Trip Code: | BTA-02 |
Trip Duration: | 20 days |
Max. Altitude: | 5416m |
Grade: | Moderate |
Program Type: | Trekking |
Trek Start Point: | Beshishahar |
Trek End Point: | Jomsom |
Accommodation: | Teahouse / Camping |
Meals: | Breakfast, lunch , Dinner with tea/coffee |
Mode of Travel: | Land |
Transportation: | Car / Bus / Flight |
Minimum Pax: | 2+ |
Best season: | March - June / September-November |
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most iconic and diverse trekking routes in the world. Spanning approximately 18 days, this epic journey circles the Annapurna Massif and traverses multiple landscapes, cultures, and climates—from lush subtropical forests and deep river valleys to arid high-altitude plateaus and snow-covered mountain passes. It is a trail that offers everything: dramatic mountain vistas, vibrant ethnic cultures, sacred temples and monasteries, hot springs, waterfalls, and high Himalayan adventure.
The trek’s highlight is the crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Yet, beyond the physical challenge, what makes the Annapurna Circuit extraordinary is its cultural richness, ecological diversity, and the genuine hospitality of the people who call this region home.
The 18-day Annapurna Circuit Trek typically starts from Besisahar and ends in Jomsom or Nayapul, depending on your itinerary. Over the course of the journey, trekkers gradually ascend from the Marsyangdi River Valley into the high-altitude world of Manang and Mustang before descending into the Kali Gandaki Gorge—the deepest in the world.
This classic circuit covers around 160 to 230 kilometers, depending on the route and transportation choices. It is well-suited for trekkers with good fitness levels who seek cultural depth and visual grandeur. Though the region has seen development, parts of the trail still retain their authentic charm, especially if one follows the NATT (New Annapurna Trekking Trails) that divert away from roads.
The Annapurna Circuit is located in the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA), which spans across Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, Myagdi, and Kaski districts in central Nepal. The trek begins in the lowlands and climbs northwards, passing through different ecological zones and cultural regions.
At lower elevations, trekkers walk through warm, terraced hillsides and dense forests. As the trail progresses north, it enters a rain shadow, resulting in a dry, barren landscape that resembles Tibet. The trail offers close-up views of towering peaks such as Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Manaslu (8,163m), Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre.
The circuit is home to an incredible mix of ethnic communities. In the lower elevations, Gurungs, Magars, and Brahmins dominate the landscape. These groups are known for their agricultural skills, hospitality, and distinct traditions.
As you ascend, the trail enters Manang, Pisang, and Braga, where Tibetan-influenced Manangi people live. These communities have a strong connection to Buddhism, and their language, dress, and customs reflect centuries of trade and cultural exchange with Tibet.
Beyond Thorong La, in Muktinath and Jomsom, the Thakali people live. They are known for their business acumen, delicious cuisine, and well-maintained lodges. Each community offers a glimpse into a different way of life, making the trek a cultural mosaic as well as a physical journey.
The Annapurna Circuit is steeped in religious and spiritual significance. Hinduism and Buddhism coexist harmoniously throughout the trail. One of the most sacred sites is Muktinath Temple, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims believe that visiting Muktinath brings liberation (moksha) from the cycle of life and death.
Along the way, trekkers encounter numerous Buddhist monasteries, prayer wheels, mani walls, and chortens. The area around Manang and Mustang is particularly rich in Tibetan Buddhist heritage, while the lower areas are dotted with Hindu shrines and temples.
The spirituality of the region adds a deep, reflective quality to the trek, allowing trekkers to not just see the mountains but also connect with the sacredness they represent.
The lifestyle in the Annapurna region varies significantly with altitude. In the lowlands, people primarily depend on subsistence farming, growing rice, maize, millet, and vegetables on terraced fields. Livestock like buffaloes, goats, and chickens are also common.
In higher elevations like Manang and Mustang, the short growing season and harsh terrain shift reliance to yak and sheep herding, trade, and increasingly, tourism. Homes are typically built from stone and mud, with flat roofs designed to store firewood and withstand snow.
Life in the Himalayas is shaped by the seasons, festivals, and religious rituals. Trekkers often witness locals working in fields, spinning wool, or performing traditional dances during celebrations such as Lhosar, Yartung, or Dashain.
The Annapurna Circuit is a biodiversity hotspot. Thanks to its dramatic altitudinal range, the trail passes through several ecological zones. In the lower areas (600 m–2,000 m), forests of sal, pine, and bamboo thrive, providing shelter to animals such as langurs, deer, and leopards.
Mid-elevations support rhododendron, oak, and maple forests, which come alive with birds like Himalayan monals, sunbirds, and snow pigeons. In the alpine regions (above 3,500m), flora becomes sparse, with hardy grasses, juniper bushes, and high-altitude medicinal herbs.
The region is also home to rare animals, including the snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, and musk deer, though these are rarely seen. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diversity, especially in the forested sections between Chame and Manang.
Vegetation along the Annapurna Circuit changes dramatically with elevation and climate:
Lowlands (600–2,000m): Lush green forests with ferns, orchids, and subtropical plants. Mid-hills (2,000–3,000m): Temperate forests of rhododendron, oak, and fir. High alpine (3,000–4,500m): Dwarf shrubs, alpine meadows, junipers, and lichens. Beyond Thorong La: Arid, rocky terrain with sparse vegetation typical of a high-altitude desert.
These variations make the trek visually dynamic and ecologically fascinating. Spring brings brilliant rhododendron blooms, while autumn offers crisp air and golden hues across the hillsides.
The atmosphere along the Annapurna Circuit is nothing short of mesmerizing. The contrast between verdant valleys and barren plateaus, the ever-changing skyline of the Himalayas, and the peaceful rhythm of village life create a deeply immersive environment.
Each day offers new sights, sounds, and smells—from the chant of monks in remote monasteries to the rush of glacial rivers and the scent of juniper smoke from village chimneys. Mornings often bring crystal-clear mountain views, while evenings settle into a quiet, star-filled calm.
Despite the physical challenges, the trek carries a meditative quality. Whether resting in a teahouse or standing atop Thorong La Pass, trekkers often describe feeling a deep sense of connection, humility, and renewal.
At The Himalayan Realms Treks and Expedition Nepal Pvt. Ltd., we specialize in creating meaningful and safe trekking experiences for adventurers from around the world. Our expertly designed 18-day Annapurna Circuit package includes permits, transportation, accommodations, and knowledgeable guides.
We also proudly collaborate with trusted Nepal freelance guides, many of whom are from the Annapurna region. These guides are licensed, English-speaking, and deeply familiar with local customs, trails, and safety procedures. Hiring a freelance guide offers a personalized experience, cultural depth, and support for local livelihoods.
Whether you choose to join a group or prefer a customized solo trek, our team is dedicated to providing authentic, sustainable, and life-enriching journeys through the Himalayas.
Most popular trekking routes in the Annapurna region, each offering unique experiences in terms of scenery, culture, difficulty, and duration:
Duration: 15–21 days
Max Elevation: 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass)
Highlights: Diverse landscapes, crossing Thorong La Pass, Muktinath Temple, Manang Valley, Kali Gandaki Gorge
Why Popular: Offers the greatest variety in scenery and culture; considered one of the best long-distance treks in the world.
Duration: 7–12 days
Max Elevation: 4,130 m (Annapurna Base Camp)
Highlights: Annapurna Sanctuary, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, terraced fields, rhododendron forests
Why Popular: Moderate altitude, stunning close-up views of Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre; shorter than the circuit.
Duration: 4–6 days
Max Elevation: 3,210 m (Poon Hill)
Highlights: Sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Gurung and Magar villages
Why Popular: Ideal for beginners and families; accessible from Pokhara; relatively easy.
Duration: 5–7 days
Max Elevation: 4,500 m (Mardi Himal Viewpoint)
Highlights: Hidden trail, ridge walks, close-up views of Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal
Why Popular: Off-the-beaten-path experience with dramatic scenery; less crowded.
Duration: 10–13 days
Max Elevation: 3,800 m (Muktinath)
Highlights: Sacred Muktinath Temple, Kali Gandaki Gorge, Thakali culture
Why Popular: Combines natural beauty with spiritual sites; accessible via flight from Pokhara to Jomsom.
Duration: 7–9 days
Max Elevation: 3,660 m (Khopra Danda)
Highlights: Panoramic mountain views, community lodges, Khayar Lake
Why Popular: Less crowded alternative to Poon Hill with better viewpoints.
Duration: 3–5 days
Max Elevation: ~1,730 m
Highlights: Gurung villages, terraced farmland, moderate trail
Why Popular: Short, cultural trek; named after Prince Charles’ visit in the 1980s.
Duration: 5–7 days
Max Elevation: ~2,000 m
Highlights: Traditional Gurung villages, terraced hills, views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal
Why Popular: Cultural immersion and peaceful nature paths; great for beginners.
Duration: +4–6 days (from Manang)
Max Elevation: 4,919 m (Tilicho Lake)
Highlights: One of the highest lakes in the world, dramatic alpine scenery
Why Popular: Adventure lovers seeking an additional challenge and unique natural site.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is more than a mountain walk—it’s a journey through diverse landscapes, ancient cultures, and spiritual depth. Over 18 days, trekkers experience lush valleys, high deserts, sacred temples, and breathtaking peaks. This transformative trek challenges your body, enriches your spirit, and connects you with Nepal’s beauty. With The Himalayan Realms Treks or our Nepal freelance guides, you’ll gain not just support—but insight, authenticity, and unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu Tribhuban international ariport (1,300m/4,264ft.
Day 02:- Drive Beshisahar to Chame (2670m/8677ft. 5 hrs)
Day 03: Drive Beshisahar to Chame (2670m/8677ft. 5 hrs)
Day 04:- Chame to Pissang (3200m/10,400ft. 6hrs)
Day 05:- Pisang to Manang (3,540m/11,482ft. 6 -7 hours)
Day 06:- Manang:- Rest day for acclimatization.
Day 07:- Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m/13,583ft 5-6 hours).
Day 08:– Visit Tilicho Lake (4,920m/16,138 ft) then back to Siri Kharka: 5-6 hours).
Day 09:- Siri kharka to Yak kharka (4060m/13,020ft.4-5 hours).
Day 10:- Yak Kharka to Thorong High camp (4,600m/15,092ft): 3-4 hours).
Day 11:- Thorong High camp to Thorong La (5,416m/17764ft) to Muktinath (3,800m/12,467ft): 7-8 hours).
Day 12:- Muktinath to Jomsom (2738m/8,900 ft 6-7 hrs).
Day 13:- Jomsom to Ghasa (2584m/8,400 ft 5 hrs).
Day 14:- Ghasa to Tatomani (1534m/4,988 ft 5hrs).
Day 15:– Tatopani to Ghorepani(poon Hill) (9,200 ft 6hrs).
Day 15:- Tatopani to Ghorepani(poon Hill) (9,200 ft 6hrs).
Day 16:– Ghorepani (Poon Hill ) to Birethanti (1046m/3,400 ft:6hrs).
Day 17:- Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Day 18:- From hotel to Trivhuvan international airport.
Day 01:- Arrival in Kathmandu Tribhuban international ariport (1,300m/4,264ft): then pick you up and take a short drive from the airport to the hotel check in the hotel and rest for few hrs then we meet again with guide and barging about the trek what we need the equipment for then trek and what time we live from Kathmandu details.
Day 02:- Drive Beshisahar to Chame (2670m/8677ft. 5 hrs):- After morning berakfast we start to from Besisahar to Cchme by four wheel drive will follow Marsyangdhi valley and it passes through many mountain village and beautiful scenery.We stop for a lunch one way it is call Khothe thanti about 1 hrs. After Lunch we keep continue our 4WD drive. It will go through unpaved road so you have to prepare yourself for possible bumpy road. Stay overnight at Chame in Tea house.
Day 03: Drive Beshisahar to Chame (2670m/8677ft. 5 hrs):- After morning berakfast we start to from Besisahar to Chahme by four wheel drive will follow Marsyangdhi valley and it passes through many mountain village and beautiful scenery.We stop for a lunch one way it is call Khothe thanti about 1 hrs. After Lunch we keep continue our 4WD drive. It will go through unpaved road so you have to prepare yourself for possible bumpy road.
Day 04:- Chame to Pissang (3200m/10,400ft. 6hrs):- continuously cross the river all day, Palling through the narrow and steep sided gorge, Nearing the village of Passing top a ride to get first views of the Manang valley, a wide U-shaped valley hanging between two lions of snow peaks. It also takes approximately 6hrs. Stay overnight at Pisang in Tea house.
Day 05:- Pisang to Manang (3,540m/11,482ft. 6 -7 hours):- After breakfast we trek on the lower trail through lower pisang. We choose this trail as it offers outstanding views of north face Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho and Pisang Peak .as we ascend well feel the air turn cold, dry and harsher.The trail goes through Tibetan settlement and and we get a chance to explore Buddhist culture in a short visit to Barge Monastery, largest in Manang. Stay overnight at Manang in tea house.
Day 06:- Manang:- Rest day for acclimatization: A necessary day to rest and acclimatize and explore Manang. The village, of about 500 flat roofed houses, is picturesquely set amounts spectacular scenery; Annapurna II, Annapurna III (24,787ft), Gangapurna (24,457ft) and Chulu East (19,880ft) to the north.
Day 07:- Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m/13,583ft 5-6 hours):- After breakfast we walk an easy path that leads through the middle of the landslides area where we can view impressive rock formations, we trek up till Tilicho base camp where we can get a good view of Tilicho Peak and other snow Cover Mountains Stay overnight at Lodge..
Day 08:- Visit Tilicho Lake (4,920m/16,138 ft) then back to Siri Kharka: 5-6 hours):- We start the day early to avoid afternoon wind. After a steeps consistent climb of 2-3 hours we reach Tilicho lake, The highest lake in the world also referred as the “the great ice lake” by the leader of the French expedition team .this is a large sparkling lake that lies at the foot of the north face of tilicho peak, after spending some time here we take the same route back to siri kharka Stay overnight in Siri Kharka at tea house.
Day 09:- Siri kharka to Yak kharka (4060m/13,020ft.4-5 hours):- We descend to the uninhabited Khangsar village, pass Tare gumba,a thousand year old monastery then follow a rock wall out of Khangsar to descend a bridge in the Thorong Khola valley.We go across a river ,hike up to a plateau to reach yak kharka .from her you can see Annapurna mountains range, other peaks, blue sheep (bharal) and if you are lucky you might spot a snow leopard.
Stay overnight at Tea house lodge.
Day 10:- Yak Kharka to Thorong High camp (4,600m/15,092ft): 3-4 hours):- After breakfast we are continue our way to the foot of the pass, Throng high camp today. Thorong high camp is a only one teahouse and alwaays busy catering to the needs of tired trekkers and climbers. Trekkers like us use this point as a base camp. Some visitors stay only low camp but a hike to the High Camp today so that the next day can be easier for us. Stay overnight at tea house.
Day 11:- Thorong High camp to Thorong La (5,416m/17764ft) to Muktinath (3,800m/12,467ft): 7-8 hours):- After early fast breakfast we continue our trek to crossing the difficult Thorong La Pass at a dizzying height of 5,416m/17,764ft is another highlight of this trek. An early start is important to go through the icy high-altitude trail. But the picturesque mountain vistas are more than compensates the strenuous walk through the grueling trail. We reach Muktinath by sunset which is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhist. We can stroll around the area which hosts a Vishnu temple and a Monastery nearby. Stay overnight in Muktinath at Tea house lodge.
Day 12:- Muktinath to Jomsom (2738m/8,900 ft 6-7 hrs):-The trail descends very quickly to the valley floor more than 500ft. below. The descend is through a dramatic arid landscape and continues to Jomsom . After the last few days Jomsom seems almost busy in fact it is a major village on the Kaligandaki trading route.
Day 13:- Jomsom to Ghasa (2584m/8,400 ft 5 hrs):- The thakali are the dominant tribe of the valley, interestingly related to Gurung and Magars of the southern slopes. Then pass through Marpha and ‘Tukche, beautiful Thakali villages and camp at Ghasa Stay overnight at Ghasa in teahouse
Day 14:– Ghasa to Tatomani (1534m/4,988 ft 5hrs):– A dramatic change in the vegetation, from day, arid, deserts, to pine and conifer forests occurs passing through and between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna . Passing through Kalapani the view of the Annapurna is magnificent. Camp at spectacular Tatopani (Hot spring) Tatopani means Hot water and is possible to bath on the spring.
Day 15:– Tatopani to Ghorepani(poon Hill) (9,200 ft 6hrs):- Cross the Kali Gandaki and climb steadily to the Magar village of Sikha for lunch . Then the trail ascends to Ghorepani (Poon Hill) Stay overnight at Ghorepani in tea house.
Day 15:- Tatopani to Ghorepani(poon Hill) (9,200 ft 6hrs):- After break we start to descend is almost as tiring as the day from Muktinath.Mule trains, loaded with goods keep up entertained however beck to Birethanti after Birethanti to Nayapur about 30 minute. From Nayapul to Pokhara we take our private vehicle. Stay overnight at Pokhara at lodge.
Day 15:– Tatopani to Ghorepani(poon Hill) (9,200 ft 6hrs):- Cross the Kali Gandaki and climb steadily to the Magar village of Sikha for lunch . Then the trail ascends to Ghorepani (Poon Hill) Stay overnight at Ghorepani in tea house.
Day 16:- Ghorepani (Poon Hill ) to Birethanti (1046m/3,400 ft:6hrs):- After break we start to descend is almost as tiring as the day from Muktinath.Mule trains, loaded with goods keep up entertained however beck to Birethanti after Birethanti to Nayapur about 30 minute. From Nayapul to Pokhara we take our private vehicle. Stay overnight at Pokhara at lodge.
Day 17: Pokhara to Kathmandu: – Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu and it takes about seven hours. If we take flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu about 25 minutes.While driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you head up to Damauli,, Dumre, Muglin and Kurintar where the Nepal’s first Cable car is operated to reach to Manakamana Temple. En route, you could enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people being engaged in their daily life activities. From Naubishe you climb up to Thankot, the gateway to capital city. You are then directly taken to the hotel
Day 18:- From hotel to Trivhuvan international airport:- today is free or last minute you have few hour special shopping for your relatives. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing then we will drop you to the International airport to catch your flight back to your home and wish for your Safe journey.
Start Date | End Date | Price In US Dollar($) | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
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• Food in Kathmandu Lunch & Dinner)
• Food in Pokhara (Lunch & Dinner)
• Bakery food during the trek. When you eat in the bakery that you need to pay by yourself
• Nepal Visa fee
• International airfare from your country to Kathmandu and from Kathmandu
• Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu
• Travel and rescue insurance if guest get mountain sickness and need to rescue helicopter.
• Personal expenses example (phone calls, laundry service , bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
• Tips for guide and porters
Dammaru Niraula was our guide and confidant for our recent visit to Nepal. We went on a humanitarian visit to build a hothouse in the village of Phortse in the Khumbu region of Nepal but also included some trekking on a personal level before and after our project. Dammaru was a vital link in getting the project off the ground and then…
Dammaru Niraula Trekking Guide Trip Leader I have had an association with Dammaru over the last three years. My first trek with Dammaru was to the Solu Khumbu region where he tailored a trek to suit our request to climb some remote passes and stay off the main tourist routes where possible. His knowledge of the area was very impressive and his attention to our safety was always his major concern. The second trek I did with Dammaru two years…
Dear Dammaru I have been trekking to Ghorepani poon hill on Jan 07 for 6 days with Mr. Dammaru. Poonhill is so beautiful, so all I can do is just taking pictures on poon hill. If you were planning to trek in Nepal, I…
I was a member of a group of nine friends from Northamptonshire in 204 from the UK, on a trek of the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. Apart from one member, we were all approaching or over the age of 60 and were all well aware of the difficulties we could encounter at Thorong La which sits at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769…
My husband and I embarked on a trip to Nepal in October 2006. We were hoping to avoid the large tour groups and were referred to Himalayan Holidays based in Kathmandu as a provider of customized tours. We had looked on the net to determine the tour we wanted to undertake and spoke to many people and eventually decided 6-day on Ghorepani Poon…
My husband and I embarked on a trip to Nepal in October 2006. We were hoping to avoid the large tour groups and were referred to Himalayan Holidays based in Kathmandu as a provider of customized tours. We had looked on the net to determine the tour we wanted to undertake and spoke to many people and eventually decided 6-day on Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. We live in a plain and therefore training for the trek was a challenge in itself. We spent our weekends climbing up and down a 700metre high hill that was regarded as sufficiently steep for our training needs. However, we were unsure of what to expect in Nepal and were concerned about our levels of fitness for the trek that we had in mind. We were introduced to our guide, Dammaru at the hotel we were staying in Kathmandu and our anxieties were quickly alleviated. This diminutive gentleman exuded confidence and assured us that he was able to accommodate our individual fitness levels and ensure that our time in his country was hassle free. And indeed he did! Without it being particularly noticeable, Dammaru controlled the tempo of our daily treks in order that the enjoyment factor always exceeded any physical discomfort. His relationship with the locals was both real & genuine which meant we never felt like intruders or uncomfortable in their presence. Dammaru's keen negotiation skills with the local tea house proprietors' meant the delay between arriving & unwinding from the challenges of our daily treks was minimal with the accommodation always being appropriate to our needs. His professionalism was faultless. He provided us with a wealth of information on all aspects of the history, culture, flora, and fauna of this remarkable country. Not only was he a fantastic guide, but his cheeky grin and sense of humor ensured Dammaru to be a fantastic traveling companion. Our dealings with Dammaru exceeded all expectations and we hope to make a return visit to this stunningly beautiful country.
Dear valuable guest, I would like to inform all of you that the coming year 2020 is declared as “The year of Tourism”? Sep-15-2019
Nepal celebrates 34th World Tourism Day with the aim to promote water tourism in Nepal. This year’s theme celebration “Tourism and…
Jan-28-2015