Annapurna Circuit Trek

The best Annapurna circuit trek is equally popular as an around Annapurna trek or Thorong la pass is one of the famous treks in Nepal. Circuit Annapurna mountain trek opened at 1980 for trekking propose for adventure tourist.

The Annapurna circuit short trek is rich in scenery apart from the diverse culture and flora and faunas. Annapurna circuit trek is the most popular trekking because of its panoramic scenery of Himalayas, including of the Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Mt. Annapurna I (8091 m) Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Mt. Annapurna II (7937 m), III (7555 m), IV (7525m), South Annapurna (7219 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7041 m), Mt. Fishtail also called Mt. Machhapuchre (6993 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6441 m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6986 m), Tukuche peak (6920m), Tilicho peak (7134 m).

Furthermore, there are the settlements of diverse communities such as Brahmin, Chhetri, Tibetan Sherpa, Thakali, Magar, Tamang, and Gurung. Likewise, if you are lucky enough you can see some wild animals such as Mountain Goat, Leopard, Jackal, birds such as pheasant, long-tail birds among others. The magical around Annapurna equally popular as an Annapurna circuit is one of the classic treks in the world.

The Annapurna circuit trek 10 days

The Annapurna circuit trek 10 days is just magic that you go with classical trek route. Basically, 10 days Annapurna circuit trek starts after driving to Besisahar and ends at Jomsom airport. You can go either Ngawal to Braga village or lower route to get Manang. Traveling within the tight time-bound? better to use lower viewpoint trail passing through Humde village. If you use the latest Lalupate trail or new annapurna circuit trek route, your journey became fantastic with amazing scenery.

The annapurna circuit trek 12 days takes one around the Annapurna Himal, following the courses of two mighty rivers–Marsyandi in the east and the Kali Gandaki in the west. River Kali Gandaki valley is the world’s deepest gorge surrounding the giant Dhaulagiri massif and Annapurna Himalaya range. The flora, geography, and culture also change dramatically around the Annapurna circuit trek. This is a part of the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) trekking in the Annapurna region Nepal.

Best of Annapurna circuit trek highlight

New Annapurna Trekking Trail (NATT) is combined with the ancient trade routes of classical Annapurna where we could avoid roads on some parts. We ascend the Marshyangdi valley and pass the Manaslu and Hinchuli Mountains. Visit old Buddhist monastery in Braga and explore beautiful Manag village. Thorong la 5,416 meters is the widest pass in the world. The Pilgrimage town of Muktinath, View of Dhaulagiri Icefall, – The world deepest gorge and the Kaligandaki valley – Natural Hot spring at Tatopani – Sunrise at Poonhill with magnificent mountain views.

Nepal Annapurna circuit map

According to Google, the Annapurna circuit trek map shows the detailed trail route that you need to follow to get rid of a dusty road. Now you can go further using New Annapurna Trekking Trail (NATT) following our trek map. Many people visit Lalupate Trail (the recent publish is quite similar to the old classical treks. However, the Annapurna mountain trek route map covers all possible side trips from the regular Annapurna circuit, i.e. Tilicho Lake, Ice Lake, Gangapurna lake.

The Annapurna circuit trekking difficulty

Majestic Annapurna circuit trekking is appropriate for any trekkers looking for little bit adventure. The maximum height of Annapurna circuit is Thorong la 5416 meters. It is not necessary any previous trekking or mountaineering experience and also it is not necessary that you must be young and energetic to do this trekking. If you are healthy and can walk 5 to 6 hours daily, you can easily do this trekking.

However it would be more good to do daily jogging or walking exercise is useful before you leave from your country. Our program has been prepared including rest day and build up gradually, in order to acclimatize to the altitude. On the trek, you can go at your own pace, with plenty of stops for resting.

What is the best time to visit Annapurna circuit trek?

Exploring annapurna circuit-best time either Spring season or Autumn season trekking in Nepal. There is 2 best season for trekking in Nepal. Hike to annapurna circuit is always the best time if you are planning to visit starting from the middle of September, October, November, December, or from the beginning of March, April, May. But June through September is the monsoon season when as much as 70% of the annual rainfall occurs. Monsoon time trek in Nepal is not a good idea as they often landslides, rockfall, floods.. etc. Circuit Annapurna lies in the trans-Himalayan region in Nepal, so it occurs very less rain even in the monsoon. That’s why the trek route is always best to explore for anyone.

What does an express Annapurna circuit trek route covers?

The trip starts from Besishar – Manang – Thorong la pass – Muktinath – Tatopani – (Ghorepani – Poonhill) – Pokhara.

Best months to visit Annapurna circuit trek

Besically there are 2 best seasons to travel and they are spring and autumn season in Nepal. But, the very best months are February, March, April, May, September, October, November and December.

Top best annapurna circuit itinerary 12 days online

Annapurna circuit trek itinerary in details

Day 01 : Arrival at Kathmandu (1350 m)

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport we will receive you with private vehicle and transfer to hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Our representative will give you information about further programs. As your request, we go to a short walk around the old city area.

Day 02 : World heritage sightseeing in Kathmandu

Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley Tour including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath Stupa also known as monkey temple which is World Heritage Sites listed by UNESCO.

Day 03 : Overland drive to Beshisahar and to Chyamje (1,430m) 6 :30 hours

In the morning, our professional tour guide Nepal will come to meet you in the hotel lobby at 6:30 AM. After picking you up, We drive to the Bus station to get microbus. We drive to Besi Sahar passing several tiny villages and markets along the Trisul river and Marshyangdi River. Kathmandu to Besisahar distance is about 185-kilo meters but it takes 6 hours because of the road condition. Along the journey, you will witness some stunning scenery of snow-capped mountains, green hills, rafting rivers, and villages. Catch a local regular jeep in Manag chautara to drive further to Chamje village.

Day 04 : Bagarchhap trekking (2,160m) 6 hours

While hiking to Bagarchhap we will pass the old village and its ruins, which were completely destroyed by a massive landslide less than ten years ago. A series of bridges allow us to cross the roaring Marshyangdi River, using the well-trodden paths of the porters and locals. Bagarchhap is the first truly Tibetan style village we will come across with flat, firewood covered roofs, and prayer flags blowing in the wind.

Day 05 : Chame hikes (2,630m) 5 hours

The hiking today is a little rougher than the previous days with quite a bit of up and down, crossing the river several times on good bridges. Reaching the town of Chame, one of the larger settlements of the area will allow us to have a hot shower. Chame is the administrative headquarters for the Manang area and is also known for its healing thermal baths and interesting architecture.

Day 06 : Pisang trekking (3,190m) 5 hours

Today, we will have a shorter hiking day ahead of us. The landscape between Chame and Pisang changes notably, and soon we will be walking through subalpine terrain which is Alpine interface. The early part of today’s walk will take us through large forests and past the massive, 1500-meter rock face called Paungda Danda. Pisang proper is a cluster of homes with a few nice lodges and plenty of activity in the fields.

Day 07 : Manang trek (3,540m) 5 hours (Lower Route) or 7 to 8 hours (Higher Route)

A half-day of walking will get us to Manang. The climate here is very similar to the high Tibetan plateau, with little precipitation and large fluctuations between daytime and nighttime temperatures. The inhabitants of Manang use horses for nearly everything, and the jingling of bells will announce the arrival of a horseman and his stead. Humde airport areas offer good bakeries and nice guesthouses with internet cafe.

Manang Hikes choosing higher routes goes relatively passes through upper Pisang and Ngawal villages. Pass countless mani stones – wall to reach Ghyaru village (3,673m) offers Annapurna II and Annapurna IV, a very stunning view. Ngawal (3,650m) is a village built Gompa up to the right. You will leave the village near a long Mani wall. You will descend back to the valley floor and rejoin the main trail to continue to Braga and Manang.

Day 08 : Rest day for acclimatization | Day tour

Manang is a large village situated on a rise immediately across the huge Gangapurna glacier. A beautiful emerald lake lies at its foot. There are plenty of good walks in the area and for at least a couple of hours, you can try to climb as high as possible above the village. Side trips are recommended to a small summit with prayer flags about an hour above Braga village, up to the ridge behind Manang village, or to a viewpoint above the lake opposite Manang Village. It is also possible to walk up the valley towards Tilicho Lake to the village of Khangsar. In addition, it is worth visiting the Manang Gompa or, if it is open, visits the clinic run by the Himalayan Rescue Association. They often have talked about altitude in the afternoon. There are also shops to explore for souvenirs.

Day 09 : Trek Manang to Letdar (4,200m) – 4 to 5 hours

After hot breakfast, we will walk through the farm terrace to Tanki Manang then gradually goes to high alpine to the Gunsang; offering panoramic mountains scenery and we will pass a few meadows where horses and yaks graze. Nearby Yak Kharka we will see herds of blue sheep grazing the steep slopes as well.

Day 10 : Thorong Phedi trek (4,420 m) 4 hours

The trial for today, relatively easy to get used to the altitude before we have to cross the highest point in the trek, and possibly the highest point you have been on in your life. From yak Kharka we will continue to climb along the east bank of the Jarang Khola to Thorung Phedi, a rock-strewn meadow surrounded by upright cliffs at 4420 meters. Blue sheep and even snow leopards can be sometimes seen in this area. Or if you are sure for, we can continue our trek to the High camp another an hour after lunch.

Day 11 : Thorong la pass trek (5,416m). Muktinath trekking (3,800m), 7 hours

Our journey begins before sunrise, as we need to set out early to complete the crossing of the Thorong La at 5416 meters. The trail is steep right from the start, but with a slow and steady pace, we should reach the summit within three hours. Prayer flags and hot tea await us as we reach the highest point of our trek to Thorong la pass summit. Our descent to Muktinath is long, but the views of border Himalayas and the Dhaulagiri family are simply amazing. Pilgrimage Muktinath temple is locating at above Muktinath Ranipauwa bazaar. It is a large village, a rambling settlement with several lodges to choose from. Hot showers and a good meal will allow for a quick recovery after today’s long and difficult day.

Day 12 : Jomsom Trek (2665m) 5 hours

Trek begins through several villages and Kali Gandaki river banks, initially through arid country in the same geographical and climatic zone as Tibet. After passing through Jharkot and Khingar, villages with typical Tibetan architecture, you follow the valley floor most of the way to Jomsom. Jomsom is sprawled along both banks of the Kali Gandaki and from here there are fine views of the Nilgiri peaks.

Day 13: Amazing mountain flight to get Pokhara city (25 minutes). Overland drive for option (7 hours).

Take an early flight to get Pokhara city. If you have time and wish, make a great trip to catch some of the glimpses of Pokhara town. Boat on Phewa lake to visit Tal Barahi Temple situated at an island. Drive to the Pokhara airport to fly for Kathmandu.

You might take a regular local bus or jeep to escape Pokhara city. As you choose an option to drive out to Phewa lakeside Pokhara, it takes about 9 hours roughly. Most of the roads are bumpy and not with concrete blacktop so the drive is not easy.

Day 14: Final departure to your port of destination.

The trip ends but we at Gokyo Treks and Expedition’s representative will drop you to the Kathmandu International airport for your final departure from Nepal to your port of destination.

How much does Annapurna circuit cost?

Adventure journey to Annapurna circuit cost is based upon the service you wish to book. Prices vary according to group size. Taking Kathmandu to Pokhara flights and Pokhara to Kathmandu flight saves your time and riding buses reduces the trip expenses. For the deluxe and luxury trekking tour plan, we add Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu round trip airfare, 3-star category hotel deluxe air-conditioned room in Kathmandu (BB PLAN) and 2-star hotel standard accommodation in Pokhara (BB plan) with attached bathroom while on trekking on possible places. AND WE ARE OPEN TO CUSTOMIZE YOUR TOUR AND PACKAGES PRICE AS PER YOUR REQUIREMENTS. International tour leaders are highly encouraged to get discount and attractive complimentary.

We can organize your private trek or Annapurna circuit solo through New Annapurna Trekking Trail (NATT) or Annapurna circuit (AC) trek starting at any date that works for you. Please contact us for more information.

Freequently Asked Questions

Question: Is pick up service available if my arrival day in Kathmandu?

Answer: Yes sure !! If you provide us your flight details then you should do request then our representative will come to pick up you on Kathmandu international airport.

Question: Do I need experience for Annapurna circuit trek ?

Answer: Annapurna circuit trek is suitable for keen trekkers/walkers who are able to walk around 5 – 6 hours in a day, with a lightweight rucksack somehow about 3000 meters above sea level.

Question: What kind of accommodation can I expect on Annapurna circuit trekking?

Answer: We provide tourist standard hotel category while you are staying in Kathmandu. During the trek, there would be normal hotel accommodation with basic clean facilities with a mattress and blanket. We can also offer you Annapurna circuit sleeping bag if needed (which need to return after the trip) but it is always a better idea to own sleeping equipment.

Question: What kind of food can I expect in Annapurna circuit Treks?

Answer: All the guest houses/lodges along the Annapurna circuit tour they have attached restaurant and they cook a delicious range of mostly vegetarian such as Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, dhal bhat, bread, soups, fresh vegetables (variety depends on the season)

The dinner and breakfast are provided in the same lodge you spend the night every day and Lunch will be provided on the way to next place where you are going.

Question: What opportunities will I have for a shower along Annapurna circuit trek?

Answer: Tea house trekking all the lodges they have a shower which you can get it somewhere paying and somewhere without paying and in Camping trekking – we provide you hot water bucket then you will take a bucket shower.

Question: How do I get drinking water on Annapurna circuit trek?

Answer: During the trekking route there are all places hotels and shops where you can able to buy mineral water and you can buy it for drinking but however we advise against buying mineral water in plastic bottles, as currently there are no provisions for disposing of these. Instead, we provide you boiled water or bringing chlorine tablets to purify the normal water as the normal water is available in campsite/along the way in the camping trekking.

Question: Can I charge my digital camera or mobile batteries on my trip?

Answer: During the Tea house trekking there will be chances to charge your battery. We recommend you bring an extra pair for in case. Remember to bring your adapters! And we recommend you to take extra batteries along with you.

Question: Are there any communication facilities on Annapurna circuit trek?

Answer: In this trekking route you can get telephone services as well as internet services as well.

Question: Can I use credit cards in Trekking?

Answer: No, for the trekking you need to have cash because credit cards work city area of Nepal only.

Question: When should I book my trip and what are the payment terms?

Answer: Because our trips book up months in advance, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. We will, of course, make every effort to accommodate last minute bookings. We prefer 20% advance deposit of the total price of a trip in order to confirm your reservation before you arrive in Nepal. And rest of the payment can be made after your arrival.

Question: Who will carry my luggage on Annapurna circuit trek?

Answer: We provide porters they will carry your luggage.

Question: Is there any communication while we are on Annapurna circuit trek?

Answer: There are telephones in many villages along the popular trekking routes from which you can make international calls.

Question: How much distance do I walk each day?

Answer: When walking/trekking in the mountains, the distance you cover each day can vary greatly due to a gradient, terrain, and altitude. As such it is very hard to give specific distances on each day, however, you have to be prepared to walk 5-6 hours each day.

Question: Do I need walking polls for Annapurna circuit trek?

Answer: We recommend to take that it will be helpful to you.

Question: How much additional money do I need per day?

Answer: You can allocate US$ 08 – 10 for a lunch/dinner in Kathmandu and it depends on your spending habits. US$7 to 10 US$ a day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolates, tea coffee and some drinks in trekking.

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