Annapurna Circuit Trekking

20 days Annapurna Circuit Trekking
  • Duration 20 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 5,416 m
  • Trip Start Kathmandu
  • Trip End Kathmandu
  • Trip Area Annapurna Region
  • Nature of Trip Trekking
  • Major Activities Nature of adventure
  • Best Season Spring (March-May), Autumn ( September- November)

Highlights

  • Spectacular Marshyangdi River valley and Kali Gandaki Valley
  • The View of the massive Annapurna Mountain Range and more
  • Wonderful Adventure ofThorong La Pass 
  • Mystical Tilicho Lake With beauty of the Heven
  • Historical and Cultural Muktinath Temple.
  • Amizing Jomsom.Airport and beauty of the Nature
  • Cultural Thakali origination  – Marpha.
  • Beautiful Apple fields in Marpha
  • A Natural Hot spring spot- Tatopani.
  • Pokhara- A city of Lake  Sarounding the annapurna mountain view.
  • cross the thorong la  pass 5416m 
  • visit the wonderfull barage monastey,the bigested  monastery
  • Poonhill view point  3210 meters to sea level
  • jomom  headquarter of mustang 
  • A day at tourist hub pokhara 

Annapurna Circuit Trek, Listed as the world's top Ten travel Destination by popular and famous travel magazines and Guide books is a leading Adventure destination within the whole Himalayas and probably on this planet earth. Truly an awe-inspiring place to be. Where in this whole world that you can find a country with a dramatic change in people-religion-cultures and temperatures in a short duration of time, from low warm areas of Hindu people to mid-hills of cooler alpine zone of mixed races of Hindu and Buddhist religions.

We will start our trek from Besisahar which is about 5 hours drive from Kathmandu and will be ending our trip in Pokhara. Moving deep into the great land in the western region of Nepal. We will reach the highest pass in the world Throng-La situated at an altitude of 5416 m. This place is quite cold and more adventurous, and the temperature might even fall up to -20 degrees Celcius.  But don't worry we will be bringing all the necessary equipment that is important for making us warm during the trek.

Annapurna round trip was starting from basisahar this trekking is a second most popular trail in Nepal, during the trekking you can observe a different kind of local people lifestyle, Gurung culture, Biodiversity of the Himalayan lake in Stilicho lake when you reach there feel like to heaven of earth, Tilicho lake, one of the world's highest lakes will also be visited during our Annapurna Circuit Trekking. This lake freezes in winter, and you can even walk and run above the frozen lake. We will also be visiting all the highlighted places in the Annapurna Region. Exploration of local culture, lifestyle, and the high Himalayas is easier on this route as we will be crossing many villages during our trekking route.

The great destination for all Hindus, the holy Muktinath temple will also be visited where we will be taking bath in 108 Dharas(taps) inside the temple premises to wash out every sin we committed in past. We will also be walking along the beach of the Kali Gandaki river, which is important for finding Shaligram, ammonite fossils of the Devonian-Cretaceous period. Shaligram is considered holy as Hindus believe this as an incarnation of  Lord Bishnu. We will come across lots of beautiful Buddhist Monastries and Gompas along the route. Some of them lie in Muktinath, Jomsom, Manang, and Pisang. We will also be walking alongside the deepest gorge in the world, The KaliGandaki Gorge.

Sunrise/Sunset viewpoint, Poon Hill is another beauty of this trekking. This place allows you to see the mesmerizing view of sunrise and Annapurna Mountain. We will be walking into the dense lustrous Alpine, sub-Alpine forest for most of our trek. Floras in these places are considered medically important. You will also see lots of endangered animals, a variety of birds in the Annapurna conservation area which was established by Late King Mahendra in 1976 A.D. Different types of landscapes and climatic patterns ranging from subtropical to alpine type and biodiversity are the key features of this Trek

Our adventure leads you to a higher and beautiful Manang valley, where you will be soaked in the immense colorful, and rich culture of Buddhism in the shadow of the high Annapurna range. Annapurna Circuit Trekking leads you to a fascinating and mind-blowing experience from low warm sub-tropical climate to cooler alpine areas to remorseless fields of ice and glaciers at Manang and towards high and scenic Thorang-La pass at above 5,416 m high.

Annapurna Circuit can be divided into two parts: From Besisahar to Thorong- La and From Thorong-La to Annapurna Base camp. So, there are options for trekkers to do the whole circuit or do some parts. For those who want to trek the first half and want to trek up to Tilicho and end return back, we provide an Off-road Motorbike trip to Tilicho where you will be riding a proper offroad capable motorcycle up to Manang and trek to Tilicho.

Another option for those with a time limit but who want to trek to Annapurna Base Camp, we offer Annapurna Base Camp Trek at a reasonable price.

Itinerary
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  • Accommodation3*
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude/Time1,400 m

On reaching Kathmandu, walk to airport terminal exit where our guide and staff will receive you with a warm greeting and then transfer into car or coach (depending upon group size) for the short drive into the heart of Kathmandu city.

  • Accommodation3*
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude/Time1,400 m

On our second day, we will start preparing for your trek. One of Our representatives will remind you to get all the permits necessary for this trek. You will be reminded to check your trek insurance policy and provide us with a copy of it. You will meet your Team leader and other support professionals who will check your trekking gears to make sure they meet the requirements. After a brief introduction with the crew, one of our tour operators will take you on a city tour. You will be visiting 4 heritage sites, namely Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath temple, Patan Durbar Square, and Swoyambhunath, which hold historical, religious, and cultural significance.

  • AccommodationLocal lodges
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time1,140 m

Start a wonderful Annapurna Circuit Trekking adventure with an interesting overland drive towards Nepal midwest, leading to Besisar town (headquarter of Lamjung district). From here we will transfer you to a 4x4 jeep as the road is narrow here and completely off-road. We will continue to drive on dirt roads passing the villages of Khudi, Bulbule, and Ngadi following the Marsyangdi River upstream. The Drive continues through rice terraces fields and villages to Syange, a small village for an overnight stop in the comfort of a nice lodge.

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time1,920 m

From Syange our first-day trek begins, starting on a winding path to Jagat and Chamje village following the Marsyangdi River and within the forested area with super views of the Annapurna and Manaslu range. The walk continues reaching Tal village located on a nice river valley. Continuing our a few hours hikes will lead us to Dharapani village for an overnight stop. Dharapani is a nice village with Buddhist culture, situated at the junction of the Annapurna circuit and Manaslu trekking trail.

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time2,670 m

Start the morning walk into cool rhododendron and pine forests passing villages of Bagarchap and Danque, then to Timang village. From here onwards we will head into a more Buddhist area, with a Super view of Mt. Manaslu 8,163 m / 26,781ft, from this village few hours of the trek leads to a large town of Manang district, Chame for an overnight stop, a major town and headquarter of Manang district. Here at Chame, you can find all sorts of trekking gear you need. So just check your gear and equipment and if needed you can buy them here. On our trail to Chame, we will come across a pond of hot springs. 

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time3,230 m

From here air gets cooler as the walk leads closer to the mountains through a beautiful forest of rhododendron and pine trees, following the Marshyangdi River upstream to Bhratang village. From this village, an uphill into pine trees to Dhukure Pokhari, a small place with few lodges and views of Chulu and Pisang peak. After our lunch break, we will start descending until we reach Pisang village for an overnight stop. 

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time3,450 m

Pisang village is located within Manang valley with stunning mountain views as altitude gains from here onwards. Walking into the forest with a short uphill with views of Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna, Chulu, and Pisang peak, then reaching Hongde village with a small airstrip, from here tree lines fades to barren, arid landscapes. On route to Manang village visit the old Braga monastery with Buddhist relics, ancient wall paintings, frescos, and a super panorama of Annapurna Himalaya, From here an hour's walk to Manang village. The houses here are of traditional Tibetan style with culture and traditions. There is an alternate route from upper Pisang. The trail, in terms of difficulty compared to lower Pisang, is hard as you have to climb steep hills for 2 hours to reach Gyarhu. Hard yet more rewarding, the trail takes 7-8 hours to reach Manang if you take this route. Furthermore, some people may find it challenging to breathe as the highest point of this trail is 3,700 m. Then you will slowly descend to Ngawal and then to Braga where the trail from lower Pisang meets. Then you will continue towards Manang. Overnight at Manang.

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time3,450 m

An important rest day for acclimatization before reaching high altitude and up to Thorang –la. Here we will do a short hike exploring Manang village beneath towering Annapurna and Gangapurna peaks, a nice short hike up for views of Gangapurna Glacier and the Manang glacial Lake.

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time4,110 m

After a good rest at Manang, walk towards Yak Kharka via Gunsang. An interesting high-altitude walk with views of mountains, crossing small streams to reach Yak Kharka, a small settlement with incredible views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Chulu Peaks. This trek contains two parts ; Manang to Gunsang and Gunsang to yak Kharka. Manang to Gunsabg is a little tough climb as you will gain 300 m altitude within a short time. So we will walk gently through this part of the trail with an occasional break in the middle. The trail from Gunsang to Yak Kharka is a gradual uphill and most beautiful. Overnight stay at Yak Kharka.

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time4,600 m

The morning walk leads closer to Thorang-la as the walk progress crossing a bridge and then a climb along the Jarjung River, then leading at Thorang Phedi for short rest and then climbing the last hour uphill to Thorang High Camp for the overnight stop. 

  • AccommodationStandard lodge
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time3,800 m

Start the early morning walk on this Big Day! A thrill and highlight of this great adventure, after breakfast a long climb up to Thorang-la with a steep haul to reach at 5,416 m / 17, 872 ft on top of Thorang-la decorated with Buddhist prayer flags. The highest point of our adventure, offers a superb vista of beautiful landscapes and snowcapped peaks, from here a long descent to Muktinath at 3,800 m. Muktinath is a holy place for both Hindus and Buddhists the word Muktinath means ‘the place for Nirvana or Liberation.

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time2,670 m

After Muktinath, the rest of the journey is easier with moderate walks with a big drop of 1,200m downhill to Kaligandaki river valley, this pleasant walk leads to Kaligandaki river valley, from here walk to Jomsom, headquarter town of Mustang area with a small airstrip above Kaligandaki River.  
After Jomsom walk to Marpha, one of the most charming villages with white-painted houses, paved streets, and well-kept lodges. At Marpha celebrate with local apple products cider, brandy, and juice this area from Kagbeni to Larjung is famous for delicious apples. 

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time2,480 m

From Marpha onward, the walk is enjoyable following the Kaligandaki river downstream with views of Tukuche peak, Dhaulagiri, and Mt. Nilgiri leading to Larjung village. After a few hour's walk, we will get back into tree lines of pine, oaks, and rhododendron forest crossing a small local settlement of Kalopani village. From there, a short downhill walk will bring us to our stop in beautiful Lete village. We can see Anapurna I , Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks from Lete. Overnight stay at Lete.

  • AccommodationStandard Lodge
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time1,190 m

Today's walk is mostly gradual descent. We can see the change in vegetation and climatic pattern as we continue our trek through this trail. The walk will eventually lead you to the world's deepest gorge made by the Kaligandaki river that lies between two giant peaks, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. The first couple of hours will lead you through another small village, Ghasa from where the majestic view of the snow-capped mountain can be seen. The major inhabitants of this area are Thakali. As our walk continues, we can feel the gradual change in climate and vegetation, a more warmer climate with sub-tropical vegetation. On our way to Tatopani, we can see a beautiful Rupse Jharana( waterfall). After a brief moment of walking on the road, we will finally reach Tatopani where we will stay overnight before continuing our journey towards Ghorepani.

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time2,750 m

After an amazing and deserving rest at Tatopani, our trek continues towards Ghorepani through uphill winding trails. The first part of the trail is a steep uphill climb and the second part is a gradual uphill. We will walk through the lush green forest to reach Chitre. And another uphill climb to reach the beautiful village of Ghorepani. The village offers an astounding view of Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna with Vara-Shikhara also known as Annapurna Fang. Ghorepani is famous and popular for a hike to Poon Hill. The viewpoint at Poon Hill offers an amazing and beautiful wide-angle view of the Annapurna range along with picturesque sunrise and sunset view.

  • AccommodationLocal teahouse
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time1,500 m

After a good breakfast and an early morning wake, we will hike for an hour to reach Poon Hill situated at an altitude of 3,210 m to see the beautiful view of sunrise kissing the top of snow-capped mountains. The array of lights spreading over the top of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal up to the far-eastern horizon including Machhapuchre makes your trip worth traveling. After spending some time at Poon Hill, we will continue our walk through the colourful Rhododendron forest. The walk then leads us to Ulleri and the long descent will take us to our final stop of the day. We will stay overnight at Tikhedhunga. 

  • Accommodation3*
  • MealsB/L/D
  • Altitude/Time820 m

This will be our last day of a trek into the beautiful and variable wild lands of Annapurna Circuit. Waking up early, after having breakfast, we will continue our final trek towards Nayapul. The easy part of the whole trek is mostly downhill that passes through farm villages and fields. We will then come across a nice village of Birethanti residing beside the Mardi river. A short walk from Birethanti will lead you to Nayapul. Our trek will end here. We will then take a bus to Pokhara. The drive will take two hours to reach the city of Lakes, Pokhara. Overnight stay at Pokhara, a vibrant touristic destination. Pokhara is also the resting point after and before the start of many treks like Ghorepani-Poon Hill trek, Annapurna Base Camp trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Muktinath trek, Motorbike tour to Upper Mustang and Muktinath, etc.

  • Accommodation3*
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude/Time1,400 m

With an early morning breakfast, we will catch a comfortable tourist bus to Kathmandu. The bus passes through the winding trails of the scenic Prithvi highway along the bank of the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers. You will be transferred to your hotel upon reaching Kathmandu.

**flight to Kathmandu can be managed upon request.** 

  • Accommodation3*
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude/Time1,400 m

A free and relaxing day in Kathmandu, relax and enjoy with individual activities, shopping souvenirs or join in for another exciting sightseeing tour.

  • Accommodation-
  • Meals-
  • Altitude/Time-

Last day in the beautiful Himalayan country of Nepal. Depart from the hotel as per your international flight schedule for the departure flight.

Not satisfied with this regular itinerary?

Are you interested on planning custom trip? Feel free to contact us.

Map & Altitude Graph
Annapurna Circuit Trekking map
Cost Details
What's Included
  • Airport pick up and drop off by a private vehicle
  • 3 nights stay in Kathmandu at 3-star category hotel with breakfast on twin sharing basis
  • Kathmandu Valley sightseeing (Private vehicle and English-speaking guide)
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu transport by luxurious tourist bus
  • 1 Night stay in Pokhara at 3-star category hotel with breakfast on twin sharing basis
  • All the transportations
  • ACAP (Annapurna Conversation Area Permit) and TIMS Cards
  • An experienced English-speaking guide and his all expenses including insurance during the trekking
  • Porter (1 porter for 2 trekkers and carries 15kgs to 20 kgs) and their all expenses including insurance
  • Full board basis during the trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included)
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trekking on twin sharing basis
  • Trekking route map
  • Complimentary sleeping bags and down jackets
  • First aid kit
  • All the government and company service charges
What's Excluded
  • International airfare
  • Travel Insurance
  • Nepal visa fee
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara except for complimentary dinners
  • Personal expenses (WIFI, bar bills, laundries, electricity charges for the gadgets, hot shower, hot water, etc)
  • Tipping for guide(s), porter (s), driver(s)
  • Anything does not include in the inclusion list.
Dates & Price

Book Your Trip 2023

StartThursdayApr 06, 2023
EndTuesdayApr 25, 2023
StatusAvailable
FromUS $1499
 
Useful Info

The Best time to trek Annapurna Circuit: 

This trek can be done during any season, but we recommend our clients do this trek during the autumn season(mid-September to mid-November). Apart from autumn, this trek can be done during spring but prepare yourself for a little warm temperature. The best thing about doing this trek in spring is weather is stable with deep blue skies and greenery all around.

Difficulty Level: 

This trail is considered moderate to moderately difficult. Like all the treks in the Himalayas, this trek also requires you to walk up and down mostly. The difference is you will do this at a high altitude which requires normal physical fitness. The highest point is the Thorong- La situated at 5416 m above sea level, there is always a risk of suffering from altitude sickness  after the manage and Annapurna base camp if you are not careful enough.

Transportation: Transportation is mainly by public vehicles. But if you want a private vehicle, we can provide you with a little extra cost.

Accommodations in Annapurna Circuit Trek

The teahouses are basic but adequate; please be realistic about what to expect in the mountains.

The hub of the teahouse is the dining room, usually decorated with colorful traditional rugs, sometimes with a stove or heater (some lodges charge a fee to put the heater on). All teahouses sell snacks and other essentials such as tissues, soap, and toilet paper. All lodges have electricity but it is not wholly reliable and lighting may not be bright enough to read by – a torch is essential. In many locations on the Annapurna Circuit, there are electrical plug sockets in the teahouse bedrooms so you can recharge devices free of charge but in some locations, charging facilities may only be available in the dining room for a small fee (approx. Rs100-200 per hour per device). Most of the lodges on this route have Wi-Fi for around Rs100 per day. Sometimes the Wi-Fi may not work because of poor network coverage or power cuts.

The bedrooms are mostly twin-share but occasionally during peak seasons, you may be asked to share a dormitory room (3-5 people max) for the odd night. Beds with foam mattresses, bedsheets, and a pillow are provided. Bedrooms are generally unheated and can get cold at night so you will need to bring or hire a sleeping bag.

Most lodges have only one or two basic toilets and sometimes these are located outside the main lodge building. Toilets are usually Asian ’squat’ style; although many lodges have now installed ‘western style’ seated ones. Toilet paper is not provided so you should bring your own or buy it locally (please dispose of it in the bin provided – do not put it in the bowl). If there is not a flush handle, there should be a container of water to pour down – if it is empty (or frozen) please either refill it or ask the lodge to do so. Laundry facilities are available in Manang if you need to wash a few items.

Most lodges now have hot gas or solar showers (charged at approx. Rs100 per shower) but don’t expect them every night. Sometimes a hot shower is simply a bucket of hot water and not a showerhead. Standards of cleanliness vary especially in the peak trekking season and in winter when the water freezes at night. Please report any problems to your leader or the lodge and be vigilant in your hygiene regime – use soap or hand sanitizer gel before and after toilet breaks, snacks, and mealtimes.
On this particular trek, the standard of lodges varies quite a bit from one night to the next - with some of the most basic accommodations being in Larjung, Birethanti, and Thorong Phedi.

Meals in Annapurna Circuit Trek :

Although most lodges have almost identical menus, they are reasonably extensive and offer a varied selection, ranging from traditional Nepalese dhal bhat to pizza and apple pie. Dhal Bhat is the staple diet in Nepal and comes in many different forms but generally comprises some curried lentil dhal and meat or vegetables, some rice, and a pickle/chutney. Another popular snack is momos; a type of Nepalese dumpling, fried or steamed, filled with meat or vegetables.

In the teahouses breakfast will comprise of a choice of bread (a slice of toast, chapatti, or Tibetan bread), a choice of egg (boiled, fried, or omelet), and a choice between either muesli or porridge each day. Hot tea/coffee will also be served. On specific days, there will not be a choice for breakfast and either a trekkers breakfast (egg, hash brown, baked beans, and toast) or a pancake with jam/honey will be served - these options are not available in all teahouses and so we have only included them in locations where they can be guaranteed.

Equipment and packaging lists for Annapurna Circuit

  • Clothing: Trekking boots, Short-sleeved Trekking shirts, Trekking pants and jackets, Thermals underwear, Long-sleeved Trekking shirts, Insulating down jackets, Woollen cap, Trekking Gloves, Raincoats
  • First Aid: Diamox (Acetazolamide tablets for preventing High Altitude Sickness), Sanitary pads / Tampons, Anti-nausea Medicines, Band-aids, Mosquito and insect repellents
  • Toiletries: Soap, Toilet Paper, Shampoo, Sunscreen, Hand sanitizer
  • Accessories: Sunglasses, Sleeping bag, Camera Batteries, Water Bottle, Solar Charger, Hot water Thermos
  • Important Documents: Passport, Travel Permits

Guides and Porters:

The team of Adventure Altitude Treks and Expedition co. is one of the most experienced, reliable, hospitable, and respected in Nepal. The agency and team members are all affiliated with Trekking Agency's Association of Nepal (TAAN), Nepal Mountaineering Association(NMA), Nepal Tourism Board, Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil  Aviation of Nepal, Sustainable Tourism Network, and Himalayan Rescue Association. We will provide a professional and experienced English-speaking guide with sound knowledge of place and trek. With the experience of more than 10 years in this field, we can guarantee your satisfaction. If you need a porter, we will provide you with 1 porter/2 guests. The porter will be carrying 25 kg maximum(12 -13 kg per person). You will need to carry your day pack yourselves to keep your personal belongings like wallet, mobile and accessories, cameras and accessories, water bottle, dry snacks, torch/headlights, and other personal belongings. For us, the safety of our clients and members comes first. And it is our collective responsibility to ensure safety and security for porters, guides, and guests. You can help to bring safety to our team members by taking only those things which are necessary. We will always be thankful for your acknowledgment.

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