18 Days Annapurna Circuit Trekking

  • Duration 18 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End Kathmandu
  • Style Loadge/Tea House
  • Group Size 2+
  • Max Altitude 5416 m
  • Best Time March to May and Sep to Dec
All Inclusive PriceUS $1599US $1699
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Highlights

  • Enjoy walks in the world's best long-distance scenic trekking adventure destination
  • Amazing variation of altitude, climate, vegetation, landscapes, culture, and people
  • Great biodiversity of sub-tropical temperatures to the cooler and arctic climate
  • From low-warm to cooler alpine hills to remorseless fields of ice and glaciers
  • Adventure around North and South Annapurna Himalaya with great scenery
  • Fabulous views of snow-capped mountains from high and scenic Thorong-La
  • Explore lovely impressive villages in the harmony of amazing cultures

Trip Introduction: 18 Days Annapurna Circuit Trekking; Popular Trekking Adventure Of Awe-Inspiring Annapurna Massifs, High Passes, Deepest Gorges, Spiritual Temples, And Refreshing Hot Springs.

The Annapurna Circuit Trekking Tour Journey is a comprehensive trekking adventure circuit that lies in the Annapurna region. This journey is all about circumnavigating the Annapurna massifs, making a cross over at the Thorung La Pass (5,416m), and setting foot on the edge of the world’s deepest gorge (Kaligandaki Gorge). Similarly, you get to enjoy the sunrise views over the Himalayas from Poon Hill, visit the Muktinath temple, and take a refreshing dip in the hot springs of Tatopani.

The Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail is a fabulous introduction to the diverse landscape with exciting variants. It is a fascinating circuit of the high Himalayan heartland. Throughout the trek, you get to observe the splendid majestic views of some of the world’s gigantic mountains. It includes Annapurna I (8091 m), Annapurna II (7937 m), Annapurna III (7555 m), Machhapuchhare (6993 m), Manaslu (8156 m) and Dhaulagiri (8176 m).

Crossing the four remote regions i.e. Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, and Myagdi are astonishingly rewarding and wonderful. The natural and cultural diversity of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail tour makes it one of the best journeys for trekking in Nepal.

Annapurna Circuit Trekking 18 Days Journey Starts

The 18 Days Annapurna Circuit Trekking Tour Trip begins with a long drive from Kathmandu to Jagat via Besisahar. The trekking path takes you past the alpine landscapes of coniferous trees, rivers, and wooden bridges. As you move further you will find the paths adorned with Buddhist shrines and prayer flags. Getting to know and familiarize with the inhabitants who have lived here for centuries is an amazing experience.  The people here follow the Tibetan Buddhism culture. Acclimatizing here is necessary for making a difficult hike to the Ice Lakes.

From the Highchamp the next day and early morning rise lead us to Thorung La, one of the treacherous passes to be crossed with caution. After successfully making it to the other end we relish our achievement and then descend to the pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Muktinath is the place to attain salvation or ‘moksha,’ Hindus and Buddhists throng in large numbers to this sacred spot from all over the globe. 

Feeling blessed and diving we move down to the hot spring of Tatopani before heading towards Ghorepani. From Ghorepani, hiking up to Poon Hill is likely to get the glorious sunrise views. Reliving the moments we quickly head forward only to find ourselves covered by the shades of white, pink and red during the spring season. Continuing the pleasant journey we move on to reach and stay at Gurung and Magar villages. The trek is filled with incredible views of the Annapurna Mountains.

The trail is embedded with terraced fields and traditional farms. Our Annapurna Circuit Trekking Adventure then finally ends with a drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The Annapurna Circuit Trek may appear to be a formidable challenge but no technical climbing experience is required to complete the trek. The only thing required is a good level of physical fitness and mental toughness. 

We have various types of exciting trek packages in the Annapurna region, and if you want, Trekking Planner can customize your trek as per your needs. Be there to explore each corner of the Annapurna region to get the best out of it while trekking in Nepal.

Best Time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek 

The weather always plays an important part in determining the time of your trek and it is necessary to keep the weather element into account. Though the Annapurna circuit is doable throughout the year, there are ups and downs as the seasons are subjected to change. Trekking Planner organizes safe and secure Treks throughout the year.

Month wise best seasons for doing the Annapurna Circuit Trek at a glance 

March-May (spring)
The months of March-May are the best time to be here as the weather is mild, the rainfall is low, and the trekking conditions are perfect. During these months at elevations over 3,000 meters, the trek routes are full of red, pink, and white rhododendron flowers.
The temperature slowly starts rising from mid-March up to mid-May. The weather is cool, the skies are clear, and you can enjoy the clearest views of the mountains.
 
June to August (summer)
If you choose to trek in the Annapurna Circuit in the months of June to August, you will experience mixed kinds of climate variations. Though the temperatures are warm there is always a possibility of monsoon rains which makes the trekking trails wet and slippery. So you have to trek with great care and caution. Mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon and disappearing at night. Though it rains the nature around is in its picturesque bloom making it beautiful and pleasing.

September to November (autumn)
During this season, the sun shines brightly, the day temperature is well-suited for trekking, the skies are clear, and you get a superb view of mountains. The monsoon greens give way to the golden surroundings of the grains ripening in the fields against the azure blue skies. Also, the two biggest festivals of Nepal Dashain and Tihar are celebrated in these seasons themselves. 

December to February (winter)
These are the winter months for trekking in Nepal, and it is extremely popular among trekkers around the world.  Some parts of the Annapurna region, during this time, are cold, but most of the trekkers find it enjoyable. Daytime is relatively warmer with sunshine giving clear, snow-capped mountain views that look incredible. The trekking trails are less frequented too. It is a dicey season for novice trekkers but excellent for experienced adventurous trekkers. 

Electricity for battery recharges, and clean water requirements

During your entire Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trip you will get an uninterrupted supply of electricity to recharge your camera and mobile batteries. However, you have to pay an extra cost to get the facilities. 

For water, you can either purchase bottled mineral water from local lodges or can fill boiled water at an extra cost from the lodges. Trekking Planner purification pills to make water drinkable and hygienic.

Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty

Annapurna Circuit Trekking is a moderate trekking path and by far one of the longest trekking trails in the region. In general, it can be a bit challenging for first-time trekkers. The trail also includes a lot of stairways which can be more difficult than walking on straight paths. A bit of routine training will keep the trekkers in good shape for completing the trek successfully.

Itinerary

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You will be picked up and welcomed by our airport representative and transferred to your hotel for check in. Once you are in the hotel room your entire day is meant for rest and relaxation. 

Later in the evening you will be introduced to your trekking leader and support staff giving you the details of the trek in brief. Finally you can either enjoy your stay at the hotel or take a leisurely stroll to get the feel of the surroundings. Overnight at the Hotel.

    After good nights much needed rest we get up early in the morning. After taking a quick breakfast we then board a private vehicle to get our sightseeing tour underway. Today we will visit some various UNESCO listed world heritage sites. First up on the list is the Pashupatinath Temple.

    It is one of the most significant Hindu temples of Lord Shiva in the world, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. The temple is strictly open for Hindu religious followers only. Majority of its holy activities takes place on its eastern banks of the Bagmati River. It is a square two-tiered pagoda temple built on a single-tier plinth which is famous all over the world.

    Next we visit the Boudhanath Stupa. Boudhananath is one of the holiest Buddhist sites built in the 5th century. The four pairs of eyes of Lord Buddha signify eternal watch over the people and their doings. You will find the Buddhist pilgrims going round the stupa spinning the prayer wheels.

    We than visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square to get a closer look at the popular five-storied temple of Nyatapola, Bhairavnath temple, Dattatraya temple, and Palace of 55 windows.  Spending a good time in exploring the fascinating place we return back to our hotel. In the evening a welcome dinner is hosted in your honour along with some light cultural programs for your entertainment. Overnight at the hotel.

      Leaving Kathmandu behind we begin our journey with an early morning drive from Kathmandu to reach our destined place called Jagat. The trek journey moves ahead keeping to the main Kathmandu and Pokhara highway past many farm villages and towns. 

      The route than diverts from Dumre town leaving the main road and enters Lamjung district towards the Besisar headquarters. Continuing the trail we follow the Masrsyangdi River to reach at Syange and then make an ideal ascent towards the Jagat village. Overnight at a lodge.

        We are in for a nice morning walk in Jagat that takes us through to the nice farm village with many good lodges. It takes us high above Marsyangdi River with gradual ascent towards the Chamje village which is known for its Buddhism culture and practices. A walk ahead from here leads us towards a crossover bridge for making it to the river to reach at Tal Besi. 

        This is the point from where we enter into the Manang district. Making a descend down with a series of  ups and down based trail we reach Dharapani, An exciting colourful village known for its cool temperatures and confluence of Annapurna and Manaslu circuits. Overnight at a lodge.

          Today we leave Dharapani behind and take to the North West direction under the cooler alpine forest filled with blue pines, rhododendron and fir trees. The route here reaches us to a place called Bagarchap and Danque villages filled with an array of apple orchards. 

          The views of Annapurna, Lamjung and Manaslu Himalaya are refreshing to watch. Keeping these iconic mountain ranges in our sight we make a climb to reach Timang a large village of Magar, Gurung and Manang highlanders. From here few hours walk takes at Chame which is a large, major town of the Manang district. Overnight at a lodge.

            We start the day from the older part of Chame and continue walking through to the nice alpine forests of rhododendron and pine trees. After crossing forests on a levelled path we reach Brathang and after a while cross back to the south bank of Marsyangdi river. 

            Then we make a climb over a ridge and take a much needed meal at Dukuri Pokhari. Then making a careful descend we reach to the lower Pisang village. Overnight at a lodge.
             

              It is said that Pisang is the gateway to the upper region of Manang. The trek is all about staggering views of Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna Chulu’s and Pisang peak.We meet a Tibetan-styled village named Braga where houses are stacked upon each other forming balconies with each other’s rooftops. 

              The highlight of the trek is a Gompa, the largest in the village and perched high with beautiful views of the entire village. As we move further the walk leads to Hongde village, from here tree lines give way to cold, dry arctic climate. Finally we reach Manang and spend the night there at 3540 meter. Overnight at a lodge

                While it is our intention to adhere to the Annapurna Circuit Trekking route as described. Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information may be subjected to changes or differ from when you first booked your trip. It is important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary seasonally to ensure our travelers have the best experience. Your tour leader will keep you up to date with any such changes once on tour.

                Want to customize this itinerary? Or Download PDF

                Cost Details

                Includes

                • All airport pick up drop by private vehicle (for both international and domestic flights)
                • Welcome dinner in an authentic restaurant
                • Twin/double sharing accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu
                • Twin/double sharing accommodation with breakfast in Pokhara
                • Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu with private vehicle (Entrance fees extra)
                • Kathmandu to Jagat via Beshi Shar, Muktinath to Tatopani by public bus, Nayapul to Pokhara by private vehicle and Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus
                • National Park entrance fee and Trekkers’ Information Management System( TIMS card)
                • A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking, well-trained, Government license holding guide. Price includes his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
                • 02 guest to 01 porter with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation and equipment
                • We provide an assistant guide his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance walking with group to support where necessary as per the group size
                • Twin/double sheaing lodge accommodation in the mountain during the trekking
                • Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch and dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking.
                • safe drinking water and first add kit box
                • Trekking Planner Inc’s sleeping bag, down jackets, T-shirt, cap, duffle bags, city and trekking route maps – if necessary.
                • Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company)
                • Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily during the trek (very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms). This helps ensure your trek is in the safest hands possible.
                • Pokhara to Nayapul to Pokhara by private vehicle
                • All applicable government and local taxes per the itinerary
                • One-hour complimentary spa/massage in Kathmandu after trek

                Excludes

                • Your Nepal Visa fees (should bring small accurate fees in USD and 02 passport size photos)
                • All the International air fare from and to Kathmandu (no need to pay departure tax for international flight)
                • Lunch and Dinner  in Kathmandu and Pokhara
                • Personal  travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation
                • In case of extra more night accommodation, lunch and dinner in city due to early arrival and late departure as well as early back/return from mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given time period of itinerary
                • Your Personal expenses such as ( laundry, baggage charge, phone calls, battery recharge, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottle water, hot and cold shower, extra porter.. etc)
                •  The Tips to the trekking crews and drive
                • Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather condition or any event out of our control

                Essential Info

                EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST

                • Duffel/Rucksack bag/Suitcase (We provide one complimentary Trekking Planner  Inc's duffel bag that is to be returned after the trip)
                • Day pack
                • Trekking shoes
                • Sports shoes or sandals
                • Sun Hat/cap
                • Warm woolen cap
                • Warm fleece jacket or puffy jacket
                • Waterproof Gore-Tex layer
                • Pullover or warm sweeter
                • Raincoat
                • 4/5 pairs of good quality socks
                • Hand gloves
                • 2/3 pairs of trekking trousers
                • 3/4 pairs of trekking shirts
                • 3/4 pairs of underwear (non cotton preferred)
                • Sun glasses
                • Water bottle
                • 4 season sleeping bag (Optional/we can provide one if you need it. It is to be returned after the trip)
                •  Flash or Torch light
                • Camera and batteries

                Best Seasons for Annapurna Circuit Trekking:

                Best time from March to May in spring season with September till December months during autumn and pre-winter season.

                March to May much longer sunlight hours where green hills are bright and beautiful with wild flowers in full blooming times, especially rhododendron of various species, make the trek more interesting and very special.

                Most days are clear from morning till late afternoon, can get cloudy sometimes with chance of snows around higher elevation cold in the morning and night time (not adding extra wind-chill factors).

                Mid-September to December during autumn / fall season most days are crystal clear from morning till mid-afternoon, days are shorter and as well sunlight hours, much cold with freezing temperatures in the morning and night as well in shades above 1,800 m high chances of snow on walks.

                Local Culture and Religion:

                Gurung people are the main natives of Annapurna Himalaya region, around Nepal Far North and Mid-West as far towards Lamjung area and further West of the country.

                With two main types of Gurung and Ghale the higher Manang valley and around low and mid hills, practice Buddhist religion as well ancient Bon cult of pre Buddhism respecting and worship of nature and spirit of ancestors where five elements are basic importance Sky, Cloud / Water, Thunder / Fire, Vegetation and Earth / Soil.

                Gurung are farmers and cattle herders as main traditional occupation of ancient heritage, where lower Mid Hill Gurung menfolk are also known as famous and brave Gorkha soldiers winning much respects and valor in British and Indian Army as well in Singapore Police.

                Every house adorned with Buddhist prayer flags which you can notice on this wonderful walk from Lamjung onward around Tal, Chame, Pisang, and Manang all the way at Pokhara city.

                Around Kaligandaki River valley of Lower Mustang at Jomsom till Tatopani villages populated with Thakali people of Buddhism religion and culture as well a flourishing tribe been on trade with Tibet on this ancient Trans Himalaya Salt Trade and Caravan route of Nepal to Tibet.

                Climate ans Weather:

                Himalayan climate can be unpredictable sometimes even in good best seasons, where April and May to first week of June will be the best time during spring times, when days are longer with enough sunlight hours.

                Morning and night time as well in shade can be cold and much freezing temperatures around higher areas above 2,000 m.

                Other months from September to mid-December another great times for Annapurna Circuit treks and other areas of Himalaya, when days are clear for views and to summit the top of the peak, although much colder months of autumn season with extreme cold during morning and night time, where sunlight is much shorter.

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