Encircling the majestic Annapurna Massif, this trek takes hikers through traditional villages, alongside deep river valleys and over the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, the highest point of the trek
The fully supported Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular trekking holidays in Nepal and a classic Himalayan adventure. Following one of the world’s greatest trekking routes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you through the diverse landscapes of the Annapurna region, from lush river valleys and traditional mountain villages to the high-altitude deserts of Manang and Mustang. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque Gurung and Tibetan-influenced settlements and experience the remarkable cultural and geographical diversity of the Himalayas.
The highlight of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is crossing the spectacular Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal, with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The journey also offers authentic teahouse trekking, opportunities to experience Tibetan-influenced communities and visits to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.
The trek continues through the historic village of Kagbeni before descending into the dramatic landscapes of the Kali Gandaki Valley. Combining spectacular mountain scenery, diverse landscapes, rich cultures and high-altitude adventure, the Annapurna Circuit Trek remains an unforgettable journey through one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking regions.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, trek briefing and preparation
Day 2: Drive Kathmandu – Bagarchhap (2,164m)
Day 3: Trek Bagarchhap – Chame (2,730m) via Timang
Day 4: Trek Chame – Pisang (3,186m)
Day 5: Trek Pisang – Ngawal via Ghyaru
Day 6: Trek Ngawal – Manang (3,540m)
Day 7: Acclimatisation day in Manang with optional hike to Milarepa Cave
Day 8: Trek Manang – Yak Kharka (4,050m)
Day 9: Trek Yak Kharka – Thorong Phedi (4,510m)
Day 10: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and trek to Muktinath (3,760m)
Day 11: Trek Muktinath – Kagbeni (2,810m)
Day 12: Trek Kagbeni – Jomsom (2,743m)
Day 13: Fly Jomsom – Pokhara
Day 14: Fly or drive Pokhara – Kathmandu
Day 15: Departure
This itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change due to weather, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, Trek Briefing and Preparation
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will meet us for a comprehensive briefing on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The remainder of the day is free to make any last-minute equipment purchases, explore the vibrant streets of Thamel or simply relax before your Himalayan adventure begins.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive Kathmandu - Bagarchhap (2,164m) | Approx. 8-10 hours (B L D)
After breakfast, begin your scenic drive from Kathmandu to Bagarchhap, a traditional mountain village on the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek route. Travel through the beautiful Marsyangdi Valley, passing rivers, waterfalls, terraced hillsides, suspension bridges and remote Himalayan settlements. From Besisahar, continue by private jeep into the heart of the Annapurna region, where stunning mountain scenery and Tibetan-influenced culture await. Arrive in Bagarchhap and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this charming Himalayan village.
Overnight at Bagarchhap.
Day 3: Trek Bagarchhap - Chame (2,730m) via Timang | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
Today’s trail climbs steadily through pine and fir forests to the village of Timang, where spectacular views of Manaslu and Lamjung Himal await. As you continue towards Chame, the administrative centre of Manang District, the surrounding scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Prayer wheels, mani walls and Buddhist chortens reflect the region’s strong Tibetan cultural heritage.
Overnight at Chame.
Day 4: Trek Chame - Pisang (3,186m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Leaving Chame, the trail follows the Marsyangdi River through dense forests beneath towering cliffs. One of the highlights is the dramatic Paungda Danda rock face, rising nearly 1,500 metres above the valley floor. Arriving in Pisang, you’ll enjoy outstanding views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV and Pisang Peak.
Overnight at Pisang.
Day 5: Trek Pisang - Ngawal via Ghyaru | Approx. 5 Hours (B L D)
Take the spectacular high route through the traditional villages of Ghyaru and Ngawal. Although more challenging, this route offers some of the finest mountain views on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Ancient monasteries, stone-built villages and colourful prayer flags showcase the region’s rich Buddhist culture.
Overnight at Ngawal.
Day 6: Ngawal to Manang | Approx. 5 Hours (B L D)
A beautiful scenic walk brings us to the famous village of Manang. The trail contours across wide open landscapes with uninterrupted mountain views before descending gradually into the broad Manang Valley. Explore the village’s ancient stone alleyways, architecture and monasteries or you can simply soak up the views at one of the villages excellent coffee shops . Surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers, Manang is one of the highlights of the Annapurna region.
Overnight at Manang.
Day 7: Acclimatisation Day in Manang & optional hikes (B L D)
A vital acclimatisation day helps prepare your body for the higher elevations ahead. Optional hikes to the sacred Milarepa Cave(4,140m, 5 hr round trip) or Ice Lake (4,620m, 7-8 hrs round trip) provides both excellent acclimatisation and stunning views over the Manang Valley. The remainder of the day can be spent exploring local monasteries, visiting the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic or relaxing in one of Manang’s famous bakeries.
Overnight at Manang.
Day 8: Trek Manang - Yak Kharka (4,050m) | Approx. 5 - 6 Hours (B L D)
Leaving Manang behind, the trail climbs gradually into a harsher alpine environment. The landscape becomes increasingly barren, with grazing yaks often seen on the high pastures. Panoramic views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Chulu Peak accompany you throughout the day.
Overnight at Yak Kharka.
Day 9: Trek Yak Kharka - Thorong Phedi (4,510m) | Approx. 4 Hours (B L D)
Today’s shorter trek allows for continued acclimatisation before crossing Thorong La Pass. The trail traverses rugged mountain terrain alongside the Jarsang Khola before reaching Thorong Phedi, the final settlement before the pass. Rest early and prepare for tomorrow’s challenging but rewarding crossing.
Overnight at Thorong Phedi.
Day 10: Thorong Phedi - Thorong La Pass (5,416m) - Muktinath (3,760m) | Approx. 9 Hours (B L D)
Today is the highlight of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Starting before dawn, you ascend steadily towards Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Reaching the summit is a remarkable achievement, rewarded with breathtaking views across the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After celebrating at the top, descend into the Mustang region to Muktinath, one of Nepal’s most important pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Overnight at Muktinath.
Day 11: Trek Muktinath - Kagbeni (2,810m) | Approx. 4 Hours (B L D)
After visiting the sacred Muktinath Temple complex, descend through the arid landscapes of Lower Mustang. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki Valley to Kagbeni, a fascinating medieval village characterised by narrow alleyways, traditional mud-brick houses and ancient monasteries. Kagbeni also serves as the gateway to the restricted Upper Mustang region.
Overnight at Kagbeni.
Day 12: Trek Kagbeni - Jomsom (2,743m) | Approx. 3 Hours (B L D)
Follow the Kali Gandaki River southwards towards Jomsom, the administrative centre of Mustang. The walk is relatively gentle and offers magnificent views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri and the surrounding desert landscapes. Upon arrival, enjoy a comfortable final evening in the mountains.
Overnight in Jomsom
Day 13: Fly Jomsom - Pokhara (B)
Weather permitting, take an unforgettable mountain flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. During the short journey, enjoy aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges before arriving in Nepal’s beautiful lakeside city. Spend the afternoon relaxing by Phewa Lake or exploring Pokhara’s cafés and waterfront.
Overnight in Pokhara
Day 14: Fly or Drive Pokhara - Kathmandu (B)
Today you return to Kathmandu either by a short scenic flight or by road through the hills and river valleys of central Nepal.
Overnight at Kathmandu
Day 15: Departure (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your Annapurna Circuit Trek and your time in the Himalaya.
This itinerary is a guide only and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, trail circumstances, group pace or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All treks are led by professional trekking guides and porters.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Map
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International & domestic airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 1 night pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- 1 night accommodation in Pokgara: post-trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers etc., during the trek
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on domestic flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Annapurna Circuit Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
10 Days
Annapurna Region
Moderate
