Annapurna Circuit Trek

5 reviews
Trip Fact:
  • Duration 12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • DestinationNepal
  • Max Altitude5416m
  • AccommodationHotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara and Guest houses/lodges during trekking
  • MealsBreakfast in Kathmandu/Pokhara and All meals during the trek
  • Trip Start/EndBesisahar/Nayapul
  • Group Size1-25 pax
  • Best SeasonMarch, April, May, September, October and November are the best months.

What to Expect:

  • An incredible adventurous trek in the western Himalayas of Nepal
  • Trekkers get to travel lush forests and mist-shrouded valleys, following rugged alpine forests and verdant Himalayan foothills
  • A high-altitude, challenging trek that goes over 5,400 meters
  • Explore the immense diversity of the Himalayas, ranging from sub-tropical forests to the alpine zone
  • Witness diverse landscapes and breathtaking mountain panoramas
  • Spend nights in cozy tea houses in beautiful villages where you will socialize with other fellow trekkers
  • Come across heart-warming hospitality and an extraordinary harmony of Hinduism and Buddhism
  • Explore Ice Lake and cross the Thorong La pass
  • Get blessing at Muktinath Temple and follow the Kali Gadaki gorge to Jomsom

Explore the best of the famous Annapurna region during the Annapurna Circuit trek. It is an incredible adventurous trek in the western Himalayas of Nepal. The trekkers get to travel lush forests and mist-shrouded valleys, following rugged alpine forests and verdant Himalayan foothills. The Annapurna Circuit trek is a high-altitude, challenging trek that goes over 5,400 meters.

The Annapurna Circuit trekking is one of the favorite treks among adventure enthusiasts. If you wish to challenge yourself and go beyond the classic Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp trek routes, we highly recommend the Annapurna Circuit trekking. This trek offers beautiful nature, well-established yet offbeat trails, so many side excursions, and lovely Nepali villages.

On this trek, you will explore the immense diversity of the Himalayas. From sub-tropical forests to the alpine zone, you will come across a wide variety of vegetation.

What to expect during the Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal?

You will start the Annapurna Circuit trek from Kathmandu. Syange is the starting point of the trek. It takes around 8 to 9 hours of driving from Kathmandu to Syange. You will change the vehicle in Besisahar and follow the uneven Himalayan foothills to Syange. The ride is very scenic.

The trail from Syange ascends deep into the Marsyangdi river valley and goes via dense forests and traditional Nepali villages. Spend nights in Chame, Dharpani, and Chame before you reach Upper Pisang. On the way, you'll come across a huge 1,500 meters rock called Paungda Danda Rock.

From Upper Pisang, you will follow a gorgeous trail with phenomenal mountain views to Manang. This village is also your acclimatization point. Hike to Ice Lake and continue trekking to Thorong Phedi via Yak Kharka and Ledar. This part of the trail is above the tree line and offers rugged landscapes.

Thorong Phedi is the last settlement before Thorong La pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft). The next day, follow a narrow, steep track to the top of the pass. It will take around 8 to 9 hours to cross the pass, and descend to Muktinath temple. The downhill route is also steep and navigates landslide debris.

Muktinath is a significant pilgrimage site in Nepal. Get blessed here and also see the eternal flame. You can buy Shaligrams here and other precious stones. The trail then follows the Kali Gandaki river gorge and gradually continues to Jomsom via Kagbeni. Enjoy arid landscapes and barley fields on the way.

Why should you do the Annapurna Circuit trekking?

The Annapurna Circuit trek route is adventurous, no doubt, but also offers a fantastic balance of Hinduism and Buddhism religions. During the trek, you will meet with many Nepali communities and see their mountain lifestyle.The Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the classic adventure treks in Nepal for challenge lovers.

Trekkers get to enjoy all the faces of nature on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Mountains like Machhapuhhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), and several others are visible throughout the trail.

Who can trek to Annapurna Circuit?

The Annapurna Circuit trek 12 days is for trekkers who have previous trekking experience. It is a very tough trek, so the participants have to be physically and mentally fit to join it. The Annapurna Circuit trek is also one of the longest treks in Nepal. Therefore, if you are looking to spend a long time in nature, this trek will suit you.

You can also combine places like Ghorepani Poon Hill, Tilicho Lake, Annapurna Base Camp, or Upper Mustang into your Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary. Contact us to curate your dream trek in Nepal. Our team will help you design the perfect trek to match your needs and budget.
How to prepare for the Annapurna Circuit trek?

For the Annapurna Circuit trek preparation, you can hike, walk, and exercise. Good fitness means you should be able to walk at least 6 hours a day. Therefore, focus on improving your stamina, endurance, and strength. If you are not physically ready for the trek, keep 4 to 8 weeks on hand to prepare. We do not recommend this trek for beginners or someone who is not in good health.

Why do the Annapurna Circuit trek with the Dream Heaven Adventure?

For a safe and hassle-free Annapurna Circuit trek experience, you will need a local travel partner like us who will organize all the logistics for you. Our team will make all the reservations and obtain permits on your behalf, saving you a lot of leg work.

Likewise, you will travel with a native mountain guide and porter during the Annapurna Circuit trekking. You can trek safely with them. Our guides and porters are good in English and enhance the journey with their knowledge and companionship.

Not only that, but you will also get benefits like free airport pickups and drop-offs as per the itinerary, one complimentary dinner in Kathmandu, a t-shirt from our side, and a trek completion certificate. We have the best Annapurna Circuit trek cost in the market.

Itinerary

Distance: 205.2 km/127.5 miles
Altitude: 1,290 m/4,232 ft
Duration: 7-8 hours

To start the Annapurna Circuit trek, you have to first drive from Kathmandu to Jagat. It is a long, beautiful ride. 80-85% of the road condition is very good, so you will enjoy the drive. From Dumre to Besisahar, the road is bumpy.

The highway follows lush green hills and rivers. You will see terraced fields, waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains on the way. In Besisahar, we will change the vehicle and use a local jeep to Jagat. Besisahar to Jagat road condition is also bumpy.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast
  • 1400m

Distance: 15 km/9.3 miles
Altitude: 1,860 m/6,200 ft
Duration: 5 hours

We will start trekking from Jagat following the Marsyangdi river. Enjoy fresh air and the tranquility of nature. The trail steeply ascends to Tal village. You can see many waterfalls here. Further, hike via terraced fields of rice, barley, and potato and reach Kodo. It is one of the biggest villages in the Manang Valley. Cross a suspension bridge and then gradually ascend to Kani and continue to Dharapani.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 1,860 m

Distance: 15.5 km/9.6 miles
Altitude: 2,610m /8,890ft
Duration: 6 hours

Leave Dharapani after a delicious breakfast. The trail to Chame goes through lush forests of oak, pine, fir, and maple. You will be trekking along the Marsyangdi River throughout the way. The greenery of the region is fantastic. Likewise, on the way you can see stunning views of mountains like Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal. Chame is the district headquarters of Manang district with many services.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 2,610m

Distance: 13.2 km/8.2 miles
Altitude: 3,115 m/10,200 ft
Duration: 5-6 hours

The next village you will walk to is Upper Pisang. From Chame, follow a steep, narrow valley and trek until you come across a massive rock wall, the Paungda Danda Rock. It is a curved rock rising 1,500 meters from the Marsyangdi River.

As you trek to Upper Pisang, you can see excellent views of Annapurna II in the south and Pisang Peak in the northeast. Shortly, you will descend to the Manang Valley floor and walk to the Pisang Village.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 1300m

Distance: 17 km/10.6 miles
Altitude: 3,540 m/11,300 ft
Duration: 6 hours

You will trek to beautiful Manang village on this day. There are two trails to Manang. You will follow the upper trail via Geru, which is quite scenic and presents breathtaking panoramas of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, and Mt. Gangapurna.

With the progress of the trek, you will see a rise in the elevation and a change in the climate. The climate will turn much colder and drier compared to the last few days. During your time in Manang village, you will visit Barge Monastery. It is very old.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3,540 m

Duration: 4-5 hours

Spend one more day in Manang Village acclimatizing. It is essential that you acclimatize before ascending any further to avoid altitude sickness. To get used to the elevation, you will go on a hike to Ice Lake and Praken Gompa. It will be a 4 to 5 hour hike.

During the hike, witness spectacular views of mountains like Annapurna II, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, and Chulu Peaks. After the hike, you will return to Manang to spend the night. Explore the village and rest.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 3,540 m

Distance: 9.4 km/5.8 miles
Altitude: 4,050 m/14,275 ft
Duration: 4 hours

From Manang onwards, the terrain and climate will change drastically. You are now trekking at a high elevation and gradually ascend above the tree line. Cross a stream and ascend to Tenki village. The trail comes out of the Marsyangdi Valley and enters the Jar Sang Khola Valley.

You will walk northwards through pastures and juniper forests. Reach a small village called Gunsan. Here, you will see horses and yak pastures. Again, cross a wooden bridge and walk via peaceful meadows to Yak Kharka.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 4,050 m

Distance: 8.5 km/5.2 miles
Altitude: 4,525 m/14,525 ft
Duration: 5 hours

Leaving Yak Kharka, you will ascend to Thorong Phedi. It is at the foot of Thorong La pass, where most of the trekkers spend the night before crossing the pass. The trail from Yak Kharka ascends to a ridge and descends to Marsyangdi River. You will cross this river on a wooden bridge. After that, follow an uphill narrow route to Ledar and continue trekking to Thorong Phedi.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 4,525 m

Distance: 15.6 km/9.6 miles
Altitude: (5,416 m/17,756 ft) Thorong La pass
Duration: 8-9 hours

Today, you will cross the challenging and famous Thorong La pass. Start trekking from Thorong Phedi to the top of the pass very early in the morning. Towards the late morning/afternoon, the weather gets rough with strong wind, which may affect our climbing. So, we ascend early.

The trail is steep, narrow, and rocky, so we have to be extra careful. Once you reach the top of the pass, heavenly views of the mountains will recover all the hard walking. We will enjoy the views and continue trekking.

The trail now descends and passes by landslide debris to Muktinath Temple. It is a pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. Devotees come here to get salvation. Muktinath has an eternal flame, which is believed to be burning for more than 2,000 years.

  • Tea House
  • Breakfast/Lunch /Dinner
  • 3,760 m

Distance: 23 km/14 miles
Altitude: 2,743 m/8,999 ft
Duration: 6 hours

Today is the last day of your trek. From Muktinath, you will walk to Jomsom. On this part of the trail, you will come across the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge. Likewise, you will see Thakali communities on the way. This is the lower Mustang region. The trail goes via Kagbeni village. You will see arid landscapes and white-washed houses on the way.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • 4050m

Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft
Duration: 25 minutes

After a delicious breakfast in the morning, you will fly out of Jomsom. The flight will be short and presents jaw-dropping views of many snow-capped mountains. Upon landing in Pokhara, the guide will drop you at the hotel. You will have a whole day in the city free. Rest and enjoy your time here. Explore local markets, Phewa Lake, and other tourist sites.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast
  • 4525m

Distance: 201 km/125 miles
Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast and farewell dinner   

You will travel to Kathmandu in a comfortable tourist standard bus. Enjoy a fantastic ride packed with beautiful scenery. It will be mid/late afternoon by the time you reach Kathmandu. The rest of the day is leisure. Unpack and freshen up. Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square and window shop while exploring the streets of Thamel. In the late evening, we will meet for a farewell dinner.

  • Your own
  • Breakfast/Dinner
  • 1400m

Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop-off (please provide flight details).
  • All accommodation in Tea houses in the mountains.
  • All meals in the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner) covered.
  • 1 night hotel in Pokhara ( including breakfast)
  • Experienced English-speaking guide (salary, insurance, food, lodging included).
  • A porter service for every 2 trekkers (salary, insurance, food, lodging included).
  • Trekking permits and TIMS card provided.
  • Emergency medical kit included.
  • Trekking gear for staff provided.
  • All taxes and fees included.
  • All land transportation including tourist bus for Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Excludes

  • Hotel and meals in Kathmandu
  • Travel insurance for the trek
  • Any other expences

Good to Know

Annapurna Circuit trek permit

For the Annapurna Circuit trek, travelers have to get two permits- the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and the TIMS Card. If you are trekking with us, our team will obtain these two permits on your behalf.

You do not have to be present in person at the permit counter. Likewise, the permit fee is also included in our Annapurna Circuit trek cost, so you do not have to pay extra. Both permits have a single entry and are nonrefundable once issued.

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost for SAARC nationals: USD 30 per person
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost for other countries: USD 20 per person
  • Trekkers below age 10 do not need an ACAP permit
  • TIMS Card cost: USD 20 per person

Annapurna Circuit trek difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit trek is difficult in every way. This trek sees a high altitude. Trekkers go above 5,000 meters from sea level. Likewise, the terrain is steep, rugged, and tricky in many sections. Every day requires 6 hours of walking at minimum.

You will also be challenged by changing weather, climate, and environment because of elevation gain. Likewise, the trek route is remote and only gets remote with the progress of the journey. Trekkers have to adjust a lot during the Annapurna Circuit trekking because of limited facilities along the way.

The main and most demanding section of the Annapurna Circuit trek route is Thorong La pass. You have to cross this pass, which leads towards the end of the journey. It is not easy to cross this because of the steep, rocky terrain and cold.

Given all these challenges it is very important for trekkers to be in good shape and health. Previous trekking experience will be a plus point. If you have any medical condition that may affect the trek, inform us. Our team will plan the trip for you according to that.

Altitude sickness and how to avoid it

Altitude sickness is common during the Annapurna Circuit trekking. Not every trekker suffers from altitude sickness. If you follow some guidelines, you can complete the Annapurna Circuit trek without suffering from altitude sickness. First, let's understand what altitude sickness is and why it happens.

Altitude sickness occurs if a person travels at a high altitude without acclimatizing. It happens because of less oxygen level in your body. So, how can you avoid altitude sickness during trekking? If you acclimatize and keep yourself hydrated, you can avoid altitude sickness. Our Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary has ample rest days.

Likewise, we have curated this itinerary, making sure trekkers do not rush and get enough time to enjoy nature and the journey. Whether you are trekking alone or in a group, do not rush. Maintain your pace. You do not have to keep up with anyone. Get proper rest daily and have good food.

Below, we have mentioned the symptoms of altitude sickness. If you see them, let your guide know and get first aid.

  • Headache
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Insomnia
  • Loss of appetite

Travel insurance for the Annapurna Circuit trek

Annapurna Circuit trek is not possible without travel insurance that covers emergency helicopter evacuation. This coverage provides you assurance in unseen events and protects you financially. Not only that, but you will also get the service right away. To do the Annapurna Circuit trek with us, you have to mandatorily give us travel insurance with appropriate coverage.

Double-check all the clauses in your insurance and make sure it covers evacuation from the Himalayas. At least have evacuation coverage up to 5,000 meters. Likewise, you can also add medical bills and other coverage to your travel insurance. Buy the travel insurance in your country because it is not available in Nepal.

Best time of the year to do the Annapurna Circuit trekking

The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit trekking is from March to May and September to November. These are the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal, with stable weather and a moderate climate. As these two are transitional seasons, you may see some precipitation at the very start or end of the month. However, it will not affect your trip to the Himalayas.

Enjoy chilly nights and mornings with mild daytime. Mountain views are clear and stunning. Landscapes are breathtaking as well, with thriving greenery and gushing rivers and waterfalls. Spring and autumn offer a different trekking experience and scenery. Both times are fantastic.

Accommodation and food during the trek

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will spend the night in a tourist standard hotel. You will get private rooms and an attached washroom with all modern amenities. During the Annapurna Circuit trekking, you will spend nights in the tea houses. It is simple yet cozy accommodation for the trekkers runned by locals.

The rooms will be twin shared. Single rooms cost additional money and may not be available in settlements like Ledar, Thorong Phedi, and High Camp. Washrooms are common in many places, and you may see squat or Western-style toilets. Carry a sleeping bag with you for more comfort and warmth.

There is an excellent availability of food on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Trekkers get to enjoy a range of meals from dal bhat, stew, and thukpa to pizza, burgers, pasta, etc. Momo, noodles, porridges, soups, fried rice, rice with curries, chapati, pudding, pancakes, etc, are also available.

Services are limited at the upper part of the Annapurna Circuit trail, compared to the lower villages. So, make sure you have ample snacks and essentials for the journey. Trekkers with any dietary restrictions must inform us during booking. Similarly, boiled drinking water is also available everywhere.

Guide and porter

Guide and porter are important for a safe and satisfying Annapurna Circuit trek. They make sure you are in good health and trekking safely in the mountains. You will trek with an experienced guide and porter. The guide will help you get the best accommodation and services. Likewise, he will also help you interact with the locals.

Porter carries your duffel during the journey. It allows you to walk freely and safely on the rugged Annapurna Circuit trail. The Duffel bag weight limit is 10-12 kg per trekker. You can rely on our guide and porter. They are trustworthy and friendly. If you are satisfied with their service, kindly tip them. Tips are not covered in our package cost.

FAQs

  • Q1. Is Annapurna Circuit harder than Everest Base Camp?

    Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is harder than the Everest Base Camp. The Annapurna Circuit trek route is offbeat and sees high elevation. Likewise, the tourist infrastructure is lacking on the Annapurna Circuit compared to EBC.

  • Strong fitness and stamina are needed. Likewise, you also need strong willpower and determination to complete the trek. Out of 10, your fitness level should be 7 to do the Annapurna Circuit trekking.

  • We do not recommend the Annapurna Circuit trek for kids under 7 years old because of the high altitude. However, if your kid is used to high elevation, nature, and rugged terrain, then you may do the Annapurna Circuit trek with him/her. For more information, get in touch with us.

  • You do not have to carry water for the entire journey because it is available in every village along the way. You should carry two water bottles to carry hot and normal water. Drink at least 2-3 liters of water every day during trekking to avoid altitude sickness.

  • WiFi is available in the circuit trail. It is a paid service. We recommend you get a Nepali tourist sim to use the internet in the upper part of the trail, though you will not get a network everywhere.

  • There are hot showers available along the Annapurna Circuit trek route, but you have to pay for the service. Expect to pay USD 2 to USD 4 for a shower. Once you are 4,500 meters, keep a balance between taking regular showers and wiping yourself with wet wipes.

  • Yes, the Annapurna Circuit is cold, especially at the highest elevation. Whatever season you are trekking in, you will need thermal layers and jackets. The daytime temperature in the upper part of the trail ranges between 1°C to -10°C, where nights get even more cold.

  • Yes, you will need Diamox for the Annapurna Circuit trek. It is a fantastic medicine to suppress altitude sickness symptoms. However, if the symptoms are severe, you have to descend to a lower altitude immediately.

  • The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit trekking is October, November, April, and May. These months have the finest weather and climate for trekking. The climate is not too hot or too cold. Likewise, the mountain panoramas are surreal.

  • Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is safe because you trek with a native guide and porter who will help you complete the journey. They will show you the way, keep you entertained, motivate you to walk, and help you with your luggage.

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Client Reviews

  • Z
    Zoe DeanUnited Kingdom |October 23, 2018
    TripAdvisor

    Annapurna Circuit

    Had a brilliant time and felt incredibly well looked after by our guide Sam and our porter Robin. Sam was exceptional and helped us deal with the altitude over the Thorong La Pass.

    Would definitely recommend going with Dream Heaven Adventure, one of the most genuine companies out there at the moment.

    Hotels at the start and end of the trek were fantastic too.

  • Connor Carrol
    Connor CarrolUnited States |April 06, 2018
    Google

    Annapurna circuit & ABC trek

    I trekked the Annapurna Circuit and base camp with Gopal and Dream Heaven. I had a great time, as a solo hiker, it was great to not have to worry about anything and know that someone was looking out for me. It was also very cool to have someone informing me about the mountains and culture as we went along. Would definitely trek with Dream Heaven again!!

  • C
    Christina AllenUnited States |September 21, 2016
    Google

    Annapurna Round Trek

    We had a lovely time. Our guides and porters are so much hospitable and helpful. It was an amazing experience and would gladly suggest using the same team to my friends. We are very thankful for our guide Nima and porters Dinesh and Ram for all the help and for a very good time. You all made our visit to Nepal even more memorable. Many Thanks Again !!!

  • M
    Mikko KervinenFinland |December 24, 2014
    TripAdvisor

    Fantastic experience with Dream Heaven Adventure

    Recently finished 13 days Annapurna circuit trek, organized by Dream Heaven Adventure! Everything organized very well. Suman is familiar and was able to assist me with all questions I wrote before my Annapurna trip. The price was reasonable and really worth.
    Our guide and porters were excellent. Guide Ganesh did immense job with great care. We had great time in the mountain, and excellent views. I would highly recommend this company to anyone who are looking best treks and company

  • J
    James Hey and Thomas HeyUnited States |November 29, 2014
    Google

    Annapurna Circuit Trekking

    Upon checking into Kathmandu, we organized several meetings with tour operators and adventure companies to arrange for a guide for us to hike and trek to the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayan Mountain. By far, the best operator was Mr. Suman Aryal at Dream Heaven Adventure Company (Email: info@dreamheavenadventure.com ), Mr. Aryal was polite, courteous, and thorough and speaks fluent English. Within minutes, he arranged to get us organized by getting a fantastic guide ( Kaji Magar) who had numerous treks of both the Annapurna Circuit and the Annapurna Sanctuary, our required hiking permits, and our transportation to and from the beginning and end of the circuit. Everything was done in the highest professional manner and services provide by Dream Heaven and Mr. Aryal was exceptional! I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them again to our best hiking and trekking friends.

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