Annapurna Circuit Trek

Ice lake Annapurna Circuit Trek
At a Glance
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max Altitude 5416m
  • Group Size 1 - 20 Person
  • Start City Kathmandu
  • End City Kathmandu
  • Trip Type Group joining and Private
  • Activity Trekking and Hiking
  • Best Season September - January and March - May
Trip Highlights
  • Thrilling Thorong La Pass- 5416 meters
  • The cultural beauty of local villages
  • Religious experience at Muktinath Temple
  • Kali Gandaki Valley
  • Views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapucchre, Hiunchuli, and numerous other high peaks
  • Lovely rhododendron forest
  • Remarkable hospitality
  • Diverse landscapes – from sub-tropical forests to desolate alpine wilderness

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular treks, not only in Nepal but in the world.  Since the trail was first opened to foreigners in the 1980s, it has been a top destination for trekkers around the world. It offers a truly unique trekking experience. This adventurous trail connects the Annapurna region and the Mustang region, providing several culturally famous destinations and infinite natural beauties along the way.

The trail begins from the lower Annapurna region.  The Annapurna Circuit Trek has a diverse set of landscapes of landscapes that begins with lush rhododendron and pine forests. Trekkers are immediately enchanted by the scenery and full of excitement and energy for what is ahead. Guided by the Marsyangdi River Valley, we follow cascading waterfalls, dense sub-tropical forests, and raging rivers. The fascinating terraced rice fields and local villages increase the charm of the trek.

As the trek leads you through the Manang district, Tibetan Buddhist settlements begin to appear.  Finally – slowly – the snow-topped Himalayan peaks begin to appear.  At Phedi, we find ourselves in awe at the desolate, yet tantalizing landscape.  Crossing the Thorong La Pass(5416m) is an absolute thrill, and one must use caution when coming into contact with the slippery rocky slope. The high pass offers views of Dhaulagiri (8167m), Manaslu (8156m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna I (8090m), Annapurna South (7219m), Machhapuchhre (6993m), Tilicho (7134m), and Hiunchuli (6441m) to name a few.  Encompassed by a choppy sea of Himalayan peaks, we are full of joy.  The trek then leads you to the famous Muktinath Temple, a pilgrimage destination for both Hindus and Buddhists. Here, devotees bathe in the fountains, ring bells, anoint one another’s foreheads, or simply be there with intentions of reverence. 

Our Annapurna Circuit Trek then passes through the Kali Gandaki Gorge and ends in Nayapul after stopping atPoon Hill(3210m) for yet another panoramic view of the awe-inspiring peaks in the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri regions.  Finally, we can end the trek with a stop at Jhinu Hot Springs, which helps relieve the muscle aches from the trek.  From here, we return to Pokhara and head back to Kathmandu.

At roughly 130 miles, the trail is for trekkers with experience, or at least a strong sense of determination. Trekking is possible throughout the year, but Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) provide the best weather.  During the Spring, there is a bit more color and the rhododendrons are blooming, and in the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer.  The Annapurna Circuit Trek requires fitness and acclimatization to avoid acute mountain sickness. Breeze Adventure arranges the trek with complete management. Please, feel free to contact us for more detailed information. 

Itinerary

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Welcome to Nepal! A representative from Breeze Adventure will welcome you to our hotel.  We will prepare you with information and gear for your trek. Overnight at hotel.

  • Max Altitude: 1400m
  • Accommodation: 2/3 Star Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Transport: Car/Van

We start our day early by taking a bus to Chamje, stopping for breakfast and lunch along the way. We will stop in Besisahar after about 7 hours, and change buses to continue to Chamje. During the bumpy ride to Chamje, we pass Ghermu and Chamje waterfalls, and the Marshyandi River and get views of the beautiful mountain Manaslu peeking behind the hills. We reached our destination after about two and a half hours. 

  • Max Altitude: 1450m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 8/9 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Transport: Bus | Jeep

After breakfast in Chamje, we begin our journey up through the foothills. We follow along the bank of the Marshyangdi River. Today, we pass Taal village, the official entry point of the Manang region. Here, we can stop for a snack or a cup of tea and breathe in the fresh air.  Climbing the stone steps, we reach Dharapani, where we rest for the night. Overnight in guesthouse. 

  • Max Altitude: 1860m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 13km / 8 Miles

After breakfast, we follow the rocky, mellow trail past Timang. The path is surrounded by lush, dense forests. Soon, we reach Kopar, where we rest and appreciate an outstanding view of the Annapurna peak. The soft trail ahead takes us to Chame, the district headquarters of the Manang region. Overnight in the guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 2670m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 15.5km/ 9.6 Miles

After breakfast, we depart from Chame, looking forward to the beauty that lies ahead.  After hiking for about two hours, we reach Bhratang, where we can sample some local apple cider from the nearby orchards. Throughout the day, we are blessed with amazing views of snow-topped Himalayan peaks. After lunch, we will reach Pisang village, our destination for the night. Overnight in guesthouse.

  • Max Altitude: 3300m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 13.7 km /8.5 miles

Today, we walk through the desolate and arid, yet mesmerizing sections of the Manang district. The landscape is out of this world. The majestic peaks on the horizon, contrasting with the dry, rocky landscape close to us make for an incredible scene. We take it slow today because the high elevation makes us a bit more tired than usual. After passing through the quaint villages of Ghyaru and Braga, we finally reach Manang village. Overnight in guesthouse.

  • Max Altitude: 3540m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 15.5km / 9.6 Miles

Today is a special day of relaxing, exploring, and most importantly, acclimatizing. There are some day hikes in the area we can check out, which helps us to avoid altitude sickness. Manang is densely populated with Tibetan Buddhists. Spend some time with them, learn about their culture, and experience their great hospitality. Several colorful monasteries and chhortens are scattered around the village area, enhancing the village’s charm. We can take a beautiful day hike to Gangapurna Lake and explore the surroundings. Overnight in guesthouse.

  • Max Altitude: 3540m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 2 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 5km

After breakfast, we head to Yak Kharka. It is a relaxing, slow uphill hike today so we can take our time. Soon, we reach the Jharsang stream and follow its bank into the alpine meadows. Yak Kharka is a gorgeous open grazing meadow for, you guessed it, yaks. We rest here for the night. Overnight in guesthouse. 

  • Max Altitude: 4050m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 10.7km / 6.6 Miles

From Yak Kharka, the trail becomes even more of a struggle due to the high altitude.  We first cross Ledar and head towards the river. Gradually ascending, we eventually reach Thorong Phedi. Because it doesn’t take long to reach, we can walk a bit higher and then again back to Phedi. Overnight in guesthouse.

  • Max Altitude: 4450m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 7.5km / 4.6 Miles

Today is the most strenuous day of our trek, as we cross the highest point at 5416 meters. However, with our struggle comes great rewards.  We wake up extra early because the weather at the Thorong La Pass can be precarious and chances for clear skies and good weather are higher in the morning. We arrive at the pass and see the amazing scenery of Annapurna, Manaslu, Hiunchuli, Lamjung, and other neighboring peaks. After taking some snaps and soaking in the views, we trek down all the way to Muktinath. Overnight in guesthouse. 

  • Max Altitude: 3800m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 8 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 16.5km / 10.25 Miles

We wake up and visit Muktinath, feeling the spiritual energy exuberating from the temple and its devotees. We walk with Hindu and Buddhist devotees towards the temple. We come back for breakfast, and begin our trek down to Jomsom, passing through Jharkot along the way. We go through the Kali Gandaki river valley, which can become uncomfortably windy after mid-day. To avoid this, we will start our hike a little earlier than usual. Soon, we reach Marpha, a beautiful village famous for its apple orchards and stone-built houses. Overnight in guesthouse. 

  • Max Altitude: 2670m
  • Time: 7 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 22km | 13.6 Miles

After breakfast, we will start along the banks of Kali Gandaki on a gentle descent, quickly passing some more populated settlements, such as Tukuche, Largung, Kalopani, and Lete, before reaching Ghasa. Overnight at guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 2010m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 22km 13.6 Miles

We will start our trek after breakfast. we will mostly trek on the downhill today. we will pass the most popular waterfall, Rupse Chahara, a noteworthy waterfall, that is a pleasant resting point before moving on to Tatopani where we stop for the day. Here, we have lunch, dinner, and sleep for the night. Check out the hot springs for a relaxing and rejuvenating dip.

  • Max Altitude: 1200m
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 14km | 8.6 Miles

Today’s trek starts out easy until we cross the Kali Gandaki and Ghar Khola. At this point, we take an intensely steep uphill, with dense forest around serving as our distraction. We take a lunch break in Ghara village, a nice relief for the legs. A couple hours later, we reach Sikha, where we stop for the night. Here, we have incredible views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South.

  • Max Altitude: 1935m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 10Km | 6.2 Miles

After breakfast, we hike for a delightful 2 hours to Chitre, where we stop for a bit, enjoying views of Nilgiri to the north. Continuing towards Ghorepani, we have one last steep ascent of around half an hour. Ghorepani lies amidst a largerhododendron forest. We enjoy the beautiful colors and rest for the night. Overnight in the guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 2835m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 10 Km | 6.2 Miles

Early in the morning, we hike up to Poon Hill to watch the sun light up the snow-capped Himalayas. This is one of the most famous views in the Annapurna region. The breathtaking sight of Annapurna, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and the surroundings will blow you away. We hike down to Ghorepani, have breakfast, and trek further to Tadapani through Deurali. We have lunch along the way. Overnight at guest house.

  • Max Altitude: 2520m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 13km | 8 Miles

We wake up with Machhapuchhre, Huinchuli, and the Annapurna South still in view. Although we’d like to stay in the mountains forever, it’s time to head back. Hiking down a steep descent for roughly three and a half hours, we reach Ghandruk from this point, a gentle downhill takes us to Syane. We catch a bus from here, arriving at Pokhara after about two and a half hours.

  • Max Altitude: 825m
  • Accommodation: 2/3 Star Guest House
  • Time: 4 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 10km

After breakfast, we take a drive back to Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway. Take in any scenery you may have missed along the way. After 6-7 hours, we reach Kathmandu and transfer you to the hotel. Take a rest and spend your day freely. Celebratory dinner in Kathmandu in the evening.

  • Max Altitude: 1400m
  • Accommodation: 2/3 Star Guest House
  • Time: 7 Hours
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Walking Distance: 201.5km
  • Transport: Tourist Bus

Transfer to Tribhuvan Airport.  Thank you for choosing Breeze Adventure as your trekking guide!  We look forward to your next adventure with us.

  • Meals: Breakfast
Cost Details
What's Included
  • Transportation to and from Tribhuvan Airport.
  • Three nights in a 2-3 star hotel in Kathmandu, breakfast included.
  • One night in a 2-3 star hotel in Pokhara, breakfast included.
  • All transportation for the trek.
  • Local guest house accommodation in the mountains.
  • Government-authorized, experienced guides and porters
  • Insurance, food, accommodation, and wage for guides and porters
  • Hygienic meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • All equipment (sleeping bag, warm layers, etc.)
  • First Aid Kit
  • Maps
  • Service charges and government taxes
  • Post-trek celebration dinner in Kathmandu
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Meals in Kathmandu (besides breakfast)
  • Your personal expenses, shopping, etc.
  • Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek
  • Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, tea and coffee
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of the itinerary
  • Costs from unexpected occurrences (i.e. cancellations, weather problems, damages of property, illness, etc.)
Group Discount Prices
Number of peoplePrice per person
1 pax
US$1350
2 - 5 pax
US$1199
6 - 20 pax
US$1099

Essential Information

Accommodation

All our packages include accommodation at the cost.  This accommodation is included in the set itinerary.  While in Kathmandu, we provide a 2-3 Star hotel for you.  During the trek, our guides will pick the best lodge for you to stay in based on their experience as well as room availability. All the accommodations will be twin-shared basis. In the mountain, the Shower and toilet will be on a shared basis. During high trekking season, you may have to share a room with a same-sex trekker from another group.

Food

Nepal has a wide variety of food and it is easy to cater to your needs.  If you are a vegetarian/vegan, gluten or lactose-free, we are able to work around that if you let us know ahead of time.  During your time in the hotel in Kathmandu, your breakfast is included.  Lunch and dinner must be covered on your own.  On the trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided.  For teahouse treks, we can order typical Nepali food, continental, Italian, Tibetan, and Indian at teahouses.  While camping, we will prepare the meals for you.  After our trek, we will have a celebration/pre-departure traditional Nepali meal in Thamel. 

Guide & Porters

A government-licensed guide will lead the trek.  All our guides have tremendous experience on the trails and are passionate about the trekking industry.  Our guides and porters are dedicated to making your experience of trekking in Nepal a memorable one.  If there is any worry during your trek, our guides will address it.  Your safety is our number one priority.  For groups of more than six people, there will be two guides. For teahouse treks, there will be one porter for every two trekkers.  For camping treks, we will need more porters in order to carry the food, kitchen equipment, tents, etc.    

Acclimatization/Fitness/Experience

As many of our treks lead us high into the Himalayas, it is necessary to let our bodies sufficiently get used to the altitude.  Our treks have acclimatization days built into the itinerary.  It is best to take it slow to prevent altitude sickness.  The level of fitness necessary for our treks varies depending on the trek.  On average, expect to walk an average of 5-6 hours per day while on the trial.  Generally, the treks can be done with an average level of fitness.  More important than fitness or experience is one’s personal determination and positive attitude toward finishing and enjoying the trek. 

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend having travel insurance before going on a trek.  We do our best to take care of you, but something can happen that is out of our control.  In case of a medical emergency, leading to a helicopter evacuation, it is best to have insurance.  You are unable to obtain medical insurance in Nepal and must do so in your home country.  Be sure that your insurance covers accidents abroad and high in the mountains. 

Best Time to Travel

The peak seasons for traveling in Nepal are during the Spring (March to May) and the Autumn (September to November).  These times provide the best scenery and clearest skies, but of course, they are a little more crowded than the off-season.  It is possible to trek during the Winter (December to February), but you will face cold temperatures.  It is also possible to trek during the monsoon season (June to August), though the views will likely be covered by clouds and there is a high chance of rainfall.

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