Annapurna Circuit and ABC Trek

Duration: 21 Days
At a Glance
  • Duration 21 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End KTM/KTM
  • Group Size 1-12
  • Max. Altitude 5416

Highlights

  • Trek to two very famous trekking routes in the Annapurna region in one trip- Thorong Lass and ABC
  • Annapurna Circuit & Base Camp is a perfect itinerary for travelers looking to spend a long time in Nepal's mountains.
  • It is a very adventurous and challenging trek packed with diverse flora & fauna.
  • Explore the beautiful mountain villages and the lifestyle of the locals.
  • Trek through dense forests of rhododendron and pine, crossing multiple streams and hanging bridges
  • The Trail goes through meadows, gorges, moraines, and narrow alleys.
  • Cross the Thorong La pass and get a blessing in the Muktinath temple.
  • Walk by lovely apple orchards and white-washed houses.
  • Reach the Annapurna Base Camp
  • Enjoy natural hot springs in Tatopani and Jhinu Danda.
  • Witness surreal mountain landscapes throughout the trek.

Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek: 21 Days

The Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. You'll first do the Annapurna circuit and later proceed toward the Annapurna base camp (4,130 m).

It is the lap of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m). From here, we'll walk to Chame village. Spend nights in beautiful villages like Chame (2,675 m), Pisang (3,100 m), Manang (3,440 m), and Yak Kharka (4,050 m) before reaching Thorong Phedi (4,450 m). The Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp trek itinerary has an acclimatization day in Manang village.

We then gradually ascend to Thorong Phedi and continue the trek to Thorong La (5,416 m), Nepal's highest mountain pass. It's a long descent from the past to Muktinath (3,710 m). Further, we drive alongside the Kali Gandaki Gorge to Tatopani. A scenic drive will take us to Tatopani (1,190 m), and we'll begin the journey to Annapurna base camp.

In this part of the Trail, you will be exploring popular places like Ghorepani (2,860 m) and Poon Hill (3,210 m). The Trail drops to Tadapani (2,630 m) and goes to Kimrong Khola before ascending to Chomrong. Trek through dense forests that lead to the Himalayas and continue the walk to ABC via Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

You will then descend to Dovan (2,900 m) and Jhinu Danda (1,760 m). The trek ends at Nayapul, from where we drive to Pokhara. The next day, return to Kathmandu.

Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp trek is a challenging venture. This trek demands good fitness and previous trekking experience.

You will spend almost 20 days in the mountain walking about 6 – 8 hours daily. Therefore, mental fitness and endurance to cope with limited services are crucial.

The terrain is mountainous, and you will walk through subtropical forests to alpine forests. The upper part of the Trail includes vast meadows and steep, rocky paths. There will also be gorges and moraines on the way. While approaching the Annapurna base camp, you will also walk past several avalanche areas.

The Annapurna Circuit with the Annapurna Base Camp trek is undoubtedly demanding but doable with proper preparation and support. To book this once-in-a-lifetime venture, feel free to contact us anytime.

Altitude sickness

To avoid altitude sickness during the Annapurna Circuit and the Annapurna Base Camp trek, drink a lot of water—at least 3-4 liters a day. Do not smoke or drink alcohol.

Our itinerary is perfect, so you should not worry about that. Apart from keeping yourself hydrated, eat nutritious food and sleep well. Dal bhat is the best menu.

If you feel any discomfort or symptoms of altitude sickness, inform your guide and follow his instructions. These are the early signs of altitude sickness- insomnia, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, vomiting, nausea, headache, etc.

Spend nights in beautiful villages and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.

During the Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will spend nights in villages along the Trail. It is a teahouse trek, which the villagers operate.

The trek lets you interact with the locals closely and see their lifestyles. You will meet people from different communities, and each will surprise you with their culture and welcoming nature.

Adventurous Trail within the Annapurna Conservation Area

The Annapurna Circuit, including the Annapurna Base Camp trail, runs inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. Spread over 7629 sq. km, it is the largest conservation area in Nepal.

The rich biodiversity includes 105 mammals, 518 birds, 23 amphibians, 40 reptiles, and 1,226 species of flowering plants. You can expect encounters with birds and animals on the way. Likewise, you will come across a variety of vegetation and flowers.

Amazing acclimatization hikes

We have an acclimatization day in Manang village. The acclimatization hike takes you to an impressive icefall from the Annapurna mountain range.

You can also climb high above the village for a panoramic view of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley. To make our rest day more memorable, we may visit the Gangapurna Glacier Lake.

Cross Thorong La pass and explore the sacred Muktinath Temple.

One of the major highlights of the Annapurna Circuit with the Annapurna Base Camp trek is Thorong La Pass, the highest mountain pass in Nepal. Crossing this pass is challenging and requires professional support. As tough as climbing the top of the pass is, the landscape from the top is equally spectacular.

At 3,710 meters, Muktinath is a pilgrim site and sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is at the foot of Thorong La Pass. For Buddhists, the Muktinath temple is for Dakinis, the goddesses of Sky Dances. Many fascinating legends and myths circulate on this historical site, and you will learn about them during your visit.

Travel alongside the world's deepest gorge and pass by apple orchards.

From Muktinath onwards, you will enter the Kali Gandaki Gorge. It is the deepest gorge in the world and used to be the trade route between Tibet and India. Now, the Trail is shared by trekkers and locals to traverse Lower Mustang.

Likewise, on the way to Jomsom, where the Annapurna circuit trek will end, you'll walk through lovely apple and orange orchards. There are white-washed houses, narrow alleys, and stone paths. The landscapes comprise arid scenery with unique huge rocks.

Spend a night in Ghorepani village and hike to the Poon Hill viewpoint.

Ghorepani is a beautiful village of 2,860 m inhabited by Gurung and Magar. Rhododendron forests surround the town and offer a striking mountain panorama. Ghorepani is a famous village that all travelers love.

Likewise, Poon Hill is a known viewpoint in the lower Annapurna region. Usually, Ghorepani and Poon Hill offer a short trek to travelers bound by time and looking for a brief venture. The sunrise from Poon Hill is just out of this world. On the far horizon, you see the orange and reddish sky with snow-capped mountains.

Reach the base of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Annapurna.

Annapurna base camp is at 4,130 meters, on the lap of Mount Annapurna, the tenth-highest mountain in the world. Unlike Everest base camp, you can spend the night at ABC.

A handful of lodges let travelers spend nights and have meals. Reaching this point is a huge achievement that will last a lifetime. The view from the base camp is fantastic, surrounded by snowy cliffs and glaciers.

Witness stunning views of the western Himalayan Mountains and diverse landscapes.

Because you will be covering two incredible trekking routes on this journey known for sensational mountain panoramas, you can only imagine how gorgeous the scenery will be.

You will witness breathtaking views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Hiunchuli, Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Tharpu Chuli, and numerous others. Similarly, the diverse landscapes and many sunrises & sunsets will bless your eyes.

Itinerary

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Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, our representative will greet and escort you to your transportation.

You can see our representative holding a sign with your name around the terminal gate.

Once you reach the hotel, the representative will assist you with checking in and provide any information you may need about the hotel and the surrounding area. They will also be happy to answer any questions you may have.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

A full day of sightseeing in historical Kathmandu can be a very enriching experience.

One of the highlights of a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu is visiting the famous Durbar Square, home to several ancient palaces, temples, and shrines.

Other popular destinations are Swayambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

The drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule is a scenic journey through the mountains of Nepal.

The first part of the journey takes you out of the city and into the countryside, where you will pass through small villages and farmlands.

As you continue, the road becomes more winding, and you will begin to gain altitude.

The ride passes through many small towns, including Mugling and Dumre. Once you reach Beshishahar, we will drive further to Dharapani; today, it is a long drive.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1860

Leaving Dharapni, we walk through a narrow field alongside the Dudh Khola River. As we continue, we will see the Marsyangdi River veering off to the left and the Annapurna II coming into view.

We reach Bagarchhap, a small village with fluttering prayer flags.

From here, the Trail ascends via pine and oak forests. We pass by a settlement called Danaque (2,210 m).

The Trail then leads us over a small wooden bridge and up a steep uphill path to the village of Timing. Further, we keep trekking on a flat and level trail to Chame.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2670

The day begins with a fantastic view of Lamjung Himal in the glorious sunshine. As we climb up the valley, we will pass an apple orchard and continue through a forest of fir and pine trees. The path becomes rocky as we reach a high.

Further, the Trail gets very steep and continues to Bratang (2,950 m). We keep ascending towards a rock-strewn area and cross a wooden bridge. From here, it's a high, winding trail that crosses the right bank and passes by pine forests.

At the end of the forests, the valley changes to a U-shape and opens up a breathtaking landscape. We trek, following a long mani wall, to the lower village of Pisang.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3200

The Trail ascends along a steep ridge that offers a beautiful view of the Manang Valley and the Tilicho peak (7,145 m).

From here, the Trail descends and passes by the Manang airstrip at Humde (3,320 m). From there, we will come to a level area where the northeast face of Annapurna III rises above us.

We can see the Annapurna IV from the vast plains of the Sabje Khola valley (7,525 m).

We then cross a wooden bridge over the Marsyandi Khola River and reach Mungji. It is a short, steep climb from Mungji to Manang.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3540

Today, we'll take a break and spend the day in Manang village to rest and acclimatize to the high elevation before crossing the Thorong La pass. To acclimatize, we will go on short hikes to help us get used to the thin air.

We can hike to an impressive icefall from the Annapurna mountain range or climb high above the village for a panoramic view of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley.

We may also visit the Gangapurna Glacier Lake to make our rest day more memorable.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3540

Today, the Trail takes us on a gentle ascent up to the Yak Kharka, passing through the village of Gunsang (3,960 m). Along the way, we will enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

While the hike may seem short, the high altitude and thin air may tire us. We must take breaks and rest to acclimatize properly.

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

After breakfast, we begin trekking along a ridge, followed by a descent to the headwaters of the Marsyangdi River.

After crossing a river on a wooden bridge, we ascend and follow a narrow trail across an unstable scree slope. The Trail then descends towards Thorong Phedi.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4450

We start the day early to cross Thorong La pass on time. Leaving Thorong Phedi, we trek on a steep, well-defined local route. After four hours of walking, we reach the top of Thorong La pass, marked with prayer flags.

The views from the top of the pass are theatrical. We can see snow-covered mountains above and the head of the Kali Gandaki valley below. The brown and gray hills of Mustang also stretch out before us.

The descent to Muktinath involves a knee-pounding 1,600-meter drop, but excellent views of the Dhaulagiri mountain range compensate for it.

Soon, we'll begin walking on grassy slopes and along the Jhong Khola valley to Muktinath.

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

We'll visit the holy Muktinath temple early in the morning. After that, we'll Drive to Tatopani.

We'll take a jeep or bus ride from Tatopani. The ride will be a little bumpy but offer superb scenery.

Upon reaching Tatopani, we will freshen up and later visit the natural hot springs to take a bath.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1190

We begin our trek by walking through a flat area for some distance. The Trail climbs steeply for an hour via remote villages and terraced fields.

The Trail then goes through lush rhododendron forests and passes by villages like Phalate and Chitre before ascending to Ghorepani.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2800

Today, we will hike to Poon Hill in the morning to catch the sunrise view over the Himalayan mountain range.

We witness stretching 270-degree views of the western Himalayan Mountains, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Fishtail, Varaha Shikhar, Tukuche, Dhaulagiri, etc.

After enjoying the views, We hike to Ghorepani, where we will have a hot breakfast.

From there, we will continue our trek to Tadapani, passing through a rhododendron forest, which becomes colorful in the spring when the flowers bloom.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2600

We begin the day gently through dense forests filled with rhododendrons, oaks, and other types of trees. As we walk, we will hear the sounds of various birds chirping along the way to Kimrong Khola.

After reaching Kimrong Khola, the Trail ascends steeply before walking on a level path for 45 minutes.

We then walk on a gently steepened trail that becomes flat again as we go to Chomrong, the gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2170

The day begins with a descent on a stone staircase for the first one and a half hours. We will cross the Chhomrong Khola River on a suspension bridge and climb out of the side valley.

The Trail then passes through forests of Bamboo, rhododendron, and oak trees as it winds way high above the Modi Khola on the west bank.

We'll continue climbing on a rocky trail to reach Sinuwa. From there, we gradually walk through forests, descend steeply on stone staircases that lead to lush forests, and continue to Bamboo.

From Bamboo, trek to Dovan and ascend through bamboo forests to the Himalayas.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2920

We follow a steep uphill route to Hinko Cave (3,160 m). The Trail further widens and becomes less steep. We eventually enter the Annapurna Sanctuary and cross two avalanche sections to reach Bagar. It is a meadow with some abandoned houses.

From here, the Trail ascends to Machhapuchhre Base Camp, from where we get to see striking views of Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhare.

The path then continues through an alpine meadow, and after some distance, the Trail gently ascends again. After a short trek, we'll reach the Annapurna Base Camp.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude4130

Today, we will wake up early to relish the grandeur of the Himalayan peaks and glaciers from the Annapurna base camp.

After having a hot breakfast at the lodge, we will begin our trek back down, which is generally easier than going up. We will spend the night in Dovan.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2900

The path involves:

  • A descent to the Bamboo village.
  • Passing through forests with various types of rhododendrons and Oak Bamboo plants.
  • After Bamboo, the Trail steeply ascends for about an hour before becoming flat until Sinuwa.

The Trail then drops to Chhromrong Khola, and we climb a stone staircase for almost an hour to reach Chhomrong village.

From here, it is a steep descent to Jhinu Danda. After checking into our rooms, we will go to the hot spring to bathe in the natural hot water.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1780

Today, we will start our trek, with the first part being a descent. The Trail then becomes flat until we reach Birethanti, where we will stop for our last lunch in the mountains.

After another 30 minutes of walking, we reach Nayapul and then drive to Pokhara. Spend the evening enjoying the gorgeous sunset at Phewa Lake.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude830

We'll drive back to Kathmandu early in the morning. It will be an impressive ride back and present fantastic scenery. After around 6 to 7 hours of ride, we reach Kathmandu.

The remaining day is free to do some last-minute shopping and explore the city. We meet you in the designated hotel for a farewell dinner.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1345

On the trip's final day, we will transfer you to the Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Our team will help you with check-out and luggage.

  • MealsB

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Map & Altitude Graph

Annapurna Circuit and ABC Trek map

Inclusions

  • Airport transfers
  • Three nights' Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
  • All accommodations in lodges/tea houses during the trek
  • Meals during the trek with hot tea/coffee for breakfast
  • Conservation entry permits & TIMS permit
  • 1-night Accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
  • Ground transportation from Kathmandu – Dharapani, Muktinath to Tatopani and - Pokhara - Kathmandu by local Jeep/bus
  • Trained and experienced trekking guide and porter
  • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service (Paid by Travel insurance company)
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets, if necessary (need to be returned after the trek)
  • Seasonal fruits after dinner while on the trek
  • Trip completion certificate
  • T-shirt & trekking map
  • A farewell dinner
  • First Aid & oximeter
  • Official expenses and service charge

Exclusions

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • 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
  • Entrance fees on the second day
  • Tips for the guide and porters
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section

Add-Ons & Options

Upgrade Transport on Day 3

There are options to upgrade the transport to a private jeep instead of the local bus. A Jeep costs US $290.00, and six people can drive there.

Upgrade to flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

There are options to take a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu on Day 20 instead of a long bus journey, and the flight costs US $120.00 per person.

 

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