Annapurna Circuit Trek
Overview
Often called the world's greatest trek, the Annapurna Circuit is a classic journey that circumnavigates the entire Annapurna massif. Crossing the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, you'll experience an incredible diversity of landscapes—from subtropical lowlands to high-altitude desert, from Hindu villages to Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. This epic trail showcases Nepal's cultural and geographical diversity like no other trek.
Duration
12-18 Days
Distance
160-230 km
Max Altitude
5,416m
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Highlights
- Cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
- Experience dramatic landscape changes from jungle to desert
- Visit sacred Muktinath Temple (3,800m)
- Witness the deepest gorge in the world (Kali Gandaki)
- Experience both Hindu and Buddhist cultures
- Natural hot springs at Tatopani
Itinerary
Kathmandu to Besisahar
Long drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit.
Trek to Bahundanda
Begin trekking along the Marsyangdi River through rice paddies and subtropical forest.
Trek to Chamje
Continue along the river through villages and farmland.
Trek to Dharapani
Pass through the narrow Marsyangdi gorge. Junction point with Manaslu Circuit trail.
Trek to Chame
Enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. First views of Annapurna II.
Trek to Upper Pisang
Walk through apple orchards and pine forest. Stunning views of the Annapurna range.
Trek to Manang
Optional side trip to Ice Lake for acclimatization. Manang is a large Tibetan village.
Acclimatization Day in Manang
Essential acclimatization day. Hike to Gangapurna Lake or visit the HRA clinic.
Trek to Yak Kharka
Short but significant altitude gain. Last settlement before Thorong Phedi.
Trek to Thorong Phedi
Short trek to base camp. Rest and prepare for early morning pass crossing.
Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath
The big day! Start at 4-5 AM. Cross the Thorong La Pass with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
Trek to Jomsom
Descend through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest in the world.
Trek to Tatopani
Continue descending through the gorge. Enjoy natural hot springs at Tatopani.
Trek to Ghorepani
The challenging climb to Ghorepani with 3,300+ stone steps.
Sunrise at Poon Hill, Trek to Nayapul
Wake early for iconic Poon Hill sunrise. Descend to Nayapul. Drive to Pokhara.
Fly to Kathmandu
Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner.
Safety Information
Thorong La Pass requires good acclimatization and fitness. Weather can change rapidly. The pass can be dangerous in bad conditions.
Nearest Hospital
Jomsom/Pokhara
Emergency Contacts
- Tourist Police Pokhara: +977-61-462761
Packing List
Documents
- Passport
- ACAP Permit
- TIMS Card
- Travel Insurance
- Cash
Clothing
- Layering system
- Down jacket
- Fleece
- Rain jacket
- Trekking pants
- Warm hat and gloves
- Gaiters
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Warm socks (3-4 pairs)
- Camp shoes/sandals
Equipment
- Sleeping bag (-15°C)
- Daypack (35-40L)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Water bottles (2L)
- Sunglasses
- Crampons (optional)
Hygiene & Meds
- Sunscreen SPF 50
- Lip balm
- First aid kit
- Altitude sickness meds
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
Weather by Month
| Month | High | Low | Rainfall | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 10°C | -10°C | Low | Moderate |
| Feb | 12°C | -8°C | Low | Good |
| Mar | 16°C | -4°C | Low | Best |
| Apr | 20°C | 0°C | Moderate | Best |
| May | 22°C | 4°C | Moderate | Good |
| Jun | 24°C | 8°C | Heavy | Avoid |
| Jul | 24°C | 10°C | Heavy | Avoid |
| Aug | 24°C | 10°C | Heavy | Avoid |
| Sep | 22°C | 6°C | Moderate | Best |
| Oct | 18°C | 2°C | Low | Best |
| Nov | 14°C | -2°C | Low | Best |
| Dec | 12°C | -6°C | Low | Good |