- 13 Days
- 160km
- 6-7 hrs
- Spring/Autumn
- Public/Private Vehicle
- Tea Houses/ Lodges
- Moderate
- 5416m
Overview
Want to embark on an adventurous journey surrounded by tall mountains in remote lands? High altitude trekking is the best thing for travel enthusiasts like you. With nothing on your minds other than the beautiful views of the mountains surrounding you, your days will be filled with bliss. Adventurous climbs combined with the beauty of nature, is that not the true paradise?
What better place to visit for such an adventurous beautiful journey other than the Annapurna Region. Also, to satisfy the wanderlust in you, we have brought the Annapurna Circuit Trek 13 days providing you the best opportunity to explore the Annapurna Region.
Following our Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary, you will get the best of the Annapurna Region in a total of 13 days. Your 13 days Annapurna Circuit Trek will be made safe and adventurous with our trek itinerary.
As per our itinerary, you will leave Kathmandu with a scenic drive to Besisahar. Your trek starts from Besisahar as you walk down the remote trekking trails to Bhulbhule. Your trek then leads you to the beautiful village of Chyamje through many waterfalls and suspension bridges.
From Chyamje, you will trek uphill to Bagarchhap where you will get the chance to experience the beautiful culture and traditions of the locals infused with the Tibetan culture. Walking further down the trekking trails, you will reach the beautiful valley of Chame with great views of the Lamjung mountains.
Crossing the Marsyangdi river following the Annapurna Circuit Trek route, you can enjoy mesmerizing views of the mountains and landscapes including the bowl-shaped rock, Paungda Danda. We will then head towards Manang and take an acclimatization day for our safety and avoid any altitude sickness.
After an acclimatization day, you will continue your trek following the Thorong La Pass trail to Ledar and finally reach Pedi or High Camp crossing the highest point of the trek. Crossing Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters altitude, you will descend to Pedi and finally reach the famous pilgrimage site at Muktinath.
From Muktinath, you will make your descent to Jomsom through the beautiful valley of Kagbeni witnessing the highest gorge in the world. You will also get a chance to experience the popular trekking destination, Tatopani where natural hot springs will rejuvenate your energy for further treks.
Our trek will now slowly come to an end as the Annapurna Circuit Trek Route leads us to Ghorepani and Poon Hill for the eye-pleasing sunrise view over the mountains. We will then head back down to Nayapul and finally drive back to Pokhara. You can enjoy sightseeing in Pokhara if you would like to. The very next day you will return to Kathmandu on a tourist bus ending our Annapurna Circuit Trek 13 days.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights
- The highest pass at 5416 meters, Thorong La Pass
- Muktinath Temple
- Natural Hot Spring, Tatopani
- Poon Hill Sunrise Viewpoint
- Diverse Culture
- Jomsom and Kagbeni
Related trips you may like:
Itinerary
After you land in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by our representative. After a short welcome program at the airport, we will drop you at your hotel. You can then settle your bags and freshen up and take some rest.
On this day you can walk around the beautiful streets of Kathmandu Valley. The streets of Kathmandu look artsy and aesthetic. Similarly, you can also visit the local markets, or try local food and snacks. You can stroll around the famous tourist places like Thamel and also visit Kathmandu Durbar Sqaure area to witness the rich history and beautiful architecture of the town.
On this day, we will meet up and discuss about the trek. We will explain about the itinerary and also note about your interest, preference so that we can arrange everything as per your request. We will help you to check if you have all essential trekking gears. Packing wisely is crucial for completing the trek successfully. If you need any additional items you can buy or rent it at Thamel. There are many shops around Thamel, where you can find good quality trekking gears. On your leisure time you can also explore beautiful places of Kathmandu. This day you will allocate your time to be well-prepared for trek.
Kathmandu Elevation: 1400 m
Dharapani Elevation: 1860 m
Drive Duration: 8 hours
On the third day you will take an adventurous and scenic drive to Dharapani from Kathmandu. We will receive you from the hotel, and you will ride in a comfortable vehicle, enjoying the beautiful views of the surroundings. There are designated stopover points where the vehicle stops for refreshments. As Nepal has a diverse topography, the scenic drive will present you with beautiful views of different places. The lush green hills, rivers, farms, local markets, towns, and village settlements are seen along the way, which makes your journey engaging. It takes around 8 hours to reach Dharapani from Kathmandu. After you arrive in Dharapani, you can head towards your lodge and take a rest.
Dharapani Elevation:1860 m
Chame Elevation: 2670 m
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
You will start trekking on the fourth day and your destination for this day is Chame. The trek begins early after a wholesome breakfast in Dharapani. On this day you will witness stunning sceneries of the Annapurna Region. You will pass through charming settlements and waterfalls along the trail. The fresh air of the tranquil forests makes the journey delightful. The section of the trail requires you to climb staircase and takes you through the narrow jungle paths. You will also cross the suspension bridge which adds the sense of thrill to your journey.
The bautiful views of the farms and Lamjung and Annapurna Peaks are seen which is fascinating. Passing through the rugged paths alongside the serene river you will reach Koto Village. You will see traditional houses in Koto village and also meet many locals. The trail from Koto to Chame is mostly gentle with slight incline sections. Soon afterward, you will arrive in Chame where you see many teahouses and stay overnight in one of them.
Chame Elevation: 2670 m
Pisang Elevation: 3300 m
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Your destination for 5th day of the journey is Pisang. After a warm and hearty breakfast in Chame you will head towards Pisang. On this day you will cross the Marsyangdi river bridge. Some sections of the trails are narrow so, but you will be rewarded with the spectacular views of the surroundings. Trekking through the beautiful forest of pine amd hemlock you will reach Bhartang. From, Bhartang you will mostly climb uphill and finally arrive in Dhukur Pokhari. You will continue the trek walking through the tranquil forest and finally reach Pisang. You will stay overnight on this day at a teahouse in Pisang.
Pisang Elevation: 3300 m
Manang Elevation: 3540 m
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours
On the 6th day of journey you will trek to Manang from Pisang. You will start the journey after a hearty breakfast at your teahouse in Pisang. The stunning views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III and Pisang peak can be seen along the trail. You will trek through the lush forest feeling the serenity of nature. You will also come across many beautiful stupas along the way. You will continue trekking while witnessing the stunning views of surroundings and finally arrive in Barga where you can visit the 900 year old monastery. Soon afterwards, you will finally arrive in beautiful Manang. Your accommodation for the night will be at a teahouse in Manang.
Day 7 will be your acclimatization day where you will hike to nearby scenic places. The main highlight on this day is hiking to a viewpoint above Manang. Acclimatization day is important during Annapurna Circuit Trek to get accustomed to the higher altitude. You should ascend carefully as some section of the trail is steep. There is a beautiful stupa above the village and the stunning views of snow-covered peaks and Gangapurna glacier can be seen from the viewpoint. After witnessing the beauty of Annapurna Region from the view point you will trek back to the village. You will also get numerous chances of cultural exploration. You can explore the Manang village and observe the unique way of life and culture of the region. You will stay overnight in Manang.
Manang Elevation: 3540 m
Yak Kharka Elevation: 4020 m
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
On the 8th day of journey you will trek to Yak Kharka from Manang. This day will be exhilarating as you will pass through the distinct landscapes, charming villages, and beautiful hills. On this day you can catch the sights of Yak grazing in the fields along the trail. You will then make your way to Ghunsang while beholding at the beautiful views of mountains. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to arrive in Ghunsang.
You will continue your trek towards Yak Kharka hiking up and down through the narrow section of trail. There are also suspension bridges along the trail which you need to cross. The stunning scenery of the mountains can be seen throughout the journey which allows you to trek while feeling the serenity of nature. After walking for 2 to 2.5 hours you will finally arrive in Yak Kharka. Upon arriving on Yak Kharka, you can heas towards your teahouse and have a warm dinner prepared by the host. The overnight stay at Yak Kharka will provide you much needed recharge.
Yak Kharka Elevation: 4020 m
Thorong Phedi Elevation: 4450 m
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Your destination for 9th day of journey is Thorong Phedi. You will ascend gradually to make it to Ledar and then continue the trek witnessing beautiful views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna and many other peaks. You will cross the suspension bridge and walk through the steep and rocky terrains. Passing through the rocky and rugged sections you will see a barren lands and stunning views of the mountains in background and finally arrive in Thorong Phedi. The trek on this day gets completed within 4 to 5 hours. You will see beautiful teahouses and lodges in the Thorong Phedi and stay overnight in one of them.
Thorong Phedi Elevation: 4450 m
Muktinath Elevation: 3800 m
Trek druation : 8 to 9 hrs
On this day you will cross the thrilling Thorong La pass to make it to Muktinath. You will start the journey early in the morning after having a delicious breakfast at your teahouse in Thorong Phedi. In initial section of the trail, you will trek through the zigzag paths for almost 1 hour. The trail is rugged so, you should trek while taking care of every step. From the top of the pass the mesmerizing views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Damodar can be seen which will elevate your sightseeing experience.
You can take your time to immerse in the serenity of nature and beautiful scenery and then continue the journey towards Muktinath. You will descend through the steep pathways initially and trek through the more gentle and flat section as you approach Muktinath. As, you arrive in Muktinath you can see small settlements and also hotels and lodges. You will stay in one of the finest lodges in Muktinath. One of the major highlights of staying in Muktinath is that you can see the mountains clearly from the balcony or windows of the hotel room. The view of pristine mountains looks surreal and seeing it right in front of eyes enhances the sightseeing experience.
Muktinath Elevation: 3800 m
Pokhara Elevation: 822 m
Drive Duration: 7 to 8 hours
On this day, you will visit Muktinath temple. Muktinath is visited by tourists as well as pilgrims. On the way to the Muktinath temple, you will see small local markets. As the place is also visited by pilgrims, you will see many of them. You need to climb the stairs to reach Muktinath Temple.
The stunning views of the mountains can be seen on the way. Muktinath is an ancient temple and it is significant for Hindus and Buddhists. The hindus usually take bath in the 108 mukti dharas (water spouts). The Buddhists consider the temple as the abode of Avalokitesvara.
After visiting the temple, you will have your breakfast, checkout from your lodge and take a drive to Pokhara. The drive to Pokhara is adventurous as well as scenic. The beautiful land and unique landscapes of Mustang Region keeps you captivated. The unique traditional houses also can be seen along the way. You will pass through scenic places like Jomsom and Lete. As it is a famous touristic place you can see many hotels and restaurants along the way. You can also stop to see the mesmerizing Rupse waterfall and take the pictures. After passing through other scenic places like Beni, Baglung, Parbat you will finally arrive in Pokhara. Your accommodation for this night will be at a hotel in Pokhara.
Pokhara Elevation: 822 m
Kathmandu Elevation: 1400 m
Drive Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Flight Duration: 25 minute
On day 12, you will either take a flight or enjoy a drive in a tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu. If you opt for a flight, then you will arrive in Kathmandu in about 25 minutes. The flight offers beautiful views of hills and mountains, which will keep you engaged throughout the journey. After you land at the airport, we will receive you from the airport and drop you at your hotel.
If you choose to travel to Kathmandu by road, then it takes about 6 to 7 hours. The stunning views of the varied landscapes will keep you immersed throughout the drive. You will witness beautiful hills, many highway settlements, and rivers along the way. The bus will stop at many places for refreshments. You will pass through beautiful places like Tanahun, Damauli, and Naubise and will finally arrive in Kathmandu.
On this day, you will be taking flight back to your home country. If you have a leisure time before the flight then you can do shopping or explore the nearby areas. We will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to international airport in a private vehicle. You will then board on the flight to your home country. The incredible Annapurna Circuit Trek might have ended but the memories and invigorating experiences you have gathered throughout the journey will always remain with you.
Cost Includes:
- Pick up and dropping transportation cost from airport to the hotel
- One night deluxe hotel stay in Pokhara with breakfast
- Standard meals throughout the trek including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation in tea houses and lodge during the trek
- Sleeping bag and down jacket provided for the trek to be returned on completion of the trek
- All ground transportations
- Tourist bus transportation from Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Professional licensed guide with great English communication skills
- A strong and reliable porter to be shared among two trekkers
- Salary, food and accommodation fees of the guide and the porter along with other staff like the cooking staff
- Monastery entry fees.
- Annapurna Circuit Trek map
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter rescue services to be paid by your travel insurance
- Insurance of the guide and porter
- Trekking permits like the Annapurna Conservation Area Entry fees and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System.) card fees
- Emergency medical supplies charges
- Government taxes and other official charges
Cost Excludes:
- Any kinds of alcoholic drinks
- Drinks or junk food
- Hot showers, charging of electronic devices
- Nepal Entry Visa fees
- International Airfare
- Sweet things like chocolate and others
- Your personal expenses.
- Extra days in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
The highest point of the Annapurna Circuit trek is the Thorong La Pass at the altitude of 5416 meters. This pass provides you with the best views of the neighboring mountains along with small villages underlying the pass.
The total days covered by the Annapurna Circuit Trek is 15 days. However, it does not mean you have to walk continuously for 15 days. There are bus rides and acclimatization days in between. The total trekking distance of Annapurna Circuit trek 15 days is approximately 160 km. The remaining of the total 260 km is made with the help of private vehicles.
The average trekking duration of the Annapurna Circuit trek is around 5-6 hours a day. This means you need good stamina for the trek.
If you are a beginner and do not have much knowledge of the trekking equipment, it is advised that you rent the equipment from the trekking company itself. It saves you a lot of money and you also get to learn about the equipment and what suits you better. This makes your purchase later a lot easier.
To prepare for the Annapurna Circuit trek, you don’t have to undergo any hardcore training programs. However, it helps if you pick up some exercises that help build your stamina like cardio. With better physical strength and stamina, you can easily complete the beautiful and adventurous trek in the Annapurna region.
A porter can carry up to 15 kgs of your luggage. But it is always advisable to carry lightweight so it is not a burden to the porter as well. The porter is shared among two trekkers so make sure to carry light.
There are no specific gear requirements for this trek as it is not technical at all. However, as we are hiking up the steep rocky trails, you should be properly prepared with trekking equipment and proper clothing. Some of the basic packing requirement for this trek are mentioned below:
Clothing:
- Lightweight T-shirts
- Full sleeve pants and shirts
- Lightweight down jacket
- Waterproof trousers and jacket
Footwear
- Trekking boots
- Hiking boots
- Spare socks
Equipment and miscellaneous
- Trekking pole
- Whistle
- Medikit
- Map
- Headlight or flashlight
In case of any emergency cases, you will be rescued by helicopter evacuation on the spot. The cost of the helicopter evacuation will be paid through your travel insurance so be sure to get your travel insurance before this trip.
The standard cost of 15 days Annapurna Circuit trek ranges from USD 950 and gets expensive as the trekking days increase.
Reaching above 4000 meters makes you more likely to catch altitude sickness. Also, lack of acclimatization is the main cause of altitude sickness. So if you are taking a proper diet and adopting proper acclimatization methods, you are less likely to get altitude sickness.
You can avoid altitude sickness by firstly taking proper acclimatization measures. Secondly your diet also highly affects your chances of getting altitude sickness so take a proper balanced diet with plenty of water. Avoid meat and alcohol to stay on the safe side.
The temperature of the Annapurna Region during your circuit trek depends completely on the time of the year you decide to embark on this adventurous journey. If you are taking this trek during the autumn season, the average temperature will be 2-3 degrees celsius and it decreases to minus temperature during the night.
As per the spring season, the average temperature of the Annapurna Region is 20 degrees celsius. However, the temperature decreases as you get higher up.
However, during the winter season, the temperature is always on a negative scale so it is very cold.
Annapurna circuit trek is of moderate level difficulty among other treks. Dhowever, the Annapurna circuit trek routes take you through narrow and steep trails, so you should be careful not to slip on the rocks.
Along with the Annapurna Circuit trek, other treks in the Annapurna Region are best taken during the Autumn and Spring season. These seasons provide you with the best views along with the most favorable weather and temperature for trekking. The stable weather conditions also make these seasons the best for trekking in the Annapurna Region.
You can choose between taking the whole 260 km trek or the 160 km trek. With the advanced trekking routes, you can drive halfway through personal vehicles. So most people start the trek with a ride to Besisahar. This makes Besisahar the starting point of your trek which provides you with the best startup for the whole trek.
If you are an experienced trekker, you can accomplish this feat. However, guides and professionals advise you not to perform this trek solo. The main reason is the Thorong La Pass. it is known to be a destination where strong winds cause complications during your trek. If you are alone with no one to call for help, it could cause you safety concerns so it is best to travel with a guide.
The required Annapurna Circuit Trek permits include the TIMS card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Entry permit. Traveling with a trekking company makes it easier for you as they will have these permits prepared for you without you having to go through the hassle.
The documents that are required for your trek along with the permits include your original passport with six months of validity along with passport pictures for each permit. Also, your Nepal Entry visa is a must. Also, you will need some cash with you for the permit fees.
Attempting the Annapurna Circuit Trek in summer is not completely impossible. During the early summer-like early June, there is less rainfall. This means you can trek without the fear of slippery roads. However, midsummer is not a good time for trekking in the Annapurna region.
You are allowed to trek Annapurna Circuit without a guide. But this requires a lot of expertise in the fields. Unlike other trekking routes, the Annapurna circuit trek route is a difficult one. This means it requires more expertise in the field of trekking skills and knowledge about the trails. Having a guide is like having a safety belt on. You can easily get help from your guide based on the best trekking routes and of course in case of any emergencies.
While tipping, you can give the porter and guide and any other staff 10 percent of their total fee as a tip.
The starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is around 180 kilometers away from Kathmandu. The drive from Kathmandu to the starting point takes roughly 7-8 hours.
If you are traveling with a trekking company, your permits and food and accommodation costs will be covered by the total trekking cost charged by the company. So, the only cash you will be needing will be for your own personal expenses. This includes buying junk food or extra drinks and hot showers, charging electrical devices, and mostly for souvenirs and stuff. So having somewhere around USD 100 would be more than enough in Nepali change.
A guide charges based on their qualifications during the trek. Typically a professional licensed guide with experience will charge around USD 50 or more per day. The guides with low-end facilities and skill charge around USD 20 per day.
A guide charges based on their qualifications during the trek. Typically a professional licensed guide with experience will charge around USD 50 or more per day. The guides with low-end facilities and skill charge around USD 20 per day.
Despite facing some difficulties during the trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary presented by Radiant Treks provides you with the best views and adventures for great memories. Your safety will be our first concern so worry not about the what-ifs.
We will make sure you have the best experience in your 15 days Annapurna Circuit Trek expedition without any complications. You can also add some more destinations in this circuit trek like the Tilicho lake visit and make a custom itinerary after discussing it with the company guide. I hope you have a great trek ahead with great memories.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Best Time
Now that you have learned about how beautiful and adventurous the Annapurna Circuit Trek is, you must be very excited. Are you wondering about what time would be best for this trek? Well, we have brought you just the information you require.
Any trek you embark on gives you the best experience only when you take the trip on the best time with all its best qualities appeasing you. Similarly, you can enjoy the Annapurna Circuit trek the best when you embark on this journey at the best time.
So when is the Annapurna Circuit Trek best time, you ask? Well, most trekkers claim that they get the best experience in this fabulous trek during Autumn and Spring seasons. Mainly during the months of September to November when the weather is not very cold or hot and the weather is mostly stable. The autumn season provides you with the best most favorable climate, weather, and temperature for your Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Also during the months of March to May is when you will experience the most beautiful views along with some exotic flora and fauna. Also with the clear skies, you get to witness the best views during this time of the glorious mountains, glaciers, and the villages below.
You could also make this trip in winter. The snow falling on the trails and the snow-capped alpine vegetation makes for a killer view. However, late December is not an idea for trekking so early to late February is the best for Annapurna Circuit trek in the winter.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty
Although being a moderately difficult trek, Annapurna circuit trek takes a total of 13 days to complete. The trek takes you to the highest altitude of 5416 meters. Some of the Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulties which may appear for beginners and those without proper preparations are listed below:
Altitude sickness
Reaching the highest altitude of 5416 meters at the Thorong La Pass, there is a high chance of you getting altitude sickness. Even with the proper acclimatization, there are chances of your body not adjusting with the high altitude so it is always better to prepare for such situations. You should carry medicines for curing altitude sickness.
Difficult trail
Another difficulty that you may face during your circuit trek is that of the difficult trail. The Annapurna circuit trek trails are narrow and steep. With this said, without proper precautions, there could be complications. You should be careful while descending rather than ascending in higher altitudes. As the altitude increases, the steeper rocks can get slippery making the trek complicated. So watch your step on the trek.
Thorong La Pass
As beautiful as the views from the Thorong La Pass may be, the height of the pass is extremely high. Apart from being at a high altitude, the pass faces strong winds after 10 am. So it is necessary to cross the pass before the strong winds kick in.
Weather Changes
As stated before, choosing the best time for the trek is extremely important. Choosing summer time for your trek can prove to be a bad decision. In summer, the rainfall causes the rocky mountains to be slippery which may result in accidents. So it is better to travel in autumn or spring. Also, the weather changes may be uncertain in higher altitudes, so be prepared for the weather changes and listen to your guides.
Food And Accommodation In Annapurna Region
You must be curious about the type of food and accommodation you will be provided during your trek. We are here with all you need to know about the food and accommodation in your Annapurna Circuit trek.
To start with, you can find many varieties of food in the city area. Your first day being in Kathmandu, you can enjoy the traditional, continental, street every kind of food you want. As the journey starts, you can still find a variety of food like pizzas, bread, noodles, etc. to some point on the trek. But the higher up you get, the more expensive these items get. Also, you will only find the traditional food of the region or Dal Bhat– steamed rice with lentils in the higher remote areas.
As for the accommodations, you will have to share a room with another trekker during your trek. You will be accommodated in tea houses or lodges during your whole trek. The teahouse will provide you with a room with a twin sharing bed and an attached bedroom. The room will be hygienic and clean. You can get hot showers if you pay extra. Also, during the off-season, you can also find private rooms for a higher price. But during peak seasons like autumn and spring, you should consider pre-booking your rooms.
Tips for Annapurna Circuit Trek
Being a moderately difficult trek, you must be overwhelmed with the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Here are some tips for all the beginners as well as experienced trekkers to help make their trek a little more comfortable and safer.
- Try to get yourself some physical training before the trek to improve your stamina for the trek
- Carry your own water bottle so you can store the water instead of buying them everywhere. Less trash and less cost.
- Don’t forget to carry water purifier pills to keep your drinking water safe for drinking.
- As the altitude gets higher, the toilets will be squat toilets. So try squatting before the trek to make yourself familiar.
- If you are worried about altitude sickness, try avoiding any alcoholic drinks and meet as you get to higher altitudes.
- Always carry your own medicines as you know your body better than anyone. Include altitude sickness medicine in them.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost
Annapurna Circuit trek cost depends on the services you are provided and the services you use. Also, the cost of the trek also depends on the number of days you decide the trek to be. Hence, the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost depends on the Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary.
The standard 13 days Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary costs USD 950 per person. This cost includes the transportation cost, food and accommodation costs and many other costs combined. Below are the detailed inclusions and exclusions in the disclosed cost.
