Annapurna Circuit Trek: Routes, Itinerary, Cost & Best Time to Go 2026
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic and diverse trekking adventures. This legendary route circles the massive Annapurna massif, taking you through lush subtropical forests, terraced fields, high alpine landscapes, and culturally rich villages. The trail offers dramatic changes in elevation and scenery, making it a favorite among trekkers worldwide.
The highlight of the trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) — the highest point of the journey — which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Along the way, you’ll explore charming villages like Manang, Pisang, and Muktinath, where Tibetan and Nepalese cultures blend harmoniously.
The trek also features natural hot springs, ancient monasteries, diverse flora and fauna, and opportunities to witness the daily life of Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities.
Major Highlights:
- Stunning sunrise and mountain views from Poon Hill (optional route)
- Crossing Thorong La Pass – the highest point of the trek
- Visiting the sacred temple of Muktinath
- Exploring the world’s deepest gorge – Kali Gandaki Gorge
- Relaxing in the natural hot springs of Tatopani
- Experiencing diverse cultures and landscapes in a single trek
Day 01 :
Arrival in Kathmandu
- Activity: Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.
- Details: Rest and prepare for the trek. Explore the vibrant capital city if time permits.
- Altitude: ~1,400 m
Day 02 :
Drive to Dharapani
- Activity: Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel.
- Details: Rest and prepare for the trek. Explore the vibrant capital city if time permits.
- Altitude: ~1,400 m
Day 03 :
Trek from Dharapani to Chame
- Distance: 15 km
- Walking Time: 5-6 hours
- Altitude Gain/Loss: ↑1,100 m, ↓350 m
- Final Altitude: 2,700 m
- Details: Trek through forests and villages, crossing suspension bridges with views of Annapurna and Manaslu ranges.
Day 04 :
Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang
- Distance: 14 km
- Walking Time: 5-6 hours
- Altitude Gain/Loss: ↑800 m, ↓200 m
- Final Altitude: 3,300 m
- Details: Pass through pine forests and apple orchards, with stunning views of Annapurna II.
Day 05 :
Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang
- Distance: 15 km
- Walking Time: 7 hours
- Altitude Gain/Loss: ↑400 m, ↓150 m
- Final Altitude: 3,540 m
- Details: Follow the Marsyangdi River, passing through cultural villages with Tibetan influences.
Day 06 :
Acclimatization Day in Manang
- Activity: Rest and acclimatization, optional excursion.
- Altitude: 3,540 m
- Details: Explore Manang village, visit monasteries, or take a short hike to aid acclimatization.
Day 07 :
Trek from Manang to Sirikharka
- Distance: 9 km
- Walking Time: 4 hours
- Altitude Gain/Loss: ↑600 m, ↓90 m
- Final Altitude: 4,050 m
- Details: Short trek with gradual ascent, preparing for higher altitudes.
Day 08 :
Trek to Tilicho Lake and Return to Tilicho Base Camp
- Distance: 9 km
- Walking Time: 4 hours
- Altitude Gain/Loss: ↑600 m, ↓90 m
- Final Altitude: 4,050 m
- Details: Short trek with gradual ascent, preparing for higher altitudes.
Day 09 :
Trek from Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka
- Distance: 16 km
- Walking Time: 7 hours
- Altitude Gain/Loss: ↑210 m, ↓210 m
- Final Altitude: 4,090 m
- Details: Traverse rugged terrain with views of the Annapurna range.
Day 10 :
Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
- Distance: 7 km
- Walking Time: 3 hours
- Altitude Gain/Loss: ↑550 m, ↓15 m
- Final Altitude: 4,450 m
- Details: Short but steep ascent to the base of Thorong La Pass.
Day 11 :
Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
- Distance: 14 km
- Walking Time: 8-10 hours
- Altitude Gain/Loss: ↑1,000 m, ↓1,650 m
- Final Altitude: 3,800 m
- Details: Cross the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest point of the trek, then descend to the sacred site of Muktinath.
Day 12 :
Travel from Muktinath to Tatopani
- Activity: Drive by bus or jeep to Tatopani.
- Driving Time: 4-5 hours
- Final Altitude: 1,200 m
- Details: Relax in the natural hot springs of Tatopani after the drive.
Day 13 :
Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani via Sikha and Chittre
- Distance: 15 km
- Walking Time: 7 hours
- Altitude Gain/Loss: ↑1,750 m, ↓100 m
- Final Altitude: 2,850 m
- Details: Steep ascent through rhododendron forests, passing Sikha (1,935 m) and Chittre.
Day 14 :
Sunrise at Poon Hill, Trek to Tadapani via Deurali Pass
- Distance: 11 km
- Walking Time: 6 hours
- Altitude Gain/Loss: ↑1,000 m, ↓1,200 m
- Final Altitude: 2,650 m
- Details: Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,200 m) for a sunrise view of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, then trek over Deurali Pass (3,090 m) to Tadapani.
Day 15 :
Trek from Tadapani to Kimche via Ghandruk, Drive to Pokhara
- Distance: 9 km (trek)
- Walking Time: 4 hours
- Altitude Loss: ↓1,100 m
- Final Altitude: 850 m (Pokhara)
- Details: Descend through the cultural village of Ghandruk (1,940 m) to Kimche (1,640 m), then drive to Pokhara.
Day 16 :
Rest Day in Pokhara
- Activity: Rest and explore Pokhara.
- Altitude: 850 m
- Details: Relax by Phewa Lake, visit local attractions, or enjoy leisure time.
Day 17 :
Return to Kathmandu
- Activity: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu.
- Details: Approximately 6-7 hour drive or 30-minute flight. Evening in Kathmandu.
Day 18 :
Departure
- Activity: Transfer to the airport for departure.
- Details: End of the trek and farewell from Nepal.