The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most iconic and challenging treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This world-famous trek takes you on a journey through diverse landscapes, from lush valleys and villages to high mountain passes and glaciers, offering incredible views of the Annapurna massif and other towering Himalayan peaks.
The trek typically starts in Besisahar or Bhulbhule, following the Marshyangdi River Valley and passing through villages like Chame and Manang. Along the way, you’ll experience the unique culture of the Tibetan-influenced communities and witness their way of life. As you ascend, the landscape becomes more arid and barren, with the trail leading to the highest point of the trek, the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters/17,769 feet).
Crossing the Thorong La Pass is considered one of the most challenging and rewarding parts of the trek, with stunning views of the Annapurna range and the Dhaulagiri massif. After descending from the pass, the trail leads to the sacred village of Muktinath, a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a strenuous and demanding trek that requires proper acclimatization and physical preparation. The trek typically takes around 15 to 20 days to complete, depending on the pace and the side trips taken. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and personal challenge.
On reaching Kathmandu International Airport, received by our guide and staff and then transfer to your respective hotels in the hub of Kathmandu city. First check into your hotel rooms after getting refreshed from the flight, then join with other members of Everest Base Camp trekking for group briefing, where our expert guides will inform regarding hotels, trekking, local lodge and overland drives with do’s and don’ts information.
On the first day, we will pick you up from your respective hotel in Kathmandu at 5 am and depart in a private vehicle, driving to Besisahar (760m/2493ft). This journey will take approximately 6 hours without any traffic jams. However, please be aware that any potential traffic jams might cause delays. We will stop for lunch in Besisahar. After lunch, we will board another 4-wheeler vehicle, as the road to Dharapani (1860m/6103ft) is rough. Along the way to Dharapani, feel free to request the driver to make stops for taking pictures of the beautiful local villages, waterfalls, and snow-capped Himalayas that we will encounter. The drive from Besisahar to Dharapani will take approximately 4 hours.
Today, we begin our trek from Dharapani (1860m/6103ft) towards Chame (2670m/8760ft). The hike is expected to take around eight hours. Along the way, we will trek alongside the Marshyangdi River, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Manaslu, the 8th highest peak in the world. We will encounter a suspension bridge, and there will be a steep climb until we reach the first tea break in Timang after about two hours of walking. After Timang, we will stop for lunch in Thanchowk. The path then becomes relatively straight until we reach Chame, which should take about three and a half hours from Thanchowk. You will find yourself surrounded by lush green forests, and as you look up, you will be rewarded with remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m).
After breakfast in Chame, we will begin our 7-hour hike to Upper Pisang. Our trail will pass through apple farms, offering clear views of Annapurna II in the south and Pisang Peak in the northeast along the way. At Bhra Tang, we will take a short break to enjoy fresh apple treats such as apple juice, apple tea, apple donuts, apple pie, and many more delicacies. Afterward, we will hike for two hours to Dukurpokhari, where we will stop for lunch while admiring the stunning views of Mount Lamjung. After lunch, we will continue our hike to Upper Pisang, where breathtaking views of Annapurna II and the surrounding mountains will greet us upon arrival
The trek from Upper Pisang to Ngawal is 10 kilometers over 6 hours of hiking. It begins with an easy trail to the village of Ghyaru, but then involves a steep, zigzagging climb to reach Ghyaru. After resting in Ghyaru, the trek will continue walking towards Ngawal, initially ascending further. As you ascend, be aware of potential altitude sickness symptoms during this day. Descending into Ngawal will provide relief, passing through the larger village to reach the lodge for the night. The day’s strenuous climbing makes it a challenging stretch of the circuit.
The trek from Ngawal to Manang takes about 5 hours of hiking, involving a 140-meter descent in elevation. It begins with a steep descent from Ngawal to the valley floor and the village of Humde. From Humde, the trail continues through the valley, passing fields and forests before reaching the village of Braka. The final stretch from Braka to Manang is an easy 2 km walk along the main road. Manang is a larger, lively village with amenities such as hotels, bakeries, and medical clinics, making it a popular rest stop on the Annapurna Circuit. The scenic descent provides relief from the high altitudes while offering views of peaks like Annapurna III and the Gangapurna glacier.
Day 7 serves as an acclimatization day, but we’ll stay active exploring Manang village. In the morning, we’ll begin on a 3 to 4-hour hike to the Gangapurna Viewpoint at 3,850 meters elevation. There, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Glacier Dome, and the surrounding glaciers. After this scenic adventure, we’ll return to Manang for lunch and then spend the afternoon resting and gearing up for the hike to Tilicho Base Camp.
Later in the afternoon, you have the option to visit the Himalayan Rescue Association , conveniently situated in front of our hotel. Here, at 3 pm, you’ll receive a briefing about acute mountain sickness, its symptoms, and prevention methods, ensuring we’re well-prepared for the higher altitudes ahead. Alternatively, you can explore the nearby Bojo and Braga gompas, just a half-hour walk away.
After a day of acclimatization in Manang, we move towards Yak Kharka. We cross a stream, climb to Tenki village, and head out of Marshyangdi valley northwest into Jarsang Khola valley. The trail ascends slowly as we head northwards, passing through pastures, juniper forests, and the small village of Gunsan with its flat mud-roofed houses and yak/horse pastures. After crossing a wooden bridge over a small river, we make our way up the spectacular valley to the open, peaceful meadow of Yak Kharka. Today’s relatively short 5-6 hour hike features a gentle uphill ascent initially, followed by a steep downhill descent, passing by picturesque yak pastures.
Today’s hike is a relatively short 4-5 hours in duration. Starting from Yak Kharka, we’ll ascend to a ridge before descending and crossing the Marsyangdi River. The trail begins with a horizontal path for the first few hours, providing a moderate start to our journey. After crossing a suspension bridge and reaching Lader, we’ll continue along another horizontal path. It’s important to note the risk of landslides in certain areas after passing the tea shop, so we’ll need to remain vigilant. After navigating this section, we’ll soon arrive at Yak Kharka.
Today will be a remarkable and challenging day as we trek from Thorong Phedi (4,525m/14,525ft) to the sacred Muktinath Temple (3,760m/12,623ft) via the iconic Thorong La High Pass (5,416m/17,756ft). This pass is one of the highest in the world and marks the highest point of our trek. We will begin our ascent at 4 am after an early breakfast at Phedi, hiking uphill for roughly 1 to 1.5 hours to reach High Camp. After a short break, we’ll continue our uphill climb for another 1.5 hours until reaching a tea shop. From there, a long horizontal path of 1.5 to 2 hours awaits before we finally reach the famous Thorong La Pass. Take your time to capture pictures and enjoy a reviving cup of tea at the pass before beginning our 3 to 4-hour descent to Muktinath, where we’ll have a well-deserved lunch. Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists alike. The Buddhists refer to it as Chumig Gyatsa, meaning “Hundred Waters,” due to the 108 stone water sprouts flowing from the Kaligandaki River.
There are a number of options for reaching Jomsom today. Regular buses and jeeps ply the Muktinath to Jomsom route – it’s a journey of around 1.5-2 hours. There is also a walking trail that goes through Lubra and avoids a big chunk of the road that’s a good option for trekkers. However, we were particularly keen to check out the village of Kagbeni which serves as the gateway to the remote Upper Mustang region. So instead of the trekking path, our route would take us along the new paved road out of Muktinath.
You will complete your circuit trek by flying from Jomsom to Pokhara. A scenic flight that takes 20 minutes, you will get to enjoy an aerial view of the region during the flight.
You can go boating in Phewa and Begnas lakes, and visit other lakes, or go sightseeing in caves like Mahendra and Bat caves, and more. You can also go to bars, restaurants, etc. to try out new foods and enjoy live music. Shopping to buy souvenirs, art pieces, and handicrafts is also a viable option. Over night stay at the Temple Tree Resort
On the last day of our trip, we will take a flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu. The flight will give us a chance to see the big, beautiful mountains we hiked around from up in the sky. We’ll get to look down at the trails and villages we walked through during our trek around the Annapurna Circuit. It will be amazing to see everything from above after experiencing it all on foot. Once we land in Kathmandu, you can spend some more time exploring the city or just relax after our long adventurous trek in the mountains.
Last day in Nepal after a wonderful experience and adventure on Everest Base Camp trekking with great service of Malla Treks, and as per your international flight then transfer to Kathmandu international airport for homeward bound or to your respective.
During the trip; weather, local politics, transport or a multitude of other factors,that are beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.
TRIP DATES | PRICE | SPACE LEFT | |
---|---|---|---|
March 30, 2025 - April 12, 2025 | INR 95500 for ( Indian Resident0/$1650 for (Foreign Resident) | Above 5 Pax | Book Now |
April 5, 2025 - April 18, 2025 | INR 95500 for ( Indian Resident0/$1650 for (Foreign Resident) | Above 5 Pax | Book Now |
April 21, 2025 - May 4, 2025 | INR 95500 for ( Indian Resident0/$1650 for (Foreign Resident) | Above 5 Pax | Book Now |
S.N |
Particular
|
Quantity |
Type |
Remarks |
1 |
Woolen Cap |
1 |
|
|
2 |
Sunglasses |
1 |
UV protected |
|
3 |
Bob Scarf/buff Mask |
1 |
|
|
4 |
Warm down Jacket |
1 |
|
|
5 |
Thermal Inner Layer |
2 pairs |
|
|
6 |
Gloves |
1 pair |
|
|
7 |
Sleeping Bag |
1 |
20 + Degrees |
|
8 |
Trekking Trousers & Inner Vest |
As per necessity |
|
|
9 |
Trekking Shoes |
1 pair |
Full Ankle |
|
10 |
Woolen Socks |
3/4 pairs |
|
|
11 |
Trekking Poles |
1 pair |
|
|
12 |
Water Bottle |
Thermos |
1 L+ |
|
13 |
Waterproof Jacket |
1 |
|
|
14 |
Slippers |
1 pair |
|
|
15 |
Sun Block |
1 |
SPF 30 |
|
16 |
Personal First Aid Kit |
1 |
|
|
17 |
Trekking Bag |
1 |
Rucksack |
50 L+ |
18 |
Area Map |
1 |
|
|
19 |
Head Light with extra battery |
1 |
|
|
Trekking poles can be a lifesaver, especially when trekking uphill or downhill. They help reduce the pressure on your knees and provide extra stability.
It is important to stay hydrated while trekking. Carry a water bottle or bladder with you and make sure to drink enough water throughout the day. Avoid drinking untreated water and carry water purification tablets or a water filter.
Toiletries like wet wipes and hand sanitizer are essential, especially when there is no access to running water. It is also important to carry toilet paper and dispose of it properly.
Trekking in the Himalayas can be physically demanding, so it is essential to be in good physical shape. Regular exercise and cardiovascular training can help prepare your body for the trek.
Respect the local culture and traditions by learning a few words in the local language and dressing modestly. Avoid giving money or sweets to children, as it can encourage a culture of begging.
Trekking in the Himalayas can be an unforgettable experience, so take the time to enjoy the scenery and immerse yourself in the local culture. Take plenty of pictures, but remember to be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
You can apply visa to Nepal through embassy or other diplomatic mission to your country also you can obtain tourist visa upon arrival at Kathmandu airport. If you prefer to use a visa service you will find many by searching on the internet, one in particular we have found reliable is CIBT: https://cibtvisas.com
Yes, it is compulsory you should arrange your travel insurance and please insure your chosen policy also covers helicopter and medical rescue and repatriation costs.
In Kathmandu or in other cities we use 5-star hotels and in trekking or in remote areas we provide the highest quality available
Between 1000m and 3500m the temperature could be as high as 20 deg C to 5 deg C low. At higher altitude, the temperature ranges from 20 deg C to -10 deg C. During winter it is around 10 deg colder.
Nepal is Greenwich Mean Time plus five hours and 45 minutes. That means if it’s 8:00pm in Kathmandu, it’s 9:15am in New York and 6:15am in California.
Nepal is on the 220V system. Sockets are usually the three-pin variety, but they vary. If you are planning to use something like a hairdryer or electric shaver at the hotel, bring a converter and a selection of plug adapter
There are varieties of Food item so menu will be provided to all the clients and they can order their food according to the menu
As long as you are in good physical shape, you do not require any hiking experience for short treks. If you are planning a trek longer than a week, you should work out or do long day hikes at home.
You should bring a one-litre water bottle with you on the trek. We prefer that you purify water yourself using iodine in order to save scarce fuel. You can also buy mineral water bottles or boiled water during the trek.
Yes, we will provide you a domestic sim card or a satellite phone from which you can make international calls. You can also buy a domestic sim card on your own in Kathmandu.