Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the world’s most famous trekking adventures, offering an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes, traditional mountain villages, ancient monasteries, alpine forests, waterfalls, and the majestic Himalayas. This classic trek circles the Annapurna Massif, crossing the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m)—one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani and gradually ascends through picturesque villages inhabited by Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities. Along the route, trekkers experience dramatic changes in scenery, from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts resembling the Tibetan Plateau.
Highlights include visiting Manang Village, acclimatizing beside stunning mountain lakes, crossing the breathtaking Thorong La Pass, exploring the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple, and enjoying panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, Chulu East, Chulu West, and numerous snow-covered Himalayan giants.
The Annapurna Circuit is ideal for trekkers seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and spectacular mountain scenery in a single journey.
14 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani
Duration: 8–10 Hours
Overnight: Dharapani
Day 2: Trek to Chame
Walking Time: 5–6 Hours
Elevation: 2,670m
Day 3: Trek to Upper Pisang
Walking Time: 5–6 Hours
Elevation: 3,300m
Day 4: Trek to Manang
Walking Time: 6–7 Hours
Elevation: 3,540m
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Explore Gangapurna Lake
Visit Braga Monastery
Short acclimatization hike
Day 6: Trek to Yak Kharka
Walking Time: 4–5 Hours
Elevation: 4,050m
Day 7: Trek to Thorong Phedi
Walking Time: 4 Hours
Elevation: 4,525m
Day 8: Cross Thorong La Pass and Trek to Muktinath
Walking Time: 8–10 Hours
Highest Point: 5,416m
Day 9: Drive to Tatopani
Enjoy natural hot springs
Overnight stay
Day 10: Trek to Ghorepani
Walking Time: 7 Hours
Day 11: Sunrise at Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani
Spectacular Himalayan sunrise
Overnight: Tadapani
Day 12: Trek to Ghandruk
Explore the famous Gurung village
Day 13: Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara
Day 14: Drive or Fly Back to Kathmandu
Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek
Spring (March–May)
Spring is one of the best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit. Rhododendron forests bloom beautifully, temperatures remain comfortable, and mountain views are crystal clear.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn offers stable weather, excellent visibility, dry trails, and comfortable temperatures, making it the most popular trekking season.
Winter (December–February)
Possible with proper preparation, although heavy snowfall can temporarily close Thorong La Pass.
Monsoon (June–August)
The trail receives rainfall at lower elevations, but the Manang and Mustang sections remain relatively dry due to the rain shadow effect.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights
- Cross the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
- Explore beautiful Manang Valley
- Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple
- Walk through diverse landscapes from forests to alpine deserts
- Experience authentic Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced culture
- Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views
- Stay in traditional mountain tea houses
- Visit Braga Monastery and ancient Buddhist settlements
- Discover Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the world's deepest gorges
- Witness breathtaking sunrise and sunset over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
