TA-winner-badge
Annapurna Circuit Trek

5 - Excellent
Based on 20 Reviews | More reviews on TripAdvisor

Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days, Difficult

Annapurna Circuit Trek is an adventurous trek whose itinerary has been prepared to take both convenience and budget into consideration; so that almost anybody with sound health and fitness level can participate. The trek starts from Bagarchhap traversing several beautiful settlements. Till we achieve its source, close to the delightful valley of Manang, continues through ordinary forests and passes, the most elevated point being Thorang La Pass (5,416 m).

Trip Facts

Physical Grading: Difficult

A difficult-graded trek that demands trekkers/travelers to have a top level of physical and mental fitness to trek daily for long hours at high altitudes.

Max Elevation: 5,416 m (Thorang La Pass)

The highest point of the trek to get phenomenal views of Mt. Annapurna, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, etc.

Accommodation: Hotel, Teahouse

Basic and comfortable accommodation with basic services during the trek and a standard hotel in a city.

Meals: Full Board

3-course Healthy and Hygienic meals during the trek, and only breakfast in a city.

Best Season: Autumn & Spring

Clear views and comfortable trekking trails due to stable weather and temperature.

Trip Route:

Chame – Pisang – Manang – Yak Kharka – Thorang Phedi – Muktinath

Trip Highlights

  • Highest Pass Thorang La (5,416 m)
  • Panoramic views of mountain ranges and peaks (Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and more.)
  • Himalayan wildlife and dense forests of oak, rhododendron, pine, maple, etc.
  • Sacred Muktinath temple
  • Terraced farmlands, lush greenery, and beautiful landscapes
  • Traverse through villages of various ethnic groups
  • Immerse yourself in the Himalayan lifestyle and culture of locals

Trip Overview

Our Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary has been prepared to take both convenience and budget into consideration; so that almost anybody with sound health and fitness level can participate. The trek starts from Bagarchhap traversing several beautiful settlements. Till we achieve its source, close to the delightful valley of Manang, continues through ordinary forests and passes, the most elevated point being Thorang La Pass (5,416 m).

Thorang La Pass lies in the Mustang district with Muktinath. Muktinath is a Hindu pilgrimage with natural wonders on the bank of the Kaligandaki River. Annapurna Circuit has a well-developed infrastructure for trekkers with an abundant number of lodges on the way. You just need to carry a backpack and little else, enabling you to hop from one lodge to another every day throughout the journey.

Throughout your Annapurna Circuit Trek you will have the capacity to appreciate hypnotizing perspectives of the Himalayan Range; including three major peaks, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and Mt. Manaslu, all of which measure above 8,000m. This is the longest and maybe the most rewarding and adventurous among various Annapurna treks which fluctuate on the level of adventure and duration. Your trekking experience will additionally be rich with multicultural experiences. When you meet the neighborhood villagers who might be financially poor but are kind and caring at heart. And they are helping Nepal to preserve some of its ancient traditions.

Due to the Himalayan wildlife and dense forests of oak, rhododendron, pine, maple, and many other types/species of plants will help you to gain a good idea about the biodiversity that Nepal has. This richness makes the journey a kind of wildlife tour in the high mountain region.

View All Photos

Annapurna Circuit Trek Gallery

http://annapurna%20basecamp%20trekking%20via%20throng%20pass
http://Annapurna%20Circuit%20Yoga%20Trek
http://annapurna%20circuit%20trekking

Trip Outline

Day 01: Kathmandu arrival (1400 m)
Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Drive to Besishahar (760 m), Jeep ride to Bagarchhap (2160 m)
A scenic local bus ride to Besishahar and then a 2-hour jeep ride to Bagarchhap.

Day 03: Trek to Chame (2710 m)
Pass through the beautiful settlements of Danaque village, Thanchowk, and Koto to reach Chame.

Day 04: Trek to Pisang (3250 m)
Adoring the scenery pass through an ascending trail to Pisang.

Day 05: Trek to Manang (3540 m)
Trek to Manang enjoying the stunning views of the Annapurna Himalayan Ranges.

Day 06: Acclimatization Day
Spend a day visiting Gangapurna Lake and a cave monastery in the vicinity.

Day 07: Trek to Yak Kharka (4050 m)
Traverse an old village of Tanki Manang and Gunsang to reach Yak Kharka.

Day 08: Trek to Base Camp (4450 m)
Admiring the spectacular views of snow-covered mountains trek to Base Camp.

Day 09: Trek to Muktinath (3800 m) via Thorang La Pass (5416 m)
Traverse the highest point of the trek, Thorang La Pass and descend to Muktinath.

Day 10: Drive to Pokhara (by local bus)
Enjoy a scenic local bus ride to Pokhara which takes 8-9 hours.

Day 11: Drive to Kathmandu (1400 m)
Drive to Kathmandu after completing the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Day 12: International departure
Transfer to the airport for an international departure

Essential Information

Accommodation:

Teahouses or Lodges are accommodation types during the Annapurna Circuit trek that provide basic facilities but are comfortable to stay in. Generally, bathrooms are outside the teahouses. Pay additional costs for facilities like Wi-Fi, laundry, hot bucket water, and charging devices. Internet and phone networks are mostly stable in the lower regions.

Meals:

3-course full board meals are served during the Annapurna Circuit trek which are healthy and hygienic. Breakfast and dinner are served from the teahouses and lunch is served at the stopovers during the trek. Only breakfast is provided in cities.

Drinking water:

Drinking water during the Annapurna Circuit trek is easily available. Trekkers can buy Mineral Water, fill tap water, or boiled water at teahouses as their preference. Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution. Travelers can also use a water purification solution or buy mineral water which costs USD 1-2 per bottle.

Public vehicles or airways are the means of transportation during the Annapurna Circuit Trek in this Annapurna region. Private vehicle options are also there.

  • Kathmandu – Besishahar by local bus
  • Besishahar – Bagarchhap by Jeep
  • Muktinath – Pokhara by public bus
  • Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus
  • Flight options from Pokhara – Kathmandu and Private vehicles from Kathmandu – Besishahar and Muktinath – Pokhara are available at an applicable cost.

The ideal seasons for the Annapurna Circuit trek are Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. The winter and rainy seasons are riskier to trek due to the unstable weather and temperature, slippery trails, and limited availability of accommodation and services. Still, it is possible to trek with proper planning and preparation.

Annapurna Circuit Trek requires compulsory two permits i.e. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

  • Foreigners- NPR 3000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

  • Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person
  • Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

Documents required

  • Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel Insurance
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • TIMS

Difficulty:

Annapurna Circuit trek is a difficult graded trek with a maximum elevation of 5,416 m. Walking daily long hours on the steep ascending and descending rough trails can be challenging for trekkers. This trek is suitable for trekkers with an average level of physical fitness as it does not involve any technicality. Previous experience is preferable. Our support is always there throughout your journey from the start to the end.

Fitness:

Annapurna Circuit trek demands trekkers to have a high level of fitness. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization, it is achievable. Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful. Some physical exercises and mental exercises to carry out before the treks are as follows:

Physical Exercises

Cardiovascular Exercises, Leg Strength Exercises, Core Strength Exercises, Upper Body Strengthening, Foot and ankle Strengthening, Flexibility and Stability Exercises, and Hiking Specific Training.

Mental Exercises

Meditation, Breathing Exercises, Stress Management, Solo Reflection, Focus and Concentration Improvement, Setting a goal, Practicing problem-solving skills, Staying Calm and Positive, Enjoying every activity, etc.

The maximum elevation during the Annapurna Circuit trek is 5,416 m (Thorang La Pass). Altitude sickness is common above 2500 m. As the elevation gains, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness. Thus, acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it. Take an acclimatization rest as suggested in the itinerary during the trek.

Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.

Preventions for Altitude Sickness 

  • Take an acclimatization rest
  • Inform the guide
  • Climb slowly and gradually
  • Keep yourself Hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods
  • Know your body limit
  • Take a complete rest and sleep
  • Take medicine consulting a guide

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange for a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. All these costs shall be borne by your travel insurance company.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a difficult-graded trek. Thus, it requires standard equipment and gear that trekkers can hire or bring on their own.

Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Insulating Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks, Raincoat, Balaclava, Bandana, Gaiters

Shoes: Camp shoes, Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals

Essential Documents: Passport, Travel Permits, Visa Photocopy, Passport size photos

Food: Light snacks, Energy bars, and drink mix

Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Solar chargers, Batteries, Head Lamps, Torch, Umbrella, Sewing kit, Water Purifying solution kits, reusable bags to deposit waste, separate clean/dirty clothes

Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag

Gear: Ropes, Crampons, Ice Ax, Ice-claw, Harness, Microspikes (optional)

STANDARD SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek; Deluxe accommodation for 2 nights in Kathmandu and one night in Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis with Breakfast.
  • Meals: 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which you can choose from the menu) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Transportation: Airport-hotel-airport transfers and sightseeing by Private Transportation; Kathmandu – Besishahar by local bus, Besishahar to Bagarchhap by jeep, and Muktinath – Pokhara by public bus. Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus.
    (Optional: Flight options from Pokhara – Kathmandu and Private vehicles from Kathmandu – Besishahar, Muktinath – Pokhara, and Pokhara – Kathmandu are available at an applicable cost.)
  • Documentation: Trekking permits (ACAP, and TIMS).
  • Equipment/Accessories: Down jacket, sleeping bags, a waterproof duffel bag, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based) for Complimentary use
  • Human resource: A professional and experienced trekking guide (English-speaking); a porter per trekker (carrying up to 15 kg/person); all the expenses for the guide and porter(s) are covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, etc.)
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no ‘hidden charges’ afterward
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show)
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. We carry a Supplementary oxygen tank with a mask and regulator for emergencies. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Please make sure that your insurance will cover helicopter evacuation up to 5650 meters.

What's not included?

  • Beverage (Cold/Alcoholic drinks, Bottled Mineral Water, extra tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals/Snacks/Dessert, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees, photography charges, Hot Shower, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters (Expected) and any Donations.
  • Your travel insurance
  • Nepal Visa
  • International Air Fares
  • Activities (Sightseeing/tours) cost in Kathmandu
  • Costs arise due to unforeseen weather conditions, natural disasters, political issues, incomplete trips because of personal problems, mountain sickness, physical status, early return from the trek, late departure & any costs other than those mentioned in the inclusion section

GROUP JOINING DATES & PRICES

At present, the group joining dates are not available, but we are happy to create a private trip for you with the flexibility to customize. Simply, let us know your preferences so that our travel experts will assist you in planning a trip to your dream destination.

Customers Reviews

5 - Excellent Based on 20 Reviews

IMG 20241030 151117 796

Natalia
Poland

Annapurna Circuit trek – highly recommend

2024-10-13

I started Annapurna Circuit Trek with Outdoor Himalayan Treks and can highly recommend them for any treks in Nepal (spacially Badri who was organizing my stay in Nepal). I did a solo trek with a guide (Rupak) and porter (Thakur). Both guys were very nice and made me feel super comfortably during the trek. Although, I got altitude sickness and was not able to finish the trek I never felt unsafe with them. Here a big shout out to Rupak who is not only a fun and friendly guide, he also has a good judgement with more difficult situation. I would definitely choose him for any treks!

annapurna circuit trek

Sem A

Challenging but worthy Annapurna Circuit Trek

Nov 2023

Our Annapurna Circuit trek was quite challenging but worth it accompanied by Dipak and Prakash (a guide and a porter). They took care of us well and would highly recommend this travel Company Outdoor.

Annapurna Circuit

Basti K

Perfect Annapurna Circuit Trek

Oct 2023

I came to OHT by coincidence and luckily made all my Annapurna Circuit trekking arrangements with them. Earlier had no plan to take a guide, but my trek plan was designed focusing on my wishes. Ram was always ready to help, also during the trek and Bish (my guide) was a perfect match for me 🙂 I am recommending this company!

Annapurna Circuit

William D

Annapurna Circuit Trek 15 Days

March 2023

My total experience was extremely positive and I can 100% say it will be a trip that I remember for the rest of my life. My solo 15-day Annapurna Circuit trek was guided expertly the whole way by Dilli. Much appreciated Dilli’s support, attention, and taking care of me. Had a really fun time with him over the two weeks. Ram was extremely responsive and helpful with all my questions when arranging the trip and he was understanding of what I wanted to do and supportive in making it happen. He made sure I was very well looked after. If I make a return to Nepal I wouldn’t hesitate to get back in touch with Outdoor Himalayan.

I would recommend Outdoor Himalayan as a tour company.

KqCi68fZ76BkpyFejcDN

Andoni Perez Alvarez
Belgium

Trek autour des Annapurna

Feb 2023

Nous sommes partis un ami et moi pour un mois de voyage en janvier et février au Népal et nous avions décidé d’inclure le très connu Trek de l’Annapurna dans notre itinéraire. Nous avions déjà fait plusieurs trek très haut mais pas aussi haut que celui là. C’est pour ça que nous avons fait appel à l’agence Outdoor Himalayan et nous ne regrettons pas du tout ce choix, ce fut une expérience incroyable au milieu de ces forêts, montagnes enneigées habitées par une biosphère fantastique. Nous voulions personnellement faire une partie (la plus risqué) avec guide et une autre partie sans ce que nous avions demandé à l’agence et ils ont tout fait pour qu’on ai la formule la plus conforme à nos attentes. Nous avions fait des comparaisons avec d’autres agences mais c’est eux qui avaient les meilleurs prix et de loin ! Le trek avec le guide s’est super bien passé, il nous a montré toutes les plus belles parties à voir et à tout fait pour qu’on passe le meilleur séjour possible. Je remercie encore une fois toute l’équipe, Tek et Badri, merci milles fois pour cette expérience que je n’oublierais jamais et qui restera gravé à jamais !

Detail Itinerary

Day 01 Kathmandu arrival

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 30-minute hotel drive.

Outdoor Himalayan Treks representative welcomes you at the Tribhuvan International Airport of Kathmandu and transfers you to the hotel. Later, meet our team and guide for a brief trek discussion. If time allows, walk around the Thamel tourist area on your own in the evening. Overnight in a hotel.

Day 02 Drive to Besishahar, Jeep ride to Bagarchhap

Elevation: Besishahar (760 m), Bagarchhap (2160 m) 7-8 hours’ drive.

The trek journey to Annapurna Circuit begins with a scenic local bus ride to Besishahar. The new experience for trekkers is to ride in a public vehicle on rough and bumpy roads. From Besishahar, take a local jeep ride to Bagarchhap where you stay overnight.

Day 03 Trek to Chame

Elevation: Chame (2710 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 550 m

You begin trekking from Bagarchhap and after 6-7 hours reach Chame. On the way, you pass through the beautiful settlements of Danaque village, Thanchowk, and Koto before reaching Chame. Enjoy a beautiful mountain view from Thanchowk and get a little sight of the local life of the locals. Overnight in a teahouse.

Day 04 Trek to Pisang

Elevation: Pisang (3250 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 540 m

The next destination is Pisang which lies at a walking distance of about 5-6 hours from Chame. You might face some difficulty somewhere in the middle of the daily trek for nearly 1 hour, as it involves considerable uphill climbing. Apart from that, the walk takes you closer to the nature. Under favorable conditions, you arrive at Pisang early in the afternoon, just in time for lunch. Later in the evening, a short walk around the village. Overnight in a teahouse.

Day 05 Trek to Manang

Elevation: Manang (3540 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 290 m

Moving on from Lower Pisang, you trek further to reach Ngawal (3660 m). Enjoy the stunning views of the Annapurna Himalayan Ranges. Then, continue to trek on a comfortable trail and reach Manang. The locals in Manang are referred to in general as Manangis and taking a closer look into their lifestyle would be a good idea. Besides, you can visit some very old monasteries in the village of Manang, and all the while, you can watch the Himalayas right in front of your eyes. Overnight in a teahouse.

Day 06 Acclimatization Day

Elevation: Gangapurna Lake (3657 m), Manang (3540 m) 3-4 hours trek. Elevation gain/loss: 117 m

To prepare yourself for the high-altitude trekking in the following days, an acclimatization day is essential. You spent the day exploring the places around Manang. You visit Gangapurna Lake formed from the glaciers from Mt Gangapurna (7,454m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), Khangsar Kang, and Glacier Dom and then see some areas of the village. Also, visit a cave monastery where you meet the resident monks and learn some secrets of Buddhism. Overnight in a teahouse.

Day 07 Trek to Yak Kharka

Elevation: Yak Kharka (4050 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 510

You leave Manang early in the morning and walk for about 5-6 hours. You cross Tanki Manang, an old village of Manangis. Then, you take a short tea break at Gunsang. Afterward, you walk to Yak Kharka where you stay overnight.

Day 08 Trek to Base Camp

Elevation: Base Camp (4450 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 400 m

You trek to Leddar where you get the view of the majestic Annapurna. Enjoy the trek and move further. Considering the increasing altitude, you take slower walks and head to Thorang Base Camp. After having lunch, you take some rest and continue to walk to Thorang Phedi. Overnight in a teahouse.

Day 09 Trek to Muktinath via Thorang La Pass

Elevation: Thorang La Pass (4130 m), Muktinath (3800 m) 7-8 hours trek. Elevation gain/loss: 966 m/1616 m

The tough day of the trek. So, start early and walk past the High Camp. Then, ascend to Thorang La Pass (5,416 m) and then take a descending path, totaling some 7-8 hours of walking. A tea break is advisable at Thorang La Pass, which is also on the border of Manang district. Take as many pictures of the alpine region as you wish. Then, walk down to Muktinath, one of the most sacred shrines of Hindus. Visit the temple and the surroundings. Overnight in a teahouse.

Day 10 Drive to Pokhara (by local bus)

Elevation: Pokhara (822 m) 8-9 hours’ drive.

Wake up early and have breakfast. Then, take a local bus drive to Pokhara. The journey is long but the scenic natural beauty throughout the journey is mesmerizing. Reach Pokhara and transfer to a hotel for much-needed rest.

Day 11 Drive to Kathmandu

The standard scheme is to provide you with a tourist bus to Kathmandu. However, if you wish to spend some extra days by yourself in Pokhara, the return ticket can be issued for your desired date. In the evening, we take you out for a farewell dinner at one of the renowned restaurants in Kathmandu offering authentic Nepalese dishes and a live cultural show. After dinner, we drive you back to your hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 12 International departure

Wake up and have breakfast. We will arrange an airport transfer at the required time. Safe travels.

Note:

Please note that the Annapurna Circuit Trek can be done exactly in the opposite direction from the one suggested in this itinerary. It all depends on your preference, and we are always open to hearing what it is. We wish you an enjoyable trip!

Annapurna Circuit Trek FAQs

The Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you around the Annapurna massif, offering breathtaking views of mountains, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.

The total trek duration of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is 9 days.

The duration of the Annapurna Circuit Trek typically ranges from 10 to 12 days depending on the itinerary and your trekking speed.

The best time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek is during the Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) seasons when the weather is generally clear and favorable for trekking.

The monsoon season (Jun-Aug) brings heavy rainfall, making the trek challenging. So, it is advisable to plan carefully if you wish to trek during this time.

You require the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a difficult graded trek. It involves long hours of walking, steep ascents and descents, and altitude gains. Proper acclimatization is essential.

Along the route, you can find teahouses or guesthouses that provide basic facilities such as beds, blankets, hot showers (for a fee), and communal dining areas.

Thorang/Thorong La Pass, situated at an altitude of 5,416 m is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

While prior trekking experience is beneficial, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is suitable for moderately fit individuals with a sense of adventure. Regular exercise and good health are important.

Altitude sickness is a potential risk on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is crucial to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms. Consult with a doctor before the trek.

Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory and a porter is an option. A porter can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to enjoy the trek with a lighter load. Both guide and porter can ease your trek with their assistance.

Most teahouses along the Annapurna Circuit Trek have Wi-Fi available for a fee. Mobile network coverage is stable in some areas but in some higher areas signal may be unstable.

Yes, there are helicopter rescue services available in case of emergencies. However, it is important to have travel insurance that covers such services.

There is no such strict age restriction but children below 15 must have parental assistance. Besides, trekkers should be in good health and have the physical fitness required for trekking in the mountains.

Yes, it is possible to extend or customize the Annapurna Circuit Trek based on your preferences. You can discuss your requirements with a trekking agency or guide.

Some essential items to pack include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, a personal hygiene kit, and basic medical supplies.

To book the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Outdoor Himalayan, visit the website and fill out the booking form, or contact us directly via email or phone. We will provide you with the necessary details and assistance for your trekking experience.