Annapurna Circuit Trek - 15 Days

• Quick responses to all inquiries via email, WhatsApp, and Messenger with detailed information.
• Clear explanation of the trekking package, including transparent cost breakdowns, ensuring trust and value for money.
• Tailor-made itineraries based on client preferences, timeframe, group size, and fitness level, with comprehensive package services.
• Strong focus on safety with well-trained and experienced guides, first aid kits, and support for emergency evacuation if needed.
• Experienced and trained guides, along with strong and reliable porters for the adventure.
• Flexible and easy booking, reservation, and payment system, with a simple refund process for advance deposits (according to company policy).
• Airport pickup and farewell drop-off services at Kathmandu International Airport.
• First aid medical kit and oximeter to monitor pulse rate and oxygen saturation at high altitudes to help reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
• Efficient arrangement of all logistics to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trekking experience in Nepal.
• Complimentary extra luggage storage service throughout the trek.
• Provision of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if you do not have your own, to be returned after the trek).
• Company T-shirt and warm hat as souvenirs, along with a trekking certificate upon successful completion of the trip.

Overview of Annapurna Circuit Trek - 15 Days 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek promises an unforgettable adventure, offering an attractive blend of awesome landscapes, traditional villages, and unique cultural experiences. It is truly a trek of a lifetime, leaving trekkers in awe of the incredible diversity found within the Annapurna Region of Nepal.

One of most iconic trek in Annapurna region, Annapurna Circuit Trek is a circular trek where the concluding point is different from the starting point. On your way to trail, you will traverse through a completely contrasting landscapes having lush subtropical and alpine forest of mixed rhododendron and oak. Further, the quaint village nestled amidst of verdant and semi-barren land adds up the beauty of the trek.

Annapurna Circuit trek is one most well-known and busiest trek in Nepal. Annapurna Circuit route varies between 160km to 230km depending on where the transportation is used and trek ends. Annapurna section is 55km long with Kali Gandkai Gorge in the west, Marshyangdi River to the north and Pokhara valley to the south. The enchanting view of 16 peaks above 6,000m, 13 peaks above 7,000m and one peak above 8,000m fascinates the trek.

The 15-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is designed for those seeking a highland adventure and the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region during their vacation. This trek requires good physical fitness and strong determination, as the trail traverses the Marsyangdi Valley to the north of the Himalayas and crosses the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) before descending into the dramatic, semi-barren landscape of the Upper Kali Gandaki Valley.

Additionally, the trail passes through isolated hamlets of the Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali communities and includes many temples and monasteries. For extra adventure, you can join side trips and excursions to places such as Manang, Muktinath, and Jomsom. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is conducted in a fully teahouse mode and is considered a moderate to challenging trek, ideal for passionate walkers who are capable of walking 6 to 7 hours a day.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights 

• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) – Worthy about  huge variety of landscapes, green and sub-tropical forest, valley, hills and wild life  
• Magnificent view of Annapurna Mountain Range includes Annapurna I (8,091m) - 10th highest mountains in the world.
• Thorong-la Pass (5,416m) - highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Tilicho Lake (4,918m) side trip required - highest lake in the world
• Kali Gandaki Gorge – Deepest gorge in the world (between the Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Mt. Annapurna (8,091m) 
• Muktinath Temple – popular shrines of Hindus and Buddhist in one compound
• Tatopani- Natural hot spring 
•  Poon Hill – panoramic view point of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Manaslu ranges 
• Beautiful ethnic group settlements – Gurung, Magar Thakali, Mananges, etc

Annapurna Circuit Trekking Route

This Annapurna Circuit Trek is a 15-days itinerary, including arrival and departure in Kathmandu. This trek starts from Syange after visiting the Kathmandu Valley and driving to Besisahar, which usually takes about 6-7 hours. Besisahar is the traditional starting point for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. However, in this itinerary, the trek begins from Syange, which is a 2-hour off-road drive from Besisahar.

From Syange, the trek begins with a walk through lush subtropical forests, terraced fields, and picturesque villages, passing through bamboo and rhododendron forests. The trail follows the Marsyangdi River, but for the most part, you will walk on the road to Dharapani. Dharapani, situated at an altitude of 1,960 meters, marks a change in landscape as you gain altitude.

The next day, the trail continues to Chame, passing through villages like Bagarchhap, Damaque, Timang, and Koto. The trail offers views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV, as well as the Manaslu mountain range. Chame, the headquarters of the Manang district, is a popular place for shopping and has ATMs for withdrawing cash. It is also a significant stop with hot springs and stunning scenery.

Above Chame, the landscape changes dramatically until Manang. You will pass through dense forests and narrow river valleys, with magnificent views of the Annapurna range. The first stop is Pisang, where you will camp overnight. Pisang is divided into Upper Pisang and Lower Pisang, with the upper village offering better views.

There are two routes to Manang: the lower, easier route through Hongde and the upper, more challenging route via Ghyaru and Ngawal. Manang is a major stop for acclimatization, offering beautiful views and cultural experiences.

After acclimatizing in Manang, the trail heads to Thorong Phedi to cross the Thorong La Pass, passing through Ghunsang, Yak Kharka, and Ledar. The trek leads through alpine landscapes and pastures, with gradual altitude gain, continuing to ascend through alpine meadows and rocky terrain. Thorong Phedi is the base for the next day’s pass crossing.

Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m) is the most challenging part of the trek and the highest point on the circuit. After reaching the top of the pass, the trail descends to Muktinath, offering spectacular views and a sense of achievement. At Muktinath, there is road access, so the next day you can catch a jeep or bus to Tatopani, enjoying a scenic drive along the Kaligandaki River in the lower narrow valley. Tatopani is famous for its natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing after days of trekking.

From Tatopani, the trail leads to Ghorepani, involving a steep climb through beautiful local villages and rhododendron forests. Ghorepani offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The next day, an early morning hike to Poon Hill provides breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas. Afterward, the trail descends through beautiful forests and villages to Nayapul, where you’ll drive to Pokhara for some well-deserved rest. Finally, you will drive back to Kathmandu to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Annapurna Circuit Trek – 15 Days and Cost

The cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is USD 950 per person for our standard 15-day itinerary. This price is based on a minimum of two participants.

The package includes services from your arrival in Kathmandu to your departure, including accommodation in Kathmandu and during the trek, public and private transportation as per the itinerary, meals during the trek, an experienced guide and porter, and all necessary permits as mentioned in the cost details. Please read the “Cost Includes and Excludes” section carefully for complete information.

The total cost may vary depending on group size, trek duration, type of transportation used, choice of luxury accommodation, or private trekking arrangements. However, our pricing for the Annapurna Circuit Trek is reasonable and fully transparent for all trekkers.

Additional expenses beyond the USD 950 package may include extra meals, luxury accommodation upgrades, private transportation, bar bills, bottled water, extra tea and coffee, an additional personal porter, tips for the guide and porter, travel insurance, and personal trekking gear.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary Options

There are many itinerary options for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, as road access is now available from Kathmandu to Manang (before Thorong La Pass) and from Muktinath back to Kathmandu (after the pass). This makes the trek highly flexible and suitable for different timeframes, ranging from short to longer itineraries.
In the past, the trek used to start from Besisahar, but nowadays most trekkers begin from Dharapani (1,900 m), which is also where our itinerary starts. Beginning from Dharapani allows for better acclimatization before ascending to crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).

After crossing Thorong La Pass, some trekkers choose to take a vehicle from Muktinath, while others continue trekking to Tatopani or visit Ghorepani Poon Hill. For those with more time, an additional visit to Tilicho Lake is also possible.

Overall, there are several itinerary options for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, ranging from 8 to 15 days (Kathmandu to Kathmandu). Each option has its own features, cost variations, and required fitness levels.

Annapurna Circuit Group Join Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Group Join Trek is an excellent option for solo trekkers, offering many benefits such as Joining a group helps reduce costs for transportation, guides, porters, and accommodation through shared expenses. It also provides a great opportunity to share each other’s culture and history while making new friends, all while exploring the remote and stunning Annapurna region.

If you are traveling alone and looking to join a group trek for the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal, consider High Pass Adventure. As a locally based trekking agency, we offer reasonable prices along with multiple fixed departure dates throughout the main trekking seasons—autumn (September to December) and spring (March to May). Private treks are also available daily during these periods. Our group join treks are specifically designed for solo trekkers, providing a cost-effective and enjoyable trekking experience.

Transportation Options – To the Starting Point and Back to Kathmandu

The Annapurna Circuit Trek starts from Dharapani, which is approximately 230 km by road from Kathmandu. The road condition is good highway up to Dumre, after which the route turns right and continues on a single-lane blacktop road up to Besisahar–Bhulbhule. The remaining section is narrow, gravel, and hilly.

There are two transportation options from Kathmandu to Dharapani: private transport or public transport.

Private Jeep/Hiace/Bus (Depending on Group Size):-

If you choose private transport from Kathmandu to Dharapani, your journey will be more comfortable, flexible, and faster. One major advantage is that you do not need to rush, as you can stop whenever you like—for lunch, restroom breaks, photos, or at major junctions.

The journey typically takes 7–8 hours by private vehicle, although this may vary depending on road conditions, traffic, or landslides. You can start your trip around 8:00 AM from Kathmandu and reach Dharapani by 5:00–6:00 PM. This option allows for a smooth and direct journey without changing vehicles. The same arrangement can be applied for the return journey (Muktinath to Tatopani, Birethanti to Pokhara, and Pokhara to Kathmandu).

Local (Public) Bus:-

If you choose to travel by local bus as part of our Annapurna Circuit Trek package, you should be ready at your hotel by 6:00 AM, as the bus departs between 6:30 and 7:00 AM from the bus park. Our guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the bus station, where your journey will begin. You will travel to Besisahar by bus and then switch to a shared jeep to reach Dharapani.

Local (public) buses do not provide the same level of comfort as private vehicles. The journey usually takes 6–7 hours to Besisahar and an additional 3 hours to Dharapani. You will also have limited flexibility to stop for photos or breaks, as public transport follows fixed stops. However, the journey can still be a unique and memorable experience.

The same travel arrangement applies for the return journey (Muktinath to Tatopani, Birethanti to Pokhara, and Pokhara to Kathmandu).

We highly recommend private transport for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, as it offers greater comfort and flexibility. Our guide will accompany you whether you choose private or public transport.

Why Book the Annapurna Circuit Trek with High Pass Adventure?

Booking the Annapurna Circuit Trek with High Pass Adventure offers several benefits. We provide quick and reliable information via email, WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook Messenger, making it easy for you to prepare for your trip. Our goal is to ensure a memorable and rewarding experience with a strong focus on safety, quality service, affordable and transparent pricing, and customized itineraries to meet your needs.

Our team consists of experienced guides and staff who are highly familiar with the region, its culture, and trekking routes. Safety is our top priority, and we are fully prepared to arrange emergency evacuation if required. This local expertise ensures a more authentic, safe, and enjoyable trekking experience.

We provide high-quality services, including comfortable accommodation, nutritious meals, and reliable transportation. We also maintain flexible group sizes—ranging from solo trekkers to large groups—while keeping groups manageable to ensure a more personalized experience and better interaction with your guide.
With all these services, we proudly maintain a 99% success rate, demonstrating our commitment to excellent service and ensuring that our clients complete their trek successfully.

Don’t miss the opportunity to book your Annapurna Circuit Trek with High Pass Adventure for an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

Side Trip around the Manang Village 

Manang Village is an ideal place for an acclimatization day, offering many options for side trips. These excursions include the 100 Lama Monastery, Ice Lake, Gangapurna Lake, Milarepa Cave, and Chongkar Viewpoint, providing trekkers with opportunities to further explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions of the Himalayas. During the acclimatization day at Manang, trekkers can choose to visit one of these spots, but it is essential to consult with your guide to select the most suitable option.

• The 100 Lama Monastery (Praken Gompa)

The 100 Lama Monastery (Praken Gompa) is located above Manang Village at an altitude of approximately 3,900 meters. The round trip takes about 2-3 hours and involves an easy ascent. This Buddhist monastery offers trekkers an opportunity to receive blessings for a safe journey over the Thorong La Pass. It is also a chance to engage with the local Buddhist culture and enjoy the serene surroundings. The monastery provides stunning views of the Annapurna range, including Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak.

• Ice Lake (Kicho Tal)

Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) is located at a high altitude of 4,600 meters above Manang Village and direction accessed via a steep trail. The round trip from Manang takes approximately 6-7 hours, making it a challenging yet rewarding acclimatization hike. The hike is strenuous due to steep ascents and the high altitude, but the effort is well worth it. Ice Lake is a high-altitude glacial lake with crystal-clear turquoise water, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The lake and its trail offer spectacular views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Gangapurna.

• Gangapurna Lake

Gangapurna Lake is located at the base of the Gangapurna Glacier, just a short walk from Manang. The round trip takes 1-2 hours, making it suitable for all types of trekkers. The walk is easy and highly rewarding, offering stunning views of the Marsyangdi Valley. The lake features milky turquoise glacial waters that reflect the Gangapurna Glacier. This spot is ideal for relaxing and soaking in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayan landscape.

• Milarepa Cave

Milarepa Cave is located near Braga Village, a few kilometers before Manang, at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters. This sacred cave is famous as the meditation site of Milarepa, a revered Tibetan Buddhist saint. The round trip from Manang Village takes 4-5 hours and requires moderate fitness levels. The hike offers a spiritual experience combined with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Pisang peaks. The route is peaceful and reflective, providing a serene escape from the main trekking trail.

• Chongkar Viewpoint

Chongkar Viewpoint is located near Manang, above Gangapurna Lake, at an elevation of approximately 4,000 meters. The round trip from Manang takes 2-3 hours and requires moderate fitness. This viewpoint offers panoramic 360-degree views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the Marsyangdi Valley. It is an excellent spot for sunrise or sunset photography and provides a peaceful escape with fewer trekkers, making it a rewarding experience

Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters)

Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) is a famous high-altitude mountain pass and the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal. It is one of the highlights of the trek, connecting the Manang District to the Mustang District and crossing from the Annapurna region into the Kali Gandaki Valley. This pass links Manang and Mustang.

Due to the high elevation, it presents a challenging altitude. Trekkers typically start the walk from either Thorong Phedi (4,450 meters) or High Camp (4,800 meters), where there are tea houses with basic accommodations. It's crucial for trekkers to take precautions against altitude sickness, and proper acclimatization is critical for crossing the pass safely.

The climb to Thorong La is steep and physically demanding, especially in snowy conditions. However, from the pass, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with other peaks, including Gangapurna, Khatung Kang, Nilgiri, and Tilicho Peak.

We highly recommend that all trekkers hire an experienced guide and choose the best time to ensure the successful completion of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Walk Safely during the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Safety is crucial while trekking in the Himalayan region and the same applies to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Always walk cautiously and carefully along the trail. The trails in the Himalayas can be slippery and rocky, especially during rain or snow time. This is particularly true at the end of May, the beginning of September, and during the winter months of December, January, and February. In higher elevations on the Thorong La Pass, snow and ice can make the trails even more challenging. Melting snow can cause paths to become slippery and muddy, so take extra care when walking near cliffs and pass.

During the main trekking season, the trails will be more crowded with trekkers, guides, porters, yaks, domestic animals and donkeys. At times, you may need to stand on the safe side of the trail and wait when crossing bridges or navigating narrow spaces. Additionally, be cautious of wild animals, domestic animals and yaks, as they may graze above the trail, which can sometimes cause stones to fall. Always stay alert in such areas—avoid stopping and keep moving if you're below them.

It’s also important to stay away from riversides, streams, avalanche-prone areas, rock fall zones, glacier regions, and areas near waterfalls, as these can pose additional hazards. By following these safety tips, you’ll ensure a safer trek. Your guide will also brief you on these precautions every day during the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Proper preparation is essential for the Annapurna Circuit Trek to ensure safety, reduce stress, and help you fully enjoy the journey. This trek is far from your home country, located in the Himalayan region, and involves 15 days of trekking in Nepal plus two days of travel to and from the country.

Preparation includes booking your trip with a reputable trekking agency, hiring experienced guides and support staff, and training for high-altitude trekking to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. It also involves managing your budget, packing the right gear, and building endurance and strength through activities such as walking, day hiking, and running, biking, jogging, stretching, and swimming.

Another important part of preparation is seeking medical advice before traveling, especially if you have respiratory issues or other health concerns such as food or drink allergies. Travel insurance is also essential. We recommend insurance that covers emergency evacuation during the 16-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, as the route is remote and emergency medical care may be difficult to access.

By following these guidelines and trekking with an experienced guide, you can successfully complete the 15-day Annapurna Circuit Trek and enjoy a memorable and worry-free vacation.

Important Note for the trip:

• During your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu, we provide you with a free T-shirt and a warm cap (beanie), as well as a refundable duffel bag for packing your trekking gear.
• We assign one porter for every two trekkers, so the duffel bag should weigh around 10 to 12 kg, which is carried by the porter throughout the trek. Additionally, we can arrange other working team members according to your requirements.
• You must have your own special daypack with a waterproof cover for carrying your daily necessities things like cash, necessary papers, a water bottle or bladder, sunglass, mobile phone, power bank, a camera, toiletries, sunscreen, lip guard, a notebook, light clothing, etc. 
• The guide will check your trekking gear and give you suggestions on what to pack and what not to pack. Any unnecessary items (non-trekking items) can be stored at the hotel or our office in Kathmandu.
• A down jacket and a sleeping bag are required for trekking in the Nepal Himalayas. The sleeping bag should be rated for temperatures between -10 to 20 degrees Celsius, depending on the trekking route. If you don't have either of these items, you can rent them in Kathmandu for USD 2 per day. Please note that in case of loss or damage, you will be required to pay the cost of USD 100 per item.
• Every day, the guide will brief you about the walk, nature, food, accommodation, culture, and other aspects of the trek. It's important to listen to and follow the local rules and guidelines provided by the guide.
• Respect locals' privacy before photographing them or their children and appreciate the local culture and customs. Always walk together with your guide and stand in a safe place while animals are passing. Do not smoke or drink alcohol at elevations above 3000 meters.

Important Note for Itinerary:

The itinerary provided below is only a guideline for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. If you have your own itinerary, we are flexible and happy to follow it. If you do not, we can create a new itinerary based on your requirements, vacation timeframe, fitness level, and group size. This trek can be customized according to your preferred duration, budget, and schedule.

The trek starts from Dharapani, so you will need to travel there from Kathmandu by vehicle. Please note that travel time may be longer than indicated due to road conditions in Nepal. Roads can be blocked by traffic or landslides on the routes and from Muktinath to Pokhara and from Pokhara to Kathmandu are the same conditions. We ask that you understand and be prepared for these possible delays.