Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that circle around the Annapurna Massif, one of the highest mountain range in the world. The trek usually takes around 2 to 3 weeks to complete and covers a distance of approximately 160 to 230 kilometers depending on the route taken. The trek begins in the city of Besisahar and goes through lush subtropical forests, cascading waterfalls, traditional Hindu and Buddhist villages, high-altitude deserts, and alpine meadows. From there, the trail descends to the holy town of Muktinath, before heading down to the Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is the deepest gorge in the world.
Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to see breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas, including Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu mountain range. This circuit trek is a challenging trek and requires a good level of fitness and endurance. It is known for its diverse landscapes and stunning mountain views and is considered one of the best treks in the world. The trek takes you through lush subtropical forests, deep valleys, high mountain passes, and traditional villages. It is also recommended to do the trek with a local guide or porter to ensure your safety and to help you navigate the route.
Trip highlights
- Offers stunning scenery for cultural immersion and physical challenges
- Takes through diverse landscapes, ranging from the lush subtropical forest of high-altitude
- Pass through deep valleys, high mountain passes, and traditional villages
- Trek at Thorong La Pass, which is the highest point of the trek
- Breathtaking views of the mountain including Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu mountain range
- Heading down to the Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is the deepest gorge in the world
Is Annapurna Circuit Trek still worth it?
The trek is considered one of the best trekking routes in the world, and it is definitely worth it. The trek takes you through beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, quaint villages, and high mountain passes, offering stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range.
However, it is important to note that due to the increase in road construction, the trek has undergone some changes in recent years, and some sections of the trail have been replaced by roads. This means that some of the traditional trekking routes may no longer exist and the trek may feel less remote than it used to be. The trek still offers a unique and memorable experience for trekkers, with opportunities to experience local culture and interact with the friendly people of Nepal.
Is Annapurna Circuit Trek for beginners?
It can be suitable for beginners who have a reasonable level of fitness and are willing to put in the necessary effort. However, it is still considered a challenging trek that requires a certain level of physical and mental preparedness, as well as some prior trekking experiences. The trek involves crossing high-altitude mountain passes, steep ascents and descents, and trekking for several hours each day. Therefore, it is important for trekkers to have a good level of physical fitness and endurance.
Additionally, trekkers should be prepared for the challenges of trekking at high altitudes, such as altitude sickness, which can affect even the most experienced trekkers. Proper rest, hydration, and rest are critical to avoid altitude-related illnesses. Overall, it is doable for beginners with proper preparations and planning. It is important to assess one’s own fitness level and consult with a doctor before embarking on any high-altitude trekking adventure.
How long is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The duration of the Annapurna Circuit trek can vary depending on various factors such as your fitness level, acclimatization, the exact route you take, and the number of rest days you take along the way. Typically, the trek takes around 150 to 20 days to complete.
The total distance covered in the Annapurna Circuit trek is around 160 to 230 kilometers, depending on the route taken. The trek starts from the town of Jagat and goes through lush forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages before reaching the Thorong La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5416 meters. After crossing the pass, the trek descends towards the holy town of Muktinath and then follows the Kali Gandaki River to reach the town of Jomsom. From Jomsom, you can either take a flight or continue trekking to reach the beautiful city of Pokhara. To complete the trek comfortably, it is recommended to take a few rest days for acclimatization and to enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.
Annapurna Circuit Trek cost
The cost of this trek can range from USD 600 to USD 1200 per person for a 15 to 20 days trek.
- Permit fee: The Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit fee is around USD 30 for foreigners. In addition, a TIMS card is required, which costs around USD 20.
- Accommodation: Accommodation can range from basic guesthouses to luxurious hotels, and the cost can vary from USD 5 to USD 30 per night depending on the type of lodging and season.
- Food and Drink: The cost of food and drinks depends on the menu and the place you choose to eat. A typical meal can cost around USD 5 to USD 10, while a cup of tea or coffee can cost USD 1 to USD 2.
- Transportation: The cost of transportation includes getting to and from the starting and ending points of the trek. The cost of transportation is around USD 10 to 30 per person.
5. Trekking Agency: The cost of hiring a guide can range from USD 20 to USD 30 per day, while the cost of hiring a porter can be around USD 15 to USD 25 per day.
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu Valley
The team of Blue Sheep Trek will be there for you to pick up and welcome you. From the airport, you will take you through Thamel and you will take some rest at the hotel. At the hotel, there will be a guide with a brief description of the trek.
Day 02: Drive to Jagat (1400m / 7 to 8hrs)
Today, we will take a bus toward Jagat from Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, we head west on Prithvi Highway toward Naubise. After Naubise, continue driving towards Mugling, which is about 68 kilometers from Kathmandu. And from Mugling, continue driving on the Prithvi Highway toward Dumre. From Dumre, take a left turn towards Besisahar and continue driving towards Besisahar. After Besisahar, continue driving toward Chame, passing through villages like Bahundanda, Chamche, and Jagat, and going to spend overnight.
Day 03: Jagat to Dharapani (1700m / 6 to 7hrs)
From Jagat, you will follow a trail that winds its way through the terraced field and beautiful landscapes. The trail passes through several small villages where you can stop and interact with the local people. As you climb higher, you will reach the village of Tal. From Tal, you will continue walking toward Dharapani where we going to spend the overnight here.
Day 04: Dharapani to Chame (2660m / 6hrs)
The road from Dharapani to Chame is a round and winding mountain road, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. Along the way, you will pass through several small villages such as Bagarpchhe, Danaqua, and Timang. You will cross the Marshyangdhi River on a suspension bridge and see the beautiful mountain of Annapurna mountain range along the way. Once you reach Chame, you can rest and explore the town and spend overnight here.
Day 05: Chame to Upper Pisang (3185m / 5hrs)
Start early in the morning from Chame and follow the trail as it winds through the forested hillsides and along the Marsyangdhi River. After a few hours of hiking from Chame, you will reach the village of Bhratang. From Bhratang, continue hiking up the steep hillsides until you reach Dhukur Pokhari and from here, we will take a short hike toward Upper Pisang, where you can explore the villages and spend overnight here.
Day 06: Upper Pisang to Ngawal (3600m / 6hrs)
On the way, the trail offers a stunning view of the Annapurna mountain range and takes trekkers through traditional Nepalese villages. From Upper Pisang, the trail leads trekkers through a steep ascent to Ghyaru village. From Ghyaru, the trail continues toward Ngawal, passing through the small village of Ngawal. The trek is relatively easy compared to the easier section of the trail.
Day 07: Ngawal to Manang (3540m / 5hrs)
The trek will take you through scenic mountainous terrain. The trail passes through traditional Nepalese villages, offering a unique glimpse into the culture. Along the way, the trail offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range and a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. While trekking from Ngawal to Manang, we get to explore several small villages including Mungji and Braga before entering Manang and spending overnight there.
Day 08: Rest day in Manang
Manang is a beautiful village in the Manang District of Nepal which is located in the Annapurna region of the Himalayas. Today, we get a chance to hike to Gangapurna Lake and also get a chance to visit the Manang Museum. Manang is surrounded by beautiful mountain views and it is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Day 09: Manang to Ledar (4200m / 6hrs)
The route is mostly uphill and passes through rocky terrain, narrow paths, and steep inclines. The Manang to Ledar trek is a scenic route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trail passes through beautiful alpine forests and offers stunning views of the Annapurna range. Along the way, you will pass through several small villages and cross a few suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi River.
Day 10: Ledar to High Camp (4800m / 5hrs)
Follow the well-marked trail, where you will find several signposts along the way. The trail passes through beautiful forests, waterfalls, and rocky terrains. Along the way, we get a chance to see mesmerizing views of Annapurna I, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. From High Camp, you can trek further to reach Tilicho Lake which is one of the highest lakes in the world.
Day 11: Cross Thorong La pass (5416m) and trek to Muktinath (3800m / 7 to 8hrs)
Very early in the morning, the trek begins. It is because, on this day, we have to cross Thorong La Pass. This day will be the longest day of the Annapurna Circuit trek. Along the way, the trail will take through various villages, valleys, and landscapes before reaching the Thorong La Pass. After crossing Thorong La Pass, we will trek toward Muktinath and going to spend overnight here.
Day 12: Muktinath to Marpha (2670m / 6hrs)
The route from Muktinath to Marpha passes through Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is one of the deepest gorges in the world. The road is mostly paved and can be quite rough in some sections. Along the way, the trail offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains, traditional villages, and terraced fields. While walking from Muktinath to Marpha, we will enter Jomsom which is a popular stopover, and have our lunch here.
Day 13: Drive to Tatopani (1100m / 4hrs)
Today, we will follow the Kali Gandaki River southward. Follow the road as it winds its way down the valley, crossing several bridges over the Kali Gandaki River. After 35 kilometers of driving from Marpha, you will reach the town of Tatopani. After reaching Tatopani, we will explore all around the village and going to spend the overnight here.
Day 14: Tatopani to Ghorepani (2800m / 7hrs)
From Tatopani, you will start trekking northwards and cross the Kali Gandaki River before climbing up to Ghara. The trail takes you through dense forests of rhododendron, magnolias, and oaks, and past several waterfalls. You will reach the villages of Sikha and from Sikha; the trail gradually climbs up to Ghorepani. The trek takes around 7 hours and offers magnificent views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Day 15: Hike up Poon Hill (3210m) and drive toward Pokhara
This day begins early in the morning with a hike up to Poon Hill. From the top of Poon Hill, we get a chance to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas. After enjoying the breathtaking view of the sunrise, we will return back to Ghorepani and have a hot breakfast. From Ghorepani, we will trek to Nayapul. From Nayapul, we will take a local bus to move toward the Pokhara City of Lake. After one hour of driving from Nayapul, we will reach Pokhara. In the evening time in Pokhara, we will take a short tour around the Phewa Tal which is an awesome time, and spend overnight here.
Day 16: Drive back to Kathmandu Valley
The trek begins your journey from Pokhara. From Pokhara, you will need to head toward the Prithvi Highway. Once you reach the Prithvi Highway, follow it towards Kathmandu Valley. Along the way, you will come across several spots where you can stop and take a break. Some popular stops include the Trishuli River, Malekhu, and Muglin. After a journey of around 200 kilometers, you will reach Kathmandu. After reach in Kathmandu, you will take toward Hotel in Thamel Bazaar. In the evening time, you can walk around Thamel Bazaar.
Day 17: Final departure
Our team and the guide who is with you on your trekking journey will be at the international airport to see you off. We will say our goodbye and hope that you will give us an opportunity to trek with you all over Nepal.
Manual Note :
Trip Reviews
Name: John
JohnAnnapurna Base Camp Trek with Sukman
“The Annapurna Base Camp trek was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. The scenery was breathtaking and the people were incredibly friendly. It was a challenging trek, but well worth the effort.”
Name: Sarah
CanadaABC trek with Bluesheep trek
“I absolutely loved the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The scenery was incredible, from lush forests to towering snow-capped peaks. The highlight was definitely reaching base camp and seeing Annapurna South up close.”
Name: Mike
AustraliaAnnapurna Trek with Sukman
“The Annapurna Base Camp trek was an amazing experience. The trail was well-maintained and easy to follow, and the tea houses along the way were cozy and welcoming. The view from base camp was unbelievable – I felt like I was on top of the world!”
Name: Cecelia Muller
USAAnnapurna Circuit, March 2023
I did the Annapurna Circuit this past March and it’s probably the best thing I have done and will ever do in my life. Don’t get me wrong, it was definitely challenging – as someone who loves her hot showers – but Sukman made the whole process such a breeze. He found our group teahouses and called ahead of time to reserve our slots. He also made sure we went at a reasonable pace and doled out lunch and tea breaks as the group needed it. At higher elevations, he was even more careful to pay attention to the elevation we gained each day and each person’s symptoms (or more hopefully, lack thereof) to avoid altitude sickness.
Name: Patrick Wasil
USAAnnapurna Circuit Trek
I hiked the Annapurna Circuit in March 2023. Sukman went above and beyond to make sure that everything went smoothly. The hike itself certainly was challenging, but Sukman made it as easy as possible. He has extensive knowledge of the trail, towns, and tea houses along the way. He called ahead to reserve rooms for us in the best tea houses because they can get crowded depending on the season. He curated tea and meal breaks as well. I particularly liked how closely he monitored the health and status of everyone in our group keeping an eye out for any symptoms of altitude sickness and adjusting the hike accordingly. Overall, Sukman was a fantastic guide on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and I will definitely utilize his services again on my next trip to Nepal!
Name: Uli
GermanyUpper Mustang
I trekked with Shukman from Blue Sheep Trek for 10 days in Upper Mustang. Shukman is a very nice guide. He has a good feeling what his customers need. I recommend trekking with Blue Sheep Trek. Upper Mustang is a incredible beautiful place. Thank you Shukman!
Name: Anouk
We’ve had a lovely time in the Kanchenjunga area! The trek was beautiful and challenging, but our guide Sukman made sure that everything was fixed and taken care of, so we could enjoy every moment of it!