ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK- The king trekking trail in Annapurna trekking region of Nepal
Voted as best long-distance trekking in the world and officially opened for trekkers in 1977, Annapurna circuit trek originally 23 days long trek which was started from Dhumre, however with building of new road every day, this trek is motorable nowadays and we start this trek from Besisahar. This trekking route is also named as Around Annapurna trek or Round Annapurna trek by different travel magazine since it became so popular trekking trail of Nepal as well as in the world.
Round Annapurna or Annapurna Circuit trek usually starts from Besisahar, which is 175 km from Kathmandu, about 5 hours comfortable private car drive, located at 760m altitude and ends at Nayapul, altitude of 1090m, crossing one of most scenic and beautiful high pass, Thorong la pass(5416m). The main highlight places of this world class trekking are Kathmandu- Besisahar- Manang(3519m)- Thorong la pass(5416m)- Muktinath temple(3710m)- Jomsom- Tatopani (hot spring)- Ghorepani Poonhill( 3210m)- Nayapul- Pokhara( 820m)- Kathmandu which is 17 days professional itinerary specially prepared for all level of trekkers. The Annapurna circuit trekking trail from Besisahar to Thorong la pass and trek downhill to Muktinath and Tatopani is Anticlock trek for slower Altitude gain to cross Thorong la pass easier and safer.
Guide Nepal holidays, being a most professional Sherpa guides run local travel company in Kathmandu offers best trekking itinerary for Annapurna Circuit keeping safe and sound trekking to cross highest pass of this trail, thorong la pass, we drive to Besisahar and same day we take local bus or local jeep( sharing) to Bulbule for first day of trek, then we gradually hike toward Manang( even we can drive by local bus or jeep) stopping every single night at Chamje- Dharapani- Chame- Pisang and Mannag. It is most important to trek slowly staying overnight in this place to adjust your body and pace to fit enough to avoid high altitude sickness. we also set up an Acclimatization day in Manang which is altitude of 3519m and on Acclimatization day you have option to walk Glacier or hills around Manang which is so beautiful place in this region. After two days in Manang, you will walk slowly to Yak Kharka and Throng phedi( basecamp of Thorong la pass) before you cross famous throng la pass very early morning around 4 am. Congratulation to you for reaching this highest point in annapurna circuit trek, from here you will walk down to Muktinath where you can see holy temple of Muktinath, known as temple of Nirvana, famous for all hindus and buddhist people of Nepal and India where indian prime mininster Narandra modi travelled and worship in May 2018.
The area of Muktinath, Jharkot, Kagbeni and Jomsom(Airport) is marked as lower mustang trekking and this area are motorable road, so we drive from Muktinath to Tatopani. Totopani means Hotspring in Nepali, where you can take shower with natural hot water, can stay in pond. after Tatopani, we trek uphill toward Ghorepani which is located at altitude of 2800m, best view point of more than 12 mountains of Annapurna, which is best partial trekking trail of Annapurna base camp and Annapurna circuit trek itself. The sunrise view form Poonhil is breathtaking and most famous short trekking for many trekkers known as Ghorepani poonhill trek, after this we trek downhill to Hille for last night of this beautiful trek and we end trek at Nayapul and drive to Pokhara city, which is best trekkers city after this long trek to have shopping, enjoying lake city or drinking cold beers or just boating at lake to enjoy picturesque Pokhara valley.
Depend on your timeframe, Around Annapurna trek or round Annapurna trekking is possible to make until Jomsom and fly out to Pokhara to make about 14 days trip too, however this 17 day is one of the short and best trekking itineraries to see most valuable trekking places of Annapurna Circuit trek. Book this most memorable trekking package with us and we will make best out of it to ensure a safe and perfect trekking holiday you have looked for.
At Kathmandu international Airport, After Visa formalities complete, we have to come downstairs to collect Luggage and proceed to outside from terminal Building. Please check our Company Name board, Our Guide will be waiting with Guide Nepal Holidays display board at the arrival gate. Upon our arrival at Kathmandu international airport, we will be warmly welcome by our Airport representative guide with Silk scarves as per Sherpa customs. You will be transfer to hotel by Private Vehicle. Check in at Hotel, free welcome drinks tea/coffee or any cold drinks/Juices. Company Manager will meet you as per your prefer time & will provide detailed Plans and Briefing about the trip. At the Evening we will offer you welcome dinner at best authentic Nepali restaurant where you can enjoy the best Nepali food and cultural show. Dinner included overnight stay at best hotel in the Kathmandu.Overnight stay at Hotel.
We will pick you up from your hotel for the drive to Besi Sahar with our expert guide and porters. Our trip starts through deep gorges as you trace the Trisuli River westwards. We will be passing throughout the small town of Mugling where the Trisuli and Marsyangdi rivers meet. Roughly after 5-6 hours’ drive, we reach foothills around Besi Sahar (760m). we have free day in Besisahar to walk around local market today.
Accommodations: Best available mountain Lodge/ Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today will be another exciting day. We Walk continues through the deep wooded canyon embellished by spectacular waterfalls as you venture into the Manang district. Much of the trail ascends during the day. The initial path of trek begins from Chamje where the trail continues with a zigzag way across the right side of Marsyangdi river view and after crossing again suspension bridge in the Marsyangdi River the route goes uphill and slowly steep flat and get to Tal.
We will pass the village of Tal at 1700 meter, which lies at the foot of a large waterfall. The trail crosses a broad, flat valley that was once a lake (Tal means lake). It is one of the famous places for valley views and waterfalls. We enter Manang district after crossing the bridge near Tal. The trail advances through barely, rice and potato fields; and the waterfalls continue to accompany us even today. Afterward, we pass through the village of Kodo before getting Dharapani, which is one of the major villages in the Manang Valley.
Accommodations: Best available mountain Lodge/ Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We will continue our hike experiencing the stunning view of mountains, and waterfalls on the way. Today will be an easy day. After 4-5 hours of trekking, we will reach Chame. The district headquarters of Manang, Chame is the largest settlement after Besisahar.
Throughout the day you can enjoy amazing views of Annapurna II (7937m). Climbing steeply zigzag section of the road through Rhododendron jungle, the trail climbs through the fir forest, which follows the river for a time between the maple and oak trees.
Accommodations: Best available mountain Lodge/ Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After having healthy breakfast, we restart our journey to Upper Pisang. Today we will head out to Upper Pisang walking through the apple orchards to the village of Bhratang. We then walk through a trail of a steep and narrow valley to have our first view of Paungda Danda rock face, a dramatic curved rock face rising from the river that offers us stunning panorama of the journey so far.
After 4-5 hours easy walk, we will reach Upper Pisang from where we can see Magnificent Annapurna II vertical high on our south. Then, we move towards the Manang Valley floor enjoying the captivating Tibetan Plateau landscape. Overnight stay in Upper Pisang
Accommodations: Best available mountain Lodge/ Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, we star our day quite early in the morning after breakfast. Today our expert Sherpa guide will take you the northern trail via upper Pisang and Ghyaru, an area popular for its stunning views.
Continuing on the south side of the river, the route contains a long climb over a ridge, which passes through Upper Pisang via Ngawal as it guarantees exceptional views of Mt. Annapurna, Pisang Peak.
On the way, we pass through pine forests, villages such as Braga and farming terraces. As we walk near Manang, the climate becomes more cold and dry. It is now drier and you are sure to come across local farmers herding yaks. (Tip: Tibetan yaks take a particular attention in people wearing red!).
Accommodations: Best available mountain Lodge/ Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is an essential rest day to adjust high altitude before crossing the Thorong La. You must need to acclimatize well to avoid the risk of high altitude sickness as you move higher. So, in order to get good acclimatize to the altitude our expert Sherpa guide will take you some high climbing then return to the lower altitude of Manang to sleep. Manang, a village of about 500 flat-roofed houses offers outstanding views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna and Chulu East.There are multiple day hikes - such as ascending high above the village for a full panorama of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley.
There is a Himalayan Rescue Association [HRA] aid post in the village; a visit would be an interesting and educational one. Moreover, you can also visit Ganagapurna Glacier Lake, which is just half an hour walk from the village.
Accommodations: Best available mountain Lodge/ Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After well acclimatisation and good rest at Manang, You will have boosted our physical energy level and eager to continue your trek towards Yak Kharka. Today we ascend approximately 500 meters. We highly advice you to walk slow which help us to decrease the risk of altitude sickness.
We make the ascent gradually through Tenki Manang, leaving the Marsyangdi Valley. Continuing alongside the Jarsang Khola Valley, we get Yak Kharka at 4,000 m. Yak Kharka, with its rolling pastures and steep cliffs, is the perfect place to spend the night in. However, you can also decide to walk an hour more to Letdar and spend the night there.
Accommodations: Mountain Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After having good breakfast, we start our day. Today Due to the height, our Expert Sherpa guide will advice you to take the next section of the ascent at a leisurely pace, which means we'll have time to admire the outstanding views from this part of the path. Once at Phedi, there will be plenty of time to rest and acclimatize to the higher altitudes ready for the next part of the climb where we will face the Thorung La Pass, the highest point on this Annapurna Explorer.
Accommodations: Mountain Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, we must have to Get up early as you're guide will be knocking on your door at about 3:30-4:00 am. Setting off very early to cross the Thorung La Pass (5,416 m), the trail is steep but easy to follow. Please do not forget to bring headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs.
After between four to six hours ascending, reach the Pass's peak, decorated with prayer flags, a traditional stupa (chorten) and stone Cairns built by travellers. We stop to admire the spectacular views and wonder at how far you've climbed. Further along, the track descends steeply continuing towards Chabarbu. From here on, the trail crosses meadows, drops into a deep ravine, climbs out and follows a wide trail into Muktinath, a pilgrimage site believed in great respect by both Hindus and Buddhists.
Accommodations: Mountain Lodge/ Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From Mutinath, we visit temple in the morning, after breakfast we drive to Tatopani( hotspring in english), there are nice road now and it is best to drive than trek in this road. during drive we enjoy areas of Kagbeni, gateway of Forbidden kingdom mustang, then Jomsom, we drive through Kalopani. depend on road condition and available of locan bus or jeep, it takes about 7-9 hours today.
Accommodations: Mountain Lodge/ Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is rest day after all this long trek, you can take swim or shower in Natural hotspring.you can enjoy the day.
Accommodations: Mountain Lodge/ Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leaving the hot springs behind us we have a day of climbing ahead of us to Ghorepani. We leave the Kali Gandaki valley and we will follow the Ghar Khola River and cross this river on an old swaying bridge. We will continue ascending to Ghara (1780m) and Shika (1935m) where there still is a British army training centre. The last part of the trail today will have us climbing through rhododendron and magnolia forests to Ghorepani, where we will arrive mid afternoon (7 hrs).
Accommodations: Mountain Lodge/ Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
An early start and an hour’s hiking to Poon Hill (3,210m) leads us to a brilliant spectacle, this viewpoint provides an unobstructed beautiful sunrise over the high Himalayas. After spending about 40 minutes on the hillside, we come back to Ghorepani for a hot breakfast, and start walking to Hille.
Accommodations: Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast,Lunch & Dinner
Today after breakfast around 7.30 am, we drive to Pokhara, it takes about 4 hours by local Private jeep. once you arrive in Pokhara, we check into hotel and free day to rest or just walk around lake side area to boat at fewa lake or local sightseeing.
after breakfast we will fly back to Kathmandu early morning flight around 8-9 am. once you checked in hotel, then you can do some cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu city( extra cost apply) or free day of your own.
Depending on your flight time, our guide and driver will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to the airport. Normally, our airport check in is 3 hours prior to the departure time and the hotel checkout time is 12 PM. In case our flight is late evening please let us know if you require half-day use of the hotel or we help you to arrange luggage storage at the hotel. So you can explore around Thamel your own.We ensure that you leave Kathmandu with cherishing memory and an experience of a lifetime.
Private Transport:
Accommodations:
Meals:
Ground Transportations:
Support:
Official Service:
Extra Service:
This trek is challenging in itself, but the main challenge lies in the altitude. However, our itinerary is well designed that allows for excellent acclimatization to the altitude as we have 2 nights at Manang an altitude of 3,519 meters for well acclimatization. On your acclimatization day our guide will take you day hike higher places around Manang village. Symptoms of being at altitude include tiredness, shortness of breath, headaches and nausea. Altitude affects people differently and being super-fit is no guarantee of being less likely to feel the effects. Where a participant is suffering from the effects of altitude, it may be necessary to walk them back down the mountain. There will be more information about altitude in the information pack we send you upon booking.
Trip Safety:
Your safety, and that of the rest of the group, is our highest priority. Our treks are designed and planned with safety in mind. Your expert Sherpa guide & porters will be equipped with extensive medical kit and other safety apparatus where necessary. They always have access to our 24-hour emergency call. Our leaders (Sherpa guide) are responsible for safety on the trek, and will make any changes to the itinerary they deem necessary should local conditions dictate. Pre-trip administration – such as compulsory medical questionnaires and travel insurance – is all done with your safety in mind.
We are trekking on a remote mountain, where we could be exposed to bad weather at any time so be prepared for all quickly changing conditions and temperatures. In overall, a down jacket, a warm fleece jacket, thermal underwear, trekking pants and shorts, and sturdy boots are recommended to wear, and a good sleeping bag, backpack, and camera are recommended for your kit. If you take any medication, this should obviously be a packing priority. Utilize common sense - you don't want to end up short-handed on the mountain, but over packing is undesirable. It's worth noting that just about anything you need in the way of trekking clothing and/or equipment can be purchased or rented in Kathmandu when you first arrive. Our guide will help you to find best shop in Kathmandu for buying and renting gears.
Please check our all-inclusive packing list and recommendations at our blog (click here). Furthermore, You can download a pdf form of the packing list (click here). if you have any further quetions please feel free to contact us. We are always available if you need advice.
In Kathmandu & pokhara you will stay in comfortable, clean and centrally located tourist category hotel. During trek you will sleep in small local lodges, known as teahouse. The lodges are small guesthouses run by local families. The property differs, but our guides attempt to be book the best lodges for you, but you must be set, that the lodges are in comparatively basic conditions at higher altitude. You will typically find blankets on the beds, but they are not warm enough at high altitude and you must bring your own sleeping bags on the trek or you can hire sleeping in Kathmandu. Most of the places it is possible to get a hot shower. Please make sure whether the water is heated by solar energy in order to protect the vulnerable forest growth. All accommodations are on twin-shared basis. Single supplement will be served on request and will cost an additional USD 250. Although single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu and the trekking regions at lower elevation, it might be difficult to find them at higher altitudes.
In Kathmandu & Pokhara, breakfast is included in the price. Lunch and dinner is not included. However,We will provide you free welcome/farewell dinner at special local restaurant. You will dine in a local restaurant and be entertained with traditional Sherpa & Nepali music with cultural show with traditional Sherpa dance. For Dinner & lunch,There are plenty of nice restaurants located near the hotel and you can also eat at the hotel. It is usually cheap to eat at restaurants in Kathmandu & Pokhara. On the trek you will have to buy all the meals at the lodges. You will eat your breakfast and dinner at the lodge where you spend the night and you can buy lunch on the lodges you pass by during the day. Fresh vegetables are served in all the restaurants on the Annapurna circuit twelve months of the year. Even at high elevations in the winter, there is still garlic and cabbage. In the high lodges between Manang and Muktinath, fresh Seabuckthorn juice, made from a local berry, is served. At slightly lower elevations practically any vegetable you can imagine is used in soups, omelettes, rice or macaroni dishes: tomatoes (tree or vine grown), onions, green onions, garlic, cauliflower, spinach, mushrooms, pumpkin, potatoes, daikon radish, mustard. At lower elevations, Besi Sahar on the east leg and Tatopani on the west, fresh oranges were everywhere. At slightly higher elevations there were apples and bananas available. Eggs are always available, and chicken usually. Sometimes beef, mutton, goat, buffalo, or yak meat. One of the only canned food ingredients used is tuna. Rice, wheat, corn, oats, lentils, chickpeas are widely available. You can buy clean bottled water as well as soft drinks hot tea, coffee and beer in most lodges. There is a welcome/farewell dinner with the guide included on the last evening in Kathmandu.
We highly recommend buying good travel insurance to all our valued clients. Your insurance must cover helicopter evacuation if it becomes necessary, as well as the costs of repatriation should you miss your scheduled flight due to accident, injury, illness or simple bad luck. Your insurance must specifically include coverage at altitudes up to 6000 meters before you can attempt to climb the mountain.
Your insurance should also protect against the ‘standard’ travel dangers, including: baggage delay and the loss of personal items; flight delayed, cancelled or interrupted travel; financial default; loss of employment or layoff; missed connection; pre-existing medical conditions; terrorism; and weather, including medical expenses. We will send you the best insurance companies name list & links once you book your trek with us.
Anyone with normal physically fit person can do this trek. The best preparation for nepal treks would be walk everyday. If you can walk uphill and downhill that would even be better. Prepare with cardiovascular exercise many times a week: biking, swimming, hillside climbing and strolling. Go for a four to five-hour walk minimum once a week. Discovery hillsides or high staircases and frequently hike up and down on them.
Generally, You have to walk about 4-7 hours a day with your light day bag in this trek. During the whole trek, our strong porter will carry your main baggage.This will allow you to carry only your light day bag packs. This will certainly help you to complete your trek with enjoyable way.The timing is most important in order to complete this trek without problems. If you want to do it fast, you might run into difficulties. Our itinerary is well plan with few extra days for acclimatization where our expert guide will take you for hike to higher altitudes and sleep at lower altitude.
Last but not least, make sure you always drink enough water. We normally recommend to drinking at least 3-4 liters everyday. Our expert Sherpa guide will be always ready to stop for short breaks whenever you need. once you booked your trek, we will send you more information.
Once you reach the airport in Kathmandu, our airport representative will warmly welcome you and will transfer to the hotel on a private car. Please note that the transport from Kathmandu to Besisahar will be microbus/ tourist bus. However, if you would like to go to Besisahar on private car then it cost an extra US$35-$45 each person depanding on group size.
Upon reaching in Besi Sahar you can begins your trek and walk the approximately 2-3 hours to Ngadi Village or our guide will arrange you local bus/jeep to drive Ngadi.
Transportation from Pokhara to Kathmandu will be tourist bus. Which takes about 6/7 hours. For optional you can also take a 25 minutes flight that cost an additional US$ 124 Per person. Or your also can hire private Car/Jeep/Minibus around USD $35 each person. We will help you to arrange comfortable Private vehical or flights if required.