Gangapurna is a 7,455 m mountain that overlooks the village of Manang, with a great glacier flowing down its face into a milky blue lake. It is one of the most spectacular close views on the Annapurna Circuit, and it is where most trekkers spend an acclimatisation day.
The mountain above Manang
Manang is the most important halt on the Annapurna Circuit, and Gangapurna fills the southern sky above it. The height is 7,455 m (24,459 ft). Its steep hanging glacier is a constant presence, with the sound of ice cracking on some days.
Gangapurna Lake
A short walk from the village leads to a milky glacial lake at the foot of the ice. The water gets its colour from fine rock flour carried by the glacier. This walk is one of the traditional acclimatisation hikes, and the viewpoint over the lake is a good place to rest and take pictures.
First ascent
The first ascent was in 1965, and since then the peak has seen a few attempts. The face is steep and glaciated, and the climb is a serious high-altitude objective.
How to use the acclimatisation day
Many trekkers walk to the lake and up to a viewpoint, then descend to sleep at Manang. This follows the rule of climbing high and sleeping low, which helps the body to adjust. Read the Manang guides for other day walks.
Relation to Annapurna II and III
From Manang you see Gangapurna to the south, and Annapurna III shares the ridge to the west. Annapurna II stands to the east. A clear morning gives a wide panorama.
Safety
Avalanches and ice falls happen on the mountain, so keep to marked paths and away from the glacier edge. Do not walk on the ice without a guide.
Common questions
Is Gangapurna a trekking peak? No. Can I swim in the lake? It is cold and silty, so no. What is the best season? October, November and April.
Why Manang is a good halt
Manang sits at about 3,500 m, high enough to affect the body but low enough to be comfortable. It has bakeries, simple cinemas showing mountain films and a clinic that gives talks on altitude sickness. A rest day here is an important part of the Annapurna Circuit plan.
A morning walk to the viewpoint
A good short walk climbs to a viewpoint above the village, with the glacier and lake in front of you. Go slowly, take water and a camera, and return in time for a late breakfast. The walk gives you a chance to feel how your body is adjusting to altitude.
Ice, water and the village
The glacier supplies water to the valley, and the lake acts as a natural reservoir. Climate change has caused some retreat of the ice, which changes how the area looks from year to year. Ask your guide how the view has changed over the years they have known it.
Food and rest
The lodges in Manang serve filling meals that suit high altitude, including dal bhat, noodle soups and porridge. Eat well, drink plenty of fluids and sleep as much as you can. Avoid alcohol until you have crossed the pass.
More questions
Can I see Gangapurna from the Annapurna Circuit trail? Yes, from Manang and Gangapurna Lake. Is the walk to the lake hard? No, it is short and moderate. Is it the same as Annapurna III? No, they are neighbouring but separate peaks.
