Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal – Complete Guide, Itinerary, Cost & Best Time
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the world’s most legendary long-distance treks — a journey that circles the Annapurna massif through Nepal’s most...
The Annapurna Circuit stands among the world's most celebrated trekking routes, drawing thousands of adventurers each year to experience its dramatic landscapes, diverse cultures, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas.
At Majestic Trails Nepal, we've been organizing Annapurna Circuit group join treks for over 15 years, perfecting every detail to deliver safe, memorable, and transformative mountain experiences.
Our team of locally born guides, experienced trek leaders, and dedicated support staff ensure that every trekker who joins our fixed departures receives world-class service from arrival to departure.
When you join an Annapurna Circuit trek group with us, you're not just booking a trek – you're gaining access to our deep expertise, established relationships with teahouse owners along the trail, and a proven track record of successful high-altitude crossings.
We handle all permits, accommodations, meals, and logistics so you can focus entirely on the adventure ahead.
Our Annapurna Circuit fixed departure treks welcome solo travelers, couples, and small groups from every corner of the globe.
Whether you're a first-time trekker seeking guidance or an experienced mountaineer looking for hassle-free arrangements, our group departures provide the perfect blend of support, flexibility, and authentic Himalayan adventure.

Planning your dream trek becomes effortless with our scheduled group departures.
Simply choose a date that aligns with your schedule, and our team handles everything else.
| Departure Date | Trek Duration | Group Size | Price (USD) | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 10, 2026 | 15 Days | 4–10 trekkers | $1,190 | ✅ Open |
| March 25, 2026 | 15 Days | 4–10 trekkers | $1,190 | ✅ Open |
| April 5, 2026 | 15 Days | 4–10 trekkers | $1,190 | ⚠️ Limited |
| April 20, 2026 | 15 Days | 4–10 trekkers | $1,190 | ✅ Open |
| October 1, 2026 | 15 Days | 4–10 trekkers | $1,290 | ✅ Open |
| October 12, 2026 | 15 Days | 4–10 trekkers | $1,290 | ✅ Open |
| November 1, 2026 | 15 Days | 4–10 trekkers | $1,290 | ✅ Open |
| November 15, 2026 | 15 Days | 4–10 trekkers | $1,290 | ⚠️ Limited |
Spring departures (March–April) offer blooming rhododendrons and mild temperatures perfect for trekking.
Autumn departures (October–November) deliver crystal-clear mountain views and stable weather conditions.
🎒 Ready to reserve your spot? Book your Annapurna Circuit group trek today with Majestic Trails Nepal – limited seats available on each departure!
Choosing to join Annapurna Circuit trek group departures with our company brings distinct advantages that enhance every aspect of your journey.
Here's why hundreds of trekkers choose our group trek Annapurna Circuit Nepal programs each year:
We cap every departure at a maximum of 10 trekkers.
This ensures personalized attention from our guides, flexibility in daily pacing, and meaningful connections with fellow adventurers.
Large commercial groups often exceed 15-20 people – we believe smaller is better for quality mountain experiences.
Every trek is led by government-licensed, English-speaking guides who were born and raised in Nepal's mountain regions.
Our lead guides average 10+ years of Annapurna Circuit experience and hold wilderness first aid certifications.
They don't just navigate the trail – they share cultural insights, manage altitude acclimatization, and become trusted companions throughout your journey.
Navigating Nepal's permit requirements can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Our team secures your ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) before you arrive, eliminating paperwork stress and permit office queues.
We coordinate all transportation, teahouse bookings, and meal arrangements so your only job is to enjoy the trek.
Our group departures attract adventurers from every continent.
Solo travelers particularly value the built-in community – sharing sunrises at Poon Hill, challenging climbs to Thorong La Pass, and evening meals in cozy teahouses creates lasting friendships.
Many of our past trekkers stay connected for years after returning home.
No need to coordinate schedules with travel companions or meet minimum group numbers yourself.
Choose your preferred departure date, book your international flight, and let Majestic Trails Nepal handle everything else.
Our fixed departure model makes planning your Himalayan adventure remarkably simple.
🏔️ Explore more options: View our complete Annapurna Circuit Trek page for private departure options and custom itineraries.
Our carefully crafted Annapurna trekking itinerary maximizes acclimatization, cultural immersion, and mountain views while ensuring your safety and comfort throughout.
Your Himalayan adventure begins the moment you land in Nepal's vibrant capital city.
Our airport representative meets you and transfers you to your hotel in the Thamel district.
In the evening, join your fellow group members and trek leader for a welcome dinner and comprehensive pre-trek briefing.
We'll review the itinerary, check your gear, answer questions, and distribute permits.
An early morning departure takes us on a scenic drive through Nepal's middle hills.
The 8-9 hour journey passes through terraced farmland, rushing rivers, and traditional villages.
Our comfortable private vehicle includes rest stops at scenic viewpoints.
Arriving in Jagat, you'll spend your first night in a welcoming teahouse and enjoy your first taste of authentic Nepali mountain hospitality.
Today marks your first proper trekking day on the circuit.
The trail follows the Marsyangdi River valley, crossing suspension bridges and passing through villages where daily life has changed little over generations.
Walking 5-6 hours, you'll gain 560 meters of elevation while your body begins adapting to mountain conditions.
Our guides set a comfortable pace, ensuring everyone adjusts well to trail life.
The landscape shifts dramatically as you enter the Manang District.
Pine forests replace subtropical vegetation, and mountain views become increasingly spectacular.
Today's 5-6 hour trek includes your first clear views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.
Chame, the district headquarters, offers comfortable teahouses with hot showers and charging facilities.
This stage delivers some of the circuit's most dramatic scenery.
The trail passes through dense forests with views of Paungda Danda, a remarkable rock face rising 1,500 meters in a single sweep.
Upper Pisang provides stunning views of Annapurna II, III, and IV.
Our guides will share insights about the traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture that characterizes this region.
The trail traverses high above the Marsyangdi Valley with continuous Himalayan panoramas.
You'll pass through several traditional villages and ancient monasteries.
Manang cultural village trekking offers insights into the unique Manangba people, known historically as traders who traveled to Thailand and Singapore.
Our 6-hour trek today includes exploration of Manang's centuries-old gompas and prayer wheels.
This crucial rest day allows your body to adapt to the increasing altitude.
However, "rest day" doesn't mean staying inactive – proper acclimatization involves gentle activity.
Our guides lead an optional hike to the Ice Lake (4,600m) or Gangapurna Lake for additional altitude exposure.
Explore Manang's traditional architecture, visit local monasteries, and learn about high-altitude life from our knowledgeable team.
🥾 Consider alternatives: Our Manaslu Circuit Trek offers similar challenge with fewer crowds, while the Everest Base Camp Trek delivers the world's most famous mountain views.
Leaving Manang, the vegetation becomes increasingly sparse as you enter the trans-Himalayan zone.
The 4-5 hour trek passes through Tenki village and grazing meadows where yaks roam freely.
Yak Kharka's simple teahouses provide warm hospitality at this remote altitude.
Our guides monitor everyone's condition carefully as we prepare for the high pass ahead.
Today's shorter trek (3-4 hours) conserves energy for tomorrow's big crossing.
The landscape resembles a moonscape – barren, rocky, and otherworldly.
Thorong Phedi ("foot of the pass") is your base camp for the Thorong La crossing.
Early dinner and early sleep prepare you for the pre-dawn start ahead.
This is the climactic day of your Thorong La Pass trek.
Departing around 4:00 AM by headlamp, you'll climb steadily as the first light illuminates surrounding peaks.
Reaching the prayer flag-decorated pass at 5,416 meters delivers an indescribable sense of accomplishment.
The descent to Muktinath (4-5 hours down) takes you into the dramatically different landscape of the Mustang region.
Our experienced guides have crossed this pass hundreds of times, ensuring your safe passage in all conditions.
After visiting the sacred Muktinath Temple – holy to both Hindus and Buddhists – we drive through the stunning Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the world's deepest canyons.
The dramatic descent reveals apple orchards, traditional villages, and the transition from Tibetan to Nepali cultures.
Tatopani means "hot water" – natural hot springs await to soothe tired trekking muscles.
Refreshed from the hot springs, we trek through beautiful forests and terraced farmland.
The ascent to Ghorepani takes 6-7 hours through rhododendron forests that blaze with color during spring season.
Ghorepani serves as the gateway to Poon Hill, one of Nepal's most famous viewpoints.
Our guides ensure you're well-rested for tomorrow's early morning hike.
The pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (1 hour) rewards early risers with what many consider Nepal's finest sunrise panorama.
Watch as first light touches Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and dozens of other peaks.
Our guides know the best viewing positions and photograph points.
After breakfast, descend through the picturesque village of Ulleri before driving to Pokhara.
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Pokhara's beautiful lakeside setting before the scenic 6-7 hour drive back to Kathmandu.
The evening provides time for last-minute shopping, farewell dinner with your new trekking family, and reflection on your incredible journey.
Alternatively, we can arrange a 25-minute flight to Kathmandu for spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas (additional cost).
Our airport transfer service ensures smooth departure for your onward journey.
If time permits, early risers can squeeze in final sightseeing at UNESCO World Heritage sites like Swayambhunath or Boudhanath.
Many trekkers choose to extend their stay – ask us about cultural tours or additional adventures.
Understanding exactly what your investment covers helps you budget accurately and appreciate the value of joining our departures.
| Category | What's Included |
|---|---|
| Airport Transfers | Arrival/departure airport transfers in Kathmandu |
| Accommodations | 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu, all teahouse lodging on trek |
| Permits | ACAP permit, all national park fees |
| Meals | All meals on trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner) |
| Transportation | All ground transport as per itinerary |
| Guiding | Licensed English-speaking lead guide, assistant guide for groups 6+ |
| Support | First aid kit, pulse oximeter, satellite communication device |
Porter Service: $180 per person
Each porter carries up to 20kg, allowing you to trek with just a lightweight daypack.
Single Room Supplement: $200
Guaranteed private room throughout the trek (subject to teahouse availability at higher altitudes).
Extra Night in Kathmandu: $75
Includes accommodation and breakfast at our partner hotel.
Pokhara to Kathmandu Flight: $120
25-minute scenic flight with Himalayan views instead of 6-7 hour drive.
Nepal's distinct seasons significantly impact trekking conditions.
Majestic Trails Nepal schedules all group departures during optimal weather windows.
March marks winter's end with warming temperatures and the beginning of rhododendron blooms.
Lower elevations come alive with wildflowers while Thorong La Pass remains snow-covered but fully passable.
April offers perhaps the most balanced conditions of the year.
Rhododendron forests reach peak bloom, temperatures are comfortable throughout the altitude range, and mountain views are consistently clear.
This is our most popular departure month – book early to secure your place.
May brings warmer temperatures at lower elevations but excellent conditions at higher altitudes.
Pre-monsoon clouds occasionally build in late afternoon, making early morning the clearest time for mountain photography.
September follows monsoon season with fresh, clean air and revitalized landscapes.
Early September trails may still be damp, but conditions improve rapidly throughout the month.
October delivers the clearest skies and most stable weather of the entire year.
This is peak trekking season for good reason – mountain visibility is extraordinary, and temperatures are perfect for walking.
November continues autumn's excellent conditions with gradually cooling temperatures.
Higher elevations see nighttime temperatures approaching freezing, but daytime trekking remains comfortable and crowds thin considerably compared to October.
December – February: Extreme cold at high altitude, heavy snowfall frequently blocks Thorong La Pass, and many teahouses close for winter.
June – August: Monsoon season brings daily rain, leeches at lower elevations, obscured mountain views, and potential trail damage from landslides.
Honest assessment of the Annapurna Circuit trek group join difficulty ensures you're properly prepared for this rewarding challenge.
We rate this trek as moderate to challenging, suitable for reasonably fit individuals with determination.
Previous high-altitude experience is helpful but not required.
You should be comfortable walking 5-7 hours daily on uneven terrain.
Our Majestic Trails Nepal guides bring years of experience helping trekkers of all fitness levels successfully complete the circuit.
They monitor everyone's health and altitude adaptation daily, adjust pacing as needed, and provide encouragement when the trail gets tough.
We've helped trekkers aged 18-68 successfully cross Thorong La Pass – fitness and preparation matter more than age.
3-4 Months Before Departure:
Begin regular cardiovascular exercise – hiking, jogging, cycling, swimming, or stair climbing.
Aim for 45-60 minutes of elevated heart rate activity, 4-5 times weekly.
2 Months Before Departure:
Add loaded hiking to your routine with 10-15kg in your backpack.
Focus on hilly terrain to simulate trail conditions.
1 Month Before Departure:
Include back-to-back training days to prepare for consecutive trekking.
Practice both ascending and descending – your knees will thank you on the long descent from Thorong La.
📍 Explore other options: Our Langtang Valley Trek offers a less demanding introduction to Himalayan trekking, perfect for first-timers.
Proper gear significantly impacts your comfort and safety at high altitude.
Our team provides detailed packing guidance, but here are the essentials:
💡 Gear tip: Quality trekking equipment is available for purchase or rental in Kathmandu's Thamel district at reasonable prices. Many trekkers buy gear upon arrival rather than carrying it from home.
All Annapurna permits Nepal are arranged by Majestic Trails Nepal before your trek begins – no permit office visits required.
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): NPR 3,000 (~$23)
Required for all trekkers entering the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Fees support environmental conservation and community development.
Your safety is Majestic Trails Nepal's highest priority on every Annapurna group join trek.
Every trek leader carries:
Our guides conduct daily health checks at high altitude, monitoring for signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
We maintain strict "trekker safety first" policies – if conditions become dangerous, we adjust plans accordingly.
AMS can affect anyone regardless of fitness level or previous altitude experience.
Early recognition and appropriate response are essential.
Common early symptoms:
Prevention strategies our guides emphasize:
Our itinerary includes a dedicated acclimatization day in Manang specifically designed to prepare your body for Thorong La Pass.
In case of severe AMS symptoms, helicopter evacuation can be arranged within hours.
This is why adequate travel insurance is mandatory for all participants.
Absolutely! Solo travelers make up approximately 60% of our group join bookings.
Our fixed departure format is specifically designed for independent travelers who want the benefits of group support and social experience.
You'll be matched with like-minded adventurers from around the world.
Our treks operate with a minimum of 4 trekkers and a maximum of 10.
If minimum numbers aren't reached for your chosen date, we'll offer you alternative departure dates or a full refund.
Our group join departures range from $1,190-$1,290 per person depending on season.
Comparable private treks typically cost $1,800-$2,800 for two people.
The group format delivers significant savings while maintaining the same quality guiding and support.
We offer multiple departures throughout spring (March–April) and autumn (October–November) seasons.
See our departure table above for specific 2026 dates and availability.
Yes, with appropriate physical preparation.
The trek requires good fitness but no technical climbing skills.
If you can commit to 3-4 months of consistent training, most reasonably fit individuals can successfully complete this trek.
You'll stay in teahouses – family-run mountain lodges along the trail.
Rooms are simple but comfortable, typically with twin beds and warm blankets.
Lower elevation teahouses often have hot showers and charging facilities; higher elevation accommodations are more basic.
Bring Nepali rupees in cash for personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and tips.
ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara but not on the trekking route.
We recommend $200-$300 in small denominations for the trek.
Our guides prioritize your safety and wellbeing above all else.
Alternative routes, rest days, porter support, and if necessary, evacuation are available at any point.
There's no shame in knowing your limits – your health comes first.
Yes, teahouses serve vegetarian food as standard, and vegan options are widely available.
Please inform us of any allergies, intolerances, or dietary requirements at the time of booking so we can make appropriate arrangements.
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation.
Since 2008, Majestic Trails Nepal has been connecting adventurers with authentic Himalayan experiences.
Our commitment to quality, safety, and responsible tourism has established us as one of Nepal's most trusted trekking operators.
We believe trekking should benefit local communities and protect mountain environments.
All our staff receive fair wages and proper working conditions.
We partner with locally-owned teahouses throughout the trail.
A portion of every trek booking supports community education and environmental conservation initiatives.
The Annapurna Circuit has transformed countless lives through its unique combination of physical challenge, natural beauty, and cultural richness.
Crossing Thorong La Pass, witnessing sunrise from Poon Hill, and sharing meals with fellow adventurers creates memories that define a lifetime.
Our 2026 Annapurna Circuit group join treks offer the perfect opportunity to experience this iconic route with expert support, like-minded companions, and complete peace of mind.
With all permits, accommodations, meals, and professional guiding included, you simply need to arrive in Kathmandu ready for adventure.
Spaces in our small groups fill quickly, particularly for prime spring and autumn departures.
Many of our Annapurna Circuit trek group join March 2026 and October departures are already receiving bookings.
Don't wait until your preferred dates are sold out.
Join our next Annapurna Circuit group departure with Majestic Trails Nepal!
Small groups, experienced local guides, and all permits handled by our expert team.
Reserve Your Spot Now and experience the trek of a lifetime with Nepal's trusted trekking company.
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