when to trek annapurna circuit

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Annapurna Circuit – Nepal’s Classic Circuit Trek

Asia , Hikes , Nepal

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most popular and most epic treks in Nepal . This classic trek meanders through Himalayan foothills and over high passes, offering picturesque mountain views along the way. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Route overview.

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the greatest treks in Nepal, if not the world.

Although road construction over the past two decades has severely impacted the trekking experience (more on this later).

Note: if you are a mountain biker, the road on the western side makes for one of the most exhilarating and scenic mountain biking experiences!

Where Does The Annapurna Circuit Start and End?

The trek begins at Besisahar (which is a 7-8 hour drive from Kathmandu) and concludes in the Kali Gandaki Gorge – the disputed highest gorge in the world that separates Dhaulagiri (8,176 meters) in the West and Annapurna (8,091 meters) in the East.

The circuit is traditionally followed on an anti-clockwise trail – for acclimatization reasons – that circumvents the Annapurna Massif. It takes trekkers through the Annapurna, Manang and Mustang region of central Nepal.

Route Details

At its pinnacle, the trek crosses the Thorung La Pass (5,416 meters) before descending down to the town of Muktinath. From here the road construction activities  (2004 -2008/09) have had a measurable impact on the Annapurna Circuit trekking experience.

The Nepalese government have realized that the road on both the Western (Pokhara-Muktinath) and Eastern (Chame-Manang) side of the circuit has had a negative impact on trekking tourism. Thus, they have created a number of New Annapurna Trekking Trails (called NATT-trails).

These NATT-trails, marked blue and white or red and white, take trekkers away from the dusty and unpleasant roads. The alternative routes provide a much more pleasant trekking experience. 

How Long Is The Annapurna Circuit?

The Annapurna circuit typically takes between 16-20 days to complete. This is depending if you decide to tack on a diversion to Annapurna Base Camp  and the  Annapurna Sanctuary ). It covers between 150-240 km depending on when you decide to end the tour or use transportation vehicles.

Scenery and Landscape

The scenery on the Annapurna Circuit is extraordinarily beautiful. Trekkers pass through rice terraced paddy fields, subtropical forests, and glacial environments.

 You will see a number of major mountains including the Annapurna Massif (I-IV), three 8,000 metre peaks – Dhaulagiri (8,176 meters), Manaslu (8,156 meters) and Annapurna I (8,091 meters). There are numerous other peaks of 6,000 to 7,000 meters.

Please Note: The Annapurna Circuit is situated in the Annapurna and Mustang regions of central Nepal. It is home to the Annapurna Massif. The schematic below illustrates Nepal’s trekking regions (not to scale).

Annapurna Regional Map

The Annapurna Circuit is situated in the Annapurna and Mustang regions of central Nepal. It is home to the Annapurna Massif. The schematic illustrates Nepal’s trekking regions (not to scale)

Annapurna Trek Altitude Profile

The schematic diagram below shows the route altitude profile for the Annapurna Circuit.

Annapurna Circuit Itinerary

Below is a detailed Annapurna Circuit itinerary. Where possible we have highlighted the NATT-Trails that can be used to avoid the road. Please note that this is a typical Annapurna Circuit itinerary. Some tour operators offer variations on this route.

Day 1-2: Arrive Kathmandu (Drive to Besisahar / Fly to Pokhara)

Arrive in Kathmandu, usually spend a day sightseeing in the capital city.

See more in our guide on what to do in Kathmandu . 

Drive from Kathmandu (1,300 meters) to Besisahar / Khudi (circa 800 meters) via bus. The trip takes between 7 and 8 hours, meandering through countryside villages.

The Annapurna Circuit typically starts at Besisahar, an hour’s trek from Khudi. Some operators may drive you to Khudi and commence the trek from there.

Day 3: Trek from Besisahar (820 meters) to Khudi and onto Bahundanda (1,310 meters)

Trek from Besisahar (820 meters) to Khudi and onto Bahundanda (1,310 meters). This traditional route has been impacted by the road construction so some operators have started using new trails that bypass the road. Instead, you go  to the village of Sikrung (2,200 meters).

The latter is a fairly steep climb to a rather high altitude. But it does offer a more untainted Annapurna trekking experience. Expect to trek between 6-7 hours.

Day 4: Trek from Bahundanda (1,310 meters) / or Sirung (2,200 meters) to Jagat (1,300 meters) or potentially Chamje (1,410 meters)

Trek from Bahundanda (1,310 meters) / or Sirung (2,200 meters) to Jagat (1,300 meters) or potentially Chamje (1,410 meters). If on day 4 you followed the traditional route to Bahundanda, you will trek to Ghermu (1,130 meters) and onto Jagat. You might stay the night here or take a steep hour-long trek up to Chamje (1,410 meters).

We recommend staying the night at Chamje instead of Jagat, which is a dirty and crowded village. If on day 4 you stopped at Sikrung, you will likely follow a route via Syange (1,100 meters) to Jagat and up to Chamje.

Expect to see great rice terraced landscapes and views of the Manaslu Range during early stages of this day’s trekking.

Day 5: Trek from Jagat / Chamje (1,300 / 1,410 meters) to Dharapani (1,960 meters)

Trek from Jagat / Chamje (1,300 / 1,410 meters) to Dharapani (1,960 meters). Continuing north into the Manang region, you will trek through agricultural fields of corn and potatoes and then forests of rhododendrons.

Eventually reach the quaint village of Tal (1,700 meters). From Tal you will trek for another 6 kms (circa 3 hours) via Karte to the village of Dharapani (1,960 meters).

Day 6: Trek from Dharapani (1,960 meters) to Chame (2,710 meters) via Bagarchap and Danakyu, and then either along the lower trail or upper trail to Koto (2,640 meters)

Trek from Dharapani (1,960 meters) to Chame (2,710 meters) via Bagarchap and Danakyu, and then either along the lower trail or upper trail to Koto (2,640 meters).

From Koto you trek a further hour to the busy village of Chame. Some trekkers and operators prefer an overnight stay in the quieter village of Koto. On this rather steep trekking day you will get some great views of Annapurna II and IV, as well as Lamjung Himal.

Day 7: Trek from Chame (2,710 meters) to Pisang via Bhratang (2,850 meters) and Dhukur Pokhari (3,240 meters)

Trek from Chame (2,710 meters) to Pisang via Bhratang (2,850 meters) and Dhukur Pokhari (3,240 meters). From Dhukur Pokhari the trail splits and you may either trek to Upper Pisang (3,310 meters) or to Lower Pisang (3,250 meters) for an overnight stay.

If you take the latter to Lower Pisang we highly recommend re-joining the upper trail on day 8. This provides arguably the best views of the whole Annapurna Circuit.

Day 8: Trek using the upper trail from Pisang (3,310 meters) to Manang (3,450 meters) via Ghyaru (3,730 meters), Ngawal (3,680 meters), Humde (3,330 meters and Bhraga (3,450 meters)

Trek using the upper trail from Pisang (3,310 meters) to Manang (3,450 meters) via Ghyaru (3,730 meters), Ngawal (3,680 meters), Humde (3,330 meters and Bhraga (3,450 meters).

The mountain views on this portion of the Circuit are exceptional, as are the quaint villages along the trail. A visit to Barge monastery is worthwhile before the final stretch to Manang.

Day 9: Acclimatization day in Manang

Manang is one of the main towns on the Circuit. Many trekkers take this opportunity to spend a rest acclimatization day in the town.

Short excursions to the Gangapurna Lake and Bhojo Gompa (a Buddhist ecclesiastical fortification of learning) are common among trekkers. There are also day trips around the town. You might want to consider visiting the offices of the Himalayan Rescue Association for a talk on high altitude risks.

Day 10: Trek from Manang northwest out of the Marshyangdi Valley and up to the small village of Yak Kharka (4,110 meters)

Trek from Manang northwest out of the Marshyangdi Valley and up to the small village of Yak Kharka (4,110 meters). If you haven’t started feeling the effects of altitude yet, you might start doing so from today. Some trekkers continue onto the tiny village of Letdar (4,200 meters). Teahouse accommodation is limited in both these villages.

Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka (4,110 meters) to High Camp (4,850 meters)

Trek from Yak Kharka (4,110 meters) to High Camp (4,850 meters). This is a fairly tough and steep day. Some tour operators will stop for the night at Thorang Phendi (4,450 meters). This is a good idea if trekkers are struggling with the altitude.

However, continuing on to High Camp is, in our opinion, preferable. This is because it makes the next day’s treks to Muktinath (3,800 meters) a lot shorter and easier. Accommodation facilities and amenities in Thorang Phendi and High Camp are both good. Please note: continuing onto High Camp means sleeping at high altitude, which is not advised if you are suffering from acute mountain sickness (AMS) symptoms .

Day 12: Trek from High Camp (4,850 meters) across the Thorung Pass (the highest point on the trek at 5,416 meters) and then back down to Muktinath (3,800 meters) via Charabu (4,230 meters)

Trek from High Camp (4,850 meters) across the Thorung Pass (the highest point on the trek at 5,416 meters). You then go back down to Muktinath (3,800 meters) via Charabu (4,230 meters). Prepare for a tough, icy-cold day of trekking. The descent from Thorung Pass is steep and trekking poles come in handy. Muktinath, although an important pilgrimage site for both Hindu’s (see the Vishnu Temple) and Buddhists (see the Monastery), is a rather characterless village. Depending on your operator, you will likely stay overnight in Muktinath. For independent trekkers, the Bob Marley Guesthouse in the center of town is a great shout!

Day 13: Trek from Muktinath (3,800 meters) to Marpha (2,665 meters) via the awesome village of Kagbeni (2,800 meters)

Trek from Muktinath (3,800 meters) to Marpha (2,665 meters) via the awesome village of Kagbeni (2,800 meters). From Kagbeni to Jomsom we recommend taking a jeep to avoid the unpleasant dusty roads.

Once you get to Jomsom you can join the ne NATT-trail (which is 2 hours longer than the road option) to Marpha. Marpha is famous for being the centre of the apple region in Nepal. Do try the apple brandy if you get a chance.

Day 14: Trek from Marpha (2,665 meters) to Kalopani (2,530 meters), via Chokhopani, and continue to Kokhethanti to avoid the road

Trek from Marpha (2,665 meters) to Kalopani (2,530 meters), via Chokhopani, and continue to Kokhethanti to avoid the road. Some trekkers grab a jeep from Marpha all the way to Tatapani (see day 15).

Day 15: Trek from Kolapani (2,530 meters) to Tatapani (1,200 meters)

Trek from Kolapani (2,530 meters) to Tatapani (1,200 meters). Using a new NATT-trail (marked in red and white), you can avoid the road and follow a trail that climbs steeply before joining a path that will take you through the towns of Kopochepani, Rupsechhahara, Dana and finally Tatapani.

Day 16: Trek up from Tatapani (1,200 meters) to Ghorepani (2,870 meters)

Trek up from Tatapani (1,200 meters) to Ghorepani (2,870 meters), via the towns of Ghara, Sikha and Chitre. You will most likely stay overnight in Ghorepani in preparation for an early start the next day.

Day 17: Trek from Ghorepani (2,870 meters) up Poon Hill (3,870 meters) and back down to Tadapani (2,710 meters)

Trek from Ghorepani (2,870 meters) up Poon Hill (3,870 meters) and back down to Tadapani (2,710 meters). You will start this days trekking early so as to get up Poon Hill for the impressive sunrise. First light illuminates surrounding rice terraces and Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. The classic Annapurna Circuit trek then descends to Tadapani for an overnight stay.

Note: we have heard that instead of heading up Poon Hill, the hill opposite in the direction of Chomrong provides an equally impressive (if not better view) without any crowding issues.

Day 18: Trek from Tadapani (2,710 meters) to Naya Pul (1,070 meters) via Gandruk and then catch a short bus ride back to Pokhara

Trek from Tadapani (2,710 meters) to Naya Pul (1,070 meters) via Gandruk and then catch a short bus ride back to Pokhara. This is the end of the Annapurna Circuit and an extraordinary 18 days!

Note: It is possible to follow the old Annapurna Circuit from Ghorepani to Phedi via Landruk, although this takes an extra 2 days compared to the direct exit from Ghorepani to Naya Pul.

Please Note: From Muktinath onwards the classic Annapurna Circuit has been severely impacted by the road that joins Jomsom to Muktinath. If you choose to trek this route be prepared for an unpleasant and dusty experience, as jeeps wiz by you. Thankfully there are alternative options via the New Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT-trails).

Suggested route options from Muktinath

If you are not on a set tour we suggest the following route:

• Trek to the charmingly wonderful town of Kagbeni (2,800 meters) for an overnight stay. We recommend taking the high trail out of Muktinath via Jhong, as this offers better mountain views
• From Kagbeni to Jomsom take a jeep as dust driven from the common winds in this region and the constant flow of vehicles on the road make for unpleasant trekking
• From Jomsom take the new NATT-trail (marked in red and white) to Marpha (2,665 meters) where you can stay overnight and then continue following the route set out from Day 13 below

Also Note: As the road starts in Muktinath, you can cheat and catch a truck all the way to Jomsom. Continue your trek or catch a flight to Kathmandu if you need to shorten your trek (we highly recommend not skipping Kagbeni though). You can also get a bus from Muktinath all the way back to Pokhara if you have run out of time. If you are a mountain biking fanatic you can rent a mountain bike to take one of the most amazing rides down and out of Muktinath – this area of Nepal is fast becoming mountain biking Mecca

Annapurna Route Variations

There are a number of route variations on the Annapurna Circuit. Here are three worth mentioning.

If you don’t have much time in the Annapurna Circuit you may want to consider the Poon Hill Trek ,  The Royal Trek  or the  Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (also called the small Annapurna Circuit). Nepal is heaven for trekkers and has some of the best thru-hikes in the world .

• Annapurna base Camp Trek
• Naar-Pho Valley
• Tilicho Lake

It is possible to include a five day diversion to Annapurna Base Camp onto the Annapurna Circuit trek. This involves continuing north from Tadapani so as to join the old Annapurna Circuit at Landruk.

Read more about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

A variation to the Annapurna Circuit that has been growing in popularity since opening to foreigners in 2002 is the Naar-Pho Valley.

The route begins near Koto (on day 5/6 of the classic Annapurna Circuit) and follows a trail via two distinctly Tibetan villages – Phugaon and Naar – which are both located at over 4,000 meters. After nine days trekking the route exits via the Kang La Pass (5,300 meters) to Ngawal, where you re-join the Annapurna Circuit on your way to Manang. The detour via the Naar-Pho Valley in effect adds seven days to the traditional Annapurna Circuit as you would have spent two days trekking from Koto to Ngawal and on to Manang had you stayed on the main track.

A special permit, which can only be organised through a trekking agency, is required to enter the Naar-Pho Valley. You will also need to take a guide as tourist infrastructure is poor. Most trekkers opt for the traditional camping style of trekking with porters, tents and cooks.

A 3-4 day trek to Tilicho Lake (4,920 meters), one of the highest lakes in the world, has become a relatively popular diversion on the Annapurna Circuit.

The trek starts in Manang, and follows a path on the northern side of the valley to Khangsar (note: there are maps that show a path on the southern side of the valley but we recommend avoiding this as it is in poor condition and prone to landslides).

From Khangsar there are two paths that leave the town – the lower and upper path. Take the upper path, as it is safer, until you reach Shree Kharka where you can overnight at one of the two teahouses there.

From Shree Kharka walk about 45 miuntes until you reach point where the path splits into a lower and upper trail. Make sure to take the lower trail (the upper trail is marked ‘Danger’). A further 3 hours trekking and you will arrive at Tilicho Base Camp where you can stay overnight at one of the teahouses.

Depart Tilicho Base Camp early the next morning to avoid the high winds and clouds that roll in by mid-morning. The trek up to the lake is steep and tough. It takes about 3 hours and can be very cold due to the altitude, so dress warmly. The descent follows the same path back to Base Camp (approx. an hour) or to Shree Kharka (4 hours from the lake). Overnight at Shree Kharka.

The next day take a trail (which is signposted) directly to Yak Kharka via Old Khangasar, where you re-join the Annapurna Circuit.

Recommended Guidebook

Need an up-to-date guide book with maps that include the NATT-Trails? We recommend either Andrées de Ruiter and Prem Rai’s guide, Trekking the Annapurna Circuit , or Sian Pritchard-Jones and Bob Gibbons guide, Annapurna: A Trekker’s Guide .

Annapurna Circuit FAQ

How much does it cost to hike the annapurna circuit.

The cost of an Annapurna Circuit varies depending on which route variation you take. It also depends when you trek (out of season tends to be a little cheaper) and whether to trek with a local or western trekking agency, or indeed independently.

We have provided a detailed Annapurna Circuit Cost article here but in summary you should budget for the following key expenses:

Visa, Vaccinations, Insurance etc: ~$300-$500

Equipment (buying and hiring): ~$500-$800

Flights to Kathmandu:  ~$1,000

Tour Agency: ~$1000 for a cheap local agency to ~$3,000 for a pricey Western trekking agency. You could do an independent trek for ~$700 employing a local guide

check out our list of Nepal trekking companies recommendations .

Tips:  ~$200-$300

Misc (additional food, unplanned travel / hotels ect):  $200

Total Costs:  $2,500 – $5,000

Do I need a permit for the Annapurna Circuit?

Yes. An Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit and Trekker Information Management System registration are required for the Annapurna Circuit trek.

If you are joining an organised tour, these will be arranged for you. If you are looking to go it alone you will have to bring four passport-sized photographs and go to the offices of the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu to apply. We recommend bringing copies of your passport and insurance policy. The offices follow government working hours and days, and are not open on Sunday.

When is the best time to hike the Annapurna Circuit?

The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is either in the Spring (March to Mid May) or in the Autumn (mid / late September to December). Unfortunately these also happen to be the busiest times of the year as they are the best time for Nepal trekking ..

Towards December the weather starts getting particularly cold and the routes get distinctly quieter. If you are a hardened trekker a winter Annapurna Circuit (late December through February) can provide a very authentic Nepal trekking experience.

The main challenge of a winter trek, apart from the cold, is the snow and ice that often obstructs the higher trails and the Thorung Pass. During bad winter seasons these trails may be closed.

Unlike the Everest region that gets very wet during the rainy monsoon season, the Annapurna and Mustang regions stay relatively dry, making June through September, a relatively good time to trek as well.

Here’s a detailed article on  weather on the Annapurna Circuit .

Is altitude sickness a risk on the Annapurna Circuit?

Yes, some trekkers do suffer from altitude sickness on the Annapurna Circuit as it is a high altitude trek. At its highest point, Thorung Pass, you will reach an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).

Fortunately because of the circuits length the opportunities for appropriate acclimatisation are good. Hence, the prevalence of moderate or sever altitude sickness is low.

Nonetheless, it is important to have a detailed understanding of the risks associated with high altitude trekking and how the body acclimatises.

We recommend you read our detailed article on  Altitude Sickness and Acclimatisation .

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit hike?

The Annapurna Circuit trek is challenging. You will be trekking for 4-7 hours a day for over two weeks, so you will need to be peak physical condition. The best way to prepare is to get as many kilometres under foot on hikes in your home country.

What do I need to pack for the Annapurna Circuit trek?

Trekking in the Annapurna region requires a number of essential pieces of trekking clothing and equipment. AC is a long and tough trek. You will be exposed you to a range of altitudes where temperatures fluctuate dramatically between night and day.

Many pieces of equipment can be rented or bought in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Even so, we recommend bringing the most important pieces of gear with you.

We've written a detailed Annapurna hiking packing list .

Insurance Information

Trekking insurance is a must in Nepal. This is particularly the case in the Annapurna Region, which at stages is very remote. If an accident should occur that requires medical assistance and evacuation you will definitely want trekking insurance that can cover the costs of air ambulance and treatment.

Moreover, it is prudent to have insurance that covers you for any travel related risks. insurance should cover stolen, damaged or delayed baggage; flight delays and interruptions; and tour operators default.

This article on travel and trekking insurance in Nepal provides detailed information on what type of insurance you need.

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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Thanks for the useful information. Really helpful!

Hi Mark, this is a really nice blog with very comprehensive information!!

I'd like to do the trekking on my own, as an independent trekker, but I've heard that there are some new regulations comming for this year (2023) and that a local guide or agency is mandatory to do the central part of the annapurna circuit. Also, that the TIMS can not be got by independent trekkers but only if you hire an agency. Would you have any up to day news about it?

Hi Daniel, thanks for checking in. I’m not aware of the new regulations, but it is definitely possible. Nepal authorities have been talking about this for years. Here’s the latest from the Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2023/mar/30/nepal-imposes-ban-on-mountain-trekking-without-a-guide

We work with local guides to offer great value adventures at unbeatable prices

The Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary: the ultimate guide

This post offers you the ultimate Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary. The Annapurna Circuit trek was once the most popular tea house trek in Nepal . In about a month it was possible to walk around the Annapurna mountain peaks. This trek was famous for its ethnic villages, natural beauty and easy access from Kathmandu or Pokhara. 

But the Annapurna Circuit trek has changed tremendously in recent years. There was a time that the further up you went, the more isolated the villages were. It took people days on foot to reach the nearest city, the nearest school or the nearest health care post. For tourists, this remoteness was part of the charm.   

Ongoing road construction now connects most villages on the Annapurna Circuit with the outside world. Jeeps drive up and down on dusty roads, changing the landscape for better and worse. Tourists planning a trek in Nepal are wondering whether the Annapurna Circuit trek is still worth it.

Why choose the Annapurna Circuit trek

Despite the new roads going up the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki valleys, the Annapurna Circuit trek is still very much worth it. Although many things have changed with the new roads, a lot of things also remained the same. People are just as friendly, the villages just as authentic and the mountain views just as spectacular. 

In short, it is still a very beautiful trek with a huge variety in landscapes, villages and people. The road itself is nothing more than a dirt track and actually carries relatively little traffic. In addition, there are plenty of alternative side trails to bypass them all together. The NATT trails set up by Prem Rai and Andrees de Ruiter are well marked and follow the traditional circuit, but avoid the road as much as possible.   

The Annapurna Circuit trek requires a certain amount of time, but most of the hike is easygoing. Gradual climbs and well marked trails with frequent restaurants and lodges to take a break. What makes it challenging is the tough day you climb the Thorung La Pass and the altitude after Manang. 

To prevent altitude sickness it is important to give yourself enough time to acclimatize. Don’t go up too fast and take some days to rest. The better your body has adjusted to the height, the easier the climb up to Thorung La will be.   

This was my first trek in Nepal and even though many others followed such as the Langtang Trek , Poon Hill trek and The Gokyo lakes trek , I still consider myself an amateur hiker. Thorung La was difficult, but I made it. If I can do it, you can too, as long as you prepare well. 

Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary

The classic Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary started in Besisahar where you climbed up the Marsyangdi valley towards Manang, crossed the Thorung La Pass, visited Muktinath and Jomsom and then walked down the Kali Gandaki valley towards Beni. This took about 20 – 30 days

The roads give you more flexibility in where to start or end the trail as well as how much time you take. Jeeps go as far up as Manang on the Marsyangdi valley side and Muktinath on the Kali Gandaki valley side.

Clockwise or anti Clockwise ?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a loop with different starting and end points. The first thing to decide is whether you hike clockwise starting at the Kali Gandaki valley or anti clockwise starting at the Marsyangdi valley. 

The general advice and also my recommendation is to hike anti clockwise from east to west. This is the easier and safer direction to go. The Marsyangdi valley offers a more gradual climb and Manang is a great village to acclimatize well, before attempting Thorung La. 

The Thorung La Pass is at 5416 meters high and altitude sickness is a serious risk. From Manang to Thorong La, there are several more villages like Yak Kharka (4020 m) and Letdar (4230 m) to stop and acclimatize or get help if you do suffer from altitude sickness. Thorung Phedi (4450 m) and High Camp (4850 m) are the last lodges before the pass. 

From west to east the last village is Muktinath (3750 m) and a few basic lodges at Charabu (4210 m). After the last lodge it is a very long and steep ascent to Thorung La with nothing in between. Taking this approach is not only more difficult and requires you to be very fit, it is also potentially dangerous. You go high quickly and without proper acclimatization small things like bad weather or an injury can become very problematic. 

How much time?

The roads have made it possible to do the Annapurna Circuit trek in much less time than the original 30 days. Still, the Annapurna Circuit trek is an area where slow travel is very rewarding. The villages on the way are very interesting and a destination in their own right. Furthermore, there are lots of side trips to escape the crowds.

Another reason to take it slow on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is again the altitude. Yes it is possible to take a jeep all the way to Manang (3520), but you will not only miss out on lots of beautiful scenery, you will also increase your risk of getting altitude sickness.   

Looking at the distances and trekking times, it looks possible to trek from Manang to Thorong La in less than two days, but again, this would be very foolish. Experts advise to not ascend more than 300 – 400 meters per day once you are above 3000 meters high. 

On the Annapurna Circuit trek this advice translates in at least one acclimatization day in Manang and another acclimatization day in Letdar before spending the night at Thorung Phedi. I followed exactly this advice and still struggled with the altitude when crossing the Thorung La pass. 

Even if you are short on time, you need to acclimatize. You could do the Annapurna Circuit trek in 2 weeks if you decide to fly from Jomsom back to Pokhara. If you have more time, walking down the Kali Gandaki valley is definitely worth it. Although road construction has had a big impact here, I still enjoyed the villages of Marpha and Tukuche as well as the scenery from Tukuche to Letdar and Ghasa. 

Where to start the Annapurna Circuit trek

With jeeps now going all the way to Manang, where to start the Annapurna Circuit trek has become a big question. I already mentioned that going straight to Manang isn’t the best idea for several reasons. In fact, my favorite trekking days were from Chame to Pisang and Pisang to Manang. 

Some trekkers still decide to follow the original Annapurna circuit trek itinerary and start at Besisahar. Because I had recently done the Poon Hill trek through the lower foothills of the Annapurna’s I decided to take a jeep up to Syange. 

Others start at Bhulbhule or Chame. To help you decide, it is maybe good to know that the road is most busy between Besisahar and Bhulbhule although there is an alternative NATT trail as well. 

From Kathmandu there are direct buses all the way up to Bhulbhule. The direct bus is a great option if you like to start in Bhulbhule. If you prefer to start later on, it is better to take a bus to Besisahar and then change to local jeeps that go all the way to Syange, Chame or even Manang. 

My personal advice is to start no further than Chame. The scenery after Chame is very beautiful.   

Where to end the Annapurna Circuit

A lot of hikers end their Annapurna Circuit trek in Jomsom from where you can fly back to Pokhara. A comfortable option if you are short on time, but you will miss out on the beauty of the Kali Gandaki valley. 

Marpha and Tukuche are very scenic traditional villages worth a visit. Furthermore, the hike from Tukuche to Lete and Ghasa is very beautiful. I hiked in the Kali Gandaki valley twice. The first time I ended my hike in Tatopani. A small village with warm water pools. The second time I ended my hike in Ghasa. 

From both towns it is possible to take a jeep down to Beni. There you can change on a bus to Pokhara. 

My Annapurna circuit trek itinerary    

In this Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary I mention every day the amount of time it took me from start to finish. I am a slow hiker though. I like to take frequent breaks to enjoy the beautiful views. If you are a fit hiker, you can probably do it in much less time

Day 1: Bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar/Syange

I started my Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary from Kathmandu where I took a bus to Besisahar. The original start of the trail. After a long and bumpy bus ride of 8 hours in a crowded bus I was happy to arrive for a late lunch. 

I was curious about the new road all the way up to Manang. As I had recently done the Poon Hill trek I already saw the lower foothills of the Annapurnas in all its beauty and decided to skip the first two days of trekking by taking a jeep to Syange. 

At the jeep station I quickly found a jeep that was slowly filling up. Jeeps leave mostly in the early mornings. It was already late in the afternoon and now it took at least two hours before the jeep had enough passengers and cargo.

It is only 30 kilometers from Besisahar to Syange, but the jeep journey took over 3 hours. I soon regretted my decision not to walk. The first part to Bhulbule was quite ok, but after that the road got really bad and scary. 

I am glad I had a careful driver that knew what he was doing and took it slow. Not all drivers are like that in Nepal. There was even an extra person that frequently got out to check the road or to remove stones. Just as it got dark I saw the lodges of Syange. 

Logistics : Direct buses to Besisahar (7 – 8 hours) and Bhulbule (8 – 9 hours) leave everyday from the Gongabu bus station (new bus park or Machapokhari) in Kathmandu. Get there early as it is a chaotic bus station and buses leave between 6 – 8 AM in the morning. It is best to reserve your tickets a day in advance at the bus station or at a travel agency in Thamel. 

For destinations further up the trail (Syange, Ghermu, Chame, Pisang, Manang) take a bus to Besisahar. Jeeps leave from the jeep bus station in Besisahar. There is a dual price system with foreigners paying slightly more. 

Personally, I would start walking in Bhulbule and certainly not go much further than Syange by jeep. After Bhulbhule the road is not in a very good condition and the journey will be adventurous to say the least. 

Day 2: Syange – Tal  

16 kilometers, 8 hours

I always feel excited on my first day of hiking. Being in the mountains with the fresh air feels invigorating. After an early breakfast I left Syange and immediately entered a narrow gorge where I shared the road with porters carrying chickens and goats. 

Walking on the jeep road wasn’t as bad as I had imagined and there was little traffic. The scenery was nice with waterfalls on the other side of the road and the Marsyangdi river below. 

The Marsyangdi river kept me company for the rest of the day. I had lunch in Chamye after which it was a steep climb over boulders up to Tal. 

Insider tip: there is an alternative NATT trail from Ghermu to Jagat that bypasses the road. It is much longer and I heard the path is very narrow and close to the edge. With my fear of heights I decided to stay on the road. 

Day 3: Tal – Danaque

11 kilometers, 5 hours

From Tal you can choose to make it a long day to Chame (20+ kilometers) or split it up in two days and spend the night somewhere in between. 

I left Tal to see how far I would come that day. Till Dharapani the trail was very quiet and scenic with several waterfalls. At Dharapani the trail joined the road again. Both Dharapani and Bagarchap are nice villages with lots of restaurants.

At Bagarchap I had my first Annapurna views and I stopped for lunch. I already knew Chame would be too far for me, but I could still hike a bit more and decided to continue to Danaque. A nice village with a Mani wall and prayer wheel. 

Insider tip : It is possible to take an alternative NATT trail from Dharapani to Bagarchap up to the village of Odar. It adds 2 hours to your trekking time and is a steep 200 meter climb up and down again.

Day 4: Danaque – Chame

12 kilometers, 6 hours

Today started with a steep and long climb through the forests from Danaque to Timang. A difficult beginning, but the rewards were beautiful mountain views once I reached the top. After Timang the ascent became more gradual and passed the occasional village. 

I noticed more and more Buddhist influences like mani walls, prayer wheels and chortens. The mountain views too became more beautiful as I approached Chame. A lively village right next to the Marsyangdi river.  

Day 5: Chame – Pisang

14 kilometers, 7 hours

The part from Chame to Pisang was simply spectacular. Panoramas on the snow capped peaks of the Annapurna’s all day as I hiked along the Marsyangdi river. The increase in altitude is also visible as pine forests give way to open fields with sweeping views.

This was one of my favorite days on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Parts of the road were carved out of the side of the mountain and high above the river. With my fear of heights this was a bit of a challenge, but I made it. 

When I arrived in Pisang it was tempting to stay in lower Pisang. I heard the views are much better from Upper Pisang though and so they were. 

Day 6: Pisang – Manang

18 kilometers, 8 hours

Pisang to Manang was another beautiful day on the Annapurna Circuit trek. The trail is a gentle climb with beautiful views all around you. I enjoyed every minute of my hike, but also started to feel the effects of the altitude. 

From Pisang to Manang you can choose to hike the easier lower trail or a more spectacular higher trail. Because I woke up with a slight headache I didn’t want to add 3 more hours to my hiking trail and choose the lower option on the road. 

I am sure the higher trail offers even better views, but for me it was a good decision to take it easy. By the time I was in Manang (3540 m) I was having mild symptoms of Altitude sickness. 

Day 7: Manang acclimatization

In Manang I had a much needed acclimatization day. My first night in Manang was a night of insomnia, vivid dreams and a mild throbbing headache that got only less in the early hours of the next day. Mild symptoms of altitude sickness.

Manang is a small village, but there are lots of side trip possibilities. The strenuous hike to the ice lake is very popular, but I did not feel fit enough. Another popular hike is to Chongkor viewpoint where you can see a glacial lake. There are also several gompa’s in the area you can visit. 

I went to the Chongkor viewpoint to see the lake and then visited the excellent information session about altitude sickness from the Himalayan Rescue Association. They give this for free every day at 3 pm. 

Day 8: Manang (3540) – Yak kharka (4020)

10 kilometers, 5 hours

My second night in Manang I slept well. I therefore decided to continue to Yak Kharka. An elevation increase of 500 meters. 

The climb was hard. Although the obvious symptoms of altitude sickness were gone, I was more easily out of breath and every step seemed to take a lot of energy. The next village, Gunsang, was only 3 kilometers away but I took a long tea break.

With a cup of tea and the sun warming me up in the chilly morning air I still felt so lucky to be here. The views on the Annapurnas and the flocks of birds flying by were all so beautiful. 

After Gunsang the landscape changed again to high altitude fields with shrubs and grazing goats. The trail climbs slowly to over 4000 meters high. Technically, the path is very easy, but my body was struggling more than ever.

I was glad to see the cluster of lodges at Yak Kharka. Yak Kharka translates as yak pastures and therefore it was no surprise to see a few yaks wandering around.  

Day 9: Yak kharka (4020) – Letdar (4230)

2 kilometers, 2 hours

I slept well at Yak Kharka and woke up full of energy. However, after only 20 minutes of hiking I felt tired and out of breath. Luckily I had already made the wise decision to stay in Letdar.

Letdar is less than 2 kilometers from Yak Kharka and it is a very easy hike, but I can feel my body needs an extra night to adjust to the altitude.  

Day 10: Letdar (4230) – Thorung Phedi (4540)

6 kilometers, 4 hours

With an extra night at Letdar I felt more prepared to continue to Thorung Phedi (4540). It was an easy hike except for a scary part where there is a risk of landslides. Thorung Phedi is right after that. 

It is possible to continue to High Camp (4850). The last lodge before Thorung La, but the general advice is not to sleep here, because of the altitude. It does make for a great afternoon hike to help acclimatization

Day 11: Thorung phedi – Muktinath

15 kilometers, 10 hours

The day you cross Thorung La will be the most beautiful, but also most difficult day on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

Most people start early as the weather is less windy in the morning. I started around 4 AM. The ascent to high camp was difficult and I definitely felt the altitude. At High Camp I was in doubt whether I should stay one more night here before attempting the pass. 

After a quick cup of tea I pushed myself on to continue. It was difficult. Every few steps I was out of breath and had to stop. My head started hurting again and I felt very tired. There were many false summits and I started to wonder whether I should turn back. 

After 4 hours I finally saw the bundle of prayer flags that is Thorung La at 5416 meter. I felt pure joy that I made it, but at the same time absolutely miserable because of the altitude. After a quick selfie I did not even want to stop for a cup of tea. All I wanted was to go to a lower altitude. 

The first hour I happily hiked down and started to feel better by the minute. Then I realized that the 1600 meter descent to Muktinath is actually more difficult than the ascent. My knees started hurting, my muscles trembling. 

It was a very long day. Looking down I could see Muktinath in the distance. Ít just didn’t seem to come closer. After 4 hours I arrived at a cluster of lodges called Charabu. If they weren’t full I would probably have stayed here. 

After a quick dahl bath I had to continue to Muktinath. The last bit was the most difficult. I stumbled into the first lodge I saw, had dinner and went to bed. 

Day 12: Muktinath – Kagbeni

12 kilometers, 4 hours

In Muktinath I woke up feeling all my muscles from the steep and long descent yesterday. Slowly I got out of bed. This is my third time in Muktinath. A small village home to an important Vishnu temple popular among Indian and Nepali pilgrims. 

As jeeps now go all the way from Pokhara to Muktinath, it is a busy town and a culture shock after the desolate stretch of barren rocks that I walked through yesterday. I brought a short visit to the temple and then walked straight to Jharkot. 

Jharkot is a traditional village with mud and stone houses. The signs of animist religions that predate Hinduism and Buddhism give a clue to its old age. Rather than just passing by I would recommend to take a look and wander through the narrow streets for a bit. 

After Jharkot, it is a beautiful hike down to Kagbeni. Another traditional village that is at the border of Lower and Upper Mustang. Mustang was once an independent kingdom that played a big part in the salt trade between Tibet and Nepal. 

Beyond Kagbeni lies Upper Mustang. A remote region that remains isolated and protected from mass tourism by expensive permits. Kagbeni is as far as you can get and gives a good sense of the unique culture of Upper Mustang that is still very close to that of Tibet. 

Kagbeni is an interesting mix of new hotels and restaurants catering to tourists as well as medieval monasteries and ancient fortress ruins. The 15th century red monastery stands out between the whitewashed mud homes. 

The Red House Lodge was one of the most interesting places where I stayed. It has its own 350 year old buddhist chapel and the best dried yak meat (yak sukuti). 

Day 13: Kagbeni – Marpha

17 kilometers, 6 hours

The hike from Kagbeni to Jomsom follows the riverbed of the Kali Gandaki river. The Kali Gandaki valley lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna mountains and therefore the landscapes are quite unique. 

Barren desertlike mountains that differ in color. Different shades of brown, gray and yellow contrast sharply with the deep blue sky, white snow capped peaks and green farm fields. 

South of Kagbeni starts Lower Mustang. An area home to the Thakali people that also played an important role in the salt trade. Between Kagbeni and Jomsom there is not much but spectacular landscapes. 

Jomsom is the first Thakali village. Because of its airport it is very well developed and touristic. This is where most people end their Annapurna Circuit trek and take a plane back to Pokhara. 

If you do decide to continue on foot it is much better to stay in Marpha. A more authentic Thakali village with an old monastery and the so-called apple capital of Nepal. I was not a big fan of the local dried apples, but the apple pies here were delicious. 

Day 14: Marpha – Tukuche

7 kilometers, 3 hours

I thought Marpha was one of the most interesting villages on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Marpha alone is a reason why you should not stop at Jomsom. 

Marpha is a true Thakali village and you can see that people have done much effort to preserve their traditional architecture and culture. Iconic are the flat mud roofs that are used to store stacks of firewood. The roofs are also used to dry the apples and other food items.  

Rather than leaving in the morning to start hiking, I spent some time exploring the village. There is a monastery in the center of the village as well as above the hill with beautiful views. You can also visit the apple gardens and taste apple products at the apple distillery. 

The Thakali people are famous for their cuisine. Tibetan dishes like Thukpa (noodle soup) and Tsampa (barley porridge) are popular. But most famous are the Thakali sets. A more luxurious version of dahl bath with all kinds of extras like fermented spinach (gundruk) and pickles (aachar). I couldn’t resist having one for lunch before hitting the trail again. 

Tukuche is only 7 kilometers away, but another picturesque Thakali village that is very well worth the detour from the main road. When I arrived they were filming a Nepali movie song and it seemed all the children of the village were out and about to see what was happening.  I also enjoyed the show and decided to stay in Tukuche for the night.  

Day 15: Tukuche – Ghasa

20 kilometers, 9 hours

After Tukuche the landscape started to become more green again with trees and bushes. Tukuche was the last lively Thakali village on the trail. The other villages were small with just a few lodges. They seemed rather empty and not that inviting.

I decided to hike all the way to Ghasa. It was a long day, but because it was downhill it was not that difficult. Right before Ghasa is a hanging bridge high above the river. I knew it was coming and with my fear of heights a scary experience. 

Day 16: Ghasa – Tatopani

15 kilometers, 6 hours

This was going to be my last day of hiking on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Back to the lower altitudes of the Annapurna’s, the landscapes reminded me a lot of the Poon hill trek . Lush and green and also more warm and humid. 

Yesterday’s day was maybe a bit too long for my liking, but the last kilometers of today I felt sad it would be over soon. Tatopani has several warm water pools annd they felt like a great reward after 17 days on the road. 

Day 17: Tatopani – Beni/Pokhara

From Tatopani I took the jeep to Beni. The road became more busy and there were not a lot of ways to avoid it. It is also possible to hike to Ghorepani and connect with the Poon Hill trek . 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek Travel tips

Annapurna circuit trek permits.

For the Annapurna Circuit trek you need two permits.

TIMS card : The Trekkers information management card is necessary for almost all treks in Nepal. You can get your TIMS card at the Tourism Board office at Bhrikuti Mandap in Kathmandu. Bring your passport and two passport size photos. The TIMS card costs 2000 nepalese rupees.  

Annapurna Conservation Area permit : For the Poonhill trek you also need a national park entrance permit. I recommend you to get it as well at the Tourism Board Office at Bhrikuti Mandap in Kathmandu. This costs 3000 nepalese rupees.  

Do I need a guide on the Annapurna Circuit?

The Annapurna Circuit trek is moderately difficult, but easy to do without a guide. The trails as well as the NATT trails are well marked. Unless you go off season there will be enough other hikers on the trail to keep you company. 

I hiked the Annapurna Circuit alone and did not experience any problems. When hiking alone I always make sure not to hike after sunset and listen carefully to my body. At Manang I did feel mild symptoms of altitude sickness and took two acclimatization days as well as an extra night in Yak Kharka and Letdar. 

If you are alone and not that experienced, you might want to consider joining a guided trek or hiring a guide, porter or porter guide. 

In Nepal there is a clear distinction between a porter and a guide. A guide shows you the way and can tell you more about the history and the culture of the places you visit. A porter will only carry your luggage. Despite their heavy burden they often walk far in front of you and might have reached the lodge when you are only midway. A porterguide is less common, but does both. 

In Pokhara I can recommend the 3 sisters adventure trekking that works to empower women and trains women to become trekking guides in Nepal.  

Update April 2023 : The Nepal Tourism Board issued a press release that trekking without a guide is no longer permitted from 1 April 2023 onwards. Trekkers planning to hike in Nepal’s National Parks where you normally need a TIM’s card should have a government licensed guide that is registered with the official Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) . It is unclear yet how this rule will play out in practice. Everest issued a press release stating that they will not enforce it. Other areas do. However, there are no guidelines on how they are going to implement the ban on solo trekking .

Accomodation on the Annapurna Circuit

Along the Annapurna Circuit trek there is plenty of accomodation and teahouses to choose from. They are basic and can’t be booked online beforehand. There is a first come first serve basis and some lodges are fully booked by big tour groups.

There are enough lodges that there will always be a bed for you somewhere. I trekked the Annapurna Circuit twice in spring and in November and never had any problems finding a place to stay. 

The prices of accomodation is incredibly cheap, sometimes even free, but they do expect you to order dinner and breakfast at their establishment. Things like hot showers and WIFI are getting more common, but are sometimes at an extra cost. 

Food on the Annapurna Circuit

The good thing about tea house treks in Nepal is that however basic lodges might be, the food is often quite good if you stick to Nepali cuisine . Yes, many lodges try all kinds of international dishes to attract tourists, but in my opinion often not the best choice.

When trekking in Nepal I eat Dahl bath at least once a day. This national dish of rice with lentils knows a huge variety in how it is prepared. Different vegetable curries from fermented spinach to roasted cauliflower and different pickles to spice it up. Not one dahl bath is the same. Other Nepali foods to try are Tibetan bread, Thukpa and Momo’s. 

The Annapurna’s are a multicultural area with local foods as well. In Kagbeni it is possible to find yak meat on the menu. Marpha is the apple capital and has the best apple pies as well as dried apples. In the south are the Gurungs with specialities like dried meats (sukuti) and fermented leaf curries (gundruk). 

When to hike the Annapurna Circuit

The best time to go trekking in Nepal is Spring and autumn. 

January and February are too cold with lots of snow on the trail. The Thorung La Pass will be closed due to heavy snowstorms and a risk of avalanches. By March/April the pass reopens again, but you can still expect snow at the higher altitudes.

April and May are the warmer months before the monsoon and a very good time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The blooming flowers and rhododendrons are a highlight in this period. At the lower altitudes it can already become hot, dusty and humid while the higher altitudes are comfortable. 

June, July and August are the monsoon months. The Marsyangdi valley up to Manang sees lots of rainfall. The trails will be muddy with lots of leeches, but the landscapes will be lush and green. The Kali Gandaki valley is in the rain shadow and sees much less rain. 

September, October and November are the most popular months for trekking. Autumn brings clear blue skies and mild temperatures before the cold sets in in December. Autumn is also a festive season with the celebration of Tihar and Dashain. Nepal’s biggest festivals . 

Regardless of the seasons, the weather conditions at Thorung La can change rapidly and there is always a chance of unstable weather, cold and snow storms. It is important to check the weather forecast before crossing Thorung La. A freak storm in October 2014 killed several trekkers as they got stuck in bad weather and snow.    

Altitude Sickness on the Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit trek involves a serious risk of altitude sickness. Crossing the Thorung La Pass at 5416 meters high requires proper acclimatization. To allow yourself enough time to do so, it is best to trek anti clockwise from east to west.

Experts advise to not ascend more than 300 – 400 meters per day once you are above 3000 meters high. Pisang (3310) is the first village above 3000 meters and that is why it is not wise to take a jeep straight to Manang at 3540 meters high. Those first days of walking at the lower altitudes are not only beautiful, but helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude.  

For the Annapurna Circuit trek, the general advice is to spend at least one acclimatization day in Manang and another day in Letdar before spending the night at Thorung Phedi. I followed exactly this advice and still struggled with the altitude when crossing the Thorung La pass.   

The key to prevent altitude sickness is to take it slow, give your body enough time to adjust to the height and to drink enough water. Diamox is a medicine that might help your body to acclimatize, but will not cure altitude sickness once you have severe symptoms. In that case, the only remedy is to go down to a lower altitude as soon as possible.

Mild symptoms may include being tired and more easily out of breath. More severe symptoms of high altitude sickness are headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, breathing problems, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. 

Severe symptoms indicate you are developing high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). Both conditions are fatal if you do not get to a lower altitude on time.   

Take these symptoms seriously and watch out for symptoms in others, even in your nepali guides or porters. It is a misconception that they cannot get altitude sickness. The health clinic in Manang gives daily information sessions about altitude sickness that I can highly recommend. 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek Books and Guides

Cicerone and trailblazer both have excellent and comprehensive guides about treks in Nepal with detailed guides about the Annapurna. Another option is the Lonely Planet’s trekking in the Nepal Himalayas guide. 

The Himalayan Map house published the guidebook from Prem Rai and Andrees de Ruiter who developed the NATT trails on the Annapurna Circuit trek. 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek packing list

If you need to carry your own gear on a multi day trek the advice is to bring as little as possible. The Annapurna Circuit trek is not a difficult trail. There is no need to bring a tent or food. Below a few things to consider

Sun protection : no matter what time of the year you will need to bring protection against the sun. Sunscreen and a hat are a must. There are stretches with little shadow

Rain protection : there is always a risk of rain. I brought a poncho along that protected both me and my backpack from the rain.

Sturdy shoes : There is no need for proffesional hiking boots. However, there are some rocky trails so do bring sturdy shoes that fit you well. It’s important you don’t bring brand new shoes. Make sure your shoes are tested and comfortable to prevent blisters.

Hiking socks : Besides good shoes, good hiking socks are key to prevent blisters. Merino wool socks are lightweight and dry quickly. Wrightsocks are specially designed with double layers to prevent blisters. Decathlon has good merino wool socks too.

Layers : there can be a big difference in temperatures during the day and night. The best way to deal with this is to wear layers. As a base layer I bought merino wool tshirts at Decathlon. They are lightweight and dry quickly. I had a fleece vest as a midlayer and as the upper layer I had a windproof jacket.

Backpack : Your shoes and backpack are two things that will have a big influence on the comfort of your multi day trek. I recommend to go to an outdoor store to get some good advice to buy a backpack that fits your torso length and that is comfortable when you wear it. I own the Osprey Fairview trek 50 that I am very happy with.

Reusable water bottle : to prevent plastic waste I always bring a reusable water bottle with me and a water filter or steri pen.  

Sustainable Travel on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek is very popular. The trails become more crowded and pollution is a growing problem. Traveling sustainably to the Himalayas is essential to minimize your environmental impact and preserve the area’s natural beauty for future generations.

Support the local community : You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors. It is better to try Nepali Cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. Nepali food is vegetarian friendly and it is very easy to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

You can try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Leave no trace principle : When hiking the Annapurna Circuit Trek, stick to designated trails to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem. Straying off the marked paths can cause soil erosion and damage to plant life. If you are lucky enough to spot wildlife, observe quietly from a distance to prevent disruption to their habitats and help maintain their natural behaviors.

I encourage you to take all your trash back with you and dispose of it responsibly. In other words, leave no trace of your visit. Even better is when you bring something to pick up any of the trash that other people left behind.

To avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable items. For example, you can bring your own water bottle with a filter. At last, use biodegradable and eco-friendly personal care products to minimize pollution of water sources.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to be sensitive of the community’s way of life. Nepal is a multicultural country and on the trail you will encounter different ethnic groups.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly. Learning a few basic phrases in Nepali, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post with a travel guide about the Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

2 thoughts on “The Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary: the ultimate guide”

I found your post incredibly useful. I appreciate the time and effort you took in gathering and posting all of this information. Thank you!

I have enjoyed looking at your photographs and reading your description of villages and landscape, food, and people. My husband and I lived in Marpha from 1981 to 1983! My husband was with the Food and Agriculture Organization and was helped develop a vegetable seed program with the farmers. Back then there was no electricity, no cell phones, and no road. We’re sorry to learn of the modernization which detracts from the experience of being geographically isolated and more dependent on using inner resources to survive. However, a lot of the new changes are beneficial to the villagers who require easier access to medical care. Back in he day, a porter with a wooden chair strapped to his back was the ambulance service. The sick person was strapped in and the porter ran all the way to Pokhara. Thanks for your interesting update on life along the Kali Ghandaki River.

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Home » Asia » Nepal » The Annapurna Circuit and Beyond: Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Nepal (2024)

The Annapurna Circuit and Beyond: Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Nepal (2024)

Until 1951, Nepal was off-limits for foreign travellers; a secretive, isolated kingdom kept under wraps from outsiders…

But a change of regime gave birth to a new era of travel, and Nepal has remained a magnet for intrepid adventurers for over 70 years.

It was the summiting of Annapurna I – before that of Everest – that captivated the world of mountaineering and turned the spotlight on Nepal as an outdoor-lover’s haven in the Indian subcontinent.

This guide will offer everything you need to know to explore the majestic Annapurna region and get to grips with experiencing Nepal on foot. There’s a magical culture of generosity and kindness to discover, against a backdrop of some of the most impressive peaks to be found anywhere on earth.

There are three main routes we’ll cover here – the Annapurna Circuit , the Annapurna Base Camp ( Sanctuary ) trek, and the Mardi Himal Trek .  These are each superb journeys in their own right, and escape the much heftier permit fees that visits to some parts of the Annapurna Conservation Area require.

Read on for all you need to wander your way through the Annapurna massif.

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Where is the Annapurna Region?

A household name when it comes to backpacking Nepal , the Annapurna Conservation Area covers nearly 3000 square miles of stunning terrain, and spans five districts in the central part of the country.  

This includes the Annapurna massif, a monstrous range of mountains home to thirty peaks over 6000m. Here you’ll find Annapurna I , the tenth-highest mountain in the world, and the first over 8000m on earth to be summited. 

If that’s not enough, the Khali Gandaki gorge – which the Annapurna Circuit weaves through – is believed by many to be the deepest gorge in the world . Across the gorge lies Dhaulagiri , the world’s seventh-highest peak at 8167m. 

As you’d expect, it’s a ridiculously impressive and unique part of the world that feels almost ethereal at times. 

The starting points for most treks in the area are easily reached from Pokhara . This backpacker hangout is also an ideal place to sort your stuff. Shop for nearly-genuine but well-made outdoor equipment for your foray into the mountains, and stash any surplus travel gear while you’re away.

When is the best time to visit the Annapurna Conservation Area?

There are two main trekking seasons in Nepal: Autumn and Spring .

The Autumn season includes September, October and November , when clear skies should permit superb panoramic views of the jagged skyline. Temperatures are typically quite mild and the chances of heavy snow are relatively low. The trail and teahouses may well be quite lively. Across October, you’d also catch the festivals of Dashain and Tihar , giving rise to an abundance of kites, lights, and bamboo swings. 

The Spring season covers March , April and May . As it melts, the preceding snowfall breathes new life into the rhododendrons (Nepal’s national flower), and, like Autumn, the temperatures should be manageable. The weather can be changeable, however. For example, this year, a relatively dry and mild February gave way to heavy snow and extremely nippy weather throughout March. Pack wisely, whatever season you’re aiming for.

Trekking in Winter is less common, but certainly possible: December, January and February can be uncompromisingly chilly. We’re talking lows of minus 20 degrees Celsius. On the Circuit, be prepared for the possibility of days spent in teahouses waiting for the pass to reopen, and invest in a proper winter sleeping bag (read on for the low down on gear).

But there are enough teahouses that remain open to take on the treks discussed here, and your resolve will be rewarded with clear views of snow-capped peaks and a relatively empty trail. 

Last and least appealing, is the monsoon season ( June, July and August) . The rains obscure the views, the trails become sodden and mudslide-y, and the leeches come out to nibble. (If you want to trek in the summertime, you’re better off heading to the Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan , the Indian Himalayan region, such as Ladakh or Himachal Pradesh, or Nepal’s Upper Mustang which is protected from the rains.)

Introducing the Routes…

I would urge you not to overthink which trek to do: the main thing to consider is time, as something like the Circuit takes a good chunk of the calendar, and it’s better not to be rushing around. Each route has its charms and challenges, which are likely to change on each and every journey on foot. Read on and see which takes your fancy.

1. The Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most renowned and cherished trekking routes in the world, found on many travellers’ bucket lists. 

First opened in the late 70s, the circuit takes you high into the Annapurna massif and right to the edge of the Tibetan plateau, crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5417m. This is one of the highest mountain passes in the world . Not too shabby. 

The circuit is a significant undertaking. Completing the full route usually takes around three weeks. However, this can be shortened by taking a jeep up and down the valleys either side of the pass for some of the way…

If you have time, it’s certainly worth going all in by starting in Besisahar and finishing in Nayapul. It’ll be better for both the body and gaining respect from hippie-trail hikers who did it back in the day…

Get ready for a stunning stroll: the Annapurna Circuit is a classic for a reason.  

How many days does the Annapurna Circuit trek take?

The full circuit takes around 20 days, while variations on the route can massively reduce the distance covered and time taken to around 10 days. 

It may be tempting to skip walking parts of the ‘road’ section, but to be honest, the traffic is usually minimal on the track and the views are still excellent so don’t be too quick to hop in a 4×4. Climbing from the original start point of Besisahar or nearby will pay dividends in terms of acclimatisation.

Suggested Annapurna Itinerary and Notes

The trail is well supplied, with teahouses scattered relatively frequently along the path. The below table contains a suggested itinerary but can also be used to plan your own, using the village names, altitude and distances between them. 

Keep things flexible on your trek, both by stretching, and building in some leeway in case you need an extra day of acclimatisation (or just don’t fancy leaving the hot springs in Tatopani). 

How do I visit Tilicho Lake?

On the Annapurna Circuit, you’ll have the option for an out-and-back trip to Tilicho Lake, the highest glacial lake in the world ! 

It’s not an easy side-quest. You’ll start from Manang at 3519m, and climb up to above 4900m to reach Tilicho, usually over two or three days. Along the trail you’ll find Shree Karka and Tilicho Base Camp for overnighting, as you can’t stay at the lake itself. 

In winter, don’t be too surprised or disappointed if the water is frozen…it’ll still be a wicked couple of days out. 

2. Annapurna Base Camp (Annapurna Sanctuary)

The Annapurna Base Camp lies right in the heart of the ‘Annapurna Sanctuary ’ which is a protected area but not an official Nepali national park .

The full trek can be completed in around a week, covering 100km and reaching 4130m, although route variations can be made. 

This place is something special, both physically, and culturally. Held as sacred by the Gurung people, this glacial basin is only accessible via a thin pass between the peaks of Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre .

The Base Camp itself can feel quite bizarre. You’ll find statues of climbers lost on epic expeditions in years gone by, yet today, you might wake up to skiers and wedding parties being dropped off by helicopter to catch the morning sun…

However, you’ll sip your chai with a sense of satisfaction having reached this surreal spot on foot and braving the weather. Watching the sunrise hitting the dramatic skyline is a just reward for taking on this outstanding Nepali adventure. 

How many days does the Annapurna Base Camp (Sanctuary) trek take?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek can take between 7-10 days, depending on fitness, whether you’ve previously acclimatised to the altitude, and route options. See the suggested itinerary below for inspiration, but don’t be afraid to use the list of villages to create your own plan (being mindful of altitude gain). 

Suggested Itinerary and Notes

It would be very difficult to get lost on the Annapurna Base Camp trek, as all villages tend to lie on the single trail leading to the basin. A list of places to stay can be found below. 

Popular ‘linkages’ include adding on a day at Ghorepani for a sunrise at Poon Hill, or joining the Base Camp route at Ghorepani having completed the Annapurna Circuit anti-clockwise. 

These options are noted on the table below.  

3. Mardi Himal

Mardi Himal is a relatively new trekking route, and it’s an absolute cracker. 

On the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you look across the valley at an imposing landscape that appears unattainable. This is where the Mardi Himal route takes you. 

Passing through rich rhododendron forests, you’ll eventually reach the High Camp teahouses, which seem to be dotted precariously on the ridgeline. It’s a truly remarkable place , and the final push to Mardi Himal Base Camp is equally majestic. 

Plus, if you’re short on time, the trek can be completed in well under a week, and the Himalayan views are up there with the very best to be found.

What’s not to like?!

How many days does the Mardi Himal trek take?

The Mardi Himal trek is usually completed in 4 days. The elevation gain is quite fierce if you head straight from Forest Camp to High Camp, so if you’re struggling at all with fitness or the altitude, add in an extra sleep at Low Camp. 

For the immersion in the mountains you’ll be rewarded with, this it’s a superb shorter trek option that’ll take you up to 4500m. 

Like with the other routes discussed, you can use the following list and a paper map to devise your own plan, however, you can’t sleep at the Base Camp, so sleeping at High Camp is certainly the best option. 

The itinerary for the way back just depends on personal preference and speed, but don’t go so quick you miss savouring the views.

After an early out and back to Mardi Himal Base Camp, you can then stay again at High Camp. 

Alternatively, there’s certainly time to continue back down the trail towards Low Camp, or even get a 4×4 back to Pokhara that same evening from Sidhing (public bus from Lumre) if you’re speedy.

Beware, in the depths of winter or otherwise, if the snow is thick, it may well be that reaching the Base Camp isn’t possible and that the Upper Viewpoint stops you in your tracks. The trail can easily disappear in the snow and clouds, and it can become unclear what is solid ground and what is the edge of a steep drop. 

Don’t take stupid risks at this point in trying to push on. Even if the viewpoint is the furthest trekkable point, it’s still super exciting being up on the ridgeline freshly covered in snow.

The Mardi Himal Trek is gaining in popularity, and rightly so. It almost feels as though you can reach out and touch Machhapuchre (‘fishtail’) from the upper reaches of the trail, while the dense forest below provides some cool variation in terrain.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

A Few Other Options in Annapurna Region…

Here’s a quick overview of some other trekking routes in the region to consider. There are so many ridiculous spots in this area, grab a map and head somewhere – it’s likely to be a winner. 

4. Manaslu Circuit

An epic 12-14 day excursion over the Larke Pass, reaching 5100m . This route is more expensive than the Annapurna Circuit, as additional permits are required.

These include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (needed for the ABC, ACT and MH treks too), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). During the Autumn season (September to November), the RAP is $100 for the first week and then $15 for each extra day in the restricted area.

These figures are lowered to $75 and $10 for the rest of the year. It’s also rightly essential to take a guide on this route – this was always the case, well before the recent rule changes, due to the area being restricted and more remote than other routes.

If you’re able to shell out for the permits and guide, this beast of a trek is guaranteed to be a grand adventure. 

5. Poon Hill

Poon Hill is an introductory-level trek, over 3 or 4 days. The climax is waking up early in Ghorepani to witness sunrise at Poon Hill, offering panoramic views of both Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. 

Be ready for a chunky number of stairs on the first day from Nayapul, and some potentially busy trails: this route can become quite a highway in busy season. But if you’re short on time or new to trekking, the reward/effort ratio is strong as the views are still spectacular. 

6. Mohare Danda 

A fantastic alternative option for a short trek, just outside the Annapurna Conservation Area, which requires no permit or guide! The route is much more off the beaten path than the likes of Poon Hill, which means quieter trails, more peace and lower costs. It is outside the Annapurna Conservation Area, but still affords enviable views of the Himalayan ranges.

This 3-4 day route is reached from Pokhara by taking a bus to Beni. The trek peaks at the 3300m station of Mohare Danda (‘Danda’ is equivalent to hill in Nepali) for a scenic sunrise across Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Finish in Tiplyang (buses run back to Pokhara). 

This local outing should not be overlooked!

Once you’ve got the hang of it, why not try and construct your own route? Be mindful of the permit zones – this is easier outside of the Annapurna Conservation Area – but don’t be afraid to head to places off the tourist trail.

Spending 10 days on foot in the mid-hills between Pokhara and Kathmandu was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had. The kindness of Nepali villagers means you’ll be treated like family, and after your trip, longing to return soon!

Permits, Rules and Regulations 

In April 2023, new rules were introduced that compel all trekkers to hire a guide when undertaking treks in the Annapurna Conservation Area. This decision was made citing (reasonable) safety concerns for FITs (‘free independent trekkers’), but remains controversial.  This means there are three things to sort out for the routes covered in detail here: a TIMS card , an ACA permit , and a guide .

On the usual trekking trails, there are ‘checkpoints’ in certain villages, where you’ll have your ACAP permit checked and stamped (this has always been the case, before the new rules were introduced).

You must obtain this permit before starting the trek, at the Immigration Offices in either Pokhara or in Kathmandu (opening hours are reduced during off-seasons; check on the door in advance of your trek). This is also where you’ll grab your TIMS card. Take your passport, insurance policy details, and passport photos if you have some (if not, you can usually get them taken in the office for free). 

The ACAP costs 3000 rupees and the TIMS card 2000 rupees, for a total set-back of around $38. 

In addition, hiring a guide can cost between $20-40 per day, meaning the new rules add greatly to the backpacker’s budget.

On one hand, the news rules seem to benefit trekking agencies. On the other hand, many teahouses and local restaurants are concerned less FITs will lead to reduced income for their businesses and families.

However, some trekkers have recently been completing the circuit independently, and reported having no issues at all when getting their permits checked, despite being guideless. This is obviously not guaranteed, and the situation is likely to evolve over the coming months and seasons. 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek group on Facebook is a useful source for the latest deets on what’s happening week-by-week . 

Here are some commonly raised pros and cons of hiring a guide:

• You’ll gain added insight into Nepalese culture and history.
• You’ll have experience and expertise on hand for navigating more risky areas like the Thorong La Pass.
• Guides will usually help organise permits and the trekking itinerary – less admin for you.
• Significantly increases daily costs (extra $20-40 per day).
• Limited flexibility on schedule in case of altitude sickness or individual preference (particularly if in a group).
• Guides often have deals with tea-houses that may limit your choice.

Preparing for your Annapurna Trek

Preparing for a big trek may seem like a daunting task. There are things to prepare, like gear, route-planning and some permit-related admin. 

Fortunately, you don’t need to be a sponsored athlete, master orienteer or avid form-filler to swiftly get your ducks in a row and be ready to head high into the mountains. 

Aside from gear, it’s also extremely important to be aware of weather conditions before hitting the trail or even starting the trek. On 14 October 2014, a record-breaking storm dumped nearly 1.8 meters of snow in the Annapurna region which led to a series of devastating avalanches that resulted in the deaths of at least 43 people, 21 of these trekkers.

While mountain weather can change quickly, I highly recommend having a satellite device with you, and to ensure you get updates on conditions at each teahouse you stop at.

What should you pack for Annapurna trekking?

Firstly, if you’re reading this on the bus and realise you’ve left something at home on the bed, rest assured you can find all you need for trekking at the shops in Pokhara or whilst backpacking Kathmandu . 

What to pack exactly will depend on personal preference and weather. Use the list below as a checklist. 

A word of warning/comfort: don’t pack a different t-shirt for every day, there’s simply no need.

If desired, you can hand-wash items along the way and dry them above the fire in a teahouse, but nearly everyone stinks to high heaven by around day eight, so don’t overly stress. You’ll be in good – probably nose-blind – company.

If you’re looking to make a long-term investment in some clothing for multi-day hiking, check out merino . It’s a breathable, temperature-regulating and odour-resistant blessing for backpacking in colder climates.

There’s usually a healthy supply of gear circulating in the hostels on Lakeside, with backpackers selling, trading or giving away items after finishing their treks. Kiwi Backpackers Hostel on 5th Street is a hub of backpacker activity, and one of the best hostels I’ve ever stayed in. 

What to Pack for an Annapurna Trek:

Here’s exactly what you should bring on any trek in the Annapurna Region.

• Osprey Aether Backpack : Sturdy and comfy, with good support and a rain cover. It’s truly the best pack out there.
• Clothing : (Ideally) lightweight, quick-drying shirts, trousers, and shorts.
• Base layers : It can be numbingly chilly at the high points of each route.
• Mid Layer(s) : Go for fleece or soft shell. 
• Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket : Or hiking poncho (good for keeping cool).
• Waterproof Trousers : Ideally can be put on over shoes.
• Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie : Like a portable hug.
• Hat and Gloves : Sun hat if desired; warm beanie and gloves for higher elevations.
• Abaco Sunglasses : Protect your eyes!
• Water Bottle(s) : At least two litres of capacity. 
• Marmot Never Summer Sleeping Bag : Rated at 0F and -18 C, you can’t be better prepared than with this epic bag.
• Water Treatment : Purification tablets or a water filtration system (like the Grayl Geopress).
• First Aid Kit : Grab basic medications and blister treatment from a pharmacy before leaving. Consider Diamox (see altitude section).
• Lip Balm : Chops may otherwise become drier than a moth sandwich.
• Headtorch : With spare batteries/ charger. A real adventure isn’t complete without one.
• Sunscreen : High SPF for sun protection.
• Hanging Toiletry Bag : Toiletries themselves are cheaper in Pokhara than on the trail.
• Physical Map : Found all over the place (shops, hostels, etc).
• Micro Fibre Towel : Compact, dries fast and gets the job done.
• Footwear : More to follow…
• Black Diamond GTX Gaiters : Particularly if wearing low-rise walking shoes or trail runners.
• A good travel camera : The scenery justifies the extra weight.
• Black Diamond Carbon Trekking Poles : Can be an absolute boon on uphill sections. Alternatively, pick up a sturdy bamboo stick en route, with which you will become inseparable. 
• Kahtoola Microspikes : ‘Micro-spikes’ can be found cheaply in Pokhara. Highly recommended in Winter.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Can I rent rather than buy gear for my Annapurna Trek?

Yes ! The trekking shops on Lakeside in Pokhara and Thamel in Kathmandu will allow you to rent all sorts of gear without breaking the bank.

A down jacket and sleeping bag will each cost around 150-200 rupees to rent per day ($1.15-$1.50), and if you want to stay out in the mountains for longer than planned, you can usually just pay the difference on returning. (Just in case, take photos of the condition of the gear you hire as you leave the shop.)

What footwear is best for Annapurna trekking?

A hotly debated topic. 

What type of footwear to go for is largely down to personal preference, within the reasonable bounds of frostbite prevention. 

Hiking boots are the most popular choice, as they provide top-notch ankle support, superior weatherproof protection in case of snow, and shielding from rocky ground beneath. Be sure to wear them in advance though, to prevent a blistery first few days on the trail. 

Boots are a shrewd choice. However, they can feel clunky, and you may find yourself hankering for something more nimble.

An increasing number of trekkers are using trail running shoes, when not in the depths of winter. A pair of waterproof (look for Gore-tex) trail running shoes can provide solid support while remaining light and agile. You’ll want a pair with deep treads (grip) on the sole and a sturdy construction. Combine with a pair of gaiters in case of snow. 

Chuck in some flip-flops/ jandals/ slippers for downtime in the teahouses. Your feet will be eternally grateful. 

Why You Should Travel With a Water Bottle

As travellers, we have a joint responsibility to reduce the environmental impact of our excursions, and plastic waste is one of the biggest problems facing Nepal’s Annapurna Region.

Travelling with a filtered water bottle is a wise move. There’s no better option than the Grayl Geopress: this water bottle and filter system removes all manner of threat, including viruses and heavy metals – no mean feat. This bottle is a popular choice amongst trekkers and backpackers in Asia.

It’ll last for years, reduce plastic waste, and save you money. The Grayl Geopress is a sound investment for anyone taking on some Annapurna trekking.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Life on the Trail

Are there places to stay on an Annapurna Trek?

On all treks discussed in this guide, there are a plethora of accommodation options available. This means you won’t need a tent or shelter to take on these Annapurna treks. Luxury!

These are in the form of teahouses – some large, some small – and you’ll find them in the villages along the trails, plus some extras dotted in between. 

What’s more, your room for the night is usually offered very cheaply or even for free, provided you eat dinner and breakfast at the teahouse where you stay. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your residence for the night:

• Check out the views for sunrise and sunset!
• Ask if using a hot shower, wi-fi and e lectricity is available and included in the rate agreed, or whether you’d have to pay extra. You can often strike a ‘package deal’ if you chat to the owner.
• If it’s cold, a fire to sit around is an unrivalled treat. (Even if it’s a yak dung inferno..)
• Of course, the price !

You’ll be given a simple private room for the vast majority of stays, which come with beds, blankets and pillows. 

You’re more likely to get a plug socket at lower altitudes. Otherwise, there’ll probably be a shared extension cable in the kitchen area but you may have to pay. 

Gas-heated showers can be found throughout the treks, except near the highest points of each route. Toilets are a mix of squat style toilets and Western designs, but take your own loo roll! It grows crushingly expensive further up the hillside, and splashing your behind from a bucket of icy shards in the early hours might not be ideal.

Sitting round the table in a teahouse after a long day’s trek is a quintessential part of a Nepali trekking experience; playing cards and sharing tales with locals and fellow travellers is sure to leave lasting memories to treasure. 

What food is available while trekking in the Annapurna Region?

The Nepali word ‘Annapurna’ can be translated as ‘everlasting food ’, which certainly seems fitting when it comes to Dal Bhat.

This national dish is a staple for people all across Nepal, and is likely to become a dearly treasured feed when trekking in the Annapurna region. 

Dal bhat consists of steamed rice paired with dal (cooked lentils or other pulses), accompanied by a varying array of saag (spinach cooked in spices), papad (poppadom), vegetable tarkari (seasonal vegetables) and pickle amongst other things. You can order small bowls of meat to go with it too.

And, in very healthy news for us lovers of value, most elements of dal bhat can be replenished at no extra cost!

You’ll also find things like fried rice, noodle soup, curry and even some surprisingly good pizza, cooked on a stove. Try thukpa, a classic Nepali noodle soup with a warm broth.  

Porridge, omelettes and toast are all usually there too. At least once, give ‘Tibetan bread ’ (or ‘Gurung bread ’) a go, with honey. For breakfast, this is an absolute triumph. 

Food is expectedly more pricey than in Pokhara but not outrageously so. See an example menu below, typical of those found on the Annapurna Base Camp trek. For reference, one US dollar is currently equal to around 130 Nepalese rupees. 

Dealing With the Altitude While Trekking in Nepal

Trekking in the Annapurna region naturally means you’ll be dealing with some serious loftiness. 

For example, Thorong La – the pinnacle of the Annapurna Circuit – is just about the highest mountain pass in the world . 

The sub-par oxygen levels found here are likely to have some kind of effect on all trekkers, and the severity of its impact doesn’t seem to be linked to physical fitness. Your gym-obsessed mate could find themselves back of the pack, being overtaken by heavy smokers flying up the hills. 

While it’s a bit of a lottery in that sense, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of feeling groggy or worse, which I’ll cover here. Altitude sickness is not something to mess about with, and one of the most dangerous aspects of Nepal , so here’s a breakdown of some key tips and information surrounding AMS , HACE , and HAPE . 

What is altitude sickness? 

Altitude sickness essentially refers to the ill effects on the body of being exposed to lower levels of oxygen. 

Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is the mildest form of altitude sickness, but should certainly not be ignored. Symptoms include:

• Nausea/vomiting
• Loss of appetite

If these crop up, it’s important to STOP ascending. Acclimatisation and rest can give the body sufficient time to adjust to the conditions, before continuing with care. 

On the other hand, the more serious high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) require rapid descent, and are life-threatening emergencies. HACE refers to fluid buildup in the brain, while HAPE refers to fluid buildup in the lungs. 

Symptoms of HACE include:

• Severe weakness
• Acting drunk
• Personality changes
• Balance issues

Symptoms of HAPE include:

• Pink sputum
• Breathlessness at rest

Keep an eye on each other and report any symptoms to mates and locals at teahouses. HAPE and HACE require immediate attention. Descend down the mountain right away, while limiting physical exertion as much as you can while doing so.

How to Minimise Risk of Altitude Sickness:

As mentioned previously, developing symptoms of altitude sickness when trekking is seemingly unrelated to overall fitness. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. Here are some tips for trekking in the Annapurna region:

• Limiting daily ascent when above 2500m is the best way to reduce your risk. Ascending no more than 500m a day is optimal, while more may be manageable for some. It’s quite common for trekkers to climb more than this in a day on occasion , but be careful in doing so, and be sure to stop and rest for a day or more if you develop symptoms. 
• Drink loads of water ! Increase your intake as you ascend. 
• Consider using Diamox (acetazolamide). This is by no means essential, but taking Diamox a day or two before ascending to high altitudes can speed up acclimatisation. (If you have any other health conditions, check with your doctor before doing so). Side effects can include tingling fingers and lips – a quite odd, but not particularly troublesome sensation.
• Keep plans flexible to build in any acclimatisation days that become necessary. 
• Walk high, sleep low ! Walking to a new ‘high point’ but sleeping below it when possible can be great for your body. 
• Look after your mates ! Check in on one another and keep an eye out for anyone struggling or showing changes in personality.

Getting Insured BEFORE Trekking Annapurna

Altitude sickness is no joke. Make sure you’ve got some good travel insurance before heading up there!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How Much Does it Cost to Complete an Annapurna Trek? 

This will greatly depend on whether you opt for a ‘package tour’ or not. 

For broke backpackers, going without a tour is certainly the more budget-friendly option, and you can easily meet trekking mates on the route itself, or in hostels before setting off.

Without a package tour, a decent budget is around $25-30 per day , excluding the cost of hiring any gear and a guide . Rooms are very cheap ($2-3 per night) or even free when you eat there, so the main daily costs go on calories and any toiletries. 

A guide costs around $20-35 a day, which can be shared amongst a group. 

There are no ATMS on the circuit – take more cash than you think you’ll need! You never know if you might need an extra day of rest due to altitude, or fancy the occasional beer. (My mate and I didn’t heed this advice, got addicted to Snickers, and ended up with a budget of $7 each for the last couple of days, which was far from ideal.)

Another key money-saving tip: take your own loo roll! Its price seems to rise exponentially with the trail.

Overall, trekking in the Annapurnas isn’t a great deal more expensive than backpacking in other parts of Nepal, largely thanks to the generous portions of Dal Bhat served up of an evening. 

Nepali Customs and Phrases

Travelling in Nepal is an immense privilege. Along with some introductory Nepali to get to grips with, here are some tips to help you remain a conscientious rambler. 

• Order food together , and if asked, make breakfast choices the night before. This will reduce the amount of fuel needed to heat food.
• Minimise plastic waste! Take a filter bottle instead of buying water as you go.
• Ask before taking photos of anyone.
• Reduce your meat intake, as most is not fresh and carried up the mountains from lower villages. 
• Learn some lingo!

Nepali is not a particularly difficult language to learn for English speakers, especially for a handful of essential phrases. Make an effort and it’ll be hugely appreciated!

• Namaste = hello/ greetings (polite).
• Dhanyabaad = thank you.
• Kasto cha = how are you?
• Ramro cha = it is nice/ beautiful/ good.
• Baya tira = leftwards.
• Daya tira = rightwards.
• Bhaato = ‘path’ or ‘way’.
• Mitho = tasty/delicious.
• Deraye = very (e.g. Deraye mitho = very tasty).
• Pheri bhetaula = see you again.
• Kukhura ko maasu = chicken meat.
• Bhaisi ko maasu = buffalo meat.
• Pani = water.
• Tarkari = vegetable curry.
• Shauchalaya = toilet.
• Kati tadha = how far?
• Tapaaiko nam ke ho ? = what is your name?
• Mero nam —– ho . = my name is ——.
• Bhetera khoosi laygo = nice to meet you.

Final Thoughts on Trekking the Annapurna Circuit

Stuck in a rainy city, fantasizing about booking that travel extravaganza, your mind might conjure up images of pristine beaches and pina coladas. ‘Landlocked’ may not seem conducive to your dreams of a blithe, hostel-hopping existence…

But trust me: central Nepal is as laid back and inviting as anywhere on the planet, offering a simply unrivaled combination of its superb lakeside hostel scene and the best mountainous scenery around. The fact this guide is full of “ Xth biggest/longest/tallest in the world ” says enough in itself. 

Memories forged on the trails over endless portions of dal bhat and games of cards are bound to be precious, as are any moments spent in the company of the ever-hospitable Nepalese people. The routes featured in the guide have been found on backpackers’ bucket-lists for generations, for very good reason.

Backpacking has changed greatly in many places in recent years, as mobile data and online bus booking systems abound. Traveling on foot through the mountains, with an actual, physical, paper map is a uniquely gratifying experience that no technological advancement can replace. 

Trekking in the Annapurna Region -whether you choose the classic Annapurna Circuit or one of the other majestic options – is guaranteed to be an epic adventure that you should not think twice about booking!

Just don’t forget to wear in your boots first…

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal: The Ultimate Guide

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories NEPAL , HIKING

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular expeditions in the Himalayas of Nepal. While Everest Base Camp may be the most well-known trek in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is definitely a close second! I’ve done both the EBC and the Annapurna Circuit Trek among many other routes in Nepal.

BEST TREKKING COMPANY IN NEPAL

Interested in trekking in Nepal or doing the Everest Base Camp Trek? I recommend booking your trek with Himalayan Masters , which is the company I use for all of my treks in Nepal. Use my code  JACKSON5  when you book to receive a 5% DISCOUNT .

In this guide, I will share with you my experience on multiple routes throughout the Himalayas to help prepare you for your trekking experience. Overall I would rate the Annapurna Circuit as the most scenic trek in Nepal from the first day to the last.

We looked at 7000m and 8000m peaks from the first to the last day, had amazing tea house locations, and were blown away by the scenery every single day. However, there are some negatives that modernization and commercialism have brought to the Annapurna Trekking Circuit with roads, infrastructure, and pollution. I’ll cover all aspects of this route to give you an honest insight into what to expect and why you may want to choose this route for your trip.

In this blog post, I will cover everything you need to know about the logistics of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. I’ve also created guides for the following treks and climbs in Nepal if you are interested to check those out as well.

• Manaslu Circuit Trek
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Makalu Base Camp Trek
• Langtang Valley Trek
• Island Peak Climb
• Yala Peak Climb
• Ama Dablam Climb
• Manaslu Climb
• Makalu Climb

TRY THE 3 BEST TREKS IN NEPAL

Manaslu Circuit : My personal favorite 2-week trek through Tibetan villages and stunning scenery. Less crowded and more authentic.

Annapurna Circuit : The most beautiful & scenic 2-week trek in Nepal although can be crowded at times.

Everest Base Camp Trek : The most iconic 2-week route reaching the famous (EBC) Everest Base Camp at 5,300m.

Table of Contents

A GUIDE TO THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

In this guide, you will find all of the valuable information you need to plan your trek as well as my personal experience on the entire trek including the detour to Tilicho Lake

ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK DETAILS

• Distance : 130km or 80 miles
• Days required : 10-13 days
• Total Incline : 8000 meters
• Total Decline : 7000 meters
• The highest point on the trek : The two highest points on the trek are Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and the Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
• Difficulty : The difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek depends a lot on how many days you have. If you break it up over 12-14 days, it will be similar to the difficulty of EBC. However, we took only one acclimatization/rest day in Manang and the itinerary was quite tough for us given we squeezed into Tilicho Lake. Many days were about 20km of distance with 1000m of incline.
• Permits : You will need a TIMS card and Park Entrance Permit, both can be purchased when entering the park.
• Guide: A guide is not required on this trek. However, the guide manages all of the logistics, distances, directions, and tea houses for your group. I used maps.me to navigate from tea house to tea house and found the paths easy to follow. If it’s your first time trekking in Nepal, I would suggest having a guide.
• Accommodation: Guest Houses, also known as Tea Houses, are available along the way where you will sleep in a comfortable bed and have access to showers (at extra charge) and restaurant facilities. It was very comfortable accommodation and great after a long day of hiking.

KEY POINTS ABOUT THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

• This circuit is less crowded than Everest Base Camp Trek but still quite busy. Especially around Tilicho Base Camp as many locals just come to trek to the Lake and don’t do the full circuit.
• There are teahouses in each village along the way so each night you get a great sleep in a bed with blankets, have access to showers, eat great meals in a restaurant, and can charge your electronics and cameras.
• The trailhead can be reached by car so there is no need to pay for expensive domestic flights.
• The road reached all the way to Khangsar, which means it isn’t quite as remote, peaceful and natural as you may be expected until the latter stages of the hike. There are side trails most hikers take for better views and to avoid the cars but nonetheless, it can be demoralizing to see a car full of tourists drive past as you eat their dust.

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN KATHMANDU

• Ultimate Luxury: The Dwarika’s Hotel – Luxury, Spa-service, Pool
• Best Value : Aloft Kathmandu Thamel – Swimming Pool, Gym & Great Restuarant
• Budget Choice: Hotel Jampa is easily the top cheap hotel in Kathmandu

BOOKING A GUIDE FOR THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

The Annapurna Circuit Trek doesn’t require a guide but it’s great to have a guide managing the logistics such as directions, tea houses, distances, medical issues, and the overall organization. I’d say 80% of trekkers go with a guide. I did the trek with Himalayan Masters which is one of the top trekking companies when it comes to the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

The trek costs around $1400 USD with Himalayan Masters as of 2022 and includes all transfers, accommodation, meals, drinks, permits, and even the hotel stay before and after the trek at a high-quality hotel. I honestly had a great time on this trek and I can wholeheartedly recommend Himalayan Masters.

You can use my discount code ‘ JACKSON5 ‘ for 5% off the total price of your trek with Himalayan Masters which is a pretty handy saving.

Email: [email protected]

ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK PACKING LIST

I packed pretty light and managed to wash most of my clothes each afternoon/night for the first half of the trip. In the latter stages of the trip, it was pretty cold so we weren’t sweating as much and we wore our warm gear basically nonstop while at the teahouses. There was no real need for multiple outfits.

This is just a guide and it worked quite well for me with no complaints from my set-up. You won’t need a sleeping bag as there are blankets in each guesthouse and when it got cold I just wore my down jacket to bed. This meant I didn’t have to carry a sleeping bag for the entire trek.

• 1 pair of pants that maybe convert to shorts
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1 Warm or thicker pair of hiking pants
• 1 Long sleeve quick-dry shirt
• 1 Long-sleeve thermal shirt
• 2 Short-sleeve t-shirts
• 1 Thermal long underwear
• 4 pairs of quick-dry underwear
• 1 Lightweight down jacket
• 1 Heavy-duty summit down jacket
• 1 Neck Buff
• Hiking boots
• 1 pair of warm summit socks
• 2-3 pairs of regular socks
• Trekking poles
• Water filter

All of this should fit into a backpack no bigger than 50L and should be less than 14kg.

What are my favorite pieces of hiking gear?

There are four pieces of gear that I simply never forget when I go on a hike. These are four items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my hiking essentials.

• Arcteryx BETA AR Rain Jacket : This is my go-to rain jacket. It’s super light, folds down into a tiny ball, and protects brilliantly in a storm. This one never leaves my backpack.
• Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots : For the best ankle support, waterproofing, and durable exterior I’m a fan of tough but light hiking boots like these Salomons for my adventures.
• Black Diamond Head Torch : I can’t tell you how many times, I’ve arrived back from a hike unexpectedly late. I always keep this lightweight but strong headtorch in my bag for the unexpected.
• Darn Tough Socks : These are the most comfortable hiking socks I’ve ever worn and last for years. They also have a lifetime warranty and you just send them in with a hole and they replace it no questions asked.

WIFI/ELECTRICITY AVAILABILITY ON THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

• Wifi: Costs anywhere from $0 to $4 to use wifi at the guesthouses. Buy an NTC Sim before you go. It worked in some spots but after Pisang, the service dropped and it was mostly WiFi until we got across the pass to Muktinath.
• Electricity:  You will have to pay anywhere from $0 at low elevations to $5 to charge your power banks, cameras, and phones. I found that most rooms had free electricity powerpoints in the room. The key is to get a big power bank. Pay to charge it then charge everything from your power bank. My power bank lets me charge my phone and four camera batteries before it dies. Most of the places we stayed let us charge our gear for free but when it is busy they usually charge a fee as many teahouses run off gas or solar.

ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK ITINERARY

The below itinerary was the exact journey I did but I would suggest adding in an extra day or two to account for rest days or being able to break up the day when you get up to Tilicho Base Camp. This was quite a strenuous activity. I also recommend not hiking to Dharapani from Besishar as the road is full of trucks and vehicles. Similarly, once you reach Muktinath, I suggest driving to Jomsom as it is quite built up from there with main, paved roads.

• Day 1: Drive Kathmandu to Dharapani (1,960m)
• Day 2: Trek to Chame (2,710m) Duration: 5-6 hours trek
• Day 4: Trek to Pisang (3,300m) Duration: 5-6 hours trek
• Day 5: Trek to Manang (3,500m) Duration: 6-7 hours
• Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Manang
• Day 7: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4000m) Duration 6-8 hours
• Day 8: Trek to Tilicho Lake & Trek to Shreekharka (4080m) Duration 10 hours
• Day 9: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4600m) Duration 6-7 hours
• Day 10: Trek to Thorong La & Trek down to Muktinath
• Day 11: Drive to Jomsom
• Day 12: Fly to Pokhara

INSURANCE FOR THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

Nepal can be a dangerous place for trekking or hiking because the high altitude can lead to many illnesses, weakness in trekkers, and misjudgments. There is also a risk on trails for falls, avalanches, or other mishaps. Your regular travel insurance probably won’t cover you at high altitudes and won’t cover a helicopter evacuation. There is a solution though .

Need extra protection?

Regular travel insurance is great but won’t cover you for high altitude hikes or for helicopter evacuation. Each year, I purchase a Global Rescue Subscription .

For less than $500 per year or $100 per expedition, you can purchase a Global Rescue subscription and be covered no matter how extreme the hike or how high the climb is.

DRINKING WATER ON THE ANNAPURNA VALLEY TREK

I use the Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier and it is a game-changer for hiking in Nepal, making this super easy and cheap. The Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier removes 99.9999% of viruses of disease-causing bacteria. The best thing about it is it only takes 15 seconds and one press to purify water from any fresh water source. You don’t need to buy bottled water at every tea house contributes to large amounts of plastic waste and costing you $4+ per day.

Along the Annapurna Circuit Trek, we filled up tea houses, rivers, and local village taps. Unlike aqua purification tablets which require you to wait 30 minutes before drinking, you can have rehydrated yourself immediately with the Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier .

GrayL Water Purifier

• Never pay for water on the trek
• Save 3-4 plastic water bottles a day
• Turns any water into drinking water

BEST TIME AND SEASON FOR THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

The peak season for the Annapurna Circuit Trek is March to April and October to November. The time to avoid this trek is during the rainy season from June to August . Having said that, I often found that off-season or shoulder seasons have been my best (uncrowded) trekking experiences in Nepal

During the winter from December to February, this region gets very cold and there will be snow cover in the higher parts of the trek. Many of the guesthouses actually close up for the winter and re-open in late February to March.

I hiked the Annapurna Circuit Trek in late October/early November and we had 12 days of constant sun. Not a single day with clouds and no chance of rain. Lucky us.

HOW TO GET TO THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

There are two main ways to reach Dharapani, which is the small town at the starting point of the trek. Despite the distance from Kathmandu to Besishar only being 125km, the journey takes a long time due to the traffic and quality of the road.

Jeep: We went by private Jeep organized by our tour company Himalayan Masters. It costs about $180 to hire the vehicle out for the drive so can be split between your group. It’s not cheap but much less brutal than the lengthy bus journey.

Public Bus: The bus costs about $12 USD and can take anywhere from 7-12 hours depending on the traffic and if there are any roadworks or landslides recently. The bus station in Kathmandu is called ‘ New Bus Station ‘.

MY EXPERIENCE ON THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

Throughout this section of this guide, I will share my experience with each part of this trek and give my thoughts on the increased level of infrastructure and road access throughout the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

TREKKING FROM DHARAPANI TO MANANG

After surviving the bumpy ride along the cliff-side roads to Dharapani, we spent the night in a small teahouse before beginning our trek the next morning. Dharapani is actually where the Manaslu Circuit Trek finishes, so I had been in this small river-side town on several occasions previously. The trail for the Annpurna Circuit doesn’t overlap with that route at all and actually follows a road for the opening parts of the journey.

The first few days of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, are not the most peaceful or remote. Trekkers will find themselves being overtaken by Jeeps full of tourists driving deeper into the circuit or being dropped closer for a quick summit attempt at Tilicho Lake. I always hate when cars can drive past me while I’m working hard trekking but it’s unfortunately just part of this route now.

Despite trekking on a road for a fair portion of the first day, there are many side trails that quickly immerse you into the natural surroundings. We found ourselves on steep stairs in the forest and walking through small villages as we wound our way on and off of the road throughout the days. The highlights when it came to views early on in the trek was that from the very first morning, we had views of Manaslu (8,163m). This qas quite nostalgic for me and actually pretty incredible to have Manaslu as a constant backdrop given that I’d stood atop the mighty mountain a year earlier.

Chame was our first stop for the night and was probably my least favorite town of the lot. This is often to be expected when you are just getting started on the trail. The second night in Upper Pisang, we had a direct view from the tea house looking towards Annpurna II. They call it the unlucky mountain as it just misses out on being one of the 14 revered 8000ers. At 7,937m, it is an imposing peak, providing an unbelievable view right from the doorstep of the tea house.

Manang was the first town that felt quite remote and had a bit of atmosphere. In Manang there were several bakeries, religious sites, sacred lakes and monasteries. We spent two nights in Manang, as do many trekkers, and used the ‘rest’ day to head up to Chonggen Viewpoint for more incredible views over Manang and the surrounding mountains.

The scenery alongside the trail had become incredible by day three. While cars can still access to Manang, there was much less traffic and that rural, remote feeling had replace the chaotic, touristic vibe from the early moments of the trek.

TREKKING TO TILICHO LAKE

After a rest day in Manang, it was time to put in a few ‘big effort’ days as we head some serious distance and elevation gain ahead of us. Many groups head from Manang to Yakharka and continue on to the pass. However, it is possible to make a two-day or preferably three-day detour with a mission of hiking up to Tilicho Lake.

The lake is marketed as the highest lake in the world although given some research, you will find that there are about twenty different lakes that are higher than it such as Lake Titicaca. Others claim it is the highest glacial lake in the world but just across the border at 6,216 meters above sea level is the Changtse Pool in Tibet.

Despite being a bit over-hyped and falsely advertised to pull in more tourism, the lake is an incredible natural site. You might curse me for the extra few days of effort to get there but I think it’s well worth making the detour for a few reasons.

The trek into Tilicho Base Camp was one of the best sections of the entire trail. The vegetation faded away and the terrain began to evolve into an outer-space, moon-like scene. Huge slops of gravel were segregated by rock archways and sharp ridgelines. It was like no other part of the trail.

Once you reach Tilicho Base Camp, you’ll find that it isn’t a town and is an opportunistic collection of tea houses set up to meet the demand of those on a mission to reach the high-altitude lake. Hundreds of trekkers wake early to attempt to climb 900m of vertical gain to almost 5000m for a viewpoint at the rim of the lake. It’s pretty steep and a consistent set of switchbacks make the path a tough route, especially after just a few days at high altitude.

After a few hours, trekkers reach the lakeside to find a small teahouse serving coffee and tea. Taking a seat on the stone wall, it’s truly incredible to look out across the vivid blue water completely surrounded by snowy peaks and ridges.

The tough part about trekking to Tilicho Lake is that it is a 12-kilometer round trip journey with 900 meters of incline to get to the lake and back to base camp. Most itineraries dictate that you will quickly eat lunch and then walk another few hours to Shreekharka. It could be a suggestion to stay another night at Tilicho Base Camp to ease the difficult of the trek itinerary.

TREKKING ACROSS THORONG LA PASS

The long day up and down from Tilicho Lake and then from Tilicho Base Camp really took it out of us. However, the show must go on and we made a big effort to push all the way through from Shreekharka to Thorong Phedi. This is the base camp for the Thorong La Pass, which is the penultimate point and highest elevation of the trip.

The views continued to be immense on the journey to Thorong Phedi, but a third straight day with a vertical kilometer of incline and 20km of distance took its toll. We arrived late to Thorong Phedi, just before the sunset as you can see in the first image below.

The tea house at Thorong Phedi was buzzing, packed to the rafters. Many groups set off as early as 2:30 am on their quest to cross the path. We decided to bring up the rear and set off an hour before sunrise at around 5 am after a quick breakfast in the tea house.

The journey across the path begins with about 500m of elevation gain while ascending up relentless switchbacks. You can see the switchbacks from the tea house in the image below. After about 1.5 hours, trekkers reach the ‘high camp’, which is actually where many people stay on their approach to Thorong La Pass. It will make the pass day shorter but the prior day longer. It’s all about preference.

After the high camp, the scenery turns from rock to snow. We are now in a white, winter wonderland as we cross the 5000m mark on our journey across the pass. Up a seemingly never-ending slope, we wind our way around each corner.

Secretly, we are hoping to see the prayer flags of Thorong La but they never come. What we do find is a tea house serving overpriced but highly necessary instant coffee and tea. Here we recharge for half an hour before making our final push to the pass.

About an hour further and we make it up to the pass after about six hours of trekking. My dad and his mates are gassed but glad to be at the highest point of the trip. We hang out, take a few photos and even witness a huge avalanche from the seracs on the right side. Luckily it dispersed down to the side of the mountain and not toward us.

The journey down from Thorong La Pass should be straightforward and is only about eight kilometers. However, with icy conditions and slippery rocks, it was slow-going. It is highly recommended to bring micro spikes for this descent and for the descent from Tilicho Lake. Even though you will only use them twice, they are worth bringing along.

Late in the afternoon, we roll into Muktinath after crossing over into the Mustang region from the Annapurna Sanctuary side. It’s beautiful scenery but we are all just glad to make it to the hotel. It was a pretty tough ‘summit’ day all things being said.

Many trekkers will walk one more day to Jomsom before flying to Pokhara. However, we decided to take a Jeep for about $15 per head. It’s only an hour’s jeep ride to Jomsom.

I’d advise taking the Jeep as the trek looked like it went alongside the road in hot, exposed, dry terrain for twenty kilometers. It’s a brutal and unnecessary section of trail to walk but some purists may like to complete the old ‘original’ circuit. If that is you, make sure you walk all the way to Pokhara, and don’t cheat with any planes from Jomsom!

We spent the night in Jomsom and celebrated with a couple of beers. The next morning, we watched as the light planes flew into the airport. It’s a unique landing strip with an amazing backdrop of mountains on all sides. The planes take off and do a full U-turn immediately before flying up and out of the valley with views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) on the right.

After a few nights in Pokhara, we flew back to Kathmandu to wrap up an incredible journey on the Annapurna Circuit with Himalayan Masters .

I hope you enjoyed this guide to the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal and have a great experience yourself! To finish up, here is a photo from the epic Jomson airport. Not a bad way to end the trip.

HAVE YOU READ MY OTHER NEPAL BLOGS?

I’ve been lucky enough to have many awesome adventures in Nepal, which you can check out below where I’ve listed some of my favorite blog poss from Nepal.

• The Most Iconic route: Everest Base Camp Trek
• The Most Scenic Route: Annapurna Circuit Trek
• My Favorite Trek in Nepal: Manaslu Circuit Trek
• An Easy Nepal Trek: Langtang Valley Trek
• A great beginner peak: Island Peak Climb (6,165m)
• My Favorite Climb in Nepal: Climbing Ama Dablam (6,812m)
• My first 8000er: Climbing Manaslu (8,163m)
• My toughest climb in Nepal: Climbing Makalu (8,463m)
• Where to stay: 16 Best Places to Stay in Kathmandu

Sunday 11th of June 2023

Hi, I noticed a news that Nepal treks should only be allowed only with a guide, starting from April 2023. Your article seems to be from June 2023. Does it mean that Annapurna Circuit has an exemption? Thanks a lot!

Sunday 2nd of July 2023

Thanks, honestly, this is a reason for me not to even think about Nepal and consider e.g. Patagonia

Sunday 18th of June 2023

Anything above 3000m I believe you need a guide now

Thursday 9th of March 2023

Please tell me more about your photography set up. Camera, lens, gear etc Thank You! :)

Ultimate Guide to the Annapurna Circuit Trek

What started years ago as just a collection of trails between isolated Nepali villages in the mountains has turned into one of the most popular, iconic treks in all of Nepal :  the Annapurna Circuit .  If you are planning a trip to Nepal and have 2-3 weeks to trek, I recommend the Annapurna Circuit Trek (it’s better than Everest Base Camp !). 

You’ll be rewarded with changing scenery every day: from snow-capped mountains, rivers and waterfalls and glaciers. There are fields of yaks and goats, and villages covered in colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. You’ll meet and stay with local Nepali families at their guesthouses, eat meals with trekkers from around the world and make many new friends. 

To reach the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit, Thorong La Pass , is a great physical feat that you’ll remember for the rest of your life. 

Here’s all you need to know before you embark: your Ultimate Guide to the Annapurna Circuit Trek! 

Skip to Ultimate Guide to the Annapurna Circuit Section:

Overview Guided vs Unguided Duration Itinerary Samples Getting To and From the Circuit Insurance Permits Food & Accommodation Budget & Money Packing List WiFi/SIM card Safety Concerns Comparison to Everest Base Camp

Overview of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Duration: 8 – 21 days (depends on transportation used – see Duration section below) Change in Altitude: 790m at Besisahar to 5416m at Thorong La Pass Distance per day: 10+ km Total Distance: 230 km from Besisahar to Birethani Best season: April-May, September-November Budget: $20 USD or 2000 rupees/day. At low altitude, $5-7/day. At high altitude, $25-$30/day

See my full packing list here ! 

The landscape on the Annapurna Circuit changes from lush greenery and Nepali agricultural fields at low altitude, to rocky riverside valleys and snowy mountain tops at high altitude. Sometimes the trail opens up to wide plains, where you can see the Annapurna mountain range and glacier formations in the distance. 

If you’re at low altitudes during the right time of the year, there’ll be a lot of colorful wildflowers. At higher altitude you’ll be above the tree line, so there are small bushes and shrubs along side you, with yaks grazing nearby.  You may also experience trekking through snow at 4000m+.

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit Guided vs Unguided

I trekked the Annapurna Circuit unguided , and I think it’s safe to do so. The entire trek follows a river that’s dotted with villages, so you’re never far from civilization. There are almost always locals or trekkers nearby who can point you in the right direction if you get lost. The trails are clearly marked, and you can follow maps.me trails to double check if you’re going the right way. 

Getting a guide is helpful if you’re really worried about losing your way. A guide can also explain to you more about the local people and traditions of the region, give you accurate estimates on how far and for how many hours you’ll be trekking that day. Guides can also communicate with guesthouse owners for you about meals and accommodation, but I experienced little language barrier in the mountains. 

Annapurna Circuit hiking tip: Be sure to meet your guide before you start the trek ! Guide quality and experience varies greatly.

Most people who trek the entire Annapurna Circuit could complete it in  14-21 days.  However the duration depends on the side treks you want to do, and the distance you want to cover each day.

Theoretically you can do just the highest altitude section of the Annapurna Circuit in 8-10 days , if you jeep up to Chame, then Jeep back down from Jomsom. This increases the chances of getting altitude sickness because your body has very little time to adjust to the high altitude. I personally don’t recommend it, also because you skip some beautiful sections of the trek, but for those on a tighter schedule this may be an option.

I trekked the Annapurna Circuit in 13 days because I started in Tal, and sped through the last section to Nayapul after Khagbeni. This included an acclimatization day in Manang, and a detour to Khagbeni after Thorung La pass.  The group of trekkers I hiked with started in Tal then took a jeep down from Jomsom, so they were trekking the Annapurna Circuit for 10 days.

A woman on the trail was doing every single side trek possible because she was loving the Annapurna range so much. She was on day 30 when I met her outside of Tatopani!

Annapurna Circuit 8-day, 13-day, and 18-day Itinerary Samples

Annapurna Circuit 8-day sample itinerary Day 1: Pokhara -> Besisahar (bus) -> Chame (jeep) Day 2: Lower Pisang/Upper Pisang Day 3: Bhraka/Manang Day 4: Manang (acclimatization day) Day 5: Yak Kharka Day 6: Thorung Pedi Day 7: Muktinath Day 8: Jomsom -> Pokhara (jeep)

Annapurna Circuit 13-day sample itinerary (this is how I trekked the Circuit) Day 1: Pokhara -> Besisahar -> Tal (jeep) Day 2: Koto/Chame Day 3: Lower Pisang/Upper Pisang Day 4: Bhraka/Manang Day 5: Manang (acclimatization day) Day 6: Yak Kharka Day 7: Thorung Pedi Day 8: Muktinath Day 9: Khagbeni Day 10: Larjung Day 11: Tatopani Day 12: Ghorepani Day 13: Poon Hill side trek -> Birethani -> Pokhara (bus)

Check out my more detailed 13-day itinerary here ! 

Annapurna Circuit 18-day sample itinerary (Full Circuit plus  Tilicho Lake side trek ) Day 1: Pokhara -> Besisahar (bus) -> Bhulbhule Day 2: Jagat Day 3: Danakyu Day 4: Chame Day 5: Lower Pisang/Upper Pisang Day 6,7: Bhraka/Manang (acclimatization day) Day 8: Tilicho Lake Base Camp (side trek) Day 9: Tilicho Lake/TIlicho Lake Base Camp (side trek) Day 10: Yak Kharka Day 11: Thorung Pedi Day 12: Muktinath Day 13: Khagbeni Day 14: Marpha Day 15: Ghasa Day 16: Tatopani Day 17: Ghorepani Day 18: Poon Hill side trek -> Birethani -> Pokhara (bus)

Getting To and From the Annapurna Circuit

Getting to besisahar from pokhara/kathmandu.

To get to the Annapurna Circuit, you’ll take a bus from Pokhara or Kathmandu to a village called Besisahar . 

From Pokhara, you can take a bus from the tourist bus station to Besisahar (book a ticket in advance, and negotiate on the price) for 500-600 rupees. The bus leaves once per day at 6:30am and takes about 5 hours.

To get from Kathmandu to Besisahar, a microbus that leaves at 6:45am from the front of BG mall. It takes about 7 hours can costs 550 rupees ($5.50). Alternatively, you can catch any tourist bus heading to Pokhara from Kathmandu and ask to be dropped off at Dumre. From there, catch the local bus or a taxi to Besisahar. 

*Bus schedules may change so ask any tourist agency to point you to where you can catch these busses! 

Ultimate Guide to the Annapurna Circuit Tip: Once you reach Besisahar, there are many jeeps that take people up to a higher elevation starting point on the Annapurna Circuit such as Tal or Chame.

Getting back to Pokhara from Nayapul

The “finish line” of the Circuit is Birethani, after which there is a 30 minute walk to Nayapul. 

From Nayapul you can take the local bus back to Pokhara for 120-200 ($1-$2) rupees. There are also many taxi drivers waiting to take trekkers back to Pokhara. 

If you prefer, you can spend 2-3 days walking back from Birethani to Pokhara because there are many villages in between.

Just in case you encounter serious altitude problems while you’re on the trek, make sure you have traveler’s insurance . 

Ultimate Guide to the Annapurna Circuit Tip:  It’s important to check if your insurance will cover you up to 5416m in elevation also – many will have an elevation limit that’s below 5000m!

World Nomads insurance allows you to purchase insurance with them even when you’re already abroad. They have a “Standard” insurance plan and an “Advanced” one for extreme sports/traveling activities and high altitude! 

Permits for the Annapurna Circuit

There are two different permits that you need to purchase before departing on the trek, the TIMS and the Trekking permit. There is nowhere on the Circuit where you can buy these, so you need to go to the tourist office in Kathmandu or Pokhara ahead of time. There are a multitude of checkpoints along the entire circuit, so don’t try to trek the Annapurna Circuit without these permits!!

You can get your TIMS and Trekking permit in Kathmandu or Pokhara . I got mine in Kathmandu – the office is about an hour walk away from Thamel. The tourist office in Pokhara is near the tourist bus station, which is a short taxi ride from the main part of town known as Lakeside Pokhara.

Bring at least 4300 rupees with you, and  4 passport photos  to get your permits for the Annapurna Circuit trek. Passport photos can be purchased at many stores around Thamel. I got 8 small pictures for 200 rupees ($2).

The TIMS costs $20 or 2000 rupees, and the Trekking Permit costs $23 or 2300 rupees.

To fill out the permit forms, aside from personal and passport information, you need to include the following information to get the trekking permits. There’s no wifi at the Kathmandu office so make sure you have everything you need saved on your phone!

• Expected Trek Start Date and End Date (This can be approximate. It is best to overshoot how many days you think you’ll actually spend in the area)
• Expected Trek Start Location and End Location. For the Annapurna Circuit, it’s Besisahar to Nayapul (But I just put Pokhara for both, and had no issues)
• Insurance Policy Number (I didn’t have this on hand when I went to apply so I put a random string of numbers down that I found in an email with the insurance company, and had no issues.)
• Route of Trekking (Annapurna Circuit)
• Trekking Area (Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Region)
• Purpose of Visit (Trekking)

Food and Accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

One of the many perks of trekking in Nepal is the teahouses or guesthouses that you’ll be staying in along the Annapurna Circuit! 

Traditionally, trekkers stay for free at teahouses in exchange for eating meals there. Meals should include dinner after you arrive, and breakfast before you leave for the next day of trekking. In the villages on the Circuit there are rarely any restaurants that are not part of a guesthouse. So you would be taking your meals at the place you stay anyways. It’s a win-win!

The typical Nepali dish that locals eat and is available at every guesthouse is Dal Baht – a curry and rice dish that usually includes an extra serving in the price! 

Pasta, fried noodles, fried rice, pizza, noodle soups, and burgers are also standard dinner items at guesthouses when trekking the Annapurna Circuit. Breakfast options include yogurt with muesli, fried Tibetan bread, porridge, and pancakes. 

Don’t expect to be able to cook for yourself along the trek. Since the guesthouses are letting you stay for free, you should really eat the food that they provide for you there . Lunch is a different story though, and you may be able to ask some places for 1 liter of boiled water if you wanted to make something easy like ramen noodles or oatmeal. 

Accommodation 

The majority of my accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit, I stayed for free . It’s easy to spot which buildings in the villages are the guesthouses because of signs outside their properties. When you find whoever manages the guesthouse, ask if they have rooms available. If they say yes, phrase your next question like this: “Can we stay for free if we eat dinner and breakfast here?”

Guesthouses on the Annapurna Circuit may charge 100-200 rupees for a room if you’re trekking solo, which I had happen to me on some occasions. If you stay in fancier, more hotel-like lodges, they may charge extra for a room as well. Large lodges will usually have a bit more luxury for the higher price you pay, such as an attached bathroom, a gas shower, and/or free, fast wifi.

What to expect:

Accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit range from having attached bathrooms in the rooms to shared toilet shacks out back, and from having nice thick, insulated walls to just planks of wood nailed between you and the outdoors. They’ll always have more duvet covers if you need them, sometimes at a premium. 

The guesthouses always have a common room/restaurant area to take meals in or to chill out in until you retire for the night. These usually have a stove (powered by yak dung!) to heat the area, and sometimes there are benches around the kitchen stove where you can warm up as well.

Budget & Money on the Annapurna Circuit

Ultimate Guide to the Annapurna Circuit Tip: Bring with you  all of the money that you plan to spend on the Annapurna Circuit from Pokhara (or Kathmandu). There are plenty of ATMs in Pokhara to withdraw money from, but t he only ATMs available on the Annapurna Circuit are in Jomsom, which is passed the halfway point of the Circuit.

I personally brought 40,000 rupees with me ($400), and only spent about 25,000 ($250) in 13 days . This does not include the cost for the permits (4300 rupees or $43), nor the cost for the gear that I bought in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

The cost for food and snacks changes drastically from the start of the trek at low altitude vs at high altitude. At the start of the trek I spent about $6-8 day , and close to Thorung La Pass I was spending $20 per day on the same meals and for accommodation. 

Ultimate Guide to the Annapurna Circuit Budget: Bring about 2000 rupees ($20) per person per day. My Annapurna Circuit budget was $400 for 14 days, and I spent $250. 

Packing List for the Annapurna Circuit

I’ll divide this section of my Ultimate Guide to the Annapurna Circuit into four different parts: Ph armacy, Clothing, Gear, and Other . This is a list of things that I brought on the Annapurna Circuit, minus things I didn’t wear or use.

Check out my full Trekking in Nepal Packing List! 

Remember the goal is to be as efficient as possible  when packing, so you don’t need to carry so much around with you.

Feminine products 16x Cough drops (wish I had brought more!) 10x Band-Aids 5x Rehydration Salts (Awful taste but really important) 1x Diamox strip (I didn’t use these but many people do) 1x Paracetamol strip 50x  Water purification tablets  (I used about 40 of these) Sunscreen! Deodorant Toothbrush/toothpaste Packet of baby wipes Lotion Razor Hair ties Toilet Paper

1x  long-sleeved under armour 1x long-sleeved heat-tech shirt 1x long  heat-tech leggings 1x thick under armor sweatpants 1x T-shirt 6x underwear 2x bras 3x  thick trekking socks 1x normal socks 1x fleece 1x  Goretex thick North Face jacket 1x thin windbreaker 1x thin gloves 1x thick gloves 1x hat 1x neck wrap

1x 55-65L  backpack 1 pair of  mid hiking boots 1 pair of Chacos/ trekking sandals 1 pair of  trekking poles 1 pair of  microspikes

Reusable water bottle

Quick-dry towel

Sleeping bag

Battery pack !! Phone + charger GoPro + charger Kindle Flashlight or  Headlamp

Optional to bring:

Microspikes/Crampons Knee braces (450 rupees from pharmacy in Kathmandu – these saved my life!) Small day bag Flip flops Dry shampoo Honey Ear plugs Snickers bars Sunglasses

There are many  hostels in Kathmandu  and Pokhara that will let you leave your luggage at their hostel for a small daily fee, or even for free (I left a bag in Kathmandu’s Shantipur Hostel , then a second bag at Pokhara’s Pokhara Youth Hostel, both for free). It’s important to take advantage of these services, or else you’ll have a hell of a time hiking at 5400m with a 15kg bag!

Wifi/SIM card

Before I left Pokhara, I messaged my family and friends saying that I would be without WiFi for the next 14 days, and not to worry if they don’t hear from me. Little did I know WiFi is a common luxury at guesthouses around the Annapurna Circuit ! 

Most guesthouses on the Annapurna Circuit have poor quality WiFi that you can use for free, or for a small fee per device. Don’t expect much, but it’ll be enough to send some messages to the outside world.

Before leaving Pokhara I purchased an NCell SIM card . It was 1500 rupees ($15) for 10 GB of data. I didn’t have service on most of the East side of the circuit before Thorong La Pass (but free Wifi was common). But I had service sporadically on the West side of the circuit, including in Muktinath, Jomsom, and Tatopani.

Safety Concerns on the Annapurna Circuit

I remember one sleepless night in Kathmandu where I thought about everything that could possibly go wrong on the Annapurna Circuit. Having finished the trek, let me assure you there is nothing to worry about! Skip down to any worries you might have and put your mind at ease.

Getting “Taken”/General women’s safety

Nepali people are so friendly along the Annapurna Circuit. On your first day, any worries about getting mugged, kidnapped, etc will disappear immediately. Think of all the solo female trekkers who did the Circuit before you and were fine! Unlike some parts of India, it’s common to see local women walking around alone everywhere, and they even run many of the guesthouses on their own or with their daughters.

Getting lost forever on the Annapurna Circuit

Not possible. The trails for the most part are clear to see and clearly marked. During the high season there will almost always be someone in the distance you can follow, or someone behind you who you can wait to ask for directions. The entirety of the trail goes alongside a river except for Thorong La Pass Day when everyone is bunched together in a group anyways. As long as you keep the river and other trekkers in sight you’ll know where the villages and civilization are.

Avalanches at Thorong La Pass  

Not happening. The pass itself is very wide and the mountains on either side are far enough away that there is nothing of this sort to worry about. There are some sections where you walk over snow on a steep incline. If you’re worried about slipping, bring crampons! 

There are sections that have warnings about landslides. These occur for mostly if there is someone or something running around above you in a landslide area and rocks come loose. 

Check above you if there are any goats or sheep before you cross a landslide section. If you’re walking across a landslide section, keep distance between you and the person in front of you. Walk on the inside of the trail. Remember that yaks and horses use these same trails. If they can make it without causing a landslide, so can you.

Freezing  

Don’t worry. Your body will stay surprisingly warm while you’re trekking. I brought a pair of snow pants with me that I used only on Pass Day, but took off after an hour because I was getting too hot. When you arrive at the guesthouse your body temperature will start to drop, so huddle up in your sleeping bag or next to the heater in the common area. 

Snow and extreme weather  

If it’s blizzarding outside, it’s best to wait until it clears, to continue on the Annapurna Circuit. The only day where I had to trek through snow for a significant amount of time was on Pass Day,   and still the path was obvious. If the weather starts to change at the top, ask any of the guides what is best to do. Worst case scenario, there’s a warm tea shop next to Thorong La Pass where you could wait out a storm.

Not being able to find a guesthouse

The villages along the Annapurna Circuit are covered in guesthouses. Sometimes there are random guesthouses dotted along the trails as well. If you are trekking outside of the high season, you will have no problem finding a room at a guesthouse along the Annapurna Circuit. 

If you are trekking in October without a guide, it might be a good idea to start trekking early to beat the others. And if all of a town’s guesthouses are full, it’s never too far to the next village. Some guesthouses may let you stay with your own sleeping bag in their common area too.

Altitude Sickness  

Almost everyone experiences some form of altitude sickness while on the Annapurna Circuit, but they are mostly just mild nuisances. If you take it slow on the Annapurna Circuit and always listen to your body, serious altitude sickness won’t be an issue. 

Signs of acute altitude sickness include headache, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. There are other symptoms like tingling in the hands and face. 

If any of these symptoms worsen, it’s a good idea to take a rest day, or drop altitude and wait for it to get better. The human body is damn tough, and it will adjust along the trail to the lower oxygen levels as long as you are giving it time to do so.

If you think your body will be prone to altitude sickness, take some Diamox pills with you. I didn’t use these, but many people took them every day once they reached 4000m or above. Consult your doctor before you take any sort of medication!!  

Comparing the Annapurna Circuit vs Everest Base Camp

Annapurna’s competing iconic trek in Nepal is the Everest Base Camp Trek . In terms of duration, it takes a similar amount of time to complete (12-16 days) and you’ll experience a similar climate as the Annapurna Circuit. In terms of the trekking experience, the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp treks are quite different. If you only have time for one, I recommend the Annapurna Circuit over Everest Base Camp trek.

See my blog post comparing the Annapurna Circuit Trek vs the Everest Base Camp Trek ! 

Alternatively, if you are choosing between the Annapurna Circuit and the Three Passes Trek + EBC , I would choose the Three Passes Trek because of its epicness!! This trek is more off-the-beaten-path, and takes you to higher elevations and greater views than the EBC trek alone does. Check out the vlog by Intrepid Road about the Three Passes Trek!

In Conclusion...

The Annapurna Circuit was one of the most rewarding, beautiful treks I’ve ever done in my life (and I grew up in the Rocky Mountains!). To spend so many days in the wilderness but not have to worry about food and a bed at the end of the day gives you a chance to enjoy nature and reflect on your life in a way that only Nepal can offer.

What are you waiting for?? Get your packing list together and go!

Pin this Annapurna Circuit Ultimate Guide for later!

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One thought on “ ultimate guide to the annapurna circuit trek ”.

Erika, Happened across your blog today.Heading off to Annapurna Sanctuary in October.Did the Circuit in 2014 ,EBC in 2018, and the Markha Valley in 2019 .Really like your work and even though the Trek is 10 months away and we’re all in our 60’s,material like yours is getting me quite motivated. Hoping to do some walking in Japan in the future.Keep up the good work.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna circuit trek | 2024.

• Trip Duration: 12 Days
• Altitude: 5,416 m / 17,769 ft
• Best time: Feb-May, Sep-Dec
• Grade: Challenging
• Trek Type: Tea House
• Meals: Included
• Accommodation: Hotel & Tea House

Overview of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary and unparalleled experiences a trekker can avail themselves of. With an extensive length of 160–230 km that covers four distinct districts, comprising Lamjung, Myagdi, Manang, and Mustang, this trekking route stands out as the most preferred circuit through the diverse natural vegetation, cultural beliefs, landscape, altitude, trail, pristine little settlements, culturally affluent tribal groups, and religious sects.

The trek begins in Jagat. As we gain altitude, the landscape and vegetation change, and rugged alpine terrain appears. The challenge of the trek is to cross the highest pass, Thorong La (5,416 m). The splendid snow-capped Himalayan views from the peak of the Thorong La Pass are just amazing and beyond expectation. Then we follow the trail to Muktinath temple, the temple of God Vishnu, the god of preservation. And the windy Jomsom, and just ahead we pass through the deepest gorge along the Kaligandaki River between Mt. Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. We then trek to the famous Gurung village, Ghorepani, and the famous Poon Hill viewpoint.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• One of the most classic and oldest treks in Nepal, 
• Thorang La Pass is the highest navigable pass (5,416 m) in the world, 
• Descend into one of the deepest gorges in the world, the Kali Gandaki,
• Poon Hill is a hill station, 
• Traditional Gurung, Tibetan, and other ethnic villages,
• Muktinath is a holy temple of God Vishnu,
• The natural hot spring of Tatopani.

Outline Itinerary of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

KTM ) Arrival in Kathmandu city, transfer to the hotel

Day 01 ) Drive to Jagat (1,300 m) (8/9 hours)

Day 02 ) Trek to Dharapani (1,860 m) (5/6 hours)

Day 03 ) Trek to Chame (2,620 m) (6/7 hours)

Day 04 ) Trek to Pisang (3,200 m) (6/7 hours)

Day 05 ) Trek to Manang (3,540 m) (5/6 hours)

Day 06 ) Acclimatization Day

Day 07 ) Trek to Yak Kharka (4,018 m) (6/7 hours)

Day 08 ) Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,560 m) (5/6 hours)

Day 09 ) Trek to Muktinath (3,767 m) via Thorang-La Pass (5,416 m) (7/8 hours)

Day 10 ) Drive to Jomsom and Tatopani (1,190 m) (6/7 hours)

Day 11 ) Trek to Ghorepani (2,874 m) (6/7 hours)

Day 12 ) Early morning hike to Poon Hill, trek to Ulleri (2 hours) and drive to Pokhara (3 hours)

PKR ) Drive or fly back to Kathmandu

KTM ) Departure to your home

Not satisfied with this itinerary?

Annapurna Circuit Trek: Detailed Itinerary

Ktm) arrival in kathmandu city, transfer to your hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Altitude: 1,400 m, Kathmandu

At Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be received by a Himalayan Odyssey Nepal Trek guide/staff and transferred to your hotel. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 01) Drive to Jagat from Kathmandu via Besisahar (1,300 m) (8/9 hours)​

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Lodge
• Altitude: 1,300 m, Jagat

We take a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar by tourist bus. We have breakfast and lunch on the way. The route takes us out of the Kathmandu valley along the picturesque Trishuli River to Besisahar. As we reach Besisahar, we drive towards Jagat by Jeep, following the Marshyangdi River. We will pass several beautiful villages, green paddy fields, and forests until we reach Jagat. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 02) Trek to Dharapani (1,860 m) (5/6 hours)

• Altitude: 1,860 m, Dharapani

We are walking on a rocky path next to the Marsyangdi River. We see beautiful waterfalls, green plants, and animals. The path goes up to a village called Tal. We keep going up the valley, using stone stairs, until we get to Dharapani. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 03) Trek to Chame (2,620 m) (6/7 hours)

• Altitude: 2,620 m, Chame

The path goes up along a river called Marsyangdi, going through trees like pine and fir. We’ll get to see great views of the mountains Annapurna II (7,937 m), Mt. Manaslu (8,156 m), and other peaks before reaching Chame. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 04) Trek to Pisang (3,200 m) (6/7 hours)

• Altitude: 3,200 m, Pisang

After breakfast, we will follow the Marsyangdi Trail to Bharatang. We will see Annapurna II (7,937m) up close from there. Next, we will climb a steep hill where we will see many oak, fir, pine, hemlock, and maple trees. We will have a great view of the Pangida Danda. Then, we will cross a suspension bridge, go up for a while, and then down to the valley floor. We’ll see dry, grazing land and reach Dhukure Pokhari. After walking for about half an hour, we will reach Pisang. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 05) Trek to Manang (3,540 m) (5/6 hours)

• Altitude: 3,540 m, Manang

We will start our day by walking on a dry trail where there is little rainfall and many beautiful landscapes. Two paths will take us to Mungi. We can take either of those two. The path that goes through Ghyaru, or Hongde, Ghyaru village on the harder path is especially attractive because of its lovely stone houses surrounded by fields of wheat, barley, buckwheat, potatoes, and beans. We will continue our journey to Ngawal, a village that has an old building called a gompa and ancient juniper trees. Next, we will follow a trail that will take us down to Mungji, where we will meet the other path. From there, we will go to the famous village called Manang. Enjoy looking at the beautiful Annapurna mountain range. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 06) Acclimatization Day

Today is the acclimatization day for our body to cope with gaining altitude and avoid any kind of high-altitude sickness. We will take a higher-elevation hike either to the ridge near the Gangapurna glacier or walk up to the cave above Manag village. We will visit the village and native people and gain insight into their lifestyle and culture during our acclimatization day. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 07) Trek to Yak Kharka (4,018 m) (6/7 hours)

• Altitude: 4,018m, Yak Kharka

The day starts with an ascent to Tengki, which is the last permanent settlement below the pass. We will walk upward until we reach Gunsang. The trail then turns northwest towards Jharsang Khola Valley. We walk on scrub juniper and alpine grass, which brings us to Yak Kharka. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 08) Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,560 m) (5/6 hours)

• Altitude: 4,560 m, Thorong Phedi

After having breakfast, we move towards the Thorong Phedi. We walk for about an hour and reach Churi Leder. We then descend to the river and cross it over the wooden bridge. The trail then becomes challenging as you climb upstream of Jharsang Khola on the ridge of the cliff and finally reach Thorong Phedi. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 09) Trek to Muktinath (3,767 m) via Thorang-La Pass (5,416 m) (7/8 hours)

• Altitude: 3,767 m, Muktinath

Today, we will walk through the highest point of the entire Annapurna Circuit. We will head towards the Thorong-La Pass (5,416 m) early in the morning and begin the ascent. The trail is steep and narrow, but if we walk uphill for about 4/5 hours, we’ll get to the top, which is 5,416 m. From there, we can see beautiful mountain ranges like the Annapurna range and the Dhaulagiri range. There are also some chortens and colorful flags that celebrate our hiking success. After taking some photos and enjoying the scenery, we will walk downhill over a rocky area and then through some green fields until we reach a place called Muktinath. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 10) Drive to Jomsom and Tatopani (1,190 m) (6/7 hours)

• Altitude: 1,190 m, Tatopani

In the morning, we’ll go to Muktinath Temple and then take a local bus to Tatopani. The ride might be bumpy because the road goes through deep gorges. We’ll go from dry land to green forests. Tatopani is well-known for its hot springs. The hot spring water is believed to be helpful for skin problems. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 11) Trek to Ghorepani (2,874 m) (6/7 hours)

• Altitude: 2,874 m, Ghorepani

Today is a long day of walking to Ghorepani. After continuously descending for some days, you will climb today. The trail first crosses the bridge over the Kaligandaki River, which leads us to the junction where we can follow the trail either to Beni or Ghorepani. We will follow the trail, as our destination is Ghorepani. Ghorepani, being a popular destination for both national and international tourists, offers spectacular views of Dhaulagiri and Manaslu Himalayas and the opportunity to hike the most famous viewpoint of the entire Annapurna Region, Poon Hill. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 12) Early morning hike to Poon Hill, trek to Ulleri (2 hours) and drive to Pokhara (3 hours)

• Altitude: 822 m, Pokhara

Today is the last day of the trek. We will hike to Poon Hill early in the morning to have magnificent 360-degree panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges with a splendid sunrise view. After spending some time on the hilltop, enjoying the fabulous moments, and keeping a lifetime memory, we will retrace our steps back to the lodge at Ghorepani. After having breakfast, we will head towards Nayapul, which brings the end of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. We will take a vehicle service from here to reach Pokhara, where you can hang around the lakeside area to enjoy your evening. Stay overnight at the hotel.

• Airport pickup and drop-off for arrival and departure
• A total of two nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu (Bed and breakfast) after the arrival and after the trek
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee
• Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee
• All government, local taxes, and official expenses
• A government-licensed, experienced trek leader (guide), an assistant trekking guide for 8 or more trekkers, and porters to help trekkers with luggage ( *1 porter for two trekkers; the maximum luggage limit per trekker is 14 kg. )
• Guides and porters costs, which include meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment
• One-night accommodation in Pokhara (Bed and breakfast) after the trek
• Kathmandu to Besisahar by tourist bus or microbus 
• Private transportation: (From Besisahar – starting point of the trek) (From the ending point of the trek – Pokhara)
• All accommodations during the trek
• Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
• Arranging rescue operations in cases of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance)
• International flight airfare
• Domestic flight airfare (Pokhara-Kathmandu)
• On Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points: [15 days: USD 30, 30 days: USD 50, 90 days: 125 USD]
• Extra nights’ accommodation and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or an early return from the trek
• Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
• Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, bottled water or boiled water, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery recharge fee, extra porters, etc.)
• Personal clothing and gear
• Tips for guides and porters
• Additional costs due to delays caused by circumstances outside company control like landslides, weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, etc.

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[natural habitats of the annapurna region].

Flora found in the Annapurna region

Row 01: Canna lily, Rhododendron, Iris Row 02: Yellow primrose, White orchid, Marijuana Row 03: Juniper bush, Stellara, Caragana brevispina

Fauna found in the Annapurna region

Row 01: Bharal (Blue sheep), Snow leopard, Himalayan wolf Row 02: Gray langur, Leopard, Jungle cat Row 03: Red fox, Himalayan marmot, Red giant flying squirrel

Birds found in the Annapurna region

Row 01: Hume's leaf warbler, Black redstart, Impeyan pheasant Row 02: Rosy pipit, Stripe-throated yuhina, Chestnut-tailed minla Row 03: Rock eagle owl, Crested serpent eagle, Ultramarine flycatcher

Travel Information

All trekkers must provide a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy certificate to the Himalayan Odyssey Nepal Trek before starting the trek.

[Note:] The policy must cover medical and emergency repatriation, including helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitudes.

Trekking permit requirements Two permits are required for the  Annapurna Circuit Trek : 1)  a  TIMS  (Trekkers Information Management System) card 2) an entry permit for the  Annapurna Conservation Area Project  permit

The difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is challenging (grade IV). While you’ll start the Thorong La Pass Trek at around 1,000 m above sea level, you’ll reach as high as 5,416 m at Thorong La Pass. That’s pretty high. There is a chance of getting altitude sickness.

Safe drinking water is easily available during the trek. You should carry a water bottle so you can refill the water that is available in every lodge. It will be better to bring purifying tablets for safe drinking during the trek.

Coughs and headaches are normal in the mountains. However, if you suffer from a high-syndrome illness, you have to make your way backward. Visit our Altitude Sickness page for more information. 

Yes, cellular networks can be found on the trekking trails of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. However, in some places, there might not be reception available. 

The standard length of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is about 160–260 kilometers. It could take 10 to 21 days to complete the circuit, but the distance can differ depending on your itinerary or where you start and end the trek.

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Trekking map of annapurna circuit trek: 12-days itinerary.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek

For scenery and cultural diversity, this has long been considered the best trek in Nepal and one of the world’s classic walks. It follows the Marsyangdi Valley to the north of the main Himalayan range and crosses a 5416m pass to descend into the dramatic desert-like, Tibetan-style scenery of the upper Kali Gandaki Valley.

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Annapurna Circuit

How to Trek Nepal's Annapurna Circuit

Hike the most beautiful route in Nepal

DANNY HU/Getty Images 

Although small in stature geographically speaking, Nepal is a county that is blessed with an overabundance of adventure travel opportunities. Whether you're hiking or climbing in the mountains, spotting wildlife in Chitwan National Park , or whitewater rafting on a raging river, there are numerous activities that are guaranteed to get your heart pumping. Of course, most travelers that visit the Himalayan country come for the amazing trekking, with the hike to Everest Base Camp standing out as a true bucket-list achievement amongst veteran adventurers. But as iconic as that journey is, it may take a backseat to another Nepali trekking route that is even longer, more challenging, and more beautiful.

Stretching for up to 145 miles through the snow-capped Himalaya, the Annapurna Circuit is the standard by which most other trekking routes around the world are measured. It is easily amongst the best hiking routes in the world, but before you commit to exploring it yourself, here's what you need to know.

What Is the Annapurna Circuit?

Located in central Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit is a long-distance trekking route that begins in the town of Besisahar and ends in Birethanti, encircling much of the Annapurna Massif along the way. The trail's namesake mountain is amongst the tallest in the world, standing some 8091 meters (26,545 ft) in height. This beautiful and majestic peak looms large over numerous sections of the trail, providing a spectacular backdrop for a hike that is already well known for its natural beauty.

The trail first opened to hikers back in the late 1970s, but truly gained its legendary status amongst adventure travelers in the '80s. It was around that time that development in the area started to take off, making it easier to travel to and from the Annapurna region. The city of Pokhara also blossomed into a mecca for backpackers, serving as a gathering point for those looking to hike the Himalayan route.

Today, the Annapurna Circuit is amongst Nepal's most popular trekking trails, drawing thousands of hikers on an annual basis. Most come for the spectacular beauty that can be found along the route, which includes small villages spaced out every few hours with accommodating tea houses offering good food, thirst quenching drinks, and a warm, cozy place to spend the night.

Location & Orientation

As with all adventures that take place in Nepal, the journey begins and ends in the country's capital –– Kathmandu. The city is noisy, chaotic, and colorful, with plenty of attractions to keep visitors busy in its own right. The historic temples, famous markets, and eclectic restaurants are certainly worth a look.

Once trekkers are ready to hit the trail however, they'll most likely fly to the city of Pokhara in central Nepal, which is located close to the start of the Annapurna Circuit. From there, they need to book ground transportation to nearby Besisahar to begin the trek. Alternatively, travelers can take a bus directly to Besisahar from Kathmandu, skipping Pokhara altogether. The ride is about seven hours in length, but offers some great views of the Nepali countryside while en route.

Best Time to Go

There are two distinct hiking seasons in Nepal, with one coming in the spring and the other in the fall. The absolute best time to hike in the Himalaya is in October and November, shortly after the annual monsoons have subsided. Typically, the weather is warm, with clear skies, and few rain showers at that time of the year, although evenings can be on the chillier side. Because of this however, it is also the busiest time of the year too. That means the trail can get crowded and tea houses will sell out quickly. If you're visiting during the peaks season, be sure to book your guide and accommodations well in advance.

The second best time to hike the Annapurna Circuit is in April and May. By that time of the year, spring has typically arrived, ushering in warmer temperatures and less snowfall. It is a quieter time on the trail, but the weather conditions can be a bit less predictable with a higher chance of rain or clouds. Still, it is generally a lovely time to be in the Himalaya, with good visibility and excellent hiking on most days.

From June to September, Nepal finds itself in the midst of monsoon season, which brings torrential rain to many parts of the country. But most of the Annapurna Circuit falls in a rain shadow and isn't often hit with heavy downpours. This makes the summer months a surprisingly good time to hike the route, as there are generally very few people traveling in Nepal during that time of year. The downside is that it can be quite warm and muggy on certain segments of the trail, making it an uncomfortable time to be in the mountains.

Some adventurous hikers will trek the route in the winter, as the trail is usually all-but deserted at that time of the year. The trade-off is that snowstorms can strike at any time, temperatures can get quite cold, and there is a higher chance of avalanches closing the trail. Only the most experienced backpackers should hike in the Himalaya at that time of the year, as conditions can actually become life-threatening, particularly if you're unaccustomed to the winter conditions.

How Long Does It Take to Hike the Annapurna Circuit?

Hiking the classic Annapurna route through the Himalaya generally requires about 18 days to complete end-to-end. Some trekkers are able to travel a bit faster, shaving a few days off of that time, while others will move at a slower pace or make side trips, extending the journey a bit longer. The majority of guided treks will stick closely to the 18 day schedule however, which doesn't include travel time to and from Nepal. Add on a few days in Kathmandu at the beginning and/or end, and an Annapurna trek will likely take the better part of three weeks to finish.

What Should I Expect on the Trail?

The Annapurna Circuit is a well marked and maintained trekking route that is easy to follow. It passes through numerous small villages along its length, giving hikers plenty of options to grab a bite to eat, relax with a drink, or find accommodations for the night. Tea houses are plentiful and small restaurants and shops are not uncommon either.

The trail itself features plenty of altitude gain and loss along the way, with a starting point located at 2690 feet in Besisahar and reaching its highest point at Thorung Pass, which tops out at nearly 17,770 feet. It is a slow, but steady climb up to that point, with some — steep, but manageable — ascents at various points throughout the hike. Go slowly and allow yourself to acclimate to the altitude, particularly in the early days of the trek.

There are also quite a few river crossings along the route, most of which are accomplished with the help of a suspension bridges. This adds to the sense of adventure, as some of those bridges are built high above the water, making for some very scenic views and photos. But those who aren't particularly fond of heights will want to keep their eyes focused ahead while moving at a steady pace. While completely safe and well maintained, the bridges can be a bit unnerving on the first crossing or two.

One of the reasons why the Annapurna Circuit is much-loved by trekkers is that it seems to only get better with each passing day. The beautiful and dramatic scenery can be incredibly breathtaking, and just when you think it can't get any better, the next day completely surpasses the one before. If you're looking for a hike that will provide plenty of sights to see, it's difficult to find a route that will tops this one.

As mentioned, the traditional Annapurna Circuit begins in Besisahar and ends in Birethanti. In between, the trail wanders through Khudi, Jagat, Manang, Marpha, Tatopani, and numerous other villages and towns, providing a real sense of what it is like to live in the Himalaya. This is part of its appeal as well, giving trekkers a chance to immerse themselves in the mountain culture that has existed there for centuries.

There have been some travelers who have lamented the fact that a busy road now runs through much of the Annapurna region, with cynics saying that it has ruined the trekking route forever. While it is true that a road now exists there, much of the path still stays well away from it and some portions have been rerouted to avoid the traffic as well. At the end of the day, this is still one of the best hikes in the world and most adventure travelers won't come away disappointed.

Do I Need a Guide?

Whether or not you hire a guide for your Annapurna Circuit excursion comes down to personal preference. If you are an experienced backpacker who enjoys going it alone, and are looking to save a bit of money, then a guide isn't really necessary. The trail is easy to follow, it's hard to get lost, and there are plenty of places to resupply along the way. For those that know what they are doing, it is a fairly straight forward trek.

On the other hand, if you're looking to get the full experience, a guide can come in very handy. Not only will he or she ensure that you stay safe on the trail, they'll also be able to answer questions for you along the way. They can also help translate conversations with locals, offer insights into the best places to stay and eat, and help you to avoid potentially sticky situations. From time to time trekkers can meet less-then scrupulous individuals along the trail and a good guide can help smooth over those encounters.

What to Pack

A long trek through the Himalaya can require plenty of gear to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable throughout the trip. If you've booked the hike with a guide service, be sure to ask them for a packing list before setting out to ensure that you have everything you'll need. During the two most popular trekking periods –– October through November and April through May –– the days are typically warm, while the nights can be quite cool. That means you'll want to dress in layers, bring a warm sleeping bag, and pack versatile gear that can be used in a variety of environments.

If you're trekking independently, you'll find a number of Annapurna Circuit gear lists online. Use these as guide for knowing what to pack for the trip and what to leave at home. Keep in mind however, you'll be carrying your backpack at high altitude, so packing light may be of benefit.

Do I Need a Permit?

The Nepali government requires that all trekkers hiking the Annapurna Circuit carry two permits with them at all times. Those permits are required to even enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and there are multiple checkpoints along the route where authorities will request to see them again.

Both the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara prior to the start of the hike. The ACAP costs about $18/person, while the Green TIMS card, which is for independent travelers, is priced at $20/person. A Blue TIMS card for group travelers sells for $10/person.

If you hire a guide they will typically handle all of the paperwork and obtain the permits for you.

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Nepali regulations require all travelers who are climbing or trekking within the country to have travel insurance prior to setting out on their adventure. Hiking and mountaineering at high altitude comes with some inherent risk, and it is not uncommon for travelers to have to be evacuated or receive medical treatment. Having the proper insurance can help alleviate those costs and can help organize an evacuation or medical transfer should the need arise.

Beyond that regulation however, it is just a smart idea to purchase travel insurance when undertaking any adventurous itinerary. You never know when a situation might arise where you might need it, including covering the expenses of lost bags, cancelled flights, unexpected medical expenses, or evacuations. Those are all things you hope to never have to deal with, but the right insurance will limit the impact it has on your trip and wallet should anything unexpected happen.

How Fit Do I Need to Be?

The Annapurna Circuit can be a challenging hike, even for those who are already quite fit. In order to enjoy the trek to its fullest, travelers are encouraged to be as physically prepared as possible prior to starting out. Some days are more strenuous than others and altitude is always a concern of course, but the trek will be a more enjoyable one if you have trained a bit prior to traveling to Nepal.

Who Should I Travel With?

As mentioned, you can hike the Annapurna Circuit completely on your own, or hire a guide when you arrive in Nepal. But if you'd rather have all of the logistics taken care of for you and book a guide service prior to your departure, there a plenty of companies that offer treks along the route. Here are a few that we recommend:

• G Adventure 18-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Trekking the Annapurna Circuit Region with Intrepid Travel
• Annapurna Circuit by Exodus Travel
• Annapurna Circuit From World Expeditions
• Annapurna Sanctuary Trek by REI Adventures

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Annapurna Circuit Trek

Planning to trek the annapurna circuit in nepal a great decision here's everything you need to know before your annapurna trek, including trekking permits, hiking solo vs in a group, what to pack, when to go, and all the money matters..

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular classic trek of Nepal. Each year, more than 60,000 trekkers come for this trek from all around the globe. In this trek, you encircle the Annapurna massif and cover between 110-130 miles by walking.

The Annapurna Circuit trek usually takes about 14–21 days, leaving from Kathmandu with a stopover in Pokhara before returning to the capital. The trail is moderate to fairly challenging and makes numerous river crossings over steel and wooden suspension bridges.

Our 19 days Annapurna Circuit Trek begins from Besisahar. You begin your trek alongside Marshyangdi river all the way to its waterhead beyond Annapurna range. You then enter into Manang, cross the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and go down to the restricted region of Mustang.

After visiting some popular settlements of this semi desert-like region, you travel a few hours in a bus and trek to Poon Hill viewpoint.

Annapurna Circuit Itinerary has often been voted as the best long-distance trek in the world, as it combined, in its old full form, a wide variety of climate zones from tropics at 600 m asl to the arctic at 5416 m asl at the Thorong La pass and cultural variety from Hindu villages at the low foothills to the Tibetan culture

There are two types of trekking permit required by anyone wishing to do the Annapurna Circuit trek. No matter when or how you’re hiking the Annapurna Circuit, you’ll need to organise both a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) permit, and an Annapurna National Park Permit (sometimes also known as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).

As of 2019, the permits should set you back about USD $50 total: the APC Permit is USD $30 / NPR 3,000 per person, while the TIMS Permit is USD $20 / NPR 2,000 per person.

Since the trail opened in 1977, most trekkers have followed an Annapurna Circuit itinerary that begins in Besishahar and heads in an anti-clockwise direction over the Thorong-La Pass and down into the Jomsom Valley.

Special Note for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Facts about annapurna circuit trek:, annapurna circuit trek highlights.

• The peaceful and pristine nature trip.
• Witness stunning views of Annapurna, Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and more.
• Stay in tea-houses of small villages.
• Cross highest pass – Thorong La Pass(5,416m).
• Visit Muktinath, other holy temples, and monasteries.
• Explore beautiful villages of Braga, Manang, Kagbeni, Jomsom, and Marpha.
• Gaze at the breathtaking Annapurna range from Poon Hill.
• Natural Hot spring at Tatopani.
• Enjoy the lively evening of Pokhara.
• International & domestic airport transfers as per the itinerary.
• 2 nights accommodation in Kathmandu with Bed and Breakfast plan.
• 2 nights accommodation in Pokhara with Bed and Breakfast plan.
• 18 breakfast, 14 Lunch, 15 dinner during the trip.
• Kathmandu Sightseeing by professional English speaking tour guide.
• Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu domestic flight.
• Pokhara – Jomsom – Pokhara Flight.
• 3 meals a day during the trip (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) as mention in itinerary.
• Accommodation while trekking in twin sharing basis in guesthouses.
• Annapurna conservation area permit and TIMS card.
• Upper Mustang Restricted area permit fee.
• Professional government license holder English speaking trekking guide.
• Sleeping bag and duffel bag during the trek. (Refundable after finish the trip)
• Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
• 1 farewell dinner in Kathmandu
• All government and local taxes.
• All entrance fees for sightseeing places
• Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks.
• Your international flights
• Nepal visa fees & airport taxes
• Personal travel insurance (strongly recommended)
• Gear or equipment for your trek
• Personal expenses along the trek
• Tiji Festival Camara fees, and other donation
• If you would like to ride on pony
• Tips for your city guide, drivers, hotels, restaurants, etc.
• Extra night accommodation then mention plan

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Is annapurna circuit dangerous, do i need a sleeping bag for annapurna circuit, is there any luggage limit for porter, do i need vaccinations for this trip.

When to Go Annapurna Circuit

Monsoon season in Nepal is June through September. That’s when most of the rain falls and when rock and mudslides are most likely to occur. The spring, between mid-March and mid-April, is when the rhododendron forests bloom, but the weather is still wet this time of year and the leeches are a nuisance at lower elevations.

The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit is October, thanks to reliably pleasant weather (80°F and humid at 2,000 feet; 20°F and dry at 17,000 feet) and clear skies.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

The path reaches its highest point at Thorung La pass (5416m/17769 ft), touching the edge of the Tibetan plateau. Practically all trekkers hike the route anticlockwise, as this way the daily altitude gain is slower, and crossing the high Thorong La pass is easier and safer.

To be very blunt about it, Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty level is quite challenging. What make the Annapurna Circuit trek difficulty level so tough is the high altitude that the route covers. The trekking route takes you as high as 5416 m, which is the height of Thorung La, the highest altitude pass in the region.

Accommodation, Food And Drink Facility

All guesthouses have blankets you always can ask for an extra one or two if it’s really cold. You had light summer sleeping bags but most of the time slept without them under the blankets. Even at Thorung Phedi where it will quite cold, you sleep in warm clothes under two blankets.

The facilities at higher altitudes e.g. Thorong Phedi and High Camp are more basic no power outlets in the room, no or very poor wi-fi, no hot shower, etc., to charge your phone or to use wi-fi you pay extra.

All guesthouses are more or less the same there are no fancier hotels to stay on the route like in Pokhara or Kathmandu. Rooms are very basic usually they have two single beds, blankets, sometimes a table and a chair.

Most of the time hikers sit in the dining area it’s the warmest place in a guesthouse; people drink tea, play cards, talk, etc. You go to your room only at night.

Nepal Annapurna Circuit Trek | Documentary

Getting travel insurance

The Annapurna Circuit is a high altitude trek through remote and difficult to access areas of Nepal having travel insurance is highly recommended. In fact, it’s required for getting the hiking permit. Nobody has ever asked us to show our insurances but when you fill the form they ask you to provide the name and the phone number of your insurance company.

There are many insurance company but we’d recommend using one that has experience in covering outdoor activities and working in the region like World Nomads. Nepal is one of their top hiking destinations with thousands of people buying World Nomads insurance policies for trekking here so they know local specific.

Book with Local Operator

Whether it’s a cultural tour, gentle walking holiday or strenuous trek, our holidays in Nepal are led by professionally-trained English speaking leaders. They have an intimate and expert knowledge of the history, culture and nature of Nepal and will make your trip a memorable experience. Thus hurry up and reserve your place to Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Kulendra Baral

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Himalaya Discovery Adventures

Annapurna Circuit Trek Map

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the best treks in Nepal, if not the world–although road construction in the last two decades has had a significant impact on the trekking experience (more on this later). Note: if you’re a mountain biker, the road on the west side is one of the most exciting and scenic mountain biking experiences!

The trek starts at Jagat or Dharapani  (approx. 8 hrs drive from Kathmandu) and ends in the Kali Gandaki Gorge– the disputed highest gorge in the world between Dhaulagiri (8,176 meters) and Annapurna (8,091 meters)

For acclimatization reasons, the circuit is followed by an anti-clockwise trail that circumvents the Annapurna Massif and takes trekkers through Central Nepal’s Annapurna, Manang and Mustang region. At its peak, the trek crosses the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) and descends to the town of Muktinath .

The road construction activities that began in 2004 and completed in 2008/9 have had a measurable impact on the trekking experience of the Annapurna circuit.

The Nepalese government realized that the route had a negative impact on hiking tourism on both the western (Pokhara-Muktinath) and eastern (Chame-Manang) sides of the circuit and created a series of New Annapurna Trekking Trails. These NATT trails, marked blue and white or red and white, take trekkers off the dusty and unpleasant roads and enjoy a much more pleasant walk.

The Annapurna circuit typically takes 10 – 17 days to complete (depending on whether you decide to take a detour to the Annapurna Base Camp and the Annapurna Sanctuary) and covers 150 – 240 km (depending on when you decide to stop the tour or use transport vehicles).

The scenery on the Annapurna Circuit is exceptionally beautiful, with trekkers crossing rice-terraced paddy fields, subtropical forests and glacial surroundings. There are a number of major mountains, including the Annapurna Massif (I-IV), three 8,000m peaks–Dhaulagiri (8,176m), Manaslu (8,156m) and Annapurna I (8,091m) and numerous 6,000 to 7,000m peaks.

Detailed Annapurna Circuit Trek Map

The Himalayan Map house, New Annapurna Trekking Trails map & Annapurna Circuit Trek map, which can be purchased in Kathmandu, Pokhara or online.

Please note : The classic Annapurna circuit has been severely affected by the road from Muktinath to Jomsom. If you choose to walk this route, be prepared for an unpleasant and dusty experience, as you wiz jeeps. Fortunately, the New Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT-trails) offer alternatives. We suggest the following route if you are not on a set trip.

Trek to the beautiful town of Kagbeni (2,800 meters) for an overnight stay. We recommend taking the high trail via Jhong from Muktinath, as it offers better views of the mountains.

From Jomsom take the new NATT- trail (marked in red and white) to Marpha (2,665m), where you can stay overnight and then continue along the route from Jomsom/Marpha below. Though, we highly recommend not skipping Kagbeni.

If you run out of time, you can also get a bus or jeep from Muktinath to Pokhara. If you are a fanatic of mountain biking, you can rent a mountain bike for one of the most amazing rides down and out of Muktinath this area of Nepal is rapidly becoming a famous mountain biking routes.

Annapurna Route Variations.

If you have much time on the Annapurna Circuit, you might want to consider the Poon Hill Tre k, the Mardi Himal Trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek .

Trekking in Annapurna is a classic trip with all aspects for a classic trek and a great adventure. This trek is perfect for adventure seekers.

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“I was born and raised in Nepal, nearby Everest region. I am proud to be a native Sherpa, and I have been a Mountain guide over a decade now. Following my passion, I decided to start helping travelers with their travel plans! I think life is a journey, a trip where you collect experiences when you share with other people and with nature.”

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Everything You Need To Know Before Trekking the Annapurna Circuit

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through an affiliate link, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support.

Use this detailed Annapurna Circuit trek guide to help plan your trekking Annapurna Circuit adventure. I hiked the Annapurna Circuit in March 2023 and it was one of the best things I have ever done. Happy trekking!

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most well-known, and most beautiful, multi-day treks in the world. It takes you around the Annapurna Massif and through two mountain valleys high into the Himalayas in Nepal.

You will pass through colorful Tibetan and Nepalese villages, across raging rivers on suspension bridges, past prayer wheels and temples, and over mountain passes covered in snow.

You will see some of the most epic and incredible mountain scenery anywhere in the world, and it will be tough, but it also may be one of the best experiences of your life, I know it was for me.

I had wanted to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek for as long as I could remember and I had tried to do it twice before, but my attempts were thwarted both times due to differing circumstances. I finally hiked the circuit in March 2023 and it was well and truly worth the wait.

In fact, it is one of my absolute favorite travel experiences after traveling the world for nearly 20 years through 67 countries. Seriously.

I put together this Annapurna Circuit Trek guide to help you decide how you are going to do the trek and all the info you need to know when planning for it. I hope it’s helpful.

My Ultimate Trekking Annapurna Circuit Guide: All the Info

The full original Annapurna Circuit trek starts in Besisahar and ends in Nayapul. It is 260km/161 miles and it takes around two to three weeks to hike, depending on your pace. Basic roads have since been built from Besisahar to Manang, and Muktinath to Nayapul so there are now only three days of walking where there are no roads at all.

The highest point is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), and the starting point in Besisahar is 760 meters (2,490 feet). Due to the large change in elevation, the scenery is diverse and slowly changes as you ascend and then descend after summiting the pass.

Do You Need a Guide?

As of April 1 2023, you officially do need to hire a guide for trekking the Annapurna Circuit but from what I have been hearing in the Annapurna Circuit Trek Facebook group , a lot of people have been hiking independently and haven’t had any issues doing so.

We hiked the Annapurna Circuit independently and it was a good option for us although our friends had a guide and there are a lot of benefits for that too.

Pros of Trekking the Annapurna Circuit Independently: Less expensive, more freedom to plan your trek as you go, and it’s more likely you will end up meeting and hiking with other hikers.

Cons of Trekking the Annapurna Circuit Independently: If something goes wrong it’ll be harder to get help, it can be very stressful route planning and doing everything yourself, it’s more likely you could get lost, and you won’t get all the background, history, etc of where you are hiking.

In comparison, here are the pros and cons of hiking with a guide or on a group tour:

Pros of Trekking the Annapurna Circuit With a Guide: Gain knowledge of the places you are hiking, supporting the local community, no stressful route planning, guides know the best guesthouses for lunch and to stay at, your guide will keep you safe, and if something happens they will know how to contact help.

Cons of Trekking the Annapurna Circuit With a Guide: More expensive, isn’t always conducive to meeting independent trekkers, could be a bad experience if you don’t end up liking or trusting your guide or group, a more rigid schedule.

If you are hiking solo or don’t have a lot of high-altitude hiking or any hiking experience, I highly recommend you hire a guide or join a group package for your Annapurna Circuit trek . This trek is no joke and many people have died over the years from bad weather, altitude sickness, falls, and more. Don’t be one of them.

Is it Still Worth Trekking the Annapurna Circuit?

Some people who trekked the Annapurna Circuit years ago before the road was built say that it isn’t worth hiking it anymore, but I disagree. I can’t compare what it was like hiking it then to now but I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and it is definitely worth hiking.

It is relatively easy to avoid the road for a lot of the time as alternative walking trails have been built. We also found the road from Besisahar to Manang had hardly any vehicles on it when we trekked in early March, although this could be completely different in the busiest months of April, November, and December.

The Best Time To Trek the Annapurna Circuit

There are two trekking windows where it is the best time to hike the Annapurna Circuit – mid-March to the beginning of May, and October and November. The autumn months of October and November are the most popular due to the skies being clearer at lower elevations and the weather generally being more stable.

You can technically hike the Annapurna Circuit all year round but it would be bitterly cold in winter (December – February) and the pass is more likely to close due to too much snow and dangerous storms. In the hot summer months of June – August, it is very hot and wet at lower elevations of the hike and there is a serious risk of landslides so it is also not recommended to hike the circuit then.

We started hiking a couple of weeks before the spring season officially started, from March 1st-13th. We did have one day when we were snowed in at Manang (luckily it was our scheduled rest day!) and then quite thick snow the next day and from Thorong Phedi up to Thorong La Pass but we generally had beautiful weather. It was colder at higher altitudes than it would have been a month or so later though. 

It was also a little hazy for the first three days until we reached higher altitudes and we had a few afternoon storms but we were done hiking for the day once they hit. The plus of starting in early March is that the crowds are much thinner, and it is much more comfortable hiking at lower temperatures – it can get very hot and sticky by April.

Annapurna Trek Permits

Pre-April 1st 2023, you needed to apply for both TIMS (Trekker’s Information Management Systems) and ACAP ( Annapurna Conservation Management Project ) before trekking if you were hiking independently.

From everything I have been reading recently, you no longer need to apply for a TIMS card, just ACAP if you are hiking without a guide. You can get your ACAP at the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, the office in Besisahar has just recently closed.

I have also read that you can get it in Khudi which is a village close to Besisahar but I’m not sure exactly where the office is.

It costs 3,000 rupees (around $23) and you need to take your passport, two passport photos (I believe you can get photos taken for free there but I took my own), proof of your insurance, and the fee in Nepalese rupees. Check opening times for the office you plan to go to to ensure you don’t turn up when it is closed.

If you have hired a guide or are on a group tour, they will organize the ACAP for you, they’ll just need the above items to do this.

My Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary: Besisahar To Marpha

There are so many ways you can do this trek depending on how much time you have, what your fitness level is, how many hours you want to hike each day, and your budget – the options are endless.

I did a lot of research before we did the hike to decide what Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary would best fit with what I wanted out of the experience and I was really happy with how everything turned out. 

I spent thirteen days trekking from Besisahar to Marpha including a rest day in Manang. We also cut out the 10km dusty road section between Kagbeni and Jomsom by taking a bus.

My goal was to hike for 5-7 hours per day and then have the late afternoon/evenings to socialize and relax in the teahouses. Experiencing the teahouses is a big part of what makes the Annapurna Circuit special. We could have pushed ourselves more and hiked more miles per day but I’m really happy with how we did it.

Here is the basic outline of our Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary:

Day 1: Bus from Pokhara to Besisahar – 5 hours. Besisahar to Bhulbhule – 9km/5.6 miles.

Day 2: Bhulbhule to Jagat – 19km/11.8 miles.

Day 3: Jagat to Dharapani – 17km/10.5 miles.

Day 4: Dharapani to Chame – 17km/10.5 miles.

Day 5: Chame to Upper Pisang – 16km/10 miles.

Day 6: Upper Pisang to Ngawal – 10km/6.2 miles.

Day 7: Ngawal to Manang – 10km/6.2 miles

Day 8: Rest day in Manang.

Day 9: Manang to Yak Kharka – 11km/6.8 miles.

Day 10: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi – 6.5km/4 miles.

Day 11: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath – 16km/10 miles.

Day 12: Muktinath to Kagbeni – 16km/10 miles.

Day 13: Bus from Kagbeni to Jomsom – 1 hour. Hike Jomsom to Marpha – 9km/5.6 miles.

Day 14: Bus from Marpha to Tatopani – 3 hours. Soak in the hot springs.

Day 15: Bus from Tatopani to Pokhara – 5.5 hours.

We had originally planned to hike from Tatopani to Poon Hill and then finish in Ngawal but Toby’s shoulder was really hurting him (he broke his collarbone a few years ago) and the weather was turning so we decided to head back to Pokhara via Tatopani from Marpha.

As it was early in the season, we decided not to do the side trip to Tilicho Lake because the lake was frozen, everything was completely covered in snow, and it was so cold at high elevations. If I hiked it in a month where it wasn’t frozen, I would have likely added it to my Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary.

What To Pack For the Annapurna Circuit Trek

What you should pack for the Annapurna Circuit varies depending on what time of year you are going. I hiked the circuit in early March so I needed to bring warmer clothes than I would have needed for September, October, April, or May.

Thermals, a fleece, a puffer jacket, warm socks, gloves, and a wooly hat are all important for the colder months. And definitely bring toilet paper – there is none provided at any of the tea houses.

I have an extremely detailed packing list where you can see exactly what I packed, what I wish I had packed, and what I didn’t end up needing.

Insurance For the Annapurna Circuit Trek

You are required to have insurance for your trek (you will need to show it to get your ACAP). As many people suffer from altitude sickness while hiking and there have been a lot of helicopter rescues over the years, make sure you have insurance that will cover you for hiking up to 5,500 meters.

I went with a World Nomads Standard Plan which covers you for hiking up to 6,000 meters. I didn’t have to use it (luckily) so I can’t comment on how good they are but I have read mixed reviews.

How To Get To the Start of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek officially begins in Besisahar, where buses from Kathmandu and Pokhara arrive. The bus takes approximately 5 hours from Pokhara and about 8 hours from Kathmandu.  

These times are approximate because the roads in Nepal are terrible and it can be really slow going, especially with the ongoing road works.

If you are taking the bus from Pokhara, it costs around 700-800 rupees (we paid 750 rupees each = $5.50), and you can either purchase it from a travel agent or from your accommodation.  

The bus departs at 6.30am from the tourist bus park (named as such on Google Maps) off Rastra Bank Road. We were staying at the northern end of Lakeside and a taxi to the bus station cost 400 rupees.

If you are taking a bus from Kathmandu, you can also purchase your ticket from your accommodation or from a travel agent. The ticket costs around 1000-1500 rupees and buses leave at 7am. This is for a direct tourist bus of which there are multiple companies.

You will have to put your larger bags on the roof of the bus (it is then covered and roped up) so I advise you to keep your valuables and anything you need for the bus trip in a small bag on your person.  

Also, put a waterproof bag cover on your larger bag in case it rains because the bags aren’t generally completely covered up on top.

If you are short on time and don’t want to start hiking from Besisahar, you could take a local bus another 7 km or so from Besisahar to Bhulbhule or a bit further to Ngadi (usually easy to do on the same day unless your bus from Kathmandu is really late) or hire a jeep (ask around in town) to take you as far as Manang.

I don’t recommend starting in Manang. The road to get there is rough going and you will spend a full day getting there by jeep. It is also essential to acclimate slowly.  

Starting in Jagat or Dharapani are good options if you want to shave some time off and not miss too much beautiful scenery. If I did it again I would have taken the bus to Bhulbhule and hiked from there because the first day wasn’t super interesting.

The cheapest way to back to Pokhara or Kathmandu when you finish hiking is by taking buses. We caught buses from Kagbeni to Jomsom, Marpha to Tatopani, and Tatopani to Pokhara without any issues.  

Speak to your accommodation about how to purchase a bus ticket and where to catch the bus.

Alternatively, you could hire a jeep and driver but you are looking at $200+ depending on how far you are going. You can also enquire about getting a ride in a jeep at your accommodation.

Navigating When Trekking the Annapurna Circuit

We downloaded and used Maps.me for navigating on the Annapurna Circuit and it mostly steered us well. I also used detailed day-by-day descriptions of the trail from a couple of different blogs including this one and this one .

There are actually a lot of options for trails and you can also choose to hike on the road. Sometimes you don’t have a choice. We tried to avoid the road as much as we could without adding lots of extra miles onto our day.

Sometimes it can be hard to choose which trail to take and it can be a bit of a crapshoot because sometimes the trail may be closed at a point or it’s longer or harder than you think it’ll be. We ended up hiking an extra 3 km on an already long day on day two which wasn’t ideal, and we had to backtrack for about 20 minutes when we were hiking to Marpha because a bridge was washed out.

There are landslides often in the wet season so sometimes trails are closed and that won’t be updated on Maps.me so it’s important to speak to your hosts at the teahouses to see if they have any information about any trail closures ahead.

Sometimes there will be signs saying the trail is closed ahead before you even start hiking that way, and other times you may get an hour down a trail to then have to turn around and backtrack because the trail is closed.

This is when it is handy to have a guide with you because they hike these trails often and have a lot more firsthand information about whether a certain trail is closed or not. 

I recommend reading posts on the Annapurna Circuit Trek Facebook group , there are lots of helpful posts from people who have just finished hiking (or are currently hiking) the circuit including what sections of trails are closed.

You can also purchase detailed guidebooks and topography maps. We purchased a topography map but didn’t end up using it.

Where To Stay on the Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit is a teahouse trek and you will be staying in teahouses in the small villages along the Annapurna Circuit. If you are traveling with a guide, these guesthouses will be picked out for you but if you are traveling independently, you will just turn up in a town, find one that looks good, and enquire if they have any rooms.

At the beginning of our trek, we mostly negotiated a free room if we purchased dinner and breakfast at the teahouse and this was usually not an issue. We always made sure to get tea and apple pie on arrival too and to purchase some snacks. 

Negotiating a free room if you are eating meals there is the norm on the Annapurna Circuit but I changed my view about this practice as time went on. The meals are very cheap, especially at lower elevations, and I don’t think it is fair to not pay for the room if you are eating your meals there. 

The room prices are usually only a few dollars (this gets more expensive the higher you hike) which is not a lot for a Western traveler but goes a lot further for the locals so I encourage you to pay it as well as eating there.

Teahouse accommodation is pretty simple with no heating in the rooms, but these days you usually get free WiFi and some teahouses even have hot showers! If it’s really cold, you can ask for extra blankets. Some teahouses have rooms with private bathrooms but most of the ones we stayed in had shared bathrooms outside the rooms.

Most of the teahouse rooms we stayed in had twin beds rather than double beds, so I wasn’t able to utilize Toby’s body heat, unfortunately.

To stay warm in the evenings, you can hang out and meet other hikers in the dining room area as there is usually a potbellied stove that is lit for the evening and morning when it is cold. From Chame onwards, our room was too cold to stay in there longer than necessary.

We were lucky that in most places we stayed at there were Western-style toilets but it’s pretty much inevitable that you will come across squat toilets at some stage of the hike, especially between Manang and Muktinath.

Food on the Annapurna Circuit

While you will still find Dal Baht everywhere (Dal Bhat power 24-hour!), you can actually find a lot of other food options along the trail. 

For lunch and dinner, Dal Baht is usually the cheapest option and is delicious so we ate that a lot. Dal Bhat consists of lentil curry, rice, curried potatoes, and pickled vegetables with a papadum, and you get unlimited free refills (except for papadums unfortunately).

We also had Thukpa (noodle soup), vegetable soups, pasta dishes, fried noodles, fried rice, vegetarian and chicken momos, yak burgers, sandwiches, and even pizza along the Annapurna Circuit.

For breakfast, I usually had porridge or a pancake with apples or bananas,  Tibetan bread with honey, and boiled eggs. Boiled eggs are great to put in your bag for a snack later on and I did this often.

I also had almost daily apple pies – the Annapurna Circuit is known as the apple pie trail so it had to be done. We also found a few delicious bakeries that had apple donuts, cake, and cinnamon rolls.

For drinks, you can find bottled water, soda, beer, and even spirits and wine at some guest houses. Masala tea is everywhere and I loved the hot lemon and honey drinks and hot chocolate. Unfortunately, at most teahouses the coffee is instant but you’ll find real coffee at a couple of places along the way.

If I had been coming from New Zealand I would have packed some Jed’s coffee bean bags so I could make my own coffee because I really don’t like instant. Next time!

The food at the Tilicho Hotel in Manang- especially the cinnamon rolls, apple crumble, coffee, and vegetarian lasagne – was the best I had on the trail.

I also loved the apple donut and real coffee I had from the little glass pyramid cafe in Bhratang (after Chame), shakshuka and real coffee from Hotel Bob Marley in Muktinath, the yak burger happy meal from Yak Donald’s in Kagbeni, and the Dal Bhat and apple and custard pie from Hotel Sonam in Marpha.

If you are vegan or gluten-free, Dal Bhat will be your best friend (double check it’s vegan because some may have traces of dairy). 

Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost

Your Annapurna Trek cost can obviously differ depending on how spendy you are. Toby and I are mid to high-end budget travelers these days so we wanted to have enough money to get occasional Western meals, daily apple pie, lots of tea, occasional beers, as well as having an emergency stash.

Our big unexpected splurge was hiring a porter for the Thorong La Pass day and we had to purchase some gear in Manang.

I tracked all of my Annapurna Circuit Trek costs during my 13 days of hiking (and the 1.5 days spent traveling back to Pokhara after) and I spent a total of $389. This works out to $27 per day. I didn’t include the cost of the porter for one day ($45 for my half) or the gear we bought in Manang, but this includes the ACAP permit and the bus to and from Pokhara.

This is what we spent as independent trekkers. If you are going to hire a guide the going rate is usually $25-$35 per day (per guide, not per person) and a tip of around 10-20% is the norm. If you are hiring a porter to carry your bag, this is generally $15-$25 per day.

Also keep in mind that for most of our trek, we didn’t pay for accommodation, except in Manang, Yak Kharka, Kagbeni, and Marpha, so if you are paying for accommodation every night that is a few more dollars per day.

These are some of the costs for when I trekked the Annapurna Circuit in March 2023:

• Bus from Pokhara to Besisahar 750 rupees
• Chocolate bar 200 rupees
• Plate of vegetable momos 550 rupees
• Room with attached bathroom 300-1200 rupees
• Local bus from Kagbeni to Jomsom 250 rupees
• Hot springs entry in Tatopani 150 rupees
• Local bus from Marpha to Tatopani 1000 rupees
• Local bus from Tatopani to Pokhara 900 rupees

Important Tips For Your Trek

• Get out enough cash to last you for the full trek as there are only a couple of places to get cash along the way (Manang is one of the main ones) and the ATMs aren’t always working. I recommend $30-$35 per day for the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost to be on the safe side.
• Download Maps.me for the full Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Download any blog posts with information that you want to read when you are offline (hint, hint)
• Have a printed copy of your insurance details, you’ll need this for the ACAP but it’s good to have in case something happens on the trek.
• Purchase some snacks and something to eat for lunch on the first day. You may be stuck on a bus for most of the day and you want to hit the ground running when you arrive in Besisihar.
• Purchase a Nepalese SIM card. It’s good to have this for coverage when you are staying at a teahouse with no WiFi and in case you need to call emergency services or your insurance provider.
• If you do hire a guide, or a porter, or go with an organized group tour, make sure to take cash for tipping. I believe $5 per person per day is customary.
• For cold nights, fill up your Nalgene with boiling water and sleep with it in your sleeping bag. It will warm you up a lot. We didn’t have a Nalgene with us so we purchased large plastic water bottles, put the water in our water bladders then asked them to fill the bottles with boiling water. They do lose their shape from the heat but we didn’t have any issues with leaking.
• Consider if you want to use Diamox to avoid altitude sickness. Read up on the side effects and maybe try it out at lower altitudes first to make sure you don’t have a bad reaction. We used it because I got altitude sickness on the Inca Trail and it was horrendous. The only side effects we got were occasional pins and needles in our feet and on my chin, weirdly enough. Neither of us had any symptoms of altitude sickness for the whole trek, not even a headache. You can get it prescribed by your doctor or get it over the counter once you get to Nepal.
• You may be trying to decide whether you want to hire a porter to carry your bag. If you can pack light I don’t think it’s necessary BUT you can find porters along the trail to hire for even just a day. We ended up doing this for the summit day because Toby was worried about his bad knee on the 1,600 meters downhill after getting over the pass and I was worried about my asthmatic breathing at high altitude. We spoke to staff at the lodge in Thorong Phedi and they found someone for us. It won’t be cheap if you do this (it costs us $90!) but for us, it was so worth it and made our summit day so much more pleasant.
• You can also hire a mule to take you over the pass, we saw an older woman on a mule being led by a guide. It took her from High Camp to just before the pass.
• If you are hiking in the shoulder season like us and aren’t sure if you need some items like microspikes, there are a couple of gear shops in Manang that aren’t ridiculously priced. You can get trekking clothing, trekking poles, gaiters, microspikes, snacks and more. We even paid to get our laundry done in Manang.
• Don’t ascend more than 300-400 meters per day over 3,000 meters. If you follow this rule you are less likely to get altitude sickness. If you can, after dropping your bags at your teahouse home for the night, do an acclimatization hike 100-200 meters further up and back. This will further help with acclimatizing to the high altitude.
• Before deciding your route outline, take into account what you want from this experience. For me, I enjoyed starting early, hiking for 4-7 hours, and then spending the afternoon and evening relaxing, chatting with other trekkers, and reading at the teahouse. We met a guy who was hiking 30km a day because he found hanging out in the teahouses boring, and that suited him. To each their own.
• If hiking out of the four main hiking months (March, April, October, and November), be aware that not all teahouses and shops, etc will be open yet. As we hiked at the beginning of March, a couple of weeks before the spring season started, we did see that a few places were closed. The clinic that does the free acclimatization talk and the movie theater weren’t open in Manang when we were there which was a bummer.
• For checking the weather on the Annapurna Circuit, I used this website . It seemed to be pretty accurate when I was hiking and it also has temperatures for different altitudes which was really helpful.

I hope this Trekking Annapurna Circuit guide was helpful. Let me know if you have any questions or feedback.

If you enjoyed this post, check out my other multi-day hiking posts:

• Ultimate Lightweight Annapurna Circuit Packing List
• Hike From Aspen to Crested Butte: The Best Hike in Colorado
• Hiking the Tongariro Northern Circuit: One of New Zealand’s Great Walks
• Trekking Kalaw to Inle Lake: The Best Trek I Have Ever Done
• Pushing Myself to the Limit on the Kepler Track Great Walk
• The Best Kauai Hiking Adventures
• Hiking to Abbot Pass Hut in the Canadian Rockies
• Hiking the Hillary Trail on Auckland’s Wild West Coast
• Hiking Between the Pueblos Mancomunados Villages in Mexico
• Dealing with Altitude Sickness on the World-Famous Inca Trail in Peru

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Annapurna Circuit

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Kathmandu, nepal.

Learn more about our Annapurna Circuit trip:

Embark on the annapurna circuit in nepal, j oin the explorer’s passage for one of the most extraordinary treks on the planet: the annapurna circuit. stay at local tea houses as you follow this ancient himalayan trade route, climbing through jungle-like terrain and rice fields, past canyons and waterfalls, and trekking among snowy peaks at thorung la pass (17,768 feet / 5,415 meters   in elevation). from the bustling streets of kathmandu to the serene mountain villages of the gurung people, this adventure offers diversity in culture and landscape, and the opportunity to meet other adventurers from across the globe. the annapurna circuit is truly a must for any serious trekker., read below to review trip details and highlights, a sample itinerary, trip customization options, accommodations, photos, and more, trek the annapurna circuit with t.e.p., we take care of everything.

W e go above and beyond our competitors in handling every detail of your Annapurna Circuit trek, so that you can focus exclusively on experiencing all that Nepal and the Himalayas have to offer. Our trips are all-inclusive, crafted with the intent of providing you with an unforgettable adventure travel experience. All you have to do is show up at the airport in Kathmandu!

Expert guides.

E xperience the Annapurna Circuit with the finest trekking guides in Nepal. Our knowledgeable guides have been leading adventures in the Himalayas for over thirty years, and are some of the pioneers of trekking in the Annapurna region. Many of our guides are also local to the Khumbu region of Nepal, which is home to the Sherpa community.

Responsible travel and sustainability.

T he Explorer’s Passage is a member of Sustainable Travel International, a partner/supporter of the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, as well as a supporter of the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST). We very proudly incorporate the principles of these organizations throughout your trip to Nepal. 

Trip highlights.

• Explore the busy streets of Kathmandu, including a guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the  Pashupatinath and Boudhanath stupas.
• Follow an ancient trade route on one of the oldest treks in the Himalayas.
• Trek over the challenging Thorong La pass (17,768 feet / 5,415 meters), the highest point on the Circuit, and be rewarded with views of stunning, snow-capped peaks.
• Rest your feet at mountain tea houses in villages along the trail, where you can share hearty, memorable meals with fellow adventurers and local Sherpas.
• Travel over diverse terrain, including lush lowland forests of rhododendron trees, open meadows and pastures, rice fields, waterfalls, rivers, glacial lakes, rocky and rugged paths, and humbling mountain landscapes.
• Visit the sacred temples of Muktinath,  a holy place for Hindus and Buddhists.
• Meet other explorers from around the world on this incredible journey of a lifetime.

From $4,295 USD per person

*More info. on pricing

Pricing starts at $4,295 USD per person

Single Supplement for Hotel: from $795 USD

More questions? Read more about pricing here

START DATES

Custom Dates Available

*To inquire on a custom date, please contact us !

2023 Group Trip Dates below:

• September 15, 2023
• October 2, 2023
• October 7, 2023
• November 3, 2023

2024 Group Trip Dates below:

• March 15, 2024
• April 12, 2024
• May 3, 2024

To inquire on a custom date, please contact us!

18 Day Itinerary

Trekking duration is 9 days. For more information about itinerary options, please review the section about trip customization on this webpage.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Various Options*

In Kathmandu, Besisahar, and Pokhara, choose between 3-Star or 5-Star hotels. While hiking the Annapurna Circuit, everyone stays in tea houses, which are comparable to many other mountain lodges/huts in other parts of the world.

*Read about accommodations in Nepal

MAX. GROUP SIZE

( Private groups: 20 people)

Advanced* Activities: multi-day hiking on the Annapurna Circuit.

Elevation: Start: 2,493 feet /  760 meters; End: 17,768 feet / 5,415 meters

Daily trekking distance: ~4 to 12.4 miles / ~ 6.4 to 20 kilometers per day

Total trekking distance: ~79 miles / 127 kilometers

*Please refer to our Trip Activity Level Guide for more information

Please Note – the Trip Activity Level Guide is for guidance only and provides a general sense of what you should expect on our trips. Actual times, distances, and elevation can be outside the ranges outlined below.

Trips designated “easy” are perfect for first-timers, or travelers looking for a mild physical challenge. hikes, treks, and horseback rides are short and terrain is typically flat, at an elevation not exceeding 5,000 feet. on paddling trips, river currents move swiftly, thus minimal paddling is required..

“Moderate” trips are more active and require a bit more endurance. Hikes, treks, and horseback rides includes occasional steep ascents. Elevation can occassionaly reach up to 15,000 feet. River currents are moderate and some stretches include Class 1-2 rapids.

Trips marked “Advanced” require strong physical stamina, as we’re often active for 8+ hours per day. Hikes, treks, and horseback rides include traversing more rugged and mountainous terrain, at elevations that can reach up to 15,000 feet. Rivers currents are moderate to swift and often include paddling white water through Class 1-3 rapids.

TEP’s most physically demanding trips fall into the “Explorer” category. Expect 8+ hours of activity per day. These trips are demanding, yet attainable for those seeking the challenge. Hike, trek, and horseback ride on rugged and mountainous terrain with frequent steep ascents. Elevation may exceed 15,000 feet. Rivers currents are moderate to swift and often include navigating white water through Class 1-3 rapids.

More Questions? Speak to one of our Adventure Consultants at 855-208-6800 to determine if this is the right trip for you OR Read more about the Trip Activity Level Guide

SAMPLE TRIP ITINERARY

18 day / 17 night trip daily overview, day 1: arrival in kathmandu, nepal.

Namaste , and welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner where you will meet your guide and perhaps a few fellow travelers.

Day 2: Drive to Besisahar

Start your first full day in Nepal with a long, winding drive. As you leave Kathmandu, the route curves through the hills, following rivers and climbing higher and higher through rural Nepal until you reach Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit.

Day 3: Drive to Manang

Buckle up – today you will board a 4-wheel drive vehicle and travel the bumpy road to Manang on a nine hour tour through mountain villages, taking in stunning views of waterfalls and jagged, snowy peaks. Stop at the large village of Chame to explore the shops and teahouses before continuing up to the plateau, where you will stay at your first guest house.

Day 4: Day in Manang; Optional Hike to Gangapurna Glacier Lake

Spend today in Manag getting accustomed to the high elevation. Wander the streets of historic Manang or opt for a practice hike to view Gangapurna Glacier Lake or the surrounding monasteries.

Day 5: Acclimatization Hike to Ice Lake

After breakfast, begin your acclimatization hike to the Ice Lake (Kicho Tal). Due to its high elevation in the Manang valley, it is often frozen, hence its name.

Day-hike distance: approximately  9 miles/14.4 kilometers (7-10 hours).

Day 6: Start the Annapurna Circuit; Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

Today you officially embark on the Annapurna Circuit. Begin by walking through Manang’s western gates, then down to the river, through coniferous forests, past villages and a monastery, until Tilicho Peak comes into view.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 12.4 miles/20 kilometers (7-8 hours).

Day 7: Trek to Tilicho Lake

Tackle the initially steep climb to Tilicho Lake in the early morning, accompanied by yaks and deer that graze along the path. Your destination is Tilicho Lake, where it is said the events of the Hindu sacred text the Ramayana were originally told. After spending time at the lake you will return to Tilicho Base Camp.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 6 miles/9.7 kilometers ( 5-6 hours).

Day 8: Trek to Leder

Today your trek will take you past the villages of Sri Kharka Village and Tenki, through pastures and juniper forests, and to Gunsan, a village of flat, mud roofed houses, until you at last reach the open meadow of Leder.

Day-hike distance: approximately 11.5 miles/18.5 kilometers  (5-6 hours).

Day 9: Trek to Thorong Phedi

Your goal today is Thorong Phedi, the village at the foot of Thorong La pass. The terrain on this part of the trek is rugged and otherworldly – much different from the lush forests at the start of the trek. Here you’ll find the best views of Mt Gundang, Mt Syagang, Thorong Peak, and Mt Khatungkan.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 4 miles/6.4 kilometers ( 3-4 hours).

Day 10: Trek through Thorong La Pass to Muktinath

Today you’ll face the most challenging day of the trek as you hike Thorong La Pass, one of the highest passes in the world. Your reward? Breathtaking views of the Himalayas in the morning light. Afterward, descend to Muktinath to visit the temples there.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 10 miles/16.4 kilometers ( 5-6 hours).

Day 11: Muktinath Temple and Tatopani

Start the day at Muktinath temple, a holy temple for Buddhists and Hindus, followed by a four hour drive to Tatopani, where you can rest your feet in the lodge and soak in the waters of the natural hot springs.

Day 12: Trek to Ghorepani

After yesterday’s rest, it’s time to lace up your boots again and continue the circuit. As you ascend to Ghar Khola valley you’ll pass through terraced farmland, the ethnic Thakali villages of Sikha and Chitre Ghorepani, and lush forests of birch and magnolia trees. If you’re lucky, the magnificent rhododendrons will be in bloom. Spend the night in the village of Ghorepani, located at the top of the ridge.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 10 miles/16 kilometers ( 5-6 hours).

Day 13: Trek to Poon Hill and Tadapani

Before dawn, climb the steep trail to Poon Hill to catch the sunrise over the Himalayas and see for yourself why this viewpoint is the most popular destination of the Annapurna region. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then head east, climbing a ridge then descending through rhododendron forests and passing waterfalls. Spend the night at Tadapani.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 6.9 miles/11.2 kilometers ( 5-6 hours).

Day 14: Trek to Ghandruk

This is your last day trekking the Annapurna Circuit. Today the trail descends through a dark and dense rhododendron forest; by afternoon, you’ll be greeted by cherry blossoms on the opposite slopes of the ravine. In the stone-house village of Ghandruk you’ll enjoy close-up views of the impressive Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli mountains. 

Daily trekking distance: approximately 6 miles/9.7 kilometers  (6-7 hours).

Day 15: Drive to Pokhara

It’s a four hour drive today from Ghandruk to the lakeside village of Pokhara, where you can enjoy a hard-earned rest and reflect on your remarkable journey.

Day 16: Return to Kathmandu

Day 16: return to kathmandu, nepal.

Say goodbye to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara and start the eight hour drive to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu the rest of your day is free.

For dinner you could seek out an authentic thali . With variations common to much of South Asia, it is a warm curry dish of rice, lentils, meat, and vegetables. You’ve certainly earned a hearty meal after so many days of trekking!

Day 17: Explore Kathmandu, then Farewell Dinner

Day 17: explore kathmandu.

Today is our final full day together. In the morning you’ll take a guided tour of Pashupatinath and Boudhanath stupa. Afterward you might consider seeing some live music in Lazimpat, or visiting the Newa Chen house in northern Lalitpur to experience a 350 year-old Newari home, restored to its original beauty. We can also provide additional recommendations for destinations and activities.

Day 18: Final Day in Nepal

Congratulations on an awe-inspiring journey! It’s time to say farewell to Nepal and its amazing people, mountains, and nature. On your way home you will have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in this wonderful country. Until next time!

Please contact us  for a complete detailed itinerary.

Are you interested in another activity or destination in Nepal that isn’t listed above? Planning to spend extra time in the region, or interested in specific travel dates? No problem. As experts in tailored trip planning, we can weave your interests and your timeframe into our customizable itineraries so that every detail of your extraordinary trip unfolds just the way you want it to.

Contact us today to get started customizing your dream trip to Nepal!

Ready to book call us, learn more below, traveler testimonials, read what people are saying about their once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences with the explorer’s passage:, allison (england):, “i had such a great time in nepal with tep. it was the best thing i have ever done”, adam (u.s.a.):, “everything went beyond smooth. it felt like there was a guardian angel over our shoulder the whole time. trip of a lifetime”.

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Accommodations in nepal, before and after your annapurna circuit trek you can enjoy a comfortable stay at hotel marshyangdi. alternatively, a 5 star hotel option can be reserved instead – contact us for more details. during the trekking portion of the trip you will stay overnight at tea houses along the route. learn more about these trip accommodations below:, hotel marshyangdi in kathmandu, hotel marshyangdi  |  kathmandu, nepal.

Located in the attractive Thamel District and close to many city attractions, Hotel Marshyangdi is owned and operated by a family from Manang. Manang is a mountainous region of Nepal, and Marshyangdi means ‘raging river’ in the local Manangi dialect.

All rooms are air conditioned with en-suite bathrooms and internet available. The property also features a relaxing courtyard restaurant, a bar, and a café. Finally, breakfasts at the hotel are included during your stay.

Hotel website

Gateway Himalaya Resort

Gateway himalaya resort  |  besisahar, nepal.

Gateway Himalaya Resort in Ghanpokhara features 4-star accommodation with a terrace, garden, and a bar. Each room offers air conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom. 

Hotel Barahi

Hotel barahi |  pokhara, nepal.

Named for the island temple of Barahi the hotel offers fine Nepali hospitality and luxury. Four room types (Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Executive Deluxe, and Suites), each include a buffet breakfast, air conditioning, wifi, and some offer a private balcony with mountain or city views. Visit the onsite dining room, courtyard cafe, or bar for local and international cuisine. After your long trek, relax in the outdoor pool or spa.

Accommodations on the Annapurna Circuit

Accommodations on the annapurna circuit: tea houses.

During the trekking portion of the adventure, the accommodations will be in tea houses that offer dormitory-style rooms with single and double bunk beds, comparable to many other mountain lodges/huts in other parts of the world.

The tea houses are typically equipped with running cold water and shared bathrooms in a separate section. At most of them, there are propane-fueled hot showers available to use for a small fee (typically $5-10 USD equivalent). It is usually possible to charge personal electronic devices in the common/dining areas, however they also charge a small fee for this (typically $5-10 USD equivalent).

What Sets Us Apart

Personal attention before your annapurna circuit trek.

There is no other operator in the travel industry that will provide the same level of personal attention before your adventure in Nepal. We get very involved with our travelers before each trip, by offering a series of pre-planning calls in the months and weeks before departure. This provides you with an opportunity to hear directly from us on preparation, trip experience, as well as training. It also gives you the platform to ask questions about any aspect of the trip.

Staff Support

Our knowledgeable support staff take care of the details of your in-country transportation, lodging, meals, cultural tours, and activities. We’ve even scheduled in a bit of free time for you to explore, relax, shop, or eat on your own. When you travel with The Explorer’s Passage, we ensure that every detail is handled.

Sustainability and Responsible Travel

The Explorer’s Passage is a proud member of Sustainable Travel International, a partner/supporter of the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, as well as a supporter of the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST).  In addition to ‘Leave No Trace’ principles, the concepts of sustainability and responsible trekking are at the forefront of our Himalayan journeys. As part of this commitment, we: minimize single-use plastic; intentionally stay at smaller tea houses/lodges along the trekking route (they are generally more sustainability-oriented and less wasteful); minimize disruptions to wildlife and local Nepalese communities (this includes noise moderation near homesteads and villages); do not allow collecting of plants, rocks, or other items from the trail; and we only use authorized paths to prevent erosion and damage/disrespect to local sites.

Ready to Book? Contact Us

Annapurna circuit trek photos.

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Destinations

Trekking type, annapurna circuit trek: how to hike around the annapurnas, by jan bakker.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is the most famous trekking circuit in Nepal. With some of the tallest mountains on Earth, tumbling glaciers and an incredible variety of landscapes, this trek represents everything what trekking in Nepal is about. It takes more than two weeks to circumnavigate the Annapurna Massif while staying in cozy tea houses. Over the last few years, we at Bookatrekking.com have helped hundreds of people to find their way in the Nepali Himalayas and now it's your turn.

My name is Jan and I’ve been lucky enough to hike some of the most spectacular trekking routes in Asia, including the K2 Base Camp trek in Pakistan and the Pamir Trail in Central Asia. In terms of mountain landscapes the Annapurna Circuit remains high up there as one of my favorites. Why is this classic trek so special? Let us tell you why!

Annapurna Circuit Trekking: The Ultimate Trek in Nepal

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Let me first tell you a little bit about my own experience. Over the past 20 years I have worked in the mountain tourism industry in various roles. I have written trekking guide books for Tajikistan and Tunisia, I train local hiking guides in Uganda and as a trekking guide I have led groups in the Indian Himalayas, the Karakoram Range in Pakistan, the Pamir mountains in Tajikistan and the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. First-hand experience is invaluable and for you, as a trekking enthusiast, it’s essential to get advice from someone who has actually done it!

Jan on top of the Thorung La

Annapurna Circuit Trek Accelerated

Annapurna Circuit Short

In the late 1970’s, when people started venturing into the Nepali Himalayas, the Annapurna Circuit was one of the first trekking routes to open for foreigners. In those days it took 23 days to hike around the Annapurna Massif. Fast forward to the present day, lots has changed. We’ll talk later about how trekking routes have changed in the past two decades, but one thing is for sure. The mountains of the Annapurna Massif are as stunning as they were 50 years ago.

The Annapurnas are close to Pokhara, about 6 hours west of Nepal’s capital Kathmandu. The small city, located on the shores of the stunning Phewa Lake, is the gateway to the Annapurna Massif. The Annapurna Circuit itself is a tea house trek, which means you stay in local guesthouses on the entire route. From the forested valleys at an elevation of 900 meters you’ll ascend to the Thorung La, the highest point of the trek at a whopping 5416 meter above sea level. The landscape gradually changes as you climb higher up the valley. Each day the giants of the Annapurna Massif reveal themselves a little bit more and your surroundings transform into a rugged alpine environment. The villages counter balance the mountains’ wild character. The tea houses are cozy and warm and you’ll be served endless cups of tea.

After scaling the Thorung La the route drops down into Lower Mustang, a high altitude desert with a completely different landscape. After the town of Jomsom the route continues to the hot springs of Tatopani, where you can soak and relax with fellow trekkers and locals alike. The final highlight of Annapurna Circuit is the climb up Poon Hill from Ghorepani. This is one of the most majestic viewpoints in Nepal, looking out over the entire Annapurna chain and spectacular mountains like Machapuchare and the 8167m high Dhaulagiri.

The Annapurna Circuit difficulty is quite low from a technical perspective. It's only walking and I found the path in good condition in most places. It also helps that you stay in a guesthouse each night rather than a tent. You can get a proper rest without having to worry about logistics or getting cold. It really is the Annapurna Circuit altitude that makes the going tough sometimes. After all, it is a trek at high altitude, culminating to an elevation of 5416 meters on the Thorung La. In my experience, the Annapurna Circuit length also adds to the strenuous nature of the trek. The shortest version we offer involves 170 kilometers of trekking. On some days the distances are more than 20 kilometers. Those factors make the trek hard, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned hiker. You feel your body getting tired after a prolonged time on the trail. But maybe because of that, it feels like a true sense of achievement finishing the route from start to end. I am convinced when you do some training for the Annapurna Circuit and set off with the right mindset it is doable for most trekkers.

The Annapurna Region, along with most of the other trekking areas in Nepal, has four distinct seasons. Spring, summer, autumn and winter. The months from March to May, pre-monsoon, and from October to early December, post-monsoon, are the most popular for hiking the Annapurna Circuit. Every season offers its own excitement and atmosphere and in principle, you can go trekking year-round. There are good reasons why spring and autumn are considered the trekking season. Below we’ll give you a run-down of what each of the seasons are like.

Spring (March-May) is the high season and trekkers from around the globe come to the Annapurna Region in large numbers. In springtime, the temperature is pleasant, the precipitation is low and the hiking conditions are great. On the trail there’s a lot of excitement and anticipation to cross one of the highest mountain passes in the world for trekking, the Thorung La. It does get busy, but therefore it’s a great time to connect with like-minded adventurers. While temperatures in daytime along the trek are balmy, the temperature around the Thorung La can be very cold in the early morning, when you cross the pass. Check our complete Annapurna Circuit packing list further below in this blog post.

Summer season falls in the months of June, July and August. Summer is the month with higher temperatures and in that sense it is quite pleasant. However, this is also the monsoon season, and it rains a lot. The chance of seeing the mountains around you is smaller as it is cloudy most of the time. The trail will be wet and slippery and there is an increased risk of landslides. And leeches are very active during these months. On the flipside, it’s not very busy on the route and the traditional villages feel more serene.

Autumn in the Annapurna Region (September, October, November) is, like springtime, prime trekking season with similar trekking conditions. There is one difference. The air in spring is sometimes a little hazy due to the dust in the atmosphere. Post-monsoon the air is very clear, allowing for stunning views of the mountains.

Winter season runs from December to February. This period is the toughest time to trek on the Annapurna Circuit. With the Thorung La elevation exceeding the 5000 meters mark, it gets extremely cold. Night temperatures drop to -20 degrees Celsius. Add wind and snowfall and you’ve got yourself a proper winter expedition. Why do we still run the Annapurna Circuit trek in winter? We work with some of the best trekking companies in Nepal. Besides trekking trips they also organize climbing expeditions to some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas. Our partners can keep you safe and comfortable, even in these cold conditions. And you will probably have the entire trail to yourself!

During the last 20 years a lot has changed in the Annapurna Region. In the name of progress, the lower parts of the Marshyangdi Valley have been made more accessible by building. Originally, the Annapurna Circuit route always started in Besisahar. Nowadays some tour operators opt for a start deeper into the valley as a dirt road has been built all the way to the mountain village of Manang. Bhulbhule is our choice to start the trek. From here you can avoid the road and hike on walking paths rather than the road. The biggest change however is the road development on the western side of the route. In recent years, a road has been constructed from Pokhara to Jomsom and extended even to the village of Muktinath. Some parts of the road are tarmac, some are gravel. Regardless, it has had a big impact on the original Annapurna Circuit itinerary. Especially between Jomsom and Tatopani most tour operators cover this section by car, as the alternative would be walking on a relatively busy road. From Tatopani trekkers can follow the original route again towards Ghorepani, Poon Hill and beyond. Having said all this, the Annapurna Circuit remains one of the most spectacular treks in Nepal, simply because the actual landscape and culture hasn’t changed much.

Not sure yet or want to discuss your plans for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with one of our trekking experts? Get in touch today and turn your dreams into memories!

It is best to do the circuit in 15 or 18 days. The 18-day version is old school and only follows the oldest trails. However, more and more people are choosing to do the 15-day version. If you choose the 15-day trek, you are sure to have a short break halfway and can enjoy all the attractions that the Annapurna Circuit has to offer.

Drive to Bhulbhule

Trek to Chamje

Trek to Bagarchhap

Trek to Chame

Trek to Pisang

Trek to Manang

Acclimatisation in Manang

Trek to yak kharka.

Trek to Thorung Pedi

Thorung phedi.

Trek to Muktinath via Thorung La Pass

Trek to Jomsom

Drive to Tatopani

Trek to Ghorepani

Ghorepani – Poonhill – Nayapul

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

The Thorung La is no doubt the crux of the trek. Here, the Annapurna Circuit elevation reaches its absolute max at 5416 meters above sea level. It is an old trading route and connects with Tibet. The altitude of this mountain pass is higher than any mountain in the European Alps including Mont Blanc. In height it is comparable to a big mountain like Mount Elbrus in the Russian Caucasus. Do you need to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness ? For sure! Do you need special skills to cross the Thorung La? The answer is no. You just need to be fit!

It is a bit like scaling a mountain, but you are walking up rather than climbing. The day starts very early and you basically hit the trail before sunrise. The guides are doing the pacing to make sure you don’t head up too quickly. The path itself is not that steep, but you will feel the thin air at this altitude. From around 5000 meters we were walking on snow, with a good track carved out by the people who had gone before us. The snow really adds to the adventurous feeling of scaling a mountain pass this high. Looking back you can see all the big peaks of the Annapurnas as if you are at the same level with them. Perhaps my most magical moment on the entire trek was just before sunrise while going up the Thorung La. Alpenglow lit all the Annapurna peaks bright pink, with a steel blue sky as a background.

Reaching the Thorung La pass was an incredible, rewarding experience. As a guide I was very proud that each group member made it to the top, although it wasn’t easy. And there was still 1600 vertical meters of descent to go to the village of Muktinath. Despite that, I believe that everybody with willpower, stamina and a sense of adventure can do it.

For trekking on the Annapurna Circuit, you need the following permits:

TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System):

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit

An ACAP Permit is obligatory for individuals who wish to explore the trekking routes within the Annapurna region. It is overseen by the National Trust for Nature with the primary goal of safeguarding and preserving the region's wildlife and natural environment. The funds gathered through this permit are dedicated to conservation efforts.

For each individual embarking on a single-entry trek, the cost of an ACAP Permit is Rs. 3000 (roughly USD25), regardless of the duration of the stay. These permits can be acquired in either Kathmandu or Pokhara, and there are designated checkpoints along the trail to maintain your trekking records.

Tea houses are small hotels known as Bhatti. These are small hotels and you can expect a certain level of comfort. However comfort in this high, remote region is relative. Tea houses are comfortable to the extent that you have a roof above your head and that you can enjoy warm, home-cooked meals. They are run by local families who have opened their houses to trekkers passing by.

Trekking in Nepal has become very popular in recent years, and more and more tea houses have popped up along Nepal’s trekking routes. The more popular your route, the better the quality of your tea house is. Hence, the tea houses on the Annapurna Circuit Trek are good value for money. You can expect flush toilets, hot showers and in some cases even wireless internet. The use of these amenities is usually at an additional charge.

It's essential to understand that altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or previous high-altitude experience. These days there are several tools to monitor your health at altitude. A widely-used (analog) method is the Lake Louise score card. It ticks the altitude symptoms while keeping the severity in mind. It’s a common tool used by guides. Nowadays, most trekking and mountain guides bring a blood oxygen saturation meter, which also measures the heart rate. These are key indicators whether a person adapts to altitude well or not. AMS can occur when trekking the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Below you can find everything you need to know about altitude sickness.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a health condition that occurs when someone is exposed to low levels of oxygen at higher altitudes. AMS is a serious condition and as the name suggests acute. It needs to be dealt with immediately, as it is potentially life-threatening. Most people will experience some mild symptoms of altitude sickness. It’s important to be aware of these symptoms and act before symptoms become more severe. Below we break down the different forms of AMS and how you can reduce the risk of getting it.

AMS symptoms

It is key to know how to identify altitude illness. You may experience the following symptoms due to the jump in altitude: headache, lack of appetite, breathing difficulties, insomnia, nausea and vomiting. The intensity and severity of these symptoms may increase with altitude and an overall feeling of fatigue will take all your joy away. This may further deteriorate to one of these life-threatening conditions.

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) : HAPE is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, a persistent cough, chest tightness, and an increased heart rate. It can be a life-threatening condition and requires immediate descent to lower altitudes and, in severe cases, medical treatment.

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) : HACE is a more serious condition in which fluid accumulates in the brain. Symptoms may include severe headaches, confusion, loss of coordination, and altered mental status. HACE is also a medical emergency and requires immediate descent and medical attention. Below 7 ways of minimizing the risk of AMS:

1. Gradual Ascent

One of the most effective ways to prevent AMS is to ascend gradually. When traveling to high altitudes, try to take several days to acclimatize before going higher. This allows your body to adapt to the reduced oxygen levels. All our treks in Nepal keep sufficient acclimatization into account.

2. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can increase the risk of AMS, so drink plenty of fluids. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Consume a balanced diet with adequate carbohydrates and avoid heavy, fatty meals. Carbohydrates can help your body utilize oxygen more efficiently at high altitudes.

4. Medication

Some individuals may consider taking medication, such as acetazolamide (Diamox), to help prevent AMS. Consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication, and be aware of potential side effects.

Ensure you get enough sleep and rest during your ascent. Fatigue can increase the risk of AMS.

6. Avoid Overexertion

Pace yourself and avoid overexertion. Listen to your body, and if you experience symptoms of AMS, rest or descend to a lower altitude.

7. Descend if Symptoms Persist

If you experience symptoms of AMS, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, it's crucial to descend to a lower altitude. Symptoms should not be ignored or dismissed.

Trekking in Nepal requires good quality and appropriate equipment. Especially the essentials like a good pair of hiking boots and breathable hardshell rain jacket. We highly recommend that you read our suggested packing list to hike the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Technical Clothing

Accessories.

At Bookatrekking.com you can book this trek and many others. Our guided options come with experts on the ground, and offer you a convenient, stress-free, safe, and educational way to explore the outdoors. Find our offers here . Our easy-to-use platform allows you to browse and compare different trekking options and find the perfect fit for your interests, abilities, and budget.

If you have any questions about a specific trek or need help choosing the right one for you, our team of trekking experts is here to assist you. Simply reach out to us and we will be happy to provide you with personalized recommendations and advice to help you plan the trekking adventure of a lifetime.

Is this not your cup of tea and are you looking for other epic adventures? Check out one of our blog posts:

Summit climbs

• Climbing Kilimanjaro
• Climbing Triglav
• Climbing Island Peak in Nepal
• Climbing Mount Kenya
• Climbing Mount Elbrus
• Climbing Mount Kinabalu
• Climbing Toubkal
• Climbing Rinjani
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Nepal Travel Guide
• Salkantay Trek
• Peru Travel Guide

Kilimanjaro

• Machame Route
• Lemosho Route
• Kili Travel Guide

Self-guided treks

• Tour du Mont Blanc
• West Highland Way
• Camino de Santiago

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Annapurna Circuit Trek

15 days | challenge yourself to trek the mighty annapurna circuit in nepal..

Trek through the incredible Annapurna region and be awed by the Nepalese Himalayas. These snow-capped peaks, mist-shrouded valleys, isolated communities and remote monasteries will inspire those with a bold spirit and a yearning for a definitive nature experience. Reach altitudes of more than 5000 metres, discover the ancestral traditions of the local people and immerse yourself completely in the spectacular mountain wilderness of the Annapurna Circuit. This is a challenging trip, but the sense of accomplishment will leave even the most seasoned trekker with some unforgettable memories.

Trip overview

• Ascend to the clouds and reach an altitude of 5416 metres as you cross the Thorung La Pass along the Annapurna Circuit. Testing your mind and body, this is one hell of an accomplishment.
• Uncover a different side of the Himalayas, trekking past terraced rice fields, oak and rhododendron forests, there’s a diverse array of nature that awaits in the Annapurna region.
• Learn about life in Nepalese mountain communities, get to know locals and meet other trekkers while you stay in teahouses in the small communities along the way.
• Discover Nepal’s compact capital in Kathmandu. With a limited amount of time spent here to discover its bazaars and temples, why not extend your stay beforehand to get a real feel of Nepalese culture.
• Spend time in the peaceful haven of Pokhara after your trek has finished. Relax with your small group on the banks of Phewa Lake and take in the mountainous surrounds that you have conquered!
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Sagarmatha Next. Donations help them remove waste responsibly and turn rubbish into art in the Everest region.
• This trip involves an 11-day trek at high altitude (up to and above 5000 metres) – precautions and acclimatisation are undertaken, but be aware of the effects altitude can have. An excellent level of fitness is required on this trip, with treks of up to 9 hours a day at high altitude. See our guide to trekking in the region here to help decide if this trip is what you are looking for in a holiday: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/annapurna-circuit-hiking-guide
• Due to the nature of outdoor travel, please be aware that this trip will operate on an amended itinerary in high risk weather conditions. Please note that Thorong La Pass is occasionally closed in winter months due to heavy snowfall. Alternative arrangements will be made by your group leader if this occurs.
• Accommodation on this route is in simple teahouses, which also allows you to experience the friendly spirit of the local Nepalese people.
• Please read our packing list for required equipment carefully, and remember that you don’t necessarily have to bring it all with you – you can hire or buy some of it in Kathmandu.
• Trying to decide between trekking in the Annapurna or Everest regions? This might help you decide: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/annapurna-vs-everest

Namaste! Welcome to Nepal. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 2 pm in Kathmandu, the colourful capital of Nepal. This place is a fascinating blend of traditional architecture and symbols of the 20th century. Its rich artistic and cultural heritage is evident where ornately carved balconies mingle with beautiful shrines and temples. If you arrive early, why not check out Durbar Square with its temples, markets and busy atmosphere. It is also worth the climb to visit the Swayambhunath – the 'monkey temple'. Explore the network of street markets and alley bazaars and Pashupatinath. For those with a few extra days in Kathmandu, the neighbouring towns of Patan and Bhaktapur are also well worth a visit.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Kathmandu - Everest Scenic Flight - USD240
• Kathmandu - Panorama Hike Urban Adventure - USD57
• Kathmandu - Spiritual Nepal Experience Urban Adventure - USD68
• Kathmandu - Exploring Patan & Bhaktapur Urban Adventure - USD97

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting. Ask reception for more information on where the meeting will take place.

With climate change the weather on the Annapurna Circuit is becoming less predictable, and heavy rains on occasions causes significant damage to the trail even outside of rainy season. Should this occur, and conditions make trekking the circuit unsafe, we will switch to the Annapurna Base Camp itinerary instead. A flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu on Day 15 will also be included. See for further details: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/nepal/annapurna-base-camp-trek-144945  

This morning, drive to Besisahar to immediately immerse yourself in the spectacular mountain wilderness that encompasses the Annapurna Range. After lunch you’ll begin your trek straight away, heading to Ngadi. Hit the trail that takes you through Besisahar bazaar leading downstream, followed by a climb up the rocky steps. There are several ups and downs as the trail makes its way through sub-tropical forests and rice paddies of Sera. Further along, traverse a suspension bridge across Khudi Khola and arrive at Bhulbule. Resume on the trail that passes the Marshyangdi River on a long suspension bridge as Bhulbule is left behind. Once the Ngadi River is crossed, the trail gently leads upwards through scrub forests and across landslides for a short distance, which then leads to few teashops and cold-drink stalls located opposite the rice paddies of Lampata, eventually leading to Bahundanda (hill of the Brahmins) – a charming village in the saddle of a long ridge.

At 8091 m, Annapurna I is one of the highest mountains in the world. Its surrounding sister mountains are equally imposing, creating magnificent panoramas from any viewpoint. Throughout this trip’s trekking you’ll come across isolated mountain communities, each with different ancestral customs and traditions, meaning a visually and culturally memorable expedition. You’ll meet warm and welcoming locals herding yaks and goats on the grassy pastures and visit their monasteries and temples, pass waterfalls of melted snow, cross icy rivers, walk along broad plains and hike up high mountain passes.

• Teahouse (1 night)

Trek Distance: 12 km Approximate Duration: 4 hours Ascent: 510 m Descent: 410 m

Keep an eye out for dazzling cascades along your trail today as it makes its way through a deep wooded canyon with a few stretches of steep climbing. Wander through rice paddies, follow winding trails through sub-tropical forest, cross suspension bridges swaying over raging rivers, pass waterfalls of melted snow and climb steep mountain passes. Over the next ten days you’ll come across isolated mountain communities, each with different ancestral customs and traditions. Be prepared to be inspired, mesmerised, challenged and delighted.

Trek Distance: 18 km Approximate Duration: 7 hours Ascent: 1200 m Descent: 800 m

Today’s trek continues through the deep wooded canyon embellished by stunning waterfalls. You’ll be venturing into the Manang district of the mountain range, with much of the trail ascending throughout the day.

Trek Distance: 12 km Approximate Duration: 6.5 hours Ascent: 880 m Descent: 150 m

Marking the end of the great Marsyangdi Gorge, make a steep climb to Timang, then the trail settles into gentler slopes as the vegetation transforms from dense pine forests to drier slopes. The district headquarters of Manang, Chame, is the largest settlement after Besisahar.

Trek Distance: 17 km Approximate Duration: 6 hours Ascent: 730 m Descent: 300 m

A slew of breathtaking scenery is on the cards today as the trail goes through a deep gorge, then past the great sweeping slope of Paungi Danda. On they way to Chame stop at a beautiful apple orchid for a tea/coffee break and perhaps try one of the fresh bakery treats on offer. Today is mostly an easy walk with few ascending stretches of trail dotted throughout the day. 

Trek Distance: 15 km Approximate Duration: 6-7 hours Ascent: 720 m Descent: 300 m

Trek the northern trail via upper Pisang and Ghyaru – an area renowned for its spectacular views. It is now drier and you are sure to come across local farmers herding yaks. Here’s a hot tip – Tibetan yaks take a special interest in people wearing red, so choose your gear carefully today!

Trek Distance: 19 km Approximate Duration: 8 hours Ascent: 960 m Descent: 630 m

Spend a day here to acclimatise by doing some high climbing, then return to the lower altitude of Manang for the night. Manang, a village of about 500 flat-roofed houses, offers excellent views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna and Chulu East.

Trek Distance: 4 km Approximate Duration: 3 hours Ascent: 350 m Descent: 350 m

Today will be a steadily uphill climb into the alpine region of the mountain range. You’ll arrive at Yak Kharka, ready for an easier day of trekking tomorrow to acclimatise to the high altitude.

Trek Distance: 10 km Approximate Duration: 5 hours Ascent: 640 m Descent: 100 m

Due to the altitude, feel free to take the next section of the climb at a leisurely pace, meaning you’ll have time to admire the magnificent views from this part of the route. Once at Phedi, there will be plenty of time to rest and acclimatise to the higher elevations ready for the next part of the climb where you will encounter the Thorung La Pass – the highest point on this Annapurna Explorer.

Trek Distance: 7 km Approximate Duration: 5 hours Ascent: 630 m Descent: 150 m

Setting off very early to cross the Thorung La Pass (5416 m), the trail is steep but easy to follow. After between 4 to 6 hours climbing, reach the Pass's peak, adorned with prayer flags, a traditional stupa (chorten) and stone cairns built by travellers. Stop to admire the stunning views and marvel at how far you've climbed. Further along, the trail descends steeply proceeding towards Chabarbu. From here on, the trail crosses meadows, drops into a deep ravine, climbs out and follows a wide trail into Muktinath – a pilgrimage site held in great reverence by both Hindu and Buddhist populations.

Trek Distance: 14.5 km Approximate Duration: 8-9 hours Ascent: 915 m Descent: 1780 m

Veer off the main trekking trail to make a side trip to an ancient village of Purang. Further up from the village, continue to take the less frequented route going past another village with a medieval feel to it – Jhong. From Jhong, descend to the Jhing Khola (river), following the course which you emerge on to Kagbeni. From Kagbeni we will hop on a public bus back to Jomsom.

• Guesthouse (1 night)

Trek Distance: 11 km Approximate Duration: 4-5 hours Ascent: 110 m Descent: 950 m

Depart early on a 4WD from Jomsom, stopping in Tatopani for an included lunch, opt for a well-earned visit to the Tatopani Hot Springs (especially rewarding after multiple days trekking). After, continue your journey to Pokhara. Pokhara is a peaceful lakeside location which rests beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna Range. A once vibrant trade route extending between India and Tibet, this is the land of Magars and Gurungs, hardworking farmers and valorous warriors who have earned worldwide fame as Gurkha soldiers. The Thakalis, another important ethnic group here, are known for their entrepreneurship. When you arrive, maybe sip on a cold brew and gaze up at the dramatic pass that you have just conquered. There are plenty of lakeside cafes where you can enjoy international cuisine, while the main street is full of shops and stalls selling a wide range of Nepali and Tibetan souvenirs.

• Tatopani Hot Springs - USD1

Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.

Enjoy a free day in Pokhara to unwind, relax and give those muscles a rest after all that trekking. Your leader can advise you of sightseeing opportunities. It is worth taking a boat for a row out on the lake, especially if the weather's fine. The lakeside area has great shopping and cafes. Pokhara has an interesting old area as well as an elaborate Hindu temple and a Buddhist monastery. Perhaps visit the Peace Pagoda, where spectacular views of the mountains await. You can see the Annapurnas from here, and the famous fishtail peak, Machhapuchhare, and back across to Pokhara. You can also visit the fascinating International Mountain Museum to learn some amazing tales of past climbing expeditions.

With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave at any time. Pokhara is a stunning and peaceful lakeside haven, so if you would like to spend more time here, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Private vehicle

Guesthouse (1 night), Hotel (3 nights), Teahouse (10 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement will only be included on Days 1,13,14 (Hotel) and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. You may be asked to provide 2 passport size photographs for your trekking permit. 3. Due to the demands of travelling at high altitudes a Passenger Self Assessment Form is required for this trip. Please also see here for information: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/altitude-sickness 4. With climate change the weather on the Annapurna Circuit is becoming less predictable, and heavy rains have on occasions causes significant damage to the trail even outside of rainy season. Should this occur, and local conditions make trekking the circuit unsafe, we will switch to the Annapurna Base Camp itinerary instead. See https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/nepal/annapurna-base-camp-trek-126570 for further details. 5. There is a dirt road that stretches from Muktinath to Jomsom and Tatpaoni. When weather conditions allow, we use an alternate track for this portion of the trek to avoid the road as much as possible. Travellers are obliged to walk on the off road in most of the trekking sections until Manang. 6. This trip ends in Pokhara. Intrepid offers a pre-arranged transfer and flight service option back to Kathmandu airport. Enquire with your agent at least 30 days prior to your trip departure. 7. You must bring an emergency fund of USD 500 in cash with you on this trip, which you may need to use in case of delayed or cancelled flights. This is especially important should you choose to opt to take a helicopter as this will be at the travellers expense. 8. As this trip ends in Pokhara, if you wish to transfer your stored luggage from Kathmandu to Pokhara, we can arrange this by a private vehicle. Additional cost is 100 USD. This cost is divided among the interested participants. 9. Please be aware that in the event of an emergency evacuation, Intrepid does not have control over which helicopter service may be used. Some helicopters are not in regular use with Intrepid and have not passed our internal safety auditing.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Base Camp Adventure

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Annapurna Circuit Trek Map

If you are planning on going on a long trekking vacation then Annapurna Circuit Trek is the perfect destination for you. It is one of the most popular and longest trekking routes of Nepal.

While trekking in these routes Annapurna Circuit Trek Map will be a helpful companion guiding you throughout the way. Maps are an essential factor before going on a journey.

Every trekker carries a map along with them whether it be Handheld GPS or paper map . Thus, Base Camp Adventure presents you with an updated high-quality Annapurna Circuit Trek Map that gives you detailed information about the trails.

In this modern era, you can just download the map and follow it through the GPS from your gadgets. But gadgets can not be solely trusted as they can break or run out of battery. So you can be cautious by carrying maps and compass as backup.

Annapurna Circuit trek has many routes you can choose from but we have made it easier for you by providing you with an 18 days Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary keeping your safety as best interest.

Overview of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna circuit trek takes you on a scenic and cultural journey through the Annapurna Region . This route was voted as one of the best long-distance treks in the world.

Annapurna is a huge massif located in the north-central part of Nepal. This mountain is considered the world’s tenth highest mountain with a height of 8091 m above sea level.

This circuit trek encircles the Annapurna Massif exploring the local culture, tradition, and the breathtaking view of nature along the routes.

The Annapurna region is protected by the Annapurna Conservation Area which is one of the largest preserved areas of the Himalaya region.

It includes Annapurna Massif, Annapurna Sanctuary, and many famous trekking routes such as Annapurna Circuit Trek , etc.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the classic and diverse treks in Nepal. It is 18 days long trip within the mountain ranges located in the central part of Nepal.

The trekking routes for the Annapurna circuit were opened for foreign trekkers only in the year 1977 .

The paths lead you through villages influenced by the Tibetan culture and tradition. It is inhabited by diverse ethnic groups such as Gurung, Magar, Tamang, etc.

On this 18 days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary you get to view many mesmerizing mountains such as Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Annapurna Massif, Pisang Peak, and many more.

Also, you get to walk past many paddy fields, pasture lands and subtropical forests viewing various waterfalls, enormous cliffs, beautiful landscapes, and villages.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Route is a walk in the off beaten paths which is considered moderate level treks. This is an amazing trek you don’t want to miss out on.

So don’t think twice and get ready to embark yourself on this action pack trek.

Summary of Annapurna Circuit Trek Route

After your landing at Tribhuvan International airport at Kathmandu. Our representative will be waiting for you there prior to your arrival. They will then pick you up and drop you off at your hotel.

As the rest of the day is unplanned you can roam around the city. Or just stay in the hotel as you must be tired after the long flight.

After a peaceful night, your journey begins on the second day of this trek. This day you will be driving towards Bhulbhule via Besisahar where you will stay for the night.

The next day you start your trek by heading towards Chamje passing through many villages and forest areas. You stay in one of the tea houses for the night.

From Chamje, you will head towards Bagarchhap where you will call it off in one of the lodges. Then from Chamje, you make a 3 to 4 hours walk till Chame where you will be staying for that day.

After a soulful night, you head towards Pisang crossing bridges and forest trails. And stay there for the night. Following day you head towards Manang via Ngawal and stay in one of the guest houses for the night.

You acclimatize in Manang and head towards Ledar from there where you will be taking a rest for the day. And the next day walk through steep trails till High Camp via Thorung Phedi .

From High Camp, walk for about 7 to 8 hours this day, reach Muktinath and call it a night in one of the tea houses. Then you head towards Marpha the next day where you stay for the night.

After that, you again follow the trails till Kalopani stays there for a night and head towards Tatopani from there. From Tatopani, you trek to Ghorepani and head towards Pokhara to Nayapul from there.

Reaching Pokhara you stay in one of the hotels for the night and drive back to Kathmandu the next day.

Details of Annapurna Circuit Trek Map

Arrival at kathmandu.

Maximum Altitude: 1400 m above sea level

On the first day of your Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary, you arrive at Tribhuvan Airport situated in Kathmandu. After your landing, our respective representative will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel.

And help you check-in to your rooms. Now you have the rest of the day for you as the day is unplanned. You roam around or visit local markets, or just stay in your room and rest.

You stay here for the night.

Kathmandu to Bhulbhule

Drive Duration: 8 to 9 hours

Drive Distance: 186.8 km

Maximum Altitude: 840 m above sea level

Today is the day your journey begins for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This day you drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule passing through Besisahar.

As you leave the city behind you get to see valleys surrounded by lush green hills throughout the road. You will be traveling through Prithvi Highway viewing beautiful scenic views of mountains and landscapes.

Following the roads, it gets bumpy as you reach Besisahar situated at an altitude of 760 m above sea level . You drive along the sides of Marsyangdi river viewing picturesque villages and snowy peaks.

From here reaching Bhulbhule is about 1 to 2 hours drive. Bhulbhule is situated at an altitude of 840 m.

Bhulbhule to Chamje

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Trek Distance: 22.2 km

Maximum Altitude: 1430 m above sea level

After a night in Bhulbhule, you head towards Chamje this day. You begin the trek by making a steep climb till you reach a cliff above the riverbed.

From there you make a descent in the trails till you reach a beautiful village named Jagat where houses are built of stones. It is situated at an altitude of 1000 m above sea level.

Then heading in the trails you enter the wonderful Marsayangdi valley from where you make a slight climb into the forest path filled with beautiful vegetation.

Walking out through the paths you reach Chamje situated at an altitude of 1430 m . From here you get to see the mesmerizing peak of Lamjung Himal.

You stay in one of the lodges for the night.

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Chamje to Bagarchhap

Trek Distance: 15.1 km

Maximum Altitude: 2160 m above sea level

This day you will be heading towards Bagarchhap from Chamje which is a few hours walk.

Leaving the beautiful village behind you begin this trek by making an ascend in the paths viewing and passing the stunning terraced field. Then from here climb up entering the amazing forest of Rhododendron.

Walking out the forests you cross a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River. And again make an uphill climb in the zigzag routes till you arrive at the convergence of Marsayangdi and Dudh Khola .

Today you will have crossed various small streams and bridges before reaching Bagarchhap. The mesmerizing view of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal is unobstructed from here. It lies at an altitude of 2160 m.

Similar articles you may like:

• Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty
• Manaslu Vs Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp Trek
• Best Time For Annapurna Circuit Trek

Bagarchhap to Chame

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Trek Distance: 13.5 km

Maximum Altitude: 2630 m above sea level

This day you will be heading towards Chame from Bagarchhap which is about 5 hours walk.

As you continue to walk the upward trails through the dense forest of pines and oaks. You walk past Danakyu before arriving at a beautiful village filled with the Tamang community situated at the laps of Lamjung Himal.

From here the trek is quite easy as you will be walking in flat land along the sides of Marsyangdi River moving past the villages of Thanchowk and Koto.

A little ahead from these villages lies your today’s destination Chame at an altitude of 2630 m . You stay in one of the tea houses for the night.

Chame to Pisang

Trek Distance: 13.6 km

Maximum Altitude: 3190 m above sea level

This day you will be heading towards Pisang from Chame which is about a 6 hours walk .

Firstly you start the trek by crossing a suspension bridge above the Marsyangdi river and entering a lush green pine forest. You continue to follow the trail until you arrive at Bhratang .

From this place you make an ascend in the paths till Dhikur Pokhari viewing the magnificent peaks of Annapurna massif and Pisang Peak on each side.

As you head in the paths you arrive at Pisang situated at an altitude of 3190 m . You stay in one of the guest houses for the night.

Pisang to Manang

Trek Distance: 17.2 km

Maximum Altitude: 3540 m above sea level

Today you will be heading towards Manang from Pisang which is about 6 hours walk.

You will be leaving Pisang and heading towards another village named Braga which is famous for having a 900 years old monastery. You will visit the monastery and continue to walk in the paths.

Crossing a wooden bridge over the Marsyangdi river you make a slight ascent in the trails through the forest of pines till you reach Ghyaru.

Then you continue to make an ascend uphill to Ngawal and then head down to Mungji which leads to the lower routes. And head towards Manang where you stay the night.

Manang is a beautiful village situated at an altitude of 3540 m . You will have your acclimatization here to prevent altitude sickness and help your body adjust to the climate in higher altitudes.

You can spend your day exploring the inner and outer parts of the town. This town has many ancient monasteries you can visit. Or you can hike till the astounding lake of Gangapurna that gives out the panoramic view of Marsyangdi valley, Gangapurna, and Tilicho peak.

Also, you can explore a very old village of Tengi and return back to Manang. Overnight in one of the tea houses.

Manang to Ledar

Trek Distance: 9.1 km

Maximum Altitude: 4250 m above sea level

Today you will be heading towards Ledar from Manang which is a few hours walk. You begin the trek by making an uphill climb from Manang viewing the Annapurna ranges and Gangapurna till you arrive at Ghunsang.

From here you continue to follow the paths to Yak Kharka which is pasture land for animal grazing. Passing this place you enter a lush green forest and climb in the trails until you reach Ledar.

Ledar- Thorung Phedi- High Camp

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Trek Distance: 7.3 km

Maximum Altitude (Thorung Phedi): 4450 m above sea level

Maximum Altitude(High Camp): 4925 m above sea level

This day you will be heading towards High camp via Thorung Phedi which is about 7 hours walk from Ledar.

Ascending in the trails you will cross a small stream and again make a steep climb to a tea shop. Then from here taking a steep climb in the uneven paths, you reach Thorung Phedi. Situated at an altitude of 4450 m .

From there you continue to take the uphill paths till you reach High Camp situated at an altitude of 4925 m . You get to see the wide-angle view of Annapurna, Manaslu, Lamjung, and many more from here.

Viewing the mountain peaks you head back to Thorong Peak where you stay in one of the lodges for the night.

High Camp to Muktinath

Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours

Trek Distance: 16.4 km

Maximum Altitude: 3800 m above sea level

This day you head towards Muktinath from High camp which is about an 8 hours walk.

Today you will be waking up early and again ascend towards High Camp. Reaching High Camp you climb up to Thorung La Pass situated at an altitude of 5416 m above sea level.

This is one of the highest Passes in Nepal that gives a great view of the Kali Gandaki Valley and many mountain peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, etc.

After a wonderful view, you head down the steep paths until you arrive at Muktinath.

This is a holy place for both Hindu and Buddhist that lies on the foot of Thorong La Mountain Pass 5416m . It is one of the highest temples in Nepal that reside in an altitude above 3000 m.

Muktinath to Marpha

Maximum Altitude: 2670 m above sea level

This day you will be heading towards Marpha from Muktinath which is about a 7 hours walk.

You wake up early this morning and visit the Muktinath temple. After offering your prayers to the god you head down in the paths to Jharkot. Then from there make a steep descent to Khingar.

Following the trials alongside Thorong Khola, you reach Kagbeni , a beautiful village situated at an altitude of 2804 m above sea level . Continuing the downhill paths through river beds alongside Kali Gandaki river you reach Jomsom.

Jomsom is a windy and beautiful town situated at an altitude of 2743 m above sea level. From here you make a steep descent till you reach Marpha the apple capital nation of Nepal.

This town is famous for hosting apple brandy and many apple gardens. The local people living in this place belong to the Thakali community.

Marpha to Kalopani

Maximum Altitude: 2460 m above sea level

This day you head towards Kalopani from Marpha which is about 6 hours walk . You begin the trek by walking along the river beds of the Kali Gandaki river and passing the villages of Tukuce and Larjung.

Along the paths, you get to view the outstanding view of Dhaulagiri massif. Viewing these views you descend the paths and cross a suspension bridge. Entering the dense forests you walk ahead in the paths.

You will have crossed many suspension bridges before you arrive at Kalopani. You can visit the famous Cultural Thakali Museum and view the magnificent massifs of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri that surround the village.

Kalopani to Tatopani

Maximum Altitude: 1190 m above sea level

This day you head towards Tatopani from Kalopani which is about 7 hours walk . You begin the trek by making a descent passing through mani walls till Ghasa. And from here you walk past a beautiful waterfall named Rupse Chhahara.

We stay in this waterfall for a bit then head down in the paths to Dana village that offers another wonderful waterfall. Walking for a bit you cross a suspension bridge over the Kali Gandaki river and reach Tatopani.

This day you will have crossed many suspension bridges. Tatopani is a natural hot spring water situated at an altitude of 1190 m . The local people believe that the water has healing power so you can take a dip there and relax your body.

Tatopani to Ghorepani

Trek Distance: 13.1 km

Maximum Altitude: 2870 m above sea level

This day you head towards Ghorepani from Tatopani which is about an 8 hours walk.

You begin by ascending in the trails to Shika village through Ghara village. Along the way, you get to view the mesmerizing mountain peaks such as Machhapuchhre and Annapurna south.

Viewing the mountain peaks you climb uphill taking steps made of stone through forests of Rhododendron enjoying the scenic views.

Reaching Ghorepani you stay there for the night.

Ghorepani to Nayapul to Pokhara

Total Duration: 7 to 8 hours

Total Distance: 35.1 km

Maximum Altitude: 820 m above sea level

This day you head towards Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara. The total duration is about 8 hours today.

You wake up early and hike up to Poon Hill to view the sunrise that looks outstanding from there. As the sun rises over the mountain ranges shining its rays towards the valley this is a remarkable experience.

Spending some time there you now descend to Ulleri passing through forests of oaks and rhododendron. Then using a stone step you descend down the path till you reach Hille. From there walk in the trail you reach Nayapul.

Reaching Nayapul you take the transportation back to Pokhara via the Baglung highway. Pokhara is a beautiful city of lakes situated at an altitude of 820 m.

The rest of the day is unplanned so you can visit attractions sites or go cycling through the city. There are many activities to do in this place.

You stay in one of the hotels tonight.

Pokhara to Kathmandu

Drive Duration: 7 to 8 hours

Drive Distance: 204 km

This day you head back to Kathmandu from Pokhara taking good memories of the trip along with you. Along the way, you get to see many small settlements and drive alongside the Trishuli River.

Arriving at Kathmandu the member of Base Camp adventure bids you farewell hoping your Annapurna Circuit Trek was Great.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most amazing treks of the Annapurna region. You get to explore the region as well as encircle the magnificent Annapurna Massif.

You begin your journey by driving out of Kathmandu to Bhulbhule from where you begin your trek and ending it in Pokhara drive back to the starting point.

Throughout the trek, you get to see many striking views of Mountain peaks and walk in paths filled with unique species of flora and fauna. Also, experience the hospitality provided by the locals.

This is an amazing trek that helps you make memories that last for a lifetime. This detailed article on Annapurna Circuit Trek Map will help you complete your trek with no trouble.

Similar trips you may like:

• Annapurna Base Camp Trek
• Langtang Circuit Trek
• Dhaulagiri Round Trek
• Arun Valley Trekking
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Annapurna Circuit Trek - 14 Days

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Annapurna Circuit Hike Overview

This is one of the most popular treks in the world, famous for dramatic deep gorges, desolate high mountain passes, fantastic viewpoints (Poon Hill), hot springs, Buddhist and Hindu temples, delightful farming villages, and stunning views of Annapurna summits.

Highlights of the Trek

• Pass by the yak pastures
• Natural hot springs at Tatopani where you can choose to take a dip
• Jomsom - the headquarter of Mustang
• A day at tourist hub Pokhara
• Spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West, and Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV
• Visit the beautiful Manang district
• Magnificent lakes, glaciers, deep gorges, and stunning waterfalls
• Visit Muktinath (a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists) known for 108 stone faucets, and eternal flame
• Cross Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters
• Visit Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in the Manang district
• Poon Hill Viewpoint (3,210 m)

Benefits of Circuit Trek with DWT

• Free airport arrival and departure transfer to/from the hotel by private transport
• Online trip briefing after booking confirmation
• Pulse oximeter to monitor for blood oxygen saturation level at high altitudes. It detects early signs of altitude sickness and other potential health risks
• Medical kits for emergencies
• Sleeping bags and   Down jackets arrangements if you do not have your own
• Free excess luggage storage at Discovery World Trekking store during the trek
• Easy booking and reservation system
• Multi-channel communication (Email, WhatsApp, Facebook, WeChat, Viber, Skype, Zoom)
• 24/7 phone communication at +977- 9840055491
• Easy payment system. 

Online Trip Briefing

The online briefing will clear all your doubts about the trek, including things to bring (equipment checklist) for the hike, the itinerary details, and what you can expect on the trails. As soon as you complete the booking, we will email you the available date and time for the trek briefing. Please note that we conduct trip briefing only once either online or in person.  

Comprehensive Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days Overview

The trek starts from Bhulbhule after a scenic drive from Kathmandu, and the route follows the Marsyandghi River Valley, taking you through Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, and Pisang. You will spend a night in each of these places. You can see the Annapurna Circuit trek map provided below for the route you will travel. 

On the sixth day, you will trek to Manang and spend a day there for acclimatization to prepare for the crossing of Thorong La pass. After acclimatizing at Manang, we continue the trail and head to Yak Kharka, and on the next day, you will hike up to Thorong Phedi and spend the night there.

You will leave Thorong Phedi on your ninth day and trek towards Muktinath, and this will be the day you will cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft). Thorong La Pass connects Manang village in the east with Muktinath temple and Ranipauwa village to the west.

After passing the Thorong La Pass, you head down to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. From Muktinath, we will drive you to Tatopani -famous for its hot springs. People believe that the hot spring water at Tatopani cures skin diseases. If you like, you can take a dip in this hot water. You will spend the night at Tatopani.

The next day, you will trek from Tatopani through lush rhododendron, birch, and magnolia forests, to reach Ghorepani. The following morning you will wake up at Ghorepani and hike for about an hour to reach Poon Hill. Poon Hill is a famous viewpoint known for spectacular views of Dhaulagiri , Annapurna (I, II, III, South), Hiuchuli , Nilgiri, Macchapuchre , Tukuche Peak, Dhampus Peak, and Gurja Himal.

After spending quality time in Poon Hill, you will trek to Berithanti and then drive to Pokhara , where you will spend your last night in the trekking region. The following morning, you will return to Kathmandu on a tourist bus .

Annapurna Circuit in Nepal is for trekkers who want to experience adventurous journeys in the Nepali Himalayan region while enjoying the diversified scenery, geography, and different climate zones. This is by far one of the best Annapurna Circuit trek. You can check the Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary below for details.

History of Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit trekking was opened to foreigners in 1977 after the Nepal government settled its dispute with Khampa guerillas who operated from this region into Tibet. Originally, this trek started from Dhumre and took 23 days to complete due to the absence of road infrastructure but that has now changed.

Annapurna Circuit Elevation

The Annapurna Circuit trek passes through a huge elevation range from 600m to 5,416m at Thorong La High Pass. So, you will have a chance to observe ever-changing climatic variations and diverse flora and fauna.

Annapurna Circuit Trek terrain and difficulty Level

The Annapurna Circuit Hike takes you through several climatic zones, past rice paddy fields, subtropical forests, rural farmland, and glacial zones. You will be able to view panoramic sceneries of the Himalayas, including Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Mt. Annapurna I (8,091m), Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Annapurna II (7,937 m.), Mt. Annapurna III (7,555m), Mt. Annapurna IV (7,525m), Mt. Annapurna south (7,219m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,041m), Mt. Machhapuchhare (6,998m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6,986m), Tukuche Peak (6,920m), and Tilicho Peak (7134m).

What makes the Annapurna Circuit Trek special?

Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal also provides the opportunity to learn about the Tibetan way of life that strongly runs in Mustang valleys. There is a slight chance of seeing a snow leopard in Yak Kharka along with blue sheep. We will also stop at Tatopani, where you can take a dip in the famous hot springs.

This trek package, Annapurna Circuit Hike, includes local bus rides from Kathmandu to Besishar or Bhulbhule. If you are willing to bear extra costs, you can return to Kathmandu from Pokhara on a Jeep or a plane. We also advise our valuable clients to arrive in Kathmandu before 3 pm, one day before the trek departure date, for last-minute preparations. If, in case, you missed the online trip briefing, it will also provide us time to conduct an in-person briefing.

Some glimpses of circuit in Nepal

Annapurna circuit itinerary, drive from kathmandu to bhulbhule (845m / 2,815ft) west of the kathmandu.

Our first day of the trek  starts early in the morning. After breakfast, we take a bus from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule. The route takes us out of the Kathmandu valley along the picturesque Trishuli river to Besisahar, and finally to Bhulbhule. Bhulbhule lies by the side of Marsyangdi river. Throughout the ride, you will get to see the terraced farms, traditional villages , and Ganesh & Manaslu snow peaks. At Bhulbhule, we register our permits at the check post for trek entry.

• Overnight stay at Holiday Trekkers Lodge
• Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Trek from Bhulbhule (845m / 2,815ft) to Jagat (1,300m / 4,265ft)

After a  nourishing breakfast, we will set foot on the trails this day. The route follows a pleasant path through the fertile jungle and terraced fields upriver, along the flowing Marsyangdi river. We take a leisurely lunch break and pass through several rural settlements and more farmlands to gradually reach the peaceful village of Jagat, a former trading post. 

• Overnight stay at Tilicho Guest House (room with attached bathroom)

Trek from Jagat (1,300m / 4,265ft) to Dharapani(1,860m / 6,200ft)

We begin our  3rd day of the trek  following the Marsyangdi river, and after a steep climb, we enter the vicinity of the  Manang region  at Tal village. Here we can see several waterfalls forming a river by the sandy beaches. We will hike through the barley, rice, and potato fields and reach  Kodo -  one of the biggest villages in the Manang valley. Moving forward, we cross a  suspension bridge , and after a short climb of the stone  Kani,  we  reach Dharapani -  the destination for this day.

• Overnight stay at Hotel Gorkha's inn (room with attached bathroom)

Trek from Dharapani (1,860m / 6,200ft) to Chame (2,610m /8,890ft)

We leave Dharapani and follow the trails through the forests with pine, fir, oak, and maple trees along the  Marsyangdi river  to reach  Chame -  the  district headquarter  of Manang district. You will find yourself surrounded by the  green forests  around and over you, and as you look up, you will see remarkable views of  Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II , and  Annapurna IV (7,525m).  We will also stop by a small hot spring for a short rest.

• Overnight stay at Four Season Guest House (room with attached bathroom)

Trek from Chame  (2,610m / 8,890ft) to Upper Pisang (3,300m / 10,826ft)

This day, after breakfast, we walk through a steep and narrow valley to have our first view of a massive rock wall -  the Paungda Danda Rock, considered very sacred by the local people.  The Paungda Danda Rock  is a curved  rock face rising 1500m  from the Marshyandi river. From the trails, we also see clear views of  Annapurna II  in the south and  Pisang Peak  in the northeast. Then our path descends taking us to the Manang Valley floor into the Pisang village , where we will spend our night.

• Overnight stay at Hotel Mandala (room with attached bathroom)

Trek from Pisang (3,115m / 10,200ft) to Manang (3,540m / 11,300ft)

On our sixth day, we will be trekking on the upper trails through Upper Pisang via Geru, from where we can catch outstanding views of the north face of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho,  and  Pisang Peak.  As the path ascends, you will feel the air turn cold, dry, and harsher.   This trail goes through the Tibetan settlements, and we get a chance to  explore Buddhist culture.  We will not miss visiting   Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in Manang. You will find that the path is dotted with  Buddhist shrines  as we pass more monasteries and finally reach  Manang  bazaar- an area that caters to tourists. 

• Overnight stay at Hotel Himalayan Singi (room with attached bathroom)

Rest and Acclimatization day at Manang (3,519m / 11,545ft)

We will be acclimatizing on this day. However, we will remain busy throughout the day exploring Manang village. In the morning, we will visit   Gangapurna & Ice Lakes,  and spend the rest of the day soaking in the magnificent views of  Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang,  and  Chulu Peaks . In the afternoon, we may visit the  Himalayan Rescue Association  in Vraja village, where we will be briefed about acute   mountain sickness , its symptoms, and prevention methods. 

Trek from Manang (3,540m / 11,300ft) to Yak Kharka (4,050m / 14,275ft)

After a day in and around  Manang , acclimatizing to the  high elevation  and allowing our bodies time to rest and get used to the environment, we move Yak Kharka. First, we cross a stream and climb to Tenki village, then head out of  Marshyangdi valley  northwest to  Jar   Sang Khola valley . The trail ascends slowly, as we head northwards.

We will be passing through several pastures and  juniper forests . As our trek continues, we will pass through a small village called  Gunsan  that has houses made of flat mud roofs. You will also get to see yak and horse pastures. After crossing a small river on a  wooden bridge , we make our way up the spectacular valley to an open, peaceful meadow known as  Yak Kharka. 

• Overnight stay at Hotel Gangapurna

Trek from Yak Kharka (4,050m/ 14,275ft) to Thorong Phedi (4,525m / 14,525ft)

Today we head to the foot of  Thorong La pass ,  Thorong Phedi.  From Yak Kharka, we will climb up to a ridge, then head down and cross the Marsyangdi river on a wooden bridge. After climbing up the mountain, we follow a narrow trail across a slope and descend to Thorung Phedi. The  uninhabited , rugged terrain is otherworldly and much different than the lush lowlands that we passed on the  way up during the initial phase  of the trek.

• Overnight stay at Thorong High Camp Hotel

Trek from Thorong Phedi (4,525m / 14,525ft) to Muktinath Temple (3,760m / 12,623ft) via Thorong La High Pass (5,416m / 17,756ft)

This day will be remarkable as we will trek from Thorong Phedi (4,525m/14,525ft) to Muktinath Temple (3,760m/12,623ft) via Thorung La high pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft). It is also one of the most challenging parts of the trek as Thorong La Pass is one of the highest passes in the world, and it is the highest point of the trek. 

We start early in the morning and push ourselves through the icy air and high altitude, but the views from the pass are totally worth it. Northwards, towards Tibet, we will see a panorama of majestic Himalayan peaks, and if you look back, you will see the Annapurna range .

We then descend to Muktinath - a sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists. T he Buddhists call Muktinath - Chumig Gyatsa, which in Tibetan means Hundred Waters. Muktinath Temple is known for 108 stone sprouts with water flowing from the Kaligandaki. You can also see the eternal flame that has been burning there for more than 2,000 years.

• Overnight stay at Hotel Town House Muktinath (room with attached bathroom)

Drive from Muktinath  (3,760m / 12,623ft) to Jomsom and Tatopani (1,200m / 3,940ft)

In the morning, we visit  Muktinath Temple  and then continue   our journey on a local bus ride to Tatopani. It will be a rough drive as the road passes through some of the deepest gorges in the world. We will be moving from the arid highlands to lush green forests. Tatopani is famous for  natural hot springs,  and it is a place where we can immerse ourselves in the hot springs and relax. The waters of Tatopani are said to have curative properties against skin diseases. 

• Overnight stay at Dhaulagiri Lodge (room with attached bathroom)

Trek from Tatopani (1,200m / 3,940ft) to Ghorepani (2,860m / 9,385ft)

We leave the hot springs behind and cross to the east side of the  Kali Gandaki River  and ascend to  Ghorepani  through the ethnic Thakali villages of  Sikha and Chitre . Our trek takes us through terraced farmlands with mountains all around and passes through lush forests filled with  rhododendron ,  birch , and  magnolia.  We will stop at  Ghorepani , a beautiful village located at a ridge top, to spend our night.

• Overnight stay at Hotel Snow Land (room with attached bathroom)

Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m / 10,525ft) - then trek to Birethanti (1,039m / 3,250ft) - Drive to Nayapul, Pokhara

This will be our final day on the trail. We ascend to  Poon Hill (3,210m)  in the early morning to view sunrise over the whole  Annapurna  and  Dhaulagiri massif  -including  Mt Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Poon Hill is one of the favored spots for photography because of the incredible views it offers. We will also be taking pictures to our heart's content and then return to our Ghorepani lodge for breakfast. After breakfast, we will trek to Birethanti and then take a bus to Pokhara.

• Overnight stay at Hotel Silver Oaks Inn (room with attached bathroom)
• Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch)

Drive from Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft ) to Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,450ft)

Your Annapurna Circuit Package ends today. We wake up in Pokhara this day, and after breakfast, we drive back to  Kathmandu on a tourist bus . It's a  200 km route  that initially follows the Marsyangdi River and Trishuli River later.  You may also choose to return by a 25-minute flight  (not included in the package) from Pokhara. Our trek package completes at Kathmandu.

• Excluded from the package
• Included standard meal (Breakfast)

What is included in this trek package?

• Kathmandu to Bhulbhule (trek start) by local bus
• Birethanti (Trek ends) to Pokhara by private transport
• Muktinath to Tatopani by local transport
• Pokhara to Kathmandu on a tourist bus
• One night accommodation at Hotel Silver Oaks Inn Pokhara
• Total 12 nights - 9 nights room with attached bathroom in Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Manang (2N) Muktinath, Tatopani, and Ghorepani. 3 nights standard rooms - Bhulbhule, Yak Kharka, Thorang Phedi (twin sharing room)
• 13 lunches, 13 dinners, and 14 breakfasts during the trek
• Government licensed, experienced trek leader (guide), assistant trekking guide (for a group of 12 or more trekkers), and porters to help trekkers' luggage (1 porter for 2 trekkers, combined porter weight limit -18kg.)
• Guides' and porters' expenses - meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment.
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee.
• Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee
• Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day
• All government, local taxes, and official expenses
• Rescue operations arrangement in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance).
• Souvenirs - a company T-shirt & Cap
• Discovery World Trekking appreciation certificate after the successful trek
• Farewell dinner at the end of the trek in Kathmandu

What is excluded in this trek package?

• International flight costs
• Excess baggage charges (limit is 9kg per Person)
• Nepal entry visa fees required on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport- USD50 for 30-day stay.
• All accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after the journey
• Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
• Extra night accommodations, meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival or late departure, or early return from the trek.
• Personal expenses - shopping, snacks, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, bar bills, bottle or boiled water, shower, Wi-Fi, laundry, telephone call, battery recharge costs, extra porters, etc
• Personal clothing and gear
• Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory
• Tips for guide and porters
• Additional costs or delays caused by circumstances beyond our control like landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policy, strikes, mass movements, etc
• All the costs and expenses not listed in - "What is included in this trek package?" above.

Official Trek Map

Gears & equipment for the trek.

The gear and equipment you require for this trek depend on the season you are trekking. We recommend our clients bring just the essentials. Your luggage weight limit is 9 kg, hence, you can store your excess luggage at Discovery World Trekking for free. Since you will be sharing a porter with a fellow traveler, we advise you to find a fellow traveler and pack your things in a duffle bag of over sixty liters capacity. Here is a list of probable items you should consider carrying for the trek.

• Sun hat or scarf
• Winter hat or insulating hat or a wide-brimmed hat
• Headlight with extra batteries

Sunglasses with UV protection

Face/body wipes

Lightweight gloves

Heavyweight winter gloves

Hiking shirts

Long-sleeved shirt

Hooded rain jacket

Fleece jacket

Lightweight cotton pants

T-Shirt (bring lightweight wool)

Polypropylene underwear

Down jacket (available for rent in Kathmandu)

Waterproof jacket and pants

Hiking boots

Thick wool socks (Take an extra pair of thick light socks)

Essential gear

Backpack or daypack (Size depends on whether you take porter or not)

Thermal bottle

Water purification tablets

Trekking pole

Sleeping bag (-15 degree bag is best in the high altitude trekking)

Medium size drying towel

Deodorant floss

Biodegradable bar soap

Nail clippers

Small mirror

Personal accessories

Extra items.

First aid kit

Extra passport-size photos and photocopies of passport

Notebook and pen

Annapurna Circuit Elevation, Cost, Trip Grade & Best Time

Arrival (free airport pickup).

Discovery World Trekking provides free airport arrival and departure transfer on any flight for guests who have booked the trek package. You will find our representative holding a pamphlet with your name and our company name at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

They will welcome you with a khaki or a marigold garland and then take you to your hotel in a private vehicle. We provide this service to all our clients so that they do not feel alone in a new country or face any navigational challenges.

You will arrive one day earlier (before 3 pm) in Kathmandu for last-minute preparations. If, in case, you missed the online trip briefing, it will also provide us time to conduct an in-person briefing.

On the second day, early in the morning, your guide will pick you up at your stay hotel in Kathmandu and take you to the bus station. Then, we will drive you to Bhulbhule via Besisahar. This package includes local transportation (Kathmandu - Besisahar - Bhulbhule, Jomsom -Tatopani). We can arrange a private Jeep for an extra cost.

Accommodation

Annapurna Circuit Package includes twelve-night lodge-to-lodge stays at trekking regions and one night in a Pokhara hotel .

We will be staying for a total of 12 nights - 7 nights room with attached bathroom in Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Muktinath, Tatopani, and Ghorepani. 5 nights standard rooms -  Bhulbhule, Manang (2 nights), Yak Kharka, Thorang Phedi (twin sharing room). 

You will spend a one-night at a hotel in Pokhara with an attached bathroom, TV, 24-hour hot water, power, and laundry facility. Solo trekkers will have a single private room with an attached bathroom in the available lodges.

You will require two nights of hotel stays in Kathmandu one each before and after the trek, but it is not included in the package. Kathmandu has a wide range of hotels for all budgets and tastes. 

Meals 

Annapurna trek takes you to high elevations around the world’s highest peaks, which means your body needs enough carbohydrates, protein, and other nutrition. You will get nutritious food throughout the trek, but may not get all the options available in big cities.

This trek package includes 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches, and 13 dinners in the trek regions. Here are some options. The menu consists of traditional local, Asian, and Western cuisine, but as you go up, the menu gets shorter. 

We highly recommend liquids like green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon, ginger tea, garlic soup(must), and fresh vegetables at high altitudes. Similarly, we encourage you to try dal (lentils), bhat (rice), tarkari (curry), momos (dumplings), and Chow Mein (noodles).

Though plenty of non-veg items will be available in the trekking regions, we don’t recommend them because the meat in such places may not be hygienic and healthy. We highly encourage you to avoid dairy, alcoholic drinks, caffeinated items, and hot chocolates.

All personal bills (alcoholic, hot (tea, coffee), and cold drinks) in tea houses/lodges/cafes except standard meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner with seasonal fruits) are excluded from the package. This package does not cover lunch and dinner in Pokhara.

Porters will be assigned to carry your luggage. One porter will serve two trekkers and the combined luggage weight should not exceed 18 kg. So the luggage weight limit is 9 kg per trekker.

We never overload our porters. Moreover, we expect you to carry a small backpack for your valuables and important documents. Please carry only the essentials. You can leave any excess baggage at your hotel or the Discovery World Trekking store for free.

Typical day

Every day on the trail brings you a unique trekking experience - climbing up and down the hills, enjoying the scenery, taking photos, and exploring local villages.

Throughout your journey, our experienced and friendly Sherpa guide will share information and the history of the places you will be visiting. Our porters will carry your luggage. However, you might need to bring a small bag for your valuables and important documents.

The day starts with an early morning hot cup of tea/coffee. After breakfast, we will pack our bags and set off on the day’s walk around 7 to 8 AM, depending on the duration and nature of the day’s walk. After trekking for three to four hours, you will have lunch, rest for an hour, and continue the journey. 

The afternoon walk is generally shorter - about two to three hours. Once we reach our overnight lodge/tea house/tent, you can snack on the extra dietary food and explore the nearby places before it gets dark. 

You will have dinner from around 6 to 7 pm. After dinner and before going to bed, you can indulge in friendly conversations. The expedition leader/guide will brief you about the next day’s plan. After this briefing, you can enjoy onboard games like Monopoly, and cards, read books, or watch available mountaineering documentaries. Most of our guests also prefer to learn common Nepali words from our crew.

Electricity and water

Throughout the lodges at Annapurna Trek, electricity for the camera and mobile battery recharge is available at an extra cost. For water, you can buy packed mineral water from local lodges and en route shops or carry a water bottle and fill it with boiled water that you can buy from the lodges. Discovery World Trekking provides purification pills to make water drinkable. We advise you not to drink water from the rivers, taps, or wells in the trekking regions as the water may not be drinkable.

Communication

During your trip, for a small service fee, you can use the internet service at the lodges you will be staying. You can contact your family and friends from these lodges. However, once we reach high altitudes, we will use phones for communication. Discovery World Trekking Office remains in contact with all trekking groups via trek guide at least once a day. Moreover, depending on the kind of network you use, you might get network signals, but they may not be strong enough at high altitudes. However, you can get a local sim card in Kathmandu.

Tipping is culturally accepted in Nepal and shows you are happy with the service provided. We expect you to tip based on the service quality, trek length, and trek cost. Further, it is best to tip at the end of the trek and as a group.

On the fourteenth day, we will drive you back to Kathamndu from Pokhara on a tourist bus. The journey will take around seven hours. However, if you want, you can take a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu for an added cost. 

After the completion of the trek, Discovery World Trekking hosts a farewell dinner in Kathmandu. After dinner, you will receive a printed certificate mentioning your trek achievement. We also look forward to getting feedback on your trek experience.

Useful Info

Please note we might need to modify the itinerary due to events beyond our control, such as weather, landslides, or unavailability of lodging. In such cases, your team lead will decide based on the interest of all group members. We suggest you add two days extra for the trip as a cushion so that you will not miss your international flight back home in case of trek delays. 

Trip extension

If you have extra days after completing the trek we can arrange Kathmandu Valley sightseeing tours or a trip to Nagarkot. Similarly, you can go to Chitwan Jungle Safari, paragliding, rafting, canyoning, and other treks.

On the day of your return to your country, we will pick you up from your hotel in a private vehicle and transfer you to the Tribhuvan International Airport. We hope you had a wonderful time in Nepal and will return for more adventures.

Trek season

The weather is the most important factor you need to consider for this trek. You will find trekkers in the Annapurna circuit throughout the year, but there are ups and downs as seasons change. For easier treks, spring and autumn are perfect seasons. The skies are clear from dawn to dusk, and there is no rain, allowing you to enjoy spectacular vistas. The winters are cold with snowfalls in the trekking regions, while the monsoon season brings in a lot of rain. So treks during these seasons are quite challenging but not impossible. In fact, some trekkers enjoy facing these challenges.  Discovery World Trekking organizes safe and secure Annapurna Circuit treks throughout the year. Here is a detailed summary of the trial conditions, mainly at high elevations, based on seasons. 

March-May (Spring): In spring the weather is mild, the rainfall is low, and the trekking conditions are perfect. The average daily temperature at high elevations in this region is between  8 to 0 °C. Lower trek regions are warmer, which makes the hike quite comfortable. The trekking season begins after March. By April, at elevations over 3,000 meters, the trek routes are full of red, pink, and white rhododendron flowers. The temperature starts rising from mid-March up to mid-May. The weather is cool the skies are clear, and you can enjoy the clearest views of the mountains.

June to August (Summer): If you are coming to trek Annapurna Circuit between June to August, you are signing up for summer, when the temperatures are warm. But the monsoon that coincides with the summer means that you must be careful while you trek, as the trekking trails might be wet and slippery.

Monsoon generally begins around the end of June and continues through the second week of August. The temperature during the day ranges from 10 to 23°C and gets relatively colder at night (5°C to 10°C). Mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon and disappearing at night. Though the rain may cause some problems, various plants bloom during this season - the valleys look green and different from other seasons.

September to November (Autumn): Autumn (September, October, November), like spring, is a season that attracts travelers from around the world to trek in this region. Moderate temperatures, mild wind, and low precipitation make autumn a perfect time for trekking. During this season, the sun shines brightly, the day temperature is well-suited for trekking, the skies are clear, and you get a superb view of the mountains. Moreover, you can enjoy spectacular starry skies. 

The monsoons will be over by early September, and the weather ranges from mild to warm days. Daytime temperatures can reach 20°C in high altitudes, and the nights are colder with temperatures that may go down to 5°C. The monsoon greens fade to golden/amber providing a spectacular contrast against the crystal blue skies, and you can see the grains ripening in the fields. The environment is clean, and the lowlands are lush. The two biggest festivals of Nepal - Dashain and Tihar - also fall during these seasons. 

December to February (Winter): Winter treks in the Annapurna region are as popular as the spring or autumn treks. During winter some parts of the Annapurna region are cold, but it also excites many trekkers. The temperature of the Annapurna Circuit can be as low as -10 °C.

The coldest time in the Annapurna region starts in December and lasts through early February. After late February, the climate gradually gets warmer. Daytime is relatively warmer with sunshine. Despite being cold, the skies are usually very clear, and snow-capped mountains look incredible. It is the season when the trails are least crowded. This season may not suit very well for trek-beginners, but experienced trekkers will find no problems. 

The weather in the Himalayas (at high altitudes) is unpredictable, and the temperature changes quickly.

Trek difficulty  

The 14 days Annapurna Circuit Trek is a challenging trek in the Annapurna region. The hiking takes place in lower land for five days (below 3500m) from Bhulbhule (845m) to Manang (3540m) and consists of walking for five to six hours per day. For two days, you will be hiking for 3 to 4 hrs above 3,500m - from Manang (3,540m) to Thorong Phedi (4,525m) - taking regular breaks because high altitude trek is physically more demanding than lower altitude treks. 

However, the most challenging part of your trip takes you from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath Temple (3,760m), and we will be crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m) - the highest elevation for this trip. This is a remote mountain journey, and the routes involve long climbs, steep descents, and straightforward roads. 

Past hiking experience would be an added advantage, but no technical experience and skills are necessary. Trekkers who can hike at a reasonable pace for 5 to 6 hours a day can complete this trip. Exercising regularly for a couple of weeks before the trip increases your stamina and allows you to enjoy the trek to its fullest. Having a positive attitude, self-confidence, and strong determination certainly helps. 

Trekkers with pre-existing medical conditions (such as heart, lung, and blood diseases) must disclose their health condition before booking the trip.

Trek safety

Discovery World Trekking guarantees client safety, security, and satisfaction. Your safety is of the utmost concern to us. Here are some of the ways we ensure your safety.

• We carry all necessary gear, equipment, and first-aid kits
• Our trek guides have completed extensive first-aid training
• We check food & accommodation in trekking regions for hygiene
• If someone falls sick, our trek guides have complete authority to suspend the trip or move forward
• In emergencies, we will deploy a helicopter for evacuation (covered by insurance).
• All trek members will trek as a group.

Our 14 days trek package provides a rest day in Manang (3,540m) for proper acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness, also called acute mountain sickness. You will start from Bhulbhule (845m) and hike in low elevations for four to five days before reaching Manang (3540m). The trek buildup provides plenty of time for your body to cope with the high-altitude environment and reduces the chance of altitude sickness problems.

Our trekking leaders and guides have extensive first-aid training and are well-experienced in the Himalayas. We constantly use oximeters to monitor your oxygen level and detect early altitude sickness symptoms. We guarantee that your health will be in reliable hands.

During the trek, our well-experienced guide/Sherpa will be by our side, making sure you are comfortable. Porters will be carrying your luggage. Our team members are locals from the high Himalayas, and their physical endurance at high altitudes is very high. All our staff members are valuable to us. They are well-paid, and we cover their insurance, clothing, food, and lodging throughout the expedition. All our guides and porters receive medical care when ill or injured. We ensure that our team members are happy because only happy people can make others happy. Our trek/expedition team members have:

• Intensive Wilderness First Aid Training Certificate
• Government-authorized Trekking Guide Training Certificate
• Fluency in speaking English and other major languages
• Conservation and Biodiversity Training
• Rock Climbing experience

All foreigners except Indian nationals need a valid visa to enter Nepal. You can get an on-arrival visa at Tribhuvan International Airport and Nepali borders with India and Tibet. To apply for a visa, you need a passport valid for at least six months, a passport-size photo, and visa fees. The current cost for a 30-day visa is US$50 (to be paid in cash).

Children under the age of 10 will get a free visa. Visa regulations can change without prior notice. For current information, please visit www.immigration.gov.np .  Chinese and South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation(SAARC) countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) citizens get a free visa. 

Citizens from certain countries may not get a visa upon arrival. Citizens from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan may not get an on-arrival visa. So, if you are a citizen of these countries, please visit your local Nepalese Embassy.

Trek booking

Discovery world trekking is a government-authorized, bonded trekking and touring operator in Nepal. We are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). 

Therefore, you can book your trips with Discovery World Trekking with confidence. We require 10% as advance for the trip booking confirmation. You need to send us your necessary documents like a passport copy, passport-sized photos, travel insurance policy, and arrival and departure flight details within a week of booking.

You can pay by bank transfer, western union, and online from our website. You can pay the remaining trip cost in cash, bank transfer, or using a credit card after you arrive in Nepal. We also forward the necessary modes of payment details in your email.

You can book this trek here .

Currency exchange

Nepali Rupees (NPR/Rs) is the local currency. (1 USD = ~ Rs.130 NPR). You can exchange major foreign currencies through local banks and legitimate money exchanges in Kathmandu and all over Thamel. Legal money exchanges display their ongoing exchange rates visibly for the public. Despite having the security advantage of traveler's cheques, we recommend you cash exchange. It helps avoid lengthy processes and high bank commissions. 

You can withdraw cash (in Rupees) from ATMs all over Kathmandu and in Thamel itself. Many of these ATMs are open around the clock. The maximum withdrawal amount is 35,000 Rupees for a 500 Rupees processing fee for foreign cards. If you use the money exchange facilities at banks and financial institutions, they impose a service charge fee of about 4% or more.

There are no banks and money exchange services in trek regions so you should exchange your money in Kathmandu, depending on how much personal expense you require. Only Nepali Rupee is honored in trek regions.

Most established banks in Asia will only accept foreign currency notes that are not old, torn, or faded. Please ensure that you have new, clean notes.

Extra personal expenses

This package does not cover all costs. You need to bring spending money for various things. Meals and accommodations in Kathmandu are not covered in this package. This package covers meals, transfers, and accommodations during the trek. However, this package does not cover lunch and dinner in Pokhara. Pokhara is the tourist capital of Nepal and provides plenty of food choices. We encourage you to explore this city and enjoy your food choice. Similarly, trekkers need money for visa fees, travel insurance policy purchases, beverages, snacks, tips, souvenirs, etc. 

Travel Insurance

This trek is a challenging journey that takes you to 5,416m at Thorung La High Pass. This mountain journey is not a leisurely walk but a challenging one, and there remains a slight chance of altitude sickness and other unforeseen events such as injury, illness, flood, landslide, or sudden climate changes.

Travel insurance is compulsory for this trek. All trekkers must provide a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy certificate to Discovery World Trekking. The policy must cover medical and emergency repatriation - including helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitudes for all trekking members.

We can recommend insurance companies based on our previous clients' experiences, but we do not sell insurance policies. We strongly request our valuable clients to send their detailed insurance information once they book trekking. In emergencies, we will use the insurance policy and informational documents you sent us. It will help us arrange a quick and effective rescue operation, transfer for emergency medical help, etc. 

Please ensure that your insurance policy includes the cost incurred for mountain rescue service at the highest elevation of the trekking (5,500m). Call your insurer to confirm that their insurance policy covers helicopter rescue in addition to the treatment costs.

Last-minute booking

For those unable to book early, Discovery World Trekking allows last-minute bookings. Last-minute booking requires you to pay 100% of the trip cost 24 hours before the intended trek departure date. We will try our best to make the trip happen at the accepted date, but sometimes circumstances beyond our control, such as weather, lodging unavailability, might delay the trip.  For more information, call: 977- 9840055491 (Paul Gurung) or email us at [email protected] .

Group & private trek

We organize groups as well as private treks. Group discounts are available based on your team size. The bigger your team is, the more discount you will get. Please view our price list for details. However, if Discovery World Trekking assembles the group, you will not be eligible for discounts.  We can handle all group sizes. Each group will have a guide, a porter for every two trekkers, and an assistant guide for a group of 12 or more.

Responsible travel

We strongly believe in sustainable eco-tourism. Hence, we partner with Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) to organize environmentally friendly trips so that trekkers and communities in the trekking regions can mutually benefit.

This trek includes fixed departure dates from Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, we can tailor the trip to accommodate your specific requests and schedule. Please review your designated departure dates for this trek, and if the departure dates do not suit your schedule, contact us, and we will arrange a trip that suits your convenience. 

We look forward to guiding you on the Annapurna Circuit Trek through some of the most dazzling landscapes on the planet!

Trip Departure Dates

Note to solo travelers:.

If you are a solo traveler, please contact us via Call/WhatsApp/Viber at +977-9840055491 or email [email protected] before booking the trip to confirm the departure date. You can also use our Free Trip Planner to plan your trip.

Book this trip with us. Here are the upcoming dates. Feel free to share this trip with your friends and family. For custom trips or general inquiries contact us .

Travelers' Review

It's Victory, Everest Base Camp Trek - Discovery World Trekking

If you put a gun to my head, I would live in Nepal at this point in time - Discovery World Trekking

Mt Everest Trek Experience - Discovery World Trekking

Stories of Triumph from Throng La Pass & EBC 

Conquering EBC(5,364m)

Joys of Reaching EBC 

Some Treasured Moments from ABC Trek

Tales of Adventure from Larky Pass at Manaslu 

Moments of pure joy at the ABC

Best of Everest Base camp(5,364m)

Trek Experiences 

Tales of Success form AC & EBC Trek 

Memorable Moments at the Everest Three passe Trek

EBC & ABC with Discovery World Trekking

Flute Music at Everest Base Camp 

Tales from the Annapurna circuit  trails

Journey to the Roof of the World: Exploring Everest 3 Passes trek 

Chasing  Trek Drams at Thorang la Pass in Annapurnaeve Circuit

Personal Experiences from EBC & ABC

inspiring words from EBC & ABC

Annapurna Circuit & Three Passes trek 

Poon Hill trek

The Joys of Reaching ABC With DWT

The Ultimate Trek-Stepping on EBC on Christmas.

Summit Smiles: The Joy of Conquering EBC.

Trekking to ABC

Unforgettable Moments from EBC

Jouerny to Gokyo Ri with DWT

Trekking to EBC with DWT

Unforgettable Trek Experiences

Manaslu Circuit Trek Experience!

DWT Guests share their EBC Experience!

Trek to ABC, Annapurna Circuit.

Chasing Dreams at ABC

Trek the Annapurna Regin

Hidden Gem of Nepal: Lakra La Pass Manaslu circuit

Mardi Himal Trek 

Autumn 2023 trek experiences 

Fun in the trekking trails

Happines on reaching trek milestones.

Celebrating the Joys of trekking at the ABC.

Adventure of a Lifetime 

High Altitude Adventures

Discovering the Magic of Poon Hill 

Joyful Adventure with DWT 

Unforgettable Adventures During the ABC Trek

Voices of joy reaching the Kyanjin ri.

Words of Jay from the EBC

Trek To EBC & Kang-La- Pass

Discovery World Trekking Refreshment Break 2023

Trekking Nepal's Annapurna Circuit & EBC

Unforgettable ABC Trek

Enchanting Journeys: Trekking in the Majestic Nepali Himalayas

A Majestic Journey in the Himalayas

Conquering the Everest three Passes during 

An Adventure to the ABC.

Epic Trekking Adventure at Larkya La Pass 

Unforgettable Moments & Triumphs at the Everest Base Camp 

Excitement and sense of achievement at the Everest Base Camp 

Unforgettable Experiences: EBC & J=Gokyo Ri Trek 

Birthday Celebration at the Mount Everest Base Camp

A Trekker's Dream Adventure

Unforgettable Journey to ABC

Experience of a Lifetime.

Trekking Experience

Scaling New Heights-EBC Trek

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit 

Discovering the Beauty of Everest Base Camp

Journey to the top of the World 

Adventure of Lifetime: Trekking to EBC

An Epic Trekking Adventure

Gokyo Ri Trek

Trek Experience to the Everest base camp

Journey to the world: Everest Base Camp Trek 

A virtual tour of the Everest Region

Exploring the Beauty of the Himalayas 

EBC Trek 

ABC Trek 

Trek experiences with DWT

Throng la Pass. Khopra Danda, Everest Base Camp

Experiencing Annapurna, Langtang & Everest 

Fresh Voices from the Himalayan Trek

Langtang & EBC

Voices from Himalaya

Voices from EBC Trek 

Everest Base Camp (EBC)

Everest Base Camp 

Trekking in Nepal

Larkya la pass and Manaslu Circuit trek 

Annapurna Circuit Trek Via Tilcho Lake 

EBC, Gokyo Lakes & cho la Pass  review video 

EBC & ABC review video 

the voice from the Thorong La Pass(5,416m)

Everest Base Camp Trek Experience

My Dream have come true

Adventure of lifetime achievement 

the most rewarding experience in our life

it's an Amazing Experience

Energized Trekking experience - Discovery World Trekking

Wow, Everest Base Camp - Discovery World Trekking

The best experience  - Discovery World Trekking

Trip of a lifetime - Discovery World Trekking

Incredible experience - Discovery World Trekking

life-changing experience - Discovery World Trekking

EBC - Mesmerizing Clips of the trail - Discovery World Trekking

Engagement at EBC - Discovery World Trekking

EBC Trek - on one leg with Discovery World Trekking

EBC Trek Experience - Discovery World Trekking.

EBC with Gokyo Lake Trek 2020-2021

We were given wonderful care, felt safe, secure & free from Covid-19 dangers.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Client Experience Review- Discovery World Trekking

Specific Reviews for this trek

Based on the opinion of at least 1190 people .

Written Jun 26 , 2023

No better company in Nepal. We had a trip of a lifetime!! Paul is hands-on in every part of the way. Dil, our guide, was the best!!!! We ran into problems and they solved them professionally.

Talked to Paul night and day. Our 14-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek was incredible and this was all due to Paul and our guide Dil. When we go back, there is only one company I will use for our trekking and that is Discovery World Trekking.

My son and I just completed the 14-day trek to Annapurna Circuit with Discovery World Trekking.  From the moment I reached out to Paul Gurung, the owner of Discovery World Trekking, I felt I was in good hands.   Paul was very responsive to my initial inquiry emails and once I had decided to book the trek with his company, he was quick to collect the requisite documents from me (such as my itinerary, evidence of my insurance coverage, a copy of my passport, etc.) and organize all of the paperwork that is necessary for such a trek.  Overall, I highly recommend Discovery World Trekking and Subarag and Amrit as a guide and porters.  

Discovery World Trekking

Feb 08 , 2024

The largest of all the treks that I have done, the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Discovery World Trekking is something that will stay with me for a long time. Everything from a good organization right to a good experience, Paul and his team did an excellent job of making my trip amazing.

The trekking itself was captivating, offering amazing views of the surrounding peaks, sweet interactions with the local people, and the card games my guide taught me. The facilities and the food were also great, always providing us with a lot of comfort but also enough to eat after each day's hiking.

Thanks to the DWT team, I saw the magnificence of the Himalayas close up and the memories I have had of this adventure will be with me for the rest of my life. They are definitely a company of preference for anyone searching for a trekking trip that can not be forgotten.

Jan 24 , 2024

Where do I even begin? The Annapurna Circuit Trek was not just a journey; it was a rollercoaster of emotions, breathtaking vistas, and unforgettable moments that touched my soul.

From the very first step on the trail, I was filled with excitement and a tinge of nervousness. The highlight of the trek was conquering Thorong La Pass. The anticipation, the struggle, and finally reaching the summit filled me with an overwhelming sense of achievement. The view from the top was like nothing I'd ever seen before – a panorama of snow-capped mountains stretching as far as the eye could see.

To anyone considering this trek, I say go for it with all your heart. It's more than just a trek; it's a transformative experience that will leave you breathless, both from the altitude and the sheer beauty of it all.

Based on the opinion of 357 people . @discoveryworldtrekking

Trip White - 5

Jan 03 , 2023

This was our second trip to Nepal and the Annapurna region with Discovery World Trekking was an incredible trip. We called Paul and the team again because we were super happy with our last trip to EBC. We've built a good relationship with the team and some of the Sherpa climbing guides and will continue using Discovery for future trips and peak climbing in Nepal.

Chin Poh - 5

Oct 19 , 2022

As a female traveler on the first Annapurna Trek and first time in Nepal, I was cautious about choosing the right tour agency. And now on the final day of my trip, I know that I truly got lucky choosing Discovery World Trekking.

Paul (the owner of the agency) was extremely helpful and reassuring during the initial phases of planning, phoning me proactively via WhatsApp once the trip was finalized to answer my questions and provide reassurance. I felt safe throughout and was very much cared for and almost spoilt at all times by both Manish and Amrit.

Overall, I would certainly advocate for any hikers looking for a guided hike in Nepal to consider Discovery World Trekking. They are truly a well-oiled machine and I will absolutely be back again to seek another hike with the company in the very near future. Thank you for the amazing time!

Based on the opinion of at least 178 people in the Travel & Vacation Category.

Keeley Murphy

Jan 12, 2023

We have just completed the Annapurna circuit and have had a fantastic experience. Discovery World Trekking made the process exceptionally easy and were very organised. Our guide Saroz and porter Raj were extremely helpful and attentive. We could not have done the trip without them. The whole team at Discovery World Trekking ensured that this was an amazing two weeks that was completely hassle free.

Feb 4, 2023

Second time using DWT's trekking services. This time, I revisited the Annapurna region. As usual, Paul was very meticulous in ensuring every step of the journey and experience went smoothly. My guide for the 2nd time was as always very attentive, fun-loving, and knowledgeable in ensuring that my trek was safe and successful. My 10th time in Nepal and one of the very rare times when I choose to reuse the same trekking agency. DWT is simply the best out there in Nepal.

Trip Downloads

Related trips, annapurna circuit trek with annapurna base camp - 27 days, annapurna trek - 20 days, annapurna circuit trek with tilicho lake - 16 days, annapurna base camp trek - 11 days, our history in service excellence, we are associated with:.

Discovery World Trekking is the trademark name of Discovery World Trekking Pvt. Ltd. Our name, logo, and slogan are registered in Nepal. Our Nepal Tourism Board trekking and travel company license number is 1495.

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