Annapurna Circuit Trek – 15 Days
Trip Overview
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal. This 15-day itinerary will help you visit some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the country. It begins in green valleys with terraced agriculture and dense forests and gradually ascends to the dry, rocky highlands of the Himalayas. During the trek, you will be walking through the traditional villages, across the thrilling suspension bridges and have a great view of the giant snow-capped mountains such as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The biggest attraction is passing the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) which is the highest and most challenging part of the trek, with an unforgettable scenery of mountains. You will also see the holy temple at Muktinath, get a comfortable stay in the serene town of Jomsom, and enjoy a spectacular sunrise at Poon Hill. It is an ideal combination of natural beauty, culture, and adventure and is an excellent trek for those who want to experience the core of Nepal. It is an ideal trek for nature lovers and adventure seekers who wish to explore the core of the Himalayas and feel the rich culture of mountains in Nepal.
What Can You Expect From Annapurna Circuit Trek 15 Days?
This 15-day trek takes you through ever-changing landscapes, from green valleys to high Himalayan passes. Along the way, you’ll experience rich cultures, sacred sites, and some of the most breathtaking mountain views in Nepal.
- Various terrains: Green valleys and forests, high-altitude deserts and rocky paths
- Breathtaking mountain sceneries: View Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and lots of other Himalayan mountains
- Adventure in high mountain pass: The notorious Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
- Cultural encounters: Get to know Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced people
- Spiritual visit to Muktinath: Holy place for both Hindus and Buddhist
- Suspension bridges and lovely villages: Stroll along lovely local villages and exciting bridges
- Poon Hill sunrise: An amazing sight of the mountains as the sun rises in the morning
- Local food and hospitality: You will be welcomed with warm hospitality, and traditional food is delicious
- Nature and adventure: Rivers, waterfalls, deep gorges and quiet mountain trails
- An experience that can change your life: The right combination of nature, culture, and self-development
Other Related Treks in Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna is a trekking paradise with treks for all sorts of adventurers. If you’re looking for shorter, quieter, or more spiritually rich alternatives to the classic Annapurna Circuit, there are several exciting trails to explore. Both treks have their exceptional views, cultures, and challenges.
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek: A scenic journey to the heart of the Annapurna range
- Poon Hill Trek Short and rewarding trek known for its famous sunrise views
- Muktinath Trek: A spiritual trek to one of Nepal’s holiest temples
- Jomsom-Muktinath Trek: Mix of cultural exploration and Himalayan landscapes
- Khopra Ridge Trek: A less-crowded alternative with stunning mountain panoramas
Annapurna Panorama Trek: Ideal for beginners seeking beautiful views in a short time
Trip Itinerary
When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will meet you and take you to your hotel in Thamel, a vibrant neighborhood with stores, cafes, and trekking shops. Once you check-in, you will have a welcome coffee with your trekking guide. The guide will provide a brief briefing of your Annapurna Circuit Trek and inspect your equipment. You might be forgetting something, and there is still time to shop at the last minute around the corner. Sleep, rest, and prepare for the adventure.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu (Twin-sharing basis)
- Meals: Not included
- Transport: Airport pickup included
You have an early breakfast then your guide will come to pick you up from the hotel to start the beautiful drive to Dharapani. It begins on the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway and then goes to Dumre and along the Marshyangdi River on a rougher road. The journey to Besisahar will be about 5 hours and you will have lunch there. At Besisahar, you will change to a shared jeep, which will drive you further up the road, all the way to Dharapani or at least Jagat, depending on the state of the road. Camping at a trekking lodge.
- Highlight: Scenic highway drive, river valley views, off-road adventure
- Trek Duration: Full-day drive (approx. 9 hours)
- Distance: Approx. 230 km (including off-road stretch)
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Dharapani or nearby village
The trail for the third day is west of the Manaslu Himalayas and is a gradual climb with spectacular views of Annapurna II and the mountains. You will often get to see the grandeur of the Annapurna Range as you hike through dense pine forests and small settlements. The hike to Chame takes about 6 hours and provides not only natural beauty but also a serene mountain landscape. Overnight in a trekking lodge at Chame.
- Highlight: Views of Annapurna II, pine forests, peaceful mountain trail
- Trek Duration: Approx. 6 hours
- Distance: Approx. 15 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Chame
Day four starts with breakfast and then follows a gradual climb to Bhratang and then to Dhukur Pokhari, where you are going to have lunch. The route then goes to Pisang, with frozen waterfalls (seasonal), dense pine forests, and clear views of Pisang Peak- a mountain that is frequently used to train climbers in Nepal. On the way, you will see more Tibetan architecture. Pisang is separated into two parts: the upper and lower Pisang with its unique appeal and spectacular Himalayan scenery. One overnight in a trekking lodge.
- Highlight: Frozen waterfalls, Pisang Peak views, Tibetan-influenced villages
- Trek Duration: Approx. 6 hours
- Distance: Approx. 13 to 14 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Upper or Lower Pisang
The trek this day starts with a relatively flat trail the first hour before the steep climb gets you up to a viewpoint near the town of Humde. It is a tough climb, but the view of the valley and the snow-covered mountains is spectacular. Once you have reached the top, the trail again becomes flat as you walk towards Humde-a village that used to have a small airstrip that provided seasonal flights to Pokhara. The trail then takes you further into the scenic Manang Valley, which is flanked by mighty Himalayan mountains. Stay at the trekking lodge in Manang.
- Highlight: Valley and mountain views, historic Humde airstrip, arrival at Manang.
- Trek Duration: Approx. 6 hours
- Distance: Approx. 15 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Manang
Day six is a scheduled rest day in Manang to help your body adjust to the higher altitude before heading toward Thorong La Pass. In order to acclimatize, you will go on a short hike of approximately 300 meters- you may visit a local monastery or viewpoint. The day is less strenuous but provides opportunities to visit the Manang village, have a good look at the Annapurna II, III, and Gangapurna, or the optional side trips to the Ice Lake or Base Camp to see the amazing mountain landscape. This day is essential in making the trek ahead safer and more enjoyable.
- Highlight: Acclimatization hike, panoramic mountain views, cultural exploration.
- Trek Duration: 2 to 4 hours (short hikes)
- Distance: Varies by optional hikes
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Manang
You will spend a day in Manang to rest and acclimatize to the altitude. This will help your body adjust and give you the energy to continue the trek towards Yak Kharka. The path goes through alpine sceneries where the houses are made more of stone than wood. You will see wooden frames with some unusual decorations, which are held by yak skulls and horns, which is also a nice touch to the local tradition. The path slowly ascends to a height with beautiful scenery and some occasional glimpses of grazing yaks. You will arrive at Yak Kharka in the early afternoon, and you will have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy the quiet environment.
- Highlight: Scenic high-altitude trek, traditional architecture, yak herds
- Trek Duration: Approx. 5 hours
- Distance: Approx. 10 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Yak Kharka
The trek for this day is shorter yet essential because you arrive at Thorong Phedi, which is the base of the famous Thorong La Pass. The path then climbs steadily out of Yak Kharka, passing a suspension bridge and then up again through rough country. Thorong Phedi is a small village on the bottom of the pass and is usually full of trekkers who are about to face the big challenge of the next day. Some trekkers choose to take a short hike up to High Camp in the afternoon to help with acclimatization and enjoy the stunning mountain views. You will get there in the early afternoon and have time to rest and get ready.
- Highlight: Gateway to Thorong La, peaceful mountain views
- Trek Duration: Approx. 4 hours
- Distance: Approx. 6 to 7 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge at Thorong Phedi
This day is the most satisfying and challenging day of your Annapurna Circuit Trek. You will begin the trek before sunrise and continue to ascend to the highest point of the trek, Thorong La Pass. It is a challenging walk in thin air, but the breathtaking view of the mountains and the colorful prayer flags on the top is worth the effort. Having enjoyed the beauty of the pass, you will start a long descent to Muktinath. It is a holy town where Hindus and Buddhists go on pilgrimages and provides a special mix of spirituality and mountain culture.
- Highlight: Crossing Thorong La Pass, the spiritual site of Muktinath
- Trek Duration: 8 to 9 hours
- Distance: Approx. 15 to 18 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Muktinath
On this day, the trek today is a downhill one, and it gives your legs a rest after the hard days you have had. You will go through Kagbeni, a holy village where Hindu pilgrims offer sacrifices to their ancestors. Still following the Kaligandaki River, the trail leads to the windy town of Jomsom, which features an airport and an unusual landscape. From this point, you will travel to Marpha, a beautiful village that is famous because of its apple orchards as well as apple brandy. Marpha provides a serene environment where one can rest after a tiring day. Some trekkers choose to take a jeep from Muktinath to Tatopani or a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara to shorten the route.
- Highlight: Cultural village of Kagbeni, apple orchards of Marpha
- Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Distance: Approx. 18 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Marpha
After saying goodbye to the dry terrain of Mustang, the current trip takes you to greener valleys with dramatic Himalayan mountains. The picturesque sceneries of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri range, and even Annapurna will welcome you. It takes you down gradually, and the valley opens up to give you a broad panoramic view. The route takes you across a river and a road-building camp, following a quiet lunch break at Kokhethanti to the quiet village of Kalopan I, where you will spend the night.
- Highlight: Mountain views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna I
- Trek Duration: 6 hours
- Distance: Approx. 17 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Kalopani
Today, the walk is mainly down the Kali Gandaki River. Once we have crossed the bridge at Ghasa we descend to the village of Dana through forests and small settlements. The beautiful Rupse Chahara waterfall is one of the most impressive attractions on the trail, one of the highlights of the day. We move on to Tatopani, which is famous for its natural hot springs- an ideal place to soak your tired legs and rest after days of walking.
- Highlight: Rupse Chahara waterfall and natural hot springs
- Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Distance: Approx. 18 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Tatopani
Early in the morning, we hike up to Poon Hill (3,210m) for a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. We get back to Ghorepani to have breakfast after viewing the panoramic views. Then, the trail takes us through quiet rhododendron forests to Tadapani and then down to the lovely Gurung village of Ghandruk. This old village is a friendly cultural experience and has a beautiful mountain view.
- Highlight: Rhododendron forest, changing landscapes, and traditional villages.
- Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours
- Distance: Approx. 16 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Ghorepani
The trek on this day is also different because the surroundings and villages start to vary. As we go through Ghara and Sikha, we observe additional patio-style farms and traditional houses. The path ascends gradually through Chitre and then through a thick rhododendron forest, most lovely in the spring. In the late afternoon, we arrive at the hill station of Ghorepani, where we spend the night. Day two involves an early hike to Poon Hill to see the sunrise.
- Highlight: Sunrise at Poon Hill, forest walk, Gurung culture in Ghandruk
- Trek Duration: 7 hours
- Distance: Approx. 15 km
- Accommodation: Trekking lodge in Ghandruk
Our last day of the trek starts with breakfast in Ghandruk, and then slowly, we descend to Nayapul. It is a picturesque and leisurely trail that goes through small villages and terraced fields. After reaching Nayapul, it will take us a short ride to Pokhara. Days in the mountains are followed by the peaceful lakeside of Pokhara, the warm cafes, and the sight of the Annapurna range, which provides the perfect way to relax.
- Highlight: Final trek day, scenic drive, relaxation at Pokhara Lakeside
- Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours trek + 1.5 hours drive
- Distance: Approx. 14 km (trekking)
- Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
FAQs
What if I feel sick or uneasy during the trek?
Your guide will also be experienced and will keep checking your health during the trek. In case you are feeling bad or have symptoms of altitude sickness, the guide will take the appropriate measures to ensure that you are safe and comfortable, such as slowing down, resting, or even descending.
What happens in case of an emergency during the trek?
Our guide is familiar with basic first aid and can organize emergency evacuation in case of a serious health problem or emergency. We care about your safety and are ready to act immediately.
What kind of hotel accommodation do you provide in Kathmandu or Pokhara?
We reserve 3-star hotels with good services. But in the peak seasons when the 3-star hotels are full, we offer tourist quality hotels with the same level of hygiene, comfort, and service to offer a good stay.
What is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a famous trekking trail in Nepal that takes a circuit around the Annapurna mountains. It provides you with a combination of scenic beauty, mountainous scenery, and cultural experience as you cross through remote villages, forests, and high mountain passes.
How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The expedition is slightly challenging. No one needs climbing experience, but you have to be in good physical condition as you will be spending many days, some part of which will be spent at Thorong La Pass, which is more than 5,400 meters high.
What is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The most suitable months to Engage in Annapurna Circuit Trek are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). It is generally sunny, and you experience good views of mountains but not a lot of rainfall or snow.
Do I need a guide or porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Though one can also do a trek on his own, it is strongly advised that one should hire a guide or even a porter, more so following the new regulations that have warranted the need to use an authorized guide to ensure that one is safe. You use a guide to show you the way to go through the trail and also learn the local culture, and a porter takes your heavy bag.
What permits are required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
To enter the Annapurna sanctuary, you will require two permits, one being the Annapurna Conservation Area Permits (ACAP) and the second being the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card. They will need both and can be organized with your trekking agency or in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
What should I pack for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
You can pack warm clothing, hiking boots, sleeping bags, waterproof jackets, gloves, sun protection, and some basic medicines. The altitude varies with the weather, and your clothing should be in layers. Do not miss a water bottle (refillable) and a headlamp.
How much does the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost?
It all depends on the time, services and going alone or using a guide or agency. It may cost an average of 700 to 1,200 dollars, including permit fee, place of stay, food, transport, guide, and porter services.
What makes the Annapurna Circuit Trek unique?
Annapurna Circuit Trek is not just ordinary since it exposes you to varied scenery, including green valleys and forested areas, as well as arid-like climates at high altitudes. You also enjoy the culture of different ethnic people such as Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi people.
How do I get to the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The usual starting points of the trek are Besisahar or Bhulbhule and most trekkers reach their destination either by road through Kathmandu or Pokhara. Then you start walking up on your own having to further parts of the trail by jeep to make the path shorter.
Are there any cultural experiences on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes, this is a long footpath with numerous villages, here you can study about local customs, visit Monasteries and meet various communities. You’ll experience a blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures along the way.
Fitness Tip for Nepal Trekkers?
You should also start training a couple of weeks before your trek by going on regular walking, hiking, or cardio exercises. Train to develop stamina, leg power, and accustomation to walking around using a backpack.
Trekking vs. Hiking in Nepal
Trekking in Nepal is generally considered to be a multi-day walk across the mountains and villages, whereas hiking is a shorter one, which can beven be a one-day case. In trekking, there is increased physical exertion, fluctuations in altitude, and simple accommodation in their lodges.
Fitness Tips for Nepal Trekker
Keep yourself hydrated, consume well, and do not rush. Listen to your body and take a rest day to acclimatize in order to prevent altitude sickness. It assists in strolling, particularly when going uphill.
Why Choose Adventure Glacier Treks?
- Experienced Local guides: Guided by experienced and certified Nepali professionals who have extensive expertise in the field, we guarantee that your adventure is secure, educational, and rich in cultural experiences.
- Competitive Pricing with No Hidden Costs: We provide honest and clear pricing that covers permits, lodging, and guiding services that ensure you receive good value for your investment.
- Focus on Safety and Comfort: Ensuring your safety is our highest concern. Through careful altitude management and dependable logistics, we guarantee that your journey is both secure and enjoyable.
- Positive Reviews and Reputation: Numerous trekkers come back or suggest us due to their expertise, friendly hospitality, and unforgettable service.
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Price Includes
- Airport pick-up up/drop
- 2 nights accommodation in kathmandu and one night in Pokhara at tourist-standard hotels
- Trekking packages such as Ground transportation, necessary permits entrance fees
- Professional guide, porter/porters, and their expenses including their insurance and equipment.
- Your accommodation at lodges in route, three meals a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner) with cup of tea/coffee
Price Excludes
- Beverages
- Tips 10% of the total amount paid
- Your insurance
- Flight Jomsom to Pokhara for you and guide
- Personal/natural expenses
- Food in Kathmandu & Pokhara except daily breakfast
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