Annapurna Circuit Trek

18 days, Kathmandu to Kathmandu

Group taking in the scenic views from the hike.
Map of the route for Annapurna Circuit Trek
Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Itinerary

Day 1Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu at any time. Attend the group welcome meeting today and enjoy a brief orientation walk around Thamel.

Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Kathmandu Orientation Walk
Kathmandu1h

Get a taste of this lively capital city, which is fascinating at every turn.

Accommodation

Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

Kantipur Village (or similar)
Hotel

Day 2Kathmandu/Besisahar

Travel through scenic landscapes, picturesque countryside, and small towns along the way to Besi Sahar. The group will stop for lunch along the way. After lunch, the group will continue on to Besi Sahar. Join you CEO for an orientation walk in the town before a free evening.

Private Vehicle
Kathmandu – Besi Shahar6h-7h167km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Orientation With CEO
30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Free Time
Besisahar

Spend the evening free in Besi Sahar.

Accommodation

Hotel Mount Kailash (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 3Besisahar/Chame

Drive along winding, narrow roads to Chame. After some time for lunch, take a short walk to the Chame Monastery and after walking back, enjoy a free afternoon to rest up or explore before the trekking begins tomorrow.

4x4
Besi Shahar – Chame4h-5h66km

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Chame Monastery
Chame

Visit this historic monastery, a peaceful place setting before the trekking begins.

Free Time
Chame

Spend the evening free in Chame to explore or rest before tomorrow.

Accommodation

Marshyangdi Mandala (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 4Chame/Pisang

Begin 13 days of challenging trekking in one of the highest mountain ranges on Earth. Experience stunning Alpine pastures, forests of rhododendron, temples, rural villages and local people, waterfalls, glaciers, and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery known to man. Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300m,10,827ft). Leave the village of Chame behind, walk out past the prayer wheels and cross wide rivers and pine forests on the way to Pisang. As you hike, enjoy stunning scenery, narrow canyons, and valleys with Annapurna Range as the backdrop. Have lunch in the small, beautiful village of Dhukur Pokhari. Arrive in Pisang.

For almost 2 weeks, we immerse ourselves into the spectacular mountain wilderness of the Annapurna Range. At 8,091m (26,545ft) Annapurna 1 is one of the highest mountains in the world. Its surrounding sister mountains are equally imposing, creating magnificent panoramas from any view point. Throughout the trek we come across isolated mountain communities, each observing different ancestral customs and traditions, resulting in not only a visually superb expedition but also a culturally rich one. Amid the rugged mountain scenery, we meet warm and welcoming locals herding yaks and goats on grassy pastures, and visit their monasteries and temples. Along the way, we see waterfalls of melted snow, cross icy rivers, broad plains, and high mountain passes and reward ourselves with a soak in natural hot springs (you've earned this!). The trekking is challenging, averaging 6-7 hrs a day, often at high altitudes. The highest point we reach, occurring on Day 9, is the 5,416m (17,769ft) Thorung Pass.

Given the dangers of altitude sickness, it is imperative that we take at least 3 days to ascend to this height. A couple of days are also allowed for rest and acclimatisation.

Details for the trek are as follows. Please note however that the exact itinerary can vary due to unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions or bandhs (strikes) called by the government

Annapurna Circuit Trek Chame to Pisang
Chame – Pisang6h-7h 16km

Leave the village of Chame behind, walk out past the prayer wheels and cross wide rivers and pine forests on the way to Pisang. Today, the trail is moderately challenging with several uphill and downhill stretches, but the group will be rewarded with the stunning scenery of waterfalls, narrow canyons, and valleys with Annapurna Range as the backdrop. Today our lunch spot will be the small, beautiful village of Dhikur Pokhari. Upon reaching Pisang, take a short hike to Upper Pisang village.

Trekking distance 16km. Trek Time 6-7 hours. Elevation gain - 630m.
Terrain: Mix of rocky trails, forested areas, and open fields.

Accommodation

New Tibetan Lodge (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 5Pisang/Ngawal

Trek from Pisang to Ngawal (3,680m, 12,073ft). Today, enjoy stunning views of Annapurna Range, pass through the village of Ghyaru, with its magnificent viewpoints. Then, continue towards Ngawal village.

Annapurna Circuit Trek from Pisang to Ngawal
Pisang – Ngawal

Cross the Marsyandi River on the way out to Ngawal. Leave Pisang behind, head out west, passing several small villages and fascinating Buddhist monasteries before arriving at Ngawal, known for its traditional Tibetan culture. Stop in Ngawal overnight.

Trekking Distance 9km. Trek time 4-5 hours. Elevation gain - 480m.
Terrain: Initial part is flat along the banks of Marshyangdi river, later it is dusty and rocky terrain as the trail climbs up through dense pine and juniper forest.

Accommodation

Tibet Guest House and Restaurant (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 6Ngawal/Manang

Trek from Ngawal to Manang (3,540m, 11,614ft). Today, enjoy stunning views of Annapurna Range, pass through the village of Bhraka, with its ancient monastery from the 8th Century. Then, continue towards Manang village, passing through fields of barley and buckwheat and by Gangapurna Lake sitting at 3550m.

Annapurna Circuit Trek from Ngawal to Manang
Ngawal – Manang4h-5h 9km

Continue the trek from Ngawal to Manang (3,540m or 11,614 ft). Admire the breathtaking views of the Annapurna Mountain range along the way through fields of barley and buckwheat.

Trekking Distance 12km. Trek time 5.5-5.6 hours. Elevation loss - 140m.
Terrain: Dusty and rocky terrain as the trail climbs up through dense pine and juniper forest.

Accommodation

Mountain Lake Lodge (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 7Manang

Enjoy an acclimatization day in Manang. Set off on a short excursion hike to Choser View Point at 3700m. Have lunch in Manang and explore the village before hiking to a Stupa located in the hills outside of Manang.

Manang Acclimatization Day
Manang 3-4km

The dramatic setting of Manang makes for a pleasant rest and acclimatization day with the added benefit of hot showers. The best way to acclimatize is to do some high climbing then return to the lower altitude of Manang for sleeping.

Accommodation

Mountain Lake Lodge (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 8Manang/Yak Kharka

Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,018m, 13,182ft). Today, is a relatively short walking day with only 9kms in distance covered. Trek slowly and climb higher as the trail passes through a sparse forest of juniper and scrub. After lunch in Yak Kharka, complete an acclimatization hike in the surrounding area.

Annapurna Circuit Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
Manang – Yak Kharka6h-7h 9km

Trek through Manang, where the altitude continues to rise as the route snakes through the mountains and up to Yak Kharka. Today, is a relatively short walking day with only 9kms in distance covered. Trek slowly and climb higher, feeling the temperature drop significantly as there is a decrease in oxygen levels. The trail passes through a sparse forest of juniper and scrub. Yak Kharka is a very small settlement with a handful of teahouses. After lunch in Yak Kharka, complete an acclimatization hike in the surrounding area for another hour or two.

Trekking distance 9km. Trek time 6-7 hours. Elevation gain - 478m
Terrain: Mostly uphill, rocky trails, and steep ascents, landscape becomes barren,
possibility of snow.

Accommodation

Hotel Gangapurna (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 9Yak Kharka/Thorong Phedi

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m, 14,600ft). Enjoy a short, but challenging hike today from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi. Begin with a gradual ascent through the alpine landscape and pass through pastures of grazing yak, small chortens, and streams en route.

Annapurna Circuit Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Yak Kharka – Thorong Phedi4h-5h 6-7km

Trek from Yak Kharka via pastures of grazing yak, small chortens, and streams before arriving at Thorong Phedi. The hiking time will be shortened today as the group continues to trek into higher altitudes. Begin with a gradual ascent through the alpine landscape. The final stretch of the trek is quite challenging.

Trekking distance 6-7 km. Trek time 4-5 hours. Elevation gain - 432m
Terrain: Barren landscape, rocky and rugged with scattered vegetation, possibility of
snow during winters.

Accommodation

New Phedi Lodge (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 10Thorong Phedi/Muktināth

Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m, 12,467ft). Today the group will reach the highest point of the trek. This is the toughest uphill walking day. Keep a slow steady pace and enjoy the views while hiking. After reaching the top of Thorong La Pass (5416m) the group will follow the trail as it descends steeply for several kilometers to Muktinath – an important pilgrimage site for both Hindu’s and Buddhists.

Annapurna Circuit Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktināth
Thorong Phedi – Muktināth10h-11h 18km

Today is the “THE DAY” of our Annapurna Circuit Trek. Begin around 3AM or 4AM with a steep climb up to Thorong La Pass (5416m) – the highest point of the trekking route. We begin the day early in order to avoid the strong wind at Thorong La and to enjoy the majestic and panoramic views of the mighty Annapurna Ranges at the top. Hiking this early requires a headlamp or torch to light the way. After reaching the top, the trail descends steeply for several kilometers to Muktinath – an important pilgrimage site for both Hindu’s and Buddhists.

Trek Distance 18km. Trekking time 10-11 hours. Elevation gain - 966m
Terrain: Mostly rocky with steep drops on one side, and rugged cliffs on the other, narrow
path and possibility of snow.

Accommodation

Eurika Guesthouse (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 11Muktināth/Narchyang

Trek for 500m, then take local transport from Muktinath to Narchyang, losing 2400m in elevation. Stop in Marpha Village to stretch your legs and an optional lunch before continuing to Narchyang, once used to be the gate for North Annapurna Base Camp Trekking route. But with the Annapurna Base Camp being shifted to south, the village has remained isolated and devoid of tourism for a long time. In order to boost the amount of visitors to the region, the community has recently been active through Narchyang Community Homestay and started welcoming trekkers to their homes. The community is mostly of Magar Culture and are known for their innocence, simplistic ways of life, and bravery. Upon arrival, trek to the Narchyang Waterfall and enjoy the rest of the day free.

Local transport from Muktinath to Narchyang
Muktināth – Narchyang6h-7h 118km

Trek for 500m then drive from Muktinath to Narchyang in local transportation. The drive time is about 6 hours and a total of 120km. Some parts of the road are black topped while some are still bumpy, mountainous roads.The route passes through the Kaligandaki Gorge, which is the one of the deepest gorges in the world. Along the way, witness the dramatic changes in landscape of the Kaligandaki River and several picturesque villages.

Trekking Distance: 2-3km, 1.5 hours
Terrain: Varied Terrain, some sandy and some rocky trails, leading to Narchyang Waterfall.

Your Local Living Moment: Narchyang Community Homestay

Set in the lower village, the Narchyang homestay offers a glimpse into traditional village life. Learn about the Magar culture and the Magar Kura language from your hosts and embrace this unique opportunity to live like a local. Get to know your hosts more over dinner as you enjoy a homemade meal of Nepali Dhido Set - typical cuisine for the area. Set in the lower village, the homestay provides the perfect starting point for exploring. Hike to the upper village for spectacular mountain views.

Accommodation

Narchyang Community Homestay (or similar)
Homestay

Meals included:

Dinner

Day 12Narchyang

Spend the day in Narchyang. Trek to Upper Narchyang (2,140m or 7,020 ft) and get a taste of their way of life on a village tour. After trekking back down, it's time for some rest and relaxation at the local hot spring.

Trek to Upper Narchyang, Village Walk & Hot Spring Visit
Narchyang

On this acclimatization day, trek through the terraced mountainside to Upper Narchyang (2,140m, 7,020ft). Join your CEO for a tour of the local village for a chance to connect with the community. Hike back down for time to rest before visiting the local hot spring for some much deserved relaxation.

Trekking Distance: 6-7km, 4.5 hours

Your Local Living Moment: Narchyang Community Homestay

Set in the lower village, the Narchyang homestay offers a glimpse into traditional village life. Learn about the Magar culture and the Magar Kura language from your hosts and embrace this unique opportunity to live like a local. Get to know your hosts more over dinner as you enjoy a homemade meal of Nepali Dhido Set - typical cuisine for the area. Set in the lower village, the homestay provides the perfect starting point for exploring. Hike to the upper village for spectacular mountain views.

Accommodation

Narchyang Community Homestay (or similar)
Homestay

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 13Narchyang/Sikha

Today the group will ascend once again on the trek. Walk through the forests and terraced fields, and climb uphill admiring the stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli along the route. Reach a mesmerizing view of ascending levels of teahouses and lodges with the mountains surrounding. Today's hike will be 4-5 hours.

Annapurna Circuit Trek from Narchyang to Sikha
Narchyang – Sikha4h-5h 11km

Walking through the beautiful rhododendron (seasonal) forests and terraced fields and trek uphill admiring the stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

Trekking Distance 11 Kms. Trekking Duration. 4-5 hours. Elevation gain 515m.
Terrain: Mix of rocky trails, dense forest, occasional streams and terraced farmlands.

Accommodation

See You Lodge (or similar)
Teahouse

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 14Sikha/Ghorepani

Today trek from Sikha to Ghorepani (2,860m, 9,137ft). The route is seeped in history and the views of Machhupuchare and the Himalayas from Ghorepani are absolutely unmatched on a clear day. View local villages, teahouses, and settlements along the uphill route.

Annapurna Circuit Trek from Sikha to Ghorepani
Sikha – Ghorepani4h-5h 8km

From Sikha, take a route seeped in history all the way to Ghorepani; myths and stories of the origins of the indigenous people of the Annapurna region abound. The views of Machhupuchare and the Himalayas from Ghorepani are absolutely spectacular on a clear day. The trek while relatively short, is a very steep climb through the forest offering beautiful views of the mountains and valley below.

Trekking Distance 8km. Trekking Duration 4-5 hours. Elevation gain - 945m.
Terrain: Terraced fields, uphill ascents through the rhododendron and oak forests.

Accommodation

See You Lodge (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 15Ghorepani/Ramghai

Enjoy an early morning excursion to Poon Hill for sunrise. Then venture through Ghorepani to Ramghai, enjoying spectacular views of the Annapurna range along the way. Cross through forests, streams, and bridges to reach the final destination, Ramghai.

Poon Hill Excursion
Ghorepani – Poon Hill3h 4km

Take in the incredible mountain scenery that lines the route from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210m). Enjoy the views across rhododendron forests and of spectacularly coloured birds during the trek. Arrive at Poon Hill to enjoy some of Nepal's best vistas.

Walking distance : 4kms
Time: 3 hours
Elevation gain: 350m
Terrain: mostly rocky terrain with mixed forested areas.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Day from Ghorepani to Ramghai
Ghorepani – Ramghai6h-7h 15km

Trek from Ghorepani to Ramghai. The views from the trek are absolutely stunning and are known to be among the best in the area. The trail starts with a steep uphill climb through the rhododendron forest. After breakfast at the top, the group will begin the down hill walk all the way to Ramghai. This is the last day of the trek. Enjoy a final day in the mountains with the team of our guides and porters, thanking them for their effort in endlessly supporting our trek and making it successful.

Trekking Distance 15km. Trekking Duration 6-7 hours. Elevation loss - 1525m.
Terrain: Mostly downhill, through rhododendron forests and farmlands.

Accommodation

Ever Green Lodge (or similar)
Teahouse

Day 16Ramghai/Pokhara

Take a short hike from Ramghai to Birethanti where our bus will be waiting to take us to Pokhara. Rest and take a well-deserved shower in this lakeside resort town.

Hike from Ramghai to Birethanti
Ramghai – Birethanti

Complete the final leg of your trek with a 1-hour hike to Birethanti where the bus awaits.

Private Vehicle
Birethanti – Pokhara2h42km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Hotel Lake Star (or similar)
Hotel

Day 17Pokhara/Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu.

We travel back to Kathmandu where the rest of the day is free for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing in one of the many rooftop cafés.

Private Vehicle
Pokhara – Kathmandu8h-9h200km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time
Kathmandu Evening

Enjoy some free time in Kathmandu by shopping, sightseeing, or simply enjoying a cup of warm chai in a roadside café.

Accommodation

Kantipur Village (or similar)
Hotel

Day 18Kathmandu

Depart at any time.

Departure Day

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

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Optional Activities - Day 18 HideShow

Everest Flight
Mount Everest – Kathmandu

Get a close look at awesome Mt Everest, the highest mountain in the world, without having to do any climbing; this one-hour plane tour will give you an unforgettable experience. At times, the weather may cover Everest, but the surrounding view is still worth the ride!

Annapurna Circuit Trek

| 18 days - Kathmandu to Kathmandu - from $1572 USD