, Nepal
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular and diverse trekking routes, offering stunning landscapes, varied climates, and rich cultural experiences. Circling the Annapurna Massif, this trek provides trekkers with an ever-changing view of towering peaks, lush valleys, and remote mountain villages. Hilly Chilly is here to guide you on this unforgettable journey, ensuring safety, local insights, and a memorable experience every step of the way.
Duration: 14-18 days (customizable with Hilly Chilly)
Highest Elevation: 5,416 meters (Thorong La Pass)
Starting Point: Besisahar or Jagat (depending on itinerary)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Best Time to Visit: March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn)
Activities: Arrive in Kathmandu, check in at the hotel, meet your Hilly Chilly guide for a pre-trek briefing.
Highlights: Exploring Kathmandu’s cultural sites like Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, or the lively Thamel district.
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours to Besisahar; additional 2-3 hours by jeep to Jagat.
Route: A scenic drive through the countryside, passing terraced fields and riverside villages.
Highlights: Stunning views of lush landscapes and a gradual immersion into the Annapurna region.
This is a travel day to reach the starting point of the trek, where you’ll be surrounded by the greenery of the lower Annapurna region.
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Highlights: Trek through river valleys, cross suspension bridges, and pass by traditional stone villages.
Route: Follow the Marsyangdi River, gradually climbing up through forests and hills to reach Dharapani.
This day introduces you to the lush vegetation of the region, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance.
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Highlights: First views of Annapurna II, waterfalls, and traditional stone houses.
Route: The trail ascends through pine forests and small villages, gradually gaining altitude.
Chame is a charming village and district headquarters, offering beautiful views of surrounding peaks and a chance to unwind in hot springs.
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Highlights: Views of Paungda Danda rock face, beautiful pine forests, and apple orchards.
Route: Trek through forested areas with panoramic mountain views along the way.
Pisang is a picturesque village that marks your entry into higher altitudes, with both Upper and Lower Pisang offering a chance to explore local culture.
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Highlights: Trek through diverse landscapes, with options to visit Braga Monastery.
Route: Trekking on the northern trail provides expansive views of Annapurna and other peaks.
Manang is a key acclimatization stop on the circuit, with its stunning views, cozy teahouses, and shops.
Activities: Optional hikes to Gangapurna Lake or viewpoints surrounding Manang.
Purpose: Adjust to the altitude, preparing for higher elevation days.
Highlights: Stunning scenery, cultural encounters, and a chance to enjoy the slower pace.
Take a day to rest, explore, and acclimatize to help prevent altitude sickness as you prepare to trek higher.
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Highlights: High-altitude landscape with yak pastures and mountain views.
Route: Ascend gradually from Manang, with sparse vegetation and breathtaking views.
Yak Kharka is a small settlement in the alpine zone, where the landscape becomes more barren, signaling higher altitudes.
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
Highlights: Dramatic scenery, rocky trails, and views of towering peaks.
Route: A shorter day to aid acclimatization before crossing Thorong La.
Thorong Phedi serves as the base for trekkers preparing to cross the Thorong La Pass. It’s a place for rest before the challenging ascent.
Trek Duration: 7-9 hours
Highlights: Epic views from Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
Route: Start early to cross the pass, and descend to Muktinath.
Crossing the Thorong La is the high point of the trek, both literally and figuratively. Muktinath is a spiritual pilgrimage site with beautiful temples and holy shrines.
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Highlights: Passing through the arid Kali Gandaki valley, Buddhist monasteries, and unique rock formations.
Route: A descent through the Mustang region, with its stark, desert-like landscape.
Jomsom is a bustling town with an airport, marking the end of the trekking section of the journey. The landscapes here are markedly different, resembling Tibetan plateaus.
Flight Duration: 20 minutes
Activities: Explore Pokhara, relax by Phewa Lake, or visit caves and waterfalls.
Highlights: After days of trekking, enjoy the comforts and beautiful scenery of Pokhara.
This short flight takes you back to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the Annapurna range.
Activities: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu, rest, or do some final sightseeing.
Highlights: Visit landmarks like Bouddhanath Stupa or Patan Durbar Square.
Conclude your Annapurna Circuit adventure with a relaxing return to Kathmandu. Spend this time reflecting on the experiences and memories you’ve made along the way.
Activities: Departure day or extend your stay in Nepal.
Optional: Last-minute shopping or cultural tours if time permits.
Acclimatize Properly: The Annapurna Circuit involves substantial altitude gain. Follow the itinerary and rest days to avoid altitude sickness.
Stay Hydrated: High-altitude trekking can lead to dehydration, so make sure to drink plenty of water.
Dress in Layers: Weather can be unpredictable, so bring thermal layers, a down jacket, and a waterproof outer layer.
Carry Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, and first aid supplies are essential in the high Himalayas.
Respect Local Culture: The Annapurna Circuit passes through various traditional villages; respect local customs and dress modestly.
At Hilly Chilly, we offer more than just a trek – we offer a full-fledged adventure, focused on safety, cultural immersion, and sustainable tourism. Our expert guides and carefully planned itineraries ensure that you experience the Annapurna region in the best way possible. Our commitment to responsible trekking practices and local communities means that your journey not only benefits you but also the beautiful places and people you visit.
Join Hilly Chilly on this life-changing Annapurna Circuit adventure, and let us guide you through one of the world’s most magnificent trekking routes with passion, expertise, and care.
