Trip Details
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Trip Style: Trekking
  • Transport: Private Vehicle / Bus / Aeroplane
  • Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel + Teahouses + Lodges
  • Group Size: 20
  • Max Elevation: 5416m
Highlights
  • Pokhara valley and its natural and cultural blessings including lakes, caves, falls, and temples
  • Pleasant walk via lush rhododendron and other vegetations
  • Picturesque ethnic settlements and their unique culture
  • Experience of core Remoteness and wilderness
  • Rhythmic natural waterfalls and creeks
  • Locally grown organic food items
  • Annapurna Conservation Area, the largest conservation area in the world, and its diverse species of flora and fauna
  • Spectacular mountain views include Annapurna- I, Annapurna-IV, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and some parts of Dhaulagiri

Annapurna Circuit Trek is graded as a strenuous and classical trekking trail in the Annapurna region in Nepal. The masterpiece of landscapes, the Himalayan panoramas, the high pass, the sacred sites, the winding rivers, and the Himalayan flora and faunas are the major highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek. Annapurna Circuit trek commences from Besisahar and ends in Pokhara after a short flight from Jomsom. The Annapurna Circuit Route is naturally diverse with beautiful landscapes and unique cultures of both Mustang and Annapurna regions, adventure enthusiasts across the world find it as a first-rate adventure trek. 

And while accomplishing the circuit of massive Annapurna, the trekkers have to get a significant victory of one of the highest passes in Nepal and in the world, Thorongla- Pass (5416m.). Adventure enthusiasts really love to triumph over this high pass in the mountain for a thrilling adventure once in life. The completely dry but spectacular landscape of the Manang Valley,  the deep forest and alpine vegetation, High passes, and the holy pilgrimage tour to Muktinath make your Annapurna Circuit Trek more fascinating. One can witness the incredible natural flame which never goes out.  Also, 108 waterspouts around the holy pilgrimage site of high spiritual importance for Nepalese will be an asset for the hikers during this trek. 

Like other trekking trips in the Annapurna region, Annapurna Circuit Trek also offers, undoubtedly, the most stupendous view of the mountain range including three major peaks, Mt. Annapurna, Mt Dhaulagiri, and Mt. Manaslu. Annapurna Circuit Trek is, indeed, blessed with natural and cultural diversity. Annapurna Circuit Trek is, perhaps, rated as the A-Grade adventure trekking in Nepal. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek is, probably,  the most popular trekking trail for adventure walking holidays. The best season for Annapurna Circuit Trek is either between Sep- Nov or Mar-May. Since Annapurna Circuit Trek is rated as adventurous trekking in Nepal, trekkers are to prepare very well for it. Prior preparedness, hiking and trekking skills, reliable and right types of equipment, and a professional trekking crew are recommended. 

Itinerary

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Day 01:Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, you are welcomed by the representative from Magic Expedition and then you will be transferred to the hotel. After you get refreshed, we will meet and our Magic Expedition representative will explain briefly about the program you are undertaking the next day. Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu. 

  • Dinner
  • 2* Hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1400m

After breakfast at 8 am your Kathmandu Valley sightseeing begins. Sightseeing of world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley includes Kathmandu Darbar Square, Swayambhunath Temple, BoudhanathStupa&Pashupatinath Temple. All the sites we visit today are UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the valley. We will have marvelous religious, historical, and cultural insights into Nepal. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu, inclusive of breakfast.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • 2* Hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1400m

After breakfast at your hotel, we will depart to the tourist bus park at 8 am; and take a scenic drive to Beshisahar via the Prithvi Highway. During driving along the highway chances to see rural people and various cultures. We also see the Trishuli River which is popular for white water river rafting in Nepal. We spend around 7-8 hours to get to Besisahar from Kathmandu. Spend the night at a local guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Besi Sahar
  • 1100m

 Today, the drive ascends along the narrow and rough track through deep forests and traditional settlements for a few hours. Then, the trail follows the river for a time among the higher oak and maple trees. On the way, you will celebrate spectacular views of major Himalayan peaks. Stay overnight at the local guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Chame
  • 2630m

The trip begins after breakfast. The trail passes through the steep and narrow river valley with deep forest. Along the way, you will be rewarded with a magnificent Mountain View of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II. Likewise, you will have significant insights into rural lifestyle too. Overnight at local guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Pisang
  • 3300m

Today we have two routes to reach Manang. Relatively, the route via Humde is easier. The easier low route follows the valley floor via Humde and the strenuous route follows along the river north side of the valley which takes about 3 hours more than the normal lower route. So, the majority of the trekkers follow the lower trek route to get to Manang. This trail passes through the fields of grazing Yak and a wide variety of crops before arriving at Manang which offers the majestic views of Annapurna 2, 3, 4, Gangapurna, and Tarkekang Peak. Overnight at local guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Manang
  • 3570m

This is a rest day to acclimatize to the higher elevation which is a must during a challenging trek. Spend your time visiting the monastery nearby, a side trip to Gangapurna Lake, and doing some excursions with wonderful views around the villages. Explore the local’s lifestyle and culture during this acclimatization.  We, also go to visit the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic here and have some information. Overnight at local guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Manang
  • 3570m

Today we leave beautiful Manang Valley & the trail takes us to an ascent of Thorung La pass (5,416 m), the highest point of this trekking trip which makes the way out to the climb steadily through Tenki, leaving the Marshyangdi Valley. Continuing along the JarsangKhola Valley, we reach Ledar at 4250m, where we see the diverse species of vegetation steadily more sparse. Overnight at local guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Ledar
  • 4250m

From Phedi, the trail continues to climb along the bank of the Jorsang Khola. On this section of the trip, it is, sometimes, possible to see herds of blue mountain sheep. Overnight at local guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Phedi
  • 4420m

From Phedi, the trail turns to be steeper relatively. We switch back up to the moraines and following rocky ridges, we ascend to Thorongla Pass. The views we capture from the trail and the passes are astounding, you can see the long great barrier ridged, Gangapurna, Annapurna, Thorong Peak Khatung Kang Peak, and other alluring peaks. From the top of Thorangla Pass, the trail descends steeply down to Muktinath. Muktinath is regarded as a popular pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is also an abode to many ethnic Tibetans and holy Buddhists. The 108 water taps, the natural flame that never goes out, and the temple itself are the major highlights of Muktinath. Overnight at local guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Muktinath
  • 3800m

Muktinath is a popular pilgrimage site for Nepalese and Indians of both Buddhist and Hindu followers as these two religions are complicatedly woven together in Nepal. People go to Muktinath and take a holy bath from 108 water taps believing that they can wash out all sins. We visit the primary sanctuary early in the day and visit its encompassing.  From Muktinath, we backtrack our means back to Jomsom, the windy city on the Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail, getting a charge out of good views of Mt. Dhaulagiri. Jomsom gets windier in the afternoon. Overnight at a local guesthouse in Jomsom.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Jomsom
  • 2600m

We are taking an early morning flight to Pokhara today because the weather may interrupt the flight in the afternoon. It is necessary to take an early flight because the weather gets worse in the afternoon and late morning. After we land in Pokhara, the wonderful 'Lake City', we can spend whatever is left of the day in recreation. Boating in the Fewa Lake and enjoying the walk around the street of 'Lake Side' is a beautiful decision among guests. You can enjoy your favorite dish in the evening. Overnight in hotel Pokhara.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • 2* Hotel
  • Pokhara
  • 884m

After breakfast, we bid farewell to this beautiful northern horizon of Pokhara and headed towards Kathmandu. This will be a beautiful drive along the river that keeps money with awesome views of terraced slopes and the country Nepalese way of life. The bus leaves at 7.30 in the morning and we drive along the Prithvi Highway till we get to Kathmandu. When we arrive in Kathmandu, we have rest or can spend time shopping. To commend the fruitful culmination of our excursion, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening and share our experience of the trip. Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1400m

According to your flight schedule, we will drop to the airport for the onward flight towards your country or next destination.

  • BF
  • Non
  • Kathmandu
  • 1400m

Trip Map

Annapurna Circuit Trek map

What to Expect

  • Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast at the hotel in Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu city tours, inclusive tour guide, and private vehicle
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
  • One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
  • All surface transfers to/from Kathmandu by private vehicle
  • Jomsom – Pokhara airfare including departure tax
  • First aid medical kit
  • Annapurna conservation permit fee
  • TIMS Fee- Trekkers Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
  • Government taxes & office service charge
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, except the farewell dinner
  • Personal equipment and clothing
  • Your insurances (Highly recommended)
  • Cold drinks and beverages.
  • All Entrance fees (Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing)
  • Personal expenses.
  • Tips for guide and porter.

Useful Info

Necessary Trekking Equipment

To fully enjoy your trek, having the right trekking equipment is essential for both safety and comfort. The trekking equipment necessary depends on the type of trek, the time of year, weather conditions, the landscape, and the maximum altitude of the trek. A properly packed trekking backpack is light and also includes multipurpose clothing items. It is important for you not to forget the essential equipment for your safety and comfort on your trek.

Please make sure that you bring sufficiently warm clothes, especially during the winter season (Dec – Feb). Not having the required trekking equipment and clothing will not only significantly decrease the pleasure of trekking, but could also worsen case scenarios that could be life-threatening. It will also be a burden to you if you pack unnecessary equipment. For your ease, the following are the equipment that you have to bring with you. 

Footwear

  • Trekking Boot: one Pair
  • Socks: 4, Light socks : 3, Sandle: 1

Clothing

  • Down  or Fiber-filled water and windproof jacket and trouser: 1
  • Fleece Jacket / Pullover: 1
  • Warm cotton trousers: 2
  • Shirt and T-shirts: 4
  • Lightweight cotton long trousers :3
  • Long underwear: 2,  Short underwear: 4
  • Sun hat / Scarft/ Woolen hat :1
  • Lightweight gloves: 1, Raincoat:1
  • Heavyweight glove or mitten with a waterproof: 1

Medicinal

  • Basic first-aid box
  • Diamox tablets to reduce altitude sickness
  • Insect/anti-itch Ointment
  • Non-prescription medicine such as pain relievers, fever reducers, antibiotics, and ointments
  • Prescription medicine for traveler's diarrhea, Avmoine 
  • Female Sanitary pads
  • Hand Sanitizer and wet wipes
  • Medicine for Cough and Heartburn (It mainly happens when you go to higher altitudes)
  •  Band-aid
  • Ibuprofen and also paracetamol in case of fever 

Other Equipment

  • Day Pack at Least 25 kg
  • Water Bottle 1
  • Sun Cream 1
  • Sun Glass 1
  • Towel
  • Flashlight with spare bulbs, batteries, lip salve, and gaiters.
  • Laundry soap
  • Swiss Knife
  • Sewing Kit, Camera, Film, Cards, and Personal Medical Kit.

Optional

  • Notebook and Pen
  • Toilet articles
  • Toilet Roll

For additional information, you can check our article  Trekking Gears Checklist

Gateway For Annapurna Circuit Trek:

If you are planning to do Annapurna Circuit Trek the only gateway to this trek is from the Besi Sahar. Besi Sahar is a small valley that is just 172.9 km from Kathmandu. The time duration to get to the Besi Sahar is a 4 to 5hrs drive from Kathmandu. There is a variety of options to go there. You can either take the Local Bus or can hire a Private Vehicle. It all depends on your Budget.

Type of Accommodation During Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

To go trekking means you are visiting a remote area so please do not expect every trekking route you will get luxurious room same as in Kathmandu and Pokhara. During trekking, you will sleep at the Tea House. The Tea house means normal Local Lodges. where you will get a normal Bed, Blanket, and Common Bathroom. Even a hot shower also needs to pay extra.

Food And Drinks:

During Trekking in Nepal. In most of the places you will get Local Foods like Nepali Thali ( Dal Bhat), MoMo, Chowmin, Thukpa, Fried Rice, etc and some international food Like Spaghetti, Macaroni, Pizza, Pan Cake, Fried Eggs, etc you will get according to the menu. For drinks, you can get Local Tea, Coffee, and also even if you request water for drinks need to pay extra.

How will I get rescued if I am critically ill during the trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a trek where the elevation starts from 1350m to 5416m. Altitude sickness mainly occurs after you head above 2500m. You will not get altitude sickness symptoms below 2500m. Some of the altitude sickness symptoms are Nausea, Headache, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, and dizziness. Acclimatization is the main thing that helps to prevent altitude sickness. But you can still prevent altitude sickness by drinking more water, avoiding strenuous exercise for 24 hours, and having a rest day every 600m-900m you go up.

However, one out of 10 people may catch altitude sickness even with all the preventions. We can take DIAMOX if we suffer from altitude sickness. But if the condition does not get well even after taking the Diamox, the guide will immediately inform the travel company. If you will be ill at any point of the trek you will be slowly taken to the lower elevation. If you are ill, then you will be taken to the lower altitude and seek basic medical where our guide will help you, and then if it’s necessary or emergency you will be immediately sent to Kathmandu by emergency helicopter service. This is how you will get rescued if you will be critically ill during the trek.

 

The importance of insurance in Annapurna Circuit Trek

Travel insurance plays an essential role. The right travel insurance will protect you from the unique risks while traveling to Nepal or Climbing to Annapurna Circuit Trek. Find the best policies that cover all the necessary events associated with Annapurna Circuit Trek or other trekking areas. There will not be a relaxed trip without travel insurance. It is very necessary to be careful while choosing policies because some insurance companies do not include adventure trekking. Mostly many of travel insurance covers only up to the elevation of 3000m but the Annapurna Circuit Trek trek will go beyond 3000m standing at the highest point which will be above 5300m.

We suggest you choose Your travel insurance that covers up to 6000m which you will be covered for the entire trek and shouldn't be worried about evacuations or medical assistance costs. Before buying your insurance, your insurer should be aware of the Itinerary of Magic Expedition and Tours. If you are planning to trek in the Himalayas, Your insurance should cover emergency air service Helicopters and should include all the medical expenses. The emergency helicopter service would be very costly so If you have your insurance done you wouldn’t be worried. Your travel insurance should cover the cancelation policy because if you have to cancel a paid trek due to weather conditions, They can cover this expense. You should double-check that it is included on the top of the standard hospitalization cover. Some of the Travel insurances that are recommended are:-

FAQs

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is rated as an adventurous/strenuous trek in Nepal located in the Annapurna region. Since it is graded as one of the strenuous treks one requires high-level stamina and physical fitness. One is going to cross one of the highest passes in the world, Thorongla Pass 5,416 m. (17,769 ft.) starting from 760 m. (2,493 ft.) at Besisahar passing through  3,450 meters (11,319 feet) that is  Manang. On the way, trekkers will encounter numerous ups and downs with rocky trails. Even, the trekkers will have to challenge with snow during pre and post-winter. So, if anyone is planning to do this trek, they are required to have basic skills in trekking and also should have experienced short treks beforehand.

Can you do Annapurna Circuit Trek on your own?

It is not permitted by the government of Nepal, the Ministry of Tourism, to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek on your own since it is mandatory to take a guide for foreign tourists for their safety. If you don’t want to hire a porter to carry your stuff during the trek, it is okay but you cannot do this trek without a guide on your own.  

Is the Annapurna Circuit Trek worth doing?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is worth doing since it is considered one of the finest treks to do. It is coz the vistas, landscapes, terrains, and mountain panoramas are just awesome. Not only the trekkers can be mesmerized by seeing the astonishing mountain vistas, but they also can experience a world-class adventure throughout the trek especially while crossing Thorongla Pass 5,416 m. (17,769 ft.), one of the highest passes on the planet. Moreover, the local culture, civilization, historical cities, and forts make this trek more worth doing.

How long days does it take for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The required days for Annapurna Circuit Trek is 18 with sufficient acclimatization. However, some people want it to be completed in 15/16 days and others wish to do it in 19/20 days. So, it demands 15-20 days to complete. More specifically, the trekking days depend on your stamina and physical fitness as well. It also depends on how flexible you want to be during the trek. Hence, if you are a passionate adventurer and own high physical fitness, you can accomplish this Annapurna Circuit Trek in 15-17 days and if you are a moderate trekker, then, of course, it takes 18-20 days.

How can I prevent altitude sickness?

We adopt a few measures to avoid altitude sickness. First, you can simply drink plenty of warm/hot water and other hot drinks like soups. Second, avoiding the local water from local taps/streams/rivers can be very helpful to avoid altitude sickness. Third, don’t smoke and drink a lot in higher altitudes. Fourth, have a balanced diet and sound sleep. Fifth, carry some basic medicine and if you feel you have some symptoms related to altitude sickness, report it to your leader immediately.

What should I do if I get altitude sickness?

In case you have altitude sickness, get to the lower elevation, take a rest, and have plenty of hot soups including water. Take some basic medicines according to the symptoms. If the problems get more severe, then, ask your leader to evacuate you to the major city for further treatment.

What is the best time to do Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The time to do Annapurna Circuit Trek is Autumn/Fall (Sep- Nov). Autumn/ Fall is the best time of the year for every kind of holiday activity including trekking. The weather condition solely favors the travelers offering the best temperature and awesome mountain views. But for those who cannot make their Annapurna Circuit Trek happen in Autumn, optionally, they can do it in Spring (Mar-May).

What types of equipment are needed for the trek?

Since the Annapurna Circuit Trek is strenuous and it is indeed, and the one who is boarding on the Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail needs to carry fresh and reliable trekking equipment; we recommend you get the fresh trekking gear as you are walking up to Thorongla Pass 5,416 m. (17,769 ft.) and triumph over it. Normally, trekking poles, trekking pants, hiking/trekking boots that can at least hit the trail hard for 18-20 days, trekking t-shirts and shorts, a day backpack, duffle bags for porters (normally provided by the company), sunglasses, gloves, warm socks, hat, a water bottle that can help you to carry both hot and cold water, a down jacket, a sleeping bag ( often provided by the company)  and other daily used materials/stuff. Trekkers are suggested to carry some extra pieces of daily used stuff/equipment since they cannot get them on the trekking route and if they are available, they are very costly.  For further information about Annapurna Circuit Trek Equipment, click Trekking Gear Checklist.

Do I need high trekking skills for this trek?

You don’t require high trekking skills for this trek since this is not climbing. Basic trekking skills will work. However, trekkers require a high level of stamina and physical fitness as Thorongla Pass is 5,416 m. (17,769 ft.) will, sometimes, be challenging in case it is snowy. Before venturing on Annapurna Circuit Trek, one should have, at least, experienced one or two short treks or hikes in the mountain doing ups and downs working 5-7 hours a day. This trek is not recommended for beginners and they can never accomplish it. So, have basic skills in trekking, pack up the right and reliable trekking gear, accompany a veteran guide, own a high level of stamina and physical fitness, and celebrate your Annapurna Circuit Trek.

How is the tea house along the trekking route?

You know you are going far-distant from the cities while doing Annapurna Circuit Trek. Annapurna Circuit Trek Route is not a populated and facilitated area of Nepal. So, of course, the tea houses will be ordinary and basic which you are going to use for your food and accommodation. You may have to share the accommodation. Be mentally ready for it.  However, the rooms and the beds will be fine to stay overnight. The teahouses, sometimes, may not be able to provide the food items you want coz it is hard to carry all the stuff from the far cities to the mountains. At this point, you have to accommodate it.

I don’t have any trekking skills, can I still do this trek?

At least, basic skills of trekking are required for Annapurna Circuit Trek. So, if you don’t have any skills in trekking, we don’t recommend you do this trek you don’t skill of trekking. First, own some basic skills of trekking by doing short treks or hikes in the mountains to get well prepared for your next adventure, Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

Is a tip mandatory for the guide and porter?

Giving tips depends on the tippers and how satisfied/happy they are with the service they purchased. It is very difficult to declare that a tip is mandatory. However, after accomplishing challenging duties, one naturally expects something extra. We cannot negate this fact too. So, for giving tips, we have found a way in between, not mandatory, and something extra is always expected if one deserves it.

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