Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Duration:  16 days
Trip level:  strenuous
Maximum altitude:  5416 m
Accommodation:  teahouse
Season:  March, April, May, September, October, November

Introduction

The Annapurna Circuit trek is a classic and is one of the most popular trips in Nepal. No wonder, because it is a spectacular and varied trekking route. During this trek, you get the chance to explore the Himalayas from bottom to top. Starting in the subtropical lush green valley, you climb up to alpine valleys to reach the Thorung La pass at 5416 meters. After the pass, it is downhill towards Jomsom, where a flight will take you to Pokhara.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview

Your Annapurna Circuit trek starts with a drive by tourist bus to Besisahar and onwards to Dharapani by jeep. First, you hike through local forests and pass by local villages. Along the way, you hike beside rushing streams. Higher up in the valley, the scenery changes, and the climb towards Thorung La pass is slowly setting in.

As you reach higher altitudes, Manang is a perfect stop for an acclimatization day. Here, you can opt for an acclimatization hike to the local monastery up the hill. From Manang, you slowly ascend to the Thorung La pass at an altitude of 5416 meters. The pass is often covered with snow and offers stunning views of some famous mountain peaks like the distinct shaped Dhaulagiri.

After the pass, you descend towards Muktinath. This sacred site serves as a holy place for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Beyond Muktinath, the Lupra valley is a hidden surprise. Finally, the Annapurna Circuit ends at Jomsom. At this point, a flight will bring you to Pokhara for some well deserved relaxing time.

Additionally, you can combine the Annapurna Circuit trek easily with a trip to Tilicho Lake.

Our itineraries are designed to be flexible. If you would like to modify this plan, let us know, and we will work with you to create a personalized trip.

Day 1: Arrival Nepal; pick up at the international airport and drop off at a hotel in Thamel Kathmandu

Day 2: Free day at leisure in Kathmandu

Day 3: Drive Kathmandu to Dharapani (1860m – 9 hrs.)

Day 4: Trek to Chame (2600 m – 6 hrs.)

Day 5: Trek to Lower Pisang (3200 m – 6 hrs.)

Day 6: Trek to Manang (3540 m – 6 hrs.)

Day 7: Resting day at Manang for acclimatization. Optional day hike to Praken Gompa

Day 8: Trek to Yak kharka (4018 m – 6 hrs.)

Day 9: Trek to Thorung Phedi (4450 m – 4 hrs.)

Day 10: Trek to Thorung High Camp (4833 – 3 hrs.)

Day 11: Cross over Thorung La Pass (5416 m) overnight at Muktinath (3800m – 9 hrs)

Day 12: Trek to Jomsom via Lupra valley (2710 m – 6 hrs.)

Day 13: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (45 min.)

Day 14: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (6 hrs.)

Day 15: Free day at leisure in Kathmandu

Day 16: Departure; pick up from the hotel and drop off at the international airport

During the trekking season, prices may rise. The final price depends on the trekking season, group size and the cost of local transfers.

Cost includes:
– Pick up and drop off from Kathmandu International Airport to hotel
– 4 nights in a hotel room in Kathmandu; breakfast included
– 1 night in a hotel room in Pokhara; breakfast included
– Teahouse room during trek
– Drive by tourist bus Kathmandu to Besisahar; jeep drive Besisahar to Dharapani; local flight Jomsom to Pokhara; Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus
– Licensed and certified mountain guide. Well experienced and English speaking
– Porter service for carrying luggage; 10 kg per person
– Salary, food, accommodation and insurance for the mountain guide and porters
– 3 meals per day; breakfast/ lunch/ dinner
– Free use of a waterproof bag for your luggage
– ACAP fee, TIMS card and local taxes
– Support of the Sherpa Heritage Trails head office in Kathmandu

Cost excludes:
– International flight to Kathmandu
– Nepal entrance visa
– Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara
– All beverage bills, hot shower, internet services, laundry and battery charge during trek
– Personal travel insurance
– Rescue operation charge in case of an emergency
– Any cost that arises due to a change of itinerary, like flight delay, natural calamities, etc.
– Gratitude and tips for the mountain guide and porters