Trip Overview
Duration: 12 Days
Guided Service: On request
Group Size: Any
Accomodation: Lodges or Tea Houses
Meal: Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
Best Season: Spring
Transportation: By air
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range and a diverse cultural experience. The trek takes you through lush forests, high mountain passes, traditional villages, and across several rivers. The trek usually takes around 12-21 days to complete, depending on the individual's pace. The trek starts in Besishahar and takes you to the remote village of Manang, where you can acclimatize and explore the local culture. From Manang, the trek continues to Thorong La Pass, which at an altitude of 5,416 meters, is the highest point on the trek. After crossing the pass, you will reach the holy town of Muktinath and then continue on to Jomsom, where you can fly back to Pokhara. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Nepal and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. It is a must-visit for anyone who loves trekking and wants to experience the beauty of the Himalayas.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)
Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Briefing with your guide about the trek. Spend the day exploring Kathmandu: visit Thamel, Durbar Square, or Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive to Besisahar (760m), then drive to Chame (2,670m)
Early Morning: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (6-7 hours) by jeep or bus. This scenic drive takes you through Prithvi Highway, small villages, and lush green landscapes. After arriving at Besisahar, continue driving to Chame (4-5 hours). The road to Chame takes you along the Marsyangdi River, passing through villages like Ngadi, Taal, and Bhulebhule. You’ll get your first views of the Annapurna range as you approach Chame. Overnight in Chame.
Day 3: Chame to Pisang (3,300m) – 5-6 hours
Trek from Chame to Pisang, passing through Brathang and other small settlements. The trail goes through forests and alpine meadows, with panoramic views of Pisang Peak and the Annapurna range. Overnight in Pisang.
Day 4: Pisang to Manang (3,540m) – 5-6 hours
Continue the trek from Pisang to Manang. The trail gradually ascends and offers spectacular views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Chulu Peaks. Overnight in Manang.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Rest day in Manang for acclimatization. You can take short hikes around Gangapurna Lake, Khangsar Village, or visit the Barge Monastery. Acclimatization is crucial before heading to higher altitudes to prevent altitude sickness. Overnight in Manang.
Day 6: Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m) – 3-4 hours
Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka. As you ascend, the landscape becomes more alpine, and you’ll enjoy views of the Chulu peaks and Gangapurna. Overnight in Yak Kharka.
Day 7: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m) – 3-4 hours
Continue your trek to Thorong Phedi, the base for crossing Thorong La Pass. Prepare for the big day ahead to cross the pass. Overnight in Thorong Phedi.
Day 8: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m) – 8-10 hours
Early Morning Start: Begin the strenuous ascent to Thorong La Pass (5,416m). After reaching the pass, enjoy the stunning panoramic views before descending to Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists. Visit the Muktinath Temple and the famous 108 water spouts. Overnight in Muktinath.
Day 9: Muktinath to Jomsom (2,710m) – 4-5 hours
Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom, passing through Jharkot, Kagbeni, and other small villages. Jomsom is the gateway to the Mustang region and has an airport for flights to Pokhara. Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 10: Jomsom to Pokhara (820m) – 20-minute flight
Take an early flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (20 minutes). The flight offers great views of the Annapurna range. After arriving in Pokhara, relax at Phewa Lake and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 11: Pokhara to Kathmandu (6-8 hours drive or 25-minute flight)
In the morning, you can take a flight or drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The flight is 25 minutes, while the drive takes 6-8 hours. Arrive in Kathmandu, and enjoy some free time for shopping or sightseeing. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu
Depending on your flight time, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.
Additional Details
No Additional Details
Inclusion & Exclusion
Inclusions
- Transportation: Pick-up and drop off from the airport in Kathmandu, and transfer to and from the starting and ending points of the trek.
- Accommodation: Comfortable lodges or tea houses along the trekking route.
- Meals: Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Guide and Porter Services: An experienced local guide to lead the trek and a porter to carry your backpack and other essentials.
- Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS (Trekker's Information Management System) card, which are mandatory for trekking in the Annapurna region.
- First Aid Kit: Basic first aid kit, including essentials like bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes.
- Insurance: Travel insurance to cover emergency medical expenses and evacuation.
Exclusions
- Personal expenses: Items such as snacks, drinks, and personal items like toiletries and souvenirs.
- Travel insurance: Travel insurance is typically not included in the package and must be purchased separately.
- Emergency expenses: Expenses incurred due to emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, such as evacuation and medical expenses.
- International flight tickets: Round-trip airfare to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
- Visa fees: Visa fees for entering Nepal are not included in the package and must be paid upon arrival.
- Personal gear and equipment: Personal gear such as trekking shoes, backpack, sleeping bag, and other equipment are not included in the package.
