Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days
Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days

Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days

Tour Info

Trip code

E0012

Starting Point/ End Point

Kathmandu

Accommodations

Lodge tea house

Max Altitude

5,416 m (Thorong La Pass)

Duration

14 days

country

Trip grade

Challenging

Best Season

March - May , September - November

Highlights

  • Cross the famous pass of Thorong La Pass (5416m) which is one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
  • Relish the spectacular view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak and other mountains of the Himalayas.
  • Cross through magnificent forests, rivers, waterfalls and alpine landscapes.
  • Try the people and their customs of Gurung, Manangi and Thakali communities.
  • Visit the traditional villages of Chame, Pisang, Manang and Jomsom.
  • Take a day of acclimatization in Manang in preparation for higher altitudes.
  • Visit the sacred temple of Muktinath which is an important pilgrimage site for both the Hindus and the Buddhists.
  • Enjoy any shift of landscapes from natural jungles to the drier Himalayan region.
  • Fly nice with scenic views from Jomsom airport to Pokhara.
  • Go through one of the famous trekking routes of Nepal.

Overview

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is among Nepal's key tourist trekking routes that take you across high passes of the Himalayas, beautiful mountain landscapes, traditional villages and forests. On this trip of 14 days you will enjoy changing weather conditions and landscapes: From a green river country through dry alpine country with spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges!

The best part of the hike is the famous Thorong La Pass at the height of 5,416m, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. On the route will pass through the beautiful villages of Chame, Pisang, Manang, and Muktinath, where you can enjoy the culture and hospitality of the locals. It is possible to have an unforgettable trip in the Himalayas if one has a good health and spirit of adventure and plans the trip accordingly and acclimatizes properly.

Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and trek briefing & welcome Dinner

Once you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted and driven to Kathmandu's hotel. Upon arrival you can rest after checking in or wander the area of Thamel where you will find shops, cafés and trekking gear stores. You will meet your trekking guide in the evening where you will get an in-depth briefing on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Your guide will clarify the adventure plan, inspect equipment, and answer any questions before you start off. Later, you can meet the trekking group and get to know each other at a traditional welcome dinner and get ready with exciting days ahead.

  • Max Elevation: 1,400 meters (4,593 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 20 to 30 minutes drive
  • Accommodation: 3-star standard hotel
  • Meal: Welcome Dinner 

 

Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani

The trip starts from Kathmandu to Dharapani, where the shortest route is via a scenic drive. There is also an Annapurna Conservation Area checkpoint at Dharapani which you have to traverse across before continuing the journey. The road traverses winding mountain-highways. The road is good from Kathmandu to Lamjung Besi City, after which you traverse across offroad ground. Then you go across rivers, terraced farms, villages, and tradition-conscious villages. Scenery slowly shifts from the hustle and bustle of the city to lush hills, waterfalls, and beautiful mountain scenes as you leave the city. This journey also takes you along the Marsyangdi river with beauties in each and every mile. You then reach the serene village of Dharapani, at the beginning of your hike. It's here you will do some napping and enjoy the fresh mountain air and get ready for the first day of trekking.

  • Max Elevation: 1,960 meters (6,430 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 230 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 8 to 10 hours drive
  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge/teahouse
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

 

Day 3 : Trek to Chame

Today you are going to start on your adventure as you journey along the Marsyangdi River, passing through beautiful pine and fir forests. As the path rises gradually, you will interact with traditional villages, wooden bridges, waterfalls, and narrow valleys. On the way, you will appreciate the serenity of the mountain and get to know the daily lives of communities along the route. The views are even more impressive the closer you get to Chame. The views become even more impressive as you get closer to Chame, the biggest town and headquarters of Manang District. Beautiful view of the surrounding hills with Lamjung Himal,Manaslu & Annapurna II on days of clear weather. Chame is a beautiful mountain village surrounded by forests and snowy mountains. It is a great place to rest before continuing your trek.

  • Max Elevation: 2,670 meters (8,760 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours trek
  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge/teahouse
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 4 : Trek to Pisang

From Chame, today's hike winds through beautiful pine forests and narrow valleys alongside the Marsyangdi River. Along the way, you will pass through Bhratang, home to one of the biggest apple farms in the region, before continuing towards the next destination. From time to time you'll be crossing various suspension bridges and passing small villages clinging to the large cliffs. Streaming in high elevation, the valley widens and the view opens. On the way you may be able to see Pisang Peak and Annapurna II, one of the most beautiful peaks in the Annapurna region. In the afternoon you hike into Upper Pisang, the local mountain village where one can get a lovely Himalayan view, visit an old traditional monastery, and are surrounded by tranquil people. There you can get a further glimpse up the valley of Annapurna IV and Pisang Peak to one side from the village, which is another of the beautiful features of this ascent.

  • Max Elevation: 3,300 meters (10,827 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours trek
  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge/teahouse
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 : Trek to Ngawol

The trail follows the upper route to Ngawal, one of the most scenic sections of the Annapurna Circuit. It climbs gradually above the valley, offering wide views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. En route to Ngawal, you will pass through traditional villages, chortens, prayer flags, and ancient monasteries that reflect the rich Buddhist heritage of the region. After reaching Ngawal, you will have lunch and then take a short afternoon hike uphill to a nearby stupa, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and beautiful mountain views. The scenery thereafter is truly spectacular with a view of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak and the lovely Manang Valley on clear days. On arriving at Ngawal, visitors will enjoy the tranquil setting of this traditional village and take in the panoramic Himalayan views.

  • Max Elevation: 3,660 meters (12,008 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 11 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours trek
  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge/teahouse
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

 

Day 6 : Trek to Manang

This is a shorter and gentler hike today reaching the picturesque village of Manang. The route runs through backwaters and small settlements, open valleys and dry mountain country, quite different from what is described in the lower stages of the trek. This offers a gorgeous view of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the surrounding snow-capped mountains, along the way. The village of Manang is visible below the majestic Gangapurna glacier en route to Manang. Upon arrival, you've had enough time to see the village, check the bakery or café and get ready for the challenges of the days ahead with the increased elevation.

  • Max Elevation: 3,540 meters (11,614 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 3 to 4 hours trek
  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge/teahouse
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 7 : Acclimatization Day little short hike to up hill and explore Manang village

Before crossing Thorong La Pass, we take an, it is an important acclimatisation day to help your body acclimate before you cross the pass. Unlike the day of rest, you're going to make an easy walk up to one of the nearby viewpoints over Manang. The hike is a great opportunity to enjoy an excellent view of mountains including Gangapurna Glacier, Gangapurna Lake, Annapurna III, Tilicho Peak and the Himalayan scenery. Once you enjoy the scenic view, you resume your trip back to Manang where you spend the rest of the day walking around the village. One can visit the local monasteries, cafés or just go and get lost in the relaxing mountain air. This additional day will help you to enjoy and have a safe trek.

  • Max Elevation: Approximately 4,000 meters (13,123 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 5 kilometers hiking
  • Travel Hours: 3 to 4 hours hike
  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge/teahouse
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 8 : Trek to Yak Kharka

On this day, we take a route which takes you towards Manang, then becomes more of a climb when the trees disappear and the scenery takes on more of an open grassland and rock formation terrain. As you travel, you can see yaks browsing on the slopes of the mountain, hence the name, "Yak Kharka. The walk is very quiet and provides fine vistas of Gangapurna, Chulu Peak and other ranges of the Himalayas. The higher you climb in elevation, the more dramatic the scene will be, and the colder the air will get. At Yak Kharka you can rest and make yourself comfortable in the serene atmosphere, getting ready for the upcoming challenging altitudes.

  • Max Elevation: 4,050 meters (13,287 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 4 to 5 hours trek
  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge/teahouse
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 9: Trek to Thorong phedi

The walk today is shorter to allow more time to acclimatize to the altitude from which you embark on the crossing of Thorong La Pass. The path makes gentle rises in rocky hillsides and alpine zones, and at higher elevations, the plant life is sparse. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the rugged terrain leading to the pass. At Thorong Phedi, the final village prior to Thorong La, you'll find a chance to unwind and gear up for the early morning trek of tomorrow. It is critical to get a good night's sleep here so the second day of the hike is the hardest but most rewarding.

  • Max Elevation: 4,525 meters (14,846 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 7 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 3 to 4 hours trek
  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge/teahouse
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 10: Trek to Muktinath via Thorongla pass (5,416m)

Today is the longest and hardest day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, but it is also one of the most rewarding. Your hike starts at a slow pace in the early morning heading up the trail towards Thorong La Pass, the peak of the trek. The surrounding snow-covered mountains make for an unforgettable Himalayan scene as the sun shines. High vantage point on the pass affords a splendid panoramic view of the Annapurna, Thorung Peak, and the Mustang area, and the terrain starts to become harder going and drier. Arrive at the holy village of Muktinath, which is a most significant pilgrimage for both the Hindu and Buddhist communities, in the afternoon. Come home after a long, but rewarding day and enjoy the reward of crossing one of the highest trekking passes in the world.

  • Max Elevation: 5,416 meters (17,769 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 16 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 7 to 9 hours trek
  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge/teahouse
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Day 11 : Trek to Jomsom

Today's hike is down to the beautiful Kali Gandaki valley, leaving behind Muktinath. It is a very different part of the landscape than the lush woods of the lower Annapurna region with wide valleys, rocky hills and colored cliffs. You will go through the old villages of Kagbeni and Ekle Bhatti where you get a taste of the tradition and culture of the Mustang region. You can enjoy the great views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak and Himalayan landscapes all along the way.The trail then follows the Kali Gandaki River towards the Mustang region, eventually reaching Jomsom, a vibrant mountain town. Jomsom is well known for its strong winds, which usually begin around 10–11 a.m., so arriving earlier is often more comfortable for trekkers. Once there, either do a hike around the town or just enjoy an already fun day on the trail.

  • Max Elevation: 3,760 meters (12,336 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 21 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours trek
  • Accommodation: Mountain lodge/teahouse
  • Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

 

Day 12 : Early morning flight to Pokhara

You have a scenic early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara this morning. At the start of the flight, you can witness the beautiful mountain view of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche and Tukuche. The experience of getting up close and personal with incredible views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, green hills, rivers, and snow mountains is made the most convenient by the short flying time. After reaching Pokhara you will drop in at the hotel and will be free to spend remaining time to enjoy the beautiful city of Pokhara along the lakesides. Some relaxing stroll on the banks of Phewa Lake, browse the local cafés, or just relax at the end of the trekking section of the trip. Nestled among the mountains, Pokhara is a tranquil place with lovely scenery, where you can relax before heading back to Kathmandu.

  • Max Elevation: 2,720 meters (8,924 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 70 kilometers (flight route)
  • Travel Hours: 20 to 25 minutes flight
  • Accommodation: 3-star standard hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast 

 

Day 13 : Drive Back to Kathmandu by tourist Bus

After breakfast, you leave Pokhara and begin your scenic drive back to Kathmandu by the tourist bus. You will take a ride along the Prithvi Highway, passing through rivers, terraced mountains and traditional villages, bringing one final opportunity to get to see the beautiful countryside that makes up Nepal. En route, you'll find local markets, small towns, and green landscapes before making it to the vibrant capital city. In Kathmandu, you can unwind at your hotel, pick up some final items at Thamel or reminisce on the memories of an Annapurna Circuit you'll never forget.

  • Max Elevation: 1,400 meters (4,593 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 200 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 6 to 8 hours drive
  • Accommodation: 3-star standard hotel
  • Meal: Breakfast 
Day 14 : Final Departure

If you have time to unwind before leaving, you can spend it at your hotel or by visiting the local area. Our representative will take you to the Tribhuvan International Airport and help you to take your flight out. Then you leave Nepal behind you filled with cherished memories of the Annapurna Circuit; crossing the iconic Thorong La Pass, exploring traditional mountain villages, hiking through the mountains and enjoying the amazing scenery and hospitality of locals. We hope you have had a wonderful journey and we are looking forward to seeing you again in Nepal in future.

  • Max Elevation: 1,400 meters (4,593 feet)
  • Travel Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers
  • Travel Hours: 20 to 30 minutes drive
  • Meal: Breakfast

Packaging List

Packing the right gear is an important part of preparing for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It's important to pack appropriately for the weather and temperature as you ascend: there are no guarantees, so be prepared at every angle. Meanwhile, and at the same time consider carrying only what is necessary to avoid carrying unnecessary weight. Rather than just another packing list from one of the many travel guides available for downloading the internet, the following is the essential list for this trek.

Clothing

  • Insulated down jacket
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Fleece jacket or warm mid-layer
  • Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
  • 2–3 quick-dry trekking shirts
  • 2 pairs of trekking pants
  • Warm fleece or insulated pants
  • Comfortable shorts (optional)
  • Warm hat or beanie
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Neck gaiter or buff
  • Lightweight gloves
  • Warm insulated gloves
  • Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
  • Undergarments
  • Comfortable sleepwear

Footwear

  • Waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support
  • Comfortable camp shoes or sandals
  • 4–5 pairs of trekking socks
  • Lightweight liner socks (optional)
  • Gaiters (optional during snow or wet conditions)

Trekking Gear

  • 25–35L daypack
  • Duffel bag (if using a porter)
  • Sleeping bag (rated to around -10°C to -15°C)
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
  • Waterproof backpack cover
  • Dry bags or waterproof stuff sacks

Personal Items

  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toilet paper
  • Nail clippers
  • Moisturizer

Health and First Aid

  • Personal medications
  • Basic first-aid kit
  • Altitude sickness medication (if recommended by your doctor)
  • Pain relief medication
  • Bandages and blister plasters
  • Antiseptic cream
  • Electrolyte powder or rehydration salts
  • Insect repellent (mainly for lower elevations)

Electronics

  • Mobile phone
  • Phone charger
  • Power bank
  • Universal travel adapter
  • Camera (optional)
  • Extra camera batteries and memory cards

Snacks

  • Energy bars
  • Chocolates
  • Dried fruits
  • Mixed nuts

Important Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Nepal visa (or documents required to obtain one)
  • Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking
  • Passport-size photos
  • Flight tickets and travel confirmations
  • Emergency contact details

Optional Items

  • Binoculars
  • Small notebook and pen
  • Playing cards or a book
  • Earplugs
  • Reusable shopping bag
  • Lightweight thermos flask

 

What's included

  • Private vehicle pickup and dropping off at the airport.
  • Two night stay in a 3- star hotel with breakfast in Kathmandu.
  • 1 night's accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
  • 3 meals a day - breakfast, lunch and dinner while on the trekking journey.
  • A domestic air service between Pokhara and Kathmandu.
  • Being served fresh fruit at the end of the day during the hike.
  • Buses between Kathmandu and Besisahar.
  • Shared jeep/bus travel from Besisahar to Dharapani & Jomsom to Pokhara.
  • Staying overnight in tea houses in the mountains during the trek.
  • Generally, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits.
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) permit.
  • A guide experienced in trekking and government licensed and qualified in English language.
  • Guide's salary, meals, accommodation, transportation and insurance.
  • One of the experienced Sherpa porters is shared with two trekkers (Sherpa porter service (SPS1)).
  • Porter salary, insurance, meals, accommodation and equipment.
  • Basic First Aid Kit provided by the Guide.
  • Pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen levels and help observe symptoms of altitude sickness (AMS).
  • Helicopter rescue coordination in case of emergency, via your travel insurance.
  • Sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and trekking poles (can be arranged).
  • Company T-shirt.
  • All taxes and official service fees imposed by the Government.
  • Trek completion certificate.
  • Assistant guide for hikers who are wishing to go in small groups with at least eight people.

What's excluded

  • The trip was completed with lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • The fee for obtaining an entry visa to Nepal.
  • International flights.
  • Travel and medical insurance.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Collas beverages, including alcoholic beverages.
  • Specialty drinks, such as tea, coffee, hot chocolate, etc.
  • Tap or bottled or mineral water.
  • Additional snacks, desserts, chocolate or cakes, or other individually purchased items of food.
  • In the teahouses, the hot shower expenses will be charged.
  • Teahouse charging fees for batteries.
  • Guidance to guides, porters and drivers.
  • Extra hotel nights, extra hotel expenses that occur due to early return/itinerary change and flight delay or any other surprise issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What meals are provided during the trek?

On trekking days breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided. Teahouse food is available in many forms such as dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, soup, pasta, eggs, potatoes, pancakes or hot beverages – all Nepali cuisine.

Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek

Unfortunately, anyone on a trek in high elevation can experience altitude sickness. The tour has an acclimatisation day in Manang where you will acclimatize to the mountain topography. Walking at a leisurely pace, keeping hydrated and sticking to the advice of your guide are essential for a safe trek.

What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

On the trek you will be staying at comfortable mountain Teas. Most teahouses have twin-sharing rooms and create public bathroom and Pokhara and Kathmandu hotels offer more comfortable room en suite accommodation before and after the trek.

When is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Spring season (March to May) and autumn season (September to November) are ideal seasons for Annapurna Circuit Trek. There are stable conditions during these seasons with blue skies and ideal mountain views.

What is the highest point of the trek?

The highest altitude on the trek route is that of Thorong La Pass, which has an elevation of 5,416 meters or 17,769 feet above the sea level. The Thorong La Pass trekking is the major feature of Annapurna Circuit Trek and provides amazing vistas of Himalayan peaks.

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a moderately difficult trek. This involves a few days' walking, both up and down, and crossing Thorong La Pass at 5416m. You will be able to enjoy this trek comfortably if you prepare little and have good forms of fitness.

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