Annapurna Circuit Trek
Small Group Journeys

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Encircling the Annapurna Massif

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Annapurna Circuit Trek: Adventure, Culture & Natural Splendor

The Annapurna Circuit Trek remains a premier adventure for those craving a comprehensive Himalayan experience. Encircling the mighty Annapurna Massif, this trek delivers a dynamic blend of mountain grandeur, cultural immersion, spiritual discovery, and physical challenge—all within a thoughtfully structured yet thrilling journey.

This route is not merely a physical journey—it unfolds as a spiritual, cultural, and natural odyssey. Trek through lush valleys and rhododendron forests, experience Tibetan-influenced villages, traverse barren high-altitude deserts, and conquer the soaring Thorong La Pass—all while being shadowed by the majestic Himalayan peaks.

Crossing Thorong La (5,416 m) marks a defining moment: a testament to your stamina and spirit. The reward? Sweeping panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, and Tilicho Peak. After the pass, the terrain shifts dramatically as you descend into the Mustang region—a high Tibetan-flavored landscape of arid valleys, wind-sculpted monasteries, and time-frozen villages.

Wind Horse Tours brings this epic trek to life through expert logistics, genuine cultural connection, and attention to your pace. Each day brings a sense of achievement, each village a story to hear, and each vista a vivid memory.

Why do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

  • Jaw-Dropping Mountain Panoramas: Revel in uninterrupted views of towering Himalayan giants—Annapurna I (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Machhapuchhre (“Fishtail”), Manaslu, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.
  • Spectacular Landscape Diversity: Journey through a full ecological corridor—from subtropical jungles and rice terraces, up through rhododendron and pine forests, then into alpine deserts and the Tibetan plateau .
  • Iconic High-Point: Thorong La Pass-Ascend one of the world’s highest trekking passes (5,416 m), arriving at a 360° Himalayan panorama—an unforgettable symbol of personal triumph .
  • Authentic Cultural Encounters: Experience life in Gurung, Thakali, Manangi, Magar, and Tibetan-influenced villages. Meet warm-hearted residents, visit monasteries and stupas, spin prayer wheels, and pay respects at the sacred Muktinath Temple—a revered site for both Hindus and Buddhists

Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights

  • Thorong La Pass: The trek’s climactic highlight, offering sweeping mountain vistas and a true test of endurance
  • Manang Village: An ideal acclimatization hub with Tibetan-style settlements, monasteries, local farm life, yak-cheese workshops, and side hikes to Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake.
  • Milarepa’s Cave: A sacred meditative cave at 4,100 m near Braga, associated with the 11th century Tibetan saint Milarepa—offering spiritual depth and panoramic views
  • Braga Monastery: A 500 year old gompa perched above Braga, showcasing striking thangkas, prayer wheels, and a monastic atmosphere of reflection
  • Muktinath Temple: Situated at 3,800 m, this spiritual gem features the sacred 108 spouts, an eternal flame, and deep reverence across Buddhist and Hindu traditions
  • Kali Gandaki Gorge: Trek through one of the deepest gorges in the world, flanked by Annapurna and Dhaulagiri—an astounding natural spectacle
  • Tilicho Lake (Optional ): Visit one of the world’s highest glacial lakes (4,919 m), with pristine alpine waters that reflect surrounding peaks

Crafted for Adventurers with Heart and Pace

  • Balanced Itinerary: With acclimatization stopovers, thoughtful pacing, and opportunities for side hikes such as Milarepa’s Cave or Gangapurna Lake.
  • Local Connection: Stay in tea houses and small lodges run by villagers, savor home-cooked meals, and support community-led conservation.
  • Guided by Experts: Licensed local guides and attentive support ensure a safe, insightful, and comfortable trekking experience.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is more than a journey—it’s a life-enriching odyssey. From whispering prayer flags to mountain-sized panoramas; from spiritual retreat to cultural immersion, it offers a transformational experience that lingers long after your return.

Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary

Day 1. Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2. In Kathmandu
Day 3. Drive from Kathmandu to Tal
Day 4. Drive from Tal to Manang
Day 5. In Manang (exploration day)
Day 6. In Manang (exploration day)
Day 7. Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
Day 8. Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Day 9. Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (via the Thorong La pass)
Day 10. Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara
Day 11. Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 12. Departure

Overview

trekking Trip Type Trekking
Activities Included Activities Included
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4* category hotel in Kathmandu, tourist standard hotel in Manang, and tea house lodge/guest house during the trek
Meal Meal Only breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara while all meals are included during the trek
Best Seasons Best Seasons Best during Spring and fall
Route Route Kathmandu-Tal-Manang-Yak Kharka-Thorong Phedi-Muktinath-Pokhara-Kathmandu
  Best Months Best Months March, April, May, October, November

Good Months Good Months February, September

Lean Months Lean Months June, July, August

Not Recommended Months Not Recommended Months January, December

Cost Information

Price starts from US$1180-US$2150 depending upon the number of traveler.

Included

  • All transfers by private vehicle.
  • 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu and 1 night in Pokhara in 3-4* category hotels.
  • 3 nights’ accommodation in tea house lodge & 3 nights accommodation in tourist standard hotel during the trek.
  • Only breakfast during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with coffee/tea during the trek.
  • One welcome or farewell dinner with a cultural performance in Kathmandu.
  • 1 full day guided city tour in Kathmandu.
  • English-speaking licensed trekking guide along with a porter (1 porter for every two trekkers).
  • One way airfare between Pokhara-Kathmandu.
  • First aid kit and duffel bag.
  • Trekking staff accommodation, wages, meals, trekking gears, and insurance.
  • All necessary paperwork and permits for the trek (ACAP/TIMS card).
  • All government tax and service charges.

Not included

  • Nepal Visa.
  • International airfare.
  • Meals other than listed (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, bar, beverages).
  • Bottled/boiled water, battery recharge and Wi-Fi and hot showers during the trek.
  • Tips and gratuities to Guide, Porter and driver.
  • Travel medical insurance covering rescue and emergency evacuation.
  • Personal trekking gears and equipment’s.
  • Trip cancellation cost due to your health, weather condition, political situation, and any other unforeseen events.
  • Any other expenses other than the listed above.

Detailed Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, a Wind Horse representative will meet and greet you before transferring you to your hotel. No activities are planned for this day, so you will have the rest of the day at your leisure until the evening. Later in the evening, your trip guide will meet you and present you with a brief orientation about the trek. After the briefing, you will enjoy dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant with a cultural performance. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Day 2:

In Kathmandu

Today, you will visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.

Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the three Durbar (palace) squares in Kathmandu valley. Kathmandu Durbar Square is rich with its intricate wood carving and its history. Also known as the “Musuem of Temples” there are over 50 temples in the square. You will explore the area around the former palace of the kings of Nepal, viewing various temples and monuments.

Following this, you will drive to Boudanath Stupa. Boudanath Stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and also a World Heritage Site. Boudanath signifies peace and tranquility, and is a Centre of religious and spiritual significance. You will see thousands of pilgrims circumambulating the stupa, you will circumambulate with pilgrims and visit the surrounding monasteries.

Afterward, you will proceed to Pashupatinath Temple. The Pashupatinath temple is situated on the banks of the Bagmati river and is one of the most revered Hindu temple in Nepal. The main temple complex is only open to Hindus. Although non Hindus are not allowed the temple complex is large and quite impressive. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Day 3:

Drive to from Kathmandu to Tal

The journey from Kathmandu to Tal via Besisahar presents breathtaking views of the Nepalese countryside. The road follows the Marshyangdi river and takes you through charming villages such Bulbule, Ngadi, Syange, Jagat, Chyamje, to Tal.

Tal is a picturesque village situated in an open valley on the banks of the Marshyangdi river with a beautiful waterfall at the background. Overnight in Tal.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 2350m
Duration Duration: 216 kms/8-10 hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 4:

Drive from Tal to Manang

After breakfast, you will begin your journey towards Manang, the drive goes past several villages along the way such as Dharapani, Tanchowk, Chame, Bhratang, Humde, and Bhraka.

Along the way, you will stop at several places to explore around. You will explore by short walks and drives, you will explore around Tanchowk, Dharapani. You will stop by Chame, the headquarter of the Manang district, and a popular stopover in the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You will visit some local homes and experience the local culture and traditions.

Hereafter, you will continue further along the route and stop at Lower Pisang with the views of Upper Pisang on the opposite hill. You can crossover the Marshyangdi river, take a short walk and visit the green lake.

After this you will continue further and stop at Humde village. Humde is a charming village offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains such as Annapurna II, Gangapurna and other towering peaks, and the Marshyangdi river valley.

Next, you will continue further to Braga. Braga is popular for Braga monastery, an ancient monastery which holds immense cultural and religious significance in this area. You will explore the Braga Monastery, which is known for its intricate woodworks, exquisite architecture, with a notable collection of religious artifacts.

After the visit, you will continue towards Manang. Manang is situated on a broad valley on the banks of the Marshyangdi river, with the spectacular views of the surrounding mountain peaks. All trekkers trekking the Annapurna Circuit Trek or the Tilicho lake trek stop by for acclimatization in Manang. Overnight in Manang

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3519m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tourist standard hotel
Day 5:

In Manang (exploration day)

Acclimatization is crucial when trekking at high altitudes like the Thorong La Pass (5,416m). This helps the body adjust to the surrounding atmosphere and prevents altitude sickness. Manang is a perfect place for acclimatize. Manang offer a mixture of natural wonders and cultural riches, there are wide collection of lakes, waterfalls, and traditional villages.

Manang is a travelers paradise with its breathtaking landscape and tranquil surrounding. Most trekkers spend one night in Manang, whereas you will spend two nights in Manang, before heading towards Thorong La Pass. There are several options for a day’s hike from Manang, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking views.

You can hike to Praken Gompa, this is relatively a short hike compared to other hikes. Praken Gompa situated at 3945 m offers breathtaking views of the valley below and the surrounding mountians such as the Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, and others.

There is also the option to hike to Khangsar, a small Tibetan style village on the route to Tilicho lake. Khangsar provides fantastic views of Tilicho Peak. The journey takes about 2-3 hrs one way, the trail goes above the Marshyangdi river with great views. There is also the option to take a short hike and visit the Gangapurna lake, a turquoise blue lake just an hour away from Manang. Overnight in Manang

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3519m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tourist standard hotel
Day 6:

In Manang (exploration day)

For those who are more adventurous, there is the option to visit Milarepa Cave or Ice Lake for high altitude walk.

The hike to Milarepa cave is longer; it will take about 4-5 hours round trip. Milarepa cave is the place where the Tibetan saint and poet Milarepa had meditated. This cave has an immense religious value, thousands of pilgrims from Nepal, India, Bhutan, as well the neighboring Tibet visit this cave every year.

Another more popular hike from Manang is the Ice lake hike. This hike is one of the most demanding hike, it takes about 5-6 hours round trip from Manang. The climb is not that difficult but the altitude and the wind may make it difficult. Moreover, the ice lake hike will serve you as a preparation for the much longer Thorong La pass hike. Overnight in Manang.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3519m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tourist standard hotel
Day 7:

Trek from Manang to to Yak Kharka

The trek from Manang to Yak Kharka is one of the shortest in this Annapurna Circuit Trek. the trail goes with great views along the way.

Leaving Manang, you will encounter a small stream before ascending uphill toward the village of Tenki. Continuing further, you’ll gradually ascend out of the Marshyangdi Valley in a northwest direction, following the valley of Jarshang Khola.

As you continue further the landscape becomes more dry and the vegetation gets more sparser. The trail guides you through scenic meadow, offering a beautiful environment. Along the trail, you will come across yak pastures, and scrub juniper forests, past the village of Ghunsang.

After crossing a wooden bridge that spans a small river, passing by an ancient stone wall adorned with inscriptions, you will finally arrive at the small village of Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 4110m
Duration Duration: 4-5hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 8:

Trek from Manang to Thorong Phedi

The hike to Thorong Phedi isn’t strenuous in terms of technical difficulty, but the diminishing oxygen levels pose a physical demand. Initially the trail climbs out of Yak Kharka, and then it gets gradual beyond Ledar descending towards Jarshang Khola.

The valley gets more narrower and steep sided as you move forward. The landscape becomes more barren and rocky, and the views great with good views of the surrounding peaks. After about 4 hours or more you will finally arrive at Thorong Phedi.

Thorong Phedi is the last village before you cross the Thorong La Pass, therefore you will take time to acclimate and rest adequately before continuing towards the Thorong La pass. Overnight in Thorong Phedi.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 4600m
Duration Duration: 4hrs, Approx. 7kms, Ascent : 520m
Overnight Tea House
Day 9:

Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La pass

Crossing the Thorong La Pass is a challenging adventure. Starting early would be a wise decision, given the altitude and potential weather conditions. The steep ascent can present challenges, particularly with melting snow, so exercising caution we will begin your journey.

The Pass itself is not difficult, it is wide and open. The trail is wide and easy to follow, but the climb is long and gradual until Thorong La. The Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters is breathtaking. The panoramic view of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, stretching into Tibet, is a sight to behold.

Taking in some time to soak in this majestic 360-degree view and capturing the moments in your camera, you will then descend slowly towards Muktinath. Muktinath – a sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists. For the Hindus, it is the Muktichetra , the place of Nirvana. For the Buddhists it Chumig Gyatsa, which in Tibetan means Hundred Waters. Overnight in Muktinath.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3800m
Duration Duration: 8-9hrs, Approx. 15kms, Ascent : 910m
Overnight Tea House
Day 10:

Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara

Today you will head back towards Pokhara in a private jeep, past the villages of Kagbeni, Marpha, Tatopani via the Beni Jomsom road. On reaching Pokhara, you will check into your hotel and the afternoon is free to explore around the lakeside area. Overnight in Pokhara

 

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Altitude Altitude: 822m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs drive/175 kms
Day 11:

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu

After breakfast, our guide and driver will accompany you to the Pokhara airport for your departure flight to Kathmandu. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day to yourself. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Altitude Altitude: 1350 m
Day 12:

Departure

Transfer to the airport in time for your departure flight.

MEALS:
Breakfast

Group Travel Dates

Start Date
End Date
Status
Remarks
 
25 Sep, 2025
06 Oct, 2025
Open

11 Oct, 2025
22 Oct, 2025
Open

25 Oct, 2025
05 Nov, 2025
Open

FAQs

  • What makes the Annapurna Circuit Trek so special?

    The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers extraordinary ecological diversity—from lush jungles to stark alpine deserts—immersing you in authentic Himalayan culture. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of iconic peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu.

  • How difficult is this trek?

    This trek is moderately strenuous. Expect to hike 5–8 hours each day over varied terrain, with a high altitude crossing at Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). A solid level of fitness and proper acclimatization are essential for a safe and enjoyable journey.

  • When is the best season for this trek?

    The ideal times are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when skies are clear and the weather is stable. Monsoon (June–August) brings rain in lower valleys, while winter can render the pass impassable due to snowfall.

  • Is a guide or porter mandatory?

    • Guide: Yes — since late 2023, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory to ensure safety, local expertise, and smooth navigation.
    • Porter: Optional but highly recommended if you prefer not to carry a heavy backpack.

  • Is travel insurance necessary?

    Absolutely—comprehensive travel insurance is a must. It should explicitly cover high-altitude trekking, emergency medical treatment, and helicopter evacuation above 5,000 m.

  • What level of fitness should I have?

    You should be comfortably active, capable of walking 6–8 hours per day over rugged terrain, including uphill climbs. It’s best to prepare with cardiovascular workouts and strength training before your trek.

Overview

trekking Trip Type Trekking
Activities Included Activities Included
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4* category hotel in Kathmandu, tourist standard hotel in Manang, and tea house lodge/guest house during the trek
Meals Meals Only breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara while all meals are included during the trek
Route Route Kathmandu-Tal-Manang-Yak Kharka-Thorong Phedi-Muktinath-Pokhara-Kathmandu
Max Group Size Max Group Size 2-8
Best Seasons Best Seasons Best during Spring and fall
Best Months Best Months March, April, May, October, November

Good Months Good Months February, September

Lean Months Lean Months June, July, August

 Not Recommended Months Not Recommended Months January, December

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