Treking Annapurna circuit
Also known as: Annapurna Round / Thorong La Pass Trek / Thorong La Circuit





Table of contents
Distances
- 14 - 21 days, 230 km, +4,000 m, 5,400 m high point
- daily: 4 - 8 hours, 10 - 20 km, +500 - 1,200 m gain
Route
- through hike
- starting in Besisahar
- ending in Nayapul
Cost
- $1,000 - $1,500 solo
When to go
- March and April
- October and November
Permits
- 2 permits are needed
- costing around $42 total
Guide mandatory?
- no
Accommodation
Teahouses, Guesthouses, Luxury LodgesThese are pictures taken while trekking Annapurna circuit. They're shown here to give you an idea of what the route is like. You're welcome to share your own pictures of hiking Annapurna circuit, to help the community of hikers. Picture here are either uploaded by members (their own, or creative commons pictures), or guides.
Drive to Besisahar, Trek to Bhulbhule (840 m)
Trek to Jagat (1,300 m)
Trek to Dharapani (1,960 m)
Trek to Chame (2,670 m)
Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300 m)
Trek to Manang (3,540 m)
Acclimatization Day in Manang (3,540 m)
Trek to Yak Kharka (4,110 m)
Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,450 m)
Cross Thorong La Pass, Trek to Muktinath (3,800 m)
Trek to Marpha (2,670 m)
Trek to Kalopani (2,530 m)
Trek to Tatopani (1,190 m)
Trek to Ghorepani (2,860 m)
Hike to Poon Hill, Trek to Tadapani (2,630 m)
Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m)
Trek to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara
Return to Kathmandu
The trek is 5 / 10, based on the below factors:
Treks that involve rugged or uneven terrain, such as rocky paths, scree slopes, or dense forests, may require more technical skills or physical effort.
Considering the maximum altitude reached during the trek. Higher altitudes can present challenges like thin air, low oxygen levels, and potential altitude sickness.
The total distance of the trek. Longer treks generally require more endurance and physical fitness.
Total elevation gain throughout the trek. Treks with significant altitude changes can be more challenging, especially if they involve steep ascents or descents.
Some treks may require basic technical skills like river crossings, using ropes, or scrambling over rocks.
Based on the availability of support facilities such as accommodation, food, water sources, and emergency services. Treks with limited infrastructure or remote areas can be more challenging due to self-sufficiency requirements. The less support facilities there are the harder the trek.
How tough are the prevailing weather and climate conditions during the trek. Harsh weather, extreme temperatures, or unpredictable conditions can add to the difficulty.
Annapurna circuit weather
How is the weather on Annapurna circuit, and when is the best time to go.
The best time to trek Annapurna circuit is in these months:
- Mar
- Apr
- Oct
- Nov
Annapurna circuit Gear Packing List
What To Take to trek Annapurna circuit
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Hiking pants (convertible to shorts recommended)
- Fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
- Gloves or mittens
- Warm hat or beanie
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Hiking boots (broken in)
- Gaiters (optional)
- Sandals or camp shoes (optional)
- Backpack (50-70 liters)
- Sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C)
- Sleeping pad or mat
- Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
- Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
- Water bottles or hydration system (2-3 liters capacity)
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Snacks and energy bars
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
- Towel (quick-dry recommended)
- Camera and extra batteries/memory cards
- Cash (Nepalese rupees and/or USD)
- First-aid kit (including any personal medications)
Annapurna circuit Services
Gear rental, porters, guides, transport, internet, accommodation
Accommodation
There are teahouses and lodges available along the route, offering basic to moderate accommodation options.Food
Food is available along the route and typically consists of local Nepalese cuisine and international dishes.Guides
Experienced local guides are available and can cost around $25 to $35 per day, depending on the services they offer and the level of experience they have.Porters
Porters are available to carry your backpack and other trekking gear, and they typically cost around $15 to $20 per day.Medical facilities
Basic medical services are available at some of the larger villages along the route, but it is advisable to bring your own first aid kit and any necessary medication.Gear rental
You can rent trekking gear in Kathmandu or Pokhara, including sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking poles. It is also possible to buy gear at some of the villages along the route.Transport
Transportation options include flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a bus ride to the starting point of the trek. There are also public buses and private jeeps available.Internet / Phone
Connectivity is limited along the route, with some teahouses offering Wi-Fi for a fee. It is advisable to bring a local SIM card and a backup power bank.ATMs
ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but there are none along the route, so it is advisable to carry enough cash for the entire trek.Shops
There are shops available along the route, selling basic trekking gear, snacks, and souvenirs.Annapurna circuit Accomodation
What is the accommodation like treking Annapurna circuit
The Annapurna Circuit offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From cozy guesthouses to teahouses, you'll find a range of choices along the trek. Prices typically include meals, and availability may vary depending on the season.
- Teahouses: Teahouses are the most common type of accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit. They offer basic rooms with shared facilities. Prices range from $5 to $20 per night.
- Guesthouses: Guesthouses provide more comfort and privacy compared to teahouses. They offer private rooms with attached bathrooms. Prices range from $15 to $50 per night.
- Luxury Lodges: For those seeking a more luxurious experience, there are a few luxury lodges available along the route. These lodges provide upscale amenities and services. Prices start from $80 per night.
Annapurna circuit permits
What permits are needed for treking Annapurna circuit
1. ACAP Permit
- $25 (~3,000 in the local currency)
- This permit is issued by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project and covers conservation and entry fees.
- Can be obtained at the check post in Besisahar or at the ACAP office in Kathmandu.
2. TIMS Card
- $17 (~2,000 in the local currency)
- This permit is issued by the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal and covers trekker's information and security.
- Can be obtained at the TAAN office in Kathmandu or at the checkpoint in Besisahar.
Annapurna circuit access - getting there
How to get to Annapurna circuit
- Private car: This is a popular option for those who want a more comfortable and flexible journey. Prices vary depending on the distance and number of passengers, but it usually takes around 7-8 hours to get to the start of the trek from Kathmandu.
- Local bus: The most affordable option for getting to the start of the trek. It can be a bit crowded and uncomfortable, but it's a great way to experience local culture. The journey takes around 10-12 hours from Kathmandu.
- Jeep: A good option for those who want to travel in a group. It's faster than a local bus, but more expensive. The journey takes around 7-8 hours from Kathmandu.
- Flight: The fastest and most convenient option for getting to the start of the trek. Flights operate from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Jomsom, which are both close to the start of the trek. However, flights can be expensive and weather-dependent.
- Taxi: Taxis are available from both Pokhara and Jomsom to the start of the trek. However, they can be quite expensive.
- Porter services: Some trekking agencies offer porter services that include transportation to the start of the trek. This can be a good option for those who want to hire a porter for the trek.
These are variations on the typical route. Which could be added on; either part way along or at the start / end to extend the trek.
Tilicho Lake
add 2 - 3 extra days
Nar Phu Valley
add 4 - 5 extra days
Poon Hill
add 2 - 3 extra days
Muktinath
add 3 - 4 extra days
Upper Mustang
add 7 - 10 extra days
Annapurna circuit questions
What to know about trekking Annapurna circuit
Common questions people have about this trek, if yours isn’t here - add it to get an answer.
Annapurna circuit Links
useful websites, Groups and communities
Groups / links with more info on the Annapurna circuit route.
Use facebook groups to find up to date info, plan trips and find trekking buddies.
These treks are similar in length, difficulty, and elevation. Offering a similar level of challenge as the Annapurna circuit trek.