Annapurna Circuit Trek – 13 days

Trip Itinerary

• Day 01 Arrive at Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.

  Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and drive you to your hotel.

  After checking into your hotel, you can rest for the remainder of the day or take a walk on the vibrant streets of Thamel. Thamel is known for its lively atmosphere, restaurants, trekking shops, and cultural attractions.

  Overnight in Kathmandu.

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    Max. Altitude: 1,400m (4,600 feet)

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    Accommodation: Standard Hotel

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    Meals: Dinner

• Day 02 Drive to Dharapani by public vehicle.

  After breakfast, you will begin a scenic drive from Kathmandu toward Dharapani. You will pass through beautiful rivers, terraced farmlands, rolling hills, and traditional villages.

  Once you reach Besisahar, you will take a shared jeep to Dharapani. The road is rough in many places, with both paved and gravel sections, so the ride is often bumpy. Along the way, you will pass through cliffs, waterfalls, and mountain views.

  The scenery changes once more as you get closer to Dharapani. The alpine atmosphere takes hold as temperatures drop and the air becomes thinner. Dharapani, which serves as the entry point to the Annapurna Conservation Area, is a charming example of a contemporary and traditional settlement. Trekkers from all over the world may be found here, telling stories about their adventures and getting ready for the difficulties that lie ahead.

  Overnight in Dharapani.

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    Max. Altitude: 1,860m (6,100 feet)

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    Accommodation: Standard Hotel

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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    Drive duration: 9-10 hours’ drive

• Day 03 Trek to Chame.

  Today, you will begin your trekking adventure through beautiful pine and fir forests while following the Marsyangdi River. The trail passes through charming villages such as Bagarchhap, Danaque, and Timang, where you can enjoy impressive views of Lamjung Himal and surrounding snow-capped mountains.

  During the journey, you will cross several suspension bridges high above the fast-flowing Marsyangdi River. The final part of the trail climbs gradually through forests and rocky paths before reaching Chame, which sits at an altitude of about 2,670 meters (8,760 feet).

  Upon arrival, you can enjoy breathtaking sunset views over Lamjung Himal and the soaring peaks of the Annapurna range. As the administrative center of Manang District, Chame is a lively mountain town surrounded by spectacular Himalayan scenery. It is also known for its natural hot springs, traditional Tibetan-influenced culture, and peaceful Himalayan atmosphere.

  Overnight in Chame.

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    Max. Altitude: 2,650m (8,760 feet)

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    Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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    Trek Duration: 4-5 hours trek

• Day 04 Trek to Upper Pisang.

  After enjoying breakfast in Chame, your trek continues deeper into the heart of the Himalayas as the trail gradually ascends toward the picturesque village of Upper Pisang. Today’s journey offers a remarkable transition in both scenery and culture, with dense forests slowly giving way to the dry alpine landscape characteristic of the upper Manang region.

  Leaving Chame behind, the trail follows the northern bank of the Marsyangdi River through peaceful pine and fir forests. The trail goes through narrow gorges and rugged mountain terrain, crossing wooden bridges and rocky sections shaped by centuries of glacial and river erosion.

  As you continue climbing, the valley becomes narrower, and soon you will see Paungda Danda, a huge curved rock wall rising nearly 1,500 meters above the valley. The cliff is considered sacred by local Buddhist communities, and many locals believe the area should be treated with respect. Its massive size and unusual shape make it one of the best-known natural landmarks on the Annapurna Circuit trail.

  Along the way, you will witness the majestic peaks of Annapurna II and Annapurna III, and Pisang Peak. Pisang Peak, a popular trekking peak known for its elegant pyramid shape, is also home to the beautiful glacier-clad massif of Gangapurna.

  Later, you will arrive in Upper Pisang, a traditional Tibetan-style village at approximately 3,300 meters (10,826 feet) perched on a hillside above the lower settlement. Upper Pisang is also known for its ancient monasteries, stone houses, prayer walls, and breathtaking mountain scenery. You can witness unforgettable sunset views over the Annapurna range.

  Overnight in Upper Pisang.

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    Max. Altitude: 3,300m (10,827 feet)

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    Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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    Trek Duration: 4-5 hours trek

• Day 05 Trek to Nawal.

  Today’s trek is considered one of the most spectacular and culturally rich sections of the Annapurna Circuit as you leave Upper Pisang and follow the famous high trail toward Ngawal, also locally known as Nawal. After breakfast, the trail begins with a steady climb above the valley, which is more demanding but offers vastly more rewarding scenery and cultural experiences.

  Following the steep ascent, you will reach the ancient village of Ghyaru. Ghyaru is a village filled with traditional stone-built houses, intricately carved wooden windows, colorful prayer flags, chortens, mani walls, and spinning prayer wheels lining the trail. Along the way, you will walk through a series of stone staircases carved into the hillside, and you can feel physically challenged as the altitude rises. However, with every step, you will witness extraordinary panoramic views overlooking the entire Marsyangdi Valley below.

  Continuing, the trail traverses high along the mountainside where you will witness uninterrupted views of some of the most iconic peaks in the Annapurna region, including Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV. You will also enjoy spectacular views of Gangapurna, the beautiful pyramid-shaped Pisang Peak, and the distant summit of Tilicho Peak rising high above the arid landscape.

  Later, you will reach Ngawal, a quiet village at about 3,650 meters (11,975 feet). Old monasteries, terraced fields, and wide mountain views surround it. The village is a good place to rest and adjust to the altitude.

  Overnight in Nawal.

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    Max. Altitude: 3,650m (11,975 feet)

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    Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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    Trek Duration: 4-5 hours trek

• Day 06 Trek to Manang.

  Today’s trek is shorter and easier, giving you more time to enjoy the scenery and adjust to the higher altitude. After breakfast in Ngawal, you will continue your trek toward Manang through beautiful alpine landscapes and traditional Himalayan villages.

  The trail passes through dry mountain terrain with amazing views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks. As you walk, you will see wide valleys, rocky hillsides, prayer flags, and grazing yaks, creating a true Himalayan atmosphere. The scenery becomes more open and dramatic as you move deeper into the Manang region.

  Along the way, you will visit Braga Monastery. It is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the area, residing on a hillside above the village. You’ll find ancient Buddhist paintings, prayer wheels, statues, and traditional Tibetan artwork that reflect the region’s culture inside the monastery.

  After visiting Braga, the trail continues with an easy walk to Manang, a Himalayan village at around 3,540 meters (11,614 feet). It is an important acclimatization stop for trekkers preparing to cross the Thorong La Pass.

  After arriving in Manang, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring the village. There are many cozy cafés, bakeries, small shops, and restaurants where trekkers can rest and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere. Without a doubt, this place is one of the most memorable stops on the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

  Overnight in Manang.

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    Max. Altitude: 3,550m (11,647 feet)

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    Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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    Trek Duration: 4-5 hours trek

• Day 07 Acclimatization day at Manang.

  Today is an acclimatization day in Manang. This means you will stay at the same altitude to help your body adjust to the thinner air before going higher toward Thorong La Pass. But you will do a short hike to a little higher point. You may visit places like Gangapurna Lake, nearby viewpoints, or even Ice Lake if you want a longer hike.

  During the hike, you will witness amazing mountain views. Peaks like Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak will be clearly visible. You will also see glaciers, rocky hills, and wide-open valleys.

  You will be aware of how to stay safe at high altitude, including simple tips such as drinking enough water, walking slowly, and recognizing signs of altitude sickness.

  After the hike, you return to Manang to rest. You can relax in cafés, enjoy warm food, and prepare for the next part of your trek.

  Overnight at Manang.

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    Max. Altitude: 3,550m (11,647 feet)

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    Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Day 08 Trek to Yak Kharka.

  After breakfast, you will slowly climb into a more rugged, open mountain landscape. The trail becomes steeper, and the air feels thinner as you move into higher altitude areas of the Himalayas. As you move ahead, trees become fewer, and the scenery changes to dry hills, rocky paths, and a wide alpine valley.

  Later, you will reach the Yak Kharka. Along the way, you may see yaks grazing in the high mountain pastures. This is a shorter trekking day, which is important for acclimatization. It gives your body time to adjust to the altitude before continuing further toward Thorong Phedi, the base area before the high mountain pass.

  Overnight in Yak Kharka.

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    Max. Altitude: 4,020M (13,189 feet)

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    Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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    Trek Duration: 3-4 hours trek

• Day 09 Trek to Fedi.

  Today you will continue your trek toward Thorong Phedi, the final stopping point before crossing the high mountain pass of Thorong La Pass.

  The trail gradually becomes more rugged and challenging. You will walk along rocky paths, cross small streams, and climb steady uphill sections through a high-altitude landscape. There are no forests now, only open valleys, dry hills, and dramatic mountain scenery all around.

  As you get closer to Thorong Phedi, the surroundings become more extreme and impressive. You will witness the tall cliffs rising on both sides of the valley, and snow-covered peaks dominating the skyline. The air is thinner here, so the walking pace is usually slow and steady.

  After reaching Thorong Phedi, you will rest for the remainder of the day. This is a quiet and important resting point for trekkers preparing for the early morning crossing of Thorong La Pass. You will go to bed early to get ready for one of the toughest and most memorable days of the trek.

  Overnight in Fedi.

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    Max. Altitude: 4,550 meters (14,928 feet)

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    Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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    Trek Duration: 3-4 hours trek

• Day 10 Trek to Muktinath (3700M) via Thorong La Pass (5416M).

  Early in the morning, you will start the toughest and most rewarding day of the trek. You will leave Thorong Phedi in the dark or early dawn and begin the long climb toward Thorong La Pass.

  The ascent is steep, cold, and physically demanding due to the high altitude and thin air. The trail is mostly rocky and snowy, so walk slowly and steadily. Although it is challenging, reaching the top is a major achievement for every trekker.

  At the summit of Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters / 17,769 feet), you will be rewarded with incredible panoramic views. You can see the vast Himalayan landscape, including the Annapurna range on one side and the Dhaulagiri range on the other. The dramatic desert-like terrain of Mustang also spreads out below, creating a powerful contrast of mountains and valleys.

  After spending a short time at the pass for photos and rest, you will begin a long descent toward Muktinath. The trail goes down steep slopes and rocky paths, so careful walking is important, especially on tired legs.

  Muktinath is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Nepal for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is known for its spiritual importance, peaceful atmosphere, and beautiful mountain surroundings. You can visit the famous Muktinath Temple, where pilgrims come to pray and bathe in the holy water springs and eternal flame.

  After a long and unforgettable day, you can relax in Muktinath and admire yourself for successfully crossing one of the highest trekking passes in the world.

  Overnight in Muktinath.

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    Max. Altitude: 5,416 meters (17,769 feet)

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    Accommodation: Standard Hotel

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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    Trek Duration: 7-8 hours trek

• Day 11 Drive to Pokhara by public vehicle.

  After breakfast, you will drive toward Pokhara. The journey follows the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley, one of Nepal’s most spectacular valleys. This route passes through the deepest gorge in the world, located between the massive peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

  Along the way, you will see rugged cliffs, winding rivers, small traditional villages, waterfalls, and terraced hillsides. As the road descends, the landscape starts to change. The dry, windy terrain of Upper Mustang changes to green hills, forests, and farmland.

  You will pass through several local settlements along the way, offering glimpses of rural Nepali life, prayer flags fluttering on bridges, and rivers flowing down from the Himalayas. The drive is long but very scenic, with constant views of mountains and valleys.

  Finally, you will arrive in Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city known for its calm atmosphere and stunning mountain views. You can rest for the remainder of the day in your hotel or enjoy a walk along the lakeside cafés, or rest and celebrate the completion of your incredible Annapurna Circuit journey.

  Overnight in Pokhara.

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    Accommodation: Standard Hotel

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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    Drive duration: 8-9 hours’ drive

• Day 12 Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus

  Today, you will travel back to Kathmandu from Pokhara by tourist bus. The drive is long but very scenic. You will follow rivers flowing down from the Himalayas, pass through green hills, terraced rice fields, small villages, and busy roadside towns.

  As you get closer to Kathmandu, the landscape becomes more advanced, and the valley widens. Traffic increases, and you slowly enter the busy capital city.

  After arriving in Kathmandu, you will have free time to relax after your long trek. You can go shopping for souvenirs, visit nearby attractions, or rest at your hotel.

  In the evening, you may enjoy a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your Annapurna Circuit trek. Also, stroll around the vibrant streets of Thamel.

  Overnight in Kathmandu.

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    Accommodation: Standard Hotel

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    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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    Drive duration: 6-7 hours’ drive

• Day 13 Departure

  After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport, marking the final day of your adventure in the country of the Himalayas.

  Your unforgettable trek along the Annapurna Circuit comes to an end, leaving you with lasting memories of dramatic mountain landscapes, traditional Himalayan villages, and the region’s rich culture.

  As you depart from Nepal, you carry home not just photographs, but the experience of one of the world’s great trekking adventures.

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    Meals: Breakfast (Lunch depending on the schedule)