Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the best treks in the Annapurna region and is globally popular among adventure enthusiasts. This trek is a highly flexible route and offers the best views and landscapes of the Himalayas, while providing quality accommodations and food.
If you have a short period, then you can consult wit the local trekking agency in Nepal and customize the itinerary according to your preferences.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in the Himalayas of Nepal, covering a total distance of approximately 220 kilometers over 20 days. This trek provides a breathtaking journey through the high mountain ranges, showcasing the diverse culture and stunning landscapes of Nepal.
The trek starts from Besishahar, a small town located in the Lamjung district of Nepal. The first few days of the trek are spent trekking through rural areas, visiting small villages and local communities, and providing a glimpse into the lives of the indigenous people living in the region.
As the trek progresses, the landscape transforms into a more alpine and barren region, surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. During this section, trekkers will reach Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of the trek which offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range. The trek then continues through the holy city of Muktinath and eventually reaches the remote village of Jomsom, before making the final ascent back to Pokhara.
The trek provides an opportunity for trekkers to experience the beauty and diversity of the Annapurna region, from lush forests and terraced rice fields to snow-capped mountains and deep gorges. Along the way, trekkers will encounter a wide range of flora and fauna, including the national bird of Nepal, the Danfe, and other Himalayan wildlife. Moreover, the Annapurna Circuit Trek also offers an opportunity to experience the unique culture and traditions of the region, as trekkers will interact with the local people who have lived in the region for generations. The hospitality of the local people, their customs, and the stories they share, all make for a truly enriching and memorable experience.
Although the regular itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit Trek is 20 days, it can be customized and completed within a time span of 7-28 days depending upon available time, the starting and ending point of the trek, physical fitness, walking pace, and various other factors.
This 20 Day Annapurna Circuit Trek is a journey that offers an opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, while also providing a window into the rich culture and traditions of the region. The 20-day trek is a truly unforgettable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who undertake it. For adventurers throughout the world, trekking ranks highly on their checklists of activities to do.
The capital city of Kathmandu boasts a plethora of natural, cultural, and historical attractions. A tour of these main sights will be conducted today, followed by a preparation session for your trekking gear such as a down jacket, trekking boots, and sleeping bags.
Today you'll stay overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.
The journey to Besisahar will begin with a pickup from your hotel by our guides and a bus ride from the station. The bus will travel west from Kathmandu through Prithvi Highway, passing through Dumre, and finally reaching Besisahar in the north. It will take around 7 hours to reach Besisahar from KTM.
Today we don't hike, and the night will be spent at a lodge in Besisahar.
The fourth day of the trek starts in Besisahar, heading north and passing through sub-tropical forests and rice terraces. We will pause at Khudi and Bhulbhule to admire a 60m high waterfall and the first glimpse of Manaslu, Himchuli, and Nagdi Chuli. The trek continues to Nagdi, crosses a suspension bridge over the Nagdi River, and ends in Bahundanda.
Today you stay overnight in a lodge in Bahundanda.
On the fifth day, we descend to Syange (1,070m) for a view of the waterfall. The trail becomes more challenging as we cross a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River and reach Jagat village. The trek concludes with a steep ascent to Chamje.
Today you'll stay overnight in a teahouse/lodge in Chamje.
The sixth day of the trek enters the Manang district, starting from Bagarchhap. We descend to the Marsyangdi River, cross the bridge, follow the riverbank trail, climb up to Tal Phedi, and finally make a steep climb to Tal, the entrance village to Manang. The trek continues to Dharapani village and ends in Bagarchhap. Overnight stay in a teahouse in Bagarchhap.
On the seventh day, we take the higher route from Danaque, offering stunning mountain views. The trail passes through Tyana and leads to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, through a rough path with multiple uphill and downhill crossings and river crossings. Overnight stay in a lodge in Chame.
This day's trek begins with a steep trail into a dense Oak and Maple forest, followed by two long bridge crossings and a bend in the trail to Pisang. The trek also includes a hike to the upper village of Pisang for acclimatization purposes. Overnight stay in a lodge in Pisang.
The 9th day of the journey involves a trek to Manang, where you have two route options: the northern one (via Ghyaru) or the southern one (via Hongde). The southern route is easier while the northern one is a bit more challenging. We'll reach Manang after crossing Bryanga and spending the night at a lodge in the area.
The 10th day is dedicated to acclimatizing to the higher altitude, which is better done through activity rather than rest. You can choose to go on a short hike to the ridge near Gangapurna glacier or walk to the cave above the Manang village. The rest of the day can be spent exploring the village, its people, and its culture. Acclimatization measures will be taken before moving to higher altitudes. The night will be spent in a Manang lodge.
On the 11th day, we'll leave Manang and head towards Lader, passing through Tenki Manang, Jarsang Khola Valley, Ghunsa, and a few meadows to reach Yak Kharka. From there, we'll hike for another hour to reach Lader and spend the night at a lodge in the area.
On the 12th day, we'll move towards Thorang Phedi. The trail initially is easy, but becomes challenging as it approaches Thorang Phedi through a cliff. You can opt for a higher camp to shorten the hike the following day. The night will be spent in a Thorang Phedi lodge.
The 13th day includes a trek to Muktinath through Thorang La Pass, which is the highest point of the Annapurna circuit (5,416m). To avoid strong winds, we'll start early and reach the top by 10 am. After a 4-hour uphill hike, we'll reach the top and descend 4 hours to Muktinath in Mustang district, spending the night at a lodge in the area.
On the 14th day, the trail leads down towards the Kaligandaki Valley and Jomsom before reaching Marpha, the apple capital of the country. The night will be spent in a Marpha lodge.
The 15th day takes us to Ghasa as we leave the mountains behind and follow a rough, dusty trail along the Kali Gandaki River, enjoying the scenic views. The night will be spent at a Ghasa lodge.
The 16th day is a downward trek from Ghasa to Tatopani, where you can cross a suspension bridge, see the biggest waterfall, and pass through the world's deepest gorge. You can also relax in the natural hot springs to soothe your tired muscles. The night will be spent at a Tatopani lodge.
On the seventeenth day, the trek continues from Tatopani to Ghorepani. The journey starts by crossing the bridge over the Kali Gandaki River, leading to the junction of trails that go to Beni and Ghorepani. Rhododendrons offer breathtaking views of the mountain peaks that rise above 8000m. On the way, you will encounter some Gurung and Magar villages, and the trail finally leads to Ghorepani. The night will be spent in a lodge in Ghorepani.
The final day of the trek, first takes us to Poon Hill for a sunrise view, and then to Pokhara. An early wake-up call is in order as the main objective of the day is to enjoy the sunrise. A one-hour hike uphill will bring us to Poon Hill, also known as a photographer's paradise, where the first rays of the sun will illuminate the snow-capped peaks. After capturing memories and enjoying the view, we return to the Ghorepani lodge for breakfast and continue towards Nayapul to end the Annapurna Circuit Trek. From Nayapul, a tourist standard bus will take us to Pokhara, where you can spend time by the lakeside, or have some alone time or spend time with the rest of the crew. The night will be spent in a tourist standard hotel in Pokhara.
Today, the journey takes us from Pokhara to Kathmandu via a tourist standard bus. The seven-hour drive along the Prithvi Highway takes us to the capital city. On arrival, you will be taken to your hotel to freshen up and rest. In the evening, the company representatives will conduct a short meeting to discuss the trip and gather feedback. The night will be spent in a tourist standard hotel in Kathmandu.
This is the day of farewell where you accomplish the journey and leave for your home. Three hours prior to your boarding time, our staff will receive you from your hotel and drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport. We really enjoyed hosting you. Many thanks for having us and safe travels returning home.
When heading for a hike, one needs to be mindful of the season they decide to go. And what exactly time of year is ideal for Annapurna Circuit Trekking? Hiking Bees advise you to reserve this excursion for the spring and autumn seasons.
Through splitting these seasons further, spring lasts from March to May. These are pleasant hiking months because of the milder weather. During this season, the flowers are in full bloom, and the pathway is lined with petals and leaves.
Autumn, which lasts from September to November, is the second-optimal season. These months are characterized by vibrant clouds and a refreshing atmosphere.
Normally, we advise avoiding hikes to Annapurna Circuit in the summer. Although, Hiking Bees would be pleased to plan a suitable Himalayan trip to the Annapurna region if your timetable for visiting Nepal is scheduled during the summer.
To undertake the Annapurna Circuit Trekking, you should have a good level of physical fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 2-3 months before the trek. Some of the suggested preparations include:
The Annapurna Circuit Trekking is the most popular and demanding hiking destination based on the unexplored trekking trails as well as feedback from hikers. Experienced trekkers won't struggle on this walk, but newcomers may encounter some challenges. As this is a high-altitude trek with unpaved roads, normal people can have difficulties in breaking and walking.
However, there is always a workaround. Beginners may get ready for this hike by adding these practices to their daily routine: Walking at dusk and at dawn, Remaining hydrated, Meditation and Yoga, Remaining hydrated with nutritional diets, Jogging, Going to Gym, and so on.
You should plan your trip with warm clothes and comfortable boots for a pleasant hike along with raincoats or umbrellas as the weather of the Himalayan region is mostly drizzly. When in the journey, we are here to ease your hike with the availability of guides, who will give you directions and porters, who will carry your luggage and oxygen cylinders.
So if you are an enthusiast and an adventure-loving person, now is the chance to explore the Annapurna Circuit Trek - 20 days with Hiking Bees.
Hiking Bees is a professional Nepalese trekking company with a team of professional guides, who efficiently run a variety of treks and vacations. Locals from the region where you will be hiking serve as our guides and carriers. They are knowledgeable in hike routes and schedules and have received extensive training.
Annapurna Circuit Trekking is unquestionably a fantastic, ideal location for trekkers. but if you're searching for other variations of Annapurna Region Trekking there are plenty of options available. If you have a limited time then you may check 8 days Mardi Himal Trekking or 7 days Short Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking.
Another most common and demanded trekking in the Annapurna region is Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek. If you don't have 20 days then you can check out this 14 days awesome trekking to the foot of the Annapurna mountain.
Also, check all the packages in the Annapurna region by Hiking Bees.
With Hiking Bees, you can travel anywhere for a reasonable price, capture your precious moments, and enjoy your vacation. You may schedule your upcoming travel with us straight away!!
Although this package mention the 20 day itinerary for this trek, Nowadays, becasue of road expansion, Annapurna Circuit Trek can be completed in within as short as 6 days. We don't recommend the 6 day trek, as trekking is not only about running and completing the trail, it's about the experience.
Inorder to make an balance between time and proper experience we would also suggest a 8day Annapurna Circuit Trekking.
This 8 day itinerary promises a great trek experience, avoiding the roads and providing a joyful walk. Here's what the itinerary looks like if you start from Kathmandu and end in Pokhara:
Day 1: Drive Kathmandu → Besisahar → Chame
Day 2: Chame → Upper Pisang
Day 3: Upper Pisang → Manang Village
Day 4: Acclimatization in Manang
Day 5: Manang → Yak Kharka
Day 6: Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi
Day 7: Thorong Phedi → Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
Day 8: Drive Muktinath → Pokhara
This itinerary is suitable for those who have lesser time in Nepal and can be completed within 8 days. If you are intrested in this 8 days ACT Trek itinerary then here's how the pricing looks like for an all inclusive package.
Note: above mentioned rates are only for the 8 day trek option. For more info or a customized trekking package please feel free to email/whatsapp us.
If you are looking for a package that includes accommodations in Kathmandu, pickup during arrival then you may check our: 12 Day ACT trek package, which is similar to above itinerary but includes you arrival days as well.
I had a really amazing time during our Annapurna circuit trek! For 15 days our guide Samrat took great care to make everything as smooth and fun as possible for us, and it was interesting...
