Trek the full Annapurna Circuit and cross Thorong La Pass with guides who know every step.
One of the world's highest trekking passes at 5,416m
Annapurna specialists, not contractors or agency outsourcing
Clean guesthouses every night, no camping required
One-way circuit, no backtracking, ends at Phewa Lake
The Annapurna Circuit is a 160km one-way trek around the Annapurna massif, ending in Pokhara. This 16-day itinerary uses vehicle support on the lower road-damaged sections so your walking days focus on the best terrain. Two permits required, ACAP and TIMS both included.
Expect 5 to 7 hours of walking per day across 13 active days. The Thorong La crossing on Day 10 runs 8 to 10 hours with a 4:00 AM start. No prior Himalayan experience needed, but 2 to 3 months of cardio training before arrival is strongly advised.
Trail highlights:
For a full cost breakdown, see our Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost 2026 guide.
Our team meets you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers you to your hotel in Thamel. That evening your guide runs a full briefing covering the route, gear check, acclimatisation plan, and what to expect at altitude. Use the rest of the day to explore Thamel or rest before the journey starts tomorrow.
Early departure by tourist bus along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers through terraced hillsides and traditional villages. Besisahar is the traditional starting point of the Annapurna Circuit and the administrative centre of Lamjung district. Arrive by late afternoon and settle in before the trek begins properly tomorrow.
A private jeep follows the Marsyangdi River through deep gorges, past waterfalls and traditional villages. First views of the Annapurna range appear as the valley narrows toward Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. There is a small natural hot spring in Chame worth soaking in after the bumpy ride.
The first full trekking day climbs through pine and oak forest above the Marsyangdi River, passing apple orchards and suspension bridges. Views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak open up as the valley widens. Take the higher trail into Upper Pisang for better mountain panoramas and a traditional Tibetan monastery worth exploring before dinner.
Take the high route from Upper Pisang through Ghyaru, a stone-built village with sweeping views of Annapurna II, III, and IV. One of the finest monasteries in the valley sits here and is worth a stop. The traversing path to Ngawal stays above the valley floor with the entire Annapurna range in continuous view.
Stop at Braga before Manang to visit its 900-year-old Tibetan monastery, one of the oldest in the Annapurna region, housing ancient thangkas and bronze statues. Manang is the largest village in the upper valley, a semi-arid settlement of traditional stone houses with commanding views across to Gangapurna glacier. A short day with time to explore.
Do not rest completely today. Hike to Gangapurna Lake at 3,800m or push higher to Ice Lake at 4,600m for stronger pass preparation. In the afternoon, attend the free altitude sickness lecture at the Himalayan Rescue Association station in Manang. Early night and plenty of water before the climbing days ahead.
A steady climb north out of Manang following the Jarsang Khola river as vegetation thins to sparse juniper scrub. Yak Kharka means “yak pastures” and you will likely see herders grazing animals through the trekking season here. Views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak stay with you throughout the ascent.
A short but important day as you approach the base of the pass. The trail crosses a suspension bridge over the Kone Khola, climbs through Ledar, then rises to Thorong Phedi, meaning “foot of the hill.” Eat a full meal, drink plenty of water, and get to bed by 8:00 PM tonight.
Depart at 4:00 AM with headlamps. The ascent takes 4 to 5 hours of steady climbing to reach the prayer flags at the summit. The descent drops 1,600m over 3 to 4 hours into the arid landscape of Upper Mustang, a dramatic shift from everything on the eastern circuit. Muktinath marks the end of the crossing.
Begin with an unhurried morning visit to Muktinath Temple — 108 water spouts and an eternal flame of natural gas make it one of the most unusual pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas. The trail descends through the stark wind-carved landscape past Jharkot and Khingar to Kagbeni, a medieval mud-brick village at the boundary of Upper Mustang.
Follow the Kali Gandaki River south through the deepest gorge on earth, flanked by Dhaulagiri at 8,167m to the west and Nilgiri at 7,061m to the east. Pass through Jomsom before reaching Marpha, Nepal’s apple capital. The whitewashed stone lanes, local apple brandy distilleries, and Thakali architecture make it one of the most charming stops on the circuit.
A scenic drive down the Kali Gandaki valley past traditional Thakali villages and the spectacular Rupse Chhahara waterfall. Tatopani means “hot water” in Nepali and the natural thermal springs here are your reward after the high-altitude section. Soak as long as you like. Good teahouses and cafes make it a genuine rest stop.
The drive follows forested valleys and terraced farmland into the Pokhara valley, where the fishtail profile of Machhapuchhre dominates the skyline on a clear day. Check into your lakeside hotel and spend the evening on Phewa Lake’s promenade. Optional paragliding, a sunset boat ride, or simply eating well after two weeks on the trail.
The Prithvi Highway back to Kathmandu follows the Trishuli River gorge with meal stops en route. Arrive by late afternoon with time for last-minute shopping in Thamel or a visit to Boudhanath Stupa. The day ends with a farewell dinner featuring traditional Nepali food and a cultural performance.
Breakfast at the hotel, then a transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport timed to your flight. If you have a late departure, the team can assist with luggage storage or a final morning of sightseeing in Thamel, Pashupatinath, or Swayambhunath. Safe travels.
Airport Transfer: Scheduled according to your flight time (typically 3 hours before international flights)
Practical Information:
Standard hotel check-out time is 12:00 PM
Luggage storage available for those with evening flights
Late check-out may be arranged (subject to availability and additional cost)
In Kathmandu and Pokhara you stay in 3-star hotels on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast included. Rooms are clean and comfortable with private bathrooms, hot water, and Wi-Fi. Single room upgrades are available on request.
On the trek you stay in teahouse guesthouses throughout. Rooms are simple with a bed, pillow, and blankets. Bathrooms are mostly shared. Facilities become more basic above Manang. Private rooms with attached bathrooms exist at some teahouses for a small extra charge. Expect cold nights at higher elevations regardless of the season.
Teahouse menus are consistent across the circuit. Dal bhat, noodle soups, pasta, fried rice, momos, eggs, porridge, and Tibetan bread are available at every stop. Vegetarian options are at every teahouse. Avoid meat above Manang as supply chains are unreliable at altitude. Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are available everywhere. Food prices increase with altitude as supplies are porter-carried from the valley.
| Meals and drinks per day | $30 to $40 / day |
| Hot shower | $3 to $5 |
| Wi-Fi | $2 to $4 per day |
| Battery charging | $2 to $3 per device |
| Bottled water | $1 to $3 per litre |
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Rated Hard. You walk 5 to 7 hours per day across 13 active days on mixed terrain. The Thorong La crossing on Day 10 runs 8 to 10 hours with a 4:00 AM start at high altitude. No prior Himalayan experience is required but 2 to 3 months of cardio and leg training before arrival makes a significant difference. See our trek difficulty guide for a full breakdown.
Two permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card. Both are included in the package and arranged in Kathmandu before departure. Bring one passport photo and your passport details. No permit offices to visit on your part. For current fees read our Nepal trekking permits guide for 2026.
Start cardio and leg training at least 2 months before departure. On the trek, do not skip the acclimatisation day in Manang and attend the free Himalayan Rescue Association lecture there. The night before the crossing eat a full meal, drink plenty of water, and sleep by 8:00 PM. On crossing day depart at 4:00 AM, carry 2 litres of water, high-energy snacks, trekking poles, and full cold-weather layers. Your guide makes the final call on conditions that morning.
The route climbs above 3,000m from Day 4 and reaches 5,416m on Day 10. Symptoms to watch for include persistent headache, nausea, dizziness, and loss of appetite. Tell your guide immediately if any appear. The itinerary follows the climb-high sleep-low principle with a full rest day in Manang and two short ascent days before the pass. Discuss Diamox with your doctor before departure as a preventive option. Read our altitude sickness guide for full detail.
Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover emergency helicopter rescue and medical evacuation to a minimum altitude of 5,500m. Without a valid policy MountainKick cannot confirm your booking. Helicopter evacuation from the circuit costs approximately $3,000 to $5,000 USD and is covered by any reputable adventure trekking policy. Carry a printed copy of your policy on the trek. Read our travel insurance guide for Nepal trekking before purchasing.
The 21-day Annapurna Circuit Classical Trek walks the full traditional route on foot from Besisahar including the lower subtropical sections through the Marsyangdi River valley. The 16-day version covers those road-affected sections by vehicle and focuses your walking days on the high mountain terrain. Both cross Thorong La and include every classic circuit landmark. If you have three weeks and want the complete original walking experience, choose the 21-day. If you have two weeks and want every highlight without road-walking, the 16-day is the better choice.
The Circuit is a full circumnavigation of the Annapurna massif reaching 5,416m at Thorong La Pass, typically 15 to 21 days. Annapurna Base Camp is an out-and-back trek into the glacier amphitheatre at 4,130m, typically 10 to 15 days. The Circuit covers more terrain, more cultural zones, and includes a high pass crossing. ABC offers a more intimate experience deep inside the peaks. For a detailed side-by-side comparison read our Annapurna Circuit vs ABC guide.
Yes. Tilicho Lake at 4,919m is one of the highest lakes in the world and sits roughly 2 days off the main circuit from Manang. Adding it requires 2 extra days and is physically demanding. MountainKick can build this into a customised itinerary on request. If Tilicho Lake is a priority consider our dedicated Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass Trek.
Yes. The circuit has a dense teahouse network and a well-signed trail throughout. MountainKick arranges solo departures with a private guide at the solo price of $1,260 per person. A guide is strongly recommended for solo trekkers, particularly for the Thorong La crossing where conditions can change quickly. Female guides are available on request for solo female trekkers.
The must-haves for crossing day are a headlamp with fresh batteries for the 4:00 AM start, a down jacket and full windproof outer layer, thermal base layers, warm hat and gloves, trekking poles, at least 2 litres of water, and high-energy snacks. Temperature at the pass can be well below zero even in October. Your guide will advise on microspikes the night before if icy conditions are present. See the full packing list on this page for everything else you need for the trek.
| Trip Starts | Trip Ends | Status | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JUNE 2026 | ||||
| 13 Jun 2026 16 days | 28 Jun 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 20 Jun 2026 16 days | 5 Jul 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 27 Jun 2026 16 days | 12 Jul 2026 | available | $770 | |
| SEPTEMBER 2026 | ||||
| 4 Sep 2026 16 days | 19 Sep 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 11 Sep 2026 16 days | 26 Sep 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 18 Sep 2026 16 days | 3 Oct 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 25 Sep 2026 16 days | 10 Oct 2026 | available | $770 | |
| OCTOBER 2026 | ||||
| 2 Oct 2026 16 days | 17 Oct 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 9 Oct 2026 16 days | 24 Oct 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 16 Oct 2026 16 days | 31 Oct 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 23 Oct 2026 16 days | 7 Nov 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 30 Oct 2026 16 days | 14 Nov 2026 | available | $770 | |
| NOVEMBER 2026 | ||||
| 6 Nov 2026 16 days | 21 Nov 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 13 Nov 2026 16 days | 28 Nov 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 20 Nov 2026 16 days | 5 Dec 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 27 Nov 2026 16 days | 12 Dec 2026 | available | $770 | |
| DECEMBER 2026 | ||||
| 4 Dec 2026 16 days | 19 Dec 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 11 Dec 2026 16 days | 26 Dec 2026 | available | $770 | |
| 18 Dec 2026 16 days | 2 Jan 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 25 Dec 2026 16 days | 9 Jan 2027 | available | $770 | |
| MARCH 2027 | ||||
| 2 Mar 2027 16 days | 17 Mar 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 9 Mar 2027 16 days | 24 Mar 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 16 Mar 2027 16 days | 31 Mar 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 23 Mar 2027 16 days | 7 Apr 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 30 Mar 2027 16 days | 14 Apr 2027 | available | $770 | |
| APRIL 2027 | ||||
| 6 Apr 2027 16 days | 21 Apr 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 13 Apr 2027 16 days | 28 Apr 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 20 Apr 2027 16 days | 5 May 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 27 Apr 2027 16 days | 12 May 2027 | available | $770 | |
| MAY 2027 | ||||
| 4 May 2027 16 days | 19 May 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 11 May 2027 16 days | 26 May 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 18 May 2027 16 days | 2 Jun 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 25 May 2027 16 days | 9 Jun 2027 | available | $770 | |
| 30+ days before departure | Deposit forfeited, balance refunded in full |
| 15–29 days before departure | 50% of total trip cost charged |
| Under 15 days | No refund |
| MountainKick cancels trip | Full refund or reschedule |
We give you the power to choose the departure date that suits your group best. A private trip is a perfect solution if you can’t find a published departure date that you and your companions agree on. You can set up a private departure for most of the trips we offer.
| Travellers | Price Per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1260 |
| 2-3 | $770 |
| 4-7 | $643 |
Ready to go? Request your preferred dates or message Kumar directly on WhatsApp — he'll confirm availability within a few hours.
We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.
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| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture-wicking t-shirts | 3 | Merino wool or synthetic, no cotton |
| Long-sleeve base layer top | 2 | Thermal, worn under everything above Manang |
| Thermal base layer bottoms | 2 | Essential for Thorong La and cold nights |
| Fleece jacket | 1 | Mid-layer for evenings and mornings |
| Down jacket | 1 | Must-have above Manang and for the pass crossing |
| Waterproof jacket | 1 | Windproof and rain-proof outer layer |
| Waterproof pants | 1 | Outer layer for rain and wind on the pass |
| Trekking pants | 2 | Comfortable, quick-dry, durable |
| Underwear | 5 | Merino wool or synthetic, moisture-wicking |
| Trekking socks | 5 pairs | Merino wool, cushioned |
| Warm socks | 2 pairs | For cold nights and the pass crossing |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof trekking boots | 1 pair | Ankle support, Vibram soles, well broken-in |
| Camp sandals or flip flops | 1 pair | For teahouse evenings, essential comfort |
| Gaiters | 1 pair | For snow and ice on Thorong La, seasonal |
| Microspikes | 1 pair | May be needed on icy sections of the pass |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeping bag | 1 | Rated to -10°C minimum, -20°C for winter trekking |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Adds warmth and hygiene, especially if renting |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Trekking poles | 1 pair | Adjustable, essential for Thorong La descent |
| Headlamp | 1 | Fresh batteries for the 4:00 AM pass start |
| Spare batteries | 1 set | Cold drains batteries fast at altitude |
| Water bottles | 2 x 1L | Insulated sleeves prevent freezing above 4,000m |
| Water purification tablets | 1 pack | Bottled water scarce past Manang |
| Trekking map | 1 | Paper backup, mobile signal unreliable on trail |
| Sunscreen SPF 50+ | 2 | UV radiation increases sharply above 3,000m |
| Lip balm with SPF | 2 | Cold dry air at altitude cracks lips fast |
| Sunglasses | 1 | Polarised, 100% UV protection, essential on snow |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Cash in Nepali Rupees | Budget NPR 4,000 to 5,500 per day on trek | |
| Passport copies | 2 | Keep separate from original |
| Passport photos | 4 | Required for permits and SIM card |
| Travel insurance documents | 1 | Printed copy, carry on trek not in duffel |
| Emergency contacts on paper | 1 | Do not rely solely on your phone |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Quick-dry towel | 1 | Teahouses rarely provide towels |
| Biodegradable soap and shampoo | 1 each | Mandatory in conservation area |
| Hand sanitiser | 2 | Running water unreliable at high altitude |
| Toilet paper | Sufficient | Not always available at teahouses |
| Wet wipes | 2 packs | For days without shower access |
| Earplugs | 2 pairs | Thin teahouse walls, shared rooms |
| Small padlock | 1 | For securing duffel while in teahouse |
| Reusable water bag or dry sack | 1 | Keeps electronics and documents dry |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Diamox (Acetazolamide) | As prescribed | Discuss with your doctor before the trek |
| Ibuprofen | 1 pack | For headaches and muscle pain |
| Blister kit | 1 | Moleskin and medical tape, use early not late |
| Rehydration sachets | 10 | Essential for the pass crossing day |
| Anti-diarrheal tablets | 1 pack | Imodium or equivalent |
| Antiseptic cream and plasters | 1 set | For minor cuts and abrasions on trail |
| Throat lozenges | 1 pack | Dry cold air causes persistent throat irritation |
| Hand and toe warmers | 4 pairs | For the pass crossing in autumn and winter |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Power bank | 1 | 20,000mAh minimum for 16 days |
| Camera | 1 | Keep batteries warm inside jacket at altitude |
| Spare camera batteries | 2 | Cold kills battery life fast above 4,000m |
| Universal adapter | 1 | Nepal uses Type C, D, and M plugs |
| Phone with offline maps | 1 | Download Maps.me or Gaia GPS before departure |
| Waterproof phone case or dry bag | 1 | Condensation and rain are constant risks |
| Item | Qty | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Duffel bag 70 to 80L | 1 | Provided by MountainKick, water-resistant |
| Daypack 20 to 30L | 1 | Carried by you every trekking day |
| Pack rain cover | 1 | Fits over daypack, essential in monsoon season |
| Dry bags or zip-lock bags | 4 | Waterproof protection for documents and electronics |
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Heavy down jacket | Upgrade from standard — rated to -20°C |
| Balaclava or face mask | Exposed skin at the pass in winter is dangerous |
| Insulated gloves or mittens | Liner gloves alone are not enough below -10°C |
| Microspikes or crampons | Ice on Thorong La is common December through February |
| Gaiters | Deep snow on the approach to the pass |
| Sleeping bag -20°C rated | Standard -10°C bag is not sufficient in deep winter |
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| High-quality rain poncho | Full body coverage, more practical than jacket alone |
| Extra socks x3 pairs | Drying socks is nearly impossible in monsoon conditions |
| Leech socks | Essential for the lower forest sections below Chame |
| Dry bags for everything | Assume your pack will get wet every day |
Sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented through us in Kathmandu. Trekking poles are best purchased in Thamel. We connect you with trusted shops at the pre-trip briefing. A duffel bag is provided to every trekker as part of the package.
Kumar and the team have guided this route for over a decade. Ask anything — gear, fitness, altitude, private groups — before you commit.
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