Annapurna Circuit trek
Experience the Annapurna Circuit Trek: Unveil Magnificent Landscapes and Himalayan Panoramas
Embark on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, an extraordinary 2-week walking journey through stunning landscapes and breathtaking vistas within the Annapurna Conservation Area. This classic trek offers unparalleled lodges, solitude in nature, and captivating Himalayan panoramas. Starting from Besisahar and concluding in Pokhara, it's a high-altitude adventure that leads you through the formidable Thorong-La pass. Encounter diverse cultures and geography, from Gurung and Hindu communities to Tibetan-influenced Manangis and Thakalis. Trek from 1,000 meters to the heights of 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass, traversing valleys and rice fields. The journey's pinnacle is Ghorepani at 2,800 meters, offering breathtaking views of Annapurna. Uncover the enchantment of the Annapurna region, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Round Annapurna Trek, an unmatched adventure through the Annapurna Conservation Area. This classic route boasts abundant lodges, natural solitude, and breathtaking Himalayan views. Venturing through diverse cultures, the trek winds from terraced fields farmed by Gurung and Bahun Hindus to the Tibetan-influenced Manangis and Thakalis. Ascending gradually to Manang at 3,600 meters and conquering the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, you'll traverse stunning landscapes with reasonable trails.
Descend into the Kali Gandaki valley and Mustang, transitioning from arid heights to lush rice-fields. Reach Tatopani at 1,150 meters before an exhilarating final climb to Ghorepani at 2,800 meters. This journey offers panoramic beauty at Manang, Kagbeni, and Tatopani.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek, approximately 200 km around the Annapurna range, unveils a world of wonders. While road access has shortened the trail, its essence remains. From 1,100 meters to Thorung La Pass, you'll touch the fringes of the Tibetan plateau. With moderate to challenging stretches, relish the world's highest pass—Thorong La (5,416m)—and the unparalleled fusion of culture and scenery that awaits.
Annapurna circuit trip highlights
- Classic trekking journey goes through pass yak pastures
- Cross Thorong La Pass (5416m.) enjoy the view from top
- Explore the various ethnic villages throughout the trip
- Enjoy taking a dip at natural hot spring at Tatopani (optional)
- Enjoy the magnificent view of Himalayan peaks like; Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West, and Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV
- Explore flora, fauna, wildlife & amazing diversity of nature throughout the journey
- Enjoy pristine lakes, glaciers, deep gorges, and stunning waterfalls throughout trip
- Visit Muktinath temple, a sacred temple of Hindus & Buddhists
- Enjoy Lower Mustang Mountains and landscape
- Enjoy a breathtaking view from Poon Hill
- Private guided trek, which can go on your pace
Altitude chart for Annapurna circuit trek
Annapurna circuit trekking itinerary
Crossing Thorong La Pass and Poon Hill
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu/ Nepal/ pick up from the airport, transfer to hotel, be refresh, meet your guide, trip preparation and overnight at hotel
Day 02: Drive to Syange/Ghyarmuphat (1130m) approx. 9-10 hrs drive/overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 03: Trek Syange/Ghyarmuphat (1130m) to Tal (1700m, 5-6 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 04: Trek Tal (1700m) to Danaque (2200m, 4-5 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 05: Trek Danaque (2200m) to Chame (2700m, 5-6 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 06: Trek Chame (2700m) to Pisang (3200m, 5-6 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 07: Trek Pisang (3250m) to Manang (3540m, 5-6 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 08: Acclimatization day in Manang, day hike to explore around/overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 09: Trek Manang (3540m) to Yak Kharka (4050m, 4-5 hrs)/overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 10: Trek Yak Kharka (4050m) to Thorung Phedi (4450m, 4-5 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 11: Trek Thorung Phedi (4450m) to Muktinath (3800m) crossing over the Thorong-La pass(5416m, 8-10 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge.(All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 12: Drive from Muktinath to Ghasa (2000m, 3-4 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 13: Drive from Ghasa (2000m) to Tatopani (1200m, 3-4 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 14: Trek Tatopani (1200m) to Ghorepani (2850m, 5-6 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 15: Visit Poon Hill (3210m) and trek to Tikhedhunga (1540m, 5-6 hrs) /overnight at teahouse eco-village lodge. (All meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 16: Trek Tikhedhunga (1540m) to Nayapul (1070m, 4-5 hrs) drive back to Pokhara and transfer to hotel (Breakfast & Lunch will be served at teahouse lodge restaurant)
Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Katmandu approximately (7-8 hrs.) by bus or fly to Kathmandu 30 min by STOL flight as you wish to have in your package, Transfer to hotel, late noon shopping souvenirs around market and typical Nepali dinner party with culture show.
Day 18: Transfer to airport for International departure
or if you interested to have onward programs- wildlife safari tour, whitewater rafting/ kayaking, paragliding, sightseeing or visiting main tourist attraction of around, please let us know we are happy to organize as you wish.
Note: As road transfer reached to the some parts of the trekking trail, the trek can be done in within 10 days too, so if you want to make it within 10 days please contact us with your requirement details.
Cost Includes
- Airport transfers - pick up and drop upon arrival and departure
- Full board basis on the way of trekking- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner -3 meals per day and overnight accommodation at tea house lodge.
- Transportation- to and from starting and ending point.
- Necessary trekking permit, conservation and TIMS fee.
- Supporting staffs (trekking guide and porter), as well as their necessary insurance, and accommodation meals allowance and salary
- 2- Nights accommodation in Kathmandu and 1-night Pokhara in BB basis before and after the trek.
- Domestic airfare, airport tax or overland bus fare for (Pokhara – Kathmandu) after the trek as you wish to have in your package.
- Wildness First aid kit pack for the trekking.
Cost Excludes
- Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara extra days stay except mentioned in package.
- Food (Lunch & Dinner) before and after the trip in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks (including cold drinks and mineral/hot water/shower, tea-coffee, chocolate hot drinks), tips for the guide, porter & other staffs etc.
- Travel insurance and emergency evacuation cost.
- Additional costs- extra days stay, incase of flight cancellation due to the natural calamities, bad weather forecast and other unforeseen circumstances
- Personal trekking gear for the trek.
Useful Information for your trek to Annapurna circuit
The Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal is a popular and challenging trek that takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to high mountain passes. To have a successful and enjoyable trek, there are several things you need to know and prepare for:
Permits and Regulations:
You'll need both an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card to trek in the Annapurna region. Only registered trekking agencies provide the trekking permit and for your trek Himalayan Mentor helps you.
Best Time to Trek:
The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season (March to May) and the post-monsoon (autumn) season (September to November). These months offer the best weather conditions.
Physical Fitness:
The trek is physically demanding, with steep ascents and descents, so it's essential to be in good physical shape. Regular cardio and strength training can help prepare you.
Trekking Gear:
Invest in high-quality trekking gear, including proper hiking boots, warm clothing, a good backpack, sleeping bag, and rain gear. Renting equipment is also possible in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Accommodation and Food:
There are teahouses along the trail where you can stay and eat. These teahouses offer basic accommodations and meals, but you'll need to carry some snacks and a water purification method as well. We book the best lodges for your comfortable stay and provide hygenic foods.
Altitude Sickness:
The trek reaches high altitudes, and altitude sickness can be a concern. Acclimatize properly by taking rest days and ascending gradually. Know the symptoms of altitude sickness and be prepared to descend if necessary.
Guides and Porters:
You can choose to trek independently or book with local agency. Himalayan Mentor provides the best knowledgeable trekking guide and porter. Our guides are helpful for navigation and cultural insights, while porters can carry your heavy gear, making the trek more manageable.
Trekking Itinerary:
Plan your trekking itinerary carefully and better to ask suggestions with Himalayan Mentor. The standard route takes around 12 to 20 days, but you can adjust it to suit your pace and interests. Popular stops include Besisahar, Manang, Thorong Phedi, and Muktinath.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations:
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially at higher elevations. Carry layers of clothing to adjust to temperature fluctuations. Winter trekking is not recommended due to harsh weather conditions.
Local Culture and Respect:
Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos of people, and always be polite and friendly to locals you meet along the way.
Emergency Contacts:
Carry a local SIM card for communication and have emergency contact numbers handy. The Himalayan Rescue Association has a clinic in Manang for altitude-related issues.
Pack Light and Smart:
Keep your backpack as light as possible. Only carry essentials, and pack strategically to distribute weight evenly.
Trail Conditions and Changes:
Be aware that trail conditions can change due to landslides or other natural events. Check with local agency or guide for the latest information.
Travel Insurance:
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking in Nepal, including emergency medical evacuation.
Environmental Responsibility:
Practice Leave No Trace principles by disposing of waste properly and respecting the environment. Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics.
Remember that the Annapurna Circuit is a challenging trek, but it offers incredible natural beauty and cultural experiences. Proper preparation and a respectful attitude towards the environment and local communities will contribute to a rewarding trekking experience.