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Price

From$2,025

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5418

16 days, 15 nights

Availability : April through June and September through December

Min Age : 15+

Max People : 12

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The classic Annapurna Circuit trek (sometimes called the “Around Annapurna trek”) circles the Annapurna massif. The Annapurna massif in north-central Nepal includes one peak over 8,000 metres (26,000 ft), thirteen peaks over 7,000 metres (23,000 ft), and sixteen more over 6,000 metres (20,000 ft). The Kali Gandaki gorge and the Marshyangdi valley encircle the massif to the west and the north respectively. And to the south is the Pokhara valley.

The Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek begins in densely forested and terraced hills, a region inhabited by Hindu groups of Nepal. The landscape past Pisang barren. You have now entered the Manang valley which falls in the Tibetan plateau. The inhabitants of the region, the Manangbas, are gypsy traders of Tibetan origin. After several rest and short days for acclimatization, head north-west over Thorung pass. At Muktinath there is a shrine revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

The Annapurna Circuit trek ends in Jomsom. A flight through the Kali Gandaki gorge brings you back to Pokhara and then to Kathmandu. You may opt to continue and complete the full circuit. There is a newly built unpaved road from Jomsom to Tatopani (3 days trek). But views of the Dhaulagiri range from here are awe-inspiring. Beyond Tatopani, ascend to Ghorepani Ridge and to Pun Hill for a 360 degree view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. This is indeed one of the most spectacular mountain viewpoints in the world! Furthermore, you could also consider continuing on to the Annapurna Base Camp.

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a lodge trek. Consequently, you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail. The quality of the lodges on this trek are comparable to those on the Everest Base Camp Trek. And quite a few of them have en suite rooms with hot showers. Furthermore, meals are also quite varied with many options including rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. Read our article about food options on lodge treks.

BEST SEASON

Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit trek are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November).

TREK RATING

The Annapurna Circuit trek is rated “STRENUOUS”. It is rated 4 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). The highest altitude reached is at Thorung La (5,416 m/17,700 ft) and the highest overnight elevation is at Thorung Phedi (4,600m/15,100 feet). Average daily hiking times is 5 to 6 hours with one long day of around 9 hours on the hike over the pass. Regardless, it is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.

WHY TREK WITH US?

All our Annapurna Circuit Treks are private treks for a minimum of two participants. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. With over 30 years of experience, most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We employ the most professional and friendly staff.

We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…

Trip at a glance

Brief Itinerary (Annapurna Circuit Trek)

Day	Description	Overnight	Altitude
Day 1	Arrival in Kathmandu	Kathmandu	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 2	Exploring Kathmandu	Kathmandu	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 3	Kathmandu to Jagat	Jagat	1,300m/4,350ft
Day 4	Jagat to Dharapani	Dharapani	1,960m/6,500ft
Day 5	Dharapani to Chame	Chame	2,700m/8,800ft
Day 6	Chame to Pisang	Pisang	3,300m/10,800ft
Day 7	Pisang to Manang	Manang	3,700m/11,600ft
Day 8	Manang	Manang	3,700m/11,600ft
Day 9	Manang to Yak Kharka	Kharka	4,110m/13,500ft
Day 10	Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi	Thorung Phedi	4,600m/15,100ft
Day 11	Thorung Phedi to Muktinath	Muktinath	3,800m/12,450ft
Day 12	Contingency day	Muktinath	3,800m/12,450ft
Day 13	Muktinath to Jomsom	Jomsom	2,743m/8,990ft
Day 14	Jomsom to Pokhara	Pokhara	827m/2,713ft
Day 15	Kathmandu	Kathmandu	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 16	Kathmandu to home

Detailed Itinerary (Annapurna Circuit Trek)

Day 1Kathmandu

Arrive Kathmandu. You will be met on arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport. Transfer to Hotel. Day Free. Enjoy welcome dinner. Briefing during dinner. (Dinner)

Day 2Kathmandu

Boudhanath (also called Boudha, Bouddhanath, Baudhanath or the Khasa Caitya) is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Located about 11 km (6.8 mi) from the center in the northeastern outskirts of Kathmandu, the stupa’s massive mandala makes it one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. The influx of large populations of refugees from Tibet has seen the construction of over 50 Tibetan Gompas (Monasteries) around Boudhanath. As of 1979, Boudhanath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Drive to Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, with its two-tiered golden roof and silver door. Shiva, meaning “The Auspicious One”, also known as Mahadeva (“Great God”), is a popular Hindu deity. Shiva is also regarded as the patron god of yoga and arts. Here, you’ll probably witness a Hindu cremation along the banks of the Bagmati River and many Asetics and Sadhus.

Continue to Patan Durbar Square which is situated in the center of Patan city and also known as Lalitpur. Patan houses the residence of the former Patan royal family. Patan Square and its surroundings is a good specimen of ancient Newari architecture. There are three main courtyards in the palace: Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk. Mul Chowk, the oldest one is at the center of Patan Durbar Square.

Return to the hotel to prepare for your Annapurna Circuit Trek. (Breakfast and Lunch)

Day 3Kathmandu to Jagat (4,350 ft.)

We leave Kathmandu in our chartered vehicle through Nagdhunga, the gateway to central, eastern and western Nepal, for Besisahar and on to Jagat. The road winds downhill to Naubise and into the hills through the winding roads along the Trishuli River. Enroute we see more of the countryside that offers greenery, rivers, villages, farms and beautiful mountain vistas. At Mugling, we cross a bridge to enter Tanahun district and head towards Pokhara. We leave the highway to Pokhara at Dumre, and head north to Besisahar. About 2 hours drive from Besisahar takes us to Jagat, the starting point of our trek. You will stay overnight at Jagat. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 4Jagat to Dharapani (6,500 ft.)

Today you trek past several waterfalls and forests towards Chamje. Chamje is at an elevation of 1430m/4691ft. From Chamje you hike on towards Tal which is the first village into Manang district. Tal is at an elevation of 1700m/5577ft. From here, it is a grueling 5kms (2.5 to 3 hours) climb on switch backs to Tal where the valley opens into a large plateau of sandy beach and a river at the base of a waterfall. There will be a brief halt for lunch at Tal. After lunch at Tal, you continue to Dharapani. The hike takes you through fields of corn, barley, and potatoes, and further on through bamboo and rhododendron forests.

Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 5Dharapani to Chame (8,800 ft.)

Today is a long day of hiking. You leave Dharapani for Chame. On the way you will cross Bagarchhap (2160m/7086ft.) It is 2kms and around 1 to 1.5 hours hike from Dharapani. At Bagarchhap you will get to witness the typical flat roofed houses of local Tibetan design. Most of the day, you will be treated with the mountainous views of Lamjung, Annapurna II and Annapurna IV. Camp is at Chame, the district head-quarters. The walk from Bagarchhap to Chame is 21 kilometers and will take you around 7 hours. As you approach Chame two small hot springs by the town will add relief to your long day trek. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 6Chame to Pisang (10,500 ft.)

Today’s highlight is the Paungda Danda rock face (1500m/4921ft.), an interesting and large rock slab rising from the river. You start from Chame through a deep forest in a narrow valley. We will leave back the heavy vegetation as we go on. You will cross several suspension bridges on the way. After you sight the Paungda Danda the trail leads you to climb to Pisang. As you surface in the open from the narrow valley you will be surrounded by beautiful Himalayan peaks. You will then soon arrive at a U-shaped valley of Manang between two giant snow peaks. You then reach the camp at Pisang. Here the Pisang peak (6,091m/19983ft.) looms over Pisang village. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 7Pisang to Manang (11,600 ft.)

Today, you will find yourself above tree-line with some juniper trees. Stronger hikers may opt to take the higher route on the north-east of the valley. The mountain views from here are marvelous: Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I (8,091m) , Annapurna III (7,555m) and Gangapurna (7,454m) are visible. Continue past the village of Braka to Manang. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 8Manang (11,600 ft.)

Today is an acclimatization day in Manang. You may take a short hike to the Gangapurna glacier. Or hike steeply to the cave above Manang. You may also take a strenuous 4-5 hour hike to the Ice Lake with fabulous views of Annapurna II. Overnight Lodge. (Dinner)

Day 9Manang to Yak Kharka (13,500 ft.)

Today is a short day of 3 to 4 hours hiking to Yak Kharka. Leaving Manang, hike steeply to Tenki village. The trail then winds north-west leaving the Marsyangdi valley past several pastures and meadows to Yak Kharka (literally pasture) where you will see a lot of yaks grazing along the trail. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 10Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (14,200 ft.)

Today is another short trek day of 3 hours to the base of the Thorung la pass. Trek up the narrow Jorsang valley and then cross a bridge to begin a short but steep ascent to the base camp where there are a cluster of lodges. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 11Thorung Phedi to Muktinath

The day begins early with wake up call usually around 3:00 am. The steep ascent to the pass can take up to 5 or 6 hours with our goal being to arrive at the pass much before 12 which is when the chilly winds start to pick up. The hike begins with a steep ascent to another cluster of lodges at Thorung High camp. A little later the trail becomes more gradual with switch-backs that never seem to end. At the top of the pass, there are spectacular views of the Annapurna range and the Tibetan plateau. Then it is a long and arduous descent of around 1,600 meters to Muktinath. As you walk towards Muktinath, views of the Dhaulagiri massif dominate the horizon. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 12Contingency day

Today is a contingency day for health or weather delays. If this day is not required, you can make a side trip to Kagbeni – the gateway to Lo in Mustang. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 13Muktinath to Jomsom

Descend to Jomsom. You have the option to take the jeep back to Jomsom. Or you may take the side-trail through the village of Lubra. For this, hike to the end of Muktinath village and slog up to a ridge. The descent is on slippery switch-backs with lots of pebbles. Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri dominate the skyline. A little past Lubra village, you will rejoin the road to Jomsom. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 14Jomsom to Pokhara

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. The day is free in Pokhara. You are free to wander around the lake side for souvenir shopping or to check out the many bars and restaurants. Overnight Big Pillow Inn or similar. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Day 15Kathmandu

After breakfast, fly to Kathmandu. Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu. Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square which is around 13 kilometers/8 miles east of Kathmandu. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square was the palace of the kingdom of Bhaktapur and the complex consists of at least four distinct squares (Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square and Pottery Square).

Farewell dinner in Kathmandu. Overnight Hotel Tibet. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Day 16Kathmandu to home

Arrive breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home. (Breakfast)

Cost Information (Annapurna Circuit Trek)

Per person price (valid until December 31, 2023)

1 persons: $3,100 per person (includes single supplement)

2 – 4 persons: $2,635 per person

5 or more persons: $2,325 per person

Single supplement: $300

Please inquire for quote in GB£ or Euros.

US$ 200 per person discount on all Spring Treks (January to June). All our treks are private treks for two or more participants and can be arranged for a date of your choosing.

Payment policy:

A 20% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking.
Balance is payable a week prior to departure or on arrival in Kathmandu.

Cancellation policy:

Deposit is non-refundable. But if you cancel a month prior to trek start date, your deposit will be applied to any trek you undertake with us anytime in the future.
No refunds for unused services once trek begins.

Price Includes

All airport transfers
Two full days sightseeing in Kathmandu as indicated in the itinerary and entrance fees to monuments
Three nights twin sharing hotel accommodation at Hotel Tibet (3 star) in Kathmandu
One night twin sharing hotel accommodation at Hotel Temple Tree (4 star) in Pokhara
Chartered Transfer: Kathmandu to Jagat
Airfare: Jomsom to Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Lodge trekking as indicated in the itinerary
Three meals a day on the trek
Boiled water for your bottles twice a day
Guide and staff wages, equipment and meals
Guide and staff insurance
Use of Steripen for water sterilization
Annapurna Conservation Area Fee
Trekkers Information Management Card

Price Excludes

Your international airfare
Nepal Visa
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Tips and gratuities
Personal equipment (a suggested list will be mailed to you)
Travel insurance (Required)
Other expenses of a personal nature

Map

Trip Gallery

Options

The above is technically the half circuit. We would gladly arrange to extend the trek to:

End at Tatopani. This would add 3 more days to the trip stopping at Tukche, Kalopani and Tatopani and driving to Pokhara on the next day. Add US$ 300 per person.
End at Nayapul via Ghorepani. This would add 6 more days to the trip stopping at Tukche, Kalopani, Tatopani, Chitre, Ghorepani, Ulleri and then driving to Pokhara. Add US$ 550 per person.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

When is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit trek?

There are two preferred seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Trek: Spring (March through June) and Fall (October through November). Day time temperatures range in the 50’s and 60’s (10 to 15 Centigrade) while night-time temperatures are in the 30’s and 40’s (0 to 5 Centigrade). Expect night time temperatures of below Freezing near the Base Camp. Expect some late-afternoon showers in the Spring which is the season for rhododendrons and magnolias. October is historically regarded as the best month to trek with clear skies and better views of the mountains.

How much does the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost?

You can: A) organize your own trek; B) choose a Nepali company; or C) choose a western guided trek.

Option A is the cheapest. If you’re doing the Everest Base Camp trek on your own look to pay around $30 – $40 per person per day (without alcoholic beverages) for meals and accommodations. Add cost of guide and/or porter plus airfare and permits. There are a few luxury lodges on the trail that charge around US$150 per person per day for room. Meals are extra. Option B is mid-range and can cost between $1,000 – $2,500 with varying inclusions and exclusions. Make sure you understand what is included and what is not included in the package. The best way to choose a Nepali company is to ask for references. Option C would cost above $3,000.

How fit do I need to be to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Anyone who is reasonably fit and can hike 10-12 miles a day can sign up for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Allowing for optimal acclimatization is the key. Most of the trek is on relatively level trail with some steep ascents and descents. That said, the better shape you are in, the more you will enjoy the trek. It is advised that anyone with a pre-existing condition consult their doctor before signing up for a trek.
We rate the Annapurna Circuit Trek a 5 on a scale of 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging).

Can I drink tap water on the Annapurna Circuit Trek? How/where can I get water that is safe to drink?

Nepali tap water is NOT safe to drink. Even if you see the locals drinking water straight from the tap, never drink water before boiling or sterilizing. Bring water purifying tablets or other water purifiers. At higher elevations during the coldest times of year the water will freeze, so you’ll need to buy boiled water from teahouses. If you plan to use a STERIPEN, bring wide mouth water bottles. You would need at least 2 one-liter water bottles for the trek. Even if you plan to bring a hydration pack, bring 1 one-liter water to sterilize the water before pouring into your hydration pack.

Crystal Mountain Treks will provide you with a Steripen to use on the trek for no charge.

Do read our blog on safe drinking water options: Hydration on treks in Nepal

What kind of food should I expect on the trek?

Meals on the Everest Base Camp trek start out being quite varied especially at the beginning of the trek in Lukla. But it becomes sparser as you ascend to the Everest Base Camp. In general, expect porridge (Oatmeal), toast, eggs (any style), muesli, hash browns, sausages etc for breakfast. And sandwich, pizzas, momos, noodles (dry and with soup), rolls, fried rice, Indian bread with vegetables etc for lunch and dinner. And expect Nepali dal-bhat (rice-lentils with vegetables and/or meat) at all the lodges.

Ours is an OPEN menu. Meaning we allow our clients to order anything from the lodge menu besides bottled beverages, specialty coffee and packaged snacks. We also don’t limit the number of items per meal as long as you aren’t wasteful. When choosing your trekking company, ask if meals are fixed or if you are only allowed to order one item from the menu. If this isn’t the case, costs can add up over 15/16 days.

Check out our article on food options for vegetarians.

Is there mobile signal on the trek? Is wi-fi available?

Most of the places on the Annapurna Circuit trek route now has cell coverage. Lodges in some locations will offer wi-fi for between $1 to $10 per hour. You can also buy a Sim card with 5GB or 10GB data for under $25: do this in Kathmandu.

How should I prepare for the trek?

The more physically fit you are, the more you will enjoy the trip. There are three aspects to training for any trek.

1) Cardiovascular Training will make your body more efficient in using oxygen. Running, walking, swimming or biking, or any combination of these are great for cardiovascular conditioning.

2) Strength Training by either using free weights or machines at the gym will build hiking strength. Walking stairs, especially with a pack will simulate the hiking environment. We also recommend practicing squats. Trekkers will encounter low hanging obstacles to duck under, and many toilets are at ground level, which requires a low squat.

3) Endurance Training is where you build endurance in the months leading up to your trek, slowly increase your length of training sessions. By the time you are 2 weeks from the scheduled trek date you should be able to ascend 3,000 ft. in a 3-4 hour period.

In the end, the more your training simulates a trek, the better off you will be. So hiking 4-5 hours outdoors, uphill and downhill, about once or twice a week in addition to other cardio vascular training at the gym or at home will greatly benefit and prepare you for the trek.

Check out our article on training for treks.

What are the toilet facilities like? Will I have a chance to shower?

Most tea houses have a common toilet. Some tea houses, especially those at the beginning of the trek, have en suite rooms. While squat toilets are more prevalent, newer lodges have Western style toilets.

It is possible to shower in almost all the lodges. And hot shower usually means a bucket of boiled water. Be prepared to pay anywhere from $2-$5 for this service.

What kind of gear do I need for the trek? Is it possible to buy or rent in Kathmandu?

Layering is key. And it’s always recommended to trek with good branded gear. A good pair of hiking boots that’s been broken in is very important. Good top and bottom base layers, a mid layer (fleece or capilene), and an outer layer (Gore-tex or other material). If you tend to get cold quickly, bring a down parka especially for the evening at the lodge. On most days, you’d be hiking in a convertible hiking pant that can be converted into shorts and one or two top layers.

if you’re trekking with Crystal Mountain Treks, we provide a sleeping bag (rated to 0 degree F or -17 degree C), duffel bags, down jacket and Steripen for water purification to our clients for no charge.

It is possible to buy cheap and relatively functional gear in Kathmandu – convertible pants, down jackets, fleece, Gore-tex jackets. But remember, you get what you pay for. Wool gloves, hats, socks are available too.

There are quite a few branded stores too. North Face, Moutain Hardwear, Marmot and Sherpa. If you’re coming from Australia or Europe, items in these shops are probably cheaper than back home. But if you’re coming from the US, it’s better to buy branded gear at home.

3 Reviews

Sort By:RatingDate

Hannah J, WA - USA

Group Traveller

Crystal Mountain Treks was my first trekking experience, and it was everything I could have asked for! Our guide and porter were so amazing and helpful, and they made sure we felt completely prepared and safe, and that we were having a good time.

CANDU (Kandu) was so amazing. She is so kind and fun and made sure we were well taken care of. I felt very safe being with her and would do a trek with her again someday! The lodges were just what we needed and provided all the necessary amenities.

Thank you so much Jwalant for setting up an incredible experience! I am definitely going to recommend Crystal mountain to friends and family.

October 18, 2019

Lena Owens

Group Traveller

Our trek overall was incredible. I can not say enough how integral Kandu and Roshan. We enjoyed their company and humor at lodges as well as during the trek, and they encouraged us and helped out when things got tough. They were our translators, supporters, teachers, guides and friends. I really have nothing bad to say about them, they were utterly perfect and we loved them. Daily distances were challenging but always doable (though the first day was a bit tough, maybe because we had to start from Syange and we were just tired as it was our first day). The last day over the pass was tough but felt worthwhile and like the proper way to do it. Kandu was very attentive about altitude sickness – and I always felt taken care of and checked in on, plus the elevation gains felt fine. All of the lodges were good, and the food was pretty good along the way. I think our favorite lodges were in Manang and Upper Pisang.

I just want to thank y’all so much for making our trek fun and smooth. We felt like we accomplished a lot by making it to the top of Thorungla, and could not have done it without Kandu and Roshan. It is evident that Crystal Mountain Treks is made up of kind, hard-working, and very well-trained guides, porters, and stuff. If I trek again, I will absolutely return to this company because of their dedication to making your experience a great one.

October 17, 2019

Nan Tubb, Australia

Group Traveller

Our Annapurna Circuit hiking adventure was the most challenging 5 week trek we have ever completed, but also the most awesome experience – one which we will never forget. The intent of trekking in Nepal was to experience all that Nepal had to offer in terms of people, culture, food and the beauty of the Himalayan mountains. Our experiences with Crystal Mountains Treks exceeded these expectations – well done for the excellent organisation. Ram is an excellent guide and a very good recommendation. He did an amazing job to ensure our experience was safe at all times, was always very considerate of our needs and flexible in every approach. His constant advice to khripaya bistaari tala jhara was excellent advice. What’s the hurry? Take is slowly, enjoy the scenery, stop for a cup of tea. Many cups of tea were drank throughout the trip. The tea bill alone must be one of the biggest you have seen! Ram’s level of leadership with Sune, Raju and Sujan was outstanding. The accommodation, local hospitality and food (mitho, mitho) was perfect and we enjoyed every day. Ram was always willing to explain the Nepalese culture and go out of his way to show the historical and religious aspects of Nepalese life.

August 18, 2016

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