Annapurna Circuit Trek

Days
18
Trip Grade
Strenous
Maximum Altitude
5,416 m (Thorong La Pass)

Starts
Kathmandu (1,350 m)
Ends
Kathmandu (1,350 m)
Best Time
Spring: March – May Autumn: September – November

Country
Nepal
Activity
Trekking

Trip Price:
US $ 1,893 per person

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is demanding even for a seasoned trekker, but it is an exceptional introduction to walking in Nepal for those who are physically fit. This lodge-based trek offers you magnificent vistas of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and the opportunity to observe at close quarters the lifestyle and cultures of the different tribes of Nepal. Because of the road explanation, you can drive directly to Chamje at your first day. If you really want you can drive in between Muktinath to Tatopani also. It makes your itinerary bit shorter. On your request you will make the itinerary as you like.

The Annapurna Circuit is a trek within the Annapurna mountain range of central Nepal. The total length of the route varies between 160–230 km (100-145 mi), depending on where motor transportation is used and where the trek is ended. This trek crosses two different river valleys and encircles the Annapurna massif. The path reaches its highest point at Thorong La pass (5416m/17769 ft), touching the edge of the Tibetan Plateau. Practically all trekkers hike the route anticlockwise, as this way the daily altitude gain is slower, and crossing the high Thorong La pass is easier and safer.The mountain scenery, seen at close quarters includes the Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I-IV), Dhaulagiri, Machapuchhre, Manasulu, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak and Paungda Danda. Numerous other peaks of 6000-8000m in elevation rise from the Annapurna range. The trek begins at Besisahar , Bhulbhule or Chamje in the Marshyangdi river valley and concludes in the Kali Gandaki George. Besisahar can be reached after a seven-hour drive from Kathmandu. The trail passes along paddy fields and into subtropical forests, several waterfalls and gigantic cliffs, and various villages. Annapurna Circuit has often been voted as the best long distance trek in the world, as it combined, in its old full form, a wide variety of climate zones from tropics at 600 m asl to the arctic at 5416 m asl at the Thorong La pass and cultural variety with various ethnic groups from Hindu villages at the low foothills to the Tibetan culture of Manang Valley and lower Mustang. Continuing construction of a road has shortened the trail and changed the villages With construction of the road, mountain biking is becoming popular, with Mustang in particular becoming one of the world’s most popular mountain biking destinations.

Note: Please Check the detailed itinerary. If you want to minimize or maximize the number of days , number of pax and the time of the year you’re travelling, Please let us know. We will send you the customized itinerary.

Thorong La Pass (5,416 m): One of the highest motorable passes in the world—spectacular sunrise views of Annapurna I, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.
Muktinath Temple Complex: Pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, featuring the 108 water spouts and panoramic vistas of the Himalaya.
Gangapurna Lake (4,040 m): A scenic glacial lake tucked beneath Gangapurna Peak, often surrounded by prayer flags and yaks grazing on nearby meadows.
Tibetan Culture & Marpha: In Jomsom and Marpha (the “Apple Capital”), witness traditional Tibetan architecture, monasteries, and sampling of local apple brandy.
Panoramic Mountain Views: Continuous panoramas of Annapurna II (7,937 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), Machapuchare (6,993 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), and Manaslu (8,163 m) on clear days.

Day 01: Airport pick-up and transfer to hotel

One of Adventure Pilgrims Trekking‘s respondent will pick you from airport and transfer to hotel. Introduction about Nepal and the experienced trekking guide and short briefing about your trekking trip from the guide.In the evening, you’ll have free or optional Nepalese Cultural Program with dinner.

Day 02 : Gear check up and rest day

Before we start our great trip to Everest Base Camp the guide will check your trekking gears and let you know about necessary items that you don’t have. Hike around Thamel or optional City Tour in Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 03 : Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2886m.) and Trek from Lukla to Phakding (2640 m).

It takes about 40 minutes to reach Lukla from Kathmandu.

Trek from Lukla to Phakding (2640 m.) which takes approximately three hours. You transfer to the domestic airport for your flight to Lukla. Lukla is a small town with an airport. There are few tea shops, lodges, hotels and general stores. You begin Everest Base Camp Trek from Lukla following a gentle climb up the mountainside on the left bank of the Dudh Koshi river. Nupla (5885m) Mountain which can be seen in the distance on the opposite bank, is a peak atop the Kongde Himalayan Ridge. You descend a mountainside path that merges into your route to Everest, with views to a valley to your right; and at its far end, Kusum Kang (6367m.) Mountain. The Dudh Kosi River approaches as you pass a Mani wall and arrive at Ghat Tea house. You continue along a small path with many climbs and descents following the left bank of Dudh Koshi to Phakding. Stay Over night in lodge.

Day 04 : Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440 m.)

It takes approximately five hours.

The trail starts along a level path along the right bank of Thamserku which looms skyward on the opposite bank. You cross a stream and climb the terraced hill from the Dudh Koshi route, to arrive at Bengar. The trail now climbs from the riverbed on the left bank into the mountain, through a forest to Chumoa. You continue along a path with many ups and downs; cross a stream, and pass by the tiny village of Monjo. Now you descend the path of stone steps and return to the right bank over a wooden bridge. After a short climb you come to Jorsale’s Tea house and hotel, also stop at the Sagarmatha National Park Service where the park entrance is checked. After your departure from Jorsale, you enter a forested mountainside. You follow a short walk along the riverbed of this V-shaped valley where the river forks – the right is the Dudh Koshi and the left is the Bhote Koshi that leads to Nampa La. After short distance along the Bhote Koshi, begin the steep ascent to Namche Bazar. As the mountain path zigzags uphill, you will emerge at a ridge top rest area that offers excellent views of Everest (8848m) and Lhotse (8516m.) The climb eases somewhat, and Namche Bazar appears ahead as you travel along the path surrounded by pines. Pass the plateau where the Saturday bazaar which is a market fair on Saturdays, is held and enter the village. Namche Bazar (3440m) is surrounded on three sides by mountain ranges and opens out only where it faces the Bhote Koshi. The village is a central hub of the area and food, sundries and even mountain climbing equipment may be purchased here, Over night at lodge.

Day 05 : Rest day at Namche Bazaar (3440 m.)

It is for acclimatization.

Namche Bazar is tucked away between two ridges amidst the giant peaks of the Khumbu and has an abundance of lodges, tea shops and souvenir shops as well as a magnificent outlook. It is an ideal place to spend a rest day for acclimatization to the high altitude before heading off towards Tyangboche. For the acclimatization you walk upto Khhumjung where you can visit the ancient monastery which consists of Yeti sculptures and The Hillary School. Khhumjung is densely populated by Sherpa community. You can also enjoy the splendid views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Tawche, Kwangde and so on. Or you can have an hour walk up to the Syangboche (3800m.) where Everest View Hotel is situated above Namche for the outstanding view of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kusum Kangaru. .There is also a good view from the Sagarmatha National Park and Museum just above the town. This museum exhibits Sherpa culture and Yeti Scultures. Over night at Lodge.

Day 06 : Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche (3867 m.)

It takes about five to six hours.

Leave the village for a climb to the top of a ridge and level mountain path that offers an excellent panorama of Thamserku, Kantega, and Kusum Kangrib. To the right there is a steep cliff that drops down to the Dudh Koshi, faintly visible on the valley floor below. Make your way around a branch ridge, and Ama Dablam (6812m) Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse (7855m) and Tawoche (6501m) suddenly appear. After a gentle descent the mountain path ends; you will come to the fork leading to Gokyo Valley trek. You descend past two tea houses through the village of Tashinga. Though you cannot see it, you can hear the Dudh Koshi and soon you descend to the river and arrive at Phunki Tenga. It is a long climb to Tyangboche; the first half is especially steep. As you climb through the forested zone, the incline eases and a splendid view appears. You continue climbing the mountainside diagonally until you come to the stone gate built by lamas which marks your entry into Tyangboche Monastery (3860m). You may use the large plateau in front of the splendid monastery as your campsite. There are a lodge and hotel managed by the Sagarmatha National Park .Tyangboche is an important lookout point on this course, and The Sunset on Everest and Ama Dablam is especially beautiful. Over night at lodge.

Day 07 : Trek from Tyangboche to Dingboche (4260 m.)

It takes approximately five hours.

Before Leaving Tyangboche, The best Sunrise view on Everest and Ama Dablam is magnificient .The trial leads as a backdrop-and descend a Rhododendron covered area to emerge to a pleasant level area. Being welcomed by a long Mani stone wall you enter the village of Deboche. You continue to Minlinggo and leave the mountain path to cross over a suspension bridge to the left bank of the Imja Khola. Climb the mountain path while looking up at Ama Dablam and Kantega (6779m) as they appear on the opposite bank. Ascend the Shorten Lined Route, come to a fork, the upper path passes Pangboche Monastery, take the lower path to Pangboche village and its stone wall-enclosed potato field. Pass through the village and cross a stream to a path skirting a rocky area to terraced hills along the riverbank. The trails climb slowly, winding above the Imjatse River, to a big Mani Stupa. From here, the walk is fairly moderate as you enter the Imjatse Valley beneath the mighty peaks of Ama Dablam, Nuptse and Lhotse with views of the eastern snow capped mountains including the Island Peak or Imjatse (6,189m). Dingboche Village is a beautiful patchwork of fields enclosed by stone walls protecting the seasonal crops of Barley, Buckwheat ,Potatoes and some green vegetable herbs from the cold winds and grazing animals. Over night lodge.

Day 08 : Rest day at Dingboche (4260 m.)

It is for acclimatization and Day hike to Chhukhung Village.

This is a remarkable day for acclimatization. There are some breathtaking views of The North face of Ama Dablam and The Lhotse-Nuptse ridge as you explore this beautiful valley that leads up to Island Peak. The walk is short with a good chance to relax in the afternoon. You have another option as you can hike upto Chhukhung. From here you can enjoy the panoramic view of Island peak, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Tawoche Peak and others. On the same day, you come back to Dingboche and have rest.

Day 09 : Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4930 m.)

It takes about five and a half hours.

The onward journey leads north for up to 50-minutes until you come to Mani-Prayer Stupa. The trail is gentle looking down to Pheriche village below. Today’s walk offers views of the Mt.Tawache, Ama Dablam and to the North-Pokalde (5741m), Kongma Tse (5820m) and the great wall of Nuptse. After two hours walk, the trail from Pheriche joins near Dugla (4595m) before a small wooden bridge over the river of Khumbu glacier. You stop at Dugla, for lunch, before continuing for an hour up a steep hill to the top, where there are views of Mt. Pumori and other peaks West of Everest. You can also visit to The Memorial Cemetery of the Everest Climbers. After a short break, continue trekking up to Lobuche, hidden and sheltered from the wind.

Day 10: Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5486m.) via Gorakshep (5180m.)

It takes about seven hours.

Trek up the valley following the rocky moraine path, view icy glacial pond and icebergs down below of Khumbu glacier. After the last rocky moraine dunes, a short downhill walk brings you to Gorakshep, the flat field below Kala Patthar (5545m) and Mt. Pumori (7145m.) .Gorakshep is the location of the original Everest Base Camp with the new camp being further up the valley. After a short lunch break in Gorakshep, we will continue the trek to Everest Base Camp trekking through the glaciers and take some breathtaking photographs at The Everest Base Camp and return back to Gorakshep. . Now the trail winds through rocky path and Khumbu glacier. The view of Nuptse, Lhotse and Khumbutse appears in front of you. Sometimes the avalanche can be seen on the way. After a great moment, you retrace back passing through Khumbu glacier with magnificent views of Lobuche, Cholatse, Mt. Pumori and Tabuche. overnight at Gorakshep.

Day 11 : Trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar (5545m.) and trek to Pheriche (4243m.)

It takes about six hours.

You accomplish an early morning climb to Kala Patthar (5545m.) which takes about 2-3 hours and enjoy the Magnificient view of sunrise over Everest, Lhotse ,Nuptse, Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Ama Dablam . From Kala Patthar you can have a 360 degrees panoramic view of The Himalayas including Mt. Everest ,Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbetse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku and many more.Here, you can make a wish to Mt. Everest.After taking a thousand photographs from Kala Patthar , we request you to take this sweet memory to your friends and family. Now it is time to trek back to Gorakshep , have breakfast and head down towards Pheriche. You can see the Mountain Yaks in Pheriche. Yaks are normally regarded as the porters in this area. The town of Pheriche is known as windy town. There you can see the perpendicular walls of Cholatse and Tawache. There is also Himalayan Rescue Association Aid Post located and Foreign volunteer doctors to provide medical treatment to trekkers as well as local people. overnight at Pheriche.

Day 12 : Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3440 m)

It takes approximately six hours.

In Early morning, have breakfast and enjoy the view of the Mt. everest and Ama Dablam and whole ample of Mountains . Trek back to Tyangboche, an easier descent passing through Rhododendron forest, continue walking Tyangboche. It is a small village with a famous monastery offering you the splendid view of Ama Dablam, Green Hills and River and Waterfalls views.

The walk from Tyangboche is mostly downhill on the main busy trail with a few steep climbs for an hour from the bridge at Phungi Tenga, near to Shanasha. The walk to Namche Bazar is very scenic on a long winding path for overnight stay.

Day 13 : Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2886m) via Phakding (2640m.)

It takes about seven hours.

The trails descend steeply for early one and half hours. After that, the path has small ups and down to Phakding through Monjo. Your final day’s trekking follows the Dudh Koshi back down to Lukla. This last evening in the mountains is the ideal opportunity for a farewell party with the Sherpa guides and porters, being offered Chhang and Sherpa dance with a memorable trekking experience in mind.

Day 14: Fly early Mooning Lukla to Kathmandu

It takes about 35 minutes. Sometimes the flight may be delayed or cancelled due to bad weather condition for which you should be very patient.

Day 15: Shopping /relax day in Kathmandu

You can either relax the whole day or you may be willing to buy some gifts and present to your family and friends. Guide will assist you if required.or you can join us to our other activities like White Water River Rafting, Jungle Safari, Annapurna Region Trekking, Nepal Tour and many more.

Day 16 : Departure to International airport

As we are saying farewell to Nepal for this trip, we will drop you to the airport for your safe journey to your sweet home .

Day 17: Transfer from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Depart Pokhara by tourist bus at 7 a.m. for the six- to seven-hour ride back to Kathmandu. (If you’d like to extend your stay in the mountains, inform us in advance; we can arrange an extra night at Tikhedhunga or Ulleri.) Arrive in Kathmandu and check into your hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 18: Departure Day
After breakfast, we’ll transfer you from your hotel to Kathmandu’s international airport for your onward flight. If you wish to extend your trip, we can help arrange additional activities such as white-water rafting, jungle safaris, or even an Everest Base Camp trek. Safe travels home!

Included in The Cost

Trekking guide/(1 porter carries the luggage up to 25 Kg of 2 participants)
All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking)
Accommodation in Tea house (lodges) during the trek
Entry Permit for Annapurna conservation Area
All land transportation by tourist bus and private taxi
Muktinath to Tatopani by sharing basis jeep.
Necessary insurance and equipment for trekking staff
Government taxes and Our service charge

Not Included in The Cost

Personal nature expenses
Drinks, beverages, etc.
Tips
Sleeping bag and down jacket if required
Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
Hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
Road Blockeds and personal Expense.
In Case of emergency , your personal travel insurance includes your helicopter rescue, trip cancellation and medical expenses.