Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by your Chingu Treks and Tours representative. After a brief introduction, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax after your flight. The evening is free for you to explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu or rest in preparation for the adventure ahead. In the evening, you will meet your trekking guide and fellow trekkers for a trip briefing over a welcome dinner.
Today, you will explore the cultural and historical landmarks of Kathmandu. Your day will include visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, and the tranquil Boudhanath Stupa. These iconic places provide insight into Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. After sightseeing, your guide will provide a detailed briefing about the Annapurna Circuit trek, including information on safety, equipment, and the route. You’ll also have time to shop for any last-minute trekking gear. Overnight in Kathmandu.
This morning, you will undertake on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syange/Jagat, the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit trek. The drive takes around 8-10 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes, including terraced fields, quaint villages, and the Trishuli River. You will have your first glimpse of the Himalayan foothills as you reach Syange. After the long drive, you will rest in a local lodge in Syange for the night.
The trek begins today with a gradual ascent through lush forests and small villages. You will cross several suspension bridges and pass through the villages of Jagat and Chamje before reaching Dharapani. The route offers wonderful views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. As you ascend, the air becomes crisper, and you begin to feel the mountain atmosphere. You will spend the night in Dharapani, a charming village that marks the start of the more rugged sections of the trek.
Today’s trek takes you further into the Annapurna Conservation Area, with beautiful forests of pine and oak surrounding the trail. After crossing the suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River, you’ll gradually ascend to Chame. Along the way, the landscape opens up, and you’ll be treated to stunning views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Chame is the administrative center of the Manang district, and you’ll spend the night here in a comfortable lodge.
The trail today offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including the towering Annapurna II. The trek from Chame to Pisang is relatively short but takes you through a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to alpine meadows. As you approach Pisang, the towering peaks of the Annapurna range begin to dominate the skyline. You will spend the night in Pisang, a village that offers great views of the mountains and a peaceful atmosphere.
Today, you will take the upper route to Manang, which offers more scenic and panoramic views than the lower trail. The trail ascends through forests, passing traditional Tibetan-style villages such as Ghyaru and Ngawal. The trek offers magnificent views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna. Upon reaching Manang, you will notice a distinct change in the landscape, as the village is located in a high desert-like environment. Manang is an excellent place for acclimatization and offers a chance to explore the local culture and surroundings.
This is an essential acclimatization day, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitude. You can take a short hike around Manang, such as a visit to the Gangapurna Lake or a small hike to the nearby viewpoint for stunning views of the surrounding peaks. You may also choose to explore the local village, visit the Himalayan Rescue Association, or relax at the lodge. This day will help you prepare for the higher altitudes ahead.
After your acclimatization day, you will begin your trek towards Yak Kharka, a small settlement located in a beautiful alpine setting. The trail gradually ascends through dry, arid landscapes with stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you may spot yaks grazing in the meadows. After a relatively short trek, you will reach Yak Kharka, where you will stay in a local lodge for the night.
Today’s trek takes you to Thorong Phedi, a small settlement that serves as the base for the ascent of Thorong La Pass. The trail climbs gently through alpine meadows, offering views of the surrounding peaks. As you approach Thorong Phedi, the landscape becomes more barren and rocky. Thorong Phedi is the last stop before the challenging ascent to Thorong La, so it’s important to rest and prepare for tomorrow’s big day.
Today is the most challenging day of the trek, as you will cross the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769 ft). You will start early in the morning to reach the summit before the weather turns. The ascent is steep, but the panoramic views from the top of Thorong La are absolutely worth the effort. After reaching the pass, you will descend to the sacred pilgrimage town of Muktinath, known for its temples and the eternal flame that burns at the Muktinath Temple. After a long day, you will rest in Muktinath for the night.
After a rewarding trek, today you will enjoy a scenic drive down to Tatopani, a village known for its natural hot springs. The drive offers beautiful views of the Kali Gandaki River, terraced fields, and villages nestled in the mountains. Upon arrival in Tatopani, you can relax and soak in the rejuvenating hot springs to relieve your sore muscles from the trek. Spend the night in a lodge in Tatopani.
Today, you will trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani, a charming village located in the heart of the Annapurna region. The trail climbs steeply through dense forests, passing several small villages. As you ascend, you’ll enjoy views of the surrounding peaks and the opportunity to see rhododendron forests in full bloom (if trekking in the spring). Upon reaching Ghorepani, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Annapurna range.
Today, you will begin your trek early in the morning to catch the sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m), one of the best viewpoints in the region. The panoramic view from the top of Poon Hill includes Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and other peaks. After enjoying the sunrise, you will descend to Tadapani, a scenic village offering views of the surrounding mountains. Spend the night in Tadapani.
Today’s trek will take you to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village known for its traditional stone houses and stunning views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. After exploring Ghandruk, you will continue your trek to Nayapul, where you will catch a vehicle for the drive to Pokhara. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax and enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere of this picturesque city.
This morning, you will drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The scenic drive takes around 6 hours, passing through villages, rivers, and lush landscapes. Once in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You will have the evening free to relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore more of the city.
On your final day in Nepal, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Whether you are returning home or continuing your travels, you will leave with unforgettable memories of the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the incredible landscapes of the Himalayas. Safe travels, and we hope to see you again soon with Chingu Treks and Tours!
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most famous and diverse trekking routes in Nepal. It takes trekkers around the Annapurna Massif, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, terraced farmlands, and lush forests. The trek crosses the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), one of the highest trekking passes in the world, and provides an opportunity to experience a variety of landscapes, cultures, and ecosystems. It is renowned for its stunning scenery, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and high mountain desert regions.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. The difficulty level depends on factors like fitness, acclimatization, and weather conditions. The highest point, Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), is a challenging ascent due to altitude, and trekkers are advised to take it slow to avoid altitude sickness. However, the trek is well-marked and does not require technical climbing skills, making it accessible to trekkers with good physical fitness and stamina. The trail also has plenty of acclimatization days, which helps reduce the difficulty.
The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is clear, and the skies are bright, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Spring brings colorful rhododendron blooms along the trail, while autumn offers crisp air and clear skies. Winter (December to February) can be harsh due to freezing temperatures at higher altitudes, and monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rain, making trekking difficult and dangerous due to slippery trails and potential landslides.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek usually takes 15 to 20 days, depending on the pace, itinerary, and acclimatization days added. This includes time for rest and exploration of key locations like Manang, Muktinath, and Poon Hill. The itinerary is flexible, and Chingu Treks and Tours offers both standard and custom itineraries to suit your preferences and fitness level.
The highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). Crossing this pass is a major achievement for trekkers, and the reward is the stunning panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The pass is often covered in snow, and trekkers typically cross it early in the morning to avoid adverse weather conditions.
Accommodation along the Annapurna Circuit is typically in teahouses or guesthouses. These are simple, family-run establishments that offer basic facilities, including a bed, blanket, and shared bathrooms. In lower regions like Besisahar and Pokhara, accommodations are more comfortable, while in higher regions, the tea houses become more basic. Chingu Treks and Tours works with trusted partners to ensure you have clean and comfortable places to rest at the end of each day.
Meals on the Annapurna Circuit Trek are a mix of Nepali, Sherpa, and Western dishes. Typical breakfast options include porridge, eggs, bread, or pancakes. Lunch and dinner usually feature dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodles, fried rice, and soup. Snacks like chocolate, energy bars, nuts, and tea are available throughout the trek. While the menu is more basic at higher altitudes, Chingu Treks and Tours ensures that meals provide the necessary nutrients and energy to keep you going.
Altitude sickness is a common concern on high-altitude treks, especially when ascending above 3,000 meters. To manage altitude sickness, Chingu Treks and Tours ensures a well-paced itinerary with sufficient rest and acclimatization days. Key tips to manage altitude sickness include:
Gradual ascent: Avoid rapid elevation gains to allow your body to adjust.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate altitude sickness.
Listen to your body: If you feel unwell, inform your guide immediately. Early symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and loss of appetite. If necessary, descending to a lower altitude can alleviate symptoms. Our guides are trained in altitude sickness management and will monitor your health closely.
The weather on the Annapurna Circuit varies depending on the altitude. In the lower regions, such as Besisahar and Pokhara, the temperatures are mild and warm. As you ascend, the weather becomes cooler, and temperatures can drop below freezing at higher altitudes. At Thorong La Pass, the temperature can reach sub-zero levels, especially in winter. During the trekking seasons (spring and autumn), the skies are usually clear, with mild daytime temperatures and chilly evenings. It's important to pack appropriate clothing to deal with fluctuating temperatures.
The cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Chingu Treks and Tours typically includes:
Permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS card)
Professional guides and porters to assist you throughout the trek
Accommodation in teahouses along the route
Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
Transportation (private vehicle or flight to/from Kathmandu and Pokhara)
Pre-trek briefing and trip orientation
Emergency evacuation services (including helicopter rescue if needed)
First aid kit and safety equipment
Personal expenses such as snacks, bottled water, alcoholic drinks, and tips for guides and porters are not included in the cost.
While previous trekking experience is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. The Annapurna Circuit Trek involves long days of walking over uneven terrain and high-altitude crossings, particularly the Thorong La Pass. A good level of physical fitness, stamina, and the ability to walk for several hours each day are essential. For those new to trekking, we recommend training on hikes or taking shorter treks to prepare for the challenge. Chingu Treks and Tours provides expert guides who will assist you along the way, ensuring you stay safe and comfortable.
If you are unable to continue the trek due to altitude sickness, injury, or other health issues, Chingu Treks and Tours has emergency evacuation procedures in place. In the case of severe altitude sickness or injury, a helicopter evacuation can be arranged. Your safety is our priority, and our guides are well-trained in first aid and altitude sickness management. Additionally, we can help with descending to lower altitudes for proper recovery.
Yes, after completing the Annapurna Circuit Trek, many trekkers choose to extend their journey by exploring nearby areas such as Poon Hill for sunrise views, Muktinath for its religious significance, or visiting Pokhara for its lakes and adventure activities. Chingu Treks and Tours can customize your itinerary to include additional treks or sightseeing in the Annapurna region or beyond.
