Annapurna Circuit Trek
Duration:
15 Days
Max Altitude:
5416m
Country:
Nepal
Activity:
Hiking & Trekking
Best Season:
Sept-Nov-March-May
Difficulty:
Strenuous
Strenuous
- Requires good physical fitness and prior trekking experience.
- Rough trails, high passes, glacier crossings.
- Altitude up to 5,000 meters.
- Walking time up to 7-8 hours per day.
Annapurna circuit is the first name that comes to mind to anyone who has looked into trekking in Nepal. We explore the natural diversity of lush, tropical paddies field and rhododendron forests to Tibetan fortresses and communities clinging to rocky cliffs
The Annapurna Circuit Trek provides an exceptional Himalayan experience, blending diverse landscapes with rich cultural immersion. This route, designed to avoid roads, offers trekkers a journey through verdant valleys, high-altitude passes (including Thorung La at 5,416m), and culturally significant villages. Highlights include the Kali Gandaki Gorge, Braga Monastery, and Muktinath, offering stunning views and a taste of ancient traditions.
Trip Highlight
- Diverse landscapes from lush valleys to high-altitude deserts.
- Thorong La Pass (5,416m) – one of the highest trekking passes.
- Stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu & Tilicho Peak.
- Optional visit to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) – one of the world’s highest lakes.
- Rich Gurung, Thakali & Tibetan-influenced cultures.
- Muktinath Temple – a sacred Hindu & Buddhist pilgrimage site.
- Natural hot springs at Tatopani for relaxation.
- Picturesque villages like Kalopani & Marpha with apple orchards.
- Trek through subtropical forests, alpine meadows & high-altitude deserts.
- Thrilling suspension bridge crossings over deep gorges.
Guidelines Itinerary
Suggested itinerary: If itinerary is not suitable to your needs then no problems, we can tailor any of our itineraries or build a trip from scratch to meet your needs and preferences.
Day 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu
- 1,350m
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, meet your representative, transfer to hotel. Evening: optional stroll through Thamel for a taste of Nepali culture and cuisine.
Day 2 - Kathmandu Sightseeing (UNESCO Sites)
Full-day tour of Kathmandu’s key cultural sites: Kathmandu Durbar Square (ancient palace), Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath (Hindu temple), and Boudhanath Stupa (Buddhist shrine).
Day 3 - Drive Kathmandu to Chamje
- 1,100m
Long drive via Besisahar along the Trishuli River, witnessing rural Nepali life and scenic landscapes. Transition from paved to rough roads.
Day 4 - Trek Chamje to Dharapani
- 1,960m
Begin trekking along the Marsyangdi River, steep climb to Tal village (Manang entry), waterfalls, and fields. Continue to Kodo, then Dharapani.
Day 5 - Trek Dharapani to Chame
- 2,710m
Trek through pine, fir, oak, and maple forests along the Marsyangdi River. Reach Chame, the Manang district headquarters, with views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna peaks.
Day 6 - Trek Chame to Pisang
- 3,300m
Trek through dense forests, past dramatic rock faces (Paungda Danda), and apple farms (Bhratang). Valley opens up at Dhukur Pokhari. Arrive in Pisang.
Day 7 - Trek Pisang to Ngawal
- 3,650m
Steeper hike to Upper Pisang for views. Traverse to Ghyaru, then descend to Ngawal. Explore the local monastery.
Day 8 - Trek Ngawal to Manang
- 3,519m
Descend steeply to the valley floor, trek through Humde, and then to Braka. Easy walk to Manang, a larger village with stunning mountain views.
Day 9 - Manang Acclimatization
Rest and acclimatization day. Options: short hikes to Bhojo Gumba, Gangapurna Lake, or Vraga Village, including the Himalayan Rescue Association.
Day 10 - Trek Manang to Yak Kharka
- 4,110m
Trek across a stream, climb to Tenki village, and continue up the Jarsang Khola Valley. Pass through pastures and juniper trees to Yak Kharka.
Day 11 - Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
- 4,420m
Uphill trek, cross a suspension bridge, and pass through cliffs to Thorong Phedi. Views of Mt. Gundang, Syagang, Thorung Peak, and Khatungkan.
Day 12 - Trek Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass Drive to Jomsom
- (3,800m) (5,416m),
Early start to cross Thorong La Pass (highest point). Descend to Muktinath (sacred site). Jeep drive to Jomsom.
Day 13 - Fly Jomsom to Pokhara
Scenic flight through mountain gorges. Transfer to lakeside hotel. Explore Pokhara: Fewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, lakeside stroll.
Day 14 - Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu
Catch an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy leisure time for shopping or sightseeing. In the evening, celebrate your trek with a farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 15 - Final Departure
Airport transfer for your departure flight.
Costs Included in Your Package
- Airport Assistance:
- Personalized assistance at the International Airport by a Step By Step Treks & Adventures representative (your guide) upon arrival and departure, as per your flight details.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu:
- Three nights in a deluxe hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
- Accommodation in Pokhara:
- One night in a deluxe hotel in Pokhara, including breakfast.
- Meals During the Trek:
- Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dianner or soups).
- Three times a tea, coffee or hot drinks.
- Accommodation During the Trek:
- Trekking lodge (tea house) accommodation.
- Permits & Paperwork:
- All necessary permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Permit
- Tims Card
- Domestic Flights & Transfers:
- One way flight from Jomsome to Pokhara.
- Sharing bus or private jeep Transport from Kathmandu to Besisaha.
- Tourist deluxe Bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
- Trekking Staff:
- A highly experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly English-speaking guide, trained and licensed by the Government. The guide’s salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transportation, and insurance are covered.
- Strong and reliable Sherpa porters (one porter for every two trekkers) with proper safety and trekking equipment. Their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance are covered.
- Assistant guide provided for groups of five or more.
- Safety & Health Support:
- Comprehensive first-aid medical kit.
- Emergency helicopter evacuation assistance (to be covered by your travel insurance company).
- Oxygen meter to check pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily—essential for monitoring altitude sickness (AMS) symptoms.
- Trekking Gear & Extras:
- Use of a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if needed, to be returned after the trek).
- Step By Step Treks & Adventures T-shirt.
- Trip achievement certificate upon successful trek completion.
- Kathmandu Sightseeing:
- A guided city tour in Kathmandu with a private car or jeep.
- Government Taxes & Fees:
- All necessary government taxes and official expenses.
- Farewell dinner
Costs Not Included
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara:
- Lunch and dinner while staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara (25-35 USD per a day)
- Visa Fees for Nepal:
Easily obtainable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu):
- $30 USD for a 15-day visa
- $50 USD for a 30-day visa
- $125 USD for a 90-day visa
- Personal Travel & Medical Insurance.
- International Airfare.
- Personal Expenses:
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, and extra food purchased along the trek or in the tea houses.
- Desserts and sweet items (chocolates, cakes, pies, puddings, etc.).
- Hot showers and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Trekking Staff Tips:
- Tips for your guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected).
- Sightseeing Entry Fees in Kathmandu:
- Monument entrance fees ($10/15 USD per person per a spot).
- Early Return Policy:
- If you return early from the trek due to illness or other reasons, the money paid for flights, hotels, food, and accommodation is non-refundable
- Any additional expenses incurred in Kathmandu (such as accommodation and meals) must be covered by the trekker.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
MAP
How Your Adventure Makes a Difference
Climate Action in the Himalayas:
Supporting tree planting and carbon offsetting initiatives to reduce our environmental impact.
Expanding Education Access
Providing textbooks, stationery, and learning resources to rural schools in Nepal.
School Renovation
Rebuilding and improving schools to create safe, supportive learning environments for vulnerable children in rural Nepal
Community Empowerment
Equipping communities with vocational training in sustainable agriculture and tourism, fostering economic independence
Transparent Giving
100% of our trip-based commissions go to FourPOSE Charity, driving real and lasting social change.
Essential Info
Nepal Tourist Visa – Entry & Regulations
Passports & Visas for Nepal
All travelers entering Nepal require a valid passport with at least six months validity and a full blank page for the visa stamp. A Nepal tourist visa is required and must be paid for in cash upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport or at border entry points. You will also need a passport-sized photo (photo booths are available at the airport if needed).
Current Visa Fees (Single-Entry Tourist Visa):
- 15 Days – $30 USD
- 30 Days – $50 USD
- 90 Days – $125 USD
Visa extensions are available for $3–5 per day, with a minimum charge of $30 for 15 days or less. Nationals of SAARC countries (except India) can obtain a Gratis (Free) 30-day Visa, but extensions follow standard visa rules. Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Nepal. For full visa details, visit Nepal’s official immigration website.
Best Trekking & Tour Seasons in Nepal
Nepal’s trekking seasons vary based on weather conditions and altitude. Understanding the best times to trek helps ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.
Spring Trekking (March–May)
Spring is a fantastic season for trekking with warmer temperatures at higher altitudes and rhododendron forests in full bloom. It is also a peak season for mountaineering expeditions.
Summer & Monsoon Season (June–Mid-September)
The monsoon season brings heavy rain and humidity, making most trekking routes challenging. However, Upper Mustang and Manaslu remain great options as they fall in rain-shadow areas and receive less rainfall.
Autumn Trekking (Mid-September–November)
This is the best trekking season in Nepal, with clear skies, stunning mountain views, and stable weather. Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley treks are most popular during this time.
Winter Trekking (December–February)
Winter trekking is possible but very cold at higher elevations. Lower-altitude treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill and Helambu are great choices for winter trekking.
Altitude Sickness & Prevention
Altitude Sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS) is common above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) due to lower oxygen levels. Symptoms include:
- Headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting
- Fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and confusion
- Shortness of breath and loss of appetite
Prevention Tips:
✔Acclimatize properly – Follow the rule: climb high, sleep low
✔Stay hydrated – Drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily
✔Avoid alcohol & sleeping pills – These worsen AMS symptoms
✔Ascend gradually – Over 3,000m, increase altitude by 300m per day
✔Consider medication – Diamox (Acetazolamide) 125mg may help prevent AMS
Golden Rules for AMS:
- Recognize symptoms early and stop ascending if mild AMS develops
- If symptoms worsen, descend immediately
- Never leave a teammate behind unattended
Essential Trekking Equipment & Packing List
Having the right gear is crucial for comfort and safety. Most trekking equipment can be bought or rented in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Must-Have Gear:
Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, fleece, insulated jacket, waterproof shell
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots, thick socks, and camp shoes
Accessories: Sunglasses, gloves, hat, trekking poles
Sleeping Gear: Sleeping bag rated to -10°C to -20°C
Backpack: Daypack with waterproof cover
First Aid Kit: Diamox, pain relievers, blister treatment, personal medication
Hydration & Snacks: Water bottles, energy bars, and hydration tablets.
Tea House Lodging & Trekking Food in Nepal
Tea houses are small guesthouses found along trekking routes, providing basic accommodation and meals.
Accommodation:
- Twin-sharing rooms with simple beds and blankets
- Shared bathrooms with either squat or western-style toilets
- Dining areas with a communal heater (common in higher elevations)
- Limited electricity & Wi-Fi – Charging devices may cost extra
Meals & Beverages:
- Dal Bhat – Traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentils, and vegetable curry
- Soups & Noodles – Garlic soup, Sherpa stew, and fried noodles
- Breakfast Options – Porridge, pancakes, Tibetan bread, eggs
- Tea & Coffee – Black tea, milk tea, hot chocolate, and herbal tea
- Limited beverages – Beer and soft drinks available at extra cost
Travel & Trekking Insurance
Trekking in Nepal involves risks, so comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for high-altitude treks.
Insurance Coverage Should Include:
- Medical emergencies & helicopter evacuation (above 5,600m)
- Trip cancellations, delays & lost baggage
- Personal accident & repatriation
Recommended Insurance Providers:
Trekking Grades – Choosing the Right Trek
Nepal treks are categorized by difficulty based on altitude, terrain, and trekking duration.
Trek Difficulty Levels:
🔹 Easy Treks (Grade 1) – Suitable for beginners, below 3,000m, 4–5 hours walking per day (e.g., Ghorepani Poon Hill, Langtang Valley)
🔹 Moderate Treks (Grade 2) – Slightly challenging, reaching 3,500m, 5–6 hours walking per day (e.g., Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal)
🔹 Strenuous Treks (Grade 3) – High-altitude treks above 4,000m, requiring prior trekking experience (e.g., Everest Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit)
🔹 Very Strenuous Treks (Grade 4–5) – Remote, high-altitude expeditions over 5,500m (e.g., Everest Three Passes, Island Peak Climb)
Final Thoughts
At Step By Step Adventure with Purpose, we are committed to providing safe, sustainable, and meaningful travel experiences. Whether you are trekking in the Himalayas, exploring Nepal’s rich culture, or contributing to local communities through FourPOSE Charity, every journey with us leaves a positive impact.
Walk. Explore. Experience. Give Back.
Start Planning Our Trip
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- Call +977 9846149129
- or fill in our enquiry form
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