Expedition Featured

Annapurna Circuit Trek

16 Days

5,416m

Moderate

Max 12 People

Overview

The Annapurna Circuit is often voted the best long-distance trek in the world. It takes you from subtropical jungles to the high-altitude arid landscapes of Manang and Mustang. The highlight is crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416m.

Key Facts

Duration

16 Days

Max Altitude

5,416m

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Season

March to May, October to November

Group Size

Max 12 People

Accommodation

Teahouse/Lodge

Highlights

Cross the iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416m) — one of the world's highest trekking passes

Visit the sacred Hindu and Buddhist temples of Muktinath (3,760m)

Explore Tilicho Lake (4,919m) — one of the world's highest lakes (optional extension)

Experience the dramatic kali Gandaki Gorge, the world's deepest gorge

Poon Hill sunrise (3,210m) with panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges

Complete circuit of the entire Annapurna massif through diverse landscapes

Itinerary

1860m

Drive to Besisahar/Dharapani

Long scenic drive from Kathmandu.

2670m

Trek to Chame

Walk through pine forests and views of Manaslu.

3200m

Trek to Pisang

The valley opens up, view of Paungda Danda rock face.

3540m

Trek to Manang

Enter the arid high altitude region.

3540m Acclimatization

Acclimatization in Manang

Hike to Gangapurna Lake.

4018m

Manang to Yak Kharka

Leave the last significant settlement behind and trek through high-altitude scrub into the barren upper valley. The trail follows the Marsyangdi river upstream past grazing yaks to the simple tea houses of Yak Kharka. Views of Chulu East and West peaks are excellent.

4925m

Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp

A short but important acclimatization walk to the tea houses just below the Thorong La approach. Arrive early, rest thoroughly, and eat well. Tomorrow is the biggest day of the circuit — prepare gear, headlamps, and warm layers the evening before.

4925m Acclimatization

Rest/Buffer Day at Thorong High Camp

Optional rest day to acclimatize fully before the pass crossing. Use the time to hydrate, eat carbohydrate-rich food, and take a short acclimatization stroll above camp. Check weather forecast for pass conditions.

3760m

Cross Thorong La Pass (5416m)

The biggest day of the trek. Descend to Muktinath.

2665m

Muktinath to Marpha via Jomsom

Descend the dramatic Mustang plateau landscape to the holy town of Jomsom and continue to the apple orchards of Marpha. The katabatic winds of the Kali Gandaki typically kick in by midday — aim to be off the trail early. Enjoy Marpha's famous apple brandy and cider in the evening.

2530m

Marpha to Kalopani

Follow the Kali Gandaki river — the world's deepest gorge — through Tibetan-influenced villages. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m) loom above on either side, making this one of the most dramatic single-day stages of any trek in Nepal.

1190m

Kalopani to Tatopani

Descend through subtropical forests back to the warmth of lower valleys. Tatopani means "hot water" — reward yourself with a long soak in the famous natural hot springs on the banks of the Kali Gandaki after days of high-altitude trekking.

2874m

Tatopani to Ghorepani

A steep 1,700m climb through dense rhododendron forest — demanding but beautiful, especially in spring. Arrive at Ghorepani with energy for sunset views from the ridge above if the clouds cooperate.

820m

Poon Hill Sunrise, Trek to Nayapul

Rise at dawn for the short climb to Poon Hill (3,210m) — one of Nepal's most celebrated sunrise viewpoints. Watch the full Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges light up at first light. Descend through Ghandruk to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara.

1400m

Pokhara to Kathmandu

Drive or fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The scenic Prithvi Highway follows the river valleys and offers mountain glimpses on clear days. Afternoon at leisure in Kathmandu.

1400m

Departure

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. The Annapurna Circuit — one of the world's great walks — is complete.

What's Included

Price Includes

Airport and hotel transfers in Kathmandu
Kathmandu–Besisahar and Pokhara–Kathmandu transport
Tea house accommodation throughout the trek
All meals on trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
One porter per two trekkers (max 15 kg luggage)
Annapurna Conservation Area permit (ACAP)
TIMS card
First aid kit and pulse oximeter
Sleeping bag (rental available for high sections)
Yeti Routes duffel bag and trekking map

Price Excludes

International flights to/from Nepal
Nepal entry visa fee
Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory)
Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Personal trekking gear
Personal expenses
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Tips for guides and porters
Helicopter rescue costs if required

Reviews

4.9

Based on 150+ traveler reviews

Sarah Johnson

United Kingdom • March 2024

★★★★★

"An unforgettable journey! The guides were so professional and caring. The views were breathtaking. Highly recommend Yeti Routes!"

Starting From

$990 / person

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