Annapurna Circuit Trek

Overview

There are treks. And then there's the Annapurna Circuit. What’s so special is that it offers jaw-dropping mountain views with diverse ecosystems, rich cultural encounters, spiritual depth, and the raw thrill of crossing one of the highest trekking passes on Earth. 

Stretching across five districts of Nepal (Kaski, Lamjung, Manang, Mustang, and Myagdi), the Annapurna Conservation Area is one of the most biodiverse protected regions in the world.

And for this 14-day Annapurna circuit Trek, you’ll be passing the major routes that take you through the rhododendron forests as well as the terraced rice fields, followed by the wind-swept high-altitude terrain near the Tibetan Plateau. 

Along the way, even the mountains keep changing as you get the brilliant views of Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, III, and IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the Dhaulagiri range. And as it’s a circuit trek, these mountains appear from different angles, different distances, at different times of day, with different lighting.

Not to forget that the Annapurna Circuit is also culturally rich, as you’ll walk through the villages of Gurung, Nyeshang, Manangi, and Bhotia communities. And you might even be lucky enough to see prayer wheels spinning beside Buddhist monasteries in Manang and Hindu pilgrims bathing in the 108 sacred water spouts of Muktinath. 

You, this is an A One trek! And if you choose the journey with Adventure A One Treks, we believe your Annapurna Circuit trek would be even smoother, safer, and deeply immersive. 

Our 14-day Annapurna Circuit starts from the lower altitude of Chyamje (1,460 m) rather than rushing you to the mid-section. This gives your body the proper time to acclimatize gradually.

More importantly, it gives you the real trekking experience: yes, the exact kind you came to Nepal for! 

You’ll pass countless waterfalls of the Marsyangdi Valley, along with taking a peek into the ancient monasteries of Upper Pisang. Then comes the cultural hub of Manang village, where we've spent two nights for proper acclimatization and exploration. 

And after crossing the major highlight of the Annapurna Circuit, Thorong La Pass, the landscape shifts entirely as you enter the Mustang district. We’ll even organize a short visit to the sacred Muktinath Temple before making our way down to Jomsom together.

So, dear guests, whether this is your first high-altitude adventure or you're returning to Nepal for more, this 14-day Annapurna Circuit has a way of surprising you at every turn. So, get ready, and let's take you through everything that makes this trek truly a one!

The Annapurna Circuit Trail: Route and Distance

Before lacing up your boots, let’s understand what you're actually walking into. Well, the Annapurna Circuit is a journey through multiple landscapes, climates, and cultures that change with every passing day. 

Take a quick overview of the route before we go into the details of each stop:

Chyamje > Dharapani > Chame > Pisang > Manang > Yak Kharka > Thorong High Camp  > Thorong La Pass > Muktinath > Jomsom

This is the classic Annapurna Circuit trek route that has been popular for decades! Why? Because it captures the true spirit without rushing through the journey (a mistake many travellers make when visiting Nepal).

While jeeps now reach up to Manang (where road has been paved), and some itineraries skip large sections of the lower trail entirely, our team at Adventure A One believes in the classic version. 

That’s why this Annapurna Circuit Trek starts from the low altitude of Chyamje (1,460 m) as mentioned earlier. This way, you get the real trekking feeling. Gradual elevation gain, proper acclimatization, and also the chance to absorb every bit of the cultural parts of the trail that others miss!

Not to forget that we also let you add Tilicho Lake to this itinerary. Yes, that's absolutely possible! This way, your Annapurna trip extends by two extra days and diverges from Manang, going to Khangsar first before reaching the iconic sacred lake. Just let us know if you’re willing ot customize, and we’ll prepare accordingly.

Main Stops Along the Annapurna Trail

Let us tell you that the Annapurna Circuit is a series of unique destinations, each with its own character. Here's what to expect at each major stop:

• Chyamje or Chamche (1,460 m): Right beside the roaring Marsyangdi River and surrounded by multiple cascading waterfalls, this is going to be your starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It’s a small but honestly, a vibrant settlement that sets the tone for everything ahead!
• Tal Village (1,700 m): A tiny settlement with a dramatic waterfall as its backdrop (you’ve probably seen this on social media, right?). It is indeed one of the most photogenic early stops on the trail. Here’s a story if you didn’t know: it was completely destroyed by a flood in June 2021, but now the community is slowly rebuilding.
• Dharapani (1,920 m): This is an important checkpoint as we enter into the Annapurna Conservation Area from the Manang side. So, it’s a place to show your permits (which our guides handle for you).
• Chame (2,700 m): After a long hike on the third day, you reach the headquarters of Manang District. This is where the mountains properly introduce themselves as you get good glimpses of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, and Pisang Peak. Not to forget that Chame also has hot springs for those who are ready to soak before the trail gets more demanding.
• Pisang (Lower and Upper): At around 3,230 m, you’ll reach here after crossing Dhikur Pokhari. It’s a culturally rich and visually stunning region of the Marsyangdi Valley. Also, the home to Green Lake, it's one of the most photogenic spots on the entire circuit! Moreover, Upper Pisang is where Tibetan Buddhism begins to truly reveal itself as you get past mani walls, chortens, ancient monasteries, and prayer flags.
• Humde (3,330 m): Home to the abandoned Manang Airport, you will get to get the glimpse of the runway that’s still there. It's a curious and surreal sight in the middle of the mountains.
• Manang Village (3,540 m): Finally, on the sixth day of the long trek, you’ll enter the cultural heart of the Manang district, which is one of the major highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This village deserves at least two nights, and it’s not just for acclimatization but also for genuine exploration. We suggest visiting Gangapurna Lake (the most popular spot), Kicho Taal (Ice Lake), or even the popular 100 Caves. Don’t forget to explore the cultural museum here, and if time allows, simply go and speak to the Manangi people, the main ethnic group living here.
• Yak Kharka (4,200 m): Walking alongside the Jharsang Khola and passing through Gunsang, you'll reach this small, tucked-away settlement surrounded by the Annapurna mountains. It’s true to its name (yak grazing ground) and thus, get ready to spot high-altitude yaks roaming freely here!
• Thorong High Camp (4,880 m): After Phedi (where some itineraries take you), we will make a last stop in the higher camp (challenging to sleep but with the right acclimatization, it’s definitely possible) before the iconic Thorong La Pass. There are vantage points nearby, so be sure to visit them as some cross over 5,000 m, which serve as excellent acclimatization hikes before the big crossing the next morning.
• Muktinath (3,800 m): After crossing the 5,416 m pass, you descend into the Mustang district and reach this deeply sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The Muktinath Temple is also home to the iconic 108 sacred water spouts (Muktidhara) along with the eternal flame of Jwala Mai Temple (nearby), so don’t miss these highlights when travelling with our Adventure A1 team.
• Jomsom (2,715 m): The headquarters of Mustang District, where your trek officially concludes. This is a bustling market and also has an airport for your return flight to Pokhara the next day. But if you're returning via road instead, we’ll make sure to stop in Marpha (also known as the apple capital of Nepal), where you can taste local apple pie, apple brandy, and wander through its charming alleys.

Distance Between Main Stops of Annapurna Circuit

Major Attractions of Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit is, without a doubt, full of highlights! However, some stops are genuinely once-in-a-lifetime, so you wouldn’t want to miss them. 

Serene glacial lakes, a hidden monastery carved into a cliff, and, of course, the mighty Thorong La, here are the extraordinary places that make this 14-day trek even more extraordinary:

Beautiful Lakes in Manang Valley

The Manang Valley can be practically called a high-altitude lake region. The reason for this is that you won't find this concentration of high-altitude lakes anywhere else. These are perhaps the best photogenic spots on the Annapurna Circuit trail:

• Green Lake: Located just a little ahead of Lower Pisang (around 3,300 m), this lake’s distinctly green-coloured waters with the mountain backdrop make it one of the best things to see on the entire Annapurna Circuit route.
• Dudh Pokhari: This is serene milky-white pond right on the way to Manang, and is tucked quietly along the trail. You might miss it, so be sure not to rush and get there for some really cool pictures.
• Gangapurna Lake (3,540 m): It sits right in Manang village, and this glacial lake reflects the face of Gangapurna peak, which is thus its name. And since it’s one of the most accessible from the main settlement, a great evening walk from your lodge would be enough.
• Blue Lake: Also in the Manang area, its vivid colour makes it another popular photography spot. Note that due to the popularity of people visiting Manang, peak seasons have now made the region a little more crowded than in the past years.
• Kicho Taal / Ice Lake (4,620 m): While we have included a short hike to the 100 Caves, those interested can instead opt for a little longer acclimatisation hike from Manang to this brilliant lake. It’s about 6 km and thus takes 3 to 4 hours one way (with an additional 1.5 to 2 hours for return). This lake sits among the mountains, and the views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the Chulu range are worth praising! There's also a small stupa right beside it (don’t forget to visit it).
• Optional Tilicho Lake (4,919 m): This is an optional extension requiring two to three extra days from Manang, where you take the route of Khangsar instead of Yak Kharka. While it no longer holds the record for the highest lake in the world, don't let that fool you because the serenity of this lake is outstanding. You’re surrounded by Tilicho Peak and the Annapurna range, which is something that simply cannot be put into words. So, if time allows, we absolutely recommend adding this to the itinerary!

Special Acclimatization Hike to Praken Gompa (aka Hundred Caves)

While most itineraries send you to Ice Lake for your acclimatization hike in Manang, our Adventure A One itinerary includes something a little different. We’re taking a shorter approach, which is a hike to Praken Gompa, widely popular as the Hundred Caves (100 Caves). 

It’s indeed one of the best hidden gems that many trekkers do not know. But visiting here at 3,945 m gives you a very different experience. 

Located right within the rocky mountain wall above Manang, Praken Gompa is actually a Buddhist stupa. And to get there means you need to climb and get to the top. 

Once you're standing at the gompa, the views are extraordinary with sweeping panoramas of Gangapurna, Tarke Kang, and Annapurna II right before you!

What’s so special about this place is that there’s a lama (Buddhist monk) here who, for a small offering, will bless you and offer protection for your crossing of Thorong La Pass. How amazing is that? 

So, you see, our team at Adventure A One are not just taking you to another physical acclimatization hike, but instead a spiritual one that will bless you! Since the upcoming trek after Manang is demanding, you’d feel blessed reaching here!

Now that being said, we suggest carrying a small token of gratitude. And keep in mind: you need to approach the gompa with respect!

Crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)

Whatever you call it, Thorong La, Thorang La, or Thorung La, this is the iconic mountain pass that holds a title that says it all: the world's highest trekking pass! 

It’s vantage point is situated at an elevation of 5,416 m, and it sits right on the border between Manang and Mustang. Considering all these reasons, crossing it is without a doubt the biggest flex of the entire Annapurna Circuit journey.

But hold on! It isn't just the altitude that makes it so blissful. It's the achievement that counts. 

That long climb in thin air from early morning, walking in the cold and deep silence, and only the sheer scale of the mountains around you. Even imagining makes the moment really priceless, so imagine how it feels once you’ve done it? 

Well, everything you've been through over the past several days suddenly makes complete sense once you come across that iconic board of Thorong La Pass. And the views of Chulu West, Khatung Kang, the Annapurna range, and the distant Dhaulagiri range are a bonus!

Moreover, the descent from Thorong La is equally dramatic! Get ready for the knee-hurting downhill as the landscape suddenly shifts as you drop into Mustang district. 

A few hours prior, you were among the rocky alpine world of Manang, and now you’re heading to the dry, wind-carved terrain of a trans-Himalayan valley. Yup, it's like walking into an entirely different country (but you’re still in Nepal, we’re sure, already in love with this country).

But please know that slow and steady always wins here because it’s in a high-altitude region. So, don’t rush as the risk of altitude sickness is there (more on this below!).

Major Mountains of This Trek

One of the most rewarding parts of the Annapurna Circuit is the mountains (you guessed it!).

Well, they don’t just appear all of a sudden, but reveal slowly, from different angles, different distances, and different elevations, which is what we love the most in this journey. And so have our prior guests at Adventure A One Treks.

The primary ones are the Annapurna and Mansiri Himal range, which are indeed breathtaking and the major reasons many choose this adventure! Good news for mountain lovers: you get to see them from the lower sections of Chyamje to Chame itself!

The main mountains seen in the early trails are: Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), Manaslu (8,163 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Annapurna IV (7,525 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), and a few glimpses of Annapurna I (8,091 m) too!

But once you reach Manang and beyond, the entire Annapurna Massif becomes your backdrop!

This means you’ll be greeted with more mountains, including Annapurna III (7,555 m), Pisang Peak (6,091 m), Chulu East (6,584 m), Chulu West (6,419 m), Khatung Kang (6,484 m), and Thorong Peak (6,144 m). And from the top of Thorong La Pass, the distant Dhaulagiri Range also covers the western horizon.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

Let's be honest… the Annapurna Circuit is definitely not going to be a casual walk, especially if you haven’t hiked in the mountains before. But is it as difficult as many portray? Probably not.

Well, the trail is actually a moderately challenging trek, where the main challenge is the altitude gain that comes beyond Pisang (above 3,000 m). The overall route is honestly manageable even for trekkers with limited prior experience.

However, if you do not listen to your body, you may fall seriously ill. But the main highlights have to be: the constant views, the cultural stops, and also the short, refreshing breaks that come along the way.

The one genuinely hard day is going to be when crossing Thorong La Pass. But that’s the whole point of the trek and the main highlight to cross the pass and reach the other side of the Annapurna CA. That’s why we are letting your body acclimatize for over a week. 

With the right preparation and a good itinerary (like ours), most trekkers find the pass crossing demanding but absolutely achievable. This comes from our own team’s experience as well as our guests’ review.

Of course, the risk of altitude sickness is the main reason this trek is classified as moderate to challenging because you’ll have to pass such a high-altitude region. But don’t worry! Choosing a reliable agency like Adventure A OneTreks lets even beginners complete this trek and savour it for a lifetime. 

You see, the difficulty level of the Annapurna circuit Trek actually depends on your experience and physical fitness.

Best Time For Annapurna Circuit Trek

Nepal has six distinct seasons, and each one brings a very different kind of beauty to the Annapurna region. Here's a quick overview of the main highlights (and cons too) of different times of the year in the Annapurna Circuit:

• Spring (March to April): Blooming rhododendrons, clear skies (mostly), great mountain views, and decent temperatures. But more crowds, unpredictable weather, and slightly higher costs.
• Summer (May to June): Fewer crowds, warmer temperatures, good views if you're lucky with the weather. This is also the pre-monsoon period, so you may experince light showers, mainly in the afternoon.
• Monsoon (July to September): Lush, green trails, powerful waterfalls, and a very secluded experience. But continuous rainfall and leeches in the lower sections can make the journey a little difficult, and also, mountain views become less reliable. (Late September used to be a great time previously, but climate change has extended the monsoon period in Nepal, considering the past trends.)
• Autumn (October to Mid-November): Peak season because you get the best weather, clearest mountain views, ideal temperatures, and also some greenery along with waterfalls from the monsoon time. The main con has to be the overcrowding and slightly expensive trails.
• Early Winter (Mid-November to Mid-December): Cold at high altitude, possible snowfall, and fewer crowds. Even mountain views remain clear in the mornings but cold temperatures and possible chances of heavy snow can affect the trail. Still a good time.
• Winter (Late December to February): Extremely cold, heavy snow likely in upper sections, and Thorong La may become impassable at times.

You see, all seasons have their own charm. Thankfully, at Adventure A One, we organize trips all year round so we get to cater for our guests at any time of the year they’d like.

The only time we won't consider it is when Thorong La Pass becomes impassable due to heavy snow or when road and trail conditions make the trek unsafe (during peak monsoon). 
Our team is constantly monitoring the weather and trail conditions for you, so just contact us, and we’ll let you know the right time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Accommodations and Amenities on This Trek

On this 14-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, your accommodation is going to be on a mix of comfortable city hotels and authentic mountain lodges:

• Kathmandu and Pokhara: Well-equipped hotels where breakfast is included. 
• During treks: Local teahouses and mountain lodges along the trail (depends on the location)

Speaking specifically about the Annapurna trekking route, most teahouses provide twin-sharing rooms with comfortable bedding (just basic). While hot showers are available in the lower and mid-altitude sections, they cost extra bucks (not covered by the package). 

The good thing about this trekking destination is that electricity for charging is available in most locations (even up to Thorong High Camp). However, we still suggest carrying a power bank.

Also, Wi-Fi exists in some teahouses, but we won’t recommend relying on them as bad weather can cause impacts. 

One important note is that the final night at Thorong High Camp can be basic. So, pack accordingly and make sure you have your sleeping bag with you!

Foods and Drinks Expectations

Now, let’s talk about food on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. In the lower sections, expect Nepali dal bhat, momos, noodle soups, and chapati. 

Don’t forget to try the famous Thakali Dal Bhat once you’re in the Thak Khola region (in the Mustang region). It’s honestly one of the best meals you'll have in Nepal. It’s the same as Dal Bhat Set, but more culturally rich and delicious. 

Moreover, in Bhartang and Pisang, definitely opt for local apples and other apple products. And since new bakeries have opened up in Manang, be sure to try apple pie, cinnamon rolls, and proper coffee here.

Besides everything, note that this is trekking in the high-altitude Annapurna region. So, drinking more water is what you should focus on, and that too at least 3 to 4 litres per day.  Always stick to boiled or purified water on the trail (avoid tap water, but if you’ve got purification tablets, using those is fine). 

Other popular drinks include garlic soup and ginger tea, which are honestly your best friends at altitude! 

One suggestion from our side is to avoid meat and a high-protein diet as much as possible, especially above Manang. This is because refrigeration is limited there, and most products are transported from the lower sections, so we do not know how fresh they are. 

And don’t just rely on the three meals that we have included in this Annapurna Circuit Trek package for you. Be sure to carry energy bars and chocolates for the long hiking days.

Permits Required For Annapurna Circuit Trek

To legally enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will require two permits (which is included in this package itself):

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), cost details below:
  • International Trekkers: NPR 3,000
  • SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,000
  • Nepali Citizens: NPR 100
  • Children below 10 years: Free
• TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System), this is less relevant these days, but still recommended for safety of you and your guides. Cost details are below:
  • Individual International Trekkers: NPR 2,000
  • Group International Trekkers: NPR 1,000
  • SAARC Individual: NPR 600, Group: NPR 300

Culture in Annapurna Circuit: Gurung, Thakali, Tibetan, and Hindus

One of the things that truly sets the Annapurna Circuit apart from other treks in Nepal is how dramatically the culture shifts as you gain altitude. You’ll get past multiple communities as you walk through a living cultural mosaic of traditions, architecture, food, language, and spiritual life!

In the lower sections of the trail, you'll be walking through Gurung and Magar territory. The Gurung people are most abundantly found, who are warm and hospitable who are proud of their heritage. 

As you climb toward Manang and Pisang, the influence of Tibetan Buddhism becomes more and more prominent. So, expect to find mani walls, chortens, prayer flags, and gompas that line the trail all along. 

Here, in this region, you get to meet the Nyeshang and Manangi people, and thus get a closer glimpse of the Tibetan cultural roots that has existed for centuries. Note that spending time in Manang is a genuine cultural highlight of the entire trek (and perhaps your Nepal trip). 

Don’t forget to visit the famous Braga Monastery (Braka Gompa), which is considered one of the oldest in the Annapurna region. Also, there’s Jhong Gompa near Kagbeni (after crossing the pass) that you must not skip. 

Besides, in every other monastery you'll encounter on this 14-day Annapurna circuit Trek, remember to walk clockwise, remove your shoes, and be patient and respectful.

Next up is the descent into the Mustang district, where the culture shifts again. That’s the lovely part of this Annapurna Circuit Trek. And this time, you get into the world of the Thakali and Loba communities. 

And we’re sure you’ve already tried Thakali Dal Bhat by now! And yes, the origin of Thakali was right here in the Mustang district’s Thak Khola region. 

Jomsom and Kagbeni are also home to the Loba people, who are another unique Tibetan-origin goup whom you can meet in every alley, monastery, and household here.

Also, in case you get the chance to reach Marpha, those apple products you get to try won’t just be for taste, but to experience the culture of this region. 

Besides the Buddhist traditions, this Annapurna Circuit Trek also gives you a proper glimpse into Hindo lifestyle. The visit to Muktinath Temple is a great example. It’s a sacred site where Hindu pilgrims bathe in the 108 water spouts seeking liberation.

Not just that! The temple is equally sacred to the Buddhist monks, and hence Buddhist devotees come here to honour. 

Oh! And if you do the Annapurna Circuit Trek at the right time, you might be able to enjoy these festivals too: the Yartung horse-racing festival in Manang, the Tiji Festival celebrated in Mustang, or even Dashain and Tihar in the larger villages.

How to Prepare For Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Physical Preparation

For the Annapurna Circuit trek, know that you'll have to walk for 7 to 8 hours daily. More importantly, you need to get past varying terrain, so your body will have to work harder than usual in thin mountain air. 

Good news if you're already exercising regularly! But if you don’t, start now (at least two-three months before your Nepal trip). Here are essential tips for you to prepare the right way physically:

• Since your focus should be on cardiovascular endurance, start daily uphill walks.
• If possible, you can opt for running, cycling, or swimming for at least an hour instead.
• Remember to build leg strength. So, recommended exercises include squats, lunges, and deadlifts. 
• Start practising long-distance hiking with a loaded backpack (even better if you plan a short trek in Nepal itself before heading for this big trek).

Mental Preparation

As important as physical fitness is, mental endurance is equally important for treks like the Annapurna Circuit. So, don't underestimate this part!

Remember that there will be days that are long, cold, and exhausting. We also won’t say there won’t be moments of homesickness and doubts, especially after you reach the high-altitude sections (beyond Yak Kharka, particularly).

In fact, many beginners don’t struggle with fitness, but with mental fatigue. So, make sure you make this decision once you’re mentally ready to go for it! Remember to train your mind just as you train your body.

But in case you feel it's difficult, there’s always the option to return. But your funds won’t be refunded, so think wisely.

Altitude Sickness: What You Need to Know

In the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the risk of altitude sickness starts from Pisang (3,000 m+). From here onwards, your body has to adapt to the low oxygen levels, which is why we have been referring to ‘acclimziation’ all along this package.

Here are the most common AMS symptoms that you need to watch out: 

• Headache
• Extreme fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness
• Nausea 
• Breathlessness at rest 
• Sleeping disturbances, etc.

Note that if you ignore these general signs of AMS, it can escalate to HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema), where symptoms rise to serious conditions like:

• Confusion
• Irrational behaviour
• Hallucinations due to fluid buildup in the brain. 

Now, if you again ignore signs of HACE, HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) can develop, where symptoms include:

• Severe breathlessness
• Persistent cough
• Blue-tinged skin. 

Note that both HACE and HAPE are life-threatening. So, please do not ignore the early signs, ever!

Here are some general ways to help you prevent AMS on the Annapurna Circuit:

• Never rush your ascent. Remember this golden rule: climb high, sleep low.
• Drink 3 to 4 litres of fluids daily (suggested: boiled water, soup, herbal tea, etc.).
• Say no to alcohol and sleeping pills at all costs. Medical reports from past patients claim that they reduce breathing efficiency.
• Our guides always carry Diamox (Acetazolamide), so consult him/her before the trek. Even better if you can confirm the dosage with your own physican.
• Learn deep breathing techniques from your guide and start adopting it even before the trek begins.
• In case you show any signs of symptoms, inform your guide immediately (don’t hide it). There is no shame in stopping; you can in fact, continue later if you feel alright.
• The only reliable rescue option is via helicopter. So, getting a travel insurance is highly recommended for this trek. Just be sure it covers high-altitude evacuation above 5,000 m.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Customization Options

To complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek, this classic 14-day itinerary is perhaps the best, and we have curated the package accordingly. But close to this part of the Annapurna Conservation, there are a lot more additional treks to go for.

Here are some popular extensions and variations our guests have loved before, so you could pick any one and we’ll help customize a dedicated package for you:

• Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake: A stunning extension that takes about two to three extra days from Manang via Khangsar. This is one of the best additions to go for!
• Short Annapurna Circuit Trek: Instead of 14 to 15 days, you could opt for a more condensed version covering the major highlights of the circuit. It takes about 8 to 10 days, with transportation directly reaching Manang. A little fast-paced, but definitely possible for adventure seekers!
• Nar Phu Valley Trek Combined: A remote and restricted side that branches off the main Annapurna Circuit near Koto. It comes with wild landscapes, more Tibetan-influenced villages, and an off-the-beaten-path experience! It can be combined with the Annapurna Circuit for an extraordinary double experience.
• Alternative Circuit via Mesokanto Pass: Instead of doing the normal route, you can go for a more adventurous camping journey via Tilicho Lake and then head to Mesokanto Pass. This route takes you directly to Jomsom and comes with views from different angles.
• Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp: After completing the main circuit and descending to Jomsom, we’ll not fly to Pokhara but instead drive to Ghandruk or Jhinu Danda. From here, you need to add 4 to 5 extra days to get to the Annapurna Sanctuary, where the south base camp is located. You can even combine with Annapurna First Base Camp (popularly known as North ABC) after driving to Tatopani and then to Humkhola. It’s even shorter than the southern base camp, and if done in the right season, even lets you meet the mountaineers.
• Upper Mustang Trek: Right after finishing the Annapurna Circuit and reaching Jomsom, you can extend your adventure into the ancient Kingdom of Mustang. You can visit Lo Manthang, and this journey presents you with more of the desert-like landscapes, sky caves, monasteries, and preserved Tibetan culture.
• Manaslu Circuit with Annapurna Circuit: Those willing to spend extra time and complete two major treks in Nepal, this combination of long, demanding, and deeply rewarding journeys would best suit you! You’ll cross two high mountain passes and get glimpses of two distinct Himalayan ranges (Mansiri/Manaslu Himal and the Annapurna Massif).

Whatever your idea of the perfect Annapurna adventure looks like, just let us know and our team at Adventure A One Treks will help you build it. All you have to do is reach out to us directly, and hand us your logistics duty while you focus on making your Annapurna Circuit Trek a one! 

Other popular treks in the Annapurna region include the Mardi Himal Trek, Mohare Danda Trek, and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.

Why Choose Adventure A One For Annapurna Circuit Trek?

At Adventure A One Treks, our team doesn't believe in one-size-fits-all adventures. We surely understand that everyone has different travel goals, different fitness levels, and also different expectations.

So, our team’s main job here at A1 Treks is to understand you and what you want from the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This way, we ge to build an experience around that. 

You see, whether you're a first-time trekker or a seasoned explorer, our expertise and commitment at A1 Treks are what will make your journey safe, meaningful, and unforgettable (we promise!)

Even our guides have the reputation of being the best in the country. They are government-licensed, deeply experienced, and personally passionate about the trails they lead.

They are the ones who will help you push you and take you on detours. In fact, we trust them so much that we leave the complete field duty (including selection of teahouses) to them. So, they are also local experts and no matter how many guidebooks you scour through, their expertise is what makes your journey meaningful!

And what makes our 14-day itinerary more unique is that we start from the low altitude of Chyamje (instead of Chame that most other trekking agencies choose). And this ensures you get the classic trekking experience with proper acclimatization rather than rushing to cross the pass.

Moreover, our exclusive acclimatization hike to Praken Gompa (aka 100 Caves) is yet another cultural and natural attraction that many might not consider a part of their Annapurna journey.

Outline Itinerary