Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. It used to be 21 days long trek but now it can be completed in 19 days or even shorter because of road expansion. Aptly titled as Nepal’s classic trek, the Annapurna Circuit trek displays divergent landscape ranging from the sub-tropical region to the alpine and the semi-desert region.
The trek makes a complete circle of Annapurna ranges including Annapurna I, the tenth highest mountain in the world. You will have the opportunity to visit Manang and Mustang valleys following Marshyangdi and Kal Gandaki Rivers. The trail is a mix of high barren valleys in the upper end, to terraced fields and forests of rhododendron, pine and oak at lower elevation. Waterfalls, hot spring, rivers and villages are a regular feature of this trek. Pisang, Manang, Ghorepani and Ghandruk are few of the memorable villages you will explore.
The challenging part of this trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass (5416m) and then descending down to Chumig Gyatsa or Muktinath (3850m). The hike to viewpoint Poon Hill at 3232m affords panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. All along the trekking trail, you will witness a variety of mountain peaks such as Mt. Manaslu. Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, Pisang Peak, Tilicho peak, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Varaha Shikhar, Annapurna South, Annapurna III, Machhapuchhare, Annapurna IV, Annapurna II, and Lamjung Himal (6931m.).
The Annapurna Circuit trek is a demanding trek even for a seasoned trekker, but it is an exceptional introduction to walking in Nepal for those who are physically fit. This trek can be done throughout the year though Autumn and Spring are regarded the best.
After early morning breakfast, drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule via Besisahar, takes about seven hours. During the drive you will follow Trisuli and Marshyangdi Rivers passing through several villages and you will enjoy views of green hills and snowcapped mountains. The road from Kathmandu to Besisahar is paved while rest of the journey to Bhulbule is on a graveled path. Stay overnight at lodge.
You will step into Marshyangdi valley and follow the winding mountain path down to Syange (1100m). Afterwards climb steeply through sheer cliff-face some 200-300m above the riverbed to reach Chamje. Stay overnight at lodge.
The first part of the trail descends to the Marshyangdi river and then crosses over a suspension bridge and makes a steep climb to Sattale (1550m). From here the trail descends to a grassy riverbank that leads to the village of Tal (1700m). Beyond Tal, the the trail goes around winding cliffs, passes through Karte village and finally comes across the Mani entrance to Dharapani (1960m.). Stay overnight at lodge.
Today the trek goes along the Dudh Khola that originates from the south face of Mt. Manaslu. You will soon arrive at the village of Bagarchhap, distinct with its prayer flags and a Buddhist monastery. Continue to climb through forests of pine and oak to reach Danaque (2210m.) and thereafter trail levels all the way to Chame where there are government offices, shops and hotels. Chame is the administrative headquarters of the Manang district. Stay overnight at lodge.
After greeting Lamjung Himal (6893m) sparkling in the morning sun, you will climb the path up the valley, passing a huge apple orchard. The trail then enters fir and pine forest, and emerges out to a high, rocky cliff which is extremely steep that leads to Bhratang (2950m.). You will now walk through a short stretch of pine forest as the path opens up to a wonderful vista of Annapurna II as well as Pisang Peak (6091m). Afterwards follow a long section of Mani wall to enter the village of Pisang. Stay overnight at lodge.
Leaving Pisang in the morning, the trail ascends a steep ridge that offers good views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak (7145m). When descending to Hungde (3320m), you will come to wide plain of the Sabje Khola Valley from where the north-east face of Annapurna III and Annapurna IV (7525m) rises majestically. Afterwards you will cross Marshyangdi Khola over a wooden bridge to the tiny village of Mungji. Mungji has large Chortens and mani walls and is surrounded by tall peaks of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna (7455m.) and Tilicho Peak (7145m.). A short steep climb from Mungji will reach you Manang. Stay overnight at lodge.
Today is a rest day for acclimatization in preparation for crossing the Thorung La Pass. You can choose to cross the river to see the tremendous icefall coming down from the Annapurna or climb high above the village for views of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley. Stay overnight at lodge.
Today the trail ascends gently all the way to Yak Kharka passing through Gunsang village (3960m). En route, you can see panoramic mountain views all day long. Stay overnight at lodge.
Leaving Yak Kharka, you will climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of Marshyangdi. After a short ascend along the river bank, you follow a narrow trail across an unstable spree slope and then descend to Thorung Phedi. Stay overnight at lodge.
You will start the trek very early in the morning. The trail is long, steep and challenging all the way to the Thorona La pass. After around 4 hours of steady climbing on moraines, you will arrive at the Thorong La pass which is adorned with chorten and prayer flags. Thorong La pass is one of the highest passes in the Annapurna region and offers great views of the valley below. As soon as you arrive at the top of Thorang La pass, you will descend along the Jhong Khola Valley towards Muktinath. Muktinath is one of the most sacred pilgrimmages in the Himalaya for both Hindus and Buddhists. Stay overnight at lodge.
You now begin the descent down the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, initially through arid country in the same geographical and climatic zone as Tibet. After passing through Jharkot and Khingar, villages with typical Tibetan architecture, you follow the valley floor most of the way to Jomsom. You continue down to Marpha, a delightful Thakali village, complete with a drainage system beneath the flagstone streets. Marpha is famous for apple and local apple brandy. Stay overnight at lodge.
Your trail passes through the bank of Kali Gandaki River. You will face fierce winds in this section during afternoon. While trekking from Marpha to Ghasa, you will pass Thakali villages such as Tukuche, Larjung, Kalopani and Lete. You will enjoy close-up views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche peaks on the trek. Stay overnight at lodge.
The trail gradually descends to Tatopani passing through forests along with one of the most beautiful and longest Rupchechahara waterfalls. You will also have the opportunity to observe Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world formed between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. The magical views of Nilgiri South, Annapurna I are clearly visible from the trail. Tatopani is a natural hot spring where you can bath and relax. Locals believe the hot spring provides therapeutic treatment for those suffering from skin diseases. Stay overnight at lodge.
The trail ascends all the way to Ghorepani via Ghara and Sikha, two beautiful villages with mix of Gurung and Magar ethnic groups. The trail makes its way through terraced fields, forests and meadows while offering constant views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I. Ghorepani is a beautiful village and the most popular point for tourists in Annapurna region. Stay overnight in lodge.
Poon Hill is a popular viewpoint to see sunrise/sunset and majestic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m.), Tukuche Peak (6920m.), Nilgiri (6940m.), Varaha Shikhar (7847m.), Mt. Annapurna I (8091m.), Annapurna South (7219m.), Annapurna III (7855m.), Machhapuchhare (6993m.), Annapurna IV (7525m.), Annapurna II (7937m.), and Lamjung Himal (6931m.).
After spending sometime in Poon Hill, hike back to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue trekking towards Tadapani (2630m) which takes about four and half hours. Stay overnight at lodge.
It is a very easy trek descending gently all the way through rhododendron and oak forests. This is one of the popular destinations for the bird lovers. Ghandruk (1950m.) is a big Gurung village offering good views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna (7455m.), Annapurna III (7755m.) and Fishtail. Stay overnight at lodge.
The early part of your trek is a steep descent following the stone staircase to Kimbu, which is also known as Bee Hive area. Kimbu is located at the elevation of 1200 meters on the bank of Modi Khola. Now, your trail steeply ascends following the stone staircase up to Landruk, which is a beautiful Gurung village. The trail follows a leveled path for two hours and then ascends steeply for an hour to Deurali (2150m.) passing through Tolkha village (1850m.). From this point you can see the panoramic view of Dhaulagiri I (8167m.), Annapurna South (7219m.), Hiunchuli (6441m.), Fishtail (6997m.), Annapurna III (7755m.), Annapurna IV (7525m.), Annapurna II (7937m.) and Lamjung Himal (6930m.). Now, the rest of the trail descends gently down to Pothana village (1900m.). Stay overnight at lodge.
The trail descends gradually for at least an hour and follows leveled path for two hours and then steeply descends to Dhampus Phedi passing through Dhampus village, paddy fields and forest protected by local community. Upon your arrival at Dhampus Phedi, you will drive back to Pokhara that takes about 1 hr. Stay overnight at hotel.
While driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you pass through Damauli, Dumre, Muglin and finally Kurintar where Nepal's first Cable car is operated to reach to Manakamana Temple. En route, you will enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people being engaged in their daily life activities. Leaving Kurintar you head towards Thankot via Naubise. Thankot is the entry point to Kathmandu. If you choose to fly back to Kathmandu, it takes about 25 minutes. There are several flights from Kathmand to Pokhara from morning to afternoon.
The length varies depending on where you start and finish. Traditionally, the trek is around 160–230 km (100–145 miles) and takes anywhere between 15 to 20 days. The route can be customized — for instance, some trekkers now choose to fly out from Jomsom or skip parts of the road-accessible sections using local jeeps.
The Annapurna Circuit is considered moderate to challenging. While you don’t need technical climbing skills, the trek involves long days of walking, sometimes steep ascents, and hiking at high altitudes. Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) is the most demanding part due to thin air and freezing temperatures. With good physical preparation and acclimatization, most people with average fitness can complete it.
The highest point of the trek is Thorong La Pass, standing at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). It’s typically crossed early in the morning to avoid strong afternoon winds. This section requires proper acclimatization, and trekkers should watch out for symptoms of altitude sickness.
The two best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit are:
a. Spring (March–May): Warm temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and stable weather.
b. Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, dry trails, and stunning mountain views after the monsoon.
Winter (December–February) is also possible but very cold and Thorong La may be closed due to snow. Monsoon season (June–August) is generally not recommended due to slippery trails, landslides, and poor visibility.
Yes. Trekkers must obtain:
a. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): For safety and tracking.
b. ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): Required for entering the protected area.
Both can be arranged in Kathmandu or Pokhara through registered agencies or the Nepal Tourism Board. As of recent guidelines, independent trekkers are also required to hire a guide.
Essential gear includes:
Clothing: Layered (base, insulation, shell), waterproof jacket, gloves, and warm hat.
Footwear: Well-broken-in hiking boots.
Sleeping: 3-season or 4-season sleeping bag (some teahouses may not provide sufficient blankets).
Other: Water purification tablets/filter, sunscreen, sunglasses, headlamp, trekking poles, and a first-aid kit.
Optional but helpful: portable charger or solar power bank, map/GPS, and snacks.
As of April 2023, solo trekking without a guide is no longer allowed in many parts of Nepal including the Annapurna region. Hiring a guide is now mandatory for safety reasons. A porter is optional but highly recommended if you want to trek light and enjoy the journey more. Guides can enrich the experience with cultural and geographic insights, and porters help you manage your physical load.
Trekkers stay in teahouses, which are basic lodges run by local families. These offer simple rooms (usually twin beds), shared bathrooms, and a communal dining area. The facilities are more developed in lower altitudes with Wi-Fi, hot showers (sometimes paid), and phone charging. As you gain elevation, the lodges become more rustic with limited facilities.
Teahouses provide menus with a surprising variety of meals. The staple is Dal Bhat — rice with lentil soup and vegetables — offering endless refills and great energy. Other options include:
» Noodles (fried or in soup)
» Pasta and rice dishes
» Tibetan bread, chapati
» Eggs, porridge, pancakes, muesli
» Tea, coffee, and sometimes Yak cheese and baked goods in Manang and other villages
Yes. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a major concern above 2,500 meters. Common symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness.
To reduce the risk:
- Ascend gradually (no more than 500m net gain per day above 3,000m)
- Take acclimatization days (especially in Manang)
- Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol
- Consider bringing Diamox (with medical advice)
Start preparing 6–8 weeks before the trek. Focus on:
a. Cardio: Running, swimming, cycling
b. Strength: Core and leg exercises (squats, lunges, stair climbing)
c. Hiking: Practice with a weighted backpack on varied terrain Also work on mental endurance and getting used to walking for 6–8 hours a day.
Yes, it’s strongly recommended and often required by tour companies. Your insurance should cover:
a. High-altitude trekking (over 5,000m)
b. Emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue)
c. Medical treatment Always read the policy carefully and carry a copy with you.
Yes, but it’s inconsistent. Lower regions have better connectivity. Many teahouses offer paid Wi-Fi (Everest Link or other providers). For mobile, NCELL and NTC SIM cards offer some coverage but signal strength varies — don’t count on regular access.
Cost depends on your style of travel:
a. Budget (independent, minimal luxuries): $700–$900 USD
b. Mid-range (with guide/porter, occasional luxuries): $1,000–$1,300 USD
c. Organized trek (fully guided, all-inclusive): $1,300–$2,000 plus USD
Includes permits, accommodation, food, transport, guide/porter fees etc. Always keep a small reserve for emergencies.
Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor. Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking.
General Items:
Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)
Clothing Items:
Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff
Sun-worn Items:
Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm
Gadgets:
Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries),
Liquid/Snacks:
Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks
Medical Essentials:
First Aid Kit
Optional:
Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc
Additional items for camping trek:
Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses
Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price.
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