Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek (ACT) is one of Nepal’s most iconic routes, leading adventurers through diverse landscapes. Transitions from lush subtropical forests to high altitude desert plateaus and snow covered peaks. At 5,416 meters, Thorong La Pass is the widest pass in the Himalayas, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest treks, the Annapurna Circuit immerses trekkers in rich cultural experiences. As you pass through traditional villages, you’ll witness the daily life of diverse ethnic communities. Along the way, the towering peaks of the Annapurna Massif dominate the skyline.

It showcases some of the world’s highest mountains, including Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Manaslu (8,163m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna III (7,555m), and Annapurna IV (7,525m). Other notable peaks along the route include Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Lamjung Himal, Tukuche Peak, and Tilicho Peak.

A journey along the Annapurna Circuit is both challenging and deeply rewarding. It has a stunning scenery paired with an authentic cultural experience. Proper preparation is essential, including appropriate clothing, essential trekking gear, and a good level of fitness to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Typically begins this journey in Besisahar and ends at Nayapul Bazaar in Kaski district. Spanning approximately 230 kilometers, it takes between 10 to 15 days to reach Thorong La Pass.

Trekkers will encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna that adapts to changing altitudes. The lower regions are covered in rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, home to Himalayan langurs, barking deer, and colorful bird species like the Himalayan Monal, Nepal’s national bird.

Higher up, the vegetation thins into alpine shrubs and barren landscapes. In these remote zones, trekkers may spot blue sheep, Himalayan griffons, and even the elusive snow leopard.

Adding to its grandeur, the Kali Gandaki River, sourced from the Nhubine Himal Glacier, carves through the world’s deepest gorge, flanked by Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. As part of the Great Himalayan Trek, the Annapurna Circuit remains accessible year round, inviting trekkers to experience its beauty in every season.

Price Per Person for Annapurna Circuit Trek Package for 2025 and 2026

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Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary details

16 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek package is a timeless adventure, perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed and immersive journey. However, if time is limited, we offer a customized itinerary that maintains the trek’s essence while fitting your schedule. Explore our around the Annapurna short trek – 10 Days—a thoughtfully designed alternative that delivers an equally rewarding experience in less time.

You’ll have a captivating journey today that unfolds through diverse landscapes and cultural highlights. However, first stretch leads to Syange Bazaar, where trekkers are greeted by a breathtaking waterfall at 3,510 feet, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

As you continue, you’ll cross a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River, following its winding course toward Jagat, a charming village nestled in the hills. From there, the trail gradually ascends to Chamje, blending natural beauty with rugged terrain, making each step a rewarding challenge.

Cross the river and continue to hike through the forest, eventually arriving at Kopar Lodge (2,590m), from where the guesthouses of Chame come into view. As the headquarters of the Manang district, Chame grant stunning views of Annapurna II as you approach the bustling Chame Bazaar. Upon reaching Chame, visitors can further unwind with a walk to the natural hot springs, where trekkers can enjoy taking a hot bath.

Along with this travel route, explore the local community said to have migrated from Tibet a long time in the past, noticeable by their different features. With them, they have bought local Tibetan house designs and maintained their ways.

In addition, Chame is a gateway to exploring Kajin Sara Lake which is situated at an altitude of 5,200 meters, said to have the highest lake in the world.

Today’s hike to Pisang begins through a dense forest, winding through a rugged and narrow valley. Crossing a long suspension bridge over the river, the imposing Paungda Danda rock face soon comes into view, signaling the start of an exciting ascent.

As the trail gradually unfolds, breathtaking landscapes emerge, making the journey even more rewarding. Upper Pisang awaits with its serene atmosphere, inviting trekkers to explore its higher elevations. Here, visitors can experience the unique lifestyle of the Manangis, who have skillfully adapted to life in this high altitude terrain.

Walk for an hour to reach the guest houses in Manang. After settling in, explore the stunning surroundings. Acclimatization here is essential for a safe ascent, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. While rest is an option, engaging in light activities enhances the experience. Consider a scenic hike to Gangapurna Glacier Lake and Gangapurna view point for breathtaking views and better acclimatization.

Alternatively, if you’re fit and seeking more adventure, we recommend hiking to Ice Lake. This trek is one of the finest day hikes in the Trans Himalaya region. It offers expansive views of the Annapurna range, including Gangapurna and Tilicho Peaks, along with the breathtaking arid valley.

Today’s journey to Thorong Phedi unfolds in distinct stages. The trek begins with a two hours ascent along a lush Yak trail. The path then gently descends, leading to a river crossing at 4,310 meters.

Afterward, the journey continues with a steady climb, bringing you to the welcoming Thorong Phedi guest house at 4,450 meters. Along the way, you’ll pass areas affected by landslides. At the Thorong La base camp, you’ll find well maintained guest houses with a pristine environment, excellent food, and even a bakery. Enjoy internet access, ensuring a seamless experience in this breathtaking setting.

To conquer the challenging trek to Thorong La, we recommend starting early around 4 AM. An early departure is crucial for success. You’ll need high quality mountain gear and full preparation for the demanding trail ahead.

The initial ascent is steep, but with a steady pace, you can reach the summit in about four hours. Upon arrival, vibrant prayer flags greet you, marking the highest point of your hike. At sunrise, you’ll stand at Thorong La, 5,416 meters high is the widest pass in the Himalayas. Enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee at the Thorong La Tea Shop, located at the pass’s widest stretch. This trek is ranked among the world’s top ten longest distance hikes, offering an unforgettable experience.

The descent to Muktinath is long but scenic, with breathtaking views of the versatile mountains, including Dhaulagiri. Muktinath, a larger settlement, boasts modern lodges with a perfect for a restful stop after your adventurous day.

On your following day, if you feel fatigued from the challenging Thorong La pass, you have an alternative. You can return to Pokhara by bus or jeep, allowing you to finish the trek earlier. This option presents a peaceful conclusion, letting you recover comfortably while enjoying the scenic drive.

In the first section of your descent, you can explore a hike to Jharkot Gompa, where you’ll have an opportunity to learn about the Buddhist monks. This ancient monastery, commonly known as Shakyapa Monastery of Mustang, provides insight into the region’s spiritual heritage.

Continuing your journey, you’ll walk along the Kali Gandaki River’s sandy road. The Kali Gandaki, also referred to as the Narayani or Gandak, is one of Nepal’s major rivers and a left bank tributary of the Ganges in India.

Marpha is a charming village known for its apple orchards and the delightful aroma of cider. The village is also home to several excellent bakeries, producing delicious apple puff pastries and cakes.

Follow its flagstone paved streets, and make your way towards the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, which also marks the last remnants of Tibetan influence in the valley.

From there, the trail leads us to the impressive Rupse Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Nepal Himalayas. Continuing onward, we reach a charming Tatopani Lodge, where trekkers can unwind and take a refreshing dip in the natural hot springs.

Today’s journey to Ghorepani leads us away from the Kali Gandaki Gorge, guiding us toward the Gar Khola River. As the landscape shifts, expansive rice terraces offer a refreshing visual change. Upon reaching Chitre, we ascend numerous steps until the distinctive blue rooftops of Ghorepani appear above us.

This adventure through diverse forests unveils captivating views of the Himalayas and charming village scenes. Ghorepani, meaning “horse water” in Tibetan, greets visitors with vibrant jewelry markets, offering a unique shopping experience in this fascinating setting.

Early in the morning around 5am, hike to Poon Hill at 3,210 meters to catch a stunning sunrise view over the Himalayan horizon. Upon reaching the Poon Hill Station, a short climb to the Poon Hill Tower presents a glimpse of the Annapurna Mountain range. At an altitude of 10,548 feet, Poon Hill is renowned for its breathtaking mountain views, especially during sunrise over the Annapurna Massif. Tourists can also enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna South, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri.

After soaking in the views, we return to the lodge for breakfast and descend to Hile Guest Houses at 1,520 meters for lunch. Following that, we continue our easy descent to Nayapool, where a private taxi will take us back to Fewa Lakeside in Pokhara.

How much is the Annapurna Circuit Trek Package Price?

This classic 16 Day Annapurna circuit trek package price from Kathmandu US$ 1098 is a standard trip per person on a double occupancy basis. Choosing flights to and from Pokhara saves time, while taking the bus helps lower overall costs.

For a more comfortable experience, we arrange comfortable lodges with an attached bathrooms where available. Likewise, we provide Pokhara to Kathmandu airfare, deluxe 4 to 5 star hotels with air conditioned rooms, and breakfast in both cities. Additionally, we can customize your itinerary and adjust the package price to suit your preferences.

We provide the flexibility to arrange a private Annapurna circuit trek package from Kathmandu on any date that fits your schedule. For more details, feel free to reach out to us anytime.

Question: Can I store my luggage/stuff in Kathmandu?

Answer: Yes, you can leave your luggage at your hotel or at Gokyo Agency office however storing your stuff in the Gokyo Treks agency office for free and safe.

Question: I am not a professional trekker. Do I need the experience to hike to Annapurna Circuit?

Answer: While you don’t need to be a professional trekker to hike the Annapurna Circuit, having some prior hiking experience is beneficial. It involves long days of walking, high altitudes, and varying weather conditions. Being in good physical condition, having some experience with multi day hikes, and being prepared for altitude sickness will make the trek more enjoyable and safer. If you are a beginner, consider joining a guided tour for added support and safety.

Question: Is AC trekking Safe for the Solo Trekkers?

Answer: Yes, the Annapurna Circuit is generally safe for solo trekkers, including female travelers. However, like any trekking adventure, staying cautious and aware of your surroundings is essential.

Our team of honest and friendly guides treats every trekker like family. Since our establishment, we have been organizing treks for solo female travelers, ensuring both safety and an enjoyable experience.

Solo trekking in the Annapurna Circuit comparatively more expensive due to higher transportation and private trip prices. Finding private accommodation especially in the busy seson often harder. To reduce costs and enhance safety, solo travelers can join a group departure. Additionally, we offer customized trek options tailored to your needs.

Question: What kind of accommodation and food can I expect?.

Answer: We provide you tourist standard lodge accommodation at Annapurna circuit trek routes. Rooms at the guesthouse are clean with a comfortable bed with a nice mattress and blankets. However we recommend you take your own sleeping bags if you have one with you otherwise, you may rent them while you are in the Kathmandu gears shop.

Likewise, the lodges at the Annapurna circuit treks, have attached restaurants. They cook a yummy range of mostly vegetarian meals such as Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, curry rice, bread, and soups. Dinner and breakfast are provided in the same lodge you spend the night every day and Lunch will provides on the way to the next place where you hikes.

Question: Will I get a shower an route?.

Answer: Over the lodge hikes, they have a hot shower which you can get often on pay. Although, if you upgrade your accommodation plan to a double bedroom with a private toilet bathroom then the cost of a hot shower will not charge extra. So please let us know the types of rooms you want to have for Circuit Annapurna hikes.

Question: How do I manage to drink water?.

Answer: Hikers can buy water at a safe drinking water station in various hiking camps. Tourists can purchase bottled mineral water either at hotels or at local shops en route. But, we advise against buying mineral water in plastic bottles, as currently there are no provisions for disposing of plastic waste in the mountains. So, we advise you to bring Aqua tablets to purify normal water to drink. Normal tap water is available in almost every station, stream, river, and village.

Question: Can I re charge my mobile phone or digital camera?

Answer: As you go on Annapurna circuit lodge basis trek, you can certainly re charge the battery. We recommend you bring an extra pair in case. Remember to bring your own adapters! An extra battery will be recommended.

Question: Are there any communication facilities?.

Answer: At the Annapurna circuit hiking route, Tourists can purchase a local NTC sim card to get a telephone call. It’s a cheaper way to call your home rather than calling direct. You can also buy a DATA PACK to use high speed Internet as per your requirements.

Question: When should I book my trip and what are the payment terms?

Answer: We recommend booking your trip with us as early as possible to secure your preferred dates. While we do our best to accommodate final minute reservations, a 15% advance deposit is required to confirm your booking. Tourist can pay the remaining part of the payment upon your arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Question: Who will carry my luggage in the Annapurna circuit treks?.

Answer: We do provide porters to transfer your luggage. As we are a responsible trekking tour operator agency, each of our porters carries a maximum of 24 kilos of your backpack which means 2 guests (12 kg luggage of each guest): 1 porter basis.

Question: How much distance do I walk each day?

Answer: When walking in the mountains, the distance you cover each day can vary greatly due to gradient, terrain, and altitude. Total length of the hiking route varies between 160 to 230 km (100-145 miles), depending on where motor transportation is used and where the trek is ended. This trek crosses Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki river valleys and encircles the Annapurna Massif. As such it is very hard to give specific distances each day. However, you need to prepare roughly about 5 to 6 hours daily.

Question: Is it possible to hire a local trekking guide for ACT?

Answer: Yes, absolutely! You can hire a local trekking guide for your Annapurna Circuit Trek (ACT) without purchasing a full package with us. Many trekkers on a tight budget prefer this approach as it allows flexibility in choosing their own accommodation and meals while benefiting from the expertise of a local guide.

Guides daily hiring prices are depending on their experience and the season you travel. Hiring a local guide ensures a safer and more informative trek, as they help with navigation, local insights, and permit procedures. Our local guides are licensed, friendly and honest, so write us an email to get their daily cost quotation.

Question: Do I need trek poles for my trek to Annapurna Circuit?

Answer: Yes, trekking poles are highly recommended for your trip to Annapurna Circuit. It provides enhanced stability on uneven or slippery terrain, reduce the strain on your knees and legs during descents, and offer extra support during steep climbs. Additionally, trekking poles can help distribute physical effort more evenly, allowing you to hike longer with less fatigue. Overall, they significantly enhance both your comfort and safety on the trek.

Question: How much additional money do I need per day? Can i use credit card to pay?

Answer: It depends on your spending habits, however, you can allocate US$ 10 to 12 each day to cover to buy your extra expenses such as buying bottles of water, chocolates, tea coffee. Credit card usage around the Annapurna is not acceptable. Lodges and teahouses prefer cash payments, so it’s advisable to carry enough cash for your trek.