Annapurna Circuit

Trip Budget USD $1500 (per person)
Trip Duration 15 Days
Trip Grade Medium
Accomodation Tea Houses, Monastery, Guest House
Transportation Jeep and Bus
Group Size 2 Min - 12 Max
Best Season (March to May) and autumn (September to November)

Annapurna Circuit - Brief Insight

The Annapurna Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic and diverse trekking experiences, offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Located in the central Himalayas, this trek can be tailored to suit various durations and difficulty levels, with popular routes including the Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), and Ghorepani Poon Hill.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit

Panoramic Mountain Views – Spectacular sights of Annapurna I, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and other Himalayan giants.

Diverse Landscapes – Experience a range of environments, from lush forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and high mountain deserts.

Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) – A dramatic destination encircled by towering peaks, offering a 360-degree Himalayan panorama.

Poon Hill Sunrise – A short hike off the main trail provides one of the most famous sunrise views over the Himalayas.

Authentic Cultural Experience – Interact with Gurung, Thakali, and Magar communities, experiencing their hospitality, customs, and traditions.

Local Cuisine and Tea Houses – Savor traditional Nepali dishes and stay in cozy tea houses that line the trekking route.

Rhododendron Forests – Trek through vibrant rhododendron forests, especially stunning in the spring months.

Flexible Itinerary Options – Choose from short treks like Ghorepani-Poon Hill to longer adventures like the Annapurna Circuit or Base Camp trek.

Spiritual and Cultural Landmarks – Visit monasteries, chortens, and prayer flag-lined trails that add a meaningful cultural dimension to the trek.

Outline Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu to Besisahar
Your journey begins with a scenic 6–7 hour drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, located at an altitude of 760 meters (2,493 feet). This town serves as the traditional gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. The road journey covers around 185 kilometers, offering glimpses of terraced fields, rural life, and the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. If you arrive early, you can continue further by local jeep to Bhulbhule or Ngadi to get a head start on the next day’s trek.
Day 2: Besisahar to Bahundanda
Highest Altitude : 1310m.
Meals : Nepali Food
Today, the trekking begins as you hike from Besisahar to Bahundanda (1,310 meters or 4,298 feet), covering approximately 15 kilometers over 5–6 hours. The trail leads you through warm subtropical terrain, passing through small villages, terraced rice fields, and river crossings. This section is a gentle introduction to the diverse landscapes and cultural sights of the Annapurna region.
Day 3: Bahundanda to Chamje
Highest Altitude : 1430m.
you’ll continue to Chamje at 1,430 meters (4,692 feet), a 13-kilometer walk that takes about 5–6 hours. The route descends steeply to the Marsyangdi River and then climbs again, offering dramatic views of waterfalls, farmland, and remote villages. You’ll start to notice changes in architecture and terrain as you gain elevation and move deeper into the mountains.
Day 4: Chamje to Dharapani
Highest Altitude : 1860m.
Meals : Nepali Food :Dal Bhat
On this day, you'll trek around 16 kilometers to Dharapani, situated at 1,860 meters (6,102 feet). The 5–6 hour walk passes through deep forests, waterfalls, and cliffside trails. As you enter the Manang district, you’ll experience a noticeable shift in the landscape and culture, reflecting Tibetan influences. Dharapani is a significant settlement on the circuit and offers good amenities for trekkers.
Day 5: Dharapani to Chame
Highest Altitude : 2610m.
Leaving Dharapani, you head toward Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, located at 2,610 meters (8,563 feet). The 15-kilometer trek takes 5–6 hours and winds through pine forests, river crossings, and offers breathtaking views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. Chame has well-developed facilities and marks the start of colder temperatures and thinner air.
Day 6: Chame to Pisang
Highest Altitude : 3200m.
Today’s trek takes you to Pisang at 3,200 meters (10,499 feet), covering around 14 kilometers in 5–6 hours. The landscape transitions to alpine terrain, and you’ll pass striking features like the Paungda Danda rock face. As you enter the dry valley of Upper Manang, you’ll notice more Tibetan-style architecture and prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Day 7: Rest Day in Pisang
Highest Altitude : 3200m.
Meals : Nepali: Organic Food
This is a well-earned rest and acclimatization day in Pisang. While you can take it easy, it’s recommended to explore both Lower and Upper Pisang and take light walks around the area. The elevation of 3,200 meters requires your body to adjust to the altitude, and the rest day helps minimize the risk of altitude sickness while allowing time to enjoy the dramatic scenery.
Day 8: Pisang to Braka (via Upper Pisang Route)
Highest Altitude : 3450m.
You continue from Pisang to Braka (3,450 meters or 11,319 feet) along the Upper Pisang trail, which is more scenic and beneficial for acclimatization. This 17-kilometer stretch takes around 6–7 hours and offers some of the best panoramic views of the Annapurna range as you pass through ancient villages like Ghyaru and Ngawal. Braka is a quaint village near Manang with a famous centuries-old mon
Day 9: Hike to Milarepa Cave and Walk to Manang
Highest Altitude : 3540m.
Meals : Nepali Food
On this day, take a short but enriching hike to the sacred Milarepa Cave, a site tied to the legendary Tibetan yogi. Afterward, walk to the nearby village of Manang (3,540 meters or 11,614 feet), which is just 5 kilometers away. The whole day takes about 2–3 hours of walking (plus time for the cave visit). Manang is the largest village in the region and a popular place for acclimatization.
Day 10: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Highest Altitude : 4600m.
Meals : Nepali Food
Today is another rest and acclimatization day in Manang. You can choose to do short hikes such as the walk to Ice Lake (around 4,600 meters, 4–6 hours round trip) or visit Gangapurna Lake and the glacier viewpoint. The day also offers time to explore local monasteries and enjoy the cozy bakeries and mountain views in this high-altitude village.
Day 11: Manang to Yak Kharka
Highest Altitude : 4050m.
Leaving Manang behind, you climb gradually to Yak Kharka at 4,050 meters (13,287 feet). This 10-kilometer hike takes about 4–5 hours and is known for its alpine landscapes, yaks grazing on open meadows, and peaceful surroundings. The air gets noticeably thinner, so take your time and stay hydrated.
Day 12: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Highest Altitude : 4525m.
This is a shorter day as you ascend to Thorong Phedi (4,525 meters or 14,842 feet), the base camp for the Thorong La crossing. The trail spans 7 kilometers and takes 3–4 hours. Many trekkers opt to hike an additional hour to High Camp (4,800 meters) for better acclimatization and a shorter trek the next day. Thorong Phedi has basic teahouses and is the last stop before the high pass.
Day 13: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
Highest Altitude : 5416m.
Meals : Nepali Food
This is the longest and most demanding day of the trek. Starting before dawn, you ascend to Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), the highest point of the circuit. After soaking in the views, descend to Muktinath at 3,760 meters (12,336 feet). The trek is about 16 kilometers long and takes 7–9 hours. The pass can be windy and cold, so an early start and proper layering are essential. Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Day 14: Muktinath to Pokhara (via Jomsom)
Meals : Nepali Food
You can complete the circuit by taking a jeep ride from Muktinath through Jomsom back to Pokhara. This road journey is about 170 kilometers and takes 7–9 hours. Alternatively, if you wish to slow down, consider stopping at Kagbeni or Marpha for the night. For a quicker return, take a 20-minute scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, weather permitting.
Day 15: Pokhara to Kathmandu
The final day involves returning to Kathmandu from Pokhara, either by a 6–8 hour tourist bus ride or a short 30-minute flight. After completing this incredible trek, you’ll find yourself back in the capital with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and perhaps a new outlook on life shaped by the majesty of the Himalayas.

What is included in Annapurna Circuit

Package Includes:

  • Accommodation:

    • Clean and comfortable rooms in selected teahouses/hotels

    • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) included during the trek

    • Hygienic food prepared in safe and trusted kitchens

  • Experienced Guide:

    • Friendly, professional English-speaking guide

    • Guide’s food, accommodation & insurance fully covered

    • Helpful and knowledgeable, with great local insights

  • Porter Support:

    • 1 Porter for every 2 trekkers

    • Carries your main luggage (max 15 kg per person)

    • Porter’s food, accommodation & insurance included

  • All Ground Transportation:

    • Kathmandu ➝ Besisahar (start point)

    • Muktinath/Jomsom ➝ Pokhara ➝ Kathmandu

    • Private or tourist vehicles as required

  • Fees of annapurna conservation permit


What is included in Annapurna Circuit

❌ Travel insurance & personal trekking gear ❌ Soft & hard drinks (Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, alcohol) ❌ Personal shopping & donations to monasteries ❌ Tips for guides & porters 

Benefits of Annapurna Circuit

Improved Physical Fitness
The trek involves daily walking and climbing at varying altitudes, which boosts cardiovascular endurance, strength, and stamina.

Mental Clarity and Stress Relief
Being surrounded by nature, away from daily routines, helps reduce stress and improves mental well-being and mindfulness.

Cultural Enrichment
You gain firsthand experience of rural Himalayan lifestyles, traditions, and hospitality by interacting with local communities.

Incredible Scenery
The ever-changing landscapes and majestic mountains offer a visual experience that few other treks in the world can match.

Personal Growth
Trekking in challenging terrain fosters resilience, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment upon completing the journey.

Adventure and Exploration
Every day is different, from crossing suspension bridges to discovering hidden villages and exploring high mountain paths.

Connection with Nature
Witnessing wildlife, crossing rivers, and walking through forests deepens your appreciation for natural ecosystems.

Comprehensive guide for Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Trek is one of the most famous and diverse trekking experiences in Nepal, offering everything from majestic mountain views to rich cultural encounters. It is suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike, with multiple route options like the Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), and Ghorepani-Poon Hill.

Package Includes:

  • Accommodation:

    • Clean and comfortable rooms in selected teahouses/hotels

    • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) included during the trek

    • Hygienic food prepared in safe and trusted kitchens

  • Experienced Guide:

    • Friendly, professional English-speaking guide

    • Guide’s food, accommodation & insurance fully covered

    • Helpful and knowledgeable, with great local insights

  • Porter Support:

    • 1 Porter for every 2 trekkers

    • Carries your main luggage (max 15 kg per person)

    • Porter’s food, accommodation & insurance included

  • All Ground Transportation:

    • Kathmandu ➝ Besisahar (start point)

    • Muktinath/Jomsom ➝ Pokhara ➝ Kathmandu

    • Private or tourist vehicles as required

  • Fees of annapurna conservation permit


    ❌ Travel insurance & personal trekking gear ❌ Soft & hard drinks (Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, alcohol) ❌ Personal shopping & donations to monasteries ❌ Tips for guides & porters 



Packing List for Annapurna Circuit

  • Trekking boots and extra socks

  • Warm layers (fleece, down jacket)

  • Waterproof jacket and pants

  • Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

  • Headlamp, batteries, and power bank

  • Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or lower)

  • Water purification tablets or bottle

  • Basic toiletries and first aid kit

  • Trekking poles (optional but useful)

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