Overview
- Duration 18 days
- Max Altitude 5416 m /17769ft
- Group Size 2-10
- Best Season Mar-May, Sep-Nov
- Per Day Walk 6-7 hours
- Accomodation Hotel / Teahouse
- Start/End KTM-KTM
- Difficulty Challenging
- Location Annapurna Region
Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Asia. The Annapurna circuit takes you around some of the most stunning mountains in Nepal. This route takes you through some of the most spectacular scenery in the country and gives you a chance to experience the culture and lifestyle of the locals.
This complete route is considered one of the most challenging treks globally. The trekking route is not for beginners. So, before embarking on this classic route of trekking journey, make sure you have got everything you need.
It takes 18 days to complete the trek. Trekking around Annapurna Circuit includes both high altitude and lowland walking. Several different routes are available depending on which section of the trail you choose to walk.
Start of Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit trekking for 16-18 days is the ultimate adventure. It’s a challenging journey that takes you from the plains of Pokhara to the mountains of Nepal. This route is named one of the most challenging treks in the world.
The round trip of the Annapurna trek is also known as the ‘Annapurna Circuit Trek’ or the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek.
The journey to Annapurna Circuit starts from Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city. Then you either fly to Pokhara or travel by bus. From Pokhara, you travel to Besisahar by bus. After reaching there, you start the journey on foot, walking through the villages Chamje, Bagarchhap, Chame, Pisang, and finally Manang on Day 6.
After spending a day at Manang to acclimatize, we walk uphill towards Yak Kharka, Thorang Phedi to finally pass through the Thorang La pass situated at the 5416m. Thorang La pass is the highest altitude point during the Annapurna Circuit trek.
End of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna circuit trek ends after completing a round trip of Annapurna Range. From Thorang La pass, you start to descend towards Muktinath. Then, you walk through Marpha, Ghasa, Tatopani, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, finally reaching Tadapani. From Tadapani, you drive to Pokhara, ending your 18days trekking of Annapurna Circuit.
What to expect during Annapurna Trek?
Be prepared to walk between 8-15 km each day.
Each day of trekking throughout the entire route, you witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Himalayas, including snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and clear blue skies.
You meet the locals and enjoy the hospitality and food during the amazing trek ‘The Annapurna Circuit.
During the trek, you will be crossing many rivers, passes, and steep trails. In addition to the physical challenges, you must also be ready to deal with extreme weather conditions. These include freezing temperatures (especially at night) and strong winds.
Annapurna Circuit trek Difficulty
Annapurna circuit trek is a challenging yet safe trek. To trek the Annapurna circuit, be prepared physically and mentally.
Day hikes during the complete circuit range from 8-15km as you reach Thorang La pass(5416m) with continuous elevation gain.
As you climb uphill somewhere around Thorong La Pass, you can get altitude sickness. If you feel any symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath, you can take a rest and drink plenty of water. Those can be the symptoms of Altitude Sickness.
Special equipment while trekking the Annapurna circuit
There are no defined pieces of equipment you should bring along the Annapurna Circuit. However, if you want to carry extra clothes or food items, you may consider carrying them on your back.
It is wise to carry a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets. At higher altitudes, no bottled water is likely available, and you might have to refill the water bottle with hot water.
You may want to capture beautiful sceneries around you as you pass along the lush green forest, deepest gorge, and smiling local villagers. We recommend carrying a DSLR camera with a minimum 10x zoom lens.
Includes
- Airport transfer
- Transportation to trekking start point and back to Kathmandu
- Accommodation of two nights of hotel in Kathmandu
- Accommodation of one night of hotel in Pokhara.
- Accommodation on Tea houses during the trek.
- All Meals during the trek ( Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner).
- Breakfast at your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Experienced License holder trekking guide.
- Porter service (in 2:1 ratio)
- Insurance for guide and Porter
- Trekking Permit: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Fee.
- Trekkers Information Management System fee for trekker’s safety
- All Tax and local government fee.
- Assistance in arranging rescue operation at your account
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Mountain Routes T-shirt
- Appreciation of certificate after the successful trek
- Farewell Dinner at the end of the trip
Excludes
- International flight to Kathmandu.
- Nepal entry visa fee and your travel Insurance.
- Meals ( Lunch & Dinner) in Kathmandu & Pokhara after and before your trek.
- Extra night accommodation in Nepal.
- Personal Expenses ( Laundry, Telephone, Snacks, Bar bills, etc)
- Bottle water and hot shower during the trek.
- Tips for guide and Porters.
- Add On-trip
- Additional cost caused due to natural phenomenon.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Map
- Day 1 :
Arriving at Kathmandu
- Day 2 :
Kathmandu to Chyamje drive (1410m/ 4626ft.)
Distance: 209 km / 130 miles
Time: 06-07 hrs drive - Day 3 :
Chamje to Bagarchhap (2160 m/ 7086ft.)
Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
Time: 05 hrs walk - Day 4 :
Bagarchhap to Chame (2630 m / 8628ft)
Distance: 13.6 km / 8.45 miles
Time: 04-05 hrs walk - Day 5 :
Chame to Pisang (3300 m / 10826 ft.)
Distance: 13.2 km / 8.2 miles.
Time: 05-06 hrs walk - Day 6 :
Pisang to Manang (3540 m /11614 ft.)
Distance: 17 km / 10.6 miles.
Time: 06-07 hrs walk - Day 7 :
Acclimatization at Manang
- Day 8 :
Manang to Yak Kharka (4110 m / 13485 ft.)
Distances. 10km / 6.22 miles
Time: 04-05 hrs walk - Day 9 :
Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi (4420 m / 14501 ft.)
Distance: 7.3 km / 4.5 miles.
Time: 04:00 hrs walk - Day 10 :
Thorang Phedi to Thorang La pass (5416 m /17769ft.) to Muktinath (3710 m / 12172 ft.)
Distance: 15.6 km / 9.6 miles.
Time: 07-08 hrs walk - Day 11 :
Muktinath to Marpha (2665 m / 8744 ft.)
Distance: 28.7 km / 17.84 miles.
Time: 06-07 hrs walk - Day 12 :
Marpha to Ghasa (2010 m / 6595 ft )
Distance: 27km / 16.78 miles
Time: 07-08 hrs walk - Day 13 :
Ghasa to Tatopani (1190 m / 3904 ft.)
Distance: 14.2 km / 16.7 miles.
Time: 06-07 hrs walk - Day 14 :
Tatopani to Ghorepani (2850m / 9350 ft.)
Distance: 15.65 km / 9.73 miles
Time: 08-09 hrs walk - Day 15 :
Ghorepani to Poon hill (3210m / 10532 ft) to Tadapani (2610m / 8562 ft.)
Distance: 9.2 km / 5.72 miles
Time: 06-07 hrs walk - Day 16 :
Tadapani to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara (827m / 2713ft)
Distance: 10.5 km / 6.53 miles
Time: 06-07 hrs walk and 01:00 hrs drive. - Day 17 :
Pokhara to Kathmandu (1400m / 4544ft)
Distance: 210 km / 130 miles
Time: 06-07 hrs drive - Day 18 :
Depart Kathmandu
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Arriving at Kathmandu
On the first day of our trekking in the Annapurna region of Nepal, we will arrive at the capital city – Kathmandu. Our representatives from Mountain Routes will pick you up at the airport and take you to your hotel. They will be explaining to you about the trek and its highlights.
Any of your queries regarding the trek is answered by them. Then, you can freshen up at your hotels and explore the beautiful city of temples.
Day 2 : Kathmandu to Besisahar to Chamje (1410 m) Trip Duration: 6-7 hours
On the 2nd day of our Annapurna region trek, we will be heading to Chyamje, taking about 6-7 hours. Chaymje village is the starting point of the trek, which is located in the Annapurna region, at an altitude of 1410 m.
The village hosts a beautiful waterfall, and the all-around greenery is sure to make you find it unique. Overnight at Chyamje.
Day 3 : Chamje to Bagarchhap (2160 m) Trip Duration: 6-7 hours
On our 3rd day of the Annapurna region trekking, we will be trekking from Chamje to Bagarchhap, taking about 6-7 hours. The starting trail will lead us along the Marshayngdi river, taking us uphill to Tal village.
Then, we will cross an extensive flat valley and ascend along a stone staircase at 1860 m. We will, upon continuing further, reach Dharapani. After walking some time from Dharapani, we will finally reach Bagarchhap. Overnight at Bagarchhap
Day 4 : Bagarchhap to Chame (2630 m) Trip Duration: 6-7 hours
Today, we will be trekking from Bagarchhap to Chame, taking 6-7 hours of our time. Today’s trail is beautiful and follows a rocky path to climb Timing first, at 2360 meters. Then, continuing further, we will move through lush forests to Kopar.
As we get closer to Chame, we will get a more beautiful and up-close view of Annapurna Himal. We will also encounter two small hot springs along the way. Finally, we will stay the night in Chame.
Day 5 : Chame to Pisang (3300 m) Trip Duration: 6 hours
Today, the trail will traverse through many small, sparsely populated settlements. It will traverse through fir and pine forests, climbing to a high, rocky area. After crossing a bridge over a river, we see the tall Paungda Danda rock slowly appearing. From there, the trail will start to ascend to Pisang. We will stay the night in Pisang.
Day 6 : Pisang to Manang (3500 m) Trip Duration: 6-7 hours
Today, the trail leads to two ways, of which we will choose the one that passes through upper Pisang via Geru. Allowing us to enjoy the incredible views of Mt. Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and others, we will continue walking along this trail until we reach Manang. We will also visit one of the oldest monasteries of the region – Barge Monastery. Overnight at Manang.
Day 7 : Manang Acclimatization Day
On the 7th day of our Annapurna region trekking, we will be acclimatizing at Manag. And to utilize this day better, we will either visit Bhojo Gumba or Gangapurna Lake. After visiting one of these places, we will spend the rest exploring and sightseeing the beautiful places nearby and around the village. Then, finishing the sightseeing and exploration, we will return to our lodge and spend the night there.
Day 8 : Manang to Yak Kharka (4110 m) Trip Duration: 3-4 hours
Today, we will be trekking from Manang to Yak kharka, which will only take about 3-4 hours. It will be an easy trek, passing along Thorang Khola crossing Tangki Manang, Ghusang then Ghyanchang. From Ghyanchang, we will finally reach the Yak Kharka. Spend the night at Yak Kharka.
Day 9 : Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi (4420 m) Trip Duration: 3-4 hours
The trail from Yak kharka to Thorang Phedi is an uphill climb and will only take us about 3-4 hours. We will be crossing a suspension bridge along the way to reach Ledar village. After that, we will continue walking further from Ledar to pass through towering cliffs and finally reach Thorang Phedi.
Thorang Phedi is the rest point for many trekkers and climbers.
We are rewarded with the fantastic views of Mt. Gudang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak, and Mt. Khatungkan. Overnight at Thorang Phedi.
Day 10 : Thorang Phedi to Muktinath (3800 m) Trip Duration: 7-8 hours
Day 10 of our Annapurna region trek will be a long and stretchy walk, passing through the Thoran La pass – one of the highest passes in the world. Crossing it might come as a bit complicated, but the stunning views will continue to drive us through. It will take us about 4 hours to climb to the top of the pass.
Upon reaching the top, we will be rewarded with a fantastic view of the entire terrain, chortens, and prayer flags. Then we will follow the trail further, which will take us to Muktinath. Muktinath is a very religious place for both the Hindus and the Buddhists. Overnight at Muktinath.
Day 11 : Muktinath to Marpha (2720 m) Trip Duration: 6-7 hours
On day 11 of the Annapurna region trekking, we will be hiking from Muktinath to Marpha, taking about 6-7 hours. The elevation drop is relatively high today, about 1000 meters. We will follow the trail today, which will descend through the Kali Gandaki gorge, and after one and a half hours, we will reach Ekle Bhatti.
Then, we will continue walking and reach Marpha, with the astounding views of mount Nilgiri. Marpha is famous for its apple, apple cider, and apple rakshi (alcohol). We will spend the night at Marpha.
Day 12 : Marpha to Ghassa (2010 m) Trip Duration: 7 hours
On the 12th day of our Annapurna region trek, we will follow the narrow trail passing through the village of Khobang. After having lunch at Larjung, we will continue our trek further and reach Kokhethanti.
Continuing the trek, we will reach Kalopani, where the views of Annapurna and Fang peaks are excellent. Following the trek further, we will reach Lete and finally Ghassan. Overnight at Ghassan.
Day 13 : Ghassa to Tatopani (1190 m) Trip Duration: 6 hours
The trek from Ghassan to Tatopani consists of walking down to the Kali Gandaki Gorge. The deepest gorge in the world – Kali Gandaki, lies between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. Upon walking further, we will reach Rupse Chhara – one of the most beautiful waterfalls.
Following the trail, we will finally reach Tatopani, where there is a natural hot spring. We will relax on that hot spring, wash away all our tiredness, and fill ourselves up for the trek. Overnight at Tatopani.
Day 14 : Tatopani to Ghorepani (2850 m) Trip Duration: 7-8 hours
Day 14 of our Annapurna circuit trek is trekking from Tatopani to Ghorepani. The trail leaves the Kali Gandaki and leads to the Ghar Khola valley. Passing through terraced farmland, we will reach the villages of Shikha and Chitre before reaching a beautiful Rhododendron forest.
In spring, the view this forest has to offer is mesmerizing. Upon passing through the forest and continuing our trek further, we will reach Ghorepani. We will spend the night at Ghorepani.
Day 15 : Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210 m) to Tadapani (2700 m) Trip Duration: 6-7 hours
Today, we will be trekking from Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani. To enjoy the early sunrise, we will climb to the top of Poon Hill early in the morning. The sunrise from Poon Hill offers an astounding view of the Annapurna region, including Mustang, Pokhara, and many high mountains.
Sun rays slowly kissing the top of snow-capped mountains will leave you speechless. After the beautiful sunrise, we will head back to Ghorepani. Finally, we head out to reach Tadapani, crossing many beautiful Rhododendron forests and waterfalls.
Day 16 : Tadapani to Pokhara (827 m) Trip Duration: 5-6 hours trek + 1 hour drive
On the 16th day of our Annapurna circuit trek, we will be heading from Tadapani to Nayapul and Pokhara. The trail follows a steep descent through the dense and dark forest of Rhododendron trees. Trekking further, we will reach the Ghandruk village, inhabited mainly by Gurung people.
From Ghandruk, amazing views of Machhapuchhre Himal, Annapurna South, and Himchuli mountains can be enjoyed. Finally, we continue our trek to Nayapul, from where Pokhara is 1-hour ride away. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 17 : Pokhara to Kathmandu
Today, we will be traveling back to Kathmandu. It will take us about 6 hours. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will go to our hotel, freshen up a bit, and then explore the beautiful city. We can also do some shopping today.
Then, at night, we can enjoy the beautiful nightlife of Thamel.
Day 18 : Departure
Day 18th marks the end of trekking in the Annapurna region of Nepal, and you will be traveling back home today. Our representatives from Mountain Routes will pick you up from your hotel and drop you at the airport.
We will share goodbyes for the last time and bade each other farewell. You will then board the place with beautiful memories and a fantastic experience that will surely inspire you for a long time.
Annapurna Circuit Trek FAQs
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What is the minimum days required to complete Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Annapurna Circuit trek usually takes about 17-18 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu because of stopover for acclimatization. The minimum days required to complete is 18 days.
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What are the speciality of this trek?
There are a few specialties such as:
- Scenic view of 6000 to 8000-meter mountains.
- Thoronga la Pass (one of the famous viewpoints in the Annapurna Region) and the world’s deepest gorge Kali Gandaki.
- Muktinath Temple is famous among the Hindu and Buddhist people.
- Natural Hot Spring for relaxation and the best sunrise and sunset view from many viewpoints.
- Cultural experience with different ethnic groups makes this trek unique and memorable.
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What will be the climate at Annapurna Circuit Trek during trekking Season?
March to May
(Min 18 and Max 22 on average) Day time
(Min 8 and Max 10 on average) Night time
September to November
(Min 15 and Max 22) Day time
(Min 8 and Max 10) Night time
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Is it possible to do trek in other months than the trekking Season?
Actually, it is possible to do trek in other months than the best trekking season and some people think it is best to do in low tourist season due to less crowd of tourist. Middle of the winter and mid Monsoon are not great decision to do trek but other months are perfectly fine to do Annapurna circuit.
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What is the level of fitness needed to do this trek?
Actually, this is a challenging trek but however this does not involve technical climbing but you need to have pleasant health conditions with a positive attitude, and great determination.
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What if I do not complete my trek and have to return home early, is there refund policy?
We offer cancellation and refund facility only on the special cases.
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Is there any chance of High Altitude Sickness in this trek?
Annapurna Circuit is 5416 m /17769ft high, so there is a chance of high altitude sickness depending on the individual. To minimize the risk of altitude sickness we suggest you follow these guidelines:
- Drink enough water (at least 4 litres per day).
- Walk slowly.
- Acclimatize while trekking.
- If you have some health issue take Diamox (Medicine) a day before the trek start.
- Keep your body hydrated and drink mild hot soup.
- Avoid smoking and drinking at high altitude.
- Follow your guide.
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What is the total distance for this trek?
The distance of this trek is in between 160–230 km (100-143 miles ) depending upon the transportation used during the trek.
We did a customized Annapurna Circuit trekking in Sept. 2022 and it was an wonderful experience.
We took the jeep for the beginning and the way down from Muktinath which made it possible to also walk up to Annapurna Base Camp.
During the 15 days we enjoyed the wonderful landscape, very different climatic zones and the great hospitality of Nepal and its people.
From the first moment Dipu and MG (our guides/porters) made us feel welcomed and connected us to the local people, culture and daily life. Thanks to them we enjoyed the best guest houses and fresh food every evening. This is not to be underestimated after a long day of walking 😉
We can especially recommend mountain routes for their excellent service, fluent english and always going that extra mile to make you happy.
Let me give you one example:
Finally rejoined as a couple in Nepal we wanted to be a bit more free in the entire trek and also spend some time together. Shristy clarified out needs before the trek and organized everything accordingly, our guides were extremely perceptive in knowing when to walk with us, show the way our giving us insights and when to let us be a bit for ourselves. That already made us so happy, but that was not all, when we came to the hotel after 15 days we entered a room romantically decorated!
Thank you for everything Shristy, MG and Dipu!
