Annapurna Circuit Trek-15 days

Things to Know
  • Duration15 Days
  • Difficulty Level Technical Challenging
  • Altitude 5,416 m
  • Trip Type Trekking | Hiking
  • Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Time Feb-May, Sep-Dec
What You’ll Do
  • Embark on a classic trekking route in the Himalayas full of stunning landscapes
  • Explore the wonders of Annapurna Conservation Area- beautiful river valleys, lush forests, gushing rivers, and lovely waterfalls
  • Come across many vegetation and birds while trekking
  • Overnight stay in picturesque villages
  • Get to see the lifestyle and culture of the locals along the way
  • Cross-challenging Thorong La Pass world’s widest trekking pass and getting blessings in Muktinath Temple
  • Witness panoramic views of the western Himalayan mountains
  • Walk along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world and enjoy a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

If you have searched Nepal trekking, you must have come across the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is one of the oldest trekking routes and the most diverse one. The Annapurna Circuit explores the wonders of the Annapurna region before crossing the highest mountain pass in Nepal, Thorong La (5,416 m), and dropping to Lower Mustang. You will be trekking inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. The Annapurna Circuit Trek route follows the subtropical forests and gradually ascends via rhododendron, pine & bamboo forests before opening to pastures & high-altitude plateau. The later part of the trek goes along the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki, and narrow alleys.

The recent road construction has ruined the original Annapurna Circuit Trek route. Therefore, we have designed our Annapurna circuit trek itinerary following a new route, which is not disturbed and offers a beautiful walk. From Manang Village (3,519 m/11,545 ft) in the east to Muktinath (3,710 m/12,172 ft) in the north, the journey will let you make a lifelong memory. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is 15 days long. You will be in the mountains for almost 11 days. The trek is not easy, as the constant ascents & descents will keep testing your limits, but the experience you will get is worth all the hardships. The venture will let you unwind and connect to your higher self in nature. The poor cellular network and no WiFi service will give you a digital detox.

Peek Into The Authentic Nepali Mountain Lifestyle

Annapurna circuit trekking route goes through many villages. We take overnight breaks in some of the finest villages resided by people of different communities. You will not see ethnic diversity like during the Annapurna circuit in any other trek in Nepal. From Brahmins, Newars & Chhetris to Gurungs, Magars & Thakalis, the Annapurna circuit trek of 15 days presents you with the lifestyle and culture of many groups.

You will stop at monasteries, temples, and stupas on the way. Most parts of the trail are marked with colourful fluttering prayer flags. Muktinath Temple is one of the significant highlights of Annapurna circuit trekking. It is also one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Nepal, visited by Hindus & Buddhists worldwide.

Witness Breathtaking Views Of The Western Himalayan Mountains

If you love mountain scenery, the Annapurna circuit trek is the perfect package. The majestic Annapurna range (8,091 m/26,545 ft), the tenth-highest mountain in the world, blesses the entire route with its magnificent presence. Along with that, you will be seeing many other snow-capped mountains like Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Pisang Peak (6,091 m/19,984 ft), Tharpu Chuli (5,695 m/18,684 ft), etc.

Verdant hills and beautiful waterfalls change to meadows and rocky hills once you reach Yak Kharka (4,018 m/13,182 ft). From here, the view changes to arid cliffs, rocky fields, & river gorges. The landscapes along the Annapurna circuit trekking route are a blessing for human eyes and a paradise for photographers.

Book The Annapurna Circuit Trek at The Best Price

First of all, our Annapurna circuit trek cost is unbeatable for the service and security we provide. You will be trekking with a local Nepali company, so all your money will go directly to the local service providers who work with us to make the trek possible without any middleman involved. Book the Annapurna Circuit Trek for 2025/2026

You can customize the itinerary and departure date as per your requirements with us. Early booking for the Annapurna Circuit Trek 2025 is also open. To make the journey more adventurous, we highly recommend you combine Tilicho Lake in the itinerary, it is the second-highest alpine lake in Nepal. Below are some other adventurous trekking packages in Nepal like the one-Manaslu Circuit Trek, Kanchenjunga North Base Camp Trek, Everest Three Passes Trek, Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, Langtang Valley Trek etc.

Itinerary
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  • Altitude1,400 m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time2-3 hours

Our representatives will greet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, upon your arrival. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Pre-trip meeting will be held and you will meet with your trip guide and porter. Make sure to confirm your queries about trekking in the mountains.

  • Altitude8,40 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time7-8 hours

Today, we have a 7 hour ride to Bhulbhule from Kathmandu. The trek begins from this point. Leaving Kathmandu, we follow the Trishuli river and rolling green hills to Besisahar. On the way, we can see views of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Lamjung Himal. The ride will be comfortable and scenic. Bhulbhule is situated at the side of the Marsyangdi river.

  • Altitude1,300 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hours

Following a pleasant trekking route, we walk through lush forests and terrace fields. The trail goes up along the Marsyangdi River. On the way, we will take a small break in a rural village to have lunch and continue trekking on a peaceful trail to Jagat to spend the night.

  • Altitude1,860 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time6 hours

The third day of the trek follows the Marsyangdi River and ascends toward the Manang Region. We reach Tal Village, where we can see many beautiful waterfalls. The trail further goes along the rice, barley, and potato fields to Kodo. Kodo is one of the biggest villages in the Manang Valley. We then cross a hanging suspension bridge and walk on stones to Kani before we make it to Dharapani.

  • Altitude2,610 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5 hours

The trail from Dharapani goes through lush forests of fir, pine, oak, and maple. We will still be following the Marsyangdi River to Chame. Chame is the district headquarters of the Manang Region. The views of Annapurna IV, Annapurna II, and Lamjung Himal are exceptional today. Taking a short break at a small hot spring, we’ll continue the walk to Chame to spend the night.

  • Altitude3,300 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5 hours

We will be following a steep and narrow valley until we reach a massive rock rising from a river called the Paungda Danda rock. It is a sacred place for the locals. From here, we trek, relishing the stunning views of Pisang Peak in the northeast and Annapurna II in the south. The trail gradually descends to the Manang Valley floor and leads us to Pisang Village.

  • Altitude3,540 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time7-8 hours

Today, we trek on the upper trail through Geru. The mountain panoramas are phenomenal on this part of the route. We can see breathtaking views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, etc. The climate gets cold and dry as the elevation increases. On the way, we'll stop by Barge Monastery and further follow a path dotted with shrines up to Manang Village.

  • Altitude3540m
  • AccommodationTea House

We spend a day acclimatizing in Manang by doing some walks and sightseeing around the village. We will visit a monastery and go to Gangapurna Glacier Lake during our walk. Towards the end of the day, we return to our accommodation for a night’s rest.

  • Altitude4,110 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5 hours

We ascend to Yak Kharka on this day. Crossing a stream, the trail ascends to Tenki Village. We head out of Marshyangdi valley and enter Jarsang Khola valley. The route gradually climbs northwards through pastures and juniper forests. We'll walk past a small village called Gunsan. Further on the trail, we can see horses and yaks on pastures. Crossing a small river via a wooden bridge, we will reach to Yak Kharka.

  • Altitude4,600m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5 hours

It is a short walk today to Thorong Phedi. Thorong Phedi is the last settlement area before Thorong La Pass. Leaving Yak Kharka, we ascend to a ridge and then descend. The trail crosses the Marsyangdi River on a wooden bridge, and we keep trekking following an uphill route. As we ascend, the trail narrows and descends to Throng Phedi.

  • Altitude3,760 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time8 hours

Today is a big day as we will be crossing the Thorong La Pass. From Thorong Phedi, we begin trekking toward the highest point of the trek. The cold air and steep, rugged route will make the climbing tough. However, once we reach the top of the Thorong La Pass, the sensational mountain view will leave us in wonder, and make us forget all the tough walks. After enjoying the view for a moment, we then begin our descending journey to Muktinath Temple. Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site, visited by hundreds of Hindus and Buddhists from all around the world. Here, we'll spend the night.

  • Altitude2,743m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time7 hours

Today is the final day of the trek and a very interesting day as well. We leave Muktinath and trek down the valley. The trail soon joins the Kali Gandaki River and walks past the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. We walk through beautiful white-washed houses and narrow alleyways to Jomsom to spend the night.

  • Altitude8,20 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time7-8 hours

After having a delicious breakfast in Jomsom, we hop on a jeep and begin driving towards Pokhara. The ride will be bumpy in some places but offers mesmerizing landscapes. Upon reaching Pokhara, we leave you in your hotel to rest. Spend the evening at Phewa Lake and enjoy the vibrant market of Lakeside.

  • Altitude1,400 m
  • AccommodationStar Hotel
  • Time7 hours

We’ll drive back to Kathmandu today. The drive will be comfortable and lovely. Upon reaching Katmandu, we drop you at the hotel. The remaining day is free. Rest and unpack. Meet the team of Iconic Holidays in the late evening for a farewell dinner. Do window shopping and pack your stuff to fly back to your home the next day.

    The team will pick you up from your hotel lobby and drop you at the international airport terminal gate. Make sure to double-check the room before leaving.

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    Trip Map
    Annapurna Circuit Trek-15 days map
    Trip Cost Details
    Included
    • Complimentary airport pick up and drop off
    • Two-night stay in Kathmandu in a standard hotel with breakfast included (twin share basis)
    • One-night stay in a standard hotel in Pokhara (twin share basis)
    • All necessary trekking permits such as Annapurna conservation area permit, TIMS card, etc.
    • All accommodations during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • Fresh fruit each day if and when available
    • Government-registered and first-aid-trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • Pokhara to kathmandu by tourist bus
    • Kathmandu to Bhulbhule by public bus/jeep
    • Jomsom to Pokhara by public bus/jeep
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax/VAT
    • Certificate of achievement
    Excluded
    • International Airfare and  Nepal Visa Fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
    • Personal Insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing fees (temples, monasteries, etc)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc
    • Tips to staff 

    Note: The itinerary we proposed is just for your guidance. If it does not suit your requirements, then kindly get in touch with us. Our travel consultants will help you customize the itinerary as per your request.

    Useful Info

    Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

    There are a lot of factors that contribute to the difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The first one is varying altitudes that range from 800 m to 5,416 m while crossing the diverse climatic zones, and it includes rural farmlands, paddy fields, glacial zones, and subtropical forests. The second factor is the unpredictable weather of such diverse climatic zone areas, for which you should always be prepared.

    The Annapurna Circuit is labelled a challenging trek, and the trek demands experienced trekkers capable of walking 6 hours a day on steep terrain. This trek is not for first-time trekkers. So if, as a beginner, you plan to experience this exciting and adventurous journey, make sure you are mentally & physically prepared.

    We have mentioned below some of the ways to prepare yourself. Feel free to read them out

    • If possible, go on regular hikes and short treks before the Annapurna circuit trek begins. It will help you train your body and mind.
    • You can do activities such as cycling, swimming, running, etc., to build stamina and endurance. Walking regularly with a backpack (5 kg) is also a great way to prepare for the trek.
    • If you prefer going to the gym, plan your routine to help you build your core strength, leg muscles, endurance, and stamina.
    • Follow our packing list to prepare trekking clothes and essentials. Do not overlook anything, even if it is as small as toilet paper.
    • You can rent bulky trekking clothes and gear in Thamel, Kathmandu. So, no need to carry everything from your home.

    Annapurna Circuit Trek Distance

    The total distance of the Annapurna Circuit trek is 208 km or more, depending on the starting point and transportation use. This can be covered in many ways, as various versions are available for this trek. You will be required to trek for 5 to 6 hours a day, and it can be finished in 14 days, 16 days, 17 days, or even 19 days, depending upon the itinerary.

    Trek Route

    The diverse terrain of the Annapurna Circuit Trek consists of trekking for many days at a lower elevation below 3,500 m, starting from Chame to trekking above 3,500 m, starting from Manang. The route heads in an anti-clockwise direction. Another challenging part of the trek will be trekking from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath, where you will need to cross the highest elevation of this trek - Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).

    Altitude Sickness

    Altitude sickness can occur if your body is exposed to low pressure of oxygen levels at high elevation, generally above 3,000 m. While it is inevitable to stop altitude sickness from catching you (beginners to avid trekkers can get caught by it), there are ways to recognize the symptoms and treat or lessen its effect. If you start feeling fatigued, have a headache, shortness of breath, inability to move, dizziness, tight chest, nausea, nosebleed, and lack of appetite, chances are you have altitude sickness. You better act quickly to cure it, as this ruins your trekking experience and affects you physically.

    The Annapurna circuit trek reaches above 5,000 m. This is where it becomes mandatory to know everything about AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness). There are ways to treat and minimize the effect of altitude sickness, and you can do the same by:

    • Scaling at a slower pace
    • Keeping yourself hydrated all the time
    • Avoiding alcohol or smoking before or during the trek
    • Climbing higher and sleeping at a lower elevation
    • Informing your trek lead about it
    • Carrying medications for headaches and body aches

    Best Season to do Annapurna Circuit Trekking

    The best time to explore the Annapurna circuit is spring and autumn. March to April and October to November are the ideal trekking period in the Himalayas. You'll not be bothered by bad weather or unpleasant climate conditions. The views are excellent, and many fellow trekkers are on the trail. The lower part of the Annapurna circuit trek route is covered with various types of vegetation and flowers. At the same time, the upper part of the trail lets you enjoy rocky hills, vast meadows, and snowy paths. You cannot do the Annapurna Circuit Trek for 16 days in the offseason- Summer/Monsoon and Winter. The trail gets very strenuous, and the risks of landslides/avalanches are very high. The unstable weather and poor visibility ruin the trek.

    Accommodation & Meals During The Trek

    Annapurna circuit trek is a teahouse trek. The accommodation on the Annapurna circuit is simple but ample to accommodate all the passers. You do not have to camp unless you fancy it. The rooms are shared between two trekkers usually. Single rooms are hard to get if you do not reserve them in advance. Likewise, washrooms are common in tea houses. You eat meals per the teahouses' menu, which usually consists of Nepali, Tibetan, and a few Continental options. Dal bhat is the staple meal during the Annapurna circuit trekking, and you get all the nutrients in it. And trust us, it is the most flavourful option. Apart from that, noodles, momo, sandwiches, pasta, porridge, soup, mashed potatoes, thenduk, thupka, etc., are also available.

    Internet, Charging, & ATM On The Trail

    The WiFi facility on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is unreliable and costs you additional money. Therefore, carry a Nepali sim and use data whenever you can. This doesn't mean you will use the internet throughout the trail, but you'll get a network at some places. Our team will help you with getting a Nepali sim on request. All the tea houses have charging stations in the dining or reception areas. You can ask the teahouse owner for a charge, and they will ask for a few bucks USD 2 to USD 5 and let you charge your devices. Having a power bank and spare batteries is wise for a long trek like this. There is no ATM on the Annapurna circuit trekking route. You can withdraw money in Kathmandu to use while trekking. Carry Nepali cash.

    Travel Insurance

    It's wise to have travel insurance on a trek like this where there are no hospitals or proper health care facilities along the trail. Annapurna circuit trek has risks of altitude sickness. Our trekking crew does their best and follows all the measures to keep you away from altitude sickness. Even if you, by chance, get symptoms and cannot recover it by adopting preventive measures, we have to airlift you to a hospital in Kathmandu. Things like this rarely happen, but being well-prepared in the mountains is always better. Get travel insurance that covers emergency air evacuation up to 6,000 meters and medical bills.

    Annapurna Circuit Trek For Solo Trekker 

    Annapurna circuit trek solo is not a good idea. It is not an easy trek, which means the trail is complicated, steep, and trodden. One needs strong support to complete the Annapurna Circuit. Crossing Thorong La pass alone is risky; we do not recommend it. Likewise, there are many landslide-prone sections on the way that you have to cross wisely and quickly. Overall the Annapurna circuit trek without a guide is a bad idea.

    FAQs

    • The Annapurna Circuit is a long-distance trekking route that circles the Annapurna mountains. Depending on what route you choose, it can take anywhere from 12-22 days, and span from 160km-230km.

    • The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the toughest treks in the western Himalayas. The trek crosses the highest and most challenging pass in Nepal, Thorong La (5,416 m). You spend more than 10 days in the mountains, which demands high endurance and fitness. The trekker has to be physically fit to complete the Annapurna Circuit, and previous trekking experience will be highly beneficial.

    • No, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is not for beginners. It is a very demanding, high-altitude trek. The trail is steep and trodden. If you are a beginner trekker, then we suggest you do some other short moderate treks in the Himalayas before approaching the Annapurna Circuit.

    • Of course, yes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is totally worth doing. In terms of terrain, views, interaction with locals, and trekking experience, The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most immersing ventures in the Himalayas.

    • You’ll need a winter sleeping bag that can handle below-freezing temperatures for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. If you have a sleeping bag that’s rated around -6º or -10ºC you can bring that along for an autumn trek. It will give you an extra layer of Warmth and Comfort.

    • In general, crampons are not required for this trek if you are trekking during the season. But if you want to do the trek during mid-winter or monsoon season then crampons may be required. 

      Crampons: A  set of steel spikes that fit on the bottom of a climbing boot to give a better grip on slopes of hard ice or snow

    • Some teahouses offer paid WiFi services in the villages at the lower elevation. It is better to carry a Nepali Sim to use the internet while trekking. This option will give you much more flexibility. There may not be a network at the higher elevation.

    • The cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek typically ranges from USD 800 to USD 1700, depending on factors like the trek's duration, included services, hotel standards in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and group size. Prices can vary based on these variables, so it's essential to carefully consider your preferences and budget when planning the trek.

    • Annapurna circuit trek in 10 days may put a lot of pressure on your body. It is only recommended to do with the support of a strong crew, and the trekker should have good physical fitness & previous trekking expertise.

    Price fromUS$1000US$1300(per person)
    We Offer Group Discount Price
      
    1 paxUS$1300
    2 - 5 paxUS$1200
    6 - 10 paxUS$1100
    11 - 20 paxUS$1000
    US$1300

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