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Annapurna Circuit Trek – Nepal

Annapurna Circuit Trek – Nepal

Season

March - May, September - November

Group Size

2+

Max Altitude

5,416m (Thorong La Pass)

Duration

12 Days

Overview

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most diverse and classic trekking routes in Nepal, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, cultural variety, and high mountain scenery. Encircling the Annapurna Massif, the trek offers an ever-changing journey from subtropical lowlands to high alpine terrain.

The trail passes through traditional Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali villages, allowing trekkers to experience rich local cultures, ancient monasteries, and Himalayan hospitality. The landscape transitions through forests, deep gorges, and expansive valleys before reaching the trek’s highest point at Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world.

Suitable for trekkers with good fitness and a sense of adventure, the Annapurna Circuit Trek rewards participants with panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare, and Manaslu ranges. This iconic trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and high-altitude challenge, making it one of Nepal’s most celebrated trekking experiences.

Itinerary

Annapurna Circuit Trek – Nepal

12 Days • Itinerary Overview

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. The day is free to rest and recover from your flight. In the evening, a short briefing covers the Annapurna Circuit Trek, logistics, and trekking permits.

Day 02

Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (1,860m) via Besisahar (760m)

Depart Kathmandu early morning and drive along the Prithvi Highway to Besisahar, the starting point of the trek. Continue driving to Dharapani, passing terraced fields, river valleys, and small villages. Overnight stay in Dharapani.

Day 03

Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,650m)

The trek begins along the Marsyangdi River, passing through pine and rhododendron forests. Small villages and terraced farmland line the trail. Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, offers panoramic mountain views and comfortable teahouse accommodations.

Day 04

Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,240m)

The trail gradually ascends through alpine terrain. You pass Pisang Village with its traditional stone houses and Pisang Monastery. The day provides magnificent views of Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, and Gangapurna. Overnight in Pisang.

Day 05

Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m)

The trek continues along the Marsyangdi valley with increasingly dramatic Himalayan views. Manang, a high-altitude town, is an important acclimatization stop. Overnight in Manang.

Day 06

Acclimatization Day in Manang (3,540m)

A rest and acclimatization day. Optional hikes to nearby viewpoints or Gangapurna Lake help prepare the body for higher altitudes. Manang village also allows time to explore local culture and monasteries.

Day 07

Trek from Manang to Thorong Phedi (4,560m) via Yak Kharka (4,120m)

The trail ascends gradually through alpine pastures and yak grazing areas. Thorong Phedi serves as the last stop before the high pass. Overnight at Thorong Phedi teahouses with spectacular mountain views.

Day 08

Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,802m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m)

An early start takes you over Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. After summiting, descend into the Kali Gandaki valley toward Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Overnight in Muktinath.

Day 09

Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700m)

The trail descends along the Kali Gandaki River, passing traditional villages, mani walls, and chortens. Jomsom, the administrative center of the Mustang region, is a convenient place to rest and prepare for flights or further travel. Overnight in Jomsom.

Day 10

Fly or Drive to Pokhara (822m)

A short scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (or drive if weather delays occur). Pokhara offers lakeside views, restaurants, and comfortable accommodations. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 11

Fly back to Kathmandu (1,400m)

A morning flight returns you to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy leisure time for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing.

Day 12

Final Departure

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight, concluding the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Annapurna Circuit Trek – Nepal

12 Days – Detailed Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. The day is free to rest and recover from your flight. In the evening, a short briefing covers the Annapurna Circuit Trek, logistics, and trekking permits.

02

Depart Kathmandu early morning and drive along the Prithvi Highway to Besisahar, the starting point of the trek. Continue driving to Dharapani, passing terraced fields, river valleys, and small villages. Overnight stay in Dharapani.

03

The trek begins along the Marsyangdi River, passing through pine and rhododendron forests. Small villages and terraced farmland line the trail. Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, offers panoramic mountain views and comfortable teahouse accommodations.

04

The trail gradually ascends through alpine terrain. You pass Pisang Village with its traditional stone houses and Pisang Monastery. The day provides magnificent views of Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, and Gangapurna. Overnight in Pisang.

05

The trek continues along the Marsyangdi valley with increasingly dramatic Himalayan views. Manang, a high-altitude town, is an important acclimatization stop. Overnight in Manang.

06

A rest and acclimatization day. Optional hikes to nearby viewpoints or Gangapurna Lake help prepare the body for higher altitudes. Manang village also allows time to explore local culture and monasteries.

07

The trail ascends gradually through alpine pastures and yak grazing areas. Thorong Phedi serves as the last stop before the high pass. Overnight at Thorong Phedi teahouses with spectacular mountain views.

08

An early start takes you over Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. After summiting, descend into the Kali Gandaki valley toward Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Overnight in Muktinath.

09

The trail descends along the Kali Gandaki River, passing traditional villages, mani walls, and chortens. Jomsom, the administrative center of the Mustang region, is a convenient place to rest and prepare for flights or further travel. Overnight in Jomsom.

10

A short scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (or drive if weather delays occur). Pokhara offers lakeside views, restaurants, and comfortable accommodations. Overnight in Pokhara.

11

A morning flight returns you to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy leisure time for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing.

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight, concluding the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Trip Inclusions

Trip Inclusions

Everything you need for a comfortable and memorable trek

Cost Includes

  • Airport Transfers
    Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu in a private vehicle.
  • Kathmandu Accommodation
    Four nights’ accommodation in a standard hotel on a twin-sharing basis with daily breakfast.
  • Kathmandu Sightseeing
    Guided sightseeing tour of major cultural and heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley.
  • Domestic Transportation
    Private vehicle transportation to Besisahar, Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
  • Permits & Entry Fees
    Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) entry permit and local village development fees.
  • Medical Oxygen & First Aid
    One 3-liter oxygen cylinder with mask and regulator for emergency medical use, along with a comprehensive first-aid kit.
  • Tea House Trek Accommodation & Meals
    Lodging in local tea houses during the trek, including daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Snacks During Trek
    Supplementary snacks such as cheese, crackers, salami, fresh fruits, and similar items to maintain energy levels.
  • Trekking Staff Support
    Licensed trekking guide and porters, including their food, accommodation, wages, insurance, and domestic air tickets.
  • Office & Service Charges
    All operational and administrative service charges.

  • Staff Tips
    Gratuities for trekking guides and porters (customary but optional).

Exclusions

Personal Expenses

  • International airfare to Nepal
  • Personal equipment (boots, climbing harness, gloves, jackets, crampons)
  • Personal trekking/medical insurance
  • Tips for guides, porters, or staff

Extra Services

  • Extra hotel nights outside itinerary
  • Optional sightseeing or recreational activities
  • Satellite phone, internet, or personal communications

Unforeseen Costs

  • Rescue or evacuation due to personal negligence or health issues
  • Weather-related delays (flights or lodging beyond plan)

Other

  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and snacks purchased personally
  • Any items not mentioned in the inclusions

Trip Notes

Key Facts – Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • ✔ Highlights: Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Thorong La Pass, Manang village, Muktinath Temple, Kali Gandaki Valley
  • ✔ Unique: Classic long-circuit trek offering diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to alpine deserts
Hot Deal

Annapurna Circuit Trek – Nepal

12 Days • Schedule Your Own Departure

No booking fees • Free cancellation up to 50 days

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