Annapurna Circuit Trek

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Thorong la pass in Annapurna circuit
Annapurna circuit trek
Annapurna circuit trekking
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Annapurna Conservation Area
At a Glance
Duration12 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5,416 meters
Group Size1-15
StartsKathmandu
EndsPokhara
Travel StyleTrekking, Walking
Best TimeMarch to May, Sept to Nov

Annapurna Circuit Trek has been a popular trekking destination in the Nepali Himalayas since it was opened to trekkers in 1977 AD. Due to its incredible natural prospects and unique blend of both exhilarating cultural experience and the Himalayan wilderness, this circuit trekking route is considered a gratifying Himalayan journey. If you are wondering why you should consider this trekking journey, first of all, it is the second most popular trekking destination in this beautiful Himalayan country, right after the Everest Base Camp Trek. Besides the incredible natural allurements that have made this mainstream destination popular worldwide, the cultural experience across the ancient settlement is another popular highlight trek. 

You will start your trekking adventure after Kathmandu to Jagat drive and slowly explore the highlighted region around the world’s tenth-highest peak, Mt. Annapurna, which is 8,091 meters (26,545 feet) high from the sea level. In this classical route, you will traverse across the traditional settlements of Gurung, Lama, and Thakali settlements experiencing their unique cultures and traditions. As you ascend higher, you will also get the opportunity to relish the complete wilderness of the region that is in its raw state. 

The Himalayan endangered flora and fauna of the Annapurna Conservation Area are another aspect to look upto during your adventure. You might get chances to witness the rare species protected in the conservation area, like Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, Himalayan Ghoral, Yellow-Throated Marten, Himalayan Serow, etc. Besides the natural and cultural highlights, this circuit trek also doesn’t disappoint the adrenaline junkies who are looking for a little bit of thrill. 

Gradually including and admiring the amicable Himalayan ambiance, you will also take on one of the most exhilarating Himalayan passes, Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), which reaches the trans-Himalayan zone. If you are looking for an incredible trekking adventure that you will remember forever in this mainstream route, Regal Nepal guarantees a Himalayan journey filled with wonders. We are offering an incredible trekking experience in this circuit route taking care of all your adventure needs. This is a completely guided trekking package, and we will handle all your itinerary plans during the trek. Designed by collaborating with experts in the field, this Himalayan odyssey takes you across the mainstream route of the Annapurna Circuit Trek without missing out on any highlights and maximizing the overall experience. 

What to Expect on Annapurna Circuit Trek Days?

Every day of your trekking trail brings out a unique experience and unveils a different side of the mystical Himalayas. On a typical day, you will start your trek after a healthy breakfast, following the lead of your trekking guide. You will start your trek at around 7 to 8
 AM on a normal day; however, depending on the duration you have to cover, some days you will start early or a little late. 

After walking for around 4 hours, you will then take your lunch break at a designated teahouse. Don’t worry; you will get enough breaks along the trekking trail to take a breather and enjoy the scenery. The afternoon trek after lunch is not that long; you will trek for about 2 to 3 hours to reach the resting point on that particular day. You can explore your destination and do some short hikes before it turns dark (make sure to consult your guide first).

The dinner at the teahouse will be served around 6 to 7 PM; you will have a chance to have a conversation with your group and other trekkers as the dinner is served in a large communal area. After dinner, your guide will also brief you about the adventure taking place the next, dos-donts, and some helpful tips. 

Who Can Do Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is suitable for anyone with good health and basic fitness. As trekkers don’t need any prior trekking experience and there aren’t any technical parts along the trail, pretty much anyone can take this classical trekking route. However, it is important to prepare adequately for the trip to overcome the demanding aspects of this Himalayan endeavor.

There are also no age restrictions for trekkers in this circuit trekking route; anyone who is determined to do this trek and won’t mind putting some effort into training can complete this exploration with ease. This circuit route takes you slowly across the gradually inclining route and you will get enough resting period along the route. In its trekking history, even hikers in their 60s have easily completed this circuit trekking adventure. 

What Makes This Annapurna Circuit Trek So Special?

Annapurna Circuit is the second mainstream trekking adventure in Nepal. Just right behind the number one trekking adventure, Everest Base Camp Trek, this circumnavigating journey of the tenth highest peak is a remarkable experience. But what makes this trek so special? 

The Annapurna circuit is popular for views of incredible central Himalayan peaks like  Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Nilgiri, Chulu Peak, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Thorung Peak, Lamjung Himal and other surrounding mountains. It also has fascinating natural beauty that takes you across the lush plain lands, high hills, cascading rivers and waterfalls, terraced farmlands, peaceful pastures, and even glacial moraines.

Furthermore, your trekking adventure will take you across traditional Gurung, Magar, Tamang, Thakali, Chhetri, and Brahmins, where you will get the opportunity to experience their culture and traditions. Similarly, crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) and exploring cultural sites like Muktinath Temple, Barge Monastery, and Praken Gompa, including other monasteries, are other popular prospects of this Himalayan odyssey. 

Preparation Before Trek

Although there are some aspects of this exhilarating Himalayan excursion that you need to be careful about, as they are on a mild level, you will be able to easily overcome them with a good amount of training. We recommend strength, endurance, and stamina training for a comfortable trek. 

Here are some recommended exercises that you can add to your training while making preparations for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

Strength Exercises

  • Lunge
  • Push Up
  • Leg Raise
  • Glute Bridge
  • Leg Raise
  • Pull Up
  • Bicep Curl
  • Plank
  • Deadlift
  • Squat
  • Lateral Raise
  • Overhead Press
  • Dips
  • Push Down
  • Leg Press
  • Step Up
  • Stamina Exercises
  • Jogging
  • Cycling
  • Swimming
  • Dancing
  • Kick Boxing
  • Mountain Climber
  • Jumping jack
  • High Knees
  • Rowing
  • Jumping Rope
  • Stair Climbing 

Why Us?

Regal Nepal is a government-licensed trekking and expedition company based in Nepal. We are a group of experts who have over a decade of experience in trekking and mountain expeditions in the Himalayas. With our core module to offer adventures of a lifetime and customer satisfaction, our dedicated team aspires to bring the best out of your adventures in the Himalayas. Our trek and expedition teams, who have garnished first-hand experience in the field over the years, have helped us craft the most incredible exploration prospects for a gratifying and memorable experience. 

Our exceptional team members, team leaders, guides, porters, and staff are mostly the natives of the region who understand the true essence of the Himalayas. So, we understand the cultural significance and historical background of the destinations in depth, unlike others. So, you can expect Himalayan adventures with us to be informative, engaging, immersive, soul-stirring and most of all, a sweet memory. The Annapurna Circuit Trek cost of the Regal Nepal is the best value package in the market that doesn’t fall short in quality and experience. 

Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
Day 01
Kathmandu to Jagat
Day 02
Jagat to Dharapani
Day 03
Dharapani to Chame
Day 04
Chame to Pisang
Day 05
Pisang to Manang
Day 06
Acclimatization Day (Day Trip to Praken Gompa)
Day 07
Manang to Yak Kharka
Day 08
Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Day 09
Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La
Day 10
Muktinath to Jomsom
Day 11
Jomsom to Pokhara by Public Bus
Day 12
Pokhara to Kathmandu
Tour Plan
Day 01

Jagat Altitude: 1,290 meters/ 4,232 feet
‌Altitude Loss: 110 meters/ 360 feet

You will commence this exciting Himalayan odyssey with an exhilarating drive from Kathmandu to Jagat. You will board a comfortable vehicle in the morning and follow the charming tails on the Prithvi Highway, moving along the banks of the Trishuli River and Marsyangdi River. You will make your way toward the Bhlubhule Village, situated on the banks of the Marsyandi River.

Then, continuing further in your driving trail enjoying the epic views of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu, you will pass the lush forests, terraced fields, and rural settlements to reach the charming Jagat Village. This day’s drive will take approximately 10 hours, and the drive distance is approximately 213 km. After reaching this rest stop, you will take your time enjoying the amicable Himalayan atmosphere before calling it a night. 

Day 02

Dharapani Altitude: 1,830 meters/ 6,003 feet
‌Altitude Gain: 540 meters/ 1,771 feet

Your exciting trekking adventure in this circuit trek route starts from this day. After a hearty breakfast at the Jagat Village, you will move along the banks of the Marsyangdi River, enjoying the scenic natural beauty. You will first head toward the Tal Village, where you will get to see cascading waterfalls joining the river flow and sandy beaches at the bank of the river.

Moving further in your circuit route, you will then walk past the beautiful terraced fields of rice, barley, and potato to reach the Kodo Village, one of the largest villages in Manang Valley. From Kodo, you will cross a suspension bridge and join an ascending trail across Kani to reach Dharapani. The overall trekking distance on this day is around 15 km, and you will need to trek about 7 hours from Jagat to reach your destination. 

Day 03

Chame Altitude: 2,710 meters/ 8,891 feet
‌Altitude Gain: 880 meters/ 2,887 feet

This day’s exciting trekking trail will take you through the charming pine, oak, fir and maple tree forests alongside the bank of the Marsyangdi River. You will notice the difference in  vegetation and landscapes as you ascend gradually to higher altitudes. Following the charming trails, you will first head toward Bagarchhap Village, a beautiful village in the valley influenced by Tibetan culture and architecture.

You will continue with the ascending route to reach the Dhanaqi Village which is known for its apple orchard. This trekking route will also reward you with stunning views of the Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and other surrounding peaks. Following the banks of the Marsyangdi River, you will then trek past the Ratamamanag Village and Koto Village to reach your destination, Chame Village. 

This high-altitude village is the district headquarters of Manang. It will take you around 6 hours to complete this day’s trek, and you will walk an approximate distance of 15.5 km on this day. 
 

Day 04

Pisang Altitude: 3,300 meters/ 10,826 ft 
‌Altitude Gain: 590 meters/ 1,935 feet

After breakfast in Chame, you will begin your trek following the north bank of Marsyangdi River. Following the forested trails, you will make your way toward the Paungda Danda Rock (1,500 meters), which is considered sacred by the natives. Proceeding further, you will then reach the Bratang Village from where you will cross a bridge and move along the winding up trails through thick pine forest to reach the top of the ridge.

This day’s trek will also take you across the Dhukur Pokhari, and from the trekking route, you will be able able relish the incredible views of Chulu Peak and Pisang Peak in the northeast and Annapurna II in the south. Then, your trekking trail descends down the basin of the Manaslu Valley as you reach the Pisang Village. 

The approximate trekking distance on this day is about 13.2 km and you will walk about 5 hours to reach Pisang from Chame. 
 

Day 05

Manang Altitude: 3,540 meters/ 11,614 feet 
‌Altitude Gain: 240 meters/ 787 feet

The views of the central Himalayan peak start to get more magical as you head toward the higher elevation points from Pisang. Following the uphill route, you will first head toward the Geru Village, which will reward you with spectacular views of Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, Tilicho Peak, East Chuli, Annapurna II, III, and IV. This day’s trekking trail passes through the traditional Tibetan settlements, and you will get the opportunity to admire their unique architecture and culture.

Then, you will make your descent down to Kongde Village, and before reaching Manang, you will also visit the Braga Monastery, which is enroute. On this day’s exciting trail, you will walk for about 6 hours to cover the trekking distance of about 17 km. 
 

Day 06

Praken Gompa Altitude: 3,945 meters/ 12,942 feet
‌Altitude Gain: 405 meters/ 1,328 feet

Manang is a popular tourist spot in the Annapurna region and a strategic acclimatization destination in thisrek. As you have climbed over a significant altitude, you will take this day to relax and acclimatize to a new altitude before heading even higher. Light physical activities should be done to acclimatize properly, so you will do a morning hike to Praken Gompa, which will take about 3 hours. 

You can spend the rest of the day exploring other popular highlights of the region. The Gangapurna Lake on the other side of the valley and the Chongar View Point from where you can catch the breathtaking views of Annapurna, Tilicho, Chulu, Pisang and other incredible peaks. Himalayan Rescue Association Office, which is located in Braka Village, is also another popular highlight of Manang, where you can learn more about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), its symptoms and prevention. 
 

Day 07

‌Yak Kharka Altitude: 4,110 meters/ 13,484 feet
‌Altitude Gain: 165 meters/ 541 feet

After proper acclimatization at Manang, you will continue following your ascending trail. You will first cross a mountain stream to reach the Tenki Village, which has breathtaking central Himalayan vistas on its backdrop. Leaving the Marsyangdi Valley behind on this day, you will enter the Jar Sang Khola Valley to the north. As you ascend to the alpine zone on this day, the terrain is less vegetated, and you will be exposed to the high wind of the mountain.

Moving along the yak pastures, you will also walk past the juniper forest to reach the small village of Gunsan, which is popular for its houses that have flat mud roofs. During the last part, you will cross a mountain stream over a wooden bridge to reach the serene and wide meadow, Yak Kharka. This day’s trekking distance is short as you will only cover an approximate walking distance of 9.4 km, and it will take you about 4 hours to reach your destination from Manang. 
 

Day 08

Thorong Phedi Altitude: 4,600 meters/ 15,091 feet 
‌Altitude Gain: 490 meters/ 1,607 feet

This day’s trekking trail stats from the eastern side of the Jarang Khola. You will make you ascend to a small settlement on the ridge, which offers magnificent views of Chuli, Gangapurna, and Annapurna Peaks. Trekking down from the ridge, you will cross a wooden bridge over the Marsyangdi River. You will then continue trekking on the narrow stone-falling trail and walk carefully for about 20 minutes to reach Thorong Phedi. 

If you have enough energy, you can explore the Upper Phedi, also known as High Camp, which has several teahouses. The overall trekking distance on this day’s short trek is approximately 8.5 km, and it will take you about 3 hours to reach Thorong Phedi from Yakh Kharka. This region is also popular for sightseeing of the endangered Himalayan tahr, bearded vulture, and snow leopard. Thorong Phedi has also been related to the sighting of the mythical creature Griffon, which is half-lion and half-bird, it is believed that this serene region is the home of these magical beings. 
 

Day 09

Muktinath Altitude: 3,800 meters/ 12,467 feet
Thorong La Pass Altitude: 5,416 meters/ 1,7769 feet
‌Altitude Gain: 816 meters/ 2,677 feet

Today is one of the most exciting and demanding parts of your Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary. After breakfast at Thorong Phedi, you will move along the vertical trail across the High Camp and gradually make you ascend on the pass. It is cold and blustery on the exposed Himalayan pass, however, from the top of the pass, you will be able to relish the stunning vistas of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Damodar, Bhrikuti, and other magnificent peaks. 

The views of Marsyangdi Valley, Kali Gandaki Valley, and Mustang are also quite delightful from the top of this pass. After enjoying the view, you will then make your descent from the pass to the Jhong River and head toward Muktinath. This region is famous for the Muktinath Temple, which has fascinating 108 running taps, monasteries, nunneries, and an eternal flame that has been burning for over 2,000 years.

As this day’s trek is a physically demanding section of this circuit trekking adventure, it will take about 9 hours to complete this day’s trek, and you will walk about 15.6 km. 
 

Day 10

Jomsom Altitude: 2,643 meters/ 8,759 feet

‌Altitude Loss: 1,157 meters/ 3,795 feet

 

After completing the thrilling journey across one of the highest Himalayan passes in the country, you will take it easy from this day onward. You will visit the Muktinath Temple in the morning for blessing and enjoy a hearty breakfast before beginning your journey toward Jomsom. You will follow the trekking trail across the Lubra Village and walk on the newly paved road out of Muktinath to reach the Kagbeni Village, which is the gateway for the isolated Upper Mustang. 


Then, continuing with the riverbed, you will move alongside the driving trails to reach the Jomsom Bazaar. Although the total trekking distance on this day’s route is about 20.4 km, as you will follow the relatively easy and labeled ground, it will only take you about 6 hours to reach Jomsom Bazaar from Muktinath.

Day 11

Pokhara Altitude: 822 meters/ 2,696 feet

Altitude Loss: 1,821 meters/ 5,974 feet

 

This is the final day’s adventure on the mountainside, after enjoying delicious breakfast at Jomsom, you will then board a public bus headed toward Pokhara. The driving trail will take you across beautiful traditional settlements, terraced farms, and lush hills, following the trails alongside the Kali Gandaki River. You will drive past the popular highlighted points on this circuit trek route like Marpha, Tatopani, Ghorepani, and Nayapul, to reach Pokhara. 


The overall driving distance on this day is about 155 km, and it will take you about 8 hours to reach Pokhara from Jomsom.

Day 12

Kathmandu Altitude: 1,400 meters/ 4,593 feet – 8 hrs

Altitude Gain: 578 meters/ 1,896 feet

 

This is the final day of your Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary. You will take your morning to do some sightseeing around this popular tourist destination in Nepal. Then, after enjoying your breakfast at Pokhara, you will begin your drive back to Kathmandu in a comfortable vehicle. You will join the Prithvi Highway and drive past terraced farms, forested hills, and vibrant settlements at the bank of the Trishuli River to reach the capital valley.


The driving route on this day’s drive is around 200 km, and it will take about 8 hours to reach Kathmandu from Pokhara. There is also a flight option available for this route, which will take approximately 25 minutes.

Cost Details
Included
  • Trekking Permits (e.g., Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS card)
  • Accommodation (e.g., teahouses or lodges along the trekking route)
  • Meals (e.g., breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek)
  • Guide and Porter Services (e.g., experienced guide, porter to carry your gear)
  • Transportation (e.g., ground transport to/from trailhead, bus or jeep)
  • First Aid Kit (e.g., basic medical supplies provided by the guide)
  • Trekking Gear Rental (e.g., sleeping bag, down jacket—if included in the package)
  • Government Taxes and Service Charges (e.g., all applicable fees and taxes)
  • Pre/Post Trek Accommodation (e.g., hotel stays in Kathmandu or Pokhara—depending on the package)
Excluded
  • International Flights (e.g., flights to and from Nepal)
  • Nepal Visa Fees (e.g., cost of a tourist visa on arrival)
  • Travel Insurance (e.g., insurance covering high-altitude trekking)
  • Personal Expenses (e.g., food, drinks, souvenirs, Wi-Fi, hot showers, battery charging)
  • Trekking Equipment (e.g., trekking boots, poles, personal gear not rented or provided)
  • Optional Side Trips/Activities (e.g., excursions or activities beyond the trekking route)
  • Emergency Evacuation (e.g., helicopter rescue or medical evacuation fees)
  • Meals in Cities (e.g., food and drinks in Kathmandu or Pokhara, outside of the trek package)
Additional Info

Permit and Fee

Trekking permits for high-altitude adventures in Nepal are mandatory, and some regions of the country also require the TIMS Card. However, for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, just the conservation area permit will be sufficient. This will be the only permit expense of your overall Annapurna Circuit Trek cost. 

Required Permit

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ANCAP)

The Annapurna Conservation Area was established in 1985 and was later gazetted in 1992. ANCAP Permit gives you access to this projected area in the region, which is part of the circuit trekking route. The ANCAP Permit costs around US$ 27 per person during all seasons and can be easily collected from the tourism board office in Kathmandu or at Besisahar. 

Guide and Porter

Guides and porters are an integral part of the trekking industry. These helpful professionals make sure that you have a safe and comfortable experience during your Himalayan adventure. Guides take care of every detail of your journey; they lead you safely across your destination, take care of all logistic details, and enhance the experience with invaluable information. 

Similarly, porters assist you with your heavy luggage, and you will be able to travel light. Thanks to the porters assisting you with your carry-ons, you will be able to roam around more freely and have the opportunity to completely immerse in the Himalayan ambiance. 

The cost for guides is approximately US$ 30 to US$ 35 per day in Annapurna Circuit, and hiring porters costs around US$ 25 to US$ 30 per day (without including tips). 

Best Time 

You can take part in Annapurna Circuit Trek during any part of the year, depending on the experience you are looking for. However, as the off-seasons have weather challenges that can affect the experience, we recommend the peak periods like autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) for a comfortable experience. 

Autumn is preferably the best season for trekking in Nepal. Considered the number one season for treks in the Himalayas, this season has the most stable climatic conditions and pleasant temperatures. As the precipitation rate is low in this season, there are hardly any days with bad weather. So, enjoying the views of the mountain vistas under a clear atmosphere with crisp air is an unforgettable experience.

Spring is another favorable period for high-altitude trekking adventures in Nepal, including the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This season is blessed by nature, and the landscapes in the country are covered with lush greenery. The blooming rhododendron flowers and other dotted wildflowers will fill your everyday trekking journey with their sweet aroma.

Annapurna Temperature in Autumn Season: 4°C to 17°C on average (can drop upto -5°C at higher altitudes)

Annapurna Temperature in Spring Season: 4°C to 20°C on average (can drop upto -8°C at higher altitudes)

Equipment

The Annapurna Circuit takes trekkers across different climatic zones, from tropical (below 1,000 meters) to trans-Himalayan (over 5,000 meters). So, it is important to pack the right layer of clothes suitable for different climatic zones. Similarly, carrying helpful equipment will help you stay comfortable during your journey on the mountain. Personal hygiene products are also another necessity that will help you maintain your sanitary during your trek.

Packing List for Annapurna Circuit

  • Sun hat
  • Beanie or insulated hat
  • Headscarf
  • Neck gaiter, or cowl
  • Moisture-wicking inner layers
  • T-shirt (half and full)
  • Thermal
  • Sweater
  • Breathable lightweight jacket
  • Rainproof outer layer
  • Warm insulated jacket
  • Down jacket (for alpine zones)
  • Comfortable hiking short
  • Lightweight pants or trousers
  • Woolen or insulated touser
  • Undergarments
  • Gloves and socks (different layers)
  • Trekking boot
  • Sports or trainer shoes
  • Slippers or sandals
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Sunglass (UV protection)
  • Trekking pole
  • Sleeping bag
  • Binoculars
  • Camera
  • Guidebook, map, and GPS
  • Headlamp
  • Powerbank

Travel Insurance

For the general travel insurance that has coverage upto 3,000 meters, you can get the package at around US$ 30 to US$ 50. For slightly advanced packages that have coverage upto 6,000 meters, the price can range somewhere between US$ 100 to US$ 150.

If your travel insurance also has helicopter rescue coverage, then the cost of the insurance can easily cross the US$ 1,000 threshold. The age factors are another major component that determines the price of travel. For instance, if the price of a general insurance package is US$ 150 for trekkers between the ages of 1 to 39 years, the same package can cost upto US$ 300 for the trekkers in their 60s. 

Altitude Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) in this circuit trek is one of the challenging aspects of the journey, which trekkers need to be mindful of. This trekking adventure takes you across some of the major elevation points in the Annapurna region, including climbing on one of the highest Himalayan passes. You will begin your trekking journey from Jagat (1,290 meters) and reach the highest altitude section of the route, Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters).

The overall altitude gain in this circuit trek route is approximately around 4,126 meters (13,536 feet). So, following the appropriate acclimatization process is important to enjoy a safe and comfortable journey. 

FAQs


The best time is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) for clear weather and beautiful views