The Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal is one of the world's most iconic long-distance trekking routes, and for good reason. Few treks anywhere on Earth pack this much variety into a single journey — dramatic mountain passes, five distinct climatic zones, and a genuine sense of completing something whole, since this is a full circuit rather than an out-and-back trail.
Over 19 days, trekkers circle the entire Annapurna massif, crossing from lush subtropical valleys to the stark high-altitude desert beyond Thorong La, before descending back through sacred pilgrimage sites and natural hot springs on the return leg.
This isn't a trek chasing a single destination the way Annapurna Base Camp does. It's a journey defined by transformation — of landscape, culture, and altitude — unfolding gradually over nearly three weeks on the trail.
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A Trail of Dramatic Contrasts
What sets the Annapurna Circuit apart from nearly every other trek in Nepal is its sheer diversity. The trail moves through deep river gorges, sky-touching mountain passes, and ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples, all within a single continuous route.
Along the way, towering peaks accompany nearly every stage of the journey — Mt. Annapurna I (8,091m), Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) all make appearances at various points, alongside countless other Himalayan giants.
The trek also skirts the edge of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge on Earth, adding yet another superlative to an already remarkable route.
The Legendary Thorong La Pass
No description of this trek is complete without its centerpiece: Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the most celebrated high-altitude crossings in the world. Reaching the pass is the physical and emotional peak of the entire circuit — a demanding early-morning push rewarded with panoramic views across the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
For many trekkers, standing at the top of Thorong La is the single most memorable moment of the entire trip, a milestone that makes every earlier day of walking feel worthwhile.
Descending Into Sacred Ground
On the far side of the pass, the trail descends toward Muktinath, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Nepal for both Hindus and Buddhists. Sacred temples, eternal flames, and a deeply spiritual atmosphere mark this stretch of the journey, offering a striking contrast to the raw physical challenge of the pass just crossed.
From here, the route continues to Tatopani, where natural hot springs offer a well-earned soak — believed locally to ease sore muscles and even heal skin ailments after days of demanding trekking.
A Landscape in Constant Motion
Few treks anywhere shift character as dramatically as this one. The Annapurna Circuit passes through sub-tropical forests and traditional farmland in its early stages, climbs into alpine meadows and glacial terrain near Thorong La, and eventually returns through pine forests and rhododendron woodland on the way to Ghorepani and Pokhara.
This constant environmental shift keeps the trek visually fresh from beginning to end — no two days look quite the same. Along the way, keen-eyed trekkers may spot blue sheep, and with real luck, the elusive snow leopard, particularly in the high pastures around Yak Kharka.
Culture Along the Trail
Beyond the mountains and passes, the Annapurna Circuit is also a journey through some of Nepal's most storied mountain communities. Gurung and Thakali villages line much of the route, each with its own distinct architecture, customs, and hospitality.
In higher villages like Manang and Braga, Tibetan Buddhist influence becomes more visible — prayer wheels, mani walls, and small monasteries mark a noticeably different cultural rhythm than the lower, Hindu-influenced valleys the trek begins in.
Why This Trek Endures
Decades after it first became one of Nepal's signature long-distance routes, the Annapurna Circuit remains a benchmark trek for a reason — it doesn't just show trekkers one facet of the Himalaya, it shows them nearly all of them, woven into a single, complete journey.
For those seeking more than a single peak or a single viewpoint, and who want the full arc of a genuine Himalayan expedition, this circuit remains one of the most complete trekking experiences Nepal has to offer.
Key Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek Trail
Thorong La Pass (5,416m): The trek's legendary high point and one of the most celebrated mountain crossings in the world.
Muktinath and Jomsom: Sacred sites for both Hindus and Buddhists, marking the trek's descent from high alpine terrain into the Kali Gandaki valley.
Five Climatic Zones: From subtropical forest to high alpine desert, few treks anywhere offer this much ecological range in one journey.
Manang Acclimatization: A rest day with side hikes to Ice Lake or Praken Gompa, deep in Gurung and Tibetan-influenced territory.
Tatopani Hot Springs: A natural, mineral-rich soak believed to ease sore muscles after the pass crossing.
Panoramic Peaks: Views of Annapurna I, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre accompany much of the trail.
Annapurna Circuit Trek vs. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Aspect
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Duration
19 Days
15 Days
Max Altitude
5,416m (Thorong La Pass)
4,130m (Annapurna Base Camp)
Route Type
Full circuit around the Annapurna massif
Direct route into the Annapurna Sanctuary
Signature Moment
Crossing Thorong La Pass
Standing at Annapurna Base Camp itself
Landscape
Five distinct climatic zones, from subtropical valleys to high alpine desert
Rhododendron forest, bamboo groves, and the natural amphitheater of the Sanctuary
Cultural Highlights
Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan Buddhist villages; the sacred site of Muktinath
Gurung and Magar villages; the Poon Hill sunrise
Best For
Trekkers wanting a longer, more complete Himalayan expedition
Trekkers wanting a focused, moderate trek to a single iconic destination
Which one should you choose?
If you want to stand at the base of the world's 10th highest mountain, surrounded by a natural amphitheater of peaks, in a more moderate 15-day journey, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the better fit — and it's suitable for a slightly wider range of trekkers, including families and first-timers.
If you're after a longer, more complete Himalayan expedition — one that crosses an entire mountain range rather than approaching a single point — the Annapurna Circuit Trek delivers that in a way few other treks in Nepal can match, with the added reward of crossing the legendary Thorong La Pass.
Can't decide? Both treks pass through some of the same UNESCO-listed Kathmandu sites and share a love of Himalayan culture — the real difference comes down to how much time you have, and whether you want a focused destination or a complete loop.
There's a reason trekkers still call this "the classic" decades after routes like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp joined Nepal's must-do list. A circuit is different from a there-and-back trek — you don't retrace your steps, you complete a loop, and something about that shape changes how the whole journey feels.
By the time you're back where you started, you've crossed an entire mountain range rather than simply visited it. That sense of having gone around something, not just to something, is what keeps the Annapurna Circuit in a category of its own.
Diverse Experiences and Wildlife
The Annapurna Circuit Trek moves through a wide range of climatic zones, from sub-tropical forests and terraced farmland to alpine meadows and glacial terrain. Along the way, keep an eye out for blue sheep, and — with real luck — the elusive snow leopard, particularly around Yak Kharka.
Why Choose the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
This 19-day journey offers an unparalleled mix of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and spiritual fulfillment. From crossing the legendary Thorang-La Pass to soaking in the healing waters of Tatopani and experiencing the vibrant traditions of the local Gurung and Thakali communities, every step of the Annapurna Circuit is an adventure worth cherishing.
Embark on the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Himalayan Walkers and let us guide you through Nepal’s most iconic trail, ensuring a safe, enriching, and unforgettable experience.
Trip Highlights
World famous Thorang-La Pass (5416m)
Muktinath, Jomsom (sacred Hindu & Buddhist site)
Pass by Yak pastures
Explore tourist hub Pokhara
Magnificent lakes, glaciers, deep gorges & stunning waterfalls
Tatopani natural hot springs
Itinerary Details
Day 01
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel.
Your Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal begins the moment you fly into Kathmandu, with sweeping Himalayan views unfolding beneath the window as you descend. Your flight lands at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), sitting at 1,350m.
Nepal's entry visa can be arranged in advance or on arrival — on-arrival processing typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on queue size. For up-to-date visa requirements, refer to the Department of Immigration Nepal official site.
As you exit the arrivals gate, our company representative will be waiting with a placard bearing our name and logo. You'll be welcomed with a traditional Tibetan khata scarf before being transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle.
The drive to Thamel takes about 30 minutes, passing glimpses of Pashupatinath Temple and the lively energy of Kathmandu's streets — a fitting first taste of the city before you settle in and rest.
Breakfast
Overnight Stay at Hotel
You may prefer to explore kathmandu night life on tourist hub 'Thamel'
Day 02
Day 2: A guided sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley with professional English speaking tour guide. (UNESCO world heritage sites visit: Swoyambhunath, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudha)
Day 2 of your Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal is dedicated to exploring Kathmandu before the long journey around the Annapurna massif begins. The tour covers four of the valley's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
First is Swayambhunath, the hilltop "Monkey Temple" and one of Nepal's oldest religious sites. Next is Patan, a medieval city known for its fine arts and the stone Krishna Mandir. From there, visit Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines in the world on the banks of the Bagmati River.
The day ends at Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist stupas outside Tibet. [See our full Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour for details on each site.] The day offers a meaningful cultural introduction before setting off toward Besisahar and the start of this 19-day circuit around the Annapurna Himalaya.
Breakfast
Day 03
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Ngyadi via.Beshishahar (7/8hrs.). Overnight stay at Ngyadi (1011m)
After an early morning breakfast, we will drive out of Valley through picturesque Trishuli River to Ngyadi via Besi Shahar situated alongside Marshyangdi River. Amazing terraced farms, beautiful villages, gorgeous Ganesh Himal & Manasalu Himal will be beside you throughout your ride. Overnight stay at Ngyadi.
Breakfast + Dinner + Lunch
Day 04
Day 4: Trek from Ngyadi to Jagat (7/8 hrs.), overnight stay at Jagat (1314m).
This is the day to kickoff you thirteen days trek to circle Annapurna. It might take you 7-8 hours to cover almost 12 km distance to reach Jagat. We will pass by places like Bahundada, Lilibhir, Ghemri, Shrichaur accompanied by beautiful Marshyangdi River. Breathtaking waterfalls and green forest add up to our journey more enjoyable. Overnight stay at Jagat.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 05
Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (7/8 hrs.), overnight stay at Dharapani 1860m
After the breakfast we start continuing on our trail. This day is full of vistas, suspension bridges, lush greenery and gain a little bit of height by ascending to 1860m by the end of the day. Jagat to Ghattekhola, Ghattekholan to Chemje through uphill road surrounded by High Mountains on both sides and walking side by side with Marshyangdi River will be quite amazing.
Slight descending to the level of Marshyangdi River & crossing the suspension bridge along with 2-3 hours of walk will take us to Sundar Tal village, the entrance to Manang district. We might stop for a lunch there and will head toward Dharapani by crossing a challenging narrow trail near Khotre village which require an extra attention since the rocks might fall from upside. Overnight stay at Dharapani.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 06
Day 6: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (6/7 hrs.) spend night at Chame (2670m)
Today we will ascend by almost 800m & entire distance for the day to cover is 16km. We will pass by Bagarchhap, Danakyu, Timang, Thanchowk, Koto villages through forest trail. Lamjung, Manasalu, Annapurna Mountains will be our day’s companion.
Once we reach Timang village we will see predominantly Buddhist culture & many religious sites where it is customary to walk on the leftside of those sacred places. Finally we will reach Chame, a district headquarter, where you can find good infrastructure should you need any. Overnight stay at Chame.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 07
Day 7: Trek from Chame to upper Pisang (3300m) 6/7 hrs.
Majestic Mountains, deep pine forests & huge apple orchard will be today’s major highlights. We will start a day by turning prayer wheels in to forest route hiking under the Lamjung Himal along with the vertical rocks of Marshayngdi valley near Paunda Dada rock which is believed to be “Gateway of Heaven”.
4-5 hours of walking on comparatively easy & comfortable trail will take us to Lower Pisang. While continuing uphill further through the deep pine forest, we will reach Upper Pisang where we will be spending overnight.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 08
Day 8: Trek from upper Pisang to Manang (3540m.), overnight stay at Manang Bazar (6/7 hrs.
Today’s trekking will be naturally & culturally remarkable. First we hike to Ghyaru hill (3730m) from where we will have a mesmerizing breathtaking view of Annapurna and as we move further we will witness a significant influence of Himalayan Buddhism in the area. We will pass through green forest, beautifully inscribed stone tablets with mantras.
After that, we will pass by Ngawal & Braga villages where in Braga you will have an opportunity to explore beautiful monasteries and Stupas. Basically trail has two options to go through either from northern route or from southern route. Southern one is comparatively easier & less demanding than the northern one.
However your guide will decide which route to adopt depending on weather and situation. Finally we will be at Manang bazar where we spend a night at acomfortable guesthouse.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 09
Day 9: Acclimatization day, exploring Manang, overnight stay at Manang Bazar.
Today is the rest day as well as a chance to allow our body to acclimatize in higher altitude. Depending on your interest we can opt to do some activities including hike up to Praken Gompa or Ice Lake (4500m) or may be small hikes in the afternoon. Today you will explore Manang bazar, know locals, their lifestyles, talk to them, and enjoy a beautiful scenery.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Explore traditional ethnic culture and settlement in Mangal Bazar.
Day 10
Day 10: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4050m.), 6 hrs. Overnight stay at Yak Kharka valley.
After having energizing breakfast, we will head to Yak Kharka. First we will reach Ghunsang within two/three hours of walk enjoying snowy mountains, River valley & small lake. Continuing ahead, road is clear no vehicle nor any village settlements, clear viewing of stunning peaks in a very quiet atmosphere.
On the way we feel the presence of Himalayan Buddhism throughout the route. Walking uphill slowly finally bring us to Yak Kharka, the place of Yak herding. Normally herders bring their Yaks & other animals for grazing here in green grassy meadows. Tonight sleep comfortable in local lodge in Yak Kharka.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 11
Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorang Highcamp (6/7 hrs.), overnight stay at Thorang Highcamp (4925m.
As we begin our journey today, we will first head toward Deurali Teahouse passing through Jarang Khola, stunning views of Mountains, grasslands, bridges & rivers. As we further move the scenery becomes more widespread & fascinating.
Walking approximately 4 hours we will reach Thorangphedi (4450m), phedi literally means the bottom part of hill. Thorangphedi is also the base of Thorang La pass, a tomorrow’s target. Then the trek goes up very steeply to reach our today’s destination, Thorang Highcamp.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 12
Day 12: Trek from Thorang Highcamp to Muktinath (3760m.) via. Thorang-La Pass (5416m.), 9 hours. Overnight stay at Muktinath.
This is the most important & challenging day since the highest point of our entire trek is going to be conquered today. We wake up early morning & set out to conquer Thorang La pass (one of the highest passes). As we walk approximately two hours, then we are almost on it.
The Pass is in front of you, welcoming you with snowy trails still not much slippery. Now you can appreciate yourself and your team members for this achievement so far, click some individual as well as group memories, enjoy your ecstatic moments in its fullest. After spending some time here we will start heading down to Muktinath.
The route will/might be full of snow, mud and loose gravel, so you are advised to keep your walking steady & balanced. The views of Annapurna, Gangapurn as well as other mountains will keep you motivated & focused on the trail. Day long continuous walk along with restful stops bring us to one of the most popular holy site for Hindus & Buddhists, called Muktinath. Overnight stay in local lodge, Muktinath.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 13
Day 13: Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani, 3904m (5hrs.)
We will have early breakfast and move for Muktinath exploration. We will visit major attractions of the place like: Jwalamai Temple with spring and eternal flame, 125 holy water spouts, Temple & Stupas.
We come back to our lodge and prepare ourselves for our next destination. Today we will allow your legs to have rest since they might have become exhausted due to many days long & stressful walk. We will drive to Tatopani this day, might take approximately five hours.
Totopani, a natural hot springs where you can have a dip in to it. It is believed that if you dip in to Tatopani, all your skin diseases will get washed away. Overnight stay in Tatopani.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 14
Day 14: Trek to Ghorepani from Tatopani (6/7hrs.). Overnight stay at Ghorepani, 2810m.
The journey to circuit Annapurna continues to move this day also. On our way to Ghorepani we will cross river, forest, farm villages & somewhere a stone stepping. Ghara, Sikha & Chitra villages will be on our way to Ghorepani.
The views of surrounding Mountains, villages clinging to slope landscapes will look really amazing. Today since the route is little longer, we will try to make it slow by stopping & resting as per requirement. As Ghorepani is the busiest village town in entire Annapurna circuit, you will spend a quality night over here.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 15
Day 15: Early morning hike to Poonhill viewpoint (3210m.), trek to Tikhedhunga (6/7 hrs). Overnight stay at Tikhedhunga.
Early morning we will hike to Poonhill, a popular viewpoint, for a beautiful sunrise view. Enjoy the best panoramic view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchre, Hiuchuli, Neelgiri & Mardi Himal. Hike back to the guesthouse for breakfast.
After the breakfast we will trek to Tikhedhunga through Gurung & Magar villages. The villages Nangethati, Birewthati, Ulleri as well as farm fields, pine forests & different species of rhododendron flower are today’s attractions. The overnight stay will be in Tikhedhunga.
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 16
Day 16: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Nayapul (3 hrs). Drive to Pokhara valley. Overnight stay at Pokhara.
Today we are almost at the end of circuit trekking, a short trek of almost three hours will take us to Nayapul passing through terraced fields and local traditional villages. Then we will drive to beautiful lake city “Pokhara
Breakfast + Lunch
Overnight Stay at Lodge
Day 17
Day 17: Guided sightseeing in Pokhara Valley.
After completing the full loop of the Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal, this day is yours to enjoy at whatever pace suits you. Take it easy and rest after nearly three weeks on the trail, or spend the day exploring Pokhara Valley, widely regarded as one of Nepal's most beautiful destinations.
If sightseeing calls, your guide will take you through the city's major attractions — the calm waters of Phewa Lake, the hilltop World Peace Pagoda, and other scenic spots that make Pokhara such a fitting place to unwind after completing the entire Annapurna circuit. Either way, it's a well-earned, easygoing day before the final return to Kathmandu.
Breakfast
Overnight Stay at Hotel
Day 18
Day 18: Drive to Kathmandu, farewell Nepalese cultural dinner, overnight stay at Kathmandu. (Optional: flight to Kathmandu, 30 minute)
It's time to head back to Kathmandu, bringing the Annapurna Circuit Trek full circle. Having successfully completed the entire loop around the Annapurna massif, take the drive back as a moment to look back on everything covered — the passes, the villages, the culture, and the sheer scale of what's just been achieved.
To mark the occasion, we'll host a memorable farewell dinner in Kathmandu with a live Nepalese cultural performance, a fitting close to one of Nepal's most complete Himalayan journeys.
Breakfast
Day 19
Day 19: Final departure, Transfer to International Airport.
Our office representative will see you off at airport. Time to say “See You Again”.
Cost Includes
Airport pick up & drop off in private vehicle.
Three star category Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara with BB plan.
All necessary paper works.
Government registered experienced licensed Trekking Guide.
One high altitude porter for two travelers (Max.weight 15kg).
Neat & clean basic level accommodation with BLD plan during Trek.
Salary, food & accommodation for your guide & porter.
All local taxes.
Domestic flights.
All necessary ground transportation in a comfortable private vehicle.
Kathmandu valley sightseeing with professional English speaking Tour Guide.
First air kit box.
Trekking equipment for your guide and porter.
Basic option includes only accommodation.
Premium Package: Accommodation in a four-star hotel in Kathmandu and the finest quality lodges during the trek. All ground transportation is provided in a luxury vehicle, complemented with refreshments.
Luxury Package: Accommodation in a five-star luxury hotel in Kathmandu (e.g., Dwarika's or Marriott) and the finest quality lodges during the trek. All ground transportation is arranged in a luxury vehicle, accompanied by soft drinks or beer. Transportation by flight in the area where flight options are available.
Cost Excludes
Nepal entry visa fee & international airfare.
Lunch & dinner while you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
Hotel upgrade & any other add on.
Extra stays in Kathmandu.
Personal travel insurance and insurance covering medical & high altitude rescue costs.
Personal expenses: phone calls, internet, laundry, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks.
Personal equipment: clothing, bags, personal medical kit & all kinds of personal trekking materials.
Heritage sites & entry fees in Kathmandu valley sightseeing.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that encircles the Annapurna Massif, offering breathtaking views of mountains, diverse landscapes, and cultural experiences through traditional Himalayan villages.
How long is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The trek typically takes 14–21 days, depending on your chosen itinerary, acclimatization stops, and side trips.
What is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The ideal time is March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn) when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the views are stunning.
What is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The highest point is the Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft), which is a challenging yet rewarding highlight of the trek.
What kind of accommodation is available on the trek?
Himalayan Walkers ensures comfortable stays, ranging from standard tea houses and lodges to premium-quality lodges, depending on your package selection.
Is prior trekking experience required for the Annapurna Circuit?
While prior trekking experience is helpful, the trek is suitable for fit beginners as well, provided they prepare for long walking hours and high-altitude conditions.
What is the level of difficulty for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging, with varied terrain, high altitudes, and long walking days.
Do I need a guide for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Although the route is well-marked, hiring a professional guide through Himalayan Walkers enhances your experience, ensures safety, and provides insights into local culture and history.
What permits are required for the trek?
You’ll need two permits:
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Himalayan Walkers arranges all necessary permits for you.
How fit do I need to be for this trek?
You should have a good fitness level, as the trek involves walking 6–8 hours daily, often on steep and uneven terrain above 5000 Meters.
What should I pack for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Pack essentials such as trekking boots, warm layers, a sleeping bag, water purification tablets, and a first-aid kit. Himalayan Walkers provides a detailed packing list during booking.
Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
Yes, altitude sickness is a risk due to high elevations. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a gradual ascent are crucial. Himalayan Walkers ensures itineraries are designed to reduce this risk.
What kind of food is available during the trek?
The lodges and tea houses provide Nepali, Indian, and continental meals, including popular options like dal bhat, noodles, soups, and momos. Customized dietary requirements can often be accommodated.
How is the transportation arranged for the trek?
Himalayan Walkers organizes luxury ground transportation for transfers between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the trekking starting point.
Why choose Himalayan Walkers for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
