Annapurna Circuit Trek

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Introduction to Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most popular treks in Nepal, and rightly so. On this route, the scenery and culture dramatically change from subtropical forests, paddy fields, and the world’s deepest river gorge to ice flows, a high mountain pass, arid cliffs, and mountain views.

Passing through Manang, the trek starts with views of the Manaslu range, Tibetan-like Buddhist villages, and woodlands through the Marshyangdi Valley.

Heading towards the high Thorong La Pass, many mountains, including the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Tilicho Peak, come into view.

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most popular treks in Nepal, and rightly so. On this route, the scenery and culture dramatically change from subtropical forests, paddy fields, and the world’s deepest river gorge to ice flows, a high mountain pass, arid cliffs, and mountain views.

Passing through Manang, the trek starts with views of the Manaslu range, Tibetan-like Buddhist villages, and woodlands through the Marshyangdi Valley.

Heading towards the high Thorong La Pass, many mountains, including the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Tilicho Peak, come into view.

The trail continues over the pass to enter Mustang and the Hindu pilgrimage town of Muktinath and on down the Kali Gandaki Valley, past the unique and interesting village of Marpha with its small monastery, narrow cobbled streets, and apple orchards, on to the hot springs at Tatopani and the viewpoint of Poon Hill.

From Poon Hill, it is possible to see more than 20 of the highest mountains within the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

This trek allows for proper acclimatization before tackling the Thorong La pass at 5,414m. However, it is a long trek, with an average day being 6-7 hours, and good basic physical fitness is recommended.

With the varied landscapes, villages, and people along the trail and majestic mountains, it is a photographer’s paradise. It is also a way to discover the country’s different aspects, cultures, and landscapes in one trip while circling the Annapurna range!

The temple and 108 waterspouts at Muktinath are holy to Hindus and form part of the cultural history of Nepal. Just a short hike down the trail and the villages of Jharkot and Kagbeni plunge the visitor back into a Buddhist culture of monasteries and prayer flags.

Kagbeni is a charming village: from Kagbeni another trail enters Upper Mustang, and there is a constant stream of yak and mule trains taking goods north.

Exploring the tiny village, you will see many interesting sights, such as almost prehistoric clay effigies. This trek is varied and full of daily surprises and interesting finds, and it is accompanied all the way by up-close and personal mountain views!

Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights

  • Arrow Right Primary Visit two distinct Himalayan regions – Manang and Mustang.
  • Arrow Right Primary Cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
  • Arrow Right Primary Experience traditional Buddhist culture, chortens, prayer flags, and ancient monasteries.
  • Arrow Right Primary Witness Hindu pilgrims at the sacred Muktinath Temple, home to 108 water spouts and an eternal flame.
  • Arrow Right Primary See the magnificent Mt. Manaslu, the world’s 8th highest mountain, and the mighty Annapurna range.
  • Arrow Right Primary Stand above the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest river gorge on Earth.
  • Arrow Right Primary Visit Pokhara, the scenic lakeside city with vibrant nightlife and tranquil mountain reflections.
  • Arrow Right Primary Stay overnight in Jomsom, a windswept market town and air gateway to the Annapurnas.
  • Arrow Right Primary Trek to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, nestled beneath towering ice cliffs.
  • Arrow Right Primary Taste fresh apple pie in Marpha and Tukche, villages known for their apple orchards and brandy.
  • Arrow Right Primary Soak in the natural hot springs at Tatopani, a rejuvenating stop on your descent.
  • Arrow Right Primary Explore diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to high alpine deserts.
  • Arrow Right Primary Encounter wildlife like Himalayan tahrs, marmots, pikas, and maybe even a snow leopard.
  • Arrow Right Primary Enjoy hearty meals in cozy teahouses, with warm dining rooms and fire-lit evenings.
  • Arrow Right Primary Acclimatize in Manang, with access to panoramic hikes, bakeries, and cultural sites.

Why Book with Magical Nepal

  • Arrow Right Primary Local Experts, Authentic Treks – Trek with locals who know Nepal inside-out.
  • Arrow Right Primary Top Guides & 24/7 Support – Licensed experts with constant backup from our Kathmandu team.
  • Arrow Right Primary Fair Pricing, No Hidden Costs – Transparent rates with no middlemen or surprise fees.
  • Arrow Right Primary Custom Itineraries, Your Way – Flexible treks tailored to your pace and style.
  • Arrow Right Primary Eco-Friendly & Responsible Travel – Trek sustainably and support local communities.
  • Arrow Right Primary Safety First, Always – Trained teams, altitude protocols, and emergency preparedness.
  • Arrow Right Primary 5-Star Rated & Trusted – Thousands of happy trekkers who return and recommend us.
  • Arrow Right Primary Seamless Travel Logistics – We handle everything so you can focus on the journey.
  • Arrow Right Primary Fueled by Passion – Crafted by trekkers, storytellers, and mountain lovers.
  • Arrow Right Primary More Than a Trip, It’s Magic – Come for the trek, leave with lifelong memories.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu to Tal Village

Day 2: Tal to Danakyu

Day 3: Trek from Danakyu to Chame

Day 4: Chame to Upper Pisang

Day 5: Upper Pisang to Manang

Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Manang

Day 7: Manang to Tilicho Base Camp

Day 8: Tilicho Base Camp to Shree Kharka (via Tilicho Lake)

Day 9: Shree Kharka to Yak Kharka

Day 10: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi or High Camp

Day 11: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass

Day 12: Muktinath to Pokhara (Drive)

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Day 13: Pokhara (Drive) to Kathmandu

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Includes

11 nights’ accommodation in mountain teahouses


Guide for 12 days


Annapurna conservation area permit


Kathmandu Pokhara Kathmandu Tourist Bus


Trekkers information management system card


13 x breakfast, 13 x lunch and 12 x dinner while on the trek

Veg

Wide variety of Vegeterian food is available on the trek

Vegan

Wide variety of Vegan food is available on the trek


One Porter for 13 days USD 299 (Optional)


Personnel expenses of any kind and travel insurance


Private Jeep USD 440 (Optional)


Any hot or cold drinks


Packing List for Annapurna Circuit Trek

backpack

Daily Wear


Gear


packing list

Garment


Hygiene and Safety


compass

Electronics

Read before your book your Annapurna Circuit Trek

Planning your Annapurna Circuit Trek is easy with our guide! We help you know everything — how to get there, how hard the trek is, and the best time to go. You can also watch our videos that explain each part step by step. Still have questions? Just send us an email or WhatsApp message. We will answer you within 24 hours!

flight time

Arrival in Nepal: Your First Step into the Himalayas

teahouse

Teahouses on the Annapurna Circuit Trek: Cozy, Rustic, and Full of Character

basic lodge with meals, shared rooms, and cozy common areas, the standard accommodation on treks.

What You’ll Eat on the Trek

Best Seasons for Annapurna Circuit Trek

social

Meeting the Magical Nepal Team Before the Trek

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Expenses and Currency in Annapurna Circuit Trek

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Unique Culture and Wildlife of the Annapurna Conservation Area

communication

Staying Connected: Communication on the Trek

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Important Notes for trekking the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Suitcase

To Hire or Not to Hire? Porters on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Safety on the Trek: Navigate Nature Like a Pro

Bus

Transport for Trek

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Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits: What You Need to Know

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Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

Annapurna Circuit Trek Map

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FAQs For Annapurna Circuit Trek:

General Information of Annapurna Circuit Trek

How long is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

What is the highest altitude of Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Is it safe to trek alone?

Is there an Annapurna Circuit Trek map?

Why Is Kathmandu Hotel not included?

Trek Difficulty & Experience Level

How hard is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Is the Annapurna Circuit difficult?

Is Annapurna Circuit harder than Kilimanjaro?

Can a beginner climb Annapurna?

Can a beginner do Annapurna Circuit?

Guide For Annapurna Circuit Trek

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How experienced is your guide? How well do they know the Annapurna Region?

Itinerary & Duration

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Required Permits for Annapurna Circuit trek

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Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost & Budget

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Best Time & Season to Trek

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Is it possible to trek Annapurna Circuit in Winter?

Is it possible to trek Annapurna Circuit in Rainy Season?

Is spring a good time for the Annapurna Circuit?

Can you trek the Annapurna Circuit in December or January?

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Which Season Is Best for Side Trips Like Tilicho Lake or Ice Lake?

Route Comparisons & Alternatives

Can I combine the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp?

Annapurna Circuit Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp — which is better?

Annapurna Circuit Trek vs Everest Base Camp — which is harder?

Booking Process and Cancellation

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Accommodation and Food on Annapurna Circuit Trek

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Can I get a single room on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Is it possible to have a shower in the trek?

Can I do Laundry in the trek?

Porters

Do I need Porter for the trek?

What is the ideal weight for my Backpack in Annapurna Circuit Trek?

What is the weight limit of the porter?

Do you provide a storage facility at your office?

Do I have to bring a bag for the porter?

Payments and Extra Costs

Do you accept the remaining payment in Cash? What currency do you accept?

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Trek, Safety, and Altitude

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How can I minimize my environmental impact?

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Is there Wi-Fi available on the trek?

Are there medical facilities on the trek?

Can I charge my electronics on the trek?

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

What is the trail condition like?

How do I deal with the lack of sanitation facilities?

Are there alternative routes within the trek?

Are there any dangerous animals on the trek?

How can I ensure my safety on the trek?

What should I do in case of an emergency?

How do I avoid getting lost?

Preparation and Packing

What should I pack for the trek?

Do I need to bring my own water purification method?

What kind of shoes are best for the trek?

Is travel insurance necessary?

Do I need trekking poles?

Are there any vaccinations required?

Can I rent trekking gear in Nepal?

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Cultural and Social Aspects

What languages are spoken along the trek?

What kind of cultural etiquette should I follow?

What festivals might I experience during the trek?

Are there religious sites along the trek?

Can I interact with local communities?

What are the main religions in the region?

Is tipping expected?

How do locals dress in the region?

What souvenirs can I buy?

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