Highlights
The Complete Guide to Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular and iconic treks in Nepal, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and cultural diversity. This 15 to 20-day trek takes you through the picturesque landscapes of the Annapurna region, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, pristine forests, and lush green valleys. The trek begins in Besisahar and takes you through the Marsyangdi River Valley, passing through lush green forests, traditional villages, and terraced fields. As you trek higher, you'll cross the Thorong La Pass, located at an altitude of 5,416 meters, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
One of the highlights of the trek is the diverse culture and warm hospitality of the local people. Along the way, you'll get to meet people from different ethnic groups, including Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi, and experience their unique customs and traditions. You'll also get to explore the ancient monasteries, chortens, and temples that dot the landscape, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a moderate to strenuous trek that requires a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience. The best time to go on this trek is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is clear and the skies are blue.
Itinerary
DAY 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m) & Transfer to the Hotel
arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After some rest, you can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepalese dinner with a cultural show.
DAY 2 - Drive from Kathmandu to Bulbule via Besishahar (760m)
After breakfast, drive to Bulbule, a small town situated on the banks of the Marshyangdi River. En route, you'll pass through the town of Besishahar and get a glimpse of rural Nepal. Upon arrival, explore the village and stay overnight in a teahouse.
DAY 3 - Trek from Bulbule to Tal (1,700m)
Today, you'll start your trek to Tal, a small village situated at the base of a large waterfall. You'll cross suspension bridges, walk through dense forests, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Overnight stay in a teahouse..
DAY 4 - Trek from Tal to Chame (2,630m)
After breakfast, you will continue your trekking journey to Chame, the district headquarters of the Manang district. You will pass through the villages of Dharapani, Bagarchhap, and Danakyu before reaching Chame. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges.
DAY 5 - Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300m)
Today, you will trek towards Pisang, a small village located in the Manang district. The trail takes you through dense forests and picturesque villages, where you can experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the locals.
DAY 6 - Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,500m)
After breakfast, you will continue your trekking journey towards Manang, one of the highest villages in the Manang district. The trail offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and the Chulu peak. You will also pass through the beautiful village of Braga, famous for its ancient Buddhist monastery.
DAY 7 - Acclimatization at Manang (Rest Day)
Today, you will take a day off from trekking to acclimatize to the high altitude. You can explore the beautiful village of Manang, visit the local monastery, or go on short hikes to nearby hills.
DAY 8 - Trek from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,140m)
After breakfast, you will start your trek towards Tilicho Base Camp, located at an altitude of 4,140m. The trail takes you through the beautiful village of Khangsar, where you can see the ruins of an old fort. From Khangsar, you will follow the trail that leads to the Tilicho lake.
DAY 9 - Trek from Tilicho Base Camp - Tilicho Lake (4,919m) to Shree Kharka (4,060m)
Today, you will wake up early in the morning and start your trek towards the Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After spending some time at the lake, you will trek down to Shree Kharka for an overnight stay..
DAY 10 - Trek from Shree Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,600m)
After breakfast, you will start your trek towards Thorong Phedi, the last stop before crossing the Thorong La Pass. The trail is steep and challenging, and you will need to be cautious and take your time to avoid altitude sickness. The views of the surrounding peaks are stunning, and you will pass through several small settlements along the way.
DAY 11 - Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek, as you will cross the Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,416m. You will start early in the morning to avoid the strong winds that often pick up in the afternoon. The climb is steep and challenging, but the panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges from the top are breathtaking. After crossing the pass, you will trek down to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
DAY 12 - Trek from Muktinath to Jomson (2,720m).
After breakfast, you will trek towards Jomsom, a beautiful village located on the banks of the Kali Gandaki river. The trail takes you through several small villages, and you will have the opportunity to see the unique culture and lifestyle of the Thakali people.
DAY 13 - Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara via Beni
Today, you will take a jeep ride from Jomsom to Beni and then to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city known for its stunning views of the Annapurna range. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing by the lake, exploring the city, or shopping for souvenirs.
DAY 14 - Fly / Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will either take a flight or drive back to Kathmandu, depending on your preference. The flight takes around 25 minutes, while the drive takes around 6-7 hours. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing at your hotel or exploring the city.
DAY 15 - Sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley
Today, you will explore the cultural and historical sites of the Kathmandu Valley. You will visit the famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you can experience the rich culture and heritage of Nepal.
DAY 16 - Transfer to International Airport for final departure
Today is the last day of your trek, and you will be transferred to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. As you leave Nepal, you will take with you memories that will last a lifetime, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness of this amazing country.
TRIP ENDS HERE!
TREK GALLERY
Map
What's Included
ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : sharing a twin bedroom at the hotel (3 Star category) in Kathmandu on a bed & breakfast basis
AIRPORT PICK-UP & DROP : Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
WELCOME DINNER : One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office’s Staff.
Permits : All necessary paper works: Trekking Permit including MCAP and special permit, TIMS Card & conservation entry fee
STAFF INSURANCE : Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.
MAP: Trekking map of the trek
MEMBER TRANSPORTATION : Land Transportation Kathmandu
MEMBER LUGGAGE: Up to 15 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek carried by porters.
FOODS & LODGING : 3 meals a day (BLD; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation sharing basis in tea house/camp during the trek.
DRINKS : 2 liters of boiled water to carry on thermos per day per member.
Guide : Government licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sight-seeing in Kathmandu valley.
PORTER : Porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) during the trek.
STAFF SALARY & ALLOWANCE : All Nepalese staff & porter’s daily wages, salary, equipment, food & clothing.
MEDICAL KIT : Comprehensive Medical kit.
Meals on treks only: Breakfast, Lunch , Dinner.
What's Not Included
NEPAL VISA FEES : Nepali Visa fee is US$ 60 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days (USD$ 120).
LUNCH & DINNER : Lunch & dinner during the stay in Kathmandu (also in case of early return from Trekking than the scheduled itinerary).
EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
INSURANCE : Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical & emergency evacuation.
RESCUE EVACUATION : Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation cost if required. (Rescue, Repatriation, Medication, Medical Tests, and Hospitalization costs.)
PERSONAL EXPENSES: Telephone calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT : Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears, etc.
TOILETRIES : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
FILMING : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
INTERNET SERVICE : Internet facility during the trek is not included.
EXTRA PORTER : $35 USD for an extra porter per day (If an extra porter is demanded).
TIPS : Tips for Guide, porters, and staff.
EXTRA : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Mandatory Documents
Identification document
Booking Receipt, if Booked Online (PDF will work)
Cancellation Policy
More than 30-days prior to departure - 50% refund.
In Between 15-30-days prior to departure - 25% refund.
Less than 15-days prior to departure - No Refund.
Frequently Asked question
Absolutely! Whether you're a solo trekker or with a group, you can easily book your trek through our website or by contacting our Kathmandu office directly. We can even pair solo trekkers with groups, if desired.
On our treks, you'll enjoy a blend of traditional Nepali meals like 'dal bhat' (lentil soup with rice) and other international cuisines. We ensure our food is nutritious and energy-packed for the trekking journey. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice.
Yes, we offer secure luggage storage at our office in Kathmandu. You can leave behind non-essential items and pick them up once you return from your trek.
Yes, depending on your trek's region, you'll need permits like the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management Systems) card and regional conservation or national park permits. Our team takes care of all the necessary paperwork and permits for you.
Absolutely! We offer both fixed-departure and tailor-made treks. If you have specific preferences, routes, or places you'd like to visit, just let our team know, and we'll help design a trek that meets your desires.
Altitude sickness is a concern in the Himalayan treks. Our itineraries are designed to allow gradual acclimatization. It's essential to communicate any discomfort to our guides, who are trained to assist in such situations.
Yes, Kathmandu offers several rental shops where you can rent or buy trekking gear. If you're missing something, it's likely you'll find it here. However, for personal comfort, we recommend bringing specialized items like hiking boots from home.
Accommodation varies depending on the trek's route. In popular trails like the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, you'll find well-maintained teahouses offering basic amenities. However, in remote areas, the facilities might be more basic. Camping may also be part of certain trekking routes.
Our guides carry communication devices and have contacts with local agencies to ensure swift action during emergencies. In extreme cases, helicopter evacuations can be arranged, given that the trekker has suitable insurance coverage.