Annapurna Circuit Trek - 13 Days

Classic Trek(5.0)23 reviews
Know before you go
  • Duration 13 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu to Pokhara
  • Best Season March - May and Mid-Sep - Nov
  • Trip Area Annapurna Region
  • Maximum Altitude 5416m.|17769ft.

Highlights

  • Embark on the fantastic natural diversity of Annapurna Trail. 
  • Reach Thorang La Pass, one of the zeniths in the Annapurna Circuit Trek. 
  • Travel through the deepest gorge, Kaligandaki Gorge.
  • Interact with the local people and get to know more about them. 
  • Taste the naturally beautiful landscape and the Himalayas.
  • Give a pilgrimage walk to the Muktinath.

Embark on the magnificent Annapurna trails and relish the incredible panoramic views from the pinnacle of trekking, Thorang La Pass.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic trek that has been rated highly among the ideal trekking trails in Nepal. The Annapurna Circuit Trek passes through the Marsyangdi river, rises to Thorang La Pass at 5416 meters, and descends to the North of the mountains that look like the desert at the bank of the Kaligandaki river. In recognition of the Annapurna Region's nature and multiculturalism is known as Nepal's magnificent trail. Rightly so, this trail is full of Thakali, Manangi, and Gurungs, who offer cultural uniqueness and spectacular views of the mountain ranges.

We will pass by the thrilling and heavenly high-suspension bridges that can give you chills when you look underneath. It will be another embarkment of experiences. We will get the company of several mountains ranges like Mt. Annapurna (8091m.|26545ft.), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m.|26795ft.), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6993m.|22943ft.), and several others. 

Views During Annapurna Circuit Trek

While trekking near the most attractive mountain range with being treated to the top-class landscape and natural greenery of Marsyangdi river bank and the deepest river gorge, Kaligandaki, you will get the vistas of the most thrilling views of Mt. Annapurna( 8091 meters), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 meters), and Mt. Machhapuchhre (6993 meters) and several others. The other sight from the trails will be the Kaligandaki river, Marsyangdi river, etc. 

Why trek with Nepal Nirvana Trails?

Our commitment to providing detailed information about the trek with the best guide at reasonable pricing and quality assistance makes us the best trekking companion in Nepal. We are versatile in organizing customized trips that allow you to personalize your itinerary. 

With Nepal Nirvana Trails, you will be having the trip to Annapurna Circuit Trail as one of the best experiences throughout your life. For more details and to join us on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, kindly reach us anytime.

We have some packages which you may want to take a look and want to take off from your bucket list are Everest Base Camp Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Kanchenjunga Trek, Poonhill Trek and many more.

Itinerary

Day to Day Details

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Your guide will meet you at your place and take you on a seven-eight hour public bus travel to Bhulbhule from Kathmandu. The route connecting Besishahar and Kathmandu is stunning. Before reaching Bhulbhule, we will pass a suspension bridge. From there, we will continue through the charming environment till we arrive at Ngadi town. After traveling on a dirt road via Besishahar to Bhulbhule, we will get views of Lamjung Himal, Peak 29 (NadiChuli), Manaslu, and other mountains.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 845m.|2815ft.

We will proceed on the trek to Jagat village from Bhulbhule, which might take up to 5 hours. Gurung ethnic groups are in the Jagat village. Along the way, we'll notice the V-shaped form of the Marsyangdi valley. We will continue our stroll along the river's edge as we descend the winding path beyond Syange. Additionally, we'll reach the Jagat village.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 1300m.|4265ft.

 At Jagat, the day begins with breakfast. We depart Jagat and cross a bridge to reach Tal Village. In Tal, you can notice several waterfalls forming a river next to the white sandy beaches. We continue our trip across fields of wheat, rice, and potatoes to reach Kodo, one of the biggest towns in Manang Valley. Before arriving at Dharapani, we first climb Stone Kani, which we accomplish after crossing a suspension bridge. Dharapani is the trekking end point of the Manaslu Trek.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 1860m.|6200ft.

Before we get to Chame, the administrative center of the Manang district, we go through the forest full of pine, fir, oak, and maple trees. With the majestic Annapurna IV, Lamjung Himal,  and Annapurna II rising behind us, we will be in the midst of the verdant forest. We will stop at a few little hot springs, where you can swim if you want.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2610m.|8890ft.

At the elevation of 3300 meters, Pisang is where we're heading to spend the day. As we begin our trek early in the morning, we are greeted with the stunning view of Lamjung Himal (6893m), as well as the first sunrays reaching the majestic mountain. As we get closer to Brathang Village, we can see a stunning waterfall. Along the way, one is treated to breathtaking vistas of Pisang's northeast peak and Annapurna II. We'll also traverse the Mani wall close to the bridges before entering Pisang.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3300m.|10824ft.

 Today is the day when the Annapurna Circuit trek begins. We'll travel on one of the most difficult and beautiful treks. The hike includes challenging climbs with spectacular panoramas of the Annapurna Massif, the Marshyangdi River valley, and other peaks. The environment is quite arid (much like the Tibetan plateau). Though, we can see pinewood woods in certain places. We'll see the charming towns of Ghyaru and Nawal. The views are stunning despite the tough hike. Before reaching Manang, we will stop in Braga, a historic settlement with Tibetan settlers' residential properties and one of Nepal's ancient Buddhist temples nearby.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3540m.|11612ft.

 We will have the acclimatization day in Manang, a settlement at the foot of Annapurna III that provides stunning vantage points both of Gangapurna and Annapurna. You can go on a stroll for acclimatization today at Ice Lake. The path to Ice Lake, also known as Kicho Tal locally, meanders along the northern slopes of Chulu East. Enjoy the serene and pleasant atmosphere for a while. Make a picture stop before heading back to Manang.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3540m.|11612ft.

The trek to Yak Kharka will reward us with more breathtaking views of the snow-covered Annapurna and Gangapurna. We can see the Blue sheep, yak, and Himalayan tahr herds grazing on the scraggly bushes, alpine grass, and horseback riders rushing down the dusted pathways. In some places, horses are still often used for transportation. A few stone and hardwood teahouses are there at Yak Kharka, a former yak herder camp.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4060m.|13316ft.

 Our body progressively acclimates to the high elevation when we walk at a height exceeding 4,000 meters. The path leading to Thorong Phedi winds through a desolate and remote landscape. While taking in the landscape and the peace, we will go along the trail to reach Thorong Phedi, a glacier valley surrounded on 3 sides by the snow-capped Himalayas.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4525m.|14842ft.

The trek today is hard. We'll rise early and head off as shortly as the sun comes up. The terrain is hilly but not difficult. Usually, the final 600 meters leading to the summit point (5416m.|17769ft.) of the trek are the most difficult. At the peak of Thorong La Pass, the dazzling Himalayan vistas are waiting for you. Dhaulagiri rises in all its glory. A historical kingdom called Upper Mustang may be cleared out in the distance. From the Thorong La Pass, we will go to a holy pilgrimage site Muktinath. Muktinath is a Buddhist and Hindu shrine as well as a place to seek revelation.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 5416m.|17769ft.

As we make our way from Muktinath to the stunning Kali Gandaki valley, we will traverse dry terrain. We will take in the astonishing beauty of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains as well as the unusual Tibetan architecture of Khingar and Jharkot along the route. Similarly, we'll keep strolling by apple orchards until we reach Marpha. After making our way through a hamlet of Marpha, Kokhethanti, & Ghasa, we will eventually arrive at Tatopani.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 1190m.|3904ft.

We'll depart the Kali Gandaki river and start walking in the direction of the Ghar Khola valley. The path leads across a field with terraces that are encircled by mountains. We pass through the communities of Shikha & Chitre before landing at a wonderful rhododendron grove. Rhododendrons are in shades of red or pink and are prevalent in the woodlands. We go on foot till we arrive at the charming village of Ghorepani, which is set on a ridge.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2874m.|9429ft.

We will take a 45-minute climb to the top of Poon Hill (3210 meters), where we will be able to take in the breathtaking sunrise vista over the snow-capped Himalayas. This view serves as the focal point of the whole Ghorepani Poon Hill hike, making the journey there worthwhile. After breakfast, we begin our journey back to Pokhara, which entails an entire day of descending steep slopes. Through the Banthanti, Ulleri, Birethanti, & Tikhedunga communities, we departed in the direction of Hile. We will then go to Pokhara city.

  • Breakfast and Lunch
  • 800m.|2625ft.

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Route Map

Annapurna Circuit Trek - 13 Days map

What's Included

  • Transport from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule and Muktinath to Tatopani and Birethanti to Pokhara
  • Accommodation during the trek
  • All standard three meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
  • Guides expenses - meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and equipment costs.
  • Water purification tablets for safe drinking water
  • All applicable permits
  • Seasonal fresh fruits every day
  • All government taxes, local taxes, and official expenses
  • Souvenir - Company's T-shirt, Trekking Map

What's Excluded

  • International flight airfare
  • Nepal entry visa fees 
  • Lunch, dinner, and hotel in Pokhara
  • Personal expenses such as shopping, snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, bottled or boiled water, shower, Wi-Fi, battery charging, hot showers, etc.
  • Porter optional ($300 for 1 porter) Recommended 1 porter between two trekkers
  • Private Jeep from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule - USD 200
  • Travel insurance covering emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation 
  • Tips for guide and porter (it is appreciated)

Upcoming Departures

    
Start DateWednesdayOctober 09, 2024End DateMondayOctober 21, 2024PriceGuaranteedUS $569
2 Confirm - Group Joining Available
Start DateFridayOctober 11, 2024End DateWednesdayOctober 23, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateSundayOctober 13, 2024End DateFridayOctober 25, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateTuesdayOctober 15, 2024End DateSundayOctober 27, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateThursdayOctober 17, 2024End DateTuesdayOctober 29, 2024PriceGuaranteedUS $569
1 Confirm - Group Joining Available
Start DateSaturdayOctober 19, 2024End DateThursdayOctober 31, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateMondayOctober 21, 2024End DateSaturdayNovember 02, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateTuesdayOctober 22, 2024End DateSundayNovember 03, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateWednesdayOctober 23, 2024End DateMondayNovember 04, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateThursdayOctober 24, 2024End DateTuesdayNovember 05, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateFridayOctober 25, 2024End DateWednesdayNovember 06, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateSaturdayOctober 26, 2024End DateThursdayNovember 07, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateSundayOctober 27, 2024End DateFridayNovember 08, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateMondayOctober 28, 2024End DateSaturdayNovember 09, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateTuesdayOctober 29, 2024End DateSundayNovember 10, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateWednesdayOctober 30, 2024End DateMondayNovember 11, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569
Start DateThursdayOctober 31, 2024End DateTuesdayNovember 12, 2024PriceAvailableUS $569

Useful Info

Best Time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna is open to everyone in every season though for taking full benefit of the natural beauty and mesmerizing views of the towering mountains, we recommend you to trek in the following seasons:

  1. Spring Season: Spring (March-May) is considered one of the more suitable seasons to trek in Nepal. The winter ended, and the greenery blooms again, which makes the landscape's beauty more desirable. The temperature from March to May is suitable for trekking as there won't be much heat and cold. The highest temperature in this season reaches up to 22-23 degrees celsius in the lower lands and decreases to 0 or even negative in the upper hills like Thorang La at night. 
  2. Autumn season: Autumn (Mid-September to November) is considered the best season for trekking to Annapurna Circuit Trek. Autumn is also the festive season in Nepal, so you will get more exploration of the local cultures, festivities, and celebrations like nowhere before. The temperature at day stays at 18-20 degrees celsius and decreases to 0 to even negative in the high altitudes. However, we will have balanced weather conditions, a clean environment, and equal days and nights with the journey of the beauty of the Himalayas. Annapurna, Fishtail, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri will be seen as crystal clear during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Ahead of that, you will get the chance to enjoy and interact with the local people in their festive season. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit

The permits required for the Annapurna Circuit Treks are:

  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS): NPR 2000 
  • Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP): NPR 3000

Note: Nepal Nirvana Trails will arrange every permit for you. 

Trek Difficulty

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most stunning trekking trails in the Annapurna region. It is moderate with well-paved ways in densely populated areas. You will get very few modern facilities, and the road is rugged. Thorong La Pass is one of the highest passes in the world, at an elevation of 5416 meters from sea level. It can be a bit tough while passing Thorong La, but the overall Annapurna Circuit Trek is moderate if you have the experience of trekking at high altitudes. 

Trek Route

The Annapurna Circuit trek route has several stoppage points and attractions.

Kathmandu- Chame- Pisang- Ngawal Upper Trails- Ice lake- Yak Kharka- Thorang Fedi- Thorang La Pass- Muktinath- Jomsom- Pokhara- Kathmandu. 

Travel Tip 

  • There is no facility of ATM during the trek, so you are suggested to bring some cash with you. 
  • You can charge your devices in the teahouses with a little cash. But, bringing extra batteries is strongly recommended. 
  • Travel Insurance is an important document to have during the trek. You should have travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation and medical bills.
  • The cost of tips for your guides, drivers, and porters is not included in the trip cost. Tipping is expected by guide and porter and you can also give them an appreciation of their efforts.

FAQs

  • Annapurna Circuit trek is a moderate trek in difficulty but filled with rugged roads in the remote. It can be a little bit difficult in the beginning days for inexperienced trekkers, but you can achieve the goal of completing the trek with strong willpower.

  • Annapurna Circuit Trek offers the most balanced environment and views in Spring(march- May) and Autumn(Mid-September- November). We recommend you to trek to this region in these seasons to experience the best sceneries and trekking venture.

  • Yes, you can hike to Annapurna alone. Annapurna Circuit Trek is safe, but we recommend you travel with a reliable trekking guide to make your journey hassle-free.

  • Annapurna Circuit Trek can be completed in 11 to 20 days and can also extend with the addition of side trips. 

Client Reviews

tptripadvisor
  • R
    RhysUnited KingdomJuly 09, 2024

    Annapurna Circuit in Monsoon

    My sister (23) and I (25) did the Annapurna Circuit from end of June to start of July. KP, Raj and Dev did a magnificent job of showing us exactly what top drawer Nepali hospitality looks like. From the moment we arrived in Kathmandu every logistical aspect was covered for us. We met KP on the day of arrival to run through the plans for the trip and he left no stone unturned, talking through each days plan, and the logistics of getting to our different locations.
    On the circuit, Raj (our guide) and Dev (porter) were incredible and I could not speak more highly of them. Raj was knowledgable on every part of the walk and would consistently stay upbeat and light-hearted, regularly joking with us. He also knew all other guides we met and was by far the most experienced of them all (had done over 200 Annapurna circuits!!). I felt extremely confident in his abilities and this made our trip that much more special. Dev was also a superstar, always happy and willing to chat. He also had super strength, never seen a man so strong!
    Alongside the Circuit KP organised a 2night stay in Chitwan, which was a lovely addition and helped us feel like we saw more of Nepal than just the mountains.
    Overall, I would recommend KP and his team to anyone I meet thinking of going to Nepal. The organisation, enthusiasm and general good-nature were better than any British company I’ve come across and if I come to Nepal again, I will certainly be going with Nepal nirvana.
    Thank you so much Kul and Team, you made this the most unforgettable trip!
    Rhys

    Dear Rhys, Namaste!
    Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience with us and for your kind words about Raj, Dev and Nepal Nirvana. Your satisfaction and happiness mean everything to us. Thank you once again for choosing Nepal Nirvana. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back for more unforgettable adventures in the future!
    Best Regards,
    Kp Dhital and Nepal Nirvana Trails Team.
    WhatsApp: +977 9841380469

  • N
    NiamhUnited KingdomJuly 05, 2024

    Annapurna Circuit June/July

    Myself (23) and my brother (25) completed the Annapurna Circuit trek in June/ July 2024 with Raj (our guide) and Dev (our porter). The whole trip was very well organised from start to finish by Kul, with all (our many) questions being answered quickly and in great detail!
    Our guide Raj was excellent throughout the whole trip, with superb local knowledge and always checking to make sure we were comfortable and safe, his lighthearted nature made the trip extremely fun and enjoyable - would recommend him to anyone wishing to join a trek in Nepal!
    Our porter Dev was equally as great, extremely friendly, he traversed the Annapurna circuit as if it was no problem at all!
    Thanks all for making this an unforgettable trip! I will not hesitate to recommend Nepal Nirvana Trails to anyone wishing trek around Nepal!

    Dear Niamh, Namaste!
    Thank you immensely for your heartfelt review and for entrusting us with your adventure. We're overjoyed to hear that your experience with our team, especially with Raj and Dev, made your trek unforgettable. Your kind words fuel our passion for what we do. Thank you once again for choosing Nepal Nirvana Trails. Your satisfaction is our utmost priority, and we're thrilled to have been part of your adventure. Thank you for recommending our services. Should you ever decide to embark on another journey, we'll be here to make it just as memorable.
    Best Regards,
    Kp Dhital and Nepal Nirvana Trails Team.
    WhatsApp: +977 9841380469

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