Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Duration
- 16 days
- Max altitude
- 5,416 m
- Difficulty
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Strenuous
Difficulty scale
- Easy Short walking days on good trails below about 3,000 m. Suitable for anyone in ordinary health, including families.
- Moderate 5 to 6 hours a day with some steep sections, reaching up to about 4,000 m. A reasonable level of fitness and a few weeks of preparation walking recommended.
- Strenuous 6 to 8 hours a day, high passes or altitudes above 5,000 m, and remote stretches. Good fitness, prior trekking experience and proper acclimatisation days are essential.
- Very strenuous Long days, multiple high passes or technical sections, sustained time above 5,000 m. For experienced, well-conditioned trekkers only.
- Best season
- Autumn (Sep–Nov) · Spring (Mar–May)
- Group
- Private
- From
- $1,150.00
Overview
A full circuit around the Annapurna massif, from subtropical terraces to the high desert on the Tibetan side of the range, crossing Thorong La at 5,416 m. The landscape changes more on this trek than on any other in Nepal.
Every departure is private and led by a government-licensed Nepali guide, so the plan flexes to your party and to the mountain. Permits, park fees and local taxes are inside the price you see.
Trip highlights
- Thorong La pass at 5,416 m
- Manang and the high Tibetan-influenced villages
- The Muktinath temple complex
- Rice terraces to high desert in one walk
Day by day
The itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,593 ft) and transfer to hotel 1,400 m Hotel
One of our officials will greet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, upon your arrival. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Pre-trip meeting will be done and you will meet with your trip guide. Make sure to confirm your queries about trekking in the mountains.
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Day 2: Drive to Dharapani (1,860 m/6,102 ft) from Kathmandu by Private tourist vehicle – 10 to 12 hours 1,860 m 10-12 hrs Teahouse
Today, we will embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani in a private tourist vehicle. The journey will last approximately 10 to 12 hours, depending upon traffic and the road conditions. The drive to Besisahar is on paved concrete road.
After Besisahar, we will continue on an adventurous dirt road for about 3 to 4 hours to reach our destination, Dharapani. We will ensure the smoothest possible ride by assigning a vehicle suited to the road conditions.
You do not need to be concerned. All our drivers are highly experienced and hold a certified license for highway driving.
If the weather permits, you will be treated to stunning views of the mountains like Mount Annapurna II and III, Manaslu, Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mount Lamjung along with breathtaking landscapes, suspension bridges, and shimmering rivers.
You’ll have an opportunity to capture beautiful pictures as we observe the mountains, waterfalls, and rural lifestyle of Nepal. We will rest for the night in Dharapani.
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Day 3: Trek to Chame (2,670 m/8,760 ft) from Dharapani – 5 to 6 hours 2,670 m 5-6 hrs Teahouse
We will begin our trek enjoying the scenic views of stunning mountains, and beautiful waterfalls on the way. Today will be a moderate day. After 5 to 6 hours of hiking, we will reach Chame, the headquarters of Manang.
As we continue, we will begin a gradual ascent, passing through the lush forests, beautiful waterfalls, and charming villages. This will be a memorable day, as we follow along the Marsyangdi River witnessing glimpses of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal all while enjoying the picturesque landscape along with ancient villages
This charming town offers more facilities than those we’ve encountered in the previous days, providing a welcome rest stop with a tranquil atmosphere during our journey to the Annapurna circuit.
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Day 4: Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300 m/10,827 ft) from Chame – 6 to 7 hours 3,300 m 6-7 hrs Teahouse
After morning breakfast, we will continue our trek towards Upper Pisang. Along the way, we will pass through the dense forest, follow the Marsyangdi River, and enjoy beautiful panoramic views of verdant landscapes, alpine meadows, and stunning mountains.
As we hike, we will be treated to our first glimpse of the towering Paungda Dada rock face, which has a distinctive curved-like bowl shape. After 6 to 7 hours of trekking, we will arrive in Upper Pisang, our accommodation stop. This place offers majestic views of Annapurna II standing tall to the south and we will rest here for the night.
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Day 5: Trek to Ngawal (3,660 m/12,008 ft) from Upper Pisang – 4 to 5 hours 3,660 m 4-5 hrs Teahouse
Today, we wake up early in the morning to witness the breathtaking sunrise and the first golden rays illuminating Majestic Annapurna II. After breakfast, we will continue our trek towards the charming village of Annapurna Circuit, Ngawal.
The trail to Ngawal is approximately 400 meters higher than the lower trail offering you incredible opportunities to witness high-altitude flora and fauna, beautiful gorges, Annapurna II, III, Pisang Peak, and other surrounding snowcapped peaks. We will take a rest and recover in the traditional village of Ngawal.
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Day 6: Trek to Manang (3,540 m/11,614 ft) from Ngawal via Bhraka (3,360 m/11,024 ft) – 3 to 4 hours 3,540 m 3-4 hrs Teahouse
We continue our trek, traversing the giant hills, jungle, and wetlands. The village of Bharka presents you an exciting views of old stone houses and Buddhist monasteries.
Along the way, we will encounter awe-inspiring landscapes, ancient stupas, and beautiful lama schools reflecting rich and diverse cultural heritage. After 3 to 4 hours of hiking, we will reach Manang, one of the vibrant and happening accommodation stops on the trek.
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Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Manang village. A serene place to soak in the panoramic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and scenic landscapes Teahouse
We spend a day acclimatizing in Manang to recover our energy and rejuvenate a unique blend of natural beauty. We will be immersed in the panoramic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and the sky-piercing peaks while enjoying some light hikes, exploring, and sightseeing in the village.
During the day, we will visit a monastery and en route to the pristine Gangapurna Glacier Lake. As the day comes to an end, we return to our accommodation for a night’s rest.
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Day 8: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050 m/13,287 ft) from Manang Village – 5 to 6 hours 4,050 m 5-6 hrs Teahouse
Gradually ascending through alpine meadows and forests, the trek to Yak Kharka takes around 5-6 hours offering a serene environment. After a day of acclimatization at Manang, we will be energized and ready to continue our Annapurna circuit trek towards Yak Kharka which is steady ascend of 500 m/1,640 ft.
The trail begins with a gradual climb through Tenki Manang, leaving behind the Marsyangdi Valley. Following along the path of Jarsang Khola Valley, we reach Yak Kharka (4,050 m/13,287 ft). Herds of yaks grazing and surrounding vegetation appear to thin out as we gain altitude.
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Day 9: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,525 m/14,846 ft) from Yak Kharka – 5 to 6 hours 4,525 m 5-6 hrs Teahouse
After a two-hour ascent, the trail descends to a river crossing at 4,310 m/14,140 ft. From there, we begin a gradual ascend to reach Thorong Phedi, nestled at 4,525 m/14,846 ft.
Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks and panoramic landscapes of arid-desert structures, here we will be resting in basic yet, comfortable and decent guesthouses that have been built in recent years making the Annapurna Circuit trek more accessible.
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Day 10: Trek to Muktinath (3,760 m/12,336 ft) from Thorong Phedi via Thorong La Pass (5,416 m/17,769 ft) – 8 to 9 hours 5,416 m 8-9 hrs Teahouse
Today, we start early in the morning to witness a splendid sunrise vista from one of the highest trekking passes in the world- Thorong La Pass, nestled at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).
The morning time surprisingly helps us to rejuvenate in the surrounding atmosphere as we embark on embracing this thrilling trekking experience. This technique helps us to gain elevation comparatively faster and more efficiently on the trek.
En route Thorong La, the climax of the Annapurna circuit trek unfolds you through panoramic majestic mountains like Thorong Peak, Chulu West, Khatungkang, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna range, and magnificent arid desert-like landscapes.
Thorong La Pass is adorned with chortens and Buddhist prayer flags, you will be rewarded with stunning mountain views and picturesque landscapes of both Manang and Mustang regions from the top of the pass.
After being soaked in the awe-inspiring Himalayan peaks, capturing photographs, and sharing moments and memories in the Thorong La pass for a while, we will descend along barren landscapes towards the pilgrimage town of Muktinath.
Another four hours of walking will lead us to the holy town of Muktinath- A spiritually significant region for both Hinduism and Buddhism. Every year millions of pilgrims embark on this journey to visit and receive blessings from a deity.
Nestled at an altitude of 3,760 meters (12,336 feet), Muktinath represents the place of nirvana or salvation (Moksha) and is home to the Muktinath Temple as well as a statue of Buddha, and several monasteries.
The main Temple at Muktinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is surrounded by 108 waterspouts, known as Muktidhara.
Another significant attraction nearby is the Jwala Mai Temple which has a beautiful natural spring and an eternal flame that has been burning continuously.
It is believed to relieve all sorrows we feel, offering an elevational experience, a deep sense of calmness, peace, and spiritual renewal when visiting the Muktinath Temple.
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Day 11: Drive to Tatopani (1,190 m/3,904 ft) from Muktinath via Jomsom in a shared local Jeep/Bus – 6 to 7 hours 1,190 m 6-7 hrs Teahouse
Today we will continue driving through the Kali Gandaki River- the world’s deepest gorges while soaking in the surreal beauty of Mustang landscapes. En route to Tatopani are the busiest parts comparatively to other region of the Annapurna Circuit trek.
We will continuously pass through these scenic villages of Mustang including Kagbeni, Jomsom, and Marpha where we get a closer view of ancient stupas, apple farming, and old traditional whitewashed villages, along the civilization of Mustang when it was considered the “Forbidden Kingdom of Nepal”.
We will use a shared tourist or local vehicle to descend through the Kali Gandaki River valley including Kopchepani, immersing in the dramatic landscapes of diverse Mustang, lush green forests, and breathtaking Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
The vehicle will be shared with our group or with travelers from other companies. However, if our group consists of 4 or above clients, we will arrange a private transfer for a more comfortable journey.
After 6 to 7 hours of drive, we reach Tatopani which is famous for its natural hot springs. The area is the perfect spot and popular stop to rest, relax, and recover our energy while soaking in the rejuvenating hot springs after a long trek.
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Day 12: Rest Day at Tatopani, a natural hot spring area. A perfect spot to bathe, relax, and recover your energy while soaking in rejuvenating hot springs after a long trek Teahouse
Start your day by recharging your body with a shower, soaking into the healing natural hot springs, and enjoying local cuisine, drinks, and serene hospitality while immersing in the serene atmosphere of Tatopani.
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Day 13: Trek to Ghorepani (2,880 m/9,449 ft) from Tatopani – 6 to 8 hours 2,880 m 6-8 hrs Teahouse
After resting for a day in Tatopani, today we will hike about 6 to 7 hours to reach Ghorepani, following the popular Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek route. The trail ascends through dense alpine forests of Rhododendron, Oak, wildflowers, etc.
Along the route and after reaching Ghorepani, you’ll be presented with stunning mountain views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Tukuche Himal.
As we trek along, we’ll pass through several charming Magar and Gurung villages, residing in the region offering a local lifestyle and cultural richness of the journey.
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Day 14: Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m/10,531 ft) and back. Trek to Birethanti (1,025 m/3,363 ft) – 5 to 6 hours, and same-day drive to Pokhara – 1 to 3 hours. Overnight at a 3-star hotel in Lakeside 3,210 m 5-6 hrs Hotel
Nestled at an elevation of 3,210 meters (10,532 ft), Poon Hill is the most famous vantage point to witness stunning sunrise views of panoramic Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri landscapes.
It’s one of the best sunrise views spot in Nepal. There we spend about an hour immersing in the breathtaking views of the natural amphitheater, surrounding landscapes, and the stunning Himalayan ranges.
We descend to Ghorepani for a warm and cozy breakfast at our accommodation stops. We trek downhill towards Birethanti via Tikhedhunga, hiking down along the ridges, small villages, scenic views, and through alpine rhododendron forests.
After resting for a while in Birethanti, we will take a drive in a private tourist vehicle. The scenic drive takes about 1-2 hours’ drive on a mix of both dirt and smooth paved roads.
We will continue our journey to Pokhara– one of the popular tourist hub spots of Nepal. Pokhara boasts many recreational, adventure, and leisure activities offering visitors a vibrant environment to rest, chill, and enjoy the serene moment.
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Day 15: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,593 ft) in a tourist bus – 7 to 9 hours 1,400 m 7-9 hrs Hotel
In the morning, we will pack and be ready to leave. We again embark on our scenic drive back to Kathmandu.
In the evening, we will host a farewell dinner in a fine restaurant offering options for Nepali cuisine or continental dishes. Your guide(s) and an office staff member will accompany you to celebrate and reminisce about your unforgettable journey on the Annapurna Circuit trek.
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Day 16: Transfer to the International Airport for your final departure
The trip concludes here. Our airport representative will drop you at the international airport in Kathmandu for your flight departure from Nepal.
Altitude profile
The climb, day by day
Comfort tiers
Choose your level of comfort
| Amenity | Standardfrom $1,380.00 | Comfortfrom $1,628.40 | Luxuryfrom $2,001.00 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu hotel | 3★ | 4★ | 5★ |
| Trail accommodation | Standard teahouse | Best lodge in each village | Premium lodge where the route has one |
| Porter support | Shared porter | Private porter, lighter load | Extra porter, carry almost nothing |
| Transfers | Shared | Private | Private, throughout |
What's included
Included
- Included: Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for 2 nights and Pokhara for 1 night, including breakfast
- Included: Twin-sharing guesthouse accommodation for 12 nights during the trek in the Annapurna region with occasionally dormitory rooms provided only at high-altitude location
- Included: All your standard meals during the trek (12 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches & 12 Dinners) including a tea/coffee
- Included: Fresh seasonal fruits each day after dinner during the trek
- Included: A farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal
- Included: Purified drinking water during the trek using water filter or water purification tablets.
- Included: All (international and domestic) airport transfers by private tourist vehicle
- Included: Private tourist vehicle transfer from Kathmandu to Dharapani and from Birethanti to Pokhara
- Included: Shared local jeep or local bus transfer from Muktinath to Tatopani
- Included: Transfer from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus
- Included: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Included: TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
- Included: Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide fully licensed and trained for high-altitude trekking.
- Included: For every two trekkers, one porter carries up to 25 kg of luggage. (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
- Included: Crew members are fully supported with proper salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation.
- Included: The guide carries a comprehensive medical kit, including an oximeter to monitor oxygen levels throughout the trek.
- Included: Down jacket (rated -15 Celcius) and sleeping bag (rated -20 Celcius) provided trekking duffel bag (70 L), Annapurna trekking map, baseball cap and company T-shirt
- Included: Trip completion certificate
- Included: All government taxes, permits, and service charges
Not included
- Not included: Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Not included: International flight fare and airport departure tax
- Not included: Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 30 for 15 days visa, USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa)
- Not included: Travel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
- Not included: Any beverages including bottled and boiled water
- Not included: Tips to trekking staff and driver
- Not included: Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Not included: Any expenses other than the Price Include section
Your team
Led by a licensed guide
Every route is led by a government-licensed guide from our team. Licences are on record with us before departure, and you'll meet your guide once your trip is confirmed.
Guide language(s): English, Nepali
Group-size pricing
Walk together, pay less
Every trip is private, so the guide, permits and transfers cost the same however many walk. Sharing them is why the per-person price falls: arithmetic, not a sale.
| Group size | per person | You save each |
|---|---|---|
| 1 trekker | $1,380.00 | base rate |
| 2 to 3 trekkers | $1,150.00 | $230.00 |
| 4 to 6 trekkers | $1,080.00 | $300.00 |
| 7 or more | $1,010.00 | $370.00 |
Per person, including permits, park fees and taxes. Nothing is added at checkout.
Weather
What to expect, month by month
- Autumn (Sep–Nov)The most reliable trekking season: clear air, stable weather and cold nights, right after the monsoon clears.
- Spring (Mar–May)Warmer than autumn, with rhododendron forests in flower and slightly hazier mountain views as the season goes on.
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What trekkers say
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