Annapurna Circuit Trek

Duration: 19 Days | 2 Reviews

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a 200-mile journey and is considered one of the world’s classic walks, with incredible mountain scenery, cultural diversity, and variety of flora and fauna, this trek is often quoted as a ‘near heaven experience. ‘Adventure Club Trek has designed this Annapurna Circuit Trek-21 day to fit the best routes with the best scenes while still giving you enough time to acclimatize.

We start the trek from Marsyangdi Valley and climb all the way to Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft), the highest and most challenging pass of the circuit. The hardship is all worth it as you get to see the stunning spread of mountains in this part of the Himalaya.

Along the way, you will see paddy fields, waterfalls, sub-tropical forest, massive cliffs and many friendly villages. We also pass by Kali Gandaki, the world’s deepest gorge, which flows between Annapurna (8091m) on the east and Dhaulagiri (8167m) on the west. Throughout the journey, you get to witness spectacular views of many mountains like Mt. Machhapuchhre(6,993m), Gangapurna(7,455), Manaslu(8,156m), Annapurna I, II, III and IV, and Tilicho peak(7,134m) among others.

We also get to visit Manang where you get to experience the lifestyle and livelihood of the local people, a place influenced by Tibetan culture. Also, you can make a stop at Multipath in Mustang, a temple for Hindus as well as Buddhists.This 21-day-long trek around the Annapurna circuit gives you an experience like never before, but, for those looking for shorter options, Adventure Club Trek also has other treks in the region, like Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek-9 days, Annapurna Circuit Short Trek-14 days,Annapurna Base Camp Trek short-12 days, and Annapurna Base Camp Trek-14 days. For the travelers who want to make the Annapurna Circuit trek more challenging, we have the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Trek-21 days which would be a more appropriate choice.

Trip Highlights:

Sightseeing in Kathmandu, UNESCO world heritage sites like Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath and Durbar squares
Manang and Mustang, Himalayan desert districts with cultural importance
Thorong La pass at (5416m/17764ft), one of the world’s highest passes
Muktinath, a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists, also remarkably serene
Marpha, Tibetan-Buddhist settlement with medieval alleys and rock/mud houses
Poon Hill, sunrise views of Annapurna peaks, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchre and other 20 mountains
Ghandruk, culturally intact Gurung settlement with soaring Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli and Ghandruk Himal on the backdrop

Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu. (1,350m)
Day 02: Kathmandu: Cultural Sightseeing and Trek. preparation.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Synge/Jagat (1100m) : Driving 8-10 hours
Day 04: Trek Jagat to Dharapani (1,960m) : 6-7 hours
Day 05: Trek Dharapani to Chame (2,710m) : 5 - 6 hours
Day 06: Trek Chame to Pisang (3,300m) : 5 - 6 hours
Day 07: Trek Pisang to Manang (3,570m) ; 5-6 hours
Day 08: Manang: Acclimatization day
Day 09: Trek Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m) 3 - 4 hours
Day 10: Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,600m): 3 - 4 hours
Day 11: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorong La passes (5,416m) : 7- 8 hours
Day 12: Trek Muktinath to Marpha (2,670m) : 4 -5 hours
Day 13: Trek Marpha to Kalopani (2,530m) :5- 6 hours
Day 14: Trek Kalopani to Tatopani (1,200m) : 6- 7 hours
Day 15: Trek Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850m) : 7-8 hours
Day 16: Trek Ghorepani - Poon Hill (3,210m) to Tadapani (2,700m): 6-7 hours
Day 17: Tadapani to Pokhara via Ghandruk (1930m) : 5 - 6 hours 1-hour drive
Day 18: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 6- 7 hours
Day 19: Final departure, Flight Home

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Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu. (1,350m)

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), you will be welcomed by a representative from Adventure Club Trek. After sorting out your custom formalities (visa and so on), you will be then transferred to your respective hotel in Adventure Club Trek’s private vehicle and give you some time to freshen up. After this, you will attend an orientation about your trek led by the trekking leader over a welcome dinner. Overnight at Hotel.
Included Meals: Welcome Dinner
Day 02: Kathmandu: Cultural Sightseeing and Trek. preparation.

Today, we go on a sightseeing tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city. We start the program after breakfast, first visiting the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath. Though non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main premises of the temple we are allowed to visit the cremation site and surrounding areas. We then head to Boudhanath, considered one of the largest stupas in Asia due to the massive mandala that surrounds the main dome. The smell of Himalayan incense and locals doing kora(making clockwise rounds of the stupa) gives you a little insight on Buddhist culture. Our next stop is Swayambhunath also known as the Monkey Temple, located on top of a hill. The stupa is similar to Boudhanath, but here the stupa is surrounded by many temples and shrines. Some of the temples date back to the medieval Lichchhavi period. Our final stop is Kathmandu Durbar square which is a fine example of Newari architecture. The premises of the Durbar square house many temples and royal palaces, however, most of the temples and building were destroyed by the 2015 earthquake and are being renovated. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Synge/Jagat (1100m) : Driving 8-10 hours

The drive to Jagat on winding roads alongside the Trishuli River is quite scenic; terraced farms, beautiful huts and the hills on the backdrop add more pleasure to this drive. We take the turn to Pokhara after reaching a juncture at Mugling only to leave the road again at Dumre to head north to Besisahar. , the Jagat point of our trek is 2.5 hours -long drive away from Besishahar. We enjoy our first glimpse of Manaslu range from Jagat Overnight at a guesthouse in Jagat.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 04: Trek Jagat to Dharapani (1,960m) : 6-7 hours

We start our day with a filling breakfast, long day ahead! We steadily descend from Jagat till the trail reaches the river and we continue through a lush forest.We pass through Chyamje with a backdrop of soaring Annapurna mountain ranges. Then, we cross a suspension bridge to climb steeply to the physically challenging route to Seattle. After a while of walking through rocky terrain, we descend to a grassy riverbank at the end of which we come across the village of Tal with two giant waterfalls on the sides. Walking past winding rugged path from Tal, we climb the steeply forested village of Karte, then meandering along the cliffs and waterfall; we finally stop at Dharapani for an overnight stay.Overnight at guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 05: Trek Dharapani to Chame (2,710m) : 5 - 6 hours

Today’s trek takes us through forested ridges to Chame -the headquarter of Manang district. All throughout the trek, we come across fantastic views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m/24,688ft). There are many natural hot springs along the way where you can relax. Overnight stay in Chame. Overnight at guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 06: Trek Chame to Pisang (3,300m) : 5 - 6 hours

The mountain views start getting even better from today.A narrow, steep path running through a dense forest takes us to the famous curved rock face rising 1500m above the river, this is possibly the steepest section of the Marshyangdi valley. The part is so steep that it carves the trail into a vertical rock. But, once we pass this rock, the valley seems more extensive and opens up more glorious vistas. The point where the valley widens is marked by Paungda Danda, large sloping rock face rising 1500m above the trail. After trekking a while, we reach Lower Pisang for the night.Overnight at guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 07: Trek Pisang to Manang (3,570m) ; 5-6 hours

There are two trails to Manang; we take the one that leads to Upper Pisang via Gyaru. This path gives a fantastic close up of Annapurna and Pisang Mountain including some mesmerizing landscape views. You will notice a change in vegetation and landscape; the climate gets drier and colder gradually. We also visit the Barge Monastery today; it is the largest monastery in Manang district. Overnight at guesthouse in Manang.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 08: Manang: Acclimatization day

We still have many days left on the trek. And, we are gaining more and more in height each day. So, to be stronger for trails to follow and keep AMS away, we take an acclimatization day rest today.
We can take short hikes to Gangapurna Lake or Bojo Gumba; we can even hike to Vraga Village where there is the Himalayan Rescue Association, we can learn more about Acute Mountain sickness there. Overnight at guesthouse in Manang.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 09: Trek Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m) 3 - 4 hours

Our trail from Manang village crosses a stream to climb to the village of Tenki. We slowly walk out of the Marsyangdi Valley to turn northwest to the Jarsang Khola Valley. We pass occasional pastures and a patch of juniper trees as we gain more in elevation. Then, the trail goes near the village of Ghunsa; a small mud roofed village and through meadows where you can see yaks and horses grazing. Walking past a wooden bridge over a small river, we come across an ancient Mani wall (prayer wheels walls) in a pleasant meadow. A while later we reach the village of Yak Kharka, our destination for the night. Overnight at guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10: Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,600m): 3 - 4 hours

It’s quite an uphill walk to Thorang Phedi. A while after starting the trek, we come across a suspension bridge that leads us to Ledar village. Passing ascends some more, and after passing through high cliffs, we finally reach Thorang Phedi, the only village before Thorong La Pass. Enjoy views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagnag, Mt. Khatungkan and Thorung peak throughout the day. Overnight in Thorong Phedi (Phedi is Nepalese word meaning the foot of a mountain).Overnight at guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorong La passes (5,416m) : 7- 8 hours

Our ultimate goal today is to cross one of the highest passes in the world, Thorong La Pass. Crossing the pass from Manang to Muktinath (East to West) is the safest way, and we’ll be taking that. We have to be up and walking by 4: am in the morning. The journey to the top of the pass is strenuous but worth it. We can relax for a while and take photos before leaving for Muktinath for the night. Muktinath is a valley at the foot of Thorong La Pass. Overnight at guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12: Trek Muktinath to Marpha (2,670m) : 4 -5 hours

Muktinath is a Hindu as well as a Buddhist pilgrimage site, and a crucially important one at that. We visit a Vishnu temple and then a Gompa in the morning. We climb down the Ranipauwa village through barren and steep hillside reaching Kagbeni, then Jomsom and finally Marpha. We walk through a surreally beautiful trail along a plateau above Kali Gandaki River today. The landscape is quite similar to that of Tibet and gives a ‘Himalayan desert’ feel. Overnight in Marpha where you can enjoy the famous local apple brandy. Overnight at guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13: Trek Marpha to Kalopani (2,530m) :5- 6 hours

We take a new route to Kalipani via Chokhpani village. On the way, we come across Thakali communities, beautiful apple gardens and panoramic views of Tukuche, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna I mountains.Before reaching Kalopani for the night, we pass Kokhethanti and a newly constructed road site. Overnight at guesthouse in Kalopani.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 14: Trek Kalopani to Tatopani (1,200m) : 6- 7 hours

Our mostly downhill journey of today starts with crossing the Ghasa Bridge.The vegetation changes to subtropical as we drop in elevations. The forests are now lush and greener, and we continue along the Rupse Chahara (waterfall) down the east bank of Kopchepani through Garpar to arrive at a bridge in Dana. We get to observe a powerhouse at Narchyang Besi and pass through much bigger villages than we did days before. Once we reach Tatopani, you can relax and have taken a bath in the natural hot springs.Overnight at guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 15: Trek Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850m) : 7-8 hours

Today, we are leaving behind the Kali Gandaki Valley and heading up to the Ghar Khola Valley. Enjoy terraced farmlands with a backdrop of mountains throughout the way. After passing through Shikha and Chitre village our trail leads us to a beautiful rhododendron forest, covered in pink, white and red flowers during the blooming season, spring and fall. Crossing the forest, we reach our destination for the night, Ghorepani. Overnight at guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 16: Trek Ghorepani - Poon Hill (3,210m) to Tadapani (2,700m): 6-7 hours

We make the 45 minutes to 1-hour long climb up to Poon Hill, a coveted vantage point in the Annapurna region amid pre-dawn darkness with a sky full of stars over us.You can enjoy the golden hour on Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchre from Poon Hill, with additional views of 20 of the highest mountains in the region, Mustang, and Pokhara. After taking enough time to relax and take pictures, we head down to Ghorepani. Climbing a small nearby ridge we start descending through a lush rhododendron forest to Banthanti, and a short climb from there we arrive at Tadapani. Overnight at guesthouse.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 17: Tadapani to Pokhara via Ghandruk (1930m) : 5 - 6 hours 1-hour drive

We climb down from Tadapani through a dark and dense forest with old rhododendron trees, when in bloom it’s like you are walking through a giant forest of pink flowers. And again, when in bloom you also get to enjoy cherry blossoms on the other side of the ravine. After trekking for a while, we reach the culturally and naturally abundant village of Ghandruk, a predominantly Gurung settlement with a backdrop of Macchapuchre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli mountains.We continue to trek to Nayapul from where we catch a ride back to Pokhara. Overnight at hotel in Pokhara.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 18: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 6- 7 hours

After a rejuvenating morning breakfast, we get ready to leave Pokhara behind and drive to Kathmandu. Once we reach Kathmandu, your guide can help you with any souvenir shopping or other special requests. Farewell dinner from Adventure Club Trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Included Meals: Farewell Dinner
Day 19: Final departure, Flight Home

Adventure Club Trek will manage a farewell drive to the international airport for your final flight departure. Meeting you and serving you was a pleasant experience over the weeks. We are sure you enjoyed a wonderful holiday in beautiful Nepal. We hope you will remember us in the years ahead.
Included Meals: Breakfast

Cost Includes

Arrival and Departure transfer by private tourist vehicle.
3 nights’ accommodation in a standard twin shared room at a three-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
Best available twin sharing Teahouse or lodge accommodation during the trek
Private, round-trip land transportation between Pokhara and Nayapul
Surface transfer from Pokhara and Kathmandu by tourist bus
Surface transfer from Kathmandu – Beshisahar by private car and from Beshisahar to Khudi by local jeep
Welcome and farewell dinner.
Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
Government licensed, English speaking guide trained in wilderness first aid
Porters to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
Assistant trekking guides walking with the group to support as necessary (1 assistant guide for 4 trekkers)
Staff costs including their, Food, salary, accommodation, transportation and medicine.
Insurance covering all staff, including porters as per state law.
Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion).
Annapurna Conservation Park permits and TIMS permit for trekking.
Complimentary Adventure Club Trek T-shirt, and trekking map
Duffel bag for Trekking
Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
Travel and rescue arrangement (helicopter evacuation is available if needed - at an additional cost)
All Government and Local taxes

Cost Excludes

Nepal visa (USD 25 for 15 days and USD 40 for 30 days).
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
International air fares/flights (fares and flights can be arranged upon the request)
Personal expenses (alcoholic drinks, bottled water, cold drinks)
Personal travel insurance and medical bills
Personal trekking equipment
Tips for guide, porters, and drivers (tipping is expected, but it is not mandatory)

Clients Reviews

TommyToe
Australia Published: Thursday, December 17, 2015

Highly recommend ... Birendra and his team fantastic
Rating:
Thanks to Birendra for his great knowledge and assistance in getting our trek itinerary together after having to change regions due to accessibility. Always open and honest we were able to tailor our trek as needed for our own group of four people. And our guide Sonam, with Norbu and Manlama as our team, who looked after us all the way in a professional and relaxed manner, making sure we were OK with acclimatisation, ensuring everything ran smoothly, and providing flexibility if we decided to change our trek itinerary. A truly amazing experience with the people and places of Nepal. We wanted to choose a locally run company for our trek and found a winner in Adventure Club!
Rick Saper
Australia Published: Friday, May 22, 2015

Great experience
Rating:
wow , what a great experience we had . I went to Nepal with my Daughter and her boyfriend not knowing what to expect, our goal was to do EBC or ABC Treks . We decided on EDC & Birendra organised everything from go to woe. Our guide Chubby was fantastic & our porters as well. If you want a great experience in trekking then don't go past Adventure Club. We did a 12 day trek but next time it will be a 16 day trek at least as it was so fantastic !! If you are after a tailored trek just for you and friends or family this is the company for you as you don't need to join a group ,the trek will be tailored for you !! thanks again Birendra & the team, Ill be Back.
Rick Saper

Sydney, Australia

Note: Your safety is of the utmost concern whilst you are traveling with Adventure Club Trek. We will make every effort possible to follow the original itinerary but we reserve the right to change that itinerary if a segment of it becomes a safety issue. Certain mountain regions are remote, natural disasters can happen, weather conditions can decline and there can be illness or an injury. To avoid dangerous situations we may occasionally have to make changes to the itinerary to ensure everyone’s safety. That having been said, Adventure Club Trek will strive to provide you with the best possible trekking experience and to keep your safety our number one priority. We thank you for your understanding.

Pre-Trip Meeting

Prior to all the treks and expeditions, Adventure Club Trek hosts a pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The primary purpose of the meeting is to provide an opportunity for individuals to ask questions about the forthcoming trek and to introduce other team members. The meeting covers topics as diverse as personal equipment and acclimatization and usually involves a hike and some skills training. Pre-trip meeting is very important in order to have a better preparation of the trekking.

Photos ofAnnapurna Circuit Trek

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Fixed Departure Dates and Cost

The quoted costs are per person but don't include International flights if you are a single person and want to be in a group you can join our fixed departure schedule if the schedule dates are not suitable for you, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize our trips to suit your needs. If any individuals/group don't want to join our other group, we can comply with your wishes and requirements. We are ground operators Himalayan destinations and can arrange your trip to suit your dates and choices.