About Annapurna Circuit Trek - Manang to Thorung La Trek 2024-2025

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the famous dwellings in the sophisticated Annapurna region that gives a whole new essence to the Annapurna Range. Himalayan Asia Treks Expedition P Ltd designs the Annapurna Circuit Trek 16-days package to take you to the Annapurna region's significant landmarks like Muktinath Temple Thorung La Pass. Moreover, the trekking experience in the Annapurna Circuit Trek provides you with a stunning vista of mountains. The finishing point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the starting point of the Upper Mustang Trek is Jomsom, so most trekkers are planning to trek in Upper Mustang after Annapurna Circuit Trek.

It provides a fantastic opportunity to know about the lifestyle of the Gurung people and the semi-Hindus and Buddhists at the Muktinath Temple. The magnificently decorated trail with prayer flags and small monasteries highlights the embodiment of culture and religion. Passing by the gompas and searching for meaning in the cultures and traditions is what Annapurna Circuit Trek aspires to provide. The highest-altitude lake, Tilicho, is another highlight of the trek. Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is another incredible trek that allows you to enjoy the mountain vistas in the Annapurna Region with a visit to Tilicho Lake as an extravaganza.

You are starting the 13-day Annapurna Trek with arrival in the Kathmandu valley and heading to Bhulbule. The spiral road goes along the Annapurna Conservation Area and takes you to Chamje. Spending some time with the locals in Bagarchhap and admiring the beautiful Himalayan vistas is a great way to start the gorgeous trek. Next, the Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you through Manang, where you'll see the Gangapurna Lake and ancient gompas—battling the strong winds making your way to Phedi via the High Camp and slowly descending to the holy Muktinath Temple by crossing the Thorong La Pass.

The best part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the views from Thorong La Pass, comprising magnificent views of the Annapurna range and Dhaulagiri. You can then navigate to Jomsom and head to Tatopani, where you can relax in its hot waters. The Annapurna Circuit Trekking ends when you fly to Pokhara. A pleasant trek to the mountains is well-adored by the delightful trekking buddies. And Himalayan Asia Treks and Expedition P Ltd is the best place to have everything you need on a blissful hike.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty | How to prepare for the next Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Trekking through the Annapurna Region demands your involvement in crossing dangerous passes and walking through landslide-prone areas. If the trails become slippery, it becomes way too hard to have a proper grip, and there can be some accidents. Moreover, you need to walk around 6-7 hours every day, requiring a lot of stamina to withstand the sheer pressure of trekking. Being in the best shape possible, both mentally and physically, is the only way to have real fun on the trek with a minimum chance of difficulty. All in all, Annapurna Circuit Trek is a moderate-level trek, and you can complete it with total ease if you prepare yourself well for the trip.

So, how to prepare for your next Annapurna Circuit Trek. Like every other trek, the methods to follow are similar. Preparing for a hike in the Himalayas makes you in the best shape possible. You can try the following steps so that your next trek becomes a beautiful memory for a lifetime.

Practice walking daily both uphill and downhill

  • Do breathing exercise
  • Try cardiovascular training and legs workout
  • Have balanced diet
  • Try Cycling, Swimming, or Jogging

Furthermore, the Annapurna Circuit Trek distance is around 160-230 kilometers. The total length of the route varies from where the motor transportation is used. How many kilometers are covered each day depends on the Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary mentioned in the Annapurna Circuit Trek Route Map.

The starting elevation of the trip is 2,493 feet, whereas the highest peak you find yourself in is 17,769 feet at Thorong La Pass. While elevating to a higher altitude, you can get altitude sickness. That’s why you need to research it and take preventive measures beforehand.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost | Can we trek Annapurna Circuit Trek solo?

Annapurna Region is indeed one of the most prevalent naturally enthralling places. The cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on accommodation, transportation, trekking permits, porter charges, and many more. Also, it depends on the trekking agency under which your trek is going on. Himalayan Asia Trek provides many trekking packages in the Annapurna Area. The 13 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek costs around $1300, providing you with the best there is to see about the gorgeous Annapurna.

It is possible to go on an Annapurna Circuit Trek solo, but it is generally not advised to go alone. You need to trek for 13-14 days, and you need other trek members with you. At an emergency or physical problem, the other trek buddies can support you in an emergency or physical crisis. You also have mental support. It’s an amazingly unique experience if you go solo, but the consequences can be uncanny. Upper Mustang Trek is banned for solo trekking, but Annapurna Circuit Trek has no bans. However, you should not go on a solo Annapurna Trek.

Best Time to go on Annapurna Circuit Trek

The best time to go on Annapurna Circuit Trek is from spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December). You will have a golden chance to experience the most breathtaking views of the mountains with no obstruction. The clear sky with bright weather adds joy to the trip. There are no challenging conditions as in winter when heavy rainfall and extreme cold make it tough to hike. The trekking trail becomes slippery during monsoon, making it dangerous to walk on. There can be chances of accidents and sudden mishaps.

However, if you want to trek to Annapurna Region during winter, you should avoid going to Thorung La Pass. It is because, in winter, the trail you take to reach Thorung La Pass is way too harsh and almost inaccessible.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Accommodation

The best trekking experience demands an uphill walk through the trails with a sense of natural supremacy in the top tier. After a strenuous hike, all you need is a well-rest to recover and prepare for an even more fantastic journey ahead.

On Annapurna Circuit Trek, the accommodation facility is excellent. You will spend the night in a lodge or teahouse. Rooms will be on twin-sharing terms with furniture and little space. Clean bathrooms with clean floors will also be on sharing basis. However, in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you stay in a three-star hotel where you will get bigger rooms with private washrooms. A night of sleep in a lodge during the trekking trail is different from a three-star hotel.

The cost of accommodation will be included in the trek cost. However, the meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara won’t be included. You have to pay for it separately. Also, the bar bills will be on you during the trekking route.

Annapurna Circuit Trek vs. Everest Base Camp Trek

Being two of the most loved treks in Nepal, EBC Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek are looked at as each other's successors. However, there are some slight differences between the treks in Nepal. Everest Base Camp Trek 14 Days is a long and more physically demanding route than Annapurna Circuit. If you are fully aware of your physicality and experience regarding trekking, Everest Base Camp Trek is an ideal choice. On the contrary, if you are unsure about completing a hard trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek can be a perfect choice as it possesses fewer challenges than ABC.

Annapurna Circuit Trek vs. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Regarding some differences between the two treks in the Annapurna Region, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and Annapurna Base Camp Trek have slight differences regarding the highest altitude reached and itinerary. Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you onto Thorung La Pass at 5,416 m. Meanwhile, during Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you only get the maximum altitude of 4,100m. There is a difference of around 1,300 m (4000 feet) in total between the two hikes.

As already mentioned, Annapurna Base Camp is one of the most sought-after trekking regions in Nepal. Being a famous trekking region, ABC has several trekking packages favorable for travelers of all age groups and vacation time. Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most famous treks in the Annapurna region that is magnificent in different aspects. From natural beauty to incredibly magical wildlife, everything about Annapurna is virtuous. Book your next trip to the Annapurna with Himalayan Asia Treks, and never miss the ultimate fun and peace of living in nature.

Highlights

  • Adventurous trail.
  • Cross-challenging Thorong La Pass.
  • Beautiful Manang Village.
  • Visit Muktinath temple.
  • See stunning landscape views from Manang to Jomsom.
  • Experience the rich culture and traditions of the locals.
  • Get to see panoramic views of mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Macchapucchre, and Manasalu.

Day to Day Itinerary

Himalayan Asia Treks staff welcomes in airport and transfer to on your selected hotel. After reaching hotel, we introduce your staff and shortly brief about Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel.
  • Location: Kathmandu.
  • Altitude: 1350m.

After taking breakfast, we will introduce your local Trekking guide for Annapurna Circuit Trek. You can discuss with your guide about needed information and you can hire or rent your trekking gear if you needed with discussing your guide. After finishing discussion with guide, we will manage Kathmandu City Tour like Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhnath Stupa. 
Overnight in Kathmandu.  

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel
  • Location: Kathmandu.

After taking breakfast, your guide picks up from your hotel and drive to Besisahar. It will take 6 hours to reach Besisahar . On the way, we will drive the bank of Trishuli River and Marshyangdi River with small greenery mountain.

Overnight in Bhulbhule.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea house.
  • Location: Bhulbhule.
  • Altitude: 840m.

Today is the first day of Annapurna Circuit Trek . After taking breakfast in Bhulbhule , we will start our trek to Jagat. The trail passes  such villages Bahundanda , Ghermuphant . Our trail offer beautiful scenery and amazing waterfalls, forests and farming fields with following Marshyangdi River. 
Overnight in Jagat. 

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea house.
  • Location: Jagat.
  • Altitude: 1300m.

Breakfast in Dharapani, our trail follows towards Dharapani. The trail follows many waterfalls, suspension bridge and beautiful village Tal . Today aso , we will through Marshyangdi River . 
Overnight in Dharapani.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea house.
  • Location: Dharapani.
  • Altitude: 1960m.

The day begins with walking following Marshyangdi River through the forest. Today we can see the amazing view of Manaslu and Annapurna range. 
Overnight in Chame. 

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea house.
  • Location: Chame.
  • Altitude: 2710m

After breakfast in Chame, the trail follows towards Upper Pisangwith crossing a bridge over the Marshyangdi River. The trail passes along the narrow Marshyangdi river, valley with forests of Hemlock and Pine trees and beautiful meadows. After reaching lower Pisang, we will climb upper Pisang.

Overnight in Pisang.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea house.
  • Location: Yak Kharka.
  • Altitude: 4350m.

Today, we will wake up early to view amazing sunrise view. The first ray of sun shines in Annapurna II is amazing. Today our destination is Manang through the beautiful hills, lush jungle, wetlands, beautiful stupa, Lama School through Barga village. Barga is one of the big village with sacred 900 years old monastery. After Barga village , we reach Manang.

Overnight in Manang.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea house.
  • Location: Thorung Phedi.
  • Altitude: 4530m.

Today is the first day of acclimatized day of Annapurna Circuit Trek to adjust your body with the thin air and higher altitudes. We will not take rest all days but we explore around Manang like Gangapurna Glacier Lake, Tilicho Lake, Milarepa Cave.

Overnight in Manang. 

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea house.
  • Location: Muktinath.
  • Altitude: 3850m.

After breakfast in Manang, we will follow the route of Yak Kharka. The meaning of Kharka means we will pass Tenki and passes Marshyangdi Valley and continuing along with Jarsang Khola valley. In here, you can see lots of Yak with meadows.

Overnight in Yak Kharka.

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge / Tea house.
  • Location: Jomsom.
  • Altitude: 2665m.

At breakfast in Yak Kharka , we will trk towards Thorung Phedi. You will come to see many majestic picks and mountains of Annapurna Himalayan range like the Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, Thorung peak, Chulu, Tilcho peak and many more.

Overnight in Thorung Phedi. 

  • Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge/ Tea House.
  • Location: Pokhara.

Today is on f the most important and little difficult day among Annapurna Circuit Trek. We start early morning to pass Thorung La Pass (5416m) which is one of the famous place in this trail. We will reach at Thorung La pass as soon as possible because there strong wind and can see the Chortens and prayer flags dancing with wind. From the top of pass, you can see the magnificent views of snow capped mountain. After passing, the trail descends towards the holy places Muktinath.

Overnight in Muktinath. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Lodge/ Tea House.
  • Location: Muktinath.
  • Altitude: 3850m.

Today is last day of Annapurna Circuit Trek. At morning, we visit Muktinath Temple a sacred places for Hindu and Buddhist followers. In Muktinath , there are 108 water sprouts around the temple and believe that after taking bath in there , people can relief from pain and sorrow. The trail descends towards Kagbeni which is entry point of Upper Mustang Trek also. After Kagbeni , we follow the bank of Kaligandaki River till Jomsom.
Overnight in Jomsom. 

  • Meals: Breakfast.Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge/ Tea House.
  • Location: Jomsom
  • Altitude: 2665m

After taking breakfast in hotel in Jomsom, we will take  flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. After reaching in Pokhara , you take rest and if you can explore Pokhara also. At evening time, you can walk around Fewa Lake and boating and explore some Pubs also. 
Overnight in Pokhara. 

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel.
  • Location: Pokhara

After breakfast, we will take bus/car then drive to Kathmandu. It will take 6-7 hours to reach Kathmandu. After reaching in Kathmandu, you have leisure time and evening , we will go local restaurant for dinner with cultural program.
Overnight in Kathmandu. 

  • Meals: B, D
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel.
  • Location: Kathmsndu

After breakfast, Himalayan Asia Treks staff transfers to airport according to your flight schedule with keeping memories of Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Location: Kathmandu

What's Included

  • Accommodation on BB basis in Kathmandu and Pokhara in Three star hotel.
  • Ground transportation (Airport pick up and drop, sightseeing and Kathmandu-Besisahar by Bus & Besisahar to Bhulbhule by sharing jeep and Jomsom-Pokhara by plane and Pokhara-Kathmandu by Tourist Coach ).
  • Entrance fees in entrance fees in Kathmandu and Pokhara sightseeing place.
  • Three times meals at trekking route.
  • Accommodation in Tea house or lodge in trekking route.
  • Government licensed English speaking guide.
  • Porter (one porter for two person and carry 20 kg).
  • All necessary paper work like Permit and TIMS card (Trekkers information management system).
  • Travel and rescue arrangement.
  • Twenty four call assistance by our office representative.
  • Farewell dinner in typical Nepali restaurant.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Any type of insurance.
  • Any type of international flight fare.
  • Personal nature expenses like bar bills, water, tea coffee, shower, laundry, wi fi in trekking route.
  • Tips.
  • Any extra cost which is not mentioned in Cost includes column.
  • Extra day for natural calamities like flood, landslide, flight cancellation.

Useful Information

Useful Information Annapurna Circuit Trek

How long is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The total length of the Annapurna Circuit Trek varies depending on the specific route and side trips taken. Generally, it covers a distance of around 160-230 kilometers (100-145 miles). The trek takes about 15-20 days to complete.

What is the best time to go on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The best time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. However, the trek can also be done in other seasons, but be prepared for different weather conditions.

Do I need a permit for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Yes, permits are required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.

What is the difficulty level of the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It involves walking for long hours each day, crossing high-altitude passes, and dealing with steep ascents and descents. Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.

What are the highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a variety of highlights, including panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters/17,769 feet), exploring traditional villages like Manang and Muktinath, and experiencing the unique culture and hospitality of the local people.

Where do I start and end the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The typical starting point for the Annapurna Circuit Trek is Besisahar, which is accessible by road from Kathmandu. The trek ends at Nayapul or Jomsom, depending on the route taken. From there, you can either drive or fly back to Pokhara or Kathmandu.

What is the accommodation like during the trek?

Along the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will find tea houses and lodges in most villages. These provide basic accommodation with private or shared rooms, communal dining areas, and common toilets. The facilities become more basic as you gain altitude, and you may need to bring your sleeping bag.

Is it necessary to hire a guide and porter?

Hiring a guide and porter is not mandatory, but it can enhance your trekking experience. A guide can provide valuable insights into the local culture, navigate the trail, and assist with any unforeseen situations. A porter can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek with less weight and enjoy the journey.

What permits and documents should I carry during the trek?

It is essential to carry your passport, along with the necessary permits (ACAP and TIMS card), throughout the trek. Make sure to keep them safe and easily accessible. Additionally, carry some passport-sized photos for the permits and extra photocopies of your passport for other administrative purposes.

What are the possible side trips or variations of the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

There are several side trips and variations you can add to the Annapurna Circuit Trek, depending on your time and interest. Some popular options include visiting Tilicho Lake, ascending to the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), exploring the Upper Mustang region, or opting for the shorter Annapurna Panorama Trek.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Packing list :

  • Day pack (rucksack)
  • Lightweight and warm trousers.
  • Socks.
  • Sun hats and gloves.
  • Full- sleeves t-shirt.
  • Warm jackets.
  • Waterproof jacket, trousers and bag cover.
  • Lightweight cotton clothing.
  • Waterproof or windcheater jacket.
  • Knee supports.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Sun cream and lip protector.
  • A one-liter hard Water bottle.
  • Batteries
  • Flashlight
  • Down jacket
  • Trekking shoes or boots.
  • A pair of sandals.