Annapurna Circuit Trek: Itinerary, Cost & Difficulty Guide

Overview of the trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the top 10 best trekking and hiking trails in the world. It is famous for its stunning Himalayan views, rich culture, and diverse landscapes, and it offers the opportunity to cross a high-altitude pass known as Thorong La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,416 meters above sea level. Most trekkers take great pride in standing at this high altitude and are welcomed with warm hospitality along the journey.

The trek itinerary can be customized to be shorter or longer according to the client’s preferences. The longer version is known as the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek, which completes the full Annapurna Circuit and includes the Poon Hill viewpoint.

In recent years, motor roads have been built from Besisahar to Manang and from Muktinath to Pokhara, making the Annapurna Circuit Trek more accessible and flexible for trekkers. As a result, you can start and end your trek at various points according to your preference. However, many trekkers still prefer to follow the full traditional route, as it allows them to experience the trek in its entirety.

Our classic Annapurna Circuit trek begins in Syange, located approximately 1.5 hours by road beyond the traditional starting point of Besi Sahar. However, some trekkers still prefer to begin their trekking from Besi Sahar or Bhulbhule to experience the trail in its entirety.

The route spans a remarkable range of elevations—from around 820 meters (2,690 feet) in the subtropical foothills to the high alpine terrain at Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters / 17,769 feet)—making proper acclimatization essential for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

While some trekkers choose to shorten the trekking by ending in Jomsom and continuing to Pokhara by flight or motor road, completing the full Annapurna Circuit offers a far more rewarding experience. With the expansion of motor road access, it has become common to bypass the lower sections by starting from Dharapani or Chame and finishing at Muktinath. However, those seeking a more authentic and fulfilling trek often recommend driving from Muktinath to Tatopani to continue the trek toward Poon Hill (3,210 m), a renowned vantage point celebrated for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas.

Our 18-day journey follows the classic Annapurna Circuit route, taking you through a wide range of landscapes—from green farmland and subtropical forests to dry high mountain deserts and glacier-shaped valleys. Along the way, you’ll meet welcoming and resilient communities such as the Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced people, each with their own rich culture and traditions.

After a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syange, the trail follows the Marsyangdi River Valley, passing through villages like Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang and Manang where we take a day to acclimatize. From there we ascend to the highest point of the trek Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and then descend to Muktinath temple (3,800 m), a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists.Then the trail enters the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley, the world’s deepest gorge.

At Tatopani trekkers can relax in natural hot springs believed to have healing properties. From Tatopani, a steep climb to Ghorepani (2,855 m) and an early morning hike to Poon Hill to see the breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).

From there the trail goes through Tadapani and Ghandruk and you can either return back to Pokhara or continue through Landruk, Tolka, Pitam Deurali, Pothana and Dhampus. The trek concludes at Dhampus Phedi, followed by a short drive to Pokhara. From there, you will continue your journey to Kathmandu by either road or flight, depending on the service you choose.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest point on the trek
Experience breathtaking sunrises from Poon Hill (3,210 m)
Walk through diverse terrain: lush forests, deep gorges, high-altitude deserts, and glacial valleys
Explore vibrant villages inhabited by Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced communities
Relax in the natural hot springs of Tatopani
Visit Muktinath (3,800 m), a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists
Trek through the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Valley

Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary

Day 01

Arrive in Kathmandu

Day 02

Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation

Day 03

Drive from Kathmandu to Syange (1,080 m)

Day 04

Syange trek to Dharapani (1,960 m)

Day 05

Dharapani trek to Chame (2,670 m)

Day 06

Chame trek to Upper Pisang (3,300 m)

Day 07

Upper Pisang trek to Manang (3,540 m)

Day 08

Acclimatization in Manang (3,540 m)

Day 09

Manang trek to Yak Kharka (4,110 m)

Day 10

Yak Kharka trek to Thorong Phedi (4,420 m)

Day 11

Trek to Muktinath (3,800 m), Over the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)

Day 12

Muktinath drive by public bus to Jomsom continue to Tatopani (1,190 m)

Day 13

Tatopani trek to Ghorepani (2,855 m)

Day 14

Ghorepani Hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) and trek to Tadapani (2,610 m)

Day 15

Tadapani trek to Landruk (1,545 m) via Ghandruk village

Day 16

Landruk trek to Dhampus Phedi and drive to Pokhara (820 m)

Day 17

Pokhara drive by tourist bus to Kathmandu (1,350 m)

Day 18

Depart Kathmandu

Gear Up for Your Trek

Here’s a concise guide of essentials to prepare smartly for your trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

Overview & Essentials

Typically, packages include accommodation, meals during the trek, guide and porter services, permits, and ground transportation. Flight costs, insurance, and personal expenses are usually excluded.

While prior trekking experience helps, most treks are designed to be achievable with average fitness. Some high-altitude treks may require conditioning or preparation beforehand.

There is no strict age limit, but participants should be reasonably fit. Trekkers above 60 or with health conditions should consult a doctor before the trip.

Arrival & Visas

Most travelers require a tourist visa, which can often be obtained on arrival or online. Check your country’s embassy website for up-to-date visa policies.

Airport pickup is often included in the tour package. If not, taxis or pre-arranged transport options are available and reliable.

Yes, arriving early is a great way to rest and adjust before your trek. We can help arrange additional accommodations if needed.

Health & Safety

Guides are trained in first aid and will assist you immediately. In serious cases, evacuation (often by helicopter) can be arranged. Travel insurance with emergency coverage is strongly recommended.

Yes, especially above 2,500 meters. Our itineraries are designed with gradual acclimatization and rest days to help prevent it. Drinking water, eating well, and resting are key.

Yes, all certified guides are trained in altitude awareness, first aid, and emergency protocols to ensure your safety throughout the trek.

Weather & Temperature

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the most popular trekking seasons with stable weather and clear skies.

Temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially at higher altitudes. Days are usually moderate, but proper layering is important.

Yes, extreme weather can cause delays, especially for flights or high passes. We always try to adjust plans safely and flexibly.

Accommodation & Facilities

Accommodations are usually in local lodges or tea houses with basic amenities—clean beds, shared bathrooms, and dining halls.

Some lodges offer hot showers for an additional fee, but availability may be limited at higher altitudes.

Charging is available in most lodges for a fee. Power supply may be limited or solar-based, so bring a power bank as backup.

Packing & Gear

You’ll need layered clothing, good trekking boots, a daypack, a sleeping bag (if not provided), and basic toiletries. A detailed packing list will be shared upon booking.

Yes, you can rent most essential gear like down jackets, sleeping bags, and poles from local shops at affordable rates.

Keep your daypack light with only essentials (water, snacks, jacket). The porter will carry your main bag, usually limited to 10–15 kg.

Location

Region

Duration

Group Size

Max Elevation

Difficulty

Accommodation

Best Seasons

Start Point

End Point

Permit

Food