Annapurna Circuit Trekking

18 Days

Annapurna Circuit trekking is known as the most diverse trek of the world, one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal too. This trek offers the incredible views of mountain panorama and introduces you to the unique rural traditions and cultures of Nepal Himalayas also.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Get far from the bustling city life into the peaceful and pristine nature
  • Witness stunning views of Annapurna, Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and more
  • Stay in teahouses of small villages
  • Cross Thorong La Pass(5,416m)
  • Visit Muktinath, other holy temples, and monasteries
  • Explore beautiful villages of Braga, Manang, Kagbeni, Jomsom, and Marpha
  • Gaze at the breathtaking Annapurna range from Poon Hill
  • Natural Hot spring at Tatopani
  • Enjoy the lively evening of Pokhara

Overview

Annapurna Circuit Trekking is probably the most loved trekking in Annapurna region which has been considered as one of the best trekking destinations in the world by all trekkers (foreign and local) who has experienced any one of the many treks. Annapurna circuit trek, in particular, evades the Annapurna massif completely in a matter of 21 days. The trek begins from Besisahar and which will ends at Birethanti, Pokhara after reaching to a maximum elevation of 5416 meters at Thorung la pass.

Annapurna Circuit Trekking  is an ideal package for those avid trekkers who want to explore the High Himalayan panoramas with the taste of beautiful culture and traditions of rural Nepal. The Annapurna Circuit Trekking route follows interesting villages and lush forests of rhododendrons, pine and oak which add the beauty to trail. The whispering rivers and chirping birds will make the trip more exciting.

Thorung la pass is the highpoint of the trek along with the mountain views and the pristine landscape along the trail. The Annapurna Circuit Trekking the tricky and snowy trails pose a challenge which becomes a great feat once you reach the top of the pass and enjoy the surrounding majestic views. On the route we follow the Marsyangdi River with crossing its clear waters over suspension bridges many times; we go from traditional gorgeous villages, terraced hills to yak meadowlands at the bases of mountain peaks.

From Tibetan-styled villages, Gompas, a monastery, and holy Hindu temple- Muktinath, the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail is filled with cultural and religious heritages. In addition to that, the calmness of the trails and the warm hospitality of the people make the trek a truly inspiring experience. The Gurung, Thakali and other traditional villages provide a glimpse into the life of the traditional people living around the majestic mountains. With the delights of challenging trails, high elevation destinations, natural and cultural diversities, Annapurna circuit trek is truly one of the best adventures of a lifetime.

If you want Annapurna Circuit Trek in low cost than you may modify the itinerary with no acclimatization days. However, walking continuously in the higher altitude without acclimatization days is risky. So, only physically fit peoples and peoples with previous experience of walking in the higher Himalayas can complete this trip without taking extra days for rest.

Outline Itinerary

Day Program Elevation
1
Arrival to TIA airport. Pick up from there then check in to hotel in Kathmandu Upon arrival in Kathmandu.
 
1440m
2 Kathmandu to Besisahara to Bhulbhuleby public Bus 760m-840m
3 Bhulbhule to Jagat 1400m
4 Jagat to Dharapani 1960m
5 Dharapani to Chame 2620m
6 Chame to Pisang 3190m
7 Pisang to Manang 3540m
8 Manang Acclimatization Day 3519m
9 Manang to Yak Kharka or churi Ledar 4020m/4200m
10 Letdar to ThorangPhedi 4440m
11 Thorang Phedi via Thorang La Pass – Muktinath 5416m-3800m
12 Muktinath to Marpha  
13 Marpha to Ghasa 2080m
14 Ghasa to Tatopani 1190m
15 Tatopani to Ghorepani 2834m
16 Ghorepani to Pokhara via Poon Hill 1495m
17 Return back to Kathmandu by tourist bus. 1440m
18 Farewell  

Itinerary

When you arrive in Kathmandu airport, our agency representative will be waiting for you in the airport holding our company and your name play card. From airport our agency representative will escort you to the hotel. After you check in to the hotel, you will rest and fed your flight sickness till next day.

After morning breakfast, you start your journey to Western Nepal via a bus to Besisahar. Besisahar is the districts headquarter of Lamjung. It takes about 6-7 hours to reach there by bus. Company vehicle will transfer you to the bus station then take on a public bus from there to Besisahara-bhulbhule. If you take jeep service then same vehicle will take you to Bhulbhule. Overnight at bhulbhule.Along the journey you will witness some spectacular scenery of some White Mountains, green hills, rivers and hamlets.

(Trekking: approximately 6 hours) left the road then across the expansion bride in bhulbhule. slipperyup and down trail passAmphitheatre shaped rice terraces through bahundada, thamigaon. Somewhere in thamigaon can have lunch break too. Descend till syange then trail will lead ascend till teashop then walk flat and descend to the Jagat. As we near the village of Jagat we will have a trail that has been blasted out of the rock face. 15 minutes below this village we can visit another small hot spring.Overnight at Jagat.

(Trekking: approximately 6 hours) We start the day by descending flat on a road. We will see a few waterfalls as well too. After chamje need to cross the bridge then ascend, descend & ascend slowly till Tal. We will pass the village of Tal at 1700 meter which lies at the foot of a large waterfall.Where we might have a lunch too. The trail crosses a broad, flat valley that was once a lake (Tal means lake) after which we will cross the Marsyangdi by a 60 meter long suspension bridge. The trail will climb up from a second suspension bridge to a stone kani (an arch over the trail) which marks the entrance to Dharapani at 1960 meter.

(Trekking: approximately 7 hours) Today we will do some ascent in total. toBagarchap through bamboo and rhododendron forests, on a trail high above the river bank. The trail slowly climbs from here on through a forest of blue pine, spruce, hemlock, maple and oak tillBagarchhap, danaque, timangBesi, Thanchok and chame. Bagarchhap is the first village on the trek with typical Tibetan architecture. Closely spaced stone houses, with flat roofs piled high with firewood.

(Trekking: approximately 5 hours) We will first pass the older part of Chame and climb up to Telekhu at 2840 meter and continue with a long pleasant and mostly level walk through the forest to Brathang, which lies at 2950 meter. After the trail rounds a bend here we will see the first view of the dramatic PaungdaDanda rock face, a tremendous curved slab of rock rising more than 1500 meter from the river. We will cross back to the south bank of the Marsyangdi on a suspension bridge at 3080 meter altitude. And then make a long gentle climb over a ridge through blue pine forests. After this the trek will be reasonably level as it heads to the upper part of Manang valley to Pisang. This town marks the beginning of the region known as Nyesyang, the upper portion of the Manangdistrict.Pisang has a upper and lower village. Upper has good view then lower, lower has good lodges then upper.

(Trekking: approximately 5 hours) Today our trek will slowly climb up to the Tibetan-style village of Braga at 3500 meter following the valley floor. At Braga we will see houses stacked one atop the other, each with an open veranda formed by a neighbor’s rooftop. The gompa(monastery) perched on a high crag overlooking the village, is the largest in the district and has an outstanding display of statues. We then continue through a very arid countryside, dominated by weird cliffs of yellow rock, eroded into dramatic pillars alongside the trail to reach today’s destination, the village of Manang, where the shops are surprisingly well stocked with all the things you might want to refuel on.

Manang is a popular stop in Annapurna Circuit Trek. It has many lodges and bakeries. we spend the ninth day of our 18 days Annapurna Circuit Trek in acclimatization.Today we stay in Manang where we can do a short hike to ascent slightly higher to for instance Gangapurna Glacier, cave monastery, ice lake, which is a ascend then descend to the Manang again. It is important to have a relatively restful day today, to allow your body to acclimatize to the higher altitudes and thinning air. It also gives us the possibility to wash some of our clothing.

As we start our trek, we shortly reach to a confluence of Khangsar and Jharsang River. These two rivers combine here to form Marshyangdi. Trekking slowly upwards to Thorung La we will leave the large trees behind and see vegetation consisting mainly of scrub juniper and alpine grass and we will pass a few meadows where horses and yaks graze. After we reach Yak Kharka we will see herds of blue sheep grazing the steep slopes as well. About an hour after passing Yak Kharka we will arrive at Letdar.

From Yak Kharka, we feel a gradual rise in the trail. Trekking is easy, but be careful not to make it tough. Walk slow and take rest at times. We cross a suspension bridge to reach Letdar. From Letdar we will continue to climb along the east bank of the JarangKhola to ThorungPhedi, a rock-strewn meadow surrounded by vertical cliffs at 4420 meter. Blue sheep and even snow leopards can be sometimes seen in this valley. High in the skies above us we can see lammergeyer and Himalayan griffons circling around.

Day 12 is quite an exciting and difficult day as well. You cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of Annapurna Circuit Trek.As you wake up early and have your breakfast, you start marching towards Thorong High Camp. The High Camp has a few lodges.From there, you climb further up on the steep trail. You then reach to a tea house after about two hours of slow walk. You can make yourself better with a cup of tea to continue the journey towards Thorong La Pass.As you continue ascending through the snowy trail, you encounter many false passes. It may look like you have finally arrived at Thorong La, only to realize there is still a climb to do.Finally, after about 3-4 hours of slow walk, you finally reach to Thorong La Pass. Capture the moment in your camera and explore the area.Thorong La Pass has a tea house. Here, trekkers have foods and drinks. After some time in the Pass, start descending down towards restricted Mustang region.
From there, it is still a long way down to Muktinath. On your descent, you can have a lunch in a tea house in Chabarbu. This is the first village you will encounter while descending down from Thorong La Pass. Chabarbu is a beautiful village at the base of the hill.After your lunch, an hour’s trek takes you to Muktinath. Muktinath is a popular pilgrimage among Hindu and Buddhist devotees of Nepal and India. The temple attracts thousands of devotees yearly.You spend your twelfth nightat local tea house of Ranipauwa. Ranipauwa is a main town of Muktinath.
Today is a long trek starting before sunrise at maybe 04:00 o’clock to reach the pass by 09:00/10:00 hours at the latest, as otherwise weather conditions will greatly affect the journey. We cross over at an altitude of 5416 m so can be exposed to strong winds if crossing to late. Local people have used this trail for hundreds of years to bring herds of sheep and yaks in and out of Manang Thus the trail, while often steep, is well defined and easy to follow. Snow can block the pass at any time of the year if there has been an unseasonable storm. It takes from four to six hours from ThorungPhedi to the pass, but the many false summits mean the climb seems to go on forever. At the Thorung La pass, with its traditional prayer flags and stone cairn we will have outstanding views. You can see the Annapurna, Gangapurna and KhatungKang, Tarke Kang, thorang la peak, etc. Amazingly there is a teashop here on top of the pass at 5416 meter. From here we start a long descend of about 1600 meter with outstanding views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tilicho etc. mountain standing alone in the distance across the valley. After the trail becomes less steep we will enter grassy fields and cross meadows to our final destination of Muktinath, which means place of Nirvana and is home of the gods, as well as local people and several monasteries. It is said that all sorrows you feel are relieved when visiting the Temple, which is a scared pilgrimage site to both Hindus and Buddhists. The main pilgrimage normally takes place in September. The Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has 108 waterspouts around it from which Holy water pours. Another attraction nearby is the Jwala Mai Temple and this contains a spring and an eternal flame fed by natural underground.

(Trekking: approximately 6 hours) From today we will follow the “Jomsom trek” in reverse order. We will first go down to Kagbeni, which is a 990 meter descend through meadows, streams and fruit trees like peach orchards of apples. Then we will continue going down to Jomson (more correctly Dzongsam, or “new fort”). Our descend continues through the Kali Gandaki Valley to Marpha. Marpha is home to many apple orchids as well as all the various food products made from the fruit. Apple Brandy is a local specialty that you may be lucky enough to taste en route.

(Trekking: approximately 6 hours) This day will be a rewarding day when we trek further down the Kali Gandaki valley alongside the Kali Gandakiriver to Ghasa. We will pass the villages of Tukuche at 2580 meter and Larjung at 2560 meter. We then cross the the Kali Gandaki river by a high suspension bridge and continue through an area covered with fir, juniper and cypress trees. Towards the village of Kalopani (2530m) we will have splendid 360˚ views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, the three Nilgiris, Fang and Annapurna I. After crossing another very long suspension bridge (107 meter long) we will reach Ghasa, our base for this night. Here we will stay at local tea house.

(Trekking: approximately 5 hours) Today our trek leads us through the steepest and narrowest part of the Kali Gandaki valley; much of the way is cut through solid rock and subject to frequent landslides. Before we reach the village of Dana (1450 m) we pass the RupseChhahara (‘beautiful waterfall’). Descending further down past several landslides we will reach Tatopani, meaning hot water, which is situated on the riverbanks where we will stop to make the most of a well-deserved hot bath.

(Trekking: approximately 7 hours) Leaving the hot springs behind us we have a day of climbing ahead of us to Ghorepani. We leave the Kali Gandaki valley and we will follow the GharKholariver and cross this river on an old swaying bridge. We will continue ascending to Ghara (1780 m) and Shika (1935 m) where there still is a British army training centre. The last part of the trail today will have us climbing through rhododendron and magnolia forests to Ghorepani.

(Trekking: approximately 6 hours) An early start and an hour’s hiking to Poon Hill (3210 m) leads us to a brilliant spectacle, this viewpoint provides an unobstructed beautiful sunrise over the high Himalayas. After spending about few minutes on the hillside, we come back to Ghorepani for a hot breakfast, and start walking to Tikhedhunga(1550 m). From Ghorepani the trails descend through pine, rhododendron forests and villages. Gently descend to the destination Nayapul through small villages. After rich Nayapul can get vehicle to go Pokhara.

The bus journey will take 5 to 6 hours, free rest of day in Kathmandu and shopping

Day 18 :
Farewell

Transfer you to TIA airport then Tour ends.

Cost Include

  • Airport Pick and Drop via Private Transport
  • One night stay at the hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast with twin sharing basic.
  • One night stay at the hotel in Pokhara including breakfast with twin sharing basic.
  • All government taxes and Annapurna conservation entry fees.
  • Kathmandu to Besisahara via local transport
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu via Tourist Bus
  • TIMS CARD (Trekking Information Management System).
  • Required number of experienced English speaking guides and support staff (we pay for their daily wages, insurances, trekking equipment, food and accommodation).
  • 16 days porter wages and his insurances/meals/accommodation/equipment
  • 16 days guide wages and his insurances/meals/accommodation/equipment
  • Rescue arrangement in emergency situation & worst weather condition
  • 14 nights Lodge accommodation during the trek on tea house services.
  • Necessary ground transportation depending upon your request (via tourist bus or private vehicle).
  • Trekking Ending Point to Pokhara
  • Trekking poles, sleeping bag/duffle bag (we provide these if necessary).
  • Trekking maps.
  • Rubbish disposal.
  • Our service charge and government taxes.

Cost Exclude

  • All meals in Kathmandu and during trekking
  • Hotel stay in Kathmandu.
  • Tips to guides and support staff.
  • Additional costs in case of emergency (You must have adequate travel insurance to cover any kind of emergencies, such as ground transportation & Heli recue/medical/hospitalization. Medical etc).
  • Your International flight ticket airfare
  • Energetic chocolate/energy drinks/alcohol/mineral water/cigarettes/packing food snacks etc
  • Additional medication for altitude sickness (Acetazolamide etc).
  • Personal expenses and any other unforeseen expenses, such as Laundry/WIFI on trek/phone call
  • Personal trekking equipment.
  • Nepal entry visa fees which can get up on your arrival in Kathmandu airport
  • Sightseeing tour and All the entrance fees of temple in Kathmandu
  • Services not mentioned herein
1. How difficult are the treks?

It depends on the individuals’ adaptation of walking in any situation and at any circumstances. It depends on the location and choice of trekkers. Both difficult as well as easy treks are available. Difficulty of the treks depends on the region of the trek and duration of it. Shorter treks tend to be easier while longer ones require some physical fitness.

2. How safe Women traveling alone with your company?

Completely, we assure the safety and security of the women travelling with us. We will provide the privacy that the women need. We will also give you a personal room on lodge and personal tent for camping while trekking.

3. What is tea house trekking?

Tea House Trek – is a trek during which at the end of each trekking day you stay for overnight in Tea Houses. “Trekking Guide Team Adventure” also organizes Camping Treks during which you stay for overnight in tents which our guides will set up for you and food during such treks will be cooked by our experienced cook.

4. Can I get Nepal visa on arrival?

Yes, you can get it in Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. As you arrive to airport fill the form and proceed to the visa line. You have to pay 25US$ for 15 days of visa from the day of issue, 40US$ for 30days and 100US$ for 90 days of tourist visa. For this you have to bring two passport size photos.

5. What is the best air route to my destination?

There are enough airline companies operating daily flights from Middle East of Kathmandu. Kathmandu only has got only international airport in Nepal so, where ever you are coming from you must come through tribhuvan international airport.

6. What type of insurance should I have before come to Nepal? Can I get it there?

For coming to Nepal you should have both medical and Rescue evacuation insurance. Yes you can get it here too, but we recommend purchasing it in your own country to avoid any last minute hassle and basal.

7. When should I travel to Nepal?

In Nepal it rains a lot between Junes to August. You too can enjoy great treks during this period of year in rain shadow region. But if you planning for more popular trek autumn and spring is the best time. As during this period climate will be moderate and will favorable for the trekking.

8. What kinds of banking facilities in Nepal?

Nepal has modern banking facilities having branches of some international bank. Almost all foreign currency along with credit card such as American Express, Visa and Master card are accepted. Nepal also has ATM facilities.

9. When should I book my trip?

We suggest you to book your trip in advance to avoid the disappointment and hassles. We too will make an effort to accommodate last minute bookings but some time due to the last minute planning we may unintentionally make few mistake which may offend you so it will be better to do advance booking.

10. Is someone going to meet me at the airport? Are transfers included?

Yes, our agency representative will pick you from airport. We will be displaying our placard of your name with our agency name

11. How much spending money should I bring?

This depends on the destination you will be at and package, facilities you may choose . However our trip profile will give you information about how to budget form additional meals, optional excursions and extra expenses that might occur in any specific trip.

12. Does your company help to arrange domestic flight, international flight, hotel bookings and other services?

Since we are Nepal based company we refer to arrange your international flights from your home town. But domestic flight ticket will be included in our package. Other help like river rafting, city guided tour, mountain flight, jungle safari will be provided according to your necessities.

13. What is the physical conditioning level needed for trekking?

If you are in good physical condition then you do not require any hiking experience for short trekking. But if you are planning for the longer ones then you should do long day hikes at your home.

14. Is a Trekking permit needed?

Permit is not required for trekking in Everest, Annapurna, Langtang and some other regions. However, conservation permits or National park permits are required. There are few restricted trekking areas in Nepal where trekking permits are required.

15. Are the food / water safe to eat / drink?

All the meals are prepared with high standards of hygiene, fruit and vegetables are soaked in iodine before preparation. Most of lodges serve boiled and filter water which is safe. It is also possible to buy the bottle of mineral water in the trek.

16. What happens if there is an emergency?

All of our guides are trained with first aid and have basic idea about the physical problems that may arise during trekking. If an emergency occur then we will cover initial expenses of rescue operation as these expenses will need to be recovered from your insurance company. For minor cases there are health posts established by foreign doctors and many are staffed by overseas personnel.

17. What are your payment terms?

You need to pay 30% of total price as advance deposit to conform reservation before arriving to Nepal. Rest of the payment can be paid after arrival.

18. Can we bring some food from home?

You can bring power bars, cereal bars and similar high energy foods, powder Gatorade is also recommended to fight dehydration.

19. Is there any communication when we are on the mountain?

In the way in many villages along the popular trekking routes you can find telephones from where you can make international calls. And now a days we have the internet facilities most of the trekking destination.

20. What’s the difference between trekking, hiking and mountain climbing?

You can do all day walk, where you stay overnight (or several nights) at three activities in Nepal, but they are quite different things. Trekking is a multi-the place you’ve walked to.
Hiking generally refers to a one-day walk. It might be two hours or eight, but if it takes place within a single day, it’ll probably be referred to as a hike.
Mountain climbing is another thing entirely. It takes special equipment, training and comes with more risk. Neither trekking nor hiking require any special skill, other than the ability to walk.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Annapurna Circuit Trekking