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Annapurna Circuit Trek

16 Reviews on Tripadvisor

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Trip Duration

13 Days
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Max. Altitude

5,415m. / 17,766ft.
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Nature of Trip

Tea House Trek
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Trip Difficulty

Challenging
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Group Size

1-20
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Best Seasons

March-May/Sep-Nov
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Activity

Trekking
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Start/End

Kathmandu/Kathmandu

Annapurna Circuit Trek

16 Reviews on Tripadvisor

The Annapurna Circuit Trek has been named one of the best treks in the world for a reason! The trekking route includes diverse geographical landscapes, the challenge of crossing one of the highest passes in the world at 5416 m elevation, unique cultural components, and huge mountain views.

The circuit is located in central Nepal within the depths of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trailhead, in Jagat, is accessible via a scenic drive from Kathmandu. The trek ends in the city of Pokhara, with the option for continued travel back to Kathmandu or elsewhere in Nepal. It is possible to complete the trek in as short as 11-12 days, but it is recommended to add on acclimatization days and side trips to elevate your whole experience and make the most of your time in the Himalayas. Some of the major attractions on the Annapurna Circuit include Muktinath Temple, Tilicho Lake, and the Kali Gandaki Gorge.

From the Annapurna Circuit, you can see 3 out of the 14 tallest mountain peaks in the world that are over 8000 m in elevation: Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Annapurna I. Dhaulagiri (8167 m) is the 7th highest mountain in the world and is only 4 meters taller than Manaslu (8163 m), which holds the spot as the 8th tallest peak. Annapurna I (8091 m) is the star of the Annapurna mountain range and is the world’s 10th tallest mountain.

Starting in the subtropical forests of the Annapurna range foothills, the Annapurna Circuit trekking route ascends into fascinating desert-like terrain, and then eventually, high up into the alpine. Crossing over the high mountain pass, Thorong La (5416 m), is a rewarding challenge on the circuit. The trekking route prepares you to tackle the pass by ascending slowly and including acclimatization days to get the body used to the high elevation. Beautiful Nepali villages like Manang, Jomsom, and Marpha add cultural depth to the journey.

The Annapurna Circuit is a tea house trek, offering relatively impressive comfort considering that you are trekking in the Himalayas! Tea houses are simple guest houses that offer meals, beds and rest stops along the route. Especially at lower elevation, you will be able to find both local and international cuisines on the menus.

Our itinerary is 12 days long from Kathmandu to Pokhara but we can discuss exactly what you would like to include in order to best suit your preferences and needs. A longer itinerary is recommended for beginners or those who have never spent time at altitude. Be sure to prepare well before choosing to tackle the challenge of the Annapurna Circuit. Although it is not the most challenging trek to choose from in the Nepali Himalayas, it is a good idea to have some long hikes under your belt before setting off!

We, at Himalayan Peace Treks, would love the opportunity to take you into the mountains which we love so much. We are a small Nepali company that does business ethically, sustainably and joyfully. Please consider choosing us for your Nepali travels if you would like a peaceful experience from start to finish. We would love to connect.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Enjoy the scenic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu mountain ranges
  • Trek over the iconic Thorong La Pass (5416m) with amazing mountain views along the way
  • Take in the scenic beauty of Tilicho Lake, one of the highest glacier lakes in the world
  • Travel through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge
  • Experience the unique culture of Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced communities while staying in tea houses
  • Sooth your body and relax in the natural hot springs of Tatopani
  • Try tasty local treats at the apple farms in Manang and Marpha
  • Spot the ever-changing diverse flora and fauna as you trek through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and rugged rocky terrain
  • Enjoy one of the most beautiful sunrise views of the Himalayas from Poon Hill
  • Walk to Muktinath temple, one of the sacred Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites

 

Why Trek With Himalayan Peace Treks?

We are a trusted, ethical trekking and tour company that facilitates incredible experiences in the Himalayas. You can feel good about choosing our company to guide you because of our genuinely excellent service and commitment to giving back to our communities and the environment.

Our ethical trekking approach means appropriate wages and working conditions for our wonderful team, community empowerment and support, and environmental consciousness. We are honest and thoughtful with our guests and everyone we do business with. We promise you transparency and enjoyment from start to finish and would be happy to customize your trip for you.

Our main community projects include donating directly to local schools and orphanages to support children in need. Sustainable trekking is in our hearts and is also in the hands of those heading into the mountains themselves, so we will brief you on how you can trek more sustainably with us.

With decades of experience among the team, we would love the opportunity to share with you what we love about the Himalayas in the most peaceful way.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary Summary

Pre-Trek Day 00: Arrival in Kathmandu (1345 m)
Pre-Trek Day 0: Final Day in Kathmandu and Trekking Preparations
Trek Day 1: Drive Kathmandu to Jagat (1410 m) 8-9 hours
Trek Day 2: Trek Jagat to Dharapani (1960 m) 6-8 hours
Trek Day 3: Trek Dharapani to Chame (2710 m) 5-6 hours
Trek Day 4: Trek Chame to Upper Pisang (3300 m) 5-6 hours
Trek Day 5: Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3540 m) 6-7 hours
Trek Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Manang. Rest Day or Day Hike to Ice Lake (4600 m)
Trek Day 7: Trek Manang to Yak Kharka (4110 m) 4-5 hours
Trek Day 8: Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4420 m) 4-5 hours
Trek Day 9: Trek Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass (5416 m), Then to Muktinath (3760 m) 8-9 hours
Trek Day 10: Drive Muktinath to Tatopani (1200 m) 3-4 hours
Trek Day 11: Trek Tatopani to Ghorepani (2874 m) 7-8 hours
Trek Day 12: Hike to Poon Hill (3210 m) 2 hours, Trek to Tikhedhunga (1480 m) 3.5 hours, Drive to Pokhara (800 m) 2.5 hours

Photo/Video Gallery

Itinerary of Annapurna Circuit Trek

We are happy to work with you to adjust this itinerary to create your own personalized experience.
*Times are estimated based on the average hiking pace and do not include breaks.

Feel free to arrive today, or earlier, to enjoy Kathmandu Valley, rest, and prepare for your trek. You will be greeted at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and provided with transportation to your pre-booked hotel in Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu. Please let us know your flight itinerary so we can arrange your pick-up.

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Distance: 7 km - Airport to Thamel

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Overnight Altitude: 1345m./4,413ft. (Kathmandu)

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Meal: n/a

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Accommodation: Three Star Hotel

Includes/Excludes

What is included?

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Welcome dinner in Kathmandu
  • Trek briefing one day before the trek
  • All necessary trekking permits
    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS Card
  • Luggage storage at your hotel in Kathmandu
  • One night accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast included
    • Standard itinerary includes one night pre-trek, we can arrange for additional nights upon request
  • One night accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast included
    • Standard itinerary includes one night post-trek, we can arrange for additional nights upon request
  • Bus transportation from Kathmandu to trek trailhead, Jagat
    • Private alternative available upon request
  • Jeep transportation from the end of the trek to Pokhara
  • Bus transportation from Pokhara to Kathmandu
    • Private alternative available upon request
  • All accommodation in tea houses while trekking
  • Three meals a day (unless otherwise listed), with a tea or coffee at each meal
  • Daily fresh fruit whenever available
  • Trekking map
  • First-aid kit carried by guide
  • One experienced and professional local guide who speaks English
    • Guide fees include their insurance, livable wages, transportation, food and accommodation
    • Assistant guides might be added with larger groups
  • If needed, our team will arrange an emergency rescue with your insurance company
  • Company fees, administration, and government tax (VAT)
  • A tree planted in your name
  • A minimum of 1% of profits donated to schools and orphanages in Nepal

What is not included?

  • International flights to and from Nepal
  • Tourist visa to enter Nepal (can obtain on arrival at the airport)
    • US$30U for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days, US$125 for 90 days
  • Any personal sightseeing costs and meals in Kathmandu or Pokhara
    • Temples, monastery entrance fees, souvenirs, lunches, etc.
  • Any extra costs while trekking
    • Snacks, fancy coffees, hot showers, laundry, battery charging, wifi at some tea houses, monastery fees, donations, etc.
  • Local porters to carry the items for your trek
    • Porter fees include their insurance, livable wages, transportation, food, accommodation and an optional duffle bag to carry your items
    • The number of porters depends on the number of trekkers: one porter carries the items for two people (maximum 20 kg)
  • Drinking water
    • You need to have a water filtration system or plan to buy boiled water
  • Sleeping bag and puffy jacket rentals are available in Kathmandu and if needed
  • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft, etc.
    • You need medical travel insurance that covers trekking to over 5000 m elevation, then send the information to us please
  • Staff tips: Many trekking guides and porters rely on tips to supplement a lower wage. With Himalayan Peace Treks, you will be able to travel knowing that the team is being paid fairly and that any tip you want to give is a reflection of your experience rather than an expectation
Price starts

US$ 856

Standard trek price (per person)

  • 1 person
    US$ 1256
  • 2 - 2 people
    US$ 1031
  • 3 - 4 people
    US$ 956
  • 5 - 6 people
    US$ 896
  • 7 - 8 people
    US$ 870
  • 9 + people 9999
    US$ 856

Total Cost:

US$ 1256

Trip Information

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a challenging and deeply rewarding journey. It is challenging due to the duration (12 days), high elevation (5416 m at Thorong La Pass), long days (average 7 hours a day) and a bit of rough terrain as you descend after the pass. That being said, no mountaineering, climbing or scrambling are required to complete the trek.

To help adjust to the high altitude, the Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary is designed to ascend slowly and includes acclimatization days. With proper training in advance, and perhaps an extra day or two added, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is an option for beginner trekkers and those who have never spent time at high altitude.

The trek is tough but doable. Proper training, hiring a porter, and managing your health are important for the success of your Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Respecting Culture and Religion on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek route goes through villages with ethnic roots in Gurung and Thakali culture. There is a peaceful presence of Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism throughout the trek. Prayer flags, mani walls, stupas, and monasteries add spiritual significance during your adventure. Be mindful of the local norms in which modesty is the standard. Openly changing in front of people and urinating in public spaces is not common.

Please consider the culture when selecting what clothing to bring and keep public displays of affection to a modest minimum. If you would like to enter temples, monasteries and sacred places, your knees and shoulders need to be covered and shoes removed. Only enter homes and kitchens when invited, and ask for permission to take photos of local people and their homes (a good practice anywhere!).

The right hand is considered sacred, so pass religious structures with your right side facing them (walking clockwise). Only use your right hand for spinning prayer wheels, eating, and handing items, such as currency, to someone.

Major Elevation Points During The Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Manang: 3540 m
  • Ice Lake: 4600 m
  • Thorong La Pass: 5416 m
  • Muktinath: 3760 m
  • Poon Hill: 3210 m
  • Starting Elevation: 1410 m in Jagat
  • Finishing Elevation: 1480 m in Tikhedhunga

Annapurna Circuit Trek Packing List

We have put together an incredible packing list for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is extremely thorough and in some cases might be too much, so please use your own judgement when packing. Most people overpack for their first trek, so keep that in mind while gathering items. Porters can carry a maximum of 20kg, which is 10kg per person. We have created a detailed packing list with explanations and here is a condensed PDF packing checklist.

The Best Time to Do the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit is best in the spring and autumn seasons. The spring season is typically from the mid-February to the beginning of May and the autumn season starts mid-September and continues through to mid-November.

Some guests are interested in coming at quieter times, or have schedule restrictions, and choose to come at the beginning or end of a season and manage the weather conditions.

What is the Weather like on The Annapurna Circuit Trek?

If you are trekking during peak seasons, spring and autumn, you are more likely to get clear skies, little precipitation, warm days and cool nights. At low elevation you might be surprised to know that the day time can be quite hot but the days cool off as you gain elevation. At night time, it can get pretty chilly, especially with higher altitude.

If you are trekking closer to winter (which is December to mid-February), then you are likely to get clear but cold weather. If you are trekking close to monsoon season (which is mid-May to mid-September) then you can expect to get wet! Regardless of the time of year, the mornings are generally clearer in the mountains and the clouds start to roll in after midday.

Food on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Considering that you’re trekking in the Himalayas, the food is pretty great! On the Annapurna Circuit, there is road access for quite a while which means that food and goods are more easily sourced. Each tea house has a menu to choose from including local and international dishes. The most recommended local food to try is Nepal’s national dish, dal bhat. Dal bhat is lentil soup (dal) and a hearty portion of rice (bhat), traditionally served with curry, sautéed greens, and maybe some fresh cut vegetables, a spicy sauce or local yogurt. It’s always made fresh and has unlimited refills to help refuel after a long day of trekking.

Another delicacy to add to your must-try list are momos, which are well-loved local dumplings. You can expect to see other dishes including pasta, fried noodles and soup for lunch and dinner and more western items for breakfast such as pancakes, eggs and oatmeal. Special to the Annapurna Circuit are many apple orchards along the route, where you can enjoy fresh mountain apples, apple wine and sweet pastries. Common food requirements such as allergies, vegan, and gluten-free can be easily accommodated for, but some cross-contamination is possible.

Accommodation On The Annapurna Circuit Trek

Tea houses. You will be staying in tea houses which are small, simplistic lodges with a dining hall and guest rooms to stay overnight. At lower elevation you will be more likely to find nicer tea houses with amenities such as hot showers, attached bathrooms and electricity in the rooms. As you ascend, be prepared for more simple amenities and shared squat toilets.

The dining halls are often heated, but there is no heating in the guest rooms so a good sleeping bag is required to keep you cozy and warm.

Required Permits for Trekking the Annapurna Circuit

Two permits are required in order to complete your Annapurna Trek. When you book your trek with Himalayan Peace Treks, we will obtain your permits on your behalf with your passport.

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card

The TIMS card aims to ensure the safety and security of individuals during trekking in the Himalayan region of Nepal.

For foreigners: NPR 2000 and SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit

ACAP is a national park permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area.

For foreigners: NPR 3,000 and SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000

Trip Map of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Trip map of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, as of 2025 it is a requirement to have a certified guide accompany you into the Annapurna Conservation Area. Guides are important for the safety and enjoyment of guests. Guides and trekking companies organize all of the trek details for you including arranging transportation, obtaining permits, and booking tea houses. Guides also offer local knowledge about the culture and language, as well as the surrounding flora, fauna and mountains. Your guide will help you set the pace, assess risks and manage emergency situations.

A porter is not necessary, but recommended for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. If you have lots of experience trekking at high altitude and are feeling physically and mentally confident, then you will likely be just fine. Porters are recommended for anyone who is new to trekking at high altitude, is nervous about the terrain, or is seeking more enjoyment than a challenge.

Hiring a porter is a lovely way to support the local economy and have another staff member present in case of emergency.

Remarkably, considering your location in the Himalayas, there is electricity at most tea houses along the trek. Very few have charging outlets in guest rooms, but you can charge your devices in the main dining hall. Some tea houses request a small additional charging fee.

Be prepared that the electricity is unpredictable and could cut out at any time. Many trekkers choose to bring a power bank or solar charging device. Either can be useful (especially if your phone is your camera) but are not necessary.

Yes, there is wifi accessible while trekking. Although we suggest that you use the opportunity to disconnect, many tea houses have wifi so you can still let your loved ones know that you are having the time of your life. Many tea houses charge a small fee to access the wifi for your stay.

Similarly to the electricity, the wifi can be extremely unpredictable and unreliable so we don’t recommend that you plan to rely on it for anything important

From Kathmandu, you will take a local bus and then a local shared jeep to get to the trailhead in Jagat. Local buses can be a fun cultural experience but are often noisy, dusty and even slower. You are welcome to add a private jeep to your package to get you all the way to Jagat in a quicker, more comfortable ride.

The trek ends in Tikhedhunga where you take a local shared jeep to Pokhara. A bus ticket is included to get you from Pokhara back to Kathmandu. Flights are also an option from Pokhara to Kathmandu and take about 25 mins. We would subtract the cost of the bus transportation if you choose to book a private jeep or flight.

Altitude sickness, which occurs as a result of spending time at high elevation, can happen any time you’re above 2500 m. It is a result of gaining altitude too quickly and not allowing time for the body to adjust to the reduced oxygen and air pressure changes. Symptoms can include anything from headache, loss of appetite, dizziness, vomiting and difficulty sleeping to more severe symptoms such as fluid in the lungs, irrational behaviour, breathlessness, blue skin, and an inability to walk.

Surprisingly, altitude sickness can happen to anyone, even if they’re young, fit, and have been at high altitude before. It is important to do everything possible to prevent altitude sickness and not ignore symptoms if they arise.

The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend slowly. This means physically walking slowly, as well as limiting how much elevation you gain in a short period of time, and stretching your trek out over many days. To further help the body acclimatize to the elevation gain, it’s a good idea to hike up to a higher point than you will be sleeping whenever possible.

If it’s your first time at elevation or you have time to spare, then we can adjust your itinerary to include more days for a slower ascent and more rest. Altitude sickness medication is best used as a treatment instead of a prevention. You can consult your doctor if you have any specific questions.

DO: ascend slowly, drink lots of water, monitor your symptoms and trek with an experienced guide
DON’T: push through severe symptoms, heavily consume alcohol, caffeinated drinks, or smoke cigarettes, take sleeping pills, ascend too quickly

Yes, a tourist visa can be obtained at airport immigration upon your arrival. Visa options include a 15 day visa for $30, a 30 day visa for $50, and a 90 day visa for $125. You can pay the USD equivalent in any major currency. Although credit cards are accepted, cash is recommended.

If needed, you can extend your tourist visa at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Immigration Office in Pokhara. The extension cost is a minimum of $45 for up to 15 days and then an additional $3 per day.

Yes, obtaining good medical travel insurance before you come to Nepal is necessary to trek safely and worry-free. Ensure that whatever insurance you get covers high altitude activities. You can send your insurance information to Himalayan Peace Treks so we can coordinate your safe return if there are any unlikely emergencies.

To pay for your trek you can bring any major currency ($€£¥) or we can coordinate an online bank transfer. For spending money in Kathmandu and on your trek, you’ll need local Nepali Rupees (NPR) as Nepal mostly deals in cash. You can exchange or withdraw local rupees in Kathmandu.

Once you venture into the mountains there are no reliable ATMs, so any cash you might need for the entirety of the trek (for snacks, souvenirs, gear replacement, etc.) needs to have been already obtained beforehand.

To pay your initial 15% deposit, you can send a money transfer (eg. Wise) or an international bank transfer. To pay for the remainder of your trek once you have arrived in Kathmandu, you can pay by cash (in any major currency). Any fees associated with a transfer or payment are your responsibility. All prices are listed in USD.

Trip Reviews

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Price starts

US$ 856

Standard trek price (per person)

  • 1 person
    US$ 1256
  • 2 - 2 people
    US$ 1031
  • 3 - 4 people
    US$ 956
  • 5 - 6 people
    US$ 896
  • 7 - 8 people
    US$ 870
  • 9 + people 9999
    US$ 856

Total Cost:

US$ 1256

Have Questions?

Talk to our expert team and plan your trip.
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
Hari Dhakal
Chris Brooker
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
whatsapp viber +977 9846722055
Hari Dhakal
whatsapp viber +977 9863653779
Chris Brooker
whatsapp viber +977 9851414779

Have Questions?

Talk to our expert team and plan your trip.
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
Hari Dhakal
Chris Brooker
Ganesh Prasad Simkhada
whatsapp viber +977 9846722055
Hari Dhakal
whatsapp viber +977 9863653779
Chris Brooker
whatsapp viber +977 9851414779

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