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- Group Size: 1-12 people
- Min. Age: 12
- Max. Altitude : 5460 m / 17913 ft
- Arrival on: Kathmandu, Nepal
- Departure from: Kathmandu, Nepal PID:TR148
Annapurna Circuit Trek, a classic trek in the Nepal Himalaya, takes you to one of the most popular trekking trails in the world. A favorite of many trekkers who have been to the Himalayas, hiking the Annapurna Circuit allows you to complete a loop in the Annapurna region. The journey takes you from the lush green terraced farms to barren landscapes surrounded by soaring icy mountains.
Cross two river valleys, frozen mountain lakes and hike to the edge of the Tibetan Plateau
Your trek to Annapurna Circuit begins from Lower Pisang. Tread on ancient trails used by locals and traders trading along the old Tibet trade route. Cross one of the highest mountain passes in the world, Thorong La Pass. There are many highlights of this trek – the fascinating journey past the two river valleys, Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki, the crossing of the challenging Thorong La Pass (bordering Tibet), the exciting hike through the Kali Gandaki gorge to Muktinath a holy mountain shrine sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. But the one which will remain etched in your mind is the walk through the high altitude lakes of Tilicho Lake and Ice Lake. After crossing the Thorong La head down to Muktinath. And make your way to the mountain town of Jomsom.
Complete this unforgettable loop with our experienced guide!
Throughout your journey our experienced trek leader will be there to guide you. He will dispense valuable advice and nuggets of information about the people and places along the trail. Many who have completed the Annapurna Circle swear that this is the best trek that Nepal has to offer. The circuit is highly recommended by all trekkers as a spectacular trekking route. The diversity of landscape, mountain views, culture and people you encounter during the trek are incomparable.
Short on time or a first-time trekker? Do check out these treks!
If you don't have much time to spare or have fitness issues, you can choose our shorter and slightly easier Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It takes you from the verdant mountainside villages and terraced fields to the base of the Annapurna Massif. For families with kids looking for a Himalayan experience, we recommend our easy Ghorepani Poonhill Trek. This is also an excellent introductory trek for beginners.
Best Time To Go
Spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November) are the ideal seasons. The daytime temperature is just perfect during this time. It is neither too hot nor too cold during these times. Nights on the mountains are usually cold. Above 4,000 meters, you can expect nighttime temperatures to drop as low as -10 degrees.
Why Annapurna Circuit Trek?
- Cross the Thorong La pass and hike across the world’s deepest gorge Kali Gandaki Gorge
- Visit the mesmerizing high altitude mountain lakes of Tilicho (4920m) and Ice Lake(4600m)
- Take the lesser known trails that avoids the dusty motorable roads
- Traverse two river valleys- Marshyangdi River Valley and Kali Gandaki River Valley
- Walk along an ancient trade route that’s still used by mountain dwellers
- Immerse yourself in mountain culture
- Close up views of 7000 and 8000 metre peaks- Annapurna Massif, Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri
Is this trip suitable for you?
- As this trek takes you to elevations above 5000 metres, you need to have a high level of physical fitness.
- From Besisahar, you board a four wheeler and drive on a rough jeep track to Lower Pisang. The ride can be best described as an off-road adventure as the vehicle winds through a gravelly and mountainous route.
- You begin your trek from Lower Pisang (3,200m). The trail is filled with steep ascents and descents and river crossings via traditional wooden bridges. The most difficult part of the trek is the crossing of the Thorung La pass (5,460m) - the highest point of the trek.
- If you can easily hike on rough terrain and can climb stairs without any difficulty, you can do this trek. No technical climbing involved.
Private Departure
*TOURS DEPART EVERYDAY OF THE YEAR
| No. of People | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | USD 2020 USD 1818 |
| 2 - 4 | USD1390 USD 1251 |
| 5 - 8 | USD1270 USD 1143 |
| 9 + | USD1150 USD 1035 |
| No. of People | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | USD 2930 USD 2637 |
| 2 - 4 | USD 2270 USD 2043 |
| 5 - 8 | USD 2200 USD 1980 |
| 9 + | USD 2060 USD 1854 |
Fixed Departure
Selected Package: Standard
Accommodation and Meal
Accommodation
Accommodation for 12 nights in the mountain is included in this package. You will be accommodated at comfortable mountain lodges run by local families. Annapurna Region has well-developed infrastructure for trekkers. Most of the teahouses en route offer hot showers, wi-fi, rooms with en suite bathrooms and variety of meals. Please note, you need to pay extra to use wi-fi or take hot showers. On the trail, you will be accommodated at the best available lodges.
Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara is not included in this package.Both these cities offer a range of accommodation options, from luxurious five star establishments to budget hotels. If you are searching for a 3-star category hotel then we highly recommend Oasis Kathmandu Hotel in Kathmandu and Hotel Pokhara Batika in Pokhra. These hotels are located in tourist hubs, close to the major sightseeing places. Do send us a request if you want us to book rooms for you.
Accommodation is on twin-sharing basis. If you are single, you will share the room with someone of the same sex. If you need a single room, it will be available at an extra cost. To book a single room please click on the ‘single supplement’ tab while booking your trip. While single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu, Pokhara and at lower elevations while trekking; at higher reaches it is very difficult to get a single room.
Meals:
Except for farewell dinner, no meals are included in this package. Many restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara serve international food (Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mediterranean, Continental, Indian, Thai, Vietnamese etc.). If you need any help choosing a restaurant, do let us know. We will be more than happy to oblige.
While trekking you will be stopping for meals at local teahouses. Items on offer include dal-bhat (rice, lentils, curry), momo, Tibetan bread, chapattis, noodles, pizza, pancake etc.
Standard or Deluxe - Choose your travel style!
Planning a vacation calls for many decisions. One of the easiest ways to travel is to book with a travel company and let the experts take care of the planning and logistics. But some travelers want the freedom to explore options that packaged tours rarely offer. Taking into account the needs of an average traveler, we have designed two packages - Standard and Deluxe. A Standard Package offers a combination of services at a lower price and freedom to do certain things your own way (for instance, choosing your own accommodation in the city). Choose a Deluxe Package, if you want to take the stress out of planning your trip. After booking a Deluxe Package, you can rest easy knowing that the experts are there to plan your holiday. If you have zeroed in on your destination, all you have to do is select the package that suits your travel style and book your trip!
Important Information
Click on the tab below for a detailed Trip Note containing all the information about this trip, including passport and visa requirements, travel insurance, gear list, best time to visit etc.
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Or download a PDF version of the Trip Note
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Day to Day Itinerary
Arrival on: Kathmandu, Nepal | Departure from: Kathmandu, Nepal
DAY 1:
Arrival in Kathmandu & Trip preparation 
Enjoy the view of Kathmandu spreading below before your plane lands at Tribhuvan International Airport. Upon your arrival our representative will meet you at the airport terminal and drive you to your hotel. Freshen up and take some rest. Later in the afternoon or evening attend a pre-trek briefing. Meet your trek leader and other members of your trek group. If you any questions about the trek you can ask your trek leader. Get your trekking gear and equipments checked. If you have missed out on any items you can always buy them in Kathmandu. Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist district is lined with stores selling trekking gears and equipments- from budget to branded stuff.
As you will have an early start on Day 2 it is advisable to schedule your arrival to Kathmandu in the morning or during daytime. This will allow you to attend the pre-trip briefing and give you ample time to rest before the start of your Annapurna adventure. Overnight in Kathmandu
DAY 2:
Kathmandu (1400m/4593ft) to Besisahar to Jagat (1300m/4264ft)
You leave Kathmandu and drive along the winding road down to Naubise. Mesmerizing views of green hills and local farms fill the landscape. Drive beside the glacial river of Trishuli before reaching the confluence of Marshyangdi and Trishuli rivers. Cross a bridge spanning the Marshyangdi river and drive along the Prithvi Highway. The road winds along a verdant forest. Drive past the charming town of Besisahar, set beside the Marshyangdi river. Your destination is Jagat, an ancient settlement which was once the point where taxes were collected from travelers traveling along the old Tibet trade route. Once you reach Jagat head to a teahouse and take a well deserved rest. Overnight in Jagat.
DAY 3:
Drive from Jagat to Lower Pisang (3,200m/10,498ft) via Chame (2670m/8,759ft)
From Jagat drive to the ancient village of Lower Pisang via Chame. You follow a rough jeep track past a landscape filled with brown hills, cascading waterfalls, snowy peaks and pine trees. Drive past a lunar landscape before reaching the village of Lower Pisang. Head to a teahouse and after a brief rest, explore this ancient village. Pisang is divided into Upper and Lower Pisang. Lined with prayer wheels mani walls and chortens, Upper Pisang is the old settlement. The village is filled with ancient traditional houses and an old monastery. Most of the teahouses and business establishments are located in Lower Pisang. There’s not much greenery in this part of the world and the landscape is barren. The inhabitants of Upper and Lower Pisang are descendants of Tibetan settlers. They follow Tibetan customs and their lifestyle is similar to Tibetans. From here you can savor close up views of Pisang Peak, Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. Overnight in Lower Pisang.
DAY 4:
Trek Lower Pisang-Ghyaru-Nyawal- Braga- Manang (3,540m/11,613ft)
You begin your Annapurna Circuit Trek from here. Today you will be walking along one of the toughest but also the most beautiful section of the trail. The hike involves steep ascents with glorious views of the Annapurna Massif and other peaks and the Marshyangdi River valley. The landscape is partly arid (like the Tibetan plateau) with some sections covered with pine wood forest. Walk through the picturesque settlements of Ghyaru and Nyawal. It is a tough climb but the views are awesome. The pointed summit of Annapurna III and Tilicho or Tent Peak look over the trail. Braga is an old village filled with traditional houses built by Tibetan settlers. The village has one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Nepal. From Braga take a short walk to Manang. The trail is even and easy. Within a short duration of just 40 minutes you will reach this ancient settlement. Head to a teahouse once you reach the settlement and take a well-deserved rest. Overnight in Manang.
DAY 5:
Manang to Ice Lake (4,600m/15,091ft) & back to Manang
Spend a day in Manang acclimatizing. The village of Manang lies at the foot of Annapurna III and offers splendid views of Gangapurna and Annapurna. Take an acclimatization walk today to Ice Lakes. Locally known as Kicho Tal, the trail to the Ice Lakes winds along the northern slopes of Chulu East. The lakes are fed by the Chulu River that flows down the slopes of Chulu East. Spend some time soaking in the peaceful and heavenly ambience. Take pictures before retracing your steps back to Manang. Overnight in Manang.
DAY 6:
Manang- Acclimatization Day (3,540m/11,613ft)- Visit Himalayan Rescue Association’s Clinic
You spend an additional day in Manang acclimatizing. Inhabited by Mananges, the settlement is known as the home of merchants trading along the Upper Mustang and Tibet route. Explore the village, visit the monastery and interact with the locals. Take an acclimatization walk and visit the Himalayan Rescue Association’s Clinic. The clinic wasestablished in1981 to aid trekkers and climbers suffering from sicknesses related to high altitude. Doctors manning the health aid post daily hold talks and lectures on high altitude sicknesses (AMS, HACE, HAPE) - how to recognize the symptoms and prevent it. Overnight in Manang
DAY 7:
Manang to Sri Kharkha (4,000m/13,122ft)
Leaving Manang take an uphill ascent and cross a suspension bridge spanning the Manang River. Continue climbing up. After a couple of hours walk you reach Khangsar village. From the village take the upward trail leading to Shree Kharka. After hiking for just over an hour or two you reach the village of Shree Kharka. Head to a teahouse and take a well deserved rest. Overnight in Sri Kharkha.
DAY 8:
Sri Kharkha to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m/13,614ft)
Follow an easy trail to Tilicho Base Camp. There are only a few gentle ascents en route. But be careful at the landslide area before reaching Tilicho Base Camp. There are loose rocks and pebbles and you need to watch your step. Walk cautiously along the narrow path till you reach Tilicho base Camp. Once you reach the base camp, walk to a teahouse where your rooms are booked and take rest. Overnight in Tilicho Base Camp.
DAY 9:
Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m/16,141ft/) Back to Sri Kharkha
This day is memorable as you visit the highest lake in Nepal, Tilicho Lake situated at an elevation of 4920 meters. You follow a trail that goes up and up till you reach the lake. The dark emerald waters of Tilicho Lake surrounded by pure white snow and ice will surely captivate you. Take pictures and soak in the heavenly views before retracing your steps back to Sri Kharkha. Once you reach the settlement, head to a teahouse and relax. Overnight in Sri Kharkha.
DAY 10:
Sri Kharkha to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13.286ft)
Head to Yak Kharka following a gentle ascent. After reaching an abandoned settlement the trail dips down and goes past cultivated grounds and farmlands. There is a gentle ascent again, up to a hill from where one can view Yak Kharka. Take a steep descent, cross the river and amble up again till you reach the settlement of Yak Kharka. The settlement is actually a grazing pasture used by yak herders. There are only a handful of teahouses offering accommodation and food. Overnight in Yak Kharka.
DAY 11:
Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,525m/14,845ft)
This is the last leg of the walk before you make the challenging traverse to Thorong La pass. You are walking above 4000 meters and your body is gradually getting used to high altitude. Take it slow and keep yourself hydrated. Have diamox if you feel the altitude is affecting you. The trail to Thorong Phedi goes along a secluded and solitary landscape. Enjoy the solitude and the views. Thorong Phedi is a glacier valley surrounded by snowy mountains on three sides. Usually it’s freezing out here. Once you reach this stopover point, head quickly to a teahouse and warm yourself. Retire early as you have a long day ahead of you tomorrow. Overnight in Thorong Phedi.
DAY 12:
Thorong Phedi – Thorong La Pass (5,460m/17,912ft) Muktinath (3760m/12,335ft)
Today’s walk is difficult. You make an early start and head off at the crack of dawn. The trail is steep but easy. The last 600 meters to the highest point of the trek tends to be the toughest. When you finally reach the top of Thorong La Pass, spectacular views of the mountains greet you. Dhaulagiri rises in all its glory. In the distance you can see the ancient kingdom of Upper mustang and the Tibetan plateau. Take pictures and celebrate this wonderful moment with your teammates. Afterwards head down to the holy pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Named after a temple that is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, Muktinath is regarded as a place to receive salvation. As you reach this small settlement, make your way to a guesthouse and rest your aching muscles. Overnight in Muktinath.
DAY 13:
Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m/8,923ft)
Before leaving Muktinath, visit the Muktinath Temple and seek blessings from the guardian deities, Lord Vishnu for Hindus and Avalokiteshwara for Buddhists. Other small shrines and Buddhist Gompa surround the main temple. It is believed that the Buddhist guru Padmasambhava blessed this place. After visiting the temple, board a vehicle and drive to Jomsom. The rough jeep track winds along the banks of the pristine Kali Gandaki river. The river is a source of ammonites or saligrams (fossilized mollusks worshipped by Hindus as a representation of Lord Vishnu). After walking for a couple of hours you reach Jomsom, a picturesque small town and the headquarters of Mustang district.
In Jomsom you will find internet cafes, bakeries selling delectable pies and pastries, restaurants, bars and a range of accommodation choices(budget to high end). The town is filled with white-washed traditional houses. After checking in at the lodge stroll around the ancient part of the town or simply call it a day and take rest. Congratulations, you have completed the Annapurna Circuit and this calls for a celebration. Get together with your teammates and crew and celebrate in the evening. Overnight in Jomsom.
DAY 14:
Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft)
Take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. From the window you can see the Annapurna mountains and Dhaulagiri rising up almost to touch the sky. On reaching Pokhara head to your hotel and check in. The rest of the day is free. You can spend it as you wish. Stroll around the lakeside or explore more of the city on your own or book a guided tour at an extra cost. The lakeside area is lined with shops selling handicraft items in case you need to shop for souvenirs. Overnight in Pokhara.
DAY 15:
Pokhara to Kathmandu (1400m/4593ft) By private vehicle
Drive to Kathmandu by a comfortable tourist coach. Enjoy the scenic landscape as your bus winds along the Prithvi Highway. Once you reach Kathmandu check in at your hotel and take rest. Evening, head to an authentic Nepali restaurant for farewell dinner (complimentary). Enjoy a sumptuous Nepali feast and a cultural show. Overnight in Kathmandu.
DAY 16:
Final Departure
Bid goodbye to Nepal. Our representative will drive you to the international airport three hours prior to your flight’s departure. If you are interested in exploring more places do let us know. We run tours to some of the most fascinating and exotic destinations.
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Inclusion
What's Included
- Airport pick up & drop off service for international and domestic flights
- All ground transportation by comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
- Transfer from Kathmandu to Lower Pisang by Private Vehicle
- Transfer from Pokhara to Kathmandu by comfortable private vehicle
- Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- Domestic flight (Jomsom-Pokhara)
- Professional, English-speaking, government-licensed, trained in first-aid Trek Leader (Guide), Assistant Trekking Guide (5 trekkers: 1 assistant guide).
- Sherpa porters to carry luggage (Porter service -2 Trekkers:1 Porter)
- Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, transportation and accommodation.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project Entry Fee, TIMS and Trekking Permit.
- Complimentary Farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant.
- First Aid kit and essential medicines (paracetamol, diamox etc.) carried by the Trek Leader.
- Third Rock Adventures' T-shirt and map
- All Local and Government taxes, administrative charges
What's not Included
- All Meals (except farewell dinner)
- Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
- Nepal Visa fee.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- International flights
- Excess baggage fee.
- Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, beverages, snacks, phone calls, extra porters, battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, souvenirs, hot showers etc.)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment. Down jacket and sleeping bag(available on hire)
- Tips for guide, porter and driver (tipping is expected)
- Any unseen expenses due to circumstances beyond our control (natural calamities, strike etc.)
- Expenses not listed in the ‘Price Includes’ section
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Please keep yourself informed and updated about the places you are about to visit. We have tried to incorporate as much information as possible about this trip on our website. For more information about this trip (for example visa rules, travel insurance, permits etc.) please do go through the ‘Trip Note.’ However, if you feel the information provided is not enough and you still have queries regarding this trip, then you can send us an email or call us at +977-9851196875
Trip Note
Click this tab for a detailed Trip Note containing essential information about this trip, including gear and equipment lists and practical information.
Essential Trip InformationLATEST TRAVELLER'S REVIEWS
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
NetherlandsTwo weeks of bliss
It’s undoubtedly challenging but exceedingly rewarding. Good combination of dramatically high mountains and rural villages of Nepal. The trek leading to Thorangla pass is a memory for a lifetime. Crossing high pass over 5000 meters is more of a personal accomplishment for me. Glad to make it with mild Acute Mountain Sickness. My first 2-weeks long trek in the Himalayas and felt like my training in gym and day hike in weekends back home helped me a lot.
DenmarkAn unforgettable Annapurna Circuit Trek
New ZealandA lifetime experience
I would like to express my gratitude to Third Rock Adventures’ team for their wonderful service during our Annapurna Circuit Trek. We had a fantastic trek with our man Shiva, guiding our group. An experienced guide, he was prudent enough to adjust the itinerary when a couple of our group members felt a little unwell. We had brief spells of bad weather up in the mountains, but the crew’s enthusiasm and encouragement buoyed our spirits and motivated us to carry on. All in all it was an outstanding trek. I have come away a stash of great pictures and memories that will last a lifetime. Our group started off as a bunch of strangers, but by the end of the trek all of us became good friends. Thank you for a well-organized and safe trek. I have no hesitation in recommending Third Rock to anyone considering a trip to Nepal!
SingaporeAmazing Annapurna Circuit Trek
My sincere thanks goes out to the team at Third Rock Adventures for organizing a memorable trek. I completed the Annapurna Circuit and accomplished a lifelong dream, all thanks to the wonderful people at Third Rock Adventures! Yam, our mountain guide proved to be an excellent leader. He took great care of us and ensured that we had a hassle-free trek. The porters were uncomplaining, humble and cheerful. The altitude hit me as we neared the high pass at Thorung La. But I was okay after taking Diamox and spending a day at Thorung Phedi, just below the pass.
The whole trek was filled with amazing sights. Tilicho and Ice Lake were spectacular, but the trek’s highlight was the crossing of the Thorung La pass. It was kind of difficult but worth the effort. The views were lovely and we spent a great deal of time taking pictures and soaking in the views. Part of the trail felt like Tibet. Manang, Pisang and other villages above the 3000m mark seemed culturally more Tibetan. The visit to the shrine at Muktinath was insightful. Much as I enjoyed the trek, it was a relief to arrive in Jomsom and enjoy a hot shower and a can of beer. I am fully satisfied with the way this company organized my Annapurna Circuit Trek. I definitely recommend this company and use them again.
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