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Annapurna Circuit – Nepal’s Classic Circuit Trek

Asia , Hikes , Nepal

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most popular and most epic treks in Nepal . This classic trek meanders through Himalayan foothills and over high passes, offering picturesque mountain views along the way. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Route overview.

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the greatest treks in Nepal, if not the world.

Although road construction over the past two decades has severely impacted the trekking experience (more on this later).

Note: if you are a mountain biker, the road on the western side makes for one of the most exhilarating and scenic mountain biking experiences!

Where Does The Annapurna Circuit Start and End?

The trek begins at Besisahar (which is a 7-8 hour drive from Kathmandu) and concludes in the Kali Gandaki Gorge – the disputed highest gorge in the world that separates Dhaulagiri (8,176 meters) in the West and Annapurna (8,091 meters) in the East.

The circuit is traditionally followed on an anti-clockwise trail – for acclimatization reasons – that circumvents the Annapurna Massif. It takes trekkers through the Annapurna, Manang and Mustang region of central Nepal.

Route Details

At its pinnacle, the trek crosses the Thorung La Pass (5,416 meters) before descending down to the town of Muktinath. From here the road construction activities  (2004 -2008/09) have had a measurable impact on the Annapurna Circuit trekking experience.

The Nepalese government have realized that the road on both the Western (Pokhara-Muktinath) and Eastern (Chame-Manang) side of the circuit has had a negative impact on trekking tourism. Thus, they have created a number of New Annapurna Trekking Trails (called NATT-trails).

These NATT-trails, marked blue and white or red and white, take trekkers away from the dusty and unpleasant roads. The alternative routes provide a much more pleasant trekking experience. 

How Long Is The Annapurna Circuit?

The Annapurna circuit typically takes between 16-20 days to complete. This is depending if you decide to tack on a diversion to Annapurna Base Camp  and the  Annapurna Sanctuary ). It covers between 150-240 km depending on when you decide to end the tour or use transportation vehicles.

Scenery and Landscape

The scenery on the Annapurna Circuit is extraordinarily beautiful. Trekkers pass through rice terraced paddy fields, subtropical forests, and glacial environments.

 You will see a number of major mountains including the Annapurna Massif (I-IV), three 8,000 metre peaks – Dhaulagiri (8,176 meters), Manaslu (8,156 meters) and Annapurna I (8,091 meters). There are numerous other peaks of 6,000 to 7,000 meters.

Please Note: The Annapurna Circuit is situated in the Annapurna and Mustang regions of central Nepal. It is home to the Annapurna Massif. The schematic below illustrates Nepal’s trekking regions (not to scale).

Annapurna Regional Map

The Annapurna Circuit is situated in the Annapurna and Mustang regions of central Nepal. It is home to the Annapurna Massif. The schematic illustrates Nepal’s trekking regions (not to scale)

Annapurna Trek Altitude Profile

The schematic diagram below shows the route altitude profile for the Annapurna Circuit.

Annapurna Circuit Itinerary

Below is a detailed Annapurna Circuit itinerary. Where possible we have highlighted the NATT-Trails that can be used to avoid the road. Please note that this is a typical Annapurna Circuit itinerary. Some tour operators offer variations on this route.

Day 1-2: Arrive Kathmandu (Drive to Besisahar / Fly to Pokhara)

Arrive in Kathmandu, usually spend a day sightseeing in the capital city.

See more in our guide on what to do in Kathmandu . 

Drive from Kathmandu (1,300 meters) to Besisahar / Khudi (circa 800 meters) via bus. The trip takes between 7 and 8 hours, meandering through countryside villages.

The Annapurna Circuit typically starts at Besisahar, an hour’s trek from Khudi. Some operators may drive you to Khudi and commence the trek from there.

Day 3: Trek from Besisahar (820 meters) to Khudi and onto Bahundanda (1,310 meters)

Trek from Besisahar (820 meters) to Khudi and onto Bahundanda (1,310 meters). This traditional route has been impacted by the road construction so some operators have started using new trails that bypass the road. Instead, you go  to the village of Sikrung (2,200 meters).

The latter is a fairly steep climb to a rather high altitude. But it does offer a more untainted Annapurna trekking experience. Expect to trek between 6-7 hours.

Day 4: Trek from Bahundanda (1,310 meters) / or Sirung (2,200 meters) to Jagat (1,300 meters) or potentially Chamje (1,410 meters)

Trek from Bahundanda (1,310 meters) / or Sirung (2,200 meters) to Jagat (1,300 meters) or potentially Chamje (1,410 meters). If on day 4 you followed the traditional route to Bahundanda, you will trek to Ghermu (1,130 meters) and onto Jagat. You might stay the night here or take a steep hour-long trek up to Chamje (1,410 meters).

We recommend staying the night at Chamje instead of Jagat, which is a dirty and crowded village. If on day 4 you stopped at Sikrung, you will likely follow a route via Syange (1,100 meters) to Jagat and up to Chamje.

Expect to see great rice terraced landscapes and views of the Manaslu Range during early stages of this day’s trekking.

Day 5: Trek from Jagat / Chamje (1,300 / 1,410 meters) to Dharapani (1,960 meters)

Trek from Jagat / Chamje (1,300 / 1,410 meters) to Dharapani (1,960 meters). Continuing north into the Manang region, you will trek through agricultural fields of corn and potatoes and then forests of rhododendrons.

Eventually reach the quaint village of Tal (1,700 meters). From Tal you will trek for another 6 kms (circa 3 hours) via Karte to the village of Dharapani (1,960 meters).

Day 6: Trek from Dharapani (1,960 meters) to Chame (2,710 meters) via Bagarchap and Danakyu, and then either along the lower trail or upper trail to Koto (2,640 meters)

Trek from Dharapani (1,960 meters) to Chame (2,710 meters) via Bagarchap and Danakyu, and then either along the lower trail or upper trail to Koto (2,640 meters).

From Koto you trek a further hour to the busy village of Chame. Some trekkers and operators prefer an overnight stay in the quieter village of Koto. On this rather steep trekking day you will get some great views of Annapurna II and IV, as well as Lamjung Himal.

Day 7: Trek from Chame (2,710 meters) to Pisang via Bhratang (2,850 meters) and Dhukur Pokhari (3,240 meters)

Trek from Chame (2,710 meters) to Pisang via Bhratang (2,850 meters) and Dhukur Pokhari (3,240 meters). From Dhukur Pokhari the trail splits and you may either trek to Upper Pisang (3,310 meters) or to Lower Pisang (3,250 meters) for an overnight stay.

If you take the latter to Lower Pisang we highly recommend re-joining the upper trail on day 8. This provides arguably the best views of the whole Annapurna Circuit.

Day 8: Trek using the upper trail from Pisang (3,310 meters) to Manang (3,450 meters) via Ghyaru (3,730 meters), Ngawal (3,680 meters), Humde (3,330 meters and Bhraga (3,450 meters)

Trek using the upper trail from Pisang (3,310 meters) to Manang (3,450 meters) via Ghyaru (3,730 meters), Ngawal (3,680 meters), Humde (3,330 meters and Bhraga (3,450 meters).

The mountain views on this portion of the Circuit are exceptional, as are the quaint villages along the trail. A visit to Barge monastery is worthwhile before the final stretch to Manang.

Day 9: Acclimatization day in Manang

Manang is one of the main towns on the Circuit. Many trekkers take this opportunity to spend a rest acclimatization day in the town.

Short excursions to the Gangapurna Lake and Bhojo Gompa (a Buddhist ecclesiastical fortification of learning) are common among trekkers. There are also day trips around the town. You might want to consider visiting the offices of the Himalayan Rescue Association for a talk on high altitude risks.

Day 10: Trek from Manang northwest out of the Marshyangdi Valley and up to the small village of Yak Kharka (4,110 meters)

Trek from Manang northwest out of the Marshyangdi Valley and up to the small village of Yak Kharka (4,110 meters). If you haven’t started feeling the effects of altitude yet, you might start doing so from today. Some trekkers continue onto the tiny village of Letdar (4,200 meters). Teahouse accommodation is limited in both these villages.

Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka (4,110 meters) to High Camp (4,850 meters)

Trek from Yak Kharka (4,110 meters) to High Camp (4,850 meters). This is a fairly tough and steep day. Some tour operators will stop for the night at Thorang Phendi (4,450 meters). This is a good idea if trekkers are struggling with the altitude.

However, continuing on to High Camp is, in our opinion, preferable. This is because it makes the next day’s treks to Muktinath (3,800 meters) a lot shorter and easier. Accommodation facilities and amenities in Thorang Phendi and High Camp are both good. Please note: continuing onto High Camp means sleeping at high altitude, which is not advised if you are suffering from acute mountain sickness (AMS) symptoms .

Day 12: Trek from High Camp (4,850 meters) across the Thorung Pass (the highest point on the trek at 5,416 meters) and then back down to Muktinath (3,800 meters) via Charabu (4,230 meters)

Trek from High Camp (4,850 meters) across the Thorung Pass (the highest point on the trek at 5,416 meters). You then go back down to Muktinath (3,800 meters) via Charabu (4,230 meters). Prepare for a tough, icy-cold day of trekking. The descent from Thorung Pass is steep and trekking poles come in handy. Muktinath, although an important pilgrimage site for both Hindu’s (see the Vishnu Temple) and Buddhists (see the Monastery), is a rather characterless village. Depending on your operator, you will likely stay overnight in Muktinath. For independent trekkers, the Bob Marley Guesthouse in the center of town is a great shout!

Day 13: Trek from Muktinath (3,800 meters) to Marpha (2,665 meters) via the awesome village of Kagbeni (2,800 meters)

Trek from Muktinath (3,800 meters) to Marpha (2,665 meters) via the awesome village of Kagbeni (2,800 meters). From Kagbeni to Jomsom we recommend taking a jeep to avoid the unpleasant dusty roads.

Once you get to Jomsom you can join the ne NATT-trail (which is 2 hours longer than the road option) to Marpha. Marpha is famous for being the centre of the apple region in Nepal. Do try the apple brandy if you get a chance.

Day 14: Trek from Marpha (2,665 meters) to Kalopani (2,530 meters), via Chokhopani, and continue to Kokhethanti to avoid the road

Trek from Marpha (2,665 meters) to Kalopani (2,530 meters), via Chokhopani, and continue to Kokhethanti to avoid the road. Some trekkers grab a jeep from Marpha all the way to Tatapani (see day 15).

Day 15: Trek from Kolapani (2,530 meters) to Tatapani (1,200 meters)

Trek from Kolapani (2,530 meters) to Tatapani (1,200 meters). Using a new NATT-trail (marked in red and white), you can avoid the road and follow a trail that climbs steeply before joining a path that will take you through the towns of Kopochepani, Rupsechhahara, Dana and finally Tatapani.

Day 16: Trek up from Tatapani (1,200 meters) to Ghorepani (2,870 meters)

Trek up from Tatapani (1,200 meters) to Ghorepani (2,870 meters), via the towns of Ghara, Sikha and Chitre. You will most likely stay overnight in Ghorepani in preparation for an early start the next day.

Day 17: Trek from Ghorepani (2,870 meters) up Poon Hill (3,870 meters) and back down to Tadapani (2,710 meters)

Trek from Ghorepani (2,870 meters) up Poon Hill (3,870 meters) and back down to Tadapani (2,710 meters). You will start this days trekking early so as to get up Poon Hill for the impressive sunrise. First light illuminates surrounding rice terraces and Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. The classic Annapurna Circuit trek then descends to Tadapani for an overnight stay.

Note: we have heard that instead of heading up Poon Hill, the hill opposite in the direction of Chomrong provides an equally impressive (if not better view) without any crowding issues.

Day 18: Trek from Tadapani (2,710 meters) to Naya Pul (1,070 meters) via Gandruk and then catch a short bus ride back to Pokhara

Trek from Tadapani (2,710 meters) to Naya Pul (1,070 meters) via Gandruk and then catch a short bus ride back to Pokhara. This is the end of the Annapurna Circuit and an extraordinary 18 days!

Note: It is possible to follow the old Annapurna Circuit from Ghorepani to Phedi via Landruk, although this takes an extra 2 days compared to the direct exit from Ghorepani to Naya Pul.

Please Note: From Muktinath onwards the classic Annapurna Circuit has been severely impacted by the road that joins Jomsom to Muktinath. If you choose to trek this route be prepared for an unpleasant and dusty experience, as jeeps wiz by you. Thankfully there are alternative options via the New Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT-trails).

Suggested route options from Muktinath

If you are not on a set tour we suggest the following route:

• Trek to the charmingly wonderful town of Kagbeni (2,800 meters) for an overnight stay. We recommend taking the high trail out of Muktinath via Jhong, as this offers better mountain views
• From Kagbeni to Jomsom take a jeep as dust driven from the common winds in this region and the constant flow of vehicles on the road make for unpleasant trekking
• From Jomsom take the new NATT-trail (marked in red and white) to Marpha (2,665 meters) where you can stay overnight and then continue following the route set out from Day 13 below

Also Note: As the road starts in Muktinath, you can cheat and catch a truck all the way to Jomsom. Continue your trek or catch a flight to Kathmandu if you need to shorten your trek (we highly recommend not skipping Kagbeni though). You can also get a bus from Muktinath all the way back to Pokhara if you have run out of time. If you are a mountain biking fanatic you can rent a mountain bike to take one of the most amazing rides down and out of Muktinath – this area of Nepal is fast becoming mountain biking Mecca

Annapurna Route Variations

There are a number of route variations on the Annapurna Circuit. Here are three worth mentioning.

If you don’t have much time in the Annapurna Circuit you may want to consider the Poon Hill Trek ,  The Royal Trek  or the  Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (also called the small Annapurna Circuit). Nepal is heaven for trekkers and has some of the best thru-hikes in the world .

• Annapurna base Camp Trek
• Naar-Pho Valley
• Tilicho Lake

It is possible to include a five day diversion to Annapurna Base Camp onto the Annapurna Circuit trek. This involves continuing north from Tadapani so as to join the old Annapurna Circuit at Landruk.

Read more about the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

A variation to the Annapurna Circuit that has been growing in popularity since opening to foreigners in 2002 is the Naar-Pho Valley.

The route begins near Koto (on day 5/6 of the classic Annapurna Circuit) and follows a trail via two distinctly Tibetan villages – Phugaon and Naar – which are both located at over 4,000 meters. After nine days trekking the route exits via the Kang La Pass (5,300 meters) to Ngawal, where you re-join the Annapurna Circuit on your way to Manang. The detour via the Naar-Pho Valley in effect adds seven days to the traditional Annapurna Circuit as you would have spent two days trekking from Koto to Ngawal and on to Manang had you stayed on the main track.

A special permit, which can only be organised through a trekking agency, is required to enter the Naar-Pho Valley. You will also need to take a guide as tourist infrastructure is poor. Most trekkers opt for the traditional camping style of trekking with porters, tents and cooks.

A 3-4 day trek to Tilicho Lake (4,920 meters), one of the highest lakes in the world, has become a relatively popular diversion on the Annapurna Circuit.

The trek starts in Manang, and follows a path on the northern side of the valley to Khangsar (note: there are maps that show a path on the southern side of the valley but we recommend avoiding this as it is in poor condition and prone to landslides).

From Khangsar there are two paths that leave the town – the lower and upper path. Take the upper path, as it is safer, until you reach Shree Kharka where you can overnight at one of the two teahouses there.

From Shree Kharka walk about 45 miuntes until you reach point where the path splits into a lower and upper trail. Make sure to take the lower trail (the upper trail is marked ‘Danger’). A further 3 hours trekking and you will arrive at Tilicho Base Camp where you can stay overnight at one of the teahouses.

Depart Tilicho Base Camp early the next morning to avoid the high winds and clouds that roll in by mid-morning. The trek up to the lake is steep and tough. It takes about 3 hours and can be very cold due to the altitude, so dress warmly. The descent follows the same path back to Base Camp (approx. an hour) or to Shree Kharka (4 hours from the lake). Overnight at Shree Kharka.

The next day take a trail (which is signposted) directly to Yak Kharka via Old Khangasar, where you re-join the Annapurna Circuit.

Recommended Guidebook

Need an up-to-date guide book with maps that include the NATT-Trails? We recommend either Andrées de Ruiter and Prem Rai’s guide, Trekking the Annapurna Circuit , or Sian Pritchard-Jones and Bob Gibbons guide, Annapurna: A Trekker’s Guide .

Annapurna Circuit FAQ

How much does it cost to hike the annapurna circuit.

The cost of an Annapurna Circuit varies depending on which route variation you take. It also depends when you trek (out of season tends to be a little cheaper) and whether to trek with a local or western trekking agency, or indeed independently.

We have provided a detailed Annapurna Circuit Cost article here but in summary you should budget for the following key expenses:

Visa, Vaccinations, Insurance etc: ~$300-$500

Equipment (buying and hiring): ~$500-$800

Flights to Kathmandu:  ~$1,000

Tour Agency: ~$1000 for a cheap local agency to ~$3,000 for a pricey Western trekking agency. You could do an independent trek for ~$700 employing a local guide

check out our list of Nepal trekking companies recommendations .

Tips:  ~$200-$300

Misc (additional food, unplanned travel / hotels ect):  $200

Total Costs:  $2,500 – $5,000

Do I need a permit for the Annapurna Circuit?

Yes. An Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit and Trekker Information Management System registration are required for the Annapurna Circuit trek.

If you are joining an organised tour, these will be arranged for you. If you are looking to go it alone you will have to bring four passport-sized photographs and go to the offices of the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu to apply. We recommend bringing copies of your passport and insurance policy. The offices follow government working hours and days, and are not open on Sunday.

When is the best time to hike the Annapurna Circuit?

The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is either in the Spring (March to Mid May) or in the Autumn (mid / late September to December). Unfortunately these also happen to be the busiest times of the year as they are the best time for Nepal trekking ..

Towards December the weather starts getting particularly cold and the routes get distinctly quieter. If you are a hardened trekker a winter Annapurna Circuit (late December through February) can provide a very authentic Nepal trekking experience.

The main challenge of a winter trek, apart from the cold, is the snow and ice that often obstructs the higher trails and the Thorung Pass. During bad winter seasons these trails may be closed.

Unlike the Everest region that gets very wet during the rainy monsoon season, the Annapurna and Mustang regions stay relatively dry, making June through September, a relatively good time to trek as well.

Here’s a detailed article on  weather on the Annapurna Circuit .

Is altitude sickness a risk on the Annapurna Circuit?

Yes, some trekkers do suffer from altitude sickness on the Annapurna Circuit as it is a high altitude trek. At its highest point, Thorung Pass, you will reach an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).

Fortunately because of the circuits length the opportunities for appropriate acclimatisation are good. Hence, the prevalence of moderate or sever altitude sickness is low.

Nonetheless, it is important to have a detailed understanding of the risks associated with high altitude trekking and how the body acclimatises.

We recommend you read our detailed article on  Altitude Sickness and Acclimatisation .

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit hike?

The Annapurna Circuit trek is challenging. You will be trekking for 4-7 hours a day for over two weeks, so you will need to be peak physical condition. The best way to prepare is to get as many kilometres under foot on hikes in your home country.

What do I need to pack for the Annapurna Circuit trek?

Trekking in the Annapurna region requires a number of essential pieces of trekking clothing and equipment. AC is a long and tough trek. You will be exposed you to a range of altitudes where temperatures fluctuate dramatically between night and day.

Many pieces of equipment can be rented or bought in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Even so, we recommend bringing the most important pieces of gear with you.

We've written a detailed Annapurna hiking packing list .

Insurance Information

Trekking insurance is a must in Nepal. This is particularly the case in the Annapurna Region, which at stages is very remote. If an accident should occur that requires medical assistance and evacuation you will definitely want trekking insurance that can cover the costs of air ambulance and treatment.

Moreover, it is prudent to have insurance that covers you for any travel related risks. insurance should cover stolen, damaged or delayed baggage; flight delays and interruptions; and tour operators default.

This article on travel and trekking insurance in Nepal provides detailed information on what type of insurance you need.

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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Thanks for the useful information. Really helpful!

Hi Mark, this is a really nice blog with very comprehensive information!!

I'd like to do the trekking on my own, as an independent trekker, but I've heard that there are some new regulations comming for this year (2023) and that a local guide or agency is mandatory to do the central part of the annapurna circuit. Also, that the TIMS can not be got by independent trekkers but only if you hire an agency. Would you have any up to day news about it?

Hi Daniel, thanks for checking in. I’m not aware of the new regulations, but it is definitely possible. Nepal authorities have been talking about this for years. Here’s the latest from the Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2023/mar/30/nepal-imposes-ban-on-mountain-trekking-without-a-guide

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10 things I wish I knew before hiking the Annapurna Circuit

It’s one of the world’s classic long-distance hiking trails, and still one of Nepal’s most popular treks.

The Annapurna Circuit , a 12 to 21-day route that begins in the lush green villages of the Himalayan foothills. Taking trekkers over the 5,416m Thorong La Pass and down to the Tibetan-influenced temples and communities of the Mustang Valley.

If you want to experience a little bit of everything Nepal has to offer, this is perhaps the best trek to set off on, but it’s certainly no easy feat. The circuit is very tough at times, and the high altitude and unpredictable weather of the Annapurna mountain range can make crossing the Thorong La Pass a dangerous task – particularly if you’re not prepared.

Thankfully, I’ve got your back! So, here are ten things you should really know in order to complete the amazing Annapurna Circuit safely and with a smile on your face.

Check out Intrepid's Annapurna treks

1. Plan the time of year right

Photo captured by Annapurna Mellor

Like with many of the treks in Nepal, there are certain times of year when the weather conditions are ideal. For the Annapurna Circuit, October and November or April and May are widely considered to be the best times for trekking. The weather during these two seasons is generally clear and dry, and so it’s not too cold when heading into high altitudes. These two seasons are also the busiest times to be on the trail, with many other trekkers from across the world heading into the Himalayas.

You can also trek at other times of the year, but you will need to be a little more prepared for adverse weather conditions. The winter season, December to March, can also have clear skies and spectacular views. But it can be incredibly cold at higher altitudes, with thick snow on the ground that can often cause the Thorong La Pass to close at short notice. If you decide to trek during the winter season, make sure you have extra layers, a thick sleeping bag suited to temperatures of at least -20°C and crampons, which can be bought in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

GO NOW: EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT ON THIS 16-DAY ADVENTURE

2. Bring only what you need, leave the rest behind

When trekking on the Annapurna Circuit with Intrepid, Nepalese porters will carry 10kg of your gear. Anything extra will need to be carried on your own back, so packing as lightly as possible is essential. There are some things you need, such as a good quality sleeping bag, warm jackets, medicines, thermal layers and a head torch. But leave your jeans, laptop and makeup back in Kathmandu. You really don’t need them on the trail, and your back will thank you for it!

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3. The altitude should not be underestimated

Altitude sickness can happen anytime above 2,500m. It doesn’t matter how fit you are, it can affect anyone and does so randomly. You can stay prepared by taking Diamox, an altitude medication, but aside from that just take it slow, drink lots of water and listen to your body. Before you set off on the trail, read up on the symptoms of altitude sickness so you’re aware of them if you start to feel the effects. Your guides will also be very knowledgeable about altitude and can be an essential source of help if you aren’t feeling well. The Annapurna Circuit reaches over 5,000m, that’s seriously high, and almost everyone will experience some mild symptoms like headaches or difficulty sleeping.

RELATED: ANNAPURNA OR EVEREST? YOUR DEFINITIVE TREKKING GUIDE

4. Be prepared for all weathers, whatever the time of year

While certain times of the year have much more suitable trekking weather (see point one), it is vital to be prepared for all possible conditions, no matter when you decide to go. High in the Himalayas, the weather is unpredictable, and snow, rain or storms can happen at any time. Climate change also means that weather patterns have become even more erratic over the last few years. Even if you’re trekking in October, be prepared for snow or storms on the trail. Pack enough warm clothing, make sure your boots are waterproof and don’t forget your sun cream or a sunhat.

GO NOW: DISCOVER THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT ON THIS 16-DAY ESCAPE

5. Eat well and look after your body

One of the best things about the Annapurna Circuit is the food and hospitality you will receive in the teahouses. Each evening, after a long day of trekking, you will be delighted to sit down in front of a roaring fire and tuck into a plate of dal bhat (a traditional Nepali meal of rice, lentils, vegetable curry and pickle). The food is delicious and very filling, and your body will be grateful for it the next day when you feel revived and ready to head out on the trail again. Other common offerings in guesthouses include garlic soup, a local remedy for altitude sickness and much better than it sounds. As well as, fried potatoes, spaghetti with local vegetables and of course apple pie – which is the Annapurna Circuit’s desert of choice due to the apple orchards growing in many of the villages along the trail. For snacking, I recommend stocking up in Kathmandu, as the cost of items like chocolate bars can get very high on the circuit.

RELATED: 8 NEPALI DISHES YOU HAVE TO TRY

6. It’s good to have a way to purify water

Plastic is a big problem on trekking routes across Nepal, as most of these small villages have no waste disposal system. This is leaving mountainsides cluttered with discarded plastic bottles, which is really not how we want to be treating these areas of striking natural beauty! You can’t drink the tap water in Nepal, and you really do need to be drinking a lot on the trail as you are walking long distances at high altitudes.

I recommend getting a steel reusable water bottle in Kathmandu. Along the trail, there are many villages with purified drinking water stations. Here you can refill your bottle and it actually works out much cheaper than buying bottled water. You can also use water purification tablets or buy a steripen. During the evenings, we would often order pots of hot water or tea and drink that, you can also fill up your bottle with any remaining in the pot and it’ll still be good to drink the next day.

TAKE ME THERE: EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT BREAKS

7. Learn some cultural respect

For many people, trekking in Nepal is about mountain views and hiking. But this is also a cultural trail, and it’s important to respect the people that call these villages their home. I recommend learning a little more about the cultures you are passing through. Speak to the families running the teahouses and go visit local gompas or temples. Opening your eyes to the cultures, religions and heritage of the trail will make it a much more enjoyable and meaningful experience, and it also means a lot to the local people when trekkers take an interest in their lives.

RELATED: MY INCREDIBLE MEETING WITH A HERMIT ON A NEPAL MOUNTAIN TREK

8. Don’t run out of cash

Once you leave Besisahar, there are no cash machines on the Annapurna Trail until you reach Jomsom after the Thorong La Pass. So, you need to be prepared and carry all the money you will need for the journey. While food and drinks in the teahouses can be cheap in the lowlands, they increase significantly as you increase in altitude and the road disappears. In Kathmandu, dal bhat is likely to cost you around 200 rupees, but this can grow to around 800 when you get above 3,500m. Western food such as burgers, pasta and burritos (yes, all food you can get on the trail), also tends to be very expensive as you get higher. I would recommend taking at least $20 per day for the trek, and if you’re a big eater or want to drink alcohol, $30-$40 per day is better.

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9. Prepare yourself for the Thorong La Pass

Crossing the Thorong La Pass was probably the hardest day of my life! Waking up before sunrise and heading over narrow ridges in thick snow. Then climbing continuously for hours before finally reaching the prayer flags on the pass, breathless and completely relieved. Ok, maybe I’m not selling it so well. But it is essential to be prepared for this day, which will really push even the fittest hiker to the limits.

As long as you’re prepared, wearing enough warm clothes and have acclimatised enough to ensure your body comfortably makes the journey, then reaching the Thorong La Pass is going to be one of the most joyous moments of your trekking trip! Plus, once you’ve reached the top, you get to descend 1,600m to Muktinath, where the air is thick in oxygen and there are even hot showers to look forward to.

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10. Be positive, take it slow and enjoy the journey!

Travelling is meant to push you and challenge you in so many ways and trekking the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal will certainly do just that. While this is a difficult trek at times, it is also an incredibly enjoyable journey and one that can be completed by people of all ages and all fitness levels. The most important thing throughout the trek is to stay positive. Even when your body aches and you’re craving a hot shower, positivity will drive you on and it won’t be long before a breath-taking Himalayan panorama makes you remember why you’re here pushing yourself to the limit. It’s these incredible views, the wonderful hospitality of the local people and the company of your trekking buddies, which really make this a journey you will remember for the rest of your life!

RELATED: WHY CHALLENGING YOURSELF IS SUCH AN IMPORTANT PART OF TRAVELLING

Think you’re ready to take on the Annapurna Circuit? Take a look at our selection of trekking tours that’ll take you there . Already tackled it and looking for a new challenge? Check out our range of walking and trekking holidays from around the world.

Annapurna Mellor

Annapurna Mellor is a photographer, writer and storyteller. Her travels have taken her across Asia, Northern Africa, along the Trans-Siberian Railway and around Europe - always taking the road less travelled and always aiming to go a little deeper into the heart of local culture and people. Her photography work has been featured in National Geographic Traveller Magazine, Lonely Planet Guide Books and in campaigns for many travel brands around the world. Although she is usually dreaming about adventures afar, she is based, most of the time, in Manchester, England.

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The Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary: the ultimate guide

This post offers you the ultimate Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary. The Annapurna Circuit trek was once the most popular tea house trek in Nepal . In about a month it was possible to walk around the Annapurna mountain peaks. This trek was famous for its ethnic villages, natural beauty and easy access from Kathmandu or Pokhara. 

But the Annapurna Circuit trek has changed tremendously in recent years. There was a time that the further up you went, the more isolated the villages were. It took people days on foot to reach the nearest city, the nearest school or the nearest health care post. For tourists, this remoteness was part of the charm.   

Ongoing road construction now connects most villages on the Annapurna Circuit with the outside world. Jeeps drive up and down on dusty roads, changing the landscape for better and worse. Tourists planning a trek in Nepal are wondering whether the Annapurna Circuit trek is still worth it.

Why choose the Annapurna Circuit trek

Despite the new roads going up the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki valleys, the Annapurna Circuit trek is still very much worth it. Although many things have changed with the new roads, a lot of things also remained the same. People are just as friendly, the villages just as authentic and the mountain views just as spectacular. 

In short, it is still a very beautiful trek with a huge variety in landscapes, villages and people. The road itself is nothing more than a dirt track and actually carries relatively little traffic. In addition, there are plenty of alternative side trails to bypass them all together. The NATT trails set up by Prem Rai and Andrees de Ruiter are well marked and follow the traditional circuit, but avoid the road as much as possible.   

The Annapurna Circuit trek requires a certain amount of time, but most of the hike is easygoing. Gradual climbs and well marked trails with frequent restaurants and lodges to take a break. What makes it challenging is the tough day you climb the Thorung La Pass and the altitude after Manang. 

To prevent altitude sickness it is important to give yourself enough time to acclimatize. Don’t go up too fast and take some days to rest. The better your body has adjusted to the height, the easier the climb up to Thorung La will be.   

This was my first trek in Nepal and even though many others followed such as the Langtang Trek , Poon Hill trek and The Gokyo lakes trek , I still consider myself an amateur hiker. Thorung La was difficult, but I made it. If I can do it, you can too, as long as you prepare well. 

Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary

The classic Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary started in Besisahar where you climbed up the Marsyangdi valley towards Manang, crossed the Thorung La Pass, visited Muktinath and Jomsom and then walked down the Kali Gandaki valley towards Beni. This took about 20 – 30 days

The roads give you more flexibility in where to start or end the trail as well as how much time you take. Jeeps go as far up as Manang on the Marsyangdi valley side and Muktinath on the Kali Gandaki valley side.

Clockwise or anti Clockwise ?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a loop with different starting and end points. The first thing to decide is whether you hike clockwise starting at the Kali Gandaki valley or anti clockwise starting at the Marsyangdi valley. 

The general advice and also my recommendation is to hike anti clockwise from east to west. This is the easier and safer direction to go. The Marsyangdi valley offers a more gradual climb and Manang is a great village to acclimatize well, before attempting Thorung La. 

The Thorung La Pass is at 5416 meters high and altitude sickness is a serious risk. From Manang to Thorong La, there are several more villages like Yak Kharka (4020 m) and Letdar (4230 m) to stop and acclimatize or get help if you do suffer from altitude sickness. Thorung Phedi (4450 m) and High Camp (4850 m) are the last lodges before the pass. 

From west to east the last village is Muktinath (3750 m) and a few basic lodges at Charabu (4210 m). After the last lodge it is a very long and steep ascent to Thorung La with nothing in between. Taking this approach is not only more difficult and requires you to be very fit, it is also potentially dangerous. You go high quickly and without proper acclimatization small things like bad weather or an injury can become very problematic. 

How much time?

The roads have made it possible to do the Annapurna Circuit trek in much less time than the original 30 days. Still, the Annapurna Circuit trek is an area where slow travel is very rewarding. The villages on the way are very interesting and a destination in their own right. Furthermore, there are lots of side trips to escape the crowds.

Another reason to take it slow on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is again the altitude. Yes it is possible to take a jeep all the way to Manang (3520), but you will not only miss out on lots of beautiful scenery, you will also increase your risk of getting altitude sickness.   

Looking at the distances and trekking times, it looks possible to trek from Manang to Thorong La in less than two days, but again, this would be very foolish. Experts advise to not ascend more than 300 – 400 meters per day once you are above 3000 meters high. 

On the Annapurna Circuit trek this advice translates in at least one acclimatization day in Manang and another acclimatization day in Letdar before spending the night at Thorung Phedi. I followed exactly this advice and still struggled with the altitude when crossing the Thorung La pass. 

Even if you are short on time, you need to acclimatize. You could do the Annapurna Circuit trek in 2 weeks if you decide to fly from Jomsom back to Pokhara. If you have more time, walking down the Kali Gandaki valley is definitely worth it. Although road construction has had a big impact here, I still enjoyed the villages of Marpha and Tukuche as well as the scenery from Tukuche to Letdar and Ghasa. 

Where to start the Annapurna Circuit trek

With jeeps now going all the way to Manang, where to start the Annapurna Circuit trek has become a big question. I already mentioned that going straight to Manang isn’t the best idea for several reasons. In fact, my favorite trekking days were from Chame to Pisang and Pisang to Manang. 

Some trekkers still decide to follow the original Annapurna circuit trek itinerary and start at Besisahar. Because I had recently done the Poon Hill trek through the lower foothills of the Annapurna’s I decided to take a jeep up to Syange. 

Others start at Bhulbhule or Chame. To help you decide, it is maybe good to know that the road is most busy between Besisahar and Bhulbhule although there is an alternative NATT trail as well. 

From Kathmandu there are direct buses all the way up to Bhulbhule. The direct bus is a great option if you like to start in Bhulbhule. If you prefer to start later on, it is better to take a bus to Besisahar and then change to local jeeps that go all the way to Syange, Chame or even Manang. 

My personal advice is to start no further than Chame. The scenery after Chame is very beautiful.   

Where to end the Annapurna Circuit

A lot of hikers end their Annapurna Circuit trek in Jomsom from where you can fly back to Pokhara. A comfortable option if you are short on time, but you will miss out on the beauty of the Kali Gandaki valley. 

Marpha and Tukuche are very scenic traditional villages worth a visit. Furthermore, the hike from Tukuche to Lete and Ghasa is very beautiful. I hiked in the Kali Gandaki valley twice. The first time I ended my hike in Tatopani. A small village with warm water pools. The second time I ended my hike in Ghasa. 

From both towns it is possible to take a jeep down to Beni. There you can change on a bus to Pokhara. 

My Annapurna circuit trek itinerary    

In this Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary I mention every day the amount of time it took me from start to finish. I am a slow hiker though. I like to take frequent breaks to enjoy the beautiful views. If you are a fit hiker, you can probably do it in much less time

Day 1: Bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar/Syange

I started my Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary from Kathmandu where I took a bus to Besisahar. The original start of the trail. After a long and bumpy bus ride of 8 hours in a crowded bus I was happy to arrive for a late lunch. 

I was curious about the new road all the way up to Manang. As I had recently done the Poon Hill trek I already saw the lower foothills of the Annapurnas in all its beauty and decided to skip the first two days of trekking by taking a jeep to Syange. 

At the jeep station I quickly found a jeep that was slowly filling up. Jeeps leave mostly in the early mornings. It was already late in the afternoon and now it took at least two hours before the jeep had enough passengers and cargo.

It is only 30 kilometers from Besisahar to Syange, but the jeep journey took over 3 hours. I soon regretted my decision not to walk. The first part to Bhulbule was quite ok, but after that the road got really bad and scary. 

I am glad I had a careful driver that knew what he was doing and took it slow. Not all drivers are like that in Nepal. There was even an extra person that frequently got out to check the road or to remove stones. Just as it got dark I saw the lodges of Syange. 

Logistics : Direct buses to Besisahar (7 – 8 hours) and Bhulbule (8 – 9 hours) leave everyday from the Gongabu bus station (new bus park or Machapokhari) in Kathmandu. Get there early as it is a chaotic bus station and buses leave between 6 – 8 AM in the morning. It is best to reserve your tickets a day in advance at the bus station or at a travel agency in Thamel. 

For destinations further up the trail (Syange, Ghermu, Chame, Pisang, Manang) take a bus to Besisahar. Jeeps leave from the jeep bus station in Besisahar. There is a dual price system with foreigners paying slightly more. 

Personally, I would start walking in Bhulbule and certainly not go much further than Syange by jeep. After Bhulbhule the road is not in a very good condition and the journey will be adventurous to say the least. 

Day 2: Syange – Tal  

16 kilometers, 8 hours

I always feel excited on my first day of hiking. Being in the mountains with the fresh air feels invigorating. After an early breakfast I left Syange and immediately entered a narrow gorge where I shared the road with porters carrying chickens and goats. 

Walking on the jeep road wasn’t as bad as I had imagined and there was little traffic. The scenery was nice with waterfalls on the other side of the road and the Marsyangdi river below. 

The Marsyangdi river kept me company for the rest of the day. I had lunch in Chamye after which it was a steep climb over boulders up to Tal. 

Insider tip: there is an alternative NATT trail from Ghermu to Jagat that bypasses the road. It is much longer and I heard the path is very narrow and close to the edge. With my fear of heights I decided to stay on the road. 

Day 3: Tal – Danaque

11 kilometers, 5 hours

From Tal you can choose to make it a long day to Chame (20+ kilometers) or split it up in two days and spend the night somewhere in between. 

I left Tal to see how far I would come that day. Till Dharapani the trail was very quiet and scenic with several waterfalls. At Dharapani the trail joined the road again. Both Dharapani and Bagarchap are nice villages with lots of restaurants.

At Bagarchap I had my first Annapurna views and I stopped for lunch. I already knew Chame would be too far for me, but I could still hike a bit more and decided to continue to Danaque. A nice village with a Mani wall and prayer wheel. 

Insider tip : It is possible to take an alternative NATT trail from Dharapani to Bagarchap up to the village of Odar. It adds 2 hours to your trekking time and is a steep 200 meter climb up and down again.

Day 4: Danaque – Chame

12 kilometers, 6 hours

Today started with a steep and long climb through the forests from Danaque to Timang. A difficult beginning, but the rewards were beautiful mountain views once I reached the top. After Timang the ascent became more gradual and passed the occasional village. 

I noticed more and more Buddhist influences like mani walls, prayer wheels and chortens. The mountain views too became more beautiful as I approached Chame. A lively village right next to the Marsyangdi river.  

Day 5: Chame – Pisang

14 kilometers, 7 hours

The part from Chame to Pisang was simply spectacular. Panoramas on the snow capped peaks of the Annapurna’s all day as I hiked along the Marsyangdi river. The increase in altitude is also visible as pine forests give way to open fields with sweeping views.

This was one of my favorite days on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Parts of the road were carved out of the side of the mountain and high above the river. With my fear of heights this was a bit of a challenge, but I made it. 

When I arrived in Pisang it was tempting to stay in lower Pisang. I heard the views are much better from Upper Pisang though and so they were. 

Day 6: Pisang – Manang

18 kilometers, 8 hours

Pisang to Manang was another beautiful day on the Annapurna Circuit trek. The trail is a gentle climb with beautiful views all around you. I enjoyed every minute of my hike, but also started to feel the effects of the altitude. 

From Pisang to Manang you can choose to hike the easier lower trail or a more spectacular higher trail. Because I woke up with a slight headache I didn’t want to add 3 more hours to my hiking trail and choose the lower option on the road. 

I am sure the higher trail offers even better views, but for me it was a good decision to take it easy. By the time I was in Manang (3540 m) I was having mild symptoms of Altitude sickness. 

Day 7: Manang acclimatization

In Manang I had a much needed acclimatization day. My first night in Manang was a night of insomnia, vivid dreams and a mild throbbing headache that got only less in the early hours of the next day. Mild symptoms of altitude sickness.

Manang is a small village, but there are lots of side trip possibilities. The strenuous hike to the ice lake is very popular, but I did not feel fit enough. Another popular hike is to Chongkor viewpoint where you can see a glacial lake. There are also several gompa’s in the area you can visit. 

I went to the Chongkor viewpoint to see the lake and then visited the excellent information session about altitude sickness from the Himalayan Rescue Association. They give this for free every day at 3 pm. 

Day 8: Manang (3540) – Yak kharka (4020)

10 kilometers, 5 hours

My second night in Manang I slept well. I therefore decided to continue to Yak Kharka. An elevation increase of 500 meters. 

The climb was hard. Although the obvious symptoms of altitude sickness were gone, I was more easily out of breath and every step seemed to take a lot of energy. The next village, Gunsang, was only 3 kilometers away but I took a long tea break.

With a cup of tea and the sun warming me up in the chilly morning air I still felt so lucky to be here. The views on the Annapurnas and the flocks of birds flying by were all so beautiful. 

After Gunsang the landscape changed again to high altitude fields with shrubs and grazing goats. The trail climbs slowly to over 4000 meters high. Technically, the path is very easy, but my body was struggling more than ever.

I was glad to see the cluster of lodges at Yak Kharka. Yak Kharka translates as yak pastures and therefore it was no surprise to see a few yaks wandering around.  

Day 9: Yak kharka (4020) – Letdar (4230)

2 kilometers, 2 hours

I slept well at Yak Kharka and woke up full of energy. However, after only 20 minutes of hiking I felt tired and out of breath. Luckily I had already made the wise decision to stay in Letdar.

Letdar is less than 2 kilometers from Yak Kharka and it is a very easy hike, but I can feel my body needs an extra night to adjust to the altitude.  

Day 10: Letdar (4230) – Thorung Phedi (4540)

6 kilometers, 4 hours

With an extra night at Letdar I felt more prepared to continue to Thorung Phedi (4540). It was an easy hike except for a scary part where there is a risk of landslides. Thorung Phedi is right after that. 

It is possible to continue to High Camp (4850). The last lodge before Thorung La, but the general advice is not to sleep here, because of the altitude. It does make for a great afternoon hike to help acclimatization

Day 11: Thorung phedi – Muktinath

15 kilometers, 10 hours

The day you cross Thorung La will be the most beautiful, but also most difficult day on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

Most people start early as the weather is less windy in the morning. I started around 4 AM. The ascent to high camp was difficult and I definitely felt the altitude. At High Camp I was in doubt whether I should stay one more night here before attempting the pass. 

After a quick cup of tea I pushed myself on to continue. It was difficult. Every few steps I was out of breath and had to stop. My head started hurting again and I felt very tired. There were many false summits and I started to wonder whether I should turn back. 

After 4 hours I finally saw the bundle of prayer flags that is Thorung La at 5416 meter. I felt pure joy that I made it, but at the same time absolutely miserable because of the altitude. After a quick selfie I did not even want to stop for a cup of tea. All I wanted was to go to a lower altitude. 

The first hour I happily hiked down and started to feel better by the minute. Then I realized that the 1600 meter descent to Muktinath is actually more difficult than the ascent. My knees started hurting, my muscles trembling. 

It was a very long day. Looking down I could see Muktinath in the distance. Ít just didn’t seem to come closer. After 4 hours I arrived at a cluster of lodges called Charabu. If they weren’t full I would probably have stayed here. 

After a quick dahl bath I had to continue to Muktinath. The last bit was the most difficult. I stumbled into the first lodge I saw, had dinner and went to bed. 

Day 12: Muktinath – Kagbeni

12 kilometers, 4 hours

In Muktinath I woke up feeling all my muscles from the steep and long descent yesterday. Slowly I got out of bed. This is my third time in Muktinath. A small village home to an important Vishnu temple popular among Indian and Nepali pilgrims. 

As jeeps now go all the way from Pokhara to Muktinath, it is a busy town and a culture shock after the desolate stretch of barren rocks that I walked through yesterday. I brought a short visit to the temple and then walked straight to Jharkot. 

Jharkot is a traditional village with mud and stone houses. The signs of animist religions that predate Hinduism and Buddhism give a clue to its old age. Rather than just passing by I would recommend to take a look and wander through the narrow streets for a bit. 

After Jharkot, it is a beautiful hike down to Kagbeni. Another traditional village that is at the border of Lower and Upper Mustang. Mustang was once an independent kingdom that played a big part in the salt trade between Tibet and Nepal. 

Beyond Kagbeni lies Upper Mustang. A remote region that remains isolated and protected from mass tourism by expensive permits. Kagbeni is as far as you can get and gives a good sense of the unique culture of Upper Mustang that is still very close to that of Tibet. 

Kagbeni is an interesting mix of new hotels and restaurants catering to tourists as well as medieval monasteries and ancient fortress ruins. The 15th century red monastery stands out between the whitewashed mud homes. 

The Red House Lodge was one of the most interesting places where I stayed. It has its own 350 year old buddhist chapel and the best dried yak meat (yak sukuti). 

Day 13: Kagbeni – Marpha

17 kilometers, 6 hours

The hike from Kagbeni to Jomsom follows the riverbed of the Kali Gandaki river. The Kali Gandaki valley lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna mountains and therefore the landscapes are quite unique. 

Barren desertlike mountains that differ in color. Different shades of brown, gray and yellow contrast sharply with the deep blue sky, white snow capped peaks and green farm fields. 

South of Kagbeni starts Lower Mustang. An area home to the Thakali people that also played an important role in the salt trade. Between Kagbeni and Jomsom there is not much but spectacular landscapes. 

Jomsom is the first Thakali village. Because of its airport it is very well developed and touristic. This is where most people end their Annapurna Circuit trek and take a plane back to Pokhara. 

If you do decide to continue on foot it is much better to stay in Marpha. A more authentic Thakali village with an old monastery and the so-called apple capital of Nepal. I was not a big fan of the local dried apples, but the apple pies here were delicious. 

Day 14: Marpha – Tukuche

7 kilometers, 3 hours

I thought Marpha was one of the most interesting villages on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Marpha alone is a reason why you should not stop at Jomsom. 

Marpha is a true Thakali village and you can see that people have done much effort to preserve their traditional architecture and culture. Iconic are the flat mud roofs that are used to store stacks of firewood. The roofs are also used to dry the apples and other food items.  

Rather than leaving in the morning to start hiking, I spent some time exploring the village. There is a monastery in the center of the village as well as above the hill with beautiful views. You can also visit the apple gardens and taste apple products at the apple distillery. 

The Thakali people are famous for their cuisine. Tibetan dishes like Thukpa (noodle soup) and Tsampa (barley porridge) are popular. But most famous are the Thakali sets. A more luxurious version of dahl bath with all kinds of extras like fermented spinach (gundruk) and pickles (aachar). I couldn’t resist having one for lunch before hitting the trail again. 

Tukuche is only 7 kilometers away, but another picturesque Thakali village that is very well worth the detour from the main road. When I arrived they were filming a Nepali movie song and it seemed all the children of the village were out and about to see what was happening.  I also enjoyed the show and decided to stay in Tukuche for the night.  

Day 15: Tukuche – Ghasa

20 kilometers, 9 hours

After Tukuche the landscape started to become more green again with trees and bushes. Tukuche was the last lively Thakali village on the trail. The other villages were small with just a few lodges. They seemed rather empty and not that inviting.

I decided to hike all the way to Ghasa. It was a long day, but because it was downhill it was not that difficult. Right before Ghasa is a hanging bridge high above the river. I knew it was coming and with my fear of heights a scary experience. 

Day 16: Ghasa – Tatopani

15 kilometers, 6 hours

This was going to be my last day of hiking on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Back to the lower altitudes of the Annapurna’s, the landscapes reminded me a lot of the Poon hill trek . Lush and green and also more warm and humid. 

Yesterday’s day was maybe a bit too long for my liking, but the last kilometers of today I felt sad it would be over soon. Tatopani has several warm water pools annd they felt like a great reward after 17 days on the road. 

Day 17: Tatopani – Beni/Pokhara

From Tatopani I took the jeep to Beni. The road became more busy and there were not a lot of ways to avoid it. It is also possible to hike to Ghorepani and connect with the Poon Hill trek . 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek Travel tips

Annapurna circuit trek permits.

For the Annapurna Circuit trek you need two permits.

TIMS card : The Trekkers information management card is necessary for almost all treks in Nepal. You can get your TIMS card at the Tourism Board office at Bhrikuti Mandap in Kathmandu. Bring your passport and two passport size photos. The TIMS card costs 2000 nepalese rupees.  

Annapurna Conservation Area permit : For the Poonhill trek you also need a national park entrance permit. I recommend you to get it as well at the Tourism Board Office at Bhrikuti Mandap in Kathmandu. This costs 3000 nepalese rupees.  

Do I need a guide on the Annapurna Circuit?

The Annapurna Circuit trek is moderately difficult, but easy to do without a guide. The trails as well as the NATT trails are well marked. Unless you go off season there will be enough other hikers on the trail to keep you company. 

I hiked the Annapurna Circuit alone and did not experience any problems. When hiking alone I always make sure not to hike after sunset and listen carefully to my body. At Manang I did feel mild symptoms of altitude sickness and took two acclimatization days as well as an extra night in Yak Kharka and Letdar. 

If you are alone and not that experienced, you might want to consider joining a guided trek or hiring a guide, porter or porter guide. 

In Nepal there is a clear distinction between a porter and a guide. A guide shows you the way and can tell you more about the history and the culture of the places you visit. A porter will only carry your luggage. Despite their heavy burden they often walk far in front of you and might have reached the lodge when you are only midway. A porterguide is less common, but does both. 

In Pokhara I can recommend the 3 sisters adventure trekking that works to empower women and trains women to become trekking guides in Nepal.  

Update April 2023 : The Nepal Tourism Board issued a press release that trekking without a guide is no longer permitted from 1 April 2023 onwards. Trekkers planning to hike in Nepal’s National Parks where you normally need a TIM’s card should have a government licensed guide that is registered with the official Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) . It is unclear yet how this rule will play out in practice. Everest issued a press release stating that they will not enforce it. Other areas do. However, there are no guidelines on how they are going to implement the ban on solo trekking .

Accomodation on the Annapurna Circuit

Along the Annapurna Circuit trek there is plenty of accomodation and teahouses to choose from. They are basic and can’t be booked online beforehand. There is a first come first serve basis and some lodges are fully booked by big tour groups.

There are enough lodges that there will always be a bed for you somewhere. I trekked the Annapurna Circuit twice in spring and in November and never had any problems finding a place to stay. 

The prices of accomodation is incredibly cheap, sometimes even free, but they do expect you to order dinner and breakfast at their establishment. Things like hot showers and WIFI are getting more common, but are sometimes at an extra cost. 

Food on the Annapurna Circuit

The good thing about tea house treks in Nepal is that however basic lodges might be, the food is often quite good if you stick to Nepali cuisine . Yes, many lodges try all kinds of international dishes to attract tourists, but in my opinion often not the best choice.

When trekking in Nepal I eat Dahl bath at least once a day. This national dish of rice with lentils knows a huge variety in how it is prepared. Different vegetable curries from fermented spinach to roasted cauliflower and different pickles to spice it up. Not one dahl bath is the same. Other Nepali foods to try are Tibetan bread, Thukpa and Momo’s. 

The Annapurna’s are a multicultural area with local foods as well. In Kagbeni it is possible to find yak meat on the menu. Marpha is the apple capital and has the best apple pies as well as dried apples. In the south are the Gurungs with specialities like dried meats (sukuti) and fermented leaf curries (gundruk). 

When to hike the Annapurna Circuit

The best time to go trekking in Nepal is Spring and autumn. 

January and February are too cold with lots of snow on the trail. The Thorung La Pass will be closed due to heavy snowstorms and a risk of avalanches. By March/April the pass reopens again, but you can still expect snow at the higher altitudes.

April and May are the warmer months before the monsoon and a very good time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The blooming flowers and rhododendrons are a highlight in this period. At the lower altitudes it can already become hot, dusty and humid while the higher altitudes are comfortable. 

June, July and August are the monsoon months. The Marsyangdi valley up to Manang sees lots of rainfall. The trails will be muddy with lots of leeches, but the landscapes will be lush and green. The Kali Gandaki valley is in the rain shadow and sees much less rain. 

September, October and November are the most popular months for trekking. Autumn brings clear blue skies and mild temperatures before the cold sets in in December. Autumn is also a festive season with the celebration of Tihar and Dashain. Nepal’s biggest festivals . 

Regardless of the seasons, the weather conditions at Thorung La can change rapidly and there is always a chance of unstable weather, cold and snow storms. It is important to check the weather forecast before crossing Thorung La. A freak storm in October 2014 killed several trekkers as they got stuck in bad weather and snow.    

Altitude Sickness on the Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit trek involves a serious risk of altitude sickness. Crossing the Thorung La Pass at 5416 meters high requires proper acclimatization. To allow yourself enough time to do so, it is best to trek anti clockwise from east to west.

Experts advise to not ascend more than 300 – 400 meters per day once you are above 3000 meters high. Pisang (3310) is the first village above 3000 meters and that is why it is not wise to take a jeep straight to Manang at 3540 meters high. Those first days of walking at the lower altitudes are not only beautiful, but helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude.  

For the Annapurna Circuit trek, the general advice is to spend at least one acclimatization day in Manang and another day in Letdar before spending the night at Thorung Phedi. I followed exactly this advice and still struggled with the altitude when crossing the Thorung La pass.   

The key to prevent altitude sickness is to take it slow, give your body enough time to adjust to the height and to drink enough water. Diamox is a medicine that might help your body to acclimatize, but will not cure altitude sickness once you have severe symptoms. In that case, the only remedy is to go down to a lower altitude as soon as possible.

Mild symptoms may include being tired and more easily out of breath. More severe symptoms of high altitude sickness are headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, breathing problems, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. 

Severe symptoms indicate you are developing high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). Both conditions are fatal if you do not get to a lower altitude on time.   

Take these symptoms seriously and watch out for symptoms in others, even in your nepali guides or porters. It is a misconception that they cannot get altitude sickness. The health clinic in Manang gives daily information sessions about altitude sickness that I can highly recommend. 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek Books and Guides

Cicerone and trailblazer both have excellent and comprehensive guides about treks in Nepal with detailed guides about the Annapurna. Another option is the Lonely Planet’s trekking in the Nepal Himalayas guide. 

The Himalayan Map house published the guidebook from Prem Rai and Andrees de Ruiter who developed the NATT trails on the Annapurna Circuit trek. 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek packing list

If you need to carry your own gear on a multi day trek the advice is to bring as little as possible. The Annapurna Circuit trek is not a difficult trail. There is no need to bring a tent or food. Below a few things to consider

Sun protection : no matter what time of the year you will need to bring protection against the sun. Sunscreen and a hat are a must. There are stretches with little shadow

Rain protection : there is always a risk of rain. I brought a poncho along that protected both me and my backpack from the rain.

Sturdy shoes : There is no need for proffesional hiking boots. However, there are some rocky trails so do bring sturdy shoes that fit you well. It’s important you don’t bring brand new shoes. Make sure your shoes are tested and comfortable to prevent blisters.

Hiking socks : Besides good shoes, good hiking socks are key to prevent blisters. Merino wool socks are lightweight and dry quickly. Wrightsocks are specially designed with double layers to prevent blisters. Decathlon has good merino wool socks too.

Layers : there can be a big difference in temperatures during the day and night. The best way to deal with this is to wear layers. As a base layer I bought merino wool tshirts at Decathlon. They are lightweight and dry quickly. I had a fleece vest as a midlayer and as the upper layer I had a windproof jacket.

Backpack : Your shoes and backpack are two things that will have a big influence on the comfort of your multi day trek. I recommend to go to an outdoor store to get some good advice to buy a backpack that fits your torso length and that is comfortable when you wear it. I own the Osprey Fairview trek 50 that I am very happy with.

Reusable water bottle : to prevent plastic waste I always bring a reusable water bottle with me and a water filter or steri pen.  

Sustainable Travel on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek is very popular. The trails become more crowded and pollution is a growing problem. Traveling sustainably to the Himalayas is essential to minimize your environmental impact and preserve the area’s natural beauty for future generations.

Support the local community : You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors. It is better to try Nepali Cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. Nepali food is vegetarian friendly and it is very easy to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

You can try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Leave no trace principle : When hiking the Annapurna Circuit Trek, stick to designated trails to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem. Straying off the marked paths can cause soil erosion and damage to plant life. If you are lucky enough to spot wildlife, observe quietly from a distance to prevent disruption to their habitats and help maintain their natural behaviors.

I encourage you to take all your trash back with you and dispose of it responsibly. In other words, leave no trace of your visit. Even better is when you bring something to pick up any of the trash that other people left behind.

To avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable items. For example, you can bring your own water bottle with a filter. At last, use biodegradable and eco-friendly personal care products to minimize pollution of water sources.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to be sensitive of the community’s way of life. Nepal is a multicultural country and on the trail you will encounter different ethnic groups.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly. Learning a few basic phrases in Nepali, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post with a travel guide about the Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

2 thoughts on “The Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary: the ultimate guide”

I found your post incredibly useful. I appreciate the time and effort you took in gathering and posting all of this information. Thank you!

I have enjoyed looking at your photographs and reading your description of villages and landscape, food, and people. My husband and I lived in Marpha from 1981 to 1983! My husband was with the Food and Agriculture Organization and was helped develop a vegetable seed program with the farmers. Back then there was no electricity, no cell phones, and no road. We’re sorry to learn of the modernization which detracts from the experience of being geographically isolated and more dependent on using inner resources to survive. However, a lot of the new changes are beneficial to the villagers who require easier access to medical care. Back in he day, a porter with a wooden chair strapped to his back was the ambulance service. The sick person was strapped in and the porter ran all the way to Pokhara. Thanks for your interesting update on life along the Kali Ghandaki River.

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Home » Asia » Nepal » The Annapurna Circuit and Beyond: Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Nepal (2024)

The Annapurna Circuit and Beyond: Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Nepal (2024)

Until 1951, Nepal was off-limits for foreign travellers; a secretive, isolated kingdom kept under wraps from outsiders…

But a change of regime gave birth to a new era of travel, and Nepal has remained a magnet for intrepid adventurers for over 70 years.

It was the summiting of Annapurna I – before that of Everest – that captivated the world of mountaineering and turned the spotlight on Nepal as an outdoor-lover’s haven in the Indian subcontinent.

This guide will offer everything you need to know to explore the majestic Annapurna region and get to grips with experiencing Nepal on foot. There’s a magical culture of generosity and kindness to discover, against a backdrop of some of the most impressive peaks to be found anywhere on earth.

There are three main routes we’ll cover here – the Annapurna Circuit , the Annapurna Base Camp ( Sanctuary ) trek, and the Mardi Himal Trek .  These are each superb journeys in their own right, and escape the much heftier permit fees that visits to some parts of the Annapurna Conservation Area require.

Read on for all you need to wander your way through the Annapurna massif.

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Where is the Annapurna Region?

A household name when it comes to backpacking Nepal , the Annapurna Conservation Area covers nearly 3000 square miles of stunning terrain, and spans five districts in the central part of the country.  

This includes the Annapurna massif, a monstrous range of mountains home to thirty peaks over 6000m. Here you’ll find Annapurna I , the tenth-highest mountain in the world, and the first over 8000m on earth to be summited. 

If that’s not enough, the Khali Gandaki gorge – which the Annapurna Circuit weaves through – is believed by many to be the deepest gorge in the world . Across the gorge lies Dhaulagiri , the world’s seventh-highest peak at 8167m. 

As you’d expect, it’s a ridiculously impressive and unique part of the world that feels almost ethereal at times. 

The starting points for most treks in the area are easily reached from Pokhara . This backpacker hangout is also an ideal place to sort your stuff. Shop for nearly-genuine but well-made outdoor equipment for your foray into the mountains, and stash any surplus travel gear while you’re away.

When is the best time to visit the Annapurna Conservation Area?

There are two main trekking seasons in Nepal: Autumn and Spring .

The Autumn season includes September, October and November , when clear skies should permit superb panoramic views of the jagged skyline. Temperatures are typically quite mild and the chances of heavy snow are relatively low. The trail and teahouses may well be quite lively. Across October, you’d also catch the festivals of Dashain and Tihar , giving rise to an abundance of kites, lights, and bamboo swings. 

The Spring season covers March , April and May . As it melts, the preceding snowfall breathes new life into the rhododendrons (Nepal’s national flower), and, like Autumn, the temperatures should be manageable. The weather can be changeable, however. For example, this year, a relatively dry and mild February gave way to heavy snow and extremely nippy weather throughout March. Pack wisely, whatever season you’re aiming for.

Trekking in Winter is less common, but certainly possible: December, January and February can be uncompromisingly chilly. We’re talking lows of minus 20 degrees Celsius. On the Circuit, be prepared for the possibility of days spent in teahouses waiting for the pass to reopen, and invest in a proper winter sleeping bag (read on for the low down on gear).

But there are enough teahouses that remain open to take on the treks discussed here, and your resolve will be rewarded with clear views of snow-capped peaks and a relatively empty trail. 

Last and least appealing, is the monsoon season ( June, July and August) . The rains obscure the views, the trails become sodden and mudslide-y, and the leeches come out to nibble. (If you want to trek in the summertime, you’re better off heading to the Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan , the Indian Himalayan region, such as Ladakh or Himachal Pradesh, or Nepal’s Upper Mustang which is protected from the rains.)

Introducing the Routes…

I would urge you not to overthink which trek to do: the main thing to consider is time, as something like the Circuit takes a good chunk of the calendar, and it’s better not to be rushing around. Each route has its charms and challenges, which are likely to change on each and every journey on foot. Read on and see which takes your fancy.

1. The Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most renowned and cherished trekking routes in the world, found on many travellers’ bucket lists. 

First opened in the late 70s, the circuit takes you high into the Annapurna massif and right to the edge of the Tibetan plateau, crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5417m. This is one of the highest mountain passes in the world . Not too shabby. 

The circuit is a significant undertaking. Completing the full route usually takes around three weeks. However, this can be shortened by taking a jeep up and down the valleys either side of the pass for some of the way…

If you have time, it’s certainly worth going all in by starting in Besisahar and finishing in Nayapul. It’ll be better for both the body and gaining respect from hippie-trail hikers who did it back in the day…

Get ready for a stunning stroll: the Annapurna Circuit is a classic for a reason.  

How many days does the Annapurna Circuit trek take?

The full circuit takes around 20 days, while variations on the route can massively reduce the distance covered and time taken to around 10 days. 

It may be tempting to skip walking parts of the ‘road’ section, but to be honest, the traffic is usually minimal on the track and the views are still excellent so don’t be too quick to hop in a 4×4. Climbing from the original start point of Besisahar or nearby will pay dividends in terms of acclimatisation.

Suggested Annapurna Itinerary and Notes

The trail is well supplied, with teahouses scattered relatively frequently along the path. The below table contains a suggested itinerary but can also be used to plan your own, using the village names, altitude and distances between them. 

Keep things flexible on your trek, both by stretching, and building in some leeway in case you need an extra day of acclimatisation (or just don’t fancy leaving the hot springs in Tatopani). 

How do I visit Tilicho Lake?

On the Annapurna Circuit, you’ll have the option for an out-and-back trip to Tilicho Lake, the highest glacial lake in the world ! 

It’s not an easy side-quest. You’ll start from Manang at 3519m, and climb up to above 4900m to reach Tilicho, usually over two or three days. Along the trail you’ll find Shree Karka and Tilicho Base Camp for overnighting, as you can’t stay at the lake itself. 

In winter, don’t be too surprised or disappointed if the water is frozen…it’ll still be a wicked couple of days out. 

2. Annapurna Base Camp (Annapurna Sanctuary)

The Annapurna Base Camp lies right in the heart of the ‘Annapurna Sanctuary ’ which is a protected area but not an official Nepali national park .

The full trek can be completed in around a week, covering 100km and reaching 4130m, although route variations can be made. 

This place is something special, both physically, and culturally. Held as sacred by the Gurung people, this glacial basin is only accessible via a thin pass between the peaks of Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre .

The Base Camp itself can feel quite bizarre. You’ll find statues of climbers lost on epic expeditions in years gone by, yet today, you might wake up to skiers and wedding parties being dropped off by helicopter to catch the morning sun…

However, you’ll sip your chai with a sense of satisfaction having reached this surreal spot on foot and braving the weather. Watching the sunrise hitting the dramatic skyline is a just reward for taking on this outstanding Nepali adventure. 

How many days does the Annapurna Base Camp (Sanctuary) trek take?

The Annapurna Base Camp trek can take between 7-10 days, depending on fitness, whether you’ve previously acclimatised to the altitude, and route options. See the suggested itinerary below for inspiration, but don’t be afraid to use the list of villages to create your own plan (being mindful of altitude gain). 

Suggested Itinerary and Notes

It would be very difficult to get lost on the Annapurna Base Camp trek, as all villages tend to lie on the single trail leading to the basin. A list of places to stay can be found below. 

Popular ‘linkages’ include adding on a day at Ghorepani for a sunrise at Poon Hill, or joining the Base Camp route at Ghorepani having completed the Annapurna Circuit anti-clockwise. 

These options are noted on the table below.  

3. Mardi Himal

Mardi Himal is a relatively new trekking route, and it’s an absolute cracker. 

On the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you look across the valley at an imposing landscape that appears unattainable. This is where the Mardi Himal route takes you. 

Passing through rich rhododendron forests, you’ll eventually reach the High Camp teahouses, which seem to be dotted precariously on the ridgeline. It’s a truly remarkable place , and the final push to Mardi Himal Base Camp is equally majestic. 

Plus, if you’re short on time, the trek can be completed in well under a week, and the Himalayan views are up there with the very best to be found.

What’s not to like?!

How many days does the Mardi Himal trek take?

The Mardi Himal trek is usually completed in 4 days. The elevation gain is quite fierce if you head straight from Forest Camp to High Camp, so if you’re struggling at all with fitness or the altitude, add in an extra sleep at Low Camp. 

For the immersion in the mountains you’ll be rewarded with, this it’s a superb shorter trek option that’ll take you up to 4500m. 

Like with the other routes discussed, you can use the following list and a paper map to devise your own plan, however, you can’t sleep at the Base Camp, so sleeping at High Camp is certainly the best option. 

The itinerary for the way back just depends on personal preference and speed, but don’t go so quick you miss savouring the views.

After an early out and back to Mardi Himal Base Camp, you can then stay again at High Camp. 

Alternatively, there’s certainly time to continue back down the trail towards Low Camp, or even get a 4×4 back to Pokhara that same evening from Sidhing (public bus from Lumre) if you’re speedy.

Beware, in the depths of winter or otherwise, if the snow is thick, it may well be that reaching the Base Camp isn’t possible and that the Upper Viewpoint stops you in your tracks. The trail can easily disappear in the snow and clouds, and it can become unclear what is solid ground and what is the edge of a steep drop. 

Don’t take stupid risks at this point in trying to push on. Even if the viewpoint is the furthest trekkable point, it’s still super exciting being up on the ridgeline freshly covered in snow.

The Mardi Himal Trek is gaining in popularity, and rightly so. It almost feels as though you can reach out and touch Machhapuchre (‘fishtail’) from the upper reaches of the trail, while the dense forest below provides some cool variation in terrain.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

A Few Other Options in Annapurna Region…

Here’s a quick overview of some other trekking routes in the region to consider. There are so many ridiculous spots in this area, grab a map and head somewhere – it’s likely to be a winner. 

4. Manaslu Circuit

An epic 12-14 day excursion over the Larke Pass, reaching 5100m . This route is more expensive than the Annapurna Circuit, as additional permits are required.

These include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (needed for the ABC, ACT and MH treks too), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). During the Autumn season (September to November), the RAP is $100 for the first week and then $15 for each extra day in the restricted area.

These figures are lowered to $75 and $10 for the rest of the year. It’s also rightly essential to take a guide on this route – this was always the case, well before the recent rule changes, due to the area being restricted and more remote than other routes.

If you’re able to shell out for the permits and guide, this beast of a trek is guaranteed to be a grand adventure. 

5. Poon Hill

Poon Hill is an introductory-level trek, over 3 or 4 days. The climax is waking up early in Ghorepani to witness sunrise at Poon Hill, offering panoramic views of both Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. 

Be ready for a chunky number of stairs on the first day from Nayapul, and some potentially busy trails: this route can become quite a highway in busy season. But if you’re short on time or new to trekking, the reward/effort ratio is strong as the views are still spectacular. 

6. Mohare Danda 

A fantastic alternative option for a short trek, just outside the Annapurna Conservation Area, which requires no permit or guide! The route is much more off the beaten path than the likes of Poon Hill, which means quieter trails, more peace and lower costs. It is outside the Annapurna Conservation Area, but still affords enviable views of the Himalayan ranges.

This 3-4 day route is reached from Pokhara by taking a bus to Beni. The trek peaks at the 3300m station of Mohare Danda (‘Danda’ is equivalent to hill in Nepali) for a scenic sunrise across Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Finish in Tiplyang (buses run back to Pokhara). 

This local outing should not be overlooked!

Once you’ve got the hang of it, why not try and construct your own route? Be mindful of the permit zones – this is easier outside of the Annapurna Conservation Area – but don’t be afraid to head to places off the tourist trail.

Spending 10 days on foot in the mid-hills between Pokhara and Kathmandu was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had. The kindness of Nepali villagers means you’ll be treated like family, and after your trip, longing to return soon!

Permits, Rules and Regulations 

In April 2023, new rules were introduced that compel all trekkers to hire a guide when undertaking treks in the Annapurna Conservation Area. This decision was made citing (reasonable) safety concerns for FITs (‘free independent trekkers’), but remains controversial.  This means there are three things to sort out for the routes covered in detail here: a TIMS card , an ACA permit , and a guide .

On the usual trekking trails, there are ‘checkpoints’ in certain villages, where you’ll have your ACAP permit checked and stamped (this has always been the case, before the new rules were introduced).

You must obtain this permit before starting the trek, at the Immigration Offices in either Pokhara or in Kathmandu (opening hours are reduced during off-seasons; check on the door in advance of your trek). This is also where you’ll grab your TIMS card. Take your passport, insurance policy details, and passport photos if you have some (if not, you can usually get them taken in the office for free). 

The ACAP costs 3000 rupees and the TIMS card 2000 rupees, for a total set-back of around $38. 

In addition, hiring a guide can cost between $20-40 per day, meaning the new rules add greatly to the backpacker’s budget.

On one hand, the news rules seem to benefit trekking agencies. On the other hand, many teahouses and local restaurants are concerned less FITs will lead to reduced income for their businesses and families.

However, some trekkers have recently been completing the circuit independently, and reported having no issues at all when getting their permits checked, despite being guideless. This is obviously not guaranteed, and the situation is likely to evolve over the coming months and seasons. 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek group on Facebook is a useful source for the latest deets on what’s happening week-by-week . 

Here are some commonly raised pros and cons of hiring a guide:

• You’ll gain added insight into Nepalese culture and history.
• You’ll have experience and expertise on hand for navigating more risky areas like the Thorong La Pass.
• Guides will usually help organise permits and the trekking itinerary – less admin for you.
• Significantly increases daily costs (extra $20-40 per day).
• Limited flexibility on schedule in case of altitude sickness or individual preference (particularly if in a group).
• Guides often have deals with tea-houses that may limit your choice.

Preparing for your Annapurna Trek

Preparing for a big trek may seem like a daunting task. There are things to prepare, like gear, route-planning and some permit-related admin. 

Fortunately, you don’t need to be a sponsored athlete, master orienteer or avid form-filler to swiftly get your ducks in a row and be ready to head high into the mountains. 

Aside from gear, it’s also extremely important to be aware of weather conditions before hitting the trail or even starting the trek. On 14 October 2014, a record-breaking storm dumped nearly 1.8 meters of snow in the Annapurna region which led to a series of devastating avalanches that resulted in the deaths of at least 43 people, 21 of these trekkers.

While mountain weather can change quickly, I highly recommend having a satellite device with you, and to ensure you get updates on conditions at each teahouse you stop at.

What should you pack for Annapurna trekking?

Firstly, if you’re reading this on the bus and realise you’ve left something at home on the bed, rest assured you can find all you need for trekking at the shops in Pokhara or whilst backpacking Kathmandu . 

What to pack exactly will depend on personal preference and weather. Use the list below as a checklist. 

A word of warning/comfort: don’t pack a different t-shirt for every day, there’s simply no need.

If desired, you can hand-wash items along the way and dry them above the fire in a teahouse, but nearly everyone stinks to high heaven by around day eight, so don’t overly stress. You’ll be in good – probably nose-blind – company.

If you’re looking to make a long-term investment in some clothing for multi-day hiking, check out merino . It’s a breathable, temperature-regulating and odour-resistant blessing for backpacking in colder climates.

There’s usually a healthy supply of gear circulating in the hostels on Lakeside, with backpackers selling, trading or giving away items after finishing their treks. Kiwi Backpackers Hostel on 5th Street is a hub of backpacker activity, and one of the best hostels I’ve ever stayed in. 

What to Pack for an Annapurna Trek:

Here’s exactly what you should bring on any trek in the Annapurna Region.

• Osprey Aether Backpack : Sturdy and comfy, with good support and a rain cover. It’s truly the best pack out there.
• Clothing : (Ideally) lightweight, quick-drying shirts, trousers, and shorts.
• Base layers : It can be numbingly chilly at the high points of each route.
• Mid Layer(s) : Go for fleece or soft shell. 
• Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket : Or hiking poncho (good for keeping cool).
• Waterproof Trousers : Ideally can be put on over shoes.
• Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie : Like a portable hug.
• Hat and Gloves : Sun hat if desired; warm beanie and gloves for higher elevations.
• Abaco Sunglasses : Protect your eyes!
• Water Bottle(s) : At least two litres of capacity. 
• Marmot Never Summer Sleeping Bag : Rated at 0F and -18 C, you can’t be better prepared than with this epic bag.
• Water Treatment : Purification tablets or a water filtration system (like the Grayl Geopress).
• First Aid Kit : Grab basic medications and blister treatment from a pharmacy before leaving. Consider Diamox (see altitude section).
• Lip Balm : Chops may otherwise become drier than a moth sandwich.
• Headtorch : With spare batteries/ charger. A real adventure isn’t complete without one.
• Sunscreen : High SPF for sun protection.
• Hanging Toiletry Bag : Toiletries themselves are cheaper in Pokhara than on the trail.
• Physical Map : Found all over the place (shops, hostels, etc).
• Micro Fibre Towel : Compact, dries fast and gets the job done.
• Footwear : More to follow…
• Black Diamond GTX Gaiters : Particularly if wearing low-rise walking shoes or trail runners.
• A good travel camera : The scenery justifies the extra weight.
• Black Diamond Carbon Trekking Poles : Can be an absolute boon on uphill sections. Alternatively, pick up a sturdy bamboo stick en route, with which you will become inseparable. 
• Kahtoola Microspikes : ‘Micro-spikes’ can be found cheaply in Pokhara. Highly recommended in Winter.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Can I rent rather than buy gear for my Annapurna Trek?

Yes ! The trekking shops on Lakeside in Pokhara and Thamel in Kathmandu will allow you to rent all sorts of gear without breaking the bank.

A down jacket and sleeping bag will each cost around 150-200 rupees to rent per day ($1.15-$1.50), and if you want to stay out in the mountains for longer than planned, you can usually just pay the difference on returning. (Just in case, take photos of the condition of the gear you hire as you leave the shop.)

What footwear is best for Annapurna trekking?

A hotly debated topic. 

What type of footwear to go for is largely down to personal preference, within the reasonable bounds of frostbite prevention. 

Hiking boots are the most popular choice, as they provide top-notch ankle support, superior weatherproof protection in case of snow, and shielding from rocky ground beneath. Be sure to wear them in advance though, to prevent a blistery first few days on the trail. 

Boots are a shrewd choice. However, they can feel clunky, and you may find yourself hankering for something more nimble.

An increasing number of trekkers are using trail running shoes, when not in the depths of winter. A pair of waterproof (look for Gore-tex) trail running shoes can provide solid support while remaining light and agile. You’ll want a pair with deep treads (grip) on the sole and a sturdy construction. Combine with a pair of gaiters in case of snow. 

Chuck in some flip-flops/ jandals/ slippers for downtime in the teahouses. Your feet will be eternally grateful. 

Why You Should Travel With a Water Bottle

As travellers, we have a joint responsibility to reduce the environmental impact of our excursions, and plastic waste is one of the biggest problems facing Nepal’s Annapurna Region.

Travelling with a filtered water bottle is a wise move. There’s no better option than the Grayl Geopress: this water bottle and filter system removes all manner of threat, including viruses and heavy metals – no mean feat. This bottle is a popular choice amongst trekkers and backpackers in Asia.

It’ll last for years, reduce plastic waste, and save you money. The Grayl Geopress is a sound investment for anyone taking on some Annapurna trekking.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Life on the Trail

Are there places to stay on an Annapurna Trek?

On all treks discussed in this guide, there are a plethora of accommodation options available. This means you won’t need a tent or shelter to take on these Annapurna treks. Luxury!

These are in the form of teahouses – some large, some small – and you’ll find them in the villages along the trails, plus some extras dotted in between. 

What’s more, your room for the night is usually offered very cheaply or even for free, provided you eat dinner and breakfast at the teahouse where you stay. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your residence for the night:

• Check out the views for sunrise and sunset!
• Ask if using a hot shower, wi-fi and e lectricity is available and included in the rate agreed, or whether you’d have to pay extra. You can often strike a ‘package deal’ if you chat to the owner.
• If it’s cold, a fire to sit around is an unrivalled treat. (Even if it’s a yak dung inferno..)
• Of course, the price !

You’ll be given a simple private room for the vast majority of stays, which come with beds, blankets and pillows. 

You’re more likely to get a plug socket at lower altitudes. Otherwise, there’ll probably be a shared extension cable in the kitchen area but you may have to pay. 

Gas-heated showers can be found throughout the treks, except near the highest points of each route. Toilets are a mix of squat style toilets and Western designs, but take your own loo roll! It grows crushingly expensive further up the hillside, and splashing your behind from a bucket of icy shards in the early hours might not be ideal.

Sitting round the table in a teahouse after a long day’s trek is a quintessential part of a Nepali trekking experience; playing cards and sharing tales with locals and fellow travellers is sure to leave lasting memories to treasure. 

What food is available while trekking in the Annapurna Region?

The Nepali word ‘Annapurna’ can be translated as ‘everlasting food ’, which certainly seems fitting when it comes to Dal Bhat.

This national dish is a staple for people all across Nepal, and is likely to become a dearly treasured feed when trekking in the Annapurna region. 

Dal bhat consists of steamed rice paired with dal (cooked lentils or other pulses), accompanied by a varying array of saag (spinach cooked in spices), papad (poppadom), vegetable tarkari (seasonal vegetables) and pickle amongst other things. You can order small bowls of meat to go with it too.

And, in very healthy news for us lovers of value, most elements of dal bhat can be replenished at no extra cost!

You’ll also find things like fried rice, noodle soup, curry and even some surprisingly good pizza, cooked on a stove. Try thukpa, a classic Nepali noodle soup with a warm broth.  

Porridge, omelettes and toast are all usually there too. At least once, give ‘Tibetan bread ’ (or ‘Gurung bread ’) a go, with honey. For breakfast, this is an absolute triumph. 

Food is expectedly more pricey than in Pokhara but not outrageously so. See an example menu below, typical of those found on the Annapurna Base Camp trek. For reference, one US dollar is currently equal to around 130 Nepalese rupees. 

Dealing With the Altitude While Trekking in Nepal

Trekking in the Annapurna region naturally means you’ll be dealing with some serious loftiness. 

For example, Thorong La – the pinnacle of the Annapurna Circuit – is just about the highest mountain pass in the world . 

The sub-par oxygen levels found here are likely to have some kind of effect on all trekkers, and the severity of its impact doesn’t seem to be linked to physical fitness. Your gym-obsessed mate could find themselves back of the pack, being overtaken by heavy smokers flying up the hills. 

While it’s a bit of a lottery in that sense, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of feeling groggy or worse, which I’ll cover here. Altitude sickness is not something to mess about with, and one of the most dangerous aspects of Nepal , so here’s a breakdown of some key tips and information surrounding AMS , HACE , and HAPE . 

What is altitude sickness? 

Altitude sickness essentially refers to the ill effects on the body of being exposed to lower levels of oxygen. 

Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is the mildest form of altitude sickness, but should certainly not be ignored. Symptoms include:

• Nausea/vomiting
• Loss of appetite

If these crop up, it’s important to STOP ascending. Acclimatisation and rest can give the body sufficient time to adjust to the conditions, before continuing with care. 

On the other hand, the more serious high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) require rapid descent, and are life-threatening emergencies. HACE refers to fluid buildup in the brain, while HAPE refers to fluid buildup in the lungs. 

Symptoms of HACE include:

• Severe weakness
• Acting drunk
• Personality changes
• Balance issues

Symptoms of HAPE include:

• Pink sputum
• Breathlessness at rest

Keep an eye on each other and report any symptoms to mates and locals at teahouses. HAPE and HACE require immediate attention. Descend down the mountain right away, while limiting physical exertion as much as you can while doing so.

How to Minimise Risk of Altitude Sickness:

As mentioned previously, developing symptoms of altitude sickness when trekking is seemingly unrelated to overall fitness. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. Here are some tips for trekking in the Annapurna region:

• Limiting daily ascent when above 2500m is the best way to reduce your risk. Ascending no more than 500m a day is optimal, while more may be manageable for some. It’s quite common for trekkers to climb more than this in a day on occasion , but be careful in doing so, and be sure to stop and rest for a day or more if you develop symptoms. 
• Drink loads of water ! Increase your intake as you ascend. 
• Consider using Diamox (acetazolamide). This is by no means essential, but taking Diamox a day or two before ascending to high altitudes can speed up acclimatisation. (If you have any other health conditions, check with your doctor before doing so). Side effects can include tingling fingers and lips – a quite odd, but not particularly troublesome sensation.
• Keep plans flexible to build in any acclimatisation days that become necessary. 
• Walk high, sleep low ! Walking to a new ‘high point’ but sleeping below it when possible can be great for your body. 
• Look after your mates ! Check in on one another and keep an eye out for anyone struggling or showing changes in personality.

Getting Insured BEFORE Trekking Annapurna

Altitude sickness is no joke. Make sure you’ve got some good travel insurance before heading up there!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How Much Does it Cost to Complete an Annapurna Trek? 

This will greatly depend on whether you opt for a ‘package tour’ or not. 

For broke backpackers, going without a tour is certainly the more budget-friendly option, and you can easily meet trekking mates on the route itself, or in hostels before setting off.

Without a package tour, a decent budget is around $25-30 per day , excluding the cost of hiring any gear and a guide . Rooms are very cheap ($2-3 per night) or even free when you eat there, so the main daily costs go on calories and any toiletries. 

A guide costs around $20-35 a day, which can be shared amongst a group. 

There are no ATMS on the circuit – take more cash than you think you’ll need! You never know if you might need an extra day of rest due to altitude, or fancy the occasional beer. (My mate and I didn’t heed this advice, got addicted to Snickers, and ended up with a budget of $7 each for the last couple of days, which was far from ideal.)

Another key money-saving tip: take your own loo roll! Its price seems to rise exponentially with the trail.

Overall, trekking in the Annapurnas isn’t a great deal more expensive than backpacking in other parts of Nepal, largely thanks to the generous portions of Dal Bhat served up of an evening. 

Nepali Customs and Phrases

Travelling in Nepal is an immense privilege. Along with some introductory Nepali to get to grips with, here are some tips to help you remain a conscientious rambler. 

• Order food together , and if asked, make breakfast choices the night before. This will reduce the amount of fuel needed to heat food.
• Minimise plastic waste! Take a filter bottle instead of buying water as you go.
• Ask before taking photos of anyone.
• Reduce your meat intake, as most is not fresh and carried up the mountains from lower villages. 
• Learn some lingo!

Nepali is not a particularly difficult language to learn for English speakers, especially for a handful of essential phrases. Make an effort and it’ll be hugely appreciated!

• Namaste = hello/ greetings (polite).
• Dhanyabaad = thank you.
• Kasto cha = how are you?
• Ramro cha = it is nice/ beautiful/ good.
• Baya tira = leftwards.
• Daya tira = rightwards.
• Bhaato = ‘path’ or ‘way’.
• Mitho = tasty/delicious.
• Deraye = very (e.g. Deraye mitho = very tasty).
• Pheri bhetaula = see you again.
• Kukhura ko maasu = chicken meat.
• Bhaisi ko maasu = buffalo meat.
• Pani = water.
• Tarkari = vegetable curry.
• Shauchalaya = toilet.
• Kati tadha = how far?
• Tapaaiko nam ke ho ? = what is your name?
• Mero nam —– ho . = my name is ——.
• Bhetera khoosi laygo = nice to meet you.

Final Thoughts on Trekking the Annapurna Circuit

Stuck in a rainy city, fantasizing about booking that travel extravaganza, your mind might conjure up images of pristine beaches and pina coladas. ‘Landlocked’ may not seem conducive to your dreams of a blithe, hostel-hopping existence…

But trust me: central Nepal is as laid back and inviting as anywhere on the planet, offering a simply unrivaled combination of its superb lakeside hostel scene and the best mountainous scenery around. The fact this guide is full of “ Xth biggest/longest/tallest in the world ” says enough in itself. 

Memories forged on the trails over endless portions of dal bhat and games of cards are bound to be precious, as are any moments spent in the company of the ever-hospitable Nepalese people. The routes featured in the guide have been found on backpackers’ bucket-lists for generations, for very good reason.

Backpacking has changed greatly in many places in recent years, as mobile data and online bus booking systems abound. Traveling on foot through the mountains, with an actual, physical, paper map is a uniquely gratifying experience that no technological advancement can replace. 

Trekking in the Annapurna Region -whether you choose the classic Annapurna Circuit or one of the other majestic options – is guaranteed to be an epic adventure that you should not think twice about booking!

Just don’t forget to wear in your boots first…

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Trekking type, annapurna circuit trek: how to hike around the annapurnas, by jan bakker.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is the most famous trekking circuit in Nepal. With some of the tallest mountains on Earth, tumbling glaciers and an incredible variety of landscapes, this trek represents everything what trekking in Nepal is about. It takes more than two weeks to circumnavigate the Annapurna Massif while staying in cozy tea houses. Over the last few years, we at Bookatrekking.com have helped hundreds of people to find their way in the Nepali Himalayas and now it's your turn.

My name is Jan and I’ve been lucky enough to hike some of the most spectacular trekking routes in Asia, including the K2 Base Camp trek in Pakistan and the Pamir Trail in Central Asia. In terms of mountain landscapes the Annapurna Circuit remains high up there as one of my favorites. Why is this classic trek so special? Let us tell you why!

Annapurna Circuit Trekking: The Ultimate Trek in Nepal

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Let me first tell you a little bit about my own experience. Over the past 20 years I have worked in the mountain tourism industry in various roles. I have written trekking guide books for Tajikistan and Tunisia, I train local hiking guides in Uganda and as a trekking guide I have led groups in the Indian Himalayas, the Karakoram Range in Pakistan, the Pamir mountains in Tajikistan and the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. First-hand experience is invaluable and for you, as a trekking enthusiast, it’s essential to get advice from someone who has actually done it!

Jan on top of the Thorung La

Annapurna Circuit Trek Accelerated

Annapurna Circuit Short

In the late 1970’s, when people started venturing into the Nepali Himalayas, the Annapurna Circuit was one of the first trekking routes to open for foreigners. In those days it took 23 days to hike around the Annapurna Massif. Fast forward to the present day, lots has changed. We’ll talk later about how trekking routes have changed in the past two decades, but one thing is for sure. The mountains of the Annapurna Massif are as stunning as they were 50 years ago.

The Annapurnas are close to Pokhara, about 6 hours west of Nepal’s capital Kathmandu. The small city, located on the shores of the stunning Phewa Lake, is the gateway to the Annapurna Massif. The Annapurna Circuit itself is a tea house trek, which means you stay in local guesthouses on the entire route. From the forested valleys at an elevation of 900 meters you’ll ascend to the Thorung La, the highest point of the trek at a whopping 5416 meter above sea level. The landscape gradually changes as you climb higher up the valley. Each day the giants of the Annapurna Massif reveal themselves a little bit more and your surroundings transform into a rugged alpine environment. The villages counter balance the mountains’ wild character. The tea houses are cozy and warm and you’ll be served endless cups of tea.

After scaling the Thorung La the route drops down into Lower Mustang, a high altitude desert with a completely different landscape. After the town of Jomsom the route continues to the hot springs of Tatopani, where you can soak and relax with fellow trekkers and locals alike. The final highlight of Annapurna Circuit is the climb up Poon Hill from Ghorepani. This is one of the most majestic viewpoints in Nepal, looking out over the entire Annapurna chain and spectacular mountains like Machapuchare and the 8167m high Dhaulagiri.

The Annapurna Circuit difficulty is quite low from a technical perspective. It's only walking and I found the path in good condition in most places. It also helps that you stay in a guesthouse each night rather than a tent. You can get a proper rest without having to worry about logistics or getting cold. It really is the Annapurna Circuit altitude that makes the going tough sometimes. After all, it is a trek at high altitude, culminating to an elevation of 5416 meters on the Thorung La. In my experience, the Annapurna Circuit length also adds to the strenuous nature of the trek. The shortest version we offer involves 170 kilometers of trekking. On some days the distances are more than 20 kilometers. Those factors make the trek hard, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned hiker. You feel your body getting tired after a prolonged time on the trail. But maybe because of that, it feels like a true sense of achievement finishing the route from start to end. I am convinced when you do some training for the Annapurna Circuit and set off with the right mindset it is doable for most trekkers.

The Annapurna Region, along with most of the other trekking areas in Nepal, has four distinct seasons. Spring, summer, autumn and winter. The months from March to May, pre-monsoon, and from October to early December, post-monsoon, are the most popular for hiking the Annapurna Circuit. Every season offers its own excitement and atmosphere and in principle, you can go trekking year-round. There are good reasons why spring and autumn are considered the trekking season. Below we’ll give you a run-down of what each of the seasons are like.

Spring (March-May) is the high season and trekkers from around the globe come to the Annapurna Region in large numbers. In springtime, the temperature is pleasant, the precipitation is low and the hiking conditions are great. On the trail there’s a lot of excitement and anticipation to cross one of the highest mountain passes in the world for trekking, the Thorung La. It does get busy, but therefore it’s a great time to connect with like-minded adventurers. While temperatures in daytime along the trek are balmy, the temperature around the Thorung La can be very cold in the early morning, when you cross the pass. Check our complete Annapurna Circuit packing list further below in this blog post.

Summer season falls in the months of June, July and August. Summer is the month with higher temperatures and in that sense it is quite pleasant. However, this is also the monsoon season, and it rains a lot. The chance of seeing the mountains around you is smaller as it is cloudy most of the time. The trail will be wet and slippery and there is an increased risk of landslides. And leeches are very active during these months. On the flipside, it’s not very busy on the route and the traditional villages feel more serene.

Autumn in the Annapurna Region (September, October, November) is, like springtime, prime trekking season with similar trekking conditions. There is one difference. The air in spring is sometimes a little hazy due to the dust in the atmosphere. Post-monsoon the air is very clear, allowing for stunning views of the mountains.

Winter season runs from December to February. This period is the toughest time to trek on the Annapurna Circuit. With the Thorung La elevation exceeding the 5000 meters mark, it gets extremely cold. Night temperatures drop to -20 degrees Celsius. Add wind and snowfall and you’ve got yourself a proper winter expedition. Why do we still run the Annapurna Circuit trek in winter? We work with some of the best trekking companies in Nepal. Besides trekking trips they also organize climbing expeditions to some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas. Our partners can keep you safe and comfortable, even in these cold conditions. And you will probably have the entire trail to yourself!

During the last 20 years a lot has changed in the Annapurna Region. In the name of progress, the lower parts of the Marshyangdi Valley have been made more accessible by building. Originally, the Annapurna Circuit route always started in Besisahar. Nowadays some tour operators opt for a start deeper into the valley as a dirt road has been built all the way to the mountain village of Manang. Bhulbhule is our choice to start the trek. From here you can avoid the road and hike on walking paths rather than the road. The biggest change however is the road development on the western side of the route. In recent years, a road has been constructed from Pokhara to Jomsom and extended even to the village of Muktinath. Some parts of the road are tarmac, some are gravel. Regardless, it has had a big impact on the original Annapurna Circuit itinerary. Especially between Jomsom and Tatopani most tour operators cover this section by car, as the alternative would be walking on a relatively busy road. From Tatopani trekkers can follow the original route again towards Ghorepani, Poon Hill and beyond. Having said all this, the Annapurna Circuit remains one of the most spectacular treks in Nepal, simply because the actual landscape and culture hasn’t changed much.

Not sure yet or want to discuss your plans for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with one of our trekking experts? Get in touch today and turn your dreams into memories!

It is best to do the circuit in 15 or 18 days. The 18-day version is old school and only follows the oldest trails. However, more and more people are choosing to do the 15-day version. If you choose the 15-day trek, you are sure to have a short break halfway and can enjoy all the attractions that the Annapurna Circuit has to offer.

Drive to Bhulbhule

Trek to Chamje

Trek to Bagarchhap

Trek to Chame

Trek to Pisang

Trek to Manang

Acclimatisation in Manang

Trek to yak kharka.

Trek to Thorung Pedi

Thorung phedi.

Trek to Muktinath via Thorung La Pass

Trek to Jomsom

Drive to Tatopani

Trek to Ghorepani

Ghorepani – Poonhill – Nayapul

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

The Thorung La is no doubt the crux of the trek. Here, the Annapurna Circuit elevation reaches its absolute max at 5416 meters above sea level. It is an old trading route and connects with Tibet. The altitude of this mountain pass is higher than any mountain in the European Alps including Mont Blanc. In height it is comparable to a big mountain like Mount Elbrus in the Russian Caucasus. Do you need to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness ? For sure! Do you need special skills to cross the Thorung La? The answer is no. You just need to be fit!

It is a bit like scaling a mountain, but you are walking up rather than climbing. The day starts very early and you basically hit the trail before sunrise. The guides are doing the pacing to make sure you don’t head up too quickly. The path itself is not that steep, but you will feel the thin air at this altitude. From around 5000 meters we were walking on snow, with a good track carved out by the people who had gone before us. The snow really adds to the adventurous feeling of scaling a mountain pass this high. Looking back you can see all the big peaks of the Annapurnas as if you are at the same level with them. Perhaps my most magical moment on the entire trek was just before sunrise while going up the Thorung La. Alpenglow lit all the Annapurna peaks bright pink, with a steel blue sky as a background.

Reaching the Thorung La pass was an incredible, rewarding experience. As a guide I was very proud that each group member made it to the top, although it wasn’t easy. And there was still 1600 vertical meters of descent to go to the village of Muktinath. Despite that, I believe that everybody with willpower, stamina and a sense of adventure can do it.

For trekking on the Annapurna Circuit, you need the following permits:

TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System):

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit

An ACAP Permit is obligatory for individuals who wish to explore the trekking routes within the Annapurna region. It is overseen by the National Trust for Nature with the primary goal of safeguarding and preserving the region's wildlife and natural environment. The funds gathered through this permit are dedicated to conservation efforts.

For each individual embarking on a single-entry trek, the cost of an ACAP Permit is Rs. 3000 (roughly USD25), regardless of the duration of the stay. These permits can be acquired in either Kathmandu or Pokhara, and there are designated checkpoints along the trail to maintain your trekking records.

Tea houses are small hotels known as Bhatti. These are small hotels and you can expect a certain level of comfort. However comfort in this high, remote region is relative. Tea houses are comfortable to the extent that you have a roof above your head and that you can enjoy warm, home-cooked meals. They are run by local families who have opened their houses to trekkers passing by.

Trekking in Nepal has become very popular in recent years, and more and more tea houses have popped up along Nepal’s trekking routes. The more popular your route, the better the quality of your tea house is. Hence, the tea houses on the Annapurna Circuit Trek are good value for money. You can expect flush toilets, hot showers and in some cases even wireless internet. The use of these amenities is usually at an additional charge.

It's essential to understand that altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or previous high-altitude experience. These days there are several tools to monitor your health at altitude. A widely-used (analog) method is the Lake Louise score card. It ticks the altitude symptoms while keeping the severity in mind. It’s a common tool used by guides. Nowadays, most trekking and mountain guides bring a blood oxygen saturation meter, which also measures the heart rate. These are key indicators whether a person adapts to altitude well or not. AMS can occur when trekking the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Below you can find everything you need to know about altitude sickness.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a health condition that occurs when someone is exposed to low levels of oxygen at higher altitudes. AMS is a serious condition and as the name suggests acute. It needs to be dealt with immediately, as it is potentially life-threatening. Most people will experience some mild symptoms of altitude sickness. It’s important to be aware of these symptoms and act before symptoms become more severe. Below we break down the different forms of AMS and how you can reduce the risk of getting it.

AMS symptoms

It is key to know how to identify altitude illness. You may experience the following symptoms due to the jump in altitude: headache, lack of appetite, breathing difficulties, insomnia, nausea and vomiting. The intensity and severity of these symptoms may increase with altitude and an overall feeling of fatigue will take all your joy away. This may further deteriorate to one of these life-threatening conditions.

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) : HAPE is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, a persistent cough, chest tightness, and an increased heart rate. It can be a life-threatening condition and requires immediate descent to lower altitudes and, in severe cases, medical treatment.

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) : HACE is a more serious condition in which fluid accumulates in the brain. Symptoms may include severe headaches, confusion, loss of coordination, and altered mental status. HACE is also a medical emergency and requires immediate descent and medical attention. Below 7 ways of minimizing the risk of AMS:

1. Gradual Ascent

One of the most effective ways to prevent AMS is to ascend gradually. When traveling to high altitudes, try to take several days to acclimatize before going higher. This allows your body to adapt to the reduced oxygen levels. All our treks in Nepal keep sufficient acclimatization into account.

2. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can increase the risk of AMS, so drink plenty of fluids. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Consume a balanced diet with adequate carbohydrates and avoid heavy, fatty meals. Carbohydrates can help your body utilize oxygen more efficiently at high altitudes.

4. Medication

Some individuals may consider taking medication, such as acetazolamide (Diamox), to help prevent AMS. Consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication, and be aware of potential side effects.

Ensure you get enough sleep and rest during your ascent. Fatigue can increase the risk of AMS.

6. Avoid Overexertion

Pace yourself and avoid overexertion. Listen to your body, and if you experience symptoms of AMS, rest or descend to a lower altitude.

7. Descend if Symptoms Persist

If you experience symptoms of AMS, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, it's crucial to descend to a lower altitude. Symptoms should not be ignored or dismissed.

Trekking in Nepal requires good quality and appropriate equipment. Especially the essentials like a good pair of hiking boots and breathable hardshell rain jacket. We highly recommend that you read our suggested packing list to hike the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Technical Clothing

Accessories.

At Bookatrekking.com you can book this trek and many others. Our guided options come with experts on the ground, and offer you a convenient, stress-free, safe, and educational way to explore the outdoors. Find our offers here . Our easy-to-use platform allows you to browse and compare different trekking options and find the perfect fit for your interests, abilities, and budget.

If you have any questions about a specific trek or need help choosing the right one for you, our team of trekking experts is here to assist you. Simply reach out to us and we will be happy to provide you with personalized recommendations and advice to help you plan the trekking adventure of a lifetime.

Is this not your cup of tea and are you looking for other epic adventures? Check out one of our blog posts:

Summit climbs

• Climbing Kilimanjaro
• Climbing Triglav
• Climbing Island Peak in Nepal
• Climbing Mount Kenya
• Climbing Mount Elbrus
• Climbing Mount Kinabalu
• Climbing Toubkal
• Climbing Rinjani
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Nepal Travel Guide
• Salkantay Trek
• Peru Travel Guide

Kilimanjaro

• Machame Route
• Lemosho Route
• Kili Travel Guide

Self-guided treks

• Tour du Mont Blanc
• West Highland Way
• Camino de Santiago

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Himalayan Odyssey Nepal Trek

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Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna circuit trek | 2024.

• Trip Duration: 12 Days
• Altitude: 5,416 m / 17,769 ft
• Best time: Feb-May, Sep-Dec
• Grade: Challenging
• Trek Type: Tea House
• Meals: Included
• Accommodation: Hotel & Tea House

Overview of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary and unparalleled experiences a trekker can avail themselves of. With an extensive length of 160–230 km that covers four distinct districts, comprising Lamjung, Myagdi, Manang, and Mustang, this trekking route stands out as the most preferred circuit through the diverse natural vegetation, cultural beliefs, landscape, altitude, trail, pristine little settlements, culturally affluent tribal groups, and religious sects.

The trek begins in Jagat. As we gain altitude, the landscape and vegetation change, and rugged alpine terrain appears. The challenge of the trek is to cross the highest pass, Thorong La (5,416 m). The splendid snow-capped Himalayan views from the peak of the Thorong La Pass are just amazing and beyond expectation. Then we follow the trail to Muktinath temple, the temple of God Vishnu, the god of preservation. And the windy Jomsom, and just ahead we pass through the deepest gorge along the Kaligandaki River between Mt. Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. We then trek to the famous Gurung village, Ghorepani, and the famous Poon Hill viewpoint.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• One of the most classic and oldest treks in Nepal, 
• Thorang La Pass is the highest navigable pass (5,416 m) in the world, 
• Descend into one of the deepest gorges in the world, the Kali Gandaki,
• Poon Hill is a hill station, 
• Traditional Gurung, Tibetan, and other ethnic villages,
• Muktinath is a holy temple of God Vishnu,
• The natural hot spring of Tatopani.

Outline Itinerary of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

KTM ) Arrival in Kathmandu city, transfer to the hotel

Day 01 ) Drive to Jagat (1,300 m) (8/9 hours)

Day 02 ) Trek to Dharapani (1,860 m) (5/6 hours)

Day 03 ) Trek to Chame (2,620 m) (6/7 hours)

Day 04 ) Trek to Pisang (3,200 m) (6/7 hours)

Day 05 ) Trek to Manang (3,540 m) (5/6 hours)

Day 06 ) Acclimatization Day

Day 07 ) Trek to Yak Kharka (4,018 m) (6/7 hours)

Day 08 ) Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,560 m) (5/6 hours)

Day 09 ) Trek to Muktinath (3,767 m) via Thorang-La Pass (5,416 m) (7/8 hours)

Day 10 ) Drive to Jomsom and Tatopani (1,190 m) (6/7 hours)

Day 11 ) Trek to Ghorepani (2,874 m) (6/7 hours)

Day 12 ) Early morning hike to Poon Hill, trek to Ulleri (2 hours) and drive to Pokhara (3 hours)

PKR ) Drive or fly back to Kathmandu

KTM ) Departure to your home

Not satisfied with this itinerary?

Annapurna Circuit Trek: Detailed Itinerary

Ktm) arrival in kathmandu city, transfer to your hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Altitude: 1,400 m, Kathmandu

At Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be received by a Himalayan Odyssey Nepal Trek guide/staff and transferred to your hotel. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 01) Drive to Jagat from Kathmandu via Besisahar (1,300 m) (8/9 hours)​

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Lodge
• Altitude: 1,300 m, Jagat

We take a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar by tourist bus. We have breakfast and lunch on the way. The route takes us out of the Kathmandu valley along the picturesque Trishuli River to Besisahar. As we reach Besisahar, we drive towards Jagat by Jeep, following the Marshyangdi River. We will pass several beautiful villages, green paddy fields, and forests until we reach Jagat. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 02) Trek to Dharapani (1,860 m) (5/6 hours)

• Altitude: 1,860 m, Dharapani

We are walking on a rocky path next to the Marsyangdi River. We see beautiful waterfalls, green plants, and animals. The path goes up to a village called Tal. We keep going up the valley, using stone stairs, until we get to Dharapani. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 03) Trek to Chame (2,620 m) (6/7 hours)

• Altitude: 2,620 m, Chame

The path goes up along a river called Marsyangdi, going through trees like pine and fir. We’ll get to see great views of the mountains Annapurna II (7,937 m), Mt. Manaslu (8,156 m), and other peaks before reaching Chame. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 04) Trek to Pisang (3,200 m) (6/7 hours)

• Altitude: 3,200 m, Pisang

After breakfast, we will follow the Marsyangdi Trail to Bharatang. We will see Annapurna II (7,937m) up close from there. Next, we will climb a steep hill where we will see many oak, fir, pine, hemlock, and maple trees. We will have a great view of the Pangida Danda. Then, we will cross a suspension bridge, go up for a while, and then down to the valley floor. We’ll see dry, grazing land and reach Dhukure Pokhari. After walking for about half an hour, we will reach Pisang. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 05) Trek to Manang (3,540 m) (5/6 hours)

• Altitude: 3,540 m, Manang

We will start our day by walking on a dry trail where there is little rainfall and many beautiful landscapes. Two paths will take us to Mungi. We can take either of those two. The path that goes through Ghyaru, or Hongde, Ghyaru village on the harder path is especially attractive because of its lovely stone houses surrounded by fields of wheat, barley, buckwheat, potatoes, and beans. We will continue our journey to Ngawal, a village that has an old building called a gompa and ancient juniper trees. Next, we will follow a trail that will take us down to Mungji, where we will meet the other path. From there, we will go to the famous village called Manang. Enjoy looking at the beautiful Annapurna mountain range. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 06) Acclimatization Day

Today is the acclimatization day for our body to cope with gaining altitude and avoid any kind of high-altitude sickness. We will take a higher-elevation hike either to the ridge near the Gangapurna glacier or walk up to the cave above Manag village. We will visit the village and native people and gain insight into their lifestyle and culture during our acclimatization day. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 07) Trek to Yak Kharka (4,018 m) (6/7 hours)

• Altitude: 4,018m, Yak Kharka

The day starts with an ascent to Tengki, which is the last permanent settlement below the pass. We will walk upward until we reach Gunsang. The trail then turns northwest towards Jharsang Khola Valley. We walk on scrub juniper and alpine grass, which brings us to Yak Kharka. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 08) Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,560 m) (5/6 hours)

• Altitude: 4,560 m, Thorong Phedi

After having breakfast, we move towards the Thorong Phedi. We walk for about an hour and reach Churi Leder. We then descend to the river and cross it over the wooden bridge. The trail then becomes challenging as you climb upstream of Jharsang Khola on the ridge of the cliff and finally reach Thorong Phedi. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 09) Trek to Muktinath (3,767 m) via Thorang-La Pass (5,416 m) (7/8 hours)

• Altitude: 3,767 m, Muktinath

Today, we will walk through the highest point of the entire Annapurna Circuit. We will head towards the Thorong-La Pass (5,416 m) early in the morning and begin the ascent. The trail is steep and narrow, but if we walk uphill for about 4/5 hours, we’ll get to the top, which is 5,416 m. From there, we can see beautiful mountain ranges like the Annapurna range and the Dhaulagiri range. There are also some chortens and colorful flags that celebrate our hiking success. After taking some photos and enjoying the scenery, we will walk downhill over a rocky area and then through some green fields until we reach a place called Muktinath. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 10) Drive to Jomsom and Tatopani (1,190 m) (6/7 hours)

• Altitude: 1,190 m, Tatopani

In the morning, we’ll go to Muktinath Temple and then take a local bus to Tatopani. The ride might be bumpy because the road goes through deep gorges. We’ll go from dry land to green forests. Tatopani is well-known for its hot springs. The hot spring water is believed to be helpful for skin problems. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 11) Trek to Ghorepani (2,874 m) (6/7 hours)

• Altitude: 2,874 m, Ghorepani

Today is a long day of walking to Ghorepani. After continuously descending for some days, you will climb today. The trail first crosses the bridge over the Kaligandaki River, which leads us to the junction where we can follow the trail either to Beni or Ghorepani. We will follow the trail, as our destination is Ghorepani. Ghorepani, being a popular destination for both national and international tourists, offers spectacular views of Dhaulagiri and Manaslu Himalayas and the opportunity to hike the most famous viewpoint of the entire Annapurna Region, Poon Hill. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 12) Early morning hike to Poon Hill, trek to Ulleri (2 hours) and drive to Pokhara (3 hours)

• Altitude: 822 m, Pokhara

Today is the last day of the trek. We will hike to Poon Hill early in the morning to have magnificent 360-degree panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges with a splendid sunrise view. After spending some time on the hilltop, enjoying the fabulous moments, and keeping a lifetime memory, we will retrace our steps back to the lodge at Ghorepani. After having breakfast, we will head towards Nayapul, which brings the end of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. We will take a vehicle service from here to reach Pokhara, where you can hang around the lakeside area to enjoy your evening. Stay overnight at the hotel.

• Airport pickup and drop-off for arrival and departure
• A total of two nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu (Bed and breakfast) after the arrival and after the trek
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee
• Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee
• All government, local taxes, and official expenses
• A government-licensed, experienced trek leader (guide), an assistant trekking guide for 8 or more trekkers, and porters to help trekkers with luggage ( *1 porter for two trekkers; the maximum luggage limit per trekker is 14 kg. )
• Guides and porters costs, which include meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment
• One-night accommodation in Pokhara (Bed and breakfast) after the trek
• Kathmandu to Besisahar by tourist bus or microbus 
• Private transportation: (From Besisahar – starting point of the trek) (From the ending point of the trek – Pokhara)
• All accommodations during the trek
• Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
• Arranging rescue operations in cases of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance)
• International flight airfare
• Domestic flight airfare (Pokhara-Kathmandu)
• On Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points: [15 days: USD 30, 30 days: USD 50, 90 days: 125 USD]
• Extra nights’ accommodation and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or an early return from the trek
• Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
• Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, bottled water or boiled water, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery recharge fee, extra porters, etc.)
• Personal clothing and gear
• Tips for guides and porters
• Additional costs due to delays caused by circumstances outside company control like landslides, weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, etc.

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[natural habitats of the annapurna region].

Flora found in the Annapurna region

Row 01: Canna lily, Rhododendron, Iris Row 02: Yellow primrose, White orchid, Marijuana Row 03: Juniper bush, Stellara, Caragana brevispina

Fauna found in the Annapurna region

Row 01: Bharal (Blue sheep), Snow leopard, Himalayan wolf Row 02: Gray langur, Leopard, Jungle cat Row 03: Red fox, Himalayan marmot, Red giant flying squirrel

Birds found in the Annapurna region

Row 01: Hume's leaf warbler, Black redstart, Impeyan pheasant Row 02: Rosy pipit, Stripe-throated yuhina, Chestnut-tailed minla Row 03: Rock eagle owl, Crested serpent eagle, Ultramarine flycatcher

Travel Information

All trekkers must provide a copy of their comprehensive travel insurance policy certificate to the Himalayan Odyssey Nepal Trek before starting the trek.

[Note:] The policy must cover medical and emergency repatriation, including helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitudes.

Trekking permit requirements Two permits are required for the  Annapurna Circuit Trek : 1)  a  TIMS  (Trekkers Information Management System) card 2) an entry permit for the  Annapurna Conservation Area Project  permit

The difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is challenging (grade IV). While you’ll start the Thorong La Pass Trek at around 1,000 m above sea level, you’ll reach as high as 5,416 m at Thorong La Pass. That’s pretty high. There is a chance of getting altitude sickness.

Safe drinking water is easily available during the trek. You should carry a water bottle so you can refill the water that is available in every lodge. It will be better to bring purifying tablets for safe drinking during the trek.

Coughs and headaches are normal in the mountains. However, if you suffer from a high-syndrome illness, you have to make your way backward. Visit our Altitude Sickness page for more information. 

Yes, cellular networks can be found on the trekking trails of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. However, in some places, there might not be reception available. 

The standard length of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is about 160–260 kilometers. It could take 10 to 21 days to complete the circuit, but the distance can differ depending on your itinerary or where you start and end the trek.

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Trekking map of annapurna circuit trek: 12-days itinerary.

Nar Phu Valley Trek

Duration: 9 Days

Tilicho Lake Trek

Duration: 11 Days

Thorong-La Pass Trek

Duration: 12 Days

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Duration: 7 Days

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Planning to trek the annapurna circuit in nepal a great decision here's everything you need to know before your annapurna trek, including trekking permits, hiking solo vs in a group, what to pack, when to go, and all the money matters..

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular classic trek of Nepal. Each year, more than 60,000 trekkers come for this trek from all around the globe. In this trek, you encircle the Annapurna massif and cover between 110-130 miles by walking.

The Annapurna Circuit trek usually takes about 14–21 days, leaving from Kathmandu with a stopover in Pokhara before returning to the capital. The trail is moderate to fairly challenging and makes numerous river crossings over steel and wooden suspension bridges.

Our 19 days Annapurna Circuit Trek begins from Besisahar. You begin your trek alongside Marshyangdi river all the way to its waterhead beyond Annapurna range. You then enter into Manang, cross the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and go down to the restricted region of Mustang.

After visiting some popular settlements of this semi desert-like region, you travel a few hours in a bus and trek to Poon Hill viewpoint.

Annapurna Circuit Itinerary has often been voted as the best long-distance trek in the world, as it combined, in its old full form, a wide variety of climate zones from tropics at 600 m asl to the arctic at 5416 m asl at the Thorong La pass and cultural variety from Hindu villages at the low foothills to the Tibetan culture

There are two types of trekking permit required by anyone wishing to do the Annapurna Circuit trek. No matter when or how you’re hiking the Annapurna Circuit, you’ll need to organise both a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) permit, and an Annapurna National Park Permit (sometimes also known as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).

As of 2019, the permits should set you back about USD $50 total: the APC Permit is USD $30 / NPR 3,000 per person, while the TIMS Permit is USD $20 / NPR 2,000 per person.

Since the trail opened in 1977, most trekkers have followed an Annapurna Circuit itinerary that begins in Besishahar and heads in an anti-clockwise direction over the Thorong-La Pass and down into the Jomsom Valley.

Special Note for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Facts about annapurna circuit trek:, annapurna circuit trek highlights.

• The peaceful and pristine nature trip.
• Witness stunning views of Annapurna, Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and more.
• Stay in tea-houses of small villages.
• Cross highest pass – Thorong La Pass(5,416m).
• Visit Muktinath, other holy temples, and monasteries.
• Explore beautiful villages of Braga, Manang, Kagbeni, Jomsom, and Marpha.
• Gaze at the breathtaking Annapurna range from Poon Hill.
• Natural Hot spring at Tatopani.
• Enjoy the lively evening of Pokhara.
• International & domestic airport transfers as per the itinerary.
• 2 nights accommodation in Kathmandu with Bed and Breakfast plan.
• 2 nights accommodation in Pokhara with Bed and Breakfast plan.
• 18 breakfast, 14 Lunch, 15 dinner during the trip.
• Kathmandu Sightseeing by professional English speaking tour guide.
• Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu domestic flight.
• Pokhara – Jomsom – Pokhara Flight.
• 3 meals a day during the trip (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) as mention in itinerary.
• Accommodation while trekking in twin sharing basis in guesthouses.
• Annapurna conservation area permit and TIMS card.
• Upper Mustang Restricted area permit fee.
• Professional government license holder English speaking trekking guide.
• Sleeping bag and duffel bag during the trek. (Refundable after finish the trip)
• Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
• 1 farewell dinner in Kathmandu
• All government and local taxes.
• All entrance fees for sightseeing places
• Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks.
• Your international flights
• Nepal visa fees & airport taxes
• Personal travel insurance (strongly recommended)
• Gear or equipment for your trek
• Personal expenses along the trek
• Tiji Festival Camara fees, and other donation
• If you would like to ride on pony
• Tips for your city guide, drivers, hotels, restaurants, etc.
• Extra night accommodation then mention plan

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Is annapurna circuit dangerous, do i need a sleeping bag for annapurna circuit, is there any luggage limit for porter, do i need vaccinations for this trip.

When to Go Annapurna Circuit

Monsoon season in Nepal is June through September. That’s when most of the rain falls and when rock and mudslides are most likely to occur. The spring, between mid-March and mid-April, is when the rhododendron forests bloom, but the weather is still wet this time of year and the leeches are a nuisance at lower elevations.

The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit is October, thanks to reliably pleasant weather (80°F and humid at 2,000 feet; 20°F and dry at 17,000 feet) and clear skies.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

The path reaches its highest point at Thorung La pass (5416m/17769 ft), touching the edge of the Tibetan plateau. Practically all trekkers hike the route anticlockwise, as this way the daily altitude gain is slower, and crossing the high Thorong La pass is easier and safer.

To be very blunt about it, Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty level is quite challenging. What make the Annapurna Circuit trek difficulty level so tough is the high altitude that the route covers. The trekking route takes you as high as 5416 m, which is the height of Thorung La, the highest altitude pass in the region.

Accommodation, Food And Drink Facility

All guesthouses have blankets you always can ask for an extra one or two if it’s really cold. You had light summer sleeping bags but most of the time slept without them under the blankets. Even at Thorung Phedi where it will quite cold, you sleep in warm clothes under two blankets.

The facilities at higher altitudes e.g. Thorong Phedi and High Camp are more basic no power outlets in the room, no or very poor wi-fi, no hot shower, etc., to charge your phone or to use wi-fi you pay extra.

All guesthouses are more or less the same there are no fancier hotels to stay on the route like in Pokhara or Kathmandu. Rooms are very basic usually they have two single beds, blankets, sometimes a table and a chair.

Most of the time hikers sit in the dining area it’s the warmest place in a guesthouse; people drink tea, play cards, talk, etc. You go to your room only at night.

Nepal Annapurna Circuit Trek | Documentary

Getting travel insurance

The Annapurna Circuit is a high altitude trek through remote and difficult to access areas of Nepal having travel insurance is highly recommended. In fact, it’s required for getting the hiking permit. Nobody has ever asked us to show our insurances but when you fill the form they ask you to provide the name and the phone number of your insurance company.

There are many insurance company but we’d recommend using one that has experience in covering outdoor activities and working in the region like World Nomads. Nepal is one of their top hiking destinations with thousands of people buying World Nomads insurance policies for trekking here so they know local specific.

Book with Local Operator

Whether it’s a cultural tour, gentle walking holiday or strenuous trek, our holidays in Nepal are led by professionally-trained English speaking leaders. They have an intimate and expert knowledge of the history, culture and nature of Nepal and will make your trip a memorable experience. Thus hurry up and reserve your place to Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Kulendra Baral

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Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal: The Ultimate Guide

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories NEPAL , HIKING

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular expeditions in the Himalayas of Nepal. While Everest Base Camp may be the most well-known trek in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is definitely a close second! I’ve done both the EBC and the Annapurna Circuit Trek among many other routes in Nepal.

BEST TREKKING COMPANY IN NEPAL

Interested in trekking in Nepal or doing the Everest Base Camp Trek? I recommend booking your trek with Himalayan Masters , which is the company I use for all of my treks in Nepal. Use my code  JACKSON5  when you book to receive a 5% DISCOUNT .

In this guide, I will share with you my experience on multiple routes throughout the Himalayas to help prepare you for your trekking experience. Overall I would rate the Annapurna Circuit as the most scenic trek in Nepal from the first day to the last.

We looked at 7000m and 8000m peaks from the first to the last day, had amazing tea house locations, and were blown away by the scenery every single day. However, there are some negatives that modernization and commercialism have brought to the Annapurna Trekking Circuit with roads, infrastructure, and pollution. I’ll cover all aspects of this route to give you an honest insight into what to expect and why you may want to choose this route for your trip.

In this blog post, I will cover everything you need to know about the logistics of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. I’ve also created guides for the following treks and climbs in Nepal if you are interested to check those out as well.

• Manaslu Circuit Trek
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Makalu Base Camp Trek
• Langtang Valley Trek
• Island Peak Climb
• Yala Peak Climb
• Ama Dablam Climb
• Manaslu Climb
• Makalu Climb

TRY THE 3 BEST TREKS IN NEPAL

Manaslu Circuit : My personal favorite 2-week trek through Tibetan villages and stunning scenery. Less crowded and more authentic.

Annapurna Circuit : The most beautiful & scenic 2-week trek in Nepal although can be crowded at times.

Everest Base Camp Trek : The most iconic 2-week route reaching the famous (EBC) Everest Base Camp at 5,300m.

Table of Contents

A GUIDE TO THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

In this guide, you will find all of the valuable information you need to plan your trek as well as my personal experience on the entire trek including the detour to Tilicho Lake

ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK DETAILS

• Distance : 130km or 80 miles
• Days required : 10-13 days
• Total Incline : 8000 meters
• Total Decline : 7000 meters
• The highest point on the trek : The two highest points on the trek are Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and the Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
• Difficulty : The difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek depends a lot on how many days you have. If you break it up over 12-14 days, it will be similar to the difficulty of EBC. However, we took only one acclimatization/rest day in Manang and the itinerary was quite tough for us given we squeezed into Tilicho Lake. Many days were about 20km of distance with 1000m of incline.
• Permits : You will need a TIMS card and Park Entrance Permit, both can be purchased when entering the park.
• Guide: A guide is not required on this trek. However, the guide manages all of the logistics, distances, directions, and tea houses for your group. I used maps.me to navigate from tea house to tea house and found the paths easy to follow. If it’s your first time trekking in Nepal, I would suggest having a guide.
• Accommodation: Guest Houses, also known as Tea Houses, are available along the way where you will sleep in a comfortable bed and have access to showers (at extra charge) and restaurant facilities. It was very comfortable accommodation and great after a long day of hiking.

KEY POINTS ABOUT THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

• This circuit is less crowded than Everest Base Camp Trek but still quite busy. Especially around Tilicho Base Camp as many locals just come to trek to the Lake and don’t do the full circuit.
• There are teahouses in each village along the way so each night you get a great sleep in a bed with blankets, have access to showers, eat great meals in a restaurant, and can charge your electronics and cameras.
• The trailhead can be reached by car so there is no need to pay for expensive domestic flights.
• The road reached all the way to Khangsar, which means it isn’t quite as remote, peaceful and natural as you may be expected until the latter stages of the hike. There are side trails most hikers take for better views and to avoid the cars but nonetheless, it can be demoralizing to see a car full of tourists drive past as you eat their dust.

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN KATHMANDU

• Ultimate Luxury: The Dwarika’s Hotel – Luxury, Spa-service, Pool
• Best Value : Aloft Kathmandu Thamel – Swimming Pool, Gym & Great Restuarant
• Budget Choice: Hotel Jampa is easily the top cheap hotel in Kathmandu

BOOKING A GUIDE FOR THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

The Annapurna Circuit Trek doesn’t require a guide but it’s great to have a guide managing the logistics such as directions, tea houses, distances, medical issues, and the overall organization. I’d say 80% of trekkers go with a guide. I did the trek with Himalayan Masters which is one of the top trekking companies when it comes to the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

The trek costs around $1400 USD with Himalayan Masters as of 2022 and includes all transfers, accommodation, meals, drinks, permits, and even the hotel stay before and after the trek at a high-quality hotel. I honestly had a great time on this trek and I can wholeheartedly recommend Himalayan Masters.

You can use my discount code ‘ JACKSON5 ‘ for 5% off the total price of your trek with Himalayan Masters which is a pretty handy saving.

Email: [email protected]

ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK PACKING LIST

I packed pretty light and managed to wash most of my clothes each afternoon/night for the first half of the trip. In the latter stages of the trip, it was pretty cold so we weren’t sweating as much and we wore our warm gear basically nonstop while at the teahouses. There was no real need for multiple outfits.

This is just a guide and it worked quite well for me with no complaints from my set-up. You won’t need a sleeping bag as there are blankets in each guesthouse and when it got cold I just wore my down jacket to bed. This meant I didn’t have to carry a sleeping bag for the entire trek.

• 1 pair of pants that maybe convert to shorts
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1 Warm or thicker pair of hiking pants
• 1 Long sleeve quick-dry shirt
• 1 Long-sleeve thermal shirt
• 2 Short-sleeve t-shirts
• 1 Thermal long underwear
• 4 pairs of quick-dry underwear
• 1 Lightweight down jacket
• 1 Heavy-duty summit down jacket
• 1 Neck Buff
• Hiking boots
• 1 pair of warm summit socks
• 2-3 pairs of regular socks
• Trekking poles
• Water filter

All of this should fit into a backpack no bigger than 50L and should be less than 14kg.

What are my favorite pieces of hiking gear?

There are four pieces of gear that I simply never forget when I go on a hike. These are four items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my hiking essentials.

• Arcteryx BETA AR Rain Jacket : This is my go-to rain jacket. It’s super light, folds down into a tiny ball, and protects brilliantly in a storm. This one never leaves my backpack.
• Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots : For the best ankle support, waterproofing, and durable exterior I’m a fan of tough but light hiking boots like these Salomons for my adventures.
• Black Diamond Head Torch : I can’t tell you how many times, I’ve arrived back from a hike unexpectedly late. I always keep this lightweight but strong headtorch in my bag for the unexpected.
• Darn Tough Socks : These are the most comfortable hiking socks I’ve ever worn and last for years. They also have a lifetime warranty and you just send them in with a hole and they replace it no questions asked.

WIFI/ELECTRICITY AVAILABILITY ON THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

• Wifi: Costs anywhere from $0 to $4 to use wifi at the guesthouses. Buy an NTC Sim before you go. It worked in some spots but after Pisang, the service dropped and it was mostly WiFi until we got across the pass to Muktinath.
• Electricity:  You will have to pay anywhere from $0 at low elevations to $5 to charge your power banks, cameras, and phones. I found that most rooms had free electricity powerpoints in the room. The key is to get a big power bank. Pay to charge it then charge everything from your power bank. My power bank lets me charge my phone and four camera batteries before it dies. Most of the places we stayed let us charge our gear for free but when it is busy they usually charge a fee as many teahouses run off gas or solar.

ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK ITINERARY

The below itinerary was the exact journey I did but I would suggest adding in an extra day or two to account for rest days or being able to break up the day when you get up to Tilicho Base Camp. This was quite a strenuous activity. I also recommend not hiking to Dharapani from Besishar as the road is full of trucks and vehicles. Similarly, once you reach Muktinath, I suggest driving to Jomsom as it is quite built up from there with main, paved roads.

• Day 1: Drive Kathmandu to Dharapani (1,960m)
• Day 2: Trek to Chame (2,710m) Duration: 5-6 hours trek
• Day 4: Trek to Pisang (3,300m) Duration: 5-6 hours trek
• Day 5: Trek to Manang (3,500m) Duration: 6-7 hours
• Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Manang
• Day 7: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4000m) Duration 6-8 hours
• Day 8: Trek to Tilicho Lake & Trek to Shreekharka (4080m) Duration 10 hours
• Day 9: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4600m) Duration 6-7 hours
• Day 10: Trek to Thorong La & Trek down to Muktinath
• Day 11: Drive to Jomsom
• Day 12: Fly to Pokhara

INSURANCE FOR THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

Nepal can be a dangerous place for trekking or hiking because the high altitude can lead to many illnesses, weakness in trekkers, and misjudgments. There is also a risk on trails for falls, avalanches, or other mishaps. Your regular travel insurance probably won’t cover you at high altitudes and won’t cover a helicopter evacuation. There is a solution though .

Need extra protection?

Regular travel insurance is great but won’t cover you for high altitude hikes or for helicopter evacuation. Each year, I purchase a Global Rescue Subscription .

For less than $500 per year or $100 per expedition, you can purchase a Global Rescue subscription and be covered no matter how extreme the hike or how high the climb is.

DRINKING WATER ON THE ANNAPURNA VALLEY TREK

I use the Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier and it is a game-changer for hiking in Nepal, making this super easy and cheap. The Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier removes 99.9999% of viruses of disease-causing bacteria. The best thing about it is it only takes 15 seconds and one press to purify water from any fresh water source. You don’t need to buy bottled water at every tea house contributes to large amounts of plastic waste and costing you $4+ per day.

Along the Annapurna Circuit Trek, we filled up tea houses, rivers, and local village taps. Unlike aqua purification tablets which require you to wait 30 minutes before drinking, you can have rehydrated yourself immediately with the Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier .

GrayL Water Purifier

• Never pay for water on the trek
• Save 3-4 plastic water bottles a day
• Turns any water into drinking water

BEST TIME AND SEASON FOR THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

The peak season for the Annapurna Circuit Trek is March to April and October to November. The time to avoid this trek is during the rainy season from June to August . Having said that, I often found that off-season or shoulder seasons have been my best (uncrowded) trekking experiences in Nepal

During the winter from December to February, this region gets very cold and there will be snow cover in the higher parts of the trek. Many of the guesthouses actually close up for the winter and re-open in late February to March.

I hiked the Annapurna Circuit Trek in late October/early November and we had 12 days of constant sun. Not a single day with clouds and no chance of rain. Lucky us.

HOW TO GET TO THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

There are two main ways to reach Dharapani, which is the small town at the starting point of the trek. Despite the distance from Kathmandu to Besishar only being 125km, the journey takes a long time due to the traffic and quality of the road.

Jeep: We went by private Jeep organized by our tour company Himalayan Masters. It costs about $180 to hire the vehicle out for the drive so can be split between your group. It’s not cheap but much less brutal than the lengthy bus journey.

Public Bus: The bus costs about $12 USD and can take anywhere from 7-12 hours depending on the traffic and if there are any roadworks or landslides recently. The bus station in Kathmandu is called ‘ New Bus Station ‘.

MY EXPERIENCE ON THE ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

Throughout this section of this guide, I will share my experience with each part of this trek and give my thoughts on the increased level of infrastructure and road access throughout the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

TREKKING FROM DHARAPANI TO MANANG

After surviving the bumpy ride along the cliff-side roads to Dharapani, we spent the night in a small teahouse before beginning our trek the next morning. Dharapani is actually where the Manaslu Circuit Trek finishes, so I had been in this small river-side town on several occasions previously. The trail for the Annpurna Circuit doesn’t overlap with that route at all and actually follows a road for the opening parts of the journey.

The first few days of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, are not the most peaceful or remote. Trekkers will find themselves being overtaken by Jeeps full of tourists driving deeper into the circuit or being dropped closer for a quick summit attempt at Tilicho Lake. I always hate when cars can drive past me while I’m working hard trekking but it’s unfortunately just part of this route now.

Despite trekking on a road for a fair portion of the first day, there are many side trails that quickly immerse you into the natural surroundings. We found ourselves on steep stairs in the forest and walking through small villages as we wound our way on and off of the road throughout the days. The highlights when it came to views early on in the trek was that from the very first morning, we had views of Manaslu (8,163m). This qas quite nostalgic for me and actually pretty incredible to have Manaslu as a constant backdrop given that I’d stood atop the mighty mountain a year earlier.

Chame was our first stop for the night and was probably my least favorite town of the lot. This is often to be expected when you are just getting started on the trail. The second night in Upper Pisang, we had a direct view from the tea house looking towards Annpurna II. They call it the unlucky mountain as it just misses out on being one of the 14 revered 8000ers. At 7,937m, it is an imposing peak, providing an unbelievable view right from the doorstep of the tea house.

Manang was the first town that felt quite remote and had a bit of atmosphere. In Manang there were several bakeries, religious sites, sacred lakes and monasteries. We spent two nights in Manang, as do many trekkers, and used the ‘rest’ day to head up to Chonggen Viewpoint for more incredible views over Manang and the surrounding mountains.

The scenery alongside the trail had become incredible by day three. While cars can still access to Manang, there was much less traffic and that rural, remote feeling had replace the chaotic, touristic vibe from the early moments of the trek.

TREKKING TO TILICHO LAKE

After a rest day in Manang, it was time to put in a few ‘big effort’ days as we head some serious distance and elevation gain ahead of us. Many groups head from Manang to Yakharka and continue on to the pass. However, it is possible to make a two-day or preferably three-day detour with a mission of hiking up to Tilicho Lake.

The lake is marketed as the highest lake in the world although given some research, you will find that there are about twenty different lakes that are higher than it such as Lake Titicaca. Others claim it is the highest glacial lake in the world but just across the border at 6,216 meters above sea level is the Changtse Pool in Tibet.

Despite being a bit over-hyped and falsely advertised to pull in more tourism, the lake is an incredible natural site. You might curse me for the extra few days of effort to get there but I think it’s well worth making the detour for a few reasons.

The trek into Tilicho Base Camp was one of the best sections of the entire trail. The vegetation faded away and the terrain began to evolve into an outer-space, moon-like scene. Huge slops of gravel were segregated by rock archways and sharp ridgelines. It was like no other part of the trail.

Once you reach Tilicho Base Camp, you’ll find that it isn’t a town and is an opportunistic collection of tea houses set up to meet the demand of those on a mission to reach the high-altitude lake. Hundreds of trekkers wake early to attempt to climb 900m of vertical gain to almost 5000m for a viewpoint at the rim of the lake. It’s pretty steep and a consistent set of switchbacks make the path a tough route, especially after just a few days at high altitude.

After a few hours, trekkers reach the lakeside to find a small teahouse serving coffee and tea. Taking a seat on the stone wall, it’s truly incredible to look out across the vivid blue water completely surrounded by snowy peaks and ridges.

The tough part about trekking to Tilicho Lake is that it is a 12-kilometer round trip journey with 900 meters of incline to get to the lake and back to base camp. Most itineraries dictate that you will quickly eat lunch and then walk another few hours to Shreekharka. It could be a suggestion to stay another night at Tilicho Base Camp to ease the difficult of the trek itinerary.

TREKKING ACROSS THORONG LA PASS

The long day up and down from Tilicho Lake and then from Tilicho Base Camp really took it out of us. However, the show must go on and we made a big effort to push all the way through from Shreekharka to Thorong Phedi. This is the base camp for the Thorong La Pass, which is the penultimate point and highest elevation of the trip.

The views continued to be immense on the journey to Thorong Phedi, but a third straight day with a vertical kilometer of incline and 20km of distance took its toll. We arrived late to Thorong Phedi, just before the sunset as you can see in the first image below.

The tea house at Thorong Phedi was buzzing, packed to the rafters. Many groups set off as early as 2:30 am on their quest to cross the path. We decided to bring up the rear and set off an hour before sunrise at around 5 am after a quick breakfast in the tea house.

The journey across the path begins with about 500m of elevation gain while ascending up relentless switchbacks. You can see the switchbacks from the tea house in the image below. After about 1.5 hours, trekkers reach the ‘high camp’, which is actually where many people stay on their approach to Thorong La Pass. It will make the pass day shorter but the prior day longer. It’s all about preference.

After the high camp, the scenery turns from rock to snow. We are now in a white, winter wonderland as we cross the 5000m mark on our journey across the pass. Up a seemingly never-ending slope, we wind our way around each corner.

Secretly, we are hoping to see the prayer flags of Thorong La but they never come. What we do find is a tea house serving overpriced but highly necessary instant coffee and tea. Here we recharge for half an hour before making our final push to the pass.

About an hour further and we make it up to the pass after about six hours of trekking. My dad and his mates are gassed but glad to be at the highest point of the trip. We hang out, take a few photos and even witness a huge avalanche from the seracs on the right side. Luckily it dispersed down to the side of the mountain and not toward us.

The journey down from Thorong La Pass should be straightforward and is only about eight kilometers. However, with icy conditions and slippery rocks, it was slow-going. It is highly recommended to bring micro spikes for this descent and for the descent from Tilicho Lake. Even though you will only use them twice, they are worth bringing along.

Late in the afternoon, we roll into Muktinath after crossing over into the Mustang region from the Annapurna Sanctuary side. It’s beautiful scenery but we are all just glad to make it to the hotel. It was a pretty tough ‘summit’ day all things being said.

Many trekkers will walk one more day to Jomsom before flying to Pokhara. However, we decided to take a Jeep for about $15 per head. It’s only an hour’s jeep ride to Jomsom.

I’d advise taking the Jeep as the trek looked like it went alongside the road in hot, exposed, dry terrain for twenty kilometers. It’s a brutal and unnecessary section of trail to walk but some purists may like to complete the old ‘original’ circuit. If that is you, make sure you walk all the way to Pokhara, and don’t cheat with any planes from Jomsom!

We spent the night in Jomsom and celebrated with a couple of beers. The next morning, we watched as the light planes flew into the airport. It’s a unique landing strip with an amazing backdrop of mountains on all sides. The planes take off and do a full U-turn immediately before flying up and out of the valley with views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) on the right.

After a few nights in Pokhara, we flew back to Kathmandu to wrap up an incredible journey on the Annapurna Circuit with Himalayan Masters .

I hope you enjoyed this guide to the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal and have a great experience yourself! To finish up, here is a photo from the epic Jomson airport. Not a bad way to end the trip.

HAVE YOU READ MY OTHER NEPAL BLOGS?

I’ve been lucky enough to have many awesome adventures in Nepal, which you can check out below where I’ve listed some of my favorite blog poss from Nepal.

• The Most Iconic route: Everest Base Camp Trek
• The Most Scenic Route: Annapurna Circuit Trek
• My Favorite Trek in Nepal: Manaslu Circuit Trek
• An Easy Nepal Trek: Langtang Valley Trek
• A great beginner peak: Island Peak Climb (6,165m)
• My Favorite Climb in Nepal: Climbing Ama Dablam (6,812m)
• My first 8000er: Climbing Manaslu (8,163m)
• My toughest climb in Nepal: Climbing Makalu (8,463m)
• Where to stay: 16 Best Places to Stay in Kathmandu

Sunday 11th of June 2023

Hi, I noticed a news that Nepal treks should only be allowed only with a guide, starting from April 2023. Your article seems to be from June 2023. Does it mean that Annapurna Circuit has an exemption? Thanks a lot!

Sunday 2nd of July 2023

Thanks, honestly, this is a reason for me not to even think about Nepal and consider e.g. Patagonia

Sunday 18th of June 2023

Anything above 3000m I believe you need a guide now

Thursday 9th of March 2023

Please tell me more about your photography set up. Camera, lens, gear etc Thank You! :)

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Annapurna Circuit

How to Trek Nepal's Annapurna Circuit

Hike the most beautiful route in Nepal

DANNY HU/Getty Images 

Although small in stature geographically speaking, Nepal is a county that is blessed with an overabundance of adventure travel opportunities. Whether you're hiking or climbing in the mountains, spotting wildlife in Chitwan National Park , or whitewater rafting on a raging river, there are numerous activities that are guaranteed to get your heart pumping. Of course, most travelers that visit the Himalayan country come for the amazing trekking, with the hike to Everest Base Camp standing out as a true bucket-list achievement amongst veteran adventurers. But as iconic as that journey is, it may take a backseat to another Nepali trekking route that is even longer, more challenging, and more beautiful.

Stretching for up to 145 miles through the snow-capped Himalaya, the Annapurna Circuit is the standard by which most other trekking routes around the world are measured. It is easily amongst the best hiking routes in the world, but before you commit to exploring it yourself, here's what you need to know.

What Is the Annapurna Circuit?

Located in central Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit is a long-distance trekking route that begins in the town of Besisahar and ends in Birethanti, encircling much of the Annapurna Massif along the way. The trail's namesake mountain is amongst the tallest in the world, standing some 8091 meters (26,545 ft) in height. This beautiful and majestic peak looms large over numerous sections of the trail, providing a spectacular backdrop for a hike that is already well known for its natural beauty.

The trail first opened to hikers back in the late 1970s, but truly gained its legendary status amongst adventure travelers in the '80s. It was around that time that development in the area started to take off, making it easier to travel to and from the Annapurna region. The city of Pokhara also blossomed into a mecca for backpackers, serving as a gathering point for those looking to hike the Himalayan route.

Today, the Annapurna Circuit is amongst Nepal's most popular trekking trails, drawing thousands of hikers on an annual basis. Most come for the spectacular beauty that can be found along the route, which includes small villages spaced out every few hours with accommodating tea houses offering good food, thirst quenching drinks, and a warm, cozy place to spend the night.

Location & Orientation

As with all adventures that take place in Nepal, the journey begins and ends in the country's capital –– Kathmandu. The city is noisy, chaotic, and colorful, with plenty of attractions to keep visitors busy in its own right. The historic temples, famous markets, and eclectic restaurants are certainly worth a look.

Once trekkers are ready to hit the trail however, they'll most likely fly to the city of Pokhara in central Nepal, which is located close to the start of the Annapurna Circuit. From there, they need to book ground transportation to nearby Besisahar to begin the trek. Alternatively, travelers can take a bus directly to Besisahar from Kathmandu, skipping Pokhara altogether. The ride is about seven hours in length, but offers some great views of the Nepali countryside while en route.

Best Time to Go

There are two distinct hiking seasons in Nepal, with one coming in the spring and the other in the fall. The absolute best time to hike in the Himalaya is in October and November, shortly after the annual monsoons have subsided. Typically, the weather is warm, with clear skies, and few rain showers at that time of the year, although evenings can be on the chillier side. Because of this however, it is also the busiest time of the year too. That means the trail can get crowded and tea houses will sell out quickly. If you're visiting during the peaks season, be sure to book your guide and accommodations well in advance.

The second best time to hike the Annapurna Circuit is in April and May. By that time of the year, spring has typically arrived, ushering in warmer temperatures and less snowfall. It is a quieter time on the trail, but the weather conditions can be a bit less predictable with a higher chance of rain or clouds. Still, it is generally a lovely time to be in the Himalaya, with good visibility and excellent hiking on most days.

From June to September, Nepal finds itself in the midst of monsoon season, which brings torrential rain to many parts of the country. But most of the Annapurna Circuit falls in a rain shadow and isn't often hit with heavy downpours. This makes the summer months a surprisingly good time to hike the route, as there are generally very few people traveling in Nepal during that time of year. The downside is that it can be quite warm and muggy on certain segments of the trail, making it an uncomfortable time to be in the mountains.

Some adventurous hikers will trek the route in the winter, as the trail is usually all-but deserted at that time of the year. The trade-off is that snowstorms can strike at any time, temperatures can get quite cold, and there is a higher chance of avalanches closing the trail. Only the most experienced backpackers should hike in the Himalaya at that time of the year, as conditions can actually become life-threatening, particularly if you're unaccustomed to the winter conditions.

How Long Does It Take to Hike the Annapurna Circuit?

Hiking the classic Annapurna route through the Himalaya generally requires about 18 days to complete end-to-end. Some trekkers are able to travel a bit faster, shaving a few days off of that time, while others will move at a slower pace or make side trips, extending the journey a bit longer. The majority of guided treks will stick closely to the 18 day schedule however, which doesn't include travel time to and from Nepal. Add on a few days in Kathmandu at the beginning and/or end, and an Annapurna trek will likely take the better part of three weeks to finish.

What Should I Expect on the Trail?

The Annapurna Circuit is a well marked and maintained trekking route that is easy to follow. It passes through numerous small villages along its length, giving hikers plenty of options to grab a bite to eat, relax with a drink, or find accommodations for the night. Tea houses are plentiful and small restaurants and shops are not uncommon either.

The trail itself features plenty of altitude gain and loss along the way, with a starting point located at 2690 feet in Besisahar and reaching its highest point at Thorung Pass, which tops out at nearly 17,770 feet. It is a slow, but steady climb up to that point, with some — steep, but manageable — ascents at various points throughout the hike. Go slowly and allow yourself to acclimate to the altitude, particularly in the early days of the trek.

There are also quite a few river crossings along the route, most of which are accomplished with the help of a suspension bridges. This adds to the sense of adventure, as some of those bridges are built high above the water, making for some very scenic views and photos. But those who aren't particularly fond of heights will want to keep their eyes focused ahead while moving at a steady pace. While completely safe and well maintained, the bridges can be a bit unnerving on the first crossing or two.

One of the reasons why the Annapurna Circuit is much-loved by trekkers is that it seems to only get better with each passing day. The beautiful and dramatic scenery can be incredibly breathtaking, and just when you think it can't get any better, the next day completely surpasses the one before. If you're looking for a hike that will provide plenty of sights to see, it's difficult to find a route that will tops this one.

As mentioned, the traditional Annapurna Circuit begins in Besisahar and ends in Birethanti. In between, the trail wanders through Khudi, Jagat, Manang, Marpha, Tatopani, and numerous other villages and towns, providing a real sense of what it is like to live in the Himalaya. This is part of its appeal as well, giving trekkers a chance to immerse themselves in the mountain culture that has existed there for centuries.

There have been some travelers who have lamented the fact that a busy road now runs through much of the Annapurna region, with cynics saying that it has ruined the trekking route forever. While it is true that a road now exists there, much of the path still stays well away from it and some portions have been rerouted to avoid the traffic as well. At the end of the day, this is still one of the best hikes in the world and most adventure travelers won't come away disappointed.

Do I Need a Guide?

Whether or not you hire a guide for your Annapurna Circuit excursion comes down to personal preference. If you are an experienced backpacker who enjoys going it alone, and are looking to save a bit of money, then a guide isn't really necessary. The trail is easy to follow, it's hard to get lost, and there are plenty of places to resupply along the way. For those that know what they are doing, it is a fairly straight forward trek.

On the other hand, if you're looking to get the full experience, a guide can come in very handy. Not only will he or she ensure that you stay safe on the trail, they'll also be able to answer questions for you along the way. They can also help translate conversations with locals, offer insights into the best places to stay and eat, and help you to avoid potentially sticky situations. From time to time trekkers can meet less-then scrupulous individuals along the trail and a good guide can help smooth over those encounters.

What to Pack

A long trek through the Himalaya can require plenty of gear to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable throughout the trip. If you've booked the hike with a guide service, be sure to ask them for a packing list before setting out to ensure that you have everything you'll need. During the two most popular trekking periods –– October through November and April through May –– the days are typically warm, while the nights can be quite cool. That means you'll want to dress in layers, bring a warm sleeping bag, and pack versatile gear that can be used in a variety of environments.

If you're trekking independently, you'll find a number of Annapurna Circuit gear lists online. Use these as guide for knowing what to pack for the trip and what to leave at home. Keep in mind however, you'll be carrying your backpack at high altitude, so packing light may be of benefit.

Do I Need a Permit?

The Nepali government requires that all trekkers hiking the Annapurna Circuit carry two permits with them at all times. Those permits are required to even enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and there are multiple checkpoints along the route where authorities will request to see them again.

Both the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara prior to the start of the hike. The ACAP costs about $18/person, while the Green TIMS card, which is for independent travelers, is priced at $20/person. A Blue TIMS card for group travelers sells for $10/person.

If you hire a guide they will typically handle all of the paperwork and obtain the permits for you.

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Nepali regulations require all travelers who are climbing or trekking within the country to have travel insurance prior to setting out on their adventure. Hiking and mountaineering at high altitude comes with some inherent risk, and it is not uncommon for travelers to have to be evacuated or receive medical treatment. Having the proper insurance can help alleviate those costs and can help organize an evacuation or medical transfer should the need arise.

Beyond that regulation however, it is just a smart idea to purchase travel insurance when undertaking any adventurous itinerary. You never know when a situation might arise where you might need it, including covering the expenses of lost bags, cancelled flights, unexpected medical expenses, or evacuations. Those are all things you hope to never have to deal with, but the right insurance will limit the impact it has on your trip and wallet should anything unexpected happen.

How Fit Do I Need to Be?

The Annapurna Circuit can be a challenging hike, even for those who are already quite fit. In order to enjoy the trek to its fullest, travelers are encouraged to be as physically prepared as possible prior to starting out. Some days are more strenuous than others and altitude is always a concern of course, but the trek will be a more enjoyable one if you have trained a bit prior to traveling to Nepal.

Who Should I Travel With?

As mentioned, you can hike the Annapurna Circuit completely on your own, or hire a guide when you arrive in Nepal. But if you'd rather have all of the logistics taken care of for you and book a guide service prior to your departure, there a plenty of companies that offer treks along the route. Here are a few that we recommend:

• G Adventure 18-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Trekking the Annapurna Circuit Region with Intrepid Travel
• Annapurna Circuit by Exodus Travel
• Annapurna Circuit From World Expeditions
• Annapurna Sanctuary Trek by REI Adventures

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Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Includes/Excludes
• Book the tour
• Annapurna Region
• Deals and Discounts
• Nepal - Land of Himalaya
• Trekking Holiday

Trek to the Annapurna Circuit is undoubtedly the world’s most well-known trek. Annapurna Circuit Trek involves beautiful landscapes, Thorong-La Pass, and Mukti Nath’s holiest pilgrimage site. Besides, Kali Gandaki Valley and Ghorepani Poon Hill provide a fantastic opportunity to combine different local insights. These are the main attractions of the Annapurna circuit trek, which starts from Bensi Shahar. The trail goes, however, towards Thorong-La Pass, which borders Manang and Mustang. You may use these GPS coordinates to navigate the Annapurna Circuit Trek Map , where you can find all your walking distance details.

In the meantime, Trek to Annapurna Circuit allows you to find charming villages and lush green vegetation along the Marsyandi Valley. The elevation of this trek ranges from 800 to 5416 meters, so there is a high possibility of diversifying. The Thorong La Pass is one of the tallest passes since it is 5416 meters high. It provides a 360 ° view of beautiful mountains such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri.

A Trek to Annapurna Circuit is more disturbing than the previous one due to the new construction road. Now, some segments of the alternative path are being built to prevent emissions. On this road, however, there are limited lodging and food facilities. The trail stretches even further to visit the Annapurna base camp , whatever your chosen routes. But Around Annapurna Trek offers an unforgettable experience. The path takes you over 3500 meters, so proper acclimatization is necessary.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is worth trying out, especially if seeking the ultimate challenge combined with unforgettable memories!

Annapurna Circuit Trek: Highlights

Short itinerary.

Tailor your holiday with help from a local travel specialist that matches your requirements.

Permits and Regulation

The Around Annapurna Trek requires a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

It prices NPR 600 (about USD 6) for SAARC nationalities and NPR 2000 (approximately USD 20) for ordinary travelers.

Similarly, an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit costs NPR 200 (about USD 2) for SAARC countries and NPR 2000 (approximately USD 20) for other nationals.

The Nepal Tourism Board sells TIMS and ACAP permits in Kathmandu and Pokhara. ACAP is also available in the Besisahar ACAP office. Regardless, they’ll deal with these permits if you go on this trip through a Nepal trekking agency.

Best time to go to Annapurna Circuit Trek

Autumn and spring are the best times for trekking in Nepal . The Autumn season generally starts from September to November in Nepal. The weather is warm during the day and cool at night, making it ideal for bridging this circuit.

Spring, which extends from March to May, is also a beautiful season to travel along these routes. It is the following most suitable opportunity for Travel. The days are getting warmer during this period. The Rhododendron begins to blossom, making the way bright and beautiful. Although it is the second most popular travel season, it is not as crowded as autumn. In addition, the clear weather makes it so pleasant for the trekkers.

Because of the pleasant weather, spring and autumn are the best time to visit Annapurna Circuit Trek. Nonetheless, the Around Annapurna trek is doable year-round.

Variant itineraries

No doubt, Annapurna Circuit Trek is the most popular trekking destination in Nepal. There are many itineraries within the Annapurna Conservation Area. You may choose the best possible itineraries that can expand from 7 to 21 days based on your interest, time frame, and fitness. If you are considering this trek, check out this comprehensive guide to Annapurna Circuit Trek , which helps you prepare and plan a hike. Please consult us for the best possible itinerary for Annapurna Circuit Trek.

One should think about it, but you should also get out and explore. This spectacular trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The fascinating place, of course, possesses awe-inspiring vistas on this trip. We’ve compiled a list of the 15 top tips that will help you to make a successful Annapurna Circuit Trek. So, No one should put off tackling the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 m).

Day 2: free day in kathmandu., day 3: kathmandu – bulbule(840m) 7h00., day 4: bhulbule – jagat (1314m), day 5: jagat – dharapani (1970m), day 6: dharapani – chame (2710m), day 7: chame – pisang (3300m), day 8: pisang – manang (3500m), day 9: acclimatization day in manang, day 10: manang – ledhar (4200m)., day 11: ledhar – thorong phedi (4400m). 4h00 walk., day 12: thorong phedi – muktinath (3800m), day 13: muktinath – marpha (2667m), day 14: marpha – lete (2438m), day 15: lete – tatopani (hot water) 1189m, day 16: tatopani – ghorepani (2855m), day 17: ghorepani – poon hill (3210m) – thikedunga (1400m), day 18: tikhedhunga – nayapul (1113m) – pokhara (915m), day 19: pokhara – kathmandu, day 20: free day in kathmandu, day 21: final departure..

Prices quoted and payable only in (US$ dollars). All prices published on our website set as low as possible. The prices may vary at any time due to currency fluctuation, fuel prices, and unforeseen economic circumstances. However, we guarantee our prices, which already signed up for your tour. Please consult us for a custom quote.

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I had a wonderful time during the trip. The guide was informative, friendly and attentive to our entire group! I definitely plan to be a returning customer and recommend this to my friends and family!

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The best Annapurna treks

An expert guide to trekking the annapurna region.

Stuart Butler

Bradley Mayhew

• In this guide
• Remote treks
• Challenging treks
• Everest treks
• Annapurna treks

Upper Mustang treks

• Langtang Valley treks
• Manaslu treks
• Dolpo treks
• Far Western Nepal treks
• Makalu treks
• Kanchenjunga treks
• What to eat in Nepal
• Best Annapurna treks
• Need to know

Annapurna trekking: overrated routes & hidden gems

For lots of visitors, trekking in Nepal = trekking in Annapurna, in particular either the Annapurna Sanctuary or the Annapurna Circuit trek. They’re both spectacular and more than deserve their hype but, in my opinion, they’ve been let down by the tourism industry’s tendency to over-market the already popular highlights at the expense of any hidden gems.

What's more, the Annapurna Circuit trek – for many years described as the single best trek on earth – has suffered so much encroachment from road construction that I’m not sure I could even recommend doing the original route (the new alternative route is excellent however.)

Fortunately there is much more to trekking in Annapurna than these two blockbuster routes. From simple walks in the flowery foothills, to hidden valleys that feel like Tibet and require special permits to visit, there's a huge variety of Annapurna treks that don't make it into the mainstream tourism marketing.

But whatever trek you choose, one thing is for sure: the mountain scenery will blow you away. Standing in the heart of the cirque at the end of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek could move you to tears, and the wilderness around Tilicho Lake will probably be the best mountain scenery you’ll ever lay eyes on

There’s the added advantage that most treks are simple to organise, trailheads easy to reach on public transport, and accommodation and facilities abundant and of a very high quality. So forget the glory of Everest , Annapurna is where it’s at!

Ready to go? Here's my expert guide to the best Annapurna treks.

Get the digested read

Where to begin? When to go? How to plan? So many questions, so little time. That's why we've asked leading Nepal trekking expert Stuart Butler to answer your most frequently asked questions in this handy four-part email series.

The classic view of Annapurna I

The most famous routes and some hidden gems

Annapurna Region

Road-free annapurna circuit.

• Best trek for: Classic scenery, good facilities
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard
• Trek duration: Nine to 18 days
• Max. elevation: 5,416m
• Accommodation: Trekking lodges
• Start/end point: Dharapani/Jomsom or Naya Pul

This, one of the world’s classic treks, takes you through virtually the whole range of Nepalese landscapes: From sub-tropical valleys where banana plants and gushing, murky jungle rivers are the defining features, through gorgeous woodlands, and across Alpine meadows and conifer forests, to the rock and ice wastes higher up.

Sadly, in the past few years road construction has affected up to 75% of the original Annapurna Circuit route. Life’s too short to trek on roads, so my advice is to avoid the original route and follow the new road-free route instead . If you’re set on walking the Annapurna Circuit, be sure to follow the New Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT) route that take you away from the road traffic and onto quieter and more scenic side trails – in many cases these new trails offer even more impressive scenery than the original routes. NATT routes are waymarked with signs painted in blue and white, instead of the red and white of the main Annapurna Circuit route.

The high point is the often snow-covered Thorung La Pass (5,416m) with its utterly sensational mountain views. From here you drop rapidly down towards the fascinating Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site of Muktinath and then into a drier, region of eroded river gorges, lush oases and castle-like monasteries around Kagbeni and Jomsom (look out for ammonite fossils in the Kali Gandaki river bed — evidence that the top of the world was once at the bottom of a prehistoric ocean).

Many people finish the trek at Jomsom (there are jeeps and buses to Pokhara or scheduled daily flights), but for the devoted, the new alternative trail winds slowly downhill through the dramatic Kali Gandaki valley into warmer, greener and lusher countryside. The sense of satisfaction of walking the entire circuit is second to none.

Facilities along the Annapurna Circuit are excellent with comfortable trekking lodges and good, varied food. Many lodges have hot showers and wi-fi. It’s busy during high season and the demand for beds can exceed supply. You can avoid the problem by joining an organised trip, and miss the crowds by overnighting at midway points between the major stops. See here for our recommended itinerary.

Annapurna North Base Camp

Best trek for: Expedition style camping

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: Five to six days

Max elevation: 4,050m

Accommodation: camping

Start/end point: Tatopani/Sandhi Kharka

New trek routes always get my pulse racing, especially when they follow in the footsteps of a famous old expedition route. This particular trek follows the expedition route of Maurice Herzog’s epic 1950 ascent of Annapurna I (8,091m), the first ever ascent of an 8,000m peak, and it takes you up to an amazing mountain amphitheatre ringed with 7,000m peaks.

Unlike the busy base camps of the popular Annapurna Sanctuary trek, this ‘alternative’ Annapurna Base Camp trek is a true hidden gem that sees only a trickle of well-informed trekkers, largely because you need to camp and be self-sufficient. There are no lodges here and definitely no apple pie.

The trek starts at Tatopani, veering off the Annapurna Circuit to make a dramatic, sphincter-tightening jeep ride up the wild, sheer-sided gorge of the Mristi Khola. The walking starts at the hydroelectric plant at Hum Khola Dovan (2,880m), with overnights at Sandhi Kharka and Bhusket Mela (3,550m), until you finally set up camp in the astounding glacial basin of Narchang Lake (4,050m). This secret spot, surrounded by Annapurna I, Fang, Tilicho and Nilgiri peaks and walled off by the Great Barrier of the Annapurnas, is a classic mountain cul-de-sac, surrounded by glaciers, waterfalls and vertical rock walls.

The opportunities for day hikes here are fabulous, with faint trails leading to Annapurna North Base Camp, Advanced Base Camp and Nilgiri Base Camp via some epic glacier viewpoints. Bring a copy of Maurice Herzog’s classic 1951 Annapurna, and spend the evenings reading his account of the groundbreaking ascent and even more harrowing descent. It’s a day’s walk back to Sandhi Kharka and then half a day to meet your jeep and make the wild ride back.

Annapurna Sanctuary trek

• Best trek for: The most popular Annapurna trek
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Trek duration: 10 days
• Max. elevation: 4,130m
• Start/end point: Naya Pul or Dhampus

Rivalling Everest Base Camp for the title of most popular trek in Nepal, the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a 10-day extravaganza of non-stop mountain vistas culminating in a great cirque of massive mountain peaks seven to eight kilometres high.

If you’re looking for a short, relatively easy and simple-to-organise trek that doesn’t venture too high (max elevation is 4,130m), and with unusually comfortable accommodation, then the Annapurna Sanctuary ticks all the boxes.

The straight there and back route starts in the lush subtropical hills to the north of Pokhara, taking you through oak, birch, rhododendron and bamboo forests before hitting the Alpine zone on day five around Machapuchare base camp (which is actually a collection of trekking lodges — for religious reasons it’s forbidden to climb Machapuchare).

From here to the Annapurna Sanctuary the views get more stupendous with every corner passed. Once you reach the Annapurna Sanctuary there are a few viewpoints above the lodges which reward with views over glaciers, moraine fields and an amphitheatre of peaks including Machapuchare (6,993m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Annapurna III (7,555m), Gangapurna (7,454m) and, just poking up behind the others, Annapurna I (8,091m), the first 8,000m mountain ever climbed (in 1950 by legendary French climbers Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal).

The facilities for trekkers are as good as anywhere in the Nepalese mountains. Most lodges have varied menus, some form of heating, separate rooms, electricity, hot showers and even wi-fi. However, this combination of unsurpassed mountain scenery, great facilities and easy access means that tens of thousands of trekkers can walk this trail each year, causing local culture to be overwhelmed by international trekking culture. Lodges can be booked out in the high season. Try to get to the night stop early, or join an organised trekking tour and avoid the worry of finding a bed. If you’re looking for something quieter, the new Annapurna North Base Camp trek might be for you.

To avoid this being a straight there and back trek, do the Poon Hill trek first and then on day four link on to this walk. That would give a total of about 12 comfortable days of walking. Or alternatively add on the Mardi Himal trek for a similar duration.

Poon Hill trek

• Best trek for: Easier-going route with classic sunrise views
• Trek duration: Five to six days
• Max. elevation: 3,210m
• Start/end point: Naya Puk/Phedi

Mixing heart-stirring mountain views with enchanting villages and beautiful forests with a thousand blooming rhododendrons, this is a good introduction to trekking in Nepal.

The highlight is Poon Hill itself, an hour’s walk above the village of Ghorepani. Watching the sunrise from here is an almost obligatory Nepalese experience. As the first beams of light shine across a panorama that includes Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), South Annapurna (8,091m) and Nilgri (6,940m), it’s hard not to be moved, despite the often noisy crowds

The trailheads are only about an hour’s drive out of Pokhara and there are excellent trekking lodges along the route plus some luxury hotels. The trek can be done clockwise or anti-clockwise and it makes a good add-on to the more challenging Annapurna Sanctuary trek. It’s also an ideal first time trek for families and those who don’t want to go too high. But do keep in mind that there’s a lot of steep up and downs.

Nar-Phu trek

• Best trek for: Getting well off the beaten path
• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
• Trek duration: Seven to nine days
• Max. elevation: 5,320m
• Accommodation: Camping and basic trekking lodges
• Start/end point: Koto/Ngawal

Most Annapurna Circuit trekkers heading through the village of Koto won’t know that a trail off to the east leads to a magical, hidden world. The Nar and Phu valleys were closed to tourism until 2002 and when they finally opened up the first trekkers discovered a landscape of narrow gorges, 7km high mountains, timeless stone villages festooned with prayer flags, and a distinct local culture based on yak herding and trade with neighbouring Tibet.

Still rarely trekked (a restricted area permit and camping gear is required), the route follows a dark, deep and shady gorge up to the mediaeval village of Phu, which consists of around 40 or 50 mud and stone houses and red painted monasteries huddled together on the top of a hill. Entry to the village is via a spectacular old gateway.

It’s worth allowing a couple of nights in Phu to explore the upper valley. To leave, you have to retrace your steps halfway back down the valley before veering west up the Nar valley, over yak pastures to the large traditional village of Nar where there are four gompas (Buddhist monasteries) worth visiting. Independent trekkers relying on lodges will probably have to turn back here and retrace their steps to Koto, but camping groups and acclimatised trekkers can make the exciting crossing of the Kang La (5,320m) down to Ngawal back on the Annapurna Circuit.

This trek works well either as an add-on to the Annapurna Circuit or as a short, stand-alone trek in its own right. For adventurous trekkers with all the correct permits on fully-organised camping treks, it’s possible to take a wild, difficult and very rarely walked route from the village of Nar into Upper Mustang via the taxing Teri La Pass (5,595m).

Khopra Ridge trek

• Best trek for: Quieter, less-crowded route
• Max. elevation: 3,660m
• Accommodation: Camping and limited trekking lodges
• Start/end point: Ghorepani/Tadapani

Also known as the Khopra Danda trek, this is well off the standard Annapurna trekking routes and offers a low-key, peaceful trek to lofty viewpoints on the flanks of Annapurna South. There are a number of different route variations but my favourite branches off the Poon Hill trek at Tadopani and climbs to lodges at Bayeli (with its amazing Mulde viewpoint), Chistibang and then Khopra Danda, before descending to Swanta and Ghorepani

The trails pass through charming villages with simple private and community lodges and lots of pretty forests. Khopra Ridge itself is an impressive dome with an exposed trail running along it that feels much higher than it really is (especially when covered in snow). The views across to Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) are unforgettable. From the ridge it’s possible to make a very long and challenging 10-hour day trip to the high altitude Khayer Lake (4,600m). Given the 1,000-metre height gain in a day, plus the beauty of the lake, it’s much more advisable to go on an organised camping trek and sleep on the lake shore.

Mardi Himal trek

• Best Trek For: Short trek with great views
• Max elevation: 4,250m-4,500m
• Accommodation: simple lodges
• Start/end point: Khare (Kande)/Sidhing or Landruk

Do you want a taste of the Annapurna region – forests, hillsides of rhododendrons, airy ridge walks and close-up views of big peaks – but can’t afford more than a week? If yes, then I think the Mardi Himal trek might just be for you.

It’s very accessible (less than an hour by bus or taxi from Pokhara), well signed, and the trail will take you past everything from Gurung villages to high Alpine ridges. Not so many foreign trekkers make it here but the lodges are decent (though not as comfortable as other parts of the region). It’s popular with Nepali trekkers, though, so avoid weekends if you can.

The first day or two take you past Australia Camp and the village of Pothana up through the forests of Pitam Deorali to teahouses at Forest Camp, but before long you’ll find yourself above the treeline at Low Camp (2,985m) and then High Camp (3,550m), where the views of fish-tailed Machapuchare, Himchuli and the Annapurnas really open up. Pray for good weather for the amazing final hike from High Camp up to Mardi Himal ‘Base Camp’ West for views of peaks that seem within reach, before returning to Low Camp. From here return to jeep access roads at Sidhing, Galel or Lwang, or hike from Forest Camp to the road at Landruk.

If you are fit (and, crucially, acclimatised) the trek can be done in four days, though five to six is more likely. For an excellent 10-11 day trek link Mardi Himal with the Annapurna Sanctuary route via Landruk.

Tilicho Lake trek

• Best trek for: Short but challenging route
• Trek duration: Four to five days
• Max. elevation: 5,005m
• Start/end point: Manang/Manang or Yak Kharka

The short, but challenging hike to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest large lakes in the world, is one of the most impressive Annapurna treks.

It’s a four or five-day round trip detour off the main Annapurna Circuit trail starting from Manang and heading rapidly upwards, firstly through pine forest and then across scree slopes before a final climb to a pass (5,005m) overlooking the lake. Pushed right up against the great wall of the Annapurna range, and with glaciers crashing down into it, the lake is frozen over for months on end and can be a bleak and scary place.

When it is ice-free (normally June to early November), the astonishing turquoise colours of the water clash with the dark rock and white glaciers behind it. For sheer high mountain drama, I find it hard to beat. However, the route up to the lake is not for the faint-hearted.

The path rises very steeply from Manang and altitude-related problems are very common. Also, a large part of the trail is high up on an almost sheer shale slope where rock falls and avalanches are almost daily occurrences. Needless to say it can be very dangerous, especially after rain. People suffering from vertigo will probably not enjoy this trek. Although there are a number of decent trekking lodges along the trail to the lake there’s nowhere reliable to stay on the lake shore. By coming on an organised camping trek you can spend a magical night camping along the lake’s northern edge with only snow leopards for company.

After reaching the lake it’s best to turn back the way you came rather than going all the way back to Manang though you can take a small shortcut that will get you directly to the lodges at Yak Kharka.

Note that many maps and some trekking agencies talk about a route directly from Tilicho Lake to Jomsom via the Mesokanto pass. No matter what any map, sign or trekking agency tells you, this is not a route to be taken lightly. It involves ice-climbing down two huge, vertical glacier walls followed by a hair-raising and utterly exhausting climb up a loose scree slope which makes those you crossed on the way up to Tilicho seem like child’s play. Do not attempt this route without mountaineering experience, ropes, ice-axes and crampons as well as a guide who knows the route — very few do.

Annapurna luxury lodge trek

• Best trek for: Soft trekking in style
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: Six days
• Max elevation: 2,015m
• Accommodation: luxury lodges
• Start/end point: Lumle/Phedi

If you shudder at the idea of overnighting in a wooden room no larger than a prison cell, with the single shared toilet located down a hallway echoing with the thunderous snores of a two-dozen unwashed trekkers (or even worse; a tent!), then you might want to consider a luxury trekking itinerary in the Annapurna foothills. You’ll avoid the discomfort of high altitude and can focus on lovely days spent wandering village trails, safe in the knowledge that a hot shower and happy hour awaits you at the end of the day.

Ker & Downey operates a string of lodges in the foothills north of Pokhara, allowing you to link the Gurung villages of Dhampus, Ghandruk, Majgaun, Landruk and Birethanti in a five or six day loop, with fine views of iconic fish-tailed Machapuchare never far away. This is trekking in style.

Panchase Trek

• Duration: Three to four days
• Max. elevation: 2,500m
• Accommodation: Teahouse lodges
• Start/end point: Pokhara

This is one of my favourite alternative treks in the Annapurna region. Don't worry if you've not heard of it – most visitors haven’t, which means you’ll enjoy largely crowd-free trails while ascending to magnificent viewpoints at a maximum altitude of just 2,500 metres.

A highlight of this route is the way it begins: you’ll depart directly from the lakeside in Pokhara, boarding one of the city’s colourful boats to reach the opposite shore of Phewa Lake. Your destination on this four-day route is the hill station of Panchase, and you’ll pass through a number of charming Himalayan villages to get there. All told, this is a great Annapurna trek where you won’t have to worry about a long haul on dusty roads. I often recommend it for an acclimatisation trek before embarking on one of the longer and higher altitude main routes.

Best of the Annapurna Circuit

Road-free highlights of the famous route.

Annapurna Treks

Green society adventures.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trek in the annapurna massif.

Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Nar Phu Trek

Hidden valleys in remote annapurna.

Khopra Ridge Trek

11 day crowd-free trekking in annapurna.

Mardi Himal Trek

Short trek in the annapurna range.

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake

16 day strenuous trek.

Annapurna Luxury Lodge Trek

Comfort trekking staying in luxury lodges, road-free annapurna circuit itinerary, a new alternative to the classic route, annapurna trekking: need to know, everything you wish you'd known before you booked.

Think twice about the Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit consistently tops lists of the world’s best treks – and rightly so. Or rather, it used to be rightly so.

The problem is that these lists are often written by desk-bound editors who’ve never been out there and are rehashing info that's over a decade old. The sad reality today is that road construction has eaten up three quarters of the old Annapurna Circuit trail. The sublime cliff-side paths and mule tracks that I and many others hiked two decades ago are now cloaked in jeep fumes and dust.

My enduring memory of a recent trip to the circuit was seeing a long line of grim-faced trekkers trudging along a dirt road through clouds of jeep dust. It didn’t look like fun, let alone the world’s best trek.

So is the Annapurna Circuit dead? Well, no, not exactly. By choosing smart ending and starting points and following a series of side trails called the New Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT; with markers painted in blue and white, instead of the red and white of the main trail) you can avoid most of the roads, while soaking up the same astonishing Himalayan views, high-altitude lakes and traditional trading villages that have drawn trekkers here for half a century now.

There’s no denying that the nature of the walk has changed. I still rank the lodges and food along this route as some of the best in Nepal, but many of these are now on the road, and so cater to a different clientele. And while the NATT trails are infinitely better than hiking on the road, they aren’t perfect; you still have to walk some sections on the new road and other dirt roads are eating away even at these detours.

Do your research, stick to side trails and you’ll be a much happier trekker.

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Forget about Poon Hill

I’d argue that Poon Hill is the most overrated viewpoint in the Himalaya.

Pokhara trekking agencies and guides love it because it’s relatively quick, easy and cheap to get to, but it’s just way too busy a spot to provide the ‘sunrise over the Himalaya’ spiritual epiphany you were hoping for. Get better and quieter views of the Annapurna range at Mohare Danda on the Khopra Ridge trek or from Mardi Himal Base Camp, or opt for equally dramatic views of 8,167m Dhaulagiri from the east bank of the Kali Gandaki valley.

Don't neglect the side trips

The Annapurna Circuit and Sanctuary treks are undeniably busy, so I highly advise building in some spare days to your itinerary. Put the trekking poles down for a day and follow the Hindu pilgrims to the holy town of Muktinath. They’ve come from across the Indian sub-continent to bathe in the freezing spring waters and pray at the eternal flame which lies at the heart of the temple complex. A day’s walk further downhill is Kagbeni, a quiet desert oasis village that you can visit without an expensive permit.

Combine the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuits for a beyond epic trek

It’s hard to imagine a more spectacular trek than combining the best week of the Annapurna Circuit onto the end of the already fabulous Manaslu Circuit . You’ll cross two passes over 5,000m, visit three of Nepal’s most picturesque villages (Sama, Bragha and Kagbeni) and get a taste of traditional Tibetan-influenced culture in the valleys of Nupri, Manang and lower Mustang. This is 18 days of the best teahouse trekking you’ll find anywhere in the world.

Don’t skip acclimatisation days

Given the pressures of time and budget, I understand it can be tempting to skip those dull acclimatisation days, especially when you arrive at your destination at lunchtime and the itch to push on seems almost irresistible. Skip an acclimatisation day, however, and you’ll almost certainly create problems for yourself later on; you might even have to abandon your entire trek due to altitude sickness. I try to take advantage of acclimatisation days by exploring side trails or hiking higher than the overnight stop, before returning for the night, thus supercharging my acclimatisation by ‘climbing high and sleeping low’.

Don’t buy bottled water

Don't contribute to Nepal's huge trash problem by buying bottled water while trekking. Not only are these bottles ridiculously expensive but the non-recyclable plastic ends up strewn across teahouses, villages and trekking trails, giving mountain tourism a bad name. Invest in a water filter like a Lifestraw, UV-light sterilisation like a Steripen, or just pack some good old fashioned chlorine tablets and purify your own water. You’ll save a small mountain of plastic and you’ll have some extra money in your pocket for that extra slice of apple pie.

The stunning Annapurna range from Poon Hill

Annapurna trekking FAQs

Your questions, our expert answers, is there still an option for independent trekking in the annapurna area or do you have to have a licensed guide.

Aside from the Everest region then yes, officially, you do now need an officially recognised guide to hike inside any national park/protected area in Nepal. This would include most of the main Annapurna trails.

However, enforcement of the rule in the Annapurna region has been spotty so far. There are plans (in theory at least) to start enforcing the new rule in 2024.

I would say though that a guide is just a good idea anyway because a good guide (and getting a good one is key) will enhance your trek by giving background information, offering up interesting side routes, translating when required, opening cultural doors and, of course, providing a bit more safety. Not to mention that it gives much needed jobs to local people and in the big picture it costs very little.

What permits are required to trek in the Annapurna region?

All these treks require a TIMS permit (Trekkers’ Information Management System) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. At the time of writing, individual permits cost R 2,000 per trekking route per entry, while group trekkers pay R 1,000 per person. Check the latest prices on the official Nepal tourism board website .

The Nar-Phu trek also needs a restricted area permit (seven days Sept-Nov/Dec-Aug US $90/75, additional days, US $10). You must be in a party of at least two trekkers and be accompanied by a guide.

When is the best time to trek in the Annapurna region?

The best time to trek in the Annapurna region (except for Nar-Phu) is between October and November, and from late February to April. Between late November and early February, it’s very cold at high altitude and the Thorung La Pass will probably be impassable due to snow. The routes to Tilicho Lake will also be snowed in at this time and lodges at higher elevations closed. There’s a real avalanche risk on the Annapurna Sanctuary and Tilicho Lake routes in spring. Avoid trekking most of this area during the monsoon (June-early-Sept)

Nar-Phu is unusual because it lies in the Himalayan rain shadow, and it’s possible to trek here during the monsoon — although you should still expect some rain and obscured mountain views. From November to early March, most valley inhabitants leave for lower and warmer climes and trekking lodges will be closed. The Kang La Pass will also be buried under snow and impossible to cross in mid-winter. This pass can also be complicated in spring with late and/or melting snow and ice. April-May and September-October are great times for Nar-Phu.

What are the Annapurna trekking accommodations like?

The Annapurna Sanctuary and Circuit, the two main Annapurna treks, have numerous trekking lodges of a very high standard., some bordering on luxurious. Hot showers, wi-fi, and international menus are common.

Nar-Phu and Khopra Ridge are earthier with limited and very basic homestay style lodges which fill up quickly. These areas are best trekked on a fully organised camping expedition.

How easy are the trailheads to access?

Access to trailheads for most Annapurna treks is fairly simple and all but Nar-Phu and Tilicho Lake start and end a short bus or taxi ride from Pokhara. An ever-expanding road network is changing routes in this region and many people skip the first couple of days of the Annapurna Circuit by driving up the valley.

An equally large number finish the trek at Jomsom from where there are regular buses and jeeps back to Pokhara as well as early morning flights. However, be warned that landslides can block the road for days on end and flights are frequently cancelled due to unfavourable (ie terrifyingly strong) winds. Allow an extra day or so in your schedule.

Can you recommend quieter alternatives to Everest or Annapurna?

Everest , Annapurna and to some extent Langtang are the favourites for first-timers. These three regions are convenient with easy access, plenty of lodges and good facilities. However, during the 'peak seasons' of mid-March to mid-May & October to November, these regions get very busy indeed.

My personal advice for someone looking for a quieter experience is to look at either the Manaslu or Kanchenjunga regions. The Manaslu Circuit trek has been hailed the "new Annapurna Circuit" and Kanchenjunga North offers some of the best views you'll get without straying into actual mountaineering. Until a decade ago trekking here used to be a full scale, high-cost camping expedition. These days there are some lodges on the routes but still far fewer trekkers, which makes them attractive if you're looking for true wilderness, unspoiled culture and quiet views.

Nothing takes away from the beauty of Everest or Annapurna, but for a different experience, Manaslu or Kanchenjunga get my vote.

Abhi Shrestha

What should i pack for a nepal trek.

My most important advice is – keep things light and minimal. When you’re slogging your way up to a mountain pass you will regret every extra kilo you’re carrying. The following is a list of recommended items, some of which are more essential than others.

Hiking boots

You’ll need boots. Not shoes or trail running shoes. Make sure they’re waterproof, very sturdy and above all, comfortable. Don’t buy a cheap pair. Make sure you break them in before leaving for Nepal. Whatever you do, don’t hire boots in Nepal as they probably won’t be up to scratch and will give you blisters. Nothing will ruin your trek more than blisters.

Winter jacket

A thick, warm, waterproof and breathable but lightweight jacket is another must. It needs to keep you warm as toast in sub-zero temperatures. These can be rented in Nepal but most are inferior knock-offs of respected brands. They’re okay for a one-off trip but if you’re likely to go mountain trekking again, it’s worth buying your own jacket.

Sleeping bag

It gets bitterly cold at night, even at comparatively low altitudes in winter, and the thin, gap-riddled walls of trekking lodge bedrooms provide little protection. Get the warmest yet lightest one you can afford. When a manufacturer says a sleeping bag can be used down to minus-10 degrees the reality is you won’t be comfortable in it below about plus-five. Aim for one that says it will keep you warm down to minus-20 or lower. A really good sleeping bag is expensive. Bags can be rented in Nepal but as with jackets, they’re very rarely of good quality.

Trekking Poles

If you’ve never trekked before then you might consider trekking poles as something that just old people use. Well trust us, if you don’t use them after a few days clambering up and down steep Himalayan slopes you’ll forever walk like an old person… Poles help save energy going up and take the strain off your legs on the way down. They also stop you falling and twisting ankles as much.

Water bottle

Take two of at least a litre each and refill whenever possible. Don’t rely on bottled mineral water. It’s often not available and it’s environmentally unfriendly, particularly up in the mountains where there’s little chance of recycling.

Water purification pills

Get enough to treat at least three litres of water a day. On more popular trekking routes some lodges provide pre-treated water but don’t rely on this always being available.

Two or three thermal tops of different thickness and even a pair of thermal under-trousers are worth their weight in gold.

Two fleeces, one thin and one thick, are vital.

Walking trousers

Don’t try to skip around the Annapurna Circuit in a pair of jeans (yes, we’ve seen people try. And fail). Get some comfortable walking trousers. Two pairs should be sufficient for the longest treks.

T-shirts/shirts

Many people recommend specialist quick-dry shirts designed for trekking. However, we’ve used a combination of these and normal shirts and T-shirts and never noticed much difference. Don’t over pack. You probably won’t change your shirt more than once in a two-week trek!

Specialist hiking socks are supposed to reduce blisters and are worth buying. However, changing your socks frequently seems to reduce blisters as much as any clever equipment. Take at least three pairs for a two-week trek. Also pack a thick, warm pair of ski socks to keep warm when you arrive at camp.

Most people appreciate being able to remove their boots at the end of the day and don some sandals (with or without thick ski socks, depending on how cold it is).

A sun hat is vital for hotter, lower elevations, and a winter hat or balaclava for up high.

Take a thick warm pair of skiing gloves and a thin, cotton pair of under gloves. You won’t be able to use your camera or eat properly with thick gloves but you can with the thin ones, and they’ll keep your hands warm for a few minutes.

Sun glasses

An essential bit of kit at all elevations. The sun reflecting off the snow can quickly frazzle your eyes.

Suncream and sunblock

Slap on lots of sun cream no matter what the weather or elevation. Use total sunblock on lips, nose and ears.

Keep this minimal as you won’t get much chance to wash. A small lightweight travel towel isn’t a bad idea.

A head torch is a must.

The evenings can be long. Bring a good book, not a tablet or Kindle as power sources can be erratic and batteries drain very fast at altitude. Don’t forget a guidebook. We recommend the Rough Guide to Nepal , which covers the country and gives details of the main treks. For specific trekking information try Lonely Planet’s Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya .

Even non-photographers will want photos of this stunning scenery.

Spare batteries

Bring spare torch, camera and phone batteries. Below a certain temperature and above a certain altitude (which vary from product to product), batteries drain very fast or don’t work at all. Above about 3,000m put the batteries in your sleeping bag at night to keep them warm and reduce drainage.

A few biscuits and chocolate bars might give you the energy boost you need to get over that pass.

To carry all this you’ll need a decent, comfortable trekking backpack. Don’t consider any other kind of bag. If you’re using a porter you’ll need a small backpack for your day gear and you’ll have to provide a bag for the porter to carry - a holdall is best.

Travel Insurance

You’d be utterly insane to go trekking in the Himalayas without a decent travel insurance policy. Make sure it covers trekking above a certain altitude and helicopter rescue.

Leave the gadgets at home

Don’t bother taking computers, tablets, etc. They get easily broken on the trail and the batteries probably won’t work at altitude. More importantly, most people don’t want to see fellow trekkers glued to their tablets in a lodge at night.

Now it's no longer possible to do the Annapurna Sanctuary trek solo can you recommend any licensed operators in Kathmandu who can help?

Although I always recommend using a guide, ending solo trekking is such a big change to the Annapurna trekking scene! I can understand why people are disappointed. I can't recommend any individual operator, but there is a list of licensed Annapurna trekking companies here .

We have around 8-10 days trekking in the Annapurna region, but want to avoid crowds. Can you recommend any quieter alternatives to the Annapurna Circuit?

There are lots of alternatives to the Annapurna Circuit in the Annapurna region . With eight to ten days you could combine Nar-Phu and Tilcho Lake. Getting to the Nar-Phu valleys would take about five to six days depending on where you started and how long you stayed in either Nar or Phu village. You could then scoot across to Tilcho Lake (you'd probably need to hop in a car for the short drive toward Manang village where the trail starts) for another four days trekking. This would give a great mix of traditional Tibetan villages in Nar-Phu and spectacular mountain scenery around Tilcho.

Another option is the new Annapurna North. I've not yet had the chance to walk this one myself (it's really only come onto the scene recently) but I have heard good things about it and it's certainly going to be very quiet. I'm not totally sure of the length but I think it fits with your timeframe. I know there are basic teahouses and they have set up an interesting community tourism project to ensure money gets distributed fairly between all villagers.

About the authors

Stuart is an award-winning travel journalist and guidebook author who has been visiting and trekking in Nepal for over thirty years. One of the world's leading authorities on Nepal trekking, he is the author of Lonely Planet’s Trekking in Nepal , the Rough Guide to Nepal , the Tibet chapter of the Rough Guide to China and the Bradt guide to Kashmir & Ladakh . He is also regularly published in The Independent , BBC , Time Out , The Telegraph , among many other UK and international publications.

Bradley is a travel journalist and guidebook author specialising in trekking in Central Asia, Nepal, Bhutan and elsewhere in Asia. He writes for Lonely Planet, Odyssey Guides, Insight Guides, among others.

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Annapurna Circuit: A Comprehensive Guide to Gear, Preparation, and Navigation

T he Annapurna Circuit, with its breathtaking vistas, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences, is a jewel among trekking routes . Each year, it attracts thousands of adventurers, each seeking the unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that this trek offers.

What makes the Annapurna Circuit popular among trekkers?

The circuit’s popularity stems from its diverse landscapes, ranging from subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and arid deserts, offering trekkers an ever-changing backdrop to their journey.

How long does it take to complete the Annapurna Circuit?

Typically, it takes around 15-20 days, depending on the chosen route and pace.

Dressing for the Journey

When embarking on the Annapurna trek , clothing is not just about comfort; it’s a vital aspect of your safety and overall experience. Layering is key – a base layer to wick away sweat, an insulating layer to trap heat, and an outer layer to shield against rain and wind.

What type of clothing is best for varying temperatures?

Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics, insulating materials like fleece for cold weather, and waterproof yet breathable outer layers.

How do I choose the right hiking boots for the trek?

Look for boots with good ankle support, a sturdy sole, and materials that are water-resistant and breathable.

Essential Gear and Equipment

Your backpack is your companion, holding all your essentials. Choose one that’s spacious yet compact, with multiple compartments for organization. Trekking poles are not just for stability; they reduce the impact on your knees, especially during descents.

How do I select a backpack that fits my needs?

Consider the duration of your trek, essential gear, and choose a backpack with adjustable straps and support for comfort.

Are trekking poles really necessary?

While not mandatory, they aid in balance, stability, and reducing strain on the body.

Navigating the Annapurna Circuit

While the idea of navigating the circuit alone is tempting, having a guide or porter can enhance the experience. They not only assist with navigation but also offer insights into the local culture and environment.

Is it advisable to hire a guide or porter for the trek?

It depends on your experience and confidence. Guides offer added safety, knowledge, and can enhance the trekking experience.

How can I stay connected while on the Annapurna Circuit?

Consider local SIM cards for cellular connectivity and inform family and friends of your itinerary.

Financial Planning for the Trek

Budgeting for the trek requires considering not just the essentials but also permits, accommodation, and unforeseen expenses. Carry a mix of cash and cards, understanding that remote areas may have limited ATM access.

How much should I budget for the Annapurna trek?

It varies, but accounting for accommodation, meals, permits, and miscellaneous expenses is crucial.

Is it easy to access and use cash on the trail?

While major towns have ATMs, carrying sufficient cash is advisable for remote areas.

Personal Care and Comfort

Hygiene and comfort are paramount. While showers may be sparse, wet wipes can be a savior. Packing light yet ensuring you have essential toiletries and personal care items is a balancing act every trekker must master.

What are the shower facilities like on the Annapurna Circuit?

Facilities vary, with basic options in remote areas. Wet wipes can be a handy alternative.

What personal care items should I bring?

Include essentials like toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and consider multi-use products to save space.

Pre-Trek Preparations

Physical fitness is a cornerstone of a successful trek. Incorporate cardio, strength training, and altitude acclimatization in your regimen. Mentally, prepare for the challenges with research and by setting realistic expectations.

How should I prepare physically for the trek?

Focus on cardio, strength, and endurance training, and consider short treks to acclimatize to higher altitudes.

What should I know before starting the Annapurna trek?

Research the terrain, weather, and local culture. Prepare for physical and mental challenges and embrace flexibility.

On the Trail: Typical Day

Every day on the trail brings new landscapes and challenges. Adhering to campsite etiquette and respecting the environment ensures a harmonious experience for all. The diverse terrain of the Annapurna Circuit, from lush forests to arid deserts, requires adaptability and respect for nature.

What is a typical day like on the trail?

Days start early, with trekking during the morning, rest periods, and evenings at the campsite or teahouse.

How do I navigate different terrains on the circuit?

Stay informed about the upcoming terrains, wear appropriate gear, and consider the weather conditions.

Overcoming Challenges

Weather on the trail is unpredictable. Packing for all conditions and having contingency plans ensures safety. Gear malfunctions can occur; knowing basic repairs and having backup options is essential.

How do I prepare for sudden weather changes?

Pack layered clothing, waterproof gear, and stay informed about the weather forecasts.

What should I do if my equipment fails or malfunctions?

Knowing basic repair skills and carrying repair kits can be handy.

Concluding the Journey

The end of the trek is a time for reflection and recovery. Documenting your experiences, sharing stories, and allowing your body and mind to recuperate is as essential as the journey itself.

How do I ensure a smooth transition post-trek?

Take time to rest, nourish your body, and reflect on the experience.

What are some relaxation options after completing the trek?

Explore local towns, indulge in local cuisine, and consider gentle walks or massages for physical recovery.

Key Takeaways

Embarking on the Annapurna Circuit is more than a trek; it’s a journey of discovery, challenge, and awe. Every step, from preparation to conclusion, is an integral part of this unforgettable experience.

The post Annapurna Circuit: A Comprehensive Guide to Gear, Preparation, and Navigation appeared first on Explorersweb .

Himalaya Discovery Adventures

Annapurna Circuit Trek - 10 Days

Annapurna Circuit Trek also known as Round Annapurna Trek or Annapurna Circle Trek is one of the most popular and classic trekking routes in the Annapurna region . The Annapurna Circuit Trek trail was opened to the foreigners in 1977 and since then it is among the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal.

Our 10-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is perfect for people with limited time and budget. Our itinerary is custom-made in such a way that you will be able to enjoy every aspect of trekking around the Annapurna Circuit without much hassle in only 10 days time.

The 10 days trek of the Annapurna Circuit begins from Chame after a scenic 8 – 9 hour’s drive from Kathmandu and ends at Jomsom, the capital of the Mustang district.

On this trek, you will experience some truly distinctive features of the Himalayas like-the breathtaking scenic beauty, majestic mountains, beautiful flora and fauna along with unique culture and traditions.

This trek offers you amazing views of all the Annapurna ranges. The Annapurna 1 (8091m), Annapurna South (7273m), the Glacier Dome, Gangapurna (7454m) are spectacular. And the unclimbed Fang (7647m) and the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhare (6997m) are some attractions too.

This trek will introduce you to various ethnicity and cultures. The lower regions of the trail are home to Brahmins and Chhetris and the upper regions are home to the Gurung people.

You will also be crossing the Thorong La Pass (5416m) , which is one of the highest and challenging passes across the world. This trek will also take you across Muktinath Temple, a famous temple of Hindus and Buddhists around the world. Overall, this is a perfect trek for people seeking to experience the Himalayas of Nepal in a limited time.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Cross the highest pass in the world, Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m.
• Amazing views of majestic mountains of the Annapurna Massif and many more.
• Come across various culturally rich ethnic groups and learn a few things about their culture.
• Beautiful Ice Lakes and glaciers.
• Hiking along the deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge.

Best Time to Trek the Annapurna Circuit

It is important to choose the right time of year to trek in Annapurna or hike the Annapurna Circuit. The best time to hike the Annapurna Circuit are March to May and September to November. During these seasons, everything is pretty dry, the skies are clear, and it isn’t too cold up high.

Between those two seasons, the winter is often clear and the scenery stunning, but heavy snow can close Thorong La Pass for days on end.

June-September is the monsoon season and often the least busy time on the circuit. Given that it’s called “the rainy season,” it doesn’t get as much rain as you might imagine. Because much of the circuit is under a rain shadow, the northern sections of the trail are actually very dry, but the southern section of the trail gets quite wet.

The advantages of traveling at this time of year include less people and more flowers, but clouds are more likely to obstruct your views of the landscape.

Accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit Trek 

When it comes to lodging, guesthouses and tea houses can be found all along the trek. In general, every teahouse and hotel has a room with twin beds. The room is large enough for you to sit back, relax, and relax.

Don’t be surprised if you find a guest house with electricity, Wi-Fi, and hot showers. Almost the entire route of the trek has a guest house with such facilities. You can charge your devices and connect to those around you.

Accessing the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Ideally, you can begin anywhere between Besisahar and Manang. You can only reach as far as Ngadi by bus; from there, you need walk or take a jeep. Jeeps can take you all the way to Manang.

Many people take a bus to Syange / Jagat, where we reached at the end of our first hiking day, and begin hiking from there.

Jagat is a popular starting point for the Annapurna Circuit Trek . We reached at Jagat at the start of the second day. If you begin there, you will only skip one walking day.

Beginning the Annapurna Circuit in Chame is another popular place offered by us however, depending on your choice and holiday timeframe.

Annapurna Circuit Map

For further questions or information please contact us.

Your journey begins when you arrive in Kathmandu. Our representatives will welcome you at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your own will, you can rest or discover the Kathmandu. In the evening a briefing session and at the same time introduces your guide.

We wake up early, our driving journey starts in the morning from Kathmandu to Chame via Besisahar by Toyota Hiace minibus then by jeep to Chame. You will drive through scenic foothills and ridge line vistas along the Trishuli River.

From Munglin, you follow the Pokhara highway till Durme then turned towards the north to Besisahar along the Marshyangdi River enjoying Mountain views, terraces field and green hills. Overnight at guesthouse.

After breakfast, you will commence on your second day of trekking. Your trail today will go through steep and narrow valleys.

The trail will take you through dense pine forests and will lead you to Paungda Dada, a dramatic curved rock face rising 1,500m from the river.

From here, you will get beautiful views of the Annapurna II and Pisang peak. As the trail opens up, Himalayan peaks will surround you all the way to Pisang. Once you near the Pisang village, you will get a view of the whole view of Manang Valley. Overnight at guesthouse.

After breakfast today, you will start your trek towards Manang. The first few hours of the trek is an easy and smooth walk until you near Humde, where you will have to ascend a bit.

Other than that, it is pretty much walking on flat land. On today’s trek, you will get awesome views of the snow capped mountains of the Annapurna Range, Pisang peak, Gangapurna, Tilicho etc.

You will also experience the unique Tibetan and Buddhist culture as you near Manang. Overnight at guesthouse.

Since acclimatization days are for getting used to the high altitudes, today you will be trekking to the Gangapurna Lake or the Bhojo Gumba.

After the short hike, you can explore Manang and learn a few things about the culture and lifestyle of the people living there. Overnight at guesthouse.

After breakfast today, you will begin your trek towards Yak Kharka. The initial part of today’s trek is a steady ascend through Tenki Village.

Your trek will begin by crossing a stream to reach the Tenki Village and from here you will trek to the Jarsang Khola Valley. From Jarsang Khola you will trek towards Ghunsa and on the way to Ghunsa, you will come across pasture lands of horses and yaks.

Finally, you will be crossing a small wooden bridge near a mani wall to reach Yak Kharka.

On today’s trail, you will get beautiful views of the Gangapurna, Glacier Dome etc. Overnight at guesthouse.

After Breakfast, as usual, you will start your trek towards today’s destination i.e. Thorong Phedi.

Your trek will begin with a gradual climb to a ridge from where you will descend to cross a river. And from here you will climb up again till you finally reach Thorong Phedi.

Today’s trail will give you amazing views of the mountains such as Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorong Peak and Mt. Khatungkan. Overnight at guesthouse.

You will start today’s trek at dawn at around 3-4 am since you will be crossing the Thorung La Pass today, which is one of the highest and adventurous Passes in the world.

And the weather is unfavorable for crossing in the afternoon because of the strong wind.

It will take about 4 hours to reach the Thorong La Pass, but once you reach the top you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and many other mountains.

After spending a while on the top, taking pictures and enjoying the view, you will descend down towards Muktinath . Overnight at guesthouse.

After breakfast, you will embark on the final day of your 10 days Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Your trek will begin with downhill walking through some beautiful old village of Jharkot then down to Ekle Bhatti. Once at Ekle Bhatti you will cross the Kali Gandaki via a suspension bridge and follow the path down to Jomsom.

On today’s trail, you will get stunning views of the Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche and other surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Overnight at guesthouse, the district headquarters of Mustang.

Maximum Altitude: 1,400 m, Kathmandu Travel Hours: 20 minutes flight to Pokhara, 25 minutes flight to Kathmandu

After breakfast today, you will take an incredible morning mountain flight to Pokhara. It is a short 20 minutes flight and you will be able to enjoy the mountain ranges from the flight to Pokhara.

Once in Pokhara, you will take another flight to Kathmandu. It is a 25 minutes short flight but the views are simply breathtaking.

From mountains views at Pokhara to the beautiful landscapes of Kathmandu, it will be a pleasant scenic flight.

Today you can either stay back and enjoy a free day in Kathmandu or leave for your respective countries.

Our representatives will drop you off at the airport according to your flight schedule.

Price Includes

• Airport transfers pick-up and drop-off.
• Transportation from and to Kathmandu by local bus.
• Annapurna Conservation Area permit.
• Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS card) Permit.
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
• Transportations, accommodation, wage, food, insurance, equipment for the guide / porter.
• Best available lodge accommodations during the trek.
• English speaking Sherpa trek guide.
• All necessary paper works and entry permits.
• Porter to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 people)
• Himalaya Discovery duffel bag.
• Hiking pole for the trek, if needed.
• Farewell dinner at typical Nepali restaurant after the trip completion in Kathmandu.

Price Excludes

• International airfares and Nepal visa.
• Any personal medical or evacuation expenses incur.
• International Travel insurance which included rescue.
• Tips for guide & porter (tipping is expected).
• Any others expenses which are not mentioned on the ‘Price Includes’ section.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

• Trek Region: Annapurna
• Max Altitude: 5,416 m, Thorong La Pass
• Trip Duration: 10 Days
• Group Size: 8 People Maximum
• Grade: Moderate to Difficult
• Average Walking per day: 5 hours
• Best Time: March - June / September - November

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“I was born and raised in Nepal, nearby Everest region. I am proud to be a native Sherpa, and I have been a Mountain guide over a decade now. Following my passion, I decided to start helping travelers with their travel plans! I think life is a journey, a trip where you collect experiences when you share with other people and with nature.”

Privacy Overview

Annapurna Round Trek 20 Days

trip Overview

Annapurna Round Trek is an emerging and exciting trek around the Annapurna Mountain Range. It is an extraordinary trek in Nepal providing you the great views of the world’s 10 th Highest Mountain, Mt. Annapurna (8091 m), Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. It also gives chance to trekkers to cross the two rain shadow river valleys of Kaligandaki and Marsyandi Rivers via Thorong La Pass, (5416 m), the highest pass in the world. This trail is a combination of a wide variety of climate zones.

Nepal Dream Path Treks & Expedition starts the trek from Syange via Besi Sahar. The trek leads us through different ethnic groups like Magar, Gurung, Thakali, Tamang, etc. Manang is the last settlement before reaching the Throng High camp. Crossing Thorong La passes we walk decently to Muktinath where we can find a Hindu temple, 108 sacred water taps, and an Eternal flame. Passing the beautiful village (Kagbeni) we will reach Tatopani. We can have a morning bath in the hot spring at Tatopani and explore near the hot spring. Villages like Gandruk, Ghorepani, and Poonhill are the best villages to see the beautiful panoramic views of the Annapurna Range.

The culture and lifestyle of people vary due to their diverse altitude variations. Varieties of flora and fauna are widely scattered all through the region. Besides, the trek opens the secrets of wonderful nature as it passes through beautiful villages with terraced fields, blooming rhododendron forests, river valleys, and a gorge through the highest pass with the glacier. This trek is perfect for those who wish to go more heights and experience a variety of landscapes. We provide you with a shorter version of this trek for those who didn’t have much time.

Short Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel. Day 02: Sightseeing tour around the World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu. Day 03: Drive to Syange via Beshishar [823m] [7-8 hrs Drive]. Day 04:  Trek from Syange to Dharapani [1,860m] [5-6 hrs walk]. D ay 05: Trek from Dharapani to Chame [2,715m] [5-6 hrs walk]. Day 06: Trek from Chame to Pisang [3,185m] [4-5 hrs walk]. Day 07: Trek from Pisang to Manang [3,350m] [4-5 hrs walk]. Day 08: Rest day at Manang for acclimatization. Day 09: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka [4,130m] [4 hrs walks]. Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorang High Camp [4, 600m] [3-4 hrs walks]. Day 11: Cross Thorang-la pass [5,416m] and trek to Muktinath [3,800m] [7-8 hrs walk]. Day 12: Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni via Jhong [4-5 Hrs walk]. Day 13: Excursion to Jomsom and Drive to Tatopani (hot spring) [1,190m] [3 hrs walk & 5 hrs drive]. Day 14:  Early morning bath with hot spring & trek to Sikha [3-4 hrs walk]. Day 15: Trek from Sikha to Ghorepani [2,874m] [3-4 hrs.]. Day 16: Early Morning Hike to Poon Hill [3,210m] and Trek to Tikhedhunga [6-7 hrs walk]. Day 17: Trek to Nayapool [1,100m] and drive to Pokhara [860m] [2 hrs hike & 1.5 hrs drive]. Day 18: Fly or Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Day 19:  Free for personal activities or guided tour on Request. Day 20: Transfer to the Airport for the International departure.

Detail Itinerary

Day 01: arrival kathmandu and transfer to hotel..

35m drive BB Plan Hotel/Resort

Nepal Dream Path Treks staff will meet you on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and help you to transfer to the hotel until the check-in procedure ends at the Hotel. We arrange a meeting or discussion program that includes your daily schedule of Annapurna Round Trek Nepal and a brief introduction as well as rules and regulations regarding the Nepal Trip.

Day 02: Sightseeing tour around World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu.

10am - 4pm BB Plan Hotel/Resort

Click here for detail information about where to visit in Kathmandu Valley??

Day 03: Drive to Syange via Beshishar [823m]

7hrs drive All meals includes- Breakfast, Lunch,Dinner, Tea/Coffee Tea house

The morning begins with a scenic drive towards the picturesque famous Pokhara with an interesting ride on the Himalayan foothills. Just a few hours ahead of Pokhara the drive diverts from the Dumre town towards north to Beshishar. The journey continues further following the raging Marshyangdi River to Syange village for the overnight stop.

Day 04: Trek from Syange to Dharapani [1,860m]

4-5 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

Our real walking adventure begins from here with fascinating scenery of the gorge, high hills, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks on the dirt jeep road for two to three hours. The drive continues through the winding path from Syange and Jagat village, the trail follows a steep climb for half an hour. On arriving at the lush farm terraces field once on the top of the ridge a magnificent view of the raging waterfalls can be seen en route to Jagat. From this village, the journey leads through the terraced farms coming to Chamje village. Crossing the bridge it's another steep climb for another hour till Tal village. Tal village is situated on the gorge valley by the side of the river Marsyangdi. On leaving Tal, the trail gets easier on the gentle path until to a large bridge. After the bridge, we reach the village of Dharapani for the overnight stop where the walking adventure stops here.

Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Chame [2,715m]

5-6 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

Dharapani with a change in vegetation, people, and landscapes; the air gets cooler as our trail climbs through the alpine forest to Bagarchhap. Bagarchhap is the first village on this walk with typical Tibetan architecture. After a nice morning walk, altitude gains slowly reaching the apple country at Dhanaqi. From there, the trek passes farm areas, apple, and apricot orchards, and a beautiful pine forest with views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. Our trek follows the river Marsyangdi upstream passing by several villages before Chame is reached for the overnight stop. Chame is the district headquarters of the Manang region.

Day 06: Trek from Chame to Pisang [3,185m]

The walk from here follows the other side of the river on the northern bank. After leaving Chame, the path passes through pine woods and small villages with few ups and downs till you reach Bratang. From here trek continues on the gradual path up to a bridge. From the bridge, a short steep climb through the pine forest brings you to the top of the ridge of Pisang village. After walking past the tree lines a great view can be seen of Pisang peak and the Chulu peak with Pisang village below. From this ridge, a gentle descent for an hour brings us to the windswept village of Pisang.

Day 07: Trek from Pisang to Manang [3,350m]

From Pisang onwards, the walks lead with a constant view of the high snow-capped peaks. The walk climbs steeply up for half an hour reaching the top. From there we can enjoy dramatic views of the valleys, Hongdre village with its short airstrip, and the great peaks of Gangapurna, Annapurna II, III, Tilocho, and on the right Chuli east, on the back Pisang peak. The walk from here is on the downhill and gradual path all the way to Hongdre adding a slight touch of altitude as you near the village of Braga. Here, with time to spend the morning visiting Braga Monastery. The largest in the district, it has an outstanding display of statues, thangkas, and religious manuscripts. From here it is only an hour's walk to Manang for the overnight stop.

Day 08: Rest day at Manang for acclimatization.

A rest day for acclimatization, visit Manang village of about 500 flat-roofed houses, with spectacular scenery -Annapurna II, Annapurna III/7,555 m, Gangapurna/7,454 m to the South - Tilicho/7,132 m and Chulu West /6,583 m and Chulu East/6,059 m to the North.

Day 09: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka [4,130m]

4 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

The path leads to a gradual up for an hour, offering grand views of the Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tiloche. The trail heads up in the windswept landscapes with juniper bushes as the only surviving vegetation around this area. On reaching the small settlement of Yak-Kharka, we can enjoy the beauty of the sunset. Overnight in the Tea house.

Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorang High Camp [4, 600m]

3-4 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

After Breakfast in the morning, we will continue our trek with high hills. We continue our trek passing through suspension bridges and watching the beautiful scenery of the Mountain. After 3-4 hours of rough trek, we finally reach Thorang High Camp and Overnight stay in High Camp.

Day 11: Cross Thorang-la pass [5,416m] and trek to Muktinath [3,800m]

7-8 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

After breakfast, we walked to Thorang la Pass by crossing a bridge. On the way, nature offers us incredible views of the mountain from all sides. The trek will begin a long descent to Muktinath which is a sacred spot to both Hindus and Buddhists. There are many religious temples, 108 sacred water taps, and an eternal flame on this site. Overnight stay in Muktinath.

Day 12: Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni via Jhong

We will move to Kagbeni from Muktinath in the morning to escape from the heavy wind blow after midday. On the way to Kanbeni, we will get to enjoy amazing landscapes along with the beautiful panorama of 8 out of the 20 highest peaks in the world. Overnight stay there.

Day 13: Excursion to Jomsom and Drive to Tatopani (hot spring) [1,190m]

3 hrs walk & 5 hrs drive All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

In the morning, after having breakfast, we will continue our journey to Jomsom, a major business city in this area.  From Jomsom, we will head towards Tatopani which is famous for its hot springs. This is the best place to relax our bodies after a long trek. Spending a night in Tatopani.

Day 14: Early morning bath with hot spring & trek to Sikha

3-4 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea house

Early morning bath with a Hot spring in Tatopani, our body gets to relax. After resting some hours in Tatopani, our trail ascends up passing through beautiful terraces, and forests to the beautiful Magar village of Sikha. From Sikha, we can enjoy the breathtaking panorama of mountain peaks like Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Nilgiri. Overnight stay in Hotel.

Day 15: Trek from Sikha to Ghorepani [2,874m]

After morning breakfast in Sikha, coming down through the forest, and walking through some difficult ways, we will reach Ghorepani. This place used to be a rest stop for the ancient traders and their horses ( 'Ghora' in Nepali) used to drink water ( 'Pani' in Nepali) there, thus leading to the nomenclature Ghorepani. Overnight stay in Hotel.

Day 16: Early Morning Hike to Poon hill [3,210m] and Trek to Tikhedhunga

6-7 hrs walk. All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea house

Early in the morning after breakfast, we start hiking for an hour to Poon Hill at an elevation of 3,210m. This vantage point provides wonderful views of the early morning sunrise over the high Himalayas. After this, we return to Ghorepani where we have a hot breakfast at the hotel. We follow a downstream trail through rhododendron forests towards Tikhedhunga. Overnight stay there.

Day 17: Trek to Nayapool [1,100m] ans drive to Pokhara [860m]

2 hrs hike & 1.5 hrs drive All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] tea house

Today is the final day of our trek. After having breakfast, we will trek down to Nayapul from Tikhedhunga. Trekking on this amazing route is always fun. After reaching Nayapool, we will drive back to Pokhara in a comfortable private vehicle. Overnight in Hotel.

Day 18: Fly or Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

25m fly/6 hrs drive BB Plan Hotel/Resort

The means of transportation for the return journey to Kathmandu from Pokhara can be either surface transport or flying, depending on your interest, budget, time, and requirements. On reaching Kathmandu, we will transfer you to the hotel where you can rest your tired body. Overnight stay in Hotel.

Day 19: Free for personal activities or guided tour on Request.

Today is the second last day of your trek and you can go shopping or you can tell Nepal Dream Path for sightseeing inside Kathmandu or on Your interest. Evening joins with Nepal Dream Path Trek’s farewell dinner program which helps to share the experience of the trek.

Day 20: Transfer to Airport for the International departure.

Today as per your international flight time, Nepal Dream Path Treks staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from this wonderful high Himalayan country. Farewell and have a safe journey.

• Altitude Chart

Equipment List

• Worm hat (it means worm one to protect your head from cold)
• Sun Cream/lip guard
• Tooth pest/Brush/soap
• Down Jacket
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Jumper/fleece jacket
• Long underwear
• Windbreaker trouser
• Cotton socks
• Trekking boots
• Sewing kits
• Water bottle
• Swiss knife
• Extra batteries
• Raincoat/ Umbrella
• Rucksacks(For a Day)
• Sleeping Bag
• Medical & first aid kit
• Trekking Crampon (If you are going to do a trek in winter then you need a Crampon for your trekking.)

What's included?

• All transportation and Arrival, Departure transfers are as per the Itinerary.
• Standard Accommodation in the cities and tea houses on the trek.
• Full-day guided tour of Kathmandu including private vehicle, Entry permits, and a well-experienced city guide.
• All meals are included during the trek. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee)
• Guide, porters, and other support staff as per your requirement and out the agreed price.
• Trekker’s information management system (TIMS) card fee.
• Necessary equipment during the trek.
• All taxes and fees are required for the program.

What's not included?

• Meals in the cities.
• Personal expenses (Laundry, bar bills, water, etc)
• Travel Insurance (Essential).
• Personal trekking gear is not mentioned in the contract.
• Tips for staff.

Trip Reviews

Trekking with dream path treks in the himalaya.

We had a wonderful trek with Dream Path. The scenery was fabulous, and our every need was catered for by dp and our fantastic guide, Suman. Damodar(dp) ensured that our trek was very well organized,, and Suman was a wealth of knowledge regarding the different villages and mountains.

I highly recommend Dream Path for trekking in the Himalayas.

Wonderful Annapurna Trek

We traveled to Nepal in April 2017 to do the Annapurna Round trek with my relatives. We had been recommended Nepal Dream Path for our trek in Nepal by our friend and we’re glad to go with them! We had Bharat Shrestha as our guide and Saroj as our helper. They both worked very hard to make sure the trip was as enjoyable as possible for us. We particularly appreciated the extra lengths they went to – especially the fruit after dinner. I would highly recommend this company for the good trekking experience in Nepal and I am also thinking of going in the future.

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