Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek
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Trip At Glance

Destination Annapurna Circuit Trek
Name of Trail ABC Round Trek
Duration 14 Days
Grade Moderate
Maximum Altitude 5416
Per Day Walking 5/6 Hours
Trek Style Tea House
Transportation Group Sharing
Accommodation 3 Star in City and Tea House during Trek
Best Time March to May - September to November

Outline Itinerary

Day Acitivity
Day 1 Welcome to Kathmandu (1360M)
Day 2 Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar to Jagat (1330M)
Day 3 Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (2720M)
Day 4 Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2720M)
Day 5 Trek from Chame to Pisang (3190M)
Day 6 Trek from Pisang to Manang (3540M)
Day 7 Acclimatization day at Manang (3540M)
Day 8 Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4210M)
Day 9 Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong-la Phedi (4550M)
Day 10 Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath, crossing Thorung La Pass (5416M)
Day 11 Drive to Pokhara From Kagbeni (820M)
Day 12 Exploration Day at Pokhara (860M)
Day 13 Early morning scenic drive to Kathmandu (1360M)
Day 14 Departure

Overview And Highlights

Annapurna Circuit Trek is famous for its highest pass, which is 5,416m, often known as Thorong La Pass. Annapurna circuit trek is the trek which is designed to witness the breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. It is also called the Annapurna round trek, as in this trek, people start their trek from Jagat and end their trek in Pokhara, a complete circle of Annapurna mountain ranges. The trek is 220 km long, so it may take more days to complete. It's designed for trekkers interested in exploring the natural beauty, scenery, and incredible landscapes. The Annapurna circuit trek takes more than two weeks to complete as trekkers cannot complete this trek in one week. Annapurna is the world’s 10th-highest mountain.

The Annapurna circuit is 230km long, so you will need proper time and rest to complete it. It is designed for trekkers to explore the Annapurna region's natural beauty, wildlife, and incredible landscapes. The trek can be completed in two weeks at least. It takes you to explore the Annapurna massif, the world's 10th-highest mountain, famous for its subtropical forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts. You can also explore the local lifestyle of the people. You can enjoy an authentic Nepali dishes.

You will be able to see the natural diversity. On the way to the trek, you can see many animals, such as the Himalayan Tahr, Blue Sheep (Bharal), Musk Deer, Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Langur Monkeys, Himalayan Monal (Danphe), Himalayan Black Bear, Various Bird Species, Domestic Animals, and Other Wildlife.

Annapurna circuit is about trekking in the mountains and exploring Nepal’s local life and culture. On the way, you will see local Gurung and Magar people who are welcoming in nature. You can also see that Tibetan people's lifestyle and culture influence the upper part of the Annapurna region. 

You can visit Muktinath Temple in Lower Mustang, an essential site for Buddhist and Hindu visitors. For Hindus, it is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu, while Buddhists identify it with Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). The temple features 108 water spouts and two ponds, where bathing is supposed to wash sins and aid in attaining moksha (salvation).

The Kali Gandaki River originates from the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and runs through the world's deepest gorge. On the river bank of Kali Gandaki Gorge, Hinuds perform picture Puja, which means worshipping ancestors. It is believed that if people do this puja on the river bank of Kali Gandaki, their ancestors are accessible from the birth and death cycle. You can also find many Saligrams and symbols of Lord Vishnu; people keep them in their homes to worship.

The circuit trek is about trekkers witnessing the breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The whole trek takes you to the once in a life to explore people's culture and traditions. We are exploring the wildlife of the animals and many more.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals and explore their culture and traditions.
  • Witness the breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Trek in the world’s highest pass, Thorong la Pass, at an altitude of 5416m.
  • Visit Muktinath temple, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists
  • Witness the deserts above the clouds
  • Spend some peaceful time in the world’s deepest George Kali Gandaki river
  • Witness the wildlife diversity of animals

Best Time To Trek In Annapurna Circuit Trek

The best seasons to trek in the Annapurna circuit are March to May and September to November. There is peak trekking season during these times due to the clear skies. Flowers bloom, the forests become more lush green, and birds are seen everywhere. We also see incredible views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Similarly, fall offers consistent weather conditions with moderate temperatures and a bright sky, allowing for beautiful vistas of the mountains and lush landscapes. While some may like the unique challenges of trekking during the monsoon season (June to August), marked by heavy rains and probable route obstructions, others may prefer winter owing to freezing weather and the chance of snow blocking higher passes. Planning the hike around these peak seasons guarantees pleasant weather and adventure. You can read out detailed blog on Best time to visit Annapurna region.

Detail Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Kathmandu

We welcome you to the country of hills and mountains, where the North welcomes you with breathtaking mountain views, and the South welcomes you with flat and fertile agricultural lands. We will be waiting for you at the arrival gate and welcome you with the motto of Atithi Devo Babha, which means Guest is God for us. After your arrival, we will take a short drive to the mid-city of Kathmandu Thamel, famous for its vibrant streets, handicraft shops, and National and International cuisine restaurants. After you arrive, you can rest in your hotel, and in the evening, we will have an authentic Nepali dinner while enjoying the melodies, songs, and music.

Accommodation

Star Hotel

Elevation

1360

Day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar to Jagat

In the early morning, we will drive by private vehicle from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Besisahar is a cultural hub with different castes and religions, and during your free time, you may explore several places, including Udipur Kalika Temple, Bhimsen Temple, and Chandimai Temple. We will stay overnight at the tea house of Jagat.

Food

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Elevation

1330

Day 3

Trek from Jagat to Dharapani

After breakfast, we will set foot from Jagat and trek for 4-5 hours. The route features Manaslu and Himalchuli as the backdrop. Today's walk involves some mild ascents and descents, gradually followed by steeper trails. Along the way, we will pass through some suspension bridges and waterfalls. After crossing a sub-tropical forest, we reach the Sirung village and rest overnight there.

Food

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Elevation

2720

Day 4

Trek from Dharapani to Chame

After breakfast, we will trek from Dharapani to Chame, the headquarters of Manang District and one of the best sightseeing destinations of the Annapurna region. Throughout the 4-5-hour trek, you will pass through pine, oak, and maple forests and villages with lovely wooden bridges. You can take a closer look at the mighty Annapurna II and IV. Rest overnight at Chame.

Food

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Elevation

2720

Day 5

Trek from Chame to Pisang

After breakfast, we will trek for 5 hours from Chame to Pisang. On the trek, we will encounter many tall and fierce waterfalls. Our path leads us to ascend to the steepest part of the Marshyangdi valley. After the steep rock roads, fascinating landscapes like green rhododendron forests, oak tree areas, and some unique cultural villages lie ahead. You should consider exploring one or two of them. Rest overnight at Pisang.

Food

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Elevation

3190

Day 6

Trek from Pisang to Manang

After breakfast, we will trek through dense forests and steep hills, followed by Marshyangdi, the fast-flowing river near Manang. During the four-hour trek, you can enjoy the amusing scenery of the mighty Himalayas and encounter locals. Rest overnight at Manang.

Food

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Elevation

3540

Day 7

Acclimatization day at Manang

Explore Manang, the village of a private and scenic haven. You may visit the famous Gangapurna Glacier Lake, some ancient and holy places, or just sit down and relax. This village will also amuse you with the locals’s warm and generous hospitality. Enjoy evening programs during dinner and rest overnight.

Food

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Elevation

3540

Day 8

Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka

We will trek from Manang, walking for 3-4 hours along the scenic route with little streams, juniper trees, and small villages. Travelers will be amazed at exploring the unique landscapes, quaint villages, diverse topography, beautiful hills, Mani walls, alpine yak pastures, and diverse flora and fauna of the Manang to Yak Kharka area during this endeavor. After Manang trekkers reach above the tree line, the landscape looks like a wasteland dominated by grass, bushes, and rocks. Rest overnight at Yak Kharka.

If you want to trek Tilico Base Camp and Tilicho Lake, the world's highest-altitude lake. It would help if you walked to Khangsar from here.

Food

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Elevation

4210

Day 9

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong-la Phedi

We will trek for 4 hours uphill to the snow-covered Thorang-La Phedi. Explore around and experience the challenging climate of the high Himalayas. Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi is located in the northernmost part of the latter. The distance between Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi is 7.3 kilometers / 4.5 miles. The flat trail gradually ascends to Thorong Phedi, and the steep ascent from Phedi to high camp takes 4 to 5 hours by foot. 

Food

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Elevation

4550

Day 10

Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath, crossing Thorung La Pass

We will cross Thorong La Pass, the mountain pass with an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 ft), with the holy Muktinath being our destination of the day. Situated at 3710 m, Muktinath Temple is one of Nepal's most ancient and sacred temples for God Vishnu. Besides exploring and learning more about the history of this special place, you can also enjoy the mountain view of the Annapurna southern range and the Tibetan plateau.

Muktinath Darshan Yatra is popular among Hindus and Buddhists worldwide, so there are many visitors to Muktinath these days.

Rest overnight at the teahouse.

Food

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Elevation

5416

Day 11

Drive to Pokhara From Kagbeni

Today, early in the morning, we will trek to Kagbeni, and after lunch, we will drive back to Pokhara via Jomsom. During the 6-hour drive, you will drive through the beautiful Kaligandaki gorge, passing various beautiful places like Jomsom, Marpha, Tatopani, Ruptse Waterfall, and Beni Bazar. Overnight at Pokhara Hotel.

Food

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation

Tea House

Elevation

820

Day 12

Exploration Day at Pokhara

Pokhara, one of Nepal's scenic havens and the most famous tourist destinations, offers a wide variety of leisure activities, including boating, pony riding, and paragliding. Take a leisurely walk along the Fewa lake with the Annapurna Massif in the background. Explore the cultural villages and holy places of great significance around the city.

Food

Breakfast

Accommodation

Star Hotel

Elevation

860

Day 13

Early morning scenic drive to Kathmandu

After breakfast, we will head towards Kathmandu city. On the way, we will see the local lifestyle, the Marshyangdi and Trishuli Rivers, the local Dhaba (highway restaurant), views of mountains, and green hill stations. Snatch the last moment to enjoy the vibes of Kathmandu and grab the last chance to capture a memorable moment in Nepal.

Food

Breakfast & Farewall Dinner

Accommodation

Star Hotel

Elevation

1360

Day 14

Departure

We will serve you breakfast in the morning if your flight is planned for the morning. Per your travel plans, our team member will drop you at the airport (in a private vehicle). If your flight is in the evening, you may go shopping and pick up some souvenirs for your loved ones or hang around Kathmandu city. Additionally, if you wish to stay in Nepal for a few extra days, we can set up some of the best adventure activities there.

Food

Breakfast

What Is Included ?

  • 2 nights Kathmandu and 1 night in Pokhara accommodations with breakfast
  • 10 Night Tea House Accommodation and full meals during trek days
  • Kathmandu Besisar Private Transportation, Besisar to Jagat Sharing Jeep
  • Trekking permits 
  • Jomsom Pokhara Sharing Transportation
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu Private Transportation
  • English-speaking Trekking Guide
  • Required no. of Porters (2 trekkers = 1))
  • Trekking Certificates,
  • Comprehensive medical kit
  • Government and local taxes
  • Preparatory session before and after arrival.
  • Farewell Dinner

What's Not Included?

  • Visa cost
  • International airfare
  • Excluded meals in the city
  • Drinks and beverage costs.
  • Insurance cost.
  • Trekking equipment.
  • Additional potter or equipment cost.
  • Personal expenses, tips, and shopping cost

Altitude Graph

FAQs

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a renowned trekking route in Nepal's Annapurna region. It traverses diverse landscapes and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. The trek also provides insight into the local culture, including Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis. It's considered one of the world's most beautiful and challenging treks, attracting trekkers from around the globe.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek typically takes 14 to 21 days, depending on your route, pace, and acclimatization needs. The distance covered ranges from 160 to 230 kilometers, with several high passes and rest days. Allocating enough time is crucial to avoid altitude sickness and fully enjoy the experience.

The best times for the Annapurna Circuit Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and stunning views. However, there are also peak trekking seasons, so bookings are essential. 

Yes, it's mandatory to have a guide for trekking in high altitudes. A guide can assist with navigation, logistics, and acclimatization, enhancing safety and cultural understanding. If you know someone personally who has previous experience, you can contact them. Otherwise, it's better to book through a trekking company. Companies are registered with the Government of Nepal, so you will benefit from booking through trekking companies. 

Yes, permits are required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You must obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card to support conservation efforts and regulate trekkers' flow.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek demands a high level of fitness and endurance. Prior hiking or trekking experience is beneficial, and cardiovascular training is essential. Acclimatization and proper preparation are crucial to success.

Yes, it is safe; it carries inherent risks associated with high-altitude trekking and remote wilderness areas. Adequate preparation, trekking with an experienced guide or group, and adhering to safety guidelines are essential.

Proper gear is crucial for safety and comfort. Essentials include trekking boots, warm clothing, a backpack, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and a headlamp. Additional gear like crampons and gaiters may be necessary, depending on the season. Consultation with a doctor before the trek is advised.

You can refer to https://www.adventurevisiontreks.com/blog/what-to-pack-for-annapurna-base-camp-trek/ for detailed information on what you need to pack for the trek.

Additional Information

If you have limited time but still wish to explore the Annapurna region, you can opt for our alternative itinerary, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This trek takes you directly to the heart of the Himalayas without following the entire Annapurna Circuit, allowing for a more direct trekking experience.

We have two options:

Annapurna base camp trek 13 Days: https://www.adventurevisiontreks.com/trip/annapurna-base-camp-trek

Annapurna base camp trek 7 Dayshttps://www.adventurevisiontreks.com/trip/7-days-short-annapurna-base-camp-trek

Trip Reviews

Wonderful trip, everybody was very friendly and professional. Highly recommend to anybody coming. Contact Jiban at Adventure vision treks Nepal.

Nadeem A

27th Mar, 2018



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