Annapurna Circuit Trek
ChallengingThe Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most diverse and rewarding treks in Nepal, offering a complete circumnavigation of the Annapurna Massif. This classic trek takes you through varied landscapes from subtropical valleys to high alpine passes, through traditional villages, and past ancient monasteries. The highlight is crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
15-18 days
Duration
160-230 km
Distance
5,416m
Max Altitude
$600-1200
Cost Range
Trek Overview
Essential Information
- Difficulty:
- Moderate to Challenging
- Duration:
- 15-18 days
- Distance:
- 160-230 km
- Max Altitude:
- 5,416m
- Min Altitude:
- 800m
- Cost Range:
- $600-1200
- Guides Required:
- No
- Solo Friendly:
- Yes
- Family Friendly:
- No
Best Seasons
March-May
September-November
Required Permits
TIMS Card Permit required for this trek
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Permit required for this trek
Trek Highlights
Complete circumnavigation of the Annapurna Massif
Cross the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
Experience diverse landscapes and cultures
Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple
Explore the beautiful Manang Valley
Witness stunning views of Annapurna I, II, III, and IV
Experience both Hindu and Buddhist cultures
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
760m Route: Kathmandu → Besisahar
Duration: 6-7 hours drive
Drive to the starting point of the trek
Day 2
1,310m Route: Besisahar → Bahundanda
Duration: 5-6 hours
Begin trekking through rice terraces
Day 3
1,430m Route: Bahundanda → Chamje
Duration: 5-6 hours
Descend to the Marsyangdi River
Day 4
1,860m Route: Chamje → Dharapani
Duration: 5-6 hours
Enter the Annapurna Conservation Area
Day 5
2,670m Route: Dharapani → Chame
Duration: 5-6 hours
Trek through apple orchards
Day 6
3,200m Route: Chame → Pisang
Duration: 5-6 hours
Enter the Manang district
Day 7
3,540m Route: Pisang → Manang
Duration: 5-6 hours
Reach the main village of Manang
Day 8
3,540m Route: Manang → Manang
Duration: Acclimatization day
Rest day with optional hikes
Day 9
4,018m Route: Manang → Yak Kharka
Duration: 4-5 hours
Trek to yak pastures
Day 10
4,450m Route: Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi
Duration: 3-4 hours
Base camp for Thorong La Pass
Day 11
3,760m Route: Thorong Phedi → Muktinath
Duration: 8-10 hours
Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
Day 12
2,670m Route: Muktinath → Marpha
Duration: 5-6 hours
Visit the apple capital of Nepal
Day 13
2,530m Route: Marpha → Kalopani
Duration: 5-6 hours
Trek through the Kali Gandaki Valley
Day 14
1,190m Route: Kalopani → Tatopani
Duration: 6-7 hours
Descend to hot springs
Day 15
2,750m Route: Tatopani → Ghorepani
Duration: 7-8 hours
Steep climb to Ghorepani
Day 16
3,210m Route: Ghorepani → Poon Hill
Duration: 1 hour
Sunrise views from Poon Hill
Day 17
1,070m Route: Ghorepani → Nayapul
Duration: 6-7 hours
Final descent to road head
Essential Tips
The circuit can be done clockwise or counter-clockwise
Thorong La Pass crossing requires early start and good weather
Carry enough cash as ATMs are limited
Book accommodation in advance during peak season
Be prepared for significant altitude gain and loss
Respect local customs and dress modestly
Consider hiring a guide for the Thorong La Pass crossing
Packing List
Warm sleeping bag (-5°C rating)
Trekking poles
Waterproof hiking boots
Thermal layers
Down jacket
Sunscreen and sunglasses
First aid kit
Water purification tablets
Emergency Contacts
Nepal Police: 100
Tourism Police: 1144
Manang Health Post: +977-66-460123
Jomsom Hospital: +977-69-520123
Weather Info
Related Treks
Quick Facts
- Fitness Level
- Good physical fitness required, previous trekking experience helpful
- Altitude Sickness Risk
- High risk above 3,000m, proper acclimatization essential
- Accommodation
- Tea houses, Lodges, Guesthouses
- Transportation
- Bus to Besisahar, Bus from Nayapul