Annapurna Circuit Trek, Nepal
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most iconic long-distance treks, circling the Annapurna Massif through mountain villages, glacial valleys, and dramatic high passes, with a standout crossing of Thorong La (5,416 m).
Price
US$1,435 per person
Total time
16 days. Itinerary can vary with side trips.
Trek distance
About 160 to 230 km total, depending on route
Meetup
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu, Nepal
Maximum altitude
Thorong La Pass: 5,416 m
Season
March to May, and September to November
Things to know before you book
- Trek duration: usually 16 days, depending on itinerary and side trips.
- Maximum altitude: Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m. Acclimatization awareness is essential.
- Difficulty: moderate to challenging. Good physical fitness and prior hiking experience are recommended.
- Permits required: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS Card.
- Accommodation: teahouses and lodges are available along the route.
- Weather: cold and windy at high passes, milder in lower regions. Conditions can change quickly.
- Travel insurance should cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
- Guides and porters are recommended for safety and local insight.
Location
Meetup point
- Meet at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu, Nepal, unless you receive alternate instructions after booking.
- After meetup, the team will coordinate the next steps for the trek, including briefing and onward transfers.
Additional Information
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most iconic and diverse trekking adventures, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas. Circling the Annapurna Massif, this classic trek delivers ever-changing landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
The trek begins in the lush subtropical valleys of central Nepal, passing terraced farmlands, waterfalls, and traditional villages inhabited by Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali communities. As the trail ascends, the scenery shifts into alpine forests, high-altitude deserts, and glacial valleys, with constant views of major Himalayan peaks.
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The highlight is crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world. After the pass, the trail descends into the Kali Gandaki Valley and often includes a visit to Muktinath Temple, an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Typically completed in 16 days, the Annapurna Circuit Trek combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Best enjoyed in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), it remains a classic Himalayan trekking experience in Nepal.
Short itinerary
- Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu.
- Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani via Besisahar.
- Day 03: Trek from Dharapani to Chame, enjoying views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II.
- Day 04: Trek from Chame to Pisang through pine forests and dramatic mountain gorges.
- Day 05: Trek from Pisang to Manang via the scenic upper Pisang route.
- Day 06: Acclimatization day in Manang with short hikes and altitude adjustment.
- Day 07: Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka.
- Day 08: Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp.
- Day 09: Early morning hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) and return to Siri Kharka.
- Day 10: Trek from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka.
- Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi / High Camp.
- Day 12: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and trek down to Muktinath.
- Day 13: Drive from Muktinath to Jomsom or Pokhara.
- Day 14: Drive or fly from Pokhara and explore Pokhara.
- Day 15: Drive to Kathmandu.
- Day 16: Departure day or buffer day, depending on your schedule.
- Good physical fitness and prior hiking experience are recommended.
- Proper trekking gear: warm clothing, trekking boots, and a sleeping bag.
- Acclimatization awareness for high altitude (Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m).
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
- Experienced guide and porter (recommended).
- Basic first-aid kit and personal medications.
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- Permits required: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS Card.
- Altitude sickness precautions are essential. Plan acclimatization days and move conservatively at elevation.
- Be prepared for cold, wind, and quickly changing conditions at higher passes.
- Best time to trek March to May and September to November
- Difficulty level Moderate to challenging. Good fitness is recommended.
- Permits required ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS Card
- Maximum altitude Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
- Accommodation and meals Teahouse and lodge trekking with basic but nourishing meals available along the route
- Cancellation and refunds Free cancellation for a full refund if you cancel 60 days or more before the trek start date. If you cancel 30 to 59 days before the start date, you receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 29 days of the start date are nonrefundable. If the operator cancels the trek due to safety, operational, or regulatory reasons, you can choose a full refund or reschedule (subject to availability). Some third-party costs like permits or flights may be nonrefundable if already issued.
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- Altitude and acclimatization Altitude sickness is a real risk. Proper acclimatization is essential, especially before Thorong La.
- Weather Cold and windy at high passes, milder in lower regions. Weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Culture and scenery Villages influenced by Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan culture, plus diverse landscapes from rice terraces and forests to deserts and glaciers.
- Popular side trips Tilicho Lake and Ice Lake are common additions, depending on conditions and itinerary.
- Guides and porters Strongly recommended for safety, pacing, and local knowledge.
