Annapurna Circuit
Trip Overview
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking journeys, offering an unmatched diversity of landscapes, cultures, and mountain experiences. This classic route circles the Annapurna Massif, taking you through lush river valleys, high mountain deserts, and over one of the highest trekking passes in the world, Thorong La (5,416m).
Your journey begins in Kathmandu with a blend of cultural exploration and final preparation. A scenic drive takes you to Besisahar and further into the Marsyangdi Valley, where the trekking begins. The trail gradually ascends through traditional villages, dense forests, and terraced farmlands, offering a steady introduction to altitude.
As you move higher, the landscape transforms into a dry, alpine environment. Manang serves as a key acclimatization stop, allowing time to explore and adjust to the elevation. Beyond Manang, the trail becomes more rugged as you approach Thorong Phedi, the base for the high pass crossing.
Crossing Thorong La Pass is the highlight of the trek, rewarding you with panoramic views of the Himalayas. The descent leads to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site, before continuing into the Kali Gandaki valley.
The journey continues through Tatopani and Ghorepani, where a sunrise hike to Poon Hill offers one of the finest viewpoints in the region. The trek concludes with a cultural visit to Ghandruk before returning to Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Highlights
● Classic Annapurna Circuit crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
● Diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to high alpine terrain
● Scenic drive through Besisahar and Manang region
● Acclimatization in Manang village
● Visit sacred Muktinath Temple
● Sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210m)
● Cultural experience in Gurung villages like Ghandruk
Itinerary
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Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
You will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The day is free to rest or explore nearby areas.
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Day 2 : Rest, preparation, and city tour in Kathmandu.
A guided tour of cultural sites including Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath, along with final trek preparation.
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Day 3 : Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar.
A scenic drive through hills and river valleys brings you to Besisahar, the starting point of the journey.
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Day 4 : Drive from Besisahar to Dharapani.
A jeep drive along mountain roads takes you deeper into the Annapurna region.
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Day 5 : Trek from Dharapani to Chame.
The trail passes through forests and small settlements with views of surrounding peaks.
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Day 6 : Trek from Chame to Lower Pisang.
A steady climb through pine forests and open valleys with increasing mountain views.
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Day 7 : Trek from Lower Pisang to Manang.
The route opens into a wider valley with dramatic landscapes and views of Annapurna range.
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Day 8 : Acclimatization day in Manang.
A rest day with optional hikes to viewpoints and exploration of the village.
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Day 9 : Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka.
The trail gradually ascends into higher altitude terrain with sparse vegetation.
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Day 10 : Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi.
A steady climb brings you to the base of Thorong La Pass.
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Day 11 : Cross Thorong La Pass and descend to Muktinath.
An early start leads to the highest point of the trek, followed by a long descent to Muktinath.
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Day 12 : Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom via Kagbeni.
The trail follows the Kali Gandaki valley with unique desert-like landscapes.
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Day 13 : Drive to Tatopani and explore hot springs.
A scenic drive leads to Tatopani where you can relax in natural hot springs.
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Day 14 : Trek to Ghorepani via Ghara and Shikha.
A long but rewarding ascent through villages and forests to reach Ghorepani.
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Day 15 : Hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani.
An early morning hike to Poon Hill offers stunning sunrise views, followed by a trek to Tadapani.
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Day 16 : Trek to Ghandruk.
A short descent to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village rich in culture.
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Day 17 : Trek to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara.
The final trek leads to Nayapul, followed by a drive to Pokhara.
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Day 18 : Drive to Kathmandu and farewell dinner.
Return to Kathmandu and enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening.
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Day 19 : Final departure.
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Route Map
Cost Inclusion
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Ground transportation (Kathmandu–Besisahar–Pokhara–Kathmandu)
- Teahouse accommodation during trekking
- Full board meals during trek
- Experienced trekking guide and support staff
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- All staff insurance and wages
- First aid medical kit
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Nepal entry visa fees for Nepal
- Travel insurance including high-altitude rescue and evacuation
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing
- Drinks such as alcohol, soft drinks, and bottled water
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and internet
- Tips for guide and porter
- Extra expenses due to weather conditions, natural disasters, or itinerary changes.
