Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days

Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days

21Days
5,416mMax altitude
MediumDifficulty
$2,490per person

Overview

Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days

Annapurna Circuit Trek from Australia has gradually become one of the most loved trekking trails in the world. The magical trails of the 21-day trek around the Annapurna massif will take you through the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge (2,520 m/8,270 ft) to one of the most challenging passes at the Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft).

Annapurna Circuit Trek from Australia Trip Introduction:

The trek offers you ample diversity apart from the trek. The trek starts from an altitude of 800m and extends high to an altitude of 5,416m. You can take a great opportunity to explore the diverse flora, fauna, rivers, waterfalls, cultures, traditions, and lifestyles. The welcoming villagers and the majestic mountain peaks remain constant throughout the trek.

It gives you the chance to enjoy views of these mountains from different angles and elevations which is the major attraction for taking the trip. The mountain peaks like Mt. Hiunchuli(6,441m), Mt. Manaslu(8,163m), Mt. Annapurna I(8,091m), Mt. Annapurna II(7,937m), and Mt. Annapurna III(7,555m), Mt. Machhapuchhre(6,998m), Mt. Nilgiri(7,219m), Mt. Lamjung Himal(6,986m), and Mt. Tukuche Peak(6,920m) can be seen throughout the trek. 

Itinerary Outline:

1st Day: Arrival day from Australia Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)
2nd Day: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)
3rd Day: Drive to Beshishahar (830m/2,723ft) 6-7 hrs drive
4th Day: Trek to Bahundanda (1,310m/4,298ft) 5-6 hrs walk
5th Day: Trek to Chamje (1,410m/4,626ft) 5-6 hrs walk
6th Day: Trek to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft) 5-6 hrs walk
7th Day: Trek to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft) 6-7 hrs walk
8th Day: Trek to Pisang (3,200m/10,496ft) 5-6 hrs walk
9th Day: Trek to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft) 4-5 hrs walk
10th Day: Acclimatization day at Manang (3,500m/11,482ft)
11th Day: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft) 3-4 hours walk
12th Day: Trek to Throng Phedi (4,400m/14,432) 3-4 hrs walk
13th Day: Trek to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) via Throng La (5,416m/17,765 ft) 7-8 hrs walk
14th Day: Trek to Marpha (2,670m/8,760ft) 6-7 hrs walk
15th Day: Trek to Ghasa (2,120m/6,955ft) 6-7 hrs walk
16th Day: Trek to Tatopani (1,200m/3,937ft) 4-5 hrs walk
17th Day: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft) 5-6 hrs walk
18th Day: Short hike to PoonHill and trek to Tadapani (2,710m/8,891ft) 5-6 hrs walk
19th Day: Trek to Pokhara (823m/2,700ft) 5-6 hrs walk & 1 hrs drive
20th Day: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft) 5-6 hrs drive
21st Day: Departure from Kathmandu to Australia

Duration21 days
DifficultyMedium
Max altitude5,416m
Start / EndKathmandu
AccommodationHotel & tea house
Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days photo
Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days photo Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days photo Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days photo Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days photo Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days photo

Best Season for this trip

Mar to May & Sep to Dec

Spring: Mar-May Monsoon: Jun-Aug Autumn: Sep-Nov Winter: Dec-Feb

Day by day

Unfold your journey

Annapurna Circuit Trek Map

Kathmandu → Kathmandu

Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days route map
day
1

Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)

20 Minutes Hotel Kathmandu Welcome Dinner
Welcome to the Himalayan country, Nepal. While you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, one of our representatives will be waiting to welcome you and assists to transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. After getting a short time to refresh yourself, we will meet again in the evening for a welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurants in the heart of Kathmandu. You will get a short briefing about your trip and overnight at the Hotel.
day
2

Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Hotel Kathmandu Breakfast
After breakfast, we will start the guided trip to cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley, which includes a trip to the pilgrimage sites of the Hindu temple, Pashupatinath, the world's biggest stupa, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Swoyambhunath Stupa, also known as the monkey temple. After exploring the surrounding areas, we will visit the historical Kathmandu Durbar Square and explore its temples, unique architecture, and Kumari (living goddess). In the evening, we will take a pre-trip discussion and introduction with our fellow trekking staff for a further adventurous trip.
day
3

Drive to Beshishahar (830m/2,723ft) 6-7 hrs drive

6-7 Hrs Tea House Beshishahar 3 Meals
We will leave Kathmandu for our long trek to Annapurna in the early morning. We take the drive by private transfer to Beshishahar going through the beautiful Nepalese countryside. Beshishahar is a big town that district headquarters in the Lamjung District. We will explore the surrounding area in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.
day
4

Trek to Bahundanda (1,310m/4,298ft) 5-6 hrs walk

5-6 Hrs Tea House Bahundanda 3 Meals
We will begin our trek from Beshishahar with a fine view of Hiunchuli and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli), crossing some suspension bridges that will reach Bhulbhule eventually. The walk continues to Ngadi village where we will be stopping for the lunch. We pass through multiple waterfalls through the riverbank before we reach Bahundanda for the overnight stay.
day
5

Trek to Chamje (1,410m/4,626ft) 5-6 hrs walk

5-6 Hrs Tea House Chamje 3 Meals
After breakfast, the trek will descend to Syange village, where we cross fields and local villages. A short downhill walk brings us to the Syange village after crossing a long suspension bridge. Our trek continues gradually uphill from the river. We take the last steep climb to get to Jagat for a lunch stop. We choose an hour further walk on a rocky path & long scenic waterfall across the river to reach finally the Chamje for an overnight stop.
day
6

Trek to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft) 5-6 hrs walk

5-6 Hrs Tea House Dharapani 3 Meals
We will begin our short walk from Chamje which further brings us to a suspension bridge over the raging Marshyangdi river. After crossing the bridge, we will take another steep climb for another 2-3 hours till we reach the village named Tal which is a village situated on the gorge valley by the side of the river Marshyangdi. The place is decorated with a beautiful waterfall & sandy spread river. The further trek follows the upstream up to the Dharapani, which is through the rocky trails and crossing a few suspension bridges. We get to stop at small teashops bringing us to the large village at Dharapani for the overnight at the hotel.
day
7

Trek to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft) 6-7 hrs walk

6-7 Hrs Tea House Chame 3 Meals
We will continue our trek further to Chame. We will experience the changing vegetation, people, and landscape. The air gets cooler, and the trail climbs through pine forests to Bagarchhap going further. We then reach the first village on the trek with typical Tibetan architecture. After a pleasant walk to Bagarchhap, the altitude will gain slowly as we come to Danaque. The alpine region passing through farms, orchards, and beautiful pine forests with views of the towering peaks of Lamjung and Annapurna II are the major attraction on the day. The trail follows the river Marshyangdi upstream passing by the Tamang villages that brings us to the Chame after a half-hour walk. Overnight at the hotel.
day
8

Trek to Pisang (3,200m/10,496ft) 5-6 hrs walk

5-6 Hrs Tea House Pisang 3 Meals
The trail leads from the other side of the river on the northern bank passing through pine woods and small villages with few ups and downs till we reach the orchard village of Bhartang for the apple garden. We will continue on the gradual path up to a bridge. From the bridge, it's a short steep climb through the pine forest that will eventually bring you to the top of the ridge of Dhukur Pokhari for the lunch. After walking out of the tree line, we will get a great view of Pisang peak on the north and Chulu peak below the village. We will then head towards our shelter for the day at the windswept village of Pisang overnight. In the evening, we visit upper Pisang Village and monastery with a panoramic view of the Annapurna range and valley.
day
9

Trek to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft) 4-5 hrs walk

4-5 Hrs Tea House Manang 3 Meals
The trek starts with a pleasant walk through the pine forest and the scenic view. The walk climbs gently up for half an hour till we reach the top. We stop at a ridge to get our first view of the Manang valley. This grand spot offers spectacular views of the Humde village with its short airstrip and the great peaks of Gangapurna, Annapurna II & III, Tilicho, and Chulu. The walk pleasant continues from Humde and we finally reach the Braga village. We can observe the traditionally built Tibetan style of houses and monasteries in the Braga village. The famous monastery has an outstanding display of statues, Thanka paintings, and religious manuscripts that can be visited if we have enough time. We ascend another hour's walk to Manang for the overnight.
day
10

Acclimatization day at Manang (3,500m/11,482ft)

Tea House Manang 3 Meals
We will take a full day to acclimatize and explore Manang. Manang is a village of about 500 flat-roofed houses with a picturesque set amongst some spectacular scenery -Annapurna II, Annapurna III (7,555 meters), Gangapurna (7,454 meters) to the South - Tilicho (7,132 meters), and the Grand Barrier to the West - Chulu West (6,583 meters) and Chulu East (6,059 meters) to the North. After exploring and relaxing for a day completely at Manang, we will visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in the evening.
day
11

Trek to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft) 3-4 hours walk

3-4 Hrs Tea House Yak Kharka 3 Meals
We will start the trail from Manang which thoroughly leads us to a slow climb up for an hour. We will then reach Tenki Manang which opens up to a very enclosed view of the Annapurna, Gangapurna, and Tilicho peak. The track will gently wind up offering inspiring views and through terrains with juniper bushes as the only surviving vegetation around this region. We reach Yak-Kharka for the overnight stay.
day
12

Trek to Throng Phedi (4,400m/14,432) 3-4 hrs walk

3-4 Hrs Tea House Throng Phedi 3 Meals
We will start our trek at a slow and own pace to get to Phedi. After walking for an hour, we will reach Ledar, from where we continue to climb along the east bank of the Jordan Khola. The walk will then descends and crosses the stream on a suspension bridge where we stop to get a tea break at a small teashop. The wonderful view we intake during our tea break is then followed by a narrow path across a high, unstable slope before we head to Thorong Phedi for the overnight stay. Phedi is a common Nepali name for any settlement at the bottom of a long climb which also means foot of the hills
day
13

Trek to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) via Throng La (5,416m/17,765 ft) 7-8 hrs walk

7-8 Hrs Tea House Muktinath 3 Meals
This day can be one of the longest and hardest days of the whole trip, so, be prepared beforehand. We will start our walk early in the morning taking away a packed lunch with us. The trail starts with a certain steep initially till we reach the high camp. We will continue our walk which must be at our own pace as the walk goes a long way. We will move further to view the beautiful sunrise and glimpse of the majestic mountains. Our walk will continue to the top which might take us about 3-4 hrs or even more. We will reach the top of Throng which will certainly provide us with a great feeling of victory. You can take a short break for picturesque scenery. We then continue the walk down to the Mustang and the Kaligandaki Valley located far below the West. Finally, after a 7-8 hours long walk, we make it to Muktinath where we stay for the overnight at the lodge.
day
14

Trek to Marpha (2,670m/8,760ft) 6-7 hrs walk

6-7 Hrs Tea House Marpha 3 Meals
We will visit the holy temple, Muktinath in the morning and continue our journey descending to the Kaligandaki river valley floor. We will take a brief stop at Ekle Bhatti which is also famously known as a lonely teahouse. From here, the valley gets a very windy path, and the walk follows the gentle trail for another two hours till we get to the large town of Jomsom. Jomsom is the headquarter of the Mustang region that also has a small airstrip just above the Kaligandaki River. After lunch at Jomsom, we will take two hours of further easy walk towards south east that brings us to Marpha. Marpha is a little gem in the place that is present with whitewashed houses, paved streets, and numerous well-kept lodges. You will have time to celebrate with the local apple products like cider, brandy, and juice, and dinner with apple pie. We stay for the night at Marpha.
day
15

Trek to Ghasa (2,120m/6,955ft) 6-7 hrs walk

6-7 Hrs Tea House Ghasa 3 Meals
The walk is very enjoyable on this day as it follows the Kaligandaki river. The walk takes us to another charming village at Tukuche. The Tukuche village is close to the Tukuche Peak and Dhaulagiri Peak with spectacular views of Mt. Nilgiri. After a couple of hour walk from Tukuche, we continue the trek down to Kalolpani village for lunch. Kalolpani is another lovely village with more than 30 houses that also consists of excellent tea houses and lodges providing a grandeur view of Mt. Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri above the beautiful pine forest. After two hours of easy downhill walk, we reach a long-settled Thakali village for an overnight stay at one of the lodges.
day
16

Trek to Tatopani (1,200m/3,937ft) 4-5 hrs walk

4-5 Hrs Tea House Tatopani 3 Meals
Continuing the trek, the route dramatically changes the vegetation, from a dry, arid desert to pine and conifer forests, as we pass between two giant peaks of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna. You might also notice a change in the architectural style going from Ghasa the southern end of the area to the settlement of Thakali people at Tatopani. The ornately carved woodwork is evidence of the change in the architecture. This pleasant walk amidst the beautiful surrounding continues back to the terraced paddy fields. Going into the warm sub-tropical climate to the village of Tatopani, we will also pass through the beautiful waterfalls of Rupse waterfall. We will come down through the Dana village (also known as the deepest gorge in the world). After lunch, we will walk for a couple of hours to get to Tatopani. We can take a natural hot spring bath in the place. You can explore the local place before our overnight stay at the hotel.
day
17

Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft) 5-6 hrs walk

5-6 Hrs Tea House Ghorepani 3 Meals
We will start the trek after a stay at Tatopani. The trek begins after we cross a suspension bridge over the Kaligandaki River. The path will then lead by the river for a while till we arrive at the junction of the two trails. The other wide path follows the river to Beni. We divert from here taking the left uphill climb. Initially, the climb is quite steep to the top, which will continue till we reach the farms and village. We will experience a gradual climb that leads us most of the day. Leaving behind the terraced fields and walking through the dense rhododendron forests, we will reach the beautifully scenic valley, Ghorepani for the overnight stay at one of the teahouses in the place.
day
18

Short hike to PoonHill and trek to Tadapani (2,710m/8,891ft) 5-6 hrs walk

5-6 Hrs Tea House Tadapani 3 Meals
We will start an early hike in the early morning. The hike will go for about 40-minute leading us to Poon Hill (3,210m/10,530ft). The route will offer a glimpse of the pleasant rhododendron forest. The place consists of a brilliant viewpoint that provides us with an unobstructed sunrise over the high Himalayas and the wide range of panoramic scenery from the far western Himalayas of Dolpo, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna including Mt. Machhapuchre (Fish Tail) and to Manasalu. After having a great time, we will return to Ghorepani for breakfast and continue the trek to Tadapani overnight.
day
19

Trek to Pokhara (823m/2,700ft) 5 hrs walk & 1 hrs drive

Hotel Pokhara Breakfast & Lunch
As this day is the last day trek of the trek, you can immerse yourself to finish quickly. The trek will lead with a steep descent through scenic landscapes and local villages. We will stop by the Ghandruk village for the lunch. Ghandruk is a heavily settled and modern Gurung village in Nepal. We follow an easy path that takes us to Birethanthi, which is the confluence of the Modi and Bhurungdi Rivers. We will reach Nayapul after half an hour flat walk. Our long trek will end here. We drive back to Pokhara lakeside for the Overnight stop. You can explore the remaining time roaming around the surrounding lake side area or simply relax at the heart of Lake Town.
day
20

Drive back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft) 5-6 hrs drive

5-6 Hrs Hotel Kathmandu Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
Day 20: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft) 5-6 hrs drive We will take an early morning drive back to Kathmandu by private vehicle enjoying the beautiful Nepalese countryside. We will check in at the hotel once we arrive in Kathmandu. We can enjoy the rest of the time relaxing or exploring the surrounding areas. Overnight at the hotel.
day
21

Departure from Kathmandu

20 Minutes Breakfast
On the last day of the trip, you can go for any last-minute shopping for souvenirs or gifts for your family, friends, or relatives for you until your departure flight/drive. You can also commence any extra trips or activities you may have booked with us. If you are good to go, you'll be transferred to the International Airport for your departure flight. We wish you a wonderful Himalayan adventure with us!

Annapurna Circuit Trek Altitude Chart

Metres above sea level

Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days altitude chart

What's covered

Inclusions & exclusions

Trip includes

  • All airport and hotel transportation by private vehicle in Kathmandu as per the itinerary suggested.
  • Deluxe twin-sharing accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (Alcoholic beverages are excluded)
  • Kathmandu to Besishahar & Pokhara to Kathmandu travel cost.
  • Full board meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) during the trek
  • Seasonal fruits during the trek are provided
  • Comfortable & clean accommodation on teahouse/lodge/tent during the trek
  • Government Registered Trek guide (English speaking, First Aid and eco trained), Sherpa porter (one porter for two trekkers)
  • All necessary paper works, Annapurna entry fee, permits & TIMS card
  • Four seasonal sleeping bags, Nepal Vision Treks duffel bag, and trekking map (sleeping bag to be returned after trip completion)
  • First aid exclusive medical kit bag
  • All government and local taxes

Trip excludes

  • Visa fees (You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu so (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs)) International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara except for welcome & fare well dinner (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled plan)
  • Any extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary plan
  • Travel and rescue insurance

Dates & Prices

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FAQ’s

What travelers often ask

How long is the trek to Annapurna Circuit Trek?
For a beginner trekker, the trek takes about 22 days. Some can climb within 12-16 days to their physical health. Hence, it takes nearly 21 days on average.
Do I need a sleeping bag on the trek to Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, you will need a winter sleeping bag to handle the low-freezing temperature during the trek to Annapurna Circuit. This is the most needed thing to stay away from the cold.
Is the Annapurna Circuit worth going to?
Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is very worth going. Despite the vehicle road construction along the way and the difficulties you will face, the trek will be worth going after the beauty you will be blessed with in the trail and destination.
How much does it cost for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The cost ranges from 1650 USD to 1850 USD per person for the Annapurna Circuit Trek for 21 days. The cost differs on the number of days taken for the climb.
Is a guide needed for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Unlike other trekking regions, the Annapurna Circuit Trek can be guided without guides too. You must be more prepared and ready to trek alone as you will be walking for many days in the Himalayan region with the extreme weather.
How cold is Annapurna Circuit?
During Autumn, the temperature at the Annapurna Base Camp is 5-10 degrees Celsius on average. With the increase in height, the temperature may range to minus 20 degrees Celsius also.
What is the time to trek to the Annapurna Circuit?
The best time for you to trek will be in September, October, and November. You can start at the very end of September, during the autumn, which will be the most favorable time to trek the Annapurna Circuit.
What is the Annapurna Circuit trek?
The Annapurna Circuit is a popular trek in Nepal that circumnavigates the Annapurna mountain range. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, varied landscapes, and a glimpse into the unique culture of the Himalayan people.
How long does it take to complete the Annapurna Circuit trek?
The Annapurna Circuit trek usually takes about 20 days to complete, including rest days. However, it can be done in as little as 15 days or as long as 25 days, depending on your pace and itinerary.
What should one pack for the Annapurna Region trek?
It is essential to pack essential trekking gear such as sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a backpack, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a sleeping bag. A good quality trekking pole is also highly recommended.
Is it necessary to have a guide or porter while trekking to the Annapurna region?
While it is not mandatory to have a guide or porter while trekking to the Annapurna region, it is highly recommended. A guide can assist you in navigation, communication with locals, and ensuring that you follow the correct trail, while a porter will carry your bags, easing the load on your back.
What are the risks involved in trekking to Annapurna Region? The risks involved in trekking to ABC include altitude sickness, physical injuries, and the possibility of natural disasters such as landslides or avalanches. However, with proper preparation and guidance, these risks can be minimized.
What is the best time of year to trek the Annapurna Circuit?
The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, the skies are clear, and the views are stunning. However, trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to the heavy rainfall.
Do I need a sleeping bag on the trek to Annapurna Circuit?
How long is the trek to Annapurna Circuit Trek?
For a begginer trekker the trek takes about 22 days. Some can climb within 12-16days as their physical health. Hence, it takes nearly 21 days on average.
How much does it costs for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The cost ranges from 1100 USD to 1500 USD per person for the Annapurna Circuit Trek for 21 days. The cost differs on the number of days taken for the climb.
Is a guide needed for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Unlike other trekking regions, the Annapurna Circuit Trek can be guided without the guides too. You must be more prepared and ready to trek alone as you will be walking many days in the Himalayan region with the extreme weather.
How cold is Annapurna Circuit?
During Autumn, the temperature at the Annapurna Base Camp is 5-10 degree Celsius on an average. With the increase in height, the temperature may ranges to minus 20 degree Celsius also.
What is the time to trek to the Annapurna Circuit?
The best time for you to trek will be on September, October and November. You can start at the very end of September, during the autumn, which will be the most favorable time to trek the Annapurna Circuit.

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