What is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit?

The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are at their best. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons, while autumn provides crisp air and vibrant landscapes.

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging, as it involves long daily hikes, high-altitude crossings, and variable terrain. Trekkers should be physically fit, acclimatize properly, and be prepared for cold weather at higher elevations, especially at Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).

Do I need a guide or permit for the Annapurna Circuit?

Yes. Trekkers require the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. Hiring a guide or porter is highly recommended, especially for high-altitude sections, for safety, navigation, and local cultural insights.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek winds through the breathtaking mountain ranges of central Nepal, covering a distance of 160–230 km (100–145 mi), depending on how much motorized transport is used and where the trek concludes. This iconic route crosses two major river valleys while encircling the Annapurna Massif, offering trekkers a complete Himalayan experience. The trek reaches its highest point at Thorung La Pass (5,416 m), at the edge of the Tibetan plateau. Most hikers prefer to trek anticlockwise, as this approach allows for a gentler daily altitude gain, making the high pass crossing safer and more manageable.

The Annapurna Circuit is celebrated worldwide as one of the best long-distance treks. Traditionally, it offered an extraordinary blend of diverse climates—from tropical lowlands at 600 m to the arctic heights of Thorung La—and rich cultural experiences, from Hindu villages in the foothills to Tibetan-influenced communities in the Manang Valley and Lower Mustang. Recent road construction, particularly the Beisahar–Manang road, has shortened parts of the trail and altered some villages. These developments have also encouraged mountain biking, with Mustang becoming a popular destination for cycling enthusiasts.

Best Season
Sep-Nov & March-May
Transportation
Hotel/Lodge/Tea House during the trek
Walking Hours
4-5 Hours
Accomodation
Hotel / Tea Houses
Maximum Altitude
5415m

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trekkers are treated to stunning close-up views of the Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I–IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, and Paungda Danda. In addition, the Annapurna range is dotted with numerous other peaks rising between 6,000 and 8,000 meters, creating a spectacular Himalayan panorama.

Trip Highlights

Pass by the yak pastures.
Natural hot springs at Tatopani where you can choose to take a dip.
Jomsom - the headquarter of Mustang.
A day at tourist hub Pokhara.
Spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West, and Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV.
Visit the beautiful Manang district.
Magnificent lakes, glaciers, deep gorges, and stunning waterfalls.
Visit Muktinath (a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists) known for 108 stone faucets, and eternal flame Cross Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.
Visit Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in the Manang district.
Poon Hill Viewpoint (3,210 m).

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m) – Transfer to Hotel (25 min)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the trek ahead.

Day 02 :

Kathmandu to Besisahar (760 m) – Drive 7 hrs

Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the starting point of your trek. Enjoy scenic views of hills, rivers, and local villages along the way as you descend to the Marsyangdi River valley.

Day 03 :

Besisahar to Chame (2,670 m) – 5 hrs by local sharing jeep

In the early morning, drive from Besisahar to Chame by local sharing jeep. Enjoy the scenic journey along the Marsyangdi River, passing terraced fields, traditional villages, and the stunning Himalayan foothills.

Day 04 :

Chame to Upper Pisang (3,270 m) – 6–7 hrs trek

Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang, ascending through forests of pine and rhododendron. Pass charming villages, terraced fields, and enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Pisang Peak as you climb higher into the Manang region.

Day 05 :

Upper Pisang to Manang (3,450 m) – 6–7 hrs trek

Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang, passing through scenic villages, terraced fields, and arid landscapes. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak while gradually acclimatizing to higher altitudes.

Day 06 :

Rest and Acclimatization in Manang (3,450 m)

Take a rest day in Manang to acclimatize to the higher altitude. You can relax in the village or opt for a short hike to the stunning Ice Lake (4,600 m) for incredible views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

Day 07 :

Manang to Yak Kharka / Ledar (4,010 m) – 4 hrs trek

Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka or Ledar, passing open landscapes and grazing pastures. Enjoy panoramic views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Tilicho Peak as you gradually gain altitude in preparation for Thorung La Pass.

Day 08 :

Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,600 m) – 3–4 hrs trek

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi, the base camp for Thorong La Pass. The trail passes rugged landscapes and high-altitude terrain, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Use this day to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the challenging high pass crossing tomorrow.

Day 09 :

Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass (5,416 m → 3,800 m) – 7–8 hrs trek

Start early to cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,416 m. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas before descending to Muktinath (3,800 m), a sacred pilgrimage site. The day is long but rewarding, with dramatic landscapes and a sense of accomplishment at reaching the pass.

Day 10 :

Muktinath to Marpha (2,670 m) – 7–8 hrs trek

Descend from Muktinath to the charming village of Marpha. Pass through alpine landscapes, apple orchards, and traditional Mustang villages, enjoying the unique Tibetan-influenced culture and stunning mountain scenery along the way.

Day 11 :

Marpha to Tatopani (650 m) – 3–4 hrs by local bus

Drive from Marpha to Tatopani by local bus. Relax and unwind in the natural hot springs, surrounded by beautiful landscapes—a perfect way to soothe tired muscles after days of trekking.

Day 12 :

Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850 m) – 7–8 hrs trek

Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani, ascending through lush forests of rhododendron and oak. Enjoy scenic villages, terraced fields, and panoramic mountain views along the way as you gain altitude toward the Poon Hill region.

Day 13 :

Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,700 m) – 6–7 hrs trek

Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani, passing through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests. Enjoy sweeping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges while descending slightly, soaking in the serene natural beauty of the region.

Day 14 :

Tadapani to Ghandrung (1,940 m) – 4 hrs trek, then drive to Pokhara (827 m) – 3 hrs by sharing jeep

Trek from Tadapani to the picturesque Ghandrung village, known for its traditional Gurung culture and stunning mountain views. After exploring the village, drive down to Pokhara, enjoying scenic landscapes along the way.

Day 15 :

Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400 m) – 8–9 hrs by tourist bus or 25 min by flight

Drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, passing through rivers, hills, and charming villages along the way. Alternatively, take a short scenic flight for a quicker return and aerial views of the Himalayas.

Day 16 :

Final Departure from Nepal

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your onward flight. Take with you unforgettable memories of the Annapurna Circuit, its majestic mountains, diverse cultures, and the incredible experiences from your trek.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

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FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

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Trip Info

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

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