Annapurna Circuit Trek – 11 Days

We will start our 11 days Annapurna Circuit Trek with a long drive (6-7 hours) from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar. The drive takes place in the Prithvi Highway and follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. From Besisahar, we will take another jeep ride and continue upstream along the Marsyangdi River until Chame. Finally from Chame, we will officially start our trekking journey.

Leaving Chame, we will walk through pine forests and across wooden bridges until we reach Upper Pisang. We get to see snow-covered mountains like Annapurna II standing high above on the trail. Next, the Annapurna Circuit Trek trail from Upper Pisang leads us to Manang, which is a beautiful valley village surrounded by cliffs and glaciers. At Manang, we will take an acclimatization day to rest and let our bodies adjust to the higher altitude while exploring Manang village and nearby attractions. After Manang, we will trek to Ledar, which requires us to climb uphill through yak pastures and stone houses. The air gets thinner, and the trail becomes rocky as we get closer to the high mountains.

From Ledar, we will continue to Thorong Phedi, a base camp just below the famous Thorong La Pass. Now comes the most challenging and most exciting part of the entire Annapurna Circuit trek, which is crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). The climb is tough and the path is covered with snow. After reaching the top of the pass, we will begin the long descent toward Muktinath. This downhill stretch is the steepest and longest of the trek. As we make our way down the winding mountain paths, our knees will definitely feel the strain. We will visit the Muktinath temple and then further descend to Marpha. From Marpha, we will ride on a jeep to drive back to Pokhara and then return to Kathmandu, ending our 11 days adventure around the Annapurna Circuit.

Road construction on the Annapurna Circuit started in the early 1980s near Beni and Dumre. Over the years, these roads were rebuilt, and now they reach all the way from Pokhara to Manang and Mustang. The road construction has made travel much easier. Trekkers can now reach these places by jeep or private vehicle in just a few hours instead of walking for many days.  In emergencies, quick transportation is possible, and food, goods, and supplies can easily be brought in, improving comfort for both locals and visitors.

But the roads also changed the trekking experience negatively. Some parts of the trail are now noisy and dusty because of vehicles. Many trekkers feel that the quiet and natural beauty of the old path is not the same anymore. To keep the trekking experience special, the Government of Nepal and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) have been working on alternative trails jointly since 2010. These new alternatives are the Natural Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT), which follow the paths locals have used for ages. They are well-marked and safe for traveling.

Your safety is our number one priority. From the start of your trip to the very end, we plan everything carefully so you can trek without worry. Our excellent reviews on TripAdvisor show the trust and satisfaction of past travelers. Our safety plan is based on three things: an experienced guide, carefully planned itinerary, and strong emergency support.

• Expert Guides: Our guides know the Annapurna region’s trails, villages, and even the changing mountain weather very well. They are first-aid trained too, so they can handle common trekking problems. They also check your oxygen level every day and watch for early signs of altitude sickness.
• Acclimatization and Safe Itinerary: Trekking at high altitude takes time, so our itinerary plan includes an acclimatization day in Manang. We stay two nights there, with a short hike to higher ground during the day and sleep at a lower altitude at night. This helps your body adjust slowly and safely. Further, each day is paced carefully to reduce the chance of altitude sickness.
• Emergency Support: We are ready for unexpected things that happen during the trek. Our guides carry radios or satellite phones in case there is no mobile service. They also carry a full first-aid kit for small problems like sprains or blisters. If there is a serious emergency, like strong altitude sickness, we can arrange a helicopter rescue and work with your insurance to get you help quickly.

To trek the Annapurna Circuit, you need an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit. Since the trek lies within the conservation area, it is mandatory to get this permit. You can get it from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara by filling out a form (either online or at the office). If you book this trek with us, we will handle this paperwork for you, and even the cost of the permit is included in the package price.

The ACAP permit costs NRs 1,000 for SAARC nationals and NRs 3,000 for Non-SAARC nationals. Children under 10 years old don’t need to pay. If you pay online, there’s a small extra charge (2.9% for the payment gateway). Also, if you get this permit at the check-post, the double fees apply, so it’s better to get it in either Kathmandu or Pokhara. Remember to always carry your permit, as officials will check it at different points along the trail, such as Birethanti and Chhomrong.

Note: TIMS card  (Trekkers’ Information Management System) is no longer required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Likewise, when talking about Travel Insurance, it isn’t mandatory to have this. But it is always best for trekkers to get travel insurance while traveling in unfamiliar territory. Since you will be trekking to higher elevations during the trek to Annapurna Circuit, 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. Travel insurance also covers baggage losses, trek cancellations, and postponements. Having said that, when getting travel insurance, make sure that your insurance company has ticked all your trekking-related policies, such as rescue missions, medical expenses, and loss of personal equipment.

During the Annapurna Circuit Trek, we will trek through diverse landscapes, villages, important religious sites, acclimatization hubs, and a high mountain pass in the Annapurna region. Each stop around the way offers a unique experience, be that cultural immersion, stunning mountain views. Now let’s take a look at those major stops and attractions:

Chame Village (2,710 m) – The starting point of Annapurna Circuit Trek

The drive from Besi Sahar takes us to Chame. Chame is the administrative headquarters of the Manang district. The village lies on the eastern side of the Annapurna Conservation Area. We can rest, prepare, and get the first taste of the higher terrain here. Surrounded by dense pine forests, fields of potatoes, maize, buckwheat, and barley (which vary by season), and towering cliffs, Chame feels like a natural amphitheater. At Chame, we can already spot the snowy summits of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal rising above the valley. Likewise, we can see a stunning view of the winding Marshyangdi River through the valley below. Sunsets and sunrises in Chame are especially captivating, painting the mountains in hues of gold and crimson.

Upper Pisang – Balcony of the Annapurnas (3,300 m)

Walking through the forest area and alpine terrain from Chame, we reach Upper Pisang. It is a beautiful Tibetan-influenced village that doubles as one of the best viewpoints on the circuit. Here, we are rewarded with sweeping panoramas of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Pisang Peak, Lamjung Himal, and Tilicho Peak. Also, the view of Lower Pisang lying in the valley below offers a striking contrast. Its stone houses, fluttering prayer flags, monasteries, and stupas give a serene, spiritual atmosphere. Many trekkers consider Upper Pisang one of the most photogenic stops of the trek.

Manang (3,550 m) – Cultural and Acclimatization Hub

The Manang village sits amidst gorgeous mountains. It is one of the most memorable stops on the Annapurna Circuit. Surrounded by tall cliffs and snowy peaks, this village has a desert-like setting that feels very different from the lush valleys below. We will stay here for two nights to adjust to the higher altitude before moving further up the Annapurna Circuit Trek trail. There are many places to visit in Manang. These include Gangapurna Lake, Manang Culture Museum, Ice Lake / Kicho Tal, Parken Gompa, Milarapa Cave, Braga Gompa, etc. Also, the people of Manang dress in Tibetan-style clothing. Both men and women wear woolen garments to protect themselves from the cold weather. We can also witness the festival celebration if we arrive during the festive season. Major festivals celebrated here include Yartung, Toran La, Dashain, and Tihar.

Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) – High Mountain Viewpoint

Thorong La Pass is the toughest challenge and the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. At 5,416 it is also one of the highest treeking passes in the world. The ascend to the pass is demanding. However, once we reach the top, we can see a splendid view of the entire Annapurna III, Dhaulagiri, Thorong Peak, Khatungkang, Yakawa Kang, and other surrounding peaks.

Similarly, we can also witness stunning landscapes from the top which is grand view of the world’s deepest valley, the Kali Gandaki Valley. Snow-covered trails, barren highland deserts, and endless mountain walls stretch in every direction, creating a sense of awe that makes Thorong La a defining moment of the trek.

Muktinath (3,800 m) – Sacred Pilgrimage in Mustang

Descending from Thorong La brings us into Mustang, where we will visit Muktinath, a sacred site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Pilgrims from all over South Asia visit to bathe in the 108 water spouts and pay homage to the eternal flame at the Muktinath Temple. It is belive that bathing here clenase our sins. Beyond its spiritual atmosphere, Muktinath offers incredible views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Nilgiri, and Tilicho Peak. The contrast of reddish-brown cliffs, barren hills, and patches of green vegetation along the Kali Gandaki River creates scenery unlike anywhere else on the trek. Muktinath blends spirituality with natural beauty, making it a cultural and scenic highlight.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular route with well-established trails. Hence, plenty of tea houses, lodges, homestays, and guest houses are available. These accommodations are usually budget-friendly. All accommodations provide basic facilities such as beds, blankets, and pillows. You will not find luxurious stays on the trekking routes as they fall in remote areas. Most of the rooms are shared with communal bathrooms. These bathrooms are usually squat-style. However, you can also find rooms with attached bathrooms in the lower regions.

The rooms have no heating services, so trekkers should carry sleeping bags. Usually, these places have one massive stove in a communal dining space for heating. Almost all stays have electricity facilities, but those who don’t may have solar panels. During cloudy and overcast days, there may not be electricity available. Safe drinking water is also available during the trek. You can buy bottled water, or better yet, bring your water bottle and refill it with boiled or filtered water. The accommodations offer services like internet, hot shower/ water, electronic device charging, etc., for additional costs.

Our agency has arranged the accommodations for our 11-day Annapurna Circuit Trek package. We make arrangements for your stay with the local lodges at each stop on our trek. The lodge accommodation is shared. As we move to higher elevations, the accommodations are less luxurious, with only basic facilities. Nonetheless, they are comfortable. Note that Kathmandu accommodation is not included in this package.

Healthy and hearty meals are available at the teahouses and lodges along the Annapurna Circuit Trek route. The menu offers various options, from traditional Nepali cuisine to Tibetan and Western delicacies. However, the menu will become limited as you move to higher altitudes. Almost all ingredients are produced locally and fresh, so you don’t have to worry about hygiene.

You will find menus for breakfast like eggs, toast, porridge, pancakes, bread (Tibetan/ Indian), soups, tea (black/ milk/ green), and coffee. Similarly, for lunch and dinner, you will mostly find options like Dal Bhat (assortment of rice, lentil soup, vegetables, curries, and pickles), thukpa, chowmein, fried rice, soup, momo, noodles, pasta, pizza, burger, chapati, curries, and deserts like rice pudding, apple pie, etc.

We provide meals three times a day, which include breakfast, lunch, and dinner facilities as you wish. The meals are healthy and in sufficient quantities. We also provide healthy Nepali and Western food during the 11-day Annapurna circuit trek.

Note: We do not provide any meal facilities in Kathmandu and Pokhara. The package also includes no soft or hard drinks during the trek except for tea or coffee with the meal. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know when booking.

The Annapurna Circuit covers around 160 to 230 km , depending on the route. The duration of the trek can vary depending on the route. Generally, it can last between 11 and 22 days. Trekkers may have to walk 6 to 7 hours a day on average during the trek. Similarly, they will cover a daily distance of 15 to 20 km.

Since it is a high-altitude trek, trekkers should take their time ascending to high altitudes and take adequate rest days. Else, they can easily fall victim to altitude sickness. Acclimatization days to allow their bodies to adjust to the growing elevation.

Take a look at the itinerary and the maximum elevation and duration during Nepal Alternative Treks’ 11 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek:

The demanding trails of Annapurna Circuit require proper physical and mental preparation. Take a look at the ways you can prepare for the trek :

Physical Preparation

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is physically demanding and requires a significant fitness level. You must be able to ascend and descend steep and narrow paths on varied terrain. Likewise, the average trekking hour ranges from 6 to 8 hours. Thus, it is best to undertake exercises and training at least 2 to 3 months before the journey.

Cardiovascular exercises , strength training, aerobics, yoga, and altitude training are the best physical preparation exercises. Cardiovascular exercises are running, jogging, brisk walking, swimming, and cycling. Similarly, strength training is exercises such as push-ups, squats, step-ups, planks, and lunges. You can also do stair climbing to stimulate the ascending and descending of the trekking trails. Begin your training slowly and gradually increase the intensity. Do not strain your body or risk getting injured before your big adventure.

Mental Preparation

You must be mentally prepared for the Annapurna Circuit Trek and its challenges. The trek will not only test your physical fitness but also your mental strength. Hence, you must have strong mental resilience and a positive mindset to participate in the trek.

The best way to prepare mentally is to research the trek and its difficulties. You must also learn about the possible challenges and events that can occur during the journey. Trekkers must understand that the Himalayas are unpredictable , and the weather at higher altitudes can change anytime. So, you must be ready for any unforeseen events. You will also need strong determination to complete the trek successfully.

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 your preferences. Sometimes unforeseen circumstances can also add extra personal expenses. 

Some of these extra personal expenses during the Annapurna Circuit Trek may 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. 

If you are thinking of making an 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.