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The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic adventures and a favourite among travellers. It offers everything in one journey; breathtaking mountains, charming villages, diverse landscapes, and a rich local culture.
The Annapurna Massif is home to some of the world’s highest peaks, with the legendary Annapurna Circuit being its most celebrated route. The region boasts 13 peaks over 7,000m and 16 more over 6,000m, as the trail circles the entire massif.
The trek begins in the small town of Besisahar at 760m and gradually ascends to its highest point at Thorong La Pass, standing at 5,416m. On the western side, the massif is met by the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, which separates Annapurna from Dhaulagiri, the world’s seventh-highest mountain. To the north and east lies the Marshyangdi River, while the south opens into the scenic Pokhara Valley.
Guided by experienced leaders and supported by a dedicated team, you’ll meet welcoming locals and witness traditional rural life, all while enjoying some of the most majestic views on Earth.
Your day on the trek usually starts with breakfast between 7:00 and 8:00 am, followed by a 3-4 hour walk in the morning. After lunch and a short rest, you’ll continue for another couple of hours in the afternoon.
Evenings are easy-going, with dinner served around 6:00–7:00 pm. Before the day ends, your guide will brief you on the plan for tomorrow, leaving you time to relax, join small activities, or connect with the local culture.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered moderately difficult, with the challenge largely depending on your fitness, trekking experience, and ability to acclimatise. Expect to hike 5–7 hours daily, covering long distances across steep ascents, river valleys, and varied terrain.
Crossing Thorong La Pass is the toughest part, demanding endurance and proper acclimatisation due to thin air and extreme temperatures. While the trek doesn’t require technical gear or climbing skills, preparation is essential.
The trail includes stone staircases, suspension bridges, and a few landslide-prone sections. Nearly half the circuit lies above 3,000 metres (9,842 ft), meaning altitude, not the trail itself, is what truly tests most trekkers.
You need two permits:
However, if you plan to trek into restricted regions like Upper Mustang or Nar Phu Valley along the Annapurna Circuit, your standard permits won’t be valid. For these areas, you’ll need a special immigration trekking permit.
These permits can be obtained through the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara. If you book your trek with us, we’ll handle all the arrangements for you, making the process hassle-free.
| Day | Route | Altitude | Duration | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Kathmandu - Jagat via Besisahar | 1300m | 7–8 hrs drive | Scenic drive along Trishuli & Marsyangdi rivers |
| Day 2 | Jagat - Dharapani | 1900m | 5–6 hrs trek | Trek through lush forests & small villages |
| Day 3 | Dharapani - Chame | 2670m | 5–6 hrs trek | Trek with views of Lamjung Himal & Annapurna II |
| Day 4 | Chame - Upper Pisang | 3300m | 5–6 hrs trek | Trek through pine forests & apple orchards |
| Day 5 | Upper Pisang - Ngawal - Viewpoint | 3660m | 4–5 hrs trek | Explore Ngawal & hike for sunset view |
| Day 6 | Ngawal - Manang + Gangapurna Viewpoint | 3540m | 4 hrs trek | Visit Manang village & Gangapurna Lake viewpoint |
| Day 7 | Manang - Tilicho Base Camp | 4045m | 6–7 hrs trek | Trek via Khangsar & rocky trails |
| Day 8 | Tilicho Base Camp - Tilicho Lake - Shree Kharka | 4920m (lake), 3800m (Shree Kharka) | 7–8 hrs trek | Sunrise at Tilicho Lake, descend to Shree Kharka |
| Day 9 | Shree Kharka - Yak Kharka | 4050m | 4–5 hrs trek | Trek through alpine pastures & yak herders’ settlements |
| Day 10 | Yak Kharka - Low Camp (4400m) / High Camp (4850m) | 4400–4850m | 4–5 hrs trek | Trek towards Thorong La approach camp |
| Day 11 | Low/High Camp - Thorong La Pass (5416m) - Muktinath | 3760m | 7–8 hrs trek | Cross Thorong La Pass & descend to Muktinath |
| Day 12 | Muktinath - Marpha Village | 2670m | 6–7 hrs trek | Visit Muktinath temple & trek to apple village Marpha |
| Day 13 | Marpha - Tatopani (Hot Spring) by bus | 1190m | 4–5 hrs drive | Drive through Kali Gandaki gorge & relax in hot spring |
| Day 14 | Tatopani - Pokhara by bus | 800m | 5–6 hrs drive | Scenic drive back to Pokhara |
The Government of Nepal and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has made it mandatory to hire a professional guide for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. We also strongly advise it to help to reduce the pressure on these difficult paths.
In order to control all other trek-related expenses on your own, Hidden Trek Nepal now provides a "guide only" service whereby you can hire a licensed guide and pay just for the guide's price. With this service, we provide you with a government-licensed, experienced trekking guide who knows the Annapurna region inside and out.
We understand that many travellers today prefer a more flexible and cost-effective approach to adventure. That is why this service especially targets budget-conscious tourists looking for a real Himalayan adventure. It lets you manage your own logistics like transportation, accommodation, and meals along the route, thus welcoming different tastes and budgets.
Trekkers can start an unforgettable trip among some of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes with the freedom to personalize travel, food, and accommodation combined with an expert local path.
The day starts from Kathmandu to Jagat via Besisahar. Passing across the beautiful suspension bridges, river, and waterfalls, we drive around 8 hours to reach Jagat this day. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
After breakfast, we pack our bags and trek through big waterfalls, rivers and enter through Manang district. We additionally explore unique geographical features like oak forest, beautiful valleys, diverse terrain, uphills and downhills, communities, etc. Our walking distance from Jagat to Dharapani takes about 15 kilometers. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
The route now follows a mule trail, offering sweeping views of towering peaks as you steadily make your way to Chame. Along the way, you pass through serene oak and alpine forests, enjoying the crisp mountain air. This day covers a 15 km stretch, beginning in Dharapani and ending in Chame. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Today’s journey covers 15 km from Chame to Pisang, starting at the charming village of Telukhu. Along the way, the striking sights of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II create a captivating welcome.
The trail keeps the excitement alive, leading you through a steep valley alongside the Marshyangdi River, crossing suspension bridges, and venturing into a narrow river gorge lined with dense pine forests. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
On the sixth day, you trek around 5 hours to reach Ngawal. The trail passes through Ghyaru, and to Ngawal, offering a perfect mix of breathtaking scenery and thrilling challenges.
Along the way, you’ll experience authentic natural beauty while adapting to the harsher climate. We end the day observing the beautiful sunset from the view point. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
The much-awaited day to reach Manang has arrived. Upon reaching Manang, we may also visit a nearby monastery or the serene Gangapurna Lake for some gentle sightseeing. Manang Valley is a true paradise for trekking and tourism. The trek offers breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and spectacular views of the Annapurna range. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
This trek is a side route that branches off from the main Annapurna Circuit and leads to the breathtaking Tilicho Lake, which is considered one of the highest lakes in the world, making it a highlight that many trekkers do not want to miss.
Leaving Manang behind, the trail passes through Khangsar, a distinctive village known for its unusual stone-built houses and unique cultural practices. The path then follows along the ridge before reaching Khangsar at an elevation of 3,734 meters. From this village, trekkers are treated to a rare and striking view of the remote Kang Guru Peak, which rises to 6,981 meters. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Today’s trek takes you higher toward Tilicho Lake, a 5-6 hour journey situated at the base of Tilicho Peak (7,134m). Along the way, you may spot yaks and deer grazing peacefully.
The lake’s color shifts through multiple shades of blue as the sunlight changes, offering spectacular views. After spending time admiring the lake and surrounding peaks and capturing photos, you will return to Sri Kharka. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Today, we will start our descent toward Khangsar Village, passing Tare Gumba (3,870m), famous for its monastery. The trail follows the Thorong Khola Valley, leading past the abandoned Old Khangsar village before arriving at Yak Kharka. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
As we climb higher, our bodies gradually adjust to the altitude. Trekking along the east bank of Jarang Khola, we pass steep bluffs before reaching Thorong Phedi, meaning “foothills.”
For those able, an extra hour leads to High Camp (4,800m). Along the way, we might spot blue sheep, the elusive snow leopard, and Lammergeyer (bearded vultures). Local legend even says mythical griffons inhabit this region. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Today is likely the most challenging day of the trek, involving 7-8 hours of hiking. The high altitude and occasional strong winds increase the difficulty. Along the trail, you may see sheep, yaks, and traders carrying goods. Upon reaching Thorong La Pass, you are rewarded with stunning views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and the striking Khatungkang Peak (6,484 m).
After the pass, you descend about 1,600 m, passing the magnificent Dhaulagiri (“White Mountain”), Nepal’s highest peak entirely within the country. The trail becomes gentler and more rolling as you continue to Muktinath, where you stay for the night after a full 10-hour trek. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
From Muktinath, the trail winds through green meadows, fruit orchards, and streams as we reach Marpha. Today’s trek covers approximately 6-7 hours. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
In the morning, we take a local bus to Tatopani, traveling along rugged roads through some of the world’s deepest gorges. The route shifts from arid highlands to lush forests. Tatopani is famous for its natural hot springs, where you can soak and relax. The waters are believed to have healing properties for skin ailments. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
After enjoying Tatopani, we drive to Pokhara, passing through scenic valleys, rivers, and terraced fields. The journey offers views of hills, local villages, and glimpses of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, you can relax by Phewa Lake and explore Pokhara’s lakeside attractions. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Spring season (March-May) is one of the best times to do Annapurna Circuit Trek. The temperature during spring day ranges from 8 °C to 0 °C. The days are sunny with bright skies, only a little chilly during the morning and night time.
At lower elevations, the national flower of Nepal, the rhododendron, blooms in vibrant beauty. Pine forests fill the air with a refreshing aroma, while colorful wildflowers add charm to the trail.
Autumn (October and November) is the second best season to trek in Annapurna Circuit Trek. The days are pleasantly warm for trekking, while the nights are cool and perfect for sleeping. Autumn attracts many trekkers, making the trails lively and giving you the chance to meet fellow adventurers.
In summer (June to August), daytime temperatures at higher altitudes usually range from 10°C to 23°C. Since summer overlaps with the monsoon season, the paths can become slippery. However, this time of year rewards trekkers with lush waterfalls and fewer visitors.
Winter (December to February) brings colder conditions, with temperatures at higher elevations falling to around -10°C, making it an ideal season for adventurous hikers seeking snow-covered scenery.
The mountain pass of Thorang La (5,416m) is the highest point of the trek. More oxygen is needed in this area, which will make it harder to breathe.
People who have AMS are likely to feel tired, dizzy, sick, have headaches, and have trouble breathing. If the case is mild, Diamox and a good night's rest might help. Other things that will help you stay healthy are drinking a lot of water, tea, soup, and other liquids.
This itinerary is made by experts and experienced guides. A few days of "acclimatisation" have been added to the plan so that your body can get used to the thin air in the mountains. The trekking is well paced, so your body has time to get used to the mountain air's low oxygen levels.
However, we should take the necessary precautions to make sure the condition doesn't get worse. But if the symptoms get worse, one may need to go back to a lower elevation and get medical help. If things go badly, an air evacuation will be set up so that the patient can be flown to Kathmandu to get medical help.
On every major himalayan trail, you might come across narrow paths, unpredictable climate changes, or thin air that leaves you feeling exhausted and light-headed.
Staying safe isn’t just about preparing in advance; it’s about staying alert, being cautious, and trekking wisely every single day.
This confidence comes with a lot of preparation before your trek. We highly recommend you to go on multiple hikes, and be involved in strength building. Cardiovascular workouts also help a lot during your trek, making you both physically and mentally ready for the trek.
The primary lodging options on the Annapurna Circuit Trek are teahouses, which are basic, family-run lodges with simple facilities such as comfy beddings, shared bathrooms, and common dining areas. While teahouses are most commonly found, some lodges offer a little more comfort, such as private rooms and attached bathrooms, particularly after crossing the Larke Pass.
During the 14-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, the food is worth trying local specialties like dal bhat, boiled potatoes with chili sauce, Sherpa stew, and rice curry. While most lodges also serve a wide range of Western dishes, these traditional meals remain staples for the Sherpa people.
Breakfast Menu Options:
Lunch and Dinner Menu Options:
Note: While these foods are available on the menu, it’s best to avoid dairy, alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and hot chocolate at high altitudes. Instead, stick to hydrating and warming options like green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon, ginger tea, garlic soup (a must-have), and fresh vegetables.
Mostly the Annapurna Circuit treks start from Jagat or Bhulbhule. Both routes are reachable by private jeep or local bus from Kathmandu or Pokhara. The drive usually takes 7-8 hours to reach till Jagat.
Upon returning, we will take a ride from Marpha to Pokhara via Tatopani. When you make a reservation with Hidden Trek Nepal's package, your transportation is already taken care of in the package, so you can focus on your adventure without any concerns.
Many teahouses and lodges around Annapurna Trekking offer Wi-Fi services that let you connect to the network and the internet. Low and high altitudes can have a big effect on the quality and dependability of the latter.
Wi-Fi services are relatively easy to find in areas with much lower altitudes. Wi-Fi is less reliable in higher elevations, however, some teahouses may provide Wi-Fi, but it may be poor or unavailable due to altitude and weather.
Access to Wi-Fi at these locations can cost a few dollars, ranging from USD 2 to 5, depending on altitude.
To organize and schedule a Annapurna Circuit trip, it is best to hire the services of a well-known trekking company in Nepal, such as Hidden Trek Nepal.
We are concerned about your safety whenever you book a local company like ours, and we are here to help. Throughout every step of your trip, you will constantly have someone with years of experience to provide you with the best recommendations.
By making the reservations as early as possible, particularly during the peak trekking seasons, you may assure that you will be able to secure your desired accommodation without encountering any difficulties. Given that the majority of the most desirable places to stay in the region are often reserved well in advance, it is always a good idea to begin your planning process as early as possible.
Kathmandu has many great hotels, and we recommend staying in Thamel, the city’s vibrant tourist hub. It's packed with bars, cafes, restaurants, and shops. Thamel is also the perfect place to rent or buy trekking gear.
For shopping, there are plenty of nearby places to explore. Plus, our office is conveniently located in the heart of Thamel.
If you need assistance with hotel booking, Hidden Trek Nepal is here to help.
It is possible to obtain a visa on arrival for individuals from the majority of countries by visiting the online website of the Immigration Department of Nepal. Online forms must be filled out, printed, and brought with you.
The online system can be accessed at https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/ from any location and at any time. The Online Application System can keep your application for 15 days in its system, allowing you to apply at your convenience and present it to the Immigration Authority at the time of admission or visa extension.
Visas on arrival are valid for 15, 30, or 3 months and are priced at:
15 Days – 30 USD
30 Days – 50 USD
90 Days – 125 USD
We recommend hiking before the Annapurna circuit trek, helping your body adjust to higher elevations. Test your gear and break in your hiking boots on these short walks to find and correct any problems while still near city shops and resources.
Some suggestions for hiking places near Kathmandu are: Champa Devi Hiking, Jamacho (Nagarjun Hill) Hiking, Sundarijal Hiking, Chandragiri Hiking, etc.
You can also visit some very popular cultural locations carrying significant histories while in Kathmandu before the trek: Boudhanath (Boudha), the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and three Durbar Squares (Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur).
After the Annapurna Circuit Trek, relaxing and enjoying Nepal's splendor is worth it. After the lengthy trek, Nepal is also a great place to relax with views, and cozy cafés. We recommend:
Hidden Trek Nepal is known for having skilled porters and making each tour unique. They know both the history and geography of the area well enough to make sure you have a safe and useful trip.
Our goal is to give you an experience that immerses you in the awe of the great Nepalese wilderness, whether that means customizing your schedule or making changes to the trail in real time or helping you through the tough parts of the trip.
We also provide flexible solutions, such as a "guide only" service for independent trekkers who would rather handle their own logistics with expert advice. With Hidden Trek Nepal, you interact with people, environment, and the desire of adventure at every turn rather than simply travel.
The highest trekking point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is Thorong La Pass standing at the elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).
Depending upon your pace, we have created an itinerary to trek an average of 6 - 8 hours per day. This covers roughly 10 to 15 kilometers (6-9 miles) each day. Trekking on the most demanding paths like the Thorong La Pass will have shorter trekking hours. However, if we are trekking to normal trails, this day you will have to trek a bit long.
Mt. Annapurna South, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Mt. Himchuli, Mt. Annapurna III, Mt. Gangapurna, Mt. Lamjung Himal, Pisang Peak, Nilgiri etc. are seen during Annapurna Round Trek.
No, you cannot see Mount Everest from the Annapurna Circuit. While the Annapurna Circuit offers stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Annapurna itself and other majestic peaks like Ganesh Himal and Himalchuli, Mount Everest is located in a different region, much further east.
To process your trekking permits, we’ll need a copy of your passport and a recent passport-sized photo. You can simply upload them while booking, and we’ll handle everything else.
Annapurna is best known for its breathtaking yet demanding treks, especially the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp routes.
It is also home to Annapurna I, a peak infamous for its high climbing fatality rate. The area features remarkable biodiversity, the world’s deepest gorge, and offers a wealth of cultural encounters through traditional villages and ever-changing landscapes.
While hiring a guide for the Annapurna Circuit is optional, the Tilicho Lake route passes through landslide-prone areas with rocky yet adventurous trails, making guided trekking highly advisable.
Additionally, the guides will assist with local knowledge, navigation, and gear carrying. This also benefits the local economy.
We made a customised 14-day plan (with extra Tilicho Lake trek) that includes the time needed to get used to the altitude and the right amount of trekking. However, you can add or remove days depending on your schedule. The schedule can be changed to fit your needs as long as you follow the guidelines.
Yes! Kathmandu has many shops (Thamel area) selling:
There are major electricity issues in these remote areas, and power outages occur frequently. To use power, you need to pay extra rupees. If you want to use it at higher elevations, you should definitely bring a power bank and an extra battery.
A lot of tourists now bring smaller solar chargers that they can fold up and carry with them. This way, they can charge their phones and tablets while they walk. It is essential to have these items on hand in case the power goes out or energy levels drop.
Yes, you can always join our fixed departure treks at the last minute. For customised treks, please stay in touch with us to check availability and arrangements.
Our 14-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is perfectly curated to cover all highlights while ensuring proper acclimatisation and comfort. It’s possible to complete the trek in less than 14 days, but it depends on how many days you're looking to cut and your trekking experience. Let’s discuss your preferences to see what’s feasible.
It is not compulsory to have a porter for the Annapurna Trek. However, we highly recommend hiring one, which will relieve you of your luggage and enable you to fully appreciate the journey. Hidden Trek Nepal provides the best porters, and the service is added on our package too.
The highest point of our journey is over 5000 meters. Most of the time, we'll be walking 3000 to 5000 meters above sea level. At this altitude, the weather is unpredictable and the temperature is low.
The nighttime temperature varies between 5 degrees Celsius in the summer and -15 degrees Celsius in the winter. Annapurna has sunny days and temperatures that range from 15 degrees Celsius in the summer to -5 degrees Celsius in the winter.
