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Overview
Often called the world's greatest trek, the Annapurna Circuit is a classic journey that circumnavigates the entire Annapurna massif. Crossing the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, you'll experience an incredible diversity of landscapes—from subtropical lowlands to high-altitude desert, from Hindu villages to Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. This epic trail showcases Nepal's cultural and geographical diversity like no other trek.
Highlights
- Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the world's highest trekking passes.
- Experience dramatic climate zones from jungle to high desert.
- Visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple.
- Explore the medieval walled city of Kagbeni.
- Relax in natural hot springs at Tatopani.
- Witness the transition from Hindu to Buddhist culture.
Related Topics
Trek Gallery
Quick Stats
Best Time to Visit
Monthly Weather Overview
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Drive to Besisahar & Trek to Khudi (790m)
Long drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Besisahar, then a short trek to Khudi. The journey reveals Nepal's rural heartland.
Trek to Bahundanda (1,310m)
Follow the Marsyangdi River valley through rice terraces and small villages. Bahundanda ('Hill of Brahmins') offers great views.
Trek to Chamje (1,410m)
Cross suspension bridges and waterfalls. The trail passes through diverse ethnic villages and lush forests.
Trek to Dharapani (1,960m)
Enter the Manang District. Notice the architecture changing to Tibetan style with flat-roofed stone houses.
Trek to Chame (2,710m)
District headquarters of Manang. Hot springs nearby. First views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.
Trek to Pisang (3,190m)
Walk through apple orchards and pine forests. Upper Pisang offers incredible views of Annapurna II and IV.
Trek to Manang (3,540m)
Visit Braga monastery with its ancient Buddhist statues. Manang is the main hub for acclimatization with cafes and bakeries.
Acclimatization Day in Manang
Essential rest day. Hike to Gangapurna Lake or the Ice Lake (4,600m). Attend an altitude sickness talk at the HRA clinic.
Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m)
Short day to aid acclimatization. The landscape becomes barren and windswept. Last vegetation zone before the pass.
Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,540m)
Base camp for crossing the pass. Arrive early, rest well, and prepare for the early morning start. Check weather forecasts.
Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath
The biggest day! Start at 4 AM. The climb is steep but the views are extraordinary. Descend to Muktinath and visit the sacred temple.
Trek to Kagbeni (2,800m)
Short descent to the medieval fortress town of Kagbeni. Gateway to Upper Mustang. Explore the winding alleys and ancient monasteries.
Trek to Marpha (2,670m)
Walk through the Kali Gandaki gorge, the world's deepest. Marpha is famous for apple brandy and whitewashed houses.
Trek to Tatopani (1,190m)
Dramatic descent. Tatopani means 'hot water'—soak in the natural hot springs after days at altitude.
Trek to Ghorepani (2,860m)
Steep climb back up to Ghorepani. Alternatively, take transport to Pokhara from Beni.
Poon Hill Sunrise & Trek to Nayapul
Optional sunrise at Poon Hill. Final descent through villages to Nayapul and transport to Pokhara.
Physical Preparation
Physical Preparation
- Endurance running
- Stair climbing
- Strength training
Accommodation & Facilities
What to Bring
Documents
- Passport
- ACAP Permit
- TIMS Card
- Travel Insurance (altitude coverage)
- Cash (ATMs limited)
Clothing
- Layering system for -15°C to 25°C
- Down jacket (essential)
- Windproof shell
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sun hat
- Multiple base layers
Footwear
- Sturdy hiking boots (ankle support)
- Gaiters for snow
- Warm socks (4-5 pairs)
- Camp sandals
Equipment
- Sleeping bag (-20°C rated)
- Trekking poles (essential)
- Headlamp + spare batteries
- Water purification
- Large backpack or porter hire
Pass Day Essentials
- Thermos for hot drinks
- Energy bars/snacks
- Hand warmers
- Balaclava/face covering
- Crampons (if snowy)
Cost Breakdown
Cost Breakdown
Safety & Emergency
Safety & Emergency
Thorong La is a high and potentially dangerous pass. Weather can change rapidly. Proper acclimatization is critical. Always check conditions before attempting the pass.
