12 Days
Duration
Moderate
Trip Grade
Autumn, Spring
Best Time
Min: 2, Max: 10+
Group Size

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering stunning mountain views, charming villages, and rich cultural experiences. The trek takes you around the Annapurna massif, passing through diverse landscapes and traditional Nepalese villages.

Round Annapurna Trip Overview:

The trek begins in the city of Kathmandu, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city and visit some of the popular landmarks, such as the Pashupatinath Temple and the Boudhanath Stupa. From Kathmandu, you’ll take a short drive to the starting point of the trek, Besishahar. From here, you’ll begin your journey around the Annapurna massif, making your way to the charming village of Chame.

Along the way, you’ll pass through lush forests, alpine meadows, and barren high-altitude deserts, and have the chance to catch glimpses of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the holy site of Muktinath and the Tibetan refugee settlement at Marpha.

The highlight of the Annapurna Circuit trek is the sunrise view from Poon Hill, a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range. From Poon Hill, you’ll continue your trek to the picturesque village of Ghandruk, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the traditional Gurung culture and visit the Ghandruk Monastery.

The Annapurna Circuit trek is a challenging trek, suitable for trekkers with good physical condition and a good level of endurance. The trek can be done year-round, but the best time to do it is in the autumn (September-November) or spring (March-May) seasons, when the weather is generally clear and dry.

Trip Highlights:

  • Stunning mountain views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Charming Nepalese villages and rich cultural experiences
  • Sunrise view from Poon Hill, a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range
  • Lush forests, alpine meadows, and barren high-altitude deserts
  • Visit the holy site of Muktinath and the Tibetan refugee settlement at Marpha
  • Visit to the Pothana Monastery and the opportunity to learn about Tibetan Buddhism
  • Relaxation in the hot springs at Tatopani
  • Scenic drive from Phedi to Pokhara, with beautiful views of the Nepalese countryside.

Outline Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Day 3: Drive to Besishahar (820m) BY private car

Day 4: Trek to Chame (2670m) Drive to Chame by local transport

Day 5: Trek to Pisang (3200m)

Day 6: Trek to Manang (3540m)

Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Manang

Day 8: Trek to Yak Kharka (4050m)

Day 9: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4500m)

Day 10: Trek to Muktinath (3800m) via Thorong La Pass (5416m)

Day 11: Trek to Marpha (2670m)

Day 12: Trek to Ghasa (2010m)

Day 13: Trek to Tatopani (1190m)

Day 14: Trek to Ghorepani (2750m)

Day 15: Sunrise view from Poon Hill (3210m) and trek to Ghandruk (1940m)

Day 16: Trek to Saulibazar and drive to Pokhara

Day 17: Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus

Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arriving in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and have the rest of the day to relax and acclimatize to the new environment.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Today, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Kathmandu and visit some of the popular landmarks, such as the Pashupatinath Temple, the Boudhanath Stupa, and the Durbar Square.

Day 3: Drive to Besishahar (820m)

Today, you’ll catch a drive from Kathmandu to the starting point of the trek, Besishahar. The drive takes about 7 hours, and along the way, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Nepalese countryside.

Day 4: Trek to Chame (2670m)

Today, you’ll begin your trek to the charming village of Chame. The trek to Chame is moderate, with a gentle ascent through forests and small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to catch glimpses of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. Upon arriving in Chame, you’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse.

Day 5: Trek to Pisang (3200m)

Today, you’ll continue your trek to the village of Pisang. The trek to Pisang is moderate, with a steep ascent through forests and small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Chorten Monastery and learn about traditional Tibetan Buddhism. Upon arriving in Pisang, you’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse.

Day 6: Trek to Manang (3540m)

Today, you’ll continue your trek to the village of Manang. The trek to Manang is moderate, with a gentle ascent through forests and small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Gangapurna Lake and the Bhraka Temple. Upon arriving in Manang, you’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse.

Day 7: Acclimatization day in Manang

Today is a rest day in Manang, where you’ll have the opportunity to acclimatize to the higher altitude and explore the village. You can visit the Manang Museum and learn about the history and culture of the region.

Day 8: Trek to Yak Kharka (4050m)

Today, you’ll continue your trek to the village of Yak Kharka. The trek to Yak Kharka is moderate, with a gentle ascent through forests and small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to catch glimpses of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. Upon arriving in Yak Kharka, you’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse.

Day 9: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4500m)

Today, you’ll continue your trek to the village of Thorong Phedi. The trek to Thorong Phedi is moderate, with a gentle ascent through forests and small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Jhong Cave and learn about Tibetan Buddhism. Upon arriving in Thorong Phedi, you’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse.

Day 10: Trek to Muktinath (3800m) via Thorong La Pass (5416m)

Today is a challenging day, as you’ll be crossing the Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5416m. The trek to Muktinath is moderate to challenging, with a steep ascent to the pass and a steep descent to Muktinath. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the holy site of Muktinath and learn about the Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Upon arriving in Muktinath, you’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse.

Day 11: Trek to Marpha (2670m)

Today, you’ll continue your trek to the charming village of Marpha. The trek to Marpha is moderate, with a steep descent through forests and small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Tibetan refugee settlement at Marpha and learn about Tibetan culture. Upon arriving in Marpha, you’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse.

Day 12: Trek to Ghasa (2010m)

Today, you’ll continue your trek to the village of Ghasa. The trek to Ghasa is moderate, with a gentle descent through forests and small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to catch glimpses of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. Upon arriving in Ghasa, you’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse.

Day 13: Trek to Tatopani (1190m)

Today, you’ll continue your trek to the village of Tatopani. The trek to Tatopani is moderate, with a steep descent through forests and small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the hot springs at Tatopani and relax in the warm waters. Upon arriving in Tatopani, you’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse.

Day 14: Trek to Ghorepani (2750m)

Today, you’ll continue your trek to the village of Ghorepani. The trek to Ghorepani is moderate, with a gentle ascent through forests and small villages. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to catch glimpses of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. Upon arriving in Ghorepani, you’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse.

Day 15: Sunrise view from Poon Hill (3210m) and trek to Ghandruk (1940m)

Today is a highlight of the trek, as you’ll be waking up early to catch the sunrise view from Poon Hill, a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range. After enjoying the sunrise view, you’ll continue your trek to the picturesque village of Ghandruk. The trek to Ghandruk is moderate, with a steep descent through forests and small villages. Upon arriving in Ghandruk, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Ghandruk Monastery and learn about the traditional Gurung culture. You’ll stay overnight in a local lodge or guesthouse in Ghandruk.

Day 16: Trek to Saulibazar and drive to Pokhara

Day 17: Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus

Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu

Today is the final day of the Annapurna Circuit trek, and you’ll have the morning to explore Kathmandu Valley and visit some of the popular landmarks, In the afternoon, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.

Trip Includes:

  • Government registered, well experienced and friendly local trekking guide.
  • 1 Sharing trekking porter to between 2 trekkers (weight limit 25kg)
  • Hotel in Kathamndu and Pokhara as per program (3-star standard hotel)
  • Meals: Kathmandu and Pokhara hotel stay with breakfast
  • Sharing twin / triple bed room in tea house basic lodges during trek.
  • Guide and porter fees with all their expenses.
  • Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu by A/C tourist coach.
  • Shuttles by private vehicle from and to your hotel in Pokhara.
  • Necessary insurance for your guide and porters.
  • Up to trekking starting place from Pokhara and return private transport
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and TIMS Cards.
  • Require 2 each photo and passport copy by scan for you arrive in Kathmandu
  • All international airport picks up and drop off services by private transport
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu (provide car and driver)

Does Not Include:

  • Meals (lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara)
  • All meals while you are in trekking
  • Bar drinks and beverages such as coke, Fanta, sprite and mineral water.
  • Travel insurance, Nepal Tourist Visa fees, Items and expenses of personal nature.
  • Personal trekking gear and rescue operation in case of emergency.
  • Any expenses which arise due to a change of the itinerary, because of landslides, political trouble, and   strikes etc.
  • Monument entrance fee while you are in sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara
  • Laundry, phone calls, internet, heater charge and Wi-Fi services.
  • Gratitude and tips for guide and porters

Note: This trip can be personalized as per your requirements that meet your time frame. The trip price will be according to Deluxe, Standard, Budget and group size so please kindly provide us your details for tailor made program.

Difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered to be a moderate to challenging trek, with a maximum altitude of 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass. The trek involves long days of hiking over rough terrain, with some steep and rocky sections. It’s important to be in good physical condition and to have a good level of fitness before embarking on the trek. However, with proper preparation and acclimatization, most people with a moderate level of fitness should be able to complete the trek.

Best Time

The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on your preference for weather and crowds. The trek can be done year-round, but the weather and conditions will vary depending on the season.

The autumn season (September to November) is the most popular time to do the trek, with pleasant weather and clear skies. The winter season (December to February) can be colder and more challenging, with the possibility of snow on the higher passes. The spring season (March to May) is also a good time to do the trek, with warmer temperatures and beautiful rhododendron flowers in bloom. The summer season (June to August) is the monsoon season, with the possibility of rain and landslides.

Weather

The weather on the Annapurna Circuit Trek varies depending on the season and altitude. At lower altitudes, the weather is generally warm during the day and cooler at night. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the temperature becomes colder, with the possibility of snow on the higher passes. It’s important to bring warm clothing and gear for the colder temperatures at high altitude.

Insurance

It is highly recommended to have travel insurance for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, as you’ll be traveling to a remote area with limited access to medical facilities. Your insurance should cover medical emergencies, evacuations, and other unexpected expenses that may arise during the trek. Be sure to read the fine print and understand the coverage and exclusions of your policy before purchasing.

Permits

You’ll need to obtain a special permit to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit is required for all trekkers, and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card is also required for trekkers who are not accompanied by a registered trekking agency. You’ll need to obtain these permits in advance through a trekking agency or in person at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.

What is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you around the Annapurna massif, a range of Himalayan mountains in the north-central part of the country. The trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, including forests, terraced fields, and high-altitude passes, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

How long does the Annapurna Circuit Trek take?

The length of the Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on your pace and the route you take. Most trekkers take about 12-21 days to complete the circuit, although it is possible to do it in as little as 7-8 days if you are in good physical condition and can hike quickly. Some trekkers choose to take longer and take their time to explore the area more thoroughly.

What should I bring on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

It is important to be prepared and bring the necessary gear for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Some essential items to bring include:

  • Comfortable and sturdy hiking boots
  • Warm and waterproof clothing, including a jacket, fleece, and gloves
  • Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • A backpack to carry all your gear
  • Water bottles and a water purification system
  • Snacks and energy bars for the trail
  • Basic first aid kit and any necessary medications

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek, with some strenuous sections and high-altitude passes. You should be in good physical condition and have some prior hiking experience to be able to complete the trek comfortably.

The trek involves walking for several hours a day on rough trails, sometimes at high altitudes, and can be physically demanding. It is important to pace yourself and listen to your body to avoid overdoing it.

Is it necessary to hire a guide or porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

While it is not strictly necessary to hire a guide or porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, it is generally recommended for safety and convenience. A local guide can help you navigate the route, provide information about the local culture and history, and assist you in case of any issues or emergencies. A porter can carry your gear and help lighten your load on the trail.

It is important to choose a reputable company or individual to hire as a guide or porter, and to treat them with respect and fairness.

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