Annapurna Circuit Trek – 16 Days

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a wonderful adventure covering both sides of the Annapurna Himalaya massif. It is one of the most exciting treks around the entire Annapurna Himalayas, offering continuous views of towering snow-capped peaks. The Annapurna Circuit Trek and Thorang La Pass are listed among the world’s top ten adventure destinations by renowned guidebooks and travel magazines.

This enjoyable and adventurous walk allows one to experience various landscapes, climates, and vegetation, as well as local cultures. It is a complete and mesmerizing journey around the northern and southern areas of the great Annapurna Himalayan range of peaks. Currently, the trek around the Annapurna Himalayas has been shortened due to motorable roads, but the adventure is still enjoyable.

The villagers have retained their age-old glories and cultures, making the Annapurna Circuit an exciting and marvelous country to visit. The Annapurna Circuit Trek begins with an interesting overland journey towards Nepal’s Far North Mid-West. After reaching the low, warm farm country of Lamjung district, the trek proceeds up towards the cooler hills of the Manang areas.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Outline

Embark on adventurous walks starting from the lovely Dharapani village, passing through Timang and Chame town, and then proceeding towards the scenic high valley of Manang. This beautiful and spectacularly windswept country is enclosed by the giant peaks of Annapurna and Chulu Himal. The walk leads to the main village of Manang, situated on a lovely spot above the Marsyangdi River, as well as close to the glaciers and icefall of the Gangapurna Himal, Annapurna II, and A-III peaks.

After enjoying a pleasant rest day for acclimatization in the interesting village of Manang, the adventure continues towards the end of the Manang Valley. From the valley rim of Manang, a steep, strenuous climb will take you to the top of Thorang La Pass. This is the highest point of the adventure, where every hard effort is rewarded with incredible views of towering snow-capped mountains.

Facing Dhaulagiri Himal towards the West, with Annapurna Himalaya, Chulu, and Manaslu Himal in the far-east direction, Thorang La Pass forms the boundary between Manang and Mustang districts. From the pass, a long descent leads to Muktinath temple, a holy Hindu temple one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindu followers, revered by Buddhists as well.

Descending from Muktinath to the wide Kaligandaki River Valley, the journey continues past Jomsom town and the lovely villages of Marpha and Tukuche. Slowly, the adventure heads through the world’s deepest gorge, the Kaligandaki River, sandwiched between Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Annapurna.

Upon reaching the low, warm farmland and the village of Tato-Pani, named “Hot Water” due to its natural hot spring nearby, you can enjoy a wonderful time in Tatopani village. The walk then ascends to Ghorepani village, amidst beautiful rhododendron tree lines. Ghorepani is a great scenic village, and the next morning, there is time for a hike to the famous Poon Hill.

The top of Poon Hill offers stunning views of the sunrise over a chain of snow-capped peaks. After visiting Poon Hill and Ghorepani, our trek slowly comes to an end as we head down to Ulleri village. An exciting drive from Ulleri takes you to the beautiful city of Pokhara, situated by the famously serene Phewa Lake. Upon reaching scenic Pokhara, our marvelous adventure of a great and wonderful experience on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Thorang La Pass Treks concludes.

Best Seasons for Annapurna Circuit Trek

The best times and the right seasons for the wonderful Annapurna Circuit trek are spring and autumn.

Spring (March to May)

The spring season begins from March to May, when most days are full of sunshine. Wildflowers are in seasonal bloom, like rhododendrons of various species and colors, making the hills lively. Sometimes, the afternoons can get overcast with a few showers, and cold mornings and nights at higher altitudes.

Autumn (September to December)

The next best season is autumn/fall, starting from September to November, when most days are fine and crystal clear, offering excellent views and pleasant walks. However, mornings, late afternoons, and nights can be cold. Snowfall can be expected above 2,000 meters sometimes. Days are generally clear for views and walks, but the mornings, late afternoons, and nights are very cold. In autumn, days are short due to limited sunlight hours, but it’s an enjoyable time for views and walks.

What to expect on Annapurna Circuit Trek?

• Walk and Hike Through Lush Forest and Mountain Rivers: Expect a lovely walk, although with long, steep ascents and descents, guiding you through a beautiful forest adorned with tall trees and bushes of rhododendron and pine.
• Magnificent View of the Annapurna Massif and Other Mountain Peaks with Local Culture and Tradition: Enjoy constant views of the Annapurna Himalayas as you explore traditional mountain villages, rich in the age-old heritage cultures of Buddhist religions. Witness amazing views during your walks, facing the world’s highest mountain ranges of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna Himal.
• The trek includes a series of peaks, including the majestic Machhapu chare Himal, famously known as Fish Tail Peak. You’ll embark on enjoyable and exciting walks, crossing the highest point of the adventure over Thorang La Pass to reach the Mustang region. The journey is certainly picturesque, following a scenic route with charming villages on both sides of the massive Annapurna Himalayan range.
• At the end of the trek, enjoy some time in comfortable hotels in Pokhara by the Phewa Lake side
• Lifetime Experience of the Icon Journey: Experience the journey of a lifetime with our Annapurna Circuit Trek, a grand adventure set in the heart of Nepal.
• This iconic trek, often considered a crown jewel among trekking routes, offers an unrivaled exploration of the diverse landscapes and cultures of the Annapurna region.
• The Annapurna Circuit Trek is not just about physical challenge and natural beauty; it’s also a cultural immersion.
• You’ll encounter vibrant local communities that follow Buddhism and Hinduism and experience a glimpse into the unique Tibetan culture. This trek is facilitated by teahouse accommodations, offering a charming blend of comfort and authenticity.

• Whether by private, local transport, or flight, we can arrange for all your transport needs. Join us on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and let us guide you through an unforgettable exploration of the majestic Annapurna region.
• We promise an adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish and stories to tell.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu Airport, pickup to hotel – 1,300m
Day 02: Kathmandu day Sightseeing – 1,300m
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Beshishar / Dharapani 1,900m – 09 hrs
Day 04: Trek to Chame 2,710m – 05 hrs
Day 05: Trek to Upper Pisang 3,300m – 05 hrs
Day 06: Trek to Nawal 3,650m – 05 hrs
Day 07: Trek to Manang 3,550m – 04 hrs
Day 08: Rest day Manang 3,550m – 05 hrs
Day 09: Trek to Leder 4,100m – 06 hrs
Day 10: Trek to High Camp 4,800m – 06 hrs
Day 11: Trek to Muktinath 3,800m via Thorang la pass 5,416m – 06 hrs
Day 12: Drive to Tatopani 1,200m – 04 hrs via Marpha village
Day 13: Trek to Ghorepani 2,880m – 06 hrs
Day 14: Hike to Poon Hill 3,210m, trek to Ulleri village 2,050 m and drive to Pokhara 860m – 06 hrs
Day 15: Drive or fly to Kathmandu 1,300m – 06-hour journey (½ hour flight)
Day 16: Departure from Kathmandu airport – 1,300m

Alternative Treks Around Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a legendary trekking route that circles the Annapurna Massif, offering diverse landscapes, cultural immersion, and the thrilling Thorong La Pass (5,416m). However, if you’re looking for alternative treks in the Annapurna region that provide similar experiences with varying challenges, here are some great options:

• Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 14 Days: A shorter, yet equally breathtaking trek that takes you to the base of Annapurna, with incredible mountain views and a mix of diverse landscapes. A perfect choice for those with limited time but seeking adventure.
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 9 Days: A quick and scenic trek that offers one of the best sunrise views over the Annapurna range. Ideal for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed experience with stunning views.
• Annapurna Three High Passes trek – 29 Days: For a more challenging adventure, this trek takes you over three high-altitude passes, offering spectacular views and a true test of endurance. Perfect for seasoned trekkers seeking a thrilling challenge.
• Langtang Valley Trek – 10 Days: For trekkers seeking a quieter, culturally rich alternative to the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Langtang Valley Trek offers a serene journey through dense rhododendron forests, traditional Tamang villages, and breathtaking mountain vistas. This 10-day trek reaches the picturesque Kyanjin Gompa at 3,749 meters, providing stunning views of peaks like Langtang Lirung and Langsisa. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to experience Nepal’s natural beauty and heritage without the crowds.