A Journey Through Nature’s Wonders
Beautiful Journey to Manang & the Octopus Waterfall
A scenic Himalayan journey to Manang. During your trip, you’ll cross bridges, walk beside big cliffs, and enjoy peaceful mountain scenery. One special place along the way is the Octopus Waterfall (Octopus Jharana) in Chyamche, Lamjung. This waterfall falls from more than 100 meters high and looks like the arms of an octopus—so that’s how it got its name! When sunlight hits the falling water, you can often see a rainbow, which makes the view even more beautiful. The water falls right onto the road, and it feels like a light rain shower when you walk under it.
Hike to Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) – 4,600m
One of the most scenic and rewarding acclimatisation hikes, Ice Lake offers mesmerising views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The 6–7 hour round-trip trek starts with lush greenery and gradually transitions into rocky alpine landscapes. The frozen lake, reflecting the Himalayan giants, is a sight to behold and a perfect way to acclimate to higher altitudes.
Recommended start: Early morning to avoid afternoon winds
Tip: Carry snacks and enough water; no tea houses on the trail
Visit Gangapurna Lake
Just a short walk from Manang, Gangapurna Lake is a glacial lake known for its turquoise waters and peaceful surroundings. It’s a serene escape for photography, quiet contemplation, or a short nature walk, and also holds spiritual significance for the local Gurung people.
Explore Khangsar Village
Located on the trail to Tilicho Lake, Khangsar (3,734m) is a traditional Tibetan-influenced village offering panoramic mountain views, ancient chortens, and stone-and-mud architecture. It’s a cultural gem with deep-rooted Buddhist heritage and an authentic Gurung lifestyle. A day trip here introduces you to regional delicacies and tranquil rural life.
Milarepa Cave
A spiritual and historical site, Milarepa Cave is believed to be one of the meditation spots of the revered Tibetan saint Milarepa. A moderate 1.5-hour hike uphill leads you to this cave, adorned with prayer flags and sacred symbols. The natural setting offers breathtaking views and a deeply meditative experience.
Visit Braga Gompa
This 600-year-old monastery is the largest in the Manang region. With its rustic exterior and intricately decorated interior, Braga Gompa is a serene retreat where you can meditate, learn about Buddhist culture
Praken Gompa – 3,945m
Praken Gompa, an ancient Buddhist stupa, stands as one of Nepal's most breathtaking and spiritually significant sites. Situated at a towering elevation of 3,945 meters (11,466 feet), this revered gompa is a testament to Himalayan resilience and spiritual devotion. The journey to Praken Gompa is an experience in itself. While the ascent to this remote religious structure can be thrilling, the panoramic vistas that unfold at its summit make every step worthwhile. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to expansive views of towering Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Gangapurna, Tarke Kang, and Annapurna II. The gompa itself is nestled seemingly within the mountain wall, offering a sense of profound seclusion and spiritual peace. Adding to its mystique, Lama Tashi, an enlightened Buddhist monk, resides at Praken Gompa. For a small offering, Lama Tashi is said to protect trekkers embarking on the challenging journey across the Thorong La Pass, a vital part of the Annapurna Circuit. This spiritual blessing adds a unique dimension to the trekking experience, reinforcing the deep cultural and religious significance of Praken Gompa in the heart of the Himalayas.
Manang Culture Museum
Get a deeper insight into the life and traditions of the Nyeshang people of Manang. The museum, housed in a traditional building, displays local tools, costumes, masks, and artefacts that showcase the region’s adaptation to high-altitude life and cultural richness.
Explore with a Purpose
Your rest day in Manang isn’t just about relaxing—it’s a crucial phase of your trek that allows your body to acclimate, your spirit to recharge, and your senses to soak in the cultural and natural wonders of the Himalayas. From spiritual caves to pristine lakes and monasteries to mountain markets, Manang offers a blend of adventure, culture, and healing that makes your journey through the Annapurna Circuit even more meaningful.
Nepal’s Adventure Capital and Himalayan Getaway
Pokhara is one of the most beautiful and relaxing cities in Nepal, surrounded by serene lakes and the stunning backdrop of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains. It’s not just a city for peace and views—it’s also the adventure capital of Nepal. Whether you’re flying high in the sky or hiking through hills, Pokhara has something for everyone. Thrill-seekers can enjoy ultralight flights over the Himalayas, hot air balloon rides at sunrise, heart-pounding bungee jumping, white-water rafting on the Seti River, and world-famous paragliding from Sarangkot. For those who love nature and culture, popular day hikes to the World Peace Stupa, Pumdikot Shiva Statue, Australian Camp, or Naudanda offer amazing views and quiet trails. Sightseeing in Pokhara is equally rewarding—explore Fewa Lake, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, the International Mountain Museum, and the colourful streets of Lakeside. If you have more time, Pokhara is the perfect gateway to some of Nepal’s best treks, including the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Whether you’re here for calm or adventure, Pokhara promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.
