Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Region

Excellent

4/5
Duration

18

Max. Altitude

5416 m

Difficulty

Challenging

Best Season

Spring | Autumn

Transportation

Private Vehicle

Accommodation

Lodge During Trek

Starting Point

Kathmandu

Ending Point

Kathmandu

Overview

Overview of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular trekking destinations in the world. It is located in the Annapurna Conservation Area in the mid-western part of Nepal. This trek is a paradise for hikers, offering not only incredible Himalayan scenery but also diverse wildlife. Along the way, you may spot musk deer, leopards, jackals, and mountain Thar. In addition, birds like pheasants and long-tailed species are common. Furthermore, the trek offers stunning views of peaks like Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), Mt. Annapurna I (8091m), and Mt. Manaslu (8163m).


Unique Features of the Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is distinct due to its diverse landscapes and rich culture. Trekkers will experience the unique cultures of Brahmin, Chhetri, Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities. Moreover, the Annapurna Circuit is one of the world’s classic treks, following the Marsyangdi River in the east and the Kaligandaki River in the west. As you trek, you will be captivated by the ever-changing landscapes.


Thorong La Pass: A Key Highlight

One of the main highlights of the trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), which lies between the two river valleys. The Kaligandaki Gorge, in fact, is the world’s deepest, surrounded by the towering Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. As you trek further, the scenery changes dramatically, offering new landscapes, flora, and fauna along the way.


What to Expect: Trekking Details

The trek offers moderate challenges, but it is suitable for many trekkers. Typically, it lasts 16 to 22 days, depending on the chosen route. The best trekking seasons are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Additionally, accommodation is arranged in tea houses or lodges, and most groups start with a minimum of two people. Some of the trek’s highlights include Thorong La Pass, Jomsom, Muktinath, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Ghandruk, Dhampus, and Pokhara.


Starting and Ending Points

The trek begins in Besisahar, which is a 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu, and ends in Jomsom or Pokhara. Since its official opening in 1997, Good Taste Treks & Expedition Nepal has arranged numerous trips, ensuring that trekkers have a memorable experience. In addition, our experienced guides make sure your journey is safe and enjoyable.


Conclusion: A Journey of a Lifetime

In conclusion, the Annapurna Circuit Trek offers an extraordinary journey through the Himalayas. Not only will you experience a mix of adventure and culture, but also breathtaking landscapes. Therefore, it’s a perfect trek for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding adventure.

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.

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