Overview
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is widely regarded as one of the world's greatest treks, offering unparalleled diversity in landscapes, cultures, and ecosystems. Circumnavigating the entire Annapurna massif, this trek takes you through 16 distinct climate zones- from subtropical forests to alpine deserts, and finally to the world's highest pass, Thorong La (5,416m).
The journey begins in the lush Marsyangdi Valley, passing through traditional Gurung and Magar villages before entering the Tibetan Buddhist cultural zone of Manang. As you gain altitude, the landscape transforms dramatically into a high-altitude desert, culminating in the exhilarating crossing of Thorong La Pass. The descent into the Mustang region brings you to the sacred Muktinath Temple before traversing the world's deepest gorge - the Kali Gandaki.
The trek concludes with the famous Poon Hill sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, offering a spectacular finale to this classic Himalayan adventure. This itinerary follows the standard circuit route focusing on Thorong La Pass without the Tilicho Lake side trip.
Trek Highlights
Best Time to Trek
Spring (Mar - May)
Rhododendrons bloom in vibrant colors, warming temperatures, and excellent visibility. Some snow may remain on Thorong La early in the season.
ExcellentAutumn (Sep - Nov)
The most popular season with crystal-clear skies, stable weather, and the best mountain views. Perfect conditions for crossing Thorong La.
Best SeasonDay-by-Day Itinerary
Early morning departure from Kathmandu by tourist bus to Besisahar (820m), the traditional starting point of the Annapurna Circuit. The bus journey follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers, offering stunning views of rural Nepali life, terraced farmlands, and distant Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival in Besisahar, switch to a private jeep for the rugged drive to Chame (2,670m), the district headquarters of Manang. The jeep section passes through dramatic river valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dense pine forests, with your first breathtaking glimpses of Annapurna II (7,937m) and Lamjung Himal (6,983m). This combination saves multiple trekking days while allowing proper acclimatization. Check into your teahouse and explore Chame's small bazaar and natural hot springs.
What's Included
Cost Includes
- All airport/hotel transfers in private vehicle
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star with breakfast)
- 1 night hotel accommodation in Pokhara (3-star with breakfast)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Best available teahouse/lodge accommodation during trek
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide (government licensed)
- Assistant guide for groups of 5 or more
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 20kg per person)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
- All ground transportation as per itinerary (Kathmandu-Bhulbhule & Nayapul-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
- Jeep transfer Tatopani to Ghorepani road section
- First aid medical kit including pulse oximeter
- Sleeping bag and down jacket for high altitude (can be returned after trek)
- Duffle bag for porter to carry your belongings
- Trekking map of Annapurna region
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- All government taxes and official expenses
- Emergency evacuation arrangement assistance (cost covered by insurance)
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fee ($30 USD for 15 days, $50 for 30 days - available on arrival)
- Travel insurance (mandatory - must cover high altitude trekking up to 5,500m & emergency evacuation)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except welcome dinner and breakfasts)
- Bottled/mineral water during trek (purification tablets provided)
- Hot showers and battery charging at lodges ($2-5 per use)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, souvenirs)
- Tips and gratuities for guides and porters (recommended)
- Emergency evacuation/helicopter rescue costs (covered by insurance)
- Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances (weather, landslides, political unrest)
- Optional side trips (Tilicho Lake, Ice Lake, etc.)
Important Information
- • Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover high altitude trekking up to 5,500m and emergency evacuation.
- • The Thorong La Pass crossing requires an extremely early start (3-4 AM) and good physical preparation.
- • Road conditions may affect driving times - we use private jeeps for the Tatopani to Ghorepani section.
- • We recommend starting physical preparation 2-3 months before your trek with cardio and strength training.
Photo Gallery
Beautiful Manang Town from a cliff
View from Thorang High Camp
Small town on the way to Manang-- Ngawal
Annapurna Range from Manang
Thorang La- 5416m
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The trek is rated as challenging due to the Thorong La Pass crossing at 5,416m and the long days (8-10 hours on pass day). However, with proper acclimatization and good fitness, it's achievable for most active trekkers. The itinerary includes a rest day in Manang for acclimatization.
What is the Thorong La Pass crossing like?
It's the biggest day of the trek. You start at 3-4 AM from Thorong Phedi (4,540m) and climb steadily for 4-5 hours to the pass (5,416m). The trail is steep but well-defined. After enjoying the views, you descend 1,600m to Muktinath. Total time is 8-10 hours.
Is it better to do the circuit clockwise or counter-clockwise?
This itinerary follows the classic clockwise direction, which is recommended for safer acclimatization. The gradual altitude gain over 10 days before reaching Thorong La gives your body time to adjust, resulting in higher success rates for crossing the pass.
What is accommodation like on the circuit?
Teahouses range from basic lodges in remote areas to comfortable ones in larger villages. Rooms typically have twin beds with foam mattresses and shared bathrooms. Facilities improve each year, with most offering hot showers (paid) and charging points.
Do I need a guide for the Annapurna Circuit?
While technically possible to trek independently, we strongly recommend a guide for safety, cultural insights, and logistics management. A guide ensures proper acclimatization, handles permits and accommodation, and provides crucial support during the pass crossing.