- The Annapurna Circuit Trek lets you explore the entire Annapurna massif.
- The trek takes you through the forests of rhododendrons, oaks, bamboo, and highland pastures.
- Witness a beautiful sunrise from Poonhill View Tower with mountains in the backdrop.
- Walk through the Thorong La Pass, situated at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).
- Witness the breathtaking panoramic mountain views of Annapurna and Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and other ranges from Thorong La Pass.
12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Country
Nepal Tour and Trek Packages
Duration
8 Days
Difficulty
Activity
Trekking
Best Season
February to June, August to November
Region
Annapurna Region Treks
Start / End Point
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Max. Altitude
5416m
Group Size
2 - 30
Meals Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Nature Of Trek
Lodge
Activity Per Day
6-7 hours
Transportation
Local bus and Jeep
Highlights
Itinerary
Arrival at Kathmandu
Highest Altitude
1350m/ 4429 ft
Our representative will greet you and warmly receive you upon your arrival. They will also assist you in transferring to the hotel. After refreshments, we will briefly discuss the trek’s last-minute specifics in the office. In the evening, you can freely roam around the city and welcome dinner at night.
Drive to Dharapani
Highest Altitude
1,860m/ 6,102 ft
We will pick you up from your hotel early in the morning and begin our drive to Dharapani. Your journey takes you on a Prithvi Highway through deep gorges as you trace the Trisuli River westwards. You will pass through the small town of Mugling, where the Trisuli and Marshyangdi rivers meet.
The town also serves as the crossroads between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan in the South. Upon arrival at Mugling, we head along the road toward Pokhara. We leave the highway to Besisahar and head to Dharapani, the starting point of our trek. We will stay overnight at Dharapani.
- Driving Distance: 212km (132 miles)
- Driving Hours: 9/10 hours
Trek from Dharapani To Chame
Trek Distance
18 km
Trek Duration
6 hours
Highest Altitude
2,670m/ 8,759 ft
After breakfast, we will start our trek following the Marsyangdi River. The trail continues in a westward direction up the Manang Valley. Throughout the day, you can view the spectacular peaks of Annapurna II (7937m/ 26040 ft) and Annapurna IV to the west. Initially, the trail climbs through forests to Dhanakyu (2290m) and the settlement of Lattemarang (2360m).
Then, you will reach the village of Koto (2590m/8,497 ft) over several forested ridges. After an easy walk for half an hour, we will reach Chame (2670m/ 8,759 ft), the administrative headquarters for the Manang district. The village of Chame offers a magnificent view of the Lamjung Himal. We will rest at Chame for the day.
Trek from Chame to Pisang
Trek Distance
14 km (8.7 miles)
Trek Duration
5 hours
Highest Altitude
3200 m / 10,498 ft
On this day, we will take a short trek to Pisang. The trail is full of beautiful scenery. Hence, most trekkers take their time admiring the view and taking many photographs. You will pass through many mani walls, charming settlements, and scenic landscapes. The trail gradually leads you to the apple orchards of Brathang. Then, the trail heads uphill for about 45 minutes through the forest, leveling off before reaching a suspension bridge.
A moderate climb follows after crossing the bridge through a forest consisting of Juniper, Pine, and Fir. The valley begins to broaden, and Pisang Peak (6091m/ 19983 ft)) stands out before you. Likewise, you pass a few small lakes where birds can sometimes be seen wading. The town of Pisang is divided into upper and lower. The Marsyangdi River separates the two towns. We will stay overnight at Pisang so that you can explore both sides of the town in the evening.
Trek from Pisang to Manang
Trek Distance
17 km (10.5 miles)
Trek Duration
5/6 hours
Highest Altitude
3540m/ 11614 ft
After breakfast, we will steadily climb up the hill from Lower Pisang, passing a lovely little green lake. Then, we will reach a more steeply zig-zagging trail over the open ground up to Ghyaru. We will walk along a contour path high up on the valley side and stop for lunch at Nawal. Here, we can see the panoramic view of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, and Humde Valley.
We will cross the river’s north bank near Mungli and reach Braga at (3475m), a Tibetan-style village with an ancient gompa. The trail begins to ascend through the pine and oak forest. Likewise, we will cross several bridges along the way. After a short walk, we will reach Manang. The beautiful Manang village will also serve as an important acclimatization stop.
Rest day at Manang
Highest Altitude
3540m (11614 feet)
The day is set aside for acclimatization to adjust to the thinning air and lessening pressure. The next day, we will continue to ascend toward the Thorung La. Therefore, acclimatization is crucial. Although it is a rest day, we must stay active to help our bodies acclimate before the trek to a higher altitude. On this day, we can walk around several interesting areas near Manang. We can also witness the stunning views of the Annapurna and Gangapurna peaks.
Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
Trek Distance
9.4 km (5.8 miles)
Trek Duration
4 hours
Highest Altitude
4050 m/ 13,287 ft
After breakfast, we will continue our trek by climbing out of the Marsyangdi Valley. The trail follows the valley of the north side, passing a Goths as it steadily increases. We will leave the large trees below; the vegetation now consists of scrub juniper and alpine grasses.
Throughout the trek, Annapurna II and Annapurna IV will keep us company. We will follow an unmarked trail leading you around and down to cross the river on an old log bridge between Gunsang and Yak Kharka. It’s fun to see large yaks grazing leisurely at Yak Kharka. The view of Annapurna III from the village is excellent.
Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorungla Phedi
Trek Distance
9.6 km (6 miles)
Trek Duration
4-5 hours
Highest Altitude
4450m/ 14,600 ft
On this day, after breakfast, we headed towards Thorungla Phedi. We will start with a slow ascend across highland pastures. En route, we will also cross a few wooden suspension bridges. The first small settlement we reach after a steady walk upwards is Letdar (4250m/ 13,943 ft).
Then, we will have to trek past a rock-sewn slope. With a climb along the east bank of the Jarsang Khola, we will reach Thorung Phedi (4450m/ 14,600 ft). Thorung Phedi means “foot of the hill,” this is the starting point for the long trek up to the pass at 5416m/ 17,769 ft. We will rest for the day in the village. The village in Thorung Phedi has several bakery shops, which you can explore in the evening.
Trek from Thorungla Phedi to Muktinath via Thorung La Pass and drive to Jomsom
Trek Distance
11 km (6.8 miles)
Trek Duration
7 hours
Highest Altitude
5416m/ 17,769 ft
The walk to Thorung La could take less than 3 hours, depending on fitness and acclimatization. However, we will make a steady climb up to the Thorung La (“la” means “pass”) to reach the pass in 3 hours from Phedi. Once you climb to the top, you can see numerous traditional Chorten, prayer flags, and cairn. Similarly, the panorama of Himalayan giants and the first view of the immense Kali Gandaki gorge to the west will greet you. Kali Gandaki is the world’s deepest gorge.
As we descend, we can have great views of Dhaulagiri (8167m/ 26,794 ft) to the southwest and Tukuche Peak (6920m/ 22,703 ft) as we reach Muktinath and Ranipauwa. We will visit the holy pilgrimage site, the Muktinath Temple. After the temple visit, we will hop on a jeep and drive towards Jomsom. It takes an hour and a half’s drive to reach Jomsom. Tibetan Buddhism has a huge influence on the town of Jomsom. You can see several historical stone cairns and traditional houses. We will rest here for the day.
- Driving Hour: 1.5 hours
Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara to Kathmandu
Flight Hours
30 minutes + 35 minutes
We will take a 30-minute early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. After reaching Pokhara, we will take the next flight to Kathmandu, which takes around 35 minutes. You are free to explore Kathmandu in your spare time.
Sightseeing in Kathmandu valley
After breakfast, we will start sightseeing tours around Kathmandu Valley. The sightseeing program introduces you to some highlights and UNESCO World Heritage sites of Kathmandu, such as Durbar Square, Swoyambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Bouddhanath. We will use private vehicles to get around these sites. With the sightseeing tour, our tour package will come to an end.
Departure
We will arrange your transfer to the Tribhuwan International Airport three hours before departure. Enjoy your flight back home, and may you cherish the memories from your trip for a lifetime. We hope to see you back in Nepal soon!
What is Included?
- Arrival and transfer transport from to international and domestic airport in Kathmandu
- Hotel with bed and breakfast in Kathmandu
- Government licensed english speaking trekking guide and necessary porters during trekking (1 porter for 2 clients)
- 3 meals a day during trekking (B, L, D)
- Government licensed guide with privet transport during sightseeing in Kathmandu valley
- Accommodation in hotel and lodge
- Conservation fee and TIMS
- Domestic flight ticket JOM-PKR-KTM
- Private transport to trek starting point and from ending point to hotel
What is Excluded?
- International flight ticket and airport tax
- Sleeping bag
- Nepal visa fees
- Personal expenses, personal travel insurance
- Tips for local staff
- and other expenses not mention above
- Personal insurance for helicopter rescue in case of emergency
- Lunch and dinner in city
Essential Information
Food during the Trek
Our 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek includes three daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). The menu features primarily Nepalese cuisine, with a few Tibetan, Indian, and Western options. The menu options will become limited as you ascend to higher elevations. The food options you can find during the trek are:
Breakfast: Bread (Chapati/ Tibetan), jam, cheese, oatmeal, french toast, honey, corn flakes, muesli, eggs, pancakes, porridge, soup, hashed brown, coffee, tea, milk, and juices.
Lunch: Dal Bhat, thukpa, chowmein, spaghetti, momo, bread (Chapati/ Tibetan), pasta, fried rice, pizza, thenduk, potatoes, sandwiches, rice with curry, burgers, spring rolls, and desserts like rice pudding, apple pie, etc.
Dinner: Dal Bhat, momo, thukpa, bread (Chapati/ Tibetan), rice with curry, pasta, thenduk, ramen soups, and desserts like rice pudding, apple pie, and more.
Accommodations on 12 Days Annapurna Round Trip
During the 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, we will arrange your accommodations at the best hotels or guest houses. Only basic tea houses, lodges, and guesthouses are available along the trekking trail. They offer basic services such as beds, mattresses, pillows, and blankets.
Most accommodations have twin-sharing rooms, shared bathrooms, and communal dining areas. Rooms with attached bathrooms are rare in the lower region. We can arrange single rooms for solo female trekkers or at your request. Remember that the services will get more basic as you move to higher altitudes.
Best Time for 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trip
Spring (March to May)
Spring is the best season to enjoy the marvelous scenery of the Annapurna Circuit Trek route. It is also the most active time for flora and fauna. Hence, the entire rhododendron trail blooms in red, white, and pink. Spring is also the best time to enjoy the route’s unique biodiversity.
The weather is warm and stable, with minimal rainfall. Similarly, the days are sunny with clear skies. The average daytime temperature in the lower region is between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the temperature in the higher region is between 14 and 0 degrees Celsius. The nighttime temperature can reach around 5 degrees Celsius.
Autumn (September to November)
The autumn season is also a festive time in Nepal. The biggest Nepalese festivals, Dashain and Tihar, fall at this time. The weather is bright and sunny with stable climatic conditions. Likewise, the air is crisp, and the views are the most brilliant in autumn.
The monsoon, which leaves as autumn begins, cleans the air of dust and pollution. The average daytime temperature ranges from 17 to 4 degrees Celsius in the lower region. Meanwhile, the daytime temperature at Thorong La Pass is around -4 degrees Celsius.
Safety and Satisfactions
Himalayan Leader prioritizes your safety and satisfaction. We always strive to provide the best experience while ensuring your safety and health. Hence, we will do our best to arrange the best services for you.
During the trek, we arrange the best accommodations and nutritious meals. Similarly, an experienced and licensed guide fluent in English will accompany you during the trek. They are experts at navigating the routes and have intensive first-aid training. Likewise, they also carry a first aid kit for your safety.
Your guide will lead and make decisions in case of emergencies, injuries, and sickness. They will analyze the situation and take the best course of action. In severe cases, they will immediately call for helicopter rescue operations. We also provide one porter for two clients. They will carry your heavy luggage and relieve physical strain, allowing you to enjoy your trek comfortably.
Passport and Visa
You can get a visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. All foreigners must have a visa to travel across Nepal. If you travel on land, you can get a visa from the land border with India and China. However, your passport must have at least 6 months remaining before expiry.
Indian and Chinese nationals will require no visa to travel. Meanwhile, nationals from Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Cameroon, Swaziland, Somalia, Ethiopia, Liberia, Afghanistan, Syria, and Palestine must obtain a Nepal visa in advance. They are not eligible for the on-arrival visa.
The visa fee will depend on the duration of your stay. You can pay in major currencies such as USD, pound, euro, etc. The costs are as follows:
- USD 30 for 15 days
- USD 50 for 30 days
- USD 125 for 90 days
You can extend the visa for up to 150 days from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The extension fee is USD 3 per day. You must apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires.
Extra personal expenses for trekking
All the things that are not in our “What is included” list are extra personal expenses. Our trek package includes transportation, accommodation, meals, permits, guides, and porters.
The package does not include visa and insurance. Similarly, personal expenses include extra charges during the trek, such as internet, hot showers, hot water, charging electronic devices, laundry, etc. Trekkers will also have to pay for drinks other than those included in meals.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for trekking in Nepal, and you must have one for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Travel insurance offers safety and peace of mind during this high-altitude trek in remote mountain regions.
Travel insurance must cover high altitudes up to 6000 meters and altitude sickness. It must also cover medical and emergency expenses, including helicopter rescue and evacuation. In case of accidents, injuries, or severe altitude sickness, it helps to cover the costs of helicopter rescue and medical bills.
There is a lack of infrastructure in higher regions of Nepal, as well as proper roadways and medical facilities. Thus, helicopter rescue is the only option during emergencies. Such expenses are costly, and travel insurance is crucial for trekking. The insurance covers trip delays, cancellations, luggage damage/ loss, etc. Ensure that you understand the terms and conditions before getting the travel insurance.
FAQs For 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek
Is Annapurna Circuit Trek suitable for beginners?
How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Do I have to hire a guide?
Is travel insurance necessary for Annapurna Circuit Trek?
What permits do I need for the trek?
Are ATMs available along the Annapurna Circuit Trek route?
Is a hot shower available during the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Which is the best time for Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Which is the hardest part of the Annapurna Circuit?
Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a challenging route. Trekkers have to ascend and descend through varied terrain. The route also involves narrow trails with steep and slippery sections. As the trail moves higher, the hilly trail becomes rocky.
During the 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, trekkers will get the chance to pass by the remote areas of the Annapurna region. There are several suspension bridges that trekkers will have to cross while en route. Trekkers have to walk 7 to 8 hours a day. The geographical difficulties are not the only difficult part of the trek. As trekkers get closer to remote areas, facilities such as internet, phone signal connection, and communication also get limited.
Aside from these, the high elevation also presents difficulties for trekkers. The highest point trekkers will reach during the Annapurna Circuit Trek is 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass. Many trekkers can experience altitude sickness. Likewise, the weather also becomes unpredictable at higher elevations.
All these difficulties make the Annapurna Circuit Trek challenging. It is comparatively less demanding than the Everest Base Camp Trek but less than the Annapurna Trek. It pushes the trekkers’ endurance level and stamina. Therefore, trekkers have to be physically and mentally prepared for the trek.
Is it possible to Do Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake?
Yes, doing an Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is possible. Tilicho Lake is the world’s highest lake in the Annapurna region. It lies at an elevation of 4,949 meters (16,237 feet). The route is similar to the Annapurna Circuit. But from Manang, the route for Tilicho Lake goes to the main valley to the west instead of the north valley.
The route passes through the Khanshar Gompa Village (The Last Village of Nepal). Then, the trail takes you to the Tilicho Lake. After reaching Tilicho Lake, trekkers must retrace their trail to Khangsar and Manang. The trail will lead you to the Thorong La Pass from then onwards.
Thorong La pass
Thorong La Pass is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level. Many trekkers flock to the Pass every year via the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and local traders regularly use it as a pass. The Khatung Kang and Yakawa Kang mountains form the Pass.
The pass passes through the route that connects Manag and Mustang. The Annapurna Circuit route begins in Dharapani. It goes through several villages and stops before reaching the Thorong La Pass. Similarly, the road passes through Manang and Yak Kharka before reaching the pass. The pass is accessible from both the east and west directions. However, the route from the west is much more difficult than the east.
The route to Thorong La Pass is difficult. It is physically demanding, and trekkers can experience altitude sickness. But the view from the top is rewarding. From the top, trekkers can witness the panoramic mountain view of the Annapurna Massif and Dhaulagiri ranges. Thorong La Pass hugely contributes to the popularity of the Annapurna Circuit.
Additional Benefits of this Trek
- Free airport pickup, hotel transport, and drop-off by private transportation.
- Private transportation during sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.
- Free storage facilities for your luggage are available in Kathmandu.
- Our guide carries all the necessary first aid kits and equipment, such as walkie-talkies, an oximeter, and altitude sickness medications.
- Private transportation to the trekking starting point and from the ending point to the hotel is available.
Packing list
Clothing & Footwear
- Fleece jacket or down jacket
- Windproof/ waterproof jacket
- Long-sleeved t-shirts
- Lightweight trekking pants and wool trousers
- Insulating layers
- Moisture-wicking socks and base layers
- Hat, gloves, and scarves
- Hiking shoes and a pair of flip-flop
Gear & Equipment
- Backpack/ rucksack (50 to 70 liters)
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp/ flashlight
- Thermal water bottle
- Gaiter
- Toiletries and personal hygiene products
- Raraincoatrain coat
Miscellaneous
- Cash
- Snacks and energy bars
- Books or notebook
- Camera, Smartphsmartwatchest watches
Why Should You Trek With A Guide For Annapurna Circuit Trek
You should trek with a guide for Annapurna Circuit Trek for many other reasons. The first reason is for navigation. The trail of the Annapurna Circuit is well-established and safe. However, a guide can help you to navigate the route and reduce the chances of getting lost. They also help trekkers to avoid risky areas.
Another reason to travel with a guide is that they help provide insights into the region’s culture, traditions, and customs. Guides are usually local to the region, so they have local expertise. Similarly, they can act as a bridge for communicating with the locals. In remote areas, there can be language barriers. They help you interact with the locals and immerse yourself in the cultural experience.
Trekking with a guide also helps to ensure trekkers’ safety. In routes like the Annapurna Circuit, where trekkers have to ascend to high elevations, guides can provide emergency aid. The guides are trained to provide first aid and coordinate evacuations in emergency cases.
Therefore, guides play a crucial role in the success of the trek. Likewise, they also provide support, motivation, and emergency aid if necessary. Guides help enhance the trekking experience and ensure the trekkers’ safety. Hiring a guide for the Annapurna Circuit Trek under the Government of Nepal has become mandatory.
Transportations on Trek
Himalayan Leader arranges transportation during the 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek. We also provide airport pickup and dropoff, hotel transport services, and private vehicles for sightseeing tours in Kathmandu. In other words, we will provide transportation according to your 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary.
However, you can also customize the transportation to match your preference at an additional charge. For example, you can fly to Pokhara instead of taking a tourist bus. Or you can opt to hire a private vehicle. The prices will change accordingly, but we can arrange the transportation as per your request.
Booking and payment process
Himalayan Leaders is a leading local tour operator that provides various services. The options are numerous, from tours and trekkings to motorbike trips, paragliding, rafting, and other adventures.
You can book your trek or tour packages online using our website, www.himalayanleaders.com (English) or www.himalayanleaders.be (Dutch, German). You can also contact us via email at info@himalayanleaders.com or by phone (+977-1-5312359, +977-1-551070). We will need your details along with your detailed itinerary.
To confirm your booking, you must pay 20% of the total price for a trip to Nepal and 25% for a trip to India, Bhutan, and Tibet. You must pay the remaining trek cost four weeks before departure. For more information on booking and payment, click here!
Final Say
The 12-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek is an unforgettable experience that takes trekkers through diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna Himalayas. Similarly, trekkers can immerse themselves in the local culture and customs of the Annapurna region. The trek is a physically challenging but rewarding experience for experienced and novice hikers. The best time to embark on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is from March to May and September to November. The weather is mild, and the skies are clear.
Overall, the Annapurna Circuit trek is a must-do for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the Nepal Himalayas. The Annapurna Base Camp trek is also a popular alternative trek in the Annapurna region.
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