trekkers are descending after throng la pass on annapurna circuit trek and magnificent view of the mountains with blue sky on a clear day.
  • placeholder
    Nepal
  • mountain
    Strenuous
  • trekking
    Lodge to Lodge Trek
  • car
    Private Transport+ Public Bus
  • cutlery
    Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
  • tent-handmade-outlined-symbol
    Lodge To Lodge
  • group
    Group Size: 1-16 Pax
  • altitude
    5416m/17,769 feet.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Witness the mesmerizing Himalayas in the Annapurna region, including the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (6997m), Hiunchuli (6441m), and Tilicho Peak (7134m), among others
  • Explore the quaint Buddhist villages like Manang, Pisang, and Marpha
  • Visit culturally enriched Buddhist monasteries in the region
  • Cross the biggest pass in Nepal, Thorung La Pass (5416m)
  • Visit one of the biggest pilgrimage sites in Nepal, Muktinath
  • Relish the enchanting sunrise view over the Annapurna range at Poon Hill viewpoint
  • Enjoy the local apple brandy at Marpha
  • Relieve bodily aches and pains in the hot springs at Tatopani

About Annapurna Circuit Trek

The 16-day Annapurna Circuit Trek (ACT) is the most adventurous lodge trekking in the Annapurna region. It is a 12-day mountain trip in Nepal's Annapurna region, starting from Kathmandu and ending in Pokhara. During the high trekking seasons, a couple of hundred adventure trekkers use this route every day. The walking trail of this trip makes a big loop behind the Annapurna mountains.

The ACT is also known as the Throng La Pass trek. The trip offers different natural beauties every day. The hike gradually leads from a low elevated sub-tropical climate to the high alpine dry lands. It again brings you back to a similar environment in the end as the beginning.

At the beginning of the trip, you see traced rice fields, and then walk further higher, where you see different farmlands where people grow potatoes, buckwheat, and other crops that do not need plenty of water. There are various ethnic groups along the Annapurna Circuit, so it is the best trek to explore different cultures, religions, and people's lifestyles, except charming nature.


Kagbeni village

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulties

The Annapurna Circuit is a challenging trek because of a high pass, Throng La. It will be accessible on the other days except for crossing Throng Pass. However, some trekking days in the lower region can be challenging because of longer distance walks with up and downhills.

It will be more difficult for regular trekkers and hikers to trek to the Annapurna Circuit. First-time trekkers with solid determination will also be able to go on this trip. Still, they must have some hiking practices or physical training for a few months before going on the trek.

The altitude problem makes the trek significantly more difficult when you cross Manang. Less vegetation and less oxygen in the air make breathing difficult in this area. After Manang, you need to amble and stop sometimes to catch your breath until Throng La passes. Also, a long downhill walk after the pass is challenging for those who have knee problems. If there is snow on the trail, it even makes it harder to walk.

Trekking Preparation for Annapurna Circuit

Preparation helps for successful trekking for the Annapurna Circuit and other adventure mountain trips. First, make a strong mentality that you can do it. A positive mindset plays a vital role in completing any adventure activity, so you must have a favorable determination on the trip.

Of course! It is a strenuous trip, so you must be physically fit with hiking practice and muscle training. Hiding a few hours daily on up and downhill trails is best. Or, you can walk a couple of days a week for a few months before you go on this trek. Remember to carry 5-6 kg weight during hiking training. You will take this much-weight daypack on the Annapurna Circuit trip.

Besides mental and physical preparation for this adventure Annapurna trek, you can also do muscle exercises in the gym and run a few kilometers daily. Focus on your leg and thigh practice, which keeps you away from shore legs by walking on many uphill and downhill trails.

Best Time to Trek to Annapurna Circuit

The trekking trail to the Annapurna Circuit is sometimes blocked in a year due to heavy snow. Also, there will be cloudy days sometimes, which block high mountains. When is the best time to trek there, then? It is a good question. You will enjoy it a lot if you visit in the right season. Check information about recommended timing or seasons for the ACT.

Autumn Season

Autumn is the best time to trek in the Nepalese Himalayas and the Annapurna Circuit. You find autumn the most prominent season to visit, but when is autumn in Nepal? These three months of September, October, and November are the autumn months, the dedicated months to trek to Annapurna Circuit. Although the first half of September is considered the late monsoon, there can be some rainy days, and clouds can cover the mountains.

The autumn comes right after heavy rainfalls, so the monsoon rains clear hazes and the weather. This season, you see dark green forests, giant waterfalls, and rivers along the Annapurna circuit. If you are thinking about the ACT in autumn, you are choosing a perfect time, so book the trip now with us for autumn 2023.

Spring Season

The Spring is the second best season to trek to Annapurna Circuit. The temperatures remain warmer in the Annapurna region this season than in autumn. Spring can be the best for you if you love to walk in warm temperatures.

Spring is a dry season, so it will be hazy in lower areas. You can not see mountains from a far distance. Still, once you reach closer to the Annapurna Himalayas, you will see stunning mountain views. Spring is known as the king of the seasons because flowers bloom at this time everywhere, and nature looks colorful. You see magnificently blooming rhododendrons in the lower areas while trekking on the Annapurna Circuit trail.

We suggest walking early and reaching the camp earlier every day because it might rain and hail in the lower region and snowfall in the higher areas in the evening sometimes in this season.

Trek Cost for Annapurna Circuit

The cost for the Annapurna Circuit depends on the service inclusion and exclusion. It costs 1550 USD for a single trekker. It may be cheaper to book the trip for multiple trekkers simultaneously. Check the cost detail below according to the group size:

  • 1 Trekker: 1150 USD – Book this trip from the top right booking section
  • 2-4 Trekkers: 1050 USD – Book Now
  • 5- 10 Trekkers: 930 USD – Book Now

We offer special discounts for families, tour leaders, and bigger groups. For the discount offer, please contact us directly or through WhatsApp at +977 9851043624.

Get Annapurna Circuit Adventure Experience with Frolic Adventure

Frolic Adventure is a trusted local trekking operator for Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. We have been operating this trip since 2016. Our experienced government-authorized guides lead you on the trek. We arrange a full-board trip to be a hassle-free, safe, and memorable mountain trip for you.

Our cost is very reasonable, and you can also get a special discount for the ACT. We are using an easy payment system, so you can make online payments, which is 100% secure. We do not add hidden costs, so lace up your boot, pack trekking equipment, and be ready for the Adventure Annapurna Circuit Trek now.

Itinerary

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Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport, our representative will warmly receive and escort you to your hotel. After checking in, you can relax at the hotel or consider taking a stroll around the vicinity or market. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1,350m/4,429 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Private Transport
  • Departure Time: According to your flight arrival

Today, you'll embark on a cultural journey through Kathmandu. Kathmandu is a historical city with links to various faiths and beliefs. The historical temples dating back to 500-700 years, along with age-old temples and Buddhist stupas, are sites worth seeing. Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Pashupatinath are a few of the major tourist destinations and UNESCO Heritage sites inside Kathmandu. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1,350m/4,429 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Private Transport
  • Departure Time: 9:00 am

Today, you'll begin your Annapurna Circuit Trekking journey with a long drive to Dharapani. First, you drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar in the public van and then change to a shared jeep after lunch in Besisahar. It takes around 6-7 hrs to drive to Besisahar on a hillside road and across different valleys and typical villages. You will see many rice fields, green hills, forests, waterfalls, rivers, and more natural attractions while driving to Besisahar. The second part of moving to Dharapani is on a rough road for four hours. Overnight in Dharapani.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: Dharapani
  • Altitude: 1,860m/6,100 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Public Transport
  • Departure Time: 5:00 am

You'll climb uphill and make your way toward Danakyu. You'll continue through the forests and reach Koto. After a brief hike, you'll get to Chame–the headquarters of the Manang district. You can enjoy a quaint view of Annapurna II (7937m) and the two small hot springs for relaxation. Overnight stay at Chame.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: Chame
  • Altitude: 2,670m/8,759 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Walk
  • Departure Time: 8:00 am

You'll go through the deep forest into a steep and narrow valley. After crossing two long bridges, you'll enjoy the view of the mighty Pangdi Danda rock face. Further ahead, you enter the Swargadwari region, which translates to 'Gateway to Heaven in Nepali.' A short distance from here lies the Pisang village. Overnight stay at Pisang.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: Pisang
  • Altitude: 3,300m/10,826 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Walk
  • Departure Time: 8:00 am

The trail here on is drier until the top. Also, you will be less likely to encounter vegetation in a rain-shadow area. The region's inhabitants mainly breed yaks, as the crop season lasts only a few months. Walking along the Marsayangdi River, you'll reach Munchi. From here, you'll route towards Humde. The trail continues along the beautiful but partially hidden village of Braga, which makes its way to Manang. Overnight stay at Manang.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: Manang
  • Altitude: 3,540m/11,614 fee
  • Mode of Transportation: Walk
  • Departure Time: 8:00 am

Today, you'll spend the day acclimatizing to Manang Valley. You will take a short hike around the village and gain some altitude to prepare for the more challenging part of the trek. The valley lies to Tibet in the north and has a history of yak herding and salt trade with the neighboring Tibet. A few of the surrounding mountains you'll enjoy our Gangapurna (7454m), Tilicho Peak (7134m), and Thorung Peak (6144m). Overnight stay at Manang

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: Manang
  • Altitude: 3,540m/11,614 fee
  • Mode of Transportation: Walk
  • Departure Time: 8:00 am

Upward the Manang valley, you'll cross a stream and climb towards Tengi village. From here, you'll head out of Marsayangdi Valley and northwest to Jharsang Khola Valley. The trail continues northward and passes pastures and juniper trees. En route, you'll reach the Ghunsang village, a typical Tibetan village with flat-mud roof houses and yak pastures. After crossing a small river, you'll go up towards Yak Kharka. Overnight stay at Yak Kharka.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: Yak Kharka
  • Altitude: 4,050m/13,287 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Walk
  • Departure Time: 8:00 am

Today, you'll make your way toward Thorung Phedi, which lies at the foot of Thorung La Pass. After climbing a ridge, you'll head down and cross the Marsayangdi River. The trail here follows a narrow path towards Thorung Phedi. Overnight stay at Thorung Phedi or high camp.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: High Camp
  • Altitude: 4,800m/15,748
  • Mode of Transportation: Walk
  • Departure Time: 8:00 am

You'll start the trek early, as crossing the Thorung La Pass is essential before the weather worsens later in the day. Today, you'll complete the Thorung La Pass (5416m) trek, the highest pass in the region. From the top, you can see a panorama of majestic Himalayan peaks inside Tibet. It also comprises the highest Annapurna circuit trek altitude. From the top, you'll go downwards towards the village of Muktinath. Both Hindus and Buddhists revere Muktinath. You can explore the temple premises before checking in at the lodge. Overnight stay at Muktinath.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: Muktinath
  • Altitude: 3,760m/12,335 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Walk
  • Departure Time: 5:00 am

Today, you'll drive down to Tatopani. You will get to see some interesting agricultural patterns on the way. While driving to Tatopani today, you pass Kagbeni, Jomsom, Marpha, and many other towns and visit the region's biggest waterfall, Rupse, and the world's deepest river gorge, Kali Gandaki. Overnight in Tatopani.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: Tatopani
  • Altitude: 1,190m/3,904 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Public Bus
  • Departure Time: 9:00 am

Today, you'll start from Tatopani and trek to the Ghorepani village. Ghorepani is a popular tourist site. It may require a good amount of uphill hiking to reach the town. Once at Ghorepani, you can enjoy the close-up view of Annapurna massif, Machhapuchhre (6997m), and other surrounding mountains. The trail up northeast converges into the popular trek trail of Annapurna Base Camp.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: Ghorepani
  • Altitude: 2,850m/9,350 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Walk
  • Departure Time: 7:00 am

In the morning, you'll make a scenic hike to Poon Hill. Poon Hill is a tourist landmark that offers a beautiful view of the sunrise and sunset and an up-close view of the surrounding mountains in the Annapurna region. After a brief hike, you'll start descending toward the village of Tikhedhunga. The descent will be relatively easy, and you will pass through thickly spread settlements of Gurung communities along the way. Overnight stay at Tikhedhunga.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Place: Hile
  • Altitude: 1,540m/5,052 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Walk
  • Departure Time: 8:00 am

From Tikhedhunga, you'll go down to Nayapul, the starting point for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It's a short downhill hike. From Nayapul, you'll catch a car/jeep to Pokhara. The short drive will take you to the scenic city of Pokhara. One of Nepal's most popular tourist destinations, Pokhara boasts wonderful activities ranging from boating, cycling, sightseeing, bungee jumping, and paragliding for adventure enthusiasts. Overnight stay at a hotel in Pokhara.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Pokhara
  • Altitude: 8,20m/2,690 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Walk+Private Transport
  • Departure Time: 8:00 am

Today, you'll drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. While bidding farewell to Pokhara City, you'll get a constant view of Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre at a distance. The drive may last around 6 hours and will take you through the swirling hill roads of Nepal. Once in Kathmandu, check in at the hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner with us in the evening. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Meals: Breakfast+Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Kathmandu
  • Altitude: 1,350m/4,429 feet
  • Mode of Transportation: Tourist Bus
  • Departure Time: 7:30 am

Our representative will drop you off at the airport today. On your way, you can share your holiday experience and future travel plans with us.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Mode of Transportation: Private Transport
  • Departure Time: 3 hours earlier from your flight

Cost Details

  • Airport picks up and drops by private car/van/bus.
  • 3-night accommodation in a tourist standard hotel including breakfast as per the above itinerary twin sharing basis.
  • 1-night accommodation in Pokhara in the standard hotel including breakfast as per the itinerary twin sharing basis.
  • Private car/van/bus and a tour guide for the cultural tour in Kathmandu 
  • All the ground transportation during the trip.
  • Your standard meal BLD during the trek with a cup of hot tea/coffee for breakfast
  • Fresh fruit after every dinner in the mountain
  • All necessary papers works, conservation area entry permits, TIMS cards, and monument entrance fees
  • All accommodations in lodges/tea houses during the treks.
  • An experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people).
  • Salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transportation, and insurance for the guide and porter.
  • Farewell dinner at last night in Kathmandu
  • Certificate of achievement
  • The arrangement of an emergency helicopter service will be paid for by your travel insurance company.
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets, and duffle bags if you don't have
  • Certificate of achievement
  • All government taxes (Gst) and Stationery expenses.
  • Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan international airport  (Kathmandu). 
  • Your travel insurance (compulsory).
  • Lunch and dinner while you are in cities Kathmandu & Pokhara.
  • All entry fees for heritage sites.
  • Your personal expenses.
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
  • Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.
  • Hot shower/batteries charge/heater during the trek.
  • International airfare.
  • Tips for the guide, porter & driver. 
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on including section.

PRICES & DATES

Trip DatesAvailabilityNotesPrice  
02 Sep, 2024 - 17 Sep, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
04 Sep, 2024 - 19 Sep, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
06 Sep, 2024 - 21 Sep, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
09 Sep, 2024 - 24 Sep, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
11 Sep, 2024 - 26 Sep, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
13 Sep, 2024 - 28 Sep, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
15 Sep, 2024 - 30 Sep, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
17 Sep, 2024 - 02 Oct, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
19 Sep, 2024 - 04 Oct, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
22 Sep, 2024 - 07 Oct, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
24 Sep, 2024 - 09 Oct, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
26 Sep, 2024 - 11 Oct, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
28 Sep, 2024 - 13 Oct, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
30 Sep, 2024 - 15 Oct, 2024GuaranteedUS$1150
Departure Note

We have set the Fixed Departure Dates for the Annapurna Circuit Trek for the upcoming season. You can pick any dates that suit you from these Group Departure Dates. We also Arrange Private Group Departures for family, single trekkers,  and friends on request. We offer special discounts for this package for Family and Group Bookings.

Useful Info

What to pack for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit is an adventure Trek with a high pass (Throng La). It is a cold region for a year, so you must pack warm and quality Trekking Gear. Check out the essential checklist below for the Annapurna Circuit:

  • Duffel bag or rucksack
  • Daypack
  • Sun hat
  • Warm hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Head torch
  • Sun lotion
  • Moisturizer cream
  • Lip balm
  • Buff
  • Thermal layers
  • Long and short-sleeve trekking shirts
  • Down jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Windproof jacket
  • Rain gear
  • Half and full trekking pants
  • Warm gloves
  • Windproof trouser
  • A few pairs of trekking socks
  • Quality trekking boots
  • Extra shoeless
  • Sports shoes and water sandals
  • Finger and toe warmer
  • Water bottle
  • Trekking poles
  • -20° support or plus sleeping bag
  • Muti uses a power socket.
  • Powerbank
  • Extra camera battery
  • Swimming costume
  • lightweight quick-dry towel
  • First-Aid kit
  • Toiletries

If you have any questions or are confused about this adventure trek, you can ask anything regarding the trek to the Annapurna Circuit through email or phone. We provide you with authentic information about this trip.

Accommodation, Food, and Drink on the Annapurna Circuit Trail

There are plenty of guesthouses on the Annapurna Circuit trail in each camp. But just a few in the camps like Yakkharka, Churi Ledar, Throng Phedi, and High Camp. You must book space in these places in advance if you are on a trek during the high trekking season.

Most lodges have rooms without a bathroom, but you can get an attached bathroom in some places. The toilets are indoors in the same building, so you do not need to go outside from the lodge building. You will get a free hot shower in most places along the Annapurna Circuit Route. The Accommodation has twin-sharing, clean, comfortable beds with pillows and blankets.

The food is served from a menu in the lodge where you stay. For the main course, you can choose from Western and local dishes. Trained cooks prepare hygienic foods on the Trekking route. The bakery items in Manang are the best to try.

You can buy bottled mineral water or safe drinking water along the way after Taal, but some places might be closed nowadays. You can also drink tap water, but use purification methods before drinking it.

Internet, Phone Calls, and Battery Charging

There are Wi-Fi services at almost every place in the Annapurna Circuit region. However, internet access might be slow, so we recommend buying an NTC SIM card for the Trek. With the data, you can make phone calls and use the internet.

There is electricity in all the places where you stay on the trek. So, you can charge your batteries in the guesthouse, but you need to pay for battery charging in some places.

Annapurna Circuit Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Annapurna Circuit is not an easy Trek, so you might be curious about the difficulties, facilities, best time to go, altitude effect, and more. Here, we have tried to provide some information that you are looking for:

How Difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Throng La Trek?

It is a strenuous, adventurous trek, but not difficult, except for the Throng La pass.

Can I get accommodation quickly on the hike?

Finding accommodation in Yakkharka, Ledar, Throng Phedi, and High Camp can be challenging during a busy season. You need to book these places in advance.

When is the best time to go to the Annapurna Circuit?

The best times for trekking the Annapurna Circuit are from September to November in the autumn and March to May in the spring. Early March and the end of November might have snowfalls in this Trek's higher areas. It will be challenging in the winter, but it will be accessible in the summer. Summer rains a lot, and there will be cloudy days.

How about altitude sickness on the Trek?

The Annapurna Throng Pass Trek starts at 800m and ascends slowly to 5,416m, so there will be fewer chances of altitude sickness. Although you feel a bit difficult to breathe after the Manang for a couple of days,

How far can I drive for the Annapurna Circuit?

You can drive up to Manang, but the altitude can make it difficult, and you get sick if you go directly to Manang.

What is the highest elevation on the Annapurna Circuit?

5,416m (the Throng La) is the highest elevation you reach during the Annapurna Circuit trip.

Can I drive to Pokhara from Muktinath after the pass?

Yes, you can drive to Pokhara from Muktinath if you do not have enough time or do not want to Trek anymore after the pass.

How is the view from the Throng La Pass?

From the top of the Throngla, you do not see big mountains, but you have six thousand or more peaks. Throng Peak is on the left, and Yakawakhang is to the right of the pass. The view towards Mustang Hills looks attractive.

Which is the best place to see Annapurna I during the Annapurna Circuit?

Kalopani is the best place to see Annapurna I during the Annapurna Circuit journey. People say you can see it from Poon Hill, but Mt. Brahashikhar blocks it.

How is Tatopani Hot Spring?

It is amazing! You can stay in the hot pool for a long time. We recommend going after the sun goes down, as the water is boiling. You can also enjoy cold drinks and beers at the pool.

Is a guide compulsory for the Annapurna Circuit?

No, it is not compulsory, but we highly recommend taking a guide for the Annapurna Circuit.

Does the Annapurna Circuit Trail ever close?

The Annapurna Circuit trail stays mostly open except for heavy snowfalls.

Can I visit Tilicho Lake while I am on the Annapurna Circuit trail?

You can visit Tilicho Lake during the Annapurna Circuit Trek, but you need 2-3 extra days with a regular Trekking Itinerary.

rajesh-thapaliya
Talk to Leader
Rajesh Thapaliya

+977 9851043624 (Call/WhatsApp/Viber)