| Trip code | ACT-MT |
| Package name | Annapurna Circuit Trek |
| Duration | 14 |
| Max. elevation | 5416 m |
| Level | Moderate |
| Transportation | All ground transportation as per itinerary! |
| Accomodation | Three star accommodation in city and Tea house accommodation during the trek. |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | Kathmandu-Besisahar-Manang-Throng Pass-Muktinath-Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu |
| Cost | USD 999 per person |
The Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal is one of the world's most renowned trekking routes, offering an unparalleled mix of diverse landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and breathtaking mountain views. This iconic trek circles the Annapurna Massif, taking you from subtropical forests and terraced fields to the high-altitude desert plains of the Tibetan plateau. The Annapurna Circuit Trek stands as a true adventure for those who seek to immerse themselves in the majestic beauty of the Himalayas while experiencing Nepal’s unique cultural diversity.
The trek passes through beautiful villages, including Chame, Manang, Pisang, and Jomsom, showcasing the rich traditions of the local Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan Buddhist communities. The ultimate challenge of the trek is the crossing of the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), one of the highest trekking passes in the world, followed by a descent to the sacred Muktinath temple.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek starts from less than 1,000 meters. Trekking the Annapurna Circuit allows travelers to explore the Himalayas, witness the beauty of Nepal and reflect on themselves during the journey. This 14 days Annapurna Circuit Trekking starts right from Kathmandu passing along the Manang, Thorang La Pass, Jomsom and Muktinath with great views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east.
This magnificent Annapurna Trek leads you to the fine village, inhabited by a wide diversity of people from different ethnic groups, offering spectacular and majestic views of the Himalayas. The scenery is equally breathtaking from the north of the main Himalayan range to the high and dry Tibetan Plateau.
The highest point of the Annapurna Circuit is the Thorong La Pass at the top of the valley at 5,416 m. Due to the difficulties of crossing the pass, the circuit is usually walked anti-clockwise. Traveling clockwise, the longer ascent and shorter descent from west to east are too much for many people to manage in one day.
Preparing for Annapurna Circuit Trek
To build endurance and strengthen core strength, Annapurna Circuit trekkers must be physically well and indulge into some workout. It is highly recommended for trekkers to get into aerobic workouts like jogging, cycling, running, and squat jumps to improve joint muscles. To improve balance and provide a more stable foundation for navigating uneven terrain, aerobic training can be incorporated into the fitness routine. To complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek, trekkers need to be physically fit in addition to being able to walk on various terrains. Before being part of Annapurna Circuit Trek, you can get into short hikes and then go on longer hikes as they get more comfortable. Trekkers need to be emotionally charged since a lack of confidence may lead to uneasiness during the trek.
Things To Know
After you have booked your trip with us, we take care of almost everything from your flight tickets, welcoming you, your accommodation, meals and your safety too. However, there may be some problems which you are not under our control. It’s important that you get prepared for these things so that at times you won’t be as disappointed. Here are things to consider:
Most of the people traveling to Annapurna Circuit suffer from altitude sickness. The impact may vary from person to person but the air and amount of oxygen in it can’t be adjusted by everyone instantly. As travelers reach Thorang La Pass(5,416 meters) the effects like: dizziness, headache and palpitations can be seen as it is the highest point we reach during the trek. They are just the initial symptoms and can get worse if not taken care of on time.
It is highly suggested for trekkers to let their guide know about these symptoms so necessary actions can be taken immediately. One of the most effective ways to reduce the effects of Altitude Sickness is through hydration. Having Ginger tea and an intake of garlic can be helpful too to feel better at such a high altitude.
There are acclimatization days for relaxing your body and it’s important to follow along without skipping the restful sessions. As we move to higher altitude, our body gets more fragile and tired, so we have designed the 14 days itinerary to complete your trek with minimum discomfort.
Windy and Cold Weather
The weather in the Annapurna Region is uncertain just like any other mountain trails. The weather varies almost every 2-3 hours. To tell you briefly, it may be cloudy at times and clear the next moment. The views are astonishing and the weather experience may leave you with a surprise. The nights are extremely cold so warm jackets, socks, gloves and caps are highly recommended.
Places such as Jomsom Bazaar are windy during evenings and Dust might blur or cause respiratory problems to the trekkers. To avoid this, glasses and masks must be used.
Trekkers must be well prepared for cold weather and during the packing, include protective rain gear, insulated and light airy outfits as well as clothes that can be used in all four seasons.
Challenging Long walk
However, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is termed as moderately challenging; the trek from to Thorang La Pass can be difficult. The highest path encountered during Annapurna Circuit Trek is the toughest as a long and grueling walk is needed to trek from Thorang Pedi to Thorang La Pass.
You will be walking above 5000 meters from sea level and due to less oxygen in that region, trekkers might feel more exhausted than usual. In addition to that, cold air, and loose stones make it a difficult hike. We will embark on our adventure slowly to make sure no one falls sick.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost
The cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek can vary depending on the type of services and accommodations you choose. Miracle Treks offers three distinct packages to suit your budget and preferences:
Basic Package: Starts from $800 USD per person (includes accommodation in tea houses, meals, trekking permits, and guide services).
Standard Package: Ranges between $1,100 - $1,300 USD per person (includes transportation, hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara, meals, trekking permits, guide services, and some sightseeing activities).
Luxury Package: Ranges between $1,800 - $2,200 USD per person (includes all standard services, plus higher-end hotel stays, private transport, and more personalized services).
Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots, sandals for evenings, extra socks
Clothing: Layers for varying weather conditions, thermal base layers, fleece jackets, waterproof jacket and pants, trekking shirts, warm gloves, hat
Trekking Gear: Trekking poles, sleeping bag (rated for -15°C), headlamp, backpack (with rain cover), water bottles, water purification tablets
Personal Items: Travel towel, toiletries, sunscreen, sunglasses, first aid kit, medications for altitude sickness
Electronics: Camera, power bank, spare batteries, charger adapters
Miscellaneous: Snacks, energy bars, book or journal for downtime, cash for personal expenses
Why choose Miracle Treks? Here's your answer. Miracle Treks is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable trekking experience on the Annapurna Circuit. Our experienced guides are locals who know the region intimately and can enrich your journey with their knowledge of the landscape, culture, and wildlife. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering flexible itineraries that can be customized to your preferences and physical abilities.
With years of experience organizing treks in Nepal, Miracle Treks ensures that every detail is handled so you can focus on enjoying your adventure. Whether you’re trekking solo or with a group, you can trust us to make your Annapurna Circuit Trek a life-changing experience.
Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by our representative who will escort you to your hotel. Take some time to rest and freshen up after your flight, and then you can explore the bustling city of Kathmandu.
In the evening, you will meet with your trekking guide who will brief you about the Annapurna Circuit Trek and answer any questions you may have. After that, you can enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner and get a good night's rest before the trek begins tomorrow.
After spending a day resting and having a brief about the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will begin your journey toward the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Today, you will embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, which is the gateway to the Annapurna region.
The drive takes around 6-7 hours, and you will pass through scenic countryside, traditional villages, and winding roads that offer stunning views of the Himalayas. Along the way, you will cross the Trishuli River and Marsyangdi River and witness the changing landscape from lush green hills to arid mountainous terrain.
Once you reach Besisahar, you can check into your hotel and relax for the rest of the day. You can also explore the town and interact with the locals to get a sense of the culture and lifestyle of the region. In the evening, your trekking guide will brief you about the itinerary and preparations for the trek ahead. You can enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner and get a good night's rest before starting the trek tomorrow.
After spe3nding a night in Besisahar, you will continue your journey toward the Annapurna Circuit Trek starting point. Today, you will take a jeep ride from Besisahar to Chame, which is the district headquarters of Manang.
The drive takes around 5 hours, and you will pass through the rugged terrain of the Marsyangdi Valley. Along the way, you will witness the changing landscape from lush green forests to rocky hills and towering mountains. The road is narrow and winding, but the views are breathtaking and make for an unforgettable journey.
Once you reach Chame, you can check into your teahouse and rest for a while. Chame is a small town with a beautiful backdrop of snow-capped mountains and offers stunning views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. You can explore the town and visit the hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties.
In the evening, you can enjoy a warm meal and prepare for the trek ahead. Your trekking guide will brief you about the itinerary and preparations for the trek ahead. You can get a good night's rest and prepare for the adventure that lies ahead.
On this day of the trek, after breakfast, we will embark on a steep and narrow valley hike to witness the magnificent Paungda Danda Rock, which is considered sacred by the locals. The Paungda Danda Rock is a curved rock face that rises 1500m from the Marshyangdi River. As we trek along the trail, we will also be blessed with clear views of Annapurna II to the south and Pisang Peak to the northeast.
As we continue our trek, we will descend towards the Manang Valley floor, where we will enter the charming village of Pisang. This picturesque village offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a perfect place to rest and recharge after a long day of trekking. We will spend the night in Pisang, where we can interact with the locals and get a sense of the culture and lifestyle of the region.
On the sixth day of our trek, we will take on the upper trails from Upper Pisang via Geru, offering us breathtaking views of the north face of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Pisang Peak. As we ascend further, we will experience a noticeable drop in temperature, with the air becoming colder, drier, and harsher. This trail passes through Tibetan settlements, providing us with an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich Buddhist culture of the region.
As we continue along the trail, we will make a stop at the Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in Manang, and explore the beautiful Buddhist shrines and monasteries that dot the path. Finally, we will arrive at Manang Bazaar, a vibrant area that caters to tourists, where we can relax and soak in the scenic beauty of the region.
On this day of the trek, we will take a break from hiking to acclimatize to the high altitude. However, we will still be busy exploring the picturesque Manang village. In the morning, we will embark on a visit to Gangapurna and Ice Lakes, where we can soak in the serene natural beauty of the region. Throughout the day, we will also be treated to magnificent views of Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu Peaks.
Later in the afternoon, we may visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in Vraja village, where we can learn more about acute mountain sickness, its symptoms, and prevention methods. This will be an excellent opportunity to prepare ourselves mentally and physically for the remainder of the trek. We will spend the night in Manang village, recharging and preparing for the upcoming adventure.
Following a day of acclimatization in Manang, we will continue our trek toward Yak Kharka. Our journey begins by crossing a stream and ascending to Tenki village, before heading out of the Marshyangdi valley towards the northwest and entering the Jar Sang Khola valley. The trail slowly ascends, taking us through pastures and juniper forests as we head northward.
Along the way, we will pass through Gunsan, a charming village with houses featuring flat mud roofs. We will also have the opportunity to see yak and horse pastures as we continue our ascent. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, we will make our way up the spectacular valley towards Yak Kharka, a tranquil meadow nestled in the mountains. Here, we will spend the night, taking in the stunning natural beauty of our surroundings and preparing for the next leg of our journey.
On this day of the trek, we will continue our ascent towards the foot of Thorong La pass, where we will stay overnight in Thorong Phedi. From Yak Kharka, we will climb up to a ridge, and then descend and cross the Marsyangdi river via a sturdy wooden bridge. After the river crossing, we will continue our climb up the mountain, following a narrow trail across a slope before finally reaching Thorong Phedi.
The terrain on this part of the journey is rugged and uninhabited, offering a stark contrast to the lush lowlands we passed through earlier in the trek. As we approach the foot of Thorong La pass, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic and awe-inspiring. We will spend the night in Thorong Phedi, resting up and preparing for the challenging ascent to the pass on the following day.
On this day, we embark on one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of the Annapurna Circuit trek. We leave Thorong Phedi (4,525m/14,525ft) early in the morning and make our way towards Muktinath Temple (3,760m/12,623ft) via the Thorong La high pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft). This pass is one of the highest in the world, and it marks the highest point of our trek.
The climb through the icy air and high altitude is tough, but the breathtaking views from the pass make it all worthwhile. As we reach the top, we are rewarded with a panoramic view of the majestic Himalayan peaks to the north, and the Annapurna range behind us.
After taking some time to soak in the stunning views, we descend toward Muktinath, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. The Buddhists call it Chumig Gyatsa, meaning Hundred Waters, and it is famous for its 108 stone sprouts that continuously pour water from the Kaligandaki river. Visitors can also witness the eternal flame that has been burning for over 2,000 years. This day is truly unforgettable and will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
On this day, we will begin by exploring Muktinath Temple and experiencing its spiritual and cultural significance. Afterward, we will embark on a scenic local bus ride to Tatopani, which will take us through some of the world's deepest gorges. The drive will take us from the arid highlands to lush green forests, and we will be amazed by the beautiful landscapes that we encounter along the way.
Once we reach Tatopani, we will have the chance to indulge in the natural hot springs that the area is famous for. These hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are said to be effective against skin diseases. We can relax in the soothing waters, rejuvenating our bodies and minds after days of challenging trekking.
As we continue our trek, we depart from the hot springs and cross to the east side of the Kali Gandaki River, ascending to Ghorepani through the Thakali villages of Sikha and Chitre. During the trek, we will come across terraced farmlands with mountains encircling the area. The trek passes through a variety of lush forests, including rhododendron, birch, and magnolia forests. Our final stop for the night is at Ghorepani, a beautiful village located on a ridge top, where we can enjoy scenic views.
On our final day on the trail, we will wake up early and begin our ascent to Poon Hill (3,210m) to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the entire Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif, which includes the magnificent Mt Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Poon Hill is renowned for its stunning panoramic views and is a photographer's paradise. We will have ample time to take in the sights and capture the memories of this incredible moment.
After enjoying the sunrise, we will return to our lodge in Ghorepani for breakfast. Once we have filled our stomachs, we will embark on our trek to Birethanti, a picturesque village situated on the bank of the Modi River. The trail will take us through lush forests filled with rhododendron, magnolia, and oak trees, as well as terraced farmlands with mountains all around.
Upon reaching Birethanti, we will take a car to Pokhara, a stunning city situated on the banks of Phewa Lake. The drive will be a scenic one, as we pass through quaint villages and picturesque countryside. Once in Pokhara, we can relax and reflect on our incredible journey and celebrate the accomplishment of completing the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
On our final day in Pokhara, we will catch a tourist bus for a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The drive takes about 6-7 hours, and we will get to see the countryside of Nepal along the way. The bus will take us through winding roads, passing through picturesque villages and towns with views of terraced fields and green hills.
We will make a stop for lunch on the way and stretch our legs before continuing the journey. The bus will take us through the famous Prithvi Highway, which connects Kathmandu and Pokhara. This highway offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including the Manaslu and Ganesh Himal ranges.
As we reach Kathmandu, we will be dropped off at the bus station. From there, we can take a taxi to our hotel or any other destination in the city. Our trekking adventure in the Annapurna region will come to an end, but the memories and experiences will last a lifetime.
Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey to the Annapurna region. We hope you had an unforgettable experience exploring the beautiful landscapes, meeting the locals, and challenging yourself physically and mentally.
On this final day, we will assist you in transferring to the airport for your departure flight. We wish you safe travels and hope to see you back in Nepal for more adventures in the future. Thank you for choosing to travel with us.