annapurna circuit trek

Nepal

Annapurna Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass - 15 Days 15 days

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Tour Overview

trip code

DE-0031

Starting Point

Kathmandu

End Point

Kathmandu

Max Altitude

5,416m/17,769ft

Duration

15 days

country

Nepal

Trip grade

Demanding

Activities

Trekking

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Begin the adventurous journey around the majestic Annapurna Massif with Destiny Excursion. The Annapurna Circuit is among the iconic and rewarding trekking routes in Nepal. Opened in 1977 for foreigners, this route circles the Annapurna Massif through lush forest, high-altitude deserts, and deep river valleys.

Trekking in the Annapurna Circuit offers you a scenic view of the lowlands, charming villages, Himalayan culture, and magnificent Thorong La Pass (5,416m). This journey takes around 15 days, including travel and rest days, while the actual trek takes only 12 days through remote villages, pristine valleys, and mountain trails far away from urban influence.

Explore countless sacred places, mani walls, prayer flags, and traditional villages while learning the diverse fusion of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Destiny Excursions ensures that this trek will be an unforgettable experience with the proper preparation and an expert guide. This Trek is ideal for adventurous individuals with good fitness. Also, you can customize the length of the trek as it can be adjusted to fit your preferences and schedule.

Details

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic Himalayan adventure that combines nature, culture, and challenging trails. With breathtaking panoramas of Annapurna (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and other peaks, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the best treks in the world.

This trek is classified as demanding as it comprises daily hikes lasting seven to eight hours and a significant elevation climb. With acclimatization at Manang, you will get time to rest and explore Tibetan-influenced monasteries and villages. The most difficult part of the trek will be the Thorong La Pass, but getting there offers magnificent views and satisfaction.

During the trek, you can experience diverse cultures of people in the lowlands and communities in the Himalayan region. Manang Valley, Muktinath Temple, Jomsom, and the breathtaking Kali Gandaki Gorge are some of the highlights of the trek.

The 15-day trek begins and ends in Kathmandu. The best seasons to perform the trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) due to stable weather. During this season, you can get a view of blooming rhododendrons and magnificent mountains. Destiny Excursion offers all the logistical assistance needed, guaranteeing an enjoyable and safe trek in the middle of the Himalayas.

 

Tour highlights

  • Explore the Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, and traditional architecture.

  • Trek through Thorong La high pass (5,416m), one of the highest passes in the world.

  • Take a stunning panoramic view of the Annapurna range, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri range, Tilicho peak, and other mountains.

  • Explore traditional Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis villages throughout the trek.

  • Visit Muktinath temple, a sacred Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site.

  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jagat

  • Explore Manang and Jomsom, traditional Himalayan settlements.

  • Scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and Kathmandu

points of attraction

The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers an unforgettable experience of cultural heritage, diverse landscape, and an exciting adventure throughout the Himalayan region of Nepal. During the trek, you can witness ancient monasteries, epic trails, sacred temples, and traditional and cultural villages. Explore the rugged mountain terrain, breathtaking landscapes, deep gorges, the alpine forest, and the panoramic views of mountains covered in snow like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and many others. Thorong La Pass(5,416m) is the highest point of the trek. Crossing this famous pass will give euphoria and satisfaction.

The main points of attraction of the Annapurna Circuit Trek are as follows:

Cultural and Heritage Attraction

  • Braga Monastery (900 years old): Visit Braga monastery, one of the oldest and most revered monasteries in the Manang region of Nepal. The Braga Monastery offers deep spiritual insight and a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection.

  • Muktinath Temple (3,760m): The Muktinath Temple is one of the sacred and important religious sites in Nepal. Both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims visit the temple with a belief and take a bath in the 108 sacred taps and pond at the temple premises.

  • Ngawal and Ghyaru Villages: Discover the history, stupas, gompas, and mani walls from the old communities in Ngawal and Ghyaru villages.

  • Bonpo Monastery: Discover the pre-Buddhist Bonpo Monastery and nearby villages and experience the ancient practices of spirituality.

Scenic and Natural Attractions

  • Panoramic mountain view: Enjoy stunning and amazing views of magnificent mountain peaks such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho peak, Gangapurna, and Pisang summits along the trek.

  • Ice Lake (4,600m): Take a look at the crystal clear glacier lake, which creates a stunning contrast with the mountainous terrain. Get a stunning view from Annapurna, Gangapurna, Singu Chuli, and other mountains from the Ice Lake.

  • World’s Deepest Gorge: Pass through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.  

  • Spring Rhododendron Blooms:  If you are performing the trek during spring, enjoy the beautiful hue of Rhododendron flowers in red, pink, and white along the trail

Adventure and Trekking Highlights

  • Thorong La Pass (5,416m): Trek through Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The challenging Thorong La pass gives a rewarding experience with a panoramic view of mountain ranges and a true sense of accomplishment.

  • Diverse Terrain: Trek to diverse terrain from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude mountain passes. Experience the snowy terrain, high mountain pass, deep gorge, and fertile valley. 

  • Suspension Bridges and Steep Ascents: Experience the unique moment of crossing narrow and swinging suspension bridges over the rushing rivers.

  • Acclimatization Activities: Take a break in Manang to acclimatize your body for high altitude trek. Perform an optional hike to Milarepa Cave or Ice Lake to prepare for high altitudes while enjoying scenic journeys.  

Stay and Experience

  • Tea House Hospitality: Enjoy stays at tea houses in villages such as Pisang, Ngawal, and Yak Kharka. Join in a conversation with other trekkers to share experiences. There, you can also enjoy the authentic taste of traditional Dal bhat.

  • Manang and Jomsom: Explore cafes, local shops, and bakeries at Manang and Jomsom. Experience the Thakali culture, traditional villages, and food

  • Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara: Experience the warm hospitality of hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara before and after the trek. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites and the vibrant local culture of three ancient cities in the Kathmandu valley in your free time. Enjoy the beauty of Pokhara, including the Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, and vibrant nightlife and clubs.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival

On your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. After check-in, unpack, relax, and enjoy the glimpses of a lively and bustling Kathmandu city. You can stroll around Thamel, Kathmandu's most popular tourist destination, with a number of cafes, restaurants, gear shops, and other cultural attractions. In the evening, join the welcome dinner at the hotel and meet your guide. You can also have a conversation with other trekkers. Your guide will provide an overview of your coming adventure to address any questions you may have and make sure that you are prepared. The day will be about getting yourself ready for the thrilling adventure ahead. In the evening, enjoy the unique taste and heritage of Nepalese traditional cuisine.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  •  Meals: Welcome Dinner

 

Day 2: Trek briefing + Permit Day

After an early morning breakfast, prepare yourself for the trek briefing and permit arrangements. During the briefing, you will be introduced to your guide and supporting team while also checking your trekking gear and learning important details about the journey ahead. This session ensures that you are fully prepared and confident before starting your adventure.

Later in the day, the necessary permits for the Annapurna region will be finalized. While the process is being completed, you may relax at your hotel or enjoy a short walk around the lively streets of Kathmandu. In the evening, you can spend some time in the main tourist hub, shop for any trekking essentials, and make final preparations for the trek.

  •  Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  •   Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Drive to Dharapani (1,860m/6,102ft)

Following breakfast on day 3, we set off on a scenic drive toward Dharapani, the starting point of our Annapurna Circuit Trek. Our team will pick you up from your hotel in a private 4WD vehicle to continue the journey. Leaving the Kathmandu valley, you will be travelling to the lowlands and westward via the Prithvi highway. You can enjoy the picturesque village, lush hills, alongside the rushing Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers during your journey. We stop for lunch at Beshisahar, a traditional gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. Following lunch, we continue our journey towards Dharapani via Syange. At Syange, you can refresh your mind with a spectacular view of the 111-meter-tall waterfall. After enjoying the view of the waterfall, we resume our journey towards Dharapani village, where your permits and pass are checked at the checkpoint. We conclude our day at Dharapani and prepare for the next day's trekking adventure.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 4: Trek to Chame (2,670m/8,760ft)

Our Annapurna Circuit trek officially begins today. Following an early morning breakfast, we start our trek heading north towards Chame, which takes 6-7 hours. We first reach Bagarchhap with a gradual walk, and then we continue uphill, passing through a pine forest towards Timang village. From Timang, you can get an amazing view of Mount Manaslu, the world's 8th-tallest mountain. We will take a tea break here and enjoy the stunning views of the mountain ranges. After the break, we resume our journey towards Thanchowk and take a lunch break. Following the lunch break, the journey continues toward Koto village, going by an ACAP permit checkpoint before arriving at Chame. Chame is the headquarters of the district of the Manang district, and is where you can find banks, ATMs, hospitals, and other essential infrastructure.

  • Overnight: Tea house 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 5: Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,827ft)

After breakfast at Chame, we continue our 6-7 hours journey northward toward Upper Pisang, passing through beautiful alpine forest. We take a tea break at Bhratang after around 2 hours of walk from Chame. Bhratang is a small settlement also known as the Apple heaven, as this place is home to Apple orchards producing a huge scale of apples. During the tea break, you can explore around the apple orchards, the beautiful farmhouse nearby, and witness the beautiful view of snow-capped Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. We continue our journey after a short tea break at Dhukur Pokhari, passing through dramatic cliffs, wooden bridges, and scenic pine forests alongside the roaring Marshyangdi River. At Dhukur Pokhari, we will take a lunch break before reaching Upper Pisang. The journey from Dhukur Pokhari to Upper Pisang takes around 2 hours, where you pass through Lower Pisang, a traditional village with long mani walls. 

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 6: Trek to Ngawal (3,660m/10,827ft)

On the sixth day of your journey, we trek towards Ngawal from Upper Pisang. The journey from Upper Pisang to Ngawal will be full of excitement and jaw-dropping scenarios of mountains and landscapes. Following a 2-hour trek from Upper Pisang, we reach Ghyaru, a traditional village with several old gumbas, stupas, and mani walls. We take a short lunch break at Ghyaru, where you can enjoy the magnificent view of Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), and Pisang Peak (6,091m). Thereafter, we continue our trek for 1.5 hours to reach Ngawal, passing through windy paths and stunning views of the Annapurna range. Ngawal is a peaceful village nestled at an altitude of 3,660 meters with many attractions, including a centuries-old cave of Guru Rinpoche.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  •  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 7: Trek to Manang (3,540m/11,286ft)

After breakfast, we continue our journey towards Manang, leaving the tranquil village of Ngawal. The 3–4-hour journey towards Manang is comparatively easy while allowing continued acclimatization. We will take a tea break at Braga village, which is famous for its 900-year-old Braga monastery. The ancient monastery is built into a cliffside where you can explore ancient statues, scriptures, and a peaceful ambiance. After the tea break, we continue our walk towards Manang through a semi-arid landscape with a gradual descent. Once you reach Manang, you can explore local cafes, shops, and bakeries. Once you reach Manang, you can enjoy the traditional lunch and explore the village, or take a rest to prepare for the next day's adventure. You can witness a unique blend of Tibetan-influenced culture and Himalayan lifestyle at Manang.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Manang

This day is reserved for acclimatization, where you will prepare yourself for a high-altitude trek. You can take a rest or go for a short hike to Milarepa Cave, which is 1.5 hours uphill from Manang. Milarepa Cave offers spiritual and historical insight into Tibetan Buddhism. Moreover, if you are interested in a longer hike, you can visit the Ice Lake (4,600m) following a 6-hour walk. Visiting Ice Lake offers a magnificent view of Annapurna III(7,555m), Gangapurna(7,454m), Singu Chuli (6,501m), Khangsar Kang(7,485m), and Tilicho Peak (7,134m). With a panoramic view of snowcapped peaks and the turquoise waters of the glacier lake, the journey proves every effort worthwhile.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 9: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13,182ft)

Beginning the morning with a warm breakfast, we continue our journey toward Yak Kharka. The trek will be a 3–4-hour ascent from Manang. Along the way, you will pass through several chortens and a suspension bridge over the Marshyangdi River. We pause our journey for a tea break with a spectacular view of the Annapurna range, Tilicho peak, and Chulu West at Gunsang. Resuming the journey from Gunsang, we walk slowly and steadily as the altitude increases until we reach Yak Kharka. At Yak Kharka, we have lunch and spend the rest of the afternoon preparing for the next day.

  • Overnight: tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 10: Trek to Thorung Phedi (4,525m/14,600ft)

After completing breakfast, we head towards the Thorung Phedi(4,525m), a base camp for crossing Thorong La Pass. The ascent will be steep for 3 hours, where you pass through rocky paths, trails, and small tea houses on the way. You can get a view of the jagged cliffs, dry vegetation, and rocky landscape of the region. Also, we will be passing through landslide-prone areas, so careful stepping is crucial here. After 3-4 hours of trekking, we reach the Thorong Phedi, where you will feel the air becoming thinner. At Thorong Phedi, we have lunch and a relaxing afternoon. Get ready for early dinners and take proper rest for the next day, as we will be crossing the iconic Thorong La high pass.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 11: Trek to Muktinath (3,760m/12,336ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft)

Today might be one of the challenging, rewarding, and memorable days. We will be trekking for 8-9 hours, passing the Thorong La Pass (5416m). Wake up early and have an early morning breakfast. Prepare for the steep ascent towards the Thorong La high pass. Steady walking with breaks can help you progress throughout the trail. Following a 4-5 hour walk from Thorong Phedi, you will reach the top of the Thorung La pass. Reaching there will make the trek worthy while giving you an immense sense of achievement. You may visit tea houses which offer hot tea or coffee, and snacks at the top of the pass. Admire the stunning views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Thorong Peak (6,144m), Yakwakang (6,482m), and many other breathtaking snow-capped mountains while enjoying your tea or snack. After a short break, we will descend for 3-4 hours towards Muktinath Temple, passing through rough trails. Once you are at Muktinath, you may feel the religious and spiritual significance of the sacred pilgrimage spot, which is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 12: Trek Jomsom (2,720m/8,924ft) via Lupra Valley (2,790m)

After breakfast, you can visit Muktinath Temple within walking distance from the hotel. The temple is renowned for its cultural and religious significance, 108 sacred taps, and as the site for liberation. From the temple's premises, enjoy the breathtaking panorama of the seventh-highest mountain on earth, Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Mount. Nilgiri(7,061m) south and north. After the temple visit, return to the hotel and prepare for a 2-hour descent to the Lupra valley. In Lupra Valley, you can explore Tibetan culture and visit the Bonpo Monastery, and descend to Jomsom.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 

 

Day 13: Fly to Pokhara

Following the breakfast, we catch the early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. The scenic 20-minute flight offers you an aerial view of the Kali Gandaki gorge, the Himalayas, and the diverse landscape of the region. Upon your arrival at Pokhara airport, you will be transferred to a hotel in Pokhara. After check-in, you may rest, refresh, or explore the beautiful Pokhara city. Take a boat ride in Phewa Lake, visit the World Peace Pagoda, enjoy adventurous sports, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Pokhara.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast

 

Day 14: Flight to Kathmandu

After breakfast at the hotel in Pokhara, we head towards Pokhara airport and board a flight toward Kathmandu. Enjoy the scenic flight and check in at the hotel in Kathmandu. Enjoy your day resting in your hotel room or exploring the city. You may explore the local cuisine and shop for souvenirs in Thamel. If you are interested, you can also enjoy the nightlife of Kathmandu by exploring pubs and clubs in Thamel.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals: Breakfast

 

Day 15: Departure

Your Annapurna Circuit Trek officially ends on this day. As per your flight schedule, our representative will pick you up from the hotel and take you to Tribhuvan International Airport. We wish you a happy journey and hope you leave Nepal with memories of culture, the Himalayas, and trek. We hope to have our next adventure with Destiny Excursion on your next visit to Nepal. Bon voyage!

  • Meals: Breakfast

 

Trek Route

annapurna circuit trek route maps

What's included

  • Welcome dinner upon arrival in Nepal.

  • Standard hotel accommodation in cities with bed and breakfast service.

  • Tea house/lodge stays during trekking days.

  • All meals outlined in the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, dinner during trek).

  • Domestic flights mentioned in the itinerary for both participants and guides.

  • Private transfers for all ground transportation included in the itinerary.

  • Experienced trekking guide and porters, including their flight tickets, meals, lodging, insurance, and required gear.

  • Necessary permits and entry fees for national parks and conservation areas.

  • A first aid kit suitable for the group and route (special requests can be made in advance).

  • Single Room Supplement included and divided evenly among the group if there is an odd number of travelers.

What's excluded

  • International airfare, Nepal visa fees, airport taxes, and excess baggage.

  • Travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellation, and evacuation (required).

  • Extra services or activities not listed in the itinerary, such as additional accommodation or optional tours.

  • Personal trekking gear (you can ask for recommendations on what to bring or rent).

  • Personal expenses such as drinks, snacks, laundry, phone calls, entrance fees, and donations.

  • Extra charges at lodges for hot showers, charging devices, or attached bathrooms.

  • Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, drivers, or hotel staff.

  • Unexpected costs caused by flight delays, strikes, or natural

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit?

The best times for trekking in the Annapurna Circuit are during the spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During this season, you can get pleasant weather with clear skies and steady temperatures. There is a low chance of snow or rainfall. You can witness the lush green plants and rhododendrons bloom in red, pink, and white colors in the spring. In autumn,  you can see mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, and other mountain ranges clearly.

 

How difficult is the Annapurna Trek?

The Annapurna trek is considered one of the difficult and demanding treks in Nepal. Trekkers require good physical and mental strength to perform the trek successfully. You are required to walk for an average of 6-8 hours a day, which includes steep ascents and descents through diverse terrains. The high altitude trails, harsh climate, and weather conditions additionally make the trek demanding. One of the most difficult parts of the trek is crossing one of the highest passes in the world, the Thorong La high pass, located at a height of 5,416m above sea level.

What are the risks of trekking the Annapurna Circuit?

Trekking in the Annapurna Circuit is considered one of the safest trekking routes if performed with proper guidance. However, various reasons such as high-altitude sickness, harsh weather conditions, natural calamities, injuries, or fatigue may pose a risk during the trek. With adequate planning, getting adjusted to the weather, and following safety rules, you can safely complete the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Can a beginner do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Yes, a beginner with good physical and mental fitness can do the Annapurna Circuit Trek. However, planning the trek carefully and adhering to the guidelines are important. Strength training and quick hikes are good ways to increase your physical fitness. Bring the necessary gear to help you during the trek.

What is the hardest part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The hardest part of the Annapurna Circuit trek will be crossing the Thorung La pass, which is located at a height of 5,416 meters above sea level. Due to the high altitude, steep ascent, and descent, challenging weather, and physically demanding trail, the high pass challenges the trekkers. However, with proper acclimatization, equipment, and planning, you can beat the challenge.