Annapurna Circuit Trek 17 Days
The 17-day Annapurna Circuit trek is the most popular adventure destination in all the Himalayas and one of the most favourable trekking routes in Nepal. The trek offers stunning scenery and walking through enchanting rhododendron forests to traditional cultural villages surrounded by flora and fauna.
Read our 30 reviews on Tripadvisor (opens in a new tab)- Duration
- 17 Days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Max. altitude
- 5416M
- Best season
- Sep-Dec, Mar-May
- Region
- Annapurna
- Activity
- Trekking
Overview
Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights
- Cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest and most iconic trekking passes in Nepal.
- Experience dramatic landscape changes from lush subtropical forests to the dry alpine valleys of the Mustang region.
- Trek through traditional Himalayan villages, including Chame, Pisang, Manang, Marpha, and Muktinath, while exploring authentic mountain culture.
- Witness panoramic views of the Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Manaslu Himalayan ranges.
- Explore the beautiful Manang Valley and enjoy acclimatisation hikes with close-up views of glaciers, icefalls, and snow-covered peaks.
- Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Walk through the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge and relax in the natural hot springs at Tatopani village.
- Hike to Poon Hill for breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges before ending the trek in Pokhara.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview
The Annapurna Round, 17 days to an exciting climb towards the high Thorang-La Pass, has breathtaking views of towering Himalayan peaks. Make the Annapurna Circuit one of the world’s top ten adventure destinations, where trekkers can experience these scenic walks.
Annapurna Circuit trek is a true adventure paradise with dramatic changes in climate, vegetation, and landscapes. Walk on scenic paths with ever-present views of majestic Annapurna peaks, exploring lovely villages adorned with age-old heritage cultures. It is truly a picturesque country to enjoy the treks of fewer than 17 days, enjoying marvellous moments. Walk around the beautiful landscape scenery through the friendly gestures of the villagers en route to the Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary.
What can you expect when trekking with Himalayan Friendly on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
You can expect a fully guided, safety-oriented, and well-paced Himalayan trekking experience with Himalayan Friendly on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, where everything from logistics to acclimatisation is carefully managed by experienced local experts so you can focus on the journey through the Himalayas rather than planning challenges on the trail.
With Himalayan Friendly, the Annapurna Circuit Trek, 17 Days, is designed to follow a structured high-altitude itinerary that prioritises gradual ascent, cultural immersion, and safe crossing of the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) while ensuring you experience the full diversity of the Annapurna region.
- Experienced licensed local guides who understand altitude management, weather conditions, and trail safety across the entire Annapurna Circuit route
- Well-planned acclimatization strategy, including a dedicated rest day in Manang with optional hikes to Gangapurna Glacier and Ice Lake viewpoints
- Carefully paced trekking days (typically 4–7 hours) to match altitude gain and reduce risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
- Organized logistics, including airport transfers, Kathmandu to trailhead transport, and return travel from Pokhara or Kathmandu
- All required trekking permits, such as the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit), are arranged in advance for a smooth start
- Comfortable tea house accommodation throughout the trek with basic but clean rooms and warm local hospitality
- Full-board meals during trekking days, including traditional dal bhat, noodles, soups, pancakes, Tibetan bread, and seasonal local food
- Real-time altitude monitoring and daily guidance from guides to ensure safe progression towards Thorong La Pass
- Emergency preparedness with first-aid kits, evacuation coordination, and communication support in remote sections of the trail
- Cultural experience along the route, including Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, chortens, and interactions with Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities
- Flexibility in itinerary based on weather, trail conditions, and group fitness to ensure safety and comfort
- Expert briefing before the trek in Kathmandu, covering gear check, altitude awareness, and full route explanation
- Strong focus on responsible trekking practices within the Annapurna Conservation Area to support local communities and preserve the environment
Trip Route
The Annapurna Circuit 17-day itinerary adventure starts with an exciting drive from Kathmandu heading to Nepal’s Midwest around the lower warmer farm areas of the Lamjung district. The walk begins towards high, cool green hills to enter the high Manang areas from Tal Besi and Dharapani villages. The trail follows through lovely traditional villages lined with impressive prayer walls and Buddhist monuments to reach Manang. The perfect height for acclimatisation day and to explore the traditional village of Manang.
After Manang, on the road to the end of Manang Valley at Phedi, at the bottom of Thorang-La Pass. The next early morning, a long haul on undulating, winding uphills to the top of the Thorong-La Pass. Rewards alluring views of the surrounding snow-mountain range, then downhill to the Mustang areas, reaching Muktinath.
The holy site for Hindu followers is the temple of Muktinath, with the backdrop of Dhaulagiri Himal. From Muktinath, achieving the main highlight of the journey, crossing the high Thorang-La Pass. The journey continues through the Kaligandaki River Valley past Jomsom Town and the charming villages of Marpha and Tukuche.
Then back into a lovely forest at the lovely villages of Kalapani and Lete to reach a lower, warm village, Tatopani. This large village offers natural hot springs; hence, the name of the village is Tatopani. From here, climb towards the cooler scenic hills at Ghorepani.
The village is amidst beautiful rhododendron forests and is a popular spot for hiking to Poon Hill. Early morning hike to Poon Hill to capture the stunning sunrise views over the world’s three highest mountain ranges. Namely, the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu Himalayas; after a delightful, refreshing morning, continue the walk downhill to warmer farm country.
Reaching Bhirethati, a nice village, the trek ends for an exciting short drive to the scenic city of Pokhara. A perfect place to conclude the wonderful adventures of a great experience on the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Best Time for This Trek
The best times for Annapurna Circuit Trek, this marvellous adventure, are spring and autumn. Spring starts from March to May, and autumn begins from September to November. Spring and autumn are the most favourable seasons around the Himalayas.
Especially for the Annapurna Circuit Trekking, during spring, most days are clear for views and walks, but it can get cloudy in the afternoons sometimes. As well as cold mornings and nighttime, depending on the places around the high Manang Valley. Chances of snowfall during springtime are also low, but most days are clear for views and walks.
Autumn is the next high season for trekking around the Himalayas and the Annapurna Circuit. Most days are fine with a crystal-clear blue sky, but cold mornings, late afternoons, and nighttime are not. Can expect snowfall above 2,500 m en route to Manang and Thorong-La Pass sometimes. In autumn, days are shorter due to limited sunshine hours, a late sunrise, and it gets dark by 5 p.m.
Itinerary
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Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
On arrival at Kathmandu airport, we received our Himalayan Friendly guide and staff. A short drive to your hotels around the hub of Kathmandu in the Thamel area is an exciting place. After checking into your lovely rooms join with other members.
of Annapurna Circuit Trekking, for briefing. Provided by our guides or leaders who are Himalayan-friendly. Information of needful things to expect on treks and in Pokhara and Kathmandu, with other necessary details.
Evening a welcome dinner, in a pleasant authentic Nepalese Restaurant with culture programs. While you enjoy the famous and national food of Dal Bhat in a luxurious way to have a first night dinner.
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Day 2
In Kathmandu with half-day tour at places of interest.
A free day with options for sightseeing tours around places of interest. Kathmandu is steeped with famous World Heritage Sites of great wonders, where Hindu and Buddhist religions blend in perfect harmony.
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Day 3
Drive to Syange 800 m via Bhesishar Town 760 m-06 hrs.
Morning taking a tourist coach or smaller vehicle as per group size for overland drive. Then heading beyond Kathmandu valley towards lower warmer areas with views of snowcapped mountains. The drive continues on the main highway past farm villages and towns then heading to Nepal Mid-West. To reach the Lamjung area in Bhesishar town, from here drive continues on a rough jeep road following the Masrsyangdi River to Syange village. A nice farm village with views of waterfalls, enjoy overnight in a nice simple lodge.
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Day 4
Trek to Dharapani 1,920 m-06 hrs.
Early breakfast to start the first day of trekking, begins on a level path and then climbs higher above the river valley. The steep climb lasts for an hour to Jagat village, and from here another hour of pleasant walk to Chamje. The walk continues to cross a bridge over the Masrsyangdi River, then winding up for a few hours to reach Tal-Besi village.
Which is the entrance to the Manang district after leaving the Lamjung area. Leaving Tal, the walk gets easier on the gentle path to cross another bridge. From here a short climb to a small place with few teahouses, the walk leads to another hour then reaching Dharapani Village. A nice village, located on the mid-way of the Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit route, check into a nice lodge for an overnight stop.
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Day 5
Trek to Chame Town 2,710 m-05 hrs.
From Dharapani the vegetation, people, and landscapes change, and the air gets cooler. The trail follows through forests to Bagarchap, a nice village with typical.
Tibetan-style houses. After a pleasant morning walk, the altitude gains slowly reaching around the apple country at Dhanaqi village. Enjoy the views of Lamjung and Annapurna II peaks, the walk follows to a climb at Timang Village. A lovely view of Manaslu and Lamjung Himal, possible lunch in Timang, afternoon walk to Koto Village. From Koto an hour’s walk brings you to Chame for the overnight stop. Chame the district headquarters town of Manang areas, enjoy the comfort of a nice lodge.
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Day 6
Trek to Pisang 3,300 m-05 hrs.
The walk from Chame Town follows on the other side of the river heading into pine woods. Walking leads to Bhratang Village, as the trek continues on a gradual path to a bridge. From the bridge a short steep climb through pine forest to reach on top of a high ridge facing Pisang village down below. Enjoy the grand look of the majestic Pisang Peak. From the top downhill for an hour to reach the windswept village of Pisang for an overnight stop.
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Day 7
Trek to Manang Village 3,450 m-05 hrs.
From Pisang Village, overlooking snow-capped peaks of Pisang and Chulus peaks with Annapurna II, III, and IV. The walk climbs for half an hour to reach the top of a small hill. From the ridge top dramatic views of Manang Valley and surrounding peaks. The walk follows down to Hongde, a nice village with a small airstrip and views of Gangapurna Himal. Includes view of Annapurna II, III, Tilicho, with Chulu and Pisang peaks.
The walk from here on a gradual winding wide trail to reach Manang Village. The walk before Manang reaches Braga, having time to visit the old Braga Monastery. The largest and oldest Buddhist Monastery in the Manang area, it has an outstanding display of statues, thangkas, and religious manuscripts. From here an hour’s walk to Manang for an overnight stop in the comfort of a nice lodge for lunch and overnight stops.
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Day 8
Rest day at Manang for acclimatization with short hikes.
Enjoy an extra day in Manang for acclimatization, and explore the Manang Village of about 500 flat-roofed houses. Enjoy a short hike for an hour more to the Gangapurna Ice Fall viewpoint. A picturesque scenery of Annapurna II, Annapurna III [7,555 mtrs.], Gangapurna [7,454 mtrs.] to the South Tilicho Peak [7,132 mtrs.]. Includes views of the Chulu range of peaks. Enjoy the grand views of Gangapurna Himal Ice-Fall and glaciers at a close distance.
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Day 9
Trek to Yak Kharka 4,110 m-04 hrs.
After a pleasant stop in Manang, today a short walk to Yak Kharka, but the gain in altitude, makes the walk longer. The trail follows with a slow climb for an hour, with inspiring views of the Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peaks. Including the close views of Chulu’s peaks, the trail heads up towards a barren windswept country. After a scenic good morning walk reach Yak-Kharka for lunch and overnight halt.
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Day 10
Trek to High Camp 4,440 m via Thorang Phedi-04 hrs.
The trail from here leads to a slow climb, after a small place of Ledar, the track gently winds up. The short down to a river with a steep climb, then on a gentle pleasant path to Thorang Phedi for a short rest. From Phedi, the bottom of Thorang-La Pass, an hour-long climb to High Camp for lunch and overnight stop.
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Day 11
Trek to Muktinath 3,800m via Thorang-la 5,416m-07 hrs.
Starting early morning, after breakfast, to reach on top of Thorang-La Pass, walk on a level path. Then winding up to a steep climb for an hour or more reaching a small glacial pond. From here an hour or more to reach Thorang-La, the highest point of the adventure. Enjoy the stunning panorama of the Himalayan range of peaks, the pass forms the boundary of the Manang and Mustang districts.
From the top, a long downhill to the base of Thorang-La Pass within the Mustang area. The walk continues for an hour to Muktinath reaching, the holiest of all holy places. During auspicious times as per the Hindu calendar, this holy site is flooded with pilgrims from Nepal and India. Overnight in a nice lodge in the village just below Muktinath Temple premises.
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Day 12
Drive to Tatopani 1,2090m-04 hrs.
After Muktinath, the journey carries on taking a drive to Tatopani Village with a drop of 1,200m towards Kaligandaki River valley. The drive leads through the large town of Jomsom, the headquarters of the Mustang district. Then to Marpha, with white-washed houses, famous for delicious apples and products. The drive continues past Tukuche village, then reaching Kalapani and Lete back into green woodland.
Facing tremendous views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri’s peaks then through the world’s deepest gorge of Kaligandaki River. Slowly the drive ends on reaching Tatopani Village past the Ghasa end of the Mustang area and the beautiful waterfalls of Rupsi. Tatopani (Hot Spring) village with sub-tropic climate and vegetation, after checking into a nice lodge. Enjoy the day with a refreshing dip in the hot spring pools just by the bank of Kaligandaki River.
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Day 13
Trek to Ghorepani 2,850 m-07 hrs.
After a wonderful time at Tatopani, the trek continues crossing a bridge over the Kaligandaki River. Then route diverts with the climb, to a terraced hillside around farms and villages. The walk leads into dense rhododendron forest to Chitre, and from here continues the climb to Ghorepani for an overnight stop. Located amidst a beautiful Rhododendrons forest at the base of Poon Hill.
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Day 14
Hike to Poon Hill 3,210 m and trek to Bhirethati 1,210 m-07 hrs.
Morning an hour hike up to Poon-Hill for stunning sunrise views with a panorama of Dhaulagiri-Annapurna and Manaslu Himal range. After a refreshing morning with eye-catching views, back to Ghorepani for breakfast. From Ghorepani walk follows downhill through a lovely forest to reach Ulleri Village for lunch. Afternoon downhill past Thirkhedhunga Village with beautiful waterfalls to reach lower warm farm areas. Then reach another lovely village at Bhirethati for an overnight in a nice lodge.
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Day 15
Drive to Pokhara 860m and transfer to hotel near Phewa Lake-03 hrs.
After a lovely morning at Bhirethati, they took a few hours’ drive to Pokhara for the last overnight stop. The hotel is located by the serene Phew Lake with time for a walk around the Lakeside.
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Day 16
Drive back to Kathmandu-06 hrs.
After a glorious time on Annapurna Circuit trekking, depart Pokhara after breakfast overland journey to Kathmandu. Takes nearly six hours of interesting drive, and the journey heads beyond Pokhara towards Trisuli River. On leaving the Trisuli River and lower warm farm villages and town, the drive heads on winding uphill to Kathmandu. On arrival at the city area, transfer to respective hotels for final overnight in Nepal and Kathmandu.
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Day 17
International departure homeward bound.
Depart from the hotel, as time for your international flight, transfer to Kathmandu and Nepal International Airport. Then bid farewell to Nepal and guide, after a memorable experience in Nepal with Annapurna Circuit Trekking.
What’s Included
Cost includes
- Airport Pick up and drip off
- International and domestic Airport pick-up and drop by private car.
- Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
- One night's accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star hotel in Pokhara
- An english speaking and licensed trekking guide
- Experiance trekking guide
- Good Porter (1 porter for two people)
- Kathmandu to syankhe by public bus
- Muktinatha to Tatopani by public bus
- Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation by tourist bus
- Three meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Seasonal fresh fruits desert every day
- Best available twin-sharing room for accommodation during the trek
- Annapurna conservation area permit
- Down jacket, and four seasonal sleeping bags, use while trekking
- Trekking map
- Basic Medical Kits
Cost excludes
- International airfares
- Your Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Cold drinks such as beers, coke,juice and drining water
- Your travel insurance and evacuation
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a moderate to challenging trek, mainly due to long walking days and high altitude crossing at Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Most fit trekkers can complete it with proper preparation, but altitude and weather make it more demanding than shorter Himalayan treks.
Can beginners do the 17 days Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes, beginners can complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek if they have decent fitness and follow a well-paced itinerary with proper acclimatisation. The key challenge is altitude, not technical difficulty, and a guided trek greatly improves safety and comfort.
How cold is Thorong La Pass?
Temperatures at Thorong La Pass can drop to -10°C to -20°C depending on the season. Early morning crossings are extremely cold with strong winds, requiring proper layered clothing and insulation.
How much does the Annapurna Circuit Trek 17 dayscost?
The trek typically costs between USD 895 and USD 1,400 per person, depending on group size and services. Solo trekkers pay more, while larger groups get lower per-person rates.
Price from: US $1010 per person.
Group pricing:
1 Person: US $1400
2 Persons: US $1010
3–4 Persons: US $990
5–7 Persons: US $960
8–10 Persons: US $895
Is the Annapurna Circuit harder than Everest Base Camp?
Yes, the Annapurna Circuit is generally considered more physically demanding due to the longer trekking distance and the high pass crossing. Everest Base Camp has a higher sustained altitude, but Annapurna requires more endurance overall.
Do I need a guide for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes, a guide is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and altitude management. Guides also assist with permits, local communication, and emergency support in remote areas.
Is WiFi available on the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes, WiFi is available in most tea houses, but it becomes weaker at higher altitudes. Connectivity is better in lower villages like Manang and Jomsom compared to higher regions.
What is the hardest day on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The hardest day is crossing Thorong La Pass from Thorong Phedi or High Camp to Muktinath. It involves a very early start, a steep ascent, extreme altitude, and a long descent.
Can I add Tilicho Lake to the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes, Tilicho Lake can be added as a 2–3 day extension from Manang. It is a challenging but highly rewarding side trip to one of the highest lakes in the world.
Why should I book the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Himalayan Friendly?
Book with Himalayan Friendly for a safe, well-organised, and locally guided trekking experience focused on acclimatisation and authentic Himalayan travel.
What is included in the Annapurna Circuit Trek package by Himalayan Friendly?
The package includes permits, licensed guides, trekking support staff, accommodation, meals during trekking, and full logistics management.
How does Himalayan Friendly ensure safety during the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Safety is ensured through gradual acclimatisation, experienced guides, emergency preparedness, and flexible itinerary adjustments based on altitude and weather conditions.
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