Overview
The Annapurna Circuit is Nepal's most complete trekking experience — a full loop around the entire Annapurna Massif that takes you through subtropical jungle, alpine meadows, a bone-dry high-altitude plateau, and finally over the 5,416m Thorong La pass. No other single trek in the world packs in this much geographic and cultural variety.
Over 14 to 21 days you'll trace the Marsyangdi River through terraced rice paddies, acclimatize at the medieval-walled village of Manang, and descend into Mustang's otherworldly wind-carved canyons after crossing the pass. The Kali Gandaki gorge — the deepest in the world — funnels you back south through Jomsom and Marpha, where apple brandy and pie are mandatory stops.
This trek rewards slow trekkers. The villages, monasteries, and mountain cultures along the way are as compelling as the summits above them. Budget extra days wherever the rhythm takes you.
Highlights
- Thorong La Pass (5,416m) — The highest trekking pass in Nepal — a pre-dawn crossing with flag-strewn summit and sweeping views in every direction
- Manang Village (3,519m) — A stone-walled medieval settlement where yak caravans still pass through and the acclimatization day hike to Ice Lake is unmissable
- Kali Gandaki Gorge — The deepest gorge on earth, flanked by Dhaulagiri and Annapurna — walk the riverbed with afternoon winds at your back
- Marpha Apple Orchards — The most civilised village on the trail: fresh apple pie, brandy, whitewashed lanes, and views of Dhaulagiri
- Muktinath Temple (3,800m) — Sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists — a flame burns eternally from a natural gas vent surrounded by 108 water spouts
- Tatopani Hot Springs — Natural geothermal pools at 1,190m — the perfect end to 17 days at altitude
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m) — Bus or private vehicle, ~7 hours. Obtain TIMS and ACAP permits.
Days 2–3Besisahar to Chame (2,670m) — Two days up the Marsyangdi valley through waterfalls, suspension bridges, and rice terraces. Many trekkers jeep this section.
Days 4–5Chame to Manang (3,519m) — Past the Paungda Danda cliff face and through Upper and Lower Pisang. Annapurna II dominates the skyline.
Day 6Rest day in Manang — Mandatory acclimatization. Hike to Ice Lake (4,600m) or Gangapurna Lake. Attend the Himalayan Rescue Association altitude talk.
Day 7Manang to High Camp (4,850m) — Short day. Arrive early and rest well — tomorrow is the pass.
Day 8Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath (3,800m) — 4am start. 3–5 hours to summit, 3 hours descent. One of the greatest days in Himalayan trekking.
Days 9–10Muktinath to Marpha (2,667m) — Descend through Mustang's lunar landscape. Stop in Kagbeni (restricted area boundary) and Jomsom.
Days 11–12Marpha to Tatopani (1,190m) — Long descent through the Kali Gandaki. Hot spring soak on arrival.
Days 13–14Tatopani to Nayapul via Ghorepani — Optional Poon Hill sunrise detour. Bus or taxi from Nayapul to Pokhara, then fly to Kathmandu.
What's Included
- Guided trek with licensed Sirdar and porters
- All teahouse accommodation during trek
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- TIMS Card and ACAP permit fees
- Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- Trek briefing and route planning session
- Emergency evacuation coordination
What's Not Included
- International flights and Kathmandu accommodation
- Travel insurance (mandatory, must include evacuation)
- Personal gear (boots, poles, sleeping bag liner, layers)
- Domestic transport Kathmandu–Besisahar and return from Pokhara
- Hot showers, WiFi, charging fees on trail (~$30–50 total)
- Tips for guides and porters (customary: $150–250 USD)