Annapurna Circuit Trek

Duration: 14 Days   |   Based on 6 Reviews
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Difficult
  • Trip Style: Trekking and Tour
  • Transport: Tourist Bus
  • Food: Full Board Plan
  • Accommodation: Hotel And Guest House
  • Group Size: 1-15
  • Max Elevation: 5,416 m./17,765 ft.

Annapurna Circuit Trek: An unforgettable experience to cherish forever!

Annapurna Circuit Trek (ACT) used to be one of the longest and best treks in the world that led you to mountain ranges of central Nepal through rocky hill terrains, subtropical forest areas, tranquil villages, gigantic cliffs, etc. Covering a length of around 170-230 km. (depending on the endpoint of the trek), as per our itinerary, the total length of the trek is 148 km. encompasses some of the iconic tourist attractions like Chame, Manang, Thorang La Pass (5,416 m/17,769 ft.), Muktinath temple, Kagbeni, Tatopani, etc.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Breathtaking views of stunning snow-filled mountains like Annapurna I-IV, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Tilicho Lake, etc
  • An ideal way to explore the geographically diverse and culturally rich Annapurna region is to cross the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit (5,416 m/17,765 ft) at Thorang La Pass (5,416 m/17,765 ft).
  • An opportunity to discover the tranquil villages and isolated communities and get a first-hand, authentic experience of the ancestral traditions of local people
  • Sigh-inducing countryside views that give you peace of mind and soothe your soul
  • Experience diverse climatic zones, geography, vegetation, flora and fauna, and lifestyles of people
  • Witness the cultural diversity from Hindu villages dominated by Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Brahmin in the lower elevations to Tibetan cultural villages in northern Manang Valley and lower Mustang
  • Escape the daily grind and get a new perspective on life in the Himalayas, i.e. the way of life of Nepalese mountain communities and be appreciative of the varied cultures and multilayered history of mankind

Annapurna Circuit Trek Information

Annapurna Circuit walking encircles the incredible Annapurna Massif and offers you majestic views of towering, snow-capped mountains. Touted as Nepal's adventure playground, the trek within the Annapurna mountain ranges is nirvana for naturalists and adventure buffs.

The route crosses Manang Valley and Kaligandaki Valley and reaches the highest point at Thorong La Pass (5,416 m/17,764 ft.). If you are seeking long holidays in the high Himalayas of Nepal and are willing to test your adrenaline, this trek is for you. Nowadays, trekkers are willing to combine with the Manaslu circuit trek.

Important Facts about the Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Starting and Ending Points: Kathmandu
  • Trekking Area: Annapurna Circuit (North-west of Kathmandu)
  • Area Cover: 170–230 km/273–142 miles (depending on the starting and ending point of the trek)
  • Duration of the Trek: 12 days
  • Highest Point of the Trek: Throng-la, 5,416 m/17,769 ft.
  • Trek Level: Moderate to Difficult

Annapurna Circuit Hiking is the legendary tourism product of the country that takes travelers inside Nepal's largest conservation area, known as Annapurna Conservation Area. Established in 1985, this protected area spans 5 districts, including Manang, Mustang, Myagdi, Lamjung, and Kaski, and ranges in elevation from 790 m. to the summit of Annapurna I at 8,091 m. Besides hosting some of the highest peaks on Earth, the area is also home to the world's deepest gorge, 'Kali Gandaki Gorge'.

What should I expect on the Annapurna Circuit journey?

The region for trekking is bestowed with such a diverse ecosystem and cultural influences that almost every step you take on this trip brings a difference in geography, way of life of Himalayan people, and landscape. There is a variety of climatic regions within a span of 120 km (74 miles), from the tropics at 600 m above sea level to the Arctic at 5,416 m at the Thorang La Pass. With every 1,000 m. rise in elevation, the temperature drops by nearly 6 °C. The Tilicho Lake is another attraction of the Annapurna circuit trek, which lies north of Manang village. 

Owing to the geo-diversity and complexity, this trek will push you to the limit, but the sense of accomplishment and the lifetime experience of astounding mountain wilderness, a different aspect of the Himalayas, dispersed wildlife, and the authentic local experience you will get make the trek worth the effort.

Flora and fauna found In Annapurna Region

The difference in altitude and climate results in a wide diversity of flora and fauna found in the Annapurna Conservation Area. The common plants you will notice during your trek to Annapurna Circuit include rhododendron, oak, pine, bamboo, fir, maple, etc., and the vegetation available includes barley, potato, wheat, paddy, rice, etc. Likewise, the region is also home to rare and valuable wildlife like snow leopards, lynxes, red pandas, gaurs (wild ox), musk deer, etc.

Annapurna Circuit Local Culture

At the lower foothills, you will pass through many traditional communities of Gurung, Magar, and Thakali. As you go north to the villages of Manang Valley and lower Mustang, Tibetan culture becomes apparent. Immerse yourself in the authentic culture of the region's ethnic groups. Kagbeni is another important religious site and a gateway to Upper Mustang.

Is the trek to Annapurna Circuit difficult?

Annapurna Circuit is one of the most challenging routes in Nepal in light of its duration, altitude, and complexity of trails, from the steep climbs in the hills and cliffs to walks in the subtropical forests, etc. Annapurna Circuit is a 2-3 week journey and involves multi-day walking through varied landscapes.

The most common difficulty faced by trekkers is related to altitude sickness. As you start your journey from low elevation to the highest point above 5,000 m, there is a high chance of becoming prone to altitude sickness. The disorders resulting from exposure to high altitudes can affect people of any age, gender, or physical condition. The diagnosis is based on symptoms developed like fatigue, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, insomnia, loss of appetite, etc.

If you develop any of these symptoms, don't ignore them, and climb no further until the symptoms subside. The negligence in symptoms of acute mountain sickness can lead to the development of more severe illnesses like high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), in which fluid builds up in the lungs, and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), in which brain tissues swell from fluid leakage.

Drinking plenty of water, proper acclimatization, and descent are the most effective treatments for high altitudes.

The majority of trekkers prefer to undertake a trek to Annapurna Circuit in an anti-clockwise direction to allow sufficient time for acclimatization to the altitude. It is the easiest and safest way to gain daily altitude and cross the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit journey.

Booking the Annapurna Circuit Trekking package through Global Adventure Trekking will help you get the ultimate experience in the Himalayas of Nepal without hassles. We will brief you about altitude sickness and offer the perfect itinerary that takes into account the need for your body to acclimatize to a higher altitude. Our itinerary includes an acclimatization day to allow adaptation to the effects of low oxygen saturation in the air and minimize the risk of altitude sickness. Besides, our guides are locally based and have first-hand experience in dealing with the rigors of the journey. They will guide you and take care of your safety.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Treks

While it's possible to undertake trekking to most parts of the Annapurna Circuit all year round due to their location within a rain shadow, the most favorable time for the ACT is October-December as it marks the end of monsoon season and offers relatively stable weather with clear sky views, tantalizing mountain views, pleasant walking temperatures, and vibrant surroundings.

Besides October–December, March–June is also a favorable time for trekking on the Annapurna Circuit, as the hills are a riot of colors with several species of flowers in bloom and the weather is comfortable with dry and clear blue skies. January and February are too cold with heavy snowfalls and June-August is monsoon and too rainy with poor visibility. The Monsoon is the best time for those who love flowers. Here is the packing list for the Annapurna trek.

Annapurna Circuit Package With Global Adventure Trekking

Global Adventure Trekking Company is a government-authorized travel and trekking agency that was established in 1998 to promote tourism in Nepal by ensuring our guests get the most satisfying and lifetime experience to cherish forever. Customer safety and satisfaction are our priority, and we take pride in offering trekking packages in those areas of which we are well aware. We have a long experience operating the Annapurna Circuit trek, and our client's testimonials are evidence of our expertise. We have a team of certified and experienced guides and porters who put clients' needs before theirs and make their journey easier.

Likewise, we advance sustainable goals by contributing to the local economy of rural areas. Furthermore, we don't have any intermediaries and work directly with local suppliers, so the money you pay for this trip directly helps to uplift the standard of living of local people in remote regions. We offer good value for money and ensure that the price for the Annapurna Circuit Trek package is worth the experience you will get with Global Adventure Trekking.

Outline Itinerary

Open All Days Close All Days
Day 01: Kathmandu, arrival and transfer to Hotel 1,350 m./4,428 ft./30 min. drive

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, Global Adventure Trekking's dedicated airport representative will welcome you and transfer you to the Hotel in Kathmandu.

Distance cover-6 km.

Journey time- 30 min.

Accommodation- Hotel ***

Meals- No

  • No food
  • Hotel Buddha or similar ***
  • 1,350 m./4,448 ft.

After 5hrs drive to Beshisahar, take a jeep ride to Dharapani which is the junction of Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Trek. The road is quite smooth and very scenic until Beshisahar, but the road to Dharapani is on a dotted road which takes about 4 hours. 

Distance: Kathmandu to Besisahar-172 km./5 hrs. 

Besisahar to Dharapani--35 km./3 hrs.

Altitude gain- 1100 m.

Accommodation- Hotel/Guest House

Meals- BLD


  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • Gurkha's Inn or similar(attached bath)
  • 1,860 m./6,100 ft.

Marking the end of the great Marsyangdi River Gorge, make a steep climb to Timang, then the trail settles into gentler slopes as the vegetation transforms from dense pine forests to drier slopes. The district headquarters of Manang, Chame, is the largest settlement after Besisahar

Distance cover- 15 km.

Approx. time taken: 6 hrs.

Accommodation: Guest House/Tea House

Distance: 15 km.

Altitude gain- 840 m.

Meals- BLD

  • Full board meals
  • Nurpu Ling Guest House or similar(attached bath)
  • 2,700 m./8,856 ft.

Slowly, you are going to enter into a different world gain elevation, and walk through the pine forest. Passing is the inhabitant of the Gurung people. 

Distance cover- 13 km.

Altitude gain- 500 m.

Approx. time taken: 5 hrs.

Accommodation-Guest House/Tea House

Meals- BLD


  • Full board meals
  • Manadal Guest House or Similar(attached bath)
  • 3,200 m./10,496 ft.

Trek the northern trail via upper Pisang and Ghyaru – an area renowned for its spectacular views. It is now drier, and you are sure to come across local farmers herding yaks. Here’s a hot tip – Tibetan yaks take a special interest in people wearing red, so choose your gear carefully today!

Distance cover- 17 km.

Altitude gain- 240 m.

Approx. time taken: 6 hrs.

Accommodation: Guest House/Tea House

Meals- BLD

  • Full board meals
  • Hotel Yak or Similar(attached bath)
  • 3,440 m./11,283 ft.

Spend a day here to acclimatize and day hike to the Monastery, then return to Manang for the night. Manang is a village of about 500 flat-roofed houses and offers excellent views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Chulu East.

Approx. time taken: 2/3 hrs. exploration

  • Full board meals
  • Hotel Yak or Similar(attached bath)
  • 3,440 m./11,283 ft.

You will be walking as a slog due to the altitude. Along the way, you will encounter Musk deer, Himalayan Thar, and an all-mountain range. It is an easy and short hike due to the altitude. 

Distance cover- 10 km.

Approx. time taken: 5 hrs.

Altitude gain- 610 m.

Accommodation: Guest House/Tea House

Meals- BLD


  • Full board meals
  • Trekkers Inn or Similar(attached bath)
  • 4,050 m./13,284 ft.

Today leisurely walk to Throng Phedi and have Lunch then 2hrs hike to High Camp. It offers great landscapes and Mountain views.

Distance cover- 8 km.

Approx. time taken- 5hrs.

Altitude gain- 925 m.

Accommodation: Guest House/Tea House

Meals- BLD

  • Full board meals
  • Annapurna Guest House( non-attached)
  • 4,925 m./16,154 ft.

Probably the hardest day of the entire trek. Early morning, ascend 490m to the Throng La top and walk down to Muktinath. This is a pilgrimage holy place in the Annapurna region. Once you are in Muktinath you are entering into a different world which you may feel.

Distance cover- 15 km.

Altitude gain- 491 m.

Approx. time taken: 7 hrs.

Accommodation- Hotel/Guest House

Meals- BLD

  • Full board meals
  • Hotel Eureka Inn or Similar(attached bath)
  • 3,760 m./12,332 ft.

The most relaxed day and walking into the barren land and facing the warier caves, visit the hundreds of years Monastery and Experience the Tibetan tribes at Kagbeni for about 3 hours walk where you can have Lunch and explore the area. After having Lunch walk to Jomsom for another 2 hours.

Distance cover- 22 km.

Altitude descent- 950 m.

Approx. time taken: 6 hrs.

Accommodation- Hotel/Guest House

Note: If you would like to end your trek at Jomsom, there is a flight facility to Pokhara and end the trek earlier.

  • Full board meals
  • Hotel Tilicho or Similar(attached bath)
  • 2,810 m./9,216 ft.

After having breakfast at your lodge, take a bus to Tatopani for a Natural Hot spring bath, on the bank of Kali Gandaki River. The trek route to Tatopani is on the dots roads and will be a bit hectic but worthwhile in the end. It is possible to keep driving to Pokhara by bus, but it's a long day drive. Enjoy Natural Hot Spring! 

Distance cover- 48 km.

Approx. time taken- 3 hrs.

Altitude descent- 1610 m.

Accommodation: Guest House/Tea House

Meals- BLD

  • Full board meals
  • Himalayan Inn or Similar(attached bath)
  • 1,200 m./3,936 ft.

Pokhara is a nice and clean city on the lap of the Annapurna Himalayas. If you are interested in extending your stay in Pokhara, please kindly let us know, and we will rearrange your accommodation as per your requirements. There are non-star to five-star hotels. The choice is yours!

Distance cover- 116km.

Bus journey- 5 hrs.

Altitude descent- 490 m.

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals- BLD

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel Splendid View or Similar(attached bath)
  • 810 m./2,656 ft.

This is another adventure riding on a tourist bus. Several tourist buses are operating their scheduled departure every morning. Those buses are very comfortable with wider seats, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning, and offer a bottle of mineral water and newspaper. You could enjoy the ride with the fascinating landscapes along the way. You will be dropped at Balaju, and transferred to the Hotel, an evening farewell celebration at a Nepalese Restaurant. 

Distance cover- 200 km./124 miles

Bus journey- 8 hrs.

Accommodation- Hotel

Meals- BLD

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel Buddha or Similar
  • 1,350 m./4,448 ft.

Last but not in the list, this is your final day in Nepal. Global Adventure Trekking manages your airport transfer for your next chapter. Wishing you for your safe and pleasant journey.

Distance cover- 6 km.

Journey time- 30 min.

Transportation- Yes

  • Breakfast

What's included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off by private coach
  • Tow-night win-sharing accommodation in Kathmandu, including breakfast
  • One-night twin-sharing accommodation in Pokhara, including breakfast
  • All meals while on the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Seasonal fruits 
  • TIMS-Card (Trekker Information Management System)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area entry fees
  • All ground transportation by private and public vehicle
  • 10-night accommodation at the various available tea houses or lodges during the trek (twin sharing)
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide with a government license holder
  • Company guarantee for Government Rescue Services
  • Insurance for Nepalese staff.
  • All government taxes and VAT
  • The Company provides a complimentary Duffel bag or sleeping bag if necessary (refundable after the trek)
  • Company T-shirt
  • Seasonal fruits
  • Farewell dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant
  • Nepalese visa fee, visa can be obtained upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport. Visa cost 30 USD, 50 USD, and 125 USD for 15, 30 and 90 days, respectively
  • A porter to carry your trekking baggage if required
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of an earlier return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
  • International flights Tickets
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guides and porters

 

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Useful Info

Passport and Visa: All travelers should have a 6-month-valid passport. A visa can be obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. Visas cost 30 USD, 50 USD, and 125 USD for 15, 30, and 90 days, respectively. Nepal entry visa granted on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport (TIA). For further information, please visit here

Medical and health information: All travelers need to be physically healthy to participate in this trip. Before buying this trip, please read the detailed itinerary carefully. You'll need to consult your doctor for your medical travel information or any necessary vaccinations before departure. We suggest you bring your medical kit. The lowest price is on offer and the deluxe trip price is also available throughout the year for the deluxe holiday trip.

Vaccination and immunization: Dengue is an ongoing risk in many parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands. It is spread through mosquito bites, and health effects from dengue include fever, muscle aches, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and minor bleeding. So it is better to wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers. For more details, please read here

Annapurna Circuit Trek is 14 days from arrival until international departure. However, we can customize this trek as per your time frame. Are you having a short period and keen to accomplish the Annapurna Circuit trek? No worry, we have the possibility to make it short, You will have the option and we have a short version of Annapurna Circuit Trek for 7 days.

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