Annapurna Circuit Trek - 18 Days

Based on 20 Reviews
  Download the trip
Thorang La Pass
Thorang La Pass
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Trip Details
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trip Style: Trekking and sightseeing
  • Transport: Deluxe tourist bus & private car
  • Food: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel, lodge (tea house)
  • Group Size: 1 - 12 Pax
  • Max Elevation: 5,415 meters, Thorong - La pass, stunning views
  • Starts in: Kathmandu
  • Ends in: Kathmandu
  • Approx. walking: 6-7 hours

Highlights

  • Marvel at the Picturesque Marshyangdi River Valley, surrounded by lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic mountain vistas.
  • Immerse Yourself in Manang’s Tibetan Buddhist Culture, exploring ancient monasteries and traditional highland villages.
  • Conquer the Legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m)—one of the world’s highest and most exhilarating trekking passes.
  • Visit the Sacred Muktinath Temple, a revered pilgrimage site nestled in the rugged landscapes of the Mustang region.
  • Trek Through the Wind-Swept Kali Gandaki Valley, home to the world’s deepest gorge, flanked by towering Himalayan peaks.
  • Catch a Spectacular Sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m), where golden hues illuminate the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
  • Witness Breathtaking Landscapes, from subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine deserts and high mountain passes.

About Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most renowned and diverse trekking adventures, offering breathtaking Himalayan vistas, rich cultural experiences, and a variety of landscapes. Also known as the Round Annapurna Trek, this route takes you through lush river valleys, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts, culminating in the crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416m)—one of the highest trekking passes in the world.

This trek connects the Annapurna and Mustang regions, showcasing the stunning contrast between subtropical forests and the arid terrain of Lower Mustang. Along the way, trekkers experience Tibetan Buddhist culture in Manang, visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, and trek through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world's deepest gorge. The journey concludes with a scenic sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m), providing a spectacular panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Trek Duration & Route

The Annapurna Circuit Trek typically lasts 14 to 18 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization schedule. The trek begins from Besisahar, following the Marshyangdi River Valley before reaching Manang (3,540m) for acclimatization. After crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the descent takes you through Muktinath, Kagbeni, and Jomsom, showcasing the unique beauty of Lower Mustang. The final stretch passes through Tatopani and Ghorepani, ending with a sunrise trek to Poon Hill before descending to Nayapul and driving to Pokhara.

Best Seasons for Trekking

The ideal times for the Annapurna Circuit Trek are:

  • Spring (March–May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and moderate temperatures.
  • Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, crisp mountain views, and vibrant local festivals.

Permits Required

Trekkers need the following permits for the Annapurna Circuit:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – Required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card – Ensures trekker safety and registration.

Why Choose Adventure Bound Nepal?

  • Experienced Local Guides & Porters ensuring a safe and enriching journey.
  • Well-Planned Itineraries with proper acclimatization and flexibility.
  • Reliable Logistics & Permit Assistance for a hassle-free trekking experience.
  • Ethical & Sustainable Trekking Practices with minimal environmental impact.

Itinerary

Expand All Hide All

Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Adventure Bound Nepal and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you’ll receive a briefing about your trek, covering essential details, permits, and preparations. If time permits, you can explore Kathmandu’s vibrant streets, visit the UNESCO-listed Durbar Square, or stroll through Thamel, the city's bustling tourist hub.

  • Accommodation: Overnight in Madhuban Hotel.
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1400 m

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway, following the winding Trishuli River. The journey offers breathtaking views of terraced hills, traditional villages, and the mighty Marsyangdi River valley. Along the way, we pass by cable cars leading to the sacred Manakamana Temple. Reaching Besisahar, a major town of the Lamjung district, we continue our drive to Bhulbule, where we settle in for the night amidst peaceful countryside surroundings.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Bhulbhule
  • Altitude: 923 m

We begin our trek along the Marsyangdi River, crossing lush rice fields and small Gurung settlements. The trail gradually ascends past Ngadi and Bahundanda, a beautiful ridge-top village offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. As we descend towards Syange, we cross a stunning waterfall before ascending once again to reach Jagat, a charming stone-paved village where Tibetan influences begin to appear.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Jagat
  • Altitude: 1300 m

Leaving Jagat, the trail follows a rocky path alongside the Marsyangdi River, passing through dense subtropical forests. We cross several suspension bridges and climb steep stone staircases to reach Chamje, a small settlement with spectacular views of the cascading river below. As we ascend toward Tal, the landscape transforms into a wide valley with sandy riverbanks, marking the entrance to the Manang district. We continue through pine forests and charming villages before reaching Dharapani, where Tibetan Buddhist prayer flags and chortens indicate the shift in culture.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Dharapani
  • Altitude: 1860 m

The trail today leads us through rhododendron and pine forests, offering the first clear views of Annapurna II (7,937m). We pass through the picturesque village of Timang, where traditional Tibetan-style houses and yak pastures add to the scenery. Continuing along the Marsyangdi River, we arrive at Chame, the headquarters of the Manang district. Here, we can relax in the natural hot springs and enjoy the spectacular mountain backdrop.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Chame
  • Altitude: 2,710 m

Today’s trek begins with a gradual ascent through a deep pine forest. We pass by dramatic rock formations, including the towering Paungda Danda, a massive rock face that rises 1,500 meters above the river. As we gain altitude, the landscape becomes drier and more rugged, signaling our approach to the high Himalayan region. Reaching Lower Pisang, we are greeted by stunning views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Pisang Peak.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Pisang
  • Altitude: 3,240 m

We choose between two routes: the lower, easier trail through Hongde, or the more scenic upper route via Ghyaru and Ngawal. The upper route is challenging but rewards us with some of the best panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Passing through ancient monasteries and Mani walls, we arrive in Manang, a culturally rich village influenced by Tibetan traditions. Here, we explore the beautifully preserved Braga Monastery, adorned with ancient Buddhist murals and statues.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Manang
  • Altitude: 3,540 m

To adapt to the altitude, we spend the day exploring Manang. We can take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, a glacial lake offering mesmerizing reflections of Annapurna III and Gangapurna. Another option is a trek to the Ice Lake (4,600m), which provides a challenging but rewarding experience. In the village, we visit local bakeries, traditional homes, and the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic, where we learn about altitude sickness and acclimatization.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Manang
  • Altitude: 3,540 m

We leave Manang behind, climbing steadily through alpine pastures where yaks and blue sheep graze. The vegetation becomes sparse, replaced by rocky landscapes as we approach Yak Kharka. The air becomes thinner, and we take it slow to prevent altitude sickness. The towering peaks of Annapurna III, Chulu West, and Gangapurna dominate the skyline.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Yak Kharka
  • Altitude: 4,120 m

We continue ascending past Ledar before descending slightly to cross a wooden bridge. The final stretch is a steep climb to Thorung Phedi, a small but bustling settlement catering to trekkers preparing for the Thorung La crossing. Some trekkers opt to climb further to High Camp for better acclimatization.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Thorung Phedi
  • Altitude: 4,560 m

We start before sunrise to tackle the steep and challenging ascent to Thorung La, the highest point of our trek. Reaching the pass, we celebrate with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges before descending towards Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists. The temple complex features a natural gas flame and 108 waterspouts, believed to cleanse sins.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Muktinath
  • Altitude: 3,802 m

We start before sunrise to tackle the steep and challenging ascent to Thorung La, the highest point of our trek. Reaching the pass, we celebrate with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges before descending towards Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists. The temple complex features a natural gas flame and 108 water spouts, believed to cleanse sins.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Jomsom
  • Altitude: 2,743 m

We drive through the world’s deepest gorge, carved between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. En route, we stop at Marpha, famous for its apple orchards and local brandy. Arriving at Tatopani, we enjoy the natural hot springs, a perfect way to relax.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Tatopani
  • Altitude: 1,190 m

We begin climbing through lush forests and terraced fields, passing traditional Magar villages. The views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri become increasingly impressive as we reach Sikha.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable Lodge.
  • Place: Sikha
  • Altitude: 1,935 m

We continue our uphill trek through dense rhododendron forests. The trail is filled with the sounds of birds, creating a peaceful trekking experience. After a few hours of steady climbing, we reach Ghorepani, a major stop on the Annapurna trekking route.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at comfortable hotel.
  • Place: Ghorepani
  • Altitude: 2,874 m

We wake up early and hike to Poon Hill to witness one of the best sunrises over the Himalayas. After taking in the views, we descend to Ghorepani for breakfast before trekking downhill through Ulleri to Birethanti from there, we take a drive to Pokhara and check into our hotel.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in comfortable Hotel.
  • Place: Pokhara
  • Altitude: 900 m

From Pokhara, we drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the Riverbank sceneries. If you have one more day, Pokhara sightseeing is a recommended thing to do along with the boating in Phewa Lake. Then, transfer to the hotel and take a rest. 

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Madhuban Hotel.
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1400 m

According to the time of your flight, our airport representative drops you to the International Airport for your final departure. Thank you for joining us for your trekking in Nepal. See you again. 

  • Meals: Breakfast

Cost Details

Included

  • Airport pick up & drop off transport
  • 2 night standard twin sharing hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • 1 night standard twin sharing hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
  • Public bus transportations from Kathmandu to Bulbule and tourist from Pokhara to Kathmandu
  • Private transportation from the trek ending point to Pokhara
  • All standard meals like Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, during the trek with a cup of tea or coffee during breakfast time.
  • Tea house accommodation during the trek.
  • Gov. Licensed experienced helpful and friendly guide and porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff.
  • Annapurna Conservation Park Permits fee.
  • TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System
  • Down Jacket and sleeping bag (if needed)
  • First aid box with normal medical supplies, including an Oximeter.
  • Trekking map
  • Government taxes & office service charge

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Your travel and medical insurance (recommended)
  • Personal expenses (phone call, internet, laundry, bar bills, snacks, battery recharge, bottled or boiled water, hot showers, porter for single trekker etc.)
  • Tips for trekking staff (tipping is expected)

Useful Information

Trek Difficulty & Fitness Requirements

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered moderate to challenging, depending on the route, pace, and weather. Reaching over 5,400 meters at Thorong La Pass, this trek demands good cardiovascular fitness and endurance.

While prior trekking experience is beneficial, it's not mandatory for well-prepared trekkers. Begin training at least 8–10 weeks in advance with cardio exercises, strength workouts, and practice hikes carrying a daypack. Built-in acclimatization days (e.g., in Manang and Muktinath) help reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation is provided in locally-run teahouse lodges offering basic but comfortable twin-sharing rooms with shared bathrooms. Heating is rarely available in rooms.

Meals include traditional Nepali Dal Bhat, Tibetan dishes like thukpa and momos, as well as simple continental options. Expect to pay extra for amenities such as hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging (typically NPR 100–500 per service).

Water can be purchased as bottled, filtered, or boiled. For health and sustainability, bring water purification tablets or a UV purifier.

Packing List for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Essential clothing and gear:

  • Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots
  • Moisture-wicking base layers and insulating mid-layers
  • Down or synthetic jacket for warmth
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Warm hat, sun hat, and gloves
  • Sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C (14°F)
  • Trekking poles and sunglasses with UV protection
  • Daypack with rain cover

Additional items:

  • First aid kit and personal medications
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Biodegradable toiletries, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, and insect repellent
  • Power bank or solar charger

Transportation Details

The journey starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule (approx. 6–7 hours). 

The trek ends in Birethanti, from where you drive to Pokhara. You can return to Kathmandu via:

  • Flight: 25 minutes from Pokhara (more comfortable option)
  • Tourist bus: 7–8 hours

Travel Insurance & Emergency Support

Travel insurance is mandatory. Ensure your policy covers:

  • Trekking at altitudes up to 5,000 meters
  • Medical expenses and evacuation by helicopter
  • Trip cancellation and interruption

Carry a printed and digital copy of your insurance policy and share it with your guide for emergency planning.

Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization Tips

Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Acclimatization is critical to safety:

  • Rest days in Manang support adjustment
  • Stay hydrated — aim for 3–4 liters per day
  • Ascend gradually and avoid alcohol or overexertion

Symptoms of AMS: Headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately and notify your guide.

Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs

  • Always walk clockwise around religious monuments like stupas and prayer wheels
  • Remove shoes before entering homes or monasteries
  • Ask for permission before taking photos of people or sacred spaces
  • Dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection

Connectivity & Communication

Wi-Fi is available in many teahouses for a fee, but becomes limited or unavailable at higher elevations.

Mobile coverage (NCELL/NTC) exists in some lower-altitude areas but should not be relied upon. 

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are only available in Kathmandu and Pokhara — withdraw cash before starting the trek
  • All teahouses accept cash payments only (Nepali Rupees)
  • Daily expenses: NPR 1,000–2,500 per person for food, drinks, and extras
  • Tipping: Guide: $5–10/day, Porter: $3–6/day (or pooled if in a group)

Safety & Trekking Guidelines

  • Always trek with a licensed guide and porter for safety and local insight
  • Avoid trekking alone, especially in remote areas
  • Stick to marked trails and follow local regulations
  • Be mindful of weather, landslides, and changing trail conditions
  • Practice Leave No Trace principles — pack out waste, avoid plastic, and protect natural and cultural heritage

Client Reviews

Amazing Annapurna Circuit Trek with guide Chakra

Dominik Rich, Germany

I had an amazing and unforgettable time on the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal, organized by Adventure Bound. My guide Chakra "Ck" was very helpful and professional. He leaned me a lot about the traditions, mountains and even some Nepali language. Ck has always chosen the best Teahouses, good places to eat and nicest rooms - mostly with attatched bathroom and western toilet. We three (guide Chakra, porter Tara and I) had a great time and much fun while we hiked 16 days together. The email communication with Adventure Bound was always quick and easy. Customizing the Trek to my plannings (meet my girlfriend at Ghorepani and walk the Poon Hill trek together) was absolutely no problem with a very fair price for the whole package. I highly recommend Adventure Bound and guide Chakra for Trekking in Nepal!

5 day Poonhill Treck

Franziska Joos, Germany

My boyfriend and me had a great time with Adventure Bound. He did the Anapurna Circuit and I the 5 day Poonhill-trek. We finally met in Ghorepani so we could hike the rest together. Adventure Bound organised everything, from the airport pickup to transportation and accomodation before and after the trek. Communication was always quick and informative. Our guides knew the best places to eat, nicest teahouses and also picked the nicest rooms for us. They also made sure that everything was to our liking and we felt comfortable. A special thanks goes to Chakra the guide and Tara the porter who made our experience unforgettable with their kindness, humour and knowledge. Would absolutely recommend Adventure Bound for trekking in Nepal 🙏

Five stars to the company and the staff!

Shelley H, Afghanistan

We highly recommend Adventure Bound. Laxman was efficient, communicative and accommodating helping to develop our perfect plan. The team took care of every detail and made our plan seamless, allowing us to simply be present. We were lucky to get Santosh as our guide for our trek and he made the experience so memorable. He was thoughtful, proactive, kind and funny. From teaching us Dumbal to bringing fresh fruit for us every day and always ensuring we have the best of everything from rooms to busses to views. We cannot recommend him more highly. Manoj our porter was a great addition and he went out of his way to make the experience easy and wonderful.

Amazing trek around Annapurna!

Phil34009, Germany

Thank you for this amazing experience, we had a great time! Everything was taken care of: experienced guide, neat hotels/tea houses and of course all required permits. We felt always safe and would definitely recommend booking a trip with this agency! Thanks again! Date of experience: April 2019

Annapurna Circuit with Raj

heikoknopf, Germany

I was on the Annapurna-circuit together with a good friend. Hence we were not used to the necessarities, we wanted to have an individuial guidance and some flexibility. The guide -Raj- from „Adenture Bound“ gave us exactly this individual, adjusted background for the trip. While we explored the wunderful nature in the valley of Manang, the Thorung La-Pass an the Poon Hill we had a lot of fun and got an direct insight to the native live in Nepal. Especially the chance to get in contact with the local people was enabled by the guide! In difficult and dangerous situations we felt absolutely secure in respect on the prompt an direct reaction and guidance! The accomodation an meal-service was quite well! I absolutely recommend this distributor. Date of experience: April 2019

Annapurna Circuit mt Raj

belly h, Germany

Eine wundervolle und außergewöhnlich tolle Zeit hatten wir auf dem Annapurna Circuit, dank Raj und Bikas! Raj, unser Guide, zeigte uns sein Heimatland von seiner ganz persönlichen Perspektive, zeigte uns seine Lieblingsplätze und hatte zu jeder Frage eine Antwort. So auch Bikas, er entlastete uns nicht nur von unserem Gepäck sondern kümmerte sich mit Raj um uns. Die beiden waren rund um die Uhr für uns nicht nur Guide und Porter sondern vorallem gute Freunde und tolle Wegbegleiter! Danke für diese tollen 17 Tage Trek in Nepal!

Trip Advisor write a review