Annapurna Circuit versus Annapurna Base Camp Trek
8 Jan 2023
The Annapurna Circuit Trek Route and itinerary are one of the most attractive and popular varied trekking routes in Nepal. Annapurna Circuit trek offers a memorable adventure through the wonderful Annapurna Himalaya range. This standard trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, from lush semitropical forests. Similarly, terraced fields are found in alpine grazing lands and dry, high-altitude deserts.
The classic trek typically starts from Besisahar or Bhulbhule and concludes in Jomsom, Tatopani, or Nayapul, with the exact endpoint depending on the selected itinerary. It crosses the dramatic Thorong La Pass 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), marking the highest point of the trip, which offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains like Machhapuchre (Fish Tail), Manaslu, Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho Peak.
During the journey, trekkers encounter attractive Gurung Thakali and Tibetan-influenced villages, ancient monasteries, and warm hospitality. Highlights include remarkable views of the ancient town of Muktinath, soaking in the natural hot springs at Tatopani, and enjoying panoramic mountain views from locations such as Manang, Pisang, and Poon Hill. Side trips to Tilicho Lake or Upper Pisang are also common options.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek route is one of the most popular and varied trekking routes in Nepal. This trek circles the Annapurna Mountain range and showcases affected changes in scenery, culture, and altitude. The Annapurna Circuit Trek typically begins in Besisahar. But nowadays the off-road takes you to Manang 3440m. But, if you straight drive that high, you may be affected by altitude; that’s why it's better to start from either Dharapani or Chame. Then you can end at Muktinath or Tatopani. It all depends upon your time and interest.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek route passes through lush subtropical valleys, terraced fields, and traditional villages before ascending into alpine meadows, pine forests, and finally the high, barren landscapes of the Himalayas. The highlights of the trek are crossing the Thorong-La pass (5,416m/17,769ft), one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
Along the way, trekkers also experience the cultural miscellany of Nepal, walking through Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali Villages, Visiting Buddhist Monasteries, and witnessing Tibetan-influenced lifestyles.
Overall, the Annapurna Circuit Trek route is a circular Journey about 160-230km. Depending on the starting and ending points. It combines natural beauty, high mountain adventure, and cultural experience. This trek makes it one of the world's greatest trekking routes.
The Annapurna Circuit is a perfect mixture of natural beauty, cultural richness, and high Himalayan adventure, ideal for both experienced and moderately fit trekkers
(Starts from Dharapani- Ends at Tatopani)
This 12-day itinerary suggests a condensed yet rewarding version of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It begins in Dharapani (following a drive from Kathmandu) and includes a relaxing stay in the hot springs of Tatopani.
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (1,960m)
Duration: The first day involves a 9–10-hour jeep drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani, via Besisahar
Highlight: This picturesque journey offers views of river valleys, terraced hills, and charming small villages
Overnight: Teahouse in Dharapani
Day 2: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,670m)
Duration: Day two features a 5–6-hour trek from Dharapani to Chame
Highlights: Beautiful jungle trails, panoramic views of Lamjung Himal, a charming waterfall at Tal, and enjoyable apple orchards.
Overnight: Teahouse in Chame
Day 3: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)
Duration: The trek on day three, lasting for 5-6 hours, takes you from Chame to Upper Pisang
Highlights: Along the route, you’ll walk through peaceful pine forests and enjoy views of the inspiring Paunda Danda rock face, as well as Annapurna II and IV
Overnight: Teahouse in Upper Pisang
Day 4: Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m)
Duration: This 6–7-hour trek from Upper Pisang to Manang offers spectacular views
Route: For even better mountain panoramas, consider taking the upper route via Ghyaru and Ngawal
Highlights: The highlights of the section include magnificent views of the Annapurna range, along with encounters with Tibetan-influenced villages and ancient monasteries.
Overnight: Teahouse in Manang
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Activity: An optional activity is a short hike to Gangapurna Lake or a visit to Ice Lake
Purpose: The primary purpose is to adjust to the altitude and enjoy the spectacular alpine scenery
Overnight: Teahouse in Manang
Day 6: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m)
Duration: The trek on day six, lasting 44-5 hours, takes you from Manang to Yak Kharka
Highlights: The highlights of this section include a gradual ascent through serene alpine pastures, where you’ll often see yaks grazing
Overnight: Teahouse in Yak Kharka
Day 7: Trek from Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (4,600m)
Duration: Day seven involves a 4–5-hour trek from Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi
Highlights: This part of the route is characterized by narrow trails, rocky terrain, and affected landscapes
Optional: An optional continuation to high camp (4,880m) is available for those seeking a shorter day for the next day’s pass-crossing
Overnight: Teahouse in Throng Phedi or High Camp
Day 8: Cross Throng La Pass (5,416m) and trek to Muktinath (3,800m)
Duration: This is a challenging day, with a 7–9-hour trek involving the crossing of the Throng La Pass, the highest point of the trek.
Highlights: Include fabulous sunrise views from the pass, majestic snow-capped peaks, and a visit to the revered Muktinath Temple
Overnight: Teahouse in Muktinath
Day 9: Trek from Muktinath to Marpha (2,670m)
Duration: Day nine involves a 6–7-hour trek from Muktinath to Marpha
Route: An optional detour via Jomsom and Kagbeni can be taken
Highlights: This route includes the windy Kali Gandaki Hill, beautiful apple orchards, and the charming white-washed village of Marpha
Overnight: Teahouse in Marpha
Day 10: Trek from Marpha to Kalopani (2,530m)
Duration: This 5–6-hour trek from Marpha to Kalopani
Highlights: Kalopani offers pleasant places such as Tukuchee and Larjung throughout this section.
Views: You’ll also enjoy stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri
Overnight: Teahouse in Kalopani
Day 11: Trek from Kalopani to Tatopani (1,190m)
Duration: Day 11 of the trek involves a journey from Kalopani to Tatopani with an estimated duration of 6-7 hours
Highlights: This day includes going down into the lush valley, adventure suspension bridges, and relaxing in natural hot springs
Overnight: Teahouse in Tatopani
Day 12: Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara
Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours by jeep or local bus
Highlights: The drive offers a scenic journey through diverse landscapes, marking the official and of the trekking portion. Enjoy the transition from
Rugged Mountain terrain to the more developed lakeside city of Pokhara.
Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara or return directly to Kathmandu.
Trek Duration: 12 Days
Max Altitude: Throng La Pass (5,416m)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging. The trek requires a good level of physical fitness and acclimatization to high altitudes
Best season: Spring (March-May). Offers stable weather and vibrant rhododendron blooms
Autumn (September to November): Considered for clear skies and outstanding mountain views
Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card are compulsory
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a well-developed system of teahouses (lodges) along the route. These teahouses offer both food and accommodation.
Confirming that trekkers have relaxed places to rest and refill. You will get a similar type of food at the Lower Mustang and Upper Mustang treks.
Teahouses or guesthouses are the most common form of lodging
Basic but relaxed rooms with twin beds and shared bathrooms are naturally provided.
Some lodges in bigger villages (like Manang or Jomsom) may offer private bathrooms and hot showers at an extra cost. Facilities:
Blankets are provided, but it's best to take a sleeping bag with you on your private trip because during trekking time, it may get colder.
Charging points for devices are available; however, an additional cost may apply at higher altitudes.
Wi-Fi is available in some places, though it can be slow or unreliable at higher elevations.
Low altitude: NPR 500=1000 per night
High altitude: Often free or cheap if you eat at the same lodge
Meals are regularly served in the teahouse dining rooms. The menus are surprisingly varied, thanks to the route's popularity.
Common Food Options:
Tibetan bread with jam/honey
Pancakes, porridge, muesli
Eggs (boiled, scrambled, omelet)
Tea/coffee
Dal Bhat (mixed with Rice, Lentil, Mix Veg Curry, Chicken, and Pickles. Most Nutritious and popular Food in Nepal).
Fried noodles, rice or potatoes, pasta, spaghetti, Macaroni, Mom's (dumplings), Soup (Garlic, Tomato, Vegetables)
Chocolate bars, Energy Snacks, and Biscuits are recommended
Hot lemon, ginger tea, milk tea, and black coffee are good options.
Water: Bottled water is available, or use purification tablets with tap/spring water to save money and reduce plastic waste
Dal Bhat is limitless in terms of variety and suggestions, and great value for Energy.
Food becomes more expensive as altitude growths.
Vegetarian meals are generally safer and more commonly available.
Meat is less fresh in high altitudes; it’s better to avoid it after Manang.
Tips:
Bring cash (Nepali Rupees), as there are no ATMs on the route after Besisahar.
Carry water purification tablets or a filter to save money and decrease plastic waste.
Bring snacks for extra energy during long trekking days.
The Annapurna Circuit offers decent food and lodging throughout the route, making it a comfortable trek compared to more remote alternatives. Please let us know if you’d like a day-by-day breakdown of food and lodging stops.
