Getting to the Annapurna Circuit: flights, roads and transfers

Most trekkers reach the Annapurna Circuit by road to Besisahar and leave from Jomsom by flight or jeep. Roads now run far up both sides of the loop, so planning is as much about choosing where to walk as about getting there.

Kathmandu to Besisahar

The drive takes six to eight hours depending on traffic and road works. Public buses leave in the early morning and private jeeps are easy to arrange. Besisahar, at roughly 760 m, is the traditional start. It is hot and humid, so keep heavy clothing for higher up.

From Pokhara

Pokhara to Besisahar is a shorter drive of about four to five hours. Many trekkers fly to Pokhara, spend a night and begin the drive the next morning, which saves a long day on the Kathmandu road. The Pokhara option also suits travellers combining the circuit with Poon Hill or Mardi Himal.

Jeeps beyond Besisahar

A rough road now continues toward Chame, Manang and even Thorong Phedi. Many trekkers ride the lower stretches to save time and walk from higher villages where the scenery is better. Ask your operator which sections are worth walking and which are mainly dusty road, because the answer changes as the road is extended.

Finishing at Jomsom or Muktinath

After crossing Thorong La you descend to Muktinath at about 3,760 m and on to Jomsom. From Jomsom you can fly to Pokhara in about 20 minutes, or take a jeep down the Kali Gandaki valley, a full day on a bumpy road. Morning winds affect flights, so keep a spare day.

Time and cost of the transfers

Budget a full day at each end for road travel. A shared bus is the cheapest way to Besisahar but slow, a private jeep costs more and saves hours, and the Jomsom flight is the priciest but shortest return. Whichever you choose, ask your operator to confirm pickup times the day before, because early starts are normal on mountain roads.

Planning the return

Book your onward flight from Kathmandu or India for at least a day after your planned finish. Jomsom flights are weather dependent and queues build when flights are cancelled. Use any spare days well with the add-on treks guide.