Annapurna Circuit Trek – The Ultimate Himalayan Circuit Kathmandu to Kathmandu – 18 Nights / 19 Days
All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 to 14 participants. 👉 “One Destination. One Small Group. One True Adventure.”
🗓️ 19 Days – Arrival to Departure
👥 Small Group | 4–14 Participants
🚩 Guaranteed Departure
🎒 Guided by English Speaking Trek Leader or Hire Prasan
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most diverse and rewarding adventures. Starting in lush valleys and climbing through alpine forests, it leads you over Thorong La Pass (5,416m)—one of the world’s highest trekking passes—before descending into the arid, Tibetan-influenced landscapes of Mustang.
Along the way, you’ll pass ancient villages, monasteries, rivers, and ever-changing scenery. The trek’s cultural richness shines through encounters with Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities, and visits to both Hindu and Buddhist sites.
More than a trek, it’s a powerful journey through Nepal’s natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and your own inner resilience.
Why Trek the Annapurna Circuit With Prasan?
Join me—a licensed trekking, tour, and wellness guide with over 10 years of experience in the Annapurna region. I lead every trek mindfully and personally, integrating daily wellness activities like yoga, meditation, and conscious breathing into the rhythm of the trail.
✅ Government-certified, experienced, and passionate local guide
✅ Trusted by international trekkers for over a decade
✅ Emphasis on ethical travel and local sustainability
✅ Mindful trekking approach with wellness at the core
✅ Deep knowledge of routes, weather, and safety
✅ Heartfelt storytelling and cultural sharing on every trail
When you trek with me, you’re not just hiring a guide—you’re walking with someone who understands the land, respects its people, and shares its beauty with purpose.
Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the world’s highest trekking passes
- Trek through lush forests, alpine meadows, and Mustang’s arid valleys
- Explore traditional Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi villages
- Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, a key pilgrimage site
- Acclimatize and relax in scenic Manang village
- Taste fresh apple products in Marpha, Nepal’s apple capital
- Walk through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest
- Soak in the natural hot springs of Tatopani
- Watch sunrise over Annapurna from Poon Hill (3,210m)
- Experience a full circuit journey with changing landscapes daily
🗺️ Annapurna Circuit Trek – Outline Itinerary
Kathmandu to Kathmandu – 18 Nights / 19 Days
- Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, airport transfer (1,400m)
- Day 02: Free day in Kathmandu – rest or trek preparation (1,400m)
- Day 03: Drive to Besisahar, continue to Chamje (1,430m) – 8–9 hrs
- Day 04: Trek to Dharapani (1,960m) – 5–6 hrs
- Day 05: Trek to Chame (2,710m) – 5–6 hrs
- Day 06: Trek to Pisang (3,300m) – 5–6 hrs
- Day 07: Trek to Manang via Upper Pisang (3,540m) – 6–7 hrs
- Day 08: Acclimatization in Manang, hike to Gangapurna Viewpoint (3,540m)
- Day 09: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m) – 4–5 hrs
- Day 10: Trek to Thorong Phedi or High Camp (4,450m / 4,900m) – 4–5 hrs
- Day 11: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m), descend to Muktinath (3,800m) – 7–9 hrs
- Day 12: Drive to Tatopani (hot springs) (1,200m) – 5–6 hrs
- Day 13: Trek to Ghorepani (2,860m) – 6–7 hrs
- Day 14: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), trek to Tadapani (2,630m) – 6 hrs
- Day 15: Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m) – 4–5 hrs
- Day 16: Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara (820m) – 3 hrs trek + 2 hrs drive
- Day 17: Free day in Pokhara (820m)
- Day 18: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,400m) – 6–7 hrs
- Day 19: International airport departure transfer
Annapurna Circuit Trek Package Cost
| Group Size | USD Price | AUD Equivalent | NZD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 to 14 Trekkers | $1885 per person | AUD $2964 | NZD $3140 |
💡 All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 participants. Single room supplement in Kathmandu/Pokhara: USD $99. Not available in mountain lodges.
What’s Included in the Package
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
- 3 nights in a hotel in Kathmandu (twin-sharing, with breakfast)
- 2 nights in a hotel in Pokhara (lakeside, twin-sharing, with breakfast)
- Overland transport by private vehicle or jeep as per itinerary
- Trek with licensed English-speaking trek leader or trek with Prasan
- 1 porter per 2 trekkers (max baggage: 10 kg per person)
- All necessary permits (ACAP & TIMS card)
- All teahouse/lodge accommodation on trek (twin-share)
- 3 meals daily during trek: breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
- Group medical kit and high-altitude support
- All ground transportation as per itinerary
What’s Not Included
- Nepal entry visa (available on arrival)
- International flights
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except where noted)
- Sightseeing & entrance fees in Kathmandu or Pokhara (optional)
- Personal travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal expenses (WiFi, snacks, laundry, hot showers, charging, yoga mat)
- Tipping for guides and porters (USD $6–8 per day recommended)
- Alcoholic beverages and bottled drinks
- Emergency evacuation (covered by your insurance)
- Trekking gear and clothing
- Any services not specifically mentioned as included
Annapurna Circuit Trek – Detailed Itinerary
This 19-day Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary takes you deep into the heart of Nepal’s most diverse landscapes and cultures. From lush river valleys to the high-altitude crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416m), every day offers something new—ancient villages, sacred temples, alpine forests, and stunning Himalayan panoramas. Designed with a smooth acclimatization pace, this journey blends challenge, beauty, and cultural richness into a life-changing experience for every trekker.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Activities: Airport pickup and welcome briefing
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner
Your adventure begins as you land in the cultural heart of Nepal—Kathmandu. Our friendly team will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel in the bustling Thamel district. After settling in, you’ll meet your guide for a welcome briefing and gear check. In the evening, enjoy a warm Nepali welcome dinner and start soaking in the excitement of your journey ahead.
Day 2: Free Day in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Activities: Rest, gear check, or optional sightseeing
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take it slow today. You can either rest from your journey or explore Kathmandu’s rich heritage with an optional half-day city tour. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath. Finalize your trek preparations with your guide, and ensure everything is packed and ready for the Himalayas.
Day 3: Drive to Besisahar, continue to Chamje (1,430m)
Activities: Long scenic drive through foothills and riverside roads
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, embark on a long drive through scenic hillsides and rural villages. First, travel to Besisahar along winding roads lined with terraced farms and river views. Then hop into a rugged 4WD for a bumpy but thrilling off-road ride to Chamje. You’ll witness your first glimpses of Himalayan life and landscapes.
Day 4: Trek to Dharapani (1,960m)
Activities: Trek through forests, waterfalls, and stone-paved villages
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your first full day of trekking! Follow the Marsyangdi River through lush forest trails and cross swaying suspension bridges. Climb gently past charming villages like Jagat and Tal, each with their own character and stone-paved paths. Reach Dharapani, where the Annapurna and Manaslu trails converge.
Day 5: Trek to Chame (2,710m)
Activities: Hike through pine forests and villages with mountain views
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walk through dense pine and fir forests, with occasional views of Lamjung Himal piercing the sky. Pass through quaint settlements like Timang and Thanchok, where you’ll begin to feel the crisp mountain air. Chame is the district headquarters of Manang and offers Wi-Fi, hot springs, and mountain panoramas.
Day 6: Trek to Pisang (3,300m)
Activities: Follow the Marsyangdi River through deep gorges and forests
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s trail cuts through narrow canyons and thick pine forests, with spectacular views of Annapurna II. Cross dramatic rock faces and witness Buddhist mani walls along the trail. As you approach Pisang, you’ll notice the shift into a drier, more alpine landscape.
Day 7: Trek to Manang via Upper Pisang Route (3,540m)
Activities: Hike through high-altitude villages and Buddhist sites
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take the Upper Pisang route for its incredible views and cultural immersion. Climb past ancient villages like Ghyaru and Ngawal, adorned with chortens and prayer flags. The route offers breathtaking views of Annapurna III, Tilicho Peak, and the Marsyangdi Valley. By evening, arrive in the high-altitude village of Manang.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Activities: Optional hikes to Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend a valuable day acclimatizing in Manang. Choose a short hike to Gangapurna Lake or challenge yourself with a full-day trek to Ice Lake (4,600m). Explore local monasteries, visit the Himalayan Rescue Association, or just relax in one of Manang’s cozy bakeries.
Day 9: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m)
Activities: Enter alpine meadows and yak pastures
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leave the tree line behind and walk through scrubland and windswept meadows. Pass grazing yaks, rock outcroppings, and rustic huts along the way. The altitude rises noticeably, so take your time and soak in the sweeping views.
Day 10: Trek to Thorong Phedi or High Camp (4,450m / 4,900m)
Activities: Short, steep hike to the base of Thorong La
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s hike is short but steep, especially if continuing to High Camp. Walk slowly, allowing your body to adjust to the thinner air. The rocky path and barren scenery remind you just how far you’ve come. Rest early—tomorrow is the big day.
Day 11: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m), descend to Muktinath (3,800m)
Activities: Cross one of the highest trekking passes in the world
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start your ascent in the early morning darkness. It’s cold, quiet, and awe-inspiring. As you climb higher, prayer flags flutter in the wind. Reaching Thorong La Pass is a triumph—stand tall at 5,416 meters with views that stretch forever. Then descend to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site where Hindu and Buddhist devotees gather.
Day 12: Drive to Tatopani (1,200m)
Activities: Jeep ride through Jomsom and the Kali Gandaki Gorge
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trade trekking boots for a jeep ride down the Kali Gandaki Gorge—one of the world’s deepest. Pass the windswept town of Jomsom and dry, dusty terrain before arriving in lush Tatopani. Soak your sore muscles in natural hot springs beside the river.
Day 13: Trek to Ghorepani (2,860m)
Activities: Climb back into rhododendron forests and mid-hills
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s trail is a steady uphill walk through forested hills, with cascading waterfalls and terraced farmland. Rhododendrons bloom in spring, lighting the trail with color. Ghorepani is a beautiful ridge-top village surrounded by mountains.
Day 14: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), trek to Tadapani (2,630m)
Activities: Sunrise hike and forest descent
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake early to hike up to Poon Hill for one of Nepal’s most iconic sunrises. Watch golden light sweep across the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After breakfast back in Ghorepani, trek through peaceful rhododendron forests to Tadapani.
Day 15: Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m)
Activities: Descend to a traditional Gurung village
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A short descent through forest brings you to Ghandruk, a culturally rich Gurung village. Visit the local museum or simply enjoy views of Machapuchare and Annapurna South. This is a wonderful place to learn about local traditions.
Day 16: Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara (820m)
Activities: Final trek and return to city
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Trek past small farms and riverside villages before reaching Nayapul. From here, a scenic drive takes you back to Pokhara. Enjoy the comforts of a hotel, hot shower, and lakeside dining.
Day 17: Free Day in Pokhara (820m)
Activities: Relax, explore, or enjoy adventure sports
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pokhara is a perfect place to rest and reflect. Take a boat ride on Phewa Lake, visit the Peace Pagoda, or try paragliding over the valley. Treat yourself to good food, massages, or just peaceful views.
Day 18: Drive to Kathmandu (1,400m)
Activities: Overland return through hills and rivers
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
A final drive back to Kathmandu gives you time to unwind and relive the journey. Back in the capital, enjoy a farewell evening or shop for souvenirs.
Day 19: International Departure
Activities: Airport drop-off
Accommodation: None
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our team will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable Annapurna Circuit adventure!
Additional Information
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is suitable for trekkers with good fitness and a sense of adventure. No prior high-altitude experience is required, but preparation is key. The trail is well-established with cozy teahouses, hearty meals, and strong cultural presence throughout. Proper acclimatization days are built in to ensure safety and comfort. All necessary permits, transport, accommodation, and meals during the trek are included in your package. Trekking in spring (Mar–May) or autumn (Sep–Nov) offers the best weather and mountain views. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is mandatory.
Accommodation Details
| Location | Accommodation Type | No. of Nights |
|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | Tourist-Standard Hotel (Twin-share) | 3 Nights |
| Pokhara | Lakeside Hotel (Twin-share) | 2 Nights |
| Trekking Region | Teahouse / Mountain Lodge | 13 Nights |
Teahouses along the Annapurna Circuit Trek range from basic lodges in remote villages to comfortable mountain inns in places like Manang and Ghorepani. Most offer twin-share rooms with shared toilets, although some teahouses in Manang and Muktinath may offer rooms with attached bathrooms.
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll stay in centrally located, clean, and cozy tourist-class hotels, perfect for resting and preparing before and after the trek.
Meals on the Annapurna Circuit Trek
During the Annapurna Circuit Trek, all meals on the trail are included—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—served at local teahouses and lodges. Meals are simple, nourishing, and energy-rich to fuel your long trekking days.
For breakfast, expect Tibetan bread, porridge, eggs, pancakes, or muesli with tea or coffee. Lunch and dinner often feature Nepali dal bhat (lentils, rice, and vegetables), noodles, fried rice, pasta, soups, or momos. Some lodges also offer international dishes like pizza or spaghetti in popular areas like Manang.
As you gain altitude, menu options become more limited, and prices increase due to transport difficulty. Boiled or filtered drinking water is available at most teahouses (or you can use purification tablets). Bringing snacks like trail mix, protein bars, and chocolate is a good idea.
Vegetarian and vegan meals are widely available. Please inform us in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.
Daily Trekking Routine
Each day on the Annapurna Circuit Trek begins with morning wellness—gentle yoga or breathwork—followed by breakfast around 7:00 a.m. Trekking begins shortly after and continues until midday for lunch. Afternoons are typically shorter, with the group arriving at the next overnight village between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m.
Evenings include warm dinners, group sharing, and optional guided meditation or relaxation breathing. The pace is steady and supportive, allowing you to acclimatize properly, take in the scenery, and truly enjoy the journey.
Rest days (like in Manang) include acclimatization hikes, village exploration, or rest for recovery. The schedule is designed to balance physical activity, altitude adaptation, and mindful presence in the mountains.
Packing and Luggage Guidelines
You are allowed:
- 1 main duffel bag (max 10 kg, carried by porter)
- 1 personal daypack (carried by you during the day)
Your duffel bag will be transported each day by your porter and will be available at the lodge by evening. Your daypack should include essentials such as a water bottle, layers, sunscreen, and personal items.
Recommended Packing List:
- Medium-size daypack with rain cover
- Waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
- Warm down jacket (rated to -10°C or colder)
- Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
- 2–3 moisture-wicking T-shirts
- Fleece jacket or mid-layer
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- 2 pairs trekking pants
- Wool socks (3 pairs), gloves, beanie
- UV-protected sunglasses
- Sleeping bag (-10°C or better)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottle and purification tablets
- Toiletries (biodegradable), towel, wet wipes
- Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
- First aid kit & personal medications
- Trekking poles (optional but useful)
- Lightweight sandals for lodges
- Swimsuit (for hot springs at Tatopani)
Packing light but smart is essential for comfort and safety on the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Trek Difficulty & Fitness Level
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is rated moderate to challenging. It is longer and more demanding than the Annapurna Base Camp trek due to higher altitudes and the crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
Expect 5 to 7 hours of trekking per day with significant altitude gain. The toughest section is Day 11, crossing the pass, which involves a steep, early-morning ascent and a long descent. However, the itinerary is well-paced for proper acclimatization, with two nights in Manang and gradual elevation gain.
Preparation Tips:
- Begin training 6–8 weeks prior with hiking, stair climbing, cardio, and leg strength
- Stay hydrated and eat well on the trail
- Practice mindfulness and breath awareness to reduce fatigue
While no technical skills are required, good fitness, determination, and preparation are important for completing the Annapurna Circuit Trek safely and enjoyably.
Permits Required
To complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you’ll need two official permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000
- TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System) – NPR 2,000
These are included in your package and arranged before the trek begins. You’ll need:
- A valid passport
- Two passport-size photos
- Emergency contact and insurance info
Permit checkpoints exist along the trail, so always keep a photocopy of your passport and permits in your daypack.
Money and Tipping
Once on the trail, there are no ATMs or digital payments available, so carry enough Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in small denominations for personal expenses like snacks, Wi-Fi, charging, or hot showers. We recommend budgeting NPR 3,000–3,500 (USD $25–30) per day for extras not covered in the package.
Tipping is a well-respected tradition in Nepal. A general guideline is:
- Guide: USD $6–8 per day
- Porter: USD $4–6 per day (shared between two trekkers)
Tipping is voluntary but highly appreciated—it’s a meaningful way to thank your trekking team.
Travel Insurance & Health
Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover:
- Emergency helicopter evacuation up to 6,000m
- Medical treatment
- Trip cancellation/delay
- Personal liability and theft
Please bring both digital and printed copies of your insurance. Your guide will collect this information before the trek.
Health Tips:
- Drink 3–4 liters of water daily
- Avoid alcohol and smoking
- Report any signs of AMS (headache, nausea, dizziness) early
- Rest well and eat warm, energy-rich meals
- Take acclimatization seriously (especially in Manang)
Our guides are trained in first aid and altitude awareness, and we carry a basic group medical kit.
Climate & Best Season for the Trek
The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is:
🍂 Autumn (Sept–Nov):
- Clear skies, cool weather, excellent views
- Daytime 10°C–20°C, nights below freezing above 3,500m
🌸 Spring (Mar–May):
- Blooming rhododendrons, stable weather
- Daytime 10°C–25°C, cool mornings/nights
❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb):
- Fewer trekkers, cold temperatures
- Pass may be closed during heavy snow; lower sections still possible
🌧️ Monsoon (Jun–Aug):
- Not recommended due to leeches, slippery trails, and poor visibility
Weather above 3,000m is unpredictable—expect strong sun, wind, and sudden snow. Layering is essential.
Visa Information for Nepal
Most travelers can get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport.
Current Visa Fees:
- 15 days – USD $30
- 30 days – USD $50
- 90 days – USD $125
You’ll need:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months
- One passport-size photo
- Payment in USD, GBP, EUR, or card
Final Thoughts
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most iconic and rewarding trekking experiences in the world. From lush valleys and ancient villages to high mountain passes and sacred pilgrimage sites, it offers unmatched variety in both landscape and culture.
This is more than a trek—it’s a complete immersion in the Himalayan spirit. You’ll challenge yourself physically, connect deeply with nature, and gain lifelong memories walking through Nepal’s most stunning and diverse region.
If you’re ready to begin your journey, I’d be honored to guide you on this unforgettable adventure. For questions, bookings, or private group departures, feel free to contact me directly.