Annapurna Circuit

Days

18

Activity Level

Advanced

Host City

Kathmandu, Nepal

From

$4,295 USD

Request a Detailed Itinerary Customize This Trip

Embark on the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal

Join The Explorer’s Passage (TEP) for one of the most extraordinary treks on the planet: the Annapurna Circuit. Stay at local tea houses as you follow this ancient Himalayan trade route, climbing through jungle-like terrain and rice fields, past canyons and waterfalls, and trekking among snowy peaks at Thorung La pass (17,768 feet / 5,415 meters in elevation). From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the serene mountain villages of the Gurung people, this adventure offers diversity in culture and landscape, and the opportunity to meet other adventurers from across the globe. The Annapurna Circuit is truly a must for any serious trekker.

Trek the Annapurna Circuit with TEP

Trip Highlights

Explore the busy streets of Kathmandu, a city that blends ancient traditions with bustling modern life. Dive into the rich tapestry of Nepalese culture, including a guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Pashupatinath and Boudhanath stupas.

Follow an ancient trade route on one of the oldest treks in the Himalayas. The trails you’ll traverse have been traveled for centuries by traders exchanging goods between Nepal, Tibet, and India, adding a sense of timeless adventure to your trekking experience.

Trek over the challenging Thorong La pass (17,768 feet / 5,415 meters), the highest point on the Circuit, and be rewarded with views of stunning, snow-capped peaks. This iconic pass is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit trek, offering a test of endurance and a reward of unparalleled panoramic views.

Visit the scared temples of Muktinath, a holy place for Hindus and Buddhists. Revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, Muktinath holds deep spiritual significance and offers a profound cultural experience amidst the Himalayan splendor.

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TRIP COST

From $4,295 USD per person

*More info. on pricing

Single Supplement for Hotel: from $795 USD


More questions? Read more about pricing here

Start dates

Custom Dates Available

To inquire about a custom date,
please contact us!

Duration

18 Days / 17 Nights 

Trekking duration is up to 11 days. For more information about itinerary options, please review the section about trip customization on this webpage.

Accommodations

Relax in comfort & luxury

*Various Options

In Kathmandu, Besisahar, and Pokhara, choose between 3.5-Star or 5-Star hotels. While hiking the Annapurna Circuit, guests stay in tea houses, which are comparable to many other mountain lodges/huts in other parts of the world.

*Read more about your accommodations on the trek

max. group size

Fixed Group Departures: 12 Guests

Private Group Departures: 20 Guests

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Advanced*

Primary activities:

Activities: multi-day hiking on the Annapurna Circuit.

Elevation: Start: 2,493 feet / 760 meters; End: 17,768 feet / 5,415 meters

Daily trekking distance: ~4 to 12.4 miles / ~ 6.4 to 20 kilometers per day

Total trekking distance: ~79 miles / 127 kilometers

*Please refer to our Trip Activity Level Guide for more information

18 Day / 17 Night Trip Daily Overview

Sample Trip Itinerary

Custom trip itineraries are available for any size group. Please contact us for a complete detailed itinerary.

Want more information? Download a detailed itinerary.

Itineraries include detailed descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights, and more. It’s the perfect resource to help you choose!

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Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal

Namaste, and welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner where you will meet your guide and your fellow travelers.

Accommodations: Hotel Marshyangdi

Day 2: Drive to Besisahar

Start your first full day in Nepal with a long, winding drive. As you leave Kathmandu, the route curves through the hills, following rivers and climbing higher and higher through rural Nepal until you reach Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit.

Accommodations: Gateway Himalaya Resort

Day 3: Drive to Manang

Buckle up – today you will board a 4-wheel drive vehicle and travel the bumpy road to Manang on a nine hour tour through mountain villages, taking in stunning views of waterfalls and jagged, snowy peaks. Stop at the large village of Chame to explore the shops and teahouses before continuing up to the plateau, where you will stay at your first guest house.

Accommodations: Tea House

Day 4: Day in Manang; Optional Hike to Gangapurna Glacier Lake

Spend today in Manag getting accustomed to the high elevation. Wander the streets of historic Manang or opt for a practice hike to view Gangapurna Glacier Lake or the surrounding monasteries.

Accommodations: Tea House

Day 5: Acclimatization Hike to Ice Lake

After breakfast, begin your acclimatization hike to the Ice Lake (Kicho Tal). Due to its high elevation in the Manang valley, it is often frozen, hence its name.

Day-hike distance: approximately 9 miles/14.4 kilometers (7-10 hours).

Accommodations: Tea House

Day 6: Start the Annapurna Circuit; Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

Today you officially embark on the Annapurna Circuit. Begin by walking through Manang’s western gates, then down to the river, through coniferous forests, past villages and a monastery, until Tilicho Peak comes into view.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 12.4 miles/20 kilometers (7-8 hours).

Accommodations: Tea house

Day 7: Trek to Tilicho Lake

Tackle the initially steep climb to Tilicho Lake in the early morning, accompanied by yaks and deer that graze along the path. Your destination is Tilicho Lake, where it is said the events of the Hindu sacred text the Ramayana were originally told. After spending time at the lake you will return to Tilicho Base Camp.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 6 miles/9.7 kilometers (5-6 hours).

Accommodations: Tea house

Day 8: Trek to Leder

Today your trek will take you past the villages of Sri Kharka Village and Tenki, through pastures and juniper forests, and to Gunsan, a village of flat, mud roofed houses, until you at last reach the open meadow of Leder.

Day-hike distance: approximately 11.5 miles/18.5 kilometers (5-6 hours).

Accommodations: Tea house

Day 9: Trek to Thorong Phedi

Your goal today is Thorong Phedi, the village at the foot of Thorong La pass. The terrain on this part of the trek is rugged and otherworldly – much different from the lush forests at the start of the trek. Here you’ll find the best views of Mt Gundang, Mt Syagang, Thorong Peak, and Mt Khatungkan.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 4 miles/6.4 kilometers (3-4 hours).

Accommodations: Tea house

Day 10: Trek through Thorong La Pass to Muktinath

Today you’ll face the most challenging day of the trek as you hike Thorong La Pass, one of the highest passes in the world. Your reward? Breathtaking views of the Himalayas in the morning light. Afterward, descend to Muktinath to visit the temples there.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 10 miles/16.4 kilometers (5-6 hours).

Accommodations: Tea house

Day 11: Muktinath Temple and Tatopani

Start the day at Muktinath temple, a holy temple for Buddhists and Hindus, followed by a four hour drive to Tatopani, where you can rest your feet in the lodge and soak in the waters of the natural hot springs.

Accommodations: Tea house

Day 12: Trek to Ghorepani

After yesterday’s rest, it’s time to lace up your boots again and continue the circuit. As you ascend to Ghar Khola valley you’ll pass through terraced farmland, the ethnic Thakali villages of Sikha and Chitre Ghorepani, and lush forests of birch and magnolia trees. If you’re lucky, the magnificent rhododendrons will be in bloom. Spend the night in the village of Ghorepani, located at the top of the ridge.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 10 miles/16 kilometers (5-6 hours).

Accommodations: Tea house

Day 13: Trek to Poon Hill and Tadapani

Before dawn, climb the steep trail to Poon Hill to catch the sunrise over the Himalayas and see for yourself why this viewpoint is the most popular destination of the Annapurna region. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then head east, climbing a ridge then descending through rhododendron forests and passing waterfalls. Spend the night at Tadapani.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 6.9 miles/11.2 kilometers (5-6 hours).

Accommodations: Tea house

Day 14: Trek to Ghandruk

This is your last day trekking the Annapurna Circuit. Today the trail descends through a dark and dense rhododendron forest; by afternoon, you’ll be greeted by cherry blossoms on the opposite slopes of the ravine. In the stone-house village of Ghandruk you’ll enjoy close-up views of the impressive Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli mountains.

Daily trekking distance: approximately 6 miles/9.7 kilometers (6-7 hours).

Accommodations: Tea House

Day 15: Drive to Pokhara

It’s a four hour drive today from Ghandruk to the lakeside village of Pokhara, where you can enjoy a hard-earned rest and reflect on your remarkable journey.

Accommodations: Hotel Barahi

Day 16: Return to Kathmandu, Nepal

Say goodbye to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara and start the eight hour drive to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu the rest of your day is free.

For dinner you could seek out an authentic thali. With variations common to much of South Asia, it is a warm curry dish of rice, lentils, meat, and vegetables. You’ve certainly earned a hearty meal after so many days of trekking!

Accommodations: Hotel Marshyangdi

Day 17: Explore Kathmandu

Today is our final full day together. In the morning you’ll take a guided tour of Pashupatinath and Boudhanath stupa. Afterward you might consider seeing some live music in Lazimpat, or visiting the Newa Chen house in northern Lalitpur to experience a 350 year-old Newari home, restored to its original beauty. We can also provide additional recommendations for destinations and activities.

Accommodations: Hotel Marshyangdi

Day 18: Final Day in Nepal

Congratulations on an awe-inspiring journey! It’s time to say farewell to Nepal and its amazing people, mountains, and nature. On your way home you will have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in this wonderful country. Until next time!

Accommodations: N/A

Create your OWN Unique Experience

Customizing Your Annapurna Trek

Are you interested in another activity or destination in Nepal that isn’t listed above? Planning to spend extra time in the region, or interested in specific travel dates? No problem. As experts in tailored trip planning, we can weave your interests and your timeframe into our customizable itineraries so that every detail of your extraordinary trip unfolds just the way you want it to.  Click the options below to learn more:

With The Explorer’s Passage, you can choose between a variety of additional activity options in Kathmandu:

  • Day hikes to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park or Nagarjun Forest Reserve.
  • Short treks to places like Nagarkot or Kakani for panoramic views of the Himalayas.
  • Mountain Biking through the Kathmandu Valley countryside or on trails near Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn to cook Nepali cuisine with a local chef.
  • Thangka Painting Workshops: Take a workshop to learn the traditional art of Thangka painting.
  • Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Join a retreat in Kathmandu or nearby areas like Kopan Monastery.
  • Bhaktapur: Explore this ancient city known for its well-preserved heritage and architecture.
  • Changu Narayan: Visit the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley.

While in/around Nepal, you can choose to add on one or several of the following:

  • Everest Base Camp Trek: A classic trek offering stunning views of Everest and the Khumbu region.
  • Lumbini: Birthplace of Lord Buddha, featuring ancient temples, monasteries, and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • White Water Rafting:  Experience thrilling rapids on rivers like the Trishuli, Seti, and Bhote Koshi.
  • Chitwan National Park: Explore the jungle on elephant-back safaris, jeep tours, or canoe rides to spot rhinos, tigers, and exotic bird species.
  • Bardia National Park: A remote and less-visited park offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Everest Experience Flight: Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu for close-up views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks.

In addition to their time in Asia, many travelers choose to add in other destinations to their trips, including (but not limited to) some of the following:

  • India
  • Bhutan
  • Mongolia
  • Japan
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Cambodia

Contact us today to get started customizing your dream trip to Nepal!

Hear what travelers are saying:

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“I had such a great time in Nepal with TEP. It was the best thing I have ever done!”
– Allison (England)
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“Everything went beyond smooth. It felt like there was a guardian angel over our shoulder the whole time. Trip of a lifetime!”
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relax in comfort and luxury

Trip Accommodations

Before and after your Annapurna Circuit trek you can enjoy a comfortable stay at Hotel Marshyangdi. Alternatively, a 5 Star hotel option can be reserved instead – contact us for more details. During the trekking portion of the trip you will stay overnight at tea houses along the route. Learn more about these trip accommodations below:

5 Star Accommodations

Gateway Himalaya Resort | Besisahar, Nepal

Gateway Himalaya Resort in Ghanpokhara offers a luxurious retreat with its 4-star accommodation, designed to provide an exceptional stay amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. Each room in this elegantly appointed resort features modern amenities, including air conditioning, free WiFi, and a private bathroom, ensuring both comfort and convenience. Guests can unwind on the spacious terrace, where panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan peaks create a stunning backdrop for relaxation. For a more social experience, the resort’s bar provides a cozy and stylish setting to savor a variety of beverages and unwind after a day of exploration.

Gateway Himalaya Resort website

Hotel Barahi | Pokhara, Nepal

Named for the island temple of Barahi the hotel offers fine Nepali hospitality and luxury. Four room types (Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Executive Deluxe, and Suites), each include a buffet breakfast, air conditioning, wifi, and some offer a private balcony with mountain or city views. Visit the onsite dining room, courtyard cafe, or bar for local and international cuisine. After your long trek, relax in the outdoor pool or spa.

Hotel Bahari website

3.5 Star Accommodations

Hotel Marshyangdi | Kathmandu, Nepal

Located in the attractive Thamel District and close to many city attractions, Hotel Marshyangdi is owned and operated by a family from Manang. Manang is a mountainous region of Nepal, and Marshyangdi means ‘raging river’ in the local Manangi dialect.

All rooms are air conditioned with en-suite bathrooms and internet available. The property also features a relaxing courtyard restaurant, a bar, and a café. Finally, breakfasts at the hotel are included during your stay.

Hotel Marshyangdi website

During the trekking portion of the adventure, the accommodations will be in tea houses that offer dormitory-style rooms with single and double bunk beds, comparable to many other mountain lodges/huts in other parts of the world.

The tea houses are typically equipped with running cold water and shared bathrooms in a separate section. At most of them, there are propane-fueled hot showers available to use for a small fee. It is usually possible to charge personal electronic devices in the common/dining areas, however they also charge a small fee for this.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for something?

Check here for our Frequently Asked Questions for the Annapurna Trek, and if you can’t find the answer you are looking for then send us a message.

Click the button below to access our general FAQ section!

SEE ALL FAQS

The standard duration is around 15-20 days, depending on the route taken and individual hiking pace.

The best times are generally during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild and clear, offering the best mountain views.

It is considered moderately challenging. The trek involves high altitudes, with Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters / 17,769 feet) being the highest point. Proper acclimatization and physical fitness are essential.

Yes, trekkers need to obtain two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These can be obtained through registered trekking agencies or directly from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu.

Accommodation ranges from basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges in popular trekking villages. Rooms are typically twin-sharing with basic amenities such as beds, blankets, and sometimes hot showers (for an extra charge).

Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing layers, a good quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, waterproof jacket and pants, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a first aid kit. Pack light but ensure you have all necessary gear for varying weather conditions.

It’s recommended to drink purified or boiled water, which is available at teahouses along the trail. Avoid drinking untreated water from streams or taps to prevent waterborne illnesses.

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Trip Support

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There is no other operator in the travel industry that will provide the same level of personal attention to your travel experience.

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Personal Attention & Preparation Before Every Trip

There is no other operator in the travel industry that will provide the same level of personal attention before your adventure in Nepal. We get very involved with our travelers before each trip, by offering a series of pre-planning calls in the months and weeks before departure. This provides you with an opportunity to hear directly from us on preparation, trip experience, as well as training. It also gives you the platform to ask questions about any aspect of the trip.

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Staff Support & Logistics

Our knowledgeable support staff take care of the details of your in-country transportation, lodging, meals, cultural tours, and activities. We’ve even scheduled in a bit of free time for you to explore, relax, shop, or eat on your own. When you travel with The Explorer’s Passage, we ensure that every detail is handled.

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Sustainability and Responsible Travel

Check out our detailed educational content on the Top Three Treks in the Himalayas, written by our adventure team. The article provides a complete overview of everything that you need to know about this amazing journey in Nepal.

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