The Annapurna Circuit is a dream destination for adventure seekers Worldwide. The trek to Annapurna Circuit takes place within the Annapurna region in an Annapurna Conservation area through Charming Village, Lush green valleys offering views of incredible Himalayas.
Naata Travel and Adventure provides you never-to-be-forgotten 23-day trek package to Annapurna Circuit. The expedition to Annapurna Circuit begins with a drive to Besisahar from Kathmandu. However, the itinerary includes visiting Kathmandu's UNESCO Heritage Sites before starting the journey towards Annapurna Circuit.
The journey to Annapurna Circuit begins from 1400m at Kathmandu and reaches 5416m at the highest elevation at Thorong La. The trail to Annapurna Circuit passes via two popular rivers of Nepal: Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki Rivers.
The vista of mountain peaks is the major attraction of the Annapurna Circuit trek. Dazzling view of snow-capped peaks including Mount Manaslu (8,163 m), Mount Annapurna I (8,091m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Mount Annapurna II (7,937 m.), Mt. Annapurna III (7,555m), Mt. Annapurna IV (7,525m) and Mount Annapurna south (7,219m) are major mountains peaks visible during trek to Annapurna Circuit. Likewise, the sight of Mount Nilgiri (7,041m), Tilicho Peak (7134m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6,986m), Tukuche Peak (6,920m), and Mt. Machhapuchhare (6,998m) are spectacular during the trek to Annapurna Circuit. Moreover, the trek takes trekkers through the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge, appealing to the eye of trekkers.
More than natural beauty, the voyage to Annapurna Circuit lets trekkers immerse in the expectational culture and tradition of the Annapurna region. The area of Annapurna is home to diverse ethnic groups with Brahmin and Chettri at the lower parts and Gurung, Magar, and Thakali at the higher elevation.
The trek to Annapurna Circuit is quite adventurous due to various factors including:
1. High Altitude:
The journey to Annapurna Circuit takes trekkers above 5000m. At the higher elevation, trekkers are more likely to face issues related to acute mountain sickness. Thus, the higher altitude makes the trek to Annapurna Circuit challenging, requiring prior trekking Experience. Also, proper acclimatization, hydration, and taking care of one's body while trekking is crucial.
2. Longer Duration and trekking hours:
The round trip to Annapurna Circuit is almost three weeks and each day climbers should walk for 5-6 hours. Thus, the long trekking hours and duration make it challenging to trek in Annapurna Circuit. However, we provide a trip customization facility for trekkers to customize their packages. Still, the trek is adventurous, requiring good physical fitness and mental preparedness.
3. Rough Terrain:
The trek to Annapurna Circuit passes through the varied terrain of the Annapurna Conservation area. The trail passes from lush forest to alpine meadow, rocky terrain, and steep ascend sections, making the trek difficult to navigate. Also, the trail to Annapurna Circuit is off-beaten, rough, and uneven.
4. Unpredictable Weather:
The weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable, adding to the trek's difficulty to the Annapurna circuit. As you go higher, the weather becomes more erratic, and the weather changes suddenly. Rain, wind, and sometimes snow occur unpredictably which creates challenges during walk to Annapurna Circuit. Thus, climbers should be ready to face every type of weather.
The season is the foremost aspect that determines the overall experience while trekking in any destination including at Annapurna Circuit. Due to the ideal weather and pleasant time, a pre-monsoon (Spring) from March to May and a post-monsoon (Autumn) from September to November are ideal for trekking in Annapurna Circuit. The time provides favorable weather with less difficulty, making Peak season for trekking and any other adventurous activities in Nepal's Himalayas including at Annapurna region.
In contrast, the Monsoon from June to July and Winter from September to November are non-favorable times for trek to Annapurna Circuit. The monsoon season comes with heavy rainfall, making the trail slippery and leeches all over the trail, making the trek challenging. similarly, Winter comes with a harsh cold season, bringing high snowfall. The snow all over and the coldest time make the expedition advertecture adventures.
The trek to Annapurna Circuit is adventurous so trekkers must prepare themselves appropriately to start the trek. For the trek to Annapurna Circuit, trekkers must be physically and mentally prepared. For mental preparedness, they should know that the trek involves longer duration with each day waking for 6-7 hours in a remote location. Also, they should be prepared to stay in a local tea house that offers basic facilities. Moreover, they should know that they'll hike at a higher elevation and altitude-related issues can be a concern.
Being physically fit is most important for the Annapurna Circuit. It would be best if trekkers have previous trekking or hiking experience. Trekkers should be involved in aerobic physical training sessions including cycling, jogging, running, and others to boost joint muscle. Similarly, aerobic training helps trekkers to stabilize and balance their bodies which helps to navigate varied terrain.
In general, the Annapurna Circuit trek costs USD 1799 per Pax. However, the cost will vary on the size of the group, as the more members in a group, the more trekkers get a discount. The cost of Annapurna Circuit covers most of the expenses of the trip including each logistic required during the journey. Along with logistic service, we provide highly knowledgeable guides and experienced porters.
If you prefer any additional service and want to customize the trip, don't hesitate to get in touch with our specialist via WhatsApp at +977-9818778432.
Accommodation and Food are on the Tea houses/ lodge throughout the trek to Annapurna Circuit. The tea houses are the common and only accommodation and food point on the journey. However, in Kathmandu, visitors get a three-star hotel.
The tea houses along the Annapurna Circuit are all the same yet, the amenities decrease and become more common as trekkers get to higher elevations. It serves as the resting point after a tiring long walking hours. Tea houses have a communal dining area where trekkers have their meals. The dining area also serves as a meeting point for trekkers from different countries, providing an opportunity to interact with each other and share their trekking journey.
Tea houses have twin sharing beds with a small table in the middle of the room. trekkers get blankets for warmth but sometimes, the temperature might get to minus degrees Celsius thus we recommend bringing sleeping bad. Moreover, the tourist has the option to select their meal as tea house offers local to International Cuisine. Yet, we suggest having local dishes as they are more healthy and provide the nutrition needed for the trek.
Annapurna Circuit takes place within the Annapurna region in Central Nepal, within the mountain ranges. The Circuit lies in the Gandaki province, within the Annapurna Conservation area. The Trek to Annapurna Circuit passes through the Marshyangdi River and involves navigating the world's highest pass, Thorong La (5416m).
While traveling in adventurous areas like Annapurna Circuit, having travel insurance is best. As no insurance company in Nepal does insurance for foreign citizens, trekkers should do their insurance through their home country before starting the tour.
Having travel insurance lets trekkers enjoy the trip peacefully. We suggest you choose the coverage of the insurance conscientiously so that it covers even the risky trip. Trekkers should provide a copy of the Travel insurance to Naata Travel and Adventure after trip booking, in case of any emergences and health issues for quick rescue.
The expedition to Annapurna Circuit begins from a lower elevation of 1700m at Tal. Walking further, the journey reaches to the highest elevation at 5416m at Thorong La Pass. Throughout the trek, climbers experience drastic changes in their altitude. As the trek reaches to higher elevation, altitude sickness becomes a major concern. The higher elevation faces less oxygen and air pressure, causing tousle in breathing and adjusting to a changed atmosphere.
The issues related to altitude sickness become things to worry about from elevation above 2500m. Nausea, vomiting, headache, tiredness, and lack of appetite, are some common symptoms of Altitude sickness. Trekkers should descend or atop hiking above tp reduce the chance of the condition worsening. Hiding the symptoms with others for fear of sending back and not completing the journey can cause trouble in trekkers' lives. Thus, as soon as you face the symptoms of acute mountain sickness, inform your guide and whatever he suggests.
Consumption of adequate amounts of water, walking slowly, consumption of nutritious food, and proper acclimatization are the ways to reduce the risk of altitude-related issues during the trek. Furthermore, we suggest you not consume caffeine, alcohol, and smoking throughout the journey to minimize the risk of Altitude Sickness during Annapurna Circuit.
Having all the essential packing can significantly comfort the trek to Annapurna Circuit. The general packing list of gear and equipment for the excursion to Annapurna Circuit includes:
1. Backpack: A high-quality backpack with a large space that fits all items is essential.
2. Clothing: Pack clothes that fit in both hot and cold seasons as the temperature of the Himalayas significantly. Include Packing base layer, mid layer, and outerwear along with several pairs of underwear and shocks.
3. Sleeping Bag and Pad: A sleeping bag and sleeping pad are essential for warm sleep.
4. Trekking shoe: Invest in sturdy and comfortable trekking boots that support you throughout the journey.
5. Trekking Poles: Don't forget to carry trekking poles as they help to provide balance on rough terrain and support to ankle during descend sections.
6. Personal accessories: Pack all necessary personal items including toothbrushes, toothpaste, toiletries, and other accessories as they might be unavailable at any point.
7. Refillable water bottle and Water purification Tablet: Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the journey. Also, carry a water purification tablet as the water found on the tap on the trail might cause waterborne diseases.
The above-mentioned are some of the essential packing lists for the trek to Annapurna Circuit. Besides, Rain gear, energy-giving snacks, sun protection, travel documents and personal miscellaneous are crucial for the expedition.
Naata Travel and Adventure ensure to offer you a worry-free journey in Annapurna Circuit by providing an experienced and knowledgeable guide and porter. We have an experienced guide who has many years of experience in guiding visitors to the various regions of Nepal's Himalayas. The guide provides you with information on each section, you will pass through. Also, our guides are friendly and caring and do every possible thing to make your trek remarkable.
Furthermore, we provide one porter for two people who can carry up to 20kg. Thus each trekker should carry their backpack less or equal to 10 kg. Porter makes your journey load-free and lets you enjoy your voyage with no burden.
Trekking in each destination requires some mandatory permits. For the trek to Annapurna Circuit also, travelers must obtain some permits. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers' Information Management System Card (TIMS) are two essential permits for the trek to Annapurna Circuit.
The trek to Annapurna Circuit passes through the conservation area of Annapurna thus permit for the Annapurna Conservation area is most. Trekkers can get the permits through different areas including the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation in Kathmandu, the ACAP office in Pokhara, and the Nepal Tourism Board in Pokhara and Besisahar. However, Naata Travel and Adventure manage it on our client's behalf. The cost of ACAP varies on the nationality. It costs NPR 3000 for foreigners and 1500 for SAARC nation's citizens.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) permits are mandatory and applicable for most of the trekking areas of Nepal. TIMS is essential for keeping records and track of traveler's movement. Also, the permit of TIMS provides emergency assistance to trekkers during their walk. Like ACAP, the price of TIMS also varies on the nationality. The price of TIMS for SAARC nation is NPR 1000 and for other foreigners is NPR 2000.
The trip to Annapurna Circuit begins with a sightseeing of the World UNESCO heritage sites of Kathmandu. After the day, the journey moves towards Syange via Besisahar. From Syange, the trekking begins via Tal and passes through prominent areas of Danaque, Chame, Upper Pisang, Ngawal, and Manang. A day is for the acclimatization of Manang. After acclimatization day, the journey moves to Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, and Muktinath via Thorong la Pass, Marpha through Lubra Pass, Kalopani and Tatopani. Another rest day during the expedition to Annapurna Circuit is at Tatopani. On the following day, the voyage moves towards Ghorepani, Tikhedhunga, Nayapul, Pokhara, and Kathmandu. Thus the journey to the Annapurna circuit begins and ends at the Kathmandu.
Naata Travel and Adventure values and respect each tourist's choice and taste. thus, we provide a customization option for Annapurna Circuit. The customization of trips allows trekkers to tailor their journey by themselves that fit their preferences, requirements, and budget.
Naata Travel and Adventure accepts the cancellation of the trip of our client. However, we have a strong canceling policy that one should follow if they are going to cancel the trip due to various reasons. For trip cancelling of Annapurna Circuit visitors should charge based on the following policy:
1. If cancellation is made one month before the trip: The client should charge 30% of the total trip cost
2. If cancellation is made 15 days before the trip: The client should charge 50% of the total trip cost
3. If cancellation is made 7 days before the trip: The client should charge 75% of the total trip cost
4. . If cancellation is made Less than 7 days before the trip: The client should charge 100% of the total trip cost.
During the arrival and departure, a pickup and drop facility in a private vehicle.
Three-star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast and Teahouses with three-time meals a day during the trek.
Welcome and farewell dinner.
An experienced, English speaking and government-liscensed guide (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
one porter for two trekker.
salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
Down jacket and sleeping bag (refundable).
All necessary including TIMS and ACAP.
Nepalese Visa fee
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain .
Travel and Rescue.
(phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porter, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.
All other not mentioned in cost includes section.
To start the journey to Annapurna Circuit, one must get to Nepal by taking a flight from the country they are staying to Tribhuvan International Airport of Nepal. Upon your arrival, our team member will be outside the airport to welcome you with a card with your name and our company's name. Our representative will welcome you and escort you to your hotel with a pleasant drive in a private vehicle. As you get to your hotel, you will check in and can take a rest. In the evening we will see you at your hotel with offer you a welcome meal. You will stay overnight at your hotel in Kathmandu.
Day two is your first morning in Kathmandu, Nepal. Early in the morning, you will have a warm morning meal at your hotel. The day is for sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley some of the prominent landmarks that are on the list of UNESCO heritage sites. However, before starting the trip, we will provide you de-briefing of the day and introduce you with your guide.
Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath temple, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square are the three significant landmarks of Kathmandu, that you will visit during the sightseeing of Kathmandu. After the visit, we'll drop you off at your hotel for your overnight stay.
From the third day, your journey towards Annapurna Circuit commences. You will take a public bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar on the first step. The drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar travels via Prithvi Highway, covering 176km, which takes approximately 8 hours. Your jeep will be waiting for you at Besisahar; thus as you get to Besisahar, you will drive to Syange through a jeep. It is 30.1km from Besisahar to Syange taking 3-4 hours. The journey offers a breathtaking view of Nepal's varied landscape. Your overnight stay of the day is at the tea house/lodge of Syange.
Early morning with the chirping sound of birds, you will wake up at the Annapurna region. You will get a hearty morning meal at the tea house. After finishing breakfast, get ready to start trekking. The day's destination is Tal village. The trail begins via the stunning Marshyangdi River. The trail ascends towards the stunning settlement of the Annapurna region. Views of a waterfall on the way are the highlight of the walk. It takes 7-8 hours to reach Tal from Syange. The overnight stay on the day will be at the Tal's tea house.
The fifth day takes you to Danaque village. You will begin your walk from Tal towards Danaque after your breakfast. Leaving the Marshyangdi river behind, your walk starts with witnessing a view of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. The trail to Danaque offers stunning scenery waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and the traditional lifestyle of Nepalese. It takes 4-5 hours to get Danaque from Tal Village. Your overnight stay on the fifth day is at the tea house of Danaque.
Early morning after a warm breakfast, you will start hiking towards Chame, the district headquarters of Manang district. The day's trek is easy and offers a panorama of snow-capped peaks and waterfalls. The trek takes 4-5 hours to reach Chame from Danaque. You will find more facilities in the village and the village is visually appealing. The night stay of the day is at the tea house of Chame.
Have a pleasant morning meal at the Chame village and start walking for your day's destination, Upper Pisang. The trail to Upper Pisang from Chame offers the ideal combination of adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural exploration. The trail passes by offering a panorama of mountain peaks local lifestyle of Nepalese culture. Furthermore, the trail passes through dense forest where trekkers get sight of diverse flora and fauna. The trail passes through Talekhu, Bhartang, Dhikur Pokhari, and lower Pisang before reaching to Upper Pisang, taking 5-6 hours. Your dinner and overnight is at the Upper Pisang.
On the day, you will wake up early in the morning to catch the eye-catching view of sunrise over the mountain peak of Annapurna II. After enjoying the view, you'll have your breakfast and head towards Ngawal. As the trek begins, you will get to Mani Wall and cross the swing bridge. The trail is zigzag with steep ascent from Upper Pisang to Ghyaru. The village offers a view of Annapurna II, III, and IV.
From Ghyaru, the trail descends to Ngawal. passing through numerous tea houses you will get to your day's overnight stay point, Ngawal. It is a 5-6 hour walk from Upper Pisang to Ngawal.
The ninth day begins with a hearty morning meal at the Ngawal's tea house while enjoying the surrounding beauty. The day's destination is at the Manang village. After finishing breakfast, you will make your way towards Manang. The walk begins with a descent through a steep trail via hills and jungle sections. A four and half hour's walk from Ngawal takes you to Bhraka where you will stop to have your lunch. After lunch, you will continue your walk through the easy trail while enjoying the view of snow-capped peaks. 5-6 hours of walk from Ngawal takes you to the day's accommodation point, Manang.
You are already at an elevation above 3000m so your body needs some time to adjust to the changed temperature. Thus, day 10 is your acclimatization day. On the day, you will go for a short hike near the surrounding area. Also, the day provides an opportunity to interact with locals and learn more about their traditions and lifestyles. You will spend one more night at the Manang on the day.
With a fresh energy of acclimatization day, you will begin your trek towards Yak Kharka after breakfast at Manang's tea house. The trail to Yak Kharka gradually ascends via Thorong Khola (river). The route passes through diverse and unique landscapes, stunning hills, alpine yak pasture, and the mani wall of Tangki Manang, Ghusang, and Ghyanchang village. 5-6 hours of walk from Manang takes you to the day's night stay point, Yak Kharka.
Enjoying the Yak Kharka's beauty, you will have your morning meal. After breakfast, get ready to walk toward Thorong Phedi. The trail to Thorong Phedi gradually ascends alongside the Thorong Khola. The route involves crossing several suspension bridges. View of Mount Annapurna II, III, IV, Thorong Peak, Pisang Peak, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak will accompany trekkers throughout their walk to Thorong Phedi from Yak Kharka. It takes 5-6 hours of walk to reach Thorong Phedi, your accommodation point.
Today is a big and adventurous day. On the day, you will start trekking before dawn to complete the trek with less difficulty. You will leave Thorong Phedi after breakfast and head towards Thorong la Pass, the highest point on the journey to Annapurna Circuit. The trail involves a steep ascent section with an easy trail to pass. However, high elevation and snow cause trouble during the pass to Thorong La. Four hours of walk from Thorong Phedi takes you to the summit of Thorong La from where trekkers can appreciate the view of Annapurna region and mountain peaks.
After appreciating the view and feeling a sense of accomplishment, you will descend to Muktinath, a sacred Hindu temple. Walking for four hours on an easy trail, you will reach to your day's accommodation point, Muktinath.
Wake up early morning and visit the Muktinath temple. After visiting the temple, have your morning meal and get ready for the return journey. The trek descends via the Kali Gandaki river bank through a dry landscape. Passing through traditional houses and stupas, you will reach to Marpha village after 7-8 hours of walking. Marpha village is your day's overnight point, which is known as the apple capital of Nepal.
With a refreshing air of Marpha, you will wake up and have your breakfast. Like always, you will start trekking for the day's destination after breakfast. The route follows walking through Gandaki Valley witnessing the mountain peaks and pasture of green plants. Getting to Kalopani from Marpha takes 6-7 hours. Your overnight is at the tea house of Kalopani.
After a morning meal at Kalopani, you will head towards Tatopani, known for its natural hot spring. The trail from Kalopani to Tatopani is one of the most beautiful sections that takes you through the world's deepest George, Kali Gandaki. The route offers other stunning beauties of the area that appeal to your eyes during the trek. Getting to Tatopani from Kalopani is easy and takes 6-7 hours. Overnight at Tatopani.
Day seventeenth is your rest day at Tatopani. On the day, you have an opportunity to interact with locals and appreciate the beauty of the Tatopani deeply. Another unique experience you can get involved in Tatopani is taking a bath in the natural hot spring. Taking a dip in the hot spring can remove all your tiredness and also remove skin disease (if have any). You will spend another night at the Tatopani.
With a freshness of the previous day's acclimatization, you will move towards Ghorepani. You will start walking towards Ghorepani after your breakfast. Ghorepani lies at a higher elevation than Tatopani thus trekkers must ascend to reach the village. The route passes through steep climb and ascent on rocky steps. The trail takes you through rivers and forests via Gharkhola, Ghara, Shikha, Phalante, and Chitre villages. The journey also offers a stunning panorama of Mount Annapurna, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. It takes 5-6 hours to reach your day's overnight point, Ghorepani from Tatopani.
Nineteenth day is another remarkable day on the expedition to Annapurna Circuit. Early morning before dawn you will start hiking towards one of the finest viewpoints, Poon Hill. The hike is short and takes 45 minutes to one hour through easy trail. As you get to the top of Poon Hill, your eye will be appealed with mesmerizing sunrise view. The sun's first ray on the summit of Mount Annapurna I (8091m), Dhaulagiri (8167m,) and Manaslu (8163m) are jaw-dropping from the Poon Hill.
After appreciating the sunrise view and mountain peaks you will return to Ghorepani. You will have lunch at Ghorepani and start descending toward Tikhedhunga. The route offers the culture and tradition of the Magar and Gurung communities. Nangge Thanti, Banthanti, and Ulleri are some prominent villages you will pass through before reaching Tikhedhunga from Ghorepani. The overall trekking duration of a day is 7-8 hours. Your night stay is at the tea house/ lodge of Tikhedhunga.
Day twenty is the final trekking day in an expedition to Annapurna Circuit. Early morning after breakfast, you will descend toward Nayapul. The route offers dazzling sight of Mount Macchapuchhre, waterfalls, and valleys. It is a 4-5 hour walk from Tikhedhunga to Nayapul.
As you get to Nayapul, you will have your lunch. After a hearty lunch, you will drive towards the capital of tourism, Pokhara where you will have an overnight stay.
Day twenty-one is for the exploration of Pokhara City. Early, we'll pick you up from your hotel and take you to Sarangkot to appeal eye with a stunning sunrise view. The Panorama of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range are mesmerizing from Sarangkot's viewpoint. You can also participate in Paragliding at Sarangkot.
After admiring the sunrise view from Sarangkot, you will continue sightseeing towards David's Fall, Mahendra Cave, the Tibetan refugee camp, the International Mountain Museum, and the Bindhabasini temple. The sightseeing concludes with a boating at the Phewa Lake. Your accommodation is at the Hotel of Pokhara.
You will have breakfast at your hotel and return to Kathmandu through a scenic jeep drive. You will return through Prithivi highway enjoying a glimpse of Nepal's varied landscape. It takes 6-7 hours to get to Kathmandu from Pokhara. In the evening, we will meet you at your hotel and offer you a thank you and farewell dinner program. You will spend your night for the last time in Kathmandu.
It is time to say goodbye to you. Naata Travel and Adventure hope you enjoyed the excursion. If you have more time to spend, we can offer you other special tour packages. If not, we hope to see you next time. As per your flight time, we will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport. Have a safe flight.
