Annapurna Circuit Trek

Duration: 16 Days5/5(2 reviews)
At a Glance
  • Duration 16 Days
  • Trip Grade Fairly Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End Kathmandu/Kathmandu
  • Group Size 1-12
  • Max. Altitude 5416m

Highlights

  • A very special Annapurna circuit trek itinerary that overlooks the recent road construction and follows a serene trail to Thorong La pass
  • Trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area, rich in biodiversity
  • Meet with people from different ethnic groups, including Gurung, Magar & Thakali
  • Adventurous trail and overnight stay in beautiful villages
  • Witness diverse landscapes and stunning mountain panorama throughout the trek
  • Admire lovely waterfalls, rushing rivers, and fluttering prayer flags along the route
  • Explore sky caves and ancient monasteries during acclimatization in Manang village
  • Walk through lush pastures and cross Thorong La pass
  • Get blessings in Muktinath temple, a famous pilgrimage site
  • Follow the trail via Kali Gandaki gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, and walk past stone houses, narrow alleys & apple orchards
  • Take a thrilling flight, enjoying aerial views of the snow-clustered mountains from Jomsom to Pokhara

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna circuit trek is the best long-distance trek in Nepal. This trek revolves around Mt. Annapurna, the tenth-highest mountain in the world. You will be traversing within the Annapurna Conservation Area (western Himalayas) & also touch some lower Mustang parts towards the end of the journey.

The cultural diversity, adventure, landscapes, and experience Annapurna circuit offers sets it apart from all the trekking routes in the Himalayas. To make the trek furthermore exciting, you can extend the trip to Tilicho Lake or remote Nar Phu valley.

We have the best Annapurna circuit trek itinerary that overlooks the recently constructed roads and joins the trail from Bhulbhule. The journey is not affected at all, and the trekkers get to enjoy a serene walk in nature. You will be walking past picturesque villages, dense rhododendron forests, meadows, and beautiful river valleys to a high mountain pass, Thorong La (5,416 m).

The route further drops down to Muktinath temple (3,800 m), a sacred pilgrimage site, and goes along the Kali Gandaki gorge to Jomsom (2,743 m). Kali Gandaki gorge is the deepest gorge in the world. On the way to Jomsom, the trail walks past lovely stone houses and narrow alleys of Kagbeni (2,804 m) as well as enchanting apple orchards.

And to make the ending grand, you end the Annapurna circuit trekking with an excellent flight from Jomson to Pokhara. In between the trek, we take a rest day in Manang village (3,519 m) and go on a side hike to explore Braga monastery & Parken Gompa or hike to Ice Lake (4,500 m). The Annapurna circuit trek is a very immersive venture that carries both adventure and cultural aspects.

Sometimes you will find yourself struggling to push forward on a steep, rugged path, whereas sometimes, you will find yourself at peace, unwinding and rejuvenating. This is the magical essence of the Annapurna circuit trail that takes you far away from your conventional life.

The interactions with locals, the snow-capped mountain views, the simple but delicious meals, and all the stories shared by our mountain guide will make Annapurna circuit trekking a lifetime voyage for you. Annapurna circuit trek is a true adventurous trek for travelers who dare to challenge themselves.

You can join us for the Annapurna circuit trekking 2023 and 2024 departure through our site. We have regular departures in the spring and autumn seasons. To trek in summer or winter, we kindly request you to get in touch with us.

Major attractions of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Explore the tenth-highest mountain in the world & the abundance of the Annapurna Conservation Area

The Annapurna circuit trail is in the Annapurna range area. Along the way, you will get to see the Annapurna mountains peeking through hills and forests now and then. Annapurna South and Annapurna IV will become your friend in the first few days. Gradually, other ranges also unfold themselves as the trail opens up.

The Annapurna circuit trek is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is a protected area. The trekking route is very rich in flora and fauna. You will walk past rhododendron, bamboo, oak, pine, fir, etc forests. There are high chances of encounters with animals and birds along the way.

Follow an adventurous trekking route

The Annapurna circuit trail is very adventurous, full of ups & downs via lush forests, narrow trails, meadows, and gorges. You will cross thrilling suspension bridges, walk along rushing rivers, and come across beautiful waterfalls. Many steep and sloppy sections dare you to push yourself. You will overcome a lot of challenges while enjoying nature and its tranquility.

Beautiful villages, warm hospitality & humble locals

The trail goes through many fine villages resided by different ethnic groups. You get to meet Brahmins, Newars, and Chhetris in the lower belt. The upper trail has people of the Magar, Gurung, and Thakali communities. The unique social ecosystem, norms & beliefs of the locals enchant the journey. You get to learn a lot about them if not see their simple mountain lifestyle.

The locals are very friendly and welcoming. The night stops are in these villages Bhulbhule, Chamje, Dharapani, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, Muktinath, and Jomsom. You get to enjoy the warm hospitality of the natives while spending nights in these villages.

Go on an exciting side hike during acclimatization in Manang village

We have added an acclimatization day in Manang village during the Annapurna circuit trekking. Acclimatization is for rest as well as adjusting to the elevation. To do so, we go on a hike. We have two options- the first one that trekkers usually do is a hike to Braga monastery or Praken Gompa. Or, you can do a little tough hike to Ice Lake at 4,500 m.

Witness diverse landscapes and stunning mountain panorama throughout the trek

The sceneries and mountain views during the Annapurna circuit trek for 16 days are phenomenal. There will not be one day in the mountains without a beautiful landscape. And not only that, you get to witness diverse landscapes ranging from verdant hills and rushing rivers to trans-Himalayan landscapes, rocky hills & gorges.

Himalayan mountains like Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), Tukuche (6,920 m), Pisang Peak (3,250 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Hiuchuli (6,441 m), Fishtail (6,993 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), etc, are seen along the trekking route.

Walk through lush pastures and cross Thorong La pass

The upper part of the trail has huge pastures when you begin to approach Yak Kharka. You can see yaks and other mules grazing or basking in the sun. The trail then follows a steep, rocky path and ascends to Thorong La, Nepal's highest mountain pass. Crossing the pass asks for the guidance of a professional trekker who can navigate through the slippery slopes.

Get blessings in Muktinath temple, a famous pilgrimage site

Muktinath temple, at 3,800 meters, is one of the significant pilgrimage sites in Nepal. It is also the usual resting point after crossing Thorong La. The site holds importance for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple dates back to the 7th century and is one of the 108 Siddhpeeth.

Walk along the deepest gorge in the world & pass by stone houses

Once you leave Muktinath behind, after a few hours of walking, you will pass by the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki. Not many people talk about it though. It is an ancient trade route between Tibet, Nepal, and India. The trail then passes by narrow alleys and beautiful stone houses of Kagbeni on the way to Jomsom.

Itinerary

This is 16 days Itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Annapurna is a huge region with multiple options and side trips. The offered 16-day itinerary is with your arrival and departure days to and from Nepal, a day tour in Kathmandu, and take a return flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.

The given is the standard itinerary that we offer you, However, the program is customizable as per your needs and requirements. We also have a longer itinerary that includes trekking to Pokhara through Ghorepani-Poon hill, which we have named the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek and we also have the shorter version of the Annapurna Circuit, and another with a side trip to Tilicho Lake. So, let us know if the given itinerary is not suitable for you and looking for a shorter or longer program as we at Outfitter Himalaya are always in your service to offer you the trip you desire.

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Our airport team will help you with hotel transfers on your arrival day. You can see them at the terminal gate holding your name card. Enjoy the remaining day relaxing and unpacking. In the late evening, meet with other team members and explore Thamel.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

After a big breakfast, visit different tourist sites with a guide. We spend the morning exploring the monuments like Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. The remaining day is spent packing for the trek and meeting with the mountain guide.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

We leave Kathmandu early in the morning and drive along the Trishuli & Marshyangdi rivers to Bhulbhule. We will take a short break in Besisahar for lunch and continue driving, enjoying views of Manaslu, Peak 29, Lamjung Himal, etc.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude845

The trail passes by Musi Khola hydropower and ascends to Bhaundanda. From here, we descend to Syange and follow an uphill trail to Jagat. Further, trekking through lush forests, waterfalls, and streams, we reach Chamje to spend the night.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1430

We ascend for two hours and reach Tal (1,700 m). The views of snow-capped mountains are excellent from this point. The trail then continues to Dharapani village, following stone staircases and wide valleys.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1960

Today is a long trekking day, so gear up and get ready for the day early in the morning. We will be trekking through beautiful villages. The trail passes by subtropical forests. On the way, we can see unique rock formations and a great mountain panorama. After around two hours of walking, we will reach Timang and walk by the Marshyangdi river valley. Then comes Koto village at 2,600 meters, and we finally reach Chame.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2675

This part of the trail is very beautiful. We walk past huge apple orchards and come across Paungda Danda, a giant rock rising 1,500 meters from a river. From here, we walk past prayer wheels and dense pine forests. After four hours of walking alongside verdant hills, we reach lower Pisang.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3100

We use the upper trail via Ghyaru today. It is a very scenic route. You can sense the influence of Tibetan Buddhism on this part of the trail and onwards. Walking past lush forests and mani walls, we reach Ngawal. From here, ascend and cross a forest to Braga. Then walk up to lovely Manang village.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3440

Today, spend an acclimatization day in Manang village. The rest day is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. We will hike to Praken Gompa or go on a challenging walk to Ice Lake, located at 4,500 m. After the hike, we will spend the remaining day in Manang village. Manang village has a lot to offer, like coffee shops, museums, theater, etc. So, we will have a great time here.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3440

Walking past alpine grasses and junipers, we ascend through remote mountain villages to the meadows where we can see yaks & horses grazing. Leaving Manang village, first, we reach Gunsang after two hours of walking. We can see snowy mountains on the way. Trekking through firs and junipers, we gradually ascend to Yak Kharka to spend the night.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4050

We have a short day today. The trail ascends to Ledar and passes by Deurali Tea house. On the way, we will pass by Jarang Khola. From here, we walk on a rugged route to Thorong Phedi. The region opens up, and the scenery becomes wider. We will take a good night's sleep today and get ready to cross the pass the next day at dawn.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4420

We will wake up very early in the morning today. Leaving Thorong Phedi, we walk up to the high camp. The trail then passes by a transit point at Thorong La. Upon reaching the top of the pass, we can see prayer flags and breathtaking mountain views. The trail then gradually descends to Muktinath.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude5416

Leaving Muktinath behind, we walk along the Kali Gandaki gorge and traverse to Kagbeni village. The trail is a little dusty, and the views are barren & rocky. We will walk past beautiful villages with white-washed and stone houses. The trail further goes to Jomsom village, where we will be spending the night.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2720

Early in the morning, we will fly to Pokhara. The flight offers stunning mountain views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Our team will escort you to the hotel. You have a full day of leisure in Pohara. Explore this beautiful lake city and rest. We highly recommend catching the sunset at Phewa Lake and boating if you are not afraid.

  • MealsB, L
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude830

We leave for Kathmandu in the morning today. The drive will be comfortable and scenic. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we'll drop you at the hotel and let you enjoy the rest of the day as you wish. In the late evening, we meet for a farewell dinner with the team.

  • MealsB
  • Accommodation1345
  • Max. AltitudeHotel

Today, you leave for your home country. Our airport team will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport and bid you our final goodbye.

  • MealsB

Is the offered itinerary not suitable for you?

Looking for a customized itinerary? Reach out to our experts.

Map & Altitude Graph

Annapurna Circuit Trek map

Inclusions

  • Airport transfers
  • 3 night Accommodation in Kathmandu including breakfast
  • A day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
  • 1 night Accommodation in Pokhara including breakfast.
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) on trek as per the itinerary
  • Accommodations in lodges on trek
  • A guide & porters (1 porter for each 2 trekkers and a porter carry about 20-22 KG from 2 of you)
  • Paper works, National park entry permits & TIMS permit
  • Ground transportation Kathmandu to Bhulbhule and from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist/local bus
  • Flight fare from Jomsom to Pokhara
  • Arrangement of emergency Helicopter service ( paid bytravel insurance company)
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets and duffel bag – if Necessary (return after the trek)

Exclusions

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals (lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara)
  • Your personal expenses, drink water, hot and cold drinks & bar bills
  • Laundry, telephone, hot shower & internet charge
  • Entrances Fees while visiting Kathmandu on second day
  • Tips for the guide and porters
  • Anything not mentioned in included section

Add-Ons & Options

Single Traveller Supplement

For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement cost of US $200.00 applies.

Note: When booking your accommodation for this trip, please note that while we guarantee a single room for you in the city of Kathmandu, there may be limited availability of mountain lodges and you may need to share a room with a fellow trekker of the same gender during certain parts of the trek. We will do our best to ensure your comfort and privacy throughout your journey.

Trip Departures

Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
Start DateStarts: WednesdayJun 21, 2023End DateEnds: ThursdayJul 06, 2023PricePrice Per PersonUS$1150StatusAvailable

Are the above-offered dates not suitable for you? Check Availability to Book on your own Date!

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Essential Info

Annapurna circuit trek difficulty

It is a challenging trek because you cross a high mountain pass. The Thorong La pass is one of the main highlights of Annapurna circuit trekking. Standing at 5,416 meters, Thorong La is the highest pass in Nepal and is equally arduous. The route to the top of the pass is not technically demanding but requires professional guidance & support.

Likewise, you will spend a long time in the mountains, almost 11 days. Even though the accommodation and meal facilities are decent on the Annapurna circuit trek route, it is still the bare minimum. You have to adjust to a simple lifestyle, which is drastically different from what people in cities are used to.

The daily long walk on mountainous terrain, never-ending staircases, and frequently trodden sections asks for fit bodies. You must have sound health, body, and mind to enjoy the Annapurna circuit trekking regardless of all the hurdles. As the trek progresses, the region starts to get more & more remote, limiting the available services.

Altitude sickness

The elevation rise drops the oxygen level to some extent and makes the trek furthermore challenging. You will get exposed to altitude sickness, which is also known as acute mountain sickness. While trekking, we take all the measures and ample acclimatization period.

In odd cases, some trekkers still get symptoms of altitude sickness. In such a situation, the mountain guide will give you first aid and take other necessary actions.

You might be wondering, how safe is it to trek to the Annapurna circuit? Well, the answer is quite simple and obvious, you can join the Annapurna circuit trek without any worries.

All you have to do is be aware of the underlying risks and avoid any activity that may trigger them. Our expert team will take care of you in the mountains.

Annapurna Circuit Trek preparation

The Annapurna circuit trek preparation should involve you building your walking habit, stamina, core strength, and endurance. You can achieve all these things by doing cardio, weight training, and regular long walking sessions (if possible with a backpack up to 5 kg weight).

Do activities such as cycling, hiking, swimming, jogging, etc. Similarly, you can train in the gym and follow a routine to help you get ready for the trek. Do not forget to visit your doctor and pack trekking gear following our packing list.

Optional treks & tours in Nepal

Let's begin with our top sellers- the Everest base camp trek, Annapurna base camp trek, Poon hill trek, Gokyo Renjo La trek, Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, and Upper Mustang trek.

We have luxury tours and Everest base camp helicopters with landing packages too at the best price. Travelers also love to do yoga treks these days.

At last, you can check out our tour in Nepal packages here.

FAQs

  • Q1. Do I need an insurance policy for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

    Yes, you need travel insurance while coming for the Annapurna circuit trek, and there is always some risk while doing the high mountain trek in case of any sickness or injury, we do everything to transfer you to the nearest hospital.

    You will be entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in the evacuation/rescue. So, please make sure that these expenses are covered by your travel insurance.

  • Yes, you can join one of our fixed departure Annapurna circuit trek. Our group trek is a group of light-minded people, and the fixed departure dates are open to join. The group will be from 1-14 people. You may have to share a room on the trekking lodge with same-gender trekkers in the group trek.

    If you are a single trekker, then you are welcome to join our Annapurna circuit group trek and ask us if you need any further info to join our group trek.

  • Yes, it is possible to add Tilicho Lake to our Annapurna circuit trek, which needs another three days on the itinerary. If you want to add the Tilicho lake, we have another itienrary that inlcude trek to the Tilicho Lake.

  • Yes, we have included the trek from Bhulbhule to Jomsom and fly/drive out from jomsom. However, if you want to extend the trekking to the Annapurna base camp, then we can extend it to the base camp, we have another itinerary that inlcude Annapurna Circuit & Base Camp.

Client Reviews

  • 5/5

    Best Annapurna circuit short Trek with Outfitter Himalaya

    We Had a wonderful trek with Outfitter Himalaya on the Annapurna Circuit Trek route. We had good lodges, good food, and a knowledgeable guide.

    The guide was able to accommodate changes to the itinerary on the spot when we wanted to return to civilization (Pokhara) earlier. When we asked for their recommendations for side trips, they helped schedule my paragliding in Pokhara, highly recommended.
     

    A
    AmandaFrom: Singapore,May 01, 2022
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    Dear Amanda,

    Thank you for your good review about the Annapurna circuit trek with us and our team. Good to know that you are happy with the guide and all the services provided.

    We wish you all the best and wish to serve you again. Have a good day.

    Arjun
    Outfitter Himalaya Holidays P. Ltd

  • 5/5

    The best company for the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal

    I choose the Outfitter Himalaya team to organize my trekking in the Annapurna Circuit and Bhutan Tour. They are committed to all that I need and spared no effort to make you fully satisfied with all B & B, food, and above all safety and well-being of the group.

    I strongly recommend them.
     

    J
    JohnFrom: Australia,Apr 12, 2022
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    Dear John,

    Thank you for joining us for your adventure Annapurna circuit trek in Nepal and thank you for a great review about the trekking. Good to know that you are happy with the guide and all the services provided in the trekking.

    We wish you all the best and wish to serve you again.

    Have a good day.

    Arjun
    Outfitter Himalaya Holidays P. Ltd

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