Booking open for 2024 and 2025 for all tour and trekking in nepal
Annapurna Circuit Trek
5/5 based on 100 reviews
Booking open for 2024 and 2025 for all tour and trekking in nepal
5/5 based on 100 reviews
Trip Duration
11 Days
Group Sizes
2 - 16 People
Difficulty
Easy
Max. Altitude
5416m
Activities
Meals
Accommodation
The Annapurna Circuit trek is unquestionably Nepal’s most iconic trekking adventure of all time, a large and extensive trek that offers enormous experiences.
Invented in 1977, the Annapurna Circuit trek remained the most sought-after trek for travelers in Nepal for a long time. However, that changed as more and more trekkers came to Nepal, and the beautiful mountain views on the Annapurna circuit route were affected by several major road constructions. This cost the trek a little in popularity and changed the route.
With these new roads in the valley on both sides of the mountain, we were able to come up with the short Annapurna Circuit trek 11 days itinerary.
Although short, the trek is still a rare experience for nature lovers who in the span of just 11 days can ascend through different climate zones.
From the subtropical lowlands, where rice and millet stand and soak in water, the large temperate area, where the flora spans a multitude of plant species, the dark and cool rhododendron forests, which in spring explode into a multitude of flowers to the snowy icy world and the desolate land of the Manang and Mustang.
Additionally, you will have the opportunity to be constantly surrounded by the glistening peaks of Manaslu, Nilgiri, Himchuli, Annapurna I, II, IV, South, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail in every part of your journey.
The entire route of the Annapurna circuit trek goes through cozy villages and offers great cultural experiences of the indigenous tribes of Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, and Sherpas.
The scenic highlight of the Annapurna Circuit trek 11 days program however is the 5,416 meter high and rugged Thorong La pass, which is sometimes harsh, but a good and great experience.
From here the trail descends to the pilgrimage town of Muktinath, to the famous Tatopani, and to the oldest Kag Chode Thupten Samphel monastery in Kagbeni before the trek ends in Jomsom.
Yes, there is culture for miles and miles, and this will surely be one of the many great experiences for you.
We are gearing up to undertake the Annapurna circuit trek in the coming days and we want you to join us in our incredible adventure. We are truly anticipating your participation.
Our short version of the Annapurna circuit trek 11 days get under way with a drive from Kathmandu to Besi Shahar extending to Chame the next day. The hiking part now kicks off towards Manang Valley leading to the dominant Thorong La Pass.
The latter stage is mostly a downward walk through the Mustang region traversing the Muktinath Valley to Jomsom. Instead of a direct return home, we will deviate our path towards Tatopani and advance to Pokhara.
The first morning of our Annapurna Circuit trek see us setting off for a drive to Besi Shahar from Kathmandu. At the edge of the capital, we will pass by Thankot – a popular picnic spot, after which we will continue on to the Trishuli River along the Prithvi Highway.
The same Highway will then usher us towards the Marshyangdi River Valley not far from Besi Shahar- the village for our first overnight sleep among the mountains.
Resuming our road travel, we will pass by the small hidden villages of Jagat and Bahun Danda before we step on the threshold of Manang at Dharapani (1900 m).
Our transport will then turn west and after an hour, we arrive at Bagarchhap (2160 m). Do not forget to stare at the illuminating views of Lamjung and Annapurna II.
Shortly, we will come to 2300 m Danakyu Village, now the forests are a little scattered. Next, the 2400 m Lata Marang village will be on our way that guides us towards Koto (2600 m) located at the outlet of Phu Khola.
We will progress to Chame- the administrative seat of the entire area inhabited by a mix of Hindus and Buddhists.
Our walking adventure commences from today after we leave Chame. Around two hours walk will lead us to 2850 m high Bhratang village. The small bridge up through a forest will lead us to the gigantic dramatic rock slab of Paungdi Danda (1400 m).
We will now exit the Dhukur Pokhari and find ourselves in the large Manang Valley located north of the high Himalayas. The atmosphere here reminds us of the Tibetan Himalayan Highlands. After about half an hour, the lower Pisang will cross our way from where we will climb up 100 m to the interesting town of Upper Pisang.
The mighty north face of Annapurna II, IV, and Pisang stands majestically behind the village.
From Pisang, we will now enter the most beautiful section of the entire Annapurna circuit trek. Passing the Mani Walls, we will come to a steep and strenuous climb that takes us to 3670 m Ghyaru.
We will be well above the tree line from where we will have an extraordinary display of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna IV and III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho.
The walking track is now easy towards Ngawal (3657 m) between Chulu East, Far East, and West behind. From here, the track slowly but sharply goes down and joins the main track to Bragha (3450 m).
The hamlet has the area’s largest and by far the most interesting 5-century-old monastery. We will now continue for almost 30 minutes to Manang also Nyeshang’s largest town.
We have a day off from the hike but it’s far from being a boring day. The morning will be spectacular as we eat our breakfast encircled by Gangapurna, Lamjung, Annapurna II, and IV with a top of Annapurna III.
As the sun progresses in the sky, we will also move onward for half an hour toward the mesmerizing bluish-green water of Gangapurna Lake. The lake is at the bottom of Gangapurna Glacier.
If you are one of the adventure souls, you can also walk up to the top of the Chongkor lookout point (Bodzo Gompa in local 4130 m).
Shortly after leaving Manang, we will come to 3650 m Tengi Manang followed by a sharp ascend to 3890 m Ghunsang. Directing our path to the north with fabulous Gangapurna and Annapurna III with us, we will slowly come to Yak Kharka.
We can sleep here in the wild highlands to acclimatize as well as possible before the Thorong La pass or we can advance to Upper Yak Kharka and climb up to Ledder.
A short easy two-hour march from Yak Kharka lead us to Thorong Base Camp. The Jarjung River will cross our path that rises once more supplying us with the amazing vista of Sagang, Gundang, and Khatungkan mountains.
Slowly and a little tired, we will arrive at Thorong Phedi, the track now rises sharply for about 2 hours ending up at the High Camp.
The Thorong La Pass is probably the most significant mountain Pass in the Himalayas. It is a long, hard, and beautiful transition that starts relentlessly steep for a good hour. After this, the hike becomes truly impressive and magnificent.
We will cross the 5,000-meter mark and enter a small valley where a small tea house is sometimes open. After crossing a couple of streams, we will come towards the height of the pass. There are numerous false peaks that stand on our way to the Thorong La pass.
As in any Buddhist region, the locals have decorated the Pass with countless Lungtas (prayer flags). We will stand for a bit and feast on the gorgeous surroundings of Manaslu, Nilgiri, Himchuli, Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail among others.
Now the part comes when we have to overcome the hard descent. In the next 3 to 5 hours, we will probably come down no less than 1600 m. Gradually, the Kali Gandaki valley emerges along with Dhaulagiri.
Following the Jhong Khola from Jharkot, our journey will guide us through Khinga and Eklebhatti finally ending at Muktinath- one of the seven holy places of the Indian subcontinent.
Our last day of trekking in Annapurna Circuit trek that is quite easy and short compared to the previous days. Journeying for about 3 to 4 hours through the dusty, open, and barren hills, we will reach the oldest Kagbeni Village. The key site to visit here is the Kag Chode Thupten Samphel monastery at the northern end of the village.
After the monastery, the path runs between the green terraced fields for another 3 to 4 hours towards Jomsom.
From Jomsom, with views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, and all sorts of other mountains, we will drive to Tatopani (Hot water) through the Mustang district. We will arrive very tired at Tatopani shelter.
The Kali Gandaki River Valley will drive us back to Pokhara, and by the late afternoon, we will be relaxing in the hotel of Pokhara amidst the Annapurna Massif and Fishtail.
In the evening, you can rent a bike and take a ride along the Phewa Lake, or hike up to the viewpoint at the Peace Pagoda.
After a big Annapurna circuit trek, there is a flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, where we arrive in the morning. We have an entire day free in Kathmandu to see or revisit some of the great sights that Nepal’s capital has to offer.
The Annapurna circuit trek 11 days tour is best undertaken outside the monsoon season which is from March to May (Spring) or Fall (September to November). However, to be more precise, the autumn/fall period is the heart of trekking to Annapurna as the climate is temperate and dry, and the sky is blue throughout the day with the mild 15 to 20-degree heat.
The rain with it takes away the dust and haze of pollution so the visibility is excellent. In these months, two important festivals are also held: Dasain and Tihar.
The spring comes next as a favorable time after fall with its milder weather and longer days. Rhododendrons are in bloom on the hills and wildlife is especially at its brim.
The monsoon from June to August is discouraged as it is characterized by continuous rainfall, sultry temperatures, and a high humidity level. The most difficult months are July and August when temperatures exceed 30 degrees and rainfall reaches 700 mm per month.
However, it is the best season to visit the dry Manang and Mustang districts as they are protected by the massive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himals.
Winter (December January, February) is mostly clear and the climate is quite stable. But it snows at Thorong La Pass, Mustang, and Manang districts.
The Annapurna Circuit trek 11 days itinerary will take us on a remarkable journey through the 250 km long stretch along the diverse temperate climate of Annapurna to the dry arid barren zone of Manang and Mustang.
The Annapurna journey will get underway from Besi Shahar separated by a 173 km road distance from Kathmandu. The focal point of our entire Annapurna circuit trek is the Thorong La Pass 381.2 km away from Kathmandu.
We will sleep at an elevation of more than 4500 m for sure; if we settle in Thorong Phedi, we will be resting the whole night at 4600 m and if we settle on High Camp, 4850 m will be our overnight altitude.
The entire trek will take us to 5416 m altitude when we will be at the summit of the Thorong La Pass itself.
The Annapurna circuit trek 11 days program attributes the 7-day walking part along the well-trodden track. The daily walking stage varies between 4 to 7 hours on average except for the top day of 8 when we journey the rising trail from Thorong Phedi to the peak of the Thorong La Pass followed by a sharp descent to Muktinath. The 8 to 9 hours walking would be very arduous yet very satiating.
The seventh day however promises to be the shortest walk as we journey from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi within 4 to 5 hours.
The Annapurna Circuit trek is Nepal’s absolute trekking classic that represents the upper intermediary trekking trips of Nepal. It is certainly beautiful yet it is an exhausting trek where you must pay attention to the route that takes us to the peak at Thorong La pass.
Altitude sickness is a real concern here and to reduce the chances of experiencing it, we have proposed the rest day at Manang and the acclimating walk at Thorong Phedi. These measures will to some extent help your body adjust before reaching the summit of the massive Pass and encountering the Tibetan-like environment in Manang and Mustang.
The Annapurna circuit trek 11 days program is recommended for more experienced and trained hikers because, besides altitude sickness, some stages in the itinerary involve quick climbs and descent of 1000 m with typical trekking days of 4 to 7 hours duration. And, not to forget the Pass crossing of over 5000 m along the way.
However, most people can join this trip even the beginners but mind you the trek requires a little better fitness and endurance. There will typically also be larger temperature differences here but don’t be alarmed as this is a classic hiking adventure in between the mountains.
Also, what makes this trip lighter and suitable for beginners is the fact that the area is regularly inhabited and has good paths and services. You sleep in lodges, the typical local hotels anywhere you stop so this is a lighter trip compared to the Everest Base Camp trek with overnight altitude below the 5000 m mark.
The Annapurna circuit trek requires more of your physical fitness than the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It is because the around trek of Annapurna makes you stay in the mountains of greater heights for a longer time.
Therefore, to increase your fitness and endurance, we suggest you engage in physical activities 2 months in advance. Start slowly if your body is not used to the training, and give yourself plenty of time to recover between training sessions.
Good forms of training can, among other things, be running, cycling, swimming and other forms of exercise that get the heart rate up. And concentrate on strengthening your calf muscles as they bear the heaviest load when you are going up the mountain.
If you have access to stairs where you live, a good solution can be filling the backpack with heavy books and trudging up and down the stairs until your legs are well battered. Running on hilly terrain can also strengthen your calf muscles. If neither hills nor stairs are within your reach, supplement your training with strength training exercises that go directly into your calf muscles.
You can also go for a long walk, preferably for a few hours, go for a long run or bike ride, or combine several disciplines to vary the experience and minimize the strain on the same parts of the body.
If you are searching for a more unique experience away form the typical tourist path of Annapurna, then we suggest you another route for the Annapurna circuit trek.
This walking trail will direct you through the distant villages of Ghalegaon, Bhujung, Ridge Camp, Joli Kharka, Thulo Tal, Phulu, Kori, Tasa Kharka, Sikles, and Ghawchok finally ending at Pokhara.
These unsophisticated but real Nepal will let you immerse yourselves in genuine rural Nepal but the nights will be in the camp under the starlit sky.
You can also mingle the Ghorepani Poon Hill or Lake Tilicho trip with the Annapurna Circuit trek. On the other hand, you can also prolong the same program by journeying from Upper Pisang to Ngawal and drecting your path towards Kang La Pass, leading you to Nar and Phu Valley.
The thin arid air in the high mountain heights due to less oxygen often can be the cause in altitude sickness during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Our body is although capable of adapting to heights but it takes time.
Therefore, we should always gain altitude progressively so as to give our body time to get used to the new situation. If we go hurriedly, altitude-related illnesses may arise, such as severe headaches that won’t go away, nausea and vomiting with possible loss of appetite, strong feelings of fatigue, and difficulty falling asleep.
The first thing to do in case of such symptoms is to stop climbing. Usually a few days of rest at the same altitude is enough to be able to acclimatize. However, if the symptoms do not improve, there are some medications that help with acclimatization, such as Diamox (acetazolamide).
We also like to emphasize drinking enough as the dry air and physical exertion facilitate dehydration, and it is important to make sure you drink enough, even more than usual (at least three liters a day, including hot drinks and soups). It is also important to regulate your body temperature, to avoid sweating too much and losing too many fluids.
At last, the dream has become a reality! We are presenting to you the Annapurna Circuit trek 11 days adventure, where we will take care of your every need. You don’t even have to arrange for a trekking permit before departure.
Throughout the trip, we will use the private vehicle to take you from Kathmandu to Besi Shahar to Chame, and then back from Jomsom to Tatopani to Pokhara. A flight will also be arranged on your behalf from Pokhara to Kathmandu. A free transfer is also available for your arrival and departure from Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu.
En route, you will stay in good tea houses where you will eat and sleep with other trekkers. The standard has risen considerably in recent years in this region, and in many villages, there are hotel-like tea houses with double rooms, private baths, and electricity.
We also take pride in offering you full-board dining options along with additional snacks like energy bars, crackers, and cookies during the trek. To top it off, we also serve fresh, seasonal fruits as dessert every evening after dinner.
You will dine in tea houses and the one dish you have to absolutely try is Dal Bhat. There are also more on the menu with momos, noodles, pasta, pizza, chicken, mutton, tuna etc.
Ncell and NTC – the local mobile networks- provide excellent service throughout the country even in the remote settlements of Annapurna, Manang, and Mustang. However, the government-operated NTC has an advantage when it comes to the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
In many places along the trail, you can buy a local sim card of NTC or NCELL for your mobile which makes it relatively cheap to call home. They also come with a 4G service for speedy internet usage.
Since the infrastructure of the circuit is quite good, the electricity is available in the tea houses around the clock. The rooms may or may not have electrical outlets and if there are they may be different so bring the adapter.
Access to the Internet is also available through WIFI in the hotels and tea houses but it will come at a minimal price of $4 to $5 per hour.
Permit for Annapurna Conservation Area and Trekking Information Management System (TIMS card) is requisite for the Annapurna Circuit trek which our guide will secure of course.
One way to cut short this trek is by ending it in Jomsom from where you can fly directly to Pokhara or Kathmandu. The other way is to commence your trek from Bhulbhule which lies after Besi Shahar.
This trek differs from the Trekking to Everest Base Camp due to the variety of vegetation and views. In the beginning, you are surrounded by a tropical landscape with very rich deciduous vegetation. After a few days, conifers enter the scene, in particular pines and firs, up to around 4000 m. From here begins a bare, intense, and massive landscape, often covered in snow and typical of the high mountains.
To Everest Base Camp you travel on a single route so it is busier. Along the Annapurna Circuit, you do not encounter high-altitude climbers as you are not heading towards Base Camp. The circuit takes place at slightly lower altitudes and the risk of altitude sickness is therefore lower. Also the costs on the Annapurna Circuit are lower.
You will find ATMs in Chame and Jomsom but carry cash from Kathmandu as there may not be adequate cash available to withdraw.
Because accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, both before and after the trip, are not part of our service package. However, if you like us to manage your accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, we can do so for an additional cost.
Yes, every lodge offers hot water or a hot shower at the cost of around $4 to $5.
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