| Trip code | |
| Package name | Annapurna Circuit Trek |
| Duration | 15 |
| Max. elevation | 5416 m |
| Level | Moderate |
| Transportation | Private vehicle |
| Accomodation | Included |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 0 per person |
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Majestic Trails Nepal will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your pre-booked hotel in the city. The drive from the airport to the hotel takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic, and passes through the lively streets of Kathmandu.
After check-in, you will meet our Majestic Trails Nepal members and your trekking guide for a pre-trek briefing about the Annapurna Circuit Trek. During this meeting, we will review the itinerary, discuss safety procedures, and address any questions about the upcoming journey.
At this time, we will also provide the trekking equipment included in your package, including a duffel bag, sun cap, down jacket, and sleeping bag. This is also a good opportunity to check your personal gear and arrange any last-minute rentals or purchases from the trekking shops in Thamel.
For administrative purposes, we will collect a copy of your passport, travel insurance details, and any remaining balance payments if they were not completed earlier. Once the meeting is finished, you will have the rest of the day free to rest at the hotel or explore the nearby streets of Thamel before the adventure begins.
After breakfast, you begin your overland journey into the Annapurna region. The drive follows the Trishuli River westward before turning north toward the Marsyangdi River Valley. As Kathmandu’s urban sprawl fades behind you, the scenery transforms into terraced farmland, rural villages, forested hillsides, and deep river gorges.
The road alternates between paved sections and rugged mountain tracks, offering dramatic views of waterfalls, suspension bridges, and remote settlements clinging to hillsides. You’ll pass through small market towns where locals trade vegetables, grains, livestock, and daily goods — offering an authentic glimpse into rural Nepali life.
By late afternoon, you reach Dharapani, a charming stone village perched above the river and officially marking the entrance into the Annapurna Conservation Area. Here, the mountains feel closer, the air fresher, and the rhythm of life slower.
Today’s trail ascends steadily through forests of pine, fir, and oak, with frequent views of snow-capped peaks appearing through gaps in the trees. The Marsyangdi River continues to accompany you, now narrower and more turbulent as it cuts through steep gorges.
You pass through villages such as Bagarchhap and Timang, each with unique cultural character and stunning mountain backdrops. Timang, in particular, offers breathtaking views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal — often considered one of the most photogenic viewpoints in the lower Annapurna region.
As altitude increases, the air becomes cooler and crisper. Prayer flags become more common. Stone houses replace wooden structures. The mountains feel closer — no longer distant silhouettes but towering presences that dominate the skyline.
By late afternoon, you reach Chame, the administrative headquarters of Manang district. Set beneath massive cliffs and surrounded by snowy peaks, Chame offers a warm mountain village atmosphere with hot springs nearby — perfect for soothing tired muscles.
After breakfast in Chame, the trail continues along the Marshyangdi River, gradually climbing through pine forests and narrow valleys surrounded by towering rock cliffs. As the trek progresses, the Himalayan landscape becomes increasingly dramatic.
The route first leads to Bhratang, a small settlement known for its extensive apple orchards. The village is famous for freshly baked apple products such as apple pie, strudel, and local apple cider. Many trekkers enjoy a short stop here before continuing the journey.
Beyond Bhratang, the trail crosses a long suspension bridge and follows a scenic path through a narrow valley where steep cliffs rise above the river. Soon after, the valley opens dramatically near Dhukur Pokhari, offering breathtaking views of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II.
From here, the trail continues toward Pisang village, which is divided into Lower Pisang and Upper Pisang. While Lower Pisang sits beside the river, Upper Pisang is located higher on the hillside and offers wider panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valley.
Choosing the upper route provides a more scenic experience and helps with gradual acclimatization as you gain altitude.
Upon arrival in Upper Pisang, you may visit the historic Pisang Monastery, which overlooks the valley and provides beautiful views of the Annapurna range.
Today is widely regarded as one of the most scenic days of the entire Annapurna Circuit. Rather than taking the lower valley route, this itinerary follows the high trail via Ghyaru and Ngawal — offering panoramic views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Pisang Peak.
The climb out of Upper Pisang is gradual but steady, rewarding you with breathtaking vistas at every turn. Stone villages cling to ridges above vast glacial valleys. Chortens and prayer wheels line the trail. The sense of space and altitude grows dramatically.
After passing through Ghyaru and Ngawal — traditional Tibetan-style villages with stone houses, mani walls, and wind-worn prayer flags — the trail contours gently across open hillsides toward Manang. The landscape here feels vast and elemental, shaped by glaciers, wind, and time. Below you, the Marsyangdi River winds through a wide glacial valley, while above you, the Annapurna massif rises in staggering scale.
The final descent into Manang passes juniper forests, yak pastures, and long mani walls etched with sacred Tibetan mantras. Soon, you arrive in the vibrant mountain settlement of Manang — one of the most important trading villages of the upper Himalayas and a critical acclimatization hub for trekkers crossing Thorong La Pass.
Manang sits beneath towering peaks, including Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak, and offers remarkable facilities for such a remote location: bakeries, coffee shops, medical clinics, gear stores, monasteries, and panoramic viewpoints. The atmosphere is both relaxed and energetic, as trekkers from around the world gather here to prepare for the high-altitude section of the trek.
Today is an important acclimatization day in Manang, allowing your body to gradually adjust to the higher altitude before continuing toward Thorong La Pass. Instead of complete rest, trekkers follow the principle of “climb high, sleep low,” meaning short hikes to higher elevations help the body adapt to thinner air while returning to sleep at the same altitude.
After breakfast, you may take an optional hike to several viewpoints around Manang. One of the most popular walks leads to Gangapurna Lake and the Gangapurna Glacier viewpoint, where you can see impressive views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and the surrounding glacial landscape.
Another option is visiting Braga Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the region, located above Braga village. The monastery offers a quiet cultural experience and panoramic views of the Manang Valley.
Some trekkers also hike to the Chongkor viewpoint, a ridge above the village that provides a wide perspective of the entire valley and nearby peaks.
During your stay in Manang, you may also attend the Himalayan Rescue Association’s altitude awareness briefing, where trekkers learn about the symptoms of altitude sickness and ways to prevent it. Your guide will also monitor your condition and provide advice to ensure safe acclimatization.
After returning from the hike, the rest of the afternoon can be spent relaxing in the village, visiting small bakeries and cafés, or exploring the traditional streets of Manang.
Leaving Manang behind, the trail climbs gradually above the valley floor, transitioning into an increasingly stark and beautiful alpine environment. Trees disappear, replaced by scrub vegetation, juniper bushes, and wide, wind-swept slopes. The terrain feels open and expansive, and the mountains dominate every horizon.
The pace today is deliberately slow and steady, allowing your body to continue acclimatizing while gaining altitude gradually. You pass through small seasonal settlements and yak grazing pastures, where herders tend livestock during the summer months. Blue sheep can sometimes be seen on distant slopes, and golden eagles soar overhead on thermals rising from the valley below.
As you walk, the views grow increasingly dramatic. Annapurna III towers behind you, Gangapurna’s glacier flows down massive rock faces, and Chulu peaks rise sharply to the north. The trail offers long, gentle traverses rather than steep ascents — a perfect design for high-altitude trekking.
Yak Kharka, your destination for the day, is not a single village but a cluster of teahouses scattered across alpine pastureland at approximately 4,050 meters. The air feels noticeably thinner here, and nights are colder — but the silence, stars, and mountain energy are unforgettable.
Today’s trek brings you closer to the base of Thorong La Pass and deeper into the high Himalayan wilderness. The trail climbs gradually at first before crossing a narrow suspension bridge over a landslide-prone section — a reminder of the raw geological forces shaping this landscape.
After the crossing, the route ascends steadily along rocky slopes, with magnificent views across the Thorong Khola Valley and up toward the snowfields leading to the pass. The mountains here feel immense and austere — stripped of vegetation, sculpted by glaciers, and glowing golden in late afternoon sunlight.
As altitude increases, walking becomes slower and more deliberate. Your guide will carefully monitor pacing, hydration, and breathing, ensuring your body adjusts comfortably. The goal today is not speed but steady, controlled progress — setting the foundation for a safe and successful pass crossing tomorrow.
Thorong Phedi sits at the base of Thorong La Pass and serves as the primary staging point for the crossing. The environment here is stark yet spectacular: towering rock walls, icy streams, and wind-swept slopes rising toward the sky. Despite the altitude and remoteness, the teahouses provide warm meals, hot drinks, and shelter from the cold — creating a surprisingly comfortable refuge in an extreme environment.
Most trekkers spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, organizing gear, and mentally preparing for the most demanding day of the trek.
Today is the crown jewel of the Annapurna Circuit Trek — the crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. It is a long, challenging, and deeply rewarding day, one that often becomes the most memorable experience of the entire journey.
You begin before sunrise, usually around 4:00–5:00 a.m., under a sky filled with stars. Headlamps illuminate the rocky trail as it climbs steadily upward through cold, thin air. Each step feels deliberate, controlled, and purposeful. Your breath becomes rhythmic. Your awareness sharpens. And slowly, gradually, the darkness begins to fade.
As dawn breaks, the surrounding peaks emerge from shadow — Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the Mustang Himalayas, revealing themselves in layers of snow, rock, and sky. Prayer flags begin to appear, signaling that the pass is near.
Reaching Thorong La Pass is an emotional moment. At 5,416 meters, surrounded by glaciers, ridgelines, and endless horizons, the sense of accomplishment is overwhelming. Prayer flags snap in the wind. Fellow trekkers embrace. Photos are taken — but more importantly, memories are etched deeply into the soul.
After a brief rest at the top, you begin the long descent toward Muktinath. The terrain shifts dramatically as you leave the high alpine environment and descend into the arid, rain-shadowed landscapes of Mustang. Snow gives way to scree slopes, barren hills, and wide desert-like valleys — a striking contrast to the lush greenery of earlier days.
The descent is long but manageable, gradually easing as you approach the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Muktinath Temple, with its 108 water spouts and eternal flame, is one of Nepal’s most important spiritual destinations — believed to grant liberation to those who visit.
After the physical intensity of the day, arriving in Muktinath feels both grounding and serene. Hot showers, warm meals, and comfortable beds feel deeply rewarding.
After breakfast, you leave the high alpine world behind and begin your journey into the Kali Gandaki Valley — one of the deepest gorges on Earth, flanked by Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri, two of the world’s highest mountains.
The drive descends through the dramatic landscapes of Mustang, passing ancient villages, dry riverbeds, eroded cliffs, and wide, windswept plains. The scenery here feels more Tibetan than Nepali, shaped by wind and rain-shadow rather than monsoon forests.
As you descend further, vegetation gradually returns. Pine forests reappear, terraced farmland emerges, and the climate warms noticeably. By afternoon, you arrive in Tatopani — a charming village famous for its natural hot springs.
After days of cold nights, high altitude, and strenuous trekking, soaking in the steaming mineral-rich pools beneath the open sky feels almost surreal. Muscles relax. Fatigue melts away. Laughter echoes across the river valley. It is one of the most restorative and joyful moments of the entire trek.
Today is one of the most scenic days of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, as you leave the traditional village of Sikha and make your way toward the famous hill station of Ghorepani. The trail climbs steadily through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests, passing through charming mountain settlements and offering increasingly impressive views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
After breakfast, the trek begins with a gradual ascent through terraced farmlands before reaching the stone-paved trails that connect the villages of Chitre and Ghorepani. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes cooler and more forested. During spring, the hillsides are covered with vibrant rhododendron blossoms, creating one of the most colorful trekking experiences in Nepal.
Along the route, you'll enjoy spectacular views of snow-capped peaks including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri. The peaceful forest environment, fresh mountain air, and occasional wildlife sightings make this section particularly enjoyable after the more demanding high-altitude portion of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
By afternoon, you arrive at Ghorepani, a popular mountain village situated on a ridge beneath Poon Hill. Historically, Ghorepani served as an important resting point for traders traveling between Mustang and Pokhara. Today, it is one of the most renowned viewpoints in the Annapurna region and the gateway to the iconic Poon Hill sunrise hike.
After checking into your teahouse, you can relax and prepare for the early morning hike to Poon Hill the following day. As evening falls, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks while reflecting on the incredible journey across Thorong La Pass and through the diverse landscapes of the Annapurna region.
Before dawn, you rise for the short but steep hike to Poon Hill. The trail ascends through rhododendron forest and stone steps, guided by headlamp light and anticipation. After about 45 minutes to one hour, you reach the viewpoint — just as the eastern sky begins to glow.
From Poon Hill, the Himalayan panorama unfolds in breathtaking clarity. Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre line the horizon like frozen waves. As the sun rises, the peaks ignite in shades of gold, orange, and crimson — a moment of stillness, awe, and gratitude shared by trekkers from around the world.
After descending to Ghorepani for breakfast, you continue trekking through forested trails and traditional villages toward Ulleri. Stone staircases wind through terraced hillsides, offering a final immersive trekking experience before leaving the mountains behind.
From Ulleri, you drive to Pokhara — Nepal’s most scenic lakeside city. The transition from high mountain villages to palm-lined streets and lakeside cafés feels almost surreal after weeks in the Himalayas. Upon arrival, you check into your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest — perhaps with a lakeside sunset, hot shower, and celebratory dinner.
After breakfast in Pokhara, we begin our journey back to Kathmandu. The 6-7 hour drive takes us along the scenic Prithvi Highway, passing through lush valleys, rivers, and mountain views. Along the way, we pass through small villages, terraced fields, and the bustling town of Mugling, which marks the midway point.
If you prefer a quicker and more scenic option, you can opt to fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu for an additional $110. The flight takes around 25 minutes, offering stunning aerial views of the Himalayas and the beautiful landscapes of Nepal.
For those who choose to drive, the journey is comfortable, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenic beauty of Nepal. As we approach Kathmandu, the landscape gradually transforms into urban surroundings. We reach Kathmandu in the afternoon, where you can rest or explore the city for a final time before your departure.
On the final day of your adventure, we will ensure a smooth transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport based on your flight schedule. Our team will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport in plenty of time for your international or domestic flight.
Whether you are returning home or continuing your travels, we will bid you farewell, hoping that your journey through the Annapurna Circuit has been a memorable experience filled with incredible views, cultural encounters, and a sense of accomplishment.
Departure: Based on flight schedule
Transfer: Hotel to Kathmandu Airport
End of Trip: Safe travels and departure!
After a relaxing night in Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs, today's journey takes you deeper into the lower Annapurna region as you trek toward the traditional Magar village of Sikha. The trail begins with a steady ascent through terraced farmland, dense rhododendron forests, and picturesque hillside settlements.
Leaving Tatopani behind, you cross suspension bridges over the Kali Gandaki River and gradually climb through charming villages such as Ghara and Shikha. Along the route, you'll encounter local farmers tending their fields, traditional stone houses, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. During spring, the forests come alive with colorful rhododendron blooms, making this section of the Annapurna Circuit Trek particularly beautiful.
As the elevation gradually increases, the trail rewards you with occasional glimpses of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Unlike the high-altitude desert landscapes experienced earlier in the trek, this section showcases lush greenery, waterfalls, and rich cultural scenery, offering a refreshing contrast to the rugged terrain around Thorong La Pass.
Upon reaching Sikha, a peaceful mountain village perched on a hillside, you can enjoy stunning sunset views over the surrounding valleys and mountains. The village is known for its traditional architecture, friendly locals, and tranquil atmosphere. After settling into your teahouse, enjoy a warm meal and prepare for the following day's trek toward Ghorepani and the famous Poon Hill viewpoint.
One of the most enriching aspects of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is its cultural diversity. The route passes through communities influenced by Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, and ancient Himalayan traditions — offering trekkers insight into some of the most resilient and spiritually grounded cultures on Earth.
Lower regions of the trek are home to Gurung and Magar communities, known for their hospitality, military heritage (Gurkhas), terraced farming, and vibrant village life. Stone houses, prayer flags, traditional attire, and communal lifestyles characterize these regions.
As altitude increases, architecture shifts to flat-roofed stone houses, mani walls, chortens, and monasteries — reflecting Tibetan Buddhist heritage. Villages such as Upper Pisang, Manang, and settlements near Thorong La preserve centuries-old traditions shaped by Himalayan trade routes.
This cultural immersion transforms the trek from a physical journey into a deeply human experience — where stories, beliefs, rituals, and daily life unfold alongside mountain landscapes. Read our blog on Must visit Village during Annapurna Circuit Trek.
At Majestic Trails Nepal, we believe trekking should benefit both travelers and the mountains that host them. The Annapurna Conservation Area is one of the most biologically diverse regions in Nepal, and protecting its fragile ecosystems is essential for future generations.
We actively promote:
By trekking with us, you contribute directly to local livelihoods, conservation initiatives, and the sustainable development of Himalayan communities.
As of June 2026, WiFi is available throughout most parts of the Annapurna Circuit trail up to High Camp before crossing Thorong La Pass. After crossing Thorong La Pass, WiFi is now available in almost every village along the route. In places like Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, and High Camp, trekkers usually need to pay a small extra fee to use WiFi services.
Electricity is available throughout the Annapurna Circuit Trek, including the higher-altitude villages. However, in Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, and High Camp, lodges generally charge an additional fee for charging phones, power banks, cameras, and other electronic devices.
For mobile networks, NTC coverage works well and remains fast up to Upper Pisang. In Manang, the network becomes less reliable, and after walking around two hours beyond Manang, the signal usually disappears completely in most sections of the trail.
We recommend carrying a power bank and downloading offline maps, documents, and entertainment before starting the trek.
The weather varies significantly by altitude and season.
Lower Elevations (800–2,000m):
Mid Elevations (2,000–4,000m):
High Elevations (Above 4,000m):
Wind chill near Thorong La Pass can make temperatures feel significantly colder. Proper layering and windproof gear are essential.
While independent trekking is possible in some regions, the Annapurna Circuit is a high-altitude, long-distance trek involving remote terrain, weather risks, altitude challenges, and navigation complexities. Guided trekking significantly enhances safety, experience quality, and cultural immersion.
Porters reduce physical strain, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and walk more comfortably — especially during long ascents and descents.
Throughout the trek, you stay in local teahouses — simple, clean mountain lodges run by local families. For a complete breakdown of what to expect each night, you can explore our detailed Accommodation During Annapurna Circuit Trek blog.
Rooms typically feature twin beds, mattresses, pillows, and blankets, with either attached or shared bathrooms depending on the location. At lower elevations, teahouses are more comfortable, often offering hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging facilities — sometimes even free of cost.
As you ascend higher on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, especially beyond Yak Kharkha, accommodation becomes more basic. Expect shared bathrooms, limited electricity, and paid charging services. Despite the simplicity, teahouses remain warm, welcoming, and an essential part of the trekking experience, giving you a real connection with local mountain life.
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you stay in comfortable tourist-standard hotels with private bathrooms and modern amenities.
Meals are served in teahouse dining halls and typically include:
Dal bhat is particularly popular among trekkers because it is nutritious, filling, and comes with unlimited refills — ideal for long trekking days.
Our guides assist in menu choices to ensure balanced nutrition and hydration throughout the trek.
Altitude sickness is the most serious risk on high Himalayan treks — and it is entirely manageable with proper planning, pacing, hydration, and monitoring. For a deeper understanding of how altitude affects your body and what to expect at each stage, explore our detailed Annapurna Circuit Trek Altitude Guide blog.
Our Annapurna Circuit itinerary is designed using proven acclimatization principles to maximize safety while maintaining a smooth trekking flow.
If symptoms occur, your guide will assess and respond immediately — adjusting pace, descending if necessary, and using medical protocols as required.
Our guides carry first-aid kits, pulse oximeters, and emergency oxygen when necessary. In severe cases, helicopter evacuation can be arranged through insurance providers. We prioritize prevention above all else, and our safety-first approach ensures that most trekkers complete the circuit comfortably and confidently.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is classified as moderate to challenging, primarily due to its length, altitude, and the crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. While no technical climbing skills are required, trekkers must be physically prepared for sustained daily walking over varied terrain and extended periods above 3,500 meters. For a complete breakdown of terrain, altitude impact, and real trekking challenges, you can explore our detailed Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty guide.
We recommend beginning cardiovascular training at least 6–8 weeks before the trek. Activities such as hiking, stair climbing, cycling, swimming, and jogging help build endurance. Strength training for legs and core also improves stability and comfort on uneven terrain. If possible, multi-day hikes with a backpack are ideal preparation.
To complete your Annapurna Circuit Trek legally and safely, you’ll need the required permit issued by the Nepal government. For a full step-by-step explanation, cost breakdown, and how to obtain it easily, check our detailed Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits Guide blog.
The ACAP permit is mandatory as the trek passes through the protected Annapurna region. The fees directly support conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and local communities living along the route.
Getting your permit sorted before starting the Annapurna Circuit Trek ensures a smooth and hassle-free trekking experience.