Annapurna Circuit Trekking Key Features:
- Diverse Landscapes: The trek includes a dramatic shift from lush subtropical forests and waterfalls to alpine meadows, high-altitude deserts, and Tibetan-style villages.
- Mountain Views: Trekkers enjoy stunning views of peaks like Annapurna I–IV, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, and other majestic Himalayan mountains.
- Cultural Immersion: The trail passes through Gurung, Magar, Tamang, and Manangi villages, offering insight into local traditions, spiritual life, and daily culture.
- Thorong La Pass: At 5,416 meters, Thorong La is one of the highest trekking passes in the world and a significant highlight for its panoramic mountain views.
- Annapurna Conservation Area: The entire route lies within this protected area, known for its rich biodiversity, rare wildlife, and varied ecosystems.
- Trail Conditions: Some sections have been affected by road construction, but alternate trails help avoid most roadways and preserve the trekking experience.
Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days Route Map
The 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal is a thrilling journey through the picturesque hike route of the Annapurna region, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. This remarkable journey covers diverse terrain, from lush subtropical forests and alpine meadows to dry high-altitude landscapes.
Some of the key highlights of the trip include the challenging Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, the culturally rich village of Manang, and the sacred Muktinath Temple. Trekkers also witness stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre peaks.
This trip is ideal for experienced trekkers with limited time because this route offers an unforgettable Himalayan trekking experience in under two weeks. Here’s a more detailed overview of the standard route:
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu airport
Upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to visit nearby cultural heritage sites, stroll around the city, or unwind and rest for the evening.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Dharapani
- Distance travelled: 230 km
- Duration: 8–9 hours drive
Start your journey with a stunning drive to Dharapani through hills, rivers, and agricultural villages as you head into the Marsyangdi Valley. You will drive through the towns of Besisahar and Chamje before arriving in Dharapani, a small town surrounded by mountains and forests. This is the gateway into the Annapurna Conservation Area and the beginning of the higher Himalayan trails.
Day 3: Dharapani to Chame
- Distance travelled: 15 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
Today's path follows the course of the Marsyangdi River and traditional villages such as Bagarchhap and Danaque. After your arrival in Chame, the district capital of Manang, you will be greeted with breathtaking views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. The town is bustling with a peaceful atmosphere shaped by Tibetan culture and Buddhism.
Day 4: Chame to Pisang
- Distance travelled: 13 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
Today's hike takes you through dense forests and narrow paths etched into clifftops. The path later opens up, revealing dramatic rock faces like Paungda Danda. As you ascend higher, the atmosphere becomes cooler, with dry landscapes. Pisang village, a picturesque settlement divided into upper and lower sections, offers stunning views of Annapurna II and IV. Head to Upper Pisang for a more immersive experience of the Himalayan views over the Buddhist monastery.
Day 5: Pisang to Manang
- Distance travelled: 16 km
- Duration: 6–7 hours
The hike today is culturally rich as you trek via Ghyaru and Ngawal. You’ll pass through pine forests and traditional stone villages, with incredible mountain views along the way. Manang is nestled in a dry valley surrounded by snowy peaks and is known for its Tibetan-style houses, monasteries, and dramatic alpine setting.
Day 6: Rest day at Manang for acclimatization
Today is designated as a rest day to acclimatize to the increasing elevation. Take short treks to Gangapurna Lake or the vantage point above Manang for excellent views over Annapurna III, Tilicho Peak, and Gangapurna Glacier. On the other hand, you can explore local monasteries and immerse yourself in the local culture and tradition.
Day 7: Manang to Yak Kharka
- Distance travelled: 10 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
Leaving Manang, the trail ascends through alpine meadows and juniper forest. It passes through Tengi and Gunsang villages, where the trail becomes rocky. Along the way, you can catch glimpses of exotic wild animals such as blue sheep. Yak Kharka is a small, windy village where yaks graze freely. The scenery is vast and panoramic, with glorious snow-capped mountains in the background.
Day 8: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
- Distance travelled: 7 km
- Duration: 4–5 hours
The journey begins with a steady climb to Thorong Phedi. Moving ahead, you'll have to navigate a suspension bridge and beneath towering cliffs. The hike ends with our arrival at a teahouse, where we will spend the night and rest for the challenging trek tomorrow.
Day 9: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La
- Distance traveled: 16 km
- Duration: 7–9 hours
Today is the most challenging yet rewarding part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The climb up to Thorong La Pass is steep and challenging. On the way, you will catch your breath and witness the views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Moving on, the trail then drops steadily towards Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists alike. You will explore the Temple and visit ancient water spouts, which are believed to cleanse your sins and provide a sense of tranquility.
Day 10: Muktinath - Kagbeni- Jomsom
- Distance travelled: 14 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
Descend to Kagbeni, a charming medieval town near Upper Mustang. Stroll along narrow lanes, ancient gompas, and mud-brick houses. Continue the hike to Jomsom along the Kali Gandaki River, where you will occasionally feel the fierce afternoon breezes. Jomsom is a windy mountain town renowned for apple orchards and magnificent mountain views. It is also the administrative center of the Mustang region.
Day 11: Jomsom to Pokhara
- Distance travelled: 160 km
- Duration: 6–8 hours
Drive early in the morning to Pokhara along the world's deepest gorge, passing through high desert scenery and lush valleys. On arrival in Pokhara, unwind amidst the serene beauty of Phewa Lake and take a stroll through Lakeside's cafes in the evening. It's a perfect place to unwind after your trek.
Day 12: Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Distance travelled: 200 km
- Duration: 7–8 hours
Take a drive (or alternatively, take a flight back) to Kathmandu after breakfast at the hotel. When arriving in Kathmandu, check into the hotel and relax. In the evening, you can explore the rest of the city or go souvenir shopping around Thamel and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Variation for 2025/2026
The Annapurna Circuit Trek remains a favorite among trekkers, and for 2025/26, several route variations offer more flexibility and adventure. While the classic path over Thorong La Pass is still widely chosen, alternatives like the Tilicho Lake side trip, the hidden Nar Phu Valley, or a shorter exit via Muktinath are gaining popularity. These options let trekkers adjust the trek to suit their time, fitness, and interests, whether it's dramatic landscapes, off-the-beaten-path trails, or cultural encounters. No matter the variation, the journey promises stunning Himalayan views and a rewarding trekking experience.
Annapurna Circuit Trek For Beginners
The Annapurna Circuit Trek trips mentioned below are beginner-friendly due to their gradual altitude increase, well-trodden paths, and great infrastructure. With itineraries such as the 14-day luxury option or a shorter 8-day version, beginners can choose a pace that works best for them.
The longer 14-day itinerary incorporates plenty of acclimatization time, particularly in Manang, to ward off altitude sickness. Teahouse accommodations with comfortable lodging, rest days, and access to local guides make the trek safe and enjoyable.
Despite the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416m), meticulous preparation and a steady pace make it feasible even for first-timers. Support services like porters and vehicle transfers reduce physical strain, allowing novices to bask in the glory of the Himalayan panorama and the region's cultural richness.
Annapurna Circuit Luxury Trek - 14 Days Itinerary Outline
The 14-day Annapurna Circuit Luxury Trek offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Starting with your arrival in Kathmandu, the journey gradually ascends from Jagat to the alpine village of Manang, allowing proper acclimatization.
You’ll trek through picturesque landscapes, crossing rivers, forests, and high mountain passes, including the iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Rest days, quality lodges, and guided support ensure a relaxed experience.
The journey back through Muktinath and Kagbeni to Jomsom is culturally rewarding. Flights from Jomsom to Pokhara and then to Kathmandu provide a comfortable end to this rewarding Himalayan experience.
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu airport (1,400 metres/4,600 feet) and transfer to hotel
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat( 1,300 meters/4,265 feet)/ 209 km/ 8 hrs drive
Day 03: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft)/ 15 km/ 7 hrs
Day 04: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2710 meters/8,891 feet)/ 15 km/ 5–6 hrs
Day 05: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300m/10,827ft)/ 15 km/ 5–6 hrs
Day 06: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m/11,614ft)/ 16 km/ 6 hrs
Day 07: Rest day at Manang for acclimatization
Day 08: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft)/ 11 km/ 4 hrs
Day 09: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m/14,599ft)/ 8 km/ 3–4 hrs
Day 10: Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (2,720m/8,924ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft)/ 16–17 km/ 8–9 hrs
Day 11: Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni (2,804 meet/9,199 feet) to Jomsom (2,720m/8,924ft)/ 15 km/ 5–6 hrs
Day 12: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara/ 158 km/ 20–35 min flight
Day 13: Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu/ 200 km/ 40-35 min flight
Day 14: Final departure
8 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary Outline
The 8-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is a thrilling short trip through Nepal's Himalayas. It starts with a picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Chame via Besisahar and then passes through the quaint villages of Pisang and Manang.
Acclimatization is strategically placed on Manang to prepare for climbing to greater altitudes in the coming days. The hike continues to Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi, leading up to the ascent and crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
The hike ends with a cultural outing in Muktinath and a return drive to Pokhara, offering a quick but gratifying look into the Annapurna region's beauty, culture, and high-altitude hiking.
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Chame via Besisahar/ 238 km/ 9 hrs drive
Day 02: Trek from Chame to Pisang/ 15 km/ 5–6 hrs
Day 03: Trek from Pisang to Manang/ 16 km/ 6-7 hrs
Day 04: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Day 05: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka/ 10–11 km/ 3–4 hrs
Day 06: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi/ 8 km/ 4–5 hrs
Day 07: Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass/ 17 km/ 7–8 hrs
Day 08: Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara/ 174 km/ 6–7 hrs drive
Annapurna Circuit Trek for Experienced Trekkers
The Annapurna Circuit is an exceptional choice for experienced trekkers seeking a comprehensive Himalayan adventure. The 20-day Classic Trek and the extended 22-day Annapurna Circuit with ABC Trek both offer challenging terrain, high-altitude passes, and deep cultural immersion.
These routes take you through diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to alpine deserts, requiring strong endurance, especially while crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and trekking to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). With longer durations, less-traveled trails, and multiple elevation changes, these itineraries are ideal for those with prior trekking experience who want to push their limits while exploring remote villages, sacred temples, and panoramic Himalayan vistas.
Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek - 20 Days Itinerary Outline
The 20-day Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek is a dense and rewarding Himalayan trek. Beginning with cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu, the trek starts from Bhulbhule and climbs up through beautiful villages like Chamje, Chame, and Pisang to the high-altitude town of Manang.
After an essential acclimatization day, the journey continues towards the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to the holy site of Muktinath. The trail then descends through Kagbeni, Jomsom, and the hot water springs of Tatopani and finally to Ghorepani and the picturesque top of Poon Hill.
The trek ends with a return to Pokhara and the last drive to Kathmandu, finishing an unforgettable adventure.
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu airport and transfer to hotel
Day 02: Full day sightseeing in historical Kathmandu
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule/ 140 km/ 6-7 hrs drive
Day 04: Trek from Bhulbhule to Chamje/ 10 km/ 5-6 hrs
Day 05: Trek from Chamje to Dharapani/ 11 km/ 6-7 hrs
Day 06: Trek from Dharapani to Chame/ 15 km/ 6-7 hrs
Day 07: Trek from Chame to Pisang/ 12 km/ 5-6 hrs
Day 08: Trek from Pisang to Manang/ 14 km/ 6-7 hrs
Day 09: A day for rest at Manang for acclimatization
Day 10: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka/ 8 km/ 4-5 hrs
Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi/ 8 km/ 4-5 hrs
Day 12: Trek from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath via Thorung La Pass/ 16 km/ 7-8 hrs
Day 13: Trek from Muktinath - Kagbeni - Jomsom/ 23 km/ 7 - 8 hrs
Day 14: Trek from Jomsom to Kalopani/ 20 km/ 6 - 7 hrs
Day 15: Trek from Kalopani to Tatopani/ 22 km/ 7 - 8 hrs
Day 16: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani/ 20 km/ 6 - 7 hrs
Day 17: Trek from Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Hile/ 18 km/ 6 - 7 hrs
Day 18: Trek from Hile to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara/ 49 km/ 4 - 5 hrs/ 1 - 1.5 hrs drive
Day 19: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu/ 200 km/ 6 - 7 hrs
Day 20: Transfer to international airport for your connecting flight home
Annapurna Circuit With ABC Trek - 22 Days Itinerary Outline
The 22-day Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is an in-depth experience that covers two of Nepal's most renowned paths. It starts with a vehicle ride to Bhulbhule, followed by the classic circuit through Chamje, Manang, and across the rugged Thorung La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath.
The trek changes pace to the lush lower Annapurna region, finishing at Ghorepani and picturesque Poon Hill. The journey continues through Tadapani and Chhomrong, climbing steadily to the majestic Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
It concludes with a return to Pokhara and then on to Kathmandu. The journey is filled with varied landscapes, cultural villages, and stunning Himalayan vistas, and it is an experience of a lifetime for seasoned trekkers.
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu airport and transfer to the hotel
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule (845m)/ 185 km/ 7–8 hrs drive
Day 03: Trek from Bhulbhule to Chamje (1430m)/ 14 km/ 6–7 hrs
Day 04: Trek from Chamje to Dharapani (1860m)/ 16 km/ 6–7 hrs
Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2670m)/ 15 km/ 6–7 hrs
Day 06: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3200m)/ 13 km/ 5–6 hrs
Day 07: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3540m)/ 17 km/ 6–7 hrs
Day 08: Acclimatization day in Manang
Day 09: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4050m)/ 10 km/ 4–5 hrs
Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (4450m)/ 7 km/ 4–5 hrs
Day 11: Trek from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath (3760m) via Thorung La Pass (5416m)/ 16 km/ 7–9 hrs
Day 12: Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1190m)/ 70–80 km/ 6–7 hrs
Day 13: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2860m)/ 17 km/ 6–8 hrs
Day 14: Sunrise hike to Poonhill (3210 m) and rest day at Ghorepani/ 3 km/ 1.5–2hrs
Day 15: Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2630m)/ 10 km/ 5–6 hrs
Day 16: Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong (2170m)/ 10 km/ 5–6 hrs
Day 17: Trek from Chhomrong to Himalaya (2920m)/ 13 km/ 6–7 hrs
Day 18: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m)/ 12 km/ 6–7 hrs
Day 19: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2310m)/ 16 km/ 6–7 hrs
Day 20: Trek from Bamboo to Marque and drive to Pokhara (822m)/ 48 km/ 3–4 hrs trek/ 2-3 hrs drive
Day 21: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350m)/ 200 km/ 6-7 hrs
Day 22: Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your final departure
What is the total Annapurna Circuit Trek distance?
The total trekking distance is 160 to 230 kilometers, varying depending on the start and end points of your journey.
What permits do I need for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
You will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card, which you can get in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Can I start the Annapurna Circuit Trek from Pokhara?
Yes, most trekkers choose to begin their trek from Pokhara instead of Kathmandu to reduce the number of days from the itinerary.
Is the Annapurna Circuit a good group trek?
Yes, you can trek Annapurna Circuit in groups because it offers social support, shared costs, and a fun trekking experience with other like-minded trekkers.
Can the Annapurna Circuit Trek be done in December?
Treks in December can be done, but they are colder, with frequent snow at higher altitudes. They are only recommended to experienced trekkers who have made adequate preparation and packing.
Is acclimatization necessary for the Annapurna Trek?
Yes, acclimatization is necessary to avoid altitude sickness, particularly before crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
What is the temperature like on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Temperatures on the Annapurna Circuit vary by altitude and season, ranging from 20–25°C in lower regions to -10°C or colder at Thorong La Pass during early mornings and nights.
What to pack for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit trek is moderately tough and takes you to an elevation of 5,416 m, so it is important to pack layered clothing, a down jacket, rain gear, sturdy boots, a sleeping bag, and other essentials.
Is there Wi-Fi or a mobile signal on the trek?
Wi-Fi is available at many teahouses for a small fee, and mobile signals are available in lower areas.
How long does it take to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The duration varies based on the chosen itinerary, but most treks take between 8 to 22 days. Shorter versions focus on the classic route, while longer ones include side trips like Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani.
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