8 Days Bespoke Annapurna Circuit Trek

8 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary and Cost for 2024, 2025
8 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek
Starting fromUS$695Per adult (price varies by group size)
We offer group discount
1 person
US$995
2 - 3 persons
US$770
4 - 10 persons
US$695
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What to see & doSpecific information about 8 Days Bespoke Annapurna Circuit Trek
  • Duration8 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • Max Altitude 5416m
  • Starts at Kathmandu
  • Ends at Pokhara
  • Trip Style Lodge to Lodge Trek
  • Group Size 10
  • Transportation Local bus/Jeep
  • Best Season March, April, May, and September, October, November, December

Did you know you can now trek the Annapurna Circuit in just 8 days? Sounds impossible, right? But, it’s actually possible. Thanks to the construction of roads that now reach the remote villages of the Annapurna Circuit route, significantly reducing the hiking days. Avid trekkers, who like to leisurely explore the remote Himalayan countryside, may not be happy with this development. However, it’s a golden opportunity for time-bound trekkers, who are in search of a quick getaway whenever they get time. The 8 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek is best suited for today’s fast-paced generation.

The world-famous Annapurna Circuit Trekking used to be one of the longest treks in Nepal, lasting up to 20 days, where the trekkers circumnavigate the entire Annapurna range on foot starting from Besisahar and ending in Pokhara. Trekking nowadays isn’t as lengthy and challenging as it used to be. With our 8 Days Annapurna Circuit Trekking package, you can take a bus and jeep ride from Kathmandu to Chame, start your hiking journey all the way from Chame, and end it in Muktinath before taking a bus to Pokhara. As the trek starts in Kathmandu and ends in Pokhara, it’s good for you if you’re already in Kathmandu and want to spend some time in Pokhara afterward.

The Annapurna region is endowed with wonderful vegetation and extraordinary natural beauty, which provides a home for rare species and flora. Additionally, you will enjoy the pleasant interactions with the harmonious coexistence of local residents from different ethnic backgrounds. You can learn about the lively Hindu and Buddhist cultures these people have upheld for a long time.

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most satisfying high-altitude treks in Nepal. It is said that If you can only take one hike in your life, make it this one. You'll learn more on this trekking trip than you will on many others combined. The circuit trip traverses many climatic zones, displays an astounding variety in landscape, and, most significantly, interacts with a wide range of ethnic communities. It is regarded as the best long-distance trek in the world for a reason. When hiking over the Annapurna range, you'll come across dream-like alpine scenery that makes the Annapurna Circuit a worldwide goal for trekkers.

Our Outfitter Nepal professionals have put together everything you need to successfully accomplish the 8 days Circuit Trip in the Annapurna region. We arrange everything for you, including permits, food, lodging, and transportation, so you can trek without stress. Furthermore, your journey will be informative, safe, and fun, thanks to our qualified guides and skilled potters.

Let's now review the best features, itinerary plan, useful information, departure dates, package cost, and more about the 8-day Annapurna Circuit trekking journey. Make sure you know everything before booking the trip. It's time to take a virtual trip around the Annapurna Circuit with us. If you have any questions, feel free to email or WhatsApp us.

Disclaimer: You will be driving a considerable distance on difficult off-roads in rural Nepal to complete the Annapurna Circuit in under 8 days. Due to the numerous hazards of landslides obstructing the roads, it is unsafe to travel on these roads during the monsoon. As a result, the trip is NOT planned for June, July, and August. Reservations for the 8 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek are accepted for the rest of the year (September to May). 

Best features of the Bespoke Annapurna Circuit Trek 8 Days

  • Experiencing the beautiful bus rides in the countryside of Nepal
  • Walking through the valley of the Marshyangdi River
  • Trekking in the rich vegetation of Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Hiking in the isolated villages of Chame, Pisang, and Manang
  • Admiring the alluring Gangapurna Glacier and Lake from Manang
  • Crossing the difficult Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters 
  • Praying at the holy Muktinath Temple
  • Watching the rich cultures and traditions of various ethnic groups

What makes the 8 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek a unique experience?

Due to its continually changing climatic zone, vegetation, and weather pattern, the Annapurna Circuit varies from other trekking journeys. The hiking excursion starts in a lush subtropical environment, where you pass a number of terraced farms and fields in the nice, warm weather. Trekkers witness many Himalayan villages constructed in the traditional style. Then, as you approach the Marsyangdi River Valley, you travel through colder deciduous trees. The majority of the woodlands you travel through are densely forested with subtropical plants, including birch, oak, juniper, and rhododendron.

Just after a couple of days, the Annapurna Range, which features the tenth-highest peak in the globe and the highest mountain in the region, Annapurna I (8,091 m), will become visible. You will come across bleak ravines and dry hills encircled by snow-capped summits once you have ascended above the tree line. In a region of the Himalayas that resembles a desert, the Manangis (people of Manang) live in a sparsely populated area where there is frequently a ferocious wind. The highest point of the Annapurna Trek lies in the mountain pass known as Thorong La (5416 m), where the Khatung Kang and Yakawa Kang mountains converge.

The stunning, arid-like Himalayan hills with their peculiar purplish color become visible from Thorung La Pass. Most of the remaining route is a descent. Before arriving in Pokhara's gorgeous Valley of Lakes, you will descend the alpine environment and travel through an abundance of subtropical vegetation once more. The diversity in the landscape within a limited time frame, unmatched natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage set the 8-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek apart from others.

Is the Short 8 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek right for me?

Let's be real! The Bespoke Annapurna Circuit Trek 8 Days is not for slow travelers who wish to take their time to leisurely explore the locations and fully comprehend the local culture. This shorter version of the 20-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is intended for hikers with limited vacation time who nonetheless want to experience the exhilaration of circumnavigating the Annapurna range on foot. So, if you need to do the Annapurna Circuit quickly and are short on time, this trip is for you.

Completing a longer trek in a short time also calls for health complications. Thus, you must have great physical fitness and mental endurance to successfully overcome the challenges that you may face during the trek. Remember, you will be hiking through the rugged landscape of the remote Himalayas and traversing high-altitude mountain passes (Thorong La at 5416 meters) in a short period of time. The 8 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek is only appropriate for you if you're physically and emotionally prepared to handle the challenging terrain, high altitude, and unpredictable weather of the Annapurna region.

What to anticipate from the Bespoke Annapurna Circuit Trek 8 Days?

The Annapurna circuit hike is regarded as more than just a trek for a number of reasons. The diversity of the civilizations in places that are breathtakingly beautiful from beginning to end is admirable. The entire journey through the Himalayas is an adventure that allows you to see some of the most beautiful mountains on the planet and gain an understanding of and appreciation for the fascinating culture and distinctive way of life of the mountain people.

The Bespoke Annapurna Circuit Trek of 8 Days takes you through the Thorong La route, the highest trekking pass in Nepal. Likewise, you get to spend the night in Manang and Muktinath, the two most beautiful towns in the Annapurna Region, which is a wonderful opportunity to meet the locals. Every day, we hike over the most isolated part of the nation. Expect to explore the stunning Himalayas and discover what it's like to live in a small, rural village.

The bus ride from Kathmandu to Chame marks the start of the 8 Days Annapurna Circuit Trekking. The Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki rivers' valleys are the two primary riverbeds that the trail follows. Prior to reaching Thorong Phedi, the trail travels primarily along the Marsyangdi River Valley. You continue your journey by traveling through the Kali Gandaki River Valley after traversing the difficult Thorong La Pass.

Major Attractions of the 8 Days Tailor-Made Annapurna Circuit Trek

Thorong La Pass (5416 m)

The Thorong La Pass, the trek's highest point, located between the Khatung Kang and Yakwa peaks, is one of the trek's highlights. The journey to the peak of the pass is thought to be the most difficult in the region as you have to climb a rough, steep trail. Once you've attained the summit and have a chance to take in the beautiful view of the surrounding mountains, you'll feel as though your hard work and perseverance have been justly rewarded. The sense of success you get after admiring the stunning view from the pass cannot be expressed in words.

The holy Muktinath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites, Muktinath Temple, is located at the base of Thorong La Pass. This highest temple in the world (3,800 m) is also known as Mukti Kshetra (place of freedom). According to legend, you can atone for all of your sins and find good fortune at the Muktinath Temple. Thousands of pilgrims travel to the temple from all across India and Nepal to take a bath in the adjoining holy pond and taps to wash away their sins. During the trip, you get the opportunity to visit the temple and ask for blessings.

Manang, the stunning Himalayan Village

Manang is renowned for its grandeur and majesty. Trekkers frequently stay a few days in this little village tucked away by the Marsyangdi River to enjoy the beautiful scenery and blissful sound of the river flowing. For your day of acclimatization, Manang offers a choice of activities, including exhilarating mountain biking and quick hikes to adjacent scenic villages. You can also visit the ancient sites of Milarepa's Cave and Braga Bhojo Gompa when you have free time. Manang itself is a great place to spend the day.

Annapurna range and the neighboring mountains

Without a doubt, the 8-day Annapurna Circuit journey will allow you to see the mountains of the Annapurna range. There are numerous peaks inside this 55-kilometer-long massif, including Tilicho Peak (7135 m), Annapurna (8091 m), Machhapuchhre (6993 m), Gangapurna (7455 m), Nilgiri Himal (7061 m), and others. Also visible in the distance are Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6986 m), and other peaks. Mountains blanketed with snow will actually surround you on all sides.

Culturally rich villages

In addition to offering a breathtaking view of the tallest mountain peaks, the trek offers an intriguing glimpse into the cultures, traditions, and rituals of the area. You will have the chance to experience the true cultures of the Gurungs, Brahmins, Manangis, Thakalis, and Magars throughout your excursion. You will have the chance to learn about the habits, values, and long-standing traditions of the area from the friendly inhabitants.

ItineraryTrip day to day detail itinerary

Early in the morning, your trek guide will pick you up from your place of stay. You will travel from the hotel to the bus terminal in a taxi in order to board the bus to Besisahar. Make sure to eat breakfast and prepare yourself before the allocated time, which depends on the bus schedule. The bus takes you to Dumre along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway. From here, you turn right and travel to Besi Sahar through a meandering, paved road that follows the Marsyangdi River. After arriving in Besi Sahar, you board a shared local jeep and travel to Chame along a difficult offroad. You will spend the night at a lodge in Chame. 

    After breakfast in the guest house, we begin our day hike to Pisang. The enchanting vista of Lamjung Himal (6893m), which glitters in the morning light, will encourage you to move forward. As we ascend the valley's trail and pass a huge apple orchard, the mountain view fades. The valley rises dramatically as we continue on the path to Bhratang (2950m). After a brief hike from Bhratang, we arrive at a region covered in rocks. We then pass over a wooden bridge and proceed down a narrow, sloping route. As we continue through another pine forest, the valley's V-shape gradually changes into a U-shape, revealing an amazing panorama. Then, as we go closer to a bridge, we reach Pisang, a little town that is distinguished by a long Mani Wall.

      Our day begins with a steep ascent from Pisang that offers breathtaking views of the Manang Valley and the Tilicho Peak (7145 m). After passing Humde (3320 m), which contains the airstrip for Manang, we arrive at a level area where the northeast face of Annapurna III stands majestically over us. The mesmerizing view of the Annapurna IV (7525 m) is clearly evident from the extensive plains of the Sabje Khola Valley.

      Beyond this, we walk a little to the small settlement of Mungji, crossing a wooden bridge over the Marsyangdi River. It appears refreshing that locals grow crops on the fields next to the trail. Next, we see the town of Braga, which is encircled by a magnificent monastery, numerous enormous chortens, and Mani Walls. We arrive at Manang after a challenging rise from Braga.

        It's crucial to acclimatize well before crossing the Thorung La Pass. Manang is a great place to acclimatize because it offers a variety of optional day treks and bike rides. You can cross the Marshyandgi River to see a significant icefall coming down from the Annapurnas or hike far beyond the village to take in a comprehensive view of both the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley.

        Visiting the Himalayan Rescue Association [HRA] support station at Manang is also helpful and educational. Visit Ganagapurna Glacier Lake if you wish to add more challenging activities to your rest day.

          You wake up in Manang after a well-deserved day of rest, eager to face the Thorung La Pass, even if we will only travel as far as Yak Kharka today. The route from Manang to Yak Kharka rapidly climbs when traversing Gunsang (3960 m). All day long, as we hike, we will take in the stunning mountain scenery. Although it seems like a short climb, the altitude will fatigue us. As we climb to an even higher altitude (4050 m), breathing becomes more difficult. So, we move gently and carefully.

            Following a hearty breakfast in Yak Kharka, we continue to pursue Thorung La Pass. The route today begins with a moderate climb to a mountaintop then descends to the headwaters of the Marsyangdi and over a secret wooden bridge. You first ascend the mountain way on the right bank of the Marsyandgi for a short distance before climbing a treacherous incline on a narrow trail and then descending to Thorung Phedi. In Thorung Phedi, you'll spend the night at a modest tea house.

              On a difficult but well-marked trail, we set out early in the morning for the Thorang La Pass (5416 m). Eventually, the slope flattens out. After 4 hours of continuously climbing, we reach the prayer flags and chortens of the renowned route. Dramatic views of the snow-capped mountains above, the head of the Kali Gandaki valley below, the brown and purple hills of Mustang, and more spread out before us, giving us a sense of satisfaction.

              The breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri make the arduous 1600 m descent to Muktinath more than worthwhile. The moraines finally give way to grassy slopes after a pleasant hike up the Jhong Khola Valley to Muktinath and its shrines and temple.

                It's going to be a long day today. We get up early and walk to the well-known Muktinath temple. Following the prayers, we eat breakfast at our overnight tea house and then begin the drive from Muktinath to Pokhara. Before arriving in Pokhara, we'll travel down the Kali Gandaki River via renowned locations like Jomsom, Tatopani, and Beni. Once you get to Pokhara, you'll check into your hotel, eat dinner, and if you have time, you can head out and experience Lakeside, Pokhara's nightlife.

                Our 8-day journey to the Annapurna Circuit with you ends here. We hope you enjoy your days in Pokhara.

                  Customize Trip
                  Cost DetailsGood to know before trip booking
                  What's Included
                  • Ground transportation (Kathmandu – Chame and Muktinath- Pokhara by tourist/local bus)
                  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek and bus journey
                  • Accommodations in lodges and tea houses on the trek
                  • A guide & porters (1 porter for every 2 trekkers and a porter carries about 20-22 KG from 2 of you)
                  • Paper works, Annapurna Conservation entry permits & TIMS card
                  • 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.
                  • All the government Tax, Vat, and service charges.
                  • Farewell dinner on the last night in Kathmandu.
                  • Trip Achievement Awards for your lifetime memories.
                  • In case of emergency: A helicopter service will be arranged and paid through your travel insurance
                  What's not Included
                  • Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu)
                  • Airport Transfers
                  • Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
                  • Your Travel insurance (compulsory)
                  • Your personal expenses like drinking water, hot and cold drinks & bar bills
                  • Laundry, telephone, hot shower & internet charge
                  • Tips for the guide and porters
                  • Anything not mentioned in the included section
                  Dates & PricesBook your trip with confidence
                  Select a departure month
                  Starts:MONDAYAPR 29, 2024
                  Ends:MONDAYMAY 06, 2024
                  PRICE (Per Person)US$695
                  AvailabilityAvailable
                  Make it a private Trip
                  Useful InformationGood to know before you travel

                  Trek Difficulty

                  The 8-day short Annapurna Circuit trek is considered a moderately difficult trek. It can be more challenging if this is your first time trekking at a high altitude. Since breathing becomes more difficult due to low oxygen levels at 5,000 meters and above, high-altitude trekking experience and the right acclimatization are essential. Even if you've never been to the Himalayas, a month of preparation, like daily aerobic exercises or quick walks around your house, can make the climb much more bearable and enjoyable.

                  Transportation

                  Our 8-day trek around the Annapurna Circuit comes with a ground transportation facility. In order to travel to the trailhead from Kathmandu, we take a tourist/local bus to Besi Sahar and a local sharing jeep to Dharapani. The majority of the trip is blacktopped, although the final few hours may necessitate traveling on an off-road. On your return trip, you'll travel from Muktinath to Pokhara on a luxurious tour bus. Our journey comes to a close in Pokhara. 

                  Note: As local buses take a long time with their frequent stops and the local jeeps might not be dependable, you can take a private jeep from Kathmandu to Dharapani and again from Muktinath to Pokhara for an additional US$600.

                  Accommodation

                  Like other trekking routes in Nepal, lodging will be in a mountain lodge or tea house. These inexpensive, locally run motels provide simple meals and, depending on room size, have two to five beds in each room. As a result, you might have to share a room with other hikers during the busiest trekking season. In the rooms, you will find a comfortable mattress, bed sheets, pillows, and blankets.

                  Additionally, since Western toilets are scarce at higher altitudes, you should feel comfortable using an Asian squat toilet. Additionally, there is communal access to the restrooms. The restrooms will have water, but we suggest bringing your own toiletries.

                  Meals

                  Even though there won't be a lot of options, you can get basic meals like dumplings, noodles, pasta, bread toast, eggs, etc. at the tea shops along the route. You'll be served Daal Bhat for lunch, a traditional Nepali dish made of white rice, lentil soup, seasonal vegetables, salad, and pickles. You will get enough energy for the hike, thanks to the food's strong protein and carbohydrate content. Usually, tea, coffee, scrambled eggs, curries, and Tibetan bread make up breakfast. Additionally, you can try other regional foods, such as noodles and momo for dinner, or you can choose the traditional Daal Bhat.

                  Make sure you keep hydrated by drinking hot water and ginger lemon tea to prevent altitude sickness.

                  Drinking Water

                  It is not advisable to drink plastic-bottled water due to the increasing volume of plastic trash along the path. Therefore, each time you check out of the tea house, fill a thermos flask with boiled water for the hike. You may filter your water further with water purification pills. The best option is to bring a bottle with built-in filtration and fill it up with fresh water during the day from nearby natural streams.

                  Guides and Potters

                  Our 8-day trekking program for the Annapurna Circuit includes a guide and potters. One potter is coupled with two hikers, and the two hikers' combined weight is 20–22 kg. If you are an experienced hiker and feel comfortable hiking while carrying your own rucksack for a week, you can save money by carrying your backpack yourself.

                  We strongly suggest that you trek with an experienced trekking guide because things can quickly spiral out of control in the Himalayas. Anyway, a certified trekking guide is required for trekking in any Nepalese Himalayan region. Trekking with a guide can be advantageous for navigating the trail and getting along with locals, as well as in an emergency.

                  Permits

                  One requires two permits to go on our 8-day Annapurna Circuit trek. Those are:

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

                  We will issue these permits for you from the respective authorities before you start your walk. We also cover the cost of both permits.

                  Trekking Equipment List

                  Bring only what is absolutely necessary because it will be difficult for you and the potters to handle much weight at such a height. Here’s a list of some essential gear you'll need when hiking:

                  • 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)
                  FAQs8 Days Bespoke Annapurna Circuit Trek frequently asked questions

                  • No. The Annapurna Circuit hike, which circles the Annapurna Range, does not include the base camp. To get to ABC, one needs to use a different hiking route that begins after a few hours of driving from Pokhara. Despite the fact that you won't get to see the Annapurna Base Camp, the mountain vistas you will witness throughout the circuit trip are significantly superior to ABC.

                  • Like all other trekking destinations in Nepal, the best times to go on the 8-day Annapurna Circuit Trek are in the spring and fall. Spring, which includes March, April, and May, and fall, which includes September, October, and November, have the best weather in the Annapurna region. On sunny, warm days in the spring and fall with clear blue skies, the view appears more clear than ever. Because it rarely rains or snows during this time, the hike is both safe and enjoyable.

                  • There is a chance that altitude sickness, often known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), can strike while hiking anywhere above 3000 meters. We'll be reaching above 5000 meters in this trek that too in a short period of time, so one should be careful about AMS. The main symptoms include headaches, shortness of breath, tiredness, lightheadedness, and loss of appetite, though each person is affected differently by these. By consuming enough water, getting adequate sleep, and following a balanced diet, the symptoms can be managed. The patient should be immediately transferred to a lower elevation if it gets worse.

                  • To prepare for any excursion, there is no predetermined method. You can easily finish the trek if you are in good physical and mental health. It is preferable to have a prior high-altitude hiking experience, given the trek's high altitude. If not, you can start preparing by planning daily aerobic workouts a month or two before the excursion starts. Try going for a swim, a hike, or a run around your town.

                  • Travel insurance often covers lost luggage, postponed or canceled flights, and medical costs associated with mishaps that occur while traveling. There may occasionally be a need for a rescue helicopter to fly you to safety when trekking in the high Himalayas due to a natural disaster or an urgent medical emergency. Travel insurance will cover your hospital treatments and helicopter transportation in such circumstances. Be careful to choose insurance that covers helicopter rescue.

                  • Yes, our trek package includes overnight stays in a mountain lodge as well as three simple meals each day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) while on the trail. Snacks, drinks, tea, coffee, and any other extra costs are your responsibility. So, it's advised to bring some cash with you because the remote lodges do not accept other payment methods.

                  • No, once you start trekking you won't come across any banks or ATMs. If you have cash from your home country, we advise you to exchange it at a money changer in Kathmandu or withdraw it from ATMs or banks. In case you forgot, there are ATMs in Besi Sahar as well, although they aren't trustworthy.

                  • Yes, of course! We are happy to make any changes to your itinerary and travel arrangements if you book a private vacation. The group departure trips, however, cannot be changed because doing so could be unfair to other group members. Kindly let us know about the changes you want prior to making a reservation.

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