Item: Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days
Rating: 5
Author: madhav-prasad

The Annapurna Circuit Trek for 12 days is a true classic! Trekkers from near and far have hailed it as one of the best itineraries in the world, with its visit to Thorong La Pass, amazing mountain vistas, and pristine areas of natural beauty.

Best Season

We organize Annapurna Circuit Trek round the year, best time to do it is during spring (March to mid June) and autumn (September to early December).
Days

11 nights & 12 days
Difficulty

Moderate to Challenging.
Group Size

12 People max
Tour Availability

All year round.
Maximum Altitude

5416 meters / 17769 feet at Thorong La
Meeting Point

Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu.

Overview

Detailed Itinerary

Inclusion/Exclusion

FAQs

Map

Review(s)

Overview

It has been six decades since the Annapurna Circuit Trek opened to visitors in 1949, and it is still among the world’s most captivating trails. Every year, more than 40,000 trekkers travel to the Annapurna region.

The Annapurna Circuit trek is a complete trekking experience, starting from the rugged mountains of Lamjung and extending to the highest altitude of 5,410 meters. The trek explores the trans-Himalaya region of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek for 12 days reveals to you the magic of Annapurna Circuit. The natural and cultural diversity of the region is astonishing. The highlight of the trek is the jaw-dropping views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchhre, and many more snow-covered peaks.

The experience is nothing less than magical.

There are certainly challenges along the way to reach our maximum elevation of 5,416 meters; the Thorong La Pass is a tough feat, but believe us when we say that it is worth the effort! When you witness the panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas and experience the warm welcome from the local people, you will surely agree with us that this trek is not to be missed.

The route takes us to the districts of Manang and Mustang, the only Nepali districts “across” the mountains and completely surrounded by the Annapurna Range. We follow the River Marsyangdi from the beginning, all the way to Thorong La Phedi, crossing its crystal, icy waters many times on impressive suspension bridges.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek starts right after your jeep drive to Dharapani and follows the Marsyangdi River with great views of Manaslu and Him Chuli to the east. This magnificent route leads you through traditional Manangi villages inhabited by friendly, habitual people who always offer a warm welcome amidst the magical, snow-capped Himalayas.

You will not be disappointed on this 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek; the spectacular views of the majestic Himalayas and the glistening waters of a high-altitude lake will keep you regaling your experiences for years to come.

Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 meters), meet at the airport, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Drive to Jagat (1300 meters) – 8 hours.

Day 03: Trek to Dharapani (1960 meters) – 6 hours.

Day 04: Trek to Chame (2710 meters) – 5 hours.

Day 05: Trek to Pisang (3300 meters) – 5 hours.

Day 06: Trek to Manang (3540 meters) – 6 hours.

Day 07: Acclimatization day at Manang (3,540 meters).

Day 08: Trek to Letdar (4,230 meters) – 4 hours.

Day 09: Trek to Thorang Phedi (4,600 meters) – 4 hours.

Day 10: Trek to Muktinath (3800 meters) via Thorang La Pass (5,416 meters) – 8 hours.

Day 11: Trek to Jomsom (2670 meters) – 4 hours.

Day 12: Fly to Pokhara (900 meters) – transfer to your hotel; further on your own.

Note:

The Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days itinerary is ideal for those seeking a complete trekking experience in Nepal, as it introduces you to all aspects of rural life in the Himalayas and hills of Nepal.

You can book this tour on any date that suits your schedule. Please note that a minimum of two participants are required to book online. If you are a solo trekker, please contact us to make arrangements.

This itinerary is standard, but we can customize it to meet your specific preferences. Come and explore the beauty of Annapurna with us.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days Itinerary:

The Thorong La pass, at 5,410 meters, is the highest altitude pass in Nepal and also the highest point of this trek. On reaching this point, you will surely experience a sense of satisfaction and achievement.
The landscape on this trail has surprising diversity, from dense green forests to trans-Himalayan deserts, pristine blue rivers, glacial lakes, waterfalls, and unforgettable views of Annapurna. This trek has it all.
There is a variety of culture and lifestyle throughout the Annapurna Circuit trek, with Tamang, Gurung, Ghale, Thakali, and other ethnic groups living in this area.
Monasteries and Gumbas reflect the glorious history and intricate art and architecture of the region.
Muktinath, an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, is the ultimate place to attain salvation according to Hindu mythology.
The Kaligandaki gorge is the deepest gorge in the world, where different types of unique stones and gems can be found.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 meters), meet at the airport, and transfer to the hotel.

Maximum altitude: 1,350 meters

Your journey begins as you arrive in Kathmandu. Representatives from our company will greet and guide you at the airport. You can rest or explore the city depending on your own will.

In the evening, we will brief you about the upcoming tour.

Day 2 :

Drive to Jagat (1300 meters) – 8 hours.

Maximum altitude: 1,300 meters

Drive duration: 8 hours

After our breakfast, you will set off for a drive from Kathmandu to Jagat. Driving along the winding road through villages along the Trishuli River, you will enjoy the beautiful view of hills and forests.

You will pass through the famous town of Besi Sahar and further ahead till Jagat, your destination for the night.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 :

Trek to Dharapani (1960 meters) – 6 hours.

Maximum altitude: 1,960 meters

Trek duration: 6 hours

This is the day you begin our trek. After breakfast, you head to a descending trail through lush green forests. You pass villages like Chyamje, Sattale, Tal, and Karte on this day.

Suspension bridges and trails carved in the rocky cliffs add a thrilling factor to the hike. Mountains come to sight on the first day of the trek. It is an easy walk overall.

Your stop for the night is at Dharapani.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 :

Trek to Chame (2710 meters) – 5 hours.

Maximum altitude: 2,710 meters

Trek duration: 5 hours

On this day, you will trek through some forest ridges on your way to Chame. The trail is comfortable as it is mostly flat.

View of peaks like Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV will accompany you. On your way, you will come across a hot spring.

Your destination for the night is Chame. Chame is the headquarter of Manang district. You will see shops where you can do some last-minute preparations for the trek. It is an administrative hub too.

Overnight at Chame.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 :

Trek to Pisang (3300 meters) – 5 hours.

Maximum altitude: 3,300 meters

Trek duration: 5 hours

This is the day when the landscapes in the trek change drastically. You start by walking through the dense forests along the Marsyangdi River.

The forest gets thinner as you trek further up. Soon, after crossing the 3,000 meters altitude mark, the landscape turns into a trans-Himalayan desert, with only a few alpine shrubs.

You can trek either through Upper Pisang or Lower Pisang. The trail from Upper Pisang is comparatively steeper but the view is surreal. The path from Lower Pisang is easier. Choose one that’s convenient for you.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 :

Trek to Manang (3540 meters) – 6 hours.

Maximum altitude: 3,540 meters

Trek duration: 6 hours

You can trek either from Lower or Upper Pisang through the old village of Nwagal to Manang. Peaks like Annapurna, Gangapurna and Tilicho are visible almost throughout the trail. Unique rock formations with a thin pine forest make up for a magnificent landscape.

You will come across a 400-year-old monastery in Braga. This monastery has historic religious importance for the locals. The architecture itself is astonishing. You trek further ahead till you reach the beautiful village of Manang.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 :

Acclimatization day at Manang (3,540 meters).

Maximum altitude: 3,540 meters

Manang is undoubtedly one of the best places for acclimatization. It offers spectacular views of Annapurna and Gangapurna peaks. Gangapurna Lake is another gem which is at just ten minutes’ walk from the village.

Visiting nearby monasteries will give you an insight into the local culture and tradition. You have the option of going on side trips like Ice Lake and Milerapa Cave, perfect for a day-hike while in Manang. Whatever you do, don’t sleep during the day. That’s not suitable for acclimatization.

The hotels here provide basic services, and the untouched natural scenery in the backdrop makes Manang a perfect place for acclimatization.

Overnight in Manang.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 :

Trek to Letdar (4,230 meters) – 4 hours.

Maximum altitude: 4,230 meters

Trek duration: 4 hours

The trek on this day is mostly through the rocky landscape, with few pastures and juniper shrubs. The trail goes up and down continuously through the banks of Jharsang Khola.

Frequently crossing wooden and suspension bridges along the way, you pass villages like Tenki and Ghunasa.

Overnight in Letdar.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 :

Trek to Thorang Phedi (4,600 meters) – 4 hours.

Maximum altitude: 4,600 meters

Trek duration: 4 hours

The trek to Thorang Phedi is an uphill climb. Giant rock formations make the landscape look unbelievable. Snow-capped Rocky mountains combined with drylands of different color texture make for lovely scenery.

There are specific parts prone to landslide. Be careful while walking on those trails. On reaching Thorang Phedi, you will see one of the best views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt.Khatungkan. Stop for the day and enjoy a night at Thorang Phedi.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 :

Trek to Muktinath (3800 meters) via Thorang La Pass (5,416 meters) – 8 hours.

Maximum altitude: 5,416 meters

Trek duration: 8 hours

This is the most exciting and challenging day of the trek. At around 2 in the night, you begin your preparation for the final ascend of Thorong La Pass. It gets windy during the day, so starting the ascent early in the morning is the right choice. It is a steep climb for about 3-4 hours until you reach the stunning vantage point of Thorang La Pass.

The sunrise from this point is something you will remember for a lifetime. Thorang La is Two hours of steep climb b Since it gets windy after midday, we start our trek at around 3:00 am. Walking for 2 hours on an uphill trail, we reach High Camp at 4900m. Another couple of hours from here will finally take us to the stunning vantage point of Thorong La Pass.

Experience of sunrise from this point is a once in a lifetime experience. Seeing the first rays of sun hit the Annapurna and Gangapurna is a surreal and dreamlike experience. Reaching Thorong La Pass gives you a sense of achievement and satisfaction. Prayer flags and mani stones mark the highest point in Thorong La Pass.

After enjoying the view, you descend straight down to the Muktinath Temple, a significant pilgrimage site of Hindus. The temple holds the utmost importance among the Buddhists community as well.

You end your trek for the day by driving to Jomsom and spending the night in a cozy, comfortable lodge.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 :

Trek to Jomsom (2670 meters) – 4 hours.

Maximum altitude: 2,670 meters

Trek duration: 4 hours

After Muktinath, you will head for a steep descent down till the Kaligandaki valley. From here, you continue your walk to Jomsom. It is an easy trail.

Jomsom is the headquarter of Mustang. Exploring the valley, you move ahead to the picturesque village of Marpha. Well decorated houses, narrow streets, and apple brandy are what Marpha is famous for.

Overnight in Jomsom.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 :

Fly to Pokhara (850 meters) – transfer to your hotel; further on your own.

Maximum altitude: 8,50 meters

We will get early morning flight to Pokhara from Jomsom airport.

You will have the entire day to enjoy in Pokhara. There are plenty of options to spend a day in Pokhara. You can opt for paragliding, boating or relax around the Lakeside. At night, Pokhara becomes vibrant. You can visit restaurants, bars, cafes, and pubs.

This is end of our service, you are further on your own in Pokhara. Have fun in this beautiful lake city.

Breakfast

Expand all

How is the accommodation facility in the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit Trek is in teahouses. These teahouses provide basic facilities for meals and accommodation on a twin-sharing basis.

Some lodges and hotels on this trek have facilities such as WiFi, hot showers, and attached bathrooms too.

What is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

For a comfortable experience, hands-down, Autumn and Spring are the best times of the year. The visibility is excellent with clear blue skies. The temperature is warm, making it comfortable to walk during the day. Nights are chilly but not freezing.

Similarly, for trekkers who look for solitude while trekking, Monsoon and Winter could be a good time. The trails are less crowded. You will get an authentic experience of the local culture and lifestyle as locals are unoccupied during this time.

With proper research and preparation, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is doable at any time of the year.

What are the chances of altitude sickness on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

There is always a chance of altitude sickness at such high altitude treks unless you take proper safety measures.

Dehydration is a significant factor resulting in altitude sickness during high altitude treks. Make sure you carry and drink plenty of water during the trek.

Similarly, to let your body adapt to the variation in altitude, you need to acclimatize properly. You will be trekking at elevations ranging from approximately 700-5500 meters. Your body needs to adapt to the changing height. After 3,000 meters, the chance of getting altitude sickness is a bit high. So, walk slow and acclimatize, and you will be alright.

What permits do I need for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

You will need two types of permits for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which are arranged by Mosaic Adventure and included in the tour cost.

TIMS card: For all treks in Nepal, the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card is necessary. It will cost you USD 20 and is available in Kathmandu.

ACAP permit: To enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will need an ACAP permit. It costs USD 30 per person and is available in Kathmandu.

How difficult is Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trek, which takes 12 days, can be classified as a moderate to difficult trek. The trail can be challenging at times, depending on the altitude and weather conditions, your experience, and mainly your physical fitness level. If you are reasonably fit and can walk for around 6 to 8 hours every day at high altitudes, you can complete it with the assistance of our professional local guides.

What is the altitude of Annapurna Circuit Trek?

During the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you walk in different altitude ranges, from 1300 meters at Jagat to 5416 meters at the highest point, Thorong La Pass.

What kind of food is available during Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek has become a commercial trail where teahouses provide various types of meals along the route. Although the food is basic, you can get a variety of options, including dal bhat, noodles, pasta, pizza, etc. You can also purchase snacks such as chocolate bars, biscuits, and dry nuts along the way.

Do I need a guide or a porter for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

It is entirely up to you. While it is not mandatory to hire a guide or a porter on this trek, they can be really helpful while trekking over such high altitudes.

What equipment do I need to bring for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

You will need to pack general hiking gear for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Pack wisely and use your common sense to ensure that you are comfortable walking at altitudes ranging from 1300 meters to 5000+ meters. Pack light but don’t leave anything behind.

How much does Annapurna Circuit Trek cost?

The cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is USD 970 per person. This is for a 12-day trip as outlined on this website. Please click on the ‘inclusion/exclusion’ tab to find out what this cost of 970 includes/excludes.

Overall Trip Rating:

5.0

- Based on 5 travel reviews

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Outstanding Annapurna Circuit Trek

By Martin Stefanov December 27, 2022
We had an unforgettable experience trekking around Annapurna Circuit with Mosaic Adventure. Everything went perfect from arrival till end of our awesome trek. Our guide Pralhad and porter Ram was perfect on a trip like this. We look forward to coming back again to do another trek to EBC. Thank you everyone for incredible adventure.
Truly became the journey of my life

By Luna Choi July 7, 2016
I went on a 3-week solo trek around Annapurna Circuit summiting Thorong La Pass (5416 m) in April 2016. I had planned to do this journey for 25 years (sic!), as I viewed it as part of my spiritual pilgrimage. And it truly became the journey of my life with unforgettable memories imprinted in my soul: breath taking sceneries and wonder of nature with wordless beauty.My English speaking guide Bhabanath and smiling porter Ram always tried to adapt to my needs and wishes. Worth mentioning is the bus trip between Jomsom and Tatepani, which in my eyes turned into the scariest bus trip ever due to steep cliffs and big rocks (haha). So, without any hesitation or complaints, we jumped off the bus and walked the last mile (thank you). Among other memorable examples, I especially appreciated that my guide who knew the local people at the teahouses, invited me into their kitchens to enjoy "homemade" Dal Baht in front of open fires. Coming so close to the local people in the mountains, warmed my heart. I also seldom laughed so much when we killed time and coldness by playing cards up in High Camp. In Muktinath I was invited to join my guide and porter early in the morning to do a Hindu ceremony. So, apart from the trekking experience, I want to thank Bhaba and Ram for these unexpected cultural experiences. As the icing of the cake, I was treated every evening with hand peeled fruit, mostly pomegranates, which happened to be my favourite fruit. All in all, both my guide and my always smiling porter were exceptionally service minded all the way. The office manager Madhav was also very responsive in answering all my questions and helpful in customizing the trek according to my wishes. Therefore, I would not hesitate to use Mosaic again next time I go to Nepal. Thank you so much for helping me to realize the journey of my life.
Amazing experience

By Lien Peparmans April 4, 2016
It was an amazing experience. Everything was well organized by the agency: transportation, accommodation, permits, tims and guide. The guide did his job very well! He was concerned about us, had a good eye on us when we were walking and he also listened to our proposals and ideas. It was very nice to have a good guide like this. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is very beautiful! with a lot of wonderful views and panoramas. The Throong-la pass was amazing :)! It was a long day (start early in the morning), it was tiring to walk on that altitude but it was more than worth to do all this efforts!It will be an experience I will never forget! Thanks a lot Mosaic!!
Best time of my life

By Chase Witkin November 11, 2015
I completed the Annapurna Circuit trek in October and had the best time of my life. I have done guided trips throughout the U.S. and Africa but this trip in Nepal was unforgettable. Madhav responds to all emails very quickly and does a great job organizing all aspects of the trip. The trek was amazing; the views, people and food were truly spectacular. However, the greatest part of the trip was getting to know our guide and porter. Without question, we had the best guide and porter out of all other groups we came across during the trek. Krishna was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly and I felt that we were in good hands as soon as the trek started. One thing that they did that no other tour company/guide did along the trail was provide us with fresh fruit every night after dinner. The fresh apples and pomegranates were a great treat and improved moral on tougher days. The friendship we developed with Krishna and our porter Krishna was the highlight of our trip. I am looking forward to coming back to Nepal and would not consider any other company than Mosaic Adventures and Krishna Basnet as a guide.
Excellent guide and porter

By Carlos Penalba October 10, 2009
I've just returned to Kathmandu completing the Annapurna circuit trek organized by Mosaic Adventure. They provide me with an excellent guide Pralhad and porter Hari. They took care of me for over 15 days. First going at the adjective pace and then selecting very good guest house all the way until Pokhara. Pralhad also answered all my too many questions about Nepal, its culture and its people. All the information given by Mosaic Adventures about the trek was very good and my dealings with them were always direct and honest. I also did a one day tour of 6 temples in Kathmandu and its valley and the guide and driver provided were friendly and knowledgeable. I plan to recommend Mosaic Adventure to any friends and family visiting Nepal in the future.