Overview
Itinerary
Cost
Includes
Map & Altitude
Equipment
Trip Info & FAQs
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Mr. Gyaljen Sherpa
Mr. Gyaljen Sherpa was born and raised in the Everest region, and his Sherpa heritage gives him deep, lifelong knowledge of the mountains, local commu...
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The 15 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most legendary trekking adventures, offering an incredible journey through diverse landscapes, cultures, and mountain environments. This classic trek takes you around the magnificent Annapurna massif, crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
The trail begins through beautiful green hills, terraced farmlands, and traditional villages inhabited by Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali communities. As you gradually gain altitude, the scenery transforms into alpine forests, dry valleys, and dramatic high mountain landscapes. The trek provides spectacular views of some of the world's highest peaks, including Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and Tilicho Peak.
One of the major highlights of the trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass, where trekkers experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and a great sense of achievement. After the pass, the trail descends into the Mustang region, known for its unique Tibetan-influenced culture, ancient monasteries, and arid landscapes.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural discovery. From peaceful mountain villages and lush forests to high-altitude deserts and sacred sites, every day brings a new experience. This trek is ideal for adventure seekers looking for a challenging yet rewarding Himalayan journey.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, you will have time to relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, you will attend a detailed trip briefing where your trekking guide will explain the itinerary, trail conditions, safety procedures, and altitude awareness. You can also use this time to make any last-minute purchases or rent trekking equipment in the vibrant streets of Thamel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, enjoy a full day exploring the cultural and historical treasures of Kathmandu Valley. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square, each offering a unique glimpse into Nepal's rich heritage and religious traditions. In the afternoon, enjoy free time for shopping in Thamel, where you can purchase trekking gear, handicrafts, pashmina products, souvenirs, or traditional Nepali artwork. Return to your hotel in the evening for a final preparation before beginning your Himalayan adventure. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Your Annapurna Circuit adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. The journey follows winding mountain roads alongside rivers, green hills, and traditional villages. As you enter the Annapurna region, you will begin to notice the changing landscapes and mountain atmosphere.
The first day of trekking takes you through beautiful pine and fir forests, crossing suspension bridges and passing through charming villages. The trail follows the Marsyangdi River, with views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and other surrounding peaks. Chame sits right below Annapurna II, so the mountain views are stunning.
Today you walk through forests and along the river. You pass the village of Bhratang and walk through an area that had a big landslide many years ago. You can still see the rocky landscape. The views open up more and more as you go higher. You reach a fork in the trail; one way goes to Lower Pisang (lower route) and the other to Upper Pisang (higher route). We take the upper route for better views. Upper Pisang sits on a hilltop with a beautiful old monastery. The sunset views of Annapurna II and Annapurna IV from here are unforgettable.
This is a long and beautiful day. The trail goes through the village of Ghyaru (3,730 m), which has some of the best mountain views of the whole trek. You go up and down through the hills, passing through Braga village where there is a very old monastery (Braga Gompa) that is over 500 years old. Finally, you reach Manang, the biggest town in this region. Manang has bakeries, shops, a cinema, and even a small hospital. It's a great place to rest. Enjoy some apple pie or a warm drink and relax.
This is an important day. You don't walk far, but you do short walks to help your body get used to the high altitude. This is called acclimatization. You can choose to:
Walk up to Gangapurna Lake; a pretty blue lake with a glacier behind it
Climb to Chongkor Viewpoint; great panoramic views of the whole valley
Visit Ice Lake (Kicho Tal); a longer but beautiful hike
Visit the Himalayan Rescue Association office to learn about altitude sickness
Manang itself is fun to explore. There are bakeries with fresh bread and cake, small shops, and a cinema that shows a movie about the Annapurna region. Rest well today harder days are coming!
Leaving Manang behind, the trail gradually climbs into a more open and alpine landscape. The scenery changes from forests to dry mountain terrain with wide views of the Himalayas. You will pass small settlements like Gunsang and may see yaks grazing on the hillsides. The peaceful surroundings make this section of the trek truly memorable.
Today’s walk is shorter but important as you prepare for the Thorong La Pass crossing. The trail climbs slowly through rocky landscapes with amazing views of the surrounding mountains. After reaching Thorong High Camp, take time to rest, stay hydrated, and prepare for the biggest adventure of the trek—the crossing of Thorong La Pass.
This is the most exciting and challenging day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You will start early in the morning and climb gradually toward Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Standing at the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. After enjoying the moment, descend to Muktinath, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its temple and natural springs.
After breakfast, spend some time exploring the sacred and beautiful village of Muktinath. Visit the famous Muktinath Temple, an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its natural springs and eternal flame. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and stunning views of the Mustang landscapes before continuing your journey by road to Jomsom.
The trek follows the Kali Gandaki Valley, passing through traditional villages, dry mountain landscapes, apple orchards, and breathtaking views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. Upon reaching Jomsom, relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this beautiful Himalayan town.
After breakfast, begin your scenic drive from Jomsom to Pokhara. The route follows the Kali Gandaki River through dramatic landscapes, deep gorges, waterfalls, and charming mountain villages. As you descend, the dry Mustang terrain gradually changes into green hills and forests. Upon arrival in Pokhara, relax by Phewa Lake and enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere after completing your Annapurna Circuit adventure.
After completing your Annapurna Circuit journey, enjoy a relaxing day exploring the beautiful city of Pokhara. Visit some of the city’s popular attractions, including the peaceful Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, the International Mountain Museum, and the World Peace Pagoda, which offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and Pokhara Valley.
You can also enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake, explore the Lakeside area, visit local markets, or simply relax at a lakeside café while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
You take a tourist bus back to Kathmandu. The road goes through mountains, green hills, and small towns. You reach Kathmandu in the afternoon. Your 12-day Annapurna Circuit adventure is complete.
After breakfast, depending on your international flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Depart Nepal with unforgettable memories of crossing the legendary Thorong La Pass, experiencing the unique culture of the Annapurna region, and witnessing some of the world's most spectacular Himalayan landscapes.
Let's customize this itinerary as per your time and budget, as you like.
Pricing depends on your group size. All quotes include domestic flights, permits, teahouse accommodation, and a full guide and porter team.
| Group Size | Cost Per Person | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 PX | 1300 USD | |
| 6-10 PX | 1250 USD | |
| 10-15 PX | 1200 USD |
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Warm clothes (layers)
Waterproof jacket and pants
Trekking pants and t-shirts
Hat, gloves, and scarf
Comfortable trekking shoes
Sleeping bag (we can provide)
Down jacket (we can provide)
Trekking poles
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water bottle or thermos
Sunscreen and lip balm
Toilet paper and wet wipes
First-aid kit
Hand sanitizer
Sunglasses
Phone and charger
Power bank
Camera (optional)
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Down jackets, sleeping bags and trekking poles can be hired or bought inexpensively in Kathmandu and Namche Bazaar — ask our team and we will arrange it before you set off.
We are a team of professionals who share a common devotion to the outdoors — government-licensed, altitude-trained, and with you from Lukla to the summit.
Our TeamMr. Gyaljen Sherpa was born and raised in the Everest region, and his Sherpa heritage gives him deep, lifelong knowledge of the mountains, local commu...
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Sikendar Chaudhary (CK) is a licensed professional trekking guide from Nepal with over 5 years of experience leading unforgettable adventures across t...
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The trek is considered moderate to challenging because of the high altitude, long walking days, and crossing of Thorong La Pass. Previous trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory with proper preparation.
The highest point on the Annapurna Circuit is Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,769 ft.). It is the most challenging section of the trek and is usually crossed early in the morning, depending on weather conditions.
You’ll typically walk around 10–15 km (6–9 miles) per day, depending on terrain and altitude gain. On average, this means about 6–8 hours of trekking daily. Some days are shorter for acclimatization, while challenging sections like Thorong La Pass take longer and are more demanding.
No, there is no fixed age limit for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You can join if you are physically fit for long walking days and high-altitude ascents to Thorong La Pass. We recommend it for people above the age of 10 who are in good health and comfortable with 4–6 hours of daily walking.
Yes, we offer fully customizable itineraries tailored to your trekking dates, duration, interests, and fitness level. You can adjust the number of trekking days, add rest or acclimatization days, and include side trips such as a trek to Tilicho Lake or a hike to Ice Lake.
Yes, we offer fully customizable itineraries tailored to your trekking dates, duration, interests, and fitness level. You can adjust the number of trekking days, add rest or acclimatization days, and include side trips such as a trek to Tilicho Lake or a hike to Ice Lake.
Accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is mainly in family-run teahouses and mountain lodges. You will stay in simple but clean twin-sharing rooms with basic bedding. Facilities become more limited at higher altitudes, and bathrooms are usually shared.
Yes, most teahouses offer charging facilities for mobile phones and cameras. You may need to pay an additional fee of $2–$5 USD per use, especially at higher elevations where electricity is limited. Charging is usually available in dining areas with two-pin plugs, so you should carry a universal adapter.
Yes, hot showers are available in teahouses in lower or mid-altitude regions, usually gas- or solar-heated. At higher elevations, you will only find bucket showers due to cold temperatures and limited water supply. All shower services cost around $2–$5 USD, depending on altitude.
No, teahouse rooms do not have heaters or air conditioning. However, you can stay warm in the communal dining halls, which are usually heated with wood or yak-dung stoves during the evenings.
Teahouses serve simple Nepali, Tibetan, and basic Western meals. Dal Bhat is the most common and filling option, often with refills.
You may also find:
At higher altitudes, you can find a more limited menu variety due to supply challenges.
Local cuisine varies slightly across Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali communities along the route. You can try a variety of local dishes depending on the village you are in:
No, untreated tap water, along with spring or river water, is not safe for drinking. We recommend boiled water, filtered water, or water treated with purification tablets or UV systems. Bottled water is available in villages but becomes more expensive at higher altitudes and also increases plastic waste in the region.
Yes. Most teahouses and small shops in villages such as Chame, Manang, Yak Kharka, and Muktinath sell snacks, chocolates, biscuits, soft drinks, tea, coffee, and energy bars. Prices increase with altitude, so it's a good idea to buy your favorite snacks in Kathmandu before the trek.
Yes, according to the Nepal government rule introduced in April 2023, foreign trekkers are required to hire a licensed guide through a registered trekking agency for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Our guides are government-licensed, highly experienced, and trained in high-altitude trekking operations. They have strong knowledge of the Annapurna region, weather conditions, altitude sickness management, emergency response, and trekking routes.
You can book a private guide by booking any date directly on our website or contacting us through email. We assign guides based on your group size, language preference, and trekking schedule to ensure a personalized experience.
No. According to the Nepal Tourism Board's current regulations, each trekker must be accompanied by a licensed guide when trekking in the Annapurna region. Even aside from regulations, a guide is highly recommended for navigating remote sections, monitoring altitude-related health risks, and ensuring a safer trekking experience.
Your guide leads the trek, monitors your health and acclimatization, coordinates accommodation and meals, provides local insights, and assists in emergencies. Porters carry your main duffel bag (up to 9 kg per trekker, shared between two trekkers), allowing you to trek comfortably with only a light daypack.
You must have comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers high-altitude trekking up to at least 5,500 m. Because of the remoteness of the region and the Thorong La Pass crossing at 5.416 meters, your policy should include:
Yes, helicopter evacuation up to the highest trek altitude, 5,500 meters, coverage is strongly recommended. In emergencies such as altitude sickness or injuries in remote sections, helicopter rescue may be the only solution.
The emergency rescue costs can be very expensive, so please call your insurer and double-check its coverage.
Yes, even if you are an experienced trekker, you must have valid insurance for the Annapurna Circuit trek. The trail includes high-altitude terrain, unpredictable weather, and remote sections, where even a seasoned hiker may need an emergency evacuation.
You can obtain a Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at designated land border entry points. It requires a valid passport, payment of the visa fee, and a completed application form.
We recommend filling out the online visa application form at least two weeks before your arrival to avoid long queues at the airport. Please check the Nepal Immigration website to confirm whether your country is eligible for a visa on arrival.
Three Visa validity options are available in Nepal.
You can choose the duration based on your travel needs and the length of your stay. If you wish to extend your stay, the visa can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu before your current visa expires.
You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for this trek. The permit is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and helps support conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and visitor management. We will arrange the permit for you before the trek begins.
You can obtain permits online or from the Kathmandu office of the Nepal Tourism Board. If you trek with Himalayan Shepherd, we arrange all required permits before the trek begins. You do not need to handle any paperwork or visit government offices, as our team processes everything on your behalf.
Yes. If you book with us(Himalayan Shepherd), your Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is included in the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek package. We handle the documentation required to obtain a permit, so you can focus on preparing for your adventure.
As of April 2023, the TIMS card is generally not required for trekkers travelling with a licensed guide or through a registered trekking company on the standard Annapurna Circuit Trek.
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is more stable and trekking paths are clear. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, while autumn offers the clearest skies, making both seasons ideal for mountain views and reliable trail access across high passes like Thorong La.
Temperatures drop sharply as you gain altitude on the Annapurna Circuit. In places like Manang, Thorong Phedi, and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), nighttime temperatures can fall to around -10°C to -20°C depending on the season. Wind chill at the pass can make it feel even colder, especially during early morning crossings.
Yes, but these seasons are more challenging. The monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and an increased risk of landslides. During winter (December to February), heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures can make crossing Thorong La Pass difficult or impossible.
You should pack layered clothing (thermal, fleece, down jacket), good trekking boots, gloves, hat, sunglasses, and a rain jacket for changing weather. Carry a 20–30L daypack and trekking poles for daily use. A warm sleeping bag is also essential for cold high-altitude nights.
Crampons are not always needed. They are only required if there is fresh snow or icy conditions at Thorong La Pass. In spring or winter, we sometimes recommend carrying lightweight microspikes for added safety.
Yes, you can easily rent or purchase trekking gear in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. Items like down jackets, sleeping bags, and trekking poles are widely available at reasonable prices in shops in Thamel or Lakeside.
We recommend a 50–60L duffle bag/rucksack for porter transport and a 20–30L daypack for personal essentials for the Annapurna Circuit. Your daypack should carry a water bottle, snacks, documents, valuables, and extra layers.
Altitude sickness becomes a real risk once you move above 3,000–3,500 meters, especially near Manang and Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). Serious health complications can develop if symptoms are ignored at high altitude:
You can prevent altitude sickness by ascending slowly, staying well hydrated, and maintaining a steady trekking pace. You should avoid alcohol and allow your body enough time to adjust during the trek. We also include acclimatization days (Manang) in the itinerary to help adjust to altitude, and our guides continuously monitor your oxygen levels.
Yes, the Annapurna Circuit is considered safe when trekked with proper preparation and guidance. The main risks come from altitude, weather changes, and physical fatigue rather than security issues. With experienced guides, planned acclimatization, and monitored pacing, the trek is safely completed by thousands of trekkers each year.
Dangerous wildlife encounters are rare on the Annapurna Circuit route. Most of the trails pass through established villages, managed conservation areas, and well-used or marked trekking routes. You may occasionally see mountain goats, yaks, or birds, but there are no significant wildlife threats during the day.
We recommend booking at least 1 month in advance for smooth permit processing and itinerary planning. During peak seasons (spring and autumn), early booking is highly recommended. We also accept last-minute bookings, depending on guide availability and accommodation arrangements.
No, most teahouses along the Annapurna Circuit do not accept credit cards. Payments are usually made in cash in Nepali rupees. You should carry enough (maybe a little extra) cash for daily expenses on the trail.
There are no hidden charges on the trek, but you should budget for personal expenses such as hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging, bottled water, snacks, drinks, and tips. These costs are not included in the package, and your total expenses depend on your spending habits.
Trekking the Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake with Himalayan Shepherd Trek was one of the best adventures of my life. Everything was organized perfectly, from airport pickup to the final day of the trek. Our guide was knowledgeable, patient, and always prioritized our safety. Crossing Thorong La Pass and visiting the stunning Tilicho Lake were unforgettable experiences. I highly recommend Himalayan Shepherd Trek to anyone planning a trek in Nepal.
I booked the Annapurna Circuit with Himalayan Shepherd on a recommendation, and they absolutely delivered. Our guide, Arun, was knowledgeable and genuinely cared about our pace and comfort—he adjusted the itinerary when one of our group felt altitude sickness coming on, which made all the difference. The lodges were clean, meals were hearty and tasty, and they handled all logistics so we could just focus on enjoying the trek. Stunning views, zero hassle. Highly recommend if you want a professionally run trek without the corporate feel.
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