Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is located in north-central Nepal and includes one peak over 8,000 meters, thirteen peaks over 7,000 meters, and sixteen more over 6,000 meters. It is a well-known trekking route that circles the Annapurna Himal itself, including Nilgiri and Fishtail.
The Annapurna Circuit, located in north-central Nepal, is one of the world’s most renowned trekking routes. It features one peak over 8,000 meters, thirteen peaks above 7,000 meters, and sixteen more exceeding 6,000 meters. The trail circles the Annapurna Himal, including the famous Nilgiri and Fishtail mountains. At its highest point, the trek crosses Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, skirting the edge of the Tibetan plateau and offering breathtaking mountain scenery. Each year, more than 15,000 trekkers take on this adventure.
In the past, the Annapurna Circuit began from Besi Sahar, but with the extension of the road to Manang, the journey now commonly starts in Chame. For trekkers with limited time who still wish to experience the beauty of Thorong La Pass, this is the ideal starting point.
ANH Sherpa Treks & Expeditions offers a shorter itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit. The trek begins in Chame (2,700 m) and concludes in Jomsom (2,500 m). From Kathmandu, travelers take a tourist bus to Besi Sahar and then continue to Chame by jeep. The road between Besi Sahar and Chame is narrow and only passable by jeep, and it may close during the monsoon season, so advance planning is essential. From Chame, the route leads to Manang, where a rest day is built in before ascending to Thorong La Pass. After crossing the pass, trekkers reach Muktinath in the Mustang region. Although it’s possible to continue by jeep from Muktinath, we prefer to give guests a full day to enjoy the Mustang Valley, ending the trek in Jomsom.
ANH Sherpa Treks & Expeditions arranges accommodation in carefully selected guesthouses and teahouses along the route. Most offer private rooms with shared bathrooms, and we prioritize the cleanest, most hospitable lodges with the best views. In higher passes, we make use of basic teahouses to ensure a safe and comfortable trekking experience.
Our guides and staff bring many years of expertise on the Annapurna Circuit. We work with local guides who are trained in first aid and skilled in handling any situation. All guides speak fluent English and are eager to share their deep knowledge of the region’s culture, geography, botany, festivals, and way of life, making your trek not just a journey through the Himalayas, but a cultural experience as well.
Detailed Itinerary
01
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265ft)
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Kathmandu’s International Airport, our team will greet and transfer you to your hotel. After some rest, you can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, visit local markets, or relax before our trek briefing and a welcome dinner in the evening.
02
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Today, we explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Later, we meet for a detailed trek briefing, check our gear, and finalize preparations for the journey ahead.
03
Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m) – 5-6 hours
We start early, driving along the winding Prithvi Highway, passing through lush hills, rivers, and terraced fields. Reaching Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, we check into our lodge and rest for the night.
04
Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2,670m) – 5-6 hours
A thrilling off-road drive along the Marsyangdi River valley takes us through picturesque villages like Dharapani before reaching Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. Stunning views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal await us.
05
Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,200m) – 5-6 hours
The trek begins! Walking through dense pine forests, crossing wooden bridges, and witnessing the first glimpses of snow-capped peaks, we reach the village of Pisang, where we rest with breathtaking views of Annapurna and surrounding peaks.
06
Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m) – 6-7 hours
We take the Upper Pisang route via Ghyaru for stunning panoramic views of Annapurna II, III, and IV. Walking past traditional Tibetan-style settlements, we reach Manang, a culturally rich village with stunning Himalayan landscapes.
07
Acclimatization Day in Manang (3,540m)
To adjust to the altitude, we take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake or explore Braga Monastery, the oldest in the region. Resting and hydrating are crucial before ascending further.
08
Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m) – 4-5 hours
The trek continues through alpine landscapes as we gradually ascend to Yak Kharka. Along the way, we pass pastures where yaks graze and have mesmerizing views of the Annapurna range.
09
Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,925m) – 5-6 hours
We make our way to Thorong Phedi, the base camp for Thorong La Pass. The trail becomes steeper and more rugged, requiring a slow, steady pace. This is our final stop before the big ascent!
10
Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass (5,416m) – 7-8 hours; Descent to Muktinath (3,810m)
An early morning ascent takes us to the highest point of the trek—Thorong La Pass, with jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Himalayas. After celebrating our achievement, we begin a long descent to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
11
Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,500m) – 5-6 hours
Descending through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge, we pass through Kagbeni before arriving in Jomsom, a town famous for its strong winds and apple orchards.
12
Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (820m) – 20-25 minutes
We take a scenic morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, where you can relax at lakeside cafés, visit Phewa Lake, or enjoy a well-earned massage.
13
Reserve Day for Unforeseen Circumstances
This buffer day is in place in case of flight delays or unexpected weather conditions. If everything goes as planned, you can explore more of Pokhara’s attractions, such as Davis Falls or the Peace Pagoda.
14
Fly (30 min) or Drive (6 hrs.) from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Depending on your preference, we either take a short domestic flight or drive back to Kathmandu. The evening is free for shopping, exploring, or enjoying a farewell dinner.
15
International Departure
Our journey comes to an end. After an unforgettable experience in the Annapurna region, we transfer you to the airport for your flight home, carrying memories of adventure and breathtaking landscapes.
Included in Your Trek Package:
- International arrival and departure transfer in a private vehicle.
- 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu on a Bed and Breakfast basis.
- 1 night’s accommodation in Pokhara on a Bed and Breakfast basis.
- Kathmandu to Besisahar transfer in a private vehicle.
- Jomsom to Pokhara airfare and domestic airport transfer.
- Pokhara to Kathmandu airfare and airport transfer in a private vehicle.
- Trek permit fees and ACAP permit fees.
- Experienced guide and porters.
- Accommodation during the trek.
- Meals on a full board basis ( Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Salary and insurance for the staff.
- All government taxes.
- Lunch and, Dinner during the trek.
- Soft Drinks and Alcoholic bevarages like Coke, Beer, etc. during your whole trip.
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Personal gears and trekking equipments
- Personal natured expenses like phone, laundry, gratitude, etc.
- Hot shower and hot drinking water during trek.
- Your insurance and emergency rescue evacuation if required.
- Any items not mentioned in “Service included section”
Packing List
Bodywear (Clothing/Layering)
- Insulated mid-layer
- Fleece jacket
- Thermal set
- Quick dry (half and full-sleeved)
- T-shirts
- Trekking trousers
- Additionally as per necessity
Handwear
- Liner gloves
- Fleece gloves
- Mittens
Footwear
- Trekking shoes
- Camp shoes/ slippers
- Woolen socks/ trekking socks
Personal Kit
- Trekking backpack
- Hygiene kit (toiletries)
- Sun screen (min. 50 SPF)
- Lip Guard
- Water bottle
- Thermos
First Aid Kit
- Personal medications
- Personal first aid kit
Miscellaneous
- Camera and associated gears
- Camp knife/ multi-tools
- Binoculars/ magnifiers
- Personal reading accessories
- Games and entertainment mediums
- Dry bag/ compression bags
What’s Not Included:
- International flights
- Nepal entry visa
- Travel insurance (required)
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
FAQ
From our past clients on similar treks.
It’s considered an intermediate trek. A good fitness level and mental preparation are key, but with a proper itinerary and support, most people can complete it.
Everest Base Camp sits at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet).
Our itinerary is designed to allow proper acclimatization, and our guides are trained to monitor for symptoms. In emergencies, we will arrange safe descent and medical support.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is mandatory.
We welcome solo trekkers and will match you with a group if you prefer shared experience.
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are ideal for weather, visibility, and trail conditions.
Yes. We handle all required trekking permits for Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Rural Municipality.
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