Annapurna Circuit Trek

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Trip Overview

Overview

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.

Annapurna Circuit Trek: A Journey to Majestic Peaks and Cultural Marvels

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.

Conclusion and Summary

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.

Trip Highlights

  • Breathtaking views of stunning snow-filled mountains like Annapurna I-IV, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Tilicho Lake, etc
  • An ideal way to explore the geographically diverse, culturally rich Annapurna region and cross the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit-the 5416m high Thorang La Pass
  • An opportunity to discover the tranquil villages and isolated communities and get a first-hand authentic experience of the ancestral traditions of local people
  • Sigh-inducing countryside views that give you peace of mind and soothe your soul
  • Experience diverse climatic zones, geography, vegetation, faunas, and lifestyle of people
  • Witness the cultural diversity from Hindu villages dominated by Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Brahmin in the lower elevations to Tibetan cultural villages in northern Manang Valley and lower Mustang
  • Escape the daily grind and get a new perspective on life in the Himalayas i.e. the way of living of Nepalese mountain communities and be appreciative of the varied cultures and multilayered history of mankind

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu

Namaste! Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, Friendship World Trek staff welcome you and transfer you to the Hotel.

  •  No food
  •  Hotel
  •  1,350 m

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Beshisahar (172km)- Dharapani (35km) 8hrs

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

  •  Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  •  Guest House
  •  1,860 m

Day 03: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2700m, 6hrs)

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

  •  Full board meals
  •  Guest House
  •  2,700 m

Day 04: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3200m, 13km, 5hrs)

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

  •  Full board meals
  •  Guest House
  •  3,200 m

Day 05: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3440m, 17km, 6hrs)

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

  •  Full board meals
  •  Guest House
  •  3,440 m

Day 06: Acclimatization Day at Manang

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

  •  Full board meals
  •  Guest House
  •  3,440 m

Day 07: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4050m, 10km, 5hrs)

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

  •  Full board meals
  •  Guest House
  •  4,050 m

Day 08: Trek from Yak Kharka to High Camp (4925m, 8km, 5hrs)

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

  •  Full board meals
  •  Guest House
  •  4,925 m

Day 09: Trek from High Camp to Muktinath (3760m) via Throng La Pass (5416m) 15km, 7hrs

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

  •  Full board meals
  •  Guest House
  •  3,760 m

Day 10: Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni and Jomsom (2810m, 6hrs)

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.

  •  Full board meals
  •  Guest House
  •  2,810 m

Day 11: Drive from Jomsom to Tatopani (1200m, 48km, 4hrs)

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

  •  Full board meals
  •  Guest House
  •  1,200 m

Day 12: Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara (85km, 6hrs)

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

  •  Breakfast
  •  Hotel
  •  810 m

Day 13: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu via Morning Bus (200km, 7hrs)

Arrival and transfer to Hotel, and evening farewell celebration at a Nepalese typical Restaurant.

  •  Breakfast
  •  Hotel
  •  1,350 m

Day 14: Final Departure to Tribhuvan International Airport

After the healthy breakfast, we drop you at the airport for your final departure for your onward destination. Bye!

  •  Breakfast

Price Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop off by private coach
  • Tow-night win-sharing accommodation in Kathmandu, including breakfast
  • One-night twin-sharing accommodation in Pokhara, including breakfast
  • All meals while on the trek (Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner)
  • TIMS-card (Trekker Information Management System)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area entry fees
  • All ground transportation by private and public vehicle
  • 10-night accommodation at the various available tea houses or lodges during the trek (twin sharing)
  • Experienced English-Speaking Trekking guide with a government license holder
  • Company guarantee for Government Rescue Services
  • Insurance for Nepalese staff.
  • All government taxes and VAT
  • The Company provides a complimentary duffel bag or sleeping bag if necessary (refundable after the trek)
  • Farewell dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant

Price Excludes

  • Nepalese visa fee, Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport. Visa cost 30 USD, 50 USD, 125 USD  for 15, 30 and 90 days respectively
  • A porter to carry your trekking baggage if required
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
  • International flights Tickets
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guide, porter
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