The Annapurna Circuit trek is famous treks in the world and for good reason. It is one of the best places to get a view of the beautiful scenery of nature.
During this wonderful trek, you’ll walk via the trail between two of the highest mountains in the world: Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Dhaulagiri. You’ll also get a small chance to witness a snow leopard in Yak Kharka along with the blue sheep.
Trekking through the trail of the Annapurna circuit is equally challenging and inspiring. The highest point of this trek is Thorong La which is the highest pass in the world.
The best part of trekking in Annapurna region is you’ll not be returning to any place twice. In this way, you’ll get a chance to explore the more new place and learn about new culture too.
During this trek, you’ll get panoramic sceneries of Himalayas including of the Mt. Annapurna I, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Annapurna South, Mt. Machhapuchhare, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Lamjung and other sister peaks of Annapurna region.
Actually, in this trek, you’ll encounter with different ethnic communities.
Basically, the lower lands are inhabited by the Hindu communities of Brahmin and Chhetris. The highlands around Manang are inhabited by the Buddhists people including Tibetans, Thakalis, Managis, Gurung, and Magar.
October, November, April, and May are the best months to hike the Annapurna Circuit. During this time, the trail is crowded with a number of trekkers. But if you do advance planning, the accommodation and flight schedule shouldn’t be a problem.
Though it is still possible to trek in other months like September, December, and June, be prepared for extreme weather conditions.
Generally, the classic circuit starts from Besisahar but there are another several starting points for this trip like Bhulbhule, Chame or Syange.
It takes about 21 days to complete the typical route. But if you manage your trekking time efficiently, then this circuit trip can be completed within 12 to 15 days.
If you have a less time and still want to complete Annapurna circuit trek with a few days, then we’ll customize the trip as per your requirements.
Annapurna Circuit trail also provides several side treks that worth your both time and money.
Some popular side treks are Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, Tilicho trek, and Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Enjoy the trek and soak in the natural beauty of the trail !!!
Highlights
- Explore the city of a lake, Pokhara.
- Enjoy the best views of Annapurna I (8,091)- the 10th highest mountain in the world.
- Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit. Also, one of the famous vantage point in the Annapurna region.
- Poon Hill another famous vantage point for an amazing sunrise/sunset view over Annapurna range.
- Get a close insight of the different ethnic Gurung, Thakali, and Magar settlements.
- Visit different traditional villages like Marpha, Jomsom, Pisang, and Manang.
- Visit Muktinath temple, the major pilgrimage destinations for both religions: Hindu and Buddhists.
You might want to consider Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Sanctuary Trek which are very similar trek in Annapurna region.
Welcome to Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu a great reservoir place of culture and traditions.
On your arrival, Himalayan on Foot’s representative will pick up you from Tribhuvan International airport and transfer to Maya Boutique hotel.
After checking into the hotel, you’ll get some time for refreshment. At evening, you’ll attend small group meeting where you’ll get introduce with your trek guide and get a brief trip discussion.
In the end, there’ll be a dinner program where you can enjoy Nepalese local food with cultural dance. Overnight at Kathmandu.
Traveling Hours: Approximately 8-10 hours
Max Altitude: 1,100 m/ 3,608 ft, Syange
Distance Driven: 207 Km
Distance Trekked: 3.21 m
On the second day, you’ll begin your trek from a long drive from Kathmandu to Syange.
The bus ride from Kathmandu to Syange will be so charming, scenic, and offers the best views around.
If you’re lucky enough to get a window seat you can get a glimpse of flowing several major rivers including the Trishuli river, a popular rafting destination.
Soon you reach Dumre, the trail turn into the Marsyangdi valley to Besisahar after continuing your drive you’ll soon reach Syange. Here you can notice high waterfall even in the monsoon the views look more awesome!!
You’ll spend overnight at Syange.
Walking Hours: Approximately 7-8 hours
Max Altitude: 1,960 m/ 6,430 ft, Dharapani
Distance: 21.7 Km
Elevation Gain: +800 meters
On the third day, after having hearty breakfast you’ll continue your walk to Jagat. It is a former toll station on the ancient salt-trade route to Tibet. Climbing through rocky forests the trail takes you to the tiny Tibetan village, Chamje.
After that, you’ll cross the suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi river and reach another delightful village of Tal. The trail continues via other two beautiful village Kyodo and Karte (Khotro) toward Dharapani where you’ll stay for overnight.
Walking Hours: Approximately 5-6 hours
Max Altitude: 2,710 m/ 8,891 ft, Chame
Distance: 15.7 Km
Elevation Gain: +700 meters
On the fourth day, you’ll move ahead from Dharapani to Chame. Before you reach Chame, you’ll come across Bagarchhap passing via pines wooded area.
Here you’ll visit a white-colored Gompa. On the way, you’ll get to see the eye-catching view of Mt. Manaslu. Also, you’ll see the Dudh-Koshi Khola flowing from the south face of Mt. Manaslu.
The highlight of this day trek is roaring river gorges, subtropical forests, charming villages and a majestic panorama of giant Himalayas
Walking Hours: Approximately 5-6 hours
Max Altitude: 3,300 m/ 10,824 ft, Pisang
Distance: 13.7 Km
Elevation Gain: +600 meters
On the fifth day, you’ll cross Chame to Pisang via Talekhu, Bhartang, Dhikur Pokhari and lower Pisang.
Exploring the exotic landscapes via the dense forests of oak and rhododendron. Enjoying the natural taste of yak pastures, beautiful meadows, and deep gorges you’ll reach to Marshyangdi valley.
Ascending up the valley, finally, you’ll reach the Pisang, upper part of Manang valley. Pisang is the gateway to the upper region of Manang. You’ll spend the night in Pisang.
Walking Hours: Approximately 6-7 hours
Max Altitude: 3,500 m/ 11,482 ft, Manang
Distance: 15.9 Km
Elevation Gain: +150 meters
On the sixth day, you’ll head towards the Manang. The trail will lead up to a Tibetan-styled village named Braga. In this village, you’ll see a unique housing style. The houses in this village are stacked upon each other forming balconies with each other’s rooftops.
The highlight of this trek is the Gompa, the largest in the village. From the top, you’ll get the beautiful views of the village. Soon crossing this village you’ll reach Manang for the overnight stay.
After crossing the certain height of altitude, you must need to take a rest day to acclimatize to the increasing altitude. So that you could store enough energy for the thinning oxygen level.
Thus, on the seventh day, you’ll explore Manang. You’ll go for a short hike to Gangapurna Lake. From here you’ll get a spectacular view of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Annapurna II, Tilicho peak and the beautiful Marsyangdi valley.
After returning from the hike, the rest of time you can relax. You’ll spend overnight at Manang.
Walking Hours: Approximately 3-4 hours
Max Altitude: 4,110 m/ 13,484 ft, Yak Kharka
Distance: 10.4 Km
Elevation Gain: +610 meters
On the eighth day, you’ll trek slowly from Manang to Yak Kharka. The trail will leave the large trees behind, now you’ll see only vegetation of small alpine grass.
Walking for few hours, you’ll see some horses, yak, and blue sheep grazing in the pastures. Soon you’ll reach Yak Kharka for the overnight stay. Yak Kharka is a small beautiful town. Here you’ll find several lodges and a safe drinking water station.
Walking Hours: Approximately 3-4 hours
Max Altitude: 4,420 m/ 14,501 ft, Thorong Phedi
Distance: 7.3 Km
Elevation Gain: +310 meters
On a ninth day, you’ll head towards Thorong Phedi from Yak Kharka. Phedi in Nepali means foot of the pass. Indeed, it’s true as Thorong Phedi lies on the foot of the Thorong La Pass.
Leaving behind yak pasture you’ll climb up to a ridge and head down and cross the Marsyangdi river on a wooden bridge.
After climbing little up the mountain path you’ll follow a narrow path and trail descend to Thorung Phedi. Blue sheep, snow leopard, and Himalayan griffons are commonly seen in this area. You’ll spend overnight at Thorong Phedi.
Walking Hours: Approximately 7-8 hours trek, 1-hour drive
Max Altitude: 5,416 m/ 17,764 ft, Thorong La and 3,800 m/ 12,467 ft Muktinath
Distance: 4 km to Thorong La Pass and 10 km to Muktinath
This is the most awaited day of this trip. But at the same time, this is the hardest day of this trek as you’ll cross the Thorong La Pass. Since this is one of the highest passes in the world, heavy snowfall can sometimes block the path.
If the weather permits you, then the trek would be more easy and comfortable without the cold and harsh wind.
Thorung La Pass is also one of the best viewpoints for the remarkable pristine mountain views. You’ll get some amazing views of mountains including Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Gangapurna, and Khatung Kang.
Soon you’ll move downwards hills at a distance with a jaw-dropping view of Mt. Dhaulagiri and reach next destination Muktinath.
Muktinath is one of the famous holy sites for both Hindus and Buddhists. Devotees from different places of the world visit this place in the belief that to achieve salvation. 108 bathing spouts, eternal flame, and complex walled Buddhists monastery are major highlights of this trek.
Exploring the temple after some time you’ll gradually head down to join the Kali Gandaki river valley bottom. Soon after one hour drive, the trail will lead you to Jomsom, district headquarters of Mustang. Overnight at Jomsom.
Flight Hours: 25 minutes
On the eleventh day, you’ll fly back to Pokhara from Jomsom.
Since the flight from Jomsom only arrives and departs in the morning due to the weather conditions, you’ll board soon after early breakfast.
After 25 minutes you’ll reach Pokhara and rest of day you’ll explore the city of a lake, Pokhara.
It is famous for lakes, temples, caves, and waterfalls. Also, Sarangkot and World Peace Pagoda are famous for the best vantage point.
The nightlife of the Pokhara in the lakeside area is famous among the tourists. It is a great place to relax and entertain in the pub and club.
This will be the final day of your trek. You’ll get back to Kathmandu from Pokhara which approximately takes 6 hours by a tourists bus.
Soon you reach Kathmandu you can just relax in the hotel. Also, if you wish you can stroll around the city and buy souvenirs for your closed one.
You’ll spend overnight at Kathmandu.
With a final goodbye, this will be your final day in Nepal.
The Himalayan on Foot’s representatives will drop you to Kathmandu international airport for your final flight departure from Nepal.
If you want to extend your vacation in Nepal, then we’re happy to serve you with other different trekking packages.
Cost Includes
- 1 nights accommodation in Pokhara 3 star
- All ground transportation by Bus
- All accommodations in teahouse
- Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) during the treks
- All cost for guide leader (well trained English Speaking)
- Porer to carry your bags 2 trekkers share 1 porter (max 25 kg carry by a porter )
- All required major permit
- All necessary paper works and permits
- Rescue arrangements incase of any emergences
- Medical Kit Bag
- All necessary taxes
Cost Excludes
- Monuments & Monastery fees
- All the drinks while you are on trek
- all your personal gear
- Hotels in kathmandu
- Lunch And dinner while you are in Katmandu and pokhara
- Tips for guide and porter
Q1. How difficult is Annapurna Circuit Trekking?
Actually, Annapurna Circuit trek is not that hard. The difficulty level depends upon your physical fitness and previous trekking experience.
However, trek route includes steep climb uphill, downhill, and rocky path. This requires physical fitness and stamina and most importantly mental fitness. Thus, a good exercise and training program is essential.
Your training program should include physical strengthening, conditioning, balancing and so on.
We have a flexible itinerary with enough acclimatization and rest days before heading to higher elevations for your easy trekking.
Q2. How long does Annapurna Circuit Trek take?
Annapurna Circuit Trek takes 12 to 16 days, depending on your itinerary and length of walking days. Here’s a 15 days itinerary, starting from Nayapul and ascending up to Ghorepani and the famous viewpoint at Poon Hill.
You can also extend the itinerary from 20-22 days and opt Annapurna Circuit Trek, which is rewarding in itself.
Q3. How fit do I have to be for Annapurna Circuit Trek?
For Annapurna Circuit trek, you don’t have to be a marathon runner, but you do have to be fit and healthy. During the trek, you may have to trek for 7-8 hours per day. For this trek, no any mountaineering skills are needed.
Q4. Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag?
If you cannot bear cold, I would suggest bringing your own sleeping bag. You can hire sleeping bags at Pokhara or Kathmandu and return after the completion of the trek. Though the tea houses provide thick blankets, in the freezing temperatures it may not be enough for you. So, carrying a light sleeping bag is wise in high altitude treks. You might want to check: what to bring for Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Q5. What type of accommodation can I expect during the trek?
Annapurna Region is the second popular trekking destinations in Nepal. There is a huge flow of the trekkers and mountaineers from 1970’s onward so the trail is well established.
There are numerous nice, cozy, and well-furnished tea houses. Most of the tea houses have western toilet facilities with hot showers.
If you’re planning to trek in the peak trekking season (Spring and Autumn) make sure to do advance booking.
Q6. What type of food is available during the trek?
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll get a wide range of food. From Chinese, Continental, Italian, Newari to typical Nepali dish- Dal Bhat.
On the trail, especially at the lower region, you’ll get a variety of food menu. But as you reach the higher elevation the choices will be limited to local food menu like Dal-Bhat-Tarkari.
Q7. Can I get safe drinking water?
On the trail, almost all the tea houses provide boiled and filtered water. Mineral water is also available throughout the trail. Since the plastic bottles do not dispose easily which cause an environmental problem, we discourage purchase of mineral water bottle.
Likewise, along the trail there are enough water taps, you can use purification tablets to purify the drinking water. It is the better, safe, and cheap option.
Q8. Do I need a travel insurance?
Yes, before trek you should get your travel insurance from your respective country.
Make sure, the travel insurance covers everything associated with trek including emergency evacuation packages. This is very essential for your safety, as the weather in the mountains is totally unpredictable.
Also, if you’re insured, it’ll save you from hassles that may arise during the trek like loss of baggage, flight cancellation or interruptions, and the like.
Q9. What is the best time for Annapurna Base Camp?
The best time for Annapurna Base Camp trek is during the month of September to Mid-December and March to May. During these months, the climate is pleasant, with clear skies. You’ll get the stunning view of Mt. Annapurna and the surrounding peaks.
Q10. Can I trek in monsoon season?
Although the best season for trekking in the Annapurna region is spring and autumn, some tourists prefer monsoon season too. As the trail is less crowded, there are abundant choices in terms of accommodation. And flight booking can be done very easily.
During Monsoon, for few days you’ll encounter heavy rainfalls. But as you ascend further the rainfall decreases.
If you plan to trek during this season, then you should be prepared for the slippery and muddy trails and road blockage due to landslides or floods. Also, make sure you carry rain gears like raincoats, umbrella, and rain poncho.
Further, monsoon means an invitation to mosquitoes and leeches. Do not forget to carry along insect repellent and salts to combat leeches and mosquitoes.
Q11. What to do if I caught with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It generally occurs when people ascend too quickly over 3,000 m altitudes.
The basic symptoms of altitude sickness are headache, loss of appetite, and sleeplessness. You shouldn’t ignore these early symptoms, as it may lead to more serious conditions and may even lead to death.
The best solution for altitude sickness is descending to the lower altitude. Also, to ensure a minimal risk, you can walk at a slow pace, take enough rest, and drink plenty of water.
Q12. Do I need to hire a guide/porter?
Annapurna Circuit Trek lies within one of the most popular and well-established trails of Nepal. Thus, it can be done with or without a guide.
However, it is recommended to hire a guide. A guide is a person who will help you in every aspect of the trek. S/he will share you information regarding the local culture, places, religion, and landscapes. They’re well familiar with the locals which will help you to communicate with them more comfortably.
Likewise, a porter is one who carries your backpack during the trekking period. With the help of them, you can enjoy your trek more comfortably.
Please kindly note you don’t have to overpack just because you aren’t carrying it.
Q13. Do I have to tip my guide/porter?
In Nepal, there is no hard and fast rule for tipping the guide or porter. However, at the end of the trek, if your guide or porter has done a good job and if you feel he deserves thank you, by all means, a tip is always appreciated.
Q14. Which permits are required for Annapurna Circuit Trek?
For Annapurna Circuit Trek, you need to obtain an entry permit from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) as well as TIMS card. You can get both these permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara. These permits are essential as there are different checkpoints where you may be asked to disclose these permits. If you don’t have it you have to pay fine and buy these permits in higher cost.
Q15. How do I book for Annapurna Circuit Trek?
If the given itinerary on the websites suits you, then you can book online or email us. Also, if you want to customize your trip, we can plan itinerary as per your requirements. We are always ready to help you in customizing the trip, decide the best time to travel and choose the best trekking package as well.
For detailed info, you can directly call, Viber and WhatsApp at +977 9851060902 or send us an email at himalayasonfoot@gmail.com
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We were lucky that we booked our trek just by Himalayas on foot. Thanks a lot about everything Mukti! We had awesome guide, Raj, who knows what was the best for us. He recommended us what is good to eat and where we could take clean water. We had the best teahouses to sleep. He noticed if we feel bad. I also think because we had so professonal guide we didn't get high altitude symptoms. We had also always happy porters. Deepak was so so happy and singed songs and danced with our backpacks. So it was easy and nice to trek with them. Feel like family. They really cared of us, helped us and wanted all best for us. I really enjoyed my trek. That's why also next time I will book my trek on Himalayas on foot. -
After browsing through and communicating with countless trekking companies online, Mukti, owner of Himalayasonfoot, got in touch with me. What drew me in was that even after I told Mukti I may just get to Kathmandu and figure it out from there, he continued to answer all of my questions and give me tips and ideas about the different treks and what they offer - seeing that he required nothing in return showed me HimalayasOnFoot is more than just a business. Mukti was always available to answer any questions at all points before, during, and after the trek as well. The guide I was set up with, Bidur, was beyond anything I could have asked for. Aside from a resounding knowledge of the trails, routes, and Nepali culture and history, he was a great human being. After the Manaslu Circuit, which I did with HimalayasOnFoot, Mukti arranged to have my guide buy me a map and write down an itinerary for me for the next part of my trip, the Annapurna Circuit and base camp, which I continued on my own. Throughout this second trek I continued to communicate with Mukti and Bidur simply because they wanted to check up on me and make sure I “didn’t get lost in the snow”. It is a good feeling to comfortably and conveniently contact someone with such in depth knowledge and experience in the trekking business and Nepal in general. I made some lifelong memories with HimalayasOnFoot, and when I get back to Nepal I am without a doubt contacting Mukti to set up some more treks.
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