The Annapurna Circuit is a long loop around the Annapurna massif, passing from lush lowlands to a high pass and down into a dry, windswept valley. The classic itinerary takes about two weeks, and more if you walk every section. Altitudes below are approximate.
The classic route
- Besisahar and Bhulbhule: the traditional start, at about 800 m, reached by road from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Jagat, Dharapani and Chame (about 2,700 m): river gorges and terraced villages as the valley rises.
- Pisang and Manang (about 3,540 m): drier country, with Tibetan-style villages and big views of the Annapurna range.
- Manang rest day: an acclimatisation hike to Gangapurna or Ice Lake before the high section.
- Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi or High Camp (about 4,450 to 4,800 m): the last stages before the pass.
- Thorong La (about 5,416 m), then Muktinath (about 3,760 m): a very long day with a steep descent.
- Jomsom, Marpha and Kalopani: down the Kali Gandaki valley, famous for its wind and apples.
- Tatopani and Pokhara: hot springs and the end of the trek.
The effect of roads
Roads now reach much of the Circuit, and some trekkers use jeeps for parts of the lower section to save time or avoid dusty road walking. Others choose side trails that avoid the road, and many modern itineraries start further along at Chame or Manang and finish at Jomsom. Your choice changes both the days you need and the acclimatisation you get.
Acclimatisation
If you travel quickly by road to a higher start, you reduce the time your body has to adapt. A rest day at Manang is a minimum, and an extra day at Yak Kharka or the high camps is wise if you feel unwell.
Typical durations
- Full classic walk: about 15 to 18 days.
- With some jeep sections: about 10 to 14 days.
- With a side trip to Tilicho Lake or Nar Phu: add three to five days.
Booking
The Annapurna Circuit is on the list of routes that require a licensed guide and an agency-issued TIMS card, so plan your trek with a registered agency.
A sample shape of the journey
The classic anticlockwise route begins in the lowlands near Besisahar and follows the Marsyangdi river upstream through terraced fields, waterfalls and forests. Beyond Chame and Pisang the valley becomes drier and more open, with views of Annapurna II and Annapurna IV across the valley. Manang is the main acclimatisation stop, with rest-day walks to Gangapurna Lake and viewpoints. From Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi, you cross the pass and descend to Muktinath and the Kali Gandaki valley, where winds and a stark landscape contrast with the green start.
Using vehicles wisely
Because roads now run through large parts of the route, many trekkers choose to ride the first stretch, when the road is dusty and the walking less interesting, and begin walking at a higher village. This shortens the trip, reduces monotonous sections and leaves more energy for the higher parts. Others prefer to walk the whole route and take the side trails that avoid the road. Both approaches are valid, and a good operator will help you design a version that fits your time and interests.
Staying healthy across two weeks
On a longer trek, small problems can accumulate, so keep an eye on hygiene, hydration and blisters. Take rest days seriously, especially at Manang. Take care with food, especially in the lower villages where kitchens are busy, and keep your sleeping bag clean and dry. If you feel unwell, tell your guide, who can change the plan before it becomes a problem.
Things to confirm with your operator
- Where the route will use vehicles and where it will follow trails.
- How many nights are planned above 3,500 m.
- What the contingency plan is if the pass is closed by snow or wind.
What our guests say
Excerpts from guest reviews of Himalayan Wonders, our parent company, on Tripadvisor.
“They took utmost care of our group of 5 friends from Kathmandu airport upto the completion of the trek”
