The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking experiences, renowned worldwide for its breathtaking mountain views, diverse landscapes, and cultural richness. Since its opening in 1977 A.D., the circuit has attracted trekkers seeking the ultimate Himalayan adventure.
Located within the Annapurna Conservation Area, the trail circles the Annapurna Massif, giving trekkers a chance to witness these majestic peaks from multiple angles. From lush green valleys and alpine meadows to arid high-altitude deserts, every day on this trek offers something new and unforgettable.
✨ Multiple landscapes in a single journey – from subtropical valleys to high-altitude passes.
✨ Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) – the highest point of the trek and one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal.
✨ Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210 m) – offering panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
✨ Manang (3,540 m) – a beautiful Himalayan settlement perfect for acclimatization.
✨ Gangapurna Lake, Ice Lake & Milarepa Cave – hidden gems near Manang.
✨ Kali Gandaki Gorge – the world’s deepest gorge, famous for Shaligrams (fossilized stones).
✨ Muktinath Temple (3,710 m) – a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
✨ Tatopani Hot Springs – perfect to relax after long days of trekking.
✨ Cultural encounters – experience the warm hospitality of Gurung, Lama, Thakali, and Magar communities.
Region: Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal
Highest Point: Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
Duration: 15–20 days (depending on route and acclimatization)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Best Seasons: Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Accommodation: Tea houses & lodges
Here’s a well-structured day-by-day breakdown:
| Day | Activity | Ending Elevation | Hours | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,350 m | – | – |
| 02 | Drive to Ngadi | 860 m | 8–9 hrs drive | – |
| 03 | Trek to Jagat via Bahun Danda | 1,500 m | 6–7 hrs | ~16 KM |
| 04 | Trek to Dharapani via Chamje | 1,860 m | 6–7 hrs | ~15 KM |
| 05 | Trek to Chame via Timang | 2,670 m | 6–7 hrs | ~16 KM |
| 06 | Trek to Pisang via Dikur Pokhari | 3,245 m | 5–6 hrs | 13.2 KM |
| 07 | Trek to Manang via Ghyaru & Ngawal | 3,540 m | 7–8 hrs | 17 KM |
| 08 | Acclimatization in Manang | 3,540 m | 2–6 hrs (optional) | Optional |
| 09 | Trek to Yak Kharka / Chauri Lader | 4,095 m | 5–6 hrs | 10–14 KM |
| 10 | Trek to Thorong High Camp | 4,900 m | 3–4 hrs | ~7 KM |
| 11 | Trek via Thorong La Pass → Muktinath | 3,710 m | 8–9 hrs | 16 KM |
| 12 | Drive to Tatopani (Hot Springs) | 1,200 m | – | – |
| 13 | Trek to Sikha via Ghara | 1,935 m | 4–5 hrs | ~9 KM |
| 14 | Trek to Ghorepani via Chitre | 2,850 m | 5–6 hrs | ~9 KM |
| 15 | Sunrise at Poon Hill → Trek to Nayapul → Drive to Pokhara | 800 m | 4–5 hrs trek | 12–14 KM |
| 16 | Drive back to Kathmandu | 1,350 m | 6–7 hrs drive | ~200 KM |
🔹 Tilicho Lake Trek (4,919 m): One of the highest lakes in the world.
🔹 Ice Lake (4,600 m): A high-altitude glacial lake near Manang.
🔹 Gangapurna Glacier & Lake: Perfect for a short acclimatization hike.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is not just about crossing high passes – it’s about immersing yourself in the diverse cultures of Nepal, walking through ancient villages, and feeling the raw power of the Himalayas around you. Whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, or breathtaking views, this trek is a complete Himalayan experience.
If you’re looking for a journey that combines challenge, beauty, and culture, the Annapurna Circuit should be at the top of your bucket list!
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s buzzing capital filled with ancient temples, chaotic traffic, and colorful street markets. After arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Thamel, the backpacker’s hub where trekking shops, cafés, and music fill the narrow lanes. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner while your guide briefs you about the trek.
Stay: Hotel in Kathmandu
Highlight: First glimpse of Nepalese culture
A long but scenic drive along winding mountain roads, past terraced rice fields and roaring rivers, leads you to Besisahar. From here, a bumpy jeep ride takes you deeper into the hills, finally reaching Syange, a small village with a beautiful waterfall backdrop.
Stay: Teahouse in Syange
Highlight: First sight of mountain valleys & waterfalls
Today the trek officially begins! The trail winds through lush forests, crossing suspension bridges and small farming villages. You’ll climb steadily as the landscape changes from tropical greenery to pine forests. The day ends at Dharapani, a Tibetan-influenced village with stone houses.
Walking: 6–7 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Dharapani
Highlight: First experience of Annapurna’s trekking trail atmosphere
The trail now enters the Manang district, home of Tibetan Buddhist culture. You’ll notice colorful prayer flags, monasteries, and mani walls (stone carvings) along the way. The landscape grows more alpine, with snowy peaks appearing in the distance. The day ends at Chame, the district headquarters with hot springs nearby.
Walking: 5–6 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Chame
Highlight: First big views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal
The trek follows the Marshyangdi River, passing through dramatic gorges and pine forests. You’ll start to feel the crisp mountain air as you enter higher altitudes. The small village of Pisang sits against a backdrop of jagged cliffs and towering peaks.
Walking: 5–6 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Pisang
Highlight: Stunning view of Pisang Peak
Today’s trek is a cultural and scenic highlight. There are two routes — the lower trail through Humde and Braga, or the upper trail via Ghyaru and Ngawal, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Manang is a lively mountain town surrounded by majestic Annapurna peaks.
Walking: 6–7 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Manang
Highlight: Rich Tibetan culture, monasteries, and Annapurna III views
A rest day to adapt to the high altitude. Explore Braga Monastery, hike to Gangapurna Lake, or climb a viewpoint for spectacular Annapurna views. Enjoy local Tibetan-style food and soak in the unique Himalayan culture.
Stay: Teahouse in Manang
Highlight: Side hikes & cultural immersion
The trail gradually climbs out of the valley, passing yak pastures and alpine meadows. The air is thinner, and the villages smaller. Yak Kharka, meaning “Yak pasture,” lives up to its name, with grazing yaks dotting the hillside.
Walking: 4–5 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Yak Kharka
Highlight: Transition from lush valleys to stark alpine landscapes
A short but challenging day as you trek towards the base of the mighty Thorong La Pass. The terrain is rocky, and the pace slower due to altitude. Spend the night at Thorong Phedi, a cluster of lodges nestled beneath towering cliffs.
Walking: 4–5 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Thorong Phedi
Highlight: Anticipation for the big pass crossing
The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Start before dawn to climb to Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The sunrise over the Himalayas is unforgettable. After celebrating at the pass with prayer flags, descend long and steep trails to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
Walking: 8–9 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Muktinath
Highlight: Standing at Thorong La Pass – a lifetime achievement!
After visiting Muktinath Temple, known for its eternal flame and 108 water spouts, trek down to Kagbeni. This medieval village feels frozen in time, with mud-brick houses, narrow alleys, and views of the Upper Mustang region.
Walking: 4–5 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Kagbeni
Highlight: Ancient village atmosphere
Follow the windy Kali Gandaki River valley to Marpha, famous for its apple orchards and apple brandy. The whitewashed houses, stone-paved lanes, and quiet courtyards make it one of the most beautiful villages on the circuit.
Walking: 6–7 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Marpha
Highlight: Taste fresh apple pie and brandy!
The trail descends through the world’s deepest gorge – the Kali Gandaki Gorge. The scenery shifts dramatically to green forests, waterfalls, and subtropical vegetation. Arrive at Ghasa, a quiet village with warm hospitality.
Walking: 6–7 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Ghasa
Highlight: Kali Gandaki gorge and lush greenery
A long descent to Tatopani, a village famous for its natural hot springs. After days of trekking, nothing feels better than soaking in a hot pool overlooking the river valley.
Walking: 6–7 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Tatopani
Highlight: Relaxing in the hot springs
Climb through terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and traditional Magar villages. You’ll reach Ghorepani, known for its breathtaking viewpoint of Poon Hill.
Walking: 7–8 hrs
Stay: Teahouse in Ghorepani
Highlight: Magical rhododendron forests
Wake up before dawn for the hike to Poon Hill, one of Nepal’s best viewpoints. Watch the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges — a golden glow over the Himalayas you’ll never forget. After breakfast, trek down to Nayapul, then drive to Pokhara, a lakeside paradise.
Walking: 6 hrs + 1.5 hr drive
Stay: Hotel in Pokhara
Highlight: Sunrise at Poon Hill 🌄
✨ This is the complete, descriptive 16-day Annapurna Circuit itinerary — blending nature, culture, and adventure.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking experiences. Offering an incredible blend of landscapes, cultures, and adventure, this trek promises a journey like no other. From arid deserts to lush valleys and high alpine passes, trekkers experience a wide variety of terrains, all within a single trail. Challenging yet rewarding, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that leaves you with unforgettable memories.
Here’s why this trek should be on your bucket list.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek provides a 360-degree view of the Annapurna Range, allowing trekkers to witness peaks such as Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre from multiple perspectives. The trek passes through numerous traditional villages, letting you experience the heart of the Annapurna region. Along the way, you traverse diverse ecological zones inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, from lush subtropical forests to high alpine landscapes.
One of the unique aspects of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is its flexibility. You can customize your itinerary by adding side treks such as Tilicho Lake or Poon Hill. Some itineraries even combine the Annapurna Base Camp Trek for a more comprehensive adventure. This flexibility allows you to tailor your trek according to your fitness level, interests, and the kind of adventure you seek.
The trek is not just about mountains—it’s about people too. Along the way, you will encounter diverse communities with rich cultural traditions:
Besisahar & lower regions: Predominantly Gurung communities.
Manang & higher elevations: Manangis with Tibetan roots.
Staying in local teahouses, interacting with villagers, and experiencing their traditions offers a glimpse into Nepal’s vibrant cultural fabric.
The Annapurna Circuit is considered a moderately challenging trek, with the highest point at Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). Key challenges include:
High altitude: Risk of altitude sickness increases above 3,500 meters.
Long walking hours: Trekking requires physical endurance and stamina.
Weather unpredictability: Sudden weather changes are common at higher elevations.
Dusty lower trails: Dirt roads in the lower sections may hinder breathing and reduce the wilderness experience.
Despite these challenges, the trek rewards you with stunning views and a profound sense of achievement.
Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), one of the highest lakes in Nepal, can be added as a side trek. Starting from Manang, trekkers detour through Khangsar to reach Tilicho Lake Base Camp. This adds 2–3 extra days but serves as an excellent acclimatization opportunity before crossing Thorong La Pass. The turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake, surrounded by mountains, make the extra effort worthwhile.
The trek is accessible year-round, but each season offers different experiences:
Moderate temperatures (15–20°C) and clear skies.
Blooming rhododendron forests.
Ideal for mountain views and trekking comfort.
Temperatures can exceed 28°C in lower regions.
Trails may be slippery due to heavy rainfall.
Fewer trekkers; lush green landscapes.
Most popular season due to mild temperatures (~20°C) and clear skies.
Festivals like Dashain and Tihar bring cultural vibrancy.
Early bookings recommended for teahouses.
Freezing temperatures above 3,000 m.
Fewer trekkers, allowing solitude.
Higher passes like Thorong La can be dangerous in poor weather.
To trek legally, you must obtain two permits:
| Permit | Cost (Foreigners) | Cost (SAARC Nationals) | Where to Obtain |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area) | NPR 3,000 (~USD 22) | NPR 1,000 (~USD 8) | Nepal Tourism Board or Park Entry |
| TIMS Card | NPR 2,000 (~USD 15) | NPR 1,000 (~USD 8) | Nepal Tourism Board or TAAN office |
Children under 10 are exempt, and the TIMS card is optional post-COVID.
A typical 16-day Annapurna Circuit Trek package starts at USD 965 for solo trekkers. Group treks are more affordable, e.g., USD 665 per person for five trekkers. Prices vary depending on accommodation, transportation, guides, and extra days.
| Item | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Permits | $16–$37 |
| Guide (per day) | $20–$30 |
| Accommodation (per night) | $5–$15 |
| Meals (per day) | $15–$25 |
| Transportation | $40–$80 |
| Total (16 days) | $750–$1,300 |
While packing depends on season and personal preference, essential items include:
Clothing: Fleece jacket, down jacket, trekking pants, thermal layers, gloves, hat.
Footwear: Trekking boots, camp shoes, trekking socks.
Gear: Trekking poles, water bottles, headlamp, camera, power bank, lightweight backpack.
Sleeping gear: Sleeping bag (-15°C rated), liner.
Toiletries & Snacks: Toothbrush, soap, wet wipes, energy bars, nuts.
Documents: Passport, ACAP & TIMS permits, cash.
| Feature | Annapurna Circuit | Manaslu Circuit | Everest Three Passes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Altitude | 5,416 m | 5,106 m | 5,545 m |
| Duration | 15-21 days | 14-18 days | 18-22 days |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Challenging | Strenuous |
| Crowd Level | Moderate | Less crowded | Low |
| Best Views | Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Kali Gandaki | Manaslu, Ganesh Himal | Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam |
The Annapurna Circuit is moderate and accessible, offering cultural immersion, affordability, and flexibility—ideal for both solo trekkers and groups.
To minimize altitude sickness:
Spend at least one day at Manang (3,540 m) for acclimatization.
Take side hikes to higher elevations during rest days (Gangapurna Lake, Milarepa Cave, Ice Lake).
Follow the principle: “Climb High, Sleep Low.”
Stay hydrated and maintain a steady pace.
The trek starts at Ngadi (860 m) and reaches Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). The total elevation gain is 4,520 m, with the steepest section occurring on the day of the pass, reinforcing the importance of acclimatization at Manang.
| Day | Starting Point | Elevation (m) | Ending Point | Elevation (m) | Elevation Gain (m) | Elevation Loss (m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kathmandu (Airport) | 1,350 | Kathmandu (Hotel) | 1,350 | 0 | 0 |
| 2 | Kathmandu | 1,350 | Ngadi | 860 | 0 | 490 |
| 3 | Bulbule | 840 | Jagat | 1,500 | 660 | 0 |
| 4 | Jagat | 1,500 | Dharapani | 1,860 | 360 | 0 |
| 5 | Dharapani | 1,860 | Chame | 2,670 | 810 | 0 |
| 6 | Chame | 2,670 | Pisang | 3,245 | 575 | 0 |
| 7 | Pisang | 3,245 | Manang | 3,540 | 295 | 0 |
| 8 | Manang (Acclimatization) | 3,540 | Manang | 3,540 | 0 | 0 |
| 9 | Manang | 3,540 | Yak Kharka / Chauri Lader | 4,095 | 555 | 0 |
| 10 | Chauri Lader | 4,095 | Thorong High Camp | 4,900 | 805 | 0 |
| 11 | Thorong Phedi | 4,450 | Muktinath (via Thorong La Pass) | 3,710 | 966 (up to pass) | 1,706 |
| 12 | Muktinath | 3,710 | Tatopani | 1,200 | 0 | 2,510 |
| 13 | Tatopani | 1,200 | Sikha | 1,935 | 735 | 0 |
| 14 | Sikha | 1,935 | Ghorepani | 2,850 | 915 | 0 |
| 15 | Ghorepani (via Poon Hill) | 2,850 | Pokhara | 800 | 360 (Poon Hill) | 2,410 |
| 16 | Pokhara | 800 | Kathmandu | 1,350 | 0 | 0 |
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The Annapurna Circuit Trek is not just a trek; it’s a journey through diverse landscapes, cultures, and unforgettable experiences. Its moderate challenge, breathtaking views, and cultural richness make it perfect for both first-time trekkers and seasoned adventurers. Whether you’re adding Tilicho Lake or simply completing the circuit, every step on this trail is a memory that lasts a lifetime.
