Nepal
Strenuous
Lodge to Lodge Trek
Private Transport+ Public Bus
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Lodge To Lodge
Group Size: 1-16 Pax
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.

Regular trekkers and hikers will find the Annapurna Circuit more difficult. However, first-time trekkers with solid determination can also 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 for a year due to heavy snow. Cloudy days also sometimes block the high mountains. When is the best time to trek there? 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 that 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 everywhere at this time, 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: 1190 USD – Book this trip from the top right booking section
2-4 Trekkers: 1075 USD – Book Now
5- 10 Trekkers: 950 USD – Book Now

We offer special discounts for families, tour leaders, and larger groups. To take advantage of this 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 that will 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 use an easy payment system so that you can make secure online payments. We do not add hidden costs, so lace up your boots, pack trekking equipment, and be ready for the Adventure Annapurna Circuit Trek now.

Itinerary

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Day 01:Arrive in Kathmandu (1,350m/4,429 feet.)

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

Day 02:Cultural tour in Kathmandu

Today, you'll embark on a cultural journey through Kathmandu. Kathmandu is a historical city with links to various faiths and beliefs. Its historical temples, dating back 500-700 years, along with age-old temples and Buddhist stupas, are 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

Day 03:Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (1,860m/6,100 feet)) 10 hrs

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

Day 04:Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,670m/8,759 feet.) 6 hrs

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

Day 05:Trek from Chame to Pisang. (3,300m/10,826 feet.) 5 hrs

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

Day 06:Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m/11,614 feet.) 5 hrs

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

Day 07:Acclimatization day at Manang

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

Day 08:Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka. (4,050m/13,287 feet.) 4-5 hours

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

Day 09:Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (4,450m/14,599 feet.) or High Camp (4,800m/15,748.)3 - 4 hrs

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

Day 10:Cross the Thorung La Pass (5,416m/17,769 feet.) and Trek to Muktinath. (3,760m/12,335 feet.) 7 - 8 hrs

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. You can see a panorama of majestic Himalayan peaks inside Tibet from the top. 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

Day 11:Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,190m/3,904 feet) 5 hrs

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

Day 12:Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350 feet.) 7 - 8 hrs

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

Day 13:Hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tikhedhunga/Hille (1,540m/5,052 feet.) 5 hrs

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

Day 14:Trek from Tikhedhunga/Hille to Birethanti (1,070m/3,510 feet.) 3 hrs and Drive to Pokhara (8,20m/2,690 feet.) 1 hrs

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

Day 15:Drive back to Kathmandu (6 hrs.)—farewell dinner with Frolic Adventure

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

Day 16:Departure to the International Airport

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

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

Cost Details

What's included

Airport pick-up and drop-off by private car/van/bus.
3-night accommodation in a tourist standard hotel, including breakfast as per the above itinerary, on a twin sharing basis.
1-night accommodation in Pokhara in a standard hotel, including breakfast as per the itinerary, on a 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 mountains
All necessary paperwork, conservation area entry permits, and TIMS cards
All accommodations in lodges/tea houses during the treks.
An experienced, helpful, and friendly guide.
Salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transportation, and insurance for the guide.
Farewell dinner last night in Kathmandu
Certificate of achievement
Your travel insurance company will pay for the arrangement of an emergency helicopter service.
Certificate of achievement
All government taxes (GST) and Stationery expenses.

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).
Lunch and dinner while you are in the cities of Kathmandu & Pokhara.
All entry fees for heritage sites.
Your expenses.
Personal trekking gear, sleeping bag, down jacket, and trekking poles (we can help to hire, if you don't have one)
Porter to carry your trekking gear (we arrange with extra cost)
Monastery, museum, and other local entry fees
All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.
Hot shower/battery charge/heater during the trek.
International airfare.
Tips for the guide, porter & driver.
Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the section.

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 you must purify it 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 you stay on the Trek. You can charge your batteries in the guesthouse but must pay for battery charging in some areas.

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 for the hike?

Finding Accommodation in Yakkharka, Ledar, Throng Phedi, and High Camp during the busy season can be challenging. You must 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?

You do not see big mountains from the top of the Throngla, 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. The water is boiling, so we recommend going after the sun goes down. You can also enjoy cold drinks and beers at the pool.