Annapurna Circuit Trek

  •   Destination: Nepal
  •   Trip Grade: Moderate
  •  Group size: 2-3
  •  Best Seasons: spring
  •   Meals: (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  •   Accomodation: Basic camping or guest house
  •   Transportation: included

Overview

Annapurna region is, without doubt, the most scenic and beautiful area of Nepal, filled with unique looking mountain vistas and varied topography. The trek around the Annapurna region, to witness the views of its wonderful mountain vistas from all around, has been named the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which is one of the most famous treks in Nepal.

The highlight of the Annapurna Circuit trek is the Thorong La Pass (5416m) which is home to the mind-boggling scenery of the icy peaks of the Annapurna region. Another added attraction is the passage through the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki, with the mastiffs of the Annapurna I( 8091m) to the east and the Dhaulagiri (8167m) hovering to the west.

Savor the views of the diverse Himalayan vista of the Annapurna Region with Alpine Paradise Treks and Expedition in its carefully selected itinerary, which avoids high altitudes and follows a long path around Annapurna. The trek which starts off with the green lush areas of Khudi, Sirung, Jagat, Dharapani, slowly leaves behind the treeline and enters the dry arid regions of Manang, Muktinath, and Marpha. Experience the varied scenery, get the chance to mix in with ethnic populations and embed the views of the mind-boggling Himalayan mastiffs in your hearts with the Annapurna circuit Trek with Alpine Paradise Treks and Expedition.

 

Best Season:

The best season to trek, the ideal time is during the autumn season, from September to November, or during the spring season, from March to May. During these months, the weather is usually dry and stable, and the skies are clear, providing excellent views of the surrounding mountains.

 

Permits:

  1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  2. TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
  3. Nar-Phu Special Permit (if trekking beyond Nar-Phu valley)

Regulations:

  1. Stay on designated trekking trails
  2. Respect local culture and customs
  3. Do not litter
  4. Obtain permission before taking photographs of locals or their property
  5. Be aware of altitude sickness and take necessary precautions
  6. Hire a licensed trekking guide or porter for a safe and enjoyable experience.

 

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 01:Arrive at Kathmandu airport (1345m).
  • Day 02:Pre-trip Meeting and Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley.
  • Day 03:Drive Kathmandu to Besi Shahar (823m).
  • Day 04:Besishar to Baundada (1430m)
  • Day 05:Baundanda to Chamje (1560m)
  • Day 06:Chamje to Dharapani (1881m)
  • Day 07:Dharapani to Chame (2725m)
  • Day 08:Chame to Pisang (3100m)
  • Day 09:Pisang to Manang (3500m)
  • Day 10:Acclimatization day at Manang
  • Day 11: Manang to Yak kharka (4090m)
  • Day 12:Yak kharka to Throung Phedi(4420m)
  • Day 13:Throung Phedi to Thorongla – la (cross over 5416m), then trek down to Muktinath (3802m)
  • Day 14:Muktinath to Marpha (2670m), via Kagbeni – Jomsom
  • Day 15:Marpha to Kalopani (2480m)
  • Day 16:Kalopani to Tatopani (1219m)
  • Day 17:Tatopani to Ghorepani (2860m)
  • Day 18:Ghorepani to Ghandruk (1951m)
  • Day 19:Ghandruk to Pokhara (915m)
  • Day 20:Drive back to Kathmandu (1300m)
  • Day 21:Transfer to international airport for your final departure.

 

Request a Custom Itinerary:

To create your custom itinerary, please click on this link. Our experienced travel consultants are ready to help you design a personalized travel experience that matches your unique interests and preferences.

Day 01: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,345m) 

You will be met at the airport by a representative of the trekking company who will transfer you to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day resting and exploring the city on your own.

Day 02: Pre-trip meeting and sightseeing around Kathmandu valley (1,300m)

On this day, you will attend a pre-trip meeting with your trekking guide and fellow travelers to discuss the trip itinerary and necessary preparations. After the meeting, you will go on a sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu valley, including visits to famous landmarks such as Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Besi Shahar (823m)

After breakfast, you will start your journey to Besi Shahar, which will take about 6-7 hours. The drive will take you through beautiful landscapes and rural villages, and you will have your first glimpse of the towering Himalayas in the distance.

Day 04: Besishar to Baundada (1,430m)

You will start your trek from Besi Shahar to Baundada, which will take about 5-6 hours. The trail will take you through terraced fields and rural villages, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.

Day 05: Baundanda to Chamje (1,560m) 

On this day, you will continue your trek to Chamje, which will take about 6-7 hours. The trail will take you through lush forests and picturesque landscapes, with views of snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Day 06: Chamje to Dharapani (1,881m) 

You will trek from Chamje to Dharapani, which will take about 5-6 hours. The trail will take you through mountainous terrain and along the Marsyangdi river, with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Day 07: Dharapani to Chame (2,725m) 

You will continue your trek from Dharapani to Chame, which will take about 5-6 hours. The trail will take you through remote and rugged terrain, with stunning views of snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Day 08: Chame to Pisang (3,100m)

You will trek from Chame to Pisang, which will take about 5-6 hours. The trail will take you through high-altitude landscapes and forests, with stunning views of the Himalayas.

Day 09: Pisang to Manang (3,500m)

On this day, you will continue your trek from Pisang to Manang, which will take about 5-6 hours. The trail will take you through even higher altitudes and rugged terrain, with stunning views of the Annapurna range.

Day 10: Acclimatization day at Manang (3,500m)

On this day, you will take a break from trekking to acclimate to the high altitude. You can explore the surrounding area, including the ancient monastery and traditional village.

Day 11: Manang to Yak Kharka (4,090m)

You will trek from Manang to Yak Kharka, which will take about 3-4 hours. The trail will take you through remote and high-altitude landscapes, with stunning views of the Himalayas.

Day 12: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,420m) 

The trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi is a challenging one as you ascend to a higher altitude. The trail takes you through rocky terrain and glacial streams. You will have to take it slow and steady to avoid altitude sickness. Thorong Phedi is a small settlement located at the base of Thorong La Pass, and it is the last stop before you cross the pass. You will spend the night here and prepare for the next day’s trek.

Day 13: Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass (5,416m), then trek down to Muktinath (3,802m)

This is the most challenging and exhilarating day of the trek. You will wake up early in the morning and start your ascent towards Thorong La Pass. The trail is steep, and you will be walking on a rocky terrain. You will reach the top of the pass after several hours of trekking, and you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range. You will then descend to Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The trek down to Muktinath is steep and can be hard on your knees, so make sure to take it slow and steady.

Day 14: Muktinath to Marpha (2,670m), via Kagbeni – Jomsom

From Muktinath, you will trek to Marpha, a charming village known for its apple orchards and brandy production. On the way, you will pass through the town of Kagbeni, a gateway to the Upper Mustang region, and Jomsom, the administrative center of the Mustang district. You will spend the night in Marpha and enjoy the local apple brandy.

Day 15: Marpha to Kalopani (2,480m) 

You will continue your trek from Marpha to Kalopani, a village located on the banks of the Kali Gandaki river. The trail takes you through beautiful landscapes and remote villages. You will pass through the Thakali villages of Tukuche and Larjung, known for their unique architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Day 16: Kalopani to Tatopani (1,219m)

On this day, you will descend from Kalopani to Tatopani, a small village known for its hot springs. The trail takes you through lush forests and terraced farmlands. You will have the opportunity to soak in the hot springs and relax your sore muscles after several days of trekking.

Day 17: Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,860m)

You will continue your trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani, a small village located on a ridge overlooking the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The trail takes you through rhododendron forests and remote villages. You will reach Ghorepani in the afternoon and rest for the night.

Day 18: Ghorepani to Ghandruk (1,951m)

On this day, you will be trekking from Ghorepani to Ghandruk. The trek takes you through lush forests and picturesque landscapes. You will also climb up to Poon Hill, one of the most popular viewpoints in the Annapurna region, to catch a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas. Ghandruk is a Gurung village known for its traditional houses and rich cultural heritage.

Day 19: Ghandruk to Pokhara (915m)

On this day, you will be trekking from Ghandruk to Pokhara. The trek is likely to take around 6 to 7 hours, with a descent through terraced farmlands and rolling hills. Pokhara is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning lakes and mountains views, as well as its vibrant cultural scene.

Day 20: Drive back to Kathmandu (1300m) 

On this day, you will be driving back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. The drive is likely to take around 6 to 7 hours, passing through beautiful landscapes, rural villages, and scenic mountains.

Day 21: Transfer to international airport for your final departure 

On this day, you will be departing from Kathmandu and ending your trip. You will be transferred to the international airport for your flight back home.

Inclusions:

  1. Permits and fees for Annapurna Conservation Area
  2. Accommodation during the trek (tea houses or lodges)
  3. Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  4. Transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek
  5. A professional and experienced guide
  6. Porter services (if requested)
  7. Basic first aid kit and emergency equipment
  8. All necessary equipment, such as sleeping bags and down jackets (if requested)

Exclusions:

  1. International airfare
  2. Travel insurance
  3. Personal expenses (such as drinks, snacks, and souvenirs)
  4. Tips for the guide and porter
  5. Emergency evacuation expenses
  6. Visa fees for Nepal
  7. Personal equipment such as hiking boots, backpack, and clothing
  8. Any additional expenses incurred due to unexpected events or circumstances, such as flight cancellations or natural disasters.

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Equipment for Annapurna Circuit Trek:

  1. Good quality waterproof and breathable jacket and pants.
  2. Warm layers such as fleece or down jacket.
  3. Warm hat, gloves and scarfs.
  4. Comfortable hiking shoes and extra pair of socks.
  5. Sleeping bag and sleeping pad.
  6. Trekking poles and headlamp.
  7. Water bottles and water purification tablets.
  8. Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm.
  9. First-aid kit and basic medications.
  10. Backpack, daypack and waterproof cover for the backpack.

FAQs for Annapurna Circuit Trek:

  • What is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit?

The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is from September to November and March to May.

  • How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered moderate to challenging, with some strenuous days of ascent and descent.

  • Do I need to have prior trekking experience to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

It is helpful to have prior trekking experience, but it is not mandatory. Physical fitness and a positive attitude are more important.

  • How much does it cost to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek varies depending on the type of accommodation and services you choose.

  • Do I need a permit for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Yes, you need a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to trek the Annapurna Circuit