Highlights

  • Views of the world’s highest mountains: Dhaulagiri I (7th), Manaslu (8th) and Annapurna I (10th)
  • Driving through the world’s deepest gorge and the Kaligandaki valley Bath in natural hot springs at Tatopani
  • Bath in natural hot springs at Tatopani Magnificent sunrise views from Poon Hill
  • Crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters The pilgrimage town of Muktinath

Overview

Visit: Several religious, cultural, natural, and historical monuments as Upper Pisang Monastery, Braga Monastery, Muktinath Temple, Pokhara valley (Phewa Lake, Mahendra Cave, Gupteswar Cave, Bat’s Cave, World Peace Pagoda, Sarangkot, David’s Fall, Mahendra Bridge, Bindawasini Temple, Durbar squares in Kathmandu valley, Swyambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath.

Walk: Through the classic trekking route of Annapurna circuit, passing the sub-tropical to alpine vegetation, small ethnic settlements, rocky ridges, wide and deep yak pastures, green valleys, river valleys (Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki), and numerous rickety suspension bridges.

Side trips: Ice Lake, Gangapurna Lake, Millerapa cave, Tilicho Lake, Poon Hill, World Peace Pagoda

Explore Semi Tibetan cultures, Himalayan way of living, traditional values of Manangi and Thakali people.

Pass: Thorong La (5416m/17769ft), the peak point of the trek renowned for the world’s widest pass, sits between Thorung Peak and Yakawa Kang that works as a border of Manang and Mustang districts.

Get: Picturesque close-up sceneries of entire Annapurna ranges (Annapurna I, II, III, IV and Annapurna South), Dhaulagiri ranges (Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, & V), Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, Nilgiri, and several other neighboring peaks.

Sightsee: Two major apple orchards (Bhratang in Manang and Marpha in Mustang) among others, lustrous rhododendron backwoods, diverse flora, and fauna in Annapurna Conservation Area, Kali Gandaki River gorge (world’s deepest gorge), numerous waterfalls including Rupse (Myagdi) and Chyamje (Lamjung)

Major attractions: Kathmandu (historical city), Pokhara (vibrant city combined of history, culture, nature, and religion), Bensishahar, Manang, Muktinath, Jomsom, Ghandruk.

Relax: At the natural hot spring at Tatopani

One of the pinnacles of trekking in Nepal, the 18 days Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek extending up to the Tibetan plateaus, is indeed an experience at its finest. Categorized as one of Nepal’s longer-distance and strenuous treks, the trek takes from Jagat to Chame, Manang, Muktinath, and Ghorepani. The trek includes traveling to off-the-beaten paths in certain places and barren terrains, alpine landscapes, and terraced farms as you make your way through the foothills of the Himalayas. The Circuit trail that crosses the two great river valleys makes way across the Thorong La Pass, the highest pass of the journey. The beauty of the region, topped with the views of the mountain peaks amidst the lush forests and diverse landscapes, is likely to make the Annapurna experience a brilliant one.

The classic trip starting at Kathmandu takes us to the local settlements of the region as we follow the river course of oak and maple trees. Our trail now takes us to a narrow river valley through the deep woodlands. We enjoy the supreme views of the Pisang peak and Annapurna II as we head to the homeland of the traders in Manang. The vistas of the majestic views of Lamjung, Himalchuli, Manaslu, and Annapurna’s other massifs accompany us as we traverse further into the region. Crossing the rocky terrains, we arrive at the trek’s highest pass, the Thorong La pass (5416 meters), and enter the Kali Gandaki valley as we descend to Muktinath. One of the highlights of this trek is our trip to an important heritage site of Muktinath, a popular pilgrimage site to both Hindus and ethnic Buddhists.

Our trek further takes us to Marpha (2670 meters), Ghasa, and the hot springs “Tato Pani.” You can choose to relax and unwind in this place for a much-needed break as we have an extra day at the hot springs. After relaxing at the hot springs, we ascend to Ghorepani (2810 meters), known for its brilliant panoramic sunrise and sunset. The hike to Ghorepani-Poonhill (3210 meters) can get tiring as you pass through many steep courses. However, the journey is rewarding as you walk into villages breathing in the fresh air and experience a typical local lifestyle of the ethnic Gurung people. The Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek is often classified as a moderately challenging trek that encompasses the region’s wealth and rich heritage.

The classic trek is nothing short of a magical journey. You meander through the rivers, encompassing beautiful sceneries, pine, spruce, oak, maple, and rhododendron forests, spiritual and cultural sites of Nepal. The region serves as a good journey for people who like traveling in diverse climatic conditions, tropics, and the Arctic. As it is one of the challenging treks of the Annapurna region, we recommend people to stay fit and train regularly before they make a trip. The trip ends at Pokhara, as we stay the night and leave for Kathmandu the next day.

  • Day 1 - Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

    When your flight touches Kathmandu Airport (TIA), your plans of trekking Annapurna Circuit finally comes into play. First of all, complete your visa and airport custom formalities; then you will meet our office representative holding a display board with your name on it at the arrival gate. He will then transfer you to your hotel and assist you in checking into a hotel with few refreshments. Enjoy your first night's stay at a hotel in Kathmandu in a comfortable manner

  • Day 2 - Drive from Kathmandu to Besishahar and to Syange (1100m/3600 ft)

    Today we shall take a comfortable and scenic countryside drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar via the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway. Leaving Kathmandu behind you drive through the snaky mountain road. You cross several small streams and run parallel to the Trishuli River. You may see people rafting in the Trishuli river. After you cross the bridge in Mungling, we drive parallel to Marshyandi River. We sometimes see beautiful views of snow-capped Himalayas most of which belong to the Manaslu range and surrounding peaks. After nearly 7 hours of drive, with a quick stop for lunch along the route, finally, we reach Beshisahar which is also the headquarter of Lamjung district. It used to be the starting point of the trek until a couple of years ago, but at present condition due to the road being constructed further, we prefer to drive up to Syange. Almost every supply to higher altitude valleys and villages passes through this route and we can see local marketplace here carrying out their deals on commodities. We stay overnight at the local teahouse. Driving time: 7-8 hours drive. Included Meals:

  • Day 3 - Trek from Syange to Dharapani (1960m/6100ft)

    Just after getting up at Syange, we enjoy a hearty breakfast. Our trekking route comprises a gradual descend through beautiful forests. Crossing a river over the suspension bridge, we start to ascend to Tal. After walking along the narrow cliffs and ridges, we find ourselves around the rocky settings, and further crossing the local village of Karte, we will again gradually descend to the riverside. After crossing the river over beautiful windy and slowly swinging from steps of people passing by, we spot a mani stone marked with mantras and chants on it. This place is called Dharapani and we stay overnight here at one of the local teahouses. Walking time: 6 to 7 hours, Included Meals:

  • Day 4 - Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2630m/8890ft)

    It shall be around 500m gain in altitude today while we make more ascends with few descends from Dharapani to Chame. Our trekking day begins as we slowly hike up through beautiful refreshing pine and oak trees that lead us to Danaque. Further, we do cross a small wooden bridge and it will be steep ascend to Temang which is situated at the base of Lamjung peak. From this point beautiful views of the Manaslu Himalayan range are visible and also a couple of teahouses here are available, we have our lunch over here and the path turns flattered and straight from there. After about an hour walking easily, we cross Thanchok settlement over there popular for Apple products and thirty minutes from there takes us to Chame. Chame is the headquarter of the Manang district. Walking time: 5 to 6 hours,

  • Day 5 - Trek from Chame to Pisang (3200m/10824ft)

    Our morning at Chame would be beautiful and sparkling as warm rays of sun sparkle nearby Lamjung Himal (6894m). Boarding on from our teahouse on our foot, taking steps enjoying the natural settings and surroundings, we take a steep climb to a place called Bhartang. We take on that challenge and pull it off with help of the trekking leader’s recommendation, decision and follow-on through jungle walk in between trees, floras, faunas entering into the valley at end of the day called Pisang. We see Pisang peak(6091m) with other nearby Annapurna Himalayas today and stay overnight at the local lodge. Walking time: 5 to 6 hours,

  • Day 6 - Trek from Pisang to Manang (3540m/11611ft)

    As we cross 3500m of altitude today, we can see a slight change in our topographical surroundings. The trekking route is much drier in the upper half of the Manang district. Yak herding and local agricultural farmings are major practices and occupations of local inhabitants. Leaving behind Pisang, we climb a steep ridge that allows us to enjoy great views of Manang valley. Further taking the southern route through a tiny airstrip at Hongde(3325m) gradually, we pass through Ngwal village. Marshyandi river that we see again meets us at Mungi. In this way trekking for further an hour take us to Manang where we shall stay two night for acclimatization. Overnight stay at local lodge. Walking time: 5 to 6 hours,

  • Day 7 - Manang Acclimatization Day (Optional hike to Gangapurna lake or Melarepa cave)

    Proper acclimatization is important as it helps us to avoid altitude sickness usually seen commonly during high altitude treks. Therefore assisting acclimatization and letting our body adapt to the change in surroundings is what we do today. We shall do scenic walks around Manang village and do hike up to Gangapurna lake or Melaripa cave so that we reach higher grounds and return to lower ones for sleep. This process is considered the most effective way to tackle acute mountain sickness. At Manang, there is also the Himalayan Rescue Association and if you are interested in volunteering then you can also assist western doctors here who are basically there to create awareness on altitude sickness and challenges that we have to face in the coming next few days while crossing Thorongla pass. Later today we return to our tea house at Manang and stay overnight there. Walking time: 3 to 4 hours,

  • Day 8 - Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (or you can push up to Ledar) (4110m/13484ft)

    We leave behind Manang village today crossing over the river stream. It shall be a challenging walk as mostly it is climbing activity through tough terrains above 4000m of altitude. Then we shall arrive at small Tenki village settlement from where we descend towards Jarsang valley, again cross the river, have our lunch at the nearby lunch site, and take on the strenuous steep climb towards Yak Kharka which is basically a Yak grazing field or in simple words Yak pasture land where we can see few Yaks grazing on grounds. Above this point there is no greenery, we feel like we have entered into alpine surroundings now after. If you can and are interested then with consultation with our professional trekking leader, you can hike up to Ledar today. We stay overnight at the local lodge at Yak Kharka. Walking time: 4 to 5 hours,

  • Day 9 - Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi (4420m/14501ft)

    Thorang Phedi can be also considered as the base of Thorongla pass or a popular stop before we cross that high altitude pass. Today we leave behind the Yak Kharka, initially, there is a short descend towards the riverside of Marshyandi River passing. Hereafter this riverside lunch we ascend towards Ledar and at the end of the day, we arrive at Thorong Phedi at 4600m above sea level. According to season, your fitness level, and level of interest, you might also take a step forward towards Thorong high camp for a night stay. But most of the time we stop at Thorang Phedi. Overnight stay at local lodge. Walking time: 4 to 5 hours,

  • Day 10 - Trek from Thorong Phedi, cross Thorongla Pass (5416m/17769ft) and trek to Muktinath (3800m/12467ft)

    Today shall be the most important, challenging as well as rewarding day as we cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point of this trek, and heavenly site at 5416m elevation standing tall at eye level with Annapurna Himalayas. We start our day early today before sunrise between 4 to 5 AM as reaching we target to arrive at the high pass before 10 am. Strong wind and clouds are common phenomena at that point afternoon, so we try to avoid that as far as possible while taking the best views like never before. This part of the trail is quite dangerous too, as heavy snowfall may cause interruption to plans and worst-case scenarios, therefore according to the weather condition of that exact time, consulting your trip leader and following his instructions is compulsory. Don’t simply follow your instincts or other group members. Always trust an experienced and professional trekking guide leading your group. From Thorong La pass we can see panoramic views of Annapurna Himalayas, surrounding us from all directions including other peaks like Yakgawa Kang, Khatung Gang, etc.

    Further gentle descend changes to a steeper one and we slowly approach the popular pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Muktinath is a well-known religious site for both Buddhist and Hindu followers. There we get an opportunity to visit temples, monasteries and major Muktinath temples with 108 surrounding water spouts is the major one. Jwala Mai temple is another attraction of the pilgrimage site. We stay overnight at a local lodge in Muktinath. Walking time: 8 to 9 hours,

  • Day 11 - Trek from Muktinath to Marpha (2660m/8250ft)

    Spiritual essence circulates around our atmosphere as we shall visit the holy temple of Muktinath early in the morning today. We shall have our breakfast and walk gradually downhill to Ekley Bhatti. It is quite a steep walk down the trails, so careful and proper use of trekking poles along is required. Take one step at a time, don’t rush; simply enjoy the serene surroundings around and comfortably reach Ekley Bhatti. Further, we push ourselves towards Jomsom, a very windy place where you need to have a full face mask and wind stopper jacket to avoid windblast. Wind forming across the Valley Mountain and gorges blow even more strongly in the afternoon; therefore we try to cross the downstream of Kaligandaki and arrive at Marpha before noon. This local village of Marpha is popular for apple products and we shall surely taste a few. Walking time: 4 to 5 hours,

  • Day 12 - Trek from Marpha to Kalopani (2530m/7848ft)

    After celebrating apple day at Marpha, we make our way along few local tea shops commonly called bhattis. Tasting a few apple brandies, tea or coffee would be a better choice over there. In this similar manner, while comfortably walking on a flatter surface, we also get quite splendid views of nearby Dhaulagiri Himalaya. Further, we cross Tukuche village and see the famous Dhaulagiri icefall where we might stop for a while to take some pictures and enjoy beautiful landscape settings. Our walk then continues towards Largung and Kobang village on a more or less flatter surface trail to Kalopani. If you are interested then we can also do some industrial visits to Tikuche Distillery that supplies the drinking water to nearby villages and towns. Walking time: 4 to 5 hours,

  • Day 13 - Trek from Kalopani to Tatopani (1190m/3690ft)

    We shall get wonderful views of Mt. Annapurna I and other surrounding peaks from Kalopani. Today we will however move towards Tatopani which is more than 1000m down in elevation. Firstly we have our early meal and descend to Dana where we shall be stopping for lunch and we get to see the deepest Kaligandaki gorge of the word. Further trekking mostly downhill for 3 hours takes us to Tatopani. From here also, we get to see nice views of Nilgiri and other surrounding peaks. There is a natural hot spring at Tatopani and we shall take a dip there for relaxation. Later we return to our local lodge at Tatopani. Walking time: 4 to 5 hours,

  • Day 14 - Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2780m/9480ft)

    Trekking around Nepal Himalayas brings us lots of ups and downs. And as are at 1190m of elevation today, we take a challenge to ascend to 2780m hike to Ghorepani. This challenge we are taking also brings lots of cultural and natural influences along. Basically, we cross the villages of Ghare, Shika, Phalate, and Chhitre today where most of the local inhabitants are from Magar and Gurung communities with few mixed groups. With quick stops in the middle of trails, jungle walks, narrow paths, we also get fine views of Annapurnas today, however, the best view is seen the next day from the Poonhill viewpoint. We go to bed a little early as we need to wake up before sunrise tomorrow. Walking time: 6 to 7 hours

  • Day 15 - Hike from Ghorepani to Poonhill (3210m/10531ft), Descend to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara

    Today we hike up early in the morning towards Ponnhill viewpoint before sunrise to see panoramic views of the same Annapurna Himalayas. The views will be from different sides and give us a new beautiful perspective to snow-capped peaks.

    After approximately 45 minutes to hours of hike to the top of the hill, we wait eagerly for that magical moment to happen. Then the sun rises slowly above the Annapurna Himalayan range and is worth watching it. A few moments later, we return to Ghorepani for breakfast and continue our trek towards Nayapul.

    We shall follow the popular route of the popular Ghorepani Poonhill trek via Ulleri, Tikhedhunga, Birethanti, and finally to Nayapul. Upon arrival at Nayapul, we will catch a jeep that takes us to the city of Pokhara. We stay overnight at a comfortable hotel in Pokhara. Walking time: 5 to 6 hours, Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

  • Day 16 - Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

    With take a tourist bus ride to Kathmandu today early in the morning around 7 to 8 AM and arrive at Kathmandu, just in front of Adventure Office. You can then visit our office and share your Annapurna Circuit adventure or our office representative will assist you in hotel transfer (check-in). Later you are welcome to join our farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant in Thamel. Stay overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu. Driving time: 6 to 7 hours, Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

  • Day 17 - Airport drop and international departure from Kathmandu

    After 17 amazing days of your Nepal trip with Annapurna Circuit Trekking adventure, the time comes to leave this beautiful country and fly to your onward destination. Today we will transfer you from your hotel to TIA airport in Kathmandu 3 hours prior to your scheduled international flight. And finally, we hope that we have been successful in offering you wonderful travel memories, see you again soon. Farewell. Included Meals: Breakfas

  • Private Vehicle: Airport pickups/drops and hotel transfers
  • Private Vehicle: Kathmandu to Beshishahar transfer
  • Private Vehicle: Nayapul (trek ends here) to Pokhara transfer
  • Public Jeep: Beshishahar to Syange (trek starts from Syange) transfer
  • Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
  • A night accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star hotel in Pokhara
  • Best available twin sharing room for accommodation during the trek
  • Surface transfer from Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus
  • An experienced English-speaking (trekking guide), porter to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
  • All necessary paper work and permits (ACAP, Trekking permit)All necessary paper work and permits (ACAP, Trekking permit)
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes
  • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
  • All kind of cold drinks e.g. water, coke, fanta, juice etc.
  • Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver
  • Breakfast, lunch, and Dinner

Important Information

If you are confuse on which trek to join in Nepal. Don’t worry; it’s a common phenomenon as Nepal has plenty of treks to choose from easy to challenging ones. And this Annapurna Circuit trek is 21 days of challenging adventure that offers so much diversity in altitude, nature, landscapes, culture and religious, which makes it world’s most popular trekking trip.

From the journey and views to highest pass of Thorongla at 5418m to exploration of both Hindu and Buddhist cultures at Muktinath, from optional excursion to highest Tilicho lake to Chulu east peak climbing opportunities, from deepest gorges of Kaligandaki to most popular paradise city of Pokhara; exploring new sites, each day, staying at different tea houses, meeting new people, enjoying different perspectives of nature and culture; that’s why choose Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Annapurna circuit trek comprises more than two weeks nearly 16 days of trekking activity from lower elevations to all the way through high pass of Throng La Pass to religious site at Jomsom Muktinath. Yes, it is challenging adventure around the foothills of Himalayas, actually a most popular trekking trip, recommended for all adventure lovers.

No, previous trekking experience is not compulsory. However you must be strong and familiar with AMS possibilities, preventive measures along with passion towards walking, exploring and adventure. If you have hiked anywhere else even at lower altitudes, it would be a plus point and recommended for making the best out of this circuit trip.

Trekking with professional government licensed guide is very important. While making your way through rough terrains, dense forest, snowy trails at high elevation, it is very unsafe to travel alone. Not only you might get lost, taking wrong decision can also take your life. Our trekking leaders are professional in this field for more than 10 years, they have been to high passes, Thorong-la many times and know about the culture, landscapes and traditions best that will only enhance your trekking experience.

Annapurna Circuit is best visited during the autumn months of September, October and November along with spring months of March, April and May when its neither too hot nor too cold with very less chances of rainfall and excellent views of snow capped Himalayas. However, it’s always a best time to plan for this trek. Are you planning now?

It is an essential to prepare for this adventure by initiating or continuing cardio exercises like treadmill, cycling, skipping, swimming and other things that help in increasing your stamina which will eventually enhances your overall trekking experience. Further you can also go for day hike trip and if you are frequent traveler then get your sleeping bag, mat and trekking boots ready.

Annapurna circuit trek insurance policy should cover the Helicopter rescue upto 6000m altitude. It is mandatory that you get an insurance policy before joining any trekking trip on Nepal and both you and insurance company understands the terms and conditions properly. In case you do not have insurance even after arriving at Nepal, then we can assist you getting one.

Annapurna Circuit Trek requires Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card. All these permits will be arranged by us and price is included in your total trip cost.

We have published standard 21 days Annapurna circuit Trek itinerary that suits most of the travelers. Therefore you are requested to allocate at least 21 days or more for this Annapurna adventure.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular and well developed routes with standard tea houses available offering good level of accommodation and meals.

Yes, recharging camera and phone batteries is available at tea houses especially during evening time, but you have to pay extra for recharging like couple of hundred rupees per hour. So, it is best recommended to carry spare ones, full charge before the trek and keep the batteries warm especially at higher altitudes keeping in covered in sleeping bags. Make sure your camera is charged at Thorong La pass.

Best views of Himalayas like Manaslu (8156 m), Annapurna 1 (8091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8167 m). Mt. Annapurna II (7940m), Mt. Annapurna III (7550m), Mt. Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (7220m), Tilicho Peak (7135m), Nilgiri (7040m), Mt. Fishtail (6998m), Lamjung Himal (6985m), Himchuli (6445m), Tukuche Peak (6920m) are seen from Thorong La Pass while excellent Muktinath gives you kind of sense of deserted landscapes and lower elevations at Poonhill is the view point to see the Himalayas from distant. Even after completion of the trek, Pokhara offers best scenic views with lots of other adventures to experience.

Yes, good hot showers and laundry services are available especially at lower elevations. It is recommended to do laundry after completion of trek at Pokhara or Kathmandu.

Following are the major variations for this trek:

Mini-Annapurna Circuit , Tilicho and Round Annapurna Trek, Combined Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, Chulu East Peak Climbing with Annapurna Circuit

Yes, this Annapurna walking trip can be tailor made as per your need and requirements. We are here to make your trip your way within your budget.

Send us your enquiries. We are more than happy to help you.

Booking Section

Dates & Availability

Please select a departure month
  • November 2028
Please select no. of travellers
Upcoming departures
  • Tuesday
    November 28 2028
    Thursday
    December 14 2028
    Total $1205 $1160
Write a Review