Overview
Itinerary
Cost Info
Faqs
Map

Trip Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Explore the Annapurna region and experience the best that it has to offer
Witness the grand panorama of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Manaslu and more
Reach the highest point of the trek at the Thorong La high pass (5,416m)
Visit the holy temple of Muktinath, revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike
Explore the amazing diversity of landscapes, eco systems and scenery as well as the people and their culture and lifestyle throughout the trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you on a journey around the amazing Annapurna region and explores a variety of landscapes, ecosystems, scenery and cultures. The trek starts from measly altitudes as low as 1,000 meters in the hilly region and gradually climbs to alpine regions, reaching as high as 5,416m at the Thorong La.

The classic Annapurna Circuit Trek typically lasts between 2 to 3 weeks, but it can be completed in shorter or extended to longer periods depending on the trekker’s needs. Our 12 Day Annapurna Circuit Trek starts with a direct drive from the capital to Jagat. The first week consists mostly of trekking through various villages along the circuit; Jagat, Dharapani, Chame and Pisang to eventually reach the ancient settlement of Manang.

At Manang, we will take a full day off our main trail for acclimatization. Popular options to explore on this day include Gangapurna Lake, Ice Lake as well as Milarepa cave. Following our rest day, we will resume the trek through the vibrant Manang valley.

From Manang, it will take us just a couple of days to reach Thorong Phedi via Yak Kharka. Here, we will reach the highest point of our trek during the dramatic crossing of the Thorong La (5,416m) high pass. Aside from the pure feel of adventure, you’ll also get to enjoy fantastic views of the Annapurnas, Gangapurna, Chulu, Pisang, Tilicho and more during this endeavor. Once we cross the pass, the descent that follows will lead us to Muktinath.

Muktinath is an ancient temple that is known as a place of liberation. Although dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Vishnu, the temple attracts both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. In addition to the temple itself, the two holy ponds, the perpetually burning fire and the 108 water spouts are other major attractions to explore here.

The last day of trekking will take us from Muktinath to the popular settlement of Jomsom. With the trek concluded, the return journey to Kathmandu via Pokhara can be done by road or flight. The 12 Day Annapurna Circuit Trek finally ends with your departure at Kathmandu.

Hoshizora Treks & Tour offers custom itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit Trek along with other treks in the region like Annapurna Base Camp Trek , Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trekand more.

Why Choose Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Choose the Annapurna Circuit Trek for its unparalleled diversity of landscapes, from lush forests to high mountain passes, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Experience rich cultural encounters with local communities and witness ancient traditions amidst picturesque villages. The trek is well-supported with teahouse accommodations, making it accessible to a wide range of trekkers seeking adventure in the heart of Nepal's Annapurna region.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

Annapurna Circuit Trek is graded as a strenuous difficulty trek. The highest point of the trek is at the Thorong La high pass (5,416m). As most of the trek takes place above 3,000 meters, proper acclimatization is necessary for this trek. The trek can be performed even by those without any trekking experience but they must be physically fit and healthy.

Best Season for Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit covers a wide range of altitude and thus, landscapes and ecosystems. Places like Jomsom and Muktinath remain unaffected by the monsoon rain due to begin shielded by the Dhaulagiri massif. Meanwhile, places like the Thorong La high pass can get blocked off by excessive snowfall during winter. All in all, there is a lot to consider when choosing the ideal period for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

We recommend spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November) as the best times for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The clear skies, amazing views and blooming nature of these periods are just too good to miss out on.

Accommodations Facilities During The Trek

During the Annapurna Circuit Trek, accommodations are primarily in teahouses along the trail. These teahouses offer basic but comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms. Meals are provided at the teahouses, offering a variety of local and western dishes. The teahouses provide a cozy place to rest and socialize with other trekkers, often featuring communal dining areas and stunning mountain views, making it a convenient and enjoyable trekking experience.

Meals During The Annapurna Circuit Trek

During the Annapurna Circuit Trek, meals are typically provided at teahouses along the trail. The menu at these teahouses includes a variety of dishes such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, vegetables, and sometimes western options like pasta or pancakes. Breakfast often includes eggs, bread, porridge, or Tibetan bread with tea or coffee. Meals are freshly prepared, hearty, and designed to provide trekkers with the necessary energy for the journey.

Route Permits For Annapurna Circuit Trek

For the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. The ACAP permit is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, covering the trekking route. The TIMS card is a trekking registration system aimed at ensuring the safety and security of trekkers in the region. These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board or through registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.

Transportation Service For Annapurna Circuit Trek

For the Annapurna Circuit Trek, transportation typically involves a bus or private vehicle from Kathmandu to the starting point of the trek, which is often Besisahar or Chame depending on the chosen route. The journey from Kathmandu to Besisahar takes around 7-8 hours by road. After completing the trek, transportation back to Kathmandu or Pokhara can be arranged in a similar manner.

Guides and Porters For Annapurna Circuit Trek

For the Annapurna Circuit Trek, hiring a guide or porter is optional but highly recommended for safety and convenience. A knowledgeable guide can provide insights into the local culture, history, and terrain, enhancing your trekking experience. Porters are available to carry your belongings, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey. Guides and porters can be arranged through trekking agencies in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable adventure in the stunning Annapurna region.

Trekking Equipment's For Annapurna Circuit Trek

For the Annapurna Circuit Trek, essential trekking equipment includes sturdy hiking boots, waterproof and windproof clothing layers, a comfortable backpack, trekking poles (optional but helpful for descents), a sleeping bag suitable for cold weather, a headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle. It's important to pack light but adequately for changing weather conditions and varying altitudes encountered during the trek. Additional items such as snacks, first aid kit, and toiletries can be included based on personal preferences and needs.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,100m), 7-8 hour drive

Day 02: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1,960m), 7 hours trek

Day 03: Trek from Dharapani – Chame (2,700m), 5-6 hours trek

Day 04: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,200m), 5-6 hours trek

Day 05: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m), 5-6 hours walk

Day 06: Exploration / Acclimatization Day at Manang

Day 07: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,100m), 3-4 hours trek

Day 08: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m), 5-6 hours trek

Day 09: Trek to Muktinath (3,760m) via Thorong La pass (5,416m), 8 hours trek

Day 10: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,743m), 5 hours trek

Day 11: Return flight/drive from Jomsom - Pokhara - Kathmandu

Day 12: Departure

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,100m), 7-8 hour drive

Our journey will begin after we pick you up from your hotel in the morning. For the first day, we will spend most of our time on the road driving to Jagat. We will follow the Trishuli River and pass Besi Shahar, Bhulbhule, Ngadi and Bahundanda to reach our starting point at Jagat. The drive generally takes around 7-8 hours to complete barring any issues on the road.

Accomodation: Tea House

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration: 7-8 Hours

Day 02: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1,960m), 7 hours trek

The trek will begin today with a long but fairly simple and straightforward journey to Dharapani. The trail will take us through serene forests, across high suspension bridges and past fields of rice and barley. We will enter the Manang district as we pass through Chamje, Tal and Sattale. Around late afternoon, we will reach Dharapani which is one of the largest villages in Manang.

Accomodation: Tea House

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration: 7 Hours

Day 03: Trek from Dharapani – Chame (2,700m), 5-6 hours trek

Our destination for today is the headquarter of Manang district, Chame. As we trek through the forested trails and past Bagarchhap, the trail will treat us with pleasing views of the Annapurna and Lamjung ranges. Once we reach Chame, you will have the rest of the afternoon in leisure.

Accomodation: Tea House

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration: 5-6 Hours

Day 04: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,200m), 5-6 hours trek

We will cross the 3,000 meter mark today on our trek to Pisang. We will begin the trek along the left side of the Valley and gradually climb through the dense forests. After some time, you will reach a curved rock face that dramatically rises 1,500m above the Marshyangdi River. We will trek a bit further before stopping for lunch at a refreshing small stream. As we get near Pisang, you’ll notice the vegetation start to thin out due to the rising altitude.

Accomodation: Tea House

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration: 5-6 Hours

Day 05: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m), 5-6 hours walk

As we leave Pisang, we will be greeted with splendid views of the Annapurnas, Gangapurna and more. You will also notice the landscape is drastically different on today’s trek compared to the earlier days. On our trek, we will pass through Braga which is home to a 400 year old monastery. We can stop to visit the monastery if you are interested. From Braga, we will continue our trek along the trail dotted with mani walls and prayer flags before finally arriving at Manang.

Accomodation: Tea House

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration: 5-6 Hours

Day 06: Exploration / Acclimatization Day at Manang

As we will be climbing to altitudes over 5,000 meters, it is important for us to take a day off for rest and acclimatization. Gangapurna Lake, located just a short distance away from the village is a good place to explore. You can also visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in Braga if you’d like to learn more about mountain sickness and proper measures to take while trekking in the Himalayas. For those feeling more energetic, hikes to Milarepa Cave and Ice Lake are popular options. If you don’t feel like travelling on your rest day, you can simply stroll around the village, visit the nearby monasteries and interact with the locals as well.

Accomodation: Tea House

Meals: B L D

Day 07: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,100m), 3-4 hours trek

Since the trek is fairly short today, we can rest all morning and trek at a leisurely pace. We will get to Tenki village by crossing a stream first and then climb out of the Marshayandgi Valley by following the Jarsang River. On the way, you’ll get to enjoy views of Chulu, Khangsar, Gangapurna and various other peaks. We’ll make our way through the grazing fields with occasional herds of yaks past a wooden bridge. Once you reach the Mani wall, Yak Kharka is not much farther.

Accomodation: Tea House

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration: 3-4 Hours

Day 08: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m), 5-6 hours trek

Today, we will trek to Thorong Phedi, which is basically the base camp for trekkers looking to cross the Thorong La pass. You’ll get to enjoy views of Thorung, Gundang, Khatungkan and a few more peaks on the trek today. We’ll arrive at Phedi sometime in the late afternoon. Rest early and well today to prepare for the tough trek the next day.

Accomodation: Tea House

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration: 5-6 Hours

Day 09: Trek to Muktinath (3,760m) via Thorong La pass (5,416m), 8 hours trek

The trek will begin early in the morning as we have a lot of ground to cover. Another reason for it is that crossing the pass becomes increasingly harder as the day goes on due to strong winds. We will energize ourselves with some warm before beginning the steady uphill climb. Depending on the season and weather, the pass can be covered by snow which can make the trek even harder. However, once you get to the top, you will be rewarded for all your effort with glorious views of the Annapurnas, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri and more. After some time at the top, we will begin the descent to Muktinath. We will stay overnight at a lodge in Ranipauwa, a village near Muktinath.

Accomodation: Tea House

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration: 8 Hours

Day 10: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,743m), 5 hours trek

Start your day with a visit to the holy pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Muktinath is known as a place of liberation and is sacred to both Hindu and Buddhist devotees. There are various interesting things to explore aside from the main temple. The two holy ponds and 108 water spouts as well as the eternal flame at Jwala Mai are the most popular ones. After spending some time around the temple, we will head back to our lodge for breakfast. Then, we will set out in the trail one last time on the way to Jomsom. We will pass through Marpha and reach Jomsom around the afternoon. The apples and cider of Marpha and Jomsom are very popular throughout the country for being exquisitely tasty.

Accomodation: Tea House

Meals: B L D

Activity Duration: 5 Hours

Day 11: Return flight/drive from Jomsom - Pokhara - Kathmandu

With the trek now over, we will make the return journey from Jomsom to Kathmandu via Pokhara. Local buses and private transport are both common options for these routes. However, if budget isn’t an issue, travelling by air is an excellent way to enjoy the some of the best views of the whole region. We will be back at the capital around late afternoon to evening time. You’ll have some leisure time to visit Thamel for any last minute souvenir shopping if you wish. We will end the day by having traditional Nepali cuisine as farewell dinner at a restaurant.

Accomodation: Hotel

Meals: B

Day 12: Departure

We hope your time with Hoshizora Treks and Tours has been a good one. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to take part in other treks or extend your holiday. If you have a flight scheduled, our representative will assist you with reaching the airport a few hours before flight time. We wish you a safe flight home, farewell!

Accomodation:

Meals: B

Cost Include

Airport pick-up and drop off service
Accommodation at Kathmandu in star hotel
Standard lodge/teahouse accommodation during the trek
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
An experienced and licensed English speaking trek guide with assistant guides (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
Domestic flight fare (Kathmandu – Pokhara and back)
Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
All the necessary trekking permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit)
All the necessary paper works and governmental procedures
All the government and local taxes
Emergency medical / first aid kit

Cost Exclude

Nepal entry visa fee
Meals and accommodation outside of those mentioned in the itinerary
International Flights
Travel and rescue Insurance
Personal nature expenses (Phone Calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porter, hot shower etc.)
Tips and gratuities for guides, porters and drivers

Faqs

How long is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek typically takes around 15-20 days to complete, depending on the specific route and itinerary chosen.

What is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally stable with clear skies and moderate temperatures.

Do I need permits for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Yes, trekkers require the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card to undertake the Annapurna Circuit Trek. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.

Is it necessary to hire a guide or porter for the trek?

Hiring a guide or porter is optional but recommended for safety and convenience, especially for first-time trekkers. Guides provide valuable local knowledge, while porters can carry your belongings, allowing you to enjoy the trek without heavy loads.

What kind of accommodations are available during the trek?

Accommodations along the Annapurna Circuit Trek are primarily teahouses or guesthouses, offering basic but comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms. Meals are provided at the teahouses, offering a variety of local and international dishes.

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered moderately challenging, with varying terrain and altitudes. Proper physical fitness and acclimatization are essential for a successful trek.

What should I pack for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Essential items to pack include sturdy hiking boots, waterproof clothing, a sleeping bag suitable for cold weather, trekking poles, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle. Additional items like snacks, first aid kit, and toiletries should also be included.

Are there emergency facilities available along the trek?

There are basic medical facilities and emergency services available at certain points along the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It's important to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities in Nepal.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Route Map:

Trip Facts

Starts From
$ 1020.00 / Person

accommodation:	Hotel/ Tea House
Height:	5,416m – Thorong La Pass
Best Season:	Spring (March – May) and Autumn (September – November)
Grade:	Moderate / Adventure
Duration:	12 Days
Activity:	Sightseeing & Trekking
Treks Type:	Tea House Trek
Transportation:	Flight/ Private Vehicle
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