10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary and Cost for 2024, 2025
10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary
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What to see & do
Specific information about 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary
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Duration10 Days
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Trip GradeStrenuous
i
altitude icon
Max Altitude5416M
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Starts atKathmandu
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Ends atPokhara
travel-style icon
Travel StyleLodge to Lodge Trek
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Group Size10
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TransportationLocal Bus/Jeep
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Best SeasonMarch, April, May and Sept, Oct, Nov

Do you want to trek on the world’s most beautiful trekking trail but have a busy schedule? We have good news for those who can’t make time for the typical 20 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek. You can now complete the Annapurna Circuit trek in just 10 days. The 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary is a perfect plan if you’re already in Kathmandu as the trip begins in Kathmandu and ends in Pokhara, which again gives you the opportunity to explore Pokhara after the trek ends.

The shortened itinerary of the 10 days Annapurna Circuit Trek is made possible by the construction of roadways to the remote villages along the trail, which were untouched a few years ago. Even though it’s a short trek, you won't miss anything major except for a sunrise hike to Poonhill from Ghorepani. We take the standard path, getting on a bus from kathmandu to Dharapani and passing through Chame, Pisang, Manang, Thorong La, and Muktinath before finishing the trek in Jomsom. Instead of hiking back to Pokhara, we take a direct bus from Jomsom to Pokhara, which significantly reduces the hiking days.

The 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Itinerary is one of Nepal's most rewarding high-altitude hikes. They say, “If you can only go on one hike in your life, make it this one.” You'll get more from this one trip than from many others. The circuit trek is recognized as the best long-distance trek in the world since it crosses several climatic zones, exhibits a breathtaking variety in topography, and, most importantly, comes into contact with a wide variety of ethnic communities. The alpine landscapes you'll encounter when hiking through the Annapurna range appear to be from a dream. This is another factor that contributes to the Annapurna Circuit being a worldwide aspiration for trekkers. Imagine completing this long trekking journey in just half the time! Isn't it amazing?

The Annapurna region is blessed with lovely greenery as well as remarkable natural beauty, which serves as a home to unusual flora and wildlife. Additionally, you will get joy from the warm interaction with local inhabitants of all ethnic backgrounds coexisting peacefully. You can discover the rich Hindu and Buddhist cultures that have been maintained for many years by these communities.

Everything you need to successfully complete your 10 days Circuit Trip in the Annapurna region has been assembled by our Outfitter Nepal experts. From transportation to accommodation to meals, everything is organized by us so you can trek worry-free. Moreover, our professional guides and experienced potters will make your journey informative and enjoyable.

Now let's look at the highlights, itinerary, and additional details about the trek package, that will help you in choosing the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek. Follow along to virtually travel the Annapurna Circuit before even getting to Nepal. Feel free to contact us by email or WhatsApp if you have any questions. You can count on us at all times.

Best features of the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

  • Enjoy the scenic bus journey from Kathmandu to Dharapani
  • Traversing the Marshyangdi River Valley on foot
  • Hiking through the remote village settings of Chame, Pisang, and Manang
  • Viewing the captivating Gangapurna Glacier and Lake while acclimatizing at Manang
  • Passing across the challenging Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters
  • Praying for blessings at the revered Muktinath Temple
  • Observing the rich culture and traditions of various ethnic groups

What to expect from the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary?

For a number of reasons, the Annapurna circuit trip is regarded as more than merely a trek. It is admirable how diverse the cultures are in areas that are naturally lovely from start to finish. The entire Himalayan journey is an adventure where you may visit some of the most stunning mountains on the planet and learn about and appreciate the intriguing culture and unique way of life of the mountain people. 

During the 10 days Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will traverse the highest trekking pass in Nepal, Thorong La Pass. Similar to this, you get to spend the night in the two most stunning towns in the Annapurna Region (Manang and Muktinath), which is a great way to get to know the people who live there. We hike every day across the most remote region of the country. You can take this tour to see the gorgeous Himalayas and learn about the way of life in small, rural towns.

The Annapurna Circuit Trekking 10 Days begins in Kathmandu with a bus journey to Dharapani. The two main river valleys that the path follows are those of the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki rivers. The trail follows the Marsyangdi River Valley for the first part of its journey until arriving in Thorong Phedi. After negotiating the challenging Thorong La Pass, you continue your trip along the Kali Gandaki River Valley.

Is the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek right for me?

Let’s be honest! If you’re a slow traveler, who prefers to take time to leisurely enjoy the places and deeply understand the culture of the region, the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek is not for you. This 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek is a short version of the 20 days Annapurna Circuit Trek designed with time-constrained hikers in mind who can't take a long holiday but still want to feel the rush of circumnavigating the Annapurna range on foot. So, if you are short on time and want to quickly trek the Annapurna Circuit, this trip is right for you.

Since you’ll be trekking in the rough terrain of remote Himalayas and crossing high-altitude mountain passes (Thorong La at 5416 meters) in short duration, you must be in good physical shape and sound mental health in order to prevent health hazards during the trek. So, if you’re physically and mentally fit to withstand the tough terrain, high altitude, and unstable weather, the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek is right for you too. 

What is so unique about trekking in the Annapurna Circuit 10 Days Itinerary?

The Annapurna Circuit differs from other hikes due to its constantly shifting climatic zone, vegetation, and weather pattern. You may hear the distant sound of a river rushing as the Annapurna Circuit hiking expedition begins in a lush subtropical area. You pass a number of terraced farms and fields in the pleasant, warm weather. Along the trip, one can view a great deal of Himalayan villages that have been charmingly built in the traditional style. Then, while passing through cooler deciduous woodlands, you ascend the Marsyangdi River Valley. The majority of the woodlands you pass through are covered in dense subtropical vegetation like rhododendron, birch, oak, and juniper trees. The Annapurna National Park offers the opportunity to witness several animals.

After a few days, you'll be able to clearly view the Annapurna ranges, which include the highest peak in the region and the tenth-highest peak in the world, Annapurna I (8,091 m). Once you have climbed above the tree line, you will discover desolate ravines and arid hills surrounded by snow-capped summits. The Manangis inhabit a desert-like area of the Himalayas where the wind is frequently fierce and the air is thin. The Thorong La mountain pass, where the Khatung Kang and Yakawa Kang mountains merge, is where the Annapurna Trek's highest point is located. It is situated at a height of 5,416 meters above sea level.

From Thorung La Pass, you can see the breathtaking, arid-like Himalayan hills with their peculiar purplish color. The remainder of the trek primarily descends. You'll descend the alpine setting and travel through abundant subtropical vegetation once more before reaching Pokhara's lovely Valley of Lakes. 

Major Attractions of the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

Breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and surrounding mountains

It goes without saying that you will see the Annapurna range's mountains during the 10 days Annapurna Circuit trip. This 55-kilometer-long massif is home to many peaks, including Annapurna (8091 m), Machhapuchhre (6993 m), Gangapurna (7455 m), Nilgiri Himal (7061 m), Tilicho Peak (7135 m), and others. You'll also get to see Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6986 m), and other mountains in the distance. In fact, there will be snow-covered mountains all around you.

Rest day in lovely Manang village

Manang is known for its majesty and magnificence. Trekkers frequently spend a few days in this charming village hidden by the Marsyangdi River, listening to the river's lyrical sound as it flows. Manang provides a variety of activities for your day of acclimatization, including thrilling mountain biking and short treks to nearby picturesque villages. On your free day in Manang, you can also explore the historic sites of Braga Bhojo Gompa and Milarepa's Cave.

Villages rich in cultural heritage

The hike provides a fascinating look into local cultures, traditions, and rituals in addition to a spectacular view of the highest mountain peaks. While on the 10-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will get a chance to observe the genuine cultures of the Gurungs, Brahmins, Manangis, Thakalis, and Magars. This trip will provide you the opportunity to hear from the hospitable locals about the region's traditions, values, and long-standing customs. The region's cultural and religious richness is evident in the abundance of stupas, gumbas, and chortens along the way.

Thorong La Pass, the highest trekking pass

Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek, sits at a height of 5416 meters between the peaks of Khatung Kang and Yakwa. As you must go up a rocky, steep trail to reach the pass's summit, it is regarded as the hardest hike in the area. You'll feel as though your dedication and work were justly rewarded when you finally reach the top and see the breathtaking panorama of the neighboring mountains. It is impossible to put into words the sense of accomplishment you get after taking in the beautiful vista from the pass. You'll have to see it for yourself.

Glory of the Holy Muktinath Temple

At the foot of Thorong La Pass, Muktinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites, is situated. The Mukti Kshetra (location of freedom) title is given to the highest temple in the world (3,800 m). The Muktinath Temple is said to be the place where you can be purified of all your sins and receive good fortune. The temple receives thousands of pilgrims from all over India and Nepal who come to bathe in the nearby pond and taps to wash away their sins. You get a chance to explore and seek blessings personally in the temple during the trek.

Itinerary
Trip day to day detail itinerary
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Your trek guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning. Make sure to have breakfast and get ready before the scheduled time, which depends on the bus timing. From the hotel, you’ll head towards the bus station where you catch the bus to Besisahar. The bus takes you to Dumre via Kathmandu Pokhara Highway and deviates right from Dumre to get to Besi Sahar on a winding paved road that follows the Marsyangdi River. Once you get to Besi Sahar, you get into a jeep for Dharampani, which is where you will spend the night at a lodge.

  • max-altitude iconMax. Altitude: 1960m/6430ft
  • meal iconMeals: Lunch, and Dinner
  • elevation-gain iconElevation Gain: 610m/2001ft
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Mountain Lodge
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: Driving: 8-9 Hours
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 186 km/115.6m
  • transportation iconTransportation: Local Bus/Jeep

We begin the trekking trip by heading toward a little grassy field from Dharapani. The Annapurna II may be seen in the distance as the Marsyangdi River makes a left turn. When you finally arrive in Bagarchhap, a Bhote village near a Buddhist temple, prayer flags may be seen flirtatiously flapping in the breeze. We continue to ascend through trees of oak and pine while passing Danaque (2210 m). At the foot of Lamjung Himal, at the end of a small wooden bridge and a difficult slope, is the village of Timang. Following that, the trail is level until we reach Chame, where we spend the night at a tea house.

  • max-altitude iconMax. Altitude: 2670m/8760ft
  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • elevation-gain iconElevation Gain: 710m/2329ft
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Mountain Lodge
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: 7-8 hours
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 24 km/14.9mi

Our journey to Pisang starts after breakfast at the guest house. You will be delighted by the sight of Lamjung Himal (6893m), which glitters in the first light of the day. The mountain hides as we walk up the valley's trail and past a sizable apple orchard. When we proceed along the path to Bhratang (2950m), the valley begins to rise abruptly. We reach a rock-strewn area after a little ascent from Bhratang. We now travel down a steep, descending track after crossing a wooden bridge. The valley's V-shape gradually transforms into a U-shape as we stroll through a pine forest once more, revealing a breathtaking view. Then, close to a bridge, we arrive at Pisang, a smaller settlement that is identified by a lengthy Mani Wall.

  • max-altitude iconMax. Altitude: 3,200m /10,499ft
  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • elevation-gain iconElevation Gain: 530m/1,739ft
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Mountain Lodge
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: 5-6 Hours
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 15-18km/9.3-11.2mi

We start our day by climbing a high ridge from Pisang, which provides fantastic views of the Manang Valley and the Tilicho summit (7145 m). The northeast face of Annapurna III towers majestically above us as we reach a flat area after passing Humde (3320 m), which houses the airport for Manang. The vast plains of the Sabje Khola Valley provide further evidence of Annapurna IV (7525 m).

We travel a short distance beyond this to the tiny community of Mungji by crossing the Marsyangdi River on a wooden bridge. The residents grow crops in the fields on either side of the trail, which looks refreshing. Next, we see the settlement of Braga, which is surrounded by the spectacular monastery, countless large chortens, and Mani walls of the Himalayas. Shortly after a difficult ascent, we reach Manang.

  • max-altitude iconMax. Altitude: 3540m/11614ft
  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • elevation-gain iconElevation Gain: 340m/1,115ft
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Mountain Lodge
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: 6-7 Hours
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 19km/11.8mi

Before navigating the Thorung La Pass, it is essential to properly acclimatize. Manang is a great place to acclimatize since it offers a variety of optional day treks, such as one that involves crossing a river to see a sizable icefall coming down from the Annapurnas or another that involves climbing far beyond the hamlet to enjoy a comprehensive view of both the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley.

It is also beneficial and instructive to stop by the Himalayan Rescue Association [HRA] assistance station in Manang. If you want to stir up your rest day with some unique activities, you can go visit Ganagapurna Glacier Lake.

  • max-altitude iconMax. Altitude: 3540m/11614ft
  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Mountain Lodge
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: 2-3 Hours

After a well-earned day of rest, you wake up in Manang eager to face the Thorung La Pass, even if we'll only get as far as Yak Kharka today. From Manang to Yak Kharka, the trail gradually ascends while passing through the town of Gunsang (3960 m). We will hike all day, admiring the vast mountain vistas all around us. The altitude will exhaust us even though it seems like a short hike. It is challenging to breathe as we ascend to an even higher altitude (4050 m). So, we proceed carefully and slowly.

  • max-altitude iconMax. Altitude: 4050m/13287ft
  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • elevation-gain iconElevation Gain: 510m/1673ft
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Mountain Lodge
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: 3-4 Hours
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 10 km/6.2mi

After a filling breakfast in Yak Kharka, our pursuit of Thorung La Pass continues. Today's journey begins with a gradual ascent to a hilltop, followed by a descent to the Marsyangdi's headwaters and a concealed wooden bridge crossing. Before climbing a perilous slope on a narrow path and ultimately descending to Thorung Phedi, you first ascend the mountain way on the right bank of the Marsyandgi for a little distance. You'll spend the night at a basic tea house in Thorung Phedi.

  • max-altitude iconMax. Altitude: 4450m/14599ft
  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • elevation-gain iconElevation Gain: 399m/1312ft
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Mountain Lodge
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: 3-4 hours
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 9km/5.6mi

We start our hike early in the morning on a challenging but clearly marked track to Thorang La Pass (5416 m). The gradient eventually flattens out. We reach the prayer flags and chortens of the famed pass after 4 hours of steadily rising. Dramatic vistas of the brown and purple hills of Mustang spread out before us, as well as the snow-capped mountains above and the head of the Kali Gandaki valley below.

From here, a grueling 1600 m descent leads to Muktinath, but it is more than rewarded for by the magnificent vistas of Dhaulagiri. Following a nice stroll up the Jhong Khola Valley to Muktinath and its shrines and temple, the moraines eventually give way to green slopes.

  • max-altitude iconMax. Altitude: 5416m/17769ft
  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • elevation-gain iconElevation Gain: 966m/3168ft
  • elevation-loss iconElevation Loss: 1666m/5465ft
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: Mountain Lodge
  • walking-hour iconWalking Hours: 7-8 hours
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 16km/9.9mi

Today is going to be a long day. We wake up early in the morning and visit the well-known temple of Muktinath. After the prayers, we return to the lodge, have breakfast, and then start our drive from Muktinath to Pokhara. We’ll drive by the Kali Gandaki River and pass by renowned places like Jomsom, Tatopani, Beni before reaching Pokhara. You’ll check in to your hotel once you reach Pokhara, have dinner and if you have time, you can go out to enjoy the nightlife of Lakeside, Pokhara.

On the final hike day of our trekking trip, we visit the well-known temple of Muktinath, return to the inn, have breakfast, and then start our descent of the breathtaking Kali Gandaki Gorge, which initially takes us through barren terrain in the same geographic and climatic region as Tibet. We follow the trail steeply down to Kagbeni, a remote village renowned for its Tibetan architecture, after passing through Jharkot and Khingar settlements with classic Tibetan architecture. After stopping for lunch in Kagbeni, we hike to Jomsom, which is where we stay the night.

  • max-altitude iconMax. Altitude: 950m
  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast and Lunch
  • accomodation iconAccommodation: 3 star Hotel
  • walking-distance iconWalking Distance: 175km/108.7mi

The last day of the trip starts with an early morning bus ride from Pokhara to Kathmandu. You will be transported to your hotel in Thamel after reaching Kathmandu Bus Stop. Once you settle in at the hotel, you can unwind for a while before venturing outside to explore the busy streets of Thamel or partaking in a few drinks at a bar while listening to live music.

Our journey with you ends here. We hope you enjoy the rest of your days in Nepal. Please remember us for your upcoming travels to Nepal. Enjoy!

  • max-altitude iconMax. Altitude: 1350m
  • meal iconMeals: Breakfast, and Dinner
  • transportation iconTransportation: Tourist Bus
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Trip Map
Day to day route map and altitude graph
10 Annapurna Circuit Trek Route Map
Cost Details
Good to know before trip booking
What's Included
  • Basic Accommodations in lodges on trek in twin sharing basis.
  • Paper works, Annapurna conservation entry permits & TIMS permit.
  • Ground transportation Kathmandu – Dharapani, Jomsom - Pokhara - Kathmandu by tourist/local bus/jeep.
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek, including hot tea/coffee in the morning with Breakfast.
  • 1 night hotel in Pokhara including breakfast.
  • A knowledgeable and friendly guide who speaks fluent English.
  • Salary, food, beverages, lodging, transportation, and insurance for the guide.
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets and duffle bag – if NECESSARY (return after the trek)
  • Seasonal fruits after dinner as a dessert.
  • Well-equipped first aid kit, oximeter.
  • Farewell dinner on the last night in Kathmandu.
  • Trip Achievement Awards for your lifetime memories.
  • Outfitter Nepal Company T-short, Camp, and Trekking map.
  • In case of emergency: A helicopter service will be arranged and paid through your travel insurance
  • All the government Tax, Vat, and service charges.
What's not Included
  • Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport - Kathmandu).
  • Your Travel insurance (compulsory).
  • Meals (lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara).
  • Your personal expenses, drink water, hot and cold drinks & bar bills.
  • Laundry, telephone, hot shower & internet charge.
  • Porter to carry your luggage during the trek (if you require a porter to carry your stuff, it will cost you USD 200 each porter and 1 porter for 2 trekkers; the porter has a 20-22kg weight limit)
  • Tips for the guide and porters.
  • Anything not mentioned in included section.
Add-Ons & Options

Outfitter Nepal Treks & Expedition introduces an extensive selection of add-ons that you can add to the standard trekking packages at the time of checkout. These premium add-on options are designed to customize your trips according to your liking without any hassle. Add an extra night’s accommodation in Kathmandu or a private vehicle to the trailhead with just a couple of clicks. Enjoy your 10 days Annapurna circuit trip to the fullest with our tailor-made add-ons!

Accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara: Need accommodation for extra nights in Kathmandu? Add a single room for $45 per night and a double room for $50 per night in a 3-star hotel with breakfast.

Single Supplement: Want some privacy during the trek? You can now get a whole room to yourself at teahouses and lodges during the entire journey by paying an extra $220. By adding this add-on, you no longer have to share your teahouse room with fellow trekkers. 

Porter Service: Too much weight on your shoulders? Hire a porter to carry your backpack for an additional $20 per day. You can share the porter’s wage with another trekker as a porter can carry a maximum of 20-22 kg. 

Kathmandu to Dharapani in a Private Vehicle: Not a fan of bus rides? Now, you can travel in comfort from Kathmandu to Dharapani (the starting point of the trek) in a private jeep for an additional cost of $295. Travel at your own pace with frequent stops to admire the scenery along the way. Extra bonus for a group, you can share the Jeep fare amongst each other. 

Jomsom to Pokhara Flight: Bus/Jeep rides at the end of the trek can be exhausting, especially when you’re already worn out from several days of hiking. Book a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (the end point of the trek) for just $140 per person.

Pokhara to Kathmandu Flight with Airport Pickup and Drop: Don’t want to spend a whole day on the road? Skip the lengthy and uncomfortable bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara and book yourself a flight for just $120. You can use that time to explore the beautiful lake city of Pokhara instead. The price includes a free airport pickup and dropoff. Isn’t that a deal?

Pokhara to Kathmandu in a Private Vehicle: Not a fan of bus rides? Now, you can travel in comfort from Kathmandu to Pokhara in a private car for an additional cost of $130. Travel at your own pace with frequent stops to admire the scenery along the way. Extra bonus for a group, you can share the car fare amongst each other.

How to get Add-ons on my trip?

Customizing your trip is now easier than ever! Follow these simple steps to get add-ons:

  1. Go to your desired trip package.
  2. Choose your favorable date.
  3. Click on “ADD TO CART.”
  4. Select the number of travelers.
  5. Select the required Add-ons.
  6. Click on “Checkout.”
Dates & Prices
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Showing Departure of Dec 2024
Starts: Wednesday
Dec 04, 2024
Ends: Friday
Dec 13, 2024
Price (Per Person)
US$750
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Dec 06, 2024
Ends: Sunday
Dec 15, 2024
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Jan 05, 2025
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Dec 30, 2024
Ends: Wednesday
Jan 08, 2025
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Useful Information
Good to know before you travel

Trek Difficulty

This moderately challenging short Annapurna Circuit trip lasts 10 days. If this is your first experience hiking at a high altitude, you may find it more difficult. When we get above 5,000 meters above sea level, the oxygen levels are low and breathing becomes harder, which calls for a high-altitude trekking experience and appropriate acclimatization. Even if you’re new to the Himalayas, the trek can be made much more tolerable and pleasurable with a month of preparation, such as daily aerobic exercises or short hikes around your home.

Transportation to and from the trailhead

Ground transportation is included in our 10 days Annapurna Circuit trek package. We take a tourist/local bus to Besi Sahar and a local jeep to Dharapani in order to get to the starting point of the hike. The majority of the route is blacktopped, although the final few hours may require driving on a graveled off-road.

On your way back, you’ll be seated in a luxurious tourist bus that will transport you from Muktinath to Pokhara. From Pokhara we will take another bus that takes us to Kathmandu, where the trip ends. If you choose to take a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu instead of a bus, you can do so by paying extra for the flight.

Note: Since local buses take a long time with their frequent stops and the local jeeps may not be reliable, you can take a private jeep from Kathmandu to Dharapani and again from Muktinath to Pokhara at an additional cost of US$ 600.

Accommodation on the trail

Accommodations on the trip will be in a mountain lodge or tea house, like other trekking routes in Nepal. These are modest, locally owned hotels that offer basic meals and rooms with two to five beds, depending on the size of the room. As a result, during the busiest trekking season, you may have to share a room with other hikers. You will get a comfy mattress, bed linens, pillows, and blankets in the warm rooms.

Additionally, you ought to feel at ease using an Asian squat toilet since Western toilets are hard to find at higher elevations. Additionally, the restrooms are accessible on a shared basis. There will be water in the restroom, but we advise bringing your own toiletries.

Meals during the trek

Although there won't be a wide selection on the menu at the tea houses along the journey, you’ll get simple meals like dumplings, noodles, pasta, bread toast, eggs, etc. Daal Bhat, a typical Nepali dish with white rice, lentil soup, seasonal vegetables, salad, and pickles, will be served to you for lunch. It is high in protein and carbohydrates, which will give you energy for the hike. Breakfast typically consists of tea, coffee, cooked eggs, curries, and Tibetan bread. You can also sample different regional cuisines, including noodles and momo for dinner or go for the typical Daal Bhat.

To prevent altitude sickness, make sure you stay hydrated by sipping hot water and ginger lemon tea.

Drinking Water Facility

Due to the growing amount of plastic litter on the route, consuming plastic-bottled water is not advised. Therefore, bring a thermos flask and fill it with hot water for the hike when you check out from the tea house every day. You can filter your water with water purification pills. For further safety, you can choose a bottle with built-in filtration and fill it with fresh water during the day from nearby natural streams available on the way.

Internet Access during the journey

Let's not expect quick WiFi and great phone reception in the secluded, rural sections of the Annapurna region. While hidden away in the wonderful realm of the Himalayas, you won't really feel like connecting to the outside world. If it's necessary, you might be able to pay extra to access WiFi with spotty coverage at the tea shops along the route.

You can use mobile data anywhere that has network coverage, though. Before you leave for the hike, purchase a 4G SIM card from the NTC or Ncell phone networks in Kathmandu. In isolated locations, the NTC network is reported to perform better.

Battery Charging Facility

Your devices' batteries can be charged for a little fee in the tea houses along the route. It's possible that the tea house where you spend the night will offer the service for free. Batteries are charged and rooms are lit using solar energy in the remote areas. Because there is less sunlight at high altitudes during the winter and even other months, you may encounter reliability problems.

The best course of action is always to bring extra batteries or a power bank with you. Due to the cold, batteries tend to deplete more quickly, so use your devices sparingly and keep them near your body to keep them warm.

Guides and Potters

A guide and potters are included in our 10-day Annapurna Circuit trekking package. Two hikers are paired with one potter, who carries a combined 20–22 kg from the two hikers. You can avoid paying the potter's salary by carrying the luggage yourself if you are an experienced hiker and are comfortable hiking while carrying your own rucksack for a week.

As things can quickly get out of hand in the Himalayas, we highly advise that you hike with a knowledgeable trekking guide. Trekking in any Himalayan region in Nepal, anyway requires a mandatory trekking guide. Trekking with a guide can be helpful in an emergency as well as for navigating the journey and interacting with the people.

Permits required for the trek

Two permits are necessary for our 10-day Annapurna Circuit trek. They are:

  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Entry Permit

Before you start your walk, we issue these permits for you from the respective authorities. The price of our package also includes the cost of both permits.

Essential Trekking Equipment List

It is difficult for you and the potters to carry big weight at such high heights, so bring only what is essential. Here is a list of some necessary trekking supplies:

  • Good quality backpack
  • Trekking shoes
  • Sandals/Crocs
  • Down jacket and pants
  • Thermal attire
  • Pants and t-shirts
  • Warm woolen nightwear 
  • Several pairs of underwear
  • Trekking poles
  • 1 pair of gloves
  • A woolen hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Toiletries
  • An average-sized towel
  • Energy bars
  • Basic medications
  • Raingear (during monsoon)
FAQs
10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary frequently asked questions

We hike through the Annapurna Conservation Area during our 10-day Annapurna Circuit trek, scaling between 790 meters and 8091 meters above sea level at the peak of Annapurna I. The highest point we reach during our trek is Thorong La Pass, at 5416 meters. Since it is the highest trekking route in Nepal, the pass has grown in popularity, inviting more trekkers to the Annapurna region.

I'm afraid not. The base camp is not included in the trek around the Annapurna Range known as the Annapurna Circuit. An alternative hiking route must be chosen that starts a few hours of driving from Pokhara in order to reach ABC. Though you won't get to see the Annapurna Base Camp, the mountain panoramas you will see during the circuit trek are far superior to ABC.

The 10-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is best taken in the spring and fall, just like all other trekking locations in Nepal. The greatest months for weather in the Annapurna region are spring, which includes March, April, and May, and fall, which includes September, October, and November. The panorama appears more clear than ever on sunny, warm days of spring and autumn with brilliant blue skies, which also make for a wonderful hiking day. The hike is safe and fun because it rarely rains or snows during this time.

Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a possible risk when trekking any place above 3000 meters. Headaches, shortness of breath, exhaustion, dizziness, and loss of appetite are among the primary symptoms, though they affect individuals differently. The symptoms can be controlled by drinking enough liquids, getting enough rest, and eating a healthy diet. If it worsens, the patient should be sent right away to a lower elevation.

It is preferred but not required to have prior trekking experience. Numerous examples exist of first-timers completing the 10-day Annapurna Circuit trip successfully. All you need to be ready for the trip is physical and mental preparedness.

There is no set technique to get ready for any expedition. If you are both physically and psychologically fit, you can complete the walk. Given the high elevation of the trek, it is preferable to have prior high-altitude hiking expertise. If not, you can start getting ready by scheduling daily cardio exercises a month or two prior to the beginning of the trek. Try swimming, hiking, or running around your town.

Travel insurance typically pays for lost luggage, canceled or delayed flights, and medical expenses for accidents sustained while traveling. When trekking in the high Himalayas, there may occasionally be a need for a rescue helicopter to fly you to safety due to a natural disaster or an urgent medical crisis. In such cases, travel insurance pays for your helicopter evacuation and hospital treatments. Therefore, be mindful to purchase insurance that includes helicopter rescue coverage.

Yes, our trek package includes three basic meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) while on the trail, as well as lodging in a mountain lodge. You are responsible for paying for any additional expenses, such as snacks, beverages, tea, coffee, etc. Because the isolated lodges do not accept other forms of payment, it is advised to bring some cash with you.

No, you won’t find any banks or ATMs once you begin hiking. We recommend you withdraw cash from ATMs or banks or exchange your currency from a money changer (in case you’ve brought cash from your country) in Kathmandu. In case you forgot, you may also find ATMs in Besi Sahar or Jomsom, but these aren't reliable.

There are many shops selling trekking equipment on the streets of Thamel. In Thamel, you can buy anything from rain gear to hiking boots. In comparison to the one in your country, the price is extremely reasonable. Obviously, they won't be of the highest quality, but they are made of natural materials and are suitable for the Himalayan climate.

Since there are no hospitals along the route, it is important for your safety that you pack a kit containing basic medications like pain relievers, tablets for diarrhea, cough syrup, bandages, regular prescriptions, etc. And if you don't have the necessary medications to treat a simple ailment, your journey may come to an end. Make sure to carry your regular medicines and consult with your doctor about the trip before booking.

Of course! If you book a private trip, we are willing to make any adjustments to your itinerary and travel schedule. However, we are unable to amend the group departure trips, as doing so might be unfair to other members of the group. Please communicate with us regarding your requirements before booking the trek.

Since we have been in the industry for more than 2 decades, we are quite familiar with the requirements of trekkers. A successful expedition is always our top priority. Our knowledgeable English-speaking guides will keep you secure at all times. Even permits are not a concern for you. We will arrange everything for you. As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we also work with local tour operators and potters.

Please feel free to contact us by email or WhatsApp if you have any questions regarding the services we offer. We are here for you at all times. See you in Nepal!

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