Annapurna Circuit Trek - 10 Days

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Annapurna View From Manang
Thorong La Pass Annapurna Circuit
Annapurna Aerial View
Tea House In Thorong La Pass During Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna View From Gompa
Annapurna Circuit Trek Aerial ViewSee all Photos
Annapurna View From ManangThorong La Pass Annapurna CircuitAnnapurna Aerial ViewTea House In Thorong La Pass During Annapurna Circuit TrekAnnapurna View From GompaAnnapurna Circuit Trek Aerial ViewManang Village Aerial View With LakeAerial View Of Besisahar Village Way To ManangAnnapurna Circuit Trek
At a glance
    Highlights
    • Watching the sunrise early in the morning over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains from Poon Hill.
    • Walk through different landscapes like forests and dry mountain areas.
    • Visiting Muktinath Temple, which is a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists
    • Explore Braga Monastery, known for its old artifacts and amazing mountain views.
    • Try local Thakali food and Marpha’s famous apple snacks in Lower Mustang.
    • Taking a side trip to one of the highest altitude lakes in the world, Tilicho Lake.

    The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a blend of epic Himalayan landscapes that spans 160 to 230 kilometers. 

    It is a transformative journey through the subtropical valleys of the Marsyangdi River to the highlands beyond Thorong La Pass. The Annapurna Massif will take you through a constantly shifting climate, a deep-rooted Buddhist culture, and high altitude.

    The trek initially starts from around 800 meters but reaches an altitude of 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass, making it one of the most dramatic altitude gains in the world. Along the way you will encounter terrace farmlands, glacial valleys, pine forests, Himalayan villages, and waterfalls.

    The Annapurna Circuit Trek is challenging compared to other popular treks, but those who finish it get an amazing mix of mountain adventure, local culture, and stunning views.

    Best Season for Annapurna Circuit Trek

    The best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Trek would be spring(March-May) and autumn(Sep-Nov). 

    In spring, you will be able to witness flora & fauna on your trail, creating a colorful scenery with moderate temperatures. As for autumn, you can expect a bright and cloudless sky for a clear view of the stunning mountain. You will find the weather to be mostly mild and stable, which makes your trek comfortable and allows you to experience cultural activities along the way.

    The other two seasons, Winter and Monsoon, are more challenging. Winter (Dec-Feb) is mostly cold, and at higher altitudes, you will really feel the cold weather. Especially in high passes like Thorong La, where there is snowfall in this season, which blocks the pass altogether. Monsoon (June-Aug) is the least recommended season for treks as it is the season of heavy rains. The trails are mostly slippery, with increased risk of landslides and leeches along the trek. However, areas like Mustang remain dry due to the rain shadow.

    Autumn (Sept-Nov):

    • Clear and sunny days with beautiful mountain views
    • Stable weather with mild temperatures for the trek
    • An abundant amount of Vibrant local festivals and cultural activities

    Spring (Mar-May):

    • Blooming rhododendrons and colorful flora & fauna
    • Moderate temperatures and less crowded than in autumn
    • Fresh, green landscapes and clear skies

    Winter (Dec-Feb):

    • The trails are mostly quiet and peaceful, with fewer tourists
    • Crisp, cold weather with possible snow on high passes
    • Ideal for experienced trekkers who feel comfortable trekking in cold conditions

    Monsoon (Jun-Aug):

    • Green valleys due to rain and fewer trekkers
    • Increased risk of landslides and trail disruptions
    • Rain-shadow regions like Mustang do remain accessible

    Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost

    The total cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek really depends on how you plan your trip. If you're trekking alone, you'll likely spend more since you're covering everything yourself, while joining a group helps keep shared costs down. The number of days you spend on the trail also matters. Ending the trek early at Jomsom is usually less expensive than doing the full circuit or adding side trips like Tilicho Lake. Time of year plays a part in this as well. Prices normally go up during peak seasons like spring and autumn when the trails are busiest.

    Where you stay and the services you choose also affect your budget. Staying in simple teahouses costs less than choosing lodges with attached bathrooms and extra comfort. Hiring a guide or porter also adds to the cost, but they can make your trek safer and more enjoyable. Extra options like taking a jeep part of the way, flying from Jomsom to Pokhara, or visiting Tilicho Lake all add to the total price as well. So in the end, it’s all about the choices you make and the kind of experience you want.

    • Solo treks cost more than group treks.
    • Longer routes or side trips add to the price.
    • Prices are higher in spring and autumn.
    • Upgraded lodges cost more than teahouses.
    • Guides and porters raise the cost slightly.
    • Jeep rides, flights, and extras increase expenses.

    Accommodation

    • Mostly family-run teahouses in villages and towns along the route.
    • Rooms are basic but comfortable, usually with shared bathrooms.
    • Lower-altitude stops have warmer rooms and better facilities than higher-altitude lodges.
    • Heating may be limited at higher elevations.
    • Wi-Fi and electricity are often available but usually cost a small fee.

    Food

    • Common meals include dal bhat, momos, soups, and noodles.
    • Many teahouses also offer pasta and rice dishes
    • Vegetarian and vegan options are available if ordered early

    Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits

    For the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you need permits to enter the region legally. 

    Required Permits:

    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Mandatory for all trekkers entering the Annapurna region.
    • TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): Required only for independent trekkers (not needed for organized group treks as of 2023).
    • Restricted Area Permits: Needed only if you plan to extend your trek to areas like Nar-Phu Valley or Upper Mustang.
    Note: All permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. To get them, you'll need your passport, two passport-sized photos, and basic details of your trek (such as your route and dates). 

    Contact Abound Holidays for the latest pricing and group discounts tailored just for you.

     

    Itinerary

    Your journey begins early as you leave the noise and traffic of Kathmandu behind. The road winds through green hills, quiet villages, and river valleys that follow your path. After a long but scenic drive, you arrive in Besisahar, a peaceful town resting at the foot of the Himalayas.

    • Max Altitude:760 meters
    • Accommodation:Guesthouse in Besisahar
    • Meals:Breakfast, Launch, and Dinner
    • Transport:Tourist Vehicle

    The journey gets real today. You switch to a jeep and start climbing higher into the mountains. The road is bumpy and narrow, with waterfalls spilling down the rocks and pine trees lining the cliffs. After hours of slow but breathtaking travel, you reach Chame, a peaceful village tucked deep in the hills and wrapped in mountain air.

    • Max Altitude:2,650 meters
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Meals:Breakfast, Launch, and Dinner
    • Transport:Local Jeep/Bus

    Put on your boots and step into the trail. You walk through thick rhododendron forests and along stone paths where you can hear rivers flowing far below. The mountains start to open up, and Annapurna Two stands tall and proud. When you reach Upper Pisang, the air feels thinner, and the adventure becomes real.

    • Max Altitude:3,300 meters
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:5-6 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Launch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:13 km

    Today, the sky feels vast and the air is thin. You walk through dry valleys and past old mani walls where prayer wheels spin gently in the breeze. Manang welcomes you, a big village under towering cliffs, where tradition meets the thrill of high-altitude adventure and peaceful calm.

    • Max Altitude:3,540 meters
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:6-7 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Launch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:15 km

    Resting here does not mean staying still. At this altitude, taking time to acclimatize is very important. You could walk up to Gangapurna Lake or the hill above town where the valley opens up beneath you. Then back in the village, enjoy hot soup, chat with other travelers, and let your body settle into mountain life.

    • Max Altitude:3,540 meters
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Meals:Breakfast, Launch, and Dinner

    Leaving Manang’s comfort, you walk into silence. The cold air surrounds you, and the trees disappear. Yaks roam freely on glowing golden fields. The trail gets tighte,r and the scenery becomes more striking. At Yak Kharka, you feel like you have entered a place untouched by time.

    • Max Altitude:4,050 meters
    • Time:5-6 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Launch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:10 km

    Now the trek feels real. Breathing becomes harder as you climb higher through thin air and rocky slopes. The hike is very demanding on patience, however, the overall scenery is impressive and it is compensated. Getting to High Camp is a victory, and you get a peaceful spot in the mountains beneath a sky full of stars.

    • Max Altitude:4,925 meters
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:4-5 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Launch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:9 km

    Before the sun comes up, you set out. Headlamps shine through the night as you climb the most difficult part of the trek, Thorong La Pass. Every step to the five thousand four hundred sixteen meter peak is hard work, but reaching the summit brings an amazing feeling of success. The long walk down leads you to Muktinath, a peaceful place of prayer and warm tea.

    • Max Altitude:5,416 meters
    • Accommodation:Teahouse
    • Time:8-9 hours
    • Meals:Breakfast, Launch, and Dinner
    • Walking Distance:15 km

    You leave your boots behind for a day and ride down to the relaxed city of Pokhara. The road twists past villages and apple trees, getting you closer to rest and comfort. Pokhara feels like a dream come true with quiet lakes, good food, and a bed that does not lean.

    • Max Altitude:827 meters
    • Accommodation:Hotel
    • Meals:Breakfast, Launch, and Dinner

    This is the last part of your journey. Your body may be tired, but your heart feels full. Driving back to Kathmandu, memories of mountain peaks, calm villages, and fresh mornings settle in your mind. You come back to where you started, but you are not the same, and that is how every great story ends.

    • Max Altitude:1,400 meters
    • Meals:Breakfast and Launch

    Special Mention about the Private/Local transfers

    If you prefer private jeeps, you will be in the most comfort during the trip. The significant advantage of taking a private jeep is that you do not need to hurry when starting the journey.
    You will be free to stop wherever you want during the trip and have lunch wherever you want. You can take pictures on the way and stop at some major junctions.
    You can even begin your journey at 8:30 in the morning if you are taking a private jeep. You do not need to change buses or jeeps if you take private ones. 
    We recommend you take private jeeps for better comfort and freedom. Also, our guide will travel with you in a private or public jeep/ bus.

    **Pokhara Road Update**

    Due to ongoing road construction, travel time between Kathmandu and Pokhara has increased from 6-7 hours to around 8-9 hours, with added congestion and pollution. Alternatively, a 30-minute flight is available for USD 130 one way

    Cost Details
    What's Included
    • Airport pick up and drop off during the international arrivals/departures (complimentary)
    • Kathmandu - Besisahar and Pokhara - Kathmandu transfer in a tourist vehicle
    •  Besisahar to Chame and Muktinath to Pokhara transfer in a local Jeep/Bus
    • 8x nights of best available tea house accommodations on a double/triple sharing basis
    • 1x nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara on a double-sharing basis in a B&B plan
    • 3 meals per day (choice from the menu)
    • 3 hot drinks per day 
    • Fresh fruits as dessert during the trek
    • Local guide, English speaking, WFR trained
    • Food, accommodations, daily wages, insurance for the guide and porters
    • TIMS, Permits, and Entrance for Langtang Region Trekking
    • Duffel bag, t-shirt, trip completion certificate, and a trip as souvenirs
    • #CarryMeBag for responsible waste collection throughout the trek
    • First aid kit with emergency medicines
    • Portable oxygen bottle for emergency (30 USD/bottle if used)
    • Daily personal health assessment by your guide
    • All the company service charges and government taxes
    What's not Included
    • International flights to Kathmandu
    • Nepalese visa fare and application charge, if required
    • Extra days in the mountains due to weather issues, flight cancellations, early arrivals, late departures, and personal health issues
    • Travel insurance for Nepal
    • Personal trekking gear and equipment
    • Porter service (150 USD for 7 days and weight limit = 10-12kg per trekker)
    • Personal expenses like soft/hard drinks, mineral water, hot water, snacks, laundry, internet, electricity, and telephone bills
    • Credit/Debit card processing fees (3.5%), if you use it while making the trip payment
    • Tipping your guides, porters, and drivers (expected)
    • Anything which are not mentioned in the above inclusive section
    Availability
    Select a Departure Month
    Private Trip
    From Sep 09, 2025
    To Sep 08, 2025
    StatusAvailable
    PriceUS$0
    From Sep 18, 2025
    To Sep 17, 2025
    StatusAvailable
    PriceUS$0
    From Sep 23, 2025
    To Sep 22, 2025
    StatusAvailable
    PriceUS$0
    Good to Know

    You now fully know the highlights, ideal season, and permits needed for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. But have you wondered what you will be facing on the upcoming trek? Whether you would be able to do the trek or not, and what kind of preparation you need to do.

    What to Expect during the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

    The Annapurna Circuit is a beautiful trek that takes you through amazing nature and local culture. You’ll walk through green valleys, dry mountain areas, and small villages where people still follow old traditions. It’s a journey full of changing views and interesting experiences.

    • Rocky trails and pine forests near Pisang
    • Walk through windy, high mountain areas after crossing the Thorong La Pass
    • Visiting cultural towns like Marpha, Kagbeni, and Muktinath, each with its own unique charm

    Challenges You May Face 

    This trek is physically demanding and requires preparation as you’ll be walking for many hours each day, climb steep sections, and deal with changing weather at high altitude. Staying fit and adjusting slowly is important.

    • Long trekking hours, close to 8 hours of daily walking
    • Steep ascents and descents near Thorong La Pass
    • High altitude with elevation reaching over 5,400 meters
    • Cold temperatures during nighttime 

    Recommednation Read:
    How to prepare for high altitude treks in Nepal?

    Acclimatization: Precautions & Medicines

    Getting used to the high altitude is important to staying healthy and enjoying the trek. Taking rest, drinking water, and knowing the signs of altitude sickness can make a big difference.

    • Take rest days at key altitude points
    • Make sure you are hydrated and avoid alcohol 
    • Use Diamox if recommended by a doctor
    • Watch for symptoms like headache or nausea

    Who This Trek is For

    The Annapurna Circuit Trek is perfect for people who want to explore the beautiful nature and experience local culture in the Annapurna region. 

    • Trekkers with moderate fitness
    • First-time high-altitude hikers willing to push themselves
    • People who enjoy both nature and local culture
    • Those comfortable with simple teahouse stays

    How to Be Prepared For Annapurna Circuit Trek

    Being fit before your trek makes a big difference. Cardio workouts and hiking practice help your body handle the long days and rough paths. Starting your training a few weeks early gives your body time to get used to the effort.

    • Do jogging or fast walking regularly.
    • Start your preparation three to four weeks early before departure
    • Hike for 2-3 hours with a backpack on your off days

    Annapurna Circuit Trek Map 

    The Annapurna Circuit Trek follows a clockwise route starting from Dharapani and ending in Jomsom or Tatopani. You will have the options to extend the trek to Pokhara via Ghorepani as well. The trek circles the Annapurna range, and passes through districts like Manang and Mustang. You will be corssing the Thorong La Pass at the top of the trail.

    • Major waypoints (Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, Muktinath, Jomsom)
    • Elevation gains and resting villages
    • Side trips to Tilicho Lake or Ghorepani/Poon Hill
    • Emergency exit routes and road access points

    Packing and Prepping for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

    Bringing the right gear makes your trek safer and more comfortable. Here’s what you should prepare for your trek.

    Clothing

    • Thermal shirts and pants
    • Warm fleece or down jackets
    • Waterproof and windproof outer layers
    • Comfortable trekking pants and shirts
    • Gloves, hats, and warm socks for cold nights

    Footwear

    • Trekking boots with a good grip
    • Comfortable trekking socks (preferably wool or synthetic)
    • Gaiters (optional, for snow or mud protection)

    Gear

    • Trekking poles for knee support
    • Sunglasses with UV protection
    • Water purification tablets or a filter
    • Daypack for carrying your important stuff during the day
    • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries

    Health Supplies

    • Medicine for altitude sickness (like Diamox)
    • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, wet wipes, hand sanitizer)
    • Blister treatment supplies
    • Sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF rating

    Health, Safety & Insurance Tips

    Staying safe and healthy is important for a great trekking experience. So make sure you are not over exerting and always be look out for signs of sickness or any other problem.

    • Be on the lookout for signs of Acute Mountain Sickness
    • Our guides know basic first aid and altitude care
    • Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover high-altitude in case you need an emergency helicopter rescue
    • Stay in touch using a satellite phone or a local SIM (coverage may vary)

    Book with Abound Holidays 

    At Abound Holidays, we have years of experience in organizing these kinds of treks. We are here to provide the support and expert guidance that you need to explore the Annapurna Circuit Trek safely. Whether you trek as an individual or in a group, our group of skilled guides will be there to guide you.

    • Personalized trekking routes guided by experts
    • A chance to experience local culture and amazing scenery
    • Focus on safety, especially in the high mountains
    Reach out to Abound Holidays and begin your Annapurna trekking story.

    Annapurna Circuit Trek - 10 Days FAQs

    • Yes, you will find mobile signal in most of the lower parts of the trek. Towns and villages like Besisahar and Manang usually have good reception. Once you go higher, especially in places like Thorong Phedi, the signal can be weak or may not work at all. Many trekkers use a local SIM card such as Ncell or Nepal Telecom for better coverage. Still, it is best to tell your family and friends that you may be offline in the higher parts.

    • Yes, many first time trekkers complete the Annapurna Circuit. The most important thing is to be physically fit and ready for long walking days, changing altitudes, and simple accommodation. Walking at a steady pace, taking rest days, and drinking enough water will help you adjust. Having a guide and a porter can also make the trek easier and safer.

    • There is no strict age limit. I have met trekkers in their teens and also those in their seventies on this route. Most people who do the trek are between 20 and 50 years old, but anyone who is healthy, prepared, and cleared by a doctor can join. If you are younger or older, it is important to train before the trek and plan for enough rest.

    • Yes, most teahouses have charging stations for a small fee, usually 1 to 3 US dollars per device. In higher villages, the electricity often comes from solar power, so charging can be slow or limited. It is smart to carry a power bank and an extra charging cable in case you cannot find a working outlet.

    • You need travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitude above 4000 meters and includes helicopter rescue in emergencies. Many normal travel insurance plans do not cover this, so you must check with your provider before buying. It is also good to have coverage for trip cancellations, lost baggage, and medical treatment.

    • Yes, many women travel alone and complete this trek without problems. Local people are friendly and respectful, and you will meet many other trekkers on the route. To be extra safe, hire a licensed guide, book through a trusted trekking agency, and avoid walking alone at night. Staying in well known teahouses is also a good idea.

    • Yes, you can easily find trekking gear in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. Many shops rent and sell jackets, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and boots at reasonable prices. The quality can vary, so it is worth checking the condition before renting. Renting is a good option if you want to travel light or avoid buying gear you may use only once.

    • Yes, tipping is common and appreciated. For guides, 5 to 10 US dollars per day is a fair amount. For porters, 3 to 6 US dollars per day is standard. It is best to give tips at the end of the trek, in Nepalese rupees.

    If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

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