Annapurna Circuit Trek
Starting from
US$1650
US$1650
P/P
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the greatest trekking experiences in the world-a complete Himalayan journey through ancient villages, sacred temples, dense forests, and legendary high-altitude passes. For anyone planning Nepal trekking packages in 2026, this iconic circuit is simply unmatched in beauty, culture, and adventure. Travelers with limited time can also explore the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek, a condensed version that captures the very best highlights of this legendary route.
Stretching across the Annapurna Region of Nepal, this route covers an Annapurna Circuit distance of approximately 160 to 230 kilometres. Following the Annapurna Circuit route map, the journey begins in the lowland valleys near Besisahar and winds through terraced farmlands, Gurung villages, and rhododendron forests before ascending into the high alpine terrain above Manang. Every Annapurna Circuit itinerary is carefully structured to allow proper acclimatization at every stage. Those looking for an even richer experience often choose the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, adding the breathtaking beauty of one of the world's highest lakes to this already magnificent journey.
Reaching a maximum Annapurna Circuit altitude of 5,416 metres at Thorong La Pass, this route delivers sweeping panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. Rated moderate to challenging, the Annapurna Circuit difficulty is absolutely manageable with the right preparation. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit, offering clear skies and stable weather throughout.
More than just a physical challenge, this trek is a rich cultural journey. Along the route, you will visit Muktinath Temple at 3,760 m, walk through the villages of Manang, Marpha, and Jomsom, relax at the hot springs of Tatopani, and witness a breathtaking sunrise from Poon Hill over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Covering guide fees, meals, and logistics, the Annapurna Circuit Trek 12-day cost is offered in both Standard and Budget packages. Your Annapurna Circuit permit, including the ACAP permit and TIMS card, is fully arranged and included. Comfortable Annapurna Circuit accommodation in local teahouses and a professional Annapurna Circuit trekking guide ensure every step of the journey is safe, supported, and truly unforgettable.
Note: This itinerary is also available in budget-friendly options. For complete details about what is included and excluded, please see the Cost Includes & Excludes section below.
Touch down at Tribhuvan International Airport and you're in good hands from the moment you land. Transfer to your hotel in Thamel -Kathmandu's trekking heartland - and take the evening to settle in. We'll meet for a pre-trek briefing covering the full route, your ACAP and TIMS permits, altitude sickness awareness, and what to pack for the days ahead.
A long but scenic overland journey west along the Prithvi Highway, tracing rivers and terraced hillsides before dropping into the dramatic Marsyangdi River Valley. The road narrows past Besisahar through Jagat, Chamje, and Tal before arriving in Dharapani - the official gateway to the Annapurna Circuit and the start of the trek proper.
A gentle introduction to the trail - pine and oak forest, suspension bridges, and traditional stone villages like Bagarchhap and Timang. The mountains start making themselves known today, with Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II appearing above the treeline. End the day in Chame, where natural hot springs are waiting after your first proper day on foot.
The trail cuts through a steep river valley with cliff faces and waterfalls before opening into a wide alpine bowl. Upper Pisang is a highlight - a Tibetan-style village perched on a ridge with monasteries, prayer wheels, and commanding views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak (6,091 m). Arrive early enough to explore.
Take the high route via Ghyaru and Ngawal - it adds minimal distance and delivers some of the best views on the entire circuit. Annapurna II, III, and IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak all visible on a clear day. You'll drop down into Manang by afternoon - a well-equipped village and the main acclimatization hub before Thorong La.
A rest day that isn't really a rest day. Don't skip it - it's your best insurance against altitude sickness at the pass. Spend the day on an optional hike to Ice Lake (4,600 m) or Gangapurna Lake, and attend the free altitude briefing at the Himalayan Rescue Association post in the village.
A shorter, deliberate day as you climb higher into the alpine zone. The trail passes through Tenki village into open, sparse high-altitude terrain where yaks graze in wide meadows. Yak Kharka is small and peaceful - a good place for an early night and serious hydration before the big days ahead.
Short on distance, significant on altitude. After a brief descent to Thorong Phedi, a steep climb brings you to High Camp at 4,880 m - the final staging point before the pass. Eat well, drink plenty of water, and sleep as early as you can. Your alarm is set for 3-4 AM.
The defining day of the Annapurna Circuit. A pre-dawn start, a hard climb to Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m - the highest point of the route - and views that make every step worth it. The descent into the Mustang Valley is long but dramatic, finishing at Muktinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal.
A jeep or Bus ride through the Kali Gandaki Gorge - the deepest river gorge in the world, carved between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The route passes through Jomsom, the apple orchards of Marpha, and riverside Kalopani before arriving in Tatopani. The town's famous natural hot springs are exactly what your legs have been waiting for.
A hard climb -1,600 metres of ascent - through rhododendron and oak forest, past waterfalls and traditional Magar villages. It's demanding but the forest is beautiful, especially in spring when the rhododendrons are in full bloom. Ghorepani sits at the top surrounded by big mountain views. Set your alarm tonight - Poon Hill at dawn is not one to miss.
Up at 4:30 AM for the 45-minute hike to Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210 m). The Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges at sunrise from here is one of the most iconic views in all of Nepal -and it earns that reputation every single morning. After breakfast, descend to Ulleri and drive through the middle hills into Pokhara. Your final evening on the shores of Phewa Lake in Lakeside is the perfect close to the Annapurna Circuit.
Service Types
Compare the available package types and choose the service level that matches your comfort, budget, and support needs.
Standard Package Cost
US$ 1650 per person
Budget Package Cost
US$ 1350 per person
The Annapurna Circuit is a world-famous trekking route in Nepal that circles the entire Annapurna Massif. It covers 160 to 230 km, crosses the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), and takes you through diverse landscapes, traditional villages, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
It typically takes 12 to 14 days to complete. The full route can range from 12 to 14 days depending on your pace, rest days, and side trips. Rushing below 12 days increases the risk of altitude sickness.
October to November is the best season, offering clear skies, stable trails, and outstanding mountain views. March to April is also a great time with spring wildflowers in bloom. Avoid June to August due to heavy monsoon rains and landslide risk.
The trek is rated moderate to challenging. Daily walks average 5 to 7 hours on mountain terrain. The most demanding section is crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), which requires an early start and solid stamina. No technical climbing skills are needed.
Yes, with the right preparation. Fit beginners who train in advance and follow proper acclimatisation guidelines can successfully complete the circuit. At Mountain Eco Treks, we carefully plan each itinerary to give first-time trekkers the safest and most enjoyable experience on this iconic route.
A guide is not legally required. Solo trekking is allowed . However, a local guide is strongly recommended for safety, navigation, and a richer cultural experience along the way.
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) - NPR 3,000 (approx. $22 USD) The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is available at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Yes, with preparation. The Annapurna Circuit is considered one of the more accessible high-altitude multi-day treks in the world because it features well-established teahouse accommodation, clear trail markers, a steady progression in altitude, and abundant infrastructure.
Beginners are strongly advised to begin fitness training at least two to three months in advance, hire an experienced local guide, follow strict acclimatisation protocols, and familiarise themselves with altitude sickness symptoms before departure.
Budget trekkers spend around $35 to $60 USD per day on the trail. A full 12-day trek including permits, accommodation, food, and a porter typically costs $1,150 to $1,800 USD, excluding international flights.
The trek starts at Besisahar, reached by a 6 to 7 hour drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara. It ends at Nayapul or Pokhara. The route is walked counter-clockwise to allow a gradual and safe altitude gain.
Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m is the highest and most challenging point of the circuit. Trekkers begin the ascent as early as 3:00 AM, climbing around 1,000 m before descending to Muktinath. With proper acclimatisation, most trekkers complete it without difficulty.
Altitude sickness (AMS) causes headache, nausea, and dizziness at high elevation. Prevent it by ascending slowly, resting a full day in Manang, drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and carrying Diamox. Always consult your doctor before the trek.
Yes. Teahouses are available at every major stop along the route, meals and basic accommodation. Camping is not required. During peak season (October to November), book ahead as spots in Manang and High Camp fill up quickly.
Key essentials include waterproof trekking boots, a down jacket rated to at least minus 10 degrees Celsius, rain gear, trekking poles, UV sunglasses, a headlamp, water purification tablets, and a basic first-aid kit. A 20 to 25 litre daypack is ideal. Gear is also available to rent in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Packing for the Annapurna Circuit requires balancing warmth, waterproofing, and weight. Essential items include:
Waterproof, ankle-supporting trekking boots that are well broken in before the trek. Moisture-wicking base layers, a fleece mid-layer, a down jacket (essential above 4,000 m), and a waterproof shell jacket and trousers. A warm hat, balaclava, sun hat, trekking gloves, and waterproof mittens. A four-season sleeping bag rated to at least -15°C. Two one-litre water bottles or a hydration bladder, plus water purification tablets or a Steripen. Trekking poles, which are highly recommended for both ascents and especially for protecting your knees on steep descents. A headlamp with extra batteries-essential for the pre-dawn Thorong La Pass crossing. A first aid kit including altitude sickness medication, sunscreen (SPF 50 or above), lip balm, and blister treatment. Offline maps downloaded to your phone (Maps.me or Gaia GPS are popular choices).
Aim for a backpack weight of 8 to 12 kg maximum. Everything else can be left in storage at your guesthouse in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Not legally required, but absolutely essential. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking above 5,000 m and emergency helicopter evacuation. Rescue flights in the Annapurna region can cost $5,000 to $7,000 USD. Never begin this trek without adequate coverage in place.
Yes. The Annapurna Circuit is widely regarded as one of the safest trekking routes in Asia for solo female travellers. The trail is well-travelled, teahouse communities are warm and welcoming, and many women complete it independently every year. Mountain Eco Treks also offers women-only guided departures for those who prefer a more supported experience.
The Annapurna Circuit (12 to 14 days) is a longer, more varied journey that circles the entire massif and crosses Thorong La Pass. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek (6 to 9 days) is shorter and leads directly to base camp at 4,130 m. Both require an ACAP permit and are suitable for fit beginners. Mountain Eco Treks offers fully guided packages for both routes, tailored to your fitness level and schedule.
Mobile connectivity is reasonable in lower and mid-altitude villages. Nepal Telecom and Ncell both provide coverage across much of the trail, though signal becomes unreliable above 4,000 m and in deep gorge sections. WiFi is available at most teahouses but is generally slow and shared. For reliable navigation, download offline maps before you leave Pokhara. A local Nepal Telecom SIM card with a data plan is a cost-effective connectivity option.
Mountain Eco Treks & Expeditions (P) Ltd is a Nepal Government-registered trekking company based in Kathmandu, operating tours and expeditions across Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. Please read these terms before booking.
We accept Visa, Mastercard, and bank wire transfer. Additional bank charges may apply.
All cancellations must be made in writing.
| Notice Period | Charge |
|---|---|
| 50+ days | Deposit retained |
| 30 days | 50% of total |
| 2 weeks | 75% of total |
| 1 week or less | 100% - no refund |
A 20% non-refundable deposit applies in all cancellation cases. No refund is issued for incomplete trips or early departures from the itinerary.
If we cancel due to weather, natural disaster, or unrest, we offer an alternative trip or full refund. Any personal expenses (flights, visas) remain your responsibility.
Himalayan travel involves unpredictable weather, road conditions, and remote flight routes. We minimize disruptions where possible, but extra costs during delays are the client's responsibility. No refunds for itinerary changes beyond our control.
By booking with us, you agree to all terms above.
Mountain Eco Treks & Expeditions (P) Ltd 🌐 www.mountainecotreks.com
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| T-Shirts | 3–4 moisture-wicking shirts |
| Fleece Jacket | Warm mid-layer for cold mornings |
| Down Jacket | Essential above 3,000 m |
| Waterproof Jacket | Wind and rain protection |
| Trekking Trousers | Quick-dry lightweight pants |
| Wool Socks | 3-4 warm trekking pairs |
| Gloves & Hat | Cold-weather protection |
| Buff / Scarf | Dust and wind protection |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Trekking Boots | Waterproof with ankle support |
| Sandals / Slippers | Comfortable for evenings |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Daypack | 10-15L daily backpack |
| Trekking Poles | Reduces knee strain |
| Water Bottle | Refillable 2-liter bottle |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid 6+ months |
| Nepal Visa | Required for entry |
| Travel Insurance | Includes evacuation coverage |
| Passport Photos | For permits and documents |
| Cash & Card | Local cash recommended |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Painkillers | Headache and muscle relief |
| Anti-Diarrheal | For stomach issues |
| Bandages | Basic injury care |
| Sunscreen SPF 50+ | High-altitude UV protection |
| Lip Balm | Prevents dry lips |
| Prescription Medicine | Personal medical supply |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Headlamp | With spare batteries |
| Sleeping Bag | Suitable for cold temperatures |
| Sunglasses | UV400 protection |
| Water Purification | Tablets or filter |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile Phone | Offline maps recommended |
| Camera | Extra batteries advised |
| Power Bank | High-capacity backup |
| Travel Adapter | Nepal 2-pin plug |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy Bars | Quick trail snacks |
| Electrolyte Drinks | Hydration support |
Mountain Eco Treks is a licensed local Nepal trekking company based in Kathmandu, founded by Ram Bahadur Tamang, a mountain leader with more than 15 years of trekking and expedition experience across Nepal and Tibet. Registered with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and TAAN, we provide reliable trekking services with a strong focus on safety, local expertise, and responsible tourism.
Licensed & Reliable
We operate as a fully registered trekking company in Nepal with transparent services and recognized tourism affiliations.
Experienced Local Guides
Our NTB-certified guides are first-aid trained and have extensive experience leading trekkers on Nepal’s most popular Himalayan routes.
Safety as a Priority
Daily acclimatization monitoring, proper trip planning, and emergency preparedness are part of every trek we organize.
Complete Trek Support
From permits and transportation to accommodation, meals, and porters, we manage the logistics so you can focus on the journey.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden charges and flexible options for private or group treks to suit different travel styles and budgets.
Responsible Travel Approach
We support eco-friendly trekking practices, local communities, and initiatives that benefit villages and preserve the mountain environment.
Foreign nationals can obtain a Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or at designated land border entry points from India and Tibet. Travelers can also apply for an online visa in advance through the official immigration system.
Nepal Tourist Visa Requirements
To apply for a Nepal visa, travelers need:
Nepal Tourist Visa Fees
Visa fees and rules may change as per Nepal Immigration regulations.
Nepal Visa Extension
Tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.
Advice to Travelers
Trekking Permits in Nepal
Trekkers visiting national parks, conservation areas, and restricted regions such as the Everest Region, Annapurna Region, and Manaslu Region require trekking permits. Some restricted areas also require special permits issued through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
Plan Your Nepal Adventure with Mountain Eco Treks
Mountain Eco Treks is a trusted local trekking and tour company based in Nepal, offering professional trekking, tour, climbing, and adventure travel services across the Himalayas.
We organize:
Our team provides complete travel support, including permits, transportation, accommodation, and guided trekking experiences across Nepal.
Contact Mountain Eco Treks
For official Nepal visa information, visit: https://immigration.gov.np/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
| Route | KM | Time | Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu – Dharapani | 230 km | 9–10 hrs | 1,860 m |
| Dharapani – Chame | 15.5 km | 5–6 hrs | 2,670 m |
| Chame – Pisang | 16 km | 5–6 hrs | 3,300 m |
| Pisang – Manang | 15 km | 5–6 hrs | 3,540 m |
| Manang – Yak Kharka | 10 km | 4–5 hrs | 4,018 m |
| Yak Kharka – High Camp | 7 km | 5–6 hrs | 4,925 m |
| Thorong La – Muktinath | 15 km | 7–8 hrs | 3,760 m |
| Muktinath – Tatopani | 70 km | 5–6 hrs | 1,190 m |
| Tatopani – Ghorepani | 17 km | 6–7 hrs | 2,840 m |
| Poon Hill – Pokhara | 55 km | 5 hrs | 822 m |
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most iconic Himalayan adventures-a 160 to 230 km journey through ancient villages, dramatic landscapes, and high-altitude passes that challenge and reward in equal measure.
At 5,416 meters, oxygen drops to roughly 50% of sea level. Temperatures are extreme and the ascent is steep. Proper acclimatization - especially resting in Manang before the crossing-is absolutely essential.
We offer expert local guides, flexible itineraries, eco-friendly travel, transparent pricing, and full safety support-so you can focus entirely on the experience.
The Annapurna Circuit is not just a trek. It is a journey that stays with you forever.
Contact: Mountain Eco Treks today and take the first step.
Philippines
The Greatest Adventure
16 Mar 2018
Dev, was a great guide and guy,we trekked the Annapurna circuit.we felt safe in his hands,his experience just showed. great fun. he was well-liked along the way and everyone happy to see him and we were made so welcome. he must have done this trek so many times.he went out of his way to make it most enjoyable.he gave us many tips about trekking and what else to do in Nepal.He showed us around Kathmandu before and after the trek. If you want a no-hassle, enjoyable, safe,and hospitable experience you can not go past Dev and his team. Awesome.Enjoy.
Germany
Annapurna trek Dev & Raaj
21 Mar 2018
Da man seinen Führer und den Träger bei der Tour fast rund um die Uhr um sich hat, ist es wichtig, dass sie menschlich gut zu einem passen. Aufdringliche und höchst redselige Führer können das Naturerlebnis schnell zerstören.
Mit Dev und Raaj hatten wir viel Glück. Von Dev kann man sehr viele Hintergründe über das Land Nepal, den Kasten und seinem Leben erfahren und gelangt auf einfachem Weg definitiv an Informationen, die einem ohne engeren Kontakt vorenthalten bleiben würden. Unser Träger Raaj war sehr gut, man wusste ihn in unserer Nähe, sah ihn ab und zu und hatte sein Gepäck immer rechtzeitig an den Unterkünften.
Eine weitere Nepal-Tour wird immer mit einem Kontakt von Dev und Raaj starten.Wir danken Dev und Raaj von ganzem Herzen für Ihre Arbeit und können uns jeder positiven Empfehlung für die Beiden anschließen.
United Kingdom
A highlight
30 Mar 2018
I really loved my time trekking in Nepal. The mountains are amazing :) We did the Annapurna Circuit, which I would recommend if you have enough time ;)
Ram is a really nice guide, who loves the mountains. He has a lot of experience in the mountains. And you can have a lot of fun with him :-) We felt safe during our trip! So if you are still looking for another great experience in Nepal, just go for it! It was definitely the highlight of our time in this amazing country
Germany
Great travel companion
1 May 2019
I’ve been with Ram on the Annapurna circuit over Christmas time this year.We were a group of friends, quite outdoorsy but not too sure about the Himalayan winter, so we decided to go with a guide. In the end this turned out as a very value-adding idea of doing the trek. Ram is a really fun guy with a tremendous experience in hiking and took care of all organizational stuff so we could focus on enjoying the trek, the nature and simply having a good time.
Of course, going with a guide makes the whole trek less adventurous, but also more enjoyable in the end.
If you decide taking a guide, Ram is a great companion that made our journey a really fun time with a lot of insights to Nepal we wouldn’t have gotten without him.
Thank you Ram!
Source :Trip Advisor
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Experience the best of Nepal with expert local guides, carefully planned itineraries, and personalized support from enquiry to departure. Tell us what you want to explore and we will help you build the right trip.
Call us: +9779803926665
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Juicy_89
Australia
Lovely companionship in Jomsom
1 Apr 2017
Dev and I met in Jomsom in Kali Gandaki valley, when I was on my solo-trek there. We came to sit in a tiny restaurant/bar as it started to rain heavily outside. So we started chatting and enjoyed tea after tea. Dev is a really experienced guide and kind person. In the evening we met again for dinner together with his trekking group. It was such a funny, lovely evening together and the girls and guys kept on raving about how lucky they were with Dev as a guide, he couldn't have made any better choice :) I really enjoyed the sympathetic companionship that evening and valued the talk with Dev a lot who explained me about Nepal, its mountains, and culture.
Pungunkis
Australia
Best adventure trek
17 Jun 2018
Dev Lama what can I say about this guy.He is an abaolute legend.I had the chance to do the Annapurna circuit trek in March 2018.He was the best guide ever.He was well known over the trek and he knows the best routes to talk to view the best scenary.I needed to complete my trek sooner than thanks expected as I had other plans.He adjusted his pace accordingly and made sure I was safe the whole time.He is quite knowledgeable also.He can tell you alot about Nepal and the Himalayan people.He showed me around other places in Pokhra after the trek.Not only ia he a great guide but really good company.Met as a guide left as a friend.I definetly recommend trekking with him.Cheers brother!!!
Source: Tripadvisor
Address: Melbourne, Australia