Annapurna Circuit: A Legendary Himalayan Adventure

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Region

Excellent

4/5

Duration

Max. Altitude

5416 m

Difficulty

Challenging

Best Season

Spring | Autumn

Transportation

Private Vehicle

Accommodation

Lodge During Trek

Starting Point

Kathmandu

Ending Point

Kathmandu

Overview

Annapurna Circuit Trek: A Legendary Himalayan Adventure

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking experiences, attracting thousands of hikers each year. Winding through the Annapurna Conservation Area in the mid-western Himalayas, this trek offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and nature. From stunning Himalayan panoramas to rare wildlife and vibrant ethnic villages, it promises journey like no other.

Annapurna Circuit Trek : Booking/Inquiry

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Small Group Tour – Per Person Pricing

We offer attractive group discounts based on the number of participants.

Group Size	Price per Person (USD)
1 person	$1,375
2 people	$1,219
3-4 people	$1,159
5-16 people	$1,000

Discover the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking routes, offering a remarkable blend of Himalayan scenery, rich culture, and physical challenge. Winding through the Annapurna Conservation Area in the mid-western Himalayas, the trail passes through a variety of ecosystems and ethnic communities, making it one of the most diverse treks in the world.

Why Choose the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Located in central Nepal, the trek circles the towering Annapurna Massif and presents some of the most spectacular views in the Himalayas. Trekkers are treated to panoramas of:

Mt. Annapurna I (8,091m)
Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m)
Mt. Manaslu (8,163m)

The region is also home to a range of wildlife, including musk deer, Himalayan Thar, jackals, and rare birds like Himalayan pheasants.

If you’re interested in exploring more options, visit our Nepal Trekking Tour page for a full list of itineraries.

Cultural and Natural Diversity

One of the most enriching aspects of the Annapurna Circuit is its cultural diversity. The trek takes you through various ethnic villages where you can interact with the Brahmin, Chhetri, Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities. Each group has its own traditions, architecture, and customs, offering insight into Nepal’s cultural richness.

The terrain changes dramatically throughout the trek, from subtropical forests and rice paddies to alpine meadows and arid highlands.

Key Features of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Follows the Marsyangdi River (east) and Kaligandaki River (west)
Crosses Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world
Passes through Kaligandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge on Earth
Offers a diverse landscape, from lush green hills to high-altitude deserts

Thorong La Pass: The Trek’s Pinnacle

The crossing of Thorong La Pass is the most exhilarating and challenging part of the trek. This high-altitude pass links the Manang and Mustang regions and provides 360-degree views of the surrounding Himalayan giants.

On the descent, trekkers reach Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

Interested in similar panoramic views with a shorter trek? Explore our Everest View Trek.

Conclusion: A Life-Changing Journey

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is not just a physical adventure—it’s a transformative experience that immerses you in Nepal’s natural grandeur and cultural depth. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a passionate traveler, this trek offers memories that last a lifetime.

Want to prepare for your next high-altitude adventure? Visit our High-Altitude Trek Preparation Guide for expert tips and packing advice.

Itinerary

Day 01 :

Arrive in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal.
Transfer to your hotel after a warm welcome.
Take time to rest or explore the vibrant city, filled with ancient temples and bustling markets.
Attend a pre-trek briefing and check your trekking gear.

Day 02 :

Embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar.
After reaching Besisahar, continue driving to Syange, the trek’s starting point.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside as you leave the city and enter the Annapurna region.

Day 03 :

Start your trek to Taal, a charming village by the Marsyangdi River.
Cross suspension bridges and pass waterfalls along the way, offering stunning natural scenery.

Day 04 :

Trek through lush forests of rhododendron and pine, enjoying views of hills and rivers.
Arrive at Danaque, a peaceful village surrounded by scenic landscapes.

Day 05 :

Continue your journey to Chame, the district headquarters of the Manang region.
Experience alpine forests and your first glimpse of Annapurna II along the trail.

Day 06 :

Trek through dense forests and alongside the Marsyangdi River to Pisang.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna and Pisang Peak.

Day 07 :

Choose between trekking the high route to Ghyaru or the slightly lower route to Ngawal.
Both options offer stunning views of the Annapurna range.

Day 08 :

Trek to Manang, a culturally rich village with ancient monasteries.
Explore the village or visit the nearby Gangapurna Glacier for an unforgettable experience.

Day 09 :

Take a rest day to acclimatize to the altitude.
Enjoy short hikes around the village or relax while taking in magnificent views.

Day 10 :

Trek through alpine meadows and yak pastures on your way to Yak Kharka.
Experience incredible views of the Annapurna range as you ascend.

Day 11 :

Ascend to Thorung Phedi, the base camp for the Thorong La Pass.
Enjoy beautiful mountain landscapes as you prepare for the pass crossing.

Day 12 :

Trek over Thorung La Pass, the highest point of the trek, with panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Descend to Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

Day 13 :

Take a scenic drive to Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs.
Enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot springs, surrounded by stunning mountain views.

Day 14 :

Trek through terraced fields and rhododendron forests toward Ghorepani.
Reach this village, popular among trekkers, with stunning views of surrounding peaks.

Day 15 :

Start the day with an early morning hike to Poon Hill for a sunrise view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
Afterward, trek to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village known for its cultural heritage.

Day 16 :

Continue your trek through scenic landscapes, passing forests and small villages.
Arrive at Dhampus, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range.

Day 17 :

Descend towards Pokhara, a lakeside city surrounded by beautiful mountains.
Relax and explore Pokhara’s attractions, including Phewa Lake.

Day 18

End your trek with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu.
Enjoy final views of the Nepali countryside before arriving in the capital for a farewell dinner.

About the above itinerary

This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be customized based on your preferences and fitness level. It is always advisable to trek with a licensed guide and to have a proper trekking permit before embarking on any trekking adventure in Nepal.

Included

Hotel at Kathmandu and Pokhara
An experienced English speaking guide trained by government of Nepal.
Highly experienced trekking staffs.
Staffs food, clothing, salary, insurance, equipment, flight etc.
Transpotation from Pokhara to trekking starting point and ending point to Pokhara
All governmental procedure permits fees and local taxes.
Accommodation during trekking period.
Medical kit

Excluded

Visa fees/ international airfare to and from Kathmandu.
Meal in Kathmandu and Pokhara (Lunch & Dinner)
Travel and Rescue insurance
Personal trekking equipments/ gears.
Personal expenses (Phone calls, Laundry, Bar bill, Extra porters cost, Dessert, Chocolates, Camera battery charges).
Tips for Guide Porter and other staff.
All others expenses not mentioned on price includes section.

Frequently asked questions

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered moderate to challenging. It involves high-altitude trekking, long daily walking hours (5–7 hours on average), and a strenuous ascent to Thorong La Pass (5,416m). However, it’s achievable for most reasonably fit individuals, especially with proper acclimatization and preparation.

The trek typically takes 16 to 22 days, depending on the route, pace, side trips (like Tilicho Lake), and acclimatization days. Some shorter or customized versions are also available, especially for those starting the trek closer to Manang.

The best seasons are:

Spring (March to May): Rhododendron blooms and clear skies
Autumn (September to November): Stable weather and excellent mountain views

Avoid the summer monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February), when trails can be muddy or snowbound.

As of 2023, a licensed trekking guide is mandatory for most trekking routes in Nepal, including the Annapurna Circuit. A guide enhances safety and enriches your cultural experience. Porters are optional but highly recommended if you’re not used to carrying a heavy backpack at high altitudes.

You need two permits: