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Annapurna Circuit Trek-17 Days

Recommended by 99.9% of travelers
One of Nepal's most well-known and varied treks, the Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a breathtaking voyage across a variety of environments and cultures. Starting in the town of Besisahar and weaving through verdant subtropical forests, quaint towns, terraced agriculture, and high mountain passes, this classic journey usually takes 15 to 20 days to complete. One of the trek's highlights is traversing the 5,416-meter-high Thorong La Pass (17,769-foot) pass, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. In addition, trekkers can explore the stunning valleys of Manang and Mustang, see historic monasteries, and come across a variety of ethnic groups, including the Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan populations. Over time, the trekking path has undergone changes in terms of accessibility and infrastructure, including the addition of roads in certain places. Nevertheless, it continues to captivate travelers from all over the world looking for a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience. For many outdoor enthusiasts, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a trek that should be on their bucket list since it offers an exciting combination of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty.
Max. Altitude: 5, 416 m
Group size: 1-14
Duration: 17 Days
Best Time for Visit: April-June & September-November
Transportation: Private Car, jeep, Bus
Activity: Trekking
Difficulty: Easy
Accommodation: At hotels and tea houses during treks.
Region: Annapurna
Trip Duration
17 Days
From:
US$0
Download PDF Itinerary

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek.

  • Adventure and exciting walks around the massif Annapurna Himalaya range of mountains.
  • Trekking into high and scenic Manang valley enclosed within high Chulus and Annapurna peaks.
  • Walking from low warm areas to cooler green hills unto arctic zone of ice and glaciers at Manang.
  • Explore impressive high Manang villages and old monasteries of great interest with marvelous scenery.
  • Enchanting woodland of tall rhododendron-magnolia-pines and fir tree lines to barren scenic country.
  • Crossing highest point of the adventure over Thorang-la pass facing breathtaking panorama of peaks.
  • Journey into world deepest gorge of Kaligandaki River between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalaya.
  • Enjoy 360° wide panorama of mountain range with stunning sunrise views from scenic Poon Hill.
  • Completing trekking at picturesque Pokhara blessed with natural wonders of mountains and lakes.

Overview

The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the stunning Annapurna Himalaya range, surrounded by the towering peaks of Annapurna and Chulus. Spanning Nepal’s North Mid to Far West Himalayas, this trek combines diverse landscapes with rich cultural experiences.

Your journey begins with an exhilarating drive from Kathmandu to the Lamjung region’s warm, low valley. From there, follow the Marysangdi River, passing through charming villages such as Jagat, Dharapani, and Chame. These towns lead you to the picturesque Manang High Valley, renowned for its breathtaking views and cultural richness.

As you trek onward, the Annapurna Circuit ranks among the world’s top adventure destinations. You’ll encounter traditional Tibetan-style villages and ancient monasteries in the Manang Valley, where the local culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism. From Manang, ascend to the Thorong-La Pass, the trek’s highest point, offering panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri range and surrounding peaks.

After descending from Thorong-La, reach Muktinath, a sacred site for both Buddhists and Hindus. Continuing from Muktinath, trek through the Kaligandaki River Valley to Jomsom, the Mustang district headquarters. Here, walk along the historic Trans Himalayan Salt Trade Route and traverse the world’s deepest gorge along the Kaligandaki River.

Following this, arrive at Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs where you can relax and rejuvenate. Then, hike uphill to Ghorepani, set in a beautiful rhododendron forest. From Ghorepani, trek to Poon Hill for spectacular sunrise views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, and the iconic Machhapuchchhre Himal.

Finally, descend to the warmer farm regions and drive to Pokhara, a popular tourist destination celebrated for its stunning natural beauty. Here, your unforgettable Annapurna Circuit adventure concludes, leaving you with cherished memories and extraordinary experiences.

Itinenary

Upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (1,350m), Lhasso Adventure representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to rest, freshen up, and enjoy a meal. In the evening, our knowledgeable guides will provide a briefing on the journey ahead, followed by team introductions and discussions. Later, we’ll head out for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant to experience authentic Nepali cuisine.

Morning depart from Kathmandu for interesting drive to Nepal Mid-West area, leading you on countries most busy highway with views of high mountains and green landscapes, as drive heads encountering towns and farm villages to reach at Beshisahar, after a turn off from Kathmandu and Pokhara highway.

On reaching Beshisahar from Dumre town transfer to local lodge with free afternoon to browse around the streets and markets of Beshisahar, a large and headquarter town of Lamjung district close to raging Masrsyangdi Rivers that flows from high Manang valley and glaciers.

Driving Distance : 175.4 km
Driving Duration : 8 hrs
Elevation Loss : 590 m /1935.7 ft.

In the morning, from Besisahar taking a local jeep drive following Marysangdi River to reach at Syange village with views of wonderful waterfalls nearby.

From Syange drive continues with climb leaving Marysangdi River behind to reach Jagat village, a farm village with many lodges for trekkers. After Jagat walk leads on winding path to Chamje, and back at Marysangdi River crossing to east side into forested area, with super views of Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges.

As drive continues reaching a nice village at Tal Besi, from here little hour drive leads to Chame town for overnight stop past at Dharapani village, located on the midway of Annapurna circuit and Manaslu trekking trail.

From Dharapani drive leads into rhododendron and pine forest passing villages of Bagachap and Danque, then at Ratamanang village with more Buddhist cultured village including views of  Mt. Manaslu 8,163m / 26,781ft. From here an hour ride takes you to Koto and then at Chame town for overnight stop, Chame a large major town of Manang area and a head quarter town of the district.

Driving Distance : 67.7 km
Driving Duration : 4 hrs
Elevation Gain : 1950m/6397.638 ft

From Chame onwards walk leads close to mountains through alpine forests of rhododendron and pine trees, following Masrsyangdi River upstream with short ups and down hills to Bhratang village. From Bhratang village walk follows uphill through alpine woodland to Dhukure Pokhari ,a small place with few teahouses and lodges, overlooking Chulu’s and Pisang peak with possible lunch stop, and then descends to lower Pisang village for overnight stop.

Driving Duration : 6 hrs.
Trekking Distance : 14 k.m
Elevation Gain : 540 m/1771.65 ft

Morning views of mountains; from here onward altitude gains as the walk leads through forest with short uphill and views of Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna Chulu’s and Pisang peak.
Walk downhill to reach flat valley at Hongde village, from here onward tree lines fades for barren, arid landscapes with cold, dry arctic climate.

Before Manang, visit old Braga monastery with old Buddhist relics, ancient wall painting and frescos and stunning views of Annapurna Himalaya, from here an hour walk reaches at Manang village.

Trekking Distance : 17 k.m
Trekking Duration : 7 hrs
Elevation Gain : 290 m /951.444 ft

A necessary rest day at Manang for acclimatization before reaching higher areas to Thorang-la pass, in Manang short hike around Manang village, this is a large village situated on windswept valley by the bank of Marysangdi River below Annapurna and Gangapurna mountain range, a nice walk uphill for views of Gangapurna Glacier and Manang glacial Lake.

After a good rest at Manang, walk towards Ghunsang village with short uphill to reach at Yak Kharka, an interesting walk with views of snow-capped mountains, on crossing a small stream reaching Yak Kharka for overnight stop, a small settlement with views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Chulu Peaks.

Trekking Distance : 8 k.m
Trekking Duration : 4 hrs.
Elevation Gain : 670m/2198.16 ft

Morning walk leads to more high elevation getting closer at the base of Thorang-la. After crossing a bridge with a climb along the river bank of Jarjung, finally walk leads at Thorang Phedi, here depending upon the physical conditions of the clients, if all goes well an hour steep climb to Thorang High Camp for overnight stop.

Trekking Distance : 6 k.m
Trekking Duration : 4 hrs
Elevation Gain : 240m/787.402 ft

One of the highlight of the adventure, after early breakfast walk leads to a long climb to Thorang-la on steep winding path to reach Thorang La Pass at 5,416 m / 17,700 ft.

The highest point of the adventure with views of snow-capped peaks, and then with long descends to reach at holy Muktinath around Lower Mustang area.

On reaching Muktinath for overnight stop, a holy spot for both Hindus and Buddhists the word Muktinath literally means ‘the place for Nirvana or Liberation’.

Driving Duration : 7 hrs.
Trekking Distance : 26 k.m
Trekking Duration : 8-9 hrs
Elevation Gain : 966m/3169.29 ft.
Elevation Loss : 1616m/5301.837 ft.

From holy areas of Muktinath a pleasant morning walk on downhill with big drop of 1,200m to Kaligandaki river valley, and to Jomsom headquarter town of Mustang region with a small airstrip above Kaligandaki River.

From Jomsom few hours walk reaches at Marpha, one of the most charming villages of all Himalaya regions with whitewashed houses, paved streets and numerous well kept lodges.

Here celebrate with local apple products like cider, brandy and juice this area from Kagbeni to Larjung is famous for its delicious apple and its product.

Driving Duration : 4-6 hrs
Trekking Distance : 15k.m
Trekking Duration : 6 hrs.
Elevation Loss : 1130m/3707.349ft.

From Marpha taking a drive to reach lower areas at Tatopani village facing views of Dhaulagiri range, drive leads towards wide Kaligandaki River leaving behind windswept landscapes and heading past Mustang area, following Kaligandaki River downstream to reach at attractive Tatopani a village famous for its natural hot spring.

Before Tatopani, drive leads past world deepest gorge of Kaligandaki River situated between giant peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalaya, on reaching this nice village with time to enjoy a dip in the hot spring.

Driving Distance : 100 k.m
Driving Duration : 4-6 hrs
Elevation Loss : 1480m/4855.643 ft.

After Tatopani, walk continues crossing a bridge over Kaligandaki River and then our route diverts heading uphill on terraced hillside, dotted with farms and villages, after a steep section through dense alpine forest reaching at Chitre and to Ghorepani- village with super views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South and Vara-Shikar also known Annapurna Fang.

Trekking Distance : 16 k.m
Trekking Duration : 6 hrs.
Elevation Gain : 1210m/3969.816 ft

The trek from Shikha to Ghorepani is a beautiful journey through lush forests and traditional villages. As you ascend, you’ll pass through terraced fields and dense rhododendron woods, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail gradually leads you to Ghorepani, where you’ll reach an elevation of 2,870 meters. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, especially during sunrise from Poon Hill.

Trekking Distance : 15 k.m
Trekking Duration : 8 hours
Elevation Gain : 470m/1541.99ft

Early before sunrise hike to the top at Pun Hill to catch the striking sunrise over range of Himalayan peaks of world 7th highest Dhaulagiri-10th highest Annapurna with range of peaks includes world 8th highest Manaslu with towering Machhapuchare peak “Fish Tail”.

After an enjoyable and exciting time with eye catching views from Poon Hill, head back to Ghorepani and continue downhill walk into lovely forested area for an hour and then reaching at Ulleri village with long descend to Tikhedhunga for overnight stop in warmer areas.

Trekking Distance : 21 k.m
Trekking Duration : 8 -10-hrs
Elevation Gain : 340m/1115.49 ft
Elevation Loss : 1770m/5807.087 ft.

Our last day walk leads through farm fields to a charming village at Bhirethati with gradual winding walk overlooking scenery of landscapes and then ending our final trek with downhill to Bhirethati a scenic spot situated on a gorge of Modi River offering views of Machhapuchare Himal the Fish Tail.

From here our walks concludes with a short drive back to picturesque Pokhara by the Phewa lake side.

Driving Distance : 40.7 km
Driving Duration : 2hrs
Trekking Distance : 15 k.m
Trekking Duration : 6 hrs
Elevation Loss : 370m/1213.91ft

Morning transfer either on car or coach as well taking a tourist bus (depending upon the group size ), where interesting overland journey brings you back at Kathmandu with scenic views of mountains, green scenery of hills and farm fields within nice villages and towns as drive brings leads into hustle and bustle city life of Kathmandu.

On reaching Kathmandu transfer to your hotels with time for individual activities and shopping souvenirs.

Last day in Nepal after a wonderful experience and adventure on Annapurna Circuit trekking with great service of Lhasso Adventure, and as per your international flight then transfer to Kathmandu international airport for your respective destinations.

Cost Include

  • All ground transportation as per itinerary private / local
  • Beshisahar to Chame and Marpha to Tatopani local jeep / bus as per itinerary
  • Kathmandu and Pokhara accommodation in three star hotels with breakfast as per itinerary.
  • Accommodation in tea house and meal on full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) on trek.
  • Experience trekking guide and porters on trek.
  • Accommodation, food, drinks, salary, insurance, transportation of the trek guides and porters.
  • First aid, medical kit and Oximeter
  • All necessary paper and trekking permits

Cost Exclude

  • International Flights: Airfare to and from Nepal.
  • Travel Insurance: Insurance covering emergency evacuation and medical expenses.
  • Personal Expenses: Items like snacks, drinks, laundry, and souvenirs.
  • Visa Fees: Nepal entry visa costs.
  • Tips: Gratuities for guides and porters (tipping is expected).
  • Personal Trekking Gear: Equipment such as trekking boots, jackets, and sleeping bags.
  • Extra accommodation and meals in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner).

Equipment

In addition to making trekking more enjoyable, having the appropriate gear guarantees your safety and readiness for a range of situations. Regardless of skill level, every hiker has to invest in high-quality equipment and understand how to utilize it properly. A delightful journey can differ from a difficult ordeal depending on the level of planning and equipment used. Please make your selections of the necessary equipment from the list below.

  Clothing

  • Down Or Fiber Filled Waterproof Jacket And Trousers
  • Fleece Jacket Or Pullover
  • Warm Cotton Trousers
  • Shirts And T-Shirts
  • Lightweight Cotton Long Pants
  • Sun Hat Or Scarf
  • Woolen Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Raincoat

  Footwear

  • Trekking Boot
  • Thick Socks
  • Light Socks
  • Camp Shoes
  • Sandals

  Essential Gear

  • Sleeping Bag(4seasons)
  • Down Jacket
  • Daypack
  • Water Bottle
  • Sun Cream, Sunglasses

  Personal & Miscellaneous Items

  • Insect Repellent
  • Laundry Soap
  • Plasters
  • Cards And Personal Medical Kit
  • Toilet Articles
  • Pocketknife
  • Binoculars
  • Notebook & Pen
  • Towel
  • Camera
  • Toilet Roll
  • Sewing Kit
  • Film

frequently asked question for Annapurna Circuit Trek.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, encompassing various landscapes from subtropical forests to alpine terrain.

The trek typically takes between 15 to 20 days, depending on the itinerary and pace of the trekker.

The best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, which offer stable weather and clear views.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It involves long days of walking on varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents.

The highest point of the trek is the Thorong La Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).

While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a guide is recommended for safety, especially in high-altitude areas, and to enhance the overall experience with local knowledge.

Essential gear includes sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing (layers), a rain jacket, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a backpack.

Yes, trekkers need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit Trek consists mainly of teahouses, which are simple lodges providing basic facilities like a bed, meals, and sometimes hot showers.

Teahouses offer a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), as well as international options such as pasta, noodles, pancakes, and omelets.

Altitude sickness is a concern due to the high elevations reached on the trek. Proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, and recognizing the symptoms of altitude sickness are crucial.

Medical facilities are limited along the trek. It is advisable to carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications. In case of serious health issues, evacuation to a hospital in Pokhara or Kathmandu might be necessary.

Internet and phone connectivity can be limited in some areas of the trek. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi, but it may not be reliable. It is best to inform family and friends of limited communication availability before starting the trek.

Highlights include the diverse landscapes, the crossing of Thorong La Pass, views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, the sacred site of Muktinath, and the unique culture and hospitality of the local communities.

The trek usually starts from Besisahar, which is accessible by bus or private vehicle from Kathmandu. Recently, many trekkers start the trek from Jagat or Chame to shorten the journey due to road construction in lower sections.

If you have any more specific questions or need further details, please feel free to contact us anytime.

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