Annapurna Circuit Trek is an excellent walk around the Annapurna Himalayas that has been one of the significant hiking destinations for travelers visiting Nepal. Get indulged in diversified natural settings from tropical dense rhododendron forests to alpine surroundings. Walk across the suspension bridge enjoying waterfalls, glaciers, Annapurna Himalayan range, and interact with local people that will make your hike extra special when you get the opportunity to feel friendly hospitality served with a genuine smile on the face .
Annapurna circuit trek circumferences Annapurna that starts from Besisahar, lying at 800m elevation, and goes up to 5416m at the famous Thorong La. This beautiful Annapurna walk takes us around three weeks to complete an approximately 150 miles route. We shall relish relaxing landscape terraced farming views and culturally affluent villages and get close to numerous snow-capped Himalayas; Namingly: Manaslu (8156 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt Annapurna II (7,940m), Mt Annapurna III (7,550m), Mt Annapurna IV (7,525m), Annapurna South (7,220m), Tilicho Peak (7,135m), Nilgiri (7,040m), Mt. Fishtail (6,998m), Lamjung Himal (6,985m), Himchuli (6,445m) and Tukuche Peak (6,920m).
Usually, we leave dense, magically blossoming rhododendron forests behind when we hike across Manang. Then we enter into Tibetan alike geographical surroundings with prayer flags and monasteries with Tibetan-influenced culture and tradition. After crossing Thorong La, the Annapurna circuit trekking route takes us to the Hindu pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Muktinath holds great religious importance for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Eventually, we walk further lowlands through rice, wheat-terraced farmlands, and apple orchids.
Finally, we enjoy beautiful sunrise/sunset views from Poon Hill and drive to Pokhara, ending our one-of-a-kind Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Traveling Style: Annapurna Circuit Trek is an outdoor adventure that involves trekking, hiking, and exploring opportunities while circling giant Annapurna massif. It is a tea house trekking adventure, where you spent a night at a different tea house/lodge every day. Start a journey early in the morning and have an amazing trekking experience.
Service Level: There are comfortable and clean hotels, private and public transportation with numerous other activities to offer.
Fitness Rating: A challenging trek that crosses high altitude passes in a diversified topographical structure.
When your flight touches Kathmandu Airport (TIA), your plans of trekking Annapurna Circuit finally comes into play. First of all, complete your visa and airport custom formalities; then you will meet our office representative holding a display board with your name on it at the arrival gate. He will then transfer you to your hotel and assist you in checking into a hotel with few refreshments.
Kathmandu, the cultural and economical hub of the nation is a popular site with plenty of UNESCO world heritage sites. Basically, we shall go sightseeing around these heritage sites from Kathmandu Durbar Square (or Patan Durbar Square), Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. Get plenty of cultural influences, witnessing the jatras, festivals that happen most of the time, enjoy visits to Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries, and stupas.
After completion of our sightseeing program, meet the Icicles Adventure representative and your trekking guide for a brief trip discussion. They can assist you with checking your gears and you may hire/buy any equipment that seems missing in your pack. Stay overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.
Today we shall take a comfortable and scenic countryside drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar via the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway. Leaving Kathmandu behind you drive through the snaky mountain road. You cross several small streams and run parallel to the Trishuli River. You may see people rafting in the Trishuli river. After you cross the bridge in Mungling, we drive parallel to Marshyandi River. We sometimes see beautiful views of snow-capped Himalayas most of which belong to the Manaslu range and surrounding peaks. After nearly 7 hours of drive, with a quick stop for lunch along the route, finally, we reach Beshisahar which is also the headquarter of Lamjung district. It used to be the starting point of the trek until a couple of years ago, but at present condition due to the road being constructed further, we prefer to drive up to Syange. Almost every supply to higher altitude valleys and villages passes through this route and we can see local marketplace here carrying out their deals on commodities. We stay overnight at the local teahouse.
Driving time: 7-8 hours drive.
Just after getting up at Syange, we enjoy a hearty breakfast. Our trekking route comprises a gradual descend through beautiful forests. Crossing a river over the suspension bridge, we start to ascend to Tal. After walking along the narrow cliffs and ridges, we find ourselves around the rocky settings, and further crossing the local village of Karte, we will again gradually descend to the riverside. After crossing the river over beautiful windy and slowly swinging from steps of people passing by, we spot a mani stone marked with mantras and chants on it. This place is called Dharapani and we stay overnight here at one of the local teahouses.
It shall be around 500m gain in altitude today while we make more ascends with few descends from Dharapani to Chame. Our trekking day begins as we slowly hike up through beautiful refreshing pine and oak trees that lead us to Danaque. Further, we do cross a small wooden bridge and it will be steep ascend to Temang which is situated at the base of Lamjung peak. From this point beautiful views of the Manaslu Himalayan range are visible and also a couple of teahouses here are available, we have our lunch over here and the path turns flattered and straight from there. After about an hour walking easily, we cross Thanchok settlement over there popular for Apple products and thirty minutes from there takes us to Chame. Chame is the headquarter of the Manang district.
Our morning at Chame would be beautiful and sparkling as warm rays of sun sparkle nearby Lamjung Himal (6894m). Boarding on from our teahouse on our foot, taking steps enjoying the natural settings and surroundings, we take a steep climb to a place called Bhartang. We take on that challenge and pull it off with help of the trekking leader’s recommendation, decision and follow-on through jungle walk in between trees, floras, faunas entering into the valley at end of the day called Pisang. We see Pisang peak(6091m) with other nearby Annapurna Himalayas today and stay overnight at the local lodge.
As we cross 3500m of altitude today, we can see a slight change in our topographical surroundings. The trekking route is much drier in the upper half of the Manang district. Yak herding and local agricultural farmings are major practices and occupations of local inhabitants. Leaving behind Pisang, we climb a steep ridge that allows us to enjoy great views of Manang valley. Further taking the southern route through a tiny airstrip at Hongde(3325m) gradually, we pass through Ngwal village. Marshyandi river that we see again meets us at Mungi. In this way trekking for further an hour take us to Manang where we shall stay two night for acclimatization.
We will need proper acclimatization here to avoid altitude sickness, and let our body adapt to the change in surroundings. We shall do scenic walks around Manang village and do hike up to Gangapurna lake or Melaripa cave.
At Manang, there is also the Himalayan Rescue Association and if you are interested in volunteering then you can also assist western doctors here. You can also go to the local Manang Museum and stroll around the streets within Manang exploring their local products and culture.
Gangapurna Lake is just 30-45 minutes away. From a viewpoint, you can enjoy Annapurna Range, Braga Village, and Manang Valley. The lake has turquoise blue colored water caused due the the sediments of Gangapurna Glacier.
If you choose to hike to Milarepa cave, we must get ready for a religious trail as it is a buddhist shrine significant to the locals. The cave was named after a Tibetan poet who used to meditate at this cave. On the way we can see the statie of Milarapa and a glimpse of Marsangdi Valley. In Milarepa cave, there is a huge buddhist statue and many prayers flag welcoming us with a view of nearby glaciers.
We leave behind Manang village today crossing over the river stream. It shall be a challenging walk as mostly it is climbing activity through tough terrains above 4000m of altitude. Then we shall arrive at small Tenki village settlement from where we descend towards Jarsang valley, again cross the river, have our lunch at the nearby lunch site, and take on the strenuous steep climb towards Yak Kharka which is basically a Yak grazing field or in simple words Yak pasture land where we can see few Yaks grazing on grounds. Above this point there is no greenery, we feel like we have entered into alpine surroundings now after. If you can and are interested then with consultation with our professional trekking leader, you can hike up to Ledar today. We stay overnight at the local lodge at Yak Kharka.
Thorang Phedi can be also considered as the base of Thorongla pass or a popular stop before we cross that high altitude pass. Today we leave behind the Yak Kharka, initially, there is a short descend towards the riverside of Marshyandi River passing. Hereafter this riverside lunch we ascend towards Ledar and at the end of the day, we arrive at Thorong Phedi at 4600m above sea level. According to season, your fitness level, and level of interest, you might also take a step forward towards Thorong high camp for a night stay. But most of the time we stop at Thorang Phedi. Overnight stay at local lodge.
Today shall be the most important, challenging as well as rewarding day as we cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point of this trek, and heavenly site at 5416m elevation standing tall at eye level with Annapurna Himalayas. We start our day early today before sunrise between 4 to 5 AM as reaching we target to arrive at the high pass before 10 am. Strong wind and clouds are common phenomena at that point afternoon, so we try to avoid that as far as possible while taking the best views like never before. This part of the trail is quite dangerous too, as heavy snowfall may cause interruption to plans and worst-case scenarios, therefore according to the weather condition of that exact time, consulting your trip leader and following his instructions is compulsory. Don’t simply follow your instincts or other group members. Always trust an experienced and professional trekking guide leading your group. From Thorong La pass we can see panoramic views of Annapurna Himalayas, surrounding us from all directions including other peaks like Yakgawa Kang, Khatung Gang, etc.
Further gentle descend changes to a steeper one and we slowly approach the popular pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Muktinath is a well-known religious site for both Buddhist and Hindu followers. There we get an opportunity to visit temples, monasteries and major Muktinath temples with 108 surrounding water spouts is the major one. Jwala Mai temple is another attraction of the pilgrimage site. We stay overnight at a local lodge in Muktinath.
Spiritual essence circulates around our atmosphere as we shall visit the holy temple of Muktinath early in the morning today. We shall have our breakfast and walk gradually downhill to Ekley Bhatti. It is quite a steep walk down the trails, so careful and proper use of trekking poles along is required. Take one step at a time, don’t rush; simply enjoy the serene surroundings around and comfortably reach Ekley Bhatti. Further, we push ourselves towards Jomsom, a very windy place where you need to have a full face mask and wind stopper jacket to avoid windblast. Wind forming across the Valley Mountain and gorges blow even more strongly in the afternoon; therefore we try to cross the downstream of Kaligandaki and arrive at Marpha before noon. This local village of Marpha is popular for apple products and we shall surely taste a few.
After celebrating apple day at Marpha, we make our way along few local tea shops commonly called bhattis. Tasting a few apple brandies, tea or coffee would be a better choice over there. In this similar manner, while comfortably walking on a flatter surface, we also get quite splendid views of nearby Dhaulagiri Himalaya. Further, we cross Tukuche village and see the famous Dhaulagiri icefall where we might stop for a while to take some pictures and enjoy beautiful landscape settings. Our walk then continues towards Largung and Kobang village on a more or less flatter surface trail to Kalopani. If you are interested then we can also do some industrial visits to Tikuche Distillery that supplies the drinking water to nearby villages and towns.
We shall get wonderful views of Mt. Annapurna I and other surrounding peaks from Kalopani. Today we will however move towards Tatopani which is more than 1000m down in elevation. Firstly we have our early meal and descend to Dana where we shall be stopping for lunch and we get to see the deepest Kaligandaki gorge of the word. Further trekking mostly downhill for 3 hours takes us to Tatopani. From here also, we get to see nice views of Nilgiri and other surrounding peaks. There is a natural hot spring at Tatopani and we shall take a dip there for relaxation. Later we return to our local lodge at Tatopani.
Trekking around Nepal Himalayas brings us lots of ups and downs. And as are at 1190m of elevation today, we take a challenge to ascend to 2780m hike to Ghorepani. This challenge we are taking also brings lots of cultural and natural influences along. Basically, we cross the villages of Ghare, Shika, Phalate, and Chhitre today where most of the local inhabitants are from Magar and Gurung communities with few mixed groups. With quick stops in the middle of trails, jungle walks, narrow paths, we also get fine views of Annapurnas today, however, the best view is seen the next day from the Poonhill viewpoint. We go to bed a little early as we need to wake up before sunrise tomorrow.
Today we hike up early in the morning towards Ponnhill viewpoint before sunrise to see panoramic views of the same Annapurna Himalayas. The views will be from different sides and give us a new beautiful perspective to snow-capped peaks.
After approximately 45 minutes to hours of hike to the top of the hill, we wait eagerly for that magical moment to happen. Then the sun rises slowly above the Annapurna Himalayan range and is worth watching it. A few moments later, we return to Ghorepani for breakfast and continue our trek towards Nayapul.
We shall follow the popular route of the popular Ghorepani Poonhill trek via Ulleri, Tikhedhunga, Birethanti, and finally to Nayapul. Upon arrival at Nayapul, we will catch a jeep that takes us to the city of Pokhara. We stay overnight at a comfortable hotel in Pokhara.
With take a tourist bus ride to Kathmandu today early in the morning around 7 to 8 AM and arrive at Kathmandu, just in front of Icicles Adventure Office. You can then visit our office and share your Annapurna Circuit adventure or our office representative will assist you in hotel transfer (check-in). Later you are welcome to join our farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant in Thamel. Stay overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Driving time: 6 to 7 hours
After 17 amazing days of your Nepal trip with adventure on the Annapurna Circuit, the time comes to leave this beautiful country and fly to your onward destination. We will transfer you from your hotel to TIA airport in Kathmandu 3 hours prior to your scheduled international flight.
We hope that Icicles Adventure has been successful in offering you wonderful travel memories, see you again soon.
Trip Extension & Excursion Note: You can also extend your Annapurna Circuit Trek for extra days at the beautiful lake city of Pokhara, or take a few hours’ drives to Chitwan for a Jungle safari, take a scenic Everest flight, tour around Patan/Bhaktapur and/or add some extra thrill by going for bungee jumping, rafting, and other adventurous activities.
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The Annapurna Circuit trek is 16 days of challenging adventure that offers diversity in altitude, nature, landscapes, culture and religious, which makes it world’s most popular trekking trip.
From the journey and views to highest pass of Thorongla at 5418m to exploration of both Hindu and Buddhist cultures at Muktinath, from optional excursion to highest Tilicho lake to Chulu east peak climbing opportunities, from deepest gorges of Kaligandaki to most popular paradise city of Pokhara; exploring new sites, each day, staying at different tea houses, meeting new people, enjoying different perspectives of nature and culture; that’s why choose Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Annapurna circuit trek comprises more than two weeks nearly 16 days of trekking activities from lower elevations to all the way through high pass of Throng La Pass to religious site at Jomsom Muktinath.
It is a moderate level of trekking which cannot be completed without prior trainings and preparations by the trekkers. However, you don't have to worry of you are a beginner. With enough preparations, even you can complete it without much trouble.
No, previous trekking experience is not compulsory. However you must be strong and familiar with AMS possibilities, preventive measures along with passion towards walking, exploring and adventure. If you have hiked anywhere else even at lower altitudes, it would be a plus point and recommended for making the best out of this circuit trip.
However, make sure to prepare your body with exercise and possibly short hikes in your area.
Trekking with professional government licensed guide is now compulsory. While making your way through rough terrains, dense forest, snowy trails at high elevation, it is very unsafe to travel alone. Not only you might get lost, taking wrong decision can also take your life; one of the reasons why solo trekking was banned.
Our trekking leaders are professional in this field for more than 10 years, they have been to high passes, Thorong La many times and know about the culture, landscapes and traditions best that will only enhance your trekking experience.
Annapurna Circuit is best visited during the autumn months of September, October and November along with spring months of March, April and May when its neither too hot nor too cold with very less chances of rainfall and excellent views of snow capped Himalayas. However, it’s never a wrong time to plan for this trek.
It is an essential to prepare for this adventure by initiating or continuing cardio exercises like treadmill, cycling, skipping, swimming and other things that help in increasing your stamina which will eventually enhances your overall trekking experience. Further you can also go for day hike trip and if you are frequent traveller then get your sleeping bag, mat and trekking boots ready.
Annapurna circuit trek insurance policy should cover the Helicopter rescue upto 6000m altitude. It is mandatory that you get an insurance policy before joining any trekking trip on Nepal and both you and insurance company understands the terms and conditions properly. In case you do not have insurance even after arriving at Nepal, then we can assist you getting one.
Annapurna Circuit Trek requires Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card. All these permits will be arranged by us and price is included in your total trip cost.
We have published standard 18 days Annapurna circuit Trek itinerary that suits most of the travelers. Therefore you are requested to allocate at least 20 days or more for this Annapurna adventure.
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular and well developed routes with standard tea houses available offering good level of accommodation and meals.
Yes, recharging camera and phone batteries is available at tea houses especially during evening time, but you have to pay extra for recharging like couple of hundred rupees per hour. So, it is best recommended to carry spare ones, full charge before the trek and keep the batteries warm especially at higher altitudes keeping in covered in sleeping bags. Make sure your camera is charged at Thorong La pass.
Best views of Himalayas like Manaslu (8156 m), Annapurna 1 (8091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8167 m). Mt. Annapurna II (7940m), Mt. Annapurna III (7550m), Mt. Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (7220m), Tilicho Peak (7135m), Nilgiri (7040m), Mt. Fishtail (6998m), Lamjung Himal (6985m), Himchuli (6445m), Tukuche Peak (6920m) are seen from Thorong La Pass while excellent Muktinath gives you kind of sense of deserted landscapes and lower elevations at Poonhill is the view point to see the Himalayas from distant. Even after completion of the trek, Pokhara offers best scenic views with lots of other adventures to experience.
Yes, good hot showers and laundry services are available especially at lower elevations. It is recommended to do laundry after completion of trek at Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Following are the major variations for this trek:
Mini-Annapurna Circuit , Tilicho and Round Annapurna Trek, Combined Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, Chulu East Peak Climbing with Annapurna Circuit
Yes, this Annapurna walking trip can be tailor made as per your need and requirements. We are here to make your trip your way within your budget and available days.
Send us your enquiries. We are more than happy to help you.
These are standard group departures for Annapurna Circuit Trek trip. We understand these departures may not suit your schedules, if so, please feel free to ask a customized departure date that suits you. Also, if you are looking for a different customized itinerary, please ask our local travel specialist for a new personalized, customized program as per your interests and requirements.
Trip Start Date | Trip End Date | Seat Left | Price (USD) | Status | |
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Friday
11-Oct, 2024 |
Monday
28-Oct, 2024 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
18-Oct, 2024 |
Monday
04-Nov, 2024 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
25-Oct, 2024 |
Monday
11-Nov, 2024 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Thursday
31-Oct, 2024 |
Sunday
17-Nov, 2024 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Sunday
03-Nov, 2024 |
Wednesday
20-Nov, 2024 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Thursday
07-Nov, 2024 |
Sunday
24-Nov, 2024 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
15-Nov, 2024 |
Monday
02-Dec, 2024 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
22-Nov, 2024 |
Monday
09-Dec, 2024 |
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Friday
29-Nov, 2024 |
Monday
16-Dec, 2024 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Monday
02-Dec, 2024 |
Thursday
19-Dec, 2024 |
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Friday
06-Dec, 2024 |
Monday
23-Dec, 2024 |
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Thursday
06-Mar, 2025 |
Sunday
23-Mar, 2025 |
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Friday
14-Mar, 2025 |
Monday
31-Mar, 2025 |
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Friday
21-Mar, 2025 |
Monday
07-Apr, 2025 |
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Friday
28-Mar, 2025 |
Monday
14-Apr, 2025 |
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Friday
04-Apr, 2025 |
Monday
21-Apr, 2025 |
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Friday
11-Apr, 2025 |
Monday
28-Apr, 2025 |
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Friday
18-Apr, 2025 |
Monday
05-May, 2025 |
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Friday
25-Apr, 2025 |
Monday
12-May, 2025 |
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Friday
02-May, 2025 |
Monday
19-May, 2025 |
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Friday
09-May, 2025 |
Monday
26-May, 2025 |
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Friday
16-May, 2025 |
Monday
02-Jun, 2025 |
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Friday
23-May, 2025 |
Monday
09-Jun, 2025 |
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Friday
30-May, 2025 |
Monday
16-Jun, 2025 |
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Friday
05-Sep, 2025 |
Monday
22-Sep, 2025 |
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Friday
12-Sep, 2025 |
Monday
29-Sep, 2025 |
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Friday
19-Sep, 2025 |
Monday
06-Oct, 2025 |
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Friday
26-Sep, 2025 |
Monday
13-Oct, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
03-Oct, 2025 |
Monday
20-Oct, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
10-Oct, 2025 |
Monday
27-Oct, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
17-Oct, 2025 |
Monday
03-Nov, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
24-Oct, 2025 |
Monday
10-Nov, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
31-Oct, 2025 |
Monday
17-Nov, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Saturday
01-Nov, 2025 |
Tuesday
18-Nov, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
07-Nov, 2025 |
Monday
24-Nov, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
14-Nov, 2025 |
Monday
01-Dec, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
21-Nov, 2025 |
Monday
08-Dec, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now | |
Friday
28-Nov, 2025 |
Monday
15-Dec, 2025 |
- | USD 1490 | Book Now |
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Licensed by: Nepal Tourism Board & Department of Tourism
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