Things to do · Besisahar
The Top Things to Do in Besisahar
Start the Annapurna Circuit, raft the Marsyangdi, visit Lamjung Durbar and soak up Himalayan views — the best of Besisahar.
Besisahar rewards a short, focused stop. This Lamjung roadhead packs a lively Marsyangdi-valley bazaar, the trailhead of one of the world's great treks, a famous whitewater river and a historic hilltop palace into a compact stretch of the green middle hills. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, here is where to go.
The short answer
Start in the heart of town at Besisahar bazaar, the trading hub strung along the Marsyangdi, then walk to the edge of town where the Annapurna Circuit trailhead heads up the valley. Paddlers should book a day on the Marsyangdi River, one of Nepal's best whitewater runs. Climb to the historic Lamjung Durbar above town, and catch a clear morning at the Lamjung Himal and Gangapurna viewpoint.
Tap any spot below for what to expect and how to reach it. While planning the wider trip, see where Besisahar fits among the best places to visit in Nepal and read up on the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Good to know
- On foot: The bazaar and the trailhead are easy walks in town; the first trek villages of Bhulbhule and Khudi are a short walk or jeep ride up the valley.
- Timing: Visit Lamjung Durbar and the viewpoint in the clear morning, and save the bazaar for the busy afternoon when jeeps load up.
- Trekking base: Besisahar is the trailhead of the Annapurna Circuit, so stock up and sort permits here before heading into the hills — see the Annapurna Circuit from Besisahar collection.
- Onward: The rough jeep road to Chame and Manang starts at Besisahar and climbs the Marsyangdi valley.
- Plan the stop: Sort a base with where to stay in Besisahar and the journey with how to get to Besisahar, or see the Besisahar travel hub for the full picture.
Sights & attractions
Trekking & treks
Rafting & rivers
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in Besisahar?+
The main draws are the busy Marsyangdi-valley bazaar, the start of the Annapurna Circuit trek, Marsyangdi River rafting, the historic Lamjung Durbar above town, and big views of Lamjung Himal and Gangapurna. Besisahar is also the roadhead for jeeps heading up the valley to Chame and Manang.
How long should you spend in Besisahar?+
Half a day to a night covers the bazaar, the trailhead, Lamjung Durbar and the mountain views. Trekkers usually overnight here before starting the Annapurna Circuit toward Bhulbhule and Khudi, while rafters base here for a day or two on the Marsyangdi.
Is Besisahar good for trekkers?+
Yes — Besisahar is the classic trailhead of the Annapurna Circuit, the place where most walkers begin the great loop around the Annapurna massif. It is the last big bazaar to organise permits, guides, porters and supplies before heading up the Marsyangdi valley.
When is the best time to visit Besisahar?+
October to November and March to April bring dry, clear weather, the best mountain views and ideal conditions for trekking and rafting out of Besisahar. The town is warm in spring and the monsoon swells the Marsyangdi and can wash out the rough mountain roads, so autumn and spring are most reliable.
