Annapurna Circuit
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Overview
The Annapurna Circuit is often called the best long-distance trek in the world, and it earns that reputation. Over 12-16 days, you’ll circle the entire Annapurna massif through landscapes that change so dramatically they feel like different countries — from steaming subtropical rice paddies and dense rhododendron forests to barren high-altitude desert and the deepest gorge on Earth.
The crown jewel is Thorong La Pass at 5,416m (17,769 ft) — the highest navigable mountain pass in the world. Standing here, surrounded by Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu, is a moment you’ll carry forever. But the Circuit isn’t just about the pass. You’ll walk through traditional Gurung and Thakali villages, visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, soak in natural hot springs at Tatopani, and experience the stark beauty of the Kali Gandaki gorge — a canyon three times deeper than the Grand Canyon.
What sets the Circuit apart from other Himalayan treks is the sheer diversity. The southern side is lush and green, fed by monsoon rains. Cross to the northern side and you’re in a rain-shadow desert with wind-eroded cliffs and Tibetan Buddhist culture. You’ll taste it in the food too — dal bhat in the lowlands gives way to Tibetan bread and butter tea as you climb. Every day brings a completely new landscape.
Route & Key Stops
Besisahar
The trek begins in Besisahar (760m), the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. Accessible from Kathmandu by bus (6-7 hours) or from Pokhara, Besisahar sits at the edge of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail follows the Marsyangdi River through terraced rice paddies and subtropical farmland.
Chame
Chame (2,670m) is the district headquarters of Manang and marks the transition from subtropical to alpine landscape. The town sits in a deep valley with dramatic views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. An ancient Buddhist monastery and natural hot springs make this a memorable stop.
Manang: The Acclimatization Hub
Manang (3,540m) is the largest village on the circuit and the critical acclimatization stop. Surrounded by towering peaks — Annapurna II, III, IV, Tilicho Peak, and the Chulu ranges — Manang offers incredible day hikes to Ice Lake (4,600m), Gangapurna Lake, and the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic. The village has a distinctly Tibetan Buddhist character with ancient monasteries and prayer wheels.
Thorong La Pass: The High Point
Thorong La (5,416m) is the highest navigable mountain pass in the world. The crossing starts before dawn from Thorong Phedi, climbing steeply through snow and rock before reaching the pass marked by prayer flags. The descent to Muktinath is long and steep, dropping over 1,600m in a single day.
Muktinath: Sacred Temple Town
Muktinath (3,800m) is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple, with its eternal flame fed by natural gas, sits in a stark, beautiful landscape at the edge of the Kali Gandaki gorge. After the intensity of the pass crossing, Muktinath feels like a place of profound peace.
Kagbeni & Jomsom
Kagbeni (2,800m) is a medieval walled town and the gateway to Upper Mustang. From here, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki gorge — the deepest canyon on Earth, flanked by Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m). The landscape is dramatically different from the southern side: arid, wind-swept, and otherworldly.
Pokhara
Pokhara (820m) is the lakeside city where most trekkers end their journey. After days in the mountains, the lakeside promenade, rooftop restaurants, and cold beers feel like heaven. The dramatic flight from Jomsom through the Kali Gandaki gorge is one of Nepal’s most spectacular.
Itinerary
1Besisahar to Bhulbhule
Begin in Besisahar (760m), the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. The trail follows the Marsyangdi River through rice paddies and subtropical farmland. Pass through Khudi and reach Bhulbhule, a small village with views of Manaslu.
2Bhulbhule to Chamje
Continue along the Marsyangdi valley through waterfalls and suspension bridges. The trail passes through Jagat and Tal, a wide valley floor that was once a lake. Dense subtropical forest lines the river gorge.
3Chamje to Chame
Enter the Manang district. The landscape shifts from subtropical to alpine. Pass through Dharapani (where the Manaslu Circuit joins) and climb through pine forest to Chame, the district headquarters with views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.
4Chame to Upper Pisang
Walk through deep forest with dramatic views of Paungda Danda rock face. The trail climbs steadily through the narrow Marsyangdi valley. Upper Pisang sits on a ridge with stunning views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna.
5Upper Pisang to Manang
Take the high route through Ghyaru and Ngawal for the best mountain panoramas of the trek — Annapurna II, III, IV, Tilicho Peak, and Chulu ranges fill the horizon. Descend to Manang, the largest village on the circuit.
6Acclimatization in Manang
Essential rest day at 3,540m. Hike to Ice Lake (4,600m) or Gangapurna Lake for acclimatization. Visit the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic for an altitude sickness talk. Explore Manang’s ancient monastery and the local Tibetan Buddhist community.
7Manang to Yak Kharka
Leave Manang and climb gradually through juniper and scrub forest. The valley narrows and the vegetation thins. Yak Kharka is a seasonal herding settlement with sparse vegetation and stark mountain scenery.
8Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Short but critical day. Descend to the Marsyangdi river crossing and climb to Thorong Phedi (4,525m), the base of the Thorong La Pass. Rest well — tomorrow is the biggest day of the trek.
9Thorong La Pass Crossing
The legendary day. Start at 4-5am for the steep climb to Thorong La (5,416m) — the highest point of the trek. Stunning panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. Long descent to Muktinath (3,800m), a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
10Muktinath to Kagbeni
Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple before descending through the arid Kali Gandaki gorge. The landscape is dramatically different — rain-shadow desert with wind-eroded cliffs. Kagbeni is a medieval walled town and the gateway to Upper Mustang.
11Kagbeni to Jomsom
Walk along the Kali Gandaki riverbed — the deepest gorge in the world, flanked by Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m). The dry, windy trail passes through Muktinath and arrives in Jomsom, the district hub.
12Jomsom to Pokhara
Early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara through the Kali Gandaki gorge — one of Nepal’s most spectacular short flights. Arrive in Pokhara, the lakeside city, and celebrate completing the Annapurna Circuit.
Alternative Itinerary
The classic Circuit takes 12-14 days, but many trekkers extend to 16-21 days by adding Tilicho Lake (4,919m) — one of the highest lakes in the world — or spending extra time exploring Manang and the surrounding valleys. Some also start from Bahundanda instead of Besisahar, adding a day of walking through lower-altitude villages.
Route Map
Elevation Profile
Logistics & Support
Accommodation
Teahouses line the entire route. They’re simple but cozy — locally run, with warm dining rooms and basic twin bedrooms. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging are available for small extra fees ($2-5 each). The higher you go, the more basic the facilities become. Bring a good sleeping bag — rooms have no heating above 3,000m.
Guides & Porters
Under Nepali law, foreign trekkers in conservation areas must be accompanied by a government-licensed guide hired through a registered trekking agency. Since April 2023, the Annapurna Conservation Area has strictly enforced this rule — checkpoint officers log your guide’s licence number against your name alongside your permit. Solo independent trekking is not permitted. You can still trek privately (just you and your guide) rather than joining a group. Porters carry your main bag, usually up to 10 kg per person, so you can focus on enjoying the trail. An experienced, English-speaking local guide is invaluable for the Thorong La crossing, where weather and altitude demand careful decision-making.
Permits
Two permits cover the Circuit (your trekking agency can arrange both):
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) — NPR 3,000 (~$23, VAT included) for foreign trekkers (SAARC nationals NPR 1,000; children under 10 free). Issued by the National Trust for Nature Conservation and obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu (Bhrikutimandap) or Pokhara (Damside), or online via the NTNC e-permit portal. This is the one permit checked at every gate — Besisahar, Chame, Manang, Birethanti, and Chhomrong. One ACAP covers every trail in the conservation area.
- Trekkers’ Information Management System (e-TIMS) — NPR 2,000 (~$15) for independent foreign trekkers. Now a digital record tied to your passport, issued through a registered trekking agency. Since the April 2023 rule change, enforcement has been inconsistent — some checkpoints ask for it, others don’t — but carrying it is still recommended, since enforcement can tighten without notice.
Carry your passport, two passport-sized photos, your insurance policy number, and cash in Nepali rupees (permit counters don’t accept cards).
Travel insurance with high-altitude helicopter rescue (up to 6,000m) is mandatory. Standard policies that cap at 3,000–4,000m will not cover the Circuit. Your policy must explicitly cover:
- Emergency helicopter evacuation and rescue up to 6,000m (20,000 ft)
- Hospitalization and treatment for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), HAPE, and HACE
- Trip cancellation and flight-delay coverage
You must provide proof of your insurance policy details (policy number and emergency claim hotline) when obtaining permits and at trail checkpoints.
Budget
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Permits (ACAP + TIMS) | ~$38-40 |
| Guide | $25-40/day |
| Teahouse room | $3-8/night |
| Meals | $4-7/meal |
| Jomsom-Pokhara flight | $100-120 |
| Daily budget | $30-60/day |
Weather & Seasons
The best seasons are Spring (March-April) and Autumn (September-November).
| Season | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-Apr) | Warming temperatures, rhododendrons in bloom, some haze |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | Stable, dry weather with crystal-clear mountain views — peak season |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Very cold, heavy snow on Thorong La, trails often blocked |
| Monsoon (Jun-Aug) | Heavy rain, landslides, dangerous trail conditions |
Autumn offers the clearest skies and most reliable weather for the pass crossing. Spring is warmer but hazier. Winter and monsoon treks are not recommended — Thorong La becomes treacherous with snow and ice.
Tips
- Acclimatize properly. Spend at least 2 full days in Manang before crossing the pass.
- Start early for the Thorong La crossing — weather deteriorates in the afternoon.
- Carry cash. ATMs are rare beyond Besisahar.
- Pack light. Tea houses provide bedding and meals, so you don’t need camping gear.
- Respect the culture. Remove shoes before entering monasteries, walk clockwise around chortens and mani walls.
- Budget for extra days. Weather delays are common, especially at Thorong La.
- Consider the Tilicho Lake detour. It adds 2 days but visits one of the highest lakes in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning
When is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit?
The best seasons are Spring (March-April) and Autumn (September-November). Autumn offers the clearest skies and most reliable weather for the Thorong La crossing, while spring is warmer with blooming rhododendrons but hazier. Winter (December-February) is very cold and Thorong La is often blocked by snow, and monsoon (June-August) brings heavy rain, landslides, and dangerous trail conditions.
How long does the Annapurna Circuit trek take?
The classic Circuit takes 12-14 days, covering roughly 160-230 km. A relaxed 16-21 day version adds the Tilicho Lake detour (4,919m) — one of the highest lakes in the world — and extra rest days in Manang and Jomsom. Some trekkers also start from Bahundanda instead of Besisahar, adding a day through lower-altitude villages.
How much does the Annapurna Circuit trek cost?
Budget $30-60 per day for teahouse trekking. Permits total approximately $38-40 (ACAP + TIMS), guides cost $25-40/day, teahouse rooms are $3-8/night, meals are $4-7 each, and the Jomsom-Pokhara flight costs $100-120 one way. Carry cash — ATMs are rare beyond Besisahar.
Do I need to book teahouses in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season (October-November) when demand is high at popular stops like Chame, Manang, and Jomsom. Booking ahead ensures you have a room after a long walking day. Your guide or trekking agency can handle reservations.
Difficulty & Fitness
How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit trek?
The trek is considered hard due to the Thorong La Pass crossing at 5,416m — the highest navigable mountain pass in the world — plus long walking days of 3-10 hours and roughly 230 km of trail. The pass day involves an 8-10 hour effort with an 891m climb and a 1,600m descent. Good physical fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience are strongly recommended.
How far do you walk each day on the Annapurna Circuit?
Daily distances vary from 8 km on acclimatization days to 18 km on the pass day and longer valley days. Most days fall between 11-15 km. The total distance depends on your route — around 160-230 km (100-145 miles) for the full circuit. Your porter carries the main bag (up to 10 kg) so you only need a daypack.
Do I need trekking poles for the Annapurna Circuit?
Trekking poles are essential. They save your knees on the 1,600m descent from Thorong La, help with balance on rocky and snow-covered sections of the pass, and ease the steep climbs through the Marsyangdi valley. Many trekkers rate poles as their single most useful piece of gear on the Circuit.
Permits & Budget
What permits do I need for the Annapurna Circuit?
Two permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) at NPR 3,000 (~$23, VAT included) for foreign trekkers — the one checked at every gate (Besisahar, Chame, Manang, Birethanti) — and the e-TIMS card at NPR 2,000 (~$15), issued through a registered agency. Since the April 2023 rule change, TIMS enforcement has been inconsistent but carrying it is still recommended. Get both at Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or apply for ACAP online via the NTNC e-permit portal.
Is travel insurance necessary for the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, travel insurance is strictly mandatory. Standard policies that cap coverage at 3,000-4,000m will not cover the Circuit. Your policy must explicitly cover: emergency helicopter evacuation up to 6,000m (20,000 ft), hospitalization and treatment for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), HAPE, and HACE, and trip cancellation or flight-delay coverage. You'll need to provide proof of your policy details (number and emergency hotline) when obtaining permits and at trail checkpoints.
Can I trek the Annapurna Circuit without a guide?
Trekking without a guide is not permitted under Nepali law. Since April 2023, every foreign trekker in the Annapurna Conservation Area must be accompanied by a government-licensed guide hired through a registered trekking agency. Checkpoints log your guide's licence number against your name alongside your permit. You can still trek privately (just you and your guide) rather than joining a group.
Altitude & Safety
How do I prevent altitude sickness on the Annapurna Circuit?
Acclimatize properly: spend at least two nights in Manang (3,540m) before crossing Thorong La. Use the acclimatization day to hike to Ice Lake (4,600m) or Gangapurna Lake — climb high, sleep low. Follow the golden rule and never sleep at a significantly higher elevation than the night before. If you experience a severe headache, nausea, or confusion, descend immediately.
How high does the Annapurna Circuit go and can I handle the altitude?
The highest point is Thorong La at 5,416m (17,769 ft). Muktinath at 3,800m is where you sleep after the crossing. The pass is the highest navigable mountain pass in the world. Most healthy people can manage the altitude with proper acclimatization, but altitude affects everyone differently regardless of fitness. Diamox (acetazolamide) can help and is available with a doctor's prescription.
Is Thorong La pass dangerous?
Thorong La is weather-dependent and the single biggest risk factor on the Circuit. Start before dawn (4-5am) because the weather deteriorates sharply in the afternoon, and check snow conditions at the Himalayan Rescue Association post in Manang before committing. Heavy snow can close the pass for days in winter and shoulder seasons. Listen to your guide's judgement and be prepared to turn back if conditions are unsafe.
Logistics
What is the accommodation like on the Annapurna Circuit?
Teahouses line the entire route from Besisahar to Jomsom. They are simple but cozy, family-run lodges with warm dining rooms and basic twin bedrooms. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging are available for small extra fees ($2-5 each). Facilities become progressively more basic above 3,000m, and rooms have no heating — bring a good sleeping bag rated to -15°C.
What should I pack for the Annapurna Circuit?
Essentials include an insulated down jacket (temperatures at Manang and Thorong La can drop to -20°C), a sleeping bag rated to -15°C, trekking poles (essential for the 1,600m descent from the pass), glacier-strength sunglasses, a headlamp, a waterproof shell jacket and pants (the Kali Gandaki section is windy and dusty), thermal base layers, a warm hat, gloves, a buff, and SPF 50+ sunscreen. Keep your porter bag under 10 kg.
How do I get to and from the Annapurna Circuit?
The trek starts at Besisahar, reachable by bus from Kathmandu (6-7 hours) or Pokhara. Most trekkers finish at Jomsom and take the spectacular morning flight to Pokhara ($100-120, weather permitting), or continue by jeep down the Kali Gandaki gorge via Tatopani and Beni to rejoin the road network. Flights are weather-dependent and can be delayed, so build in a buffer day.