Any Question? Email Us
info@nepalhimalayastrekking.comTalk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Any Question? Email Us
info@nepalhimalayastrekking.comTalk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
The Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days takes you from the lower Marsyangdi Valley into the high mountain settlements of Manang, across the 5,416-meter Thorong La Pass, and down into the dry landscapes of Mustang. The route passes through forests, terraced hillsides, pine-covered valleys, Tibetan-influenced villages, high alpine terrain, and the pilgrimage town of Muktinath before reaching the Kali Gandaki Valley and Pokhara. The trek takes place inside the Annapurna Conservation Area and requires an ACAP entry permit and TIMS card. The current package is designed as a 14-day trip with Kathmandu sightseeing, road transportation, teahouse accommodation, three meals a day during the trek, a licensed guide, porter service, and the required trekking permits. The best seasons are March to May and September to November, when the mountain weather is generally more stable and visibility is better.
| Trip Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 14 days |
| Trekking Region | Annapurna, Manang and Mustang |
| Maximum Elevation | 5,416 m at Thorong La Pass |
| Starting Point | Dharapani, after road travel from Kathmandu |
| Trek Ending Area | Jomsom/Marpha, followed by road travel to Pokhara |
| Trip Ends | Kathmandu |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging |
| Accommodation | Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara; teahouses and lodges during the trek |
| Best Seasons | March to May and September to November |
| Highest Pass | Thorong La, 5,416 m |
| Conservation Area | Annapurna Conservation Area |
| Guide | Government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide |
| Porter | One porter for every two trekkers |
| Meals | Breakfast, lunch and dinner during trekking days |
| Group Size | 1 to 25 people |
| Package Price | From USD 1,020 per person, depending on group size |
The Annapurna Circuit earns its reputation from the amount of landscape you experience within a single journey. The lower section around Dharapani and Chame remains green, with forests, waterfalls and river valleys. Above Pisang, the scenery becomes noticeably drier, and the trail enters the broad Manang Valley surrounded by Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna and other high peaks.
The character of the trail changes again after Manang. Trees become sparse around Yak Kharka and Ledar, while the route toward Thorong Phedi crosses exposed mountain slopes. The following morning brings the hardest section of the trek: an early climb to Thorong La at 5,416 meters followed by a long descent toward Muktinath.
Beyond the pass, the landscape belongs to the rain-shadow side of the Annapurna range. Kagbeni, Jomsom and Marpha have a distinctly different appearance from the green valleys on the eastern side of the circuit. Strong afternoon winds are common around the Kali Gandaki Valley, so an early start and proper layering become useful here.
The route also brings together several cultures. Manang villages have strong Tibetan Buddhist influences, while Muktinath holds religious importance for both Hindus and Buddhists. Lower Mustang adds another layer of landscape and architecture before the road descends toward Pokhara.
The 14-day route follows this sequence:
Kathmandu → Besisahar → Dharapani → Bagarchhap → Chame → Pisang → Ghyaru → Ngawal → Manang → Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi → Thorong La Pass → Muktinath → Kagbeni → Jomsom → Marpha → Pokhara → Kathmandu
The trekking section begins at Dharapani, not Kathmandu. Kathmandu is the trip's arrival and departure city, while Dharapani marks the point where the walking journey properly begins.
The lower Annapurna Circuit has changed considerably because of road construction. For that reason, this itinerary combines bus, jeep and trekking rather than pretending that every section remains a traditional walking trail. From Dharapani onward, we spend most of the journey on foot, while road transport is used where it makes practical sense after the pass.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek covers approximately 160–230 kilometers (100–143 miles) in total, depending on the exact route, road conditions, transportation arrangements and trail selected by your guide. The modern Annapurna Circuit uses a mixture of walking trails and road sections, so the total distance can vary from one departure to another. The main trekking section from Dharapani through Manang, Thorong La, Muktinath, Kagbeni, Jomsom and Marpha covers most of the mountain route, while road transport is used on lower and post-trek sections. Road construction has shortened some traditional walking sections compared with older Annapurna Circuit itineraries, meaning your actual walking distance may be different from the total route distance.
The Annapurna Circuit is a moderate to challenging trek. The difficulty does not come from technical climbing. There is no need to use ropes or climbing equipment on the standard route. The main challenges are long walking days, continuous elevation gain, the high altitude of Thorong La, steep descents and changing weather. The most demanding section normally comes around Thorong Phedi, Thorong La and the descent towards Muktinath.
You should be comfortable walking for several hours a day on uneven mountain trails and preparing for days where the pace is deliberately slow because of altitude.
The trek can be completed by people with reasonable fitness and proper preparation. You do not need to be an experienced mountaineer. However, you should prepare for:
If you have limited trekking experience, tell us before booking. We can discuss your previous walking experience and adjust the itinerary where practical.
Altitude becomes the main consideration after Manang.
| Location | Approx. Elevation |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu | 1,400 m |
| Dharapani | 1,860 m |
| Chame | 2,670 m |
| Pisang | 3,200–3,300 m |
| Manang | 3,540 m |
| Yak Kharka | Around 4,000 m |
| Thorong Phedi | 4,525 m |
| Thorong High Camp | 4,925 m |
| Thorong La Pass | 5,416 m |
| Muktinath | Around 3,760 m |
| Marpha | Around 2,650 m |
| Pokhara | 822 m |
The itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Manang before the trek moves above 4,000 meters.
Anyone can experience altitude sickness regardless of age or fitness. Common symptoms include:
Mild symptoms may improve with rest and acclimatization, but worsening symptoms should never be ignored. Our guide monitors the group throughout the high-altitude section. If a trekker develops serious symptoms, the priority is descent and medical assistance rather than completing the planned itinerary. Travel insurance with high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation coverage is strongly recommended.
The cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on the size of your group. The current package pricing is:
| Group Size | Cost per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | USD 1,290 |
| 2–5 people | USD 1,200 |
| 6–10 people | USD 1,140 |
| 11–15 people | USD 1,080 |
| 16–25 people | USD 1,020 |
The regular rate for 2–5 trekkers is USD 1,200 per person. Larger groups receive lower per-person rates, while solo travelers have a higher rate because some guide, transport and operational costs cannot be shared.
The package price covers the services listed below. Personal expenses, international airfare, travel insurance, visa fees, tips and other exclusions remain the traveler's responsibility. These rates match the group pricing currently displayed on the package page.
Our current regular service package is USD 1,200 per person.
The package includes:
The live package specifically states that the down jacket and sleeping bag are provided and must be returned after the trek.
The following expenses are generally excluded:
Always check the final booking confirmation for the exact inclusions applicable to your departure.
You do not need to carry your entire wardrobe into the mountains. Pack for changing temperatures, cold mornings at high altitude and possible rain or snow around Thorong La. Keep your main luggage within your porter allowance and carry the things you need during the day in a small daypack.
Your guide will check your equipment before departure and let you know if anything important is missing. Avoid overpacking. You will walk for several hours each day, and a lighter load makes the long climbs and descents much easier.
These are practical points our guides consider when taking trekkers across the Annapurna Circuit. Conditions on the trail can change quickly, so small decisions can make the high-altitude days much easier.
The Thorong La Pass day is the longest and most demanding part of the trek. We normally leave Thorong Phedi or High Camp early in the morning because the pass can become windy and cloudier later in the day. Your guide checks the weather and your condition before deciding the walking pace and departure time.
Good fitness helps with the walking, but it does not prevent altitude sickness. We pay particular attention to headaches, nausea, unusual tiredness, dizziness and changes in walking pace after Manang. If symptoms become serious, descending is safer than trying to push toward the pass.
Your porter carries your main luggage, so keep only the day's essentials with you. Water, snacks, a warm layer, rain protection, sunscreen, medication, documents and a headlamp are usually enough. A lighter pack becomes especially useful on the long climb toward Thorong La.
From Pisang to Manang, we prefer the upper trail through Ghyaru and Ngawal when the group is comfortable with the extra climb and conditions are suitable. The route takes more effort, but it gives you better views of the Annapurna range and a closer look at the traditional villages.
After Muktinath, the trail enters the Kali Gandaki valley. Strong winds often pick up later in the morning, particularly around Jomsom and the lower Mustang section. Starting early can make this part of the trek considerably more comfortable.
The modern Annapurna Circuit includes road sections that were not part of the classic trekking route. We use jeep or other road transport where it makes sense, particularly on lower sections, while keeping the main high-altitude walking stages. Your guide can adjust transport when road conditions, landslides or local trail conditions make the planned option unsuitable.
A printed itinerary cannot predict every mountain condition. Weather around Thorong La, accommodation availability, road blockages and a trekker's health can all affect the day's plan. Our guides make decisions on the ground based on weather, trail conditions, altitude and the group's condition, rather than continuing simply because the itinerary says so.
ATMs are not available throughout the high-altitude section, and card payments are not reliable in every teahouse. Carry enough Nepalese rupees for personal expenses such as hot showers, charging, Wi-Fi, snacks and drinks, especially before heading toward Thorong Phedi.
We are a Nepal-based local trekking company, and our Annapurna Circuit trips are organized directly with the guides, porters, transport providers and teahouses used along the route. This gives our team a practical understanding of the trail, rather than relying only on a fixed itinerary prepared from outside Nepal.
Our current package includes a licensed English-speaking guide, porter, mountain accommodation, meals and required permits. Before the trek, our team also checks the planned route, transportation arrangements and equipment so that you know what is covered before leaving Kathmandu.
The Annapurna Circuit changes from season to season. Road conditions, landslides, weather, snowfall and accommodation availability can affect the lower sections and high-pass days. Our guides assess these conditions on the ground and adjust the day's walking or transportation when necessary. On the Thorong La section, they also monitor weather and the group's health before deciding whether to continue, wait or change the plan.
Our guides know the practical details that matter during the trek, from choosing the upper Pisang route when conditions allow to managing the longer walking days above Manang. They also help with teahouse arrangements, meals, water, altitude monitoring and communication with local transport when plans need to change.
We keep the itinerary flexible when circumstances require it. If you want additional acclimatization days, a different walking pace, private transportation or a modified route, we can discuss a customized Annapurna Circuit itinerary before your departure.
For more details about our trekking services or to discuss your trip, visit Nepal Himalayas Trekking.
If you have extra time in Nepal or are comparing different Himalayan routes, Nepal Himalayas Trekking also offers several popular trekking packages across the country.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek leads into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, reaching 4,130 meters. It passes through Gurung villages, rhododendron forests and terraced hills before arriving beneath Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre. It is a good choice for trekkers who want a shorter route with close mountain views.
The Mardi Himal Trek is a quieter trail known for ridge walking and impressive views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. It suits trekkers with limited time who still want a rewarding Himalayan experience.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek follows a more remote route around Mount Manaslu and crosses Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters. Traditional villages, fewer crowds and Tibetan-influenced culture make it an excellent alternative to the Annapurna Circuit.
The Everest Base Camp Trek takes you through the Khumbu region to the foot of Mount Everest. Sherpa villages, monasteries, Namche Bazaar and Kala Patthar make it one of Nepal's most iconic trekking experiences.
The Langtang Valley Trek offers beautiful mountain scenery, Tamang culture and easy access from Kathmandu. It is ideal for trekkers looking for a shorter Himalayan journey close to the capital.
The Upper Mustang Trek explores Nepal's dry mountain landscapes, ancient villages and Tibetan culture around Lo Manthang. Its desert-like scenery provides a completely different experience from the greener Annapurna trails.
If you are unsure which trek suits your time, fitness and interests, the Nepal Himalayas Trekking team can help you choose the best itinerary.
Our standard Annapurna Circuit Trek takes 14 days from arrival to departure. The itinerary includes Kathmandu preparation, transportation to Dharapani, the high-altitude trek, the Thorong La crossing, the Mustang section, transportation to Pokhara and the return journey to Kathmandu. The itinerary can be extended if you want more acclimatization or rest days.
The highest point is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). The crossing is normally made early in the morning from Thorong Phedi or High Camp before descending toward Muktinath.
For our 14-day itinerary, the main trekking section starts at Dharapani at around 1,860 meters. We travel from Kathmandu through Besisahar and continue by road to Dharapani before beginning the walking section.
The itinerary reaches the lower Mustang area after crossing Thorong La. After visiting places such as Muktinath, Kagbeni, Jomsom and Marpha, we use road transportation to reach Pokhara, followed by the journey back to Kathmandu.
The trek is generally considered moderate to challenging. The main difficulties are increasing altitude, long walking days, steep ascents and descents, and the crossing of Thorong La. You do not need technical climbing skills, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours on consecutive days.
Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but not essential. Regular walking, good physical preparation and a gradual approach to altitude are more important. Your guide will also help maintain a suitable pace, particularly above Manang.
Yes. Our itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Manang at approximately 3,540 meters. You can use the day for a short hike and exploration rather than remaining at the teahouse all day. The purpose is to give your body more time to adjust before continuing toward higher elevations.
A fit beginner can complete the trek with proper preparation, but it should not be treated as an easy hike. The altitude above Manang and the Thorong La crossing at 5,416 meters require patience and a sensible pace. Beginners should prepare with regular uphill walking before coming to Nepal.
March to May and September to November are generally the most suitable periods. Spring brings warmer temperatures and blooming rhododendrons, while autumn usually offers stable weather and clear mountain views. Winter can bring snow and very cold conditions around the pass, while monsoon brings rain and possible road problems on the lower sections.
Snow can occur around Thorong La, particularly during winter or following heavy snowfall. Conditions vary each year. Before the crossing, your guide checks the weather, trail conditions and the group's condition and adjusts the plan if necessary.
Yes. Teahouses and mountain lodges are available along the standard route. Rooms are generally simple and usually arranged as twin sharing. Facilities become more basic at higher elevations, particularly around Thorong Phedi and High Camp.
Yes. Three meals a day are included during the mountain trek under our current package. Common meals include dal bhat, rice, noodles, pasta, soup, potatoes, eggs, Tibetan bread, momos and other basic teahouse dishes.
Yes. A licensed English-speaking trekking guide is included. The guide leads the group, coordinates accommodation and transportation, monitors altitude-related symptoms and helps make practical decisions when weather or trail conditions change.
Yes. Porter service is included, with one porter carrying the luggage of two trekkers under our package arrangement. You should still carry a small daypack with water, warm layers, rain protection, medication and other items you may need during the day's walk.
Your guide will assess your symptoms and monitor how they develop. Mild symptoms may require rest and observation, while worsening or serious symptoms can require immediate descent and medical assistance. Do not hide a headache, nausea, dizziness, unusual weakness or breathing difficulty because you are worried about delaying the itinerary.
Yes. The standard 14-day itinerary can be adjusted according to your walking pace, available time, acclimatization needs, side trips and transportation preferences. Additional days can also be added if you want a less rushed experience.
Yes. We strongly recommend travel insurance that specifically covers high-altitude trekking, medical treatment and emergency evacuation. Check the policy carefully before travelling because standard travel insurance may not cover trekking at 5,000 meters or above.
Yes. The circuit can be extended or combined with other experiences depending on your available time. Some trekkers add extra days in Pokhara or Kathmandu, while others combine their trek with another route or tour in Nepal.
Independent trekking may be possible on some sections, but our package provides a licensed guide and porter, which makes logistics easier and provides support with accommodation, transportation, altitude monitoring and route decisions. Current trekking regulations should always be checked before travelling because requirements can change.
Yes. Roads have reached many lower settlements, so the modern circuit includes road and trekking sections. Our itinerary uses transportation where appropriate and keeps the main high-altitude walking sections around Manang, Thorong La and Mustang.
No. A porter carries your main trekking luggage according to the package allowance. You only need a light daypack for the items required during the day's walk. Keeping this pack light becomes particularly helpful during the long ascent to Thorong La.
Mountain weather and road conditions can change quickly. If a road is blocked, heavy snow affects the pass or conditions become unsafe, your guide and local team will assess the situation and adjust the route or transportation where possible. Safety takes priority over following the printed itinerary exactly.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days gives you enough time to move gradually from the lower Marsyangdi Valley to Manang, acclimatize before the high-altitude section, cross Thorong La and descend through Mustang.
Our current regular package is USD 1,200 per person, with the main trekking services arranged by our local team.
If you already know your travel dates, group size and preferred level of service, contact us and we can confirm the available departure, current permit requirements, transportation arrangements and final cost.
Plan Your Annapurna Circuit Trek with Nepal Himalayas Trekking
Altitude: 1,400 m
Overnight: Kathmandu
Walking: No scheduled trekking
Your Annapurna Circuit Trek begins when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our representative will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, you can relax or explore the nearby streets of Thamel. In the evening, we will meet for a trek briefing, during which your guide will explain the route, altitude, accommodation, meals, packing requirements and typical conditions on the Annapurna Circuit. We will also inspect your trekking equipment before you leave Kathmandu, giving you time to arrange any missing essentials in the city rather than trying to find them in the mountains.
Guide's note: Bring the boots you will actually use on the trek. Do not begin a high-altitude trek with brand-new footwear that has never been tested.
Altitude: 1,400 m
Overnight: Kathmandu
Walking: Sightseeing and preparation
We keep the second day in Kathmandu for sightseeing and final preparation before heading into the mountains. Depending on your interests and available time, you can visit important cultural sites such as Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath and Kathmandu Durbar Square. You also have time to check your bags, arrange personal items and make sure your trekking equipment is ready. Your guide will confirm the next morning's departure time and explain what should remain in your daypack and what can go with the porter. This extra day provides flexibility if your international flight schedule changes.
Dharapani altitude: 1,860 m
Driving: Around 8–9 hours depending on road conditions
Overnight: Dharapani
The journey begins early with a road trip from Kathmandu toward Besisahar. The road follows Nepal's middle hills, passing rivers, villages, cultivated terraces and roadside settlements.
From Besisahar, the journey continues by shared or private jeep toward Dharapani. The road becomes rougher as it follows the Marsyangdi Valley, particularly on sections where construction, rain or landslides affect the surface.
Dharapani marks the practical starting point of the trekking section. Keep your daypack accessible because the following morning you begin walking through the mountain villages of Manang.
Chame altitude: around 2,670 m
Walking: Around 5–6 hours
Overnight: Chame
The trail enters a greener section of the Marsyangdi Valley. Pine and fir forests surround the route, while villages such as Bagarchhap and Timang provide regular places to stop.
As you continue toward Chame, views of Manaslu and Annapurna II begin to appear between the trees. The valley narrows in places before opening again around Chame.
Chame is the administrative center of Manang District and has more facilities than many of the smaller villages along the trail. If conditions permit, you can also visit the natural hot spring area.
Pisang altitude: around 3,200–3,300 m
Walking: Around 5–6 hours
Overnight: Pisang
The landscape changes noticeably as you leave Chame. The trail passes through forests, narrow valleys, rocky sections and open mountain terrain before reaching the Pisang area.
Pisang has two main settlements: Lower Pisang and Upper Pisang. The upper village sits higher on the slope and provides broader views toward the Annapurna range.
Your guide may recommend the most suitable overnight location according to trail conditions, accommodation availability and the pace of the group.
Manang altitude: 3,540 m
Walking: Around 6–7 hours
Overnight: Manang
This is one of the most scenic days of the Annapurna Circuit. When conditions and group fitness allow, take the upper Pisang route through Ghyaru and Ngawal rather than following the lower road section.
The climb is steeper at first, but the higher trail gives you wide views across the Manang Valley and toward Annapurna II, III and IV, Gangapurna and surrounding peaks.
After Gh