A typical plan takes about 18 days. You walk up the Annapurna Circuit to Manang, acclimatise, move to base camp, climb with a guide and return. Spare days help with weather, and many climbers add the Thorong La afterwards.
Approach
Drive from Kathmandu to the trailhead and walk through Dharapani, Chame and Pisang to Manang, at about 3,540 m. The first week is the circuit trail.
Acclimatise
Spend at least one rest day in Manang, with walks to viewpoints. Take it seriously.
Base camp
Move to a base camp around 4,900 m, with time to check ropes and gear.
High camp and summit
Most plans use a high camp, then start at night for the summit. The route follows snow slopes, with fixed ropes where needed.
The return
Return to the trail and walk down, or cross the Thorong La to Muktinath.
Spare days
Add one or two spare days for weather or rest. Summit days need good conditions.
Training on the way
Use acclimatisation walks to practise with gear. A short skills session on snow before the climb is part of a good plan.
Plan it
See how hard they are and permits and season.
