Annapurna Circuit Trek - 16 Days

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At a Glance
Duration16 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeModerate
i
Maximum Altitude5416m
Group Size1+ Pax
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking
MealB/L/D
AccomodationTea House accommodation in Mountain and 3 Star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Best TimeMar-May, Sep-Dec

Highlights:

  • An incredible adventurous trek in the western Himalayas of Nepal
  • Trekkers get to travel lush forests and mist-shrouded valleys, following rugged alpine forests and verdant Himalayan foothills
  • A high-altitude, challenging trek that goes over 5,400 meters
  • Explore the immense diversity of the Himalayas, ranging from sub-tropical forests to the alpine zone
  • Witness diverse landscapes and breathtaking mountain panoramas
  • Spend nights in cozy tea houses in beautiful villages where you will socialize with other fellow trekkers
  • Come across heart-warming hospitality and an extraordinary harmony of Hinduism and Buddhism
  • Explore Ice Lake and cross the Thorong La pass
  • Get blessing at Muktinath Temple and follow the Kali Gadaki gorge to Kagbeni
  • Descend via lovely apple orchards and enjoy natural hot spring in Tatopani

Overview

Explore the best of the famous Annapurna region during the Annapurna Circuit trek. It is an incredible adventurous trek in the western Himalayas of Nepal. The trekkers get to travel lush forests and mist-shrouded valleys, following rugged alpine forests and verdant Himalayan foothills. The Annapurna Circuit trek 16 days is a high-altitude, challenging trek that goes over 5,400 meters.

The Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the famous treks in Nepal among adventure enthusiasts. If you wish to challenge yourself and go beyond the classic Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp trek routes, we highly recommend the Annapurna Circuit trekking. This trek offers beautiful nature, well-established yet offbeat trails, so many side excursions, and lovely Nepali villages.

On this trek, you will explore the immense diversity of the Himalayas. From sub-tropical forests to the alpine zone, you will come across a wide variety of vegetation. The vastness of the great Himalayan range will leave you in awe. The trail is dotted with cozy tea houses, where trekkers spend the nights, have delicious meals, and socialize with other fellow trekkers.

What to expect during the Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal?

You will start the Annapurna Circuit trek from Kathmandu. Bhulbhule is the starting point of the trek. It takes around 8 to 10 hours of driving from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule. You will change the vehicle in Besisahar and follow the uneven Himalayan foothills to drive to Bhulbhule. The ride is very scenic.

The trail from Bhulbhule ascends deep into the Marsyangdi river valley and goes via dense forests and traditional Nepali villages. Spend the night in Jagat, Danakyu, and Chame before you reach Upper Pisang. On the way, you'll come across a huge 1,500-meter rock called Paungda Danda Rock.

From Upper Pisang, you will follow a gorgeous trail with phenomenal mountain views to Manang. This village is also your acclimatization point. Hike to Ice Lake and continue trekking to Thorong Phedi via Yak Kharka and Ledar. This part of the trail is above the tree line and offers rugged landscapes.

Thorong Phedi is the last settlement you will spend a night at before Thorong La pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft). The next day, follow a narrow, steep track to the top of the pass. It will take around 8 to 9 hours to cross the pass, and descend to Muktinath temple. The downhill route is also steep and navigates landslide debris.

Muktinath is an important pilgrimage site in Nepal. Get blessed here and also see the eternal flame. You can buy Shaligrams here and other precious stones. From Muktinath, you will drive to Tatopani via the Kali Gandaki river gorge. It is the deepest gorge in the world. Trekkers love to enjoy natural hot springs in Tatopani. The next day, drive from Tatopani to Pokhara. Spend a night in Pokhara and travel back to Kathmandu the following day.

Why should you do the Annapurna Circuit trekking 16 days?

The Annapurna Circuit trekking 16 days is adventurous, no doubt, but also offers a fantastic balance of Hinduism and Buddhism religions. During the trek, you will meet with many Nepali communities and see their mountain lifestyle. Get to know them closely and learn about their beliefs and culture.

The landscapes will blow your mind. You will go from lush valleys to barren hills and rocky gorges. Crossing the Thorong La pass is quite demanding. You will be pushing yourself in high altitudes and harsh environments. Therefore, the Annapurna Circuit trek package is one of the classic adventures in Nepal for challenge lovers.

Trekkers get to enjoy all the faces of nature on the Annapurna Circuit trek 15 days. Mountains like Machhapuhhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), and several others are visible throughout the trail.

Who can trek Annapurna Circuit?

The Annapurna Circuit trekking is for trekkers who have previous experience. It is a very tough trek, so the participants have to be physically and mentally fit to join it. The Annapurna Circuit is also one of the longest treks in Nepal. Therefore, if you are looking to spend a long time in nature, this trek will suit you.

You can also combine places like Ghorepani Poon Hill, Tilicho Lake, Annapurna Base Camp, or Upper Mustang into your Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary.

Contact us to curate your dream trek in Nepal. Our team will help you design the perfect trek to match your needs and budget.

How to prepare for the Annapurna Circuit trek?

Annapurna Circuit trek involves long ascents and descents on steep, rugged terrains. You will put a lot of effort into your knees and overall core during this trek. So, your knees and core strength have to be strong. Before the trek begins, train your body. Go on long walks, hikes, and exercise.

Involve cardio, like swimming, jogging, cycling, etc, in your routine to improve your cardio. At least keep 4 to 6 weeks aside to prepare for the trek. In the meantime, research about the trail as well. Pick the best season (spring or autumn) to do the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost 2024/2025:

We have the best Annapurna Circuit trek cost in the market. Our package price may differ as per the number of people in the group. The bigger the group will be, the better costing you will get per head. Our below table shows the Annapurna Circuit trek price for different group sizes:

No. of Trekkers Price Take Action
1 USD 1,150 per person Book Now
2-3 USD 1,100 per person Book Now
4-6 USD 1,050 per person Book Now
7-10 USD 1,000 per person Book Now

 


Packing for the Annapurna Circuit Trek:

You will need the following things for the Annapurna Circuit trekking:

  • Underwear, trekking shirt and pants, thermal wear, dry tees
  • Down jacket, windbreaker, fleece jacket, clothing (4-5 pairs of each item)
  • Sun cap, scarf, gloves, hiking shoes, trekking boots, cotton socks, woolen socks
  • Water bottle, trekking poles, water filte
  • 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, adapter, charger, power bank, torch
  • Permits, identity card, passport, visa, travel insurance, passport-size photos

Are you ready to embark on a life-changing trek in the Himalayas with the Trekking Guide Team Adventure?

For a safe and hassle-free Annapurna Circuit trek experience, you will need a local travel partner like us who will organize all the logistics for you. Our team will make all the reservations and obtain permits on your behalf, saving you a lot of leg work.

Likewise, you will travel with a native mountain guide and porter during the Annapurna Circuit trekking. You can trek safely with them. Our guides and porters are good in English and enhance the journey with their knowledge and companionship.

Not only that, but you will also get benefits like free airport pickups and drop-offs as per the itinerary, one complimentary dinner in Kathmandu, a t-shirt from our side, and a trek completion certificate. We have the best Annapurna Circuit trek cost in the market.


 

Itinerary
Tour PlanExpand All

Upon landing at the international airport in Kathmandu, you have to do your visa obligations. It may take 15 minutes to obtain the visa at the airport in Kathmandu if you have pre-filled the form online. After that, come out of the exit gate.

Meet our team with your nameplate waiting for you. They will welcome you and escort you to the hotel. Rest and later meet for trek briefing and preparation. 

 

Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,600 ftAccommodation: Hotel

In the morning, a tour guide will pick you up from your hotel. You will visit some tourist sites like Monkey Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Bouddhant Stupa. Get to know about Nepali culture, art, and history during the tour. After that, you will have a two to three-hour break for rest and lunch.

Later in the day, we will meet in our office. You will say hello to your mountain guide and pack a duffel bag. As the journey starts quite early the following day, do any last-minute shopping today. Pack your favorite snacks, withdraw some Nepali cash, and double-check everything.

 

Max Altitude: 760 m/2,493 ftMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 8-9 hoursDistance: 9 km/5.5 miles

Begin the day early with a big breakfast. You will leave Kathmandu and start driving, following winding hills. For the first 4-5 hours, you will enjoy a very smooth ride. Once you reach Dumre, the road gets bumpy. Drive to Besisahar and continue from here to Bhulbhule. We may change our vehicle in Besisahar. The scenery and mountain views along the way are phenomenal.

Max Altitude: 760 m/2,493 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 8-9 hoursDistance: 170 km/ 105.633 miles

The trail from Bhulbhule goes through lush forests and small villages to Jagat. Witness beautiful landscapes along the trail along with locals doing their daily chores. You will cross small bridges and come across waterfalls and streams on the way.

Max Altitude: 1,290 m/4,232 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 16 km/10 miles

Moving ahead from Jagat, you will trek along the rugged hillsides and gradually ascend to Danakyu. On the way, trek past a settlement called Bagarchhap and forests of rhododendrons, pine, and fir. The view of Mt. Manaslu and Peak 29 are superb from Danakyu.

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

From Danakyu, the trail follows the Dudh Khola and Marsyangdi rivers. The views of Annapurna II and Mt. Manaslu are fantastic. You will trek through dense forests and come across beautiful waterfalls on the way to Chame.

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

The trail follows a steep, narrow valley that leads to Paungda Danda Rock. It is a huge rock that rises 1,500 meters from the Marsyangdi River. From here, we will descend to the Manang Valley floor, enjoying lovely views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. The trail then gradually ascends to Upper Pisang village.

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

From Upper Pisang to Manang, the trail is extremely stunning. We will follow the upper route via Geru, which presents breathtaking mountain panoramas of Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, etc. As we get close to Manang, we can see a change in landscape as well as climate. On the way, visit the ancient Barga monastery.

Max Altitude: 17 km/10.6 milesMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 6 hoursDistance: 17 km/10.6 miles

We have an acclimatization day in Manang village. This rest day is crucial to avoid altitude sickness further during the journey. In the morning, we will hike to the wonderful Ice Lake, following an offbeat route. During the hike, we will get to see fantastic mountain views. After the hike, spend the remaining day in Manang, exploring the village and resting.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDuration: 4-5 hours

You will continue the trek to Yak Kharka from Manang. Cross a stream and ascend to Tenki village. The trail gradually gets out of the Marsyangdi valley and enters the Jar Sang Khola valley. You will trek in the northwest and pass by juniper forests. Reach Gunsan settlement, and from here, trek past yak pastures. Cross a small river via a wooden bridge and reach Yak Kharka. From here, you will ascend to Ledar for the night stay.

Max Altitude: 9.1 km/5.6 milesMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 9.1 km/5.6 miles

On this day, we will trek to Thorong Phedi and spend the night there. Leaving Ledar, we will ascend along a rugged, narrow trail. The trail continues to go uphill and descends to Thorong Phedi. The mountain views are surreal along the trail. This is a short trekking day, so we will get ample time to rest and recover before crossing Thorong La pass the next morning.

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

On this day, we will cross the most awaited Thorong La pass. From Thorong Phedi, we will begin trekking before the sunrises to cross the pass before the strong winds hit. The trekking route is rugged and steep. We have to be careful on the way because the trail is covered with loose boulders.

Once we reach the top of the pass, we can see numerous prayer flags. The mountain view is jaw-dropping from here. Further, we will trek down from the pass. The trail goes past a landslide-affected area and leads us to Muktinath temple. It is a pilgrimage site in Nepal.

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

In the morning, we will get a blessing at the Muktinath Temple. From here, we will start driving to Tatopani. Following the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge, we will drive past small villages on the way to Tatopani. The mountain views and landscapes are fantastic on the way. In Tatopani, you can enjoy natural hot springs.

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

You will drive back to Pokhara in a local sharing bus today. From Tatopani, it is a long, scenic drive to Pokhara. Upon reaching Pokhara, spend the remaining day resting and relaxing at the shore of the Phewa Lake. You can also boat on it. Also, explore the Lakeside Market and buy souvenirs.

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

You will return to Kathmandu on this day. From Pokhara, follow a beautiful highway to Kathmandu. The guide will drop you at your hotel. The remaining day is free. Rest and explore the vibrant streets of Thamel. Shop souvenirs and explore the local market. In the late evening, we will meet for a farewell dinner.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ftMeals: Breakfast and farewell dinnerAccommodation: 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
Route Map
Annapurna Circuit Trek - 16 Days
Cost Details
Included
  • Hotel in Kathmandu with 3 stars bed & breakfast for 3 night at Nivas Boutique Home twin sharing basis.
  • Hotel in Pokhara 3 star bed & breakfast 1 night at Splendid View twin sharing basis.
  • Your daily meal main course (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek as per itinerary.
  • One experience English speaking trekking guide & one porter for each two tourist. If you are a solo traveller, it is not including porter in our package it is additional cost you have to pay extra.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Bulbule by private land cruiser. Bulbule is the trekking starting point.
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
  • Annapurna Conservation Permit.
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS)
  • Insurance for guide & porter.
  • All accommodations during the trek available lodge/tea houses. (run by Nepali families with outside toilet).
  • Airport-Hotel-Airport transfer.
  • Our service charge.
  • Muktinath to Tatopani to Pokhara by local sharing bus.
  • Farewell 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.
  • Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fee $26.
  • Personal expenses, personal hygiene.
  • Wi-Fi, internet, phone calls, battery charging.
Add-ons & Options
  • Extra Night Accomodation: If you plan to arrive early or depart late please make sure you make extra hotel arrangement.You can mail us at [email protected] It is available by adding extra cost.
     
  • Extra Programs: If you want extra programs like taking a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu or want 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. 
     
  • 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.
     
  • Porter: For solo travellers porter is not included. If you want a porter in the trek it will be available in an additional cost of USD 200.
     
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu by 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
StartsJuly 31, 2024
EndsAugust 15, 2024
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$1150
Book Now

Departure dates are flexible, and we will arrange this trek according to your schedule.

Additional Info

Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permit:

For the Annapurna Circuit trekking, TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits are needed. Foreign trekkers cannot do this trek without these permits. The cost of both permits is covered in our package cost.

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

Best Months to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek:

The best months to do the Annapurna Circuit trek are March, April, May, September, October, and November. These months have favorable climates and weather for trekking in the Himalayas. Other months like June, July, August, December, January, and February are not a good time for the Annapurna Circuit trek because of high weather challenges.

For the optimum trekking experience, we recommend you do the Annapurna Circuit trek in the favorable months. You will get to enjoy stable weather, moderate climate, dry trails, and excellent mountain landscapes. The trekking routes are packed with seasonal vegetation and flowers, making the trails beautiful.

Annapurna Circuit trek difficulty and altitude sickness:

Annapurna Circuit trek is challenging. This trek is for individuals who have previous trekking experience and good fitness. We do not recommend the Annapurna Circuit trek to beginners who have never trekked before. On this trek, you will walk on offbeat, steep tracks. The terrain is rugged and steep.

From the trailhead to the end of the journey, you will come across many climatic zones and different trail conditions. The trek starts through lush forests, gradually ascends to meadows, and follows rocky, barren tracks to the top of the Thorong La Pass. Crossing Thorong La pass is the most challenging part of the Annapurna Circuit trek.

From here, you will trek along a steep downhill route and pass by landslide debris and rocky areas to Muktinath. Even though the walking part ends at Muktinath, you will drive long hours for three days back to back to travel back to Kathmandu. Overall, if you are in good shape and health, you can do the Annapurna Circuit trek.


Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must if you want to join the Annapurna Circuit trekking with us. Without travel insurance with helicopter evacuation, we do not allow foreign trekkers to join this trek. So, buy well-coverage travel insurance in your country for the trek. Make sure it offers evacuation from high altitude.

Food and accommodation during the trek

Food and accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit trek are simple but convenient. You do not have to camp on this trek, which significantly reduces the overall expenses. The trekking route is dotted with basic lodges and offers comfortable, clean, and safe spaces to trekkers where they can spend the night.

Even though the facilities in the lodges are bare minimum and cost extra money for charging your devices, WiFi, and hot showers, your necessities will be met. We highly recommend trekkers carry some money for these extra services because our package cost does not cover it.

For meals, there are a decent variety of dishes available. Breakfast usually includes pancakes, chapati, soups, porridge, toast, eggs, oatmeal, muesli, sandwiches, etc. For heavy meals, you will get dal bhat, fried rice curries, mashed potatoes, pasta, thukpa, noodles, momo, stew, etc.

Different types of teas and coffees are widely available. Likewise, boiled drinking water is found in every lodge. You can refill your water bottle at a very minimal cost. If you are not comfortable drinking boiled water, you can further treat it using water purification tablets.


 

FAQs

Annapurna Circuit is one of the longest treks in Nepal. It can go from 12 to 23 days. Our Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary is 16 days long. You can customize the itinerary as per your available time. In general, the distance covered during the Annapurna Circuit trek is 160 km to 230 km.

Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is difficult. It is an offbeat trek and crosses a high mountain pass above 5,000 meters. The trail has many steep uphill and downhill slopes. The journey requires lots of physical and mental effort, so the Annapurna Circuit trek is only recommended to experienced trekkers.

For the Annapurna Circuit trek, you have to be physically and mentally fit. Daily 6 hours of walking is needed, which requires good fitness. Overall, participants have to be in good health & possess decent stamina and strength, along with the determination to push themselves.

 It depends on the fitness of the beginner trekker. Usually, the Annapurna Circuit trek is not recommended to someone who is trekking for the first time because of the high altitude and offbeat terrain. However, if you are an active person, you may do the Annapurna Circuit trek. For more information, contact us.

Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is still worth doing. The recent construction of the road has only shortened the standard route. It makes the Annapurna Circuit a perfect package for trekkers looking for short, adventurous journeys. Likewise, trekkers who want to do a 2-week or longer trek can customize their itinerary accordingly.

No, you cannot see Mt. Everest from Annapurna Circuit. This trek route is located in the western Himalayas, which offers views of mountains like Annapurna, Dhulagiri, Manaslu, etc. Whereas, Mt. Everest is situated in the eastern Himalayan section of Nepal.

Yes, you can do the Annapurna Circuit trek without training if you are an active individual with good fitness. For example, if you go on frequent hikes, do regular exercise, or are involved in activities like swimming, cycling, running, etc, you may join the Annapurna Circuit trek without training.

The Annapurna Circuit trek route is offbeat and much more challenging than the Everest Base Camp. Even though the EBC trek sees high altitude, the trail is doable for beginner trekkers. However, the Annapurna Circuit route is not recommended for beginners.

 The best months to do the Annapurna Circuit trek are March, April, May, September, October, and November. These months stand as the top trekking months for the Annapurna Circuit because of the stable weather and mild climate. Other months have many weather challenges, which makes the trek more difficult.

The Annapurna Circuit trek cost starts at USD 950 per person and can go up to USD 1,850 per person and above. The package is highly affected by the itinerary you are following and the services you are getting in the package.

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