12-21 D
Moderate to Challenging
2-20
Air-condition Private Tourist Vehicle
Trekking
Sep to Nov / Mar to May
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a multi-day hike that takes you around the Annapurna massif, a range of mountains in the Himalayas. The trek typically takes 12-21 days to complete, depending on your pace and whether you choose to take any side trips.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek starts in Besishahar, a small town in the Lamjung District of Nepal, and takes you through a variety of landscapes, including rice paddies, forests, and high-altitude deserts. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to see some of the highest peaks in the world, including Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Dhaulagiri.
As you hike, you'll stay in small villages and guesthouses, which will provide you with food and shelter for the night. The trek is considered to be moderate in terms of difficulty, but it does require a good level of physical fitness. You'll be walking for up to six hours a day and ascending and descending steep trails.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular destination for tourists and trekkers from all over the world. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and a chance to experience the culture and way of life of the local Gurung people. If you're planning a trip to Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is definitely worth considering.
Important Note:
Altitude sickness: Annapurna Circuit Trek involves hiking at high altitudes, so it is important to be aware of the risk of altitude sickness. Altitude sickness occurs when your body is not able to adjust to the thin air and low oxygen levels at high elevations. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, it is important to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid overexerting yourself.
Physical fitness: Annapurna Circuit Trek is a physically demanding trek, so it is important to be in good physical condition before attempting it. It is a good idea to prepare by doing regular exercise and by gradually increasing your endurance and strength.
Weather: The weather in the Annapurna region can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and frequent rain or snowfall. It is important to be prepared for all types of weather and to dress appropriately. Layering your clothing is a good way to stay warm.
On the first day of your trip to Kathmandu, a representative from the adventure club will pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel. This service is typically included in the price of your trip.
Once you arrive at the hotel, you can rest and get settled in. It is a good idea to take it easy on your first day in a new place, especially if you have just traveled a long distance. You may want to spend some time exploring the hotel and the surrounding area, or you could simply relax in your room and get some rest.
In the evening, you may want to meet up with the other members of your tour group and get to know each other. The adventure club representative may also provide you with more information about your trip and what to expect in the coming days.
Overall, the first day of your trip to Kathmandu is a time to get settled in, rest, and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.
A Kathmandu city tour is a great way to explore the sights and culture of Nepal's capital city. On this tour, you will visit several iconic landmarks and attractions, including the Swayambhunath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Baudhanath Stupa.
The Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a Buddhist temple complex located on a hill in the Kathmandu Valley. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful views of the city and its resident monkeys.
Patan Durbar Square is a historical palace complex in the city of Patan, just outside Kathmandu. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its intricate carvings, beautiful temples, and ornate palaces.
The Pashupatinath Temple is a Hindu temple complex located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. It is a very important spiritual site for Hindus and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Baudhanath Stupa is a Buddhist stupa located in the Baudha neighborhood of Kathmandu. It is one of the largest stupas in Nepal and is a popular place for pilgrims and tourists to visit.
During your city tour, you will have the opportunity to explore these landmarks and learn more about the history, culture, and religion of Nepal. The tour is usually led by a knowledgeable guide who can provide information and insights about the places you visit.
On the third day of your trip, you will travel from Kathmandu to Beshisahar by car. Beshisahar is a town in the Lamjung district of Nepal, located about 150 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu. The drive from Kathmandu to Beshisahar typically takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Upon arriving in Beshisahar, you will switch to a jeep and continue your journey to Chyamche. Chyamche is a small village located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, near the border with Tibet. The drive from Beshisahar to Chyamche is likely to be a bumpy and rugged one, as the road may be unpaved and winding but this journey will refresh you with beautiful waterfalls views. It typically takes about 3-4 hours to reach Chyamche from Beshisahar by jeep.
Once you arrive in Chyamche, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night. This is a good opportunity to acclimatize to the high altitude of the Annapurna region, as Chyamche is located at an elevation of about 1,700 meters (5,577 feet). You may want to take it easy on your first day in Chyamche, especially if you are not used to the thin air and cold temperatures of the mountains.
On the fourth day of your trip, you will continue your journey from Chyamche to Dharapani. Dharapani is a village located in the Manang district of Nepal, at an elevation of about 1,860 meters (6,102 feet). It is located on the Annapurna Circuit, a popular trekking route that encircles the Annapurna massif in the Himalayas.
The journey from Chyamche to Dharapani is likely to be a scenic one, as you will pass through stunning mountain landscapes and traditional villages. The distance from Chyamche to Dharapani is about 20 kilometers (12 miles), and it typically takes about 6-7 hours to cover this distance on foot.
As you make your way to Dharapani, you will have the opportunity to experience the culture and way of life of the local people. You may encounter friendly locals who are happy to chat and share their stories with you. You may also see breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and the surrounding mountains.
Upon arriving in Dharapani, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night. You may want to take some time to explore the village and get a feel for the local culture. Dharapani is a good place to acclimatize to the high altitude, as it is located at a moderate elevation and has a cooler climate than the lowlands.
Mountain View: Mount Manaslu-8163m
On the fifth day of your trip, you will continue your journey from Dharapani to Chame. Chame is a small town located in the Manang district of Nepal, at an elevation of about 2,710 meters (8,891 feet). It is located on the Annapurna Circuit trekking route and is a popular stop for trekkers and travelers.
The journey from Dharapani to Chame is likely to be a challenging one, as the distance is about 26 kilometers (16 miles) and the terrain is quite rugged. The route passes through dense forests, steep valleys, and high mountain passes, offering stunning views of the Annapurna massif and the surrounding peaks. It typically takes about 7-8 hours to cover this distance on foot.
As you make your way to Chame, you will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of the Annapurna region. You may encounter local people working in the fields, tending to their livestock, or going about their daily lives. You may also see a variety of flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, pine forests, and yaks.
Upon arriving in Chame, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night. You may want to explore the town and visit the local market, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Chame is a good place to acclimatize to the high altitude, as it is located at a moderate elevation and has a cooler climate than the lowlands.
Mountains views: Mount Manaslu (8163m), Lamjung Himal (6983m), and Annapurna II (7937m)
On the sixth day of your trip, you will continue your journey from Chame to Upper Pisang. Pisang is a small village located in the Manang district of Nepal, at an elevation of about 3,300 meters. It is located on the Annapurna Circuit trekking route and is a popular stop for trekkers and travelers.
The journey from Chame to Upper Pisang is likely to be a challenging one, as the distance is about 21 kilometers (13 miles) and the terrain is quite rugged. The route passes through dense forests, steep valleys, and high mountain passes, offering stunning views of the Annapurna massif and the surrounding peaks. It typically takes about 6-7 hours to cover this distance on foot.
As you make your way to Pisang, you will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of the Annapurna region. You may encounter local people working in the fields, tending to their livestock, or going about their daily lives. You may also see a variety of flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, pine forests, and yaks.
Upon arriving in Upper Pisang, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night. You may want to explore the village and visit the local market, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Pisang is a good place to acclimatize to the high altitude, as it is located at a moderate elevation and has a cooler climate than the lowlands. And don't miss visiting the Buddhist Monastery here.
Mountain View: Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), and among others peaks.
On the seventh day of your trip, you have the option of taking a different route from Pisang to Manang, which passes through the villages of Ghyaru and Nawal. This route is known for its stunning mountain views and offers a more immersive experience of the Annapurna region.
To take this route, you will need to start your journey from Upper Pisang, which is a village located at a higher elevation than the main village of Pisang. From Upper Pisang, you will follow a trail that takes you through the village of Ghyaru, which is known for its traditional Tibetan-style houses and stunning views of the Annapurna massif.
From Ghyaru, you will continue your journey to the village of Nawal. This village is located at an elevation of about 3,700 meters (12,139 feet) and is known for its beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
After passing through Ngwal, you will continue your journey to Manang, which is located about 10 kilometers (6 miles) away. The journey from Upper Pisang to Manang typically takes about 6-7 hours on foot, depending on your pace and the terrain.
Upon arriving in Manang, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night. You may want to explore the town and visit the local market, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Manang is a good place to acclimatize to the high altitude, as it is located at a moderate elevation and has a cooler climate than the lowlands. It is also a good place to prepare for the higher elevations that lie ahead on the Annapurna Circuit.
Mountain View: Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Gangapurna (7454m), Pisang Peak (6091m), and others peaks.
On the eighth day of your trip, you will have an acclimatization day in Manang. Acclimatization days are an important part of any high-altitude trek, as they allow your body to adjust to the thin air and cold temperatures of the mountains.
During your acclimatization day in Manang, you can take it easy and rest, or you can choose to explore the town and its surroundings. Manang is a small town located in the Manang district of Nepal, at an elevation of about 3,540 meters (11,614 feet).
It is located on the Annapurna Circuit trekking route and is a popular stop for trekkers and travelers.
There are several activities you can do in Manang to help you acclimatize to the high altitude, such as going for a short hike to a nearby viewpoint or taking a leisurely stroll around the town. You can also visit the local market and learn about the culture and way of life of the people in Manang.
It is important to remember to drink plenty of fluids and to avoid overexerting yourself during your acclimatization day. It is also a good idea to listen to your body and rest if you are feeling tired or unwell.
Overall, your acclimatization day in Manang is a chance to rest and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead on the Annapurna Circuit.
On the ninth day of your trip, you will continue your journey from Manang to Yak Kharka. Yak Kharka is a small village located in the Manang district of Nepal, at an elevation of about 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). It is located on the Annapurna Circuit trekking route and is a popular stop for trekkers and travelers.
The journey from Manang to Yak Kharka is likely to be a challenging one, as the distance is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) and the terrain is quite rugged. The route passes through dense forests, steep valleys, and high mountain passes, offering stunning views of the Annapurna massif and the surrounding peaks. It typically takes about 5-6 hours to cover this distance on foot.
As you make your way to Yak Kharka, you will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of the Annapurna region. You may encounter local people working in the fields, tending to their livestock, or going about their daily lives. You may also see a variety of flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, pine forests, and yaks.
Upon arriving in Yak Kharka, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night. You may want to explore the village and visit the local market, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Yak Kharka is a good place to acclimatize to the high altitude, as it is located at a moderate elevation and has a cooler climate than the lowlands. It is also a good place to prepare for the higher elevations that lie ahead on the Annapurna Circuit.
Mountain View: Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Gangapurna (7454m), Pisang Peak (6091m), and others peaks.
On the tenth day of your trip, you will continue your journey from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi. Thorong Phedi is a small village located in the Mustang district of Nepal, at an elevation of about 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). It is located on the Annapurna Circuit trekking route and is a popular stop for trekkers and travelers.
The journey from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi is likely to be a challenging one, as the distance is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) and the terrain is quite rugged. The route passes through dense forests, steep valleys, and high mountain passes, offering stunning views of the Annapurna massif and the surrounding peaks. It typically takes about 4-5 hours to cover this distance on foot.
As you make your way to Thorong Phedi, you will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of the Annapurna region. You may encounter local people working in the fields, tending to their livestock, or going about their daily lives. You may also see a variety of flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, pine forests, and yaks.
Upon arriving in Thorong Phedi, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night. You may want to explore the village and visit the local market, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Thorong Phedi is a good place to acclimatize to the high altitude, as it is located at a moderate elevation and has a cooler climate than the lowlands. It is also a good place to prepare for the higher elevations that lie ahead on the Annapurna Circuit.
Mountain View: Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Gangapurna (7454m), Pisang Peak (6091m), and others peaks.
On the eleventh day of your trip, you will continue your journey from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via the Thorong La Pass. Thorong Phedi is a small village located in the Mustang district of Nepal, at an elevation of about 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). It is located on the Annapurna Circuit trekking route and is a popular stop for trekkers and travelers.
Muktinath is a Hindu and Buddhist shrine located in the Mustang district of Nepal, at an elevation of about 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists and is known for its beautiful temples and natural hot springs.
The journey from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath involves crossing the Thorong La Pass, which is a high mountain pass located at an elevation of about 5,416 meters (17,764 feet). The pass is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit and is known for its stunning views of the Annapurna massif and the surrounding peaks.
The journey from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath typically takes about 8-9 hours on foot, depending on your pace and the terrain. The route involves a steep ascent to the Thorong La Pass, followed by a steep descent to Muktinath. It is a challenging but rewarding journey, as you will experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Annapurna region.
Upon arriving in Muktinath, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night.
Mountain View: Annapurna South (7219m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Machhapuchre (6997m) only the top of peak can see, Gangapurna (7454m), Nilgiri (7061m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), and many more others peaks.
On the twelfth day of your trip, you will have the opportunity to visit the sacred town of Muktinath in the morning before continuing your journey to Jomsom.
Muktinath is a Hindu and Buddhist shrine located in the Mustang district of Nepal, at an elevation of about 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists and is known for its beautiful temples and natural hot springs.
There are several temples and shrines to visit in Muktinath, including the Muktinath Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, and the Jwala Mai Temple, which is known for its natural gas fires that burn constantly. You can also visit the Gandaki Kali Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Kali, and the Vishnu Kunda, a natural hot spring that is believed to have healing properties.
After exploring Muktinath, you will continue your journey to Jomsom, which is a small town located in the Mustang district of Nepal, at an elevation of about 2,715 meters (8,910 feet). The journey from Muktinath to Jomsom typically takes about 2-3 hours by car, depending on the road conditions.
Upon arriving in Jomsom, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night. You may want to explore the town and visit the local market, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Jomsom is a good place to acclimatize to the high altitude, as it is located at a moderate elevation and has a cooler climate than the lowlands. It is also a good place to prepare for the higher elevations that lie ahead on the Annapurna Circuit.
On the thirteenth day of your trip, you will fly from Jomsom to Pokhara, which is a city located in central Nepal. Pokhara is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for trekkers and travelers.
The flight from Jomsom to Pokhara is likely to be a scenic one, as you will pass over the Annapurna massif and the surrounding peaks. The flight typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on the weather and the condition of the aircraft.
Upon arriving in Pokhara, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night. In the afternoon, you can explore the city and visit some of its popular attractions.
Pokhara is known for its beautiful lakes, including Phewa Lake and Begnas Lake, which are popular spots for boating and fishing. You can also visit the Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Other popular attractions in Pokhara include the International Mountain Museum, the Gupteswar Cave Temple, and the Mahendra Cave.
You can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in Pokhara, such as paragliding, rock climbing, and rafting. Pokhara is also a good place to shop for souvenirs and try local food.
On the fourteenth day of your trip, you will continue your journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal and is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant city life.
There are two main options for getting from Pokhara to Kathmandu: by road or by air. If you choose to travel by road, you can take a bus or a private car from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The journey by road typically takes about 7-8 hours, depending on the road conditions and traffic. The route passes through beautiful mountain landscapes and traditional villages, offering a glimpse into the culture and way of life of the local people.
If you prefer to travel by air, you can take a domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The flight typically takes about 25-30 minutes, depending on the weather and the condition of the aircraft. The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is a convenient and quick way to reach Kathmandu.
Upon arriving in Kathmandu, you can rest and get settled in your accommodations for the night. You may want to explore the city and visit some of its popular attractions, such as the Swayambhunath Stupa, the Patan Durbar Square, and the Pashupatinath Temple. You can also enjoy a variety of local food and shop for souvenirs in Kathmandu's bustling markets.
On the fifteenth day of your trip, it will be time to say goodbye to Nepal as you prepare for your departure. A representative from the adventure club will be available to assist you with your luggage and to drop you off at the airport.
Before departing, make sure you have completed all necessary check-out procedures at your accommodation and that you have all your belongings with you. You may also want to exchange any remaining Nepali rupees for your home currency, as it may not be possible to do so once you leave the country.
When you arrive at the airport, you will need to go through check-in procedures and security checks before boarding your flight. Make sure you have your passport, tickets, and any other necessary documents with you.
As you depart from Nepal, you will be able to reflect on the amazing experiences and memories you have made during your trip. From the stunning mountain landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Annapurna region to the vibrant city life of Kathmandu, Nepal is a country that has much to offer to travelers. I hope you had a wonderful time in Nepal and that you will consider returning in the future to explore more of this amazing country.
The best time to go on Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you are looking for. The trek can be done throughout the year, but the weather and conditions vary significantly depending on the season.
The best time to go on Annapurna Circuit Trek is generally considered to be from September to November and from March to May. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions, with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and minimal rainfall.
The cost of going on the Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on various factors, such as the length of the trek, the type of accommodation you choose, the mode of transportation, and the number of people in your group.
On average, the cost of Annapurna Circuit Trek ranges from $500 to $1,500 per person, depending on the level of comfort and convenience you are looking for. This cost includes the cost of accommodations, meals, transportation, guide and porter services, and any other expenses.
When packing for Annapurna Circuit Trek, it is important to bring essential items that will help you stay comfortable and safe during the trek. Some of the essential items to pack include:
It is also a good idea to pack light, as you will be carrying your own gear during the trek. Try to pack only the essentials and leave any unnecessary items behind.