Annapurna Circuit Trek - 18 Days

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Annapurna Round TrekkingAnnapurna Round Trek
  • Duration 18 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Type Lodge Based Trek
  • Best Season March - May and Sept - Nov
  • Group Size 16
  • Maximum Altitude 5,416 m

Highlights

  • Explore the beautiful villages in the Annapurna region
  • Trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area Project
  • The trail includes dense forests, gorges, narrow alleyways, suspension bridges, and pastures
  • Visit ancient monasteries
  • Cross Thorong La pass
  • Visit Muktinath Temple
  • Dive through the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki gorge
  • Witness spectacular landscapes and mountain views

Trek in the western Himalayas on Annapurna Circuit Trek. Traverse on rugged terrain and walk along the lush green foothills. Trekking through small villages, dense forests, and green meadows, walk on icy slopes towards the top of Thorong La Pass. Annapurna Circuit Trekking is an adventurous and highly rewarding once-in-a-lifetime kind of venture. It is perfect for challenge lovers who do not get scared of great heights and get uncomfortable.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is the ultimate trek in the Annapurna region that touches the top of Thorong La pass (5,416 m), explores the picturesque villages, stops at the holy Muktinath Temple (3,800 m), and offers breathtaking mountain landscapes.

Join our 18 days Annapurna Circuit Trek to relish views of mountains like Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Nagadi Chuli (7,871 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m), Pisang Peak (6,091 m), and numerous others. The trek lets you escape from the chaos of the city and unwind as you walk through remote trails. Unlike Manaslu Circuit Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek is more doable and lets you spend more time with locals.

Annapurna Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp

Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek are two separate treks that explore different parts of the Annapurna region. One takes you to the lap of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m), and the other takes you to Thorong La pass (5,416 m), the highest pass in Nepal.

Both treks offer a distinct trekking experience and views. In difficulty-wise, Annapurna Base Camp trekking is more doable than Annapurna Circuit Trekking. If you are a beginner trekker, then do ABC trek first and go for Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Similar Treks

Everest Three High Passes Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek

Our Annapurna Circuit Trek route map offers a pictorial representation of the trail, so do check out that. As Nepal is open now, we are taking bookings for Annapurna Circuit Trek 2023/2024. For further information regarding the Annapurna Circuit Trek package, you can send your queries to our mail address.

Itinerary

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Upon landing at the Kathmandu airport, do the visa process and meet with our team at the terminal gate. They will drive you to the hotel. Enjoy the time relaxing and exploring around Thamel. We will also do the final packing today.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • Maximum Altitude1,310 m

Early in the morning, get ready to drive to Besisahar. It's a long drive, but the beautiful scenery will keep you company. From Besisahr, we will change our vehicle and drive to Chamej in a local jeep, relishing views of snow-capped mountains in the distance.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trek begins today. We will be following an uphill steep path to Tal. The route ascends through bamboo forests and goes along the cliffside. From Tal, the next village we reach is Karte and walk for another 30 minutes from here to reach Dharapani.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,860 m

The trail follows lush forests of fir, oak, pine, and maple. We will be walking alongside the Marsyangdi river to reach Chame. The route offers fantastic views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal. Chame is the headquarters of the Manang district.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2,670 m

The trail continues through a steep and narrow valley to the massive rock wall (1,500 m). It is called the Paungda Danda Rock, which has holy values for locals. In the south, we can see Annapurna II and Pisang Peak in the northeast. Further, we will descend to the Manang Valley floor and soon reach Pisang village.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3,200 m

The trail to Manang ascends through Upper Pisang via Geru. It will be a blissful walk today as we can see stunning views of Gangapurna, Annapurna range, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, etc. The air gradually gets cold and dry. On the way, we pass by Tibetan settlement areas and visit the ancient Barge monastery.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3,540 m

For acclimatization, we hike to nearby areas like Gangapurna & Ice Lakes. The views of Chulu Peaks, Pisang Peak, and Annapurna III are magnificent. Later, in the afternoon, we will visit the Himalayan Rescue Association and spend the rest of the day exploring Manang village.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3,540 m

After an acclimatization day, we will continue towards Yak Kharka. Crossing a stream, walk on an uphill path to Tenki village. The trail heads out of Marshyangdi valley and joins Jar Sang Khola Valley. We will pass through pastures and juniper forests. At Gunsan, we can see houses made of flat mud roofs. Further, crossing a wooden bridge, we ascend to Yak Kharka.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude4,200 m

We will be reaching the foot of Thorong La pass today. Leaving Yak Kharka, we ascend to a ridge and follow a downhill route. The trail then crosses the Marsyangdi river on a wooden bridge and ascends. Further, following a narrow trail, we descend to Thorong Phedi.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude4,450 m

A big day as we cross the famous and challenging Thorong La pass (5,416 m). From Thorong Phedi onwards, we will climb, encountering strong cold air. The route gets rugged and slippery. We will see outstanding panoramas of the mountain from the top of the pass. The trail then descends to Muktinath, a pilgrimage site with great importance to Hindus and Buddhists.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude3,800 m

Wake up early in the morning and visit the temple. After that, we will continue driving towards Tatopani. The road will be rough and pass through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. Leaving the arid highlands behind, we will once again join the lush forests and make our way to Tatopani.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,190 m

The trail to Shikha involves a long climb. Passing by a checkpoint, we will walk and cross a river. The trail goes through Ghara and further terraced fields before reaching Shikha, where we will be spending the night.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2,130 m

Again we will be following an uphill route. The next few hours consist of stairs only. We will be walking along the cliffside, passing by locals along the way. The trail goes through lush rhododendron forests and leads you to a beautiful Ghorepani village. The village will welcome us with mesmerizing views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, Fishtail, etc.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2,870 m

Today, early in the morning, we will catch a gorgeous sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 m). It is a famous vantage point. Later, we descend to Tadapani, trekking through dense forest and small villages.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunhc & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude2,685 m

Ghandruk is another fine village resided by mostly Gurungs and Magars. From Tadapani, we will trek through the forested path and reach Ghandruk for the night's stay. We will get a comfortable teahouse to spend the night.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,950 m

The trail further descends to Syauli Bazar. It is a local marketplace with lodges and teahouses. Further, passing by Birethanti, we reach Nayapul, where our trek ends. From here, we drive back to Pokhara and spend the evening exploring the Lakeside Market.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast & Lunch
  • Maximum Altitude820 m

After breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu in a comfortable tourist bus. The ride will be fantastic thanks to wonderful views of lush green hills, mountains, and rivers. The remaining day is free in Kathmandu to do the shopping and relax. In the late evening, we will meet each other for the farewell dinner.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast & Farewell Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude1,310 m

Our airport team will help you with check out and drop you at the international airport.

  • MealsBreakfast

This is our regular and recommended itinerary. If this itinerary doesn’t suit your time-frame and requirements, please click here for tailor-made program

Map

Annapurna Circuit Trek - 18 Days map

Includes

  • All grounded transportation as per the program.
  • Two nights' accommodation in Kathmandu inclusive breakfast.
  • One night accommodation in Pokhara inclusive breakfast.
  • Your three times meals (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) and accommodations during the trekking.
  • A highly experience well trained government license holder English speaking trekking guide and required porters and their meals, accommodations, salaries, insurance and equipment.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit
  • TIMs card (Trekkers information management system)
  • Annapurna Circuit Trekking map
  • Nepal Gateway Trekking company T-shirt and achievement certificate
  • First Aid kit.
  • Fresh local fruits.
  • All government taxes.

Excludes

  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Travel insurance.
  • International flight tickets to and from Kathmandu.
  • Nepal entry visa fee, which is easily issued upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.
  • Your personal first aid kit, equipment and items of personal nature.
  • All kinds of drinks (Water/Coke/alcoholic beverages and hot drinks).
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver. (Tipping is expected)

Dates & Price

Date StatusPrice 
Start DateStart: SaturdayMarch 25, 2023End DateEnd: TuesdayApril 11, 2023StatusAvailablePriceUS$1270
Start DateStart: WednesdayMarch 29, 2023End DateEnd: SaturdayApril 15, 2023StatusAvailablePriceUS$1270

This is our set fixed departure date. The arrival and departure date to/from Kathmandu, Nepal. The date and price are specified for group joining. 
For Private Trip

Useful Info

Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty

Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal is a difficult trek. The terrain is steep and rugged. You will be walking on icy slopes and through gorges & narrow alleyways. The trek involves 6 - 7 hours of walking each day. Moreover, the trail is remote and modern comforts are limited. You have to be an experienced trekker with good physical fitness to do Annapurna Circuit Trekking.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness is something that you have to be extremely careful of as it can ruin the trip if not handled properly on time. During 18 days of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, there is a drastic change in altitude. However, as we have designed our Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary with ample rest days and maintaining the increase in altitude each day, you will be less likely to be suffering from this illness.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Preparation

Annapurna Circuit Trek preparation involves getting your body ready for the venture. Hit the gym and work on your core strength. Do cardio activities like hiking, swimming, cycling, etc to build up your stamina. Likewise, increase your walking hours and prepare yourself mentally to cope with limited facilities while trekking.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Solo/Group

If you want to trek to Annapurna Circuit solo, then we will help you organize a solo trip assisted by our expert guide and porter. Similarly, you can also join our group departure or trek with your group. For more information contact us.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit

You have to obtain the ACAP permit and TIMS card to do Annapurna Circuit Trek. ACAP permit costs USD 2 for SAARC nationals and USD 30 for other countries. Likewise, the TIMS card costs UD 10 per person in a group and USD 20 per person for independent trekkers. Our package cost covers all permit costs.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Best Time

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) is the best time to go on Annapurna Circuit Trek. The mild climate and stable weather welcome many trekkers from all around the globe. Similarly, you get to see a range of Himalayan vegetation during spring, whereas in autumn, you can be part of Nepali festivals.

June to August are the rainy months in Nepal. Trekking at this time of the year is not advised because of unstable weather and slippery tails. The views are mostly unclear. Likewise, you can not go to Annapurna Circuit in the winter season. Heavy snowfall results in blockage of the route.

Last Minute Booking

To book Annapurna Circuit Trek at the last minute, choose the date and send us your request. You have to pay 100% of the package cost for confirmation. Arrive in Kathmandu at least one day before the trek begins and join the group. Our representative will help you with booking and preparation.

Travel Tips

Accommodation: During the trek, we will be sleeping in the teahouses. The accommodation is basic with a shared room and washroom.

Food: You can choose from a range of dishes during the Annapurna Circuit Trekking. There are different varieties of food available, so don't worry. You will find something everywhere to suit your taste.

ATM: The last ATM on Annapurna Circuit Trek is in Pokhara. Withdraw cash there to use while trekking.

Charging: The charging facility is available throughout the trek but may cost you a few extra bucks. Get spare batteries or a solar charger.

Luggage: During the trek pack your stuff in the duffle bags. You have 10 kgs of the weight limit. Our porters will carry the duffel bag.

Personal Expenses: You might need to buy drinks and snacks, shop souvenirs, etc, which are not included in our Annapurna Circuit Trek package cost. Other things like tips, travel insurance, and international flight are also personal expenses. Do carry additional money with you.

Travel Insurance: Annapurna Circuit Trek is a high-altitude remote trek, therefore travel insurance is needed. Get travel insurance with medical coverage and an emergency airlift up to 6000 meters.

Tipping: We have not included tipping in our package cost. So, feel free to tip our crew members at the end of the journey. You can tip as much as you want. Usually, the group members tip USD 2 each to drive, USD 5 each to the tour guide, and USD 100 each to the trek guide/porter.

FAQs

  • Q1. How long does it take to trek the Annapurna Circuit?

    Annapurna Circuit Trek can be 12 to 21 days long, depending upon your itinerary. Our Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary is 18 days long, which also includes your arrival and departure.

  • Annapurna Circuit Trek can get challenging to moderate as per the previous trekking experience and physical fitness of the trekker. In general, this trek is considered one of the difficult treks in the Himalayas.

  • Yes, Annapurna Circuit Trek is still worth doing. The trekking route offers impressive mountain views and a satisfying trekking experience. Better avoid the road and hit the rugged trail for the best experience.

  • Yes, you can do the Annapurna Circuit Trek on your own because you can obtain the permits by yourself. However, Annapurna Circuit Trek is not easy like other treks and involves tricky, steep ascend, which can be tough to do alone. Moreover, trekking on your own can be a hassle to book accommodations and other things. So, trekking through agency is recommended. 

  • Yes, make sure to carry a warm sleeping bag during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The nights and mornings get quite chilly, and the blanket provided by the lodges will not be enough.

  • Annapurna Circuit Trek is around 160 km to 230 km. It depends on your itinerary.

  • Teahouse is available throughout the Annapurna Circuit Trekking route to cater to the trekkers. Therefore, you do not need to camp. However, if you want to do Annapurna Circuit Trek in a camping style, then it is up to you. Camping trek is usually more expensive.

Client Reviews

tatp

  • Awesome Annapurna circuit hike, great company

    My girlfriend and I did the Annapurna circuit hike in May with Nepal Gateway Trekking. It was awesome!

    When organizing the trip we had the chance to ask anything we wanted and make sure everything was okay. Once we arrived in Nepal, we were received very well. They took the time to inform us about the itinerary and make sure that we could change whatever we wanted. They also made sure we had everything we needed. So we felt very much in control, even though they made great suggestions.

    Once the trip started our guide (Ramchandra Godar) took care of everything. He gave great advice about food, clothing, and anything else, and made sure we were alright every step of the way. We also enjoyed playing card games and just talking a lot with him!

    All in all this was definitely one of the coolest experiences that we've ever had. And Nepal Gateway Trekking played a very important part in this. Thanks so much!!

    Rick Dindemans
    Rick DindemansNetherlands, Travel Date: 07/06/2022

  • Annapurna Circuit Trek Experience

    Dear  Dinesh, Surat, Ram, and Raj,
    Just a short note to thank you all Nepal Gateway Trekking team for a great time in Nepal! I just got back to Europe and wanted to say that I had a fantastic time with guide Dinesh and porter Surat. Thanks also for the flexibility to accommodate me adding the trip to Annapurna Base Camp too after the successful Annapurna Circuit Trek - that was a highlight!
    Looking forward to seeing you again in the future. 

    Kevin O'Flynn
    Kevin O'FlynnIreland, Travel Date: 18/10/2018
FromUS$1270
See Group Price
No. of peoplePrice
1 - 1 PaxUS$1270
2 - 4 PaxUS$1240
5 - 10 PaxUS$1220
11 - 16 PaxUS$1200
Total PriceUS$1270
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