Annapurna Circuit Trek

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At a Glance
  • Duration12 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Maximum Altitude5416m
  • ActivityWorld Highest Pass Trek "Thorong La Pass 5416m"
  • Group Size1-12
  • StartsBesisahar
  • EndsPokhara
  • Best SeasonMarch, April, May and September, October, November

Annapurna Circuit Trek circles the Annapurna Massif along with other mountains like Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu. The highest point of the trek is Thorang La Pass (5,416 m), which is indeed very rewarding.

But that’s not all! You’ll be passing through multiple remote villages and will be socializing with different ethnic groups of Nepal. You’d even get to witness the very sacred Muktinath Temple, Jwala Mai Temple, and more.

Besides these cultural aspects, you even get a rewarding dip at the natural hot springs of Tatopani, try local apples in Manang and Mustang, and also try the local brandy.

Your journey to the Annapurna Circuit begins with a drive from Kathmandu towards Besishar, the headquarters of the Lamjung District. And proceed towards Chame, the district headquarter of Manang.

Only after reaching here, your Hike starts. You’ll trek to Upper Pisang, Manang Village, Yak Kharka, Thorang Phedi, Thorang La Pass, and then to Muktinath.

After your long hike of nearly six days ends, you’ll drive to Tatopani via Jomsom. There, your second part of the Annapurna Circuit begins as you hike towards Ghorepani and reach Poon Hill. But before that, the best part of this journey is the natural hot springs.

Along with the mountain views and relaxing time in nature, this trip rewards you with socio-cultural experience of Nepal. You’ll meet people from different ethnic groups, mainly Gurung, Thakali, Magar, Brahmin, Chhetri, and Tamang.

A full round trip of the Annapurna region might sound difficult, but it’s not exactly how it sounds. We believe that the trek can be done by any beginner with the right professional guidance and constant support.

However, even you have to make up your mind accordingly. While being physically fit is a necessity, the Annapurna Circuit Trek also calls for a strong mentality.

This guide presents you with the trip’s itinerary, packing list, cost breakdown, permits needed, accommodation & food details, and other possible challenges in the Annapurna region.

Mount Glory is already excited to dive into the details. So, get ready to read this comprehensive guide to learn everything about the 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trekking in Nepal.

Brief Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Start off with a scenic bus ride from Kathmandu to Besishar followed by another exhilarating jeep ride from Besisahar to Chame.
  • Travel to Kathmandu, Dhading, Chitwan, Tanahun, Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi, and Kaski districts of Nepal (total: 9).
  • Get to walk along the Marsyangdi and Budhi Gandaki rivers.
  • Socialize with Gurung, Thakali, Magar, Brahmin, Chhetri, and Tamang communities of the Annapurna region.
  • Visit and learn about the lifestyle of Besisahar, Bhulbhule, Syange, Jagat, Chamje, Taal, Dharapani, Timang, Chame, Bhratang, Upper Pissang, Ghyaru, Manang Village, Tarke Kang Hongdae village, Tenki Valley, Masryangdi Valley, Jarsang Khola Valley, Yak Kharka, Gansang village, Thorang La Phedi, Muktinath, Jomson, Marpha, Tatopani, Ghorepani, Shikha, Chitre, Poon Hill, and Birethanti regions.
  • Trek to the altitude of 5,416 m, where Thorang La Pass is located.
  • Get a chance to witness the majestic views of the entire Annapurna range, along with Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6998 m), Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6,986m), Tukuche peak (6,920m), and other mountains/peaks.
  • Wander through beautiful yak fields, and also get the chance to see blue sheep.
  • Wander through the rhododendron forest.
  • Visit sacred spots, like Muktinath Temple, Dhikur Pokhari, Braga Gompa, Ice Lake (Kicho Tal), Jwala Mai Temple, and other monasteries.
  • Take a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs at Tatopani.
  • Additionally, experience the beauty of lakes, glaciers, gorges, and waterfalls.

Why Annapurna Circuit Trek is a Must-Do Adventure?

We’ve come to the end of this comprehensive article about the Annapurna Circuit Trail. Mount Glory truly hopes that you have enjoyed reading and understood everything in detail.

Yet, we might have missed out on a lot of things. Of course, just reading the article won’t give you the entire experience, right? So, to learn and experience everything, you have to come to Nepal and go for the adventure yourself.

Well, Mount Glory ranks as a trek to Annapurna Circuit #3 in the top 10 best trekking destinations in Nepal. Thus, you can expect a thrilling and rewarding adventure while immersing yourself in the local lifestyle and mainly enjoying the beautiful view of the Annapurna range.

Trust us as we promise to provide you with a delightful journey in the Annapurna region. Book your trek today and let’s complete this Annapurna Circuit Trek together!

Why Annapurna Circuit Trek With Mount Glory Treks in 2025 & 2026?

Since the Annapurna Circuit trek circles the tenth-highest mountain in the world, there’s so much misinformation about it on the internet. What’s truly important is to be guided by professionals as nobody should underestimate its risks and challenges.

To make sure your trip becomes safe, fun, and memorable, Mount Glory has curated this package. This is a licensed trekking agency in Nepal with a great reputation in the travel industry.

Even via our blogs and packages, we try our best to make you informed about different travel destinations around the country. And since the Annapurna region is already popular, we have maintained established partnerships among the local communities. That makes us their first priority too.

Mount Glory’s transparent pricing, exceptional customer services, satisfied guests, and proven excellent reviews are what make it your ideal choice of a trekking company in Nepal.

What to Expect in Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail?

Now, let’s come to the cultural and natural attractions of the 12-Day Annapurna Circuit Trekking Journey.

The main religions found during the Annapurna Circuit Trek are Hinduism and Buddhism. That’s the reason you’ll encounter a plethora of temples and monasteries throughout the trek.

Talking about ethnic groups, expect to meet Gurung, Thakali, Magar, Brahmin, Chhetri, and Tamang people. Each and every one of their cultural norms is different, but despite that, they live in harmony.

That’s one of the best things you learn from the Annapurna Circuit trek. Even though cultural differences can be a barrier in a lot of terms, they still find their way to live in peace and maintain a similar lifestyle.

While Dashain, Tihar, Lhosar, and Maghe Sankranti are the major festivals celebrated in the region, there are still local festivals that very few are aware of. You have to do this trek in order to get in-depth information about that.

Now, let’s look into the main landmarks in the Annapurna circuit trail that are a must-see.

The Longest and Popular Thorang La Pass at 5416m

Thorang La Pass is the highlight and the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek at an elevation of 5,416 m.

The importance of this pass is that it connects you from Manang to the Mustang District of Nepal. In fact, the hype is so great that even locals might accompany you along the trail. So, you cannot miss this when you’re in the Annapurna region.

What’s more interesting about reaching Thorang La Pass is that you can do the trek from either side of Lamjung or Mustang. But since the Annapurna circuit is more popular by keeping Besi Sahar as the starting destination, Mount Glory has also followed the same approach.

Beautiful Villages in Annapurna Circuit Route

Besides Thorang La Pass, this trekking trail is comprised of multiple Gurung and Tamang villages. Meaning, you can immerse yourself into their daily activities and learn about the lifestyle of the people in this part of Nepal.

You’d be mesmerized by seeing the local beauty of Taal and Timang villages. In fact, you can even visit the Bhratang Apple Orchard to try the local apples here.

Also, there are cafes around this part of the trail, which makes it a perfect resting point.

Moreover, the Annapurna Circuit also features Ghyaru and Nagwal villages, where you get a glimpse of the lifestyle of the old Tibetan communities too.

In fact, your acclimatization day in the Manang Village shall be even more fruitful as you can visit a number of monasteries of the region here.

During the Annapurna Circuit hike, you’ll also be passing by the Tenki, Marsyangdi, and Jarsang Khola valleys. The scenery and forest trail are a perfect way to immerse yourself in nature.

Lastly, when you’re driving towards Tatopani, you can stop at Marpha Village to try the famous ‘apple brandy’. Don’t forget to take some home too!

A Visit to the Most Popular Destination Mustang

Nepal doesn’t have any deserts, but the dry landscapes of Mustang are what make this destination a remarkably popular spot among locals as well as tourists.

It’s just a different vibe when you reach there.

Mustang is also home to tons of Buddhist monasteries and Hindu Temples. The most holy and sacred temples are the Muktinath Temple (3,760 m) and Jwala Mai Temple.

When you’re in the Muktinath Temple, don’t forget to bathe in the 108 water taps. And in Jwala Mai Temple, you can see the natural eternal flame.

Picturesque Spot in Poon Hill Viewpoint

During your final days of the 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, you’ll be treated with one of the best sunrises ever. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Mount Fishtail might be farther than other parts of the trail, but the panoramic view of these mountains is too good!

It’s situated at 3,210 m, and if you’re in the appropriate Spring Season, there are high chances you’ll get to see the rhododendron forest during the trail from Ghorepani to Poon Hilll.

And when you’re in this part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, don’t forget to socialize with the Magar communities of Shikha and Chitre villages.

Few Other Natural Attractions in Annapurna Circuit

That’s not just about it. The Annpurna region is home to even more natural and artificial attractions. 

In this travel package, you’ll even get to visit Dhikur Pokhari, a pond that offers a picturesque spot. And even Braga Gompa, which is a traditional Buddhist monastery that is almost 600 years old!

Don’t forget to get to Ice Lake (Kicho Tal), which is situated at 4,600m. For that, you have to hike extra on the fifth day of the trek.

And one of the favorites is the relaxing dip at Tatopani Hot Springs. It would be a perfect way to end this Annapurna trek.

If you customize your trip with Mount Glory, we can even help you visit the very religious Tilicho Lake, the Gurung community of Ghandruk Village, and explore more of the Mustang region. These include getting into Kagbeni, Lo Manthang, and many more spots!

12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost Breakdown in 2025

Mount Glory has the best budget price to offer our international guests for not just the Annapurna Circuit trek but also others. The current price we’ve set is USD1090 per person.

But if you’re coming with your partner, friends, or family, we have a special discount policy too. For couples, US$970 on a per-person basis, a further $60 discount (USD910) if you’re with 3-5 people, USD850 for 6-9 pax, and the best of all is for 10 or more people (USD790).

However, as we have mentioned earlier, you can even customize this Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal as per your liking and hiking capability. So, your price can vary if you go for a customized/private trip.

Still confused? Here’s our Whatsapp number—+977 9849856378. Message us for further inquiries. We are ready to serve our guests in the best way possible.

For more details of the cost breakdown for the 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek in 2025, please follow the below group discount table.

No of PaxCost Per Person
1-1USD 1090
2-3USD 970
4-6USD 910
7-9USD 850
10-12USD 790

Note: If travelers are more than 12 in a group, please contact our operation team for a special group discount.

Itinerary

You’ll wake up from your Kathmandu hotel and finalize your packing for the thrilling 12-day Annapurna Circuit adventure. We’ll be there to guide you on what to carry and what not to.

Then, we have our breakfast together and you’ll hop onto one of the tourist buses that leaves Kathmandu to Besisahar. We’ll let you know the bus timing once we can meet in person.

Besisahar is basically Lamjung’s district headquarters and it takes about 8-9 hours to reach there. While traffic congestion and bumpy roads are going to trouble you, the scenic view of the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers is going to accompany you throughout the trip.

The bus shall stop at Dumre, Tanahun for lunch before continuing onwards to Besisahar. Make sure you click tons of pictures from the first day itself.

Once you’re here, don’t forget to roam around the small town before heading on to a good night’s sleep in one of the hotels.

 

  • Max. Altitude:1400 m to 760 m
  • Time:8-9 Hours Drive/180km
  • Accommodation:Standard Guest House
  • Meals:Lunch & Dinner

No, we’re not going to start our hike on this day as well. We’re still far from reaching the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Early morning, you’re going to hop onto a jeep (sharing basis) and continue towards the headquarters of the Manang district, Chame. It’s really a beautiful village, but the path is still unpaved and bumpy.

Most of the places in Nepal have such a rugged terrain. Yet, in this journey, the views of the nearby mountains (Manaslu, Lamjung, and Annapurna range) shall mesmerize you.

You’ll also be greeted by other wonderful local villages, like Bhulbhule, Syange, Jagat, Chamje, Taal, Dharapani, and Timang.

Once you’re in Chame, don’t hesitate to go out for a walk even though we know you’re so tired. Make sure to wave your hi’s and bye’s to the villagers–it gives you peace!

The good thing is that you’ve reached the Annapurna circuit trek’s starting point. So, after a healthy dinner, sleep tight!

 

  • Max. Altitude:2,650 m
  • Time:5-6 Hours Drive/70km
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The morning in Chame is another highlight of this Annapurna Circuit Trek. You’re at 2,650 m altitude already, which means the mountains appear very close to you.

After breakfast with Annapurna II, IV, and the Lamjung Himal views, our trek begins from Chame by first crossing the Marsyangdi River suspension bridge

You’ll be walking alongside the river bank while appreciating the beauty of Pangdidanda and Swargadwari hills.

Your first stop is going to be at Bhratang, a place that has an apple orchard and there are even some cafes. Take a sip of your favorite coffee before moving ahead.

Continue your way towards Dhikur Lake (locals call them Dhikur Pokhari). From here, the views of Pisang Peak, Chulu Peak, and Tilicho Peak are also seen beside the earlier mountains.

After pushing for another couple of hours, you’ll reach today’s destination—Upper Pissang. Here, Mount Glory representatives shall help you with your favorite dinner and you’ll spend the night in one of the tea houses.

  • Max. Altitude:3,300 m
  • Time:5-6 Hours/14km
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Just like the earlier days, you’re going to wake up early and start the hike immediately. The first part of the trail is one of the hardest in the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

But once you’re in Ghyaru, the stunning views of the entire Annapurna Range (I to IV), along with Khangsarkan, Gangaprana, Glacier Dome, and Lamjung make it worthwhile.

Slowly, you’ll ascend towards Nagwal, and the forests of pines and rhododendrons start fading to barren and arid dry terrain. Meaning, that you’re now moving toward high altitude and the risk of altitude sickness arises. Keep proper care of your health from now onward. 

After the final stretch towards Manang Village, you’ll even get to visit one of the largest monasteries, Braga Gompa. Here, you’ll get the opportunity to learn about the Buddhist culture in detail, and also immerse yourself in Tibetan lifestyle.

Soon enough, you’ll reach the small town of Manang, which truly depicts the entire district in one spot. This is exactly where we are going to spend two nights.

  • Max. Altitude:3,519 m
  • Time:6-7 Hours /15km
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After two days of drive and two days of hike, your body has probably started aching a bit. Also, we’re now at 3,519 m, a high-altitude region with a risk of altitude sickness.

Keeping both these things in mind, we are not moving ahead now. It’s essential that you are properly acclimatized before climbing even further.

Appreciate the beauty of nature on this fifth day as you’ll be able to see Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu peaks much closer compared to the previous days.

That being said, you can take as much nap as you want. Stay in the hotel if you feel comfortable and want proper rest for the entire day.

Otherwise, take this day to explore the beautiful Manang village. Meet locals, try local foods, try to speak a few Tibetan and Nepali words, and play with the children there. This is a day you’ll remember the most from your Annapurna Circuit day for sure.

In fact, you can even pay a visit to nearby attractions. Mount Glory recommends going to the Himalayan Rescue Association in the Vraj Valley and Ice Lake (at 4600 m). And don’t forget about Tarke Kang Hongdae village.

Make sure to return to the hotel fast and have a healthy dinner before going to sleep as our walk continues tomorrow.

 

  • Max. Altitude:3,519 m
  • Time:2-3 Hours/3km
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Mount Glory loves to call this day the ‘valley day’ because you’ll be exploring multiple valleys. Tenki Valley, Masryangdi Valley, and Jarsang Khola Valley make this the heart of the Annapurna circuit.

Notice the name ‘Yak Kharka’? It’s named that because yaks graze in this area. So, expect to see plenty of yaks and mules this day.

Besides those pastures, you’d even be passing through the juniper forests in the beginning. Once you reach Gansang village, the muddy roofs of the villages shall definitely astonish you. 

It’s indeed a tough climb accompanied by beautiful scenery and a perfect day for trekkers. At the end of the day, you’ll reach Yak Kharka.

The local Dal Bhat here might not seem the best compared to the previous days. But at such a high altitude, its taste goes beyond our words!

After your delicious dinner, make sure to take a proper rest as there’s a challenging day ahead.

 

  • Max. Altitude:4,010 m
  • Time:5 Hours /9km
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is going to feature a short walk yet have majestic views of Annapurna II, II, and IV, Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak, and Mt. Khatungkan.

You’ll be passing alongside the much clearer Masyangi River with yaks and blue sheep grazing on the other side of the pasture land.

Our first stop is going to be Ledar Village. After a heartful Dal Bhat, we move forward.

Keep in mind that the air becomes much thinner now as we keep ascending to higher altitudes. In case you feel any sort of difficulties, Mount Glory highly suggests you inform your assigned guide.

A good idea to fight altitude sickness is to keep chewing cloves and garlic slices during your hike. Don’t worry too much and keep your mentality strong!

With this, you’ll reach Phedi, which translates to ‘base’. Basically, Thorang Phedi serves as the ‘base camp’ for the very popular Thorang La Pass.

Your stay will be in Phedi for tonight. Make sure to drink hot fluids and water-rich dinner this day.

 

  • Max. Altitude:4,600 m
  • Time:4-5 Hours/9km
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Sleeping at an altitude of 4,600 m is not a joke. You are seriously at risk and if you were able to spend the night well the earlier day, you’re going to have a brilliant start to the eighth day.

We’ve had cases of people descending at night, which is why Mount Glory wants you to understand the risks via such guides. Now that you’ve got to know that the seventh and eighth day has the highest risk, we hope you get mentally prepared.

Today, we are still going to gain an altitude of 800 m. So, we highly recommend having a heavy breakfast (with oxygen-rich food).

Make sure to keep track of your temperature as well as oxygen level when hiking up. 

After a few hours of walking, you should reach Thorang La Pass, which is the highlight of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. And like we have repeated it many times—the highest point of the trip at 5,416 m.

But your trek isn’t yet over. Take as many photos and videos with the Annapurna range, Throng Peak, Dhaulagiri range, Nilgiris, and other visible mountains.

Then, march forward towards the second-largest Hindu temple, Muktinath (3,760 m). It’s mostly descend, and even if you were facing a problem before, the risk is reduced now.

Don’t forget to get into the premises of the temple to see people taking a bath while running at Chumig Gyatsa (aka Hundred Waters with 108 taps). There are other temples and Buddhist monasteries worth looking too.

Note that the peaceful trail has now led to a slightly more crowded area as hundreds of pilgrims visit Muktinath every day.

You’ll be staying at one of the hotels in Muktinath and enjoying one of the most delicious types of Dal Bhat called Thakali Set.

 

  • Max. Altitude:4,600 m to 5,416 m to 3,760 m
  • Time:9-10 Hours/9km
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The last day was a heck of a hike, right? The first phase of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is over!

While it’s a good idea to take a rest this day, Mount Glory rather recommends speeding up and getting to Tatopani this day. This is because there’s still a second phase of the trek, which is very short.

With that in mind, we are going to catch a local bus or we can arrange a jeep on a shared basis to take you first to Jomsom. Here, you can explore the Tibetan and Thakali culture for a while.

Then, we continue on the jeep/bus exploring the Mustang district of Nepal, which is quite popular even among the Nepalese community.

The road starts getting bumpy after Marpha as we pass through some of the deepest gorges (not just in the country but the entire world!). From here, the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains look fantabulous, though. You can even stop at Marpha to taste wine, which is pretty famous there.

Once you reach Tatopani, you can take a dip in the natural hot springs. That’s exactly why the place got its name. Don’t forget to explore the Khingar and Jharkot architectures too.

You’ll have a much more relaxing time once you reach here and you’ll thank Mount Glory for this amazing tip instead of wasting time in Mustang.

 

  • Max. Altitude:3,760 m to 650 m
  • Time:7-8 Hours Drive/80km
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The morning will be a little different than the other days. You’ll be waking up to a completely different view.

After breakfast like all days, you’ll be starting the hike from Tatopani and you’ll soon leave the Kali Gandaki River as moving forward.

Accompanied by the terraced farmland with mountains all around, you’ll soon reach Ghar Khola Valley. Here, you can communicate with the Shikha and Chitre community, who are equally amazing.

After learning about their culture and good food in one of the eateries, we pass through the rhododendron forest. If you’re here in the spring season, you’d be mesmerized seeing the pink and red flowers blooming like never before!

Not just Rhododendrons, you’ll also find birch and magnolia. You’ll also meet a lot of other trekkers on this route to Ghorepani (considering it is very popular in Nepal).

While communicating with your new friends, you’ll reach Ghorepani, where you’ll be spending this day’s night.

 

  • Max. Altitude:2,850 m
  • Time:6-7 Hours /13km
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This is your final day of the trek and will also reach another highlight of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, i.e. Poon Hill (3,210 m). The best thing about this fantastic hill station of Myagdi is that it provides you with a mesmerizing view of the snow-capped Annapurna range.

We will be hiking early morning from Ghorepani to Poon Hill to watch the sunrise. Since this is the final landmark we’re going to be at, don’t forget to take snaps.

Then, we’re going to have breakfast here before continuing onward towards Birethanti (1,025 m). That’s it! Your Annapurna Circuit Trek has been completed.

From Birethanti, we take a jeep and drive to Pokhara via Naya Pool. It’s going to be a 42 km ride and will be completed within 2-3 hours. By the evening time, you’ll reach the tourism capital of Nepal.

Note that many trekkers wish to extend their journey towards Tadapani and even Annapurna Base Camp. However, that requires a separate package or you need to plan that in your customized itinerary. We’ll get to that soon!

Once you’re in Pokhara, you can choose a desired hotel for the night stay. A luxury stay would be perfect for you considering you’ve travelled so much.

You can take a tour of Lakeside, Pokhara, which is a tourist hub itself. Go to bars and enjoy some music before heading to sleep.

  • Max. Altitude:2,850 m to 3,210 m to 900 m
  • Time:3 Hours Hike/3 Hours Drive
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This is the final trip of the Annapurna Circuit Trek package. You’ll be waking up early, have a light breakfast, and hop onto one of the tourist buses.

You’ll return via the Prithvi Highway, and once you reach Dumre, you’ll have the flashback of going to Beshisahar. Don’t worry! Our Mount Glory representatives shall remind you then. You’ll know that you’ve completed a full circuit.

Now, with the Trishuli River by your side, you’ll reach Kathmandu in the next 4-5 hours. We expect to see you in the afternoon and then roam about the capital city for a while.

In the evening, we shall organize a celebration dinner where we’re eager to hear how your trip went.

With that, the package ends here. But if you wish to extend your stay in Nepal, don’t hesitate to communicate with us then or now—whenever you feel comfortable.

Thank You & Namaste!

 

  • Max. Altitude:1400 m
  • Time:7-8 Hours Drive/200km
  • Meals:Breakfast, & Farewell Dinner

Customize Your Annapurna Circuit Trek

Well, the above itinerary isn’t the longest or shortest but is well-suited based on our experience guiding other guests. Many go for it while we’ve also had guests who wanted to shorten up or extend the trek further.

Maybe you’d like to visit the very popular Annapurna Base Camp or extend your way to Tadapani. In fact, some even go to Tilicho Lake during the beginning of the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Literally, there are so many other landmarks that we might have missed in the itinerary above. So, if you have a better idea, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Below, we have two buttons that you can click on. Choose either to customize or create a private plan as per your choice. Fill up the forms and we’ll contact you soon!

 

Route Map

Annapurna Circuit Trek map
What's Included
  • Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private tourist vehicle.
  • 01 Nights Twin sharing 3-Star accommodation in Pokhara twin Sharing.); Breakfast included.
  • All your standard Meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
  • Standard Guest House accommodation while trekking time on a twin-sharing basis.
  • Both-way transportation for Kathmandu-Besisahar-Pokhara-Kathmandu by Bus.
  • Well-English speaking Government License Holder  Experienced Trek leader/Guide.
  • Porters to carry your bags(1 porter for 2 guests).
  • Food, Accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment are for all staff.
  • Free Mount Glory  Duffel, and T-shirt.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permits and TIMS  for trekking.
  • All government, hotel, and other applicable taxes.
  • Farewell Dinner in a typical Nepali Restaurant.
  • Trip Completion Certificate.
  • Official expenses.
What's not Included
  • International Airfare and taxes
  • Travel insurance for emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
  • Nepal entry visa.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu Before and After the Trek.
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Guides tips, porters tips, and driver fares.
  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the 'Price Include' section.

Note: Please bring 2 Passport-size photos, a copy of your passport, and travel insurance at Our First Meeting In Our Office.

Dates & Availability

Select a Departure Month
Starts: SundayMar 30, 2025
Ends: ThursdayApr 10, 2025
PriceUS$970
StatusAvailable

Useful Information

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

Since the Annapurna Circuit Trek involves circling the tenth-highest mountain, Annapurna I (8,091 m) along with other nearby mountains and peaks, you can expect it to be challenging.

Based on our experiences of guiding thousands of tourists, Mount Glory labels the Annapurna Circuit trek’s difficulty level as ‘strenuous’. Allow us to explain why this is so.

Firstly, the highest point of the trek is Thorang La Pass (5,416). That’s almost equivalent to a peak, and once you’re here, you feel as if you’ve climbed a mountain!

Not just that. You’d be sleeping in the high-altitude region of Thorang Phedi too (4,600 m). Considering these, the risk of altitude sickness in this trek is extremely high.

Besides high altitude, getting to the destination is itself a challenge. Rugged terrains, steep inclines, and relatively longer walking distance are the other factors too.

The question stands—are you physically fit enough to do this trek then? Unlike other normal treks, you have to walk nearly 9-10 hours in some of the days to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Considering you have knee pains, backache issues, or other significant health problems, the trek can be a challenge for you. Note that 12 days in a rural region isn’t a joke. You won’t have all those facilities that you enjoy as a city dweller.

While we’re not discouraging you from doing the trek, it’s still essential that you keep your mentality strong throughout your journey. You should be able to keep up with the locals while also respecting their values and norms.

Since you’re here reading about a strenuous trek, we hope you can do it. Nonetheless, there are still other natural problems, like frequent landslides, unpredictable weather, cold temperatures, etc. that can pose other kinds of difficulties.

Best Time to Trek Annapurna Circuit

To tackle the Annapurna Circuit Trek challenges, one thing you can do from your side is to come to Nepal in the appropriate season. This is indeed really important!

Let’s first get into the basics of the seasons in Nepal:

  • Spring/Summer Season: March through May
  • Summer/Monsoon Season: June through Mid-September
  • Autumn Season: Late September through Early December
  • Winter Season: Mid-December through February

Spring/summer is one of the best seasons to do the Annapurna Circuit Hike. You can expect rhododendrons to bloom during this time.

Summer/Monsoon is a big no-no! The fear of leeches, frequent landslides, downpours, no significant mountain view, and slippy trails are the reasons you should avoid this season at all costs.

Autumn is one of Mount Glory’s favorite seasons. The weather is perfect, the views are perfect, the temperature is perfect—overall the trip becomes perfect!

The winter season can be a great pick too. However, the cold temperature and snowy path can make it difficult for you to do the excursion. Yet, the views are majestic!

Permits Required for Annapurna Circuit Trek

While permits are not a challenge to get, it’s still a headache for everyone to wait in the queue and understand the basic policies. You’re here to have fun and gather memories rather than managing these kinds of permits yourself.

Considering this, the government of Nepal requests tourists to choose a trustworthy trekking agency, just like Mount Glory. No matter what agency you choose, they’re going to help you get the permits.

Yet, you should be aware of what you’re paying for. You have to know that you’re not being scammed in this part of the world.

That’s also the reason we have presented this informative guide so that you can have all the knowledge of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail. Note that we do this on all of our packages.

As the Trek to Annapurna Circuit lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area, there are two permits required. Let us break them down for you with their respective costs:

PermitNationalityTotal Cost
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP)

Nepalese

SAARC

Other Countries

NPR 100

NPR 1000

NPR 3000

Trekkers Information Management System(TIMS)

SAARC

Other Countries

NPR 1000

NPR 2000

Packing List For Annapurna Circuit Trek

Since the Annapurna Circuit Trek takes 12 days (excluding your arrival and departure), you probably have tons of questions in your mind regarding the things to carry.

Of course, you have to carry both summer and winter clothes. Your shorts and T-shirts come in handy during the lower parts of the trek while the winter ones are needed in the higher altitude Annapurna region.

But that doesn’t mean you just wear any type of clothing and start the hike. If you wear a high-neck or a woolen sweatshirt, your experience is going to turn bad. While these are still great options during your stay in the tea houses, kindly don’t wear them when walking.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, we’ve prepared a packing list for the Classical Annapurna Circuit trek that you’d love to take a peek at:

  • Passport & visa: Valid for at least 30 days
  • Insurance and Emergency: Should include the one that covers your health issues, injuries/accidents, air ambulance, helicopter rescue, and personal treatment costs
  • All the necessary permits that we mentioned earlier
  • Photos and Identifications
  • Copies and backups of your documents
  • Nepali cash
  • Headgear: Wide-brimmed hat, Sun Cap, Woolen Cap, etc.
  • Body gear: Categorize based on base-mid-outer layer (thermals, jackets, sweaters, t-shirts, raincoats)
  • Handwear: Inner and outer gloves
  • Footwear: Trekking boots, Trekking Socks, Gaiters, Rain Shoe Covers, etc.
  • Innerwear: Undergarments and sports bras (based on gender)
  • Backpacks: Trekking bags, duffle bags, zip-lock bags, garbage bags, etc.
  • Hiking Essentials: Trekking poles, Water bottles, Crampons, Swiss Army knives, etc.
  • Navigation & Communication: Guidebook, Map, Local SIM cards, etc.
  • Toiletries & Personal Hygiene: Sunscreen, Lipbalm, Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Moisturizing cream, Deodorants, Tissue papers, Wet tissues, Makeup items, etc.
  • First Aid Kit With Medicines: Antibiotics, painkillers, Pain relief sprays, Adhesive bandages, personal medical prescription (important), etc.
  • Food and snacks: Protein/energy bars, Dried fruits and nuts, Biscuits, Garlic and cloves, etc.
  • Electronics and Accessories: Your smartphone, cameras, earphones, power bank, solar charger, Headlamp, extra batteries, etc.
  • Optional Comfort Items: Sewing set, Small padlocks, Sunglasses, Purse, etc.

While the list seems long, it’s not a compulsion that you carry every item here. These are just basic ideas on what you might need.

You may compare each item when you’re shopping and bring those that are the most comfortable for you.

Remember that you’re going to a remote part of Nepal and there won’t be shops nearby to buy those items. You can still stop in Kathmandu or even rent some of the things mentioned for your ease. Mount Glory shall help you in this activity for sure!

Try going for a 60-80L backpack as the Annapurna Circuit is a long-distance trek. You can leave your non-essentials in Kathmandu itself. And for the other bags, you can hire a porter. We’ll help you with that as well!

In case you didn’t find an item on the list and are confused about whether or not to carry it, don’t hesitate to message us directly.

Accommodation and Food During the Trek

If you read the entire story that we put up in the itinerary section, you’re probably already aware that the Annapurna Circuit trek features a few hotels, lodges, guest houses, and mostly tea houses.

For beginners, adapting to these tea house stays is yet another challenge. Sometimes, you need to share your rooms with strangers and even seeking private ones for yourself comes at a cost.

Not to forget that most parts of the hotels in the Annapurna region feature a single toilet for the entire tea house. So, you’ll have to wait for your turn to do your morning duties.

While accommodation might not be the most comforting part of the journey, the food in every part is the best. Maybe not in terms of taste, but in terms of nutrition, these local foods are exactly what you need to get the required energy.

Of course, you can carry your own snacks. But how long will they last and how healthy shall they be? And they even add to your backpack weight.

So, relying on these Nepalese foods isn’t just an obligation but best for your health too:

  • Dal Bhat Tarkari: Cooked rice with lentils, a variety of veggies, and pickles (can be served with meat too)
  • Thakali Set: While Dal Bhat Tarkati is mostly in rural areas, Thakali is popular in the Mustang district (after you reach Muktinath).
  • Momos: Not abundantly found in the rural region of the trek, but mostly available in the town sections.
  • Tibetan bread: Served mostly at breakfast
  • Toast with Butter/Jam: Available in the ‘bazaar’ (town) areas of the trek
  • Thukpa: A special type of Tibetan noodles served with soup 
  • Water: Available from streams and rivers without filtration. So, carry your own purifying tablets!
  • Tea and Coffee: Tea is available in all regions of the Annapurna Conservation Area, but coffee might be limited
  • Soft drinks and juices: Not readily available in the rural region, but easily available in the towns
  • Other available food: Porridge, Chapati, Muesli, Yak Meat, etc. 
  • Some sections of the trek also feature Western food (mostly in the town section, like burgers, pizzas, etc.)

Note that the Whole Annapurna Circuit Trekking Route is even applicable to vegetarians. All you have to do is inform the kitchen section that you do not want meat in your diet.

Challenges in the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Besides the Annapurna Circuit trek being strenuous, other challenges can make you feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to worry about this anymore!

Choosing Mount Glory Trek as your travel partner has tons of benefits and we also promise to help you overcome those challenges personally. That’s the reason we make you meet professional guides and hire trustworthy porters for you.

Here are some more challenges that you need to learn about:

  • While solo trekking is possible in the Annapurna region, you should still be aware of altitude sickness and other unexpected difficulties that can arise during your journey.
  • People in Nepal are known for being very hospitable, but there can still be scammers. That’s the reason you should consult your guide before doing anything.
  • Water purification isn’t possible in such a rural region of the country. So, you’re at risk of water-borne diseases if you don’t carry the purification tablets.
  • First aid and basic health services are also hard to get. So, if you have a significant health problem, that’s another challenge!
  • Since Annapurna Circuit trekking is mostly in the higher altitude regions, you might need to revert to lower altitudes in case you suffer from altitude sickness.
  • If you have a certain diet, you’ll have to adjust that based on the food available in the Annapurna region.
  • Especially, during the monsoon season, the trek can get even more difficult. So, you have to have both a physically and mentally strong attitude.
  • Electricity, Wi-Fi, and even charging facilities are limited.
  • You’ll have to adapt yourself to no-shower for more than 4-5 days. In fact, some only dip right into the Tatopani spring on the ninth day.
  • Proper communication with locals is also hard as they can hardly speak basic English.
  • Limited ATMs, so you’ll have to arrange Nepali cash beforehand.

Essential Tips For Annapurna Circuit Trek

Mount Glory always believes that no matter what the challenge is, with proper tips and tricks, we can easily tackle them. And this goes out, especially to our international guests planning this Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal.

Make sure you read this list thoroughly so that you can prepare for this trek accordingly:

  • Do not make your backpack overweight. It’s hard to carry and can lead to shoulder and back pains.
  • Don’t hesitate to hire porters even if it costs extra. Your 12-day journey becomes much easier with them.
  • Learn to speak basic Nepali. For example, Namaste means respectfully saying hello. Similarly, ‘dai’ refers to the elder brother ‘bhai’ to the small brother, ‘didi’ refers to the elder sister, and ‘bahini’ to the small sister.
  • Watch actual YouTube videos to learn where the maximum risks are. Mount Glory will soon feature a dedicated vlog on Annapurna Circuit. So, stay tuned!
  • Don’t forget to check your bags multiple times before leaving a tea house. Since we won’t make a return there, you might miss out on your essentials.
  • If you’re planning to film or document, make sure you have appropriate permits. We’ll help you with that once we meet in person.
  • Keep copies of every document. You never know when you’ll need them. 
  • And most importantly, carry them with you at all times.
  • Don’t hesitate to complain to the guide about anything you’re not satisfied with. They’ll prioritize you more than others.
  • Don’t litter around or ask for additional discounts, especially when you’re in the rural region. Those villagers are already earning less and might not feel satisfied if you start negotiating in a bad way.
  • Don’t take anything from the Annapurna Conservation Area as you might even be penalized.
  • Don’t go to the restricted region unless you are permitted to. 
  • Start your physical exercises from today itself. Try climbing stairs with a heavy backpack to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
  • Even if you have some underlying health issues, inform the guides and our head office beforehand.

These are just basic ones. Mount Glory promises you that the guide we assign you shall help you throughout your Annapurna Circuit trekking journey.

Post-Trek Activities

As soon as you reach Kathmandu, don’t forget to take the certificate of trekking completion. After all, you’d have completed one of the most strenuous climbs in the Himalayas of Nepal, and you truly deserve this token of love.

But what next? Should you leave the country immediately? Definitely not.

Mount Glory rather recommends you be informed about our other packages, which are both budget-friendly and let you explore the culture of Nepal even better.

You can even expect to celebrate a major Nepali festival as soon as you complete your Annapurna Circuit trekking. You can indulge yourself in the jatras when you’re in Kathmandu.

Or, you could very well extend your trip when you’re in Pokhara. The city has a lot to offer and here’s a luxury Pokhara with Chitwan package that you can check out.

But if you want to prioritize rest, staying in Kathmandu and trying out these cafes/restaurants wouldn’t be a bad idea either.

Booking and Payment Process

Even if you don’t use WhatsApp, that’s not a big deal. You can send us an inquiry. All you have to do is fill out our name and other details with the message you wish to send us. We’ll contact you via e-mail then.

If you’re all set and have no hesitation regarding our services, hit the Reserve Now button that you’re seeing on the right part of the screen.

Fill out every field in the provided form as we shall be starting your trekking process as soon as we receive your details. Of course, we’ll come in contact with you first in case there are any mistakes, just in case.

One important thing to keep in mind during our booking process is that you must pay at least 20% of the total amount. We really hope you understand that we have to work with professional guides, manage permits, and other hotel stays for your trip.

So, without actual proper confirmation, we won’t be able to proceed further. Don’t hassle with the remaining amount. You can come to visit us at our office once you’re in Nepal and we shall talk further.

Also, kindly don’t seek cancellation during the final days of your trek. We do not have a proper refund policy, and anyway, the process would have started. So, please only book if you’re 100% sure about the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Tipping Culture

Besides the package amount, there’s one important thing you need to know when you’re doing the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Ever since international guests have come for trekking or mountaineering, they have made a culture of tipping the most needy people out in the rural areas. Out of them all, porters are kept as the priority.

When you’re trekking in the Annapurna region, you’ll learn about this even more. You’ll see their struggle in those rugged terrain and steep climbs, they carry more than 15 kg with the support of their head.

You’ll learn to appreciate their effort and the feeling of tipping them comes naturally. So, Mount Glory just wants you to be prepared for the tipping as you’ll need to carry more cash than the budget you have planned.

Annapurna Circuit Trek FAQs

  • You need to pass through the deepest gorges in the world and also trek to a high-altitude region above 5000 m. So, the Annapurna Circuit trek is indeed dangerous. But with the assistance of a professional guide and the hospitable people in the region, you’ll remain safe throughout the journey.

  • Yes, many women have been doing the Annapurna circuit trek. So, you won’t be alone along the trail!

  • Most trekkers prefer no showers due to the cold region of the Himalayas. However, if you pay extra, the tea house can arrange you with a private shower for sure.

  • Annapurna Circuit Trek is more popular and also has a more established route than the remote and restricted Manaslu Circuit Trek. So, Annapurna Circuit Trek would be better if you prioritize safety and Manaslu Circuit Trek would be better if you prioritize less crowd.

  • The success rate of the Annapurna Circuit trek is 98% to 100%. And if you choose Mount Glory as your trekking agency, we personally have a success rate of 100%!

  • The Annapurna circuit trek will be done in the Annapurna Conservation area. So, expect to see 1,352 species of plants, 128 wild mammals, 514 birds, 348 butterflies, 40 reptiles and 23 amphibians. These include Yaks, Blue Sheep, Himalayan Tahr, Langur monkeys, Himalayan black bears, Musk deer, snow leopards, etc.

  • Depending on the itinerary, the total distance of the Annapurna Circuit trek will differ. Our 12-day itinerary covers 77 km of walking distance (excluding any bus/jeep ride in between).

     

  • Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is possible without a guide. However, it’s still essential that you take proper precautions during the trek and stay informed and connected with your travel agency.

  • The temperature in the Annapurna region differs based on the season and timing of the day. During spring, summer, and autumn, expect the day temperature to be between 10°C to 20°C, and night temperature can reach up to 5 degrees or even below. In Winter, the maximum temperature the region experiences is about 10°C during the daytime. Otherwise, the temperature usually stays below the 5-degree mark and even sometimes goes below 0°C.

  • The Annapurna circuit trek is a long-distance trekking trail that circles the Annapurna massif. It offers diverse landscapes, ranging from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and high mountain passes.

  • The Annapurna circuit is approximately 160km-230km long, depending on the exact trail taken. The trek typically takes 12-14 days to complete.

     

  • The best times to trek are during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These periods offer stable weather and clear views.

     

  • Yes, you need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

     

  • The trek is considered moderately difficult. It requires good physical fitness due to long walking hours and high altitudes, particularly when crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters).

     

  • While it’s not mandatory, hiring a guide or porter can enhance your experience. They can provide local insights, assist with navigation, and help carry your luggage.

     

  • Mobile network coverage is available in many parts of the trek, but it can be inconsistent. Ncell and NTC (Nepal Telecom) SIM cards work in most areas.

     

  • Yes, all are available in the Annapurna region, especially at local tea houses. Although facilities may vary, WiFi is available but you have to pay the extra cost, and charging facilities are available but you should carry portable chargers or power banks as a backup.

Clients Reviews

  • rating starAnnapurna Circuit Trek In 2022

    Annapurna Circuit Trek is the best trek to date. Mount Glory Treks also provides the best service. Each member of the team was so kind, and knowledgeable, and went the extra mile to assist every one of us. Thank you for such an amazing experience!!!!

    B
    Baslina zipreySwitzerland,September 20, 2022
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