Annapurna Circuit Trek was the famous trekking route in Annapurna for long days trekking in Nepal. Now it became a two weeks trekking route after the development of roads in the lower part of the trekking areas. Annapurna Circuit trekking also popular as Round Annapurna Trek is still the top choice of many adventure lovers because of its diverse geographical features and beautiful sceneries.

Annapurna Circuit trek combines wonderful experiences of walking through river valleys to the high mountain into the wilderness. Though many places with teahouses and lodges offer modern lodging and food options.

Round Annapurna Trekking Route

The trekking route is popular from the anticlockwise direction that starts from Bhulbhule, a place after the famous Beshishar. You will drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule by jeep or local bus and start your trekking following the famous trekking route along the Marshyangdi River. If you want to shorten your trekking then drive to Chame – a city in Manang also possible which reduces the two days walking.

The trekking route of the Annapurna circuit passes through some incredible places like Pisang, Tilicho Lake, Manang, Yak Kharka, and Thorang Phedi to cross the Thorang La Pass.

Walking through this beautiful river valley brings you the wonders of rural life and the culture of the region. It slowly and gradually takes you higher into the mountains and eventually takes you over a mountain pass.

The mountain pass, Thorong La, stands at an elevation of 5,416 meters above sea level. It also offers us an incredible view of the surrounding Himalayas. It later enters the Kali Gandaki river valley as we walk down towards Jomsom.

The Annapurna Circuit trek is not only about walking in the mountains but also about enjoying the cultural beauty of the villages that come along the trail. It passes through several beautiful cultural villages as you traverse the trail in the river valleys and mountains. The trekking part for adventure ends at Jomsom before taking a flight to Pokhara.

Why Choose the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Diverse Landscapes: The Annapurna Circuit trek takes you through diverse ecosystems, from tropical forests at lower elevations to the stark, high mountain landscapes. Each day promises new scenery and new experiences, including the awe-inspiring view from Thorong La Pass, the trek's highest point at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).

Cultural Richness: Interact with the warm and welcoming communities of the Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali people. Explore ancient monasteries, quaint villages, and vibrant temples that offer a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural life of the Nepalese people.

Wildlife and Nature: Traverse the Annapurna Conservation Area, one of the most biodiverse regions in Nepal. Keep an eye out for exotic wildlife such as the snow leopard, Himalayan Tahr, and various species of birds.

Itinerary Highlights

1. Besisahar to Bahundanda: Start your journey with a scenic drive to Besisahar and begin your trek to Bahundanda, an attractive village offering the first glimpse of the diverse cultural tapestry of the Annapurna region.
2. Manang: Spend a couple of days acclimatizing in Manang, a stunning village surrounded by magnificent peaks, with options for short excursions to further explore the area.
3. Thorong La Pass: Prepare for the challenging climb to Thorong La Pass. The breathtaking views from the pass are a fitting reward for your efforts, offering panoramic vistas of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
4. Muktinath to Jomsom: Descend to the sacred site of Muktinath, an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, before trekking down to Jomsom, a major hub in the Mustang region

Combining Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani

If you want to extend your trekking up to the base camp of the famous Annapurna Mountain, then this trekking can be combined with the Annapurna Base Camp trekking route from Tatopani. One way you can visit Ghorepani is by adding extra ½ days. It takes you extra 3/4 days to complete both trekkings. This combination will also be an awesome experience however it requires you more days to walk.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Trekking around Annapurna is possible all year round however spring and autumn seasons are the best time. The Spring season falls under the months of March to May and the autumn season falls under September to early December. In winter the heavy snowfall makes it difficult to find the trekking path and in the rainy season, rain and landslide risk is high for trekking.

Permits needed for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit trek requires two permits, namely the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Read more about Permits required for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost

The trekking cost of Annapurna Circuit depends on the group size of the trekking, services you want to use, and guides/porters you want to hire. Private transportation will raise your trip cost. Hiring guides and porters also affects trekking costs. The single guide can lead up to 16 persons and one porter can carry 20kg baggage. Our company offers a single porter for every two trekkers.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• A beautiful walk through the river valleys of Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki
• Wonderful Mountain landscapes throughout the trek
• Breathtaking views of the Himalayas
• Trek over Thorong La pass over 5,000 meters above sea level
• A walking experience that you will treasure for life

Annapurna Circuit Trek Altitude Profile