Annapurna Circuit and ABC Trekking

Trip Facts

Duration

Duration 20 Days

Difficulty

Difficulty Moderate

The trek starts as you drive from Kathmandu to Bulbule and further to Chame. The trek begins from Chame towards Upper Pisang, walking through the oak forest and Dhukur Pokhari. Also, you will trek to Manang, and Thorang Phedi, followed by Muktinath and Jomsom. Along the trail, you will walk through crimson rhododendron forest along with the profound view of the majestic Himalayan ranges.

You will walk through the world’s deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki gorge with the views of Mt. Annapurna I (8091m) elevated in the east and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m) in the west. Spending some delightful moments in Machhapuchhre and Annapurna Base Camp, you will get to see the profound beauty of majestic mountains. Following the moraines and icy pathways, you will take a detour to Tatopani to take a calm dip in from an exhausting journey, and then drive back to Pokhara. The journey ends with your arrival in Kathmandu.

The best seasons to do this trek are during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these seasons, there is mild sunshine and least precipitation that makes the trails dry. Beginners can also do this trek.

Background 

The view of the perfect sunrise from Poon Hill is an overwhelming experience. In addition to this experience, the trek offers several other chances to witness the ever-stunning beauty of the Himalayas. Trek to Jomsom and the holiest Muktinath region to witness the outstanding landscape and unique culture of the native people in the region.

About Us

At Nepal Alternative Treks and Expedition, we provide the best travel and tour experience to our clients. We are competent and professional. We also offer services of customizable itinerary based on the client’s convenience and schedule. Join us today for an adventurous journey.

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Trip Highlights:

  • Trek through quaint villages like Manang, Marpha, and Ghorepani.
  • Experience the spiritual aura at the sacred Muktinath temple on the lap of the Himalayas.
  • Explore the exotic flora and fauna of the Annapurna Conservation Area, including snow leopards, musk deer, and many more.
  • Witness a superb sunrise view at Poon Hill.
  • Capture the exhilarating view at Annapurna and Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

Day-to-day-Itinerary

Day 1

Drive to Besi Sahar

Day 1 Facts

Trekking Time Average

160km Drive
(Av. 6hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Besi Sahar

Altitude

(830m./2739ft.)

In the early morning, our guides will pick you up at your hotel, and the trekking journey starts with a pleasant drive to Bulbule. You will pass through Dumre following the Prithvi Highway further north. You will approach Besisahar spotting the pleasant, lush hills and green landscape throughout Besisahar. Overnight in Besisahar .

Day 2

Drive to Chame

Day 2 Facts

Trekking Time Average

55km Drive
(Av. 4hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Chame

Altitude

(2710m./8943ft.)

After breakfast, leaving besisahar behind you will follow the bank of Marshyangdi river till Ngadi then you will bypass the ascend trail of Bahun Dada gearing towards the Marsayangdi River. Bypassing the river overlooking the verdant valley and the traditional Buddhist houses, you will drive passing through fir and pine forest to arrive at Chame, a settlement of the Gurung people. You may explore the place, and also consider a dip in a famous hot spring near the Marsayangdi River. Overnight in Chame.

Day 3

Trek to Upper Pisang

Day 3 Facts

Trekking Time Average

14km Uphill hike
(Av. 6hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Upper Pisang

Altitude

(3400m./11220ft.)

After breakfast at Chame, your trek begins from Chame towards Pisang. You will pass by an apple orchard and oak forest and reach Dhukur Pokhari, which offers magnificent views of Pisang Peak, Annapurna IV, and Pangdi Danda (1500m). Further, you will head north to Lower Pisang and arrive at Upper Pisang, where you will acclimatize. In the evening, visit the local monastery to observe the monks chanting their soothing evening prayers. Overnight stay at the lodge.

Day 4

Trek to Manang

Day 4 Facts

Trekking Time Average

10km Uphill hike
(Av. 4hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Manang

Altitude

(3500m./11550ft.)

Early in the morning, you will leave for Manang via Ngawal. The trails form Pisang includes the vivid view of the giant mountains. The trek starts with an easy ascent until reaching the peak of the hill. Enjoy the dramatic views of the picturesque valleys along with the view of the majestic mountains such as Annapurna II, Annapurna III (7555m), Gangapurna (7454m), Pisang Peak, Chulu (6583m), and Tilicho (7132m). Following the descent trail, you head to the village of Braga, where you may spend some time in Braga Monastery. The charming statues and thangkas will amaze you. Continuing the journey, you reach Manang following the route of the dusty trail and magnificent Mani walls. After reaching Manang, you may observe several monasteries. Overnight in Manang.

Day 5

Acclimatization- Explore around

Today, you spend the day acclimatizing to the surrounding. You will explore Manang, a Tibetan settlement of around 500 houses with an appealing view of beautiful mountains such as Chulu peaks and Gangapurna. The village of Manang offers the best sunrise and sunset view. Today, you can also hike towards the spectacular ridge closer to Gangapurna glacier following the trail up to the cave, which is just above the Manang village. You will also explore the village around and learn about the culture of the Gurung people and their culture. Overnight in Manang.

Day 6

Trek to Yak Kharka

Day 6 Facts

Trekking Time Average

8km Uphill hike
(Av. 4hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Yak Kharka

Altitude

(4110m./13563ft.)

After breakfast, you will trek towards Yak Kharka via Batase Danda. The trail offers vivid views of mountains like Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Chulu Peaks. You will trek forward following the route of the dry terrains alongside the juniper forests. After trekking for about 4 hours, you will reach the small village of Yak Kharka with small settlements. Upon reaching the village, you can take short walks in the evening. Overnight in Yak Kharka.

Day 7

Trek to Thorong Phedi

Day 7 Facts

Trekking Time Average

76km Uphill hike
(Av. 4hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Thorong Phedi

Altitude

(4400m./14520ft.)

Today is a big day of the trek. After breakfast, you will leave for High Camp following the route from Yak Kharka via Leder and Throng Phedi. The trek starts with a gradual climb towards Ledar, where you get to see the stunning view of mountains like Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and a closer look at Chulu peaks. Gradually, ascending further through the barren and windy terrain, you will reach Throng Phedi. The trail becomes tough after Thorong Phedi . Overnight in Thorong Phedi.

Day 8

Trek to Muktinath

Day 8 Facts

Trekking Time Average

15km Downhill hike
(Av. 10hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Muktinath

Altitude

(3800m./12540ft.)

After an early breakfast, you will leave for Muktinath, one of the holiest places in Nepal. The trek is long and challenging as you trek along the twisted paths. You will reach the first ridge and continue on the narrow path to reach the mind-blowing glacial pond. Trekking further, you will reach Throng La Pass (5416m). The pass offers breathtaking views of Mt. Damodar, Bhrikuti Peaks, and Mt. Dhaulagiri. After that, you will start descending through the rough trails towards Muktinath. Overnight in Muktinath.

Day 9

Trek to Kagbeni

Day 9 Facts

Trekking Time Average

6km Down hike
(Av. 3hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Kagbeni

Altitude

(2810m./9273ft.)

You will pay your respects in the Muktinath temple in the morning today. This place is quite occupied with pilgrims from Nepal and India during Hindu festivals. After having breakfast surrounded by the beautiful views in Muktinath, you will leave for Kagbeni. You will follow the gradual inclination and follow the route of greenery all around throughout the journey with a cool air blowing at your face. Following the juniper and pine forests, you will reach Kagbeni. Overnight in Kagbeni.

Day 10

Trek to Marpha

Day 10 Facts

Trekking Time Average

12km Downhill hike
(Av. 5hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
marpha

Altitude

(2665m./ 8794ft.)

After breakfast, you will trek from Kagbeni to Marpha. The trail includes a gradual declination route for a couple of hours, and you will come across the Kaligandaki River alongside the trails. After trekking for about 4 hours, you will reach Marpha, where you will get to see many organic apple gardens full of apple trees. In the evening, you can try some local apple brandy. Overnight in Marpha.

Day 11

Drive to Tatopani/ Natural hot spring

Day 11 Facts

Trekking Time Average

30km Drive
(Av. 5hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Tatopani

Altitude

(1100m./3630 ft.)

After breakfast, you will leave for the famous hot spring spot known as Tatopani. You will drive towards Ghasa, followed by the scenic view of mountains such as Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Annapurna, and several others. After driving for an hour, you will reach Kopchepani. As you continue driving alongside the Kali Gandaki valley, you will reach Tatopani. Overnight in Tatopani.

Day 12

Trek to Ghorepani

Day 12 Facts

Trekking Time Average

18km Downhill hike
(Av. 7hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Ghorepani

Altitude

(2800m./ 9240ft.)

After a relaxing day at Tatopani, you will trek towards Ghorepani, taking an uphill trail via Ghara and Sikha. You will start a trek crossing the suspension bridge over the Kaligandaki River. Then, you will ascend for some time until you reach terraced lands. You will walk alongside the terraced fields and dense rhododendron forests until you reach Chitre. After that, trekking through the verdant rhododendron and pine forest, you will reach Ghorepani. Overnight in Ghorepani.

Day 13

Trek to Tadapani

Day 13 Facts

Trekking Time Average

13km Uphill hike
(Av. 6hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Tadapani

Altitude

(2650m./8745 ft.)

You will wake up early to catch a glimpse of the sunrise from Poon Hill (3210m), one of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna region. Watch the sunrise, and the mountains like Annapurna- IV, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri turn golden. After spending some memorable moments at Poon Hill, you will head back to the lodge and have breakfast. After that, you will trek straight towards Tadapani as you pass by small villages in Deurali and Banthanti. Overnight in Tadapani.

Day 14

Trek to Sinuwa

Day 14 Facts

Trekking Time Average

16km uphill hike
(Av. 6hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Sinuwa

Altitude

(2200m./7260ft.)

After breakfast at Tadapani, you will leave for Sinuwa. The trail includes walking through the shaded forest and declining towards the river following a few ups and downs. Then, you will reach Chhomrong village by passing through the terraced fields. Enjoy the pleasing views of mountains like Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. Continuing the trek forward, you will walk into the rhododendron forest to reach Sinuwa. Overnight  in Sinuwa.

Day 15

Trek to Deurali

Day 15 Facts

Trekking Time Average

15km Uphill hike
(Av. 6hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Deurali

Altitude

(3160m./10428 ft.)

After breakfast, you will trek towards Bamboo to reach Deurali village. You will walk through the Bamboo forest, followed by the rhododendron forest to reach Deurali. The trek lasts around 5 hours today. Upon reaching Deurali, you can rest for a while. In the evening, head out to explore the nearby areas. Overnight in Deurali.

Day 16

Trek to ABC

Day 16 Facts

Trekking Time Average

8km Uphill hike
(Av. 5hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
ABC

Altitude

(4120m./13596ft.)

After breakfast, you will head towards Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp. First, you climb towards the Hinku Cave. Then, you walk through a lush forest to reach the flat land of Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Here, you get to capture the astonishing views of the Machhapuchhre and Annapurna ranges.

After that, you will follow the brief but steep trail towards Annapurna Base Camp, passing through the moraines. Continuing further, you will reach placid glaciers that lie close to Annapurna Base Camp. Upon reaching the base camp, enjoy the magnificent views of Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Machhapuchhre.

Day 17

Trek to Bamboo

Day 17 Facts

Trekking Time Average

18km Downhill hike
(Av. 7hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
Bamboo

Altitude

(2300m./7590ft.)

Today, you will wake up early to catch a great view of the sunrise above the Annapurna range. After breakfast, you will retrace your steps back to Bamboo. The views of Mt. Annapurna I and Mt. Machhapuchhre accompany you throughout the trek. Passing by the Hinku cave, Deurali, and Modi Khola, you will reach Bamboo. Overnight in Bamboo.

Day 18

Trek to hinu Danda

Day 18 Facts

Trekking Time Average

15km Downhill hike
(Av. 6hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Lodge in
hinu Danda

Altitude

(1600m./5280ft.)

After breakfast at Bamboo, you will head towards the Jhinu Danda, following the descending trail towards Chhomrong through the rhododendron and oak forests. En route, capture the epic views of the Machhapuchhre range. Following the trail of the forest, you will reach Tatopani, where you will have a relaxing bath on the hot springs. Then, continue the trek to reach Jhinu Danda. Overnight in Jhinu Danda.

Day 19

Trek to Samrung

Day 19 Facts

Trekking Time Average

20min Drive
70km Uphill hike
(Av. 2:30hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Hotel in
Pokhara

Altitude

(1400m./4620ft.)
(820m./2706ft.)6km Uphill hike
(Av. 6hr)

After breakfast, you will leave for a brief trek to Samrung, the ending point of the trek. From here, you will take a jeep and head towards Nayapul. You will have a  the scenic drive towards Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 20

Drive to Kathmandu

Day 20 Facts

Trekking Time Average

200km Drive
(Av. 6hr)

Accommodation

Luxury Hotel in
Kathmandu

Altitude

(1295m./4273ft.)

After breakfast adoring the warmth of the beautiful lakeside, you will leave early for a scenic drive to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you will take some rest. Later, you can head for souvenir shopping in Thamel. Overnight in Kathmandu.

What do you get in the Trip?

Included

  • Tribhuwan International Airport Transfer ( Airport + Hotel + Airport ) in Kathmandu.
  • One night hotel accommodation in Pokhara.
  • Lodge ( Twin share basis ) accommodation during the trekking.
  • All meals ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
  • One highly experienced, first aid trained, fluent English speaking, local language speaking, friendly and government authorized trekking guide and required porters (one porter for two persons).
  • Guide/ Porter’s food, accommodation, salary, insurance, transportation and equipments.
  • Overland transportation as per mentioned in itinerary.
  • Annapurna conservation area project ( ACAP) and necessary permits ( TIMS) .
  • A trekking map, duffle bag, Oxygen saturation check up everyday, Trekking completion certificate and company T-shirt etc.
  • Government tax and service charge etc.
  • Assistance for Emergency Resuce Evacuation.
  • Public Liability Insurance.

Excluded

  • Hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
  • Hard and soft table drinks such as tea/coffee, coke, fanta, mineral water, beer, desert, battery charge, hot shower, laundry, phone bill and bar bill.
  • Personal Travel insurance.
  • Tips for guide and porters. ( Highly suggested).

Need a private date?

The given rates are per person with guaranteed departure schedules. If the given dates are not appropriate for you, please feel free to contact us for requesting a new dates, we will gladly personalize the itinerary and schedule of the trip that fits for you.

Book a private date

Traveler Reviews

That was our first trip to Nepal although a lifetime dream. Tej's Agency, "Nepal Alternative Treks and Expeditions" was referred by a good friend of mine in Quebec. It ended up to be a great tip. Tej and his team were welcoming, friendly, honest and very helpful. We headed for a 16 days trek in the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Sanctuary (ABC). Absolutely amazing!!! We were a party of three (my wife and a friend), joined by a guide, Amar, and two porters, Depak and Ram. An incredible team. Always attentive to our every need, they rapidly became good friends. We were happy, smiling and laughing all the time, enjoying each and every minute of this unforgettable journey. I would highly recommend this Agency for anyone planning a visit to Nepal. Very professionel. The Agency is locate in Thamel. Namaste. Pierre

5.0

Pierre Mirault

Quebec, Canada
It was a great rip with Bijan and team as we completed Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Basecamp. The process was very simple to register and everything was setup professionally. Bijan really cared for the entire group and it showed in our enjoyment of the trip. We will definitely work with them again when we visit Nepal for other adventures.

5.0

Victor Liu

Washington, USA

ESSENTIAL INFO

The difficulty of the trek

This trek is an 18 day-long trek so if you walk at your own pace and have a sufficient amount of water then it will not be that difficult. But, due to the geographical condition of the place, it can be difficult to walk through some rough roads.

Best time to visit

Annapurna Circuit and ABC Trekking are available throughout the year. But, the best time to visit the trek is during the autumn and spring seasons.

Meals and Accommodation

You provide your Lodge (Twin share basis) accommodation during the trekking. Similarly, all meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during trekking are also available. The meals and accommodation are also top class.

Required Permits

ACAP: NPR. 3000 for foreigners and NPR 1000 for SAARC.

Note: Child below 10 years are free

Fitness and experience requirements

This trek is an 18 day-long trek so, you need to be physically fit and you need to have some experience during the trek. But, rookie trekkers also can do this trekking but you need a guide with you.

Travel insurance

Personal travel insurance is not included in our tour. So, you have to compulsorily have trekking insurance from your insurance company.

Climate and weather

The climate and weather of the place are always moderate. But, during the rainy seasons, it rains. So, avoid rainy seasons as much as possible. but, if you are choosing a time to visit this place this can hamper your trek.

Safety and security

The security and safety of our visitors are very important to us. So, we take proper care of your belongings and we check every path before our departure. So, you don’t need to worry and you can enjoy your time.

Gear List

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

Frequently
Asked Questions

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