Annapurna Circuit Trek

Duration: 18 Days    Based on 2 reviews

About Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek or also known as Round Annapurna Trek is an 18 days of diverse nature and culture experience in the Western region of Nepal. This classic trek circles the Annapurna Massif via the crossing of the toughest and highest pass in the world, ‘Thorong La (5416 M)’. This trek is considered as one of the best and most do treks in the world by various renowned travel magazines from all around the world. Most of the part of the trek lies within the boundary of the Annapurna Conservation Area.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek has everything that an avid trekker seeks. Splendid mountain sceneries, peaceful villages, and hamlets, diverse culture, soothing rivers and waterfalls, green terraced fields, enchanting pine, and rhododendron forests, high-altitude lakes, constantly changing landscapes, and many more. The trek starts from tropical lowlands and gradually moves to the mighty Thorong La Pass (5416 M). After the pass, the trail then enters the Mustang region and the scenery drastically changes into a treeless barren area giving a different kind of vibe. Further down, the trail passes through the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali gandaki gorge. The trail then advances to Ghorepani, Hille, and finally to Nayapul where the trek ends. The stunning views of the Annapurna range, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Nilgiri, Pisang peak, and many other peaks can make anyone forget the difficulty of the trek. Trekkers often encounter Yaks, Mules, Blue Sheep, and Himalayan Thar, etc. along the trails.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is no wonder famous for its diverse landscapes. And so it is for its authentic culture as well. The trek itself is an opportunity to explore and experience the culture and traditions of the local people. The trek passes through the quiet villages of various ethnic communities, mainly of the Gurungs, Thakalis, Magars, and Lopa, who practice Bon, Buddhism, Animism, and Nature Worshipping. Mani walls, prayer flags, Chorten, monasteries, and temples can be seen along the trails quite often. This region is well known for its historical, cultural, and religious sites likes Jharkot, Braga Gumba, Muktinath Temple, Marpha, Tatopani, and Thini Gaun. Among them, the Muktinath Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus which displays a perfect example of religious harmony. And unique festivals like Yartung, Badhe, and Archery festivals also add authenticity to this trek.

Our 18-day Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary starts from Jagat and ends at Nayapul. If you would like to customize the itinerary according to your desire, physical fitness level, time frame, etc. please feel free to message us. Our experts will help you craft a perfect itinerary that ensures a top-notch experience with safety.

 

 

Highlights

  • Magnificent view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Gangapurna and many other small peaks
  • Thorong La Pass (5416 M), one of the highest passes in the world 
  • Kali Gandaki river gorge, the world’s deepest river gorge
  • Muktinath, a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus
  • Picturesque villages of different ethnic groups 
  • Centuries-old monastery in Braga village
  • Natural hot spring in Tatopani

Itinerary

Open All Days Close All Days

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1350 M) and transfer to hotel

After your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by one of our team members. He will take you to the hotel. In the evening, you will meet with your tour guide who will brief you about the day 2 program.

  • 3 star category hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1350 M

You will go on a guided sightseeing tour to several UNESCO World Heritage. You will visit one of the holiest temples of Hindus, the Pashupatinath temple. Nearby this temple is located the largest in Nepal, Boudhanath stupa. After visiting these places, you will head to Swayambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the evening, you will meet with your trek guide who will brief you about the trek.

  • B&B
  • 3 star category hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1350 M

Leaving Kathmandu behind, you will drive to Jagat via Besi Sahar. The drive will be scenic and long. 

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Jagat
  • 1300 M
  • 8-9 hours

From Jagat to Chamje you will walk a dirt road then the trail descends down to the river. Then by crossing a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi river, you will gradually climb on a steep path. The trail then descends towards a grassy riverbank and you will arrive in Tal for a lunch. Then passing through a few other villages and a bridge, you will reach Dharapani.

Elevation: + 995m /- 430m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Dharapani
  • 1860 M
  • 6 hours

Trekking through forest ridges, you will reach the headquarters of Manang, Chame. The trail will present you with wonderful views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal. Before reaching Chame, you will pass by suspension and several villages like Timang, Thanchowk, and Koto. In the evening you can relax in the hot spring at Chame.

Elevation: + 840 m / -240 m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Chame
  • 2670 M
  • 6 hours

You will have breakfast and begin trekking towards Pisang. Crossing a bridge over the Marshyangdi river, you will reach Bhratang, one of the famous apple Gardens in the Manag region. The trail then goes along the narrow Marshyangdi river valley and passes through dense forest. You will reach Dhukur Pokhari from where the first view of Paungda Dada can be seen. The trail from here will take you to Pisang. 

Elevation: + 835m / - 345m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Upper Pisang
  • 3300 M
  • 6 hours

Today, you will wake up early in the morning to witness a gorgeous sunrise view along with a stunning view of Annapurna II. You will then have breakfast and begin trekking toward Manang. On the way, you can see a diverse range of flora & fauna with a fantastic view of Pisang Peak, Annapurna II, and Annapurna III.

Further, trekking through dense forest, you will reach Barga village where can visit a 900 years old monastery. An hour-long walk from Braga will take you to Manang where you will spend today's night. 

 Elevation: + 640m / - 330m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Manang
  • 3540 M
  • 5-6 hours

Today is a rest day for you in Manang to adjust your body to increased altitude. During the day you will explore the surrounding places. You will visit Milarepa Cave and go on a half-day hike to Ice Lake.

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Manang
  • 3540 M

After crossing the Mani walls and old Manang Village, you will ascend towards Tenki, the last village in this region. From here, the trail moves out of Marshyangdi Valley and takes you to Jarsang Khola Valley in the northwest. Passing by a few pastures and juniper trees, you will reach Gunsang. Further, you will trek and cross several suspension bridges. The trail then comes across the ancient mani wall in a meadow and takes you to Yak Kharka.

Elevation: + 610m / -120m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Yak Kharka
  • 4020 M
  • 4 hours

After having a warm breakfast, you will ascend and cross a suspension bridge. You will reach Ledar village and further ascend alongside ridges leading you to Thorong Phedi. From the last suspension bridge, you will ascent a narrow rocky trail and cross a landslide area then arrive at Thorong Phedi.  Today you will see witness fantastic surrounding mountains views. 

Elevation: + 520m / -135m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Thorong Phedi
  • 4500 M
  • 4 hours

After having breakfast in the early morning, you will begin trekking toward one of the holiest pilgrimage sites of Hindus. The trail ascends toward the challenging Thorong La Pass. The path will be steep and rocky. Further, you will descend down from the pass and reach Muktinath for the night's stay. 

Elevation: + 890m / -1750m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Muktinath
  • 3760 M
  • 8-9 hours

Paying a visit to the Muktinath temple, you will descend from Ranipauwa village on a steep and barren hillside. Passing by Lubra pass and Lubra village, a small and unique village on the hillside and well known for being the only village in Mustang where Bon is practiced. Then you will continue riding to Marpha for the night's stay. The trail will present us with a beautiful view of the barren landscape. Marpha is known for its delicious apples and different items made from it. 

Elevation: + 145m / -1240m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Marpha
  • 2670 M
  • 6-7 hours

Today you will drive to Tatopani because there is no alternative route except the road which is pretty dusty. After arriving for 3-4 hours, you will reach Tatopani where can you can take a relaxing bath in a natural hot spring.

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Tatopani
  • 1190 M
  • 4 hours

The trail ascends to the beautiful Ghorepani village after crossing a metal bridge over the Kali Gandaki river. On the way, you will pass by forested trails and different ethnic communities like Magar and Braman along with enjoying stunning views of the Himalayas. 

Elevation: + 1710m /-115m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Ghorepani
  • 2860 M
  • 7 hours

Today, you will wake up early in the morning and hike to Poon Hill from where will you get to see a gorgeous sunrise view along with the western Himalayan mountains. After spending some time at Poon Hill, you will descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue the descent down to Hille. 

Elevation: + 650m / - 1830m

  • B,L&D
  • Lodge
  • Ghorepani
  • 1410 M
  • 7-8 hours

After having breakfast, you will descend down through a forest. The trail will be steep and take you to Birethanti. From there, you will drive back to Pokhara. 

Elevation: +65m / -955m

  • B&L
  • 3 star category hotel
  • Pokhara
  • 825 M
  • 4:30 hours

After having breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu following a scenic route. In the evening, you will have a farewell dinner organized by the company.

  • B,L&D
  • 3 star category hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1350 M
  • 7 hours

Today, you will fly back to your home. As per your flight departure time, you will be taken to the airport.

  • B&B

What’s Included

  • One porter for two people (maximum weight: 12 kg per client) and an assistant guide for group sizes above 4 people.
  • 3-night shared accommodation in a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu and 1 night in Pokhara on a BB basis.
  • Kathmandu-Jagat, Nayapult-Pokhara, and Pokhara-Kathmandu by private vehicle.
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, hot drinks) during the trek.
  • Lodge/ Tea House accommodations with twin sharing basis during the trek.
  • Rescue and evacuation arrangements in case of emergency. 
  • Kathmandu valley tour with a tour guide in a private vehicle.
  • Government taxes, service charges, and official expenses.
  • All staff’s salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance.
  • All the necessary permits and paperwork.
  • Professional English-speaking guide.
  • Airport pick-up and drop.

 

  • Tips for the guide, assistant guide, porter, and driver (Tipping is expected).
  • Meal while you are in Kathmandu and Pokhara, i.e. Lunch and Dinner.
  • Medical evacuation cost (In case of emergency).
  • Sightseeing/Monument entrance fees.
  • Your Travel Insurance (Compulsory).
  • Your personal expenses.
  • International airfare.
  • Nepal entry visa fee.

Useful Information

We have to drive from Marpha to Tatopani because there is no alternative route except the road which is pretty dusty. Throughout the trek, we will need to walk through the off-road jeep track in various sections.

Client Reviews

Rating:  
Review by : PATRICK ET MARIE PICHELIN, France

ROUND ANNAPURNA TREK NOVEMBRE 2021

Equipe professionnelle qui fait très attention à la sécurité. Nous étions deux adultes, avec un porteur et un guide. Notre guide, Sujan Gurung, s'est adapté à notre rythme de marche et tenu compte de nos demandes spécifiques (logement, transport, libre choix de notre organisations de 3 jours a Pokhara. Une équipe chaleureuse et bienveillant.

Rating:  
Review by : Diane Lanthier, Canada

Inoubliable

Félicitations à l’équipe de Sujan, ils ont su nous aider, nous supporter, être des exemples pour que l’on puisse réussir notre périple de 11 jours de marche dans les Annapurna. Tout en nous accompagnant avec le plus grand soins. Je n’oublierai jamais, le respect, l’attention et la joie que ces hommes avaient de marcher avec nous simplement pour nous faire connaître leur pays, leur tradition, leur gens. Des souvenirs gravés pour toujours. Je recommande les services de Sujan et son équipe en toute confiance à quiconque Merci.