About the trek
Imagine standing atop the Thorong La Pass, the world's highest trekking pass at 5,416 meters, with the Annapurna massif stretching endlessly before you. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is not just a journey; it's a test of your limits. This 15-day expedition takes you through every conceivable climate zone, from subtropical jungles to arctic deserts. As you traverse the rugged terrain, you'll encounter Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali villages, each with its own unique culture and traditions. The trek demands both physical and mental fortitude, rewarding you with unparalleled views of fourteen 7,000-meter peaks. This is a trek for those who seek not just adventure, but the ultimate summit experience.
Key Facts
Why Trekkers Love It
- 01Crosses the world's highest trekking pass, Thorong La, at 5,416 meters.
- 02Traverses every climate zone from subtropical to arctic.
- 03Offers views of fourteen 7,000-meter peaks.
- 04Passes through culturally rich Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali villages.
More Photos
Photo Gallery
5 photosDay by Day
The Route
Route & Itinerary
Besisahar
🚩 Starting Point
Chame
Waypoint 1
Manang
Waypoint 2
High Camp
Waypoint 3
Thorong La Pass
▲ Highest Point
Muktinath
Waypoint 5
Marpha
Waypoint 6
Tatopani
Waypoint 7
Nayapul
🏁 End Point
Altitude
Elevation Profile
Besisahar
760m
Chame
2,670m
Manang
3,500m
High Camp
4,900m
Thorong La Pass
5,416m
Muktinath
3,760m
Marpha
2,670m
Tatopani
1,190m
Nayapul
1,070m
Start
760m
Peak
5,416m
Total Gain
+4,656m
When to Go
Monthly Climate Guide
Best months to trek: Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov. Avoid Jun, Jul, Aug — heavy rainfall makes trails risky.
Mar
BESTOpening
2–15°C
Apr
BESTPleasant
8–20°C
May
BESTBest Season
12–25°C
Jun
NOWMonsoon Onset
12–22°C
Oct
BESTBest Season
5–18°C
Nov
BESTCold
0–12°C
Getting There
How to Reach
Nearest Airport
Pokhara Airport, Pokhara, 150 km
Nearest Railway
Kathmandu Railway Station, 175 km
Flight to Kathmandu (₹10,000) + bus to Besisahar (₹1,000), 3 hours
Train to Gorakhpur (₹500) + bus to Kathmandu (₹1,000) + bus to Besisahar (₹1,000), 24 hours
Direct bus to Kathmandu (₹2,000) + bus to Besisahar (₹1,000), 36 hours
Flight to Kathmandu (₹15,000) + bus to Besisahar (₹1,000), 3 hours
Train to Gorakhpur (₹1,000) + bus to Kathmandu (₹1,000) + bus to Besisahar (₹1,000), 36 hours
Bus to Kathmandu (₹3,000) + bus to Besisahar (₹1,000), 48 hours
Flight to Kathmandu (₹20,000) + bus to Besisahar (₹1,000), 3 hours
Train to Gorakhpur (₹1,500) + bus to Kathmandu (₹1,000) + bus to Besisahar (₹1,000), 48 hours
Bus to Kathmandu (₹4,000) + bus to Besisahar (₹1,000), 60 hours
Last Mile to Base Camp
Shared jeep from Besisahar to Chame (₹500), 2 hours
Pro tip: Carry extra cash as ATMs are scarce beyond initial towns.
Costs
Budget Breakdown
Trek costs ₹20,000–₹50,000 depending on your style and whether you hire a guide.
Mid-Range Trek
Guide + porter, comfortable guesthouses
per day
₹2,500 – ₹3,500 per day
Prices are estimates for 2025–26. Costs vary by season and group size.
Preparation
Pack & Stay Safe
What to Pack
gear
- Waterproof trekking boots
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag -15°C
- 55L backpack
- Gaiters
clothing
- Down jacket
- Fleece layers (2)
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Thermal base layers
- Warm gloves and hat
essentials
- Diamox
- Water purifier
- TIMS card copy
- International travel insurance
Safety Tips
- 1Thorong La pass must be crossed early morning — weather deteriorates by noon
- 2Acclimatize 2 nights in Manang before the pass
- 3Hire a licensed local guide or porter
Permit & Entry Info
ACAP permit: NPR 3,000 (≈USD 25). TIMS card: USD 20. Available in Kathmandu/Pokhara.
Emergency Contacts
ACAP Office Manang
Nepal Police Manang
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is challenging, involving high altitude gains and daily treks of 6-8 hours. It requires good physical fitness and mental resilience.
The best months are March, April, May, October, and November. These months offer stable weather and clear views, making the trek more enjoyable and safer.
The cost ranges from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000, depending on your style, accommodation choices, and whether you hire a guide and porter.
Yes, you need a special permit called the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs around ₹2,500 and can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
No, this trek is not suitable for beginners due to its challenging terrain, high altitude, and long duration.
The max altitude is 5,416 meters. Altitude sickness is a risk, so acclimatization is crucial. Carry altitude sickness medication as a precaution.
Essentials include a good quality backpack, layered clothing, trekking poles, a sleeping bag rated for -10°C, a water filter, and a first aid kit.
The nearest city is Kathmandu. From there, take a bus or flight to Besisahar, followed by a local bus to Chame, the trek's starting point.
The total distance is approximately 230 km, with daily treks ranging from 5 to 8 hours.
While possible, it's highly recommended to hire a guide for safety, navigation, and cultural insights, especially for first-timers.
In the best season (March-May, Oct-Nov), daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, while nights can drop to 0°C or below.
Mobile network is limited, and there are no ATMs beyond the initial towns. Carry enough cash for the trek.
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