Annapurna Circuit Trek
- 19 days
- Nepal
- Moderate
- Min: 2 Pax
Trip Highlights
- Sightseeing of UNESCO Heritages in Kathmandu Durbar Square i.e. Swayambhunath (the Monkey temple), Pashupatinath and Boudhanath stupa.
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Beshisahar.
- Crossing over Throng- La Pass (5416 meters).
- Sightseeing tour of Pokhara Valley.
- Majestic view of Himalayas from Manang, Throngla and Poon Hill.
- Trip through the deepest George in the world and Kaligandaki Valley.
- Experiencing the diverse ethnic communities and their life style.
- Natural Hot Spring Shower at Tatopani.
- Visiting pilgrimage site of Hindus and Buddhist.
Annapurna Circuit ( 5416m.)Trekking – 19 days
“A full-fledged out-and-about package for the real Travellers in shorter period, for their life time experience in mountain”
Annapurna Circuit Trek offers you the excellent opportunity to explore the Himalaya from many different angles and perspectives. Annapurna Circuit Trek is the most liked round trek with the fullest panorama and fun in Nepal. It goes along the winding Marshyangdi River. It is a long walking holiday in the Annapurna Himalayan region which requires about three weeks’ vacation. Poon Hill (3210M), Ghorepani (2860M.) and Annapurna Base Camp (4130M) are the most popular and worth-visiting view points in the Annapurna Circuit Trekking route. These view-points catches the remarkable and inspirational views of Mt. Manaslu (8163M), Lamjung Himal (6988M), Annapurna II (7937M), Annapurna IV (7525M), Annapurna III (7555M) and Gangapurna 7454m) around Marshyangdi valley and Annapurna I (8091M) and Dhaulagiri (8167M) around Kali Gandaki valley side. Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the world’s classic trips. It crosses the astonishing Thorang-La Pass at the altitude of 5416M. and descend to striking Gurungs, Thakalis and Manangis villages via Upper Kali Gandaki valley. Annapurna Circuit Trek is usually completed as counter clockwise walk to cross the remarkable Thorong-La Pass starting from Besisahar and ending at Nayapul. The trail to pass Thorang-La is hard to find during the snow and you should be prepared to be back because of bad weather and altitude. We reach to Muktinath after crossing Thorang-La in the same day if weather permits to us. After Muktinath-Jomsom and Marpha we continue trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill crossing the beautiful Gurung village and rhododendron forest, you will reach at Ghorepani. Hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210M) for the mesmerizing Mountain View is the worth-while experience of this trip. The trail continues down to Nayapul via Ulleri and ends at the beautiful city - Pokhara.
Details Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu (1340m/4390ft) Airport, Transfer to Hotel.
When your flight lands in Kathmandu Airport (TIA), your trekking to Annapurna region comes in act. First of all you will be received by our office representative holding a display board with your name on it at the arrival gate. He will then transfer you to your hotel and assist you in checking in into hotel with warm reception. Enjoy your first night stay at hotel in Kathmandu in comfortable manner. The guide will depart promising you to meet early at breakfast time next morning.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and Trek preparation.
Kathmandu, the cultural and economical hub of nation has popular sites with plenty of UNESCO world heritage sites. We visit Kathmandu Durbar Square (or Patan Durbar Square), Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. Get plenty of cultural influences, witness the Jatras (local fairs), festivals that happens during your trip time and enjoy visiting Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries and Stupas.
After completion of our sightseeing program, Gorkha Adventure representative and your trekking guide meet you at your hotel for a brief trip discussion. They assist you with checking your gears either to hire or buy the equipment. Stay overnight in hotel in Kathmandu. Included Meal: Breakfast
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Besishahar continue Chamjhe (1350m/4600 ft)10 hours’ drive
We take a comfortable and scenic country side drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar via Kathmandu-Pokhara highway. You cross Trishuli River. You may see people rafting in the Trishuli River. After you cross the bridge in Mungling, we drive parallel to Marshyandi River. We some time see beautiful views of snow capped Himalayas most of which belongs to Annapurna range. After nearly 10 hours’ drive, we reach Beshisahar, the head-quarter of Lamjung District. We head ahead to Syange. We take overnight at local teahouse included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 4: Trek to Dharapani (1960m/6100ft) 6 to 7 hours walking
We enjoy breakfast. Our trekking route comprises gradual descends through beautiful forests. Crossing a river via suspension bridge, we start to ascend to Tal. After walking along the narrow cliffs and ridges, we find ourselves around the rocky settings reach a village, Karte. We then gradually descend to riverside and crossing the river we head to Dharapani. We stay overnight here at a teahouse. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Trek to Chame (2650m/8890ft) 5 to 6 hrs.’ walking
Today, we make more of ascends with few descends from Dharapani to Chame. Our trekking day begins as we slowly hike up through beautiful refreshing pine and oak trees that leads us to Danaque. Further we cross small wooden bridge and ascend to Temang village which is situated at the foot of Lamjung peak. We enjoy our lunch having viewed the eye catching panorama of of Manaslu Himalayan range. After a short break of Lunch our path goes straight ahead from there. We cross Thanchok settlement, popular for Apple farm. Thirty minutes’ trek reaches us to Chame, the head-quarter of Manang district. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Trek to Pisang (3200m/10824ft) 5 to 6 hrs.’ walking
Our morning at Chame would be beautiful and sparkling as warm rays of sun sparkles nearby Lamjung Himal (6894m). Boarding out from our teahouse on foot, we enjoy the natural settings and surroundings; we take steep climb to a place called Bhartang. We take on that challenge with help of trekking leader and his recommendation, decision. We go through jungle and enter into the valley at end of the day called Pisang. We see Pisang peak (6091m) including other nearby Annapurna Himalayas. Overnight in local lodge, Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Trek to Manang (3540m/11611ft) 5 to 6 hrs.’ walking
As we cross 3500m of altitude today, we see slight change in our topographical surroundings. The trekking route is much drier at upper half of Manang district. Yak herding and local agricultural farming are major practices of local inhabitants. Leaving behind Pisang, we climb steep ridge that allows us to enjoy great views of Manang valley. We trek further taking the southern route through tiny airstrip at Hongde (3325m) gradually, we pass through Ngwal village. Marshyandi River welcomes us again at Mungi. Trekking for an hour extra takes us to Manang where we shall stay two nights for acclimatization. Overnight at local lodge, Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Acclimatization Day (Optional hike to Gangapurna Lake or Melarepa cave)
Proper acclimatization is important as it helps us to avoid altitude sickness usually seen commonly during high altitude treks. Therefore having acclimatization and letting our body adapt the change in surroundings is required. We shall do scenic get-round around Manang village (and do hike up to Gangapurna Lake or Melaripa cave). We reach at higher groundsand return to lower elevation for the sleep. This process is must to tackle with acute mountain sickness. At Manang there is also Himalayan Rescue Association and if you are interested in volunteering then you can also assist western doctors here who are basically there to create awareness on altitude sickness and challenges that we have to face in coming next few days while crossing Thorongla pass. Later we return to our tea house at Manang and stay overnight there. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9: Trek to Lader (4250m/15484ft) 4 to 5 hrs.’ walk
We leave behind Manang village today crossing over the river stream. It shall be challenging walk as mostly it is climbing activity through tough terrains above 4000m. of altitude. Then we shall arrive at small Tenki village from where we descend towards Jarsang valley, crossing the river, we have our lunch at nearby lunch station and take on the strenuous steep climb towards Yak Kharka which is basically a Yak grazing field where we can see few Yaks grazing on grounds. Above this point there are no any greenery, we feel like we have entered into alpine surroundings now after. If time allows, we may hike up to Ledar today. We stay overnight at local lodge at Yak Kharka. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10: Trek to Thorang High Camp (4600m/16501ft) 4 to 5 hrs’ walk
Thorang High Camp can be also considered as base of Thorongla pass or popular stop before we cross that high altitude pass of this trip. Today, we initially take short descend towards Marshyandi River. Here after this riverside lunch we ascend towards Ledar steped steep trail and at the end of day, we arrive at Thorong Phedi, 4600m. According to season, your fitness level and interest, you might be led a step forward towards Thorongla high camp for night stay. But most of the time we stop at Thorang Phedi. Overnight in local lodge, Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11: Trek from Thorong Phedi, Cross Thorong La Pass (5416m/17769ft) and Trek to Muktinath (3800m/12467ft) 8 to 9 hrs’ walk
The most important, challenging as well as rewarding day as we cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point of this trek, and heavenly site at 5416m. elevation standing soaring Annapurna Himalayas at eye level.
We start our day early today before the sunrise between 4 to 5 A.M. aiming to reach at high pass before 10 A.M. Strong wind and clouds are common phenomenon after the noon, so we try to avoid that as far as possible while taking the best views which never before. This part of the trail is likely to be dangerous too, as heavy snowfall may cause interruption to our plan and worsen the scenarios. Therefore, you must lead your trail according to weather condition of that exact time, with consulting your trip leader and following his instructions compulsorily. Don’t simply follow your instincts or other group members. Always trust experienced and professional trekking guide. From Thorong La pass we can see panoramic views of Annapurna Himalayas, surrounding us from all directions including other peaks i.e. Yakgawa Kang, Khatung Gang, etc.
We then gently descend to catch steep trail. We slowly approach popular pilgrimage site, Muktinath. Muktinath is well known religious site for both Buddhist and Hindu followers. There we get an opportunity to visit temples, monasteries and major Muktinath temple with 108 surrounding water spouts is the major attraction. Jwala Mai temple is another attraction of the pilgrimage site. We stay overnight at local lodge in Muktinath. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12: Get around Muktinath Drive to Marpha (2660m/8250ft), 4 hrs’ 21 Km by jeep.
Spiritual essence circulates in our mind atmosphere. We shall visit holy temple of Muktinath early in the morning. We shall have our breakfast and walk gradually downhill to Ekley Bhatti. It is quite a steep walk down the trails using trekking poles. Take one step at a time, don’t rush; simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings around and comfortably reach at Ekley Bhatti. Further we push ourselves towards Jomsom, very windy place where you need to have full face mask and wind prof jacket to avoid wind-blow. Wind forming across the Valley Mountain and gorges, blows even more strongly during afternoon; therefore we try to cross the downstream, Kaligandaki and arrive at Marpha before afternoon. This local village of Marpha is known for apple production and we shall surely taste a few. Overnight in lodge, Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13: Trek to Ghasaa (2016m/9848ft) 4 to 5 hrs’ walk
After breakfast, we make our way along few local tea shops commonly called Bhatties (pubs). Tasting apple brandy, tea or coffee, we comfortably walk on flat surface, we also get quite splendid views of nearby Dhaulagiri Himalaya. Further we cross Tukuche village and see famous Dhaulagiri icefall where we might stop for a while to snap some pictures and enjoy beautiful landscape settings. Our trail then continues towards Largung and Kobang village on more or less flatter surface to Kalopani. If you are interested, we can also pay some industrial visit to Tikuche Distillery that supplies the drinking water to nearby villages and towns. Overnight in Lodge, Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 14: Trek to Tatopani (1190m/3690ft) 5 to 6 hrs’ walk
We shall get wonderful views of Mt. Annapurna I and other surrounding peaks from Kalopani along the sun-rise. Today we trek. Firstly we have our early meal and descend to Dana where we shall be stopping for lunch and we get to see deepest Kaligandaki gorge of the word. Further trekking mostly downhill for 3 hours takes us to Tatopani. From here also, we get to see nice views of Nilgiri and other surrounding peaks. There is natural hot-spring at Tato-pani and we better take a sink there for relaxation. Later we return to our local lodge at Tatopani. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 15: Trek to Ghorepani (2780m/9480ft) 6 to 7 hrs’ walk.
Trekking around Nepal Himalayas brings us lots of ups and downs. As a result we take a challenging ascends to 2780m hike to Ghorepani. This challenge also brings lots of cultural and natural influences along. Basically, we cross the villages of Ghare, Shika, Phalate and Chhitre, where most of the local inhabitants are from Magar and Gurung communities. Having few breth-taking stops in a middle of trails, jungle walk, narrow paths, along the fine views of Annapurna, we head ahead. However the best view is seen next day from Poonhill viewpoint. We go to bed little early as we need to wake up before sunrise tomorrow. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 16: Hike from Ghorepani to Poonhill (3210m/10531ft), descend to Tikhedunga (1540 meter). 5 hrs’ walk.
Today we hike up early in the morning towards Ponnhill viewpoint before sunrise to see panoramic views of Annapurna Himalayas. The views will be from different side and gives us new beautiful perspective to snow capped peaks. After approximately 45 minutes to an hours’ hike, we reach at the top of hill, we eagerly for that magical moment to happen. Then sun rises slowly above Annapurna Himalayan range and worth watching it. Few moments later, snapping the views in our camera, we return to Ghorepani for breakfast and continue our trek down towards Tadapani.
On the way to Tikhedunga, we cross beautiful rhododendron trees, see langur monkeys hanging around. We have our lunch at Banthati and take around 30 minutes of climb to arrive at tikhedunga where we will be staying in a local lodge. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 17: Trek to NayaPul (1100m), 4 hrs’ walk, 2 hrs’ drive to Pokhara.
Our more than two weeks of wonderful trekking activity has almost come to an end. We hike from Tikhedunga exploring more of cultural insights of local Gurung communities. Most of the Gurung communities join Gurkha Army at British and Indian Special Forces. Gurkhas are well known for their bravery in battle field and joining Gurkha Army is like tradition of local people living here. So, this place was also close to Prince of Wales Charles who had visited nearby villages during 80’s. And in recent year, in2016, Prince Harry also visited Gurung villages as he also has been close to British Gurkha Army.
In this way, trekking with stunning views of Machhapuchre, Annapurna South and Himchuli, we walk little down to Pokhara - Baglung Highway and take couple of hours’ drive to Pokhara. We stay overnight in comfortable hotel in Pokhara. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 18: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, 6 hrs’ drive.
We take a tourist bus ride to Kathmandu early in the morning around 7 or 8 AM and arrive in Kathmandu. You will then be transferred to your Hotel. In the evening, you are welcome to join our farewell dinner at cultural restaurant. Stay overnight in hotel in Kathmandu. Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 19: Final departure, Airport drop and see-off to your home.
After amazing trip of Nepal, it’s time to leave this beautiful country and fly to your own home land. We transfer you from your hotel to TIA airport in Kathmandu 3 hours prior your scheduled international flight, hope you have had a wonderful experience in Nepal.
We would like to inform you that you can also extend your Annapurna Circuit Trek for extra days at beautiful lake city of Pokhara, or take few hours’ drive to Chitwan for Jungle safari, take scenic Everest flight, touring around Patan/Bhaktapur and/or add some extra thrills by going for bungee jumping, rafting and other adventurous activities.
Trip Dates & Price
Start Date | End Date | Cost | Status | Booking |
---|---|---|---|---|
13 April-2021 | 02-May-2021 | US$ 1340$ | Trekking and Sightseeing | Book Now |
Following are included on the above package cost.
- Airport and hotel transfers in car or tourist bus.
- Three nights’ twin sharing accommodation with breakfast in a star category hotel in Kathmandu.
- One night twin sharing accommodation with breakfast in a star category hotel in Pokhara.
- Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu including entrance fees and private vehicle.
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
- Best available teahouse accommodation (twin sharing ) during the trek
- Staff– one professional and friendly English speaking trekking guide along with porters (2 trekkers : 1 porter) including their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, transportation, and insurance
- Kathmandu to Beshishahar and Pokhara to Kathmandu by bus.
- Beshishahar to Chemjhe by jeep.
- Duffle bag during the trek by Gorkha Adventure (if required) .
- Trip achievement certificate.
- First aid medical kit.
- TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
- Nepal government taxes 13% and office service charge.
Following are excluded on the above package cost
- Nepal entry visa fee US$ 30 (duration 14 days) and US$ 50 (duration 30 days).
- International air-fares
- Excess baggage charges
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Added night/s accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara because of early arrival, delayed departure, early return from mountain (due to any cause) than the programmed itinerary
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- All kind of drinks (alcoholic, hot, or cold).
- Personal expenses such as; phone calls, bar bills, laundry, battery charge and extra porters, etc.
- Personal equipments and clothing.
- Tips for guides and porters (tipping is expected).
FAQ on Annapurna Circuit Trek belows
- Is this Annapurna Circuit Trek fit for me?
If you are confused regarding your suitable treks in Nepal, don’t worry; it’s a common to all throughout the world as Nepal has plenty of treks to choose from easy to adventurous ones. This Annapurna Circuit trek of 19 days is fully adventure trek which offers several experiences in a single attempt of Nepal visit with diversity of altitude, nature, landscapes, culture and religious, to make your life time experience on the world’s most popular trekking trip.
- How difficult is Annapurna Circuit trek?
Annapurna circuit trek comprises more than two weeks nearly 16 days of mountain trekking from lower elevations. Yes, it is challenging and adventurous one. Actually this route is the most popular trekking trip, recommended for all adventure lovers.
- Should I have trekking experience before this trek?
Actually, previous trekking experience is not essential. However you must be physically fit and be aware with AMS possibilities, preventive measures along with passion towards trekking and exploring and adventure. If you have hiked anywhere else even at lower altitudes would be a plus point and recommended to do so.
- Can I make solo trip in this region?
Trekking with professional government licensed guide is essentially important. While making your journey through rough terrains, dense forest, snowy trails at high elevation, it is unsafe to travel alone. Not only you may get lost, in case you make wrong decision it can also take your life. Our trekking leaders are professional well trained and locally perfect informants who have worked for more than 10 years in this region. They have been to high passes many times and know about the culture, landscapes and traditions that will only enhance your trekking experience.
- When is the best season?
Annapurna Circuit is best to visit during the autumn (months of September, October and November) along with spring (months of March, April and May). The temperature is neither too hot nor too cold with very less chances of rainfall but excellent views of snow capped Mountains.
- If any tips to prepare for this adventure.
It is an essential part of your trip success to prepare for this adventure by initiating or continuing cardio exercises like treadmill, cycling, skipping, swimming and other that help in increasing your stamina which will eventually enhances your overall trekking experience. In addition, you can also go for a day’s hike.
- What is my insurance policy?
Annapurna circuit trek insurance policy should cover the Helicopter rescue up to 6000m. altitude. It is mandatory to get insured before joining any trekking trip in Nepal.The insurance company understands the terms and conditions properly. In case, you do not have insurance even after arriving in Nepal, we can assist you to get one.
- What about permits?
Annapurna Circuit Trek requires Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card. All these permits will be arranged by the company and price is included in your total trip cost.
- How many days should I devote for this trip?
We have arranged 19 days Annapurna circuit Trek itinerary.
- What type of food is served? And what kind of place is set for the sleep?
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular and well developed routes with standard tea houses available offering good level of accommodation and meals.
- Can I take shower and do laundry during the trek?
Yes, good hot showers and laundry services are available especially at lower elevations. It is recommended to do laundry after completion of the trek in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
- Are there any variations (options) available for this Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Following are the major variations for this trek:
- Mini-Annapurna Circuit
- Tilicho and Round Annapurna Trek
- Combined Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
- Chulu Far East/West Peak Climbing with Annapurna Circuit
- How costly is this Trip?
This Annapurna round trip can be tailor made as per your need, requirements and budget. We are here to make your trip grand success.
If we missed any question of your need please feel free to send us your queries.
Please click on thumbnail pic to have larger view