Annapurna Circuit Trekking – 11 Days

Stunning Landscapes

One of the factors that attract trekkers to the Annapurna Circuit is the stunning landscapes. The Annapurna region has diverse landscapes, terrains, and ecology. You will trek from subtropical forests to forests of conifers and desert-like terrains. Similarly, you will cross the snowy high mountain pass, the Thorong La Pass, and the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge. The variation of the stunning landscapes is astounding and appealing to many.

Captivating Mountain Views

We cannot miss the captivating mountain views when it comes to the major attractions of Annapurna Circuit. Since the trail goes around the Annapurna Massif, you are bound to witness incredible mountain views during the trek. You can witness the stunning Annapurna ranges, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Lamjung Himal, Gangapurna, and many more.

Thorong La Pass

The Thorong La Pass is the major highlight of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking. At 5416 meters, it is one of the highest mountain passes. The trail to the pass is the most challenging part of the trek, but it is worth the effort. You will get a panoramic view of the mountain vistas and the semi-arid desert landscapes. You will feel a sense of massive achievement once you descend from the Thorong La Pass.

Holy Muktinath Temple

The sacred Muktinath Temple is another major highlight of the trek. Located in the Mustang district, it is a religious site for Hindus and Buddhists at an elevation of 3710 meters. The main temple has a golden statue of Lord Vishnu. The temple has pagoda-style architecture and 108 water spouts within its complex. The temple holds a deep religious and cultural significance. Hence, thousands of devotees visit the temple annually to cleanse themselves of their sins and gain salvation.

Marpha, the Capital of Apples

Along the trek route, you will encounter a picturesque town, Marpha. Over the years, the town has become famous as the “Capital of Apples.” It has numerous apple orchards and is famous for its delicious apples and products. The local farmers have been cultivating apples for generations. While in the village, you can try the famous apple brandy and cider. Similarly, you can explore the alleys and streets with whitewashed houses and sample the apple pies, juices, and jams.

At Nepal Alternative Treks, we have an 11 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek package. The itinerary is customized to let you experience the route at its best. Similarly, we prioritize our trekkers’ safety while designing the itinerary.

Our trek will begin from Kathmandu. Here is the breakdown of our Annapurna Circuit Trek route’s day-to-day itinerary. We will discuss the walking distance, trek duration, elevations, and view of each day’s route.

On the first day, we will embark on our journey from Kathmandu. We will take a full-day bus journey towards Besi Sahar (850m/2,805ft) in the Lamjung district. The bus will drive alongside the Trishuli River. The bus will take a detour north alongside the Budi Gandaki River passing by greeneries and charming villages. We will cover a 160 km distance and stay at Besi Sahar overnight.

We will leave Besi Sahar and drive upstream along the Marsyangdi River. The drive will take you through the lush forests towards Chyamje village. Heading in the north direction, we will drive towards Taal village and then towards Chame (2,710m/8,943ft). The majestic sight of Lamjung Himal will greet you as you enter Chame. The Chame village is the headquarters of the Manag district. The drive covers 80km and takes around 5 hours. We will rest at Chame for the night.

The next day, we will begin our uphill climb. We will trek upstream alongside the Marsatyangdi River and climb through luscious forest ridges. We will pass by the villages of Telekhu, Bhratang, and Dhukur Pokhari. After a short climb above Lower Pisang, we will reach the Upper Pisang village (3,300m/10,890 ft). The day’s trek will take around 6 hours and cover a 15 km uphill hike. We will stay at Upper Pisang for the night.

Our day 4 will begin with a beautiful view of Marsayangdi Valley. This day we will embark on a 4-hour, 12 km uphill journey to Manang (3,500m/11,550ft). We will continue to climb uphill through Manang Sadak towards Ngawal village. We will explore a little at this Tibetan-styled settlement. We will then continue our trek and pass by the Ghyaru, Humde, and Bagra villages before reaching Manang.

Acclimatization is important for adjusting your body to the higher elevation. So today, we will explore Manang and acclimatize. The town is surrounded by Annapurna III (7,555 m) and Gangapurna (6,454 m). Home to Tibetan and Magar people, you can explore the Gangapurna Lake and Ice Lake. Both lakes are located in the glaciated region of Annapurna Massif and Chulu East Peak.

Our trek destination for the day is Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,563ft). We will climb through Tengi village, Ghusang, and Marsayangdi valley. Then, the trail will climb up to Sang Khola Valley. We will pass by Yak pastures, scrub of juniper trees, and an ancient Mani wall. After a 3-hour walk and 6 km uphill hike, we will reach Yak Kharka.

The following day, the trail will lead uphill through Chauri Ledar village and towards Thorong Phedi. It is a 6 km hike which takes 4 hours. We will walk alongside the Kone River and climb through rocky ridges. Along The way, you can enjoy the stunning view of Annapurna Massif and Thorong Peak (6,144m). After reaching the Thorong Phedi High Camp (4,400m/14,520ft), we will spend the rest of the day acclimatizing.

Next morning, we will again climb upstream alongside the Marsyangdi River. Expect to walk on thick snow as you slowly approach Thorong La Pass (5,416m). You can witness the Annapurna and Gangapurna ranges along with the desert-like landscape of the Mustang from the top. Similarly, you can also view mountains in Tibet. We will then descend and climb down the rocky ridges. Our trek will end for the day at Muktinath. The trek covers 18 km and takes around 10 hours.

We will begin our day with a tour around Muktinath temple (3,760m). The temple is one of the most popular pilgrimages in Nepal. You can witness mountain views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri as you leave Muktinath. We will pass by Kagbeni, the dried beds of Kali Gandaki River, and Jomsom. After a 7-hour hike and covering an 18 km distance, we will finally reach Marpha (2,713m/8,952ft). Marpha is a beautiful town famous for being the capital city of Apple. We will stay overnight here.

We will enjoy the morning with the beautiful views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Then we will hop in a jeep or bus and drive back to Pokhara (820m/2,706ft). During the 8-hour drive, we will pass by Tukuche, Kalopani, Rupse waterfall, Tatopani, Beni, and Nayapul. We will stay at Pokhara overnight.

On the final day, we will begin our morning with breakfast overlooking the beautiful Phewa Lake. Then we will head back to Kathmandu on a 6-hour drive alongside the Trishuli River.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is challenging. Although the trail is well-established, trekkers have to be prepared for steep uphill and downhill hikes. The trek will take you through various landscapes and terrains. There are many narrow trails with slippery sections. Similarly, as you move higher, the trail becomes rocky.  

You will also have to cross over several suspension bridges during the journey. The route of the Annapurna Circuit Trek goes through remote areas of the region. As a result, there are limited facilities available. The communication and internet connection can also be limited. To avoid any risky areas, trekkers have to stay updated with the trail conditions.   

The high altitude can also cause altitude sickness problems for many trekkers. Likewise, the weather conditions at higher elevations are unpredictable. Proper preparation is necessary to combat the Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulties. The trails will test any trekker’s stamina and endurance.

Trekkers have to be physically as well as mentally prepared for the journey.  So, it is highly recommended that you do strength training and exercises before the trek. It is always best to embark on these challenging treks with a positive mindset. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek route go through diverse topography and elevation changes. Therefore, the weather and climate vary significantly. You will trek from the subtropical climate to alpine. Similarly, you will ascend uphill and descend downhill through different ecological zones. The weather in lowlands can be warm but as you climb to the higher elevations, the temperature begins to drop.

For the best trekking experience, spring and autumn are the best time. The weather and temperature are favorable and warm. The temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C at lowland and range from 10°C to 20°C at high alpine. Similarly, The clear skies also provide the best views during the season.

However, trekkers should be prepared for weather changes while at their Annapurna Circuit Trek. There can also be occasional rain showers. Therefore, trekkers carry proper clothing and be equipped with proper gear. it helps to make the trek comfortable and safe. It is also best to check the weather forecasts before your trek.

You will come across several viewpoints during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. These include the following:

Chame

After leaving the Besi Sahar, you will come across Chame village. It is a small village at an elevation of 2710 meters that is the headquarters of Manang district. The village lies on the eastern side of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Luscious green forests, paddy fields, and cliffs surround the village. From here, you can get a magnificent view of Annapurna II and the Lamjung Himal.

Upper Pisang

Upper Pisang also serves as a viewpoint during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is a picturesque village that sits at 3300 meters. Home to several ancient monasteries and stupas, you can get incredible panoramic views of Mount Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and several other peaks.

Manang

The Manang village sits amidst gorgeous mountains. It is a famous village at an altitude of 3540 meters. From here, you can see stunning mountain views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The village has charming traditional stone houses, age-old monasteries, and stupas.

Thorong La Pass

The Thorong La Pass is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Hence, it serves as the best viewpoint during the trek. At a height of 5416 meters, it offers a splendid view of the entire Annapurna Massif and Dhaulagiri ranges. Similarly, you can also witness the stunning landscapes from the top.

Muktinath

After descending from the Thorong La Pass, you will reach Muktinath. The Muktinath temple is a sacred site. It also serves as a viewpoint that offers stunning mountain views and desert-like landscape views. You can witness the mountain vistas like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak, and several other peaks.

If you are thinking of making immediate for Annapurna Circuit Trek, we have your back. Nepal Alternative Trek provides last-minute bookings and multiple departures. The cost of the booking will remain the same for last-minute bookings as for regular packages. Contact us 24 hours before you wish to set off for the trek. We will make the arrangements and provide you with an online briefing for the trek. 

The best time to do Annapurna Circuit Trekking is during the spring and autumn seasons. During this time of the year, you will be able to see the beauty of the surrounding in clear visibility. Furthermore, during this season you will also be able to find proper accommodation for your stay. At this time of the year, the temperature is also moderate. Which will multiply your experience and fun during the trek.

Spring (March to May)

If you want to see the colorful landscapes of the Annapurna Circuit route, spring is the perfect time. Red, pink, and white rhododendrons and colorful Himalayan flora decorate the hills and trails. The precipitation level is low, so there is low rainfall, and the weather is pleasant. 

The average daytime temperature of higher elevations ranges between 0 and 8 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the average temperature in lower regions is between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius. However, the temperature at night can drop significantly to 5 to -5 degrees Celsius.

Autumn (September to November)

The autumn season begins right as the monsoon season leaves the country. Hence, the rainfall from the previous month cleanses the atmosphere of dirt and dust. The vegetation looks vibrant and luscious. The visibility is also excellent, and the mountain views are magnificent. 

The weather is most stable at this time of year. Daytime temperatures in the lower regions range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. However, nighttime temperatures can go below freezing in higher elevations. As the season progresses, the temperature slowly begins to get colder.

We don’t provide any Meals facilities in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Similarly, we also don’t provide any soft or hard drinks during the trek. Most importantly, we provide meals 3 times a day which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner facility as your wish. Likewise, we also provide food in sufficient quantities. In addition, we also provide healthy Nepali and western food during the 11 Days Annapurna circuit trek.

There are three types of documents and paperwork required for Annapurna Circuit Trek. These include:

Visa

Every international traveler is required to get a tourist visa to enter Nepal. They can get the visa before arrival. You can get a visa from the Nepal Embassy situated in your country. Or they can get the visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport. The tourist visa allows travelers to freely travel across Nepal. Similarly, it allows you to participate in different activities including trekking.

Permits

For the Annapurna Circuit Trek, trekkers are required to take two permits. These permits include TIMS (Transport Information Management System) and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).

The TIMS permit is required by trekkers for every trekking route in Nepal. As the Annapurna Circuit Trek route goes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, you need the ACAP permit. There are different checkpoints along the trail where you need to show these permits. Failure to provide the permits will lead you to pay a fine.

The ACAP permit costs NPR 3000 for foreigners and NPR 1000 for SAARC trekkers. The cost for a child below 10 years is free. You can get these permits in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Our 11-day Annapurna Circuit Trek package includes both of these permits.

Insurance

It is always best for trekkers to get travel insurance while traveling in unfamiliar territory. Since you will be trekking to higher elevations where altitude-related sickness is common, it is best to get travel insurance. There can be some unforeseen medical issues or emergencies. At such times, the insurance helps to cover any emergency medical evacuation.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek route is safe but it is challenging. So, it is best to be prepared. Travel insurance also covers baggage loss, trek cancellations, or postponements. In addition, make sure that your insurance company has ticked all your trekking-related policies such as rescue missions, medical expenses, and loss of personal equipment. Therefore, if all these things are good then it will be easy for you to excess to the trek via us.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is a very long trek so you should be physically fit and mentally tough. In addition, you should have at least the experience of climbing small peaks. Not everyone can do this trek. Most importantly, you should be passionate about the trek. Furthermore, you should not have any heart or lung diseases. Most importantly, you should also not have any blood-related diseases. Furthermore, you should have confidence in yourself.

Other than the essential expenses for permits, accommodations, guides, and meals, trekkers should be prepared for extra personal expenses. These expenses can be high or low depending on their preferences. Sometimes unforeseen circumstances can also add extra personal expenses. 

Some of these extra personal expenses during the Annapurna Circuit Trek can include tips, snacks and drinks, personal items, and souvenirs. At higher altitudes, accommodations can charge you extra for hot showers, chagrin devices, and wifi access. Your personal gear and travel insurance also costs you extra expenses. Therefore, it is advised for trekkers to have some flexibility in their budget for these extra personal expenses. 

We are a very reputed trekking and travel company who takes consumers’ safety and security very seriously. It is the most important component of our company. Likewise, we take full care of our consumer and their property. Similarly, our trip constantly and carefully checks every area of our travel. So, you can feel free and enjoy your time trekking with us.

Gears required for the trek vary upon destination and season. A comprehensive list of gear for all activities is listed on our dedicated page of Trekking Gear List