Spend 19 days trekking the class Annapurna Circuit route through the Himalayas in Nepal
The popular Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal is a classic trek for good reason. This tour shows you the highlights of this beautiful region, including sunrise at Poon Hill and a challenging trek across the Thorong La pass.
You’ll witness the region’s famous mountains from many different angles and perspectives, including from above on a breathtaking flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. This region has more natural beauty to offer than rugged mountain views, though these are truly awe-inspiring. You will also marvel at incredible waterfalls, dramatic gorges, beautiful rhododendron forests and refreshing hot springs. There seems to be no end to the beautiful and inspiring natural wonders you will behold around every bend in the trail.
This tour is also a fascinating look into different cultures and people groups in Nepal. Explore the cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara, learning more about the country’s Buddhist and Hindu religions. You’ll encounter both current and historic holy sites and temples. You will also have the opportunity to stay in small Gurung villages and be introduced to their way of life. Experience the hospitality of the local people and interact with them to learn more about their customs and culture. This tour will enrich you in mind, body, and spirit with its perfect balance of trekking adventure and cultural experiences. Don’t miss this opportunity – book your spot on the tour today!
Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
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Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Kathmandu
Welcome to Kathmandu in Nepal! When you arrive at the Tribhuwan International Airport, an airport representative from your tour will meet you. When you arrive at your hotel, your guide will brief you with more details about your tour. Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner to welcome you on your first evening.
Overnight Location: Mandala Boutique Hotel (1,400 m/4,593’), Kathmandu
Distance / Time: None
Meals: Dinner
Day 2 Explore Kathmandu
After breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley, experiencing the wonders of this vibrant city. Visit a well-known Buddhist temple called Stupa Swayambunath, which is also called the Monkey Temple. From this point, high on a hill, take in the inspiring view of the mountains and the Kathmandu Valley that surrounds you. Stupa Swayambunath is the oldest and most mysterious shrine in Kathmandu, attracting Buddhist visitors and tourists from all over the world with its distinctive white dome and sparkling gold spire. Next, drive to the Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple on the Indian subcontinent, and the crematorium beside it. Finally, your tour also takes you to Patan Durbar Square where you can see many notable temples and palaces from centuries past, each an intriguing example of traditional Nepalese architecture.
Overnight Location: Mandala Boutique Hotel (1,400 m/4,593’), Kathmandu
Distance / Time: As Required
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Transfer to Besisahar
Eat breakfast early today, then enjoy an exciting, adventurous, and scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar. Witness incredible temples and settlements, as well as beautiful rhododendron forests and waterfalls against the backdrop of the spectacular mountains. When you arrive in Besishahar (800 m / 2,625 ft), you’ll spend the night in a mountain lodge.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Besisahar (800 m / 2,625 ft)
Distance / Time: 7 hours (Driving)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 Transfer to Dharapani
Get an early start today to begin your 4-hour drive to the trailhead. The trail will take you through the Marsyandi Valley and the village of Syange. You will have the opportunity to explore this tiny rural village, then cross the fields where they grow potatoes, rice, and barley. Spend the night in Dharapani (1,860 m/6,102’).
Overnight Location: Lodge in Dharapani (1,860 m/6,102’)
Distance / Time: 4 hours (Driving)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 Trek to Chame
Today’s hike from Dharapani to Chame features breathtaking views of the Himalayas and small Tibetan villages. You’ll reach the first village, Bagarchap, within your first hour of trekking. Next, you’ll come to the settlement of Dangyung. Continue walking through the dense forest and cross the bridge to come to the base of a lovely waterfall. Finally, climb the steep stone steps to reach the village of Chame (2,660 m/8727’).
Overnight Location: Lodge in Chame (2,660 m/8727’)
Distance / Time: 18 km, 6-7 hours, 800 m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 Trek to Upper Pisang
As you leave Chame, take the opportunity to explore local villages and learn about daily life and culture in the region. Take note of the long Mani wall, and interact with the people you meet along the way. When you reach Upper Pisang, take time to explore the amazing medieval village found here. Have dinner and spend the night in Upper Pisang (3,300 m/10,827’).
Overnight Location: Lodge in Upper Pisang (3,300 m/10,827’)
Distance / Time: 16 km, 5 hours, 800 m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 Trek to Bhraka
Walk today from Upper Pisang to the village of Bhraka (3,400 m/11,155’). This medieval village features an ancient Buddhist gompa, or religious building, which you can visit. Your guide will also take you on a sightseeing tour of Bhraka’s many historical sites.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Bhraka (3,400 m/11,155’)
Distance / Time: 15 km, 6-7 hours, 139 m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 Acclimatization day in Bhraka
Stay in the Bhraka area today to allow your body time to adjust to the altitude. This rest day will help you feel better and be physically ready for the remainder of your journey. Staying active on this acclimatization day is the best way to prepare yourself for the rest of your trek. Your guide will lead you to explore the town of Manang.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Bhraka (3,400 m/11,155’)
Distance / Time: 13 km, 2-3 hours, 140 m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 Trek to Yak Kharka
Eat an early breakfast and hit the trail for a trekking day full of adventures. Descend slowly through the village of Manang, where you can see stone and clay houses. Next, you’ll pass the popular monastery of Tare Gumbo, which is more than 1,000 years old. Trek through the Thorong Khola valley, then continue until you reach Yak Kharka (4,018 m/13,182’).
Overnight Location: Lodge at Yak Kharka (4,018 m/13,182’)
Distance / Time: 13 km, 6-7 hours, 500 m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 Trek to Thorong Phedi
Leaving Yak Kharka, you’ll need to get an early start today as you follow the trail through the Kone Khola Valley. The trail leads you through several uphill and downhill stretches and the village of Letdar. From Letdar, climb up to discover beautiful views of Annapurna. After a long and consistent climb, suddenly the trail begins to descend to a river, which you will cross via a wooden bridge. Stop to visit a small tea house along the way, then you’ll finally reach Thorong Phedi (4,450 m/14,600’).
Overnight Location: Lodge in Thorong Phedi (4,450 m/14,600’)
Distance / Time: 11 km, 6 hours, 430 m of ascent, 200 m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11 Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
Today is a long day with a tough but very rewarding climb. As you trek from east to west, it can be cold and snowy. Immediately after leaving Thorong Phedi, begin a steep ascent to the Thorong La pass (5,416 m / 17,769’). It takes approximately 5-6 hours to climb to the top, but when you reach it you will see stone cairns that have been built by trekkers, as well as many prayer flags and chortens left by those who consider the area sacred. The views from the pass and the trail that accesses it are truly majestic. You’ll see Annapurna, Khatung Kang, Gangapurna, and Thorong peaks, and the Kali Gandaki river valley. Cross the pass and descend across the mountain meadows, following a wide trail into a deep gorge to reach Muktinath (3,710 m / 12,172’). Both Buddhists and Hindus consider Muktinath to be a sacred place in this beautiful location at the foot of the Thorong La pass.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Muktinath (3,710 m / 12,172’)
Distance / Time: 20 km, 8-9 hours, 1,000 m of ascent, 1,700 m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12 Trek to Jomsom
Get an early start for today’s long trek full of ups and downs. First, the trail descends to take you to the incredible Kali Gandaki Gorge. Ascend again to the lovely village of Lupra. Here you will get a chance to experience the culture and daily life of the local people, as well as visit the Bamboo monastery. Continue to the village of Kagbeni, enjoying clear views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Arrive in Jomsom (2,800 m/9,186’) in time to eat dinner and spend the night in a lodge.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Jomsom (2,800 m/9,186’)
Distance / Time: 16 km, 8 hours, 1,100 m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13 Transfer to Tatopani
After an early breakfast, a scenic drive will take you from Jomsom to the village of Tatopani (1,190 m / 3,904 ft). The drive takes several hours, including breaks for lunch and tea. When you have arrived in Tatopani, take the opportunity to bathe in the natural hot springs, which many people find to be refreshing not only for their bodies but for their minds and souls as well.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Tatopani (1,190 m / 3,904 ft)
Distance / Time: 5 hours (Driving)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14 Trek to Ghorepani
Today’s trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani is a long one, so it is important to get an early start. Pass through the villages of Ghara and Sikha, as well as another local village where you’ll find patio farmlands. Here in this village you’ll have more opportunities to interact with local people and learn more about daily life here. Follow the trail as it ascends gradually up to Ghorepani (2,860 m/9,383’). Here in Ghorepani, don’t miss the exquisite rhododendron forests, which are covered in vibrant pink and red flowers when they’re in bloom.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Ghorepani (2,860 m/9,383’)
Distance / Time: 16 km, 7-8 hours, 870 m of ascent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15 Trek to Ghandruk via Poon Hill
Wake up very early this morning so that you can make the climb to Poon Hill in time to watch the sunrise. The exquisite views here, as you see the colors of the sunrise over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs, will make the early wake up well worth it. Return to your lodge for breakfast, then begin the trek to Ghandruk. Follow the trails as it descends through more rhododendron forests to Ghandruk (1,830 m/6,004’), which is Nepal’s second largest Gurung village. Expect more incredible mountain panoramas along your way today.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Ghandruk (1,830 m/6,004’)
Distance / Time: 20 km, 9 hours, 600 m of ascent, 1,030 m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16 Trek to Birethanti, Transfer to Pokhara
Finish your trekking journey today with a lovely walk through green forests and past a waterfall. A few hours after setting off from Ghandruk you will reach Birethanti, which marks the end of your trek. From here, a private transfer will take you to the city of Pokhara, where a luxurious hotel stay awaits you.
Overnight Location: White Pearl Hotel (1,740 m/5,710’), Pokhara
Distance / Time: 2-3 hours trekking, 2 hours (Driving)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 17 Explore Pokhara
Explore the city of Pokhara today. Head to Sarangkot to watch the sunrise, go boating on Phewa Lake, and visit the incredible Devi’s Fall. You can also visit several sites that are sacred to the Hindus, and hike to the World Peace Stupa. It is a day full of wondrous natural beauty and enriching cultural experiences. At the end of the day, spend another night in your hotel in Pokhara.
Overnight Location: White Pearl Hotel (1,740 m/5,710’), Pokhara
Distance / Time: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 18 Fly to Kathmandu
Take an amazing flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, enjoying the incredible mountains from above. Once you arrive, you will have free time in the city to shop for souvenirs or see a few more points of interest. You can also choose to rest and relax in one of Kathmandu’s many cafes or rooftop restaurants.
Overnight Location: Mandala Boutique Hotel (1,400 m/4,593’), Kathmandu
Distance / Time: None
Meals: Breakfast
Day 19 Departure Day
Sadly, your tour has come to an end and today is your departure day. You are free to explore as you wish until it is time to return to the airport. You may enjoy souvenir shopping or exploring more cultural sites in this special city. Your guide can help you find what you’re looking for, then an airport representative will escort you to the airport and help with any final details. Have a pleasant journey!
Overnight Location: None
Distance / Time: None
Meals: Breakfast
Annapurna Circuit Trek Price and Dates
This guided trekking tour in Nepal is run either as a private tour for your group only, however, sometimes there are options to join other groups (please enquire for more information). The pricing depends on the number of people on your group.
Pricing below is per person:
- Guided group of 2-5: $1,925 USD per person
- Guided group of 6+: $1,725 USD per person
Accommodation on Annapurna Circuit Trekking Tour
This tour is based in trekking lodges, also called tea houses, along the trek. These accommodations are simple, since there is no road access to reach them, but they are also friendly and full of atmosphere.
Most lodges have dining areas that are heated, but the bedrooms are typically unheated. Wooden beds with foam mattresses are provided, but you will need a sleeping bag. Washing and toilet facilities are shared, and some have solar showers available for an additional charge.
Before and after your trek, stay in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu. Rooms are double occupancy, and single travellers will pay a supplement.
In some cases, accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a supplement of $300 USD to have a private room in a hotel. Contact us and we can try and match single travellers up, where possible. Private rooms are not available in the trekking lodges.
Hotels on Standard Tour
Mandala Boutique Hotel, Kathmandu ★★★★
Located in a quiet corner of the Thamel area of Kathmandu, this hotel has easy access to shopping and other tourist attractions. It is clean and air-conditioned for your comfort.
Trekking Lodges (Tea Houses) along the trekking route ★
These lodges are simple but full of atmosphere. The rooms in these lodges are not heated, but some have heated dining areas. Toilets and washing facilities are shared.
White Pearl Hotel, Pokhara ★★★★
The White Pearl has a peaceful, soothing atmosphere in the clean, spacious rooms and throughout the hotel. Enjoy a wonderful view from your room, especially on the higher floors.
Mandala Boutique Hotel, Kathmandu ★★★★
Located in a quiet corner of the Thamel area of Kathmandu, this hotel has easy access to shopping and other tourist attractions. It is clean and air-conditioned for your comfort.
What’s included in the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Tour?
Meals
18 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 14 dinners are included on this tour.
Accommodations
Accommodations for all 18 nights are included. Along the trek, stay in simple trekking lodges (tea houses). Before and after the trek, stay in 3.5-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Transportation during the Tour
Domestic flights and land transportation described in the itinerary are included, as well as a guide on the flight and all airport taxes. Airport transfers between the Kathmandu Airport and your hotel are also included.
Also Included
- An experienced, insured, and equipped English-speaking guide
- Guided sightseeing and entry fees in Kathmandu
- TIMS permit
- Annapurna Conservation Fee
- Porter (Insured and equipped according to IPPG rules)
- Ascents of Thorong La (5,416 m) and Poon Hill (3,190 m)
- Acclimatization day to explore Manang and Bhraka Gompa
- Trekking off the main trail to the village of Lupra
Not included
- Flights to/from Kathmandu
- Visa to enter Nepal
- Meals not listed as included (lunches and dinners in Kathmandu)
- Personal drinks / alcohol
- Additional costs due to illness, rescue, force majeure, flight/itinerary changes
- Tips for guides and other trekking staff
- Personal costs such as charging batteries or hot showers
Frequently Asked Questions about Annapurna Circuit Trek
Trekking Team Group is a Travelife and FTA certified tour operator creating trips in the Himalayas since 1991. They are consistently highly-rated online and garner impressive word of mouth recommendations.
Trekking team focuses on a sustainable method of operation. They work with highly professional guides and offer clients flexibility and 24/7 service.
The company uses local guides, serves local food, and makes use of local homes and lodges to give back to the community. They support the local environment and in turn see many repeat customers.
Learn MoreAnnapurna Circuit Trek Map
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Local Guide
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Hari has been guiding since 2009 and never gets tired of meeting new people from all around the world. He is an experienced mountaineer and a great teacher to his guests. He enjoys playing games, laughing, and having as much fun as possible with his groups.
- Q: What is your favourite trip to do and why?
- A: Almost all of my trips are the best in different ways. However, the one I think about all the time is my 2017 Annapurna base camp trip with an American family. It was an amazing trip. They were a great family and we had perfect weather from start to end. We spent our entire time like one family with lots of fun, laughing, playing games etc.
- Q: What is one local dish or drink that any tourist has to try while visiting Nepal?
- A: While trekking in the HImalayas, the local dish dal bhat (the national food of Nepal) is a must-try. Also, Momo, a famous dumpling, is a food everyone should try. For drinks, rice wine or Tsongba, made from millet, is a special warm drink for the winter that makes your body warm.
- Q: What has been the most challenging adventure you’ve had?
- A: The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake in the wintertime.