Annapurna Circuit Trek – Facts, Routes, Places and FAQs

Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the famous and classic trekking routes in Nepal. Annapurna Circuit is one whole package that offers the natural and cultural beauty of Nepal from green landscapes to desert terrain.

Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you the Annapurna Conservation Area, the highest Lake of Nepal, Tilicho Lake at 4919m along with Khayer and Ice Lake at 4660m and 4700m, respectively. It lets you step on the highest navigable pass in the world, Thorong La Pass (5416m/17765ft). The trek rewards with gigantic and roaring mountains of Annapurna I-II-III-IV (Annapurna höhe – 8,091 m / 26,545 ft), Manaslu, Macchapuchare, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho Peak.

Depending on the trek route and mode of transport, it takes 12- 18 days to complete the whole circuit. But, it can be extended by adding side trips and attractions or can be shortened by taking flights or jeeps. The flawless hospitality during the Annapurna Circuit Trek is probably the unsung hero of the Annapurna Region. The village is filled with the best people who share their stories and gives you the best experience.

If you want to look at the culturally rich people, village, tradition, and practices, then the homestay route must be taken during the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Annapurna Circuit Facts

Total Distance: 230km (starting and endpoint at Bhulbule and Nayapul, respectively)
Duration: 12-18 days (depending on the route)
Difficulty level: Moderate to Difficult
Permits: Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS card) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Starting point: Bhulbhule/Jagat/Dharapani/ Chame
Finishing point: Muktinath/Jomsom/ Nayapul
Highest Elevation on the trek: Thorong La pass (5416m/17765ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse/Guesthouses
Food: Nepali, Chinese food, Indian, Western
Best Seasons: March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn) but doable on winter and summer season also

Highlights

💠 Step foot on the highest pass in the world at Thorong La Pass (5416m/1769ft)
💠 Watch the religious and highest lake in Nepal of Tilicho Lake.
💠 Encounter the Hindu and Buddist pilgrimage site at Muktinath Temple
💠 Relax your body at the natural hot spring of Tatopani
💠 Watch the sunrise from the viewpoint of Poon Hill.
💠 Experience the warm hospitality of Gurung culture
💠 Encounter the spectacular deepest gorge of Kali Gandaki Gorge
💠 Enjoy the breathtaking views of Annapurna Massif, Machhapuchare, Dhaulagiri, and many more.

Major places to visit during Annapurna Circuit Trek

Mesmerizing Manang Valley

Manang Valley is one of the biggest valleys in the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which is located at 3540m/11,612ft. It is a gorgeous village on the foothill of Gangapurna and Annapurna III Mountain.

Manang is a village mixed with old mud houses, modern hotels, and movie halls. You can get the view of Gangapurna Mountain, glacier, Lake along the banks of Marsyandi River. The terrain is dry and rocky, which is similar to Mustang, but you can find a lush, thick forest in Manang valley. This valley is the entryway to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest altitude lakes in the world.

You can also visit the magical little village of Bhraka that provides a beautiful and best route to Manang before climbing Thorong La Pass. There is a thinner crowd of neighbors in Manang with ancient Bhraka Gompa and old settlements. Bhraka is priceless to experience and offers beautiful views of the landscape.

Turquoise water of Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake is one of the best attractions in Annapurna Circuit, which is at the highest altitude of 4919m. You can encounter a frozen lake in the winter, but the lake is clear and blue during another season. The views are magical and breathtaking.

The lake holds a religious significance for which many people gather here. Hindus believe that Tilicho Lake is the Kak Bhusundi Lake that was mentioned in the Ramayan. It is believed that Sage Kak Bhusundi first told the story of Ramayan to Garuda (King of Birds) near this lake. The lake offers the grand site of the peaks that is unforgettable.

Enchanting Ice Lake

Ice Lake is a must-visit place during the trek. It is a great side trek to help the body to acclimatize properly. The Ice Lake is the high alpine lake in the Manang valley, which is located at the elevation of 4620m/15157ft. Because of the elevation, the lake is usually frozen. The lake rewards you with the Manaslu range’s stunning views, Annapurna, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and so on. Here, you encounter two lakes that are near distanced. Exploring the pilgrimage site for Hindu and Buddhist amidst the tall mountains is a great experience.

Highest Point of Thorong La Pass

Thorong La Pass is the ultimate price of Annapurna Circuit, which is at the elevation of 5416m/17769ft and lets you observe the mountains’ view right in front of you. Thorong La Pass is the world’s highest navigable pass. It is located in the north of the Annapurna range. Two gorgeous mountains named Yakawa and Khatung makes Thorong La Pass.

You get to see the amazing Kali Gandaki valley and surrounding mountain peaks. The highest point of the Annapurna Circuit is Thorong La Pass, which makes it the ultimate destination. Nevertheless, this pass is the busiest pass where most trekkers and local traders cross it regularly.

Spectacular Muktinath

Muktinath is a beautiful reward while you are at Annapurna Circuit Trek. You not only get the view of Muktinath Temple but the whole of Muktinath. The holy temple of Muktinath is newer than the other fascinating gompas in this area. What is more, captivating is the Dholamebar Gompa with its natural eternal flame. This is where the Muktinath region’s true history lies since the flame is older than the temple itself.

You can encounter Marmelakhang Gompa as well. Muktinath temple is a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is the home to Lord Vishnu and a place to attain salvation. You can encounter the natural flame and 108 water sprouts, which are believed to wash away your sins.

Amazing Jomsom

Jomsom is the next attraction in Annapurna Circuit, which is the headquarter of Mustang District. The routes take you to Jomsom for a relaxed and peaceful stay. This gorgeous mountain town is heaven for people who want to escape the business of their daily lives and experience the landscape.

Jomsom is located at the Kali Gandaki River Valley and offers the majestic view of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. You can stroll around the Kali Gandaki River and encounter Shaligram stone, a black fossil believed to Lord Vishnu. Rest at the beautiful village of Jomsom and watch the landscape and peaks right in front of you.

Magnificent Marpha

Marpha is a must-visit place after Jomsom. It is a famous village which produces apples, apricot, and other fruits in high quantity. The village is filled with stony houses and Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, prayer wheels, and Mani Walls. You can encounter the Thakali community who has its own uniqueness, culture, traditions, and practices.

The journey to explore the Apple Orchid, Buddhist monasteries, Thakali community and the landscape is unforgettable. Not to forget, the Marpha village where you can get views of the whitewashed houses and local apple brandy produced here.

Natural Hot spring- Tatopani

Tatopani is translated as Hot Water in Nepali. The best way to end the trek is to soak your body in a natural hot spring. The hot spring does brilliant work to relieve your aching muscles and let you relax. The natural hot spring is believed to cure any muscle aches and skin problems. You can grab on your swimming custom and relax after the tiring trek.

Warm Hospitality of Ghandruk

Ghandruk village is situated at the foothill of Annapurna at Pokhara. It is the entry point of the trekking trail at Annapurna Region. Ghandruk is the land of Gurung and is the second-largest village in Nepal. You can explore this Gurung village and know about the ethnic community, their culture, tradition, practices, and cuisine.

The village offers the views of the peaks above 8000m- Mt. Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri and Mt Machhapuchare, different flora and faunas, and local people’s lifestyle.

Mesmerizing view point at Poon Hill

Poon Hill is located in the Myagdi District and is one of Nepal’s most visited trekking sites. It is situated at an altitude of 3200m, beneath the mighty Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range, which is famous for its traditional villages, ethnic communities, the beautiful rhododendron forest, and panoramic view of the snowy peaks.

It is the easiest yet enthralling trek, so people from a young group of age to old people can quench their thirst for an adventurous trek. You will enjoy the place along with the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of local people- Gurungs and Magars.

The viewpoint of Poon Hill (3210m) offers you with the breathtaking moments of sunrise whose rays fall upon the snowy capped mountains. When you reach the top of the hill, you will see the mesmerizing Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range along with Nilgiri, Tukuche peak, Lamjung Himal, Mt.Manaslu ranges, Machhapuchhre, and so on. Anyone, nature lover or adventurer, will be astonished to see this heaven on earth.

Marshyangdi River Valley and Kali Gandaki Valley

Marshyandi River Valley and Kali Gandaki Valley are the gorgeous valleys during the Annapurna Circuit, which takes you along the Trisuli River to start the trek at Besisahar or Bhulbhule. The trails lead along the valley and blends into another valley via the highest point of the trek, Thorong La pass (5416m/17765ft).

Passing the change in the topographical landscape, you reach Marshyangdi River valley, which is situated in the Northern-Central Part of Nepal. After the beautiful views, you descend to Kali Gandaki Valley, a wide and flat bank river, and offers beautiful views.

City of 7 lake- Pokhara

Pokhara is the tourist hub in Nepal and an entry point for the Annapurna region trekking. The town is known for the lakes and the beautiful views of the mountains. Pokhara is the best place to spend quality time enjoying nature and ambiance. You can find different activities to do for fun such as boating, cycling, Para grading, hiking, or sit in the lakeside and enjoy the view. You can encounter Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Museum, temples, and waterfalls.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the best time to go to Annapurna Circuit trek?

The best time to go to the Annapurna Circuit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). But, the best answer to the question is to go whenever you are ready. The Annapurna region has different attractions to offer every month, so it depends on what you are expecting from the trek.

Annapurna Circuit in Winter:

The winter season is best for trekkers who are willing to face the cold for the magnificent views of the peaks and enjoy the less crowded trail. Winter is also a great time to see wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan Monal, Snow Leopard, and Himalayan Tahr.

You can also enjoy the Tibetan festivals such as Loshar at the end of February. The weather is clear, except for a few days when it snows. The nighttime temperature can be -20 degrees Celsius at 4000m. The days are warmer with strong cold winds.

Annapurna Circuit in Spring:

This season is the peak period for the trekkers to visit the Annapurna Circuit. There are active birds, animals, plants in the region. The weather is suitable to trek in the routes with a chance to observe the blooming season. You can enjoy Buddha Jayanti, which is the birthday of Lord Buddha, by visiting the monastery.

The weather is clear, which allows better views of the mountains. The daytime temperature can reach up to 20 degrees Celsius while the night times are colder.

Annapurna Circuit in Summer/Monsoon:

Monsoon season blocks the visibility of mountains due to heavy rainfall. The unpredicted weather and humidity, the trekking routes, can be slippery and wet. However, Janai Purnima and Yartung festival falls in this season for you to encounter cultural practices.

The temperature in the day is above 20 degrees Celsius and night times are cooler. This area is in the rain shadow area, which means the mountain peak blocks the rain and low precipitation. Thus, this makes trekking suitable even in monsoon.

Annapurna Circuit in Autumn:

This season is loved by everyone, which makes autumn another best time to visit Annapurna Circuit. The mountain views are at its best. The weather becomes clearer after rain with the day temperature of 15 degrees Celsius. The major festivals of Nepalese- Dashain and Tihar fall in this season, where you can celebrate and observe it.

2. How hard is Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is graded moderate to difficult trek. It does not require any technical or advanced climbing, but previous experience is a benefit to this trek. You have to walk for an average of 6-7 hours daily. The trek trail goes through terrain lands, rock steps, steep ascends and descends.

The higher the climb, the harder the trek becomes due to the altitude elevation. Thus, it is suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers with good physical health.

3. Is there any risk of getting altitude sickness?

There is some risk of getting altitude sickness above the elevation of 2500m. Despite the fitness or experience, different people react to the elevation in different ways. Since the lowest elevation is 800m/2625ft and the highest elevation of Annapurna Circuit Trek is Thorong La Pass (5416m/1769ft), you might get altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, heavy breathing, and so on. However, you get enough days to acclimatize your body, and thus altitude sickness can be prevented.

To avoid the altitude sickness, you can drink at least 3 liters, have enough food, trek higher, and sleep on the lower elevation. If there is any difficulty during the trek, make sure you express this and take the necessary action. All in all, it is suitable for trekkers who are a novice and experienced.

4. How are the food and accommodation like?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a teahouse trek, which means the accommodation will be guest houses in every village. The rooms are basic and comfortable with sharing beds. The toilets are usually inside but, in some cases, outside. Make sure you carry enough toilet papers. You can find the benefits of hot showers for extra charges.

The foods are organic and freshly grown. The most ordered meal is Dal Bhaat. However, you can find western food items such as pizza, burgers on the menu.

Places like Jomsom provides normal to Luxury star hotels. So depending on your budget, you can choose your service.

5. Do I need trekking permit?

You require the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekker’s Information Management System Card (TIMS card) for this trek. These are available at Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu.

6. Is there Internet on the trek?

Yes. Most of the guesthouses offer Wi-Fi and electricity either free of cost or for a minimal charge.

7. Are there ATM and Bank services in the trek route?

No, credit card facilities and ATM are only available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Jomsom. However, if you go higher in altitude, you must pay for everything in cash for the services you use.

4 Best Trek Routes for Annapurna Circuit

1. Annapurna Circuit Short Trek – 12 Days

Annapurna Circuit Short Trek is a classic trek that takes you from the thick green forest to the dry terrain of Tibetan Plateaus. Walking between the two tallest peaks on earth: Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, ascend to the challenging and exciting path of Thorong La Pass. Alongside, encounter Tibetan culture, practices, Buddhist prayer walls, and monasteries.

The trek is a 12-day package, graded moderate to difficult trek, which starts and ends in the capital city, Kathmandu. You go through places like Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Upper Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Phedi, Muktinath, and Pokhara. You step on the maximum point of the trek at Thorong La Pass (5416m/17765ft).

This trek can be extended up to 18 days to add places like Marpha, Kalopani, Tatopani, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Kimche. You walk for an average of 5-6 hours daily and is suitable for novice trekkers as well.

Outline Itinerary:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Drive 7-8 Hours from Kathmandu (1400m/4592ft) to Jagat (1300m/4264ft)
Day 2	Hike 6-7 hours to Dharapani (1860m/6101ft)
Day 3	Trek 5-6 hours to Chame (2660m/8725ft)
Day 4	Hike 5-6 hours to Upper Pisang (3300m/10824ft)
Day 5	Ascend 6-7 hours to Manang (3540m/11612ft) via Ngawal
Day 6	Manang: Acclimatization Day, Trek for 5-6 hours to Ice Lake (4600m/15088ft)
Day 7	Hike for 3-4 hours to Yak Kharka (4050m/13284ft)
Day 8	Ascend 3-4 hours to Phedi (4525m/14842ft)
Day 9	Trek for 7-8 hours to Muktinath (3800m/12464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5416m/17765ft)
Day 10	Ascend for 5-6 hours to Jomsom (2700m/8856ft) via Lupra
Day 11	25 minutes Flight back to Pokhara (800m/2625ft)
Day 12	Transfer via vehicle for 6-7 hours from Pokhara (800m/2625ft) to Kathmandu (1400m/4592ft)

2. Annapurna Circuit Trek – 18 Days

18 Days Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the popular treks in the Annapurna region, which offers diverse landscapes from the sub-tropical forest, paddy fields to the high mountain pass and peaks. Encounter the ancient village, Hindus and Buddhist Temples, deepest gorge amidst the peaks of Annapurna Massif, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Tilicho, Manaslu, and many more.

The trip starts and ends in Kathmandu and takes you through Khudi, Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Upper Pisang, Muktinath, Marpha, Kalopani, and Tatopani. En route, cross Thorong La Pass, the highest pass in the world. Later cross Poon Hill, Ghandruk, Kimche, and Pokhara to complete the trek.

The trek is graded moderate to difficult, and you must walk daily for 5-6 hours on average. This is suitable for novice trekkers as well.

Outline Itinerary:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Drive for 6-7 Hours from Kathmandu (1400m/459ft) to Khudi (790m/2592ft)
Day 2	Hike for 6-7 hours to Sirung (1864m/6114ft)
Day 3	Ascend for 6-7 hours to Jagat (1300m/4264ft)
Day 4	Trek for 6-7 hours to Dharapani (1860m/6101ft)
Day 5	Hike for 5-6 hoursto Chame (2660m/8725ft)
Day 6	Ascend for 5-6 hours to Upper Pisang (3300m/10824ft)
Day 7	Trek for 5-6 hours to Manang (3540m/11612ft) via Ngawal
Day 8	Manang: Acclimatization Day, Hike for 6-7 hours to Ice Lake (4600m/15088ft)
Day 9	Trek for 3-4 hours to Yak Kharka (4050m/13284ft)
Day 10	Trek for 3-4 hours to Phedi (4525m/14842ft)
Day 11	Descend for 7-8 hours to Muktinath (3800m/12464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5416m/17765ft)
Day 12	Hike for 5-6 hours to Marpha (2670m/8758ft)
Day 13	Hike for 5-6 hours to Kalopani (2530m/8299ft)
Day 14	Descend for 6-7 hours to Tatopani (1190m/3904ft) hot spring
Day 15	Ascend for 7-8 hours to Ghorepani (2874m/9427ft)
Day 16	Hike for 6-7 hours to Tadapani (2600m/8528ft) visit Poon Hill (3210m/10529ft)
Day 17	Hike for 4-5 hours to Kimche (1610m/5281ft) via Ghandruk, drive to Pokhara (800m/2625ft)
Day 18	Drive for 6-7 hours to Kathmandu (1400m/4592ft) from Pokhara (800m/2625ft)

3. Annapurna Round with Tilicho Lake Trek – 15 Days

Annapurna Round with Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the longest treks which take you through the two river valley formed by Kali Gandaki and Marshyangdi. Encounter the glorious peaks of Annapurna Massif, Manaslu, Lamjung, and Dhaulagiri along with the Tibetan influence Buddhist culture and practices.
The trek is a 15-day package with moderate to difficult trek difficulty level.

The trip starts and ends in Kathmandu and Dharapani, Chame, Upper Pisang, Manang, Tilicho Base Camp, Tak Kharka, Phedi, and Muktinath, Jomsom, and Pokhara. You step on the highest point of the trek at Thorong La Pass (5416m/17765ft) and observe the beauty of Dhaulagiri.

Outline Itinerary:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Drive for 7-8 hours from Kathmandu (1400m/4592ft) to Jagat (1300m/4264ft)
Day 2	Hike for 6-7 hours to Dharapani (1860m/6101ft)
Day 3	Trek for 5-6 hours to Chame (2660m/8725ft)
Day 4	Ascend for 5-6 hours to Upper Pisang (3300m/10824ft)
Day 5	Ascend for 6-7 hours to Manang (3540m/11612ft) via Ngawal
Day 6	Manang: Acclimatization Day, Trek for 6-7 hours to Ice Lake (4600m/15088ft)
Day 7	Hike for 4-5 hours to Siri Kharka (4060m/13317ft)
Day 8	Trek for 4-5 hours to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m/13612ft)
Day 9	Trek for 6-7 hours to Siri Kharka (4060m/13317ft) visit Tilicho Lake (4920m/16138ft)
Day 10	Descend for 4-5 hours to Yak Kharka (4050m/13284ft)
Day 11	Ascend for 3-4 hours to Phedi (4525m/14842ft)
Day 12	Trek for 7-8 hours to Muktinath (3800m/12464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5416m/17765ft)
Day 13	Hike for 5-6 hours to Jomsom (2700m/8856ft) via Lupra
Day 14	25 minutes flight back to Pokhara (800m/2625ft)
Day 15	Drive for 5-6 hours from Pokhara (800m/2625ft) to Kathmandu (1400m/4592ft)

4. Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek – 18 Days

The Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek offer the cultural and topographical diversity along with the world’s highest pass of Thorong La Pass (5416m/17765ft) and the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge. Encounter the Thakali, Gurung, and Magars’ culture, tradition, and warm hospitality amidst the beautiful views of Annapurna Massif.

The 18 days trek is graded moderate to difficult, which starts and ends in Pokhara. The trail takes you Upper Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, Muktinath, Marpha, Tatopani, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp, Bamboo, Matque, and finally to Pokhara.

You can enjoy the beautiful sunrise above the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, and other peaks from the vantage points. You attain the maximum point at Thorong La Pass (5416m/17765ft) and have to walk for 7 hours on average every day.

Outline Itinerary:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Drive 9-10 hours from Kathmandu (1400m/4592ft) to Chame (2660m/8725ft)
Day 2	Hike for 5-6 hours to Upper Pisang (3300m/10824ft)
Day 3	Hike for 6-7 hours to Manang (3540m/11612ft) via Ngawal
Day 4	Manang: Acclimatization Day, Hike for 5-6 hours to Ice Lake (4600m/15088ft)
Day 5	Descend for 3-4 hours to Yak Kharka (4050m/13284ft)
Day 6	Trek for 3-4 hours to Thorong Phedi (4525m/14842ft)
Day 7	Hike for 7-8 hours to Muktinath (3800m/12464ft) via Thorong La Pass (5416m/17765ft)
Day 8	Descend for 5-6 hours to Marpha (2670m/8758ft)
Day 9	Trek for 5-6 hours to Kalopani (2530m/8299ft)
Day 10	Descend for 5-6 hours to Tatopani (1190m/3904ft)
Day 11	Ascend for 5-6 hours to Ghorepani (2874m/9429ft)
Day 12	Ascend for 5-6 hours to Poon Hill (3210m/10529ft) Trek to Tadapani (2600m/8530ft)
Day 13	Descend for 5-6 hours to Chhomrong (2170m/7119ft)
Day 14	Trek for 6-7 hours to Himalayan (2310m/7579ft)
Day 15	Ascend for 6-7 hours to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m/13550ft) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp
Day 16	Descend for 7-8 hours to Bamboo (2310m/7579ft)
Day 17	Hike from Bamboo to Matque (1070m/3510ft) – Drive for 7-8 hours to Pokhara (800m/2625ft)
Day 18	Drive for 6-7 hours from Pokhara (800m/2625ft) to Kathmandu (1400m/4592ft)

Conclusion

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a majestic and alluring destination that takes you to the foothill of Annapurna Massif, diverse lifestyle, culture, tradition, landscape, and topography. Every step on the trail to Annapurna Circuit offers changes in the landscape. The majestic mountains, warm hospitality, terrains, and landscape reward nature, which is an unforgettable experience.

Starting the adventure from the lush pine forest and green fields, the trail ascends to dry terrains. The culturally rich villages are influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, where you encounter the village with different colorful prayer flags, prayer wheels, Mani walls, and monasteries. Not to forget, the different and various rare species of animals, birds, and plants found in the area.

You encounter blue sheep, snow leopard, griffons, monals, and musk deer along with primulas, rhododendrons, and irises along the trails.