Annapurna Circuit Trek

18 Days

Annapurna Circuit is the most popular trekking destination, with high passes standing over 5400 meters above sea level. Here, the travel package, Annapurna Circuit Trek, is an 18-day trekking journey in Nepal that combines spirituality and adventure in the shadow of the majestic Annapurna massif.

The circuit tour sets up brilliant difficulties for those who give much room to adventure, thrill, and the knowledge that it develops within the soul about nature, people, culture, and values. For this reason, going on a trek to Annapurna Circuit is a pure experience of self-discovery within.

Itinerary

Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. As you land in the valley, you will immediately notice the smell of ancient monuments, sculptures, artistic temples, and magnificent art.

If you come by air, our staff will wait for you outside of the airport terminal. He/she stands there by your nameplate and the company name. They will greet and warmly receive you. Then they will support you with transportation to transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.

Take a rest and gather the energy to walk on the trails. Also, if you have some personal gear to buy, you can go shopping in Thamel in the evening. You will spend the night in a hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel

Meal: Breakfast (Included)

After breakfast at the hotel, the guide will pick you up for a drive to Besisahar. We drive to the location by private vehicle along the route of the Prithvi Highway.

During your drive, the Trishuli River will accompany you for hours. Then the pleasing beauty of hills, mountains, farmland, bridges, fruit sellers, and quiet villages will be there with you during the other hours of driving. After 6-7 hours of driving, we will reach Besisahar.

From Besisahar, we head to Jagat, the beginning point of our Annapurna Circuit Trek. Jagat is a beautiful place nestled between the lofty peaks of Annapurna and Manaslu. We take around 8–9 hours to reach Jagat from Kathmandu, covering a distance of 185 km approx.

When we arrive at our destination, our guide will take us to your guesthouse. Freshen up, make yourself comfortable and collect energy for trekking. Getting excited for the days to come, we will spend our nights there with a cozy, warm sleep.

Approximate driving distance: 185 km

Walking time: 8–9 hours

Accommodation: local guesthouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

Today, our journey will pass through forests, streams, and small trickling waterfalls along the Marshyangdi River. Walking for an hour with the rhythm of nature, we soon reach Chyamche at 1310 meters. Then, the trail progresses uphill for around 2 hours to reach Tal (meaning "a lake") at a height of 1700 m.

Tal is the first village in the Manang district on our journey. Here, you will get a feeling of being at the center of the Himalayas. As a result, we spend some time taking in the surrounding scenery while eating delicious local fare.

Then, we continue our trek to Dharapani at a height of 1960 m. The route passes through impressive stone staircases and wide valleys and takes two and a half hours to reach our last stop for today. For today, we will stay at the guest house in Dharapani and spend the night there.

Approximate walking distance: 12 km

Walking time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation: local guesthouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

After a local morning meal, we resume our Annapurna Circuit Trek route. Tie up your shoelaces and get ready for a long trekking day. Today, we cover 17 km of the journey and climb over 700 m of altitude.

We pass through beautiful villages such as Bagarchhap, Danakyu, Timang, Thanchok, and Koto. Get along with the presence of subtropical forests, arid landscapes, bizarre rock formations, and majestic panoramas of the great Himalayas.

First, we hike for 2 hours to reach Timang at an altitude of 2750 m. Enjoy the beauty of nature as we pass through the Marshyangdi river valley. From Timang, we walk for 1 hour and 40 minutes to Koto, at a height of 2600 m.

Finally, with outstanding views of Mt. Manaslu (8156m) and Ngadi Chuli (also known as Peak 29), we reach Chame in about an hour. Chame is the administrative headquarters of Manang District, rising at an altitude of 2670 m. We relax and enjoy our food in the guesthouse and spend the night there.

Approximate walking distance: 14 km

Walking time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation: local guesthouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

Today's major highlights are the huge apple orchard, Paungda Danda rock, majestic mountain vistas, prayer wheels, and deep pine forests.

First, the day begins in a village, past prayer wheels into the forest route. We hike under the Lamjung Himal along the vertical rocks of the Marsyandi valley near the Paunda Danda Rock. The rock towers over 1500 m. Locals refer to it as the "Gateway to Heaven."

Following these breathtaking views, we set out on a four-hour hike to lower Pisang. The route is simple and easy compared to other days. Then, traveling through the pine forest, we go to Upper Pisang. We take some rest, enjoy the views, and walk back and stay at the guesthouse. Spend the night at the lodge under the beautiful peaks.

Approximate walking distance: 10–13 km

Walking time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation: local guesthouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

The entire Annapurna Circuit trekking route we will walk today is decorated with natural and cultural heritage. First, we move to Ghyaru at an altitude of 3,730 m. It takes around 2 hours. As we move through, you can feel the influence of the Tibetans and Buddhists. We pass through green forests, and beautiful mani walls with stone tablets inscribed with mantras.

After that, we trek to Ngawal, which takes us around 1 hour and 35 minutes. The path climbs upward at a much steadier incline. From there, we tumble down to the valley, crossing the forest for 2 hours to Braga. We will spend some time in Braga. There are stupas and a beautiful monastery. After we explore Braga, we walk for half an hour to reach Manang, our last point for today.

Today, there's the option of two routes to follow from Pisang to Manang: the southern route and the northern route. The southern trail is easier and less demanding than the northern trail.

You will choose to go in any of these ways. Also remember, our guide can use any route depending on the present situation over there. Spend the night in Manang at a comfortable local hotel.

Approximate walking distance: 12.5 km

Walking time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation: local guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

Day 7 is our acclimatization day or rest day. This is a rest day to adapt to the local changing environment. If you are interested, we will do a few days’ walks. Some possibilities include hiking to Praken Gompa. Another option is to attempt a challenging hike to Ice Lake (4500m). Also, the guide will arrange some small hikes in the afternoon.

There are many guest houses, coffee shops, hotels, and restaurants in Manang. Today, enjoy small hikes, and food, and talk to local people to get to know their lifestyle. If you want to buy some gear, you can do so as there are many small shops. Relish your day and watch the sunset from your residence in the evening.

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

From Manang, we start our journey to Yak Kharka. We pass tall trees on our way toward the alpine grass and junipers. We pass through villages to grassy meadows where horses and yaks graze.

From Manang, we reach Ghunsang, which takes around 2 hours. We enjoy views of snowy mountains, the river meandering through the valley, and a small lake.

Soon you will be ahead of the Firs and junipers. Also, there are no vehicles or village settlements, so you just have clear views of the stunning peaks all around you. During the day, you will get to know Tibetan Buddhism and its presence on the route. There are no longer any day walks for today.

So, walking slowly, we will climb to Yak Kharka (Yak Huts). It is the yak herders' place. They bring their yaks or other animals to graze in the grassy meadows. Tonight, sleep comfortably at local lodgings. Drink plenty of water at regular intervals. From today onwards, you may feel a sign of high altitude, so if you see any symptoms, explain them to your guide.

Approximate walking distance: 9 km

Walking time: 3–4 hours

Accommodation: local guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

This is another short day of trekking on the Annapurna Circuit Route. It also aids in acclimatization. First, we hike to Ledar, then to Deurali Tea House, and finally to Thorong Phedi.

We begin our journey in Yak Kharka, where we begin our journey in Yak Kharka.To Deurali Tea House, passing through Jarang Khola and similar views of mountains, bridges, grassland, and rivers. As we hike further, the scenery becomes wider and more beautiful.

After 3–4 hours of walking, we reach Thorang Phedi at an altitude of 4,600 m. "Phedi" means base in English. Thus, Thorang Phedi is the base of the Thorang La Pass, our tomorrow's goal. If you are lucky enough, we may glimpse blue sheep, snow leopards, Lammergeyers, and griffons.

Tonight, we will spend the night at a lodge.

Approximate walking distance: 6 km

Walking time: 3–4 hours

Accommodation: guesthouse or lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

Today we rise early and begin our Annapurna Circuit Trekking journey. We hike from Thorong Phedi to High Camp, then cross the two Thorong-La Passes and hike to Muktinath to spend the night. Thus, you may feel tough as you pass through strong winds in the upper region.

First, we walk to the high camp, which takes around 50 minutes. It's a kilometer of uphill walking. From the high camp, we walk to the transit point at Thorang La Pass, the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

The pass reveals views of snowy mountains extending into the Tibetan territory. At the summit, you see prayer flags and congratulatory messages. Appreciate your achievements so far and enjoy the beauty of the mountains. Take some pictures and celebrate the success with your group members.

We begin our trek to Muktinath after spending some time at the mountain pass. The route is full of snow, mud, and loose gravel. The road is very slippery in places, so keep your walk slow and balanced. We have views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and the heavily glaciated peak of Khatungkang to motivate you and keep your focus on the trails.

We arrived at Muktinath (3800 m) after five hours of walking. This is a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The major attractions of the site are the Jwalamai temple, with a spring and an eternal flame, and the 108 water spouts that pour holy water. Every year, over 1,000 disciples come to visit this place. Enjoy the religious site, and tonight we will spend our time at a hotel.
Approximate walking distance: 16 km

Walking Time: 7-9 Hours

Accommodation: hotel or lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

Today, we start our journey by passing through ancient caves and traversing through Kagbeni village in the Kali Gandaki valley. The road is gravel and dusty. From Kagbeni, we start our journey to Jomsom, which is a distance of 10 km. Jomsom is a small town in the Himalayas. There is a comprehensive school and a beautiful monastery, along with an entire row of little shops and guesthouses. The place is busy with travelers.

From Jomsom, we cross to Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is the deepest George in the world. You will pass through many authentic villages. The houses are white with wooden window shutters. Finally, we reach Marpha, the land of apples.

Approximate walking distance: 17 km

Walking time: 6-8 hours

Accommodation: hotel or lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

After an early meal, we pass through villages, rivers, open fields of yaks and riverbeds, and local goat's paths to Ghasa. Today, we continue our walk through the lush green valley, with minimal wind, no dust, and mountains to look at. We pass through the jungle with cows, goats, or yaks on the way. We will see monkeys and their babies swinging through the canopy above.

We arrive in Ghasa after six hours and spend the night there.

Walking time: 6-8 hours

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

After crossing the river and climbing over some massive boulders, we arrive in Kopchepani in 2 hours. Along the route, we visit small villages and small grasslands. As we pass through green, forested areas, we get a glimpse of the dusty road that notifies us we have reached Kopchepani.

Enjoy some of the surrounding scenery and take pictures and videos of mountains, houses clinging to the green slopes, and waterfalls. Also enjoying the view of the Rupse waterfall streaming down right underneath the dusty track, we walk downhill.

Later, we pass through more populated local villages on our way to Tatopani. It is a beautiful place with gardens, flowers in bloom, and lots of greenery.

15 km walking distance

Walking time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

We take a break here because we've been trekking nonstop for the past few days. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the place. Experience the lifestyle, tradition, and culture of the local people.

Have a small hike around the village and have fun with the children, local music, and dance. Prepare for our next day trip and spend a comfortable night at the guesthouse.

Accommodation: tea house or guesthouse

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

After a rest day, we continue our journey, crossing the river and the forest area to Ghorepani. We pass through a small farmhouse and climb stone steps at some points.

Continuing our Annapurna Circuit Trek journey with the views of the surrounding mountains, pockmarked with houses clinging to the slopes, we cross Ghara, Sikha, and Chitra villages.

As the route is long, we stop at least three times for tea or lunch. Today we have to climb some major sections of the hill. If you have any difficulties, explain them to your guide.

We arrive in Ghorepani, the busiest village on the Annapurna Circuit, after 7 hours of walking and climbing. Tonight, spend some quality time at a guest house in Ghorepani.

Walking time: 7 hours

Accommodation: Tea house

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Included)

In the early morning, we continue our classic Annapurna Circuit journey to Poonhill. This is going to be the last trip on the travel package. We will hike through different villages all along the trail, observing the local culture of the people.

This is the shortest trek, taking you to Gurung and Magar villages. The hike is easy, passing through a farm field, a forest of pine and oak, and different species of rhododendron flowers. On the entire journey, you will see panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhare, and many other peaks.

The major attraction of this trip is Poon Hill itself. Enjoy the sunrise view from Poon Hill. After watching the sunrise from Poonhill, we will then step back to Ghorepani. From there, we travel to Nangethanti, Birethanti, Ulleri, Tikhedhunga, Hile, Birethanti, and finally, Nayapul. Passing through the terraced fields and some well-maintained trails, we reach Nayapul in a few hours.

From Nayapul, we take a local bus and drive to Pokhara. After you arrive in Pokhara, you can visit the lakeside to enjoy the panoramic views of the lake, hills, and dense surrounding trees.

You'll find many excellent shops and malls around there. Have a look and do some shopping. Tonight, pack your bag and get ready to go to Kathmandu with a relaxing warm sleep at a pleasant hotel in Pokhara.

Walking Time: 7-8 Hours

Accommodation: Hotel

Meal: Breakfast (Included)

After breakfast, we drive to Kathmandu via the same route as the Prithvi Highway. Enjoy the last moments of your Annapurna Circuit Trip from the window, with views of green hills and the Trishuli River. Soon, after about 5–6 hours of driving, we arrive in Kathmandu, the starting and ending point of your classic Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Then, the guide will drop you off at your hotel. There are no other programs for today. Thus, either take some rest or visit some places in Kathmandu. You can go shopping around Thamel to buy some gifts from Nepal for your family. Tonight, recollect the trekking memories and have a good time at a magnificent hotel in Kathmandu.

Walking time: 6 hours

Accommodation: Hotel

Meal: Breakfast (Included)

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Annapurna Circuit Trek
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