Annapurna Circuit Trek
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Duration
14 Days
Tour Type
Annapurna Region
Group Size
24 persons
Overview
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a famous 14-day hike in central Nepal. People also call it the Round Annapurna Trek or Throng La Pass Trek. Many trekkers love this route, considering it one of the world's best. The trek covers 160-230 km (100-145 mi), depending on whether you use transportation. It reaches an altitude of 5,416m at Thorung La pass, close to the Tibetan plateau. The trail goes through two river valleys, circling the Annapurna massif and crossing the highest pass, Thorung La (5416m). Most hikers follow the route clockwise for a slower altitude gain and an easier pass crossing.
The trek offers stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. It starts in Dharapani and ends in the Kali Gandaki river valley. You can reach Besisahar with a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu, and a jeep can take you to Dharapani or Chame. The trail passes through paddy fields, subtropical forests, waterfalls, cliffs, and villages. While road construction has changed some parts of the trail, the trek remains enjoyable.
The Annapurna region opened to foreign trekkers in 1977. Originally, the trek began in Dhumre and ended in Pokhara, taking 23 days. However, road construction has shortened the trek, and a road now covers much of the route. Despite these changes, the trek still provides a great experience, with new trails and routes to avoid the road in some places. Keep in mind that the itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted based on your preferences.
Included/Excluded
1 licensed and experienced local trekking guide for Annapurna Circuit Trek.
An assistant guide for groups exceeding 6 people to attend to clients and porters.
Shared porter service, with one porter assigned to every two trekkers, with a weight limit of 25kg per porter.
One night's accommodation in a deluxe room at a 2-star hotel in Pokhara, inclusive of breakfast, based on double occupancy.
Daily meals provided three times a day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the trek.
Accommodation in trekking lodges on a twin-sharing basis.
Enjoy tea, coffee, cookies, and fresh fruits during the trek for refreshment.
Transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar by local bus and a connecting jeep to Jagat from Besisahar.
Tourist bus service for the return journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu, with taxi transfer to the bus station.
Comprehensive coverage for the guide and porters, including salary, food, accommodation, and insurance.
Inclusion of TIMS card and ACAP entrance permit.
All government taxes, VAT, and office service charges are covered.
Airport transfers, guided sightseeing, and meals in Kathmandu.
One breakfast and transportation in Pokhara, all bar bills, and beverages (coke, fanta, mineral water).
Not covered: Hot shower, hot water during the trek, personal travel insurance, laundry service, phone calls, and internet.
Additional charges: Rescue operation fee in case of an emergency, advance deposit transfer fee for trip booking.
Considerations: Gratitude and tips for your guide and porter are not included.
Itinerary
Day 1
Take an 8 to 9-hour drive from Kathmandu to Syange through Besisahar.
Day 1
Take an 8 to 9-hour drive from Kathmandu to Syange through Besisahar.
We start with a 5-hour drive to Besisahar along the Prithwi highway. Then, we take a different route from Dumre and drive for about one and a half hours to reach Besisahar. After lunch, we finish the drive to Syange (1100 meters / 3608 feet) in the Marysandi Valley. Spend the night at a tea house lodge with dinner.
Day 2
Trek to Taal (1700m) 6 to 7 hours walk.
Day 2
Trek to Taal (1700m) 6 to 7 hours walk.
A fantastic hike with such changes in landscape and a range of gradients is begins today. From Tal we head across the river and ascend steeply to finally reach the ridge top high above. We cross another suspension bridge before a continued ascent up a narrow and beautiful valley where, after rain, many spectacular waterfalls will flow. Just before camp at Tal the first village in Manang, we come over a small rise and enter a wide, flat valley with a long, silvery waterfall to the right.
Day 3
Trek to Bagarchhap (2160m), 5 to 6 hours walk
Day 3
Trek to Bagarchhap (2160m), 5 to 6 hours walk
Follow the path across a wide valley called Marsyangdi. Then, climb up a stone stairway to 1860m and keep going up and down until you reach Dharapani at 1890m. In Dharapani, you'll see a stone entrance called Chhorten, which is common in villages influenced by Tibetan culture. Next, visit Bagarchhap at 2160m, where you'll find houses with flat roofs in the Tibetan style, even though the village is still transitioning to the dry highlands.
Day 4
Walk for 5 to 6 hours to get to Koto/Chame (2670m).
Day 4
Walk for 5 to 6 hours to get to Koto/Chame (2670m).
The trail can be bumpy and rocky. It goes up to Tyanja at 2360m, then passes through a forest near the river, reaching Kopar at 2590m. As you reach Chame, the main town in the Manang district, enjoy the beautiful views of Annapurna II. Also, there are two small hot springs near the town that you can visit.
Day 5
Walk for 6-7 hours to reach Upper Pisang (3300m).
Day 5
Walk for 6-7 hours to reach Upper Pisang (3300m).
Walk for 6-7 hours to reach Upper Pisang (3300m). Our trek today begins in a dense forest in a steep, narrow valley. We cross a river on a long bridge at 2910m and then another bridge at 3040m. As we continue, we start seeing the impressive Paungda Danda rock face. The trail then climbs to Pisang, which is spread between 3200m and 3300m. We choose Upper Pisang for a richer experience of traditional culture and the local village.
Day 6
Walk for 3 to 4 hours from Pisang to Manang (3540m).
Day 6
Walk for 3 to 4 hours from Pisang to Manang (3540m).
Today, we go through the drier upper part of the Manang district, which doesn't get as much rain because of the Annapurna Range. People here herd yaks and grow crops for part of the year. They've had special trading rights since 1784. Leaving Pisang, there are two trails on both sides of the Marsyangdi River that come together again at Mungji. The southern route, through Hongde with its airstrip at 3325m, has less climbing than the northern route via Ghyaru. However, the northern trail along the river bank offers better views. From Mungji, the trail passes the partly hidden village of Bryanga at 3475m and leads to Manang at 3500m.
Day 7
Take a break and get used to the high altitude in Manang.
Day 7
Take a break and get used to the high altitude in Manang.
When you're above 3500 meters, it's important to spend a day acclimatizing. Today, we take it easy in Manang. We go on some short walks during the day to enjoy the fantastic views around the village. Many people choose to hike to the ice lake or explore nearby places. By the end of the day, we return to our place to rest for the night.
Day 8
Walk from Manang to Ledar (4200m) for 5 to 6 hours.
Day 8
Walk from Manang to Ledar (4200m) for 5 to 6 hours.
After a hearty breakfast, we leave Manang and start climbing to higher altitudes where the air is thinner. The trail takes us up almost 2000m toward Thorong La Pass. We ascend gradually through Tenki, moving away from the Marshyangdi Valley. Following the Jarsang Khola Valley, we reach Ledar at 4200m, where we notice that the plants become less and less as we go higher.
Day 9
Walk to Phedi or High Camp (4600m) for 4 to 5 hours.
Day 9
Walk to Phedi or High Camp (4600m) for 4 to 5 hours.
The path goes down to cross the river at 4310m, and then we climb up to Phedi at 4420m. At High Camp, which is at an elevation of 4600m, we now have some nice guesthouses. You'll spend the night there.
Day 10
Walk to Muktinath (3760m) via Thorong La Pass (5416m) for 7 to 8 hours.
Day 10
Walk to Muktinath (3760m) via Thorong La Pass (5416m) for 7 to 8 hours.
The journey from Phedi, which means "foot of the hill," takes us to the top of Thorong La pass at 5416m. The climb is steep but easy to follow. However, altitude and snow can be challenging. Snow can make it difficult to cross the pass. It takes about four hours to climb to the pass, where you'll see Chortens and prayer flags. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a magnificent view.
Day 11
Walk to Marpha (2600m) for 6 to 7 hours.
Day 11
Walk to Marpha (2600m) for 6 to 7 hours.
Marpha is a pleasant village with over 80 houses of Thakali people. It has a significant Buddhist monastery and an apple orchard. If you're curious about how apple brandy is made, you can see the process and even buy some in nearby Tukche, and we can take you there.
Day 12
Take a bus or jeep for a 3 to 4-hour drive to Tatopani (1190m) from Marpha.
Day 12
Take a bus or jeep for a 3 to 4-hour drive to Tatopani (1190m) from Marpha.
Tatopani means "Hot Spring" in Nepali. You can enjoy a natural hot bath here after the tiring hike over Thorong La in the big Himalayas. Nepalese people believe that soaking in hot springs can heal body aches and diseases related to bones and veins, like Arthritis. Spend the night in Tatopani.
Day 13
Walk for 7 to 8 hours to get to Ghorepani (2850m).
Day 13
Walk for 7 to 8 hours to get to Ghorepani (2850m).
Today's hike is a bit challenging and takes a long time. We go up a slope with a steep angle, about 50-60 degrees, passing through Ghara, Shikha, and Chitre, which are settlements of the Braman and Magar Indigenous peoples. We'll have lunch on the way, and then spend the night at a teahouse lodge in Ghorepani.
Day 14
Excursion Poon Hill and trek to Birethanti - drive to Pokhara.
Day 14
Excursion Poon Hill and trek to Birethanti - drive to Pokhara.
Take a morning trip to Poon Hill (3210m) to see the sunrise over mountains like Mt. Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Varaha Shikhar, Mt. Annapurna I, and Lamjung Himal. After breakfast, walk to Birethanti for 6-7 hours, and then drive to Pokhara, which is 42km away and takes about 1.5 hours. Spend the night in Pokhara. This marks the end of your journey with the Himalayan guide. The trip is over, and it's time to say goodbye to your friend.
Travel Styles
Nature & Adventure
FAQs
1. What is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a famous trekking route in central Nepal that takes you around the Annapurna Massif, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas, diverse landscapes, and cultural experiences.
2. How long does the Annapurna Circuit Trek take?
The trek usually takes around 14 to 18 days to complete, depending on the specific itinerary and trekker's pace.
3. When is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The best time for the trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is clear, and the views are spectacular.
4. What is the level of difficulty for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The trek is considered moderately challenging. Trekkers should be in good physical condition as the trail involves ascending to high altitudes, including the Thorung La Pass at 5,416m.
5. What permits are required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card to enter the Annapurna region.
6. How do I get to the starting point of the trek?
The trek often starts at Besisahar, which can be reached by a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu. Anthola Tours can arrange transportation for trekkers.
7. Is it possible to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek independently, or do I need a guide and porter?
While independent trekking is possible, hiring a guide and porter is recommended for a safer and more enjoyable experience. They can assist with navigation, carry luggage, and provide insights into the local culture.
8. What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
Tea houses and lodges are common along the trail, providing basic accommodation and meals. Anthola Tours can arrange for comfortable lodging options.
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