The Ultimate Annapurna Adventure

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most spectacular and diverse trekking experiences. This epic 16-day journey takes you around the entire Annapurna massif, crossing the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters and exploring the sacred Tilicho Lake.

Why Choose the Annapurna Circuit?

This trek offers unparalleled diversity:

• Dramatic elevation changes from 1,120m to 5,416m
• Cultural immersion through Hindu and Buddhist communities
• Landscape variety from subtropical forests to alpine desert
• Mountain views including 8 peaks over 6,000m
• Ancient trade routes along traditional salt trading paths

Complete Day-by-Day Itinerary

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), you'll be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy an orientation session to prepare for this exciting adventure. Later in the evening, experience a warm welcome dinner at an authentic Nepali restaurant, indulging in traditional flavors and the genuine hospitality of Nepal 🇳🇵.

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat via Besisahar (1,120m)

After breakfast, begin your journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu. Pass through winding roads, lush green hills, rivers, and rural towns. The drive takes you along the Trisuli and then Marsyangdi River. Depending on road conditions and time, you might stop at Besisahar then take a jeep further to Jagat, the traditional trekking starting point.

• Altitude: 1,120m
• Duration: 8-9 hours drive
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Jagat
• Highlights: Scenic mountain roads, riverside views, rural Nepal

Day 2: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1,960m)

Your first day of trekking follows the Marsyangdi River, gradually ascending through terraced fields and small villages. Cross several suspension bridges and pass beautiful waterfalls. The landscape transitions from subtropical to more temperate as you gain altitude. Reach Dharapani, a larger village with Tibetan influences.

• Altitude: 1,960m
• Duration: 5-6 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Dharapani
• Highlights: Suspension bridges, waterfalls, terraced fields

Day 3: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,650m)

The trail continues climbing through dense pine and fir forests. Pass through villages like Bagarchhap and Koto. Chame is the headquarters of Manang district, where you'll notice distinct Tibetan influence in architecture and culture. Enjoy your first clear views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.

• Altitude: 2,650m
• Duration: 5-6 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Chame
• Highlights: Annapurna II views, Tibetan architecture, forest trails

Day 4: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,350m)

Experience a dramatic scenery change as the valley narrows and landscape becomes more arid. Walk along steep, narrow paths often carved into cliff faces. The day ends in Upper Pisang with excellent views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak.

• Altitude: 3,350m
• Duration: 4-5 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Upper Pisang
• Highlights: Dramatic cliffs, Pisang Peak views, arid landscape

Day 5: Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,450m)

Climb via Ghyaru and Ngawal. This route offers absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

• Altitude: 3,450m
• Duration: 5-6 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Manang
• Highlights: Annapurna panorama, mountain villages, Tibetan culture

Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Manang

This crucial acclimatization day is essential for high-altitude adaptation. It's recommended to hike to higher elevation during the day and sleep lower. Explore the following places around Manang:

• Activities: Gangapurna Lake, Ice Lake (5-6 hours), Manang Gompa monastery
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Manang
• Highlights: Acclimatization, glacial lake, monastery visit

Day 7: Trek from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,210m)

This challenging day involves traversing the notorious landslide area. The path is narrow and exposed, requiring careful navigation. Tilicho Base Camp sits in a dramatic setting surrounded by towering peaks.

• Altitude: 4,210m
• Duration: 6-7 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Tilicho Base Camp
• Highlights: Dramatic mountain scenery, high-altitude trekking

Day 8: Day Trip to Tilicho Lake (4,920m) & Return to Base Camp

Early morning departure for one of the world's highest lakes. The trail is challenging but rewards with spectacular views of the turquoise Tilicho Lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. This sacred lake holds religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists.

• Maximum Altitude: 4,920m (Tilicho Lake)
• Duration: 6-8 hours round trip
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Tilicho Base Camp
• Highlights: Turquoise glacial lake, sacred site, mountain panorama

Day 9: Trek from Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka (4,110m)

Descend from Tilicho Base Camp and continue toward Thorong La Pass preparation. Yak Kharka offers stunning mountain views and is the last settlement before the high pass.

• Altitude: 4,110m
• Duration: 5-6 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Yak Kharka
• Highlights: Mountain views, pre-pass preparation

Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m)

Short but important day preparing for the Thorong La Pass crossing. Thorong Phedi (meaning "foot of the pass") provides basic accommodation and is the staging point for the early morning pass crossing.

• Altitude: 4,450m
• Duration: 3-4 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Thorong Phedi
• Highlights: Pass preparation, high-altitude environment

Day 11: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath (3,800m)

The highlight and most challenging day! Early morning start (around 5 AM) to cross the Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,416m. From the pass, enjoy panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and surrounding peaks. Descend to the sacred temple of Muktinath, an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

• Maximum Altitude: 5,416m (Thorong La Pass)
• Ending Altitude: 3,800m (Muktinath)
• Duration: 7-9 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Muktinath
• Highlights: Thorong La Pass crossing, panoramic views, Muktinath Temple

Day 12: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m)

Descend through the Kali Gandaki Valley, known as the world's deepest gorge. Jomsom is a major town with an airport, offering modern amenities and a glimpse into the Mustang region's culture.

• Altitude: 2,720m
• Duration: 5-6 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Jomsom
• Highlights: Kali Gandaki Gorge, Mustang culture, town amenities

Day 13: Trek from Jomsom to Tatopani (1,190m)

Descend further through the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing through Marpha (famous for apple brandy) and other traditional villages. Tatopani is renowned for its natural hot springs - perfect for relaxing tired muscles.

• Altitude: 1,190m
• Duration: 6-7 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Tatopani
• Highlights: Natural hot springs, Marpha village, apple brandy

Day 14: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850m)

Begin ascending through rhododendron forests (spectacular if trekking in spring). Ghorepani is a traditional Gurung village famous for its sunrise viewpoint.

• Altitude: 2,850m
• Duration: 6-7 hours trek
• Accommodation: Teahouse/lodge in Ghorepani
• Highlights: Rhododendron forests, Gurung culture, Poon Hill preparation

Day 15: Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210m) & Trek to Nayapul

Early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges - one of Nepal's most famous viewpoints. Descend through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests to Nayapul, where your trek concludes.

• Maximum Altitude: 3,210m (Poon Hill)
• Duration: 6-7 hours total
• Highlights: Poon Hill sunrise, panoramic mountain views, trek completion

Day 16: Drive from Nayapul to Pokhara, then to Kathmandu

Drive to Pokhara (1 hour), then continue to Kathmandu (6-7 hours) or take a domestic flight (25 minutes).

• Duration: Full day
• Highlights: Return to civilization, celebration dinner

What Makes This Trek Special

Cultural Diversity:

• Hindu communities in lower elevations
• Buddhist culture in higher regions
• Tibetan-influenced villages in Manang
• Sacred sites like Muktinath Temple

Natural Wonders:

• Tilicho Lake (one of world's highest lakes)
• Thorong La Pass (classic high-altitude challenge)
• Natural hot springs at Tatopani
• Rhododendron forests and alpine meadows

Mountain Views:

• Annapurna I, II, III, and IV
• Dhaulagiri (8,167m)
• Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
• Manaslu and numerous 6,000m peaks

Physical Preparation

Fitness Requirements:

• Ability to walk 6-8 hours daily
• Good cardiovascular fitness
• Previous trekking experience recommended
• Mental preparation for high altitude

Training Suggestions:

• Start training 2-3 months prior
• Include uphill hiking with a backpack
• Build endurance gradually
• Practice with trekking boots

What's Included in Your Package

Accommodation:

• 15 nights in teahouse/lodge accommodation
• Shared rooms with basic bedding
• Clean mountain lodging

Transportation:

• Kathmandu to Jagat by bus/jeep
• Nayapul to Pokhara by private vehicle
• Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus or flight option

Permits & Documentation:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card
• All necessary paperwork and government fees

Guide Services:

• Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
• Guide's food, salary, accommodation, insurance
• Professional guidance and local knowledge

Safety & Emergency:

• Emergency helicopter service arrangements
• First aid medical supplies carried by guide
• Emergency communication and evacuation procedures

Administrative:

• All official expenses and government taxes
• Permit processing and arrangements

What's NOT Included

Meals:

• 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Average cost: $25-35 per day
• Prices increase with altitude

Beverages:

• All drinks including tea, coffee, beer, soft drinks
• Hot drinks cost extra at higher altitudes
• Bottled water or water purification supplies

Personal Expenses:

• Personal shopping and souvenirs
• Snacks and additional food items
• Phone calls and internet charges
• Battery charging fees at higher altitudes

Travel Insurance:

• Comprehensive travel and medical insurance required
• Must cover helicopter evacuation up to 6,000m
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage

International Flights:

• Flights to/from Nepal
• Visa fees for Nepal ($50 for 30 days)

Tips & Gratuities:

• Guide and porter tips (customary but not mandatory)
• Suggested: $5-10 per day for guide

Best Time to Trek

Spring (March-May):

• Clear mountain views
• Rhododendrons in bloom
• Stable weather conditions
• Moderate temperatures

Autumn (September-November):

• Crystal clear skies
• Excellent visibility
• Stable weather
• Cool, comfortable temperatures

Essential Gear

Clothing:

• Layered clothing system
• Warm down jacket
• Waterproof shell jacket and pants
• Warm hat and sun hat
• Gloves (liner and warm)

Equipment:

• Good trekking boots (broken in)
• Sleeping bag rated to -10°C
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Water purification tablets/filter

Personal Items:

• Sunglasses and sunscreen (high SPF)
• First aid kit
• Altitude sickness medication
• Camera and extra batteries
• Passport and permits

Health & Safety

Altitude Considerations:

• Gradual ascent for proper acclimatization
• Recognition of altitude sickness symptoms
• Evacuation insurance mandatory
• Emergency communication devices

Safety Measures:

• Experienced guides with first aid training
• Regular health monitoring
• Flexible itinerary for weather/health issues
• Emergency evacuation procedures

Accommodation & Meals

Teahouse Lodges:

• Basic but comfortable accommodation
• Shared rooms with basic bedding
• Communal dining areas
• Basic bathroom facilities (squat toilets common)

Meals:

• Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal)
• International options available
• Fresh vegetables and fruits in lower elevations
• Limited menu options at higher altitudes

Cultural Highlights

Religious Sites:

• Ancient Buddhist monasteries in Manang
• Sacred Muktinath Temple
• Prayer wheels and mani walls
• Traditional festivals (if timing aligns)

Local Communities:

• Interaction with Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan peoples
• Traditional architecture and customs
• Local crafts and agricultural practices
• Hospitality of mountain communities

This incredible journey around the Annapurna massif offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and personal challenge. From subtropical forests to high alpine passes, ancient temples to traditional villages, the Annapurna Circuit remains one of the world's great trekking adventures.