7 Best Routes for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Near Tilicho Lake

Annapurna circuit trek also considered as a fine alternative to Everest region trekking is the trek within the mountain ranges of the central part of Nepal. Because of the richness in the scenery, wide variation in climatic zones and diverse culture, this classic circuit has extensively been most preferred adventurous trek in the world. One peculiar feature that makes it amazing is the availability of many trail networks that connect the circuit with Annapurna Base Camp or other sanctuaries.

Mostly, this trek commences from Besisahar or Bhulbhule (now you can dive further to Chame, Dharapani) along the Marsyangdi Valley directing towards the northern side crossing a 5,416 meters elevated pass. Tumbling down from there, it ends in the impressive desert-like, Tibetan style outlook of the upper Kali Gandaki Valley.

In this trek the trekkers can walk through four regions: Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, and Myagdi. Lamjung and Myagdi rest at the lesser elevation covered by lush green subtropical villages and terraced agricultural lands. Manang and Mustang reside in the higher altitude occupied by Tibetan style landscapes.

Circuit trek that obviously runs in a circular path is a great acquaintance of everything that Annapurna region possess. Out of total 42 mountains, Annapurna vistas and Mount Dhaulagiri that are prominently visible from the high passes are simply not justifiable with some sentences. Likewise, Machhapuchhre (also known as Fishtail), Gangapurna, Manaslu, Nilgiri and other adjoining peaks during the trek are equally dazzling. The breathtaking sight of the extraordinary landscape ranging from sub-tropical dense and lush forests to alpine desert like the landscape is another bonus.

Along with landscape diversity, the circuit also offers learning of different cultures and lifestyle each day. The majority of Manang and Mustang inhabitants follow Buddhism that is influenced by the Tibetan culture. The paths welcome you with artistic Tibetan Buddhist gompas and colorful prayer flags. While in the lower elevations at Lamjung and Myagdi you can also encounter Hindu culture marked by various Hindu heritages as well. In some locations people even celebrate festivals from both religions. Irrespective of the cultural diversity, the hospitality they provide is uniformly warm everywhere.

Major attractions of Annapurna circuit trek

• Geographical topology; low and high altitudes within the circuit
• Various options for acclimatization; also providing great views like caves and lakes
• Magnificent view of more than 40 mountains throughout the trek
• Crossing through world’s highest and widest pass; Thorong La (5416 m)
• Explore Tilicho Lake, which lies at 4,919 meters, was so far the world’s highest lake
• Visit Muktinath, a sacred religious site for both Hindus and Buddhists
• Every day shifts in culture, vegetation, climate, architecture, flora and fauna
• A lifetime experience of long, tough and yet rewarding adventure

Best Time to Trek

It is a very common interest of every trekker that they would certainly want to avoid trekking in wet conditions. But Annapurna circuit being a rain shadow part, the possibility of trekking even during monsoon is persists. However, the chances are high that the views may be obstructed due to fogs or clouds in the monsoon months June-September.

December-March period is the coldest months, which is why it is not very much advisable in these months as the chances of avalanches are high as well. Nevertheless, initials of December may be suitable as the temperature is relatively warmer than the later months.

The hectic and most desired phase to walk this circuit is October-November when natural flora begins to bloom as the monsoon ends. The refreshed picturesque views of the surroundings are mostly clean at day and even at night the sky is clearly visible. Second favorable season for this is April- May mostly because of its warm weather and the snow there begins to disappear.

How Difficult is The Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Often rated as the best lengthy trek in the world, Annapurna Circuit Trek is a moderately difficult trek to complete. It offers you to reach high altitude places; most significant among those is Thorong La Pass. It is the world’s highest pass situated in the height of 5416 m, even more elevated than the Everest Base Camp (5364 m). Now, the height must definitely be accompanied by other features like thinning of air, the possibility of altitude sickness and cold climate.

Trekkers mostly choose to make an anti-clockwise walk over clockwise to do this trek for wide range of reasons. Most importantly, the paths being quite steep and they require much vertical climbing in the clockwise. Anti-clockwise walk relatively makes it easier for a person to complete the trek through it consumes more number of days.

If you want it to be more adventurous, you still have the option of taking the clockwise direction while walking the trek. Though harder than the counter clockwise, it also has good merits; it is less crowded and will require a short span of time. Having said these, walking in a satisfactory level of fitness guided by professionals makes you eligible to beat the circuit.

Practice Physical Fitness

The trek normally intends to walk for 5 to 6 hours covering around 10 to 15kms a day during the trek. This duration also adequately covers the lunch break, photo breaks and enough rest. However, some days are demanding to tramp for 7 to 8 hours tramp continuously; like from Muktinath to Jomsom or the Thorong La Pass day.

Therefore, a preparedness of walking some short hikes in your native place before you come to Nepal is an added benefit! Some other basic training for cardio and little gym exercises or engagement in sport activities are too some worthy efforts.

Concerns on Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is a huge concern to many trekking enthusiasts who decide to trek in Nepal. It is true that this trek consists of few high altitudes, but the chances are rare because we soar upwards little by little. Someone prone to altitude sickness will most probably experience the symptoms at the altitude of 2500 m which again occurs rarely.

You are reaching an altitude of 5,420m going over the Thorong La pass on the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Moreover, the trek package designed by the trekking agencies is highly sensitive to providing the maximum time for acclimatization. This process allows your body to adjust and cope with the higher elevation. Also, most trekking guides carry oximeter to track your oxygen level; which can simply be done in rural health centers too.

The guides will sure describe every measure you need to take in case you are in trouble due to altitude. But it also is a must that you let the guides know if you have any severe medical conditions prior to the trek.

Best Seven Trekking Routes in Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most legendary trekking routes in the world. The trek is a highly admired and remarkable trekking route in the Annapurna region. The most important thing is that you can walk on both sides of the Annapurna Massif. Here are 7 best routes to Annapurna Circuit trek.

1. Annapurna Circuit Short Trek from Pokhara – 10 Days

Trip Facts:

🟢 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
🟢 Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
🟢 Maximum Altitude: 5,416m/17,765ft
🟢 Start From: Pokhara
🟢 Finish At: Pokhara

This incredible Annapurna Short Circuit Trekking is for trekking enthusiasts with some experience in mountain adventure and rough terrain. This Himalayan adventure starts with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Dharapani. As you take an ascending trail through a green pine forest and alpine scenery, you get a taste of true landscape diversity. The rich culture of the gurungs, bhotes and thakali tribe also are good aspects to learn.

The tree line begins to slowly disappear as you walk in the startling bare landscape that’s closer to the Tibetan plateau. Acclimatization day in the ancient village of Manang offers you an opportunity to also visit the stunning Ice Lake. The stunning sight of Annapurna III, Chulu East peaks and glaciers are heartwarming. You can also pay a visit to holy Muktinath shrine respected by both Hindus and Buddhists while descending.

Outline Itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Dharapani (1,860m/6,101ft)
Duration: 7-8 Hours (148 km) Drive
Day 2 Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,660m/8,725ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 3 Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,824ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 4 Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m/ 11,612ft) via Ngawal
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 5 Manang: Acclimatization Day, Hike to Ice lake (4,600m/15,088ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 6 Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13,284ft)
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 7 Trek from Yak Kharka to Phedi (4,525m/14,842ft)
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 8 Trek from Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m/12,464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft)
Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek
Day 9 Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700m/8,856ft) via Lupra
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 10 Fly back to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft)
Duration: 25 minutes flight

2. Annapurna Circuit Short Trek – 12 Days

Trip Facts:

🟢 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
🟢 Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
🟢 Maximum Altitude: 5,416m/17,765ft
🟢 Start From: Kathmandu
🟢 Finish At: Kathmandu

This Short Annapurna Circuit Trek intends to both start from and end in Kathmandu. A picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Jagat is followed by a trek through the woody trail with numerous waterfalls to Dharapani. Further, a similar jungle hike through Chame village past the long Mani walls leads you to an ancient village of Upper Pisang.

You will then need to be ready for tough walk attended by breathtaking mountain views on the way to Manang passing through Ngawal. You will be acclimatizing in Manang village for a day on your Annapurna Short Circuit Trek.

On the acclimatization day, you will also have a short hike to Ice Lake at 4600 meters, one of the high altitudes lakes. The traditional houses in Manang will somehow give some insight into Tibetan culture. The next day, hiking through some pastures will lead to Yak Kharka followed by a rugged terrain hike to Phedi.

The most exciting moment is when the day to cross one of the highest pass, Thorong La Pass 5,416m arrives. Relaxing in the glory of Dhaulagiri Mountain, we will then descend down to visit the Muktinath temple. The trek will then end after a trek to the gorgeous village of Jomsom passing through Lupra followed by a flight to Pokhara from there.

Outline Itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Jagat (1,300m/4,264ft)
Duration: 7-8 Hours (211 km) Drive
Day 2 Trek to Dharapani (1,860m/6,101ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 3 Trek to Chame (2,660m/8,725ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 4 Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,824ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 5 Trek to Manang (3,540m/ 11,612ft) via Ngawal
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 6 Manang: Acclimatization Day, Hike to Ice lake (4,600m/15,088ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 7 Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13,284ft)
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 8 Trek to Phedi (4,525m/14,842ft)
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 9 Trek to Muktinath (3,800m/12,464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft)
Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek
Day 10 Trek to Jomsom (2,700m/8,856ft) via Lupra
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 11 Fly back to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft)
Duration: 25 minutes flight
Day 12 Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft)
Duration: 6-7 Hours (200 km) Drive

3. Annapurna Circuit Trek – 18 Days

Trip Facts:

🟢 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
🟢 Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
🟢 Maximum Altitude: 5,416m/17,765ft
🟢 Start From: Kathmandu
🟢 Finish At: Kathmandu

The first day starts from Kathmandu with 6 to 7 hours trip to Khudi. A walk through sub-tropical woodland passing few suspension bridges above the water streams, Sirung arrives. The trek further moves upwards to finally reach Manana via Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, and Upper Pisang.

Residing in these places are antique village squares, Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples. The trek offers you a panoramic sight of the Himalayas, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna South, Annapurna IV, Dhaulagiri, Machha puchhre, Nilgiri, Lamjung, Hiunchuli, Manaslu, Tukuche peak and Tilicho peak.

Manang is the popular place to acclimatize whatever the duration of the trek may be, and then the Ice Lake there is a cherry to the cake. To surpass the popular pass; Thorang La, one first needs to walk upwards to Phedi. After Muktinath temple visit, the trail then follows the lower elevations to Marpha, Kalopani, and Tatopani.

A hike occupies the later days to Poon Hill from where a glittering view of Annapurna ranges is visible. Additionally, the red rays scattered in the sky from behind the mountains is a vista to cherish.

Outline Itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,59ft) to Khudi (790m/2,592ft)
Duration: 6-7 Hours (198 km) Drive
Day 2 Trek to Sirung (1,864m/6,114ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 3 Trek to Jagat (1,300m/4,264ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 4 Trek to Dharapani (1,860m/6,101ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 5 Trek to Chame (2,660m/8,725ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 6 Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,824ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 7 Trek to Manang (3,540m/ 11,612ft) via Ngawal
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 8 Manang: Acclimatization Day, Hike to Ice lake (4,600m/15,088ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 9 Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13,284ft)
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 10 Trek to Phedi (4,525m/14,842ft)
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 11 Trek to Muktinath (3,800m/12,464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft)
Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek
Day 12 Trek to Marpha (2,670m/8,758ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 13 Trek to Kalopani (2,530m/8,299ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 14 Trek to Tatopani (1,190m/3,904ft) hot spring
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 15 Trek to Ghorepani (2,874m/9,427ft)
Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek
Day 16 Trek to Tadapani (2,600m/8,528ft) visit Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 17 Trek to Kimche (1,610m/5,281ft) via Ghandruk, drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft)
Duration: 4-5 hours trek, 2:30 hours’ drive
Day 18 Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft)
Duration: 6-7 Hours (200 km) Drive

4. Annapurna Round with Tilicho Lake Trek – 15 Days

Trip Facts:

🟢 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
🟢 Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
🟢 Maximum Altitude: 5,416m/17,765ft
🟢 Start From: Kathmandu
🟢 Finish At: Kathmandu

This trekking with Tilicho Lake passes through two river valleys created by River Kali Gandaki and River Marshyangdi. Beautiful turquoise blue Tilicho Lake is enclosed in the lap of various mountains like Nilgiri and Khangsar. The reward of standing boldly near Tilicho will be a worthwhile experience that overshadows all the hardship you have had in those steep walks.

An enjoyable hike alongside a river and via jungles to Dharapani leads you to Upper Pisang inhabited by the Tibetan ancestry people. Pisang provides a lovely sight of unique housings, Buddhist monasteries and stunning Himalayan glories.

As you begin to approach Manang, the spot for acclimatization, a change in the landscape will be noticeable. Tilicho Lake starts through Tilicho Base Camp. Going back to Siri Kharka we will need to walk past farms and pastures to arrive at Yak Kharka followed by a light hike to Phedi.
We accomplish the most awaited experience of crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) with a demanding walk through rough terrain. The end days will be occupied by trek to beautiful Jomsom and then a flight to Pokhara from there.

Outline Itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Jagat (1,300m/4,264ft)
Duration: 7-8 Hours (211 km) drive
Day 2 Trek to Dharapani (1,860m/6,101ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 3 Trek to Chame (2,660m/8,725ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 4 Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,824ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 5 Trek to Manang (3,540m/ 11,612ft) via Ngawal
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 6 Manang: Acclimatization Day, Hike to Ice lake (4,600m/15,088ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 7 Trek to Siri Kharka (4,060m/13,317ft)
Walking Distance: 4-5 hours trek
Day 8 Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m/13,612ft):
Walking Distance: 4-5 hours trek
Day 9 Trek to Siri Kharka (4,060m/13,317ft) visit Tilicho Lake (4,920m/16,138 ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 10 Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13,284ft)
Walking Distance: 4-5 hours trek
Day 11 Trek to Phedi (4,525m/14,842ft)
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 12 Trek to Muktinath (3,800m/12,464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft)
Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek
Day 13 Trek to Jomsom (2,700m/8,856ft) via Lupra
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 14 Fly back to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft)
Duration: 25 minutes flight
Day 15 Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft)
Duration: 6-7 Hours (200 km) drive

5. Annapurna Circuit Trek from Pokhara – 17 Days

Trip Facts:

🟢 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
🟢 Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
🟢 Maximum Altitude: 5,416m/17,765ft
🟢 Start From: Pokhara
🟢 Finish At: Pokhara

This Annapurna Circuit journey begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Khudi, the starting point of the trail. A path accompanied by green oak forests, picturesque mountains and hills with rivers and small streams quite energizing. The rhododendron blossoms amidst the greenery appear eye captivating during the spring season.

From Chame, the terrain begins to change as the tree density lessens gradually. Colorful prayer flags and ancient Buddhist monasteries will provide you a great background for your photography. The culture followed in Manang, Pisang and Chame will prove how culturally rich is Nepal.

Walk through the Thorong La pass definitely demands physical endurance; but the pride of this achievement will leave you spellbound. Descending downwards you can visit Muktinath to attain salvation as it is believed so in both Hindu and Buddhist religions.

From here you will be crossing the Kali Gandaki gorge, which is known as the deepest gorge in the world. You walk via the apple pie villages; Marpha and Kalopani filled with apple farms. Thakali cuisine offered with warm hospitality here is one of the famous cuisines in Nepali villages which is amazingly mouth watering.

After moving down, you will then forget all your body aches as you dip fondly into the Tatopani hot spring. From there, you will again take a hike to Ghorepani and you will have the chance to view the amazing range of mountains from Poon Hill closely.

Outline Itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Khudi (790m/2,592ft)
Duration: 6-7 Hours (129 km) Drive
Day 2 Trek from Khudi to Sirung (1,864m/6,114ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 3 Trek from Sirung to Jagat (1,300m/4,264ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 4 Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1,860m/6,101ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 5 Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,660m/8,725ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 6 Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,824ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 7 Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m/11,612ft) via Ngawal
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 8 Manang: Acclimatization Day, Hike to Ice lake (4,600m/15,088ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 9 Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13,284ft)
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 10 Trek from Yak Kharka to Phedi (4,525m/14,842ft)
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 11 Trek from Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m/12,464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft)
Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek
Day 12 Trek from Muktinath to Marpha (2,670m/8,758ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 13 Trek from Marpha to Kalopani (2,530m/8,299ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 14 Trek from Kalopani to Tatopani (1,190m/3,904ft) hot spring
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 15 Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,874m/9,427ft)
Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek
Day 16 Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,600m/8,528ft) visit Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 17 Trek from Tadapani to Kimche (1,610m/5,281ft) via Ghandruk, drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft)
Duration: 4-5 hours trek, 2:30 hours drive

6. Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake from Pokhara – 13 Days

Trip Facts:

🟢 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
🟢 Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
🟢 Maximum Altitude: 5,416m/17,765ft
🟢 Start From: Pokhara
🟢 Finish At: Pokhara

This trek starts from Dharapani along with the lush green forests and natural waterfalls. They will soon begin to disappear as you walk a through leaving behind the tree line.

Various indigenous cultures can be found as you stumble upon the paths. In the low elevations, Gurungs and Magars reside who follow the Hindu religion. Whereas in high altitudes Bhotia villages who are much inclined to Tibetan customs are dominant.

Two major excitements in this trip are the splendid blue Tilicho Lake resting below the mountains and Thorong La (5,416m), the highest point of the trek. Similarly, an acclimatization day in Manang is just as pleasing as it offers to visit Ice Lake with close views of Chulu East.

You walk downwards to the Kali Gandaki valley, and stop by to worship Muktinath shrine followed by trek to Thakali settlement of Jomsom. The scenery visible while on flight to Pokhara will be a perfect closure to your Annapurna Circuit journey.

Outline Itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Dharapani (1,860m/6,101ft)
Duration: 7-8 Hours (148 km) drive
Day 2 Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,660m/8,725ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 3 Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,824ft)
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 4 Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m/ 11,612ft) via Ngawal
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 5 Manang: Acclimatization Day, Hike to Ice lake (4,600m/15,088ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 6 Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka (4,060m/13,317ft)
Walking Distance: 4-5 hours trek
Day 7 Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m/13,612ft)
Walking Distance: 4-5 hours trek
Day 8 Trek to Siri Kharka (4,060m/13,317ft) visit Tilicho Lake (4,920m/16,138ft)
Walking Distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 9 Trek from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13,284ft)
Walking Distance: 4-5 hours trek
Day 10 Trek from Yak Kharka to Phedi (4,525m/14,842ft)
Walking Distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 11 Trek from Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m/12,464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft)
Walking Distance: 7-8 hours trek
Day 12 Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700m/8,856ft) via Lupra
Walking Distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 13 Fly to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft)
Duration: 25 minutes flight

7. Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek – 18 Days

Trip Facts:

🟢 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
🟢 Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
🟢 Maximum Altitude: 5,416m/17,765ft
🟢 Start From: Kathmandu
🟢 Finish At: Kathmandu

The trek combining Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp is the best among all treks in the Annapurna region. Resting at Annapurna Base Camp beneath the grand Annapurna Massif is a dream to many.

Of course, a visit to Thorong La pass is imperative. How can Annapurna Circuit be of any value if that be skipped? Moreover, hike across the deepest George in the world, Kali Gandaki is equally appealing which also is believed to be rich in ‘Shaligrams’ or ammonite fossils.

Gurungs, Thakalis, Magars are diverse tribes dominantly residing in lower parts of this region. Conversing with them while also being welcomed by their warm hospitality is a great method of learning their lifestyle and traditions. The trail lined with Mani walls, prayer wheels and flags lead to the ancient village of Upper Pisang. People from Tibetan lineage mostly occupy Upper Pisang and their lifestyles too highly influence by Tibetan values.

After acclimatization, you will pass the Thorong La pass basking in the glorious sights of mountains. And then this trek requires you to pass via the astounding villages of Kagbeni and Jomsom while we head to Marpha. The gorgeous Marpha village is covered with white-colored houses and slender lanes. An enjoyable walk to Kalapani will present you with the natural hot spring Tatopani to take a refreshing dip.

Walk past the charming villages of Tadapani and Chhomrong leaving behind the natural beauty of Ghorepani. Waking up half an hour before the sunrise and hiking to Poon Hill will let you catch a magical Himalayan sunrise. The sight of sun rays showering upon the Himalayan Mountains will be a majestic sight you can boast about for a lifetime.

As the trek will now begin to end, you will be heading to Annapurna Base Camp through Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Observe the spectacular sunrise above those gigantic Himalayas and move towards Bamboo. When you reach Pokhara via drive, this finally marks the end of your Annapurna Circuit Trekking.

Outline Itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Chame (2,660m/8,725ft)
Duration: 9-10 hours (238 km) Drive
Day 2 Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,824ft)
Walking distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 3 Trek to Manang (3,540m/ 11,612ft) via Ngawal
Walking distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 4 Manang: Acclimatization Day, Hike to Ice Lake (4,600m/15,088ft)
Walking distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 5 Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13,284ft)
Walking distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 6 Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,525m/14,842ft)
Walking distance: 3-4 hours trek
Day 7 Trek to Muktinath (3,800m/12,464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft)
Walking distance: 7-8 hours trek
Day 8 Trek to Marpha (2,670m/8,758ft)
Walking distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 9 Trek to Kalopani (2,530m/8,299ft)
Walking distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 10 Trek to Tatopani (1,190m/3,904ft)
Walking distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 11 Trek to Ghorepani (2,874m/9,429ft)
Walking distance: 7-8 hours trek
Day 12 Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft) – Trek to Tadapani (2,600m/8,530ft)
Walking distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 13 Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m/7,119ft)
Walking distance: 5-6 hours trek
Day 14 Trek to Himalayan (2,310m/7,579ft)
Walking distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 15 Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,550ft) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp
Walking distance: 6-7 hours trek
Day 16 Trek to Bamboo (2,310m/7,579ft)
Walking distance: 7–8 hours trek
Day 17 Trek from Bamboo to Matque (1,070m/3,510ft) – Drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft)
Duration: 7-8 hours (12 km) and trek 2:30 hours (58 km) drive
Day 18 Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft)
Duration: 6-7 hours (200 km) drive

Why Choose an Agency as Your Trek Partner?

Imagine having to arrange everything on your own while you are on vacation in an unknown country. Does it feel good to be hustling and bustling when you have travelled so far away from daily routines? The obvious answer to this would be a NO. The agency will manage all the required arrangements; like accommodation, dietary. All the required arrangements; like accommodation, dietary will be managed by the agency throughout your arrival to departure. This avoids the chances of you being worried about everything and everyday in the unknown country that could ruin your heavenly trip.

Likewise, the agency team also consists of porters who carry your huge bag packs so that you can walk freely without any physical torments. Having someone by the side taking care of your health, and all other necessities must certainly feel awesome. Hence, it is the best way to take optimum pleasure in your Annapurna Circuit Trek.

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Naba Raj Amgai

Naba Raj Amgai, stepped into the world of travel and tourism in 1996.

Beginning his journey in the tourism industry as a humble Porter Guide to founding hospitality establishments and an adventure travel company, he has come a long way.

In a career spanning more than two decades he has achieved more than anybody dreams of achieving. Along with his professional achievements, his selfless contribution towards his community and society has won him a lot of accolades and praises.

Having dedicated more than two decades in the tourism and hospitality sector, he has amassed a wealth of experience.

After passing high school, he began helping out some trekking guides and was soon recruited as a porter guide at a reputed trekking agency. Within a short period of time he was individually guiding clients across the well-known trails of the Himalayas.

He went on to lead tour groups on multi-country tours to Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and India. Being a part of mountain climbing expeditions familiarised him with expedition logistics and operations. Later on he went to become the Executive Director and took over the reins of Operations, Sales and Marketing departments. Spending several years in the tourism field has made Naba Raj Amgai a destination expert.

Travelling is his passion and he has been to many countries across the world – USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Holland, Germany, Austria and many parts of Asia.

His journeys to different parts of the world have enriched his travel experience and knowledge. This experience has been instrumental in planning and organising successful trips for several clients.

As of today many reputed trekking agencies, hotels and restaurants are under his leadership. A dynamic and proactive leader, he continues to inspire and motivate people from all walks of life.

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