What is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit?

The ideal seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is clear, temperatures are moderate, and mountain views are spectacular.

What level of fitness is required for the trek?

A moderate to good level of fitness is recommended. The trek involves long days of walking at varying altitudes, with the highest point at Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). Prior cardio and stamina preparation will make the trek more enjoyable.

What is included in a typical Annapurna Circuit trek package?

Packages generally include accommodation in teahouses or lodges, breakfast and dinner, guide/porter services, and necessary permits. Transportation to and from the trek start/end points is often included. Flights, drinks, and personal expenses are usually excluded.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek winds through the breathtaking mountain ranges of central Nepal, covering a distance of 160–230 km (100–145 mi), depending on the use of motor transport and the chosen endpoint. This iconic trek traverses two major river valleys while circling the magnificent Annapurna Massif. Its highest point is the Thorung La Pass at 5,416 m, offering a gateway to the edge of the Tibetan Plateau. Most trekkers prefer hiking the circuit anticlockwise, as this approach allows a gentler daily altitude gain, making the challenging Thorung La Pass crossing safer and more manageable.

Accomodation
Hotel/ Camping
Best Season
Sep-Nov & March-May
Maximum Altitude
5415m
Transportation
Fly/ Car/ Jeep/ Bus
Walking Hours
5/6 hours

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

The trek offers stunning close-up views of towering peaks, including the Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I–IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, and Paungda Danda. Beyond these, the Annapurna range is dotted with numerous other majestic peaks reaching elevations of 6,000–8,000 m, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring Himalayan panorama.

Trip Highlights

Pass by the yak pastures.
Natural hot springs at Tatopani where you can choose to take a dip.
Jomsom - the headquarter of Mustang.
A day at tourist hub Pokhara.
Spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West, and Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV.
Visit the beautiful Manang district.
Magnificent lakes, glaciers, deep gorges, and stunning waterfalls.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Settle in, refresh, and meet your guide for a brief trek orientation. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 02 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760 m) – 7 hrs

After breakfast, drive from Kathmandu through scenic hills and terraced farmlands to Besisahar. Enjoy views of rivers, local villages, and lush landscapes along the way. Overnight in Besisahar.

Day 03 :

Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2,670 m) – 5 hrs

Early in the morning, take a local shared jeep from Besisahar to Chame. Enjoy the scenic drive along the Marsyangdi River, passing terraced fields, traditional villages, and beautiful mountain views. Arrive in Chame and settle into your lodge. Overnight in Chame.

Day 04 :

Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,270 m) – 6–7 hrs

Begin your trek from Chame, gradually ascending through pine and rhododendron forests. Pass traditional villages and enjoy stunning views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. Reach Upper Pisang, a picturesque village perched on the hillside, and settle into your lodge. Overnight in Upper Pisang.

Day 05 :

Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,450 m) – 6–7 hrs

Trek from Upper Pisang through terraced fields and rugged landscapes, gradually gaining altitude. Pass through small villages and enjoy spectacular views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. Arrive in the beautiful village of Manang and check into your lodge. Overnight in Manang.

Day 06 :

Rest Day in Manang (3,450 m) – Acclimatization

Take a rest day in Manang to acclimatize to the high altitude. You can relax in the village, explore local monasteries, or take an optional short hike to the stunning Ice Lake (4,600 m) for spectacular views. Overnight in Manang.

Day 07 :

Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka/Ledar (4,010 m) – 4 hrs

Begin a gentle trek from Manang, passing through alpine landscapes dotted with yak pastures and small settlements. Enjoy panoramic views of surrounding peaks as you reach Yak Kharka or Ledar. Settle into your lodge and rest for the night.

Day 08 :

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,600 m) – 3–4 hrs

Trek from Yak Kharka through rugged alpine terrain toward Thorong Phedi, the base village for the Thorong La Pass. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views along the way. Arrive at Thorong Phedi, rest, and prepare for the high-altitude pass crossing. Overnight in Thorong Phedi.

Day 09 :

Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800 m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) – 7–8 hrs

Start early and ascend to Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,416 m, enjoying breathtaking Himalayan panoramas. After crossing the pass, descend gradually through rocky landscapes to reach the sacred town of Muktinath. Overnight in Muktinath.

Day 10 :

Trek from Muktinath to Marpha (2,670 m) – 7–8 hrs

Descend from Muktinath through terraced fields, pine forests, and charming villages. Enjoy views of the Kali Gandaki River and the surrounding mountains as you reach Marpha, a picturesque town famous for its apple orchards and traditional architecture. Overnight in Marpha.

Day 11 :

Drive to Tatopani and Hot Spring Relaxation (650 m) – 3–4 hrs

Take a local bus from Marpha to Tatopani, enjoying scenic views along the Kali Gandaki Valley. Upon arrival, relax and unwind in the natural hot springs, a perfect way to soothe tired muscles after days of trekking. Overnight in Tatopani.

Day 12 :

Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850 m) – 7–8 hrs

Begin your trek from Tatopani, ascending through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. Enjoy the changing landscapes and scenic mountain views as you reach Ghorepani, a charming village known for its beautiful surroundings. Overnight in Ghorepani.

Day 13 :

Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,700 m) – 6–7 hrs

Start your day with a trek from Ghorepani, passing through rhododendron and oak forests, terraced fields, and small villages. Enjoy spectacular mountain views along the way as you descend slightly to reach the peaceful village of Tadapani. Overnight in Tadapani.

Day 14 :

Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk, then Drive to Pokhara (827 m) – 7 hrs

Trek for about 4 hours from Tadapani to the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk, passing through forests and terraced fields with stunning mountain views. After exploring Ghandruk, take a 3-hour shared jeep ride to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 15 :

Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Travel back to Kathmandu by tourist bus (8–9 hrs) through scenic hills and valleys, or take a short 25-minute flight for a quicker return. Arrive in Kathmandu and check into your hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 16 :

Final Departure from Nepal

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your onward flight. Bid farewell to the Himalayas, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

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