The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a legendary 20-day Himalayan adventure combining breathtaking mountain vistas, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural immersion across multiple ethnic villages. This trek covers subtropical valleys, alpine meadows, ancient monasteries, and the formidable Thorong La Pass, offering one of Nepal’s most complete trekking experiences.

Fast Facts

  • Duration: 20 days, including acclimatization and travel days.
  • Maximum Elevation: Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal.
  • Key Highlights: Manang acclimatization, Thorong La Pass crossing, Muktinath pilgrimage site, Poon Hill viewpoint.
  • Culture: Diverse ethnic groups such as Gurung, Thakali, Magar, Tamang, and Brahmins.
  • Accommodation: Tea houses and lodges along the trek.

Detailed 20-Day Annapurna Circuit Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu – Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to a hotel to refresh, and attend an orientation briefing about the trek ahead.
  • Day 2: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing and trek preparation – Visit cultural and historical sites in Kathmandu, explore Durbar Square and Pashupatinath Temple, and complete last-minute preparations.
  • Day 3: Drive to Bhulbhule and trek to Jagat – Begin the trek following the Trishuli River, entering lush sub-tropical forest, crossing suspension bridges with the backdrop of terraced hills.
  • Day 4: Trek Jagat to Dharapani – Continue ascending through farmland and small villages, with traditional stone houses and monasteries enhancing the scenic trail.
  • Day 5: Dharapani to Chame – Pass through pine and rhododendron forests as the landscape starts to transition higher.
  • Day 6: Chame to Pisang – Hike through high alpine terrain with distant snow-capped peaks visible, encountering narrow canyons and monasteries.
  • Day 7: Pisang to Manang – Arrive in the bustling town of Manang, a key acclimatization stop with stunning views and comfortable lodges.
  • Day 8: Acclimatization day in Manang – Take rest or hike to nearby viewpoints such as Ice Lake, acclimating for the higher passes ahead.
  • Day 9: Manang to Yak Kharka – Trek higher, passing yak pastures and alpine meadows with panoramic mountain views.
  • Day 10: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi – Prepare for the big Thorong La Pass crossing by camping or resting at the base.
  • Day 11: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass – Pre-dawn start for the challenging ascent to Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the trek's highest point. Upon descent, arrive at the sacred Muktinath temple, an important Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site.
  • Day 12: Muktinath to Kagbeni – Walk through the Mustang region’s deep valleys and desert-like landscape towards historic Kagbeni village.
  • Day 13: Kagbeni to Marpha – Continue along the Kali Gandaki Gorge lined with walnut trees and apple orchards en route to picturesque Marpha.
  • Day 14: Marpha to Ghasa – Descend through pine forests and terraced fields to the Dhampus region.
  • Day 15: Ghasa to Tatopani – Walk to Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs—an ideal spot to relax tired legs.
  • Day 16: Tatopani to Ghorepani – Ascend paths lined by rhododendrons to Ghorepani, gateway to some of Nepal’s most iconic views.
  • Day 17: Early morning hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani – Witness an unforgettable sunrise over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu from Poon Hill, then descend to Tadapani through forests and villages.
  • Day 18: Tadapani to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara – Final trek through charming villages such as Ghandruk, then drive back to the lakeside city of Pokhara.
  • Day 19: Drive to Kathmandu – Journey back to Kathmandu by road or air, relaxing after the trek.
  • Day 20: Departure – Transfer to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight onward, enriched by the unforgettable experiences from the trek.

Highlights & Tips

  • Gradual acclimatization is key for the high passes, take rest days in Manang.
  • Respect local cultures and religious sites such as Muktinath temple and village monasteries.
  • Carry layered clothing, as temperatures vary greatly from tropical valleys to high alpine zones.
  • Travel responsibly: reduce plastic waste and support local teahouses by purchasing meals and drinks.