Annapurna Circuit Trek - 16 Days

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Trip Facts
Start
Kathmandu
Duration
16 Days
Maximum Altitude
5,416m
Region
Nepal
Group Size
1-20 person
Accomodation
Hotel and Tea House
Meals
16 dinner, 15 lunch, 16 breakfast
End
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking/Hiking

This trek is famous for dramatic deep gorges, desolate high mountain passes

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most popular treks in Nepal, and rightly so. This trek is famous for dramatic deep gorges, desolate high mountain passes, fantastic viewpoints (Poon Hill), hot springs, Buddhist and Hindu temples, delightful farming villages, and stunning views of Annapurna summits. Heading towards the high Thorong La Pass, a host of mountains come into view, including the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Tilicho Peak. The trail continues over the pass to enter Mustang and the Hindu pilgrimage town of Muktinath and on down the Kali Gandaki Valley, past the unique and interesting village of Marpha with its small monastery, narrow cobbled streets, and apple orchards, on to the hot springs at Tatopani and the view point of Poon Hill.

Trip highlight

  • Cross Thorong La Pass, world’s widest trekking pass.
  • Enjoy the diverse Nepalese landscape and culture.
  • Pass yak pastures.
  • Traverse through the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge.
  • Poon Hill Viewpoint (3,210 m).
  • Spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West, and Chulu East, Tukuche Peak,   Dhaulagiri,  Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV.

Itinerary

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Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

On your arrival at Tribhuvan International airport in Kathmandu (1,350m). You will be met by our representative and transferred to our hotel. After hotel check-in we take a rest or visit to Thamel (The centre of the tourist industry) and you can buy trekking gears if you need. In the evening there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Star Mountain Trek and will be served authentic Nepalese cuisine which will be introduce you to the country’s food with culture. Overnight to Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1,350m
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2

Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek preparation

Our tour (sightseeing) starting from Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Bouddhanath Stupa and Pashupathinath. Which are all world heritage sites. Durbar Square in front of the old royal palace of the former Kathmandu Kingdom. Swayambhunath is a known as the Monkey Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupa in the world and Pashupatinath Temple is the one of the most import places for all Hindus.

Max Altitude: 1,350m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 3

Kathmandu to Drive Jagat

After breakfast we begin our Annapurna Circuit trek. We start our journey into the hills on a winding road along the Trishuli River. The route goes out of the valley along the picturesque trishuli river to Pokhara from where we head north to the large bazaar to Besisahar. From Besisahar, situated along the Marsyangdi River. Throughout the ride, we will be able to see the beautiful scenery of terrace farms, villages. Will be successful around Jagat(1,300m) village and hill stations.

Max Altitude: 1,300m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Duration: 8-9 hrs
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 4

Jagat to Dharapani

Our first day’s walk involves crossing a few suspension bridges and waterfalls including several ascents and descents across rice paddies and a subtropical forest. Chyamje comes into picture amidst the glorious backdrop of towering Annapurna mountain ranges. We reach Dharapani(1,860m). Finally, we complete the 1st day of our Annapurna trek with energy and enthusiasm.

Max Altitude: 1,860m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 5

Dharapani to Chame

We follow the trail through the forest with pine, fir, oak, and maple trees along the Marsyangdi River to reach Chame(2,710m), the district headquarter of Manang district. Throughout the trek we can admire amazing views of the Himalayas including Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m/24,688ft). On today’s trek we also come across small hot springs where we can dip in and soothe our aching muscles.

Max Altitude: 2,610m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 6

Chame to Pisang

We walk through a steep and narrow valley to have our first view of a massive wall of rock that is considered very sacred to the local people, rising 1500m from the river. After passing this last bit of rock, the valley opens up with majestic vistas. And right where the valley widens stands the Paungda Danda, from here, we also see clear views of Annapurna II in the south and Pisang Peak in the northeast. Next, we descend to the Manang Valley floor. We trek for a while before reaching Lower Pisang(3,300m) where we spend the night. 

Max Altitude: 3,115m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 7

Pisang to Manang

There are two routes to Manang but we follow the trail that takes us to Upper Pisang via Geru. We choose this trail as it offers outstanding views of north face Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Pisang Peak .as we ascend well feel the air turn cold, dry, and harsher. The trail goes through Tibetan settlement and we get a chance to explore Buddhist culture in a short visit to Barge Monastery, the largest in Manang(3,519m). The trail is dotted with Buddhist shrines as we mass below more monasteries and reach the large settlement of Manang with a lively bazaar area that caters to tourists

Max Altitude: 3,540m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 8

Acclimatization day

As we are reaching higher altitudes, we need to acclimatize to avoid the risk of altitude sickness. Manang is the perfect spot with its beautiful natural setting. And we keep busy today with short hike to either Bhojo Gumba or Gangapurna Lake. Where we can visit the Himalayan Rescue Association which will give us some idea about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). 

Max Altitude: 3,540m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 9

Manang to Yak Kharka

Now that we are rested, we feel rejuvenated to continue on our trek. As we move past the tall trees towards the alpine grass and junipers, we reach meadows where a few horses and a number of yaks are grazing around. We will pass through a small village called Gunsan with houses made of flat mud roofs and then pass pastures with yaks and horses. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, we make our way up the spectacular valley to an open, peaceful meadow known as Yak Kharka(4,050m). 

Max Altitude: 4,050m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 10

Yak Kharka Thorong Phedi ( High Camp )

It is an uphill walk to Thorang Phedi(4,600m). After walking for some time we cross a suspension bridge and reach Ledar village. We ascend furthermore and pass through towering cliffs before reaching Thorang Phedi, the last village before Thorong La pass.  On this trip we are rewarded with one of the best views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt. Khatungkan. The word Phedi in Nepalese is referred to as the foot of a mountain.

Max Altitude: 4,600m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 11

Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La

Today we will hike for about 7-8 hours. The trail is comparatively easier having been trodden for years, but could get difficult with strong winds in the upper regions. The trail is believed to have been used for hundreds of years to take sheep and yaks in and out of Manang along with other trading goods. We reach Thorung Phedi in about 6 hours. After we reach Thorung la pass, our hike will be rewarded with beautiful views of Annapurna, Gangapurna and a heavily glaciated peak of Khatungkang. When are a done with a descent of about 1600m, we view the glorious Dhaulagiri standing in the distance. After a while, the trail becomes less steep and enters grassy fields and meadows to finally reach Muktinath. In Hindu religion, Muktinath refers to a place of nirvana which houses a temple and a number of monasteries, making it a holy site for Hindus and Buddhists alike. The main attractions of the site are the Jwalamai temple with a spring and an eternal flame as well as the 108 water spouts that pour holy water. These are visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.

Max Altitude: 5,416m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 12

Muktinath to Drive Tatopani

We visit Muktinath temple before continuing our journey on a local jeep car ride to Tatopani(1,200m). It will be a rough drive through the deepest gorges in the world. We will go from the arid highlands to lush green forestsTatopani is famous for natural hot springs, it is a place where we can soak in the hot springs.

Max Altitude: 1,200m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 13

Tatopani to Ghorepani

We leave the Kali Gandaki and head up the Ghar Khola valley. The trail leads us through a terraced farmland with mountains all around. We pass through the villages of Shikha and Chitre before reaching a beautiful rhododendron forest. When in bloom the rhododendron trees with its average height of up to 100″ will be covered with pink or red flowers. Walking further we reach Ghorepani(2,850m), a beautiful village located at a ridge top.

Max Altitude: 2,850m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house
Day 14

ghorepani to pokhara

This will be our final day on the trail. We ascend to Poon Hill (3,210m) in the early morning to view sunrise over the whole Annapurna, Dhaulagiri massif including Mt Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and surrounding rice terrace a favorite spot among photographers after visiting Poonhill. After taking photographs, we return back to Gorepani. After breakfast, We trek back to Uleri than drive to Pokhara.

Max Altitude: 827m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Duration: Drive: 3 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 15

Pokhara to Drive Kathmandu

After breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu. It's a 200 Km route that first follows first along the Marsyangdi River and then the Trishuli River. After reaching Kathmandu, we have the rest of the day off to rest or do some souvenir shopping. To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening.

Max Altitude: 1,350m
Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Duration: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 16

Final Departure

Our adventure in Nepal ends today.  After breakfast, our representative will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your onward flight.  Should you be staying longer in Nepal or have a late flight, please note hotel check-out time is 11 am.

Max Altitude: 1,350m
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Cost Details

Includes

  •  Accommodation in standard hotels on twin sharing basis.
  •  Meals.
  •  Local guide and support staffs.
  •  All private ground transportation including airport transfers.
  •  Necessary insurance for your guide and porters.
  •  Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and TIMS Cards.
  •  Guaranteed departures
  •  No booking fee.

Excludes

  • Travel insurance, Nepal Tourist Visa fees, Items and expenses of personal nature.
  •  Personal trekking gear and rescue operation in case of emergency.
  •  Bar drinks, beverages such as coke, fanta, sprite and mineral water.
  •  Laundry, phone calls, internet, heater charge and wifi services.

Essential Information

Meals

Meals will be provided during while. There will also be welcome and farewell dinners for guests. In trek most common cuisines in most menu will be Nepalese, Tibetan, Indian and the more common continental.

Accommodation

We will be accommodated hotel in Kathmandu, Pokhara and teahouses during the trek. All accommodations are on twin-shared basis. We will have rooms with attached washrooms in most parts of the trek but this is not possible in a few remote locations. Also understand that single rooms are not easily available in higher elevations like they are in Kathmandu and the lower elevation regions.

FAQs

How can I prevent altitude sickness during Annapurna Circuit Trek?

1) Go slowly and take a full day for the hike rather than get there as fast as possible.

2) Drink lots of liquid.

3) Always give way to yaks right of way and when you meet one on a path with a drop to one side, always stand on the uphill side.

4) Don’t get caught out with inadequate clothing to cope with a rapid change in weather. This is the high Himalaya and a clear bright morning does not mean the same in the afternoon.

5) Do not wander off by yourself and always make sure people know where you are. Anything can happen and a slip on scree or moraine can mean getting cold very quickly while waiting for someone to come and help.

6) Remember that the best approach to safety is to prevent an accident happening in the first place.

7) If your body shows any signs of altitude sickness you need to stop right where you are or descend some altitude.

 Staying clean might also help you prevent altitude sickness.

8) You need to acclimatize properly before trekking to the altitude higher than 3000m.

How long does it take to hike Annapurna Circuit?

The Annapurna Circuit, a 12 to 21-day route that begins in the lush green villages of the Himalayan foothills. Taking trekkers over the 5,416m Thorong La Pass and down to the Tibetan-influenced temples and communities of the Mustang Valley.

What is the total distance of Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is 131 kilometres (81 miles) long. You can do the trek in 12 to 21days to and from Pokhara.

What are the first signs of high altitude sickness?
  • Headache
  • Feeling and being sick
  • Dizziness
  • Tiredness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Shortness of breath

The symptoms are usually worse at night.

How difficult is Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit is a moderately difficult trek on the high altitude terrains of Annapurna region. It’s depends on the perspective of previous trekking experience. Annapurna Circuit Trek is not considered to be a difficult trek because this trek is very adventurous and the key factors of the trek are to walk slow and steadily. So this trek is considered to be a moderate trek. However, compared to other trekking destinations in Nepal, this trek is much easier, shorter, and located at comparatively lower elevations. If you are determined and physically fit, you can reach there easily. 

Do I need oxygen on Annapurna Circuit Trek?

No. Normally, oxygen is not required as our Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary is designed in such a way so that it allows enough acclimatization.

What is the weather of Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty is also determined by the weather and temperature of this region as the weather in the Himalayan region is unpredictable. In winter (December, January, and February), drastic changes occur in weather as the Annapurna Circuit Trek temperature ranges between 9.3°C/48.74°F to -20°C/-4°F. The coldness becomes unbearable and creates difficulty while trekking. Most of the teahouses in higher-altitude areas remain closed. Likewise, in summer/monsoon (June, July, and August), the temperature ranges between 19°C/66.2°F to 4°C/39.2°F which results in strong haze from the sun and heavy rainfall.

Where am I sleeping at night?

On the trek, your accommodation will be on a simple teahouses/lodge with basic and shared facilities.

What is the best time to trek to Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Best time to trek Annapurna Base camp, the spring months are (February – May) and fall (September- November). These seasons offer clear days are characteristic of this popular trekking period and clear Mountain View with a clear sky.

What I am eating during trek?

Food at Teahouse trekking varies according to the teahouse and its location. Basic Teahouses can offer you a wide variety of meals whereas teahouses situated at higher altitudes may not be able to offer you the same menu. Nonetheless, the food provided in these Teahouses is hygienic and delicious. The meals are usually prepared from the local agro-products. Any other ingredients that cannot grow at certain altitudes are brought from the market. Some common food items you can find at Teahouses are Dal-Bhat set (Rice, lentils, vegetables), Meat, Rice items, Noodles Items, Pasta, Momo, potatoes etc. Breakfast items are usually, toasts, eggs, pancakes, porridge, muesli etc.

Why should I do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most stunning treks inside the trans-Himalayan region of Nepal. Waking on the base of the Annapurna Himalayan massive to reach barren land Upper Mustang and the Holy Muktinath. To reach there need to pass so many delightful villages such as Chame, Pisang, Nawal, and Manang. There are various reasons why you should do Annapurna Circuit Trek once in your lifetime.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is also called Annapurna Round and Thorong La Pass Trek. Thorong La Pass is one of the highest and most well-known trekking passes in Nepal. Every year thousands of trekkers walk through this pass as the Annapurna Trek. The beauty of this region is beyond the imagination because the trek starts below 1000m above sea level and ends after passing 5416m. The level of the elevation is also the purpose why you should do this journey for a real trekking experience.

The panoramic view of the Annapurna range such as Annapurna first, second, third, and fourth. Other peaks like Lamjung Himal, Gangapurna Himal, Tilicho Peak, Dhaulagiri and many more. And some more trekking peaks such as Pisang Peak, Cholu east, middle, west, Thorong Peak, and more. Marsandhi river on Manang side and Kali Gandaki on the mustang side. These natural beauties are other attractions why you most do Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is safe?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is relative a safe trekking journey in Nepal. The Annapurna Circuit is a safe trail for solo trekkers, even solo female trekkers. The local Nepali people are used to seeing thousands of trekkers come through their villages every year, and many of them are extremely friendly and welcoming to trekkers.

How much does it cost to trek Annapurna Circuit Trek?

As for the cost of Annapurna Circuit Trek, there is no fixed price. The journey would cost anywhere between depending on the route, the outfitter and their services. The luxurious trekking packaging will cost a bit higher than the standard packages.

What should I pack for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Trekking gears are not only protecting your body it is means of to success your trek. Complete Guide for the Trekking Gears Annapurna Circuit Trek and Equipment List. Trek to Annapurna Circuit Trek is on the list of every mountain lover and adventurer. Before heading out to the trek, one must pack necessary items as packing itself is a challenge. Especially for first-timers, it can be very confusing and challenging to pack for the trek. Thus, a packing list is important to best prepare for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Clothing:

*Moisture-wicking long-sleeve t-shirts (3)

*Moisture-wicking short-sleeve t-shirt (2)

*Heavy fleece or down jacket

*Gore-Tex or waterproof jacket with hood

*Windbreaker

*Rain poncho

*Fleece pants

*Trekking pants (3)

*Hiking shorts (2)

*Waterproof pants

*Hiking socks (10)

*Warm thermal socks (1)

*Long underwear (2)

*Underwear (10)

*Hiking boots with ankle support

*Camp shoes or tennis shoes

*Light inner gloves/glove liners

*Insulated wool or down mittens/gloves

*Sunglasses

*Broad-brimmed hat

*Neck gaiter or bandana (for sun protection)

*Wool hat or balaclava (should cover ears)

*Gaiters (needed Dec-Feb)

*Sweatshirt (optional)

*Sock liners (optional)

*Trekking Gear & Supplies

*Duffle bag for carrying gear via porters (provided by Himalayan Wonders if you’re       trekking with us)

*40L Daypack for carrying what you need on the trail

*Waterproof cover for daypack

*Water bottles or hydration bladder (i.e. CamelBak)

*Sleeping bag rated to -18°C/ 0°F (available for rental if you’re trekking Everest Base Camp through Himalayan Wonders)

*Trekking poles

*Headlamp with extra batteries

*Lightweight water filter or iodine water tablets (personal preference)

*Hand warmers

*Sleeping bag stuff sack

*Dry bags in several sizes

*Stuff sacks for dirty clothes/shoes

*Camera with extra batteries and memory cards

*Small lock(s) for duffle bag and daypack

*Sleeping bag liner (optional)

*Quick-drying trekking towel (optional)

Food & Snacks:

*Snacks (combine protein & carbs for well-balanced energy)

*Thermos (optional for hot beverages)

*Re-hydration gels or powder

*Toiletries

Sunscreen:

*Lip balm with sunscreen

*Toilet Paper

*Moleskin, medical tape, and/or duct tape for treating/preventing blisters

*Advil or Ibuprofen

*Diamox (for altitude sickness)

*Personal prescriptions

*Antibiotics (Cipro for travelers’ diarrhea)

*Anti-chafe balm (e.g. Body Glide, to prevent chafing)

*Diaper rash cream (Can treat rashes or chaffing)

*Soap

*Deodorant

*Toothbrush/toothpaste

*Razor (as needed)

*Shampoo

*Wet wipes

*Hand sanitizer

*Feminine hygiene products (as needed)

*Face lotion

*Hairbrush

*Hair ties

*Earplugs (for sleeping)

*Additional Supplies

*Portable solar charger/power bank

*Book

*Journal/pen

*Playing cards

What is the altitude of Annapurna Circuit Trek?

This trek crosses two different river valleys and encircles the Annapurna Massif. The path reaches its highest point at Thorung La pass (5416m/17769 ft).

Price Per Person
US$1599
US$1699
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