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The Complete Annapurna Circuit Expedition
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is widely considered one of the greatest long-distance mountain treks on Earth. Spanning dramatic transition zones from sub-tropical green rice paddies and pine forests in the Marshyangdi Valley to the arid, Tibetan-influenced high desert of Manang and Mustang, this 14-day trek offers unmatched ecological and cultural diversity.
The climax of the journey is crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m) — one of the highest navigable trekking passes in the world. After descending from the snows into the sacred pilgrimage town of Muktinath (3,760m), you follow the ancient trans-Himalayan salt trading route along the Kali Gandaki River, taste organic apple cider in Marpha, soak in natural hot springs at Tatopani, and watch sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I from Poon Hill (3,210m).
Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
Stand amidst fluttering prayer flags on the highest pass in Nepal, with views extending into Mustang and Tibet.
Sacred Muktinath Temple
Explore the holy pilgrimage shrine venerated by Hindus and Buddhists with 108 brass water spouts and eternal natural gas flames.
Kali Gandaki River Gorge
Trek through the world's deepest canyon carved between 8,000m giants Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri.
Manang & Ice Lake Acclimatization
Spend 2 full acclimatization days exploring Gurung & Manangi culture, Gangapurna Lake, and Braga Monastery.
Poon Hill Golden Sunrise
Watch 360° dawn light illuminate Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre.
Tatopani Natural Hot Springs
Relax your sore muscles in geothermal natural mineral hot springs on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River.
Why Book the Annapurna Circuit with Best Treks Nepal?
We use private 4WD vehicles to bypass dusty lower road sections, ensuring you trek on scenic mountain trails with native ACAP licensed Sherpa guides.
Private 4WD Jeep Transport
Bypass dusty road construction in the lower Marshyangdi valley with private Scorpio 4WD Jeeps directly to Dharapani.
100% ACAP & NMA Certified Guides
Led by senior Sherpa leaders with 10+ Thorong La Pass crossings and Wilderness First Responder (WFR) medical training.
Optimal Acclimatization Profile
2 nights in Manang (3,540m) with high-altitude side trips to Ice Lake (4,600m) ensuring a 98.6% Thorong La success rate.
Twice-Daily Pulse Oximetry Checks
Clinical SpO2 blood oxygen saturation checks morning and night, emergency medical kits, and satellite communication link.
All Permits & TIMS Included
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card processed in advance with zero administrative delays on trail.
15% Deposit & Free Rescheduling
Lock in your dates with a 15% deposit ($178). Reschedule for free up to 30 days prior with lifetime deposit validity.
14-Day Annapurna Circuit Detailed Itinerary
Carefully structured upward acclimatization profile through Manang, high pass crossing over Thorong La (5,416m), and descent into Mustang & Kali Gandaki.
Day 1
Drive Kathmandu to Besisahar & Dharapani (1,860m) by Private 4WD Jeep
1,860m
7 hrs Drive
+
Early departure from Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway beside the Trishuli River to Dumre and Besisahar. Board a private 4WD Scorpio Jeep to navigate the rugged Marshyangdi river gorge, passing waterfalls and terraced rice paddies to reach Dharapani (1,860m).
Day 2
Trek Dharapani to Chame (2,670m)
2,670m
5.5 hrs / 15 km
+
Trek through pine and fir forests, entering the Manang district at Danakyu. Ascend past apple orchards and suspension bridges to Timang (2,750m) for breathtaking views of Manaslu (8,163m). Continue through Koto to Chame, the administrative headquarters of Manang.
Day 3
Trek Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)
3,300m
5 hrs / 14 km
+
Walk through dense pine forests as the valley opens up. Marvel at the curved rock wall of Paungda Danda, rising 1,500m above the riverbed. Arrive at Upper Pisang for dramatic views of Annapurna II and IV across the valley floor.
Day 4
Trek Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m) via Ghyaru & Ngawal
3,540m
6.5 hrs / 19 km
+
Take the high scenic route through Ghyaru (3,670m) and Ngawal (3,660m). This elevated cliffside trail offers unmatched views of the entire Annapurna range. Visit ancient Buddhist chortens before descending into the stone village of Manang.
Day 5
Acclimatization Day in Manang: Hike to Ice Lake (4,600m) or Gangapurna
4,600m
5 hrs / 8 km
+
Essential acclimatization day. Take a day hike up to Chongkor Viewpoint / Gangapurna Lake (3,800m) or challenge yourself on the steep trail to Kicho Tal / Ice Lake (4,600m). Attend the afternoon Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) altitude lecture in Manang.
Day 6
Trek Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m)
4,050m
4 hrs / 10 km
+
Leave Manang village, ascending through alpine pastures with grazing yaks and blue sheep. Cross a wooden bridge over the Jharsing Khola to reach Yak Kharka (4,050m).
Day 7
Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m) / High Camp (4,850m)
4,850m
4.5 hrs / 7 km
+
Trek along the river valley, crossing a suspension bridge before a short steep ascent through scree slopes to Thorong Phedi (4,450m). Depending on group fitness and weather, push up to Thorong High Camp (4,850m) for an early night's rest before the pass.
Day 8
Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) & Trek down to Muktinath (3,760m)
5,416m
High Pass Day
+
3:30 AM alpine departure. Climb steady snow slopes to the pinnacle summit of Thorong La Pass (5,416m)! Celebrate with high-altitude photos at the world-famous prayer flag signboard. Descend 1,600m into the Mustang district to sacred Muktinath (3,760m).
Day 9
Visit Muktinath Temple & Trek to Jomsom & Marpha (2,670m)
2,670m
5.5 hrs / 16 km
+
Morning visit to Muktinath Temple to view the 108 sacred water spouts and eternal flame. Descend through the arid Mustang landscape to Kagbeni and trek along the windy Kali Gandaki riverbed to Jomsom and the charming whitewashed village of Marpha, famous for apple orchards and brandy.
Day 10
Drive/Trek Marpha to Tatopani Hot Springs (1,190m)
1,190m
4 hrs Drive / Trek
+
Travel through the Kali Gandaki Gorge between Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m). Arrive at Tatopani (1,190m) and spend the afternoon soaking in natural geothermal hot mineral springs beside the river.
Day 11
Trek Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,860m)
2,860m
6.5 hrs / 17 km
+
Cross the Kali Gandaki River and ascend through Sikha and Chitre villages. Climb through dense rhododendron forests to the mountain ridge village of Ghorepani (2,860m).
Day 12
Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210m), Trek to Birethanti & Drive to Pokhara
3,210m
5 hrs Trek + 1.5 hrs Drive
+
5:00 AM hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for a golden sunrise over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre. Descend through Ulleri stone stairs to Birethanti and drive by private vehicle to lakeside Pokhara (820m).
Day 13
Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist Bus / Optional Flight
1,400m
6.5 hrs Bus
+
Scenic morning drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu along the Marshyangdi and Trishuli rivers (or optional 25-minute flight upgrade). Check into hotel and enjoy free evening in Thamel.
Day 14
Kathmandu Celebration Breakfast & Departure Transfer
1,400m
Airport Transfer
+
Celebratory breakfast in Kathmandu. Private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure flight.
Annapurna Circuit Package Tiers
All tiers include ACAP & TIMS permits, 100% native Sherpa guide, porters, all teahouse meals, and private jeep transport.
- ✓ Private 4WD Jeep Kathmandu Dharapani
- ✓ Deluxe tourist bus Pokhara Kathmandu
- ✓ All ACAP & TIMS permits included
- ✓ 11 nights teahouse lodges + 2 nights Pokhara/KTM
- ✓ All 3 meals daily on trek (Full Board)
- ✓ Licensed WFR Sherpa guide & porters
- ✓ Free 100L duffel bag & -15°C down sleeping bag
- ✓ Everything in Standard, plus:
- ✓ Attached bathroom in Pokhara, Besisahar, Jomsom
- ✓ 3-star boutique hotels in Pokhara & Kathmandu
- ✓ Free hot showers & solar charging on trail
- ✓ Welcome & farewell celebratory dinners
- ✓ Private airport transfers in Kathmandu & Pokhara
- ✓ Everything in Comfort Plus, plus:
- ✓ Scenic Flight Jomsom Pokhara Kathmandu
- ✓ Dedicated 1:1 Senior IFMGA Sherpa guide
- ✓ 5-star luxury hotels in Pokhara & Kathmandu
- ✓ 1 porter per trekker (dedicated porter support)
Read Before You Book — Knowledge Base
Essential high-altitude preparation, Thorong La Pass crossing protocols, and packing briefings prepared by our senior Sherpa guides.
Annapurna Circuit Readiness Tracker
You have reviewed 0 of 12 preparation topics.
1. Thorong La Pass Crossing Protocol (5,416m) +
Day 8 is the pass day. Departure from High Camp (4,850m) is scheduled for 3:30 AM to beat afternoon ridge winds. The climb takes 3 to 4 hours to reach Thorong La Pass (5,416m), followed by a 3 to 4-hour steep descent to Muktinath (3,760m).
2. High-Altitude Acclimatization Strategy +
The itinerary incorporates 2 full nights in Manang (3,540m) with an active acclimatization day hiking to Ice Lake (4,600m) or Gangapurna viewpoint. This guarantees a 98.6% pass success rate.
3. Physical Fitness Requirements (Grade 3.5/5) +
You should be comfortable walking 5 to 7 hours per day with a 5kg daypack. 6–8 weeks of cardio training, stair climbing, and weekend hiking is recommended prior to arrival.
4. Road Construction & Bypassing Strategy +
We use private 4WD Jeeps to skip dusty lower road construction, placing you directly on clean mountain trails like the NATT (New Annapurna Trekking Trails) network from Dharapani and Upper Pisang.
5. ACAP & TIMS Permit Regulations +
All trekkers require an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card. We process both in advance so there are zero delays at checkpoints.
6. Travel Insurance for 5,500m & Emergency Rescue +
Insurance covering high-altitude trekking up to 5,500m and helicopter evacuation is mandatory. Recommended providers include World Nomads (Explorer), Global Rescue, and Allianz.
7. Teahouses & Lodging Facilities +
Lodges along the Annapurna Circuit are among the best in Nepal. Standard rooms feature twin beds; attached bathrooms are available in lower villages (Pokhara, Besisahar, Jomsom, Tatopani).
8. Temperature Management & Gear Needs (-15°C) +
Thorong Phedi and High Camp temperatures drop to -10°C to -15°C. We provide a complimentary -15°C down sleeping bag and 100L duffel bag.
9. Food, Meals & Drinking Water Safety +
Full board (3 meals daily) is included. Enjoy Dal Bhat, Thakali sets, Marpha apple pies, soups, and hot drinks. Purified drinking water is available throughout the route.
10. Wi-Fi, Phone Connectivity & Solar Power +
Ncell and NTC 4G mobile coverage is good in most villages up to Manang and Muktinath. Teahouses offer solar charging and Wi-Fi for a small fee.
11. Diamox & Medical Safety Protocols +
Guides carry medical first-aid kits, pulse oximeters, and bottled oxygen. Diamox can be taken under guide guidance to speed acclimatization.
12. Flexible Deposit & Rescheduling Terms +
Book with a 15% deposit ($178). Free date rescheduling up to 30 days before departure with lifetime deposit protection.
14-Day Topographic Elevation Profile & Route Curve
Visualizing the circuit elevation profile from Besisahar through Thorong La Pass (5,416m), down to Muktinath, Kali Gandaki, Tatopani, and Poon Hill.
Annapurna Circuit Route Weather Model
Calculated across waypoints from Dharapani (1,860m) through Manang (3,540m) up to Thorong La (5,416m).
Blooming rhododendron forests in lower valleys, clear blue skies over Manang, and stable pass conditions.
Manang and Mustang lie in the rain-shadow zone behind the Annapurnas, making high circuit sections doable.
The gold standard window: crystal sharp visibility, harvest colors in Marpha, and calm winds across Thorong La.
Quiet trails and snow-capped peaks; high pass requires crampons/microspikes and warm thermal layers.
Guaranteed Fixed Group Departures
Small group sizes (maximum 12 trekkers) ensuring personalized Sherpa attention, private 4WD transport, and guaranteed pass success.
| Departure Dates | Season | Status | Price / Pax | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 15 – Mar 28, 2026 | Spring Season | ✓ Confirmed (4 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
| Apr 05 – Apr 18, 2026 | Prime Spring Peak | ✓ Confirmed (2 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
| May 02 – May 15, 2026 | Late Spring Wildflowers | Filling Fast (3 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
| Oct 04 – Oct 17, 2026 | Prime Autumn Peak | ✓ Confirmed (5 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
| Oct 25 – Nov 07, 2026 | Autumn Harvest | ✓ Confirmed (4 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
| Nov 15 – Nov 28, 2026 | Late Autumn Solitude | ✓ Confirmed (6 seats left) | $1,190 USD | Book Seats |
We arrange private tailor-made Annapurna Circuit departures for couples, families, and clubs on any customized start date.
Mountain Lodges, Food & Trail Amenities
The Annapurna Circuit boasts some of the most charming teahouses in Nepal, blending Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali cultural hospitality.
Cozy Mountain Lodges
Comfortable twin bedrooms with clean mattresses, heavy blankets, and attached bathrooms in lower valley hubs.
Famous Thakali & Manangi Cuisine
Unlimited traditional Dal Bhat power, authentic Thakali meals, famous Marpha apple pies, yak cheese, and warm soups.
Solar Power & Wi-Fi
Solar charging facilities available in all lodge dining rooms, with Wi-Fi connectivity across major villages.
Tatopani Hot Mineral Springs
Geothermal natural hot springs in Tatopani to soak your muscles after descending from Thorong La Pass.
High-Altitude Medical Safety & Rescue Standby
Because Thorong La Pass reaches 5,416m, our safety protocols are comprehensive and proactive.
Twice-Daily Pulse Oximetry
SpO2 blood oxygen saturation and heart rates recorded every morning and night to track acclimatization progress.
Medical O2 & Comprehensive Pharmacy
Guides carry portable medical oxygen bottles, Gamow bag access, Diamox, Dexamethasone, and sterile trauma gear.
24/7 Satellite Communication
Two-way Garmin inReach satellite link connecting your guide with our Kathmandu flight dispatch and medical team.
Helicopter Rescue Standby
Pre-established helicopter evacuation protocols covering Manang, Thorong Phedi, Muktinath, and Jomsom airstrip.
Essential Packing Gear Checklist
Complete 4-layer system for high-altitude pass crossing up to 5,416m.
Upper Body & Warmth
- 2x Merino wool thermal base layers
- 2x Trekking technical shirts
- 1x Heavy fleece or Polartec mid-layer
- 1x High-altitude down jacket (-15°C rated)
- 1x Waterproof breathable shell jacket
Lower Body & Pants
- 2x Quick-dry trekking pants
- 2x Thermal long underwear bottoms
- 1x Waterproof Gore-Tex rain pants
- 1x Warm fleece teahouse pants
- 5x Moisture-wicking hiking underwear
Footwear & Trail Grip
- 1x Sturdy high-ankle waterproof boots
- 5x Merino wool heavy hiking socks
- 1x Microspikes / trail crampons (for Thorong La)
- 1x Camp sandals / slippers
- 1x Trekking poles with flick-locks
Hardware & Accessories
- 1x 25–30L Daypack with rain cover
- 1x 100L Duffel bag (provided free)
- 1x -15°C Down sleeping bag (provided free)
- 2x 1L Nalgene wide-mouth water bottles
- 1x Category 4 UV sunglasses & headlamp
Book Annapurna Circuit Trek (14 Days)
Lock in your 2026/2027 trek dates with a 15% flexible deposit ($178 per person). Free cancellation and date transfers up to 30 days before departure.
What Travelers Say About Annapurna Circuit
"Crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416m at sunrise was an absolute dream come true. Our Sherpa guide Mingma paced us so well that none of us suffered from severe altitude headaches. The private jeep transport from Kathmandu made the arrival seamless!"
"The scenery changing from green sub-tropical valleys to the high Tibetan landscape of Manang was breathtaking. Resting in Tatopani hot springs after descending the pass was pure luxury."
"Best Treks Nepal organized everything flawlessly. The 2 nights in Manang with the hike to Ice Lake prepared us completely for 5,416m. Highly recommended operator!"
"Taking the optional flight from Jomsom to Pokhara was a fantastic choice for our schedule. Seeing Poon Hill sunrise at the end wrapped up the ultimate Nepal trip."
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers from our senior expedition team covering Thorong La Pass logistics, road conditions, and safety.
How difficult is crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m)? +
Thorong La Pass is a non-technical high-altitude pass. While it requires 6 to 8 hours of steady hiking on steep snow or rock trails starting at 3:30 AM, no ropes or climbing gear are needed. Proper acclimatization in Manang makes it achievable for any fit hiker.
Has road construction ruined the Annapurna Circuit? +
No. We use private 4WD Jeeps to bypass dusty road sections in the lower valley and switch to the NATT (New Annapurna Trekking Trails) network, taking scenic footpaths via Ghyaru, Ngawal, and mountain ridges away from motor traffic.
What time do we start on the day of Thorong La Pass? +
Departure from High Camp (4,850m) is usually set for 3:30 AM to 4:00 AM. This ensures you reach the 5,416m summit pass by 7:30 AM before high winds develop after 10:00 AM.
What permits are required for the Annapurna Circuit? +
You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card. Both are fully included in our package and arranged prior to trek departure.
What are the teahouse accommodations like on the circuit? +
Teahouses along the Annapurna Circuit are very comfortable with clean twin-bed rooms, heated dining halls, and varied menus. Private attached bathrooms are available in lower towns.
How do you handle Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)? +
Our guides carry pulse oximeters to test blood oxygen saturation twice daily. If mild AMS symptoms occur, we rest or use Diamox. If severe symptoms arise, our 24/7 satellite link coordinates immediate helicopter evacuation.
How does the 15% deposit and cancellation policy work? +
You pay 15% ($178) to lock in your dates. The remaining balance is paid in Kathmandu upon arrival. Deposits have lifetime validity with free date rescheduling up to 30 days prior.
What meals are included during the 14 days? +
Full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) is included for all 14 days. You can select dishes from lodge menus including Dal Bhat, Thakali sets, pasta, soups, and hot tea.
Can we take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara to save days? +
Yes! Our Luxury VIP tier includes a 20-minute mountain flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, bypassing the drive through Tatopani for travelers short on time.
What travel insurance policy do I need? +
Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking up to 5,500m and emergency helicopter evacuation is required. Recommended providers include World Nomads, Global Rescue, and Allianz.
Is microspikes or crampons necessary for Thorong La? +
During spring and autumn, microspikes are recommended for early morning packed snow on the final 300m approach to the pass. Your guide will advise you on trail conditions.
Can we add Tilicho Lake (4,919m) to this itinerary? +
Yes! We frequently add 3 extra days to include Tilicho Lake (the world's highest glacial lake). Contact us on WhatsApp for custom Tilicho itineraries.
Have a question about Thorong La or route customization?
Our Kathmandu trekking desk and senior Sherpa guides are available 24/7 on WhatsApp.
