Annapurna Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
17-Day Ultimate Himalayan Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is widely regarded as one of the greatest long-distance treks on Earth — a sweeping 17-day journey that encircles the entire Annapurna massif, crossing through an astonishing diversity of landscapes, climates, and cultures. From the subtropical lowlands of the Marsyangdi Valley to the high-altitude desert of upper Manang, and finally over the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, this trek is a masterclass in Himalayan adventure.
Along the way, you'll walk through terraced rice paddies, dense pine forests, and arid Tibetan-influenced villages. The cultural tapestry is as varied as the geography — Hindu communities in the lower valleys transition to Buddhist monasteries and prayer flag-draped settlements as you gain altitude. The descent into the sacred Muktinath temple and the dramatic Kali Gandaki gorge (the world's deepest) provides a fitting climax to this extraordinary trek. With well-established teahouse lodges throughout, the Circuit remains accessible to determined trekkers with good fitness.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
ITINERARY
COSTS INCLUDE
COST EXCLUDE
ESSENTIAL TIPS
GALLERY
FAQ
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
Cross the highest point of the trek — a legendary Himalayan pass offering sweeping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Standing at the summit marked by prayer flags is one of trekking's most iconic achievements.
Muktinath Temple
Visit the sacred pilgrimage site at 3,710m, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The 108 water spouts and eternal natural gas flames make this one of the most spiritually significant sites in the Himalayas.
Kali Gandaki Gorge
Trek through the deepest gorge in the world, carved between the 8,000m+ peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The scale of the landscape here is simply overwhelming.
Tilicho Lake Side Trip (4,919m)
Optional detour to one of the highest lakes in the world, nestled beneath the towering north face of Tilicho Peak. The turquoise waters against a backdrop of rock and ice create a surreal high-altitude landscape.
Manang Valley Culture
Spend acclimatization days exploring the ancient Buddhist villages of Manang and Braga, where flat-roofed stone houses cling to cliffsides and centuries-old gompas hold treasured wall paintings and scriptures.
Diverse Ecosystems
Experience an extraordinary range of environments — from humid subtropical forests with banana trees and waterfalls to alpine meadows, glacial moraines, and the rain shadow desert of the upper Kali Gandaki.
ITINERARY DETAILS
Airport pickup and transfer to your hotel. Evening trek briefing with your guide, gear check, and welcome dinner.
Scenic drive from Kathmandu through the hills to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. The road follows the Marsyangdi River valley with increasingly dramatic mountain scenery. Approximate drive time: 8-9 hours with stops.
Begin trekking through pine forests with views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal emerging ahead. The trail follows the river valley, passing through small farming villages and crossing wooden bridges. Distance: 12km, 5-6 hours.
A beautiful day walking through the increasingly arid upper Marsyangdi valley. Visit the ancient Braga Monastery perched on a clifftop and arrive at the bustling village of Manang, the largest settlement in the region. Distance: 11km, 5-6 hours.
Essential rest day for altitude adjustment. Hike to Gangapurna Lake for stunning reflections of Gangapurna peak, explore the village, visit the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic for an altitude talk, or hike to the Praken Gompa viewpoint for panoramic views.
Leave Manang behind as the landscape becomes increasingly barren and dramatic. The trail traverses high alpine meadows dotted with yak herds grazing beneath towering peaks. Views of the Chulu range and the Great Barrier are magnificent. Distance: 9km, 4-5 hours.
A shorter but critical day as you approach the base of Thorong La. The terrain becomes rocky and steep. Settle in early, hydrate well, and prepare mentally for tomorrow's pass crossing. Distance: 7km, 3-4 hours.
The defining day of the circuit. Start before dawn (3-4am) for the steep climb to the prayer flag-draped summit. Views from the top span the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The long descent to Muktinath is demanding on the knees but exhilarating. Visit the sacred temple upon arrival. Distance: 16km, 9-10 hours.
A relaxed descent into the dramatic Kali Gandaki valley. Kagbeni is a medieval-looking Tibetan village at the edge of the restricted Upper Mustang region. Explore its narrow alleys, ancient chorten, and the red-walled monastery. Distance: 10km, 3-4 hours.
Continue down the Kali Gandaki through apple orchards and whitewashed villages. Marpha is famous for its apple brandy and immaculate cobblestone streets. Sample the local produce and enjoy stunning views of Dhaulagiri. Distance: 8km, 3-4 hours.
Walk through the increasingly lush valley with Dhaulagiri dominating the skyline to the west and Annapurna I visible to the east. The Kali Gandaki gorge reaches its deepest point in this section. Distance: 12km, 5-6 hours.
Dramatic descent into the subtropical lowlands. The vegetation changes rapidly as you lose altitude. Arrive at Tatopani ("hot water") and soak in the natural hot springs — a perfect reward after crossing the high pass days earlier. Distance: 14km, 5-6 hours.
A demanding climb from the valley floor back up to the ridge settlement of Ghorepani. The trail passes through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests. Distance: 12km, 6-7 hours.
Pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill (3,210m) for a legendary sunrise panorama over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and the entire Annapurna range. Descend through forests and villages to Hile. Distance: 13km, 6-7 hours.
Final morning of trekking through terraced hillsides to Nayapul. Drive to Pokhara and celebrate the completion of the full circuit with a lakeside dinner. Distance: 7km, 2-3 hours trekking.
Morning at leisure in Pokhara — visit the World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, or simply relax by Phewa Lake. Afternoon flight or drive to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner with the team.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Depart with memories of one of the world's most extraordinary trekking routes.
COST INCLUDE
Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
2 nights hotel in Kathmandu and 1 night in Pokhara with breakfast
All ground transportation (Kathmandu–Chame, Pokhara–Kathmandu)
All trek permits and ACAP entry fees
Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with tea/coffee during the trek
Experienced, certified English-speaking trekking guide
Porter service (2 trekkers per porter) for carrying luggage up to 14kg
Teahouse accommodation throughout the trek
Insurance for all Nepalese staff
First aid medical kit
All government taxes and service charges
Trek completion certificate
Clip Himalaya duffle bag and trekking cap
COST EXCLUDE
Nepal entry visa fee
International airfare to and from Nepal
Personal trekking gear and equipment
Travel insurance and emergency evacuation (mandatory, min US$15,000)
Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except breakfast)
Bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks
Hot showers and device charging at teahouses
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, snacks)
Tilicho Lake side trip porter/guide surcharge (if opted)
Tips and gratuities for guide and porters
Costs from natural disasters, cancellations, or route changes
Services not mentioned in inclusions
ESSENTIAL TIPS
Fitness Requirements
The Annapurna Circuit is a demanding trek with long days and significant altitude gain. Train for at least 3 months before departure with a focus on cardio endurance, hill climbing, and leg strength. The Thorong La crossing day is 9-10 hours of strenuous effort at extreme altitude.
Thorong La Pass Strategy
Arrive at Thorong Phedi well-rested and hydrated. Start the pass crossing before dawn (3-4am) to reach the summit while conditions are calm — afternoon winds can be severe. Move at a steady pace and communicate with your guide. Diamox can help but consult your doctor first.
Layered Clothing System
Temperatures range from 30°C+ in the lowlands to -15°C at the pass. A versatile layering system is essential: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating fleece, and a waterproof windproof outer shell. Don't forget warm gloves, a balaclava, and quality trekking boots.
Best Trekking Seasons
Autumn (October-November) offers the clearest views and most stable weather. Spring (March-May) brings warmer temperatures and rhododendron blooms in the lower sections. The pass may be snow-blocked in deep winter (January-February). Monsoon season is not recommended.
Money & Supplies
Carry plenty of cash in Nepali rupees — ATMs are only available in Chame and Manang (unreliable). Prices for food and supplies increase significantly at higher elevations. Stock up on snacks and essentials in lower villages.
Route Flexibility
Road construction has altered some lower sections of the traditional circuit. Your guide will optimize the route to maximize trail walking and minimize road sections. The Tilicho Lake detour adds 2-3 days but is highly rewarding if time allows.
Ready to trek?
Tell us your dates and group size. After advance payment, we send you guided breathing techniques for altitude and backpacking skills for the trail. Want professional photos, video, or drone shots of your trek? Just ask.
