Trek Overview
The Annapurna Circuit is one of the world's greatest long-distance treks. Circling the entire Annapurna massif, it crosses the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,416m and traverses an incredible diversity of landscapes — from lush subtropical lowlands to arid high-altitude deserts reminiscent of Tibet. Experience a stunning variety of cultures, climates, and ecosystems on this epic 18-day journey.
Highlights
- Cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
- Incredible diversity of landscapes and climates
- Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple
- Explore the medieval kingdom of Upper Manang
- Walk through the deepest gorge in the world – Kali Gandaki
- Natural hot springs at Tatopani
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A carefully designed itinerary with proper acclimatization to maximize your chances of success.
6-7 hour scenic drive to the starting point of the circuit.
Begin trekking through rice paddies and subtropical villages.
Trek along the Marsyangdi River through waterfalls and lush vegetation.
Enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. Notice the changing vegetation.
Trek through pine forests with views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.
Walk through a dramatic narrow valley to the picturesque village of Upper Pisang.
Trek past Braga village and its 500-year-old monastery to the hub town of Manang.
Day hike to Ice Lake or Gangapurna Lake. Visit the Himalayan Rescue Association post.
Gradual ascent through sparse vegetation into the high alpine zone.
Trek to the base of Thorong La Pass. Early dinner and rest for the big day.
Pre-dawn start for the pass crossing. Descend to the sacred temple town of Muktinath.
Descend into the arid Mustang region. Visit the apple orchards of Marpha.
Trek through the Kali Gandaki gorge with views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.
Long descent to the hot springs village. Soak in natural hot springs.
Steep climb through terraced fields to the viewpoint village.
Sunrise from Poon Hill, then descend to Nayapul. Drive to Pokhara.
Flight or drive back to Kathmandu. Free time for shopping.
Airport transfer. Trip ends.
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- All ground transportation
- Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- All meals during the trek
- Licensed trekking guide
- Porter service
- ACAP permit and TIMS card
- First aid kit and oximeter
Not Included
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal trekking gear
- Meals in cities (lunch/dinner)
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guide and porters
Cost & Dates
Trip Cost
- Price based on 2+ person group
- Group discounts available for 4+ trekkers
- Solo traveler supplement may apply
- Custom itineraries available on request
Best Dates
Best Season
Spring (Mar-May), Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Duration
18 Days
Start/End Point
Kathmandu / Besisahar
Note: We run trips year-round on custom dates. Contact us to plan your preferred departure date.
Packing List
Here's what we recommend you bring for this trek. Items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu if needed.
Clothing
- Thermal base layers (2 sets)
- Heavy down jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket (Gore-Tex)
- Waterproof pants
- Trekking pants (2 pairs)
- T-shirts (3-4)
- Balaclava or neck gaiter
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Expedition gloves + liner gloves
- Warm socks (5-6 pairs)
- Underwear (5-6)
Footwear
- Heavy-duty waterproof trekking boots
- Camp shoes or down booties
- Gaiters
- Insulated insoles
Equipment
- Backpack (40-50L)
- Sleeping bag (-20°C rated or lower)
- Trekking poles (pair)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles (2x 1L insulated)
- Water purification system
- Thermos flask
Toiletries & Health
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Personal medications
- Comprehensive first aid kit
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox)
- Oxygen saturation monitor (optional)
Accessories
- Glacier sunglasses (Category 4)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Power bank (high capacity)
- Dry bags for waterproofing
- Snacks and energy bars
- Notebook and pen
- Playing cards for rest days
Frequently Asked Questions
Crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416m is the most challenging day. The early start (3-4 AM) and 8-10 hour trek require good fitness and acclimatization. Our itinerary builds in rest days to prepare you.
Yes, but the traditional counter-clockwise direction is recommended. It provides better acclimatization and a more gradual ascent to Thorong La Pass.
October-November offers the best weather with clear skies and stable conditions. March-May is also excellent with warmer temperatures and blooming rhododendrons.
Guest Reviews
What our trekkers say about their experience
Anna Johansson
Norway · October 2024
The classic Annapurna Circuit lived up to its legendary reputation. Crossing Thorong La at 5,416m was the highlight of my trekking career. The diversity of landscapes is unmatched.
Roberto Silva
Brazil · November 2023
From rice paddies to high desert, this trek has it all. The descent into Muktinath and the Kali Gandaki gorge were absolutely stunning. A must-do trek!
Kate Williams
New Zealand · April 2024
An incredible journey around the Annapurna massif. The teahouse system is excellent and the trail is well-maintained. Be prepared for long days but the rewards are immense.