The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a captivating journey that takes trekkers through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes of the Annapurna region in Nepal. Spanning approximately 300 kilometers, this trek also offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and thrilling adventure.
The trek usually begins in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, where trekkers make their way to the starting point in Besisahar. From there, the trail also winds through picturesque villages, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and terraced fields, gradually ascending towards the majestic Himalayan peaks.
As trekkers ascend higher, they also get treatment with breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains, including the iconic Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The high point of the trek is the Thorong La Pass, standing at an elevation of 5,416 meters, which offers unparalleled panoramic views and a sense of triumph upon reaching its summit.
Apart from the stunning natural landscapes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek also provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich local culture. Along the way, trekkers encounter diverse ethnic communities such as Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis, each with their own unique traditions, architecture, and cuisine. This cultural tapestry adds a fascinating dimension to the trek, allowing for interactions with friendly locals and visits to ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and chortens.
Accommodation options also vary from teahouses along the trail to basic lodges in the remote villages, providing a glimpse into the rustic mountain life. Delicious Nepali meals like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice) and momos (dumplings) fuel trekkers for the challenging days ahead.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek typically takes around 15-20 days to complete, depending on the chosen itinerary and individual pace. It is recommended to undertake this trek during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is relatively stable, offering clear skies and moderate temperatures.
Overall, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a truly transformative adventure, combining natural grandeur, cultural richness, and physical endurance. It is an experience that leaves trekkers with lifelong memories and a profound appreciation for the wonders of the Himalayas and the indomitable spirit of Nepal.
Namaste! Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, Friendship World Trek staff welcome you and transfer you to the Hotel.
After 5hrs drive to Beshisahar, take a jeep ride to Dharapani which is the junction of Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Trek. The road is quite smooth and very scenic until Beshisahar but the road to Dharapani is on a dotted road which takes about 4hrs.
Distance: Kathmandu to Besisahar-172km/5hrs and Besisahar to Dharapani–35km/3hrs
Marking the end of the great Marsyangdi River Gorge, make a steep climb to Timang, then the trail settles into gentler slopes as the vegetation transforms from dense pine forests to drier slopes. The district headquarters of Manang, Chame, is the largest settlement after Besisahar
Approx. time taken: 6 hrs
Accommodation: Guest House
Distance: 15 km
Slowly you are going to enter into a different world and gain elevation and walk through the pine forest. Passing is the inhabitant of the Gurung people.
Accommodation: Guest House
Approx. time taken: 5 hrs
Distance: 13 km
Trek the northern trail via upper Pisang and Ghyaru – an area renowned for its spectacular views. It is now drier and you are sure to come across local farmers herding yaks. Here’s a hot tip – Tibetan yaks take a special interest in people wearing red, so choose your gear carefully today!
Accommodation: Guest House
Approx. time taken: 6 hrs
Distance: 17km
Spend a day here to acclimatize and day hike to Monastery, then return to Manang for the night. Manang is a village of about 500 flat-roofed houses and offers excellent views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Chulu East.
Accommodation: Guest House
Approx. time taken: 2/3 hrs exploration
You will be walking as a slog due to the altitude. Along the way, you will encounter Musk deer, Himalayan Thar, and an all-mountain range. It is an easy and short hike due to the altitude.
Accommodation: Guest House
Approx. time taken: 5 hrs
Distance: 10km
Today leisurely walk to Throng Phedi and have Lunch then 2hrs hike to High Camp. It offers great landscapes and Mountain views.
Accommodation: Guest House
Approx. time taken: 5 hrs
Distance: 8 km
Probably the hardest day of the entire trek. Early morning ascend 490m to the Throng la top and walk down to Muktinath. This is a pilgrimage holy place in the Annapurna region. Once you are in Muktinath you are entering into a different world which you may feel.
Accommodation: Guest House
Approx. time taken: 7 hrs
Distance: 15km
The most relaxed day and walking into the barren land and facing the warier caves, visit the hundreds of years Monastery and Experience the Tibetan tribes at Kagbeni for about 3 hours walk where you can have Lunch and explore the area. After having Lunch walk to Jomsom for another 2 hours.
Accommodation: Guest house/Hotel
Approx. time taken: 6 hrs
Distance: 22km
Note: If you would like to end up your trek here, there is a flight facility from Jomsom to Pokhara and end up the trek earlier.
After having breakfast at your lodge, take a bus to Tatopani for a Natural Hot spring bath, on the bank of Kali Gandaki River. The trek route to Tatopani is on the dots roads and will be a bit hectic but worthwhile in the end. It is possible to keep driving to Pokhara by bus but it’s a long day drive. Enjoy Natural Hot Spring!
Accommodation: Guest House
Approx. time taken: 4 hrs
Distance: 48 km
Pokhara is a nice and clean city on the lap of the Annapurna Himalayas. If you are interested to extend your stay in Pokhara, please kindly let us know we will rearrange your accommodation as per your requirement. There are non-star to five stars hotels. The choice is yours!
Accommodation: Hotel
Approx. time taken: 6hrs
Distance: 85 km
Arrival and transfer to Hotel, and evening farewell celebration at a Nepalese typical Restaurant.
After the healthy breakfast, we drop you at the airport for your final departure for your onward destination. Bye!