Annapurna Circuit Trek - 13 Days

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At a Glance
Duration13 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeModerate
i
Maximum Altitude5416m
Group Size2+ Pax
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking
Meal(B/L/D)
AccomodationTea House accommodation in Mountain and 3 Star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Best TimeMar - May, Sep - Dec

Highlights:

  • Embark on an adventurous journey in the central mountain range of Nepal
  • Explore Kathmandu and Pokhara, the two famous tourist cities
  • Traverse two different valleys and beautiful traditional Nepali villages
  • Trek within the Annapurna Conservation Area and encircle the tenth-highest mountain in the world
  • Cross Thorong La Pass, the highest mountain pass in Nepal
  • Get a blessing in Muktinath Temple, an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists
  • Trek in various climatic zones, enjoying diverse landscapes that include lush forests, terraces, meadows, moraines, and gorges
  • Witness stunning mountain views

Annapurna Circuit is a loop in the central mountain range in Nepal. Depending on where you start and end the trek, you will walk 160 to 230 kilometers. Our Annapurna Circuit trek 13 days itinerary involves around 85 kilometers of trekking.

You will start walking from Jagat and end the trek in Muktinath. During the trek, you will traverse two different valleys, beautiful Nepali villages, cross a high mountain pass, and explore a major pilgrimage site.

The trail is within the Annapurna Conservation Area and encircles the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna. For hundreds of years, Annapurna Circuit has been famous for its adventure and natural and cultural diversity.

The trekking route is spread in various climatic zones, which allows you to see diverse landscapes in one trip. You will cross lush forests, terraces, meadows, moraines, and gorges.

Marsyangdi River and Jarsang Khola (the two river valleys) flow along the trail, connecting many sections with thrilling suspension bridges. Up to Manang village, the scenery is lush and verdant. After this point, you will enjoy barren, arid landscapes with vast meadows and rocky hills.

Even though the scenery will change with the rise in elevation, the breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains will stay consistent throughout the journey.

On the Annapurna Circuit trail, trekkers get to see mountains like Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Fishtail, Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Tukuche Peak, etc. Similarly, the Annapurna Circuit trek is also culturally very enriching.

As you pass by different villages, you will meet with many Nepali communities. The remote mountain lifestyle and the company of the locals will make your trip more memorable. Have a glimpse of their lifestyle and traditions. The trail is dotted with small temples, stupas, and monasteries.

Overall, the Annapurna Circuit trek is one of Nepal's best high-altitude, challenging treks. Crossing Thorong La Pass is the peak of adventure on this trek. As much as the Annapurna Circuit is adventurous and immersive, it is also demanding.


How to prepare for the Annapurna Circuit trek?

You can do many things to physically and mentally prepare for the Annapurna Circuit trek. Regular walks with a progressive increase in duration are highly recommended. It will build your stamina and walking habits.

If you have access to a gym, then strength training and aerobic exercise are recommended as well. It will make you strong and form discipline and balance in your body. Doing these activities will also mentally stimulate you.

You will not be afraid to push yourself during trekking. Also, take the time to arrange all the trekking essentials and research the trek. The more aware you are about the Annapurna Circuit trek, the better your experience will be.


Is this trek suitable for you?

It is a short Annapurna Circuit trek package. Mostly, this trek lasts 16 to 22 days. However, we have crafted this special itinerary for travelers bound by time and wanting to complete the trek in under two weeks.

The journey starts and ends in Kathmandu, so you do not have to worry about transportation and accommodation in the city. Good fitness is a must for the Annapurna Circuit trek, whether you follow a short or a long itinerary.

Likewise, previous high-altitude experience is also required. So, we do not recommend Annapurna Circuit for beginner trekkers unless you are confident about your fitness and endurance.

Check out our Annapurna Circuit trek 16 days, Annapurna Circuit trek 19 days, and Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek packages.

If any of these itineraries don't meet your requirements, please contact us to tailor-design your itinerary. We can also take your budget and other needs into consideration while creating the package.

Guide and porter

You will do the trek with one of our local Nepali guides and a porter. The guide and porter will accompany you throughout the trek, assuring your safety and comfort. Our guides are well-versed in the Annapurna Circuit route and will be a big asset for your trip.

We will pair you with a guide who can fluently speak your preferred language. The best thing about our guides is they are flexible, friendly, fun, and reliable. You can share your thoughts and anything you want to do during the trek.

Likewise, the porter will carry a duffel bag for you. It will take off a huge load from your back, which allows you to move freely and safely. The journey will be exciting, fun, and full of laughter with our guide and porter.


Annapurna Circuit Packing List:

Packing the right clothes, gear, and essentials is important for the trek. It is a multi-day trek in a remote area, so you must be equipped with everything you will need during the voyage. The below list will give you a rough idea of things you will need during the Annapurna Circuit trekking:

  • Underwear, trekking shirt and pants, thermal wear, dry tees
  • Down jacket, windbreaker, fleece jacket, basic clothing (4-5 pairs of each item)
  • Daypack and rain cover, backpack and rain cover, raincoat, rain pants, sleeping bag & liner, duffle bag (provided by the company),
  • Sun cap, scarf, gloves, hiking shoes, trekking boots, cotton socks, woolen socks
  • Water bottle, trekking poles, water filter, sunglasses, map, snacks, journal
  • SPF, face cream, soap, shampoo, hand wash, toilet paper, wet wipes, lip balm, sanitizer, comb, sunglasses, toothbrush & paste, etc
  • Spray for sprain, band-aid, bandage, electoral powder, antiseptic cream, paracetamol, antifungal cream,  insect repellent, etc
  • Camera, spare batteries, Universal adapter, charger, power bank, torch
  • Permits, identity card, passport, visa, travel insurance, passport-size photos

Why should you do the Annapurna Circuit trek with Trekking Guide Team Adventure?

We are one of the reputable Nepali trekking agencies based in Kathmandu. Our experience exceeds more than 13 years in the travel and tour industry of Nepal.

With our professional team, who have been catering to foreigners in Nepal for over a decade, you can expect reliability, trust, and reasonable prices from us.

Trekking in the Himalayas requires discipline, commitment, and strong support. We offer all these factors. Not only that, but our team goes above and beyond to make each trip a lifetime voyage in Nepal for our guests.

Whether you are a solo traveler or trekking in a group with your loved ones, join us for a safe, short Annapurna Circuit trek. Additionally, our Annapurna Circuit trek 13 days cost is the most reasonable in the market.

Bookings are open for 2025 and 2026 departures. You can make both early and last-minute Annapurna Circuit Trek bookings with us.


Itinerary
Tour PlanExpand All

We will pick you up from the Tribhuvan International Airport on your arrival day. Our team will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel in Thamel. We will use a private vehicle for the commute.

The remaining day is free. You will meet with your guide and attend a short trek briefing by him. Then, spend some time buying trekking essentials and packing your duffel bag. Before returning to the hotel, explore the bustling streets of Thamel.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,600 ftMeals: Welcome DinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Start the day early with a big breakfast. After that, get ready to leave the hotel and drive to Jagat. We will use a comfortable, spacious vehicle for the drive. The highway follows beautiful rolling lush hills and offers stunning views of rivers, terraces, hills, and waterfalls. The road gets bumpy from Dumre onwards. Likewise, Besisahar onward, you will follow a narrow, uneven road to Jagat.

Max Altitude: 1,290 m/4,232 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 213 km/132.3 miles

You will start trekking on this day. The trail goes along rugged hillsides and passes by small settlements and forested hills. You will pass by a small village called Bagarchhap and walk through a pine, rhododendron, and fir forest to Danakyu. You can see a breathtaking view of Mt. Manaslu and Peak 29 from this village.

Max Altitude: 2,300 m/7,546 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 12 km/7.4 miles

Continue walking following the Dudh Khola River. Soon, you will start ascending via lush forests. The trail goes along the Marsyangdi River. You can see beautiful views of waterfalls and terraced fields on the way. Likewise, the views of Mt. Annapurna II and Mt. Manaslu along the trail are superb.

Max Altitude: 2,740 m/8,989 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 10.4 km/6.5 miles

The trail ascends along a steep, narrow track. You will reach the Paungda Danda, a huge 1,500-meter rock rising from the Marsyangdi River and a famous landmark. From here, the trail gradually descends to the Manang Valley floor. The final part of the walk involves trekking uphill to Upper Pisang. Enjoy wonderful views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak.

Max Altitude: 3,115 m/10,200 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 13.2 km/8.2 miles

Leaving Upper Pisang, you will trek to Manang village. You will follow the upper route via Geru, which is much more scenic than the lower route. Today, you will see spectacular views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Manaslu, Hiunchuli, etc, during trekking. Also, visit an ancient monastery called Barga Monastery.

Max Altitude: 3,540 m/11,300 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 17 km/10.6 miles

From Manang to Ledar, the trail is much steeper and rocky. You will ascend above the treeline. The trail comes out of the Marsyangdi Valley and enters the Jarsang Khola Valley. Follow an uphill trail and cross a few meadows. Arrive at a small settlement called Gunsan and cross a river. The trail takes you to Yak Kharka and steeply ascends to Ledar.

Max Altitude: 4,200 m/13,779 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 9.1 km/5.6 miles

Today, you will reach the lap of Thorong La Pass. The trail between Ledar and Thorong Phedi is steep, narrow, and rocky. Enjoy vast landscapes and stunning mountains on the way. You can also ascend to the High Camp for the night stay.

Max Altitude: 4,525 m/14,525 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 4 HoursDistance: 6.9 km/4.2 miles

On this day, you will cross the Thorong La Pass, the highest mountain pass in Nepal. Start ascending from Thorong Phedi early in the morning. You have to cross the pass before the late morning hours to avoid strong winds.

The climb will be challenging because of the steep trail. Upon reaching the top of the pass, you can see a breathtaking mountain panorama. From the pass, descend and continue walking along a grassy slope. Cross a landslide debris and walk to Muktinath to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 5,416 m/17,756 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 8-9 hoursDistance: 15.6 km/9.6 miles

Spend the morning visiting the Muktinath Temple and explore its surroundings. After that, you will start driving to Tatopani. Follow the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, and gradually descend.

Enjoy beautiful landscapes and mountain views along the way. Pass by lovely villages and see wonderful apple and orange orchards. In Tatopani, you can enjoy natural hot springs by paying a few bucks.

Max Altitude: 1,200 m/3,940 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 113 km/70 miles

Today, you will drive back to Pokhara. It will be a long drive from Tatopani to Pokhara. The first few hours of the ride will be bumpy but very scenic. It will be a thrilling ride alongside uneven cliffs. Pass by small villages on the way as you descend to Pokhara. The evening is free in the city. Explore the Phewa Lake and Lakeside Market.

Max Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ftMeals: Breakfast, LunchAccommodation: HotelDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 192 km/119 miles

Today, you will drive back to Kathmandu. It will be a scenic highway. The highway is the same after Dumre. Lush rolling hills, rivers, terraces, and waterfalls will be your view of the day. The guide will drop you off at the hotel upon reaching Kathmandu. The evening is free. Shop and explore.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ftMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 205 km/127 miles

You will fly back to your home today. Our team will drop you at the airport on time for your international flight. Be ready on time to leave the hotel and double-check it before leaving.

Meals: Breakfast only
Route Map
Annapurna Circuit Trek - 13 Days
Cost Details
Included
  • Hotel in Pokhara 3-star bed & breakfast 1 night at Splendid view twin sharing basis.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu 2 nights at Nivas Boutique Home.
  • Your daily meal (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek as per itinerary.
  • One experience english speaking trekking guide & one porter for each two tourist. If you are only 1, it is not including porter in our package it is additional cost you have to pay extra.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Jagat by private land cruiser & Muktinath to Tatopani by local sharing bus, Tatopani to Pokhara by local sharing bus, Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
  • Annapurna Conservation Permit.
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System. (TIMS)
  • Insurance for guide & porters.
  • All accommodation during the trek available lodge/tea houses. (run by Nepali families)
  • Airport-Hotel-Airport transfer.
  • Our service charge.
  • Muktinath to Tatopani to Pokhara by local sharing Bus.
  • Welcome dinner typical Nepali cultural dance program.
Excluded
  • Nepal visa which is open arrival in Kathmandu per person $30 USD.
  • Personal equipment for trekking: sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking shoes, gloves, sunscreen, sun glass, hat. Trekking stick, some pair socks, hiking shirt, hiking pant.
  • Personal insurance for travel to Nepal covers helicopter rescue, accidents.
  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara per item $3-7 USD choose from menu.
  • Emergency rescue evacuation.
  • Tipping (Tips) for guide & porter according to your main interest.
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. (Tea, coffee, mineral water, hot water, soup)
  • Sweet things like chocolate and desert.
  • Hot shower and laundry during the trekking $2 USD.
  • Personal expenses, personal hygiene.
  • Laundry, internet call, phone
  • All that are not mentioned in cost include.
  • Wi-Fi, internet, phone calls, battery charging.
Add-ons & Options
  • Extra Nighht Accommodation: If you plan to arrive early or depart late please make sure you make extra hotel arrangement.You can mail us at info@nepalguidetrekking.com It is available by adding extra cost.
     
  • Extra Programs: If you want extra programs like taking a flight Kathmandu to Pokhara  to Kathmandu and want travel  by private a car from Kathmandu to Pokhara or 2 night/ 3 days Chitwan  Jungle safari package or 1 Day River Rafting or 1 Day hiking in Kathmandu valley Please contact us on What's App 977-9851229400. It is available by adding extra cost. We will organize it as per your wish and requirement. 
     
  • Porter: For solo traveller porter is not included. It will be available in additonal cost USD 200
     
  • Single Supplementary:   On our holidays tour/trek packages, rooms or tents are provided in twin sharing basis. Thus, single room supplement charge will be imposed to client who does not have another tour participant to share room/tent with according to your trip. When you are traveling alone, single supplementary charge must be paid.
     
  • Upgrade the transportation to flight: You can upgrade your bus ride to flight at a minimal cost. It will provide you with extra time in the city to explore and rest.
Dates & Availability
StartsDecember 18, 2024
EndsDecember 30, 2024
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$999
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StartsDecember 20, 2024
EndsJanuary 01, 2025
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US$999
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StartsDecember 20, 2024
EndsJanuary 01, 2025
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$999
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StartsDecember 24, 2024
EndsJanuary 05, 2025
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$999
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StartsDecember 26, 2024
EndsJanuary 07, 2025
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$999
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StartsDecember 28, 2024
EndsJanuary 09, 2025
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$999
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StartsDecember 31, 2024
EndsJanuary 12, 2025
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$999
Book Now

We have everyday departure. We will organize this trek as per your time schedule. 

Additional Info

Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permit

TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits are required for this trek. The permits are included in the package cost. We will obtain the permits on your behalf once you send us your details.

  • TIMS Card cost: NPR 2,000 per person
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit cost: NPR 3,000 per person

Annapurna Circuit trek 13 Days Difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit trek 13 days is challenging. This trek is for experienced trekkers who have done treks like EBC, ABC, Langtang Valley, etc previously. To shorten the itinerary, we have removed acclimatization days in Manang.

From Jagat, you will gradually ascend to Thorong La Pass, which will provide you ample time to acclimate. Still, it is important that trekkers who are exposed to high altitude join this trek. Talking about the Annapurna Circuit terrain is offbeat.

The trail ascends and descends through forested hills and river valleys. You need good health, strength, stamina, and endurance to complete the trek. A few sections are steep and rocky as well. Every day walking will be around six hours.

Crossing the Thorong La Pass takes the longest because you will ascend to the top of the pass and descend to Muktinath on the same day. The trek ends in Muktinath, and you will spend two days driving back to Pokhara.

More than half of the ride will be in the mountains, so get ready for some additional thrill.

Altitude sickness and how to avoid it

High-altitude treks have the risk of altitude sickness. It happens when your body is not used to high altitude. The symptoms include headache, difficulty in breathing, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, etc.

Trekkers have to be careful during the trek and do not recklessly gain elevation and rush. Suffering from these symptoms will only hinder your journey and make it further demanding.

Therefore, acclimatization is a very important factor in having a safe and satisfying trekking experience in the Himalayas. Take your time while trekking, and listen to your body. Enjoy the journey and nature. Keep yourself hydrated and maintain your pace.

Accommodation and food during the trek

Accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit trek 13 days is basic mountain lodges. Trekkers spend nights in these lodges, which are simple but comfortable and cozy. After a long day of walking, you will find these simple establishments that are nothing less than heaven.

Rooms are usually shared between two trekkers. However, we will book single rooms if you are a solo trekker. In some villages at the upper elevation, single rooms are unavailable, so you may have to pay a few extra bucks.

Toilets are common everywhere. Both Western-style toilets and squat toilets are also available. You have to pack all the toilets for the journey, including toilet paper, soap, etc. You will also need a sleeping bag for the trek.

Services like WiFi, hot showers, and charging are available in many villages at additional cost. The network remains unreliable and not available as the elation rises. A power bank or spare batteries are recommended as a backup.

Likewise, for meals, you will get dal bhat, thukpa, momo, noodles, burgers, pizza, pasta, porridge, fried rice, stew, curries, soups, French fries, mashed potatoes, etc.

For breakfast, there are options like toast, eggs, sausages, cornflakes, oatmeal, muesli, pancakes, etc. Different kinds of teas and coffee are also available, along with boiled drinking water.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is required for the Annapurna Circuit trek. Foreign trekkers are not allowed to do this trek without helicopter evacuation coverage.

There are risks of injuries, falling ill, bad weather, natural disaster, etc in the Himalayas. With helicopter evacuation coverage, we can rescue on time in case of any emergency.

The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit trekking in Nepal

Picking the right time for trekking in the Himalayas is crucial for a safe and satisfying experience. Especially treks like Annapurna Circuit must be done at the right time for the best adventure.

March to May and September to November are the ideal time for Annapurna Circuit trekking. The weather tends to be stable in these months with a moderate climate, clear sky, and bearable cold.

*Note: The Himalayas are cold throughout the year.

Due to poor weather conditions, June to August and December to February are off time for the Annapurna Circuit trek. The trials are empty, and the price of accommodation is low.

However, the weather challenges are very high. Crossing Thorong La pass is much more strenuous, and there is also a high risk of landslides in monsoon.


FAQs

The Annapurna Circuit trek usually lasts 13 to 22 days, depending upon the itinerary you are following. We have different Annapurna Circuit trek packages that are 13 days, 16 days, 18 days, 19 days, etc, long. We have crafted these itineraries combining different destinations and keeping time frames in mind.

The Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. It is a very high-altitude trek that involves steep climbing and 6 hours of walking every day. Unlike the beginner-friendly trekking packages, the Annapurna Circuit trek requires previous trekking experience and strong fitness.

You can do the Annapurna Circuit trek 13 days with us at just USD 1,050 per person. Additionally, we are offering a special price for this package that allows you to do this trek at just USD 999 per person. A life-changing trek like this under USD 1000 is a bargain that you shouldn't miss.

The biking trail above Manang village is very challenging. We can arrange an Annapurna Circuit biking trip for you, but you have to be a professional biker with a strong physique and stamina.

You have to pack proper warm clothes if you want to do the Annapurna Circuit trek in the winter season. You may also need to use crampons to cross the pass as per the route condition.

 

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most scenic trekking routes in Nepal. The trail starts from the subtropical/temperate zone and ascends to a barren alpine zone. You will see diverse landscapes and mountain vistas throughout the way.

From lush valleys, beautiful rivers, cascading waterfalls, and verdant hills to meadows, glacier moraines, and rocky peaks, the landscapes will be incredible.

The Annapurna Circuit is home to several Nepali communities. You will see their lifestyle and practices. Listen to their stories and get to know them closely.

Likewise, there are temples, stupas, and monasteries along the trail. Braga Monastery and Muktinath Temple are the two main religious places on this trek route. Both have great importance for the locals.

There is no wildlife spotting on the Annapurna Circuit trek route. You may get to see a variety of birds, butterflies, and insects, though.

Instead of flying from Jomsom to Pokhara, you can drive. Our Annapurna Circuit trek 13 days itinerary includes a drive from Muktinath Temple to Tatopani to Pokhara.

Up to Manang village, there is road construction. After this village, walking on foot is compulsory till Muktinath Temple. Then, from Muktinath, you can trek or drive according to your itinerary.

Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is safe for solo female travelers. You can do a private trek with us that allows you to trek with a professional guide and porter, but there will be no one else in the group. Our in-field crew is very respectful, friendly, and reliable.

Yes, you can combine the Annapurna Circuit trek with the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It allows you to complete a famous trekking route in one trip. For more information, get in touch with us. 

Some of the best side hikes on the Annapurna Circuit trek are mentioned below:

  • Hike to Ice Lake
  • Hike to Tilicho Lake
  • Extend the trek to Upper Mustang
  • Extend the trek to beautiful Marpha village

Above Manng village, you will be trekking off the grid. The network is not reliable, so it is better not to have any expectations. In the lower village, you will get both WiFi and mobile networks.

Expert Consultation