Annapurna Circuit Trek (via Thorong La Pass) – 16 days

Trekking and Hiking

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Overview
Trip Highlights
Itinerary
Includes/Excludes
Additional Info.
Accomodation
Transportation
Trip FAQs

Duration

16 Days Trip

Meals

15B, 14L, 15D

Start Point

Kathmandu

End Point

Kathmandu

Style

Guided Trekking Adventure

Max. Altitude

5,416m / 17,769 ft (Thorong La Pass)

Trip Grade

Moderate to Challenging

Trek Distance

~160–180 km (depending on route)

Lodging

Teahouses (Mountain Lodges), Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara

Trip overview

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic Himalayan journey that circles the mighty Annapurna range. Over the course of 16 days, you start in the green valleys, where rivers, farmlands, and small villages welcome you with their charm. Each day takes you a little higher, and the scenery changes as forests give way to alpine landscapes and eventually to the rugged beauty of high mountains.
The heart of this trek lies at Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Reaching the top is challenging, but the reward is the incredible view of endless snow peaks and valleys stretching far below. On the way, you’ll experience the warmth of mountain communities—exploring Manang, visiting the sacred temple of Muktinath, and walking through the unique windswept valley of Jomsom. The trail also crosses the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest in the world.
This trek is not only about the mountains but also about the culture, traditions, and people who make the journey memorable. You’ll rest in teahouses, enjoy local meals, and share the trail with travelers from across the world. Designed with the right balance of adventure and acclimatization, this itinerary gives you both comfort and challenge.
The Annapurna Circuit has been called one of the best trekking routes in the world—and for good reason. Every step brings a new landscape, a new story, and a new memory.

Trip Highlights

Walk through the Annapurna Conservation Area, the first and largest protected area in Nepal.
Cross the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416m), a tough climb rewarded with stunning mountain views.
Experience the rich culture of Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities along the way.
Explore the beautiful town of Manang, known for its old monasteries and expansive Himalayan views.
Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
See the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, recognized as the deepest gorge in the world.
Day to Day Itinerary:

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,539 ft.)

You will arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal. Once you arrive, our representative will be holding cards with your name to welcome you and drive you to the hotel.
Upon reaching the hotel, you will get refreshed and rest. Or you can explore Thamel, the liveliest area in Kathmandu. Also, ensure all the needed gear is ready.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 02

Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Besisahar (760m), then to Dharapani (1,960m)

We start the day with a picturesque drive west along the Marshyangdi and Trishuli Rivers. Before arriving at Besisahar, you will cross terraced fields, quaint villages, and verdant slopes. From there, you take a jeep ride along rocky roads to Dharapani, where your journey begins.
Overnight in Dharapani.
Day 03

Trek to Chame (2,670m)

The trail gradually climbs through pine and fir forests, offering views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. You’ll pass small settlements and cross suspension bridges over rushing rivers before reaching Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. The natural hot springs nearby are perfect for relaxation.
Overnight in Chame.
Day 04

Trek to Pisang (3,200m)

Today’s trail follows the Marshyangdi River and leads you into dramatic gorges and alpine landscapes. As you climb higher, the views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak become more striking. Upon reaching Pisang, you’ll notice the Tibetan-influenced culture and architecture in the village.
Overnight in Pisang.
Day 05

Trek to Manang (3,540m) (via Upper Pisang for better views)

Taking the Upper Pisang route rewards you with some of the best panoramas of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The trail winds through monasteries and traditional villages before reaching Manang, a vibrant settlement known for its unique culture and beautiful surroundings.
Overnight in Manang.
Day 06

Acclimatization Day in Manang (3,540m)

To adapt to the altitude, you’ll spend the day in Manang. Short hikes to Gangapurna Lake or viewpoints above the village offer excellent acclimatization and stunning mountain views. You can also visit local monasteries and interact with the warm-hearted Manangi people.
Overnight in Manang.
Day 07

Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m)

Leaving Manang, the trail climbs gently through alpine meadows and past yak pastures. The vegetation thins as you move higher, and the air feels cooler and drier. Yak Kharka, meaning “yak pasture,” is a small settlement with dramatic mountain backdrops.
Overnight at Yak Kharka.
Day 08

Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,540m)

The trail continues uphill to Ledar, then gradually ascends towards Thorong Phedi, the base camp for the Thorong La Pass. The views of the surrounding peaks become more dramatic, and trekkers prepare mentally and physically for the big climb tomorrow.
Overnight in Thorong Phedi.
Day 09

Trek to Muktinath (3760m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m)

Today is the most challenging yet rewarding part of the trek. Starting early, you ascend the steep trail to Thorong La Pass, marked by prayer flags and a signboard. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360° Himalayan views. After celebrating the achievement, you descend long and steep trails to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
Overnight in Muktinath.
Day 10

Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)

Descending from Muktinath, the landscape changes dramatically into arid, Mustang-like terrain. You’ll pass ancient villages and monasteries before reaching Kagbeni, a fascinating settlement with narrow alleys and stone houses. It also serves as the gateway to Upper Mustang.
Overnight in Kagbeni.
Day 11

Trek to Jomsom (2,720m)

A short trek along the windy Kali Gandaki Valley brings you to Jomsom, a lively town famous for its apple orchards and Thakali culture. The broad valley offers great views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks.
Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 12

Buffer/Weather Day in Jomsom (optional)

This is a contingency day in case of weather delays, especially for flights. If not needed, you can explore Jomsom or nearby villages, enjoy the Thakali cuisine, and relax.
Overnight in Jomsom.
Day 13

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (822m)

A scenic short flight takes you from Jomsom to Pokhara, where lush hills, lakes, and views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna welcome you. The rest of the day is free to relax by Phewa Lake or explore the city.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 14

Rest Day in Pokhara

Spend a full day enjoying Pokhara. You can take a boat ride on Phewa Lake, visit Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, or hike up to the World Peace Pagoda for panoramic views. It’s the perfect place to unwind after the trek.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 15

Drive or fly back to Kathmandu (1,400m)

Return to Kathmandu by a scenic 6–7-hour drive or a 30-minute flight. Once in the capital, you can enjoy souvenir shopping, relax in a café, or rest at the hotel.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 16

Departure

This day is the day you left for your home.
After breakfast, you’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping or strolling around. We will ensure you arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight. We bid farewell with beautiful memories of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and in the hope of meeting again, we separate.

Trip Includes:

Airport picks up and drops off.
Jomsom – Pokhara flight.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card fees.
Accommodation in teahouses during the trek, hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
Professional trekking guide and porter (1 porter for two guests).
All government taxes.

Trip Excludes:

International airfares.
Nepal entry visa fees.
All personal expenses, including alcohol & other beverages, trekking equipment, travel insurance, and more.
Extra expenses during the trek, like hot shower charge, battery charging, Wi-Fi, and others.
Money gratitude for the trekking guides and porters.
Excess baggage of more than 15 kg for the Pokhara flight.
Additional hotel stays in Kathmandu or Pokhara if not on the planned itinerary.
All that are not mentioned in the includes.

Starting From

USD 1,900

per person

Number of Pax:

No. of people	Price per person
2-5 pax	USD 1,750
6-10 pax	USD 1,600

Speak to an Expert

Trekking Expert

Nepal

WhatsApp +9779841603796

Additional Information:

Some important hints:

Scan VISA cards, passports and other critical documents to phone or email for easy access.
There will be one porter between two trekkers, carrying a maximum of 25 kg (12 kg max. each) in a supplied soft duffel bags.
Please keep packing to a minimum and let; 12/15 kg if possible.
Each trekker to carry water, jacket, fleece, camera and daily needs in a small back-pack.
Most toilets on trek will be traditional squat toilets, with no toilet paper because local people wash themselves with their left hand and water, then wash their hands really well afterwards. Having some hard soap or hand-sanitizer is obviously a good idea. It’s advisable to bring some wet wipes or toilet paper but discard it in the bin or bring the used paper with you in zip lock bags to be polite as throwing it down the hole is not advised.
If you can’t do without technology, think about bringing a camera or phone (with extra storage/batteries), charging cable (and universal plug adapter), power bank (solar optional), and offline trekking map app (Maps.me, Gaia, GPS).
You cannot drink water from the tap, anywhere in Nepal, not even brush your teeth with it! Bottled water is universally available, but it is not environmentally sustainable (think millions of plastic bottles that are not recycled).
Money exchange is available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. So, when you arrived in Kathmandu you can easily change the USD in NPR.

Clothing and accessories on trek

Small back pack with thin pack liner and rain-cover
Beanie
Sun hat
Balaclava, buff or neck gaiter
Fleece or wool gloves
Windproof outer gloves
Socks
Undies
Polyprop/merino long-sleeved
Top and leggings for walking
Polyprop/merino long-sleeved
Top and leggings for sleeping
Polyprop/merino short-sleeved
Top for walking
Lightweight hiking shorts (lower altitude)
Lightweight trekking trousers (evening)
Polar fleece
Down jacket
Waterproof windproof raincoat
Boots with ankle support (well-worn-in)
Ultra-lightweight EVA plastic
Sandals (evenings)

Other

Headlamp with extra batteries
Sunglasses (snow)
Notebook & pen
Reading glasses

Accomodation

Hotel Tibet

Hotel Tibet, a family-run boutique hotel that have blended traditional Tibetan designs with a touch of modern simplicity.

Transportation

Tourist Bus

We provide professional Luxury Tourist Bus services designed for large groups, corporate retreats, and organized tours. Our fleet features modern, high-capacity buses equipped with comfortable reclining seats, full air conditioning, and wide windows for a premium sightseeing experience. With spacious under-carriage compartments for luggage and experienced drivers at the wheel, we ensure a safe, smooth, and relaxing journey on all major highways. Whether you are traveling across the city or across the country, our bus service offers the perfect blend of reliability, comfort, and affordability for your entire group.

Toyota Hiace

Our Toyota Hiace service offers the perfect balance of speed, comfort, and flexibility for medium-sized groups and families. Known for its reliability and agility, the "Jumbo" Hiace provides a fast and efficient way to reach your destination, easily navigating both smooth highways and narrower mountain roads. With a high-roof design for extra headroom, air-conditioned interiors, and a private "door-to-door" service, we ensure a premium travel experience that gets you there ahead of the crowd.

Scorpio

Our Mahindra Scorpio 4WD service offers the ultimate combination of power, durability, and rugged luxury for explorers and small groups. Engineered to conquer the demanding terrain of the Himalayas, the Scorpio provides a robust and dependable way to navigate steep inclines, unpaved tracks, and challenging weather conditions. With its high ground clearance, heavy-duty suspension, and powerful 4x4 capabilities, our private "door-to-trailhead" service ensures you reach your destination safely and comfortably, no matter how remote. Featuring an ergonomic cabin, climate control, and ample space for expedition gear, we deliver a high-performance travel experience designed to get you deep into the heart of the mountains where others cannot follow.

Trip FAQs:

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit trek?

The trek is considered challenging due to the long walking days, high altitude, and the steep ascent to Thorong La. Good fitness, stamina, and basic trekking experience are recommended.
What is the best season to trek the Annapurna Circuit?
The two ideal seasons are:
- Autumn (Sept–Nov) — clear skies, stable weather, best mountain views
- Spring (Mar–May) — warmer temperatures, blooming rhododendrons
Winter brings heavy snow on Thorong La; monsoon brings landslides and cloudy views.
Do I need permits for the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, you need:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
These are required for all foreign trekkers.
What type of accommodation is available on the Annapurna Circuit trek?
The circuit is well-developed with tea houses offering:
- Basic but clean rooms
- Shared toilets
- Hot meals
- Limited Wi-Fi and charging (extra cost)
Facilities become simpler and colder at higher elevations.
How many hours do we walk each day on Annapurna Circuit?

Expect 5–7 hours of trekking per day. The day crossing Thorong La is the longest — often 8–10 hours.
How cold does it get on Thorong La Pass?

Temperatures can drop to –10°C to –20°C in the early morning, even in peak seasons. Wind chill can make it feel even colder.