Annapurna Circuit Trek
●●●●● 4.9 · 60+ TripAdvisor reviewsCross Thorong La Pass and walk the best of the Annapurna Circuit, from Chame to Marpha, with our own licensed guides
Friends paying separately still get the group price.
On The Trail
What It Really Looks Like
Annapurna Circuit Trek: What to Expect
One of the world's highest trekking passes at 5,416m
Every trek is led by one of our own guides, not a freelancer hired for the trip
Clean guesthouses every night, no camping required
Walk from Chame over the pass to Marpha, then drive out via Tatopani
The Annapurna Circuit loops around the Annapurna massif and crosses Thorong La Pass at 5,416m. On this 16-day trip we drive the lower road sections, from Besisahar to Chame and from Marpha to Pokhara. Your walking days stay on the best high mountain trail, from Chame over the pass to Marpha. ACAP and TIMS permits are included. Since April 2023, Nepal’s rules require foreign trekkers on most routes to trek with a licensed guide. Every MountainKick trek includes one.
You walk on 8 days, plus an acclimatisation day in Manang. Most days are 3 to 7 hours. Day 10 over Thorong La is the longest, 8 to 10 hours with a 4:00 AM start. You don’t need Himalayan experience, but 2 to 3 months of cardio and leg training before you come makes a big difference.
Trail highlights:
- Braga Monastery near Manang, one of the oldest in the valley, with old thangkas and statues
- Muktinath Temple, with 108 water spouts, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists
- Natural hot springs at Tatopani after the high-altitude section
For a full cost breakdown, see our Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost 2026 guide.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
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.
Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar
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.
Drive from Besisahar to Chame
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.
Note: After heavy rain parts of this road can be rough or slow. Your guide checks the road before you leave.
Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang
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.
Trek from Upper Pisang to Ngawal
Take the high route from Upper Pisang through Ghyaru, a stone-built village with sweeping views of Annapurna II, III, and IV. Ghyaru has a small monastery worth a short stop. The traversing path to Ngawal stays above the valley floor with the entire Annapurna range in continuous view.
Trek from Ngawal to Manang
Stop at Braga before Manang to visit its 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.
Acclimatisation Day in Manang
Do not rest completely today. Hike to the Chongkor viewpoint above Gangapurna Lake at about 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.
Note: The Ice Lake hike is the better pass preparation but takes most of the day.
Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
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.
Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
A short but important day as you approach the base of the pass. The trail climbs through Ledar, crosses a suspension bridge over the river, then traverses a landslide slope 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.
Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath
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 dry, wind-cut landscape of Mustang, a dramatic shift from everything on the eastern circuit. Muktinath marks the end of the crossing.
Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni
Begin with an unhurried morning visit to Muktinath Temple, with 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.
Trek from Kagbeni to Marpha
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.
Drive from Marpha to Tatopani
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.
Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara
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.
Tourist Bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu
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.
Final Departure from Kathmandu
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)
3D Route Map
Includes & Excludes
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Airport and hotel transfers Private vehicle on arrival and departure days
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3-star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara Twin-sharing with breakfast included
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Teahouse accommodation on trek Twin-sharing throughout all trekking nights
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Our own licensed guide With your group for the whole trek, from Kathmandu to Kathmandu
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Porter service One porter carries your duffel for every two trekkers
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ACAP and TIMS permits Both arranged in Kathmandu before you leave
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Tourist bus Kathmandu to Besisahar Comfortable tourist class, Day 2
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Jeep Besisahar to Chame Off-road vehicle support on Day 3
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Vehicle Marpha to Pokhara Scenic drive via Tatopani hot springs, Days 13 and 14
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Tourist bus Pokhara to Kathmandu Return leg on Day 15
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Oximeter and first aid kit Your guide carries both and checks your oxygen levels each day above 3,000m
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Farewell dinner with cultural show Traditional Nepali food and performance, Kathmandu
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Duffel bag MountainKick kit, yours to keep
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All taxes and official charges No hidden fees added after booking
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International flights To and from Kathmandu, booked independently
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Nepal visa On arrival: $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, $125 for 90 days
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Meals on trek Budget $30 to $40 per day for three meals
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Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara Breakfast only is covered at both hotels
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Travel insurance Must cover trekking to 5,416m and helicopter evacuation
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Personal trekking gear Rental options available in Kathmandu through us
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Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging on trail Small extra charge at each teahouse
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Drinks and bottled water Available at every teahouse, costs increase with altitude
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Tips for guides and porters 10 to 15% of trip cost is the standard across Nepal
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Extra nights if flights or roads are delayed Hotel nights and meals from weather or road delays are paid by you
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Helicopter rescue Paid to the helicopter company by your insurer, or by you. We arrange it but don't pay for it
Enhance Your Trek
We Handle the Details
FreeWhere You'll Sleep & What You'll Eat
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 rise with altitude because supplies come up by jeep, mule and porter.
| 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 |
What Our Trekkers Say
“An amazing trek around the Annapurnas”
Kumar made the whole trek genuinely enjoyable, and as a couple we appreciated how flexible he was with our pace. The scenery changed completely every few days, and crossing Thorong La was a huge highlight. MountainKick handled everything well, we never once had to worry about logistics.
“Wonderful experience with MountainKick”
Furi looked after our group of three friends extremely well, friendly, knowledgeable, and always seemed to know when we needed to rest. We loved the villages around Manang and the dramatic scenery higher up. Thorong La was tough, but reaching the top made every step of it worth it.
“A fantastic route through Nepal”
Jeevan made a genuinely great experience out of the Annapurna Circuit. The route gives you such variety of landscapes, and he made the journey more interesting by telling us about the villages and local life we passed through. MountainKick were very professional and easy to communicate with before the trek.…
“One of our best trips in Nepal”
Gopal was excellent with our family group, patient with the kids, kept everyone comfortable, and never once rushed us. We especially enjoyed the days around Manang and the walk towards Thorong La. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding, and MountainKick made the whole thing feel very well organized.
“Hard work but completely worth it”
Kishor was great company for two weeks on the trail. The higher sections were demanding, but he kept us at a sensible pace and checked in regularly on how we were feeling. The views from Thorong La were incredible, and we also really enjoyed the villages and shifting landscapes along…
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit trek?
Rated Hard. You walk on 8 days, plus an acclimatisation day in Manang. Most days are 3 to 7 hours on good trail. Day 10 over Thorong La is the hard one, 8 to 10 hours with a 4:00 AM start and a 1,600m descent. You don’t need Himalayan experience, but 2 to 3 months of cardio and leg training before you come makes a big difference. See our trek difficulty guide for how our grades work.
When is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit?
October and November give the clearest skies and the most settled weather. March to May is the next best, with warmer days and flowers in the forests. December is quiet and cold, and heavy snow can close Thorong La for a few days. June to August is the monsoon, with rain, leeches and cloud, so we don’t recommend it.
Do I need a guide for the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes. Since April 2023, Nepal’s rules require foreign trekkers on most routes to trek with a licensed guide. Every MountainKick trek includes one. Your guide sorts out the permits, books the teahouses, sets the pace and makes the call on Thorong La conditions.
What permits do I need and are they included?
You need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card. Both are included, and we arrange them in Kathmandu before you leave. ACAP is NPR 3,000 for foreigners and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals. TIMS is NPR 2,000 for foreigners and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals. Just send us a copy of your passport and bring one passport photo.
Do your group dates run if I’m the only one booked?
Yes. Every group date runs, even with one booking. Groups are small, 8 trekkers at most. The group price is $770 per person. If 4 or more of you book together, you each pay $643.
Are meals included on the trek?
Meals on the trek are not included. Teahouse menus have fixed prices, so you pay the same as anyone else. Budget about $30 to $40 a day for three meals and hot drinks. Breakfast is included at the hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and so is the farewell dinner.
How do I prepare for the Thorong La Pass crossing?
Start cardio and leg training 2 to 3 months before you come. On the trek, make good use of the acclimatisation day in Manang. In season, go to the free altitude talk at the Himalayan Rescue Association post there. The night before the pass, eat a full meal, drink plenty of water and sleep early. On the day we leave at 4:00 AM. Carry 2 litres of water, snacks, trekking poles and all your warm layers. Your guide makes the final call on conditions that morning.
What are the altitude sickness risks on this trek?
You sleep above 3,000m from Day 4 and cross 5,416m on Day 10. Watch for a headache that won’t go away, nausea, dizziness and loss of appetite. Tell your guide straight away if any of these start. Your guide carries an oximeter and checks your oxygen levels each day. The plan has an acclimatisation day in Manang and two short climbing days before the pass. If symptoms get worse, the answer is to go down. Ask your doctor about Diamox before you travel.
What travel insurance do I need?
You need travel insurance that covers trekking to 5,416m and helicopter evacuation. We can’t confirm your booking without it. A helicopter rescue from the circuit usually costs $3,000 to $5,000. If you need one, we arrange it with your guide and your insurer. Your insurer, or you, pays the helicopter company directly. Carry a printed copy of your policy. Our travel insurance guide for Nepal trekking explains what to look for.
What is the difference between the 16-day and 21-day Annapurna Circuit?
The 21-day Annapurna Circuit Classical Trek walks every section, starting on foot from Besisahar. It also adds a rest day in Tatopani and finishes over Ghorepani and Poon Hill. This 16-day trip drives from Besisahar to Chame and from Marpha to Pokhara, so your walking days stay on the high mountain section. Both cross Thorong La and visit Manang and Muktinath. Choose the 21-day trip if you have three weeks and want to walk the whole way. Choose the 16-day trip if you have two weeks.
How does the Annapurna Circuit compare to Annapurna Base Camp?
The Circuit loops around the Annapurna massif and crosses Thorong La at 5,416m. Ours takes 16 days, or 21 if you walk the whole way. Annapurna Base Camp is an out and back trek into a ring of peaks at 4,130m. Our ABC trek takes 14 days, or 10 on the express version. The Circuit has more variety and a high pass. ABC is lower and shorter, and puts you right under the peaks. Our Annapurna Circuit vs ABC guide compares them side by side.
Can I add a Tilicho Lake side trip to this itinerary?
Yes. Tilicho Lake sits at 4,919m and is one of the highest lakes of its size in the world. It adds 2 days from Manang. The walk is steep, with a landslide section on the way in. We can add it to a private trip, or you can book our Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass Trek, which builds it in.
Is the Annapurna Circuit suitable for solo trekkers?
Yes. You can book a private trip at the solo price of $1,260, or join one of our group dates at $770. Every group date runs, even if you’re the only one booked. Your trip always includes one of our own licensed guides. The trail is busy in season and there are teahouses in every village. Female guides are available on request.
What gear is essential for the Thorong La crossing?
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.
What happens if roads are blocked or the weather delays us?
Your guide changes the plan to keep you safe, and we rebook any transport at no charge. Extra hotel nights and meals caused by weather or road delays are paid by you. We suggest leaving 1 or 2 spare days before your flight home.
Departure Dates & Pricing
Your dates, your group, your way
Same route and guides, just your group. Tell us when you'd like to go and how many of you there are, and we'll send you a day by day plan with a price.
- Nothing to pay now
- Plan and price by email
- Confirm with a 20% deposit
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20% deposit: due on booking Secures your place on the departure. The deposit is non-refundable. We also need a copy of your passport.
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80% balance: due on arrival Pay the rest in Kathmandu before the trip starts. Bank transfer, cash, or card (4% card fee).
| Cancel before you arrive | Deposit not refunded, nothing more to pay |
| Cancel after the pre-trip meeting | No refund |
| Date or name change | USD 200 per person |
| MountainKick cancels trip | Full refund or reschedule |
Weather delays and extra days cost extra, so travel insurance is required. We give you documents for any claim.
Read the full terms and conditionsPacking List
Clothing
ⓘ Days can be 25°C in Tatopani and nights well below -10°C at Thorong Phedi. Layer, do not bulk. Avoid cotton entirely
Footwear
ⓘ Break your boots in for at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure. New boots on Thorong La is one of the most common mistakes we see.
Sleeping Gear
ⓘ Teahouse blankets exist but are thin. Your own sleeping bag is essential above 3,500m. Do not rely on the blankets provided.
Trekking Equipment
ⓘ Trekking poles are non-negotiable on this trek. The descent from Thorong La drops 1,600m on tired legs. Your knees will thank you.
Documents and Money
ⓘ Chame, Manang and Jomsom have ATMs, but they often run out of cash or don't work. Bring all the cash you need from Kathmandu. Carry small notes, as change is hard to find up high
Personal Items
ⓘ Keep your daypack under 8kg. Your porter carries your duffel. Everything in your daypack is carried by you every day including on Thorong La crossing day.
First Aid and Medications
ⓘ Discuss Diamox with your doctor before departure as a preventive option for altitude sickness. Do not self-prescribe on the trail without medical advice.
Electronics
ⓘ Charging costs $2 to $3 per device at most teahouses. Power cuts are common above Manang. A power bank is more reliable than depending on teahouse electricity.
Bags and Packs
ⓘ Keep your duffel to about 10 to 15kg. Pack your daypack to under 8kg for the pass crossing day. Every extra kilo comes out of your knees on the descent
Trekking in Winter (Dec to Feb)
Trekking in Monsoon (Jun to Aug)
⚠ The Annapurna Circuit is not recommended during peak monsoon. Trails below Chame are muddy and leech-heavy, river crossings become dangerous, and mountain views are blocked for days at a time. If your dates fall in June through August, talk to us before booking
Leave at home
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Cotton clothing Holds moisture, dries slowly, dangerous at altitude
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Heavy DSLR lenses Dead weight above 4,000m, your phone camera is enough
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Hardcover books Pack a Kindle or download before you leave
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Extra pair of shoes Camp sandals cover everything you need off the trail
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Valuables and jewellery No safe storage on the trail, unnecessary risk
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"Just in case" items If you are not sure you need it, leave it at home
Sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented through us in Kathmandu. We lend trekking poles for free. For anything else, we point you to shops we trust at the pre-trip briefing. Every trekker gets a MountainKick duffel bag
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Talk to Kumar and the team before you commit. Ask about gear, fitness, altitude or a private group.
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