Classic Annapurna Curcuit Trek

Altitude: 1,400 meters

Duration: Arrival day

After arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, you start your trip through Nepal’s marvels. Your initial encounter will be with the guide who will provide hotel transfer service straight to the populus center of Kathmandu. 

There is no physical activity on this inaugural day of your expedition, you’ll get time to relax alongside getting accustomed to the fresh surroundings. Many historical temples, stupas and palaces holding ancient history decorate Kathmandu Valley. 

Adjusting your time you can have a tour to the Monkey Temple at Swayambhunath, explore the active shopping area of Thamel containing various stores and lively cafes. This early day connects you with emblematic aspects of Nepali culture and cultural vitality which creates an ideal opening to start your trek. 
Today, you’ll meet your fellow trek members , who will review the itinerary alongside equipment checking and permits review for clarifications and verifying readiness of all systems.

Altitude: 1,400 meters

Duration: Full day

The second day serves specifically for trek preparation. 

After finishing Breakfast you will spend the rest of the day finishing the preparation. Our Local guide will help you prepare any items needed to be shopped for trekking supplies, securing proper hiking clothes and boots together with requisite hiking equipment. 

The active marketplaces of Nepal offer plenty of opportunity to visit local stores for gear and grabbing trekking essential supplies. The necessary paperwork requirements will also be checked today, like the TIMs and ACAP permits.

You will have leisure time in the afternoon when you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu like the Boudhanath Stupa and historic Patan Durbar Square. These sites deliver valuable perspectives about Nepal’s ancient spiritual beliefs along with their architectural achievements. 

The pre-trek briefing session starts in the evening. This will include discussions about safety regulations and strategies for acclimatization together with what you should expect throughout the trek. You are urged to voice any questions that arise. And so, we conclude day-2 of the trek.

Altitude: Start at 1,400 meters, end at 1,960 meters

Elevation Gain: +560 metres

Duration: 7-8 hours by jeep/bus

Our journey toward Annapurna Circuit Trek starts officially as we embark on a Dharapani-bound road trip from Kathmandu on day three. 

The route from Kathmandu to Dharapani requires 7 to 8 hours of travel duration. The drive presents majestic vistas along the way. The district slowly transforms from urbanied Kathmandu into seemingly rural fields that slope toward rivers and communities of varying sizes. 

Before entering the Himalayan foothills you will make a stop in Besisahar, serving as the Lamjung district administration center. From there a rough route extends and guides us to Dharapani for our overnight stay. 
At the junction of Marsyangdi and Suli Khola rivers, Dharapani stands as a tiny tranquil village revealing breathtaking mountain landscapes. This location sets the base for upcoming wonders of nature along with cultural exploration lying ahead. We can now conclude Day 3 by resting up our body to tackle tomorrow’s Hike.

Altitude: Start at 1,960 meters, end at 2,670 meters

Trek distance: 13 km

Elevation gain: +710 meters

Duration: 5-6 hours

Today marks the beginning of our trek and your initial trail walk remains a relatively moderate one. Walking from Dharapani to Chame covers 13 kilometers which takes 5-6 hours to finish. 

The path moves up gradually leading you through towns with beautiful scenery and dense pine woods as well as magnificent waterfalls around. Walking across multiple suspension bridges, you get to enjoy the sound of rushing rivers as you climb uphill. 

The path leads us through attractive terrain as we witness the land shift from sub-tropical forests to more alpine-like environments. The sight of the Annapurna Massif with enclosing peaks improves in clarity by now. 

You will find yourself exactly at 2,670 meters when you reach Chame. Chame stands as the administrative center of Manang district where you find traditional stone houses beside Tibetan-style architectural buildings. 

The village provides excellent rest facilities with its peaceful atmosphere that offers breathtaking skyline views of Annapurna II and other stunning peaks. Arriving at a local teahouse, we will spend the night and fuel up our energy here as we conclude our Day 4.

Altitude: Start at 2,670 meters, end at 3,300 meters

Trek distance: 17 km

Elevation gain: +630 meters

Duration: 5-6 hours

Day 5 takes hikers following the Annapurna Circuit trail, gradually climbing from Chame to Pisang. The 17 kilometer distance of the trail is typically to be  traversed within 5-6 hours. 

The stretch of today’s trek features a smooth ascent which provides exceptional mountain views as the Annapurna range appears with Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal with the beautiful Pisang Peak. 

After departing from Chame the path leads into a forest area dominated by pine trees blending with fir and rhododendrons. You will find alpine meadows and pastures replacing the forest during your forward trek where yaks and other herd animals embrace. 

The setting grows more dramatic once the high peaks start to appear in the horizon. The terrain follows the Marsyangdi River which descends from the high Himalayas while we are rewarded with continuous talking of the river and multiple waterfall views.

Climbing higher you will encounter the villages Koto and Dhukur Pokhari, where we can observe the daily life of local residents residing there. The Gurung and Tibetan Buddhist communities known and respected for their traditions and Buddhist faith along with hospitality are the main groups who live in these towns. 

At 3,300 meters above sea level you will reach Pisang where you can admire breathtaking views of nearby peaks. You will find traditional Tibetan-style houses here serving as an essential stopping point for travelers during their journey. 
We can leisurely visit the local gompa (monastery) before spending our evening sitting peacefully in a teahouse concluding our Day 5 and  preparing for the trek ahead.

Altitude: Start at 3,300 meters, end at 3,540 meters

Trek distance: 10 km

Elevation gain: +240 meters

Duration: 4-5 hours

From Pisang to Manang you will trek 10 kilometers through attractive scenery for our trek of Day 6. 

The journey from Pisang to Manang will require 4-5 hours of walking time and will lead you toward higher altitudes in the Annapurna region through steady slopes. When leaving Pisang you can choose to either walk via Hongde or upper trials of Geru for your continued walk.

The upper trail requires higher physical effort which teases us with sights of the exceptional Annapurna range containing Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and dominating Annapurna IV. You will have an opportunity to see traditional Tibetan-style buildings and prayer flags when we traverse the villages of Geru and Braga on this path. 

This path leads us past a dry steppe environment where little vegetation grows while exposing us to progressively barren surroundings. The altitude becomes heavier as our ascent continues and thus we will need to walk at a controlled pace in order to prevent altitude sickness.

We will finally reach the village of Manang at an elevation of around 3,540 meters. 

The large settlement of Manang functions as the main commercial center and cultural hub for travelers of the area. The community dwellers include Tibetan Buddhists and other local ethnicities and maintains several monasteries as well as gompas. 

Manang offers a combination of guesthouses together with shops and medical services which creates the perfect environment for acclimatization. You will spend this evening wandering through the village consuming hot meals while experiencing the spectacular mountain scenery.

And so, we conclude our Day 6 of the trek.

Altitude: 3,540 meters

Duration: Full day

Your body needs Day 7 in Manang. This allows adaptation to the elevation of 3,540 meters above sea level. 

High-altitude trekkers must prioritize acclimatization as this process lets our bodies adapt slowly to lower oxygen levels thus lowering the risk of altitude sickness. Rest day activities should center around nourishment and hydration along with enough rest, overexerting yourself during acclimation is strongly advised against.

Our guide can involve you in short exploratory hikes if you’d like. Travelers commonly choose to hike either towards Gangapurna Lake with its splendid turquoise water or visit Bhraka Village which faces the Marsyangdi River. . 

The short walks to Gangapurna Lake and Bhraka Village deliver prime positions to witness the snowy peaks of Annapurna I and Annapurna III along with Gangapurna. You can observe diverse local species during these short explorations and meet the local community members at the same time.

Manang Monastery stands as an essential cultural landmark for tourists to see and learn about Tibetan Buddhist local traditions and potential religious activities of Monks here. At this sanctuary of peace one can experience both educational value and spiritual meditation. 

Finishing The short hikes, we will go back to your guesthouse accommodation where we will fill up our belly then rest, marking the end of our Day 7.

Altitude: Start at 3,540 meters, end at 4,050 meters

Trek distance: 9 km

Elevation gain: +510 meters

Duration: 4-5 hours

For our Annapurna Circuit adventure on Day 8, we will hike from Manang to Yak Kharka, a small settlement at 4,050 metres.

The 9-kilometer trek to Yak Kharka consumes 4-5 hours of ascending time through mountains and beautiful views. Leaving Manang, the scenery turns into a rough wilderness with sparse tree coverage and widespread exposure of alpine meadows.

We will cross various small remote communities that host herders maintaining their yaks and sheep pastures. Yak Kharka serves as a small rustic base camp providing residents with the opportunity for physical recovery from possible altitude sickness and rest. 

Reaching higher, Thinner air conditions are expected so we ought to take regular breathing stops to prevent tiredness.

This is a seemingly challenging trail presenting moderate challenges due to the elevated altitude. The view of Annapurna and Gangapurna become more breathtaking when reaching Yak Kharka, a peaceful area. 

Once at Yak Kharka, we will find our lodge and relax, adjusting to high-altitude conditions and eating simple nourishing food at our teahouse. 

We will mark an end to Day 8 and spend our night here in Yak Kharka while we go for a more demanding trek to Thorong Phedi the next day. 

Altitude: Start at 4,050 meters, end at 4,450 meters

Trek distance: 6 km

Elevation gain: +400 meters 

Duration: 3-4 hours

Today, we will walk 6 kilometers for 3 to 4 hours from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi, a small community at the base of the enormous Thorong La Pass. The trek is comparatively short, covering 6 kilometers, but this is not any less difficult because of the demanding altitude conditions and difficult terrain featuring rough and treeless alpine meadows.

From this corridor you can observe panoramic views of the mountainous terrain and valley while strolling beneath the upper Marsyangdi River water. 

Severe dryness dominates this part of the environment which reveals glimpses of the untamed mountains above. You can spot yak herders along with their animals who graze on the minimal grass here while we ascend the mountain slope.

Thorong Phedi is our last stop before starting the challenging climb to Thorong La.This is an important stop for resting and preparing for the ahead trek. 

Thorong Phedi fulfills basic needs with its handful of teahouses and guesthouses which accommodate the passing trekkers. The elevation level of 4,450 meters, reaching here requires constant breaks and plenty of water consumption in order to deal with the thin atmosphere here.

We will conclude our Day 9 acclimatizing here and preparing the Trek ahead.

Altitude: Start at 4,450 meters, pass at 5,416 meters, end at 3,800 meters

Trek distance: 15 km

Elevation gain: +966 meters

Duration: 8-9 hours

Among all days of the Annapurna Circuit today ranks as both the highest challenge and most fulfilling experience. Your journey from Thorong Phedi begins at dawn before reaching the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters which claims its position as the tallest point across the Annapurna Circuit route. 

The demanding ascent covers 15 kilometers through 8 to 9 hours of walking time based on your speed and meteorological factors. 

From the start the adventure requires difficult climbing which intensifies the higher you go. Your journey will go up through multiple switchbacks after passing through snowy ground leading to the summit of the pass. 

Thin altitude conditions will manifest so keep your speed controlled to prevent sickness from occurring. Early trekkers begin their ascent at 4 AM to pass Thorong La pass before afternoon winds arrive because blowing winds make the conditions harsher.

Standing at the highest point of Thorong La Pass you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges in front of you. 

Achieving the summit height at the circuit produces an immense feeling of satisfaction. You will start descending towards Muktinath after spending adequate time at the site to view the panoramas and capture photos.

The steep trail leads you toward Muktinath which holds religious importance to both Hindu and Buddhist worshippers. Muktinath presents 108 water spouts together with an eternal flame that remains burning perpetually due to natural gas emissions. 
Many religious travelers visit this sacred site because they perform rituals in its holy water while bathing in the waters. After completing the ascent to Muktinath at 3,800 meters you can unwind amid its stunning elevation before experiencing a personal sense of accomplishment.

Altitude: Start at 3,800 meters, end at 2,670 meters

Trek distance: 18 km

Elevation loss: -1,130 meters

Duration: 6-7 hours

On Day 11 your journey leads you down to Marpha village where peaceful landscape meets at 2,670 meters elevation. 

The total distance is 18 kilometers and walking time amounts to 6-7 hours during this day that mostly descends offering a welcome respite after climbing Thorong La.

The path beckons hikers along several scenic areas as you depart Muktinath because the beginning stretches across a dry rocky surface. Along your path you encounter multiple small villages along with the farming terraces that appear before the agricultural fields and orchards. 

The landscape shifts from alpine desert to a more verdant environment when descending through the valley while the valley itself expands and shows greater agricultural fertility.

Marpha holds its place among the most revered apple-producing areas in Nepal known fondly as “Apple Capital“. Marpha exhibits Tibetan-inspired buildings featuring white-washed structures together with confined corridors running between them. 

Fresh apple-based products such as cider, apple pie and apple brandy are available while the locals offer a friendly reception to visitors as Marpha remains an ideal stop for tasting these specialties. 

The calm environment of Marpha offers visitors an excellent resting place after completing their challenging trek.

Altitude: Start at 2,670 meters, end at 2,010 meters

Trek distance: 15 km

Elevation loss: -660 meters

Duration: 5-6 hours

You will depart Marpha on Day 12 to descend towards Ghasa during a 5-6 hour journey that spans 15 kilometers. Your descent follows the Kali Gandaki River that has cut the deep Kali Gandaki Valley through the mountainous juncture of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.

The terrain shows remarkable shifts because the vegetation grows increasingly abundant during the descent. The main direction of the trail goes downhill which provides warmer air through your descent in elevation During the hiking path you will encounter multiple tiny communities that allow views of both regional traditions and cultivation patterns. 

The trail crosses paths with rivers together with terraced fields along with rocky outcrops. . Traversing through this part of the trail will reveal mind-blowing mountain views that feature Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I among the peaks.

The village of Ghasa exists at 2010 meters above sea level. The community enjoys both tranquility and mountain panorama views that make it famous for travelers. Trekkers can use this spot as their ideal stopover for rest and recovery before continuing their journey. 

Ghasa provides visitors with peaceful surroundings to meet locals and think about everything one has experienced on their journey. Throughout your trekking day you can unwind by staying in one of the tea houses that offer both meal services and rest before planning your upcoming trek.

Altitude: Start at 2,010 meters, end at 1,190 meters

Trek distance: 13 km

Elevation loss: -820 meters

Duration: 5-6 hours

Tatopani stands as a famous village destination because of its legendary hot spring waters after the hike from Ghasa on Day 13. The total distance of this trail measures 13 kilometers over a 5 to 6 hour period. The majority of this trekking day descends through different landscapes that shift from rigorous hillsides to verdant forest areas and river valleys.

You will travel downhill through heavy woodlands that lead past small towns and farming terraces where you can see common local agricultural methods. As elevation decreases the surrounding area transforms into tropical regions. 

The path crosses various suspension bridges that span across the Kali Gandaki River which maintains the title of deepest gorge in the planet. This area shows a special mix of landforms that lets you see magnificent mountain views.

Tatopani rests at 1,190 meters providing visitors perfect resting grounds after their trek. Soaking tired muscles is an ideal activity in Tatopani since this village offers hot springs that serve the perfect rest following an exhausting trek. 

Trekkers can find the therapeutic hot springs situated beside the river at this location. You can find a limited number of guesthouses and teahouses in the village for resting and dining before proceeding further.

Altitude: 1,190 meters

Duration: Full day

Day 14 provides trekkers with rest to recover from their previous active trekking that began after arriving. Visitors to Tatopani area find the natural hot springs as the main attraction on this particular day. The hot springs in Tatopani serve as a renowned therapeutic resource which helps you unwind and minimize any discomforts resulting from trekking in the past days.

Tatopani serves as a tranquil small village which offers calm surroundings for tired trekkers to recover their energy. The valley’s natural charm can be experienced through both observing local city scenes and river walks or passive riverbank observation. 

Taking this needed rest day helps your body adapt to higher altitudes because it provides time to recuperate before continuing the rest of the trek.
Visitors can find comfort in hot spring waters to achieve mental relaxation or personal reflection before starting the trek. Visitors find an inviting environment in Tatopani because it holds charming locals and standard facilities. Ready for upcoming tougher parts of the journey you can spend positive time here both mentally and physiologically.

Altitude: Start at 1,190 meters, end at 2,850 meters

Trek distance: 17 km

Elevation gain: +1,660 meters

Duration: 7-8 hours

Proceed to the 15th day of your journey when you depart from Tatopani to reach Ghorepani through a 17-kilometer distance. The climbing route of today spans 1,660 meters in elevation and presents a challenging ascent for hikers. 

You will Elf up a consistent route which takes you through forests with a subtropical climate and sloping agricultural lands and local housing areas.

The terrain changes throughout the ascent since it transforms from Tatopani’s tropical ecosystem into a climate suitable for both oak and rhododendron forests. The path reveals marvelous vistas of mountainous terrain and valleys with the temperature lowering visibly near Ghorepani.

Making the journey demands 7-8 hours while the gradual slope reveals beautiful scenic views throughout the trail. Ghorepani reaches 2,850 meters in elevation which serves as a central stopping point for travelers following Annapurna Circuit. 
Tourists frequently choose to stay at this village since Poon Hill represents one of the top viewing spots within the Annapurna region. Spend your day at Ghorepani relaxing in the local tea houses while eating a hot meal while preparing for the early Poon Hill hike.

Altitude: Start at 2,850 meters, end at 820 meters

Trek distance: 15 km

Elevation loss: -2,030 meters

Duration: 5-6 hours of trekking, followed by a drive to Pokhara (2 hours)

The last day of your Annapurna Circuit trek spans from Ghorepani to Banthati and demands approximately 5-6 hours for the total 15 km distance. 

A largely descent route starts from the highest point of the trip before leading hikers through rhododendron forests while passing terraced fields and traditional villages. During your descent you will encounter the villages Shikha and Chitre which will show you the daily activities of the local community.

Sinking to lower altitudes allows the temperatures to rise steadily while you witness both vegetation and landscape transforming. During your descent back to lower areas you will use this time to consider your Annapurna adventure and admire the landscapes one last time.

After reaching Banthati you need to drive for two hours to arrive in Pokhara. The route between Banthati and Pokhara showcases remarkable scenery because it travels along river banks while passing through terraced fields with magnificent peaks extending throughout the distance. 

The route from Banthati will lead to Pokhara which presents itself as a lakeside town highly regarded for its peaceful charm and peaceful lifestyle.
People choose Pokhara for rest and recovery immediately after finishing the Annapurna Circuit. The lake-shore watch at Phewa Lake and urban exploration along with Peace Pagoda and International Mountain Museum visits make up your itinerary. The town of Pokhara creates an ideal space to finish your trekking journey due to its tranquil environment.

Altitude: Start at 820 meters (Pokhara), end at 1,400 meters (Kathmandu)

Trek Distance: 200 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

You will have a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu on Day 17. The total distance of 200 kilometers can be traveled by bus in approximately 6-7 hours but road conditions and traffic could lead to variable travel times. 

The return journey toward the capital takes you through a scenic path which shows off remarkable views of hills and valleys and flowing rivers while you travel from Pokhara.

The beautiful journey from Pokhara heads toward terraced farmland before reaching both Nepali traditional villages and dense woods. Along the way the road follows the riverbanks while showcasing distant views of Himalayan mountain peaks. 

Your distance to Kathmandu determines how urbanized the city environment becomes. During the final phase of travel the Kathmandu Valley reveals a combination of rolling hills and expanding Kathmandu city skyline.

The drop-off destination in Kathmandu during your arrival will either be your hotel accommodation or a specified area within the city. Your arrival time at Kathmandu allows you the option to either get some proper rest or explore the nearby attractions. 

This day serves as a transition, from the serene atmosphere of Pokhara to the vibrant pulse of Kathmandu.

Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 meters)

Duration: Varies based on flight schedule

You will depart Nepal on Day 18 following your astounding tour along the Annapurna Circuit path. Airport staff will transport you to Tribhuvan International Airport in order to begin your flight home based on your departure window. Durbar Square to see captivating Newar architecture combined with city activity.

Before leaving Thamel served as an ideal shopping district for finding tour memorabilia to take home. Among the local items you can purchase for souvenir purposes are handicrafts and Pashmina shawls alongside prayer flags in Thamel.

Your thoughts should focus on the outstanding experiences you have gathered throughout the Annapurna Circuit while settling into your return flight. Your trek into Nepal has finished but you will forever keep the lasting images of its magnificent scenery paired with its multi-cultural society alongside its welcoming population. 

Travel safely while hoping to visit Nepal once again to embark on another adventurous journey.