True spirit of adventure since 1990
Nepal Environmental Trek
Nepal Environmental
Treks & Expedition

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Duration
16 days
Max. Elevation
5416m
Group size
Min 1
Level
MODERATE
Transportation
Public Bus, Tourist Deluxe Bus and Flight
Best Season
Autumn: SEP-OCT-NOV, Spring: MAR-APR-MAY
Accomodation
2-3 Star Hotel Accomodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Lodge Accomodation during Trek
Meals
3 Meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Starts at/ Ends at
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Trip Route
Kathmandu - Bhulbhule - Chamje - Dharapani - Chame - Pisang - Manang - Yak Kharka - Thorong Phedi - Thoron La Pass - Muktinath - Jomsom - Pokhara - Kathmandu

Highlights

Overview

Annapurna Circuit Trek Circumambulates Annapurna Massif and passes Manang valley and the Lower Mustang Valley and The Thorung La pass.
 
Annapurna Circuit Trek is the longest and popular trek in the Annapurna Region and it encompasses all the attractions from the highest mountains to enchanting Tibetan culture and valleys. 
 
 Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek include fascinating Tibetan ethnic group such as Tamangs and Thakalis, incredible views of many of the Himalaya's tallest peaks, and constantly changing panoramas ranging from lush, tropical rice paddies and rhododendron forests, waterfalls to Tibetan fortresses clinging to rocky cliffs. 
 
Starting off with a drive to Ngadi, you ascend the Marsyangdi river valley. You will pass through forests, hills and picturesque villages and walk beneath highest peaks including Annapurna I, II, III and IV stretching north as far as Tibet. You then cross Thorung La Pass (5418m), one of the highest passes in the Himalayas, on your way to the holy shrine of Chumig Gyatsa or Muktinath. Chumig Gyatsa is an important shrine for Buddhists as well as Hindus and hosts a mud statue of Buddha and an eternal flame.
 
The Thorung La pass provides spectacular views of Himalayas including Annapurna I (8091m), tenth highest mountain, and Dhaulagiri I 8167m), eighth highest mountain in the world. You then descend into the Kali Gandaki Valley that includes the deepest gorge between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. The trail continues through a wonderful rhododendron forest on the Ghorepani Ridge and past Gurung villages before winding back in Pokhara. You will be able to experience hot springs, monasteries and rare wildlife such as blue sheep, Himalayan Tiger and snow leopard. 
 
As this is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal, there are many good lodges catering to the needs of the trekkers along this trail. Apart from being able to enjoy homely comforts, you will have the unique opportunity to know and appreciate the lifestyle of local people. 

Important Note

Note: There are different categories of Hotels in Kathmandu ranging from budget to 5 star hotels. We are happy to arrange your hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per your interest and budget. Please inform us in advance about the type or category or price range of hotel that you would like to stay in.

Trip Itinerary

On your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, you will be greeted with flower garlands/Khadas. Our representative will then take you to your hotel. If time prevails, you will visit office for paperwork.

Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu

Max. altitude

1400m

Accomodation

Hotel
Today, you will visit popular world heritage monuments in Kathmandu including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swoyambhunath, and Pashupatinath. Alternatively, you can choose Bhakatapur and Patan sightseeing.  By late afternoon you will drive back to your hotel.

Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Max. altitude

1400m

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast
After early morning breakfast, drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule via Besisahar, takes about seven hours. During the drive you will follow Trisuli and Marshyangdi Rivers passing through several villages and you will enjoy views of green hills and snowcapped mountains. The road from Kathmandu to Besisahar is paved while rest of the journey to Bhulbule is on a graveled path.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

840m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Trek from Bhulbhule to Chamje (1410m.) takes about seven hours. You will step into Marshyangdi valley and follow the winding mountain path down to Syange (1100m). Afterwards climb steeply through sheer cliff-face some 200-300m above the riverbed to reach Chamje.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

1410m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Trek from Chamje (1410m) to Dharapani (1960m) takes about six hours. The first part of the trail descends to the Marshyangdi River and then crosses over a suspension bridge and makes a steep climb to Sattale (1550m). From here the trail descends to a grassy riverbank that leads to the village of Tal (1700m). Beyond Tal, the trail goes around winding cliffs, passes through Karte village and finally passes the Mani entrance to Dharapani (1960m.).

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

1960m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2675m) takes about five and half hours. Today the trek goes along the Dudh Khola that originates from the south face of Mt. Manaslu. You will soon arrive at the village of Bagarchhap, distinct with its prayer flags and a Buddhist monastery. Continue to climb through forests of pine and oak to reach Danaque (2210m.) and thereafter trail levels all the way to Chame where there are government offices, shops and hotels. Chame is the administrative headquarters of the Manang district.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

2675m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Trek from Chame to Pisang (3100m.) takes about five hours. After greeting Lamjung Himal (6893m) sparkling in the morning sun, you will climb the path up the valley, passing a huge apple orchard. The trail then enters fir and pine forest, and emerges out to a high, rocky cliff which is extremely steep that leads to Bhratang (2950m.). You will now walk through a short stretch of pine forest as the path opens up to a wonderful vista of Annapurna II as well as Pisang Peak (6091m). Afterwards follow a long section of Mani wall to enter the village of Pisang.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

3100m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Trek from Pisang to Manang (3440m) takes about five and half hours. Leaving Pisang in the morning, the trail ascends a steep ridge that offers good views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak (7145m). When descending to Hungde (3320m), you will come to wide plain of the Sabje Khola Valley from where the north-east face of Annapurna III and Annapurna IV (7525m) rises majestically. Afterwards you will cross Marshyangdi Khola over a wooden bridge to the tiny village of Mungji. Mungji has large Chortens and mani walls and is surrounded by tall peaks of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna (7455m.) and Tilicho Peak (7145m.). A short steep climb from Mungji will reach you Manang.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

3440m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Today is a rest day for acclimatization in preparation for crossing the Thorung La Pass. You can choose to cross the river to see the tremendous icefall coming down from the Annapurna or climb high above the village for views of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

3440m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4350m) takes about three and half hours. Today the trail ascends gently all the way to Yak Kharka passing through Gunsang village (3960m). En route, you can see panoramic mountain views all day long.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

4350m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4420m) takes about 3 and half hours. Leaving Yak Kharka, you will climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of Marshyangdi. After a short ascend along the river bank, you follow a narrow trail across an unstable spree slope and then descend to Thorung Phedi.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

4420m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3850m.) via Thorong La (5416m.) Pass takes about seven hours. You will start the trek very early in the morning. The trail is long, steep and challenging all the way to the Thorong La pass. After around 4 hours of steady climbing on moraines, you will arrive at the Thorong La pass which is adorned with chorten and prayer flags. Thorong La pass is one of the highest passes in the Annapurna region and offers great views of the valley below. Descend from the top of Thorang La pass following along the Jhong Khola Valley towards Muktinath. Muktinath is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in the Himalaya for both Hindus and Buddhists.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

5416m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2743m.) takes about 4 hours. Today the trail gradually descends all the way to Jomsom. Enjoy an easy and pleasant trek on this day. Jomsom is a popular town based on the bank of Kali Gandaki River and is the starting point of Upper Mustang trek. There is a regional airport in Jomsom which is connected to Pokhara with daily flights.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Max. altitude

2743m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
Early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (914m.) takes about 25 minutes. The flight is a scenic one with beautiful views of Kaligandaki River and several Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri etc. The flight to/from Jomsom occurs only in the morning because of high wind in the afternoon time. In case of cancellation of flights due to bad weather, you can alternatively choose to drive from Jomsom to Pokhara takes about 7 hrs.

Stay overnight at hotel in Pokhara

Max. altitude

914m

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast
After breakfast early morning, drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu that takes about six hours. During the highway journey, you will enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people being engaged in their daily life activities.

Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Max. altitude

1400m

Accomodation

Lodge

Meals

BLD
As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will transfer you from your hotel to the airport for your final departure.

Max. altitude

1400m

Meals

Breakfast
Not satisfied with this itinerary? Make your own.
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Includes

    Kathmandu:

    • Airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
    • 3 night hotel accommodation with breakfast at 3 star standards hotel
    • One day city sightseeing with an English speaking tour guide and private vehicle
    • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening
    • Souvenirs

    Trekking:

    • 1 night hotel accommodation with breakfast at 3 star standards hotel in Pokhara
    • One trekking guide (if there are 10 or more participants, we will provide 2 trekking guides)
    • One porter for every 2 trekking participants (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
    • All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
    • Accommodation in teahouses (lodges) during the trek
    • Trekking equipments: Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags and trekking poles
    • Entry Permit for Annapurna conservation Area (ACAP)
    • Trekkers' Information Management system (TIMS) card
    • All land transportation: - Kathmandu to Bhulbhule by regular public bus and Pokhara to Kathmandu by A/C touris deluxe bus
    • Flight ticket from Jomsom to Pokhara
    • Insurance and equipments for all guides and porters
    • First aid kit
    • Tax, VAT and our service charge
    • Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)

Doesn't Include

      • Personal nature expenses (Telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers and any alcoholic beverages)
      • Travel insurance
      • Tips for involved staffs
      • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
      • Entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu
      • Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara (even in case of early arrival or late departure, early return from trekking due to any personal reason than the scheduled itinerary)

    Experience Through Annapurna Circuit

    Thank you so much for your experience through Annapurna Circuit trek (21 days). Our guide (Ramesh) and porters (Harry & Krishna) were the best; so informative, cheerful, helpful, happy and good to walk together with. The company has really been helpful, organizing everything properly. We will always remember Nepal as a country with amazing nature, astonishing mountains and friendly, beautiful people. We will recommend this trip to everyone we know, an unforgettable memory! Thank you!!

    V
    Vibek & Marianne
    Norway

    Annapurna Circuit Trek

    18 days it was an excellent experience, it was hard work but we made it to the finish line and wouldn’t have made it with out our guide Hummas Jackson he made it all worth while. It was a different world for us and I am looking forward to returning to Nepal for my next back!!!!!\ Thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Excellent caring guide/porter. Delighted we didn’t join a big group- we met so many different people on the pressure of a large group. Hummas the guide was very supportive & alert at all time.

    K
    Kathleen Sweeney, Aoife Marie Sweeney
    Ireland

    The High Mountains ( Especially Annapurna II ) Were Very Impressive.

    Thanks a lot for the really well organized trip around Annapurna. We crossed a lot of different landscapes,what we liked very much. The high mountains ( especially Annapurna II ) were very impressive. A big thank you to our guide & porter and to you, Nava, for the great organization, you did for us ! ! Thanks ! ! We really enjoyed in Nepal, please note, it would be great to have enough time in Pokhara as well, it’s really worth to visit . MANY THANKS !

    A
    Alexandra and Carolina
    Swaziland

    Annapurna Circuit Was A Fantastic Trip

    Annapurna circuit was a fantastic trip. Very easy to organize via the website & emails, of which I always had a very fast reply. I went alone after my group got held up, but it was still great & perhaps better as a could go at my own pace. My guide, Surya was very contentious & caring. We always stayed in nice places & the food was yummy. It was great meeting different people from all over the world & hearing their stories. The scenery is spectacular & around every corner is something new to see. Highly recommended this trek, its an experience of a life time. Thanks,

    M
    Meagan Lee
    Australia

    Lovely Trek Through Annapurna

    Thank you very much for the lovely trek through Annapurna .We had a wonderful time- and Bhimsen as well as Gopal did a fantastic job!

    C
    Christopher Marino
    Canada

    Annapurna Was A Wonderful Experience For Me

    The trek round the Annapurna was a wonderful experience for me. It was well organized by Nava and Bhimsen guided me safe and competent. He was a lovely, friendly companion and provided me with all what I needed. Thanks so much!!

    W
    Walter Lasofsky
    Austria

    I Loved Every Moment Of The Journey

    Namaste!!! This is Stace from Australia. Just a quick note to thank you all- esp. my mate THAKUR for such an awesome experience trekking the Annapurna Circuit is something trek I will never forget. The memories I will keep with me for my lifetime. I loved every moment of the journey + can’t wait to come back someday soon and tackle Everest. Thanking again,

    S
    Stacey Dwyer
    Australia

    Annapurna Circuit

    What on awesome experience trekking the Annapurna circuit ! ! I highly recommend Nepal Environmental Trekking. To begin with Nava Raj's professional friendly assistance: great staff put me at ease; provided me with all the info. I needed Shree Ram was a very caring; competent guide. When I was not feeling well he was especially attentive; checked how I was doing many times during the day. I was well taken care of. Compared to my fellow trekkers on the trail who did not have a guide, I felt so much more informed about the people, their way of life, my surroundings, the religion, culture. I originally thought that I wanted to go with a group but I 'm so glad to have been on my own. I could travel at my own pace, program, not feel pressured into keeping up with a group. I could choose to be social or not. All trekking companies are not the same. Nepal Environmental is first rate. HAPPY TRAILS,

    N
    Nanette Mayeda

    Annapurna Circuit

    Our 21 days trek of the Annapurna circuit was awesome. Our guide ANG DAWA SHERPA was a huge factor to the great time + memorable experience we had. At all time he was professional, knowledgeable, strong + sensitive to our needs - everything you want in a guide. He intimately knew the mountains + the village people. His mountaineering background + stories were interesting too, at the end of the trek he left as our friend. We can't recommend him enough. The package put together by Nepal Environmental was also professional, reasonable + of high quality. Our accommodation, food etc, we were very pleased with. Overall we thought that this longer trek was a great way to see some of Nepal.

    R
    Rob & Leah
    Australia

    Annapurna Circuit - With Ang Dawa Sherpa

    It's my second time trekking in Nepal with the same company and the same guide, Ang Dawa Sherpa. This time the trek was longer form the first time and the season was different but I enjoyed it much. The rain was not too strong, it was quite refreshing actually, many flowers along the way, fresh food, a warm welcome and nice talk with my guide who knows a lot about the local culture and who has always been helpful in difficult moments (slightly breathing problems) in high altitudes + 4800 walking through landslides, I always felt very secure in his company and would recommend him as a trekking guide. I know that some trekkers choose to go trekking by themselves for financial reason. In my opinion it's a mistake and you would miss a lot. No explanation about anything, no help should a problem arise, no security in case of accident. I have found Nepal Environmental trekking agency very friendly and professional. If I came back to Nepal, I will definitely use the same agency and the same guide. Thank you very much.

    R
    Rosine Bats
    Australia

    The Team Has Become An Integral Part Of Our Invaluable Experience

    Dear Mr. Nava, I would like to express my appreciation and thank you and your team for taking care of us during the Annapurna Circuit trek. Special mention goes to Ratna and his team of porters for ensuring that everyone had a safe, smooth and most of all enjoyable trekking experience. They had gone out of the way to accommodate every little request from all of us. The team has become an integral part of our invaluable experience and I will cherish it forever. Warmest regards and best wishes to all.

    T
    Thong
    Malaysia

    It Was A Wonderful Three Weeks Of Trekking In A Magnificent Nature

    Pokhara I have just completed the Annapurna Circuit. It was a wonderful three weeks of trekking in a magnificent nature that we so seldom have contact with. The trek was organized by the Nepal Environmental Treks and Expedition P. Ltd., a company I choose after doing substantial shopping around in Kathmandu. I was thoroughly satisfied with the services this company provided. I was especially satisfied with my guide, Pradeep. He was extremely professional, knowing what to do in all situations. His encouragement, good sense of humour, and all round positive energy helped me immensely to finish this trek in great spirits. I would recommend him without any hesitation.

    R
    Ron Stanko
    Canada

    The Thorang-La Made Great Impression On Me.

    Just returned from the Annapurna Circuit Trek in about 20 day’s. We really had a great time! From the day we left to Besi Sahar till the finish in Dhampus. The Thorang-La made a great impression on me: low oxygen, strong winds and the feelings to be among those big mountains just great. One great thanks to our guide, Mr. Sherpa for showing us around and teaching us some Nepali and of course Nepal Environmental Treks (NET) for getting us in touch with this guide. Thanks,

    B
    Bart & Wieneke
    Netherlands

    Hope To Come Back For Annapurna Circuit And Even Everest Treks

    Many thanks. I had an amazing time and the guide and porter were wonderful. Its an experience which I will never forget and I hope to come back one day and do the full Annapurna Circuit or may be even Everest! I will definitely recommend Nepal Environmental Treks to others.

    J
    Jessie Perrin
    Australia

    Equipment List

    Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor.  Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking.

    General Items

    Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)

    Clothing Items

    Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff  

    Sun-worn Items

    Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm

    Gadgets

    Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries), 

    Liquid/Snacks

    Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks

    Medical Essentials

    First Aid Kit

    Optional

    Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc

    Additional items for camping trek

    Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses

    Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    There are various permits such as trekking permits, national park permits, conservation area permits required for trekkers and tourists.

    TIMS

    TIMs is an abbreviation of ‘Trekkers’ Information Management Systems’. TIMs is kind of a permit card issued by Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and Nepal Tourism Board. TIMs is mandatory for entering all normal trekking areas in Nepal.

    In the TIMS Card, you will have to fill in information about the dates of your trip, the itinerary, and a contact number. These data will be inserted in the visitors’ database, where they can be accessed for park management purposes or for rescue missions in case of accidents and/or natural calamities.

    Trekkers and tourists can avail the card at specific counters designated by TAAN and NTB including their own head offices in Kathmandu.

    There are two types of TIM Cards:

    (a) Individual (Green coloured) TIMS

    Free Individual Trekker (FIT) or Single trekkers who are planning to trek without the help of assistants (guides or porters) are required to obtain Green TIMS card. Green TIMS card can be obtained by paying Nepali currency equivalent to US$20 per person. The form can be filled out by the trekkers themselves by visiting the nearest TIMS Center. Such FIT trekkers will have to take full responsibility of the possible risks while trekking.

    (b) Group (Blue coloured) TIMS

     Blue TIMS card is for those trekkers who are travelling in groups accompanied by assistants (guides and/or porters). Such groups of trekkers will be taking the service of government-authorized trekking agencies. The trekking agencies will help the groups to obtain Blue TIMS card by paying Nepali currency equivalent of US$20 per person.

    Please note: Citizens of SAARC countries will have to pay NRs. 200. Nepali currency equivalent of US$ 10 per person

    Read more FAQs

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    Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal