Annapurna
Annapurna Circuit Trek - 16 Days
- DestinationNepal
- RegionAnnapurna
- Duration16 Days
- TransportationJeep + Flight
- Max Height5,416 m / 17,769 ft
- ActivitiesTrekking
- Trip GradeChallenging
- AccommodationTea House
- Group SizeMin. 1 Pax
- Best SeasonMar-May & Sep-Nov
- MealsB.L.D.
- Start / End PointBesisahar - Jomsom
Introduction
The Annapurna Circuit is one of the world's most diverse treks, circumnavigating the Annapurna massif and crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416m. Trek from subtropical jungle to high-altitude desert, experiencing dramatic cultural shifts from Hindu villages to Tibetan Buddhist highlands. Walk through the world's deepest gorge and visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights
- Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) - one of the world's highest trekking passes
- Trek through diverse ecosystems from jungle to alpine desert
- Visit sacred Muktinath temple, holy to Hindus and Buddhists
- Walk through the world's deepest gorge - Kali Gandaki Valley
- Experience Tibetan Buddhist culture in ancient villages like Manang
- Witness sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges (8,000m+ peaks)
- Explore traditional Tibetan villages frozen in time
- Relax in natural hot springs at Tatopani after the pass
Why Book the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Us?
- 10+ years Annapurna Circuit guiding experience
- 100% Guaranteed Departures
- Expert Thorong La Pass crossing strategy
- 24/7 Emergency Support
- Flexible itinerary options
- Quality equipment provided
- Small groups (max 12 people)
- Free contingency day planning
Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary
Airport pickup, hotel transfer, and comprehensive trek briefing covering the circuit route, Thorong La strategy, and acclimatization plan.
Scenic drive along Prithvi Highway to Besisahar, then jeep ride on mountain road following Marsyangdi River to Chame. Views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II.
Trek through spectacular Marsyangdi gorge with towering cliffs. Pass beneath Paungda Danda's 1,500m rock face. First night above 3,000m.
Take the scenic upper route through Ghyaru and Ngawal villages for spectacular mountain views and better acclimatization. Arrive at Manang, the main town.
Essential rest day. Hike to Ice Lake (4,600m) or Gangapurna Lake. Attend HRA altitude sickness talk at 3 PM. Explore Manang village and monastery.
Trek through high-altitude alpine meadows. Landscape becomes barren and windswept, resembling the Tibetan plateau. Gradual ascent aids acclimatization.
Short day to prepare for pass crossing. Trek to Thorong Phedi (Pass Base). Sleep early for midnight/early morning start. Final preparation for Thorong La.
Start at 3-4 AM. Steep climb to Thorong La Pass (5,416m) - the trek's highlight. Spectacular 360° views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Tibetan peaks. Descend to Muktinath.
Visit sacred Muktinath temple (108 water spouts, eternal flame). Trek through arid landscape to Kagbeni, then descend Kali Gandaki gorge to Jomsom.
Trek through world's deepest gorge between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Strong winds common in morning. Pass through Marpha village. Arrive at Tatopani hot springs.
Relax in hot springs after breakfast. Long climb through rhododendron forests to Ghorepani. Prepare for early Poon Hill sunrise hike tomorrow.
Pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for spectacular sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, trek to Tadapani.
Descend through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests. Arrive at Ghandruk, largest Gurung village. Visit Gurung Museum and enjoy Annapurna South views.
Final trekking day through terraced fields and villages. Reach Nayapul and drive to Pokhara (1.5 hours). Celebrate trek completion by Phewa Lake.
Scenic flight or drive back to Kathmandu. Free afternoon for shopping, relaxation, or sightseeing. Optional farewell dinner.
Airport transfer for your departure flight. Take home memories of completing one of the world's greatest treks.
Why This Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit delivers unmatched diversity - from jungle to desert, Hindu to Buddhist, lowland to high pass. Crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416m is a profound achievement. The cultural journey through ancient Tibetan villages and sacred Muktinath creates memories beyond scenery.
Ready to complete one of the world's greatest treks? Book your Annapurna Circuit adventure today. Our expert guides, proven acclimatization strategy, and comprehensive support ensure your safe success crossing Thorong La Pass. Limited availability during peak season - reserve your spot now!
Trek Difficulty
The Annapurna Circuit is challenging due to its length, altitude, and the Thorong La Pass crossing. Good fitness and proper acclimatization are essential.
Physical Fitness
Requires excellent cardiovascular fitness for 6-8 hours daily walking over 14 days. Train with long hikes (4-6 hours) carrying a weighted backpack for 3 months before departure.
Altitude Sickness
Maximum altitude 5,416m at Thorong La Pass. Two acclimatization days (Manang and optional second day) are crucial. Recognize symptoms early: headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness.
Preparation
Start training 3-4 months early with cardio, hiking, and strength exercises. Previous multi-day trekking experience highly recommended. Get medical clearance and travel insurance covering 6,000m.
Cost & Budgeting
Budget overview
Total cost ranges from $900-2,000 per person for 16 days, depending on services chosen. More affordable than Everest region with no flight costs.
Estimated cost breakdown
Saving tips
Trek in shoulder seasons for lower prices. Order dal bhat (unlimited refills). Bring water purification tablets. Skip optional Jomsom flight and trek out via Poon Hill route.
Best Time to Trek
Best seasons are autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May) for stable weather and clear skies.
Spring
March-May offers warmer temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and fewer trekkers than autumn. Thorong La crossable from mid-March.
Autumn
September-November provides the clearest skies, stable weather, and best mountain views. October is peak season with more crowds but excellent conditions.
Monsoon
June-August brings heavy rain, leeches, and obscured views. Thorong La becomes dangerous. Not recommended.
Winter
December-February is very cold with heavy snow at Thorong La. Pass may be closed. Only for experienced winter trekkers with proper equipment.
Temperatures vary dramatically: subtropical warmth at low elevations to -20°C at the pass. Weather changes quickly at high altitude.
October for best overall conditions. April-May for rhododendrons and warmth. Avoid monsoon unless very experienced.
Permits & Regulations
Overview
Two permits required: ACAP and TIMS card. Obtain in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Entry permit for Annapurna Conservation Area. Supports conservation and community development. Cost: NPR 3,000 (~$30 USD).
TIMS Card
Trekkers Information Management System card for safety tracking. Cost: NPR 2,000 FIT / NPR 1,000 Group (~$20/$10 USD).
How to obtain
Get permits at Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu/Pokhara. Bring passport, 2 photos, and cash. Most agencies arrange permits as part of package.
Accommodation & Food
Overview
The Annapurna Circuit has excellent teahouse infrastructure. Quality varies by location but generally good.
Teahouses
Twin rooms with basic mattresses and blankets. Shared bathrooms common. Facilities best in major villages (Manang, Jomsom). More basic near the pass. Hot showers available for $3-5.
Food
Diverse menus including dal bhat, noodles, pasta, momos, and pizza. Dal bhat offers unlimited refills and best value. Western food available but pricier at high altitude.
Order at your accommodation teahouse. Drink 3-4 liters daily. Choose dal bhat for energy and nutrition. Avoid raw vegetables above 3,000m. Bring water purification.
Packing List
Essential gear
Clothing
Layering system: thermal base, fleece mid-layer, down jacket, waterproof shell. Trekking pants (2), rain pants, warm hat, sun hat, gloves
Footwear
Broken-in waterproof boots, camp shoes, 5-6 pairs trekking socks, gaiters for snow
Gear
Sleeping bag (-15°C), daypack (30-40L), trekking poles, headlamp, water bottles, purification tablets, sunglasses (Cat 4), sunscreen SPF50+
Documents
Passport, permits, insurance (covering 6,000m), cash (NPR), photos, permit copies
Optional
Power bank, camera, book, earplugs, snacks from home, trekking umbrella
What not to pack
Cotton clothing, heavy items, valuables, excessive toiletries, single-use plastics. Porter limit: 15kg per person.
Guides & Support
Benefits of a guide
Guides provide route navigation, altitude monitoring, cultural insights, emergency support, and logistical management. Essential for Thorong La weather assessment and safe crossing.
How to choose
Look for licensed guides with 5+ years Annapurna Circuit experience, first aid certification, good English, and positive reviews. Verify they know Thorong La crossing protocols.