Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary - Himalayan Magic Adventures

Duration: 14-16 Days
Maximum Altitude: 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) at Thorong La Pass
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Time to Trek: March to May, September to November
Provider: Himalayan Magic Adventures

Overview:

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic Himalayan adventure that takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, and across the iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), one of the highest trekking passes in the world. This trek offers incredible views of towering peaks such as Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Machapuchare (Fish Tail), and Dhaulagiri. Along the way, you’ll pass through remote villages, rich cultural heritage, and interact with the welcoming Gurung and Thakali communities.

This trek is ideal for adventure seekers looking for a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge. Himalayan Magic Adventures ensures a safe, well-guided, and enjoyable experience throughout.

Detailed Itinerary

Day-by-Day Itinerary for Annapurna Circuit Trek by Himalayan Magic Adventures

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

• Highlights: Arrival in Kathmandu, Orientation, Free time.

• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

• Meals: None (Dinner on your own).

• Activities:

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

  • Transfer to your hotel, where your guide from Himalayan Magic Adventures will brief you about the trek.

  • Free time for rest or explore Kathmandu's famous landmarks such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or Pashupatinath Temple.

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, Trek to Ngadi

• Transport: 6-7 hour drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (820 m).

• Trek Distance: 6 km (4 miles) - 2-3 hours.

• Elevation Gain: 820 m to 930 m (2,690 ft to 3,051 ft).

• Accommodation: Tea house in Ngadi.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • Early morning drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

  • Begin your trek to Ngadi, a small village with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 3: Trek from Ngadi to Jagat

• Trek Distance: 10 km (6 miles) - 4-5 hours.

• Elevation Gain: 930 m to 1,340 m (3,051 ft to 4,396 ft).

• Accommodation: Tea house in Jagat.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • Trek through subtropical forests and cross several suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi River.

  • Enjoy views of waterfalls and lush green hills, reaching the village of Jagat.

Day 4: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani

• Trek Distance: 10 km (6 miles) - 5-6 hours.

• Elevation Gain: 1,340 m to 2,010 m (4,396 ft to 6,594 ft).

• Accommodation: Tea house in Dharapani.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • Continue trekking through the valley, passing through pine forests, and small villages.

  • Reach Dharapani, a bustling village in the Manang district, known for its Buddhist monastery and cultural significance.

Day 5: Trek from Dharapani to Chame

• Trek Distance: 12 km (7 miles) - 5-6 hours.

• Elevation Gain: 2,010 m to 2,670 m (6,594 ft to 8,760 ft).

• Accommodation: Tea house in Chame.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • Trek through picturesque villages, with views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.

  • Arrive in Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, where you can relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty.

Day 6: Trek from Chame to Pisang

• Trek Distance: 10 km (6 miles) - 4-5 hours.

• Elevation Gain: 2,670 m to 3,300 m (8,760 ft to 10,827 ft).

• Accommodation: Tea house in Pisang.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • As you trek to Pisang, you'll enjoy views of the towering peaks of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Gangapurna.

  • Pisang is a beautiful village that offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 7: Trek from Pisang to Manang

• Trek Distance: 15 km (9 miles) - 5-6 hours.

• Elevation Gain: 3,300 m to 3,540 m (10,827 ft to 11,614 ft).

• Accommodation: Tea house in Manang.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • Continue trekking through a dry, barren landscape, typical of the Tibetan Plateau, with views of Annapurna II and Gangapurna.

  • Arrive in Manang, a large village known for its monasteries, stunning scenery, and rich Tibetan culture.

Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Manang

• Elevation: Stay at 3,540 m (11,614 ft).

• Accommodation: Tea house in Manang.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • Rest day for acclimatization to adjust to the higher altitude.

  • Hike to the nearby Gangapurna Lake or Praken Gompa for fantastic panoramic views of the Himalayas.

  • Explore the local monasteries and learn about the culture of the region.

Day 9: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka

• Trek Distance: 10 km (6 miles) - 4-5 hours.

• Elevation Gain: 3,540 m to 4,050 m (11,614 ft to 13,287 ft).

• Accommodation: Tea house in Yak Kharka.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • Trek to Yak Kharka, a small settlement that marks your first steps toward the high-altitude regions of the Annapurna Circuit.

  • The area offers stunning views of Annapurna II and the surrounding peaks.

Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi

• Trek Distance: 8 km (5 miles) - 4-5 hours.

• Elevation Gain: 4,050 m to 4,450 m (13,287 ft to 14,600 ft).

• Accommodation: Tea house in Thorong Phedi.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • Continue trekking toward Thorong Phedi, the base camp for the Thorong La Pass.

  • Enjoy the beautiful landscape and the peaceful environment at this high-altitude settlement.

Day 11: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), Trek to Muktinath

• Trek Distance: 14 km (9 miles) - 7-8 hours.

• Elevation Gain: 4,450 m to 5,416 m (14,600 ft to 17,769 ft) at Thorong La Pass.

• Accommodation: Tea house in Muktinath.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • Early morning start to cross the Thorong La Pass—one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks are unforgettable.

  • After crossing the pass, descend to the sacred town of Muktinath, known for its Hindu and Buddhist significance.

Day 12: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom

• Trek Distance: 15 km (9 miles) - 5-6 hours.

• Elevation Loss: 3,710 m to 2,720 m (12,170 ft to 8,924 ft).

• Accommodation: Tea house in Jomsom.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

• Activities:

  • Trek down to Jomsom, a major town in the region, known for its apple orchards and scenic beauty.

  • Enjoy the stunning views of Dhaulagiri and the Kali Gandaki River valley.

Day 13: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

• Flight: 25-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.

• Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara.

• Meals: Breakfast.

• Activities:

  • Morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city in the Annapurna region.

  • Enjoy a relaxing day in Pokhara, exploring Phewa Lake, Sarangkot, and the World Peace Pagoda.

Day 14: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

• Transport: 6-7 hour drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

• Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

• Meals: Breakfast.

• Activities:

  • Drive back to Kathmandu and enjoy the scenic drive through the valleys and hills of Nepal.

  • Free time to shop, relax, or explore more of the capital.

Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu

• Meals: Breakfast.

• Activities:

  • Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home.

Why Choose Himalayan Magic Adventures for Your Annapurna Circuit Trek?

• Experienced Guides: Our expert guides are experienced in handling high-altitude treks and provide detailed insights into the region's culture and natural beauty.

• Safety and Comfort: We prioritize your safety with thorough acclimatization schedules, medical support, and the best-quality gear for your trek.

• Cultural Immersion: Experience the local culture, cuisine, and hospitality of the Gurung, Thakali, and other mountain communities.

• Personalized Service: From airport pick-up to post-trek celebrations, we ensure a seamless trekking experience.

Important Notes for Annapurna Circuit Trek:

• Physical Fitness: This trek is moderate to challenging, requiring a good level of physical fitness.

• Altitude Considerations: Acclimatization is key, and our itinerary is designed to help you adjust to the altitude safely.

• Weather Conditions: The weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher altitudes. Be prepared for cold conditions and possible rain.

Inclusion