Annapurna Circuit Trek
Overview
-
Located in the Nepal Himalayas, circling the spectacular Annapurna massif.
-
Famous for Thorong La Pass, Tilicho Lake, and Muktinath.
-
Passes through diverse landscapes, from forests and river valleys to high-altitude deserts.
-
Offers views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machapuchare, and Gangapurna.
-
Includes traditional Himalayan villages, monasteries, suspension bridges, and rich local culture.
-
A 15-day difficult trek covering approximately 158 km and reaching 17,750 ft.
-
Best months: March–May and October–November.
About Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most legendary long-distance Himalayan treks. The route circles the Annapurna massif and passes through a dramatic range of landscapes, from subtropical valleys and forests to dry high-altitude deserts near the Tibetan Plateau.
The trek is famous for:
- Crossing Thorong La Pass
- Diverse mountain cultures
- Remote Himalayan villages
- Tilicho Lake side trip
- Muktinath pilgrimage site
- Huge panoramic mountain views
Trekkers experience changing ecosystems, ethnic communities, monasteries, rivers, suspension bridges, and high mountain terrain across the journey.
Itinerary
Day 1 — Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival and hotel stay in Kathmandu.
Day 2 — Kathmandu to Dharapani
Long drive via Besisahar into the Annapurna region.
Day 3 — Dharapani to Chame
Forest trails and mountain village scenery.
Day 4 — Chame to Pisang
Views of Annapurna and changing Himalayan terrain.
Day 5 — Pisang to Manang
Enter higher altitude landscapes and Tibetan-influenced villages.
Day 6 — Acclimatization in Manang
Rest and short acclimatization hikes around Gangapurna Lake and glacier region.
Day 7 — Manang to Sirikharka
Trek toward Tilicho region.
Day 8 — Sirikharka to Tilicho Base Camp
Rocky high-altitude trails and alpine terrain.
Day 9 — Visit Tilicho Lake and Return
Long day hike to Tilicho Lake and back.
Day 10 — Sirikharka to Yak Kharka
Gradual ascent through dry Himalayan landscapes.
Day 11 — Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Preparation for Thorong La crossing.
Day 12 — Thorong La Pass to Muktinath
Most difficult day involving the high-pass crossing.
Day 13 — Muktinath to Jomsom
Descend into Mustang region landscapes.
Day 14 — Fly to Pokhara/Kathmandu
Scenic mountain flights and transfer.
Day 15 — Departure
End of journey.
Eligibility
Trekkers should prepare with:
- Cardio training
- Stair climbing
- Long-distance walking
- Strength exercises
- Endurance building
Preparation several weeks before the trek is highly recommended.
How to Reach
The Annapurna Circuit generally begins from the Besisahar region and moves through:
- Dharapani
- Chame
- Pisang
- Manang
- Tilicho region
- Yak Kharka
- Thorong Phedi
- Thorong La Pass
- Muktinath
- Jomsom
The trek finally concludes with travel toward Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Trek Essentials
Backpack & Hydration
-
50–60 L backpack with rain cover
-
20–30 L daypack with rain cover if opting for offloading
-
2 × 1 L water bottles or 1 hydration pack + 1 L bottle
-
Thermos flask
-
Small lunch box
-
Energy bars, dry fruits and ORS/electrolytes
-
Trekking pole/walking stick
-
Personal medical kit as advised by your doctor
Clothing
-
2 full-sleeve + 2 half-sleeve quick-dry T-shirts
-
2 fleece T-shirts
-
1 fleece jacket
-
1 windproof jacket
-
1 down/hollow-fibre jacket
-
1 pair thermal innerwear
-
3 quick-dry trekking pants
-
1 fleece pant
-
1 pair waterproof gloves
-
1 pair fleece/woollen gloves
-
1 poncho or waterproof jacket and pants
Head & Sun Protection
-
Headlamp with spare batteries
-
Sun cap
-
Woollen cap
-
Balaclava
-
1 synthetic and 1 woollen neck gaiter/buff
-
UV-protected sunglasses with side coverage
Footwear
-
1 pair water-resistant, high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip
-
1 pair floaters/flip-flops
-
8 pairs cotton socks
-
3 pairs woollen socks
-
1 pair gaiters, if required
-
1 pair microspikes, if required
Personal Essentials
-
Sunscreen
-
Moisturiser
-
Lip balm/chap-stick
-
Toothbrush and toothpaste
-
Toilet paper and wet wipes
-
Soap/hand sanitiser
-
Antibacterial powder
-
Quick-dry towel
Cancellation Policy
Refund percentages vary depending on cancellation timing:
- Earlier cancellations receive higher refunds/vouchers.
- Emergency situations may qualify for special refund consideration.
FAQs
Is the Annapurna Circuit suitable for beginners?
It is better suited for experienced trekkers or very fit beginners due to its length and altitude.
How long is the trek?
Most itineraries range between 14–21 days depending on route variations.
Is Tilicho Lake included?
Many itineraries include the Tilicho Lake side trip.
What is the highest point?
Thorong La Pass at around 5,416 meters.
Are tea houses available?
Yes, tea houses are available throughout most of the route.
Is altitude sickness common?
Yes, especially near Thorong La and Tilicho areas.