Annapurna Circuit Trek

Top ten beautiful trek in the worldratingbased on 11 reviews
  • Duration16 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5416 m.
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Pokhara
  • Group Size 1 - 20
  • Best Season March to May & September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$945
2 - 6 paxUS$845
7 - 10 paxUS$795
11 - 15 paxUS$745
16 - 20 paxUS$690
Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights
  • Endless waterfalls and glorious scenery
  • Walking amidst majestic Himalayan peaks such as Gangapurna, Glacier dome, Tilicho, and Dhaulagiri
  • Braga monastery
  • Kagbeni monastery
  • The scenic setting of Manang
  • Reaching the pinnacle of Thorong La 5416 meters
  • Diverse cultural experiences
  • One of the most famous Hindu shrines visit, Muktinath and Kagbeni

Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview

Nepal Trekking Experts feels proud to introduce you to one of the major fascinating trekking routes of Nepal Annapurna. Annapurna Circuit Trek is located in the western part of Nepal. The Annapurna Circuit trek has been considered one of the world’s greatest treks. Like all great journeys, the trek reveals itself gradually climbing through subtropical scenery to a Tibetan-influenced valley and over the High Thorong La to the Kaligandaki valley, a desert-like Trans-Himalayan region that was once a vital trade corridor to Tibet. The side trips that line the circuit rank among Nepal’s most spectacular, so this one of the treks is not too rushed. Trekkers need two different permits to trek the Annapurna region such as TIMS Card and Annapurna conservation area permits. Nepal Trekking Experts will provide you with information and organize hassle-free trips.

The mountain views are flawless the variety of scenery is hard to match and the villages and monasteries you pass offer an exotic slice of Nepali, Tibetan, and Trans-Himalayan culture. It will offer such massive waterfalls and excellent meals and accommodation whenever you need it. If you have enough time Annapurna Circuit Trek offers to combine various sorts of trekking routes such as Nar Phu, Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake, Mesokanto La 5120m, Thorong La 5416m, Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Ghorepani, Annapurna Base Camp, etc. which you never get such an opportunity in another trek. You will have another great chance to explore the deepest gorge of the world Dana Gorge comparing two eight thousand peaks Dhaulagiri(8167m) and Annapurna first(8091m).

In addition, you may also choose our Short Annapurna Circuit Trek. According to your duration of vacation and interest in Nepal, Trekking Experts designs perfect holidays to make them exceptional. Please do not hesitate to discuss with our experts for more details.

Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permits

When trekking with Nepal Trekking Experts, the permit fees are included in your package. Your experienced guide will obtain all required permits on your behalf with your passport. To enter the Annapurna region, you will require two permits, which can both be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before commencing your trek.

  • The TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card costs 2000 Nepali rupees, and as per the latest rule, it will be obtained through the trekking agencies only.
  • The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs 3000 Nepali rupees, is available through the Nepal Tourism Board, Bhirkutimandap Kathmandu, or Pokhara.
Useful Information

Accommodation at the Annapurna Circuit Trek

There are plenty of tea houses to choose from in the famous Annapurna region of Nepal, so there's no need to carry camping or cooking supplies. The Annapurna routes are well-loved and well-traveled, meaning that tea houses ranging in quality have been established to meet the range of needs of travelers. At lower elevations and busier areas, you can choose more fully equipped tea houses with electricity, wifi, and en suite bathrooms with hot showers and western toilets. There are also more rustic, basic tea houses available, especially at higher elevations, that have simple rooms and basic services. Bathrooms might be shared and have a squat-style toilet. At these tea houses, you can pay a small fee for services such as wifi and hot showers. We provide you with a clean, -20°C sleeping bag to keep you cozy and warm.

Meals at the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Food in the Annapurna Region of Nepal is delicious and plentiful, with a range of options to suit your preferences. The menus at tea houses are usually quite large, especially considering you are trekking into the Himalayas, but it's important to note that most tea houses offer similar food options. You can choose from a variety of local dishes, including Dal Bhat (rice, vegetable curry, and lentil soup with unlimited refills!), fried rice or noodles, Mo Mo (local dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), spring rolls, or western dishes like burgers, pasta, pizza, and potatoes. For breakfast, you can enjoy local chapati bread or Tibetan bread with curry or go for more familiar eggs, porridge, muesli, or pancakes. This trek is vegetarian and vegan-friendly, but if you have any other dietary restrictions, you can let us know, and your guide will communicate with the kitchen staff.

Your package with Nepal Trekking Experts includes dinner in Kathmandu before you leave for your trek and three meals a day (with tea or coffee) every day of the trek, including travel days. If you'd like, you can purchase extra snacks, desserts, or fancy coffees when they're available.

Transportation at the Annapurna Circuit Trek

All transportation fees and arrangements are included in your trekking package when you book with Nepal Trekking Experts. To start your adventure in the Annapurna region, there are many transport options depending on your interest, time frame, and budget. A common route is to travel via bus or microvan from Kathmandu (Gongabu Bus Park) to Besisahar (6–7 hours) and then continue on to your starting point via local Jeep. Common starting points include Bhulbhule, Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, and Manang. The further you travel via Jeep, the less trekking you'll do by foot. This shortens the length of your trek, which can be a great option if you have less time or are adding other, lesser-traveled regions to your trek, such as Tilicho Lake, Nar Phu Valley, or Nar Phu Thorong La.

Please be aware that the buses in Nepal can be overcrowded (especially if you are traveling during festival time), not particularly tidy, and will stop in villages along the route to pick up and drop off more people. Bus rides can be part of the exciting, immersive experience of being in a foreign country, but they are not for everyone. If you would like a more comfortable alternative, we can arrange a private jeep from Kathmandu all the way to your starting point. Jeeps shorten your travel time considerably, and you can stop for breaks at your leisure. With so many travel options, we'd be happy to talk things through with you to find what suits you best.

Battery Charging

Despite trekking deep into the Himalayas, most of the tea houses have either electricity or solar power. Depending on the tea house, you might be able to charge your devices in your rooms. Otherwise, you can pay a few dollars (paid in local rupees) to charge your battery in the main dining hall. Carrying a power bank is recommended during your trek in the Annapurna region.

Telephone availability around the Annapurna Circuit

Nowadays, most villages have phone service and mobile reception, although it can be quite unpredictable. NCELL and Nepal Telecom are the two major SIM card providers. Nepal Telecom is recommended by NTE for better reception in the Annapurna region. You can purchase a SIM card in Kathmandu when you arrive.

Internet

Many tea houses have wifi to purchase for around 3-5 dollars per hour, which is paid in local Nepali rupees. Please be aware that internet services may not be completely reliable due to weather and other issues.

Porter

Our tailor-made packages do not include a porter, so you can make the decision based on your own needs and preferences. Although not necessary, having a porter can make a massive difference in the enjoyment of your trek. If you are new to trekking at high altitudes, then we would recommend having a porter in the Annapurna region carry your bag across the rugged terrain. One porter carries the bags of two people (around 20kg) so that you can carry a small daypack. If you are undecided, we would be happy to discuss porters in more detail when you book your trek.

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

Welcome at the airport and transfer to the hotel.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

Prepare for trekking and spend a day the way you prefer.

  • Max. Altitude:840m/2756ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Transfer from your hotel to the New Bus Park, then drive to Bhulbhule, which may take 7-8 hours along Nepal's famed Trishuli and Marsyangdi rafting rivers. Overnight in Bhulbhule, 840 meters by bus.

  • Max. Altitude:1300m/4265ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

After breakfast, the trail leads out through Bahundanda towards Ghermuphant, offering fine scenery and views of numerous waterfalls, forests, and crop fields as the trail follows the course of the Marsyangdi River.

  • Max. Altitude:1960m/6430ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

More waterfalls await as the trail leads over ever-suspenseful suspension bridges toward the picturesque village of Tal (meaning lake) and continues to Dharapani along further stone steps.

  • Max. Altitude:2650m/8694ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The day begins with a continuation of the trail as it follows the Marsyangdi River through additional forests, with views of Manaslu and the Annapurnas becoming clearer during the ascent. A brief pause at the village of Timang gives a perfect opportunity to further bathe in the scenery before the trek starts again towards Chame and a welcome rest after climbing over 700 meters in the day.

  • Max. Altitude:3300m/10827ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Two routes are available at this point, though the trail to Upper Pisang is easily the most rewarding as it offers some of the best views across the Marsyangdi valley towards the looming Annapurna massif. The village itself is scenically perfect in its setting and provides unique insights into the traditional lives of the valley's inhabitants.

  • Max. Altitude:3519m/11545ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The path leads on again through Gheru and Nagwal, each showcasing contrasting building styles from the upper valley. Further along the trail the old village of Braga offers up a perfectly situated monastery to pause and reflect on, after which the path heads toward Manang.

  • Max. Altitude:3519m/11545ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

A rest day, the main purpose of which is to allow the body to acclimate to the increase in altitude. Several possibilities are available, including hiking in the nearby hills to help the acclimation process or simply just relaxing in the town and taking in the magnificent views. NTE recommends hiking the stunning Ice Lake, which is known as the most beautiful viewpoint and offers undisturbed panoramic views of the Chulu ranges, Annapurna ranges, and Thorong La in the distance.

  • Max. Altitude:4110m/13484ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Leaving behind the pine and fir forests from the lower slopes, the trail leads on through Old Manang into the pure alpine regions of the upper valley. The trek is a shorter one by necessity because of the altitude gain, and the day's hike concludes with a pleasant hike to Yak Kharka.

  • Max. Altitude:4450m/14600ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Another short day of hiking through the mountain wilderness thanks to the need to acclimate to the higher altitudes. By midday, the trail leads into Thorong Phedi, the penultimate destination before reaching the trek's apex at Thorong La.

  • Max. Altitude:3762m/12343ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The grand finale of the steady climb through the valley, peaking at one of the Himalayas' highest passes, Thorong La, after a pre-dawn departure from Thorong Phedi. It's a day to celebrate a worthy achievement, not least for the effort taken to make the last final push to the pass and its myriad prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze. From there the trail descends steeply towards Muktinath and its glorious outlook towards Dhaulagiri. Muktinath is held to be sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus, who view the town and its temple as a pilgrimage site to be visited at least once in their lives.

  • Max. Altitude:2743m/8999ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The final leg of the trek via Kagbeni offers fine Himalayan scenery and glimpses of the restricted and highly secluded region of Upper Mustang. Kagbeni itself, situated in peaceful surroundings by the Kali Gandaki River, is also sacred to Hindus. The trail leads on by the river all the way to Jomsom, a sizeable town that serves as the central administrative and transport hub for the region.

  • Max. Altitude:822m/2697ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

The drive from Jomsom to Pokhara is a lengthy, if adventurous, journey, while the much shorter option of a direct flight is also an option. With enough time, a side trip to nearby Tatopani and its natural hot springs is also available and certainly worth considering for its recuperative effects on weary limbs.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast

Drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus( 7 hrs)

    Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs.

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    Note

    The above itinerary is just a guideline. If you are not satisfied, please feel free to customize your own.

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay on arrival in Kathmandu with breakfast included (on a twin-share basis)
    • One-night stay in Pokhara with breakfast included (on a twin-share basis)
    • All necessary trekking permits, such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, and TIMS Card
    • All accommodations during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • A cup of tea or coffee each time with the meal
    • Fresh fruit each day, if and when available
    • Complimentary duffel bag, agency T-shirt, trekking government-registered
    • Government-registered, first-aid-trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • First aid kit
    • Return travel by bus between Kathmandu and Pokhara
    • Kathmandu to Bhulbhule by bus
    • Jomsom to Pokhara by bus
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax (VAT)
    • Certificate of achievement
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
    • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing fees (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
    • Tips for staff
    Route MapDownload Map
    Annapurna Circuit Trek map
    Dates & Availability
    Start:SaturdayMar 30, 20242 people confirmed
    End:SundayApr 14, 2024
    PriceUS$845
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the fixed departure dates? If not, do not worry! We are more than happy to organize private vs. group joining on any dates you prefer. Let's contact the local experts now.

    Photos & Videos
    FAQs for Annapurna Circuit Trek
    • Thorong La, the mountain pass on the Annapurna Circuit, is 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level.

    • The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered strenuous due to its length (12–22 days), elevation (5,416 m/17,769 ft), and overall challenging terrain. The trek includes lots of long ascents and descents, which are a thrill for experienced trekkers and a big challenge for those who are less experienced or have pre-existing ailments such as knee issues. Someone with overall good physical health who prepares for the trek with pre-training will be able to complete the trek with minimal difficulty. However, since it is walking on a clear trail and not mountain climbing, beginners can do it as well.

    • Depending on the route that you choose, the Annapurna Circuit takes as few as 12 days or as long as 22 days, covering anywhere from 160 km to 230 km by foot. Each trekking package is crafted especially for you based on your needs, preferences, and time frame. A shorter trek would mean driving farther along the route, and a longer trek could include more rest days, day trips, or even exploring additional regions off of the main route.

    • The Annapurna Circuit is open all year round for trekkers; however, the weather is most favorable and conducive to trekking in autumn and spring. Autumn, specifically October, is the busiest time of year because the monsoon season will have just finished, leaving the skies clear and the trails less dusty. If you are looking for a less busy time, you can go trekking in September, November, or even December, January, and February. Trekking in low seasons like December, January, and February is the best way to avoid crowds and enjoy the stunning nature. For the spring season, the best weather usually starts in March and lasts until May, when the rain starts.

    • Yes, comprehensive medical insurance is essential for trekking the Annapurna Circuit. Pay close attention to the details of your insurance package to ensure that it includes high-altitude trekking, hospitalization, and medical evacuation.

    • Altitude sickness is the most common challenge for people trekking the Annapurna Circuit and can affect anyone, even well-prepared trekkers. Precautions are set in place, such as increasing elevation gradually, drinking enough water (you have to be hydrated all the time), balancing meals, properly dressing up, well-acclimatizing, avoiding drinking and smoking over 3000 meters, hiking higher and sleeping lower to support your acclimatization and overall enjoyment of the trek.

    • Tea houses are scattered along the whole route, with both local Nepali dishes and Western food available. Tap or river water is not safe to drink anywhere in Nepal, but you can purchase bottles of mineral water or boiled water. To preserve the environment, we would recommend that you bring your water purification system, such as purification tablets, a life straw, or a steripen. You can save the environment and your budget as well.

    • Please go through our trekking gear pack list for more details 

      Recommended trekking gear pack list by Nepal Trekking Experts

    • A high-quality, extreme-temperature (negative 15/20 degrees Celsius) sleeping bag is recommended when trekking in the Himalayas. The rental of a clean sleeping bag is included in your trekking package if you do not want to bring your own. No camping gear is required because you will be sleeping in tea houses along the whole trekking route.

    • You can leave any extra gear in Kathmandu and carry only what you need. If you have any valuables that you would like kept safe while you're away, you can utilize our safe located in the Nepal Trekking Experts office, which is only accessible by the company owner, Rajesh.

    • Be sure to trek with local Nepali rupees for personal purchases such as snacks and souvenirs. Foreign currency and cards are not accepted, and apart from Manang and Jomsom, there are no ATMs along the route.

    • Despite the latest rule of April 2023, you can still trek without a guide in the Annapurna Region. However, knowing the details about Nepal, its culture, flora, and fauna, not missing beautiful experiences, and taking a local guide would be worth it. You will get value for your hard-earned money. Your guide will be a member of our team who is professional, proficient in English, reliable, and trained in first-aid and rescue procedures.

    • A 10% deposit of the total amount is required to secure your place on one of our treks. The deposit can be paid through a secure and reliable online payment gateway on our website. Once settled in Kathmandu, you can pay the remainder in cash in USD, EUR, GBP, or local Nepali rupees. You also have the option to pay by card, which charges an additional fee of 3.5%, which is reinforced by the local banks in Nepal.

    11Travelers' Reviews
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Annapurna Circuit trek (13 days)

      My Annapurna trek, without a doubt, was the most amazing experience of my life. From the last-minute booking and finalizing details with Rajesh just two days before heading to Nepal to embarking on the trek with my fantastic guide, Dinesh (a wonderful Human, and the perfect guide), every moment was pure magic.

      It was a fantastic adventure filled with laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments.

      As for the trek itself, it surpassed all my expectations. Annapurna's beauty is indescribable, and each day brought a new, breathtaking scene. The landscapes were beyond imagination, making every day a joy.

      Special note : I really enjoyed doing it offseason. I felt like we had the mountains for ourselves

      Thanks again guys !!

      F
      Francois SJan 22, 2024Germany
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Great experience hiking Annapurna circuit trail.

      We trekked the Annapurna circuit trail with Nepal Trekking Experts. Our experience was truly exceptional, thanks to Rajesh and Kamal.

      We booked our trip to Nepal three weeks before we left, and during that short time, Rajesh helped us plan where we should go in Nepal. He talked to us and helped us choose the best trail for our journey.

      During the hiking trail, we had Kamal as our guide. Beside his kindness, he had extensive trekking experience. We had a fantastic time with him and learned a lot about the local culture, religion, the mountains, temples, and the places we visited.

      Both Rajesh and Kamal, were super flexible. We had changed the origin plan according to our hiking performance , we merged a few days, but they fastly came up with great solutions and found excellent tea-houses for us. I believe we stayed at the finest tea-houses during the trek.

      The cost was very reasonable, and, most importantl, the service was outstanding. I highly recommend Nepal Trekking Experts to others planning their journeys in Nepal.

      M
      mohammad nOct 14, 2023Israel
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