Our specially designed Annapurna Circuit Trek package will take you to the awe-inspiring Himalayas. A legendary adventure, this trail runs across a wide variety of terrain, from subtropical forests to high-altitude arid deserts, with unmatched panoramas of some of the most significant peaks, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
Discover the diversified culture of Nepal as you walk through the traditional villages, experience the Nepalese hospitality, and visit the Old monasteries.
This trek has it all: difficult paths, exciting Thorong La Pass (5,416m), and peaceful time by glacial rivers to create an unforgettable experience for nature and excitement lovers. Leave the logistics to us, and you can concentrate on making lifetime memories.
The highlight of Annapurna Circuit Trek is crossing Thorong La Pass, which is one of the highest trekking passes worldwide. It is a challenging but very spectacular pass, where one can enjoy the panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It is the real endurance test and the adventure seekers’ paradise in the Himalayas.
Annapurna Circuit Trek is also known to have diverse scenery that keeps on changing as the environment ranges from lush subtropical forests to dry high-altitude deserts. At every turn of the road, there is another natural wonder, such as the cascading waterfalls, the terraced fields, and the rough mountainous terrain. Such variety renders the trek a visual delight and a heaven to photographers.
The trek provides an unmatched sight of some of the most famous mountains in the world, such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre. These mountains form a spectacular background along the trek and trekkers are amazed at their beauty. The views of the sunrise and sunset over these peaks are something that you will remember all your life.
Explore deep into the cultural heritage of Nepal and walk through charming Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced villages. Feel the kindness of the locals, eat the real Himalayan food, and get to know their unique traditions. The cultural diversity along the Annapurna Circuit Trek adds depth to this incredible adventure.
Muktinath Temple remains a holy pilgrim site for Buddhists and Hindus, lying amidst the Himalayan peaks. Pilgrims and tourists make the trek to this holy sanctuary to receive blessings and marvel at the peace here. Since the temple lies surrounded by white peaks, the atmosphere of the place is simply otherworldly.
Hike the world’s deepest canyon, Kali Gandaki, flanked on either side by the imposing ranges of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Not only a physical wonder but a serene refuge in the heart of the Himalayas. The river that flows through the canyon offers a meditative rhythm to your trek.
Recharge your mind and body in the hot springs of Tatopani, the favourite halt of trekkers. The hot water will relax the fatigue in your muscles after days of trekking. The hot springs surrounded by the greenery create a therapeutic experience with a calming environment.
The idyllic Manang Valley is a cultural and natural highlight of the Annapurna Circuit trek. Its stunning scenery, ancient monasteries, and traditional stone homes make it a valley that appears frozen in time. The valley is also a great acclimatization stop, and the rest of the trek will be successful and safe because of it.
The world’s highest-altitude lake, Tilicho Lake, is another main attraction of the Annapurna Circuit trek, which provides an extra dose of adventure. The trek to the lake offers beautiful views of the surrounding highlands and an atmosphere of unreached peace. The lake with the crystal-clear turquoise water remains a hidden gem of the Annapurna Himalayan range.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek starts in Nepal’s capital city of Kathmandu. You will drive to Besisahar and then to Tal, where the journey begins. As the trek advances, the route passes through beautiful villages like Dharapani, Chame, and Pisang.
The terrain gets rougher as you go higher, and you’ll arrive at Manang, a beautiful settlement where you’ll need a day to get used to the high altitude. The journey continues to Thorong Phedi and Yak Kharka, leading to the challenging Thorong La Mountain Pass at an amazing elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).
You will descend to the holy town of Muktinath, which is renowned for its historic Buddhist and Hindu temple after conquering the past. Hereafter, the journey leads you to Tatopani on a drive. The place is popular for its pristine hot springs, where you can recover your tired muscles.
Moving further, you come across a charming village, Ghorepani, followed by an early morning hike to Poon Hill. The mesmerizing sunrise view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Poon Hill lets you experience the heavenly charm of the Himalayas.
Eventually, you will drive back to Pokhara, a stunning lakeside city, after descending to Nayapul, and then you will return to Kathmandu.
Duration: All the participants who want to participate in this Annapurna Circuit trek must have 15 days. However, if you have a short vacation, you will have the option to choose to shorten the trek.
Physical Fitness: Trekkers must have a high level of physical fitness. Determined beginner trekkers can also join this Annapurna circuit trek with proper preparation. This trek is not for the first time. For the first-time trekker, you can choose the Annapurna base camp or the Mardi Himal Trek.
Health Condition: Trekkers must be in good health and have no severe health conditions such as respiratory, heart, lungs, etc. Also, you should not have a history of Altitude sickness(AMS).
Age Requirements: There are no age restrictions, but this trek is best for ages 18- 70.
Daily Walking Hours: Trekkers should be prepared to walk 6-7 hours daily, with longer days during the Thorong La Pass crossing.
Passport: Foreign trekkers must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity.
Health and Travel Insurance: Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, including emergency evacuation, is a must.
Season | Weather Conditions | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
Spring (Mar-May) | Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and mild weather. Occasional rain at lower altitudes. | 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) | -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) |
Summer/Monsoon (Jun-Aug) | Warm and humid with frequent rain, especially at lower altitudes. Trails may be muddy. | 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) | 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) |
Autumn (Sep-Nov) | Stable weather, clear skies, and the best mountain views. Ideal trekking season. | 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) | -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) |
Winter (Dec-Feb) | Cold and dry with snow at higher altitudes. Thorong La Pass may be challenging to cross. | 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) | -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F) |
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular and best hiking destinations in the world. To experience this Annapurna trek in a comfortable and safe way, it is important to choose the best time. Let’s break it down.
If you’re looking for the perfect time, autumn is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit trek. Here is the reason why:
Note: This is also peak season, so that that trails can be busy. Still, it’s the best time for an Annapurna Circuit group trek or a guided Annapurna hike tour.
Spring is the second-best time to hike the Annapurna Circuit trail, and here is the reason why:
Note: Spring is perfect for those looking to enjoy nature as well as the mountains. Early March is not so busy. From April, you can expect crowds in Annapurna trekking trails.
At high altitudes around the Annapurna, there will be heavy snow and cold weather. Crossing Thorong La Pass can be difficult or even closed. Let’s see what you can expect in winter:
Note: If you are a pro trekker, then only travel during winter by taking precautions, but if you are a beginner trekker, you can choose a short Annapurna trek like the Annapurna base circuit.
Monsoon is not a good time for trekking the Annapurna Circuit trail. Annapurna region gets heavy rain, and trails can be muddy and dangerous. Landslides are common, and mountain views are often hidden behind clouds. Let’s see what to expect on this season:
Note: Some areas in the rain shadow (like Upper Mustang) may still be okay, but it’s not the best time for a full Annapurna Circuit tour.
Whether you’re planning on a guided trek or a self-guided trek, permits are required to enter and trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area. Here is what you will need for this Annapurna Circuit trek:
Permit Type | Cost (NPR) | Required For | Where to Get | Documents Needed |
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) | – 1,000 (With Guide) – 2,000 (Solo Trekker) | All foreign trekkers | Kathmandu (TAAN or NTB) Pokhara (NTB) | – Passport – 2 passport-sized photos – Cash (NPR) |
ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) | 3,000 | Entry to Annapurna Conservation Area | Kathmandu (NTB) Pokhara (NTB) | – Passport – 2 passport-sized photos – Cash (NPR) |
Note: Keep your permits with you at all times – there are checkpoints along the Annapurna trail. When you book the Annapurna Circuit trek package with High Route Adventure, we will handle all these permits for you.
Number of People | Price Per Person (USD) |
---|---|
1 | $1195 |
2–6 | $915 |
7–12 | $855 |
Our representative will give you a warm greeting when you arrive at the airport in Kathmandu and help you with the transfer to the hotel that you have reserved.
We will have a pre-trip meeting at our office in the afternoon, where you can meet your trekking guide and discuss any questions or concerns you may have.
Remember to include a copy of your travel insurance policy, two passport-sized pictures, your passport, and the required travel insurance and disclaimers. We'll make sure you're ready for the great journey ahead during this meeting.
We leave Kathmandu after a filling breakfast and take a beautiful drive to Beshisahar, where our trekking journey begins. We go beside the banks of the Marsyangdi and Trisuli Rivers, which provide us with amazing vistas of rural communities, verdant mountains, and much more.
The excitement of the journey is increased by the 6-hour journey down the rough Marshyangdi River road. After arriving in Beshisahar, the district headquarters of Lamjung District, we get ready for the exciting trekking days that lie ahead.
Our trekking adventure starts as we drive from Besisahar to the little settlement of Tal. Along the popular walking path, we pass through charming villages and securely cross deep valleys and rivers on well-built suspension bridges.
Our journey leads us to Kodo, one of the biggest villages in the Manang Valley, by fields of barley, rice, and potatoes. We eventually arrive at Dharapani after across yet another suspension bridge and climbing a small stone staircase. Our first trekking section ends at Dharapani.
You will be trekking through the woods today, following a dirt-laden path that will take you to the village of Timang. From here, the views of the Annapurna and the Manaslu ranges are quite mesmerizing. Further from Timang lies the settlement of Thanchowk, connected via a relatively flat trekking trail. You can also see many chortens with prayer flags along the cobbled streets. From Thanchowk, you will then trek ahead towards Chame. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Chame.
Views of the Lamjung Himal's north face from Chame are quite amazing, especially early in the morning. From Chame, you will follow the trail once again, passing under a Gumba-gate towards juniper hamlets that will eventually clear out towards streams. The environment is quite serene and the company of the mountain peaks makes the trip extremely charming. Along the way to Pisang, you will also come across an enormous 5,000 sculpted rock bowl. It goes by the name of Paungda Danda. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Pisang.
From Pisang, the trail climbs sharply as you pass by the Dhikur Pokhari. The trail then relatively flattens out from there, and you will head due west where the valley opens up to a wide canyon. Along the way, you will come across the small settlement of Humde. Further ahead lays a beautiful monastery where you can enjoy a silent afternoon, taking in the Himalayan breeze that flutter the prayer fags gorgeously. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Manang.
Manang is one of the biggest villages in the valley. It has bakeries and espresso cafes laden snugly with traditional houses and Mani stone walls with Gumbas as well as chortens adorned with prayer flags. Views of the Annapurna peaks, as well as sights of the Gangapurna Himal are extremely delightful from here. For the day, you can also choose to have a short trip to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Manang.
Walking on a new part of the village, you will first make your way to Tengi. Here, you can find beautiful stone houses with flat roofs. Squeezing through tight alleyways, you will leave the village behind and wander uphill through the grasslands towards Gunsang, with an altitude gain of over 300 meters. The trek to Yak Kharka from Gunsang is relatively easy, albeit longer. Passing by the pastures, you will reach Yak Kharka. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Yak Kharka.
The trail is often extremely quite as you make your way from Yak Kharka to today's destination. Trekking through relatively flat fields, you will pass by many horses that are used for caravans by the village people. The first portion of the trail is easy, a gradual uphill climb with amazing views of the peaks. Eventually, you will arrive at Churi Ledar. Finally, you will reach the Thorong Phedi. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
You will wake up early in the morning to make your way uphill to reach the top of Thorong La Pass (5416m). It is a gradual climb that is difficult and rock-strewn, so you have to be steady and careful. After the arduous trek uphill, you will reach the top of the pass from where vast views of the valley, snowy fields surrounding the foothills and the sight of the mountain peaks are spectacular. After spending time at the top taking in the views, you will then steadily make your way down towards Muktinath. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Muktinath.
Early in the morning, we'll visit the Muktinath Temple. We will go to Tatopani by local bus after our spiritual experience at Muktinath Temple. The drive will take us past some of the deepest gorges on earth. The dry highlands will transform into lush forests as we travel through them.
When we arrive at Tatopani, which is popular for its natural hot springs, we'll get to enjoy a dip in the calming waters. The hot springs are well known for their ability to treat skin conditions. It's the ideal location to relax and revive ourselves after our tough hike over the Thorong La pass.
From Tatopani, you will be trekking on a much verdant terrain towards one of the famous villages of the region- Ghorepani. This pathway is also one of the last trails of the Annapurna Circuit. You will pass by Ghar Khola and slowly ascent towards Ghorepani, going through smaller settlements along the way, like Chhitre village. Finally, you will reach Ghorepani, from where breath-taking views of the Annapurna peaks greet your sight. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Ghorepani.
From Ghorepani, you will make your way to the vantage point of Poon Hill early in the morning to witness the amazing sunrise view amidst the panoramic display of Annapurna peaks. It is a fantastic phenomenon and quite mesmerizing. After enjoying the sights at Poon Hill, you will then make your way to Nayapul, from where you will have a drive to Pokhara. Overnight stay at the Hotel at Pokhara.
You will bid the Annapurna Mountains goodbye for the last time today and have a drive back to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway that winds quite beautifully along the countryside. Upon arriving back at the city, you will be dropped off at the Hotel. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Kathmandu.
Approximately three hours before your scheduled flight, you will be dropped off at the airport for your departure.
If you are interested in making your Annapurna Circuit trek more adventurous you will have the option to make a side trip. Here are some options in the Annapurna region that you can add to your Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary:
Annapurna Circuit trek is listed as moderate to challenging in difficulty rating. The primary difficulty factors are altitude, long duration, unpredictable weather conditions, basic facilities at high altitude and demands of good physical stamina. Lets see in detail about these factors so that it will help you to prepare before undertaking the trek.
On this Annapurna Circuit trek, it will take you to the maximum altitude of 5,416m at Thorong La Pass. At such altitudes, the air is thinner and low level of oxygen the risk of altitude sickness increases. The effect of altitude sickness causes headaches, nausea, and fatigue which can trouble trekkers.
Pro Tip: Follow the itinerary, which has a rest day in places like Manang so that your body can adjust to high altitude. Proper acclimatization helps to reduce altitude sickness problems.
The standard Annapurna circuit trek usually takes 14-16 days, and you need to cover around 230 km(depending on the route and transportation options). Due to the long duration, this trek demands a good level of stamina and mental strength from trekkers.
Pro Tip: Build endurance and mental strength before attempting the trek.
Another reason that trekkers find the Annapurna Circuit trek difficult is due to the long hours of walking, 6-7 hours, some days even longer. Those who are not used to walking for such a prolonged duration of walking can be together more than they might think.
Pro Tip: During the pre-training programme, build a strong leg core and practise hiking or walking using a backpack.
Annapurna trails consist of mixed terrain, such as rocky paths, steep ascents, descents, and narrow trails. Some sections, like the Thorong La Pass, can be covered in snow, making the trek more challenging.
Pro Tip: Trekkers need to be cautious and wear proper trekking boots for stability and grip.
The weather in the Annapurna region changes according to the season. But sometimes, unexpected changes in the weather conditions around the Annapurna trek can add difficulty for trekkers. Unexpected weather conditions mean sudden rainfall, strong wind or change in the temperature conditions, especially at high altitudes.
Pro Tip: Always check weather conditions before heading at high altitude and carry all weather conditions clothes and gear items.
To participate in this intrepid Annapurna Circuit trek, trekkers should have a good level of physical fitness to complete the trek comfortably. If you are not physically prepared, then it won't be easy to handle the long duration of the walk. When you have pain from walking, you will be mentally weak as well.
Pro Tip: Beginner trekkers should prepare with regular cardio, strength training, and endurance exercises before the trek at least 3-4 months in advance.
Annapurna Circuit trekking trail is well established, like Everest base camp, and there are enough tea houses/mountain lodges. But during the trek at high altitude you cannot expect modern facilities such as an advanced hospital, proper mobile network and transportation.
Pro Tip: Trekking in remote and rural areas is an adventure, and it is the beauty of the Himalayan trek. So prepare for a basic lifestyle during the Annapurna circuit trek.
No matter if you are a beginner trekker or an experienced trekker it is essential to plan a trek. Here are some of the crucial tips that will help you to prepare for your Annapurna Circuit trek.
The best part of the Annapurna circuit trek is you will find enough tea houses on the trekking trails with excellent hospitality. Tea House will serve you a variety of meals, which are often traditional Nepali dishes and a few international dishes. This meal will keep you active and provide the energy that is needed for trekking.
Let’s see what you can expect when it comes to food on the Annapurna Circuit:
Category | Items |
Breakfast (B) | Tibetan bread, pancakes, porridge, eggs, chapati, muesli, toast with jam or honey, boiled potatoes |
Lunch (L) | Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, curry), fried noodles, momo (dumplings), fried rice, vegetable curry, chow mein |
Dinner (D) | Dal Bhat, pizza, pasta, soup, noodles, thukpa (noodle soup), garlic soup, spring rolls, mashed potatoes |
Drinks | Tea (milk, black, ginger, lemon), coffee, hot chocolate, fresh juice, soft drinks, fresh lime soda, lassi, local raksi, hot lemon, warm water |
Note: High Route Adventure will arrange a three-meal meal when you book the Annapurna trek with us. If you have any dietary considerations, then you can tell us while booking the package.
All trekkers who are on Annapurna circuit trek stay in a tea house which provides a room with simple amenities, food, and a warm place to rest. These teahouses are found all along the Annapurna trekking route, from low valleys to high mountain passes like Thorong La Pass.
You can also find:
Don't expect luxury on the Annapurna Circuit trek, but most tea houses provide what you need after a long day's Annapurna walk:
Accommodation in the Annapurna Circuit is quite affordable compared to Nepal's most iconic destination, the Everest base camp trek. Here's a rough breakdown of the Annapurna circuit cost for rooms:
Altitude Range | Cost Per Night (NPR) | Facilities |
Low Altitude (up to 2,500m) | NPR 800–1,200 | Attached bathroom, Wi-Fi, hot shower optional |
Mid Altitude (2,500m–3,500m) | NPR 1,000–1,500 | Shared toilet, sometimes hot shower |
High Altitude (above 3,500m) | NPR 1,000–1,500 | Very basic, no heating, cold shared toilet |
Note: When you book the Annapurna Circuit trek package with us we will arrange the room for you and the cost of the room will also be included in the Annapurna Trek package. A simple basic room will be arranged, and if you want to upgrade your accommodation by adding luxury service, you need to make an extra payment.
To cross the high-altitude Annapurna Thorong La Pass, you need to walk over the 5,000m altitude. Walking at such high altitudes, some trekkers can develop early symptoms of altitude sickness, such as Headache, dizziness, vomiting, and tiredness. So, trekkers need to be very careful at high altitudes and monitor their health conditions to avoid risk.
If you neglect the early symptoms of altitude sickness(AMS), it can turn into HAPE and HACE, which are advanced forms of AMS. This advanced form of AMS is highly fatal and can even take your life. So, if you find out that you catch altitude sickness symptoms, you need to follow this guideline:
High route adventure will arrange all the ground transportation as per mentioned in the Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary. Private jeep will be arranged to reach you to the starting point of the Annapurna circuit trek which is Besisahar. And once you complete the Annapurna trek in Nayapul you will take a private ride to reach Pokhara. Then, from Pokhara, you will take a tourist bus to reach Kathmandu.
Note: Trekkers who want to use the flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu need to add flight cost as it will not be included in the Annapurna Circuit trekking package. On average, the Pokhara to Kathmandu flight will cost you USD 110.
We have been operating the Annapurna circuit trekking for an extended period, and when you choose us, here are the things that we will provide to you along with service.
Free Guide: High Route Adventure will provide you free guide service for this Guided Annapurna Circuit trek. Our government-certified guide is highly experienced and specialized in the Annapurna trekking route. They know how to handle emergencies, navigate safely, provide detailed information, share detailed cultural and mountain information and support your daily trek with care and professionalism.
Porter: Along with a guide, we will also provide you free porter service for this Annapurna Circuit trek. Our trusted and reliable porter will carry your heavy language to make your journey more comfortable. 1 porter for every 2 trekkers, and they carry a maximum weight of 20kg.
Hot Shower: You can get the hot shower facilities during the Annapurna Circuit trek. Teahouses provide regular hot water through gas-heated or solar-heated showers. But at high altitudes, they will provide you with hot bucket water for bathing. Small extra charges(USD 1-3) may apply depending on the location.
Wifi: Almost all the tea houses provide you Wifi facilities at an extra charge(around USD1-3). The connection is stable at lower altitudes, but at high altitudes, it can be weak.
Communication: For emergency conditions, your trekking guide will carry a satellite phone, but for personal use, you can use a local SIM(Ncell or NTC). You can buy this local SIM from the airport or through the authorised place in the Thamel area.
ATM: On the Annapurna Circuit trekking trail, you will not find the ATM service, so make sure to carry some cash with you for your personal use. You can exchange the currency from the money exchange centre in Thamel.
Booking: To make a booking for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you need to make an advance payment of the total cost of the Annapurna Circuit trek package. For the customizable itinerary, you can ask the tour operator for the cost.
Payment: You can make a payment for your Annapurna Circuit trek booking through several secure and convenient options. We accept Bank transfers, Credit or Debit Cards, and Online Payments.
Cancellation policy: If you want to cancel, there will be no refund of the advance payment, but you can use it for future treks.
Contrary to popular belief, you don't require a lot of intricate gear and equipment for this journey. Here's a basic checklist of the vital elements you must remember to carry when embarking on your Annapurna Circuit Trek:
There are only a few of the essential items. Find a Packing list for the trekking in Nepal.
The majority of trekking gear can be rented in Kathmandu, alleviating the need for heavy baggage. By packing only the necessities and acquiring the remaining items through rentals or purchases in Kathmandu, you can travel light. Thamel's shops provide both branded and locally crafted gear and equipment.
You can leave your spare luggage in your hotel’s storage room. It is completely safe and free. But do make sure to lock your luggage before leaving it in storage.