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Annapurna Circuit Trek

Trip Overview

The Annapurna Circuit is more than just a trek—it is an odyssey through the heart of the Himalayas, where nature, culture, and adventure intertwine to create an experience of a lifetime. Since opening to trekkers in 1977, this legendary trail has captivated explorers with its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ethnic communities, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Beginning in the lush subtropical valleys of Besisahar, the journey unfolds along the roaring Marshyangdi River, where terraced fields and vibrant villages whisper stories of ancient traditions. As the trail ascends, the scenery transforms—dense forests of rhododendron and oak give way to alpine meadows, and finally, to the stark, wind-swept terrain of the high Himalayas. Towering peaks such as Manaslu and the mighty Annapurna Range surround the path, their icy summits glistening under the vast Himalayan sky. The trek is not merely about altitude but about immersion. Walking through Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced settlements, one encounters monasteries draped in prayer flags, spinning Mani prayer wheels, and the rhythmic chants of monks resonating through the mountains. At Manang, a well-earned rest allows for acclimatization and an excursion to the shimmering turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake, the world’s highest lake, nestled at 4,919 meters. The climax of this adventure is the crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, a daunting yet exhilarating feat. As trekkers descend into the arid landscapes of Mustang, the sacred temple of Muktinath welcomes them with its eternal flames and deep spiritual significance. The trail then winds through the Kali Gandaki Gorge—the deepest in the world—where the towering walls of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri stand as silent protectors. From the mystical landscapes of the high Himalayas, the journey gradually returns to Nepal’s fertile lowlands. The final stretch towards Poon Hill offers one last magical moment—the golden sunrise illuminating a panorama of peaks, a fitting farewell to this extraordinary adventure. With each step, the Annapurna Circuit reveals a world where the grandeur of nature and the richness of Himalayan culture come together, leaving trekkers with an experience etched deep in their hearts.

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Total Duration
16 Nights / 17 Days
duration
Trek Duration
11 Days
elevaation
Max Elevation
5,416m / 17,764 ft
diffculty
Grading
Strenuous
trek style
Trek Style
Lodge-to-Lodge Trek / Camping Option
trek style
Trek Start / Ends
Besisahar (Start) / Nayapul (End)
calendar
Suggested Season
Mar – Jun, Sep – Nov
accomodation
Accomodation
4 Nights in hotels (Kathmandu & Pokhara), 11 Nights in Guesthouses (Trek Points)

Trip Highlights

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    Spectacular 360° Himalayan Views – Witness breathtaking panoramas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and more, with towering snow-capped peaks at every turn.
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    Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) – Conquer one of the highest trekking passes in the world, a thrilling and rewarding experience.
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    Visit Muktinath – Explore this revered temple, a spiritual melting point for Hindus, Buddhists and Bon followers with its eternal flame and holy waters.
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    Immerse in Diverse Ethnic Cultures – Engage with the Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi people, experiencing their unique traditions, lifestyles, and warm hospitality.
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    Trek Through Diverse Landscapes – From lush subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts, experience the ever-changing beauty of the Annapurna region. Walk through the world’s deepest gorge, flanked by the massive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
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    Excursion to Tilicho Lake – Optional visit to the highest lake in the world, a mesmerizing turquoise jewel amidst towering peaks.
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    Poon Hill Sunrise View – End the trek with a magical sunrise over the Himalayas, illuminating the peaks in hues of gold and crimson.
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    One of the Most Rewarding Treks in Nepal – A legendary circuit offering an unparalleled blend of adventure, nature, and cultural encounters.

Detail Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel
  • Warm welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Transfer to hotel in the heart of Kathmandu.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Meals: Breakfast / Refreshments
Day 2
Explore the Best of Kathmandu
  • Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a living museum of medieval Nepal, with its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and the Holy Bagmati River, where Hindu pilgrims perform rituals and cremation rites.
  • Ascend to Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) for breathtaking views of Kathmandu Valley and a serene spiritual experience.

OR

  • Experience the tranquil ambiance of Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world.
  • Immerse yourself in Nepal’s rich cultural and religious heritage before your trek begins.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Meals: Breakfast
Day 3
Scenic Drive to Besisahar – Gateway to the Annapurna Circuit
  • Scenic drive through Nepal’s diverse landscapes crossing highway settlements
  • Immersive Cultural Experience
  • Arrival in Besisahar Lamjung
  • Exploring the Bustling Town
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:BLD
Day 4
Trek Commences:
Journey to Chame (2,670m/8,758ft) – Gateway to Mana
  • Thrilling off-Road drive from Besisahar to Chame, Manang experiencing the stunning viewsof Manaslu (8,163m) and Lamjung Himal.
  • Scenic villages & cultural encounters—Bhulbhule, Syange, Jagat, Chamje, Taal, Dharapani, and Timang showcasing unique culture, architecture, and traditionsof Gurung communities.
  • Diverse Himalayan Landscapes
  • Arrival in Chame (2,670m)
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Elevation Gain: 377m
  • Elevation Loss: 371m
  • Trek Distance: 6.75km
  • Trek Duration:7 Hours
Day 5
Trek to Pisang (3,200m/10,496ft)
  • Thrilling off-Road drive from Besisahar to Chame, Manang experiencing the stunning viewsof Manaslu (8,163m) and Lamjung Himal.
  • Scenic villages & cultural encounters—Bhulbhule, Syange, Jagat, Chamje, Taal, Dharapani, and Timang showcasing unique culture, architecture, and traditionsof Gurung communities.
  • Diverse Himalayan Landscapes
  • Arrival in Chame (2,670m)
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Elevation Gain: 377m
  • Elevation Loss: 371m
  • Trek Distance: 6.75km
  • Trek Duration:7 Hours
Day 6
Trek to Manang (3,540m/11,611ft)
  • Scenic ascend & expansive valley view of Manang Valley
  • High-altitude desert & cultural exploration of the Braga Monastery offering aglimpse into the region’s deep Buddhist heritage.
  • Arrival in Manang (3,540m)
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Elevation Gain: 73m
  • Elevation Loss: 449m
  • Trek Distance: 7 km
  • Trek Duration: 4 Hours
Day 7
Acclimatization and Exploration in Manang
  • Rest & Acclimatization at Manang (3,540m)
  • Scenic Exploration Options:
    • A short hike to Gangapurna Lake and experience the panoramas of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak
    • A visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) 
    • Exploring the historical Buddhist monastery
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meal:  BLD
Day 8
Trek to Khangsar (3,756m/12352 ft)– Gateway to the Tilicho Region
  • Short high-altitude trek to Khangsar
  • Arrival at Khangsar (3,756m), a traditional Tibetan-style settlement
  • Acclimatization & Exploration
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Elevation Gain: 200m
  • Trek Distance: 10.9 km
  • Trek Duration: 2-3 Hours
Day 9
Trek to Tilicho Lake (4,920m/16,138ft)
  • Challenging ascend to Tilicho Lake (4,920m), the world’s highest Lake
  • Breathtaking high-altitude scenery
  • Arrival at Tilicho Lake (4,920m
  • Descend & rest
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Elevation Gain: 570m
  • Elevation Loss: 190m
  • Trek Distance: 15.4km
  • Trek Duration: 6 Hours
Day 10
Trek to Yak Kharka (4,018m/13,179ft)
  • Challenging ascend to Tilicho Lake (4,920m), the world’s highest Lake
  • Breathtaking high-altitude scenery
  • Arrival at Tilicho Lake (4,920m
  • Descend & rest
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Elevation Gain: 570m
  • Elevation Loss: 190m
  • Trek Distance: 15.4km
  • Trek Duration: 6 Hours
Day 11
Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,450m/14,596ft)
  • Gradual ascent toward higher elevations
  • Panoramic Views & First Glimpse of Thorong Phedi
  • Final Push to Thorong Phedi (4,450m)
  • Rest & preparation for the big ascend
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Elevation Gain: 803m
  • Elevation Loss: 313m
  • Trek Distance: 6.90km
  • Trek Duration: 3 Hours
Day 12
Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,764ft) and Descend to Muktinath (3,810m/12,172ft)
  • Trek to world’s highest passes (5,416m)
  • Unforgettable views & triumph at Thorong La (5–6 hours of steady climbing)
  • Challenging descent to Muktinath (3,810m)
  • Arrival at the Sacred Muktinath Temple, common pilgrimage site of Buddhists, Hindus and pre-Buddhist followers.
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Elevation Gain: 1154m
  • Elevation Loss: 2047m
  • Trek Distance: 16.9km
  • Trek Duration: 7 Hours
Day 13
Explore Muktinath and Descend to Kagbeni (2,800m/9,184ft)
  • Trek to world’s highest passes (5,416m)
  • Unforgettable views & triumph at Thorong La (5–6 hours of steady climbing)
  • Challenging descent to Muktinath (3,810m)
  • Arrival at the Sacred Muktinath Temple, common pilgrimage site of Buddhists, Hindus and pre-Buddhist followers.
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Elevation Gain: 1154m
  • Elevation Loss: 2047m
  • Trek Distance: 16.9km
  • Trek Duration: 7 Hours
Day 14
Descend to Kalopani (1,190m/3,903ft) or Thasang Village
  • Descent through picturesque and historical settlements, caves, Buddhist monasteries of Mustang
  • Arriving at Kalopani(1,190m) or Thasang village (4 to 5 hours of trekking)
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Trek Distance: 14km
  • Trek Duration: 5 Hours
Day 15
Spectacular Drive to Pokhara
  • Breath taking drive to Pokhara
  • Arrival in Pokhara
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: BLD
  • Drive Distance: 201km
  • Trek Duration: 6 Hours
Day 16
Fly to Kathmandu
  • Morning Flight to Kathmandu
  • Arriving in Kathmandu
  • Explore Thamel, Kathmandu (Optional)
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast
Day 17
Trip Concludes
  • Final Breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Airport Transfer
  • Safe Travels
  • Accommodation: None
  • Meals: Breakfast
Tour Cost

USD ……. per person

Cost includes:
  • All ground transportation including airport pick up and transfers
  • Double occupancy hotel accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu and Pokhara with entire entry fees
  • English speaking trekking guide
  • Best available local lodge accommodation during trek
  • Three meals a day during trek
  • Well equipped and insured porters
  • Conservation fee
  • Domestic flight tickets
Cost does not include:
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Domestic and international flight fares
  • Airport departure tax for international flights
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal/travel/accidental/evacuation insurance
  • Rescue charge if needed
  • Medical expenses if treatment needed
  • Personal equipments, e. g. shoes, clothing etc
  • Expenses of personal nature, e. g. bar bill, telephone bill, laundry charge etc.
Request Detail Itinerary

Resources

  • Essential Information
  • Recommended Readings

Trip Extension

Chitwan National Park (2 Nights/3 Days)
  • Experience an exhilarating jungle safari inside Chitwan National Park.
  • Encounter one-horned rhino, Bengal tiger, and gharial.
  • Immerse in authentic Tharu culture and their performative arts.
Bardiya National Park (2 Days/3 Nights OR 3 Nights/4 Days)
  • Explore one of Nepal’s most pristine wilderness areas, home to tigers, elephants, and rich biodiversity.
  • Experience guided jungle walks, jeep safaris, and tranquil Karnali River.
  • Immerse in Tharu culture with authentic village visits and traditional hospitality.
Lumbini Cultural Tour (2 Days)
  • Visit the Maya Devi Temple and sacred Marker Stone at the birthplace of Buddha.
  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Several Buddhist monasteries.
  • Discover ancient archaeological sites of Tilaurakot and Ramagrama.
  • Meditate in the sacred garden and pond of Lumbini.
  • Gain deep cultural and historical insight with expert-guided tours across the Greater Lumbini Region.
Bhotekoshi Rafting (2 Days)
  • Experience thrilling Class III–IV rapids on one of Nepal’s steepest and most exciting rafting rivers.
  • Enjoy dramatic mountain scenery and pristine river gorges throughout the adventure.
  • Stay overnight in a comfortable riverside camp with great food and expert rafting guides.
Trishuli Rafting (Day Tour)
  • Enjoy a fun-filled rafting experience with moderate rapids.
  • Glide through scenic valleys, terraced hillsides, and impressive rock formations along the Trishuli River.
  • Benefit from expert safety instruction and a well-coordinated day trip with professional rafting guides.
Himalayan Panorama Flight
  • Experience breathtaking aerial views of the world’s highest Himalayan peaks, including Everest and Annapurna.
  • Enjoy a safe, comfortable, and scenic Himalayan flight.
  • Capture stunning close view photographs of snow-capped ranges, glaciers and diverse landscape.
Breakfast Gazing Everest
  • Enjoy delightful breakfast with uninterrupted panoramic views of Mt. Everest.
  • Enjoy a serene, exclusive experience at a scenic viewpoint.
  • Capture unforgettable memory of the world’s highest peak.
Authentic Nepal Cultural Tour: Barahakshetra, Janakpurdham, Chitwan & Lumbini
  • Explore the sacred heritage of Barahakshetra and Kaushiki Region.
  • Discover the cultural and religious significance of Janakpurdham, the birthplace of Sita.
  • Immerse in the rich biodiversity and wildlife of Chitwan National Park.
  • Visit Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, with its monasteries and stupas.
  • Experience authentic Nepali culture through local traditions, cuisine, and colorful lifestyles.
Bhutan Kora Tour (5 Days)
  • Explore authentic Bhutan and Buddhist monasteries.
  • Immerse in Bhutanese culture and traditions.
  • Witness breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and panoramic mountain views.
Discover Taj Mahal, Icon of Love (3 Days)
  • Witness the beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise and sunset.
  • Explore the grandeur of Agra Fort and its Mughal architecture.
  • Discover the rich history and stories behind India’s iconic love monument.
  • Enjoy local cuisine and vibrant markets in Agra city.
  • Capture unforgettable photographs of architectural marvels and scenic views.

Ready to make this journey your own?

  • location
    Budhanilkanta 44600, Nepal
  • whatspp
    +977 9851035496
  • mail
    Karnaliexcursions@gmail.com
Inqurie About Trip