique photo opportunities that will make your trek an unforgettable journey to look back on.

 

Karan Gurung

Karan Gurung

Hey! I'm Karan Gurung, a boy who enjoys traveling and exploring new places. I was born in the Ruby Valley, a remote area of Nepal, and later I moved to Kathmandu (the capital of Nepal) in search of better education and facilities.  I joined the trekking industry at an early age, started as a porter, assistant guide, and full guide, and now I am the CEO of Nature Excursion. 

I worked as a mountain leader in Nepal's Himalayas for more than 12 years. I have led over 500 or plus trekkers into the mountains during my guiding tenure.  I feel very fortunate to have such an amazing job taking people to the rural parts of Nepal and connecting them with nature.  My ultimate goal is to make travelers happy and give my 100% to achieve their goals.

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