Classic Circuit

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Cross the legendary Thorong La Pass and journey through one of the world's most diverse trekking landscapes.

Duration 18 Days
Max Altitude 5,416m
Difficulty Moderate
Region Annapurna
Best Season Spring / Autumn

A Journey Around The Annapurnas

The Annapurna Circuit is widely regarded as one of the greatest treks on earth. Encircling the entire Annapurna massif, this 18-day odyssey takes you through a breathtaking variety of landscapes — from subtropical rice terraces and dense rhododendron forests to the stark, wind-carved plateaus of the Tibetan borderlands.

Trip Facts

Group Size 2–12 Persons
Accommodation Teahouses / Lodges
Meals B, L, D during trekking
Transportation Jeep / Bus + Domestic Flight
Max Elevation 5,416m (Thorong La)
Difficulty Moderate

Why You'll Love This Trek

Detailed Itinerary

18 days, every step planned — click any day to expand

01 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Welcome to Nepal! Our representative will greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel. In the evening, attend a briefing session where your guide will introduce the trek, review gear, and answer all your questions. Overnight in Kathmandu.

02 Drive Kathmandu → Besisahar → Trek to Chamje (1,410m)

An early morning drive (approx. 6–7 hrs) takes you to Besisahar, the traditional start of the Annapurna Circuit. A short jeep ride continues to Jagat or Chamje, where the trail officially begins through a narrow, dramatic river gorge. Walking time: ~2 hours.

03 Chamje to Tal (1,700m)

Trek through the deep Marsyangdi river gorge, crossing bamboo bridges and passing small waterfalls. You’ll ascend steeply through subtropical forest to reach Tal, the first village in the Manang district — its flat valley floor was once a lake. Walking time: ~5–6 hours.

04 Tal to Chame (2,710m)

The trail climbs steadily through pine and rhododendron forest as the valley widens. Chame is the district headquarters of Manang and offers the first dramatic views of the Annapurna range, including the iconic 3km-wide curved rock face above the village. Walking time: ~6 hours.

05 Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)

A stunning day as the landscape opens into a wide valley with exceptional mountain views. The trail passes through apple orchards and crosses the Marsyangdi river several times. Opt for Upper Pisang for a hilltop monastery with panoramic 360° views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. Walking time: ~5–6 hours.

06 Pisang to Manang (3,519m)

Choose between the high route via Ghyaru and Ngawal (recommended — spectacular views) or the lower valley route. Both converge at Manang, a large and well-equipped village beneath the towering Annapurna III and Gangapurna. Walking time: ~5–6 hours.

07 Acclimatization Day — Manang (3,519m)

A vital rest day to acclimatize before crossing the high pass. Hike up to the Ice Lake (4,600m) for extraordinary views of the Annapurna massif, or visit the small glacier overlooking Gangapurna Lake. Attend a free altitude sickness briefing offered by the Himalayan Rescue Association.

08 Manang to Yak Kharka (4,018m)

A shorter but important day for further acclimatization. The trail ascends steeply above Manang through sparse vegetation typical of the alpine zone. Yak Kharka (meaning “Yak Pasture”) is a small settlement where yaks graze freely. Walking time: ~3–4 hours.

Trip Cost

From $900 / person

Cost Includes

  • Professional local trekking guide and porter
  • ACAP permit and TIMS card
  • Ground transportation (Kathmandu–Besisahar, Nayapul–Pokhara)
  • Domestic flights (Pokhara–Kathmandu)
  • Accommodation in teahouses / lodges during trek
  • 3 meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during trek
  • Airport transfers and 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu
  • 1 night hotel in Pokhara

Cost Excludes

  • International airfare and travel insurance
  • Personal expenses (Wi-Fi, hot shower, battery charge)
  • Tips for guide and porter (expected and appreciated)
  • Bar bills and beverages
  • Nepal Entry Visa fee (~$50 for 30 days)
  • Optional side trips (e.g., Tilicho Lake)

Gallery from The Circuit

What Our Trekkers Say

★★★★★

"Crossing Thorong La at sunrise with Annapurna glowing pink in the distance — I have no words. The most incredible moment of my life. BESTTREKSNEPAL made every detail seamless."

JL
James LaurentParis, France
★★★★★

"The Poon Hill sunrise alone was worth the entire trip. But honestly, every single day brought something new and breathtaking. Best physical and mental challenge I've ever taken on."

SK
Sarah KleinNew York, USA

Annapurna Circuit FAQs

Essential information for your journey around the Annapurnas

How difficult is the Thorong La Pass?

Thorong La (5,416m) is the highest point of the trek and the most challenging day. It requires a pre-dawn start and a steady 4–6 hour climb, followed by a long descent. While physically demanding, no technical climbing is involved. Good physical conditioning and proper acclimatization in Manang are the keys to success.

Has the road ruined the Annapurna Circuit?

While road construction has changed some sections, we use New Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT) to avoid the road as much as possible. The high-altitude sections from Chame to Muktinath remain spectacular and untouched by roads, offering a world-class wilderness experience.

What permits do I need for the Annapurna Circuit?

You need the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. We handle both of these for you and they are included in our package cost.

Can I do the trek in reverse?

We strongly discourage trekking from Muktinath to Thorong La (reverse). The altitude gain is too rapid and dangerous for proper acclimatization. The traditional counter-clockwise route from Besisahar allows your body to adjust gradually as you ascend.

Is Wi-Fi and charging available?

Yes, most teahouses along the Annapurna Circuit offer Wi-Fi and electricity for charging devices, often for a small fee ($2–$5). Connectivity is surprisingly good in villages like Manang and Muktinath, though it may be unavailable at Thorong Phedi and High Camp.

Ready to Conquer Thorong La?

Join our next group departure or design a fully private Annapurna Circuit experience.