Annapurna circuit trek

Transportation
Bus, Airlines
Accomodation
3 Star Hotel
Maximum Altitude
5,416 metres
Departure From
Kathmandu
Best Season
Feb, Mar, Apr & May
Tour type
Eco-Tour, Hiking
Meals
All meals during the trek
Language
English, Spanish, French, Chinese
Fitness Level
Easy to Moderate
Group Size
2-15
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
65

Overview

Annapurna Circuit is the classic trek covering over two hundred miles circumnavigating the entire Annapurna massif.
This is one of the great treks of the world offering a cross section of Nepal from lowland terraced rice fields, pine forest to the arid terrain in the Himalayan rain shadow near Muktinath. The trail starts at Besisahar and follows the Marsyangdi river through Brahmin, Chhetri and Gurung settlements to the Tibetan region of Manang. Along the trek, you will see colorful prayer flags, mani walls and monasteries.
The high point is the challenging day crossing the Thorung La pass at 5,416m followed by the trek down the deep Kali Gandaki gorge located between the Annapurna and Annapurna massifs, stopping at the famous shrine of Muktinath before descending to Jomsom. After a relaxing soak in the hot springs at Tatopani we make the long climb to Ghorepani where we stay overnight then get up at sunrise for the Himalayan panoramic view point at Poon Hill.
The mountain views throughout this trek encompass the highest and most beautiful in the world including Lamjung, Himalchuli, Manaslu, Annapurna, Nilgiri and Machhapuchhre.However, for trekkers who prefer a shorter trek in the same Annapurna region, then Ghorepani Poon hill trek for lets say days is ideal which will also take you to the Annapurna base camp and vice-versa.

Highlights

Trek to the world-famous Everest Base Camp
Enjoy the amazing view of the Himalayas from Kala Patthar
Travel through the Sherpa villages of Namche, Khumjung, Khunde, and Dingboche
Visit Tengboche the biggest and oldest monastery n the region.

Day 01 :

Kathmandu

Upon your arrival the Tribhuvan International airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative from Nepal Wanders who will take you to our hotel. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner in a traditional Nepali cuisine restaurant where you will be able to enjoy authentic Nepali meal with a brief cultural program. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu

Day 02 :

Kathmandu

This is a day to explore Kathmandu where we organise guided sightseeing to the Buddhist and Hindu sights in Kathmandu, to Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, Swayambunath – the Buddhist monkey temple and Pashupatinath – a sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River. Three major towns are located in the valley, Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, each having a great artistic and architectural tradition. Kathmandu is the capital and the largest city in the country. Patan, the second largest is separated from Kathmandu by a river. Bhaktapur, the third largest, is towards the eastern end of the valley and its relative isolation is reflected in its slower pace and more distinctly mediaeval atmosphere. In the Kathmandu Valley the landscape is dramatically sculpted by the contours of the paddy fields. The towns and villages are alive with the colours of farm produce, ranging from pyramids of golden grain to the vivid reds of chilli peppers laid out on mats to dry in the sun. In the streets and towns there is a constant bustle of activity, especially in the bazaars and markets where the farmers sell their vegetables and fruit. You should get back to the hotel after your sightseeing tour around midafternoon and the rest of the day is free for you to explore the city further and pack bags ready for the start of the trek the following morning. You can leave a bag at the hotel with items you will not need on the trek. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu

Day 03 :

Drive to Tal

We leave Kathmandu early in the morning by private bus/car. It is a scenic drive with several picturesque gorges and occasional glimpses of mountain peaks. Overnight at teahouse lodge

Day 04 :

Trek to Chame

From Besi Sahar the trail descends then climbs steeply through the deep gorge. It moves up and down through fields, tropical forest and small hamlets to the Gurung village of Khudi at 825m. The trail heads northwards up the Marsyangdi valley and crosses over a suspension bridge in Bhulebule. There are many rice terraces along the route and after another suspension bridge crossing we begin the climb to the village of Lampatta followed shortly by Bahundanda perched on a ridge. Overnight at teahouse lodge

Day 05 :

Trek to Upper Pisang

Today as we trek up the valley you the sides will begin to narrow and increase in height. After walking through several villages the trail descends to the valley floor and crosses a steel suspension bridge across the Marshyangdi to the village of Syange. There is a steep climb from here to Chamje. Overnight at teahouse lodge

Day 06 :

Trek to Nawal

The trail passes through an oak forest and over a ridge to arrive in a wide valley with the village of Tal. Soon after leaving this village the climbs the narrowing valley and descends to cross the river at Dharapani. Overnight at teahouse lodge

Day 07 :

Trek to Manang

We climb to the village of Bagarchap, walk through a forest and then follow the river to Chame. Today, there are great views of Annapurna II (7,937m) and Lamjung Himal (6,932m) up the valley and if you look back you will be able to see the Manaslu (8,154m) and Peak 29 (7,833m). Overnight at teahouse lodge

Day 10 :

Rest & acclimatisation day in Manang (3,500m)

It is important to have an extra day in Manang in order to help acclimatisation for the next few days as we start the climb towards the Thorong La. There are lots of options for day walks around Manang. One possibility is to walk to Khangsar village on the way to Tilicho Lake or a longer walk to Ice Lake above Braga. It is well worth visiting the gompa above Braga as well as attending the Himalayan Rescure afternoon lecture on altitude and acclimatisation. Overnight at teahouse lodge

Day 11 :

Trek to Yak Kharka (4,090m)

It is a shorter day today, about 3 to 4 hours, in order to help everyone acclimatise to the altitude. It is a good idea to go for an afternoon walk which also helps with this process, you can either walk up the valley and back to the lodge or climb the ridge behind the village. Overnight at teahouse lodge

Day 12 :

Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,490m)

It is another short day of about 3 to 4 hours walking again to help the acclimatisation process. Leaving Yak Kharka we pass through a few lodges at Letdar and after crossing the river there is a climb to Thorong Phedi. In the afternoon it is a good idea to go for a short walk. Overnight at teahouse lodge

Day 13 :

Trek over the Thorong La (5,400m) and to Muktinath (3,800m)

Today we will leave Phedi at first light for the challenging walk over the Thorong La. The trail is on undulating terrain and after about 4 to 5 hours we should reach the pass. There are spectacular views of the Annapurna Range to the south and the Mukat Himal bordering Dolpo to the west, as we descend on the other side Annapurna (8,175m) and Tukuche Peak (6,920m). The descent to Muktinath is quite steep and will take between 3 to 4 hours. It is a good idea to have walking poles to help in case of a slippery path if there is still snow (depends on the time of year) and to take the strain off the knees. Overnight at teahouse lodge

Day 14 :

Rest day at Muktinath. Visit Muktinath temple.

Today we have a short walk to Kagbeni, this will probably be welcome after the long day going over the pass yesterday. After breakfast it is well worth going to visit the temples above the village of Muktinath. The trail passes through a beautiful arid landscape in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, this is starkly different to green and lush terrain at the start of our trek a week ago! We descend steeply to the green oasis of Kagbeni. It is a fascinating place to explore with narrows streets and old buildings. One needs a special permit to follow the path north of Kagbeni along the Thak Khola to Upper Mustang. Overnight at teahouse lodge.

Day 15 :

Drive to Pokhara (7 hours)

This last stage takes us back to Pokhara. We have a long climb to Ghorepani, in the morning. It is well worth the effort to walk up Poon Hill for the sunrise (optional), the view from here is know as one of the best in the Himalayas! The trail then descends steeply to the village of Birethanti by the Modi Khola, there is a short walk to the road and our transport back to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara

Day 16 :

Drive to Kathmandu

Fly to Kathmandu, rest of day at leisure in Kathmandu. We catch the morning flight to Kathmandu, where on a clear day, there are great views of the western end of the Himalayas. Overnight at Kathmandu hotel

Day 17 :

Farewell Nepal

Our representative will pick you up at the hotel and transfer you to international airport for onward journey

All About Your Trek

Embark on an exhilarating trekking journey that immerses you in the pristine beauty of nature and the rich cultural heritage of the region. This trek offers a perfect blend of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and meaningful local encounters, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to connect deeply with the environment and people.

Route & Terrain:
The trek covers a diverse landscape, ranging from dense forests and terraced fields to rocky mountain paths and high-altitude meadows. You’ll traverse well-marked trails that challenge your endurance while rewarding you with spectacular panoramic views. Some sections may involve steep ascents and descents, so a good level of physical fitness and stamina is recommended.

Duration & Pace:
This trek typically lasts [X days], allowing you to enjoy a balanced pace that combines daily trekking with time to rest and explore local villages. Each day’s walk averages between 4 to 7 hours, giving you ample opportunity to soak in the scenery and capture stunning photographs.

Accommodation & Facilities:
Overnight stays are arranged in traditional teahouses or mountain lodges, offering basic yet comfortable amenities. These cozy accommodations provide a chance to experience the warmth of local hospitality, enjoy hearty home-cooked meals, and recharge for the next day’s trek.

Cultural Experience:
Beyond the natural beauty, this trek provides a unique window into the life of indigenous communities. You’ll meet friendly locals, learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life, and perhaps even participate in cultural activities or festivals depending on the timing of your visit.

Best Time to Visit:
The optimal trekking seasons are during the spring months of March to May and the autumn months of September to November. During these periods, the weather is generally clear and stable, with moderate temperatures and minimal rainfall, ensuring safer trekking conditions and breathtaking visibility.

Preparation & Packing Tips:
To make the most of your trek, pack wisely. Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, layered clothing for fluctuating temperatures, rain gear, sun protection such as hats and sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. It’s advisable to keep your backpack light and prioritize comfort and functionality.

Health & Safety:
Your safety is our utmost priority. The trek is guided by experienced professionals who are well-versed in mountain safety and first aid. They continuously monitor weather and trail conditions to ensure a secure experience. Remember to stay hydrated, pace yourself, and communicate any discomfort to your guide immediately.

Environmental Responsibility:
We encourage all trekkers to practice responsible tourism by minimizing waste, respecting wildlife, and preserving the natural environment. Carry out all trash, avoid disturbing flora and fauna, and support local conservation efforts by purchasing souvenirs directly from artisans.

Additional Support:
Should you have any specific requirements or need assistance in planning your trek, our team is available to provide personalized advice and support. We also offer options for porter services or mule assistance to help carry your luggage, making your trek more comfortable.

FAQs

Expand all

How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will too, you can.

How long do we walk every day when doing Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.

What is the highest altitude reached in this trek?

The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.

What about battery charging and hot shower facilities?

Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay a certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, a hot water facility could be free at a lower elevation.

Are there ATMs on the way to Annapurna Base Camp?

No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.

What about internet access?

Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.

Is it necessary to hire Guides/trekking agency for Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during the offseason.

It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.

How much do guides and porters cost?

For the Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.

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