Annapurna Circuit Trek – 18 Days
Annapurna Circuit Trek – 18 Days
Price
Overview
A classic trekking trail, Annapurna Circuit gives you the opportunity to experience some of the unexplored areas of Annapurna surrounded by jaw dropping 8000m. This trek takes you through two stunning river valleys of the Annapurna Massif with stunning views of Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I-IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, and Paungda Danda. The trek starts from Besisahar along the Marshyangdi river valley and ends at the Kali Gandaki Gorge.
The trek takes you through the Thorong-la Pass, the highest and toughest section, that can only be crossed by traveling anti-clockwise. Besides the breathtaking massifs, the trek takes you through beautiful forest areas, ancient gompas, and gorges and canyons. If you want to divert from the traditional route that passes through Thorong la Pass, opting for a more strenuous route, take the route that leads towards Tilicho Lake, at Manang. Annapurna Circuit is a challenging trek but for seasoned trekkers, this is a must-do route that promises not just a thrilling adventure but also a chance to immerse into the ancient tradition, culture along the route with the stunning geography that changes along the two river valleys.
Trip facts:
- Maximum altitude: 5416m
- Group size: 2-10 people
- Best season: March-April-May-September-October-November-December
- Tour type: Trekking
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation Type: Tea houses
- Arrival on: Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
- Departure from: Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
- Guiding method: Trekking guides
- Language: English
- Minimum age: 12
- Maximum age: 80
Group Price
- The price per person for group expeditions are fixed based on a group size. However, we have optional arrangements for individual private and tailor-made preferences best suited for you, your family and friends.
- All prices are based on shared accommodation. Please inquire for a 1 guest private room accommodation quote
- Prices listed are not final. Please inquire for your final price quote.
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 2 – 5 | 3500 |
| 6 – 10 | 2900 |
Included/Excluded
- Accommodation in Kathmandu in a 3-star level hotel for 3 nights in B&B plan.
- Accommodation in Pokhara in a 3 star level hotel for 2 nights in B&B plan.
- All necessary ground transportation in private vehicles.
- All necessary internal flights.
- All necessary permits, tickets and national park entrance fees.
- All meals during trekking days.
- All necessary accommodation in tea houses during the trek.
- An English-speaking well experienced trekking guide.
- All staff salaries and insurance.
- First aid kit carried by our staff.
- All government taxes.
- Welcome and farewell dinner.
- International airfares.
- Nepal visa fee.
- Travel and rescue insurance.
- Meals in Kathmandu (lunch & dinner)
- Porter service: We arrange porter facilities upon request. Two people can share one porter. Porter wage per day is $20.
- Extra nights accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- Any personal expenses during the trek like battery charge, hot shower, laundry, extra meals, tea, coffee, snacks, boiled water, bottled water, alcoholic beverages & soft drinks and internet service.
- Tips for guide, porters, and other staff.
- Anything not mentioned in the 'price includes section.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
At your arrival time at the airport in Kathmandu, a nature horizons team member will be waiting to greet you. We will transfer right to your hotel accommodation for the first night. Once you arrive at the hotel, you will meet your guide and get a briefing on your entire tour. The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore around Kathmandu. It is a magical city.
Includes: Accommodation
Day 2: Trek preparation day
Today you will have a 2nd briefing about the trek during breakfast. We will do a complete gear check to ensure you have brought with you all the necessary equipment and gear for your trek. If there are any items you are missing and need, we will head out into Kathmandu to buy them, so you are prepared for your trek. It is now time to relax, and your trek starts tomorrow.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast
Day 3: Drive to Syange
Our first destination is Syange, an eight to nine hours’ drive from Kathmandu. Syange is a tiny town with a busy marketplace. Settle down in your hotel and head out to explore the markets.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 4: Drive to Chame
We will be driving off-road. The road towards Chame is very adventurous along with beautiful views of the mountains. Along the way, we will come across waterfalls.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 5: Chame to Upper Pisang Trek (3200m)
Brace yourself for some difficult climbing as we’ll come across rocky massifs en route to Humde. The scenic view of Humde with its rolling hills and glimpses of the peaks of the Himalayan range is very vivid. Before we reach Pisang, we’ll pass through a serene pine forest, across the river, and a settlement of Tibetan Khampas.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 6: Upper Pisang to Manang Trek (3,500m)
There is a noticeable change in the landscape as we gain altitude. Lazy yaks will greet us at every turn, busy grazing, while the looming peaks of the mountains start to become more visible. After passing through ancient monasteries at Braga, views of Manang Valley become clearer. Venture to the monastery at Manang and observe the local tradition. If you are yearning for something sweet after the strenuous trek, head out to one of the many bakeries to savor their sweet delights.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 7: Acclimatization day at Manang (Optional: Hike to Ice Lake 4600m)
Depending upon how you feel, you can choose to give your body rest at Manang. If you feel good and want a more glorious view and adventure, doing a day hike to Ice Lake is an excellent idea. It’s a steep uphill hike to the lake from the village of Braga. After climbing up to 4600m, you will be well acclimatized for the high pass, which you will be crossing in a few days.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 8: Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4200m)
Following the river path from the Western Gate, we continue towards Khangsar. Along the way, we’ll pass by a monastery and tackle uphill slopes to Shree Kharka with the beautiful peaks of Gungang Himal and Mount Chulu to keep us company. From Shree Kharka onwards, the route is mostly downhill. But we’ll have to be careful as some of the areas are landslide-prone. Be on the alert, and follow your guide’s advice while you walk through narrow trails.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 9: Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho lake to ShreeKharka (4,949m)
Right after breakfast, we will trek to Tilicho Lake. It’s a few hours walk from the base camp. Since it’s located at a high altitude, the temperature in the area will be slightly cold. You can see the mountains being reflected on the turquoise water of Tilicho Lake. After spending some time there, we trek back to the Base Camp and head towards Shree kharka.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 10: Shree Kharka to Yak-kharka
Descending downwards to the Marsyangdi valley, we will be heading to alpine vegetation. Passing through Khangsar village, and across a bridge near Yak Kharka. As its namesake, you will notice many yaks grazing in the area.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 11: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Brace yourself for an uphill route to Thorong Phedi. Crossing a suspension bridge, we walk uphill, passing through massive cliffs. Thorong Phedi is the last checkpoint before we head to Thorong La Pass. This is one of the most challenging routes of this trek. The views are spectacular, and you can see the mountain Gudang, Syangagan, Thorung Peak, and Khatungkan.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 12: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorong La (5416m): 7 – 8 hours
Thorong La Pass is one of the highest passes in the world. We will be crossing the Pass walking from an anti-clockwise direction, as the winds are powerful – walking from the east to the west. An early start at the wee hours of the morning, we will ascend uphill. The view from the top is worth your hard work. We will then slowly descend towards Muktinath Valley.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 13: Trek to Jomsom
It’s a pretty long foothill excursion from Muktinath to Jomsom today and also the last day of trekking. However, descending is easier to ascend. First, we climb to the Lubra Danda and walk down to the Lubra village, one of the picturesque Thakali villages in this area. The stunning views of the Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche and other surrounding snow-capped peaks are simply overwhelming. The wide and flat trail from there continually leads us to the district headquarters of Mustang, Jomsom, along with the windy Kali Gandaki River valley.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day14: Hike to Dhumba lake and Marpha village
Today we will explore the attractions of Lower Mustang. Dhumba lake and Marpha village is close to Jomsom and perfect for a day hike to explore the place.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 15: Fly to Pokhara
We will take another incredible morning mountain flight to Pokhara enjoying the mountain range. Once we check into the hotel in Pokhara we will have a leisurely time to find some soothing massage, chilled beer or a relaxing stroll around the lakeside. The relaxing and leisurely time in Pokhara today should give us some good recovery from the tiredness of pedaling for many days in the high mountains.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast
Day 16: Explore Pokhara
A full day in Pokhara will give us an opportunity to explore a bit of this beautiful city. We can go to Lake Fewa for a peaceful boating experience. Later we can go to visit Davis falls and Gupteshwor cave. We will have some free time on our own. There are lots of adventure activities like paragliding, zip-lining, bungee jumping, ultra-light flight, etc. should we choose to go for some adventure thrill. Or we can simply relax around.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast
Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu
After spending some time relaxing at the lakeside of Pokhara we will take a late flight back to Kathmandu. Spend your last minutes doing some souvenir shopping.
Includes: Accommodation/Breakfast
Day 18: Final Departure
As per your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the international airport of Kathmandu 3 hours prior to the flight time and your tour ends here.
Includes: Breakfast
How much weight can I carry on the flight to Lukla?
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
Where can I leave my extra luggage?
Should I bring altitude sickness medicine?
Do I need to carry a sleeping bag?
Should I hire a porter?
What if I fall sick?
Do I need to have contingency days to book my flight back home?
Trekking Packing List
Head and Hands:
- Cap or hat to wear while walking in bright sun
- Wool or fleece cap or hat to keep your head warm
- Neck warmer to protect your throat from catching a cold
- Uv protection sunglasses
- Warm wind and waterproof gloves
Upper body:
- Dri fit trekking shirts
- Thermals
- Warm trekking shirts
- Hiking hoodie
- Wind and waterproof jacket
- Down jacket
Lower body:
- Trekking pants
- Trekking shorts
- Thermals and inners
- Waterproof pants
- Trekking socks
- Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support
- Slippers or sandals
- Gaiters
- Microspikes
Other items:
- Strong rucksack or large holdall to be carried by
- Day rucksack to be carried
- Plastic bags or stuff sacks to store/separate trekking gear inside your main
- One or two-liter water
- Personal first aid kit to include essential
- Sleeping bag, 4
- Torch, ideally head torch.
- Digital Camera and a spare battery and battery charger
- Toilet paper, quick-dry towel,
- Toothbrush
- Large handkerchief/bandana for neck
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Our TripAdvisor Reviews
Kika C2024-12-16Amazing experience and customer service!!! I highly recommend Dominick with Nature Horizons Tours!! I am a travel advisor who had a bit of a last-minute booking with a family to Peru. I reached out to Dominick immediately, since I knew he’d be fabulous!! He went above and beyond with communication, response, time, organization, and more! He got the very happy clients booked within a few days and I am super grateful for his services!!! he was so kind to start a WhatsApp group chat with me and my clients to answer any and all questions we had! Thank you!!!!Evan L2024-10-29Amazing time at Machu Picchu We had a great time in the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cusco! Great views and excellent guide and transportation. Everything was great!Karen H2024-10-29Excellent experience I have worked with Nature Horizons as a travel advisor and it was an excellent experience. I 100% trust this team to deliver an exceptional trip for my clients. They are quick to respond to questions and the communication while my clients were traveling was outstanding. They had excellent knowledge of the area and were able to provide more local tips and suggestions that I would have been able to provide alone.Highly recommend.Rosie H2024-08-18Epic African Safari to Tanzania My husband and I planned a trip with 2 other couples to go on an African Safari in Tanzania for the Great Migration experience as well as the Serengeti which was epic all by itself. We visited and stayed across Moshi (Mt. Kilimanjaro area), the North & Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Maynara, nKomazi Black Rhino Sanctuary, Tarangire and probably a few other places I can't recall. We stayed at tented temporary camps to luxury camps. We stayed at Weru Weru lodge, Serengeti Heritage lodge, Central Serengeti Luxury camp, Rhino Lodge, Lake Maynara Safari Lodge and finally at Kilimanjaro Luxury camp. These venues each had their own beauty with furnishings, mosquito nets, traditional African tribal entertainment, good food and amazing staff who catered to our every need and comfort. Even in the bush, we still had access to electricity, hot water, bottled water, showers, toilets and yes of course, the internet but you have to be realistic since the bush is the bush with hyenas, big cats and elephants moving around the property. I really loved the Masai warriors who made us feel safe as they escorted back and forth between tents and the main camp. We were so blessed to experience the BIG 5 largely due to the expertise of our guides Praygod and Victor. They were the best and boy did they make the trip. I was grateful for their knowledge of the terrain, their respect for the wildlife, education and tolerating our 1000s of questions. We had 3 couples plus the owner operator Dominick and we rotated across 2 Land Cruisers. I wouldn't have it any other way, I never felt cramped and being able to pop my head up in the open roof was great for photos and viewing the animals with my binoculars. This was a once in a life time trip that I highly recommend to anyone that has grown up watching animal planet and national geographic as a kids. When you see these animals only feet away from you, the kid in you returns and you will definitely cry at the beauty of these animals in their natural habitat. I highly recommend Nature Horizons since they are well connected across the different operators and local partners. They lodging was great and it provided a little bit of raw nature in the bush, feeling like a roughed it a bit (but not really) to the beauty Kilimanjaro luxury camp the last 2 nights to be at the foot of Kilimanjaro, and being able to see her greatness above the clouds. I have been back a month and I can't stop talking about my experience in Tanzania. I was able to experience the beauty of the people of Tanzania, an actual Masai village, shopping at the awesome African Galleria, and getting souvenir's at the cool places our guides felt were respectable locations for tourists. I am not sure when, but I plan to go back to explore more of Tanzania and Africa.Nikole2024-07-17No Words I feel very fortunate to have gone on this safari with Nature Horizons. I went with a group of people and only knew one. Each place that we stayed at was very special in its own way. Dominick is a very kind, intelligent, fun human. He has built all the right relationships to ensure all of his clients are taken care of. We were able to see all of the big five. Our guides felt like family. I’ve never been on a trip that was so magical and was so hard to leave. It has nearly been half a year and our group still talks with each other. We bonded so much that we committed to going on a trip together every 5 years. If you’re thinking about this, DO IT! Do it with Nature Horizons! They will go the extra mile for you to get the experience of a lifetime. They even made sure we had opportunities to connect with the people of Tanzania.Rebecca M2024-06-23Unforgettable vacation We worked with Nature Horizons for our honeymoon to Peru and it far exceeded any expectations we had! It was the most incredible experience and itinerary they created for us and Deivis was always on top of everything and extremely responsive if we had questions. I give this company my highest/strongest recommendation if you are thinking of going to any of the countries they service!Dream224010839132024-06-12Great Travel Team! I am a travel advisor and just sent my clients on their honeymoon with Nature Horizons. They visited Peru and had the most amazing time. The Nature Horizons team was so easy to work with. listened to my requests, and made all the revisions I needed. They took wonderful care of my clients as if they were their own. I can't wait to work with them again!Noe V2024-06-11Full service trip to Perú We had a wonderful time traveling through Perú for two weeks on an itinerary planned by Deivis, through nature horizons.The experience was so much more than we originally expected. Every detail was accounted for. From private drivers to knowledgeable tour guides, there was nothing lacking.I don't know if we'll ever be able to take a trip like this again, but I'm so glad we did at least once. Thank you so much. I'll never forget these amazing days.Jill D2024-04-20Not enough stars to rate this company- THE BEST time ever!!! If there were a million stars to rate this company and my recent trip, it wouldn't be enough. Nature Horizons is amazing. I first met the owner, Dominick at a convention for travel advisors in 2023. I knew immediately that he was a very special person and he had a very obvious love for the tours he had created in the destinations he adored. The story of developing his company is inspiring and his work ethic has continued to impress me during all stages of my Safari planning, from its conception to preparation to hosting us during the Great Migration in Tanzania. His communication is efficient, sincere and organized. He is thorough and thoughtful. He is fun and personable. He is extremely knowledgeable and has vetted resources to execute adventures across many countries. Our Safari was 12 days of awesome-ness. We truly couldn't have asked for a better experience. Each day was well-planned and our guides helped us see so many animals, sites and natural wonders. They knew where to be and when for us to see the most miraculous things. Dominick was such a friendly host, helping us gain perspective and a true taste of Tanzania. He listened to our wishlist, considered our requests and delivered days that we will never forget. Dominick truly cares about each and every guest and also has such respect for some of the most treasured creatures and places on our planet. I can't imagine a better Safari ever happening. But, knowing Dominick, he will make sure the next one and the next and the next are better than the one before it. That's how much he cares.I have to share a couple of our favorite moments were totally unplanned, though. Our Safari vehicle got stuck in the mud as rains started in the Central Serengeti. Dominick stayed calm, assured us that all was well and we sipped champagne as we watched the men try to get us unstuck...comical. Everything happens for a reason and we saw a perfectly complete rainbow soon after our vehicle was moving down the road. It couldn't have been scripted any better! As we continued on the way back to our lodge, we came across a Lioness and her brand-new cub. This is something rarely seen and we were sure Dominick paid the Lioness to appear for us. LOL. These examples are merely a glimpse of memories we made. And, part of the reason these moments were so special was because we were in the moment, which was as Nature Horizons intended. We had not a care in the world and could simply "be" in nature. I can't thank the entire team enough for such a wonderful two weeks.416marlysl2024-04-04Amazing Experience! This trip was, by far, the most amazing trip I have ever taken! Dominick and his driver/guides were fabulous! They definitely found all the animals we wanted to see and many unexpected sites as well. They were so accommodating, stopping whenever we asked even if it was just for a bird or turtle crossing the road. Our guide, Praygod, was able to identify every bird we saw! Their knowledge of the wildlife was phenomenal. We learned so much about the culture, food, and local life from our casual conversations. The accommodations, while not luxury, were very comfortable and the food was very good, especially the soups. When I go back, it will definitely be with Dominick and Nature Horizons Tours!
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