The journey
The Annapurna Circuit is one of the world's most iconic long-distance treks. Over 12 days you'll traverse diverse landscapes, from subtropical valleys and terraced rice paddies to arid high-altitude desert and the mighty Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres.
Along the way you'll pass through traditional Gurung, Thakali, and Manangba villages, soak in natural hot springs, and experience some of the most dramatic mountain scenery on earth, including views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre.
Your experienced local guide handles all logistics, navigation, and cultural translation so you can focus entirely on the experience.
Trek Photos
Annapurna Trail
Marsyangdi Valley
Above the Clouds
River Crossing
Prayer FlagsThe trail
Route overview: Kathmandu to Pokhara via Thorong La Pass
The day to day
Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m)
+Airport pickup, transfer to hotel, trek briefing with your guide. Explore Thamel in the evening.
Drive to Dharapani (1,860m)
+Scenic 7-8 hour drive through river valleys. First views of the Annapurna range as you gain elevation.
Dharapani to Chame (2,670m)
+Trek through pine forests and past waterfalls. Pass through traditional Gurung villages. First big mountain views.
Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)
+Enter the Manang Valley with views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. The landscape shifts to high-altitude desert.
Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m)
+Trek along the north side of the valley with panoramic views. Visit Braga Monastery.
Acclimatisation Day in Manang
+Critical rest day. Optional hike to Ice Lake (4,600m) or Gangapurna Lake. Visit the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic.
Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m)
+Steady climb through sparse vegetation. Last teahouses before Thorong La. Stunning views of the Great Barrier.
Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,540m)
+Short but steep trek to the base camp for the pass. Early night, as you'll rise before dawn tomorrow.
Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath (3,760m)
+The big day. Pre-dawn start, 4-5 hours to the pass, then a long descent to the sacred temple town of Muktinath.
Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m)
+Descend through the Kali Gandaki gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. Windy but spectacular.
Fly Jomsom to Pokhara
+25-minute scenic flight over the Himalayas to Pokhara. Afternoon free to explore Lakeside.
Fly Pokhara to Kathmandu
+Morning flight back. Transfer to hotel or airport. Trek complete.
What you get
Included
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu
- All accommodation (hotels + teahouses)
- Three meals per day on trek
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- All permits (ACAP, TIMS)
- Domestic flights (Jomsom to Pokhara, Pokhara to Kathmandu)
- Ground transport (Kathmandu to Dharapani)
- First aid kit and oximeter
- Trek briefing and gear check
Not Included
- International flights to/from Kathmandu
- Travel insurance (required)
- Nepal tourist visa
- Personal trekking gear
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Hot showers and device charging on trek
- Tips for guide and porters
- Personal expenses