About This Trek / Tour
The Annapurna Circuit is widely regarded as one of the world's greatest long-distance treks. Circumnavigating the entire Annapurna massif, this 18-day odyssey takes you through an extraordinary spectrum of ecosystems: lush rice terraces and Hindu temples in the south, rhododendron and oak forests in the mid-hills, arid Tibetan plateau landscapes in the north, and the dramatic canyon of the Kali Gandaki — the world's deepest gorge.
The crowning moment is the crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416m — a high-altitude challenge rewarded with an unforgettable panorama of snow-capped peaks in every direction. The pilgrimage town of Muktinath, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, lies just beyond the pass.
Cultural Diversity: This trek passes through Gurung, Magar, Thakali and Tibetan communities, offering an unparalleled window into Nepal's extraordinary ethnic and cultural tapestry.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu. Hotel check-in, trek briefing and gear check. Welcome dinner.
Long drive (7–8h) to Besisahar (760m), then short drive/walk to Bhulbhule (840m). Trek begins through lush Marsyangdi valley. 2 hours trekking.
Trek through green terraced hillsides and waterfalls. Cross suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi River. Arrive Chamje (1,410m). 6 hours.
Dramatic gorge trekking. Enter the Manang district. First flat valley floor at Tal (1,700m) — an ancient lake bed. 5 hours.
Trek deepens into the Marsyangdi valley with towering cliffs on both sides. Arrive at Chame (2,670m), district headquarters of Manang. 6 hours.
Trek past the massive curved rock face of Paungda Danda, through apple orchards to Pisang (3,200m). First dramatic views of Annapurna II. 5 hours.
High route via Ghyaru (3,670m) and Ngawal for panoramic views of the Annapurna range, then descend to Manang (3,519m). 6 hours.
Rest day. Hike to Ice Lake (4,600m) or Gangapurna Lake for acclimatisation. Afternoon altitude medicine lecture by local health post doctor.
Trek across high pastures grazed by yaks and blue sheep. Arrive at Yak Kharka (4,018m). 4 hours. Cold nights begin here.
Short but important acclimatisation climb to Thorong High Camp (4,850m) and back, then rest at Thorong Phedi (4,450m) — base for tomorrow's pass. 4 hours.
The big day! Pre-dawn start (4am). Steep 4-hour ascent to Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Celebrate at the prayer flags! Descend steeply 1,600m to the sacred shrine of Muktinath (3,800m). 7–8 hours total.
Descend through the windswept arid landscape of Mustang to medieval Kagbeni (2,810m), then along the Kali Gandaki to Jomsom (2,720m). 5 hours.
Walk south through the apple orchard village of Marpha, famous for its brandy and cider, to Tukuche (2,590m). Explore traditional Thakali architecture. 4 hours.
Trek through the world's deepest gorge — the Kali Gandaki canyon between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Vegetation changes from alpine to subtropical. Ghasa (2,010m). 6 hours.
Continue south through subtropical vegetation to Tatopani (1,190m) — famous for its natural hot springs. Soak tired muscles in the thermal baths. 5 hours.
Steep 1,800m climb through magnificent rhododendron forests to Ghorepani (2,860m). Hard work but the forest is spectacular. 5 hours.
Pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for a spectacular Annapurna sunrise panorama. Descend to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara (820m). 4 hours trekking + 1.5h drive.
Morning scenic flight or 7h drive back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel or airport. End of Annapurna Circuit Grand Adventure.
What's Included
- All Kathmandu airport/hotel transfers
- Kathmandu–Besisahar–Pokhara–Kathmandu transport
- 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu & 1 night in Pokhara (B&B)
- 14 nights teahouse accommodation on trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS card
- English-speaking licensed trekking guide
- One porter per two trekkers
- Guide & porter insurance, salary, food & accommodation
- First-aid kit, oximeter & emergency contacts
Not Included
- Nepal visa fees
- International flights to/from Kathmandu
- Travel & helicopter rescue insurance (mandatory)
- Personal gear & clothing
- Beverages & personal snacks
- Hot showers & device charging fees on trail
- Tips for guide and porter
- Kathamndu extra nights if flights delayed
Practical Travel Tips
Best Time: October–November for clear skies after monsoon; March–May for rhododendron blooms. Avoid December–February as Thorong La can be snowbound and dangerous.
Fitness: Daily walking averages 6 hours. You should be comfortable with multi-day hiking. Thorong La crossing is a long, physically demanding day requiring an early start.
Wind: The Kali Gandaki gorge section is famous for powerful afternoon winds (sometimes 80+ km/h). Start early each day and aim to be in camp before 2pm.
Essentials: Layered clothing system, down jacket (rated –20°C), trekking poles (essential for Thorong La descent), sun protection, blister prevention.