Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Trip Type

Lodge Trek

Grade

Moderate

Altitude

5416 m.

Transportation

Tourist Bus or Private Vehicle

Group Size

1 or more

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Duration

16 Days

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The Annapurna Round trek is in much demand among trekkers who seek variety in one single trek. Annapurna Round Trek has as its major attractions the temple of Muktinath, the culture and lifestyles of Thakali people, the crossing of one of the highest and most challenging Thorang La Pass (5416m) and the stunning views of Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Dhaulagiri ranges

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule (840m.) via Besisahar, takes about eight hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

840

After early morning breakfast, our guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you to the bus station. Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule via Besisahar, takes about eight 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. From Kathmandu to Besisahar is paved road and from there to Bhulbule is graveled. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 2 : Trek from Bhulbhule to Chamje (1410m.) takes about seven hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1410

Ahead the Marshyangdi valley forms a steep V-shape. Follow the winding mountain path down to Syange (1100m) and then climb steeply through sheer cliff-face some 200-300m above the riverbed. From here it is a few ups and downs before you reach Chamje. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 3 : Trek from Chamje (1410m) to Dharapani (1960m) takes about six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1960

The first part of the trail descends to the Marshyangdi river at which point cross a suspension bridge and make a steep climb to Sattale (1550m). From here descend to a grassy riverbank that leads to the village of Tal (1700m) where you will find hotels and teahouses. Beyond Tal, the valley narrows and the path follows winding cliffs. You will pass through the small village of Karte (1900m.) and cross a suspension bridge as you approach the Mani entrance to Dharapani (1960m.). Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 4 : Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2675m) takes about five and half hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2675

Trek along the Dudh Khola that originates from the south face of Mt. Manaslu. With Annapurna II as your backdrop, you will arrive at the village of Bagarchhap, distinct with its prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and Buddhist monastery. Continue to climb through forests of pine and oak, before passing by Danaque (2210m.). The trail goes through flat path until you reach Chame where there are government offices, shops and hotels. Chame is the administrative headquarters of the Manang district. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 5 : Trek from Chame to Pisang (3100m.) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3100

With Lamjung Himal (6893m) sparkling in the morning sun, you 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 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 lower village of Pisang. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 6 : Trek from Pisang to Manang (3440m) takes about five and half hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3440

Beyond Pisang, the trail climbs a steep ridge that affords good views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak (7145m). Descending to Hungde (3320m), you come to wide plain of the Sabje Khola Valley from where the north-east face of Annapurna III and Annapurna IV (7525m) rises majestically. Further to this point you 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 here reaches Manang. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 7 : Rest day at Manang.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3440

Today is an important rest day for acclimatization before crossing the Thorung La Pass. There are optional walks such as crossing the river to see the tremendous icefall coming down from the Annapurna, or climbing high above the village for a full panorama of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 8 : Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4350m) takes about three and half hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

4350

This morning 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.

Day 9 : Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4420m) takes about 3 and half hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

4420

Leaving Yak Kharka, you climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of Marshyangdi. After a short ascend along the mountain path on the right bank, you follow a narrow trail across an unstable spree slope and then descend to Thorung Phedi. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 10 : Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3850m.) via Thorong La (5416m.) Pass takes about seven hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

5416

Today will be a long day of walking so you will leave early morning. The trail becomes steep immediately and after around 4 hours of steady climbing, you see chorten and prayer flags fluttering from the Thorong La pass. Thorong La pass is one of the highest passes in the Annapurna region. Once you are at the pass, you will start your descent along the Jhong Khola Valley to Muktinath as the moraines eventually give way to grassy slopes. Muktinath is one of the most sacred places in the Himalaya for both Hindus and Buddhists. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 11 : Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1190m) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1190

You will drive on gravel road. Considering road condition, 4-WD ride is recommendable. However, local bus is also available. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 12 : Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2860m) takes about seven hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2860

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.

Day 13 : Early morning hike up to Poon Hill (3210 m.) takes about one hour.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3210

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 five hours. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 14 : Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (2950m) takes about 3 hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2950

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 is a big Gurung village offering good views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna (7455m.), Annapurna III (7755m.) and Fishtail. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 15 : Drive from Ghandruk to Pokhara takes about 4 hours.

Food

Breakfast

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

914

Stay overnight at hotel in Pokhara.

Day 16 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu that takes about seven hours.

Food

Breakfast

Elevation

1400

After breakfast early morning, drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu that takes about seven hours. En route, you will enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people being engaged in their daily life activities. If you choose to fly back to Kathmandu, it takes about 25 minutes. There are several flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara from morning to afternoon.

What Is Included ?

Airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
1 night hotel accommodation with breakfast in Pokhara
Trekking guide/s
One porter for every 2 trekking participants (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Accommodation in teahouses (lodges) during the trek
Trekking equipments: Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags and trekking poles
Entry Permit for Annapurna conservation Area (ACAP)
Trekkers' Information Management system (TIMS) card
All land transportation: Kathmandu – Bhulbhule by Public bus, Pokhara – Kathmandu by deluxe A/C tourist bus, Muktinath-Tatopani and Ghandruk – Pokhara by private vehicle
Insurance and equipments for all guides and porters
First aid kit
Tax, VAT and our service charge
Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening
Souvenir

What Is Excluded?

Personal nature expenses (Telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers and any alcoholic beverages)
Travel insurance
Tips for involved staffs
Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
Meals and hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (even in case of early arrival or late departure, early return from trekking due to any personal reason than the scheduled itinerary)

Annapurna Round Trek Altitude Profile

Route Map

FAQs

The Annapurna Circuit usually takes 14 to 18 days, depending on your route, side trips, acclimatization days, and walking speed. With the development of roads in parts of the circuit, many trekkers now begin at Jagat and end at Jomsom, which can shorten the trek to around 12 days. If you include popular side treks (like Tilicho Lake or Poon Hill), it could take longer. Always account for rest and acclimatization days to prevent altitude sickness.

The best seasons are:

Autumn (September to November): The most popular season, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and stunning mountain views.

Spring (March to May): Warmer days, blooming rhododendrons, and great visibility.

Winter (December to February) can be extremely cold, with snow making Thorong La Pass difficult or impassable. Monsoon (June to August) brings rain, leeches, slippery trails, and poor visibility—generally not recommended unless you're experienced.

It’s considered moderately to highly challenging due to:

High altitude (up to 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass)

Long daily hikes (5–8 hours per day)

Rapid altitude gain

You don’t need technical climbing skills, but you should be physically fit, comfortable walking long distances, and capable of handling thinner air at higher elevations. A steady pace, good preparation, and proper acclimatization make it manageable for most trekkers.

Two main permits are needed:

ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project): NPR 3,000 (~USD 25)

TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System): NPR 2,000 (~USD 15)

You can get both from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. If you're trekking with a guide, the agency usually handles these for you.

As of 2023, guides are mandatory for most treks in Nepal, including the Annapurna Circuit. This regulation ensures your safety and helps manage emergency situations. A guide provides navigation, cultural insights, and assistance, while a porter can carry your heavy gear, making your trek easier.

If you prefer more flexibility, consider hiring a porter-guide—a combination of both roles. Solo trekking (without a guide) is no longer officially permitted.

Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit. It's the biggest physical and mental challenge of the trek. You’ll start your crossing from Thorong Phedi or High Camp, usually around 3–5 AM, to avoid strong afternoon winds and reach the pass early.

It's not technically difficult, but the altitude, steep ascent, and thin air make it hard. Trekkers often experience fatigue, headaches, or mild AMS symptoms. Slow ascent and proper acclimatization are crucial for safe crossing.

Altitude Sickness (AMS) is a major risk above 2,500 meters, and especially above 3,500 m. Symptoms include:

Headache

Nausea

Dizziness

Fatigue

Loss of appetite

To minimize risk:

Ascend gradually

Include rest/acclimatization days (especially in Manang)

Stay hydrated

Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills

Consider Diamox (consult your doctor)

Descend immediately if symptoms worsen

Crossing Thorong La without proper acclimatization can be dangerous, so listen to your body.

Key essentials include:

Footwear: Durable, broken-in trekking boots

Clothing: Layered clothing for changing temperatures (base layer, fleece, down jacket, waterproof outer layer)

Sleeping Bag: Rated for at least -10°C

Accessories: Warm hat, gloves, sunglasses, buff/scarf

Trekking Poles: Helpful for descents

Water Purification: Tablets or filter bottle

First Aid Kit: Include blister care, painkillers, and altitude meds

Headlamp, power bank, sunscreen, quick-dry towel

Pack light. Porters typically carry up to 15 kg, and your daypack should be under 5 kg.

Teahouses offer a wide variety of meals:

Dal Bhat (lentils, rice, vegetables)—all-you-can-eat and very nutritious

Momos (dumplings), chow mein, pasta, fried rice, soups

Western foods: Pancakes, omelets, spaghetti, apple pie

Water is available at lodges and shops but should be purified. Use:

Water purification tablets

LifeStraw or Sawyer filters

Boiled water (available at teahouses, often for a fee)

Avoid plastic bottles to minimize waste.

Accommodation is in teahouses—basic lodges that offer:

Twin-share rooms (sometimes dormitory-style)

Shared bathrooms

Simple beds with blankets (still bring your sleeping bag)

Communal dining area with heating (if available)

In lower altitudes, facilities may include private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and hot showers. As you ascend, comfort decreases and amenities become more limited.

Yes, but it’s spotty and inconsistent, especially at higher altitudes.

Wi-Fi is available in most teahouses, often for a small fee (or free in lower villages).

Mobile coverage (NTC or Ncell) works in many areas. NTC generally has better rural coverage.

In higher regions like Thorong Phedi, signal may be very weak or unavailable.

If staying connected is crucial, you can buy a local SIM card or use services like Everest Link Wi-Fi (prepaid scratch cards).

Answer:
A budget-friendly trek (without luxury upgrades) typically costs around:

Permits: $40–$50

Guide and porter: $25–$50/day (shared if in a group)

Food and lodging: $25–$40/day

Transportation: $20–$50 (local buses/jeeps)

Miscellaneous: Snacks, charging fees, hot showers, tips

Total cost for 14–18 days: $1000 to $1,600, depending on your style (budget vs mid-range vs luxury).

Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended, and in some cases, required. Make sure it includes:

High-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters)

Emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue)

Trip cancellations or delays

Medical expenses

Helicopter evacuation is expensive and may be the only option in emergencies. Confirm with your insurer that they cover Nepal trekking activities and altitude-related illnesses.

Additional Information

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.

Client Reviews

Christopher Marino

United States

Lovely trek through Annapurna

Thank you very much for the lovely trek through Annapurna .We had a wonderful time- and Bhimsen as well as Gopal did a fantastic job!

Pablo Sepulveda

Chile

Thanks a lot Nava

Thanks a lot Nava and Nepal Environmental treks team.Hari, Krishna, Gopal, Ratna and Santoshi for one month adventure in Nepal. -Everest Base Camp Trek 2 weeks -Around Annapurna by Mountain Bike (Thorong- La Pass included 2 weeks) Very good support...

and friendly service. Also good Dhal, Bhat with my hand

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