Annapurna Circuit Trek

Price USD 990
Trip Duration 13 Days
DestinationNepal
Trip Difficulty Strenuous
Trip StyleTrekking
AccomodationHotel + Teahouses + Lodges

More Info

About Trip

Highlights

Jaw-dropping views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli and other Himalayan peaks
Lush forests of rhododendron and bamboo, filled with lots of wildlife
Relax your body and mind at Tatopani Hot Springs
Experience the exceptional hospitality of Gurung and other ethnic groups in the many villages along the trail
Famous sunrise view behind the Himalaya from Poon Hill

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is hands down the most popular trek in Nepal. During peak season, roughly 300 trekkers reach the trail every day. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is consistently ranked among the best footpaths in the entire world. From the subtropical jungle to the desolate orange-red rock structures in the Lower Mustang region to the rugged mountains, this trek provides a full taste of the Annapurna region. The Annapurna Circuit trail combines the Annapurna and the Mustang regions –two unique and treasured landscapes of Nepal. providing some culturally and spiritually famous destinations for the journey. It is estimated that the total distance of the route is between 160-230 km (100-145 mi).

The Annapurna Circuit Trekstartsin Bahundanda in the lower Annapurna region. Hiking through the Marshyangdi river valley, we feast our eyes on cascading waterfalls and breathe in the fresh air of the lush sub-tropical forests. The sound of the flowing streams brings us peace as we begin the trek. We head up through the Manang region, where Tibetan Buddhist settlements begin to appear. By the time we reach Phedi, characterized by yak grazing alpine meadows, we are completely enclosed by mountains on all sides. Here, we cross the Thorong La Pass (5416m), a tough, but exhilarating climb. The pass is the highest in the Himalayas. It is snowy and icy up there, but that only adds to the thrill. The high pass offers magnificent views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m) Manaslu (8163m), Annapurna II, Mt. Annapurna III, Mt. Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Machhapuccre, Hiunchuli, LamjungHimal, Tukuche peak, and Tilicho peak. Afterward, we descend to the famous Muktinath Temple, a famous pilgrimage destination for Hindus and Buddhists from all over India and Nepal. Trekkers feel spiritually elated when they reach Muktinath. Immediately surrounding the temple is the arid, desert-like landscape, while in the distance, there are snow-capped peaks as far as the eye can see. Then, the trail goes through the Kaligandaki Gorge, passing the apple orchards of Marpha, and eventually ending in Nayapulafter a majestic sunrise view at Poon Hill.

Trekking is possible throughout the year, but Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) provide the best weather. During the Spring, there is a bit more color and the rhododendrons are blooming, and in the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer. The Annapurna Circuit Trek requires fitness and acclimatization to avoid acute mountain sickness. Shikhar Adventure arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuvan International airport (1345m).

A representative from Shikhar Adventure will welcome you to our hotel. We will prepare you with information and gear for your trek. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 02: Pre-trip Meeting and Sightseeing around Kathmandu valley.

After breakfast, we’ll brief you on our upcoming adventure and then go on a sightseeing tour around Kathmandu, including several UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can spend the rest of the day freely or prepare for your upcoming trek. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 03: Drive to Besisahar and Chame from Kathmandu.

After taking breakfast in Kathmandu, we take a drive to Besisahar, the district center of the Lamjung region, and again 4/5 hours Jeep drive to Chame. The picturesque scenery of the Marshyangdi River Valley and terraced hillsides distract us during the drive. Overnight at guest house.

Day 04: Trek to Pisang (3200meters). About 5 hours.

We leave Chame after breakfast, knowing that we have a beautiful day ahead of us. After about two hours, we reach Bhratang, where we can sample some tasty apple cider from the local orchard. The day blesses us with amazing views of the snow-capped Himalayas. After lunch, we reach Pisang village, our destination. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 05: Trek to Manang Village (3540 meters). About 5 hours.

Today, we walk through arid, yet exciting sections of the Manang district. The landscape is out of this world. The snowy peaks on the horizon mixed with the dry, rocky landscape close to us make for a fascinating view. We talk it slow today, as we have gained a lot of elevation during these past few days. Eventually, we reach Ghyaru and Braga, and finally to Manang village. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 06: Rest & Sightseeing around Manang.

We spend today resting/acclimatizing. Manang is densely-populated Tibetan Buddhists of Tibetan descent. You will enjoy spending time with them, as they are quite hospitable. Several colorful monasteries are scattered around near the village. We can take a beautiful day hike to Gangapurna Lake and explore the surroundings. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 07: Trek to Yak Kharka (4050 meters) About 4 hours.

After breakfast, we head to Yak Kharka. We can take it slow today, as the hike is pretty short. We quickly reach Jharsang stream and walk along its bank into the alpine meadows. Yak Kharka is a wide-open grazing meadow. We take a rest here. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 08: Trek to ThorongPhedi (4450 meters) About 4 hours.

From Yak Kharka, the trail becomes a bit more difficult due to the thin air. We first cross Ledar and go down towards the river. We gradually ascend the rest of the day to Thorong Phedi. We should try to acclimatize faster, so we walk a bit higher and then back to Phedi. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 09: Trek to Muktinath (3760meters) via Thorong –La Pass (5416meters). About 7 hours.

Today is the most strenuous day of our trek, but it pays off! We wake up extra early because the earlier we climb the Thorong– La Pass, the better chances for clear skies and good weather. We reach the pass and see the amazing scenery of Annapurna, Manaslu, Hiunchuli, Lamjung, and other neighboring peaks. After taking some snaps and enjoying the views, we trek down to Muktinath. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 10: Trek down to Jomsom (2,715m) 5-6 hours

Muktinath is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus alike. In the morning, we visit the temple area and a Buddhist monastery located close to the temple. After the short tour, we continue our trek down to Jomsom, which is the district headquarter of Mustang District. In the evening we can celebrate dinner in the mountain for a successful trip. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 11: Fly to Pokhara: 20 minutes

Today we fly to Pokhara, the lake city in the earliest possible airplane. After checking-in at our hotel we will sightseeing around Pokhara valley. There are several place such as Devi’s fall, Gupteshower Mahadev Cave, Seti River Gorge, International mountain museum and Fewa lake are the main attraction of Pokhara valley. In the evening you free time for souvenir shopping for your friends and family. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu. About 6 hours.

From Pokhara, we drive about 6 or 7 hours back to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we take you to your hotel. Take a rest and spend your day freely. In the evening we provide you farewell dinner in Nepali typical restaurant with culture program. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 13: Transfer to the international airport for your onward destination.

Transfer to Tribhuvan Airport. Thank you for choosing Shikhar Adventure as your trekking guide! We look forward to your next adventure with us.

Cost Details:

Cost Includes

Transportation to and from Tribhuvan Airport.
Three nights in a 2-3 star hotel in Kathmandu, breakfast included.
All transportation for the trek.
Local guest house accommodation in mountain.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) fees
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
Government-authorized, experienced guide and porters
Insurance, food, accommodation, and wage for guides and porters
Hygienic meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
All equipment (sleeping bag, down jacket and duffel bag)
First Aid Kit
Maps
Service charge and government taxes
Post-trek celebration dinner in Kathmandu

Cost Excludes

International airfare
Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (besides breakfast)
Your personal expenses, shopping, etc.
Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek
Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, tea and coffee
Tips for guide and porter
Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary
Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)

Photos of Annapurna Circuit Trek

‹ › ×

Note:

Shikhar Adventure is not responsible for any problems due to weather, damages of property, etc. However, we will help you manage your inconveniences to the best of our abilities. Transportation to and from Pokhara can be delayed due to weather conditions and delays may last up to several days. It is best to book flights to and from Kathmandu with a several day margin to avoid missing a flight back to your home country. If flights go smoothly, we will help arrange activities for you during your margin days. If you have a tight schedule and the roads out of Pokhara are delayed, it is possible to take a flight back to Kathmandu for an additional cost.