Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

2nd Mar, 2019

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular and scenic trekking routes in Nepal. The itinerary for this trek varies due to the road construction between Besisahar and Manang, as well as from Muktinath to Tatopani. This flexibility allows trekkers to tailor the Annapurna Circuit Trek to fit their holiday time frame.

Traditionally, the full Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary takes about 18 days, starting and ending in Kathmandu. However, with the availability of road connections, the trek can now be completed in 10 to 18 days, depending on the chosen starting and ending points. This adaptability makes it a convenient and accessible adventure for trekkers with varying schedules.

This detailed 15-day itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, including arrival and departure in Kathmandu, is suitable for all types of trekkers, from beginners to elders. The trek starts with a long drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani, followed by driving from Muktinath to Tatopani. Afterward, the trek continues to Ghorepani, then to Nayapul, with a drive to Pokhara and finally back to Kathmandu. This itinerary offers a well-balanced experience, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of trekkers.

Detailed Itinerary id given below:-

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport
Transfer to Hotel and Meet the trekking guide/team.
Briefing about the trek and preparation
Overnight in Kathmandu

High Pass Adventure warmly welcomes you to Nepal at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). A member of our team will be waiting for you outside the baggage hall, holding an A4-sized paper with your name and our company name.

This representative will escort you from the airport to your hotel in Kathmandu via a private vehicle. Upon arrival at the hotel, you can check in, rest, and freshen up before attending a meeting at our trekking office to discuss the details of your Annapurna Circuit Trek program.

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m) and to Dharapani (1,900m)

Drive: 8–10 hours (approx.).
Scenic journey passing terraced fields, rivers, and local villages.
Overnight in Dharapani Tea-house

The Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary starts from Kathmandu. This morning, our guide will arrive at your hotel on time to take you to Dharapani. After breakfast at the hotel, you will depart early in the morning with the guide. If you haven't hired a private vehicle, the guide will take you by taxi to the bus station to catch a public bus to Besisahar. The bus ride follows the Prithvi Highway, passing through river valleys, small towns, terraced fields, and lush green hills. Upon reaching Dumre, the bus will turn right to Besisahar, following the Marsyangdi River and passing through scenic terraced rice fields.

From Besisahar, we will transfer to a shared jeep to reach Dharapani. Although the drive will be long and challenging, you will enjoy stunning views of Nepali villages, rivers, forests, and terraced rice fields along the way.

Day 3: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,710m)

Trekking time: 5–6 hours.
Pass through pine forests, waterfalls, and mountain vistas.
Overnight in Chame

Today marks the start of a beautiful trekking day. After breakfast at Dharapani, the trekking trail heads to Chame. The trail gently ascends to Danaque, passing through Bagachhap, and then continues upward to Timang Village through pine and rhododendron forests. Timang offers the best viewpoint of Mt. Manaslu. After crossing Timang, you will pass through Thanchok and Koto before reaching Chame, passing some streams and pine forests along the way.

Chame, the headquarters of the Manang District, is a well-developed town with shopping centers, banks, and road access from Besisahar. On this day, you will enjoy stunning views of mountains, rivers, and forests as you make your way to Chame. Upon arrival, you can visit the hot spring located on the banks of the Kaligandaki River, where you can relax and enjoy a rejuvenating hot bath.

Day 4: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300m)

Trekking time: 5–6 hours.
Witness views of Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, and more.
Overnight in Lower or Upper Pisang

After breakfast at Chame, the trekking trail heads to Pisang, passing through Brathang and Dukur Pokhari and through green pine forests. After Dukur Pokhari, the trail continues to Upper Pisang, where you will cross the Marsyangdi River via a suspension bridge.
This day offers a chance to see Lamjung Himal, along with the sun's rays shining over Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, and other snow-capped peaks and hills. It will be a wonderful day, filled with beautiful Himalayan views and stunning landscape scenery.

After reaching Upper Pisang, you can visit the beautiful monastery to experience Buddhist religion and culture. The monastery is located above Pisang village, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range.

Day 5: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m)

Trekking time: 7-8 hours.
Pass through the Marsyangdi River valley, Tibetan-style villages, and monasteries.
Acclimatization starts here.
Overnight in Manang

Today, there are two options to reach Manang: the lower trail and the upper trail. The lower trail has a road constructed, so we highly recommend taking the upper trail, and your guide will lead you along it. The upper trail offers a more fascinating experience with panoramic mountain views and Tibetan cultural influences.

From Pisang village, the trekking trail follows a Himalayan flat terrain, with gentle ascents and descents till the Gherru River. You will cross a suspension bridge over the river before ascending to Ghyaru Village. The trail then continues toward Manang, passing through Ngawal.

This day will be quite long and challenging due to the increasing altitude, but the breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range and other snow-capped peaks along the trail will make the journey rewarding and enjoyable.

Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Manang

Short hike to Gangapurna Lake or nearby viewpoints
Explore local culture and traditions.
Overnight in Manang

Today will be a rest day to acclimatize in Manang because you are above 3,500 meters. It is necessary for all trekkers to acclimate before continuing the climb to cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters). However, on this day, you will hike for a couple of hours to ascend and help adjust to the altitude.

There are many places for a side trip, such as Ice Lake, Gangapurna Lake, and a few caves. You can discuss with your guide which areas you would like to visit. After finalizing the hiking route, you can make a short hike around the village or hike up to Ice Lake to increase your altitude in preparation for crossing Thorong La Pass.

Manang is one of the busiest stops for trekkers before crossing the Thorong La Pass, as most trekkers spend two nights here for acclimatization. The town offers plenty of accommodations, along with numerous bakeries and restaurants. From Manang, you can enjoy stunning views of Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and other majestic mountains. It’s the perfect place to rest and acclimatize during the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Day 7: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m)

Trekking time: 4–5 hours.
Gradual ascent with stunning views
Overnight in Yak Kharka

After breakfast at Manang, the trekking trail heads to Yak Kharka. From the Manang Village the trail ascends to Ghunsang through Tengi Village, leaving the Marsyangdi Valley and turning right into the Jharsang Khola Valley to reach Yak Kharka. You will pass through high-altitude barren land and alpine juniper bushes.

Today will be a relatively short trekking day, though the high altitude may present some challenges. Along the way, you will be treated to breathtaking mountain views and might even spot wildlife such as blue sheep, marmots, and more. This makes the journey from Manang to Yak Kharka a truly memorable trekking experience.

Day 8: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,550m)

Trekking time: 4–5 hours.
Cross landslide-prone areas carefully.
Overnight in Thorong Phedi

The trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi covers a relatively short distance, but the high-altitude terrain can make it feel challenging. From Yak Kharka, the trail leads to Thorong Phedi (4,550 meters), the base camp for crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters). It is essential to spend the night here to prepare for the pass crossing. While some trekkers may choose to continue to Thorong High Camp (4,800 meters), we strongly recommend staying at Thorong Phedi for proper rest and acclimatization.

The trail is gradual and relatively easy, but the high altitude requires a slow and steady pace, with opportunities to rest along the way. You will cross a couple of suspension bridges and enjoy stunning mountain views before reaching Thorong Phedi. Once there, you have the option to hike up to Thorong High Camp for additional high-altitude acclimatization if you feel up to it.

Day 9: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and trek to Muktinath (3,800m)

Trekking time: 8-10 hours.
The highest point of the trek, offering breathtaking views
Visit Muktinath Temple
Overnight in Muktinath

Today will be a long trekking day from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath, as you start from 4,500 meters at Thorong Phedi, cross Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, and reach Muktinath at 3,800 meters. It will be an exciting and wonderful day, but also a challenging one due to walking on high-altitude terrain and long ascend and descend.

You will need to wake up early and have breakfast, as it is important to start early to cross the pass before the weather worsens. The trail ascends gradually until the top of Thorong La (5,416 meters), which takes about 3 to 5 hours. From the top, you will enjoy panoramic mountain views, have time to capture the moment in your camera, and explore the area. Then, you will begin the long descent, making your way into the Mustang district.

After a steep descent, you will reach the first teahouse in Chabarbu, where you can stop for lunch. Afterward, the trail continues down to Muktinath. Muktinath is a famous pilgrimage site for Hindu and Buddhist devotees, as well as a great place to rest after the long walk. The Muktinath Temple is located before the hotel area along the route to Muktinath. If you would like to visit, you can do so before reaching your hotel.

Day 10: Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,200m)

Drive: 4-5 hours (via Jomsom).
Enjoy natural hot springs in Tatopani.
Overnight in Tatopani

There is a road that connects Muktinath directly to Pokhara, so our Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary includes traveling from Muktinath to Tatopani by vehicle. However, some trekking agencies combine trekking and driving on this section.

After breakfast in Muktinath, you will catch a vehicle to Tatopani, with several public transportation options available. The drive takes approximately 4–5 hours and passes through scenic locations such as Jomsom, Marpha, Tukuche, Kobang, Kalopani, Rupse Chhahara, and Dana. While the road can be dusty, bumpy, and somewhat intimidating in places, it is gradually improving with ongoing reconstruction efforts.

Upon arriving in Tatopani, you can relax and rejuvenate in the famous natural hot spring, providing much-needed relief after the long trek and drive.

Day 11: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850m)

Trekking time: 6–7 hours.
Ascend through rhododendron forests.
Overnight in Ghorepani

Today's trek involves a long ascent from Tatopani (1,200 meters) to Ghorepani (2,850 meters), which takes approximately 7–8 hours. The day begins with breakfast at your hotel in Tatopani. The trail initially descends briefly to a suspension bridge over the Kali Gandaki River. After crossing this bridge, you’ll encounter another suspension bridge over the Ghar Khola before the trail starts its steady ascent toward Sikha Village.

Along the way, you’ll pass through charming Magar and Gurung villages, offering a glimpse into the local culture. Sikha has several teahouses where some trekkers choose to stay overnight, while others stop for lunch. After lunch, the trail continues its upward climb through rhododendron forests and the villages of Phalate and Chitre.

Ghorepani is a significant stop, serving as a junction point for the Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. From here, you can enjoy panoramic mountain views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, making it a rewarding destination after the day’s challenging trek.

Day 12: Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) and trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara

Trekking time 6-7 hours and 1:30 hour’s drive
Sunrise at Poon Hill with views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and other peaks
Descend to Nayapul
Rest and explore lakeside
Overnight in Pokhara

Poon Hill (3,210 m) is one of the best sunrise and sunset viewpoints for the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Typically, all trekkers head to Poon Hill early in the morning, before breakfast, to witness the breathtaking sunrise over these majestic peaks. The 2-kilometer-long hiking trail takes approximately 1.5 hours and can be challenging due to the early start and high elevation.

After an unforgettable experience at Poon Hill, you will return to your hotel in Ghorepani for breakfast. Following breakfast, the journey continues toward Nayapul, where you will catch a vehicle to Pokhara. The trail passes through beautiful forests of rhododendron, oak, bamboo, and pine, while crossing scenic spots like Nangethanti, Banthanti, Ulleri, Hile, and Birethanti. Along the way, you may even spot some wildlife, such as deer and langurs (white monkeys).

Once you arrive in Pokhara, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city and visit Fewa Lake if time permits. In the evening, you can celebrate the successful completion of your trek with your guide and porter by enjoying a delightful Western-style dinner.

Day 14: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu

Drive: 6–7 hours / Flight: 25 minutes.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Overnight in Kathmandu

After breakfast at the Pokhara hotel, we need to leave early in the morning around 6:30 AM, as the tourist bus departs at 7:00 AM. The road is a highway, paved in some areas and unpaved in others. The journey will take you along river valleys, through a few towns, terraced fields, and green hilly scenery on the way to Kathmandu.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can rest at the hotel after the long drive. In the late evening, you will be invited to a farewell dinner at a Nepali cultural restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional music and dance performances.

Day 15: Final Departure

Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
End of the trek.

Today marks the last day of your trip to Nepal. One of our High Pass Adventure staff members will accompany you to Kathmandu International Airport for your flight departure.

If you wish to plan an additional trip to Nepal or return for another adventure, we are always here to assist you with your next journey and adventure activities.

Major highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Scenic Mountain Views: The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers panoramic vistas of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains, along with close encounters with peaks like Thorong Peak, Chulu West Peak, and Tilicho Peak.

Thorong La Pass (5,416m): Crossing the Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek, is a major milestone. From here, you can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the Annapurna and Mustang regions. After crossing, you'll feel a sense of achievement from completing this adventurous trek.

Diverse Landscapes: The route passes through a rich diversity of landscapes, transitioning from lush green valleys to alpine meadows and arid desert-like terrains. Along the way, you can explore forests of rhododendron, pine, and juniper.

Unique Cultures and Traditions: Experience the Tibetan-influenced culture of the Manang and Muktinath regions. Visit ancient monasteries, observe Buddhist traditions, and interact with friendly locals from the Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-origin communities.

Muktinath Temple: The place is a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, where you can see the eternal flame and 108 water spouts used for purification rituals, along with a monastery and temple.

Natural Hot Springs at Chame and Tatopani: Both places are famous for their natural hot springs, where trekkers can take a hot bath, relax, and rejuvenate. This is perfect for easing sore muscles after days of trekking.

Poon Hill view point for Sunrise and Sunset: A short hike from Ghorepani, the Poon Hill viewpoint offers one of the best sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas in clear weather. During this time, you can see the golden rays lighting up peaks like Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.

Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki Valleys: Trek through two iconic river valleys with stunning waterfalls, suspension bridges, and terraced fields. You can also explore the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge, near Tatopani.

Flora and Fauna: Walk into the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to rare species like snow leopards, blue sheep, and diverse birdlife. You can also experience vibrant rhododendron forests in spring.

Authentic Local Cuisine: Trekkers can enjoy local dishes like dal bhat, thukpa, potatoes, tsampa, and apple-based treats in the region, as well as yak cheese and butter tea at higher altitudes.

Adventure and Acclimatization: The trekking route offers moderate to challenging days that test your endurance, with opportunities for acclimatization at spots like Manang, allowing you to adjust to the higher elevations.

Annapurna Circuit Trek cost details

The cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek can vary based on factors such as the length of the trek group size, the services included (guide, porter, accommodations, transport, etc.), and whether you're trekking independently or with a company. The estimate cost includes transportation, permits, guide/porter fees; food, accommodation, and other are given below

Trekking Permits

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 25)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS): NPR 2,000 (approx. USD 16)

Transportation Costs

Kathmandu to Besisahar (By public Bus): NPR 1000–1,500 (USD 8–12)
Besisahar to Dharapani (By Jeep): NPR 2,500–4,000 (USD 20–30) per person (private jeeps can cost more).
Muktinath to Tatopani (by public vehicle): NPR 2, 000 to 3,000 (USD 16-25)
Return from Pokhara to Kathmandu (By Tourist Bus): NPR 1,500–2,500 (USD 12–22)
Flight (Pokhara to Kathmandu): UDS 100 (optional for faster return).

Accommodation Costs (Per Night)

Tea Houses/Lodges (Basic accommodation): NPR 500–1,500 (USD 4–12)

Food and Drinks

Daily Food Cost: NPR 2,500-3,500 (USD 20–30) per person.
Includes 3 meals a day (dal bhat, noodles, porridge, etc.)
Costs increase as you ascend due to logistics in higher altitudes.
Water (Bottled or boiled): NPR 100–450 per bottle.
Snacks (Chocolates, nuts, etc.): Additional costs based on your consumption.

Guide and Porter Costs

Trekking Guide: NPR 3,500–4,500 (USD 30–40) per day (excluding tips)
Porter (Carrying 1–2 trekkers' luggage): NPR 2,500–3,000 (USD 20–25) per day (excluding tips).
Guide and Porter Tips: Expected at the end of the trek, typically 10–15% of the total cost.

Additional Costs

Hot Showers: NPR 200–500 (USD 2–4) depending on the place and altitude
Charging Devices (at tea houses): NPR 100–200 (USD 1–2) per hour
Wi-Fi/Internet (at tea houses): NPR 300–500 (USD 3–4) per day in higher areas.
Snacks and Drinks: Any additional items purchased on the trek (such as tea, soft drinks, beer) can add up to an extra NPR 500–1,000 (USD 4–8) per day.