Annapurna Circuit Trek

The first day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek starts with a picturesque drive from Kathmandu (1324m) to Besisahar (760m), which takes about 6-7 hours and covers about 175km. The hike begins with a leisurely walk down the Marsyangdi River from Besisahar, passing through traditional villages, waterfalls, and subtropical forests. The trail climbs 80m from Besisahar to Bhulbhule (840m), a little village with teahouses. This part, which takes two to three hours, is quite straightforward and provides breathtaking vistas of verdant landscapes and terraced fields. Over the day, trekkers are progressively acclimated to the terrain while being exposed to Nepal’s rustic charm. To be ready for the hike to Jagat (1,300m) the next day, spend the night at Bhulbhule.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

The trek continues on Day 2 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, climbing 460 metres from Bhulbhule (840 m) to Jagat (1,300 m). Trekking through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and waterfalls takes about five to six hours. Accommodations for the night are set up in Jagat, a quaint stone village with simple tea houses providing comfortable accommodation. Typically, meals consist of spaghetti, noodles, or dal bhat (rice and lentils), as well as tea and energy-boosting snacks. At Jagat, a TIMS card and an ACAP permit check are required, as this portion signifies the entry into the Manang District. The walk of the day prepares hikers for the greater elevations that lie ahead by introducing them to lush surroundings and a steady rise.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

The trek continues on Day 3 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, climbing 560 metres from Jagat (1,300 m) to Dharapani (1,860 m). With breathtaking views of the Marsyangdi River and waterfalls, the five- to six-hour hike passes picturesque communities like Chamje and Tal. In Dharapani, overnight stays are usually found in tea houses or lodges with simple yet cosy amenities. Hearty Nepali staples like noodles, pancakes or dal bhat (lentil soup with rice) are served at meals to provide you energy for the hike. With a mix of rough terrain and beautiful forests, this segment signifies the entry into the Manang district. As the altitude progressively rises, proper hydration and acclimatisation become increasingly important. A peaceful stay at Dharapani marks the end of the day, laying the groundwork for future ascents.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

The trek from Dharapani (1,960 m) to Chame (2,710 m) on Day 4 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a slow climb through verdant woods, terraced farms, and quaint villages, providing breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks like Manaslu and Lamjung Himal. The Marsyangdi River is followed by the trail, which crosses suspension bridges and winds through woodlands that smell of pine. At 2,710 metres, Chame, the administrative centre of Manang District, is encircled by apple orchards and towering cliffs. Cozy tea houses with simple yet adequate accommodations are where guests spend the night. To provide energy for the journey, meals usually consist of dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread. This section of the journey will never be forgotten because of the breathtaking waterfalls, rugged gorges, and far-off Himalayan views.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

The trek from Chame (2,710 m) to Pisang (3,300 m) on Day 5 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a slow climb through verdant woods, steep paths, and picturesque river valleys, providing breathtaking views of Manaslu and Annapurna II. Trekkers enter the alpine zone, where the terrain changes to rocky cliffs and high-altitude landscapes, after gaining about 590 metres in height. Traditional Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, and Tibetan bread are frequently served at the welcoming teahouses where guests can spend the night in Pisang. The actual village is divided between Upper and Lower Pisang, with Upper Pisang providing expansive views of the Himalayas. The trip on this day is renowned for its striking Paungda Danda rock face and the Marsyangdi River canyon, which make it an aesthetically striking experience.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

With a height increase of roughly 400 metres, the climb from Pisang to Manang (3,540 m) on Day 6 of the Annapurna Circuit offers a moderate ascent through breathtaking Himalayan scenery. With stunning vistas of Annapurna II, III, and Gangapurna, the trail meanders past traditional villages, historic monasteries, and parched landscapes reminiscent of the Tibetan Plateau. Spend the night in Manang, a thriving Himalayan community that offers comfortable teahouses with the necessities. Energy for acclimatisation is ensured by meals that usually consist of robust dal bhat, noodles, or Tibetan bread. This section will never be forgotten because of the tranquil beauty of the Marsyangdi Valley and the majestic ice cliffs of the Annapurna range. It is essential to get enough sleep here before moving on to higher elevations.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

Acclimatisation Day at Manang (elevation: 3,540m) is a necessary rest day to adapt to the altitude while experiencing the natural beauty of the Annapurna region. Nestled amidst towering peaks like Gangapurna and Annapurna III, Manang offers stunning vistas of glaciers, alpine meadows, and the turquoise waters of the Gangapurna Lake. For expansive views, trekkers can go to neighbouring locations like the Ice Lake or Praken Gompa. You can spend the night in one of Manang’s welcoming teahouses. In order to provide energy for the voyage ahead, meals include robust Nepali dal bhat, Tibetan bread, soups, and noodles. This day prepares hikers for higher altitudes by striking a balance between leisure and light exploration.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

You gain about 510 metres of elevation on Day 8 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek as you go from Manang (3,540 m) to Yak Kharka (4,050 m). While traversing alpine meadows and grazing yaks, the trail provides breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks like Gangapurna and Annapurna III. At higher elevations, the terrain becomes more rocky and has less flora. Basic tea houses are available for overnight stays, offering comfortable accommodation in the tranquil mountain setting. Dal bhat, noodles, or Tibetan bread are common meals, and warm beverages are served to counteract the cold weather. The walk on this day is shorter, but it is essential for acclimatisation before ascending to higher altitudes, such as Thorong La Pass. The serene atmosphere and stunning views of the Himalayas make this a place to remember.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

The trek from Yak Kharka (4,050 m) to Thorong Phedi (4,450 m) on Day 9 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a gradual ascent of almost 400 m in height, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayas’ craggy cliffs, deep valleys, and majestic peaks. Yaks and mountain goats can be seen grazing as the trail winds through steep terrain and little vegetation. Trekkers spend the night in simple teahouses in Thorong Phedi in order to get ready for the difficult Thorong La Pass crossing the next day. To supply energy for the high-altitude hike, meals usually consist of robust soups, noodles or dal bhat (lentil soup with rice). Before the climb to the pass, the breathtaking scenery and clean mountain air make for an experience that will never be forgotten.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

One of the main highlights of Day 10 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the difficult climb across the imposing Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) from Thorong Phedi (4,540 m) to Muktinath (3,800 m). With stunning views of snow-capped peaks like the Annapurna and Mt. Dhaulagiri ranges, trekkers who begin early are rewarded with the opportunity to traverse the high-altitude pass. Known for its Buddhist and Hindu temples, Muktinath is a significant pilgrimage site that is reached after a difficult slope. There are tea houses for overnight stays, which provide simple but comfortable lodging. Meals consist of warm beverages to refuel, noodles, and a hearty dal bhat (lentil soup with rice). Physical stamina, breathtaking Himalayan scenery, and cultural diversity are all combined in the day’s walk.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

The scenery dramatically changes from barren high desert to lush apple orchards as you descend from Muktinath (3,800m) to Marpha (2,670m) on Day 11 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Along with picturesque traditional Thakali villages, the trail offers breathtaking vistas of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri hills. Known for its cobblestone alleyways and apple brandy, Marpha offers comfortable overnight accommodations in welcoming teahouses. It is a culinary pleasure, with meals usually consisting of apple pies, Thakali curry, dal bhat, and local cider. The picturesque Kali Gandaki Valley enhances the natural beauty of the day, while the lower elevation guarantees a more restful night’s sleep. This section combines stunning Himalayan views with cultural diversity.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 12 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek offers breathtaking vistas of the Kali Gandaki Valley as it descends from Marpha (2,670m) to Ghasa (2,010m) via verdant woods, gorges, and quaint villages. The natural splendour is enhanced by terraced fields and waterfalls as the trail winds through Tukuche and Lete. Teahouses and hotels in the quiet village of Ghasa offer suitable overnight accommodations. With fresh apples from the area, meals usually consist of Tibetan bread, noodles, or dal bhat. In contrast to higher Mustang’s arid surroundings, the lower elevation (2,010m) offers warmer temperatures and denser vegetation. The journey is rather easy today, so hikers may take in the beautiful descent.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

The trail offers a substantial elevation drop through verdant forests and striking canyons as it descends from Ghasa (2,010 m) to Tatopani (1,190 m) on Day 13 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The path passes waterfalls, terraced farmland, and traditional communities as it follows the Kali Gandaki River. Tatopani, which translates to “hot water”, is well-known for its natural hot springs, which are ideal for unwinding after a strenuous hike. Cozy tea houses or lodges with modest amenities are where guests spend the night. Fresh local food is usually served with meals that consist of dal bhat, noodles, or Western cuisine. The region is a restorative destination because of its subtropical climate and breathtaking river valley landscape.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

On Day 14 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you drive down through verdant valleys and terraced fields from Tatopani (1,200m) to Pokhara (820m). The picturesque trip offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, cliffs, and traditional villages as it follows the Kali Gandaki River. Located next to Phewa Lake, Pokhara offers pleasant lodging and a tranquil overnight stay. A variety of Nepali and foreign dishes are served at meals, such as spaghetti, fresh lake fish, and dal bhat. After walking, the milder temperature at the lower level (820m) is ideal for unwinding. On this day, the untamed mountain paths give way to Pokhara’s lively lakeside appeal.

Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

You travel from Pokhara (820m) back to Kathmandu (1,324m) on Day 15 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, taking in the picturesque views of the Prithvi Highway’s rolling hills, terraced farmlands, and far-off Himalayan peaks. Through verdant valleys and ancient villages, the 6-7 hour drive traces the Trishuli River. After the lengthy drive, you can unwind in cosy lodgings during your overnight stay in Kathmandu. Meals consist of breakfast in Pokhara prior to departure, lunch at a roadside eatery serving Nepali or continental fare, and dinner at a hotel or local establishment in Kathmandu. Your trip comes to a halt at this point, giving you time to take in the stunning scenery and cultural experiences of the Annapurna region.