Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days

Annapurna Circuit Trek - 14 Days

What is the first image that comes to mind when you imagine Nepal?

The most common answers we receive are “mountains,” “cliff faces,” and “Sherpas.” But what if we tell you that the Annapurna Circuit takes you through dense jungle and sprawling rice fields in the clouds? Or that one second you’re forging a path through undergrowth, the next you’re walking on snow-capped mountains?

Passing through several distinct landscapes, this legendary trek around the Annapurna Mountain range—named after the Hindu goddess of food and nourishment—feeds the soul and heals the mind. You loop from the cobwebs of everyday life as you loop from one village to the next, and after going through the highest point at Thorong La Pass (5,416m), you walk down the mountain feeling cleansed.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit 14 Days

  • Explore the majestic Himalayas in the north, featuring iconic peaks such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Himchuli, and more.
  • Embark on a challenging hike to the Thorong La Pass, reaching an elevation of 5,416 meters above sea level.
  • Discover the cultural richness of Jomsom and Muktinath, immersing yourself in the diverse traditions of these places.
  • Engage in religious rituals at Muktinath and explore the significance of the 108 Sprouts and the Eternal Flame.
  • Visit Tibetan Monasteries in Manang and the charming Braga Village, gaining insights into the local religious and cultural practices.
  • Experience cross-cultural activities along the Annapurna Circuit Trail, fostering a deeper understanding of the region’s diversity.

Is 14 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek For You?

Of course, the 14-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is certainly for you. If you are craving for the natural wonders and the landscapes along with the scenery of the Himalayas, we highly recommend this trek for you.

The 14-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is moderately-difficult, so trekkers should expect physical challenges as well as difficulties with the remote terrain. This is a suitable route if you have experience trekking.

Trekkers need to be physically fit for this trek because it has remote and rocky areas with tough trails. Walking through these places can be hard, and altitude is high. So, if you’re not used to high altitudes, train beforehand. Having a guide during the Annapurna Circuit Trek is highly recommended.

How Difficult is This Trek?

As mentioned above, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is moderately difficult. It means that beginner as well as intermediate and highly experienced trekkers can embark on this trek.

One of the most important things that trekkers must know is they need to walk for around 6 to 8 hours daily. And this might be physically draining for some trekkers. But keeping these things in mind beforehand and preparing oneself with high endurance and stamina will give you the right result.

Embarking on this adventure unfolds a wide range of experiences. Trekkers will embark on a multi-day journey navigating through the unbeaten trails of rocky and slippery landscapes, immersing oneself in the challenge and thrill. 

This trek finally leads you to Thorong La Pass, at a towering altitude of 5416 meters, where the air is thin, and altitude sickness can be a really big issue.

When is the Perfect Time To Do This Trek?

Taking the 14-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is a wonderful adventure, especially in the Autumn (September-November) and Spring (March-May). During these times, the weather is nice, and the sky is clear, giving you a beautiful view of the Himalayas in the north. You can have amazing views of not only the Himalayas but also charming villages and lush green forests of the Annapurna region.

Especially during the Spring and Autumn seasons, the weather is very stable, calm and friendly. The probability of the rainfall and snowfall during these times are very low around the Annapurna region.

With the clear views of the surroundings, trekkers can delve themselves into one of the most attractive landscapes in the world. Besides, you can look deeper into the Nepalese culture and tradition as major festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Nepali New Year, and others fall in the Autumn and Spring seasons.

What Are Permits Needed For Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit lies within the restricted zone of the Annapurna Conservation Area and trekkers require permissions to enter its premises. The Conservation Area is home to various endangered species, including the Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep, Himalayan Tahr, and numerous others.

It’s essential to adhere to these regulations to ensure the protection of the unique and diverse ecosystem in this region. Your cooperation in obtaining the necessary permits plays a crucial role in supporting conservation efforts and maintaining the delicate balance of this natural habitat.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

When undertaking our 14-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, it’s essential to secure the required permits. These include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS Card, necessary for entry into the region. To obtain these permits, visit the Tourism Board in Kathmandu, where you’ll need to submit documents such as photographs, visa copies, and relevant travel documents.

To access the Annapurna Conservation Area, foreign trekkers are required to obtain a permit, priced at approximately NPR. 3,000 per person per entry. However, trekkers from SAARC countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan enjoy a reduced fee of NPR. 1,000 per person per entry.

Moreover, there are no fees or permits required for trekking in the Annapurna Circuit if you are under the age of 10. Additionally, the fee for the TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System) is NPR 2,000 for foreign trekkers and NPR 1,000 for citizens of South Asian countries (SAARC).

Day 1
Arrive in Kathmandu (1400 meters).

This is the first day of your trekking package in Nepal. You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport from your home country. Our officials will be waiting for you in the Airport and later, they will escort you to your respective hotels.

Day 2
Drive to Chame (2650m) 9 hours drive

We wake up early, our driving journey starts in the morning from Kathmandu to Chame via Besisahar by Toyota Hiace minibus then by jeep to Chame. You will drive through scenic foothills and ridge line vistas along the Trishuli River.

From Munglin, you follow the Pokhara highway till Durme then turned towards the north to Besisahar along the Marshyangdi River enjoying Mountain views, terraces field and green hills. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 3
Trek to Pisang (3060m) 5 - 6 hours

On the third day, your Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you to picturesque Pisang village, amidst towering mountains. You’ll walk slowly after a leisurely breakfast through a fragrant pine forest, its scent mingled with that of the Rhododendrons.

The goal is to reach Pisang. This begins the journey slowly toward Bhartang. The terrain today is mainly flat, with some rocky patches. Along the way, see breathtaking glimpses of snow-capped mountains and rivers. Travelers drink in the splendor of Nepal’s mountain region.

Past Bhartang, the trail leads to Dhukur Pokhari through several suspension bridges. On the way is SwargaDwari, a sacred site on a distant hill. It will take about 5-6 hours to make the journey to Lower Pisang (3,200m).

But the trek is not over yet. You’ll be climbing up to Upper Pisang (3,300 m). Tonight you’ll take your ease here amidst the beauty of Himalayan civilization. Relish the sweeping vistas of Chulu peaks, Tilichi, Annapurna massifs and Nawal peaks from this elevated spot.

Day 4
Trek to Manang (3440m) 5 hours

The journey to Manang begins, following a big breakfast in Pisang. The Himalayan trekking routes pass by Manang, an advanced civilization which attracts many trekkers who take an extra day to visit its historical sites and acclimate to the high altitude.

Today’s journey, which takes around 6-7 hours, follows the flat path to Manang Valley to an altitude of 6,540 meters. On the route, you’ll pass through Braga, a Tibetan village with distinctive architecture; Gompa, museum; and Himalayan-style lodges.

Along the way there are Tibetan-style painted Mandalas, dragon mouths and yak grazing fields. You can feast your eyes on the mighty Annapurna II, III, Gangapurna and Chulu Peak from Manang. As you prepare for a restful night, accommodations and meals are provided at the best available lodge.

Day 5
Acclimatization in Manang

Trekking above 3000 meters means you have to acclimate, so today is a rest day. Finally, this well-deserved break lets trekkers drink in the high mountain scenery. They can start their day late and enjoy a richly satisfying breakfast with coffee. Most will trek on to Gangapurna Lake, which is just 15 minutes from the resting point.

You can opt to hike to the hillside monastery, offering a stunning view of the Himalayas, and visit Tibetan-inspired gompas and monasteries. Following exploration, return to the lodge for a delicious meal and a restful night’s sleep before resuming the Annapurna circuit the next day.

Day 6
Trek to Yak Kharka (4042m) 4- 5 hours

The hike through Manang is the most demanding of trekkers. After a rich breakfast you climb from the Marsyangdi Valley to Upper-Manang village, Tanki Manag, and on into Gunsang in the Himalayas. The trail next brings the hiker to the Yak Kharka grassland.

The journey to Yak Kharka is hard, but the terrain then becomes easier. If you trek for about 4 or 5 hours, you’ll arrive at Yak Kharka in time to rest and eat some delicious food amidst the magnificent Annapurna massifs, Pisang, Gnagapurna and other Himalayan gems.

Day 7
Trek to Thorong Phedi (445àm) or High Camp (4850m)

On the seventh day of your hike, there is a short trek to assist acclimatization. The 3-4 hour journey involves crossing a suspension bridge then making for the junction of Jarsang Khola (4,610 m) and Phedi (4,420 m). Having crossed the grassy fields and a rocky track you will come to Thorong Phedi.

With traditional villages and settlements, this high-mountain area has fabulous views of snow-capped mountains such as the Annapurna massifs, Gangapurna or other Himalayan ranges. One may also catch a glimpse of wildlife like snow leopards, which surface on the icy-rock slopes.

Day 8
Trek to Muktinath (3800m) via Thorong La Pass (5416m)

Today, we will embark on a truly memorable experience. The journey commences from Thorong Phedi, leading you to the majestic Thorong La Pass and the sacred destination of Muktinath in the northern region of Nepal. Traverse the less-traveled paths while reveling in the breathtaking vistas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Himchuli, and more.

Thorong La Pass, standing at an impressive 5416 meters, marks the pinnacle of this trek. The descent from this lofty point to Muktinath unfolds through a steep path, requiring approximately 3-4 hours. Muktinath holds immense cultural and religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists, offering the chance to engage in holy rituals within the temple premises. The temple boasts 108 sprouts, where, according to Hindu belief, cleansing sins is possible through ritualistic bathing. Additionally, the perpetual flame, burning for centuries, adds to the allure of the region. Following temple exploration, retreat to a nearby tea house for a restful overnight stay.

Day 9
Trek to Marpha (2670m) 5 - 6 hours

From Muktinath, we will reach Marpha Village today after a long hike of around 5 to 6 hours. Starting our hike early in the morning, we will first set our journey towards Kagbeni.

From Kagbeni, we will proceed towards the remote villages of Ekle Bhatti before reaching Jomsom, a high altitude town with great tourism prospects.

After resting at Jomsom for some time, we will continue our hike downhill towards Marpha at 2670 meters above sea level, where we will stay at a tea house.

Day 10
Drive to Tatopani (1190m) 4 hours

On the tenth day of the Annapurna circuit Trek, we will descend all the way down to Tatopani from Marpha. It takes around 4 hours to reach the destination.

We will start our journey from the downhill path that leads us to Chimang and Kalopani. A few hours of hiking from there, we will reach Ghasa and Khopchepani. We must traverse the trail alongside Kali Gandaki to reach the spot.

Day 11
Trek to Ghorepani (2860m) 6 - 7 hours

Today, we will be on a hike of around 6 to 7 hours from Tatopani to Ghorepani. Starting off our day with a warm breakfast, we will hike towards Shikhaa Village.

Enjoying the green forests and the views of the Himalayas in the north, we will continue walking downhill towards Phalate and Chitre Village. A few hours of extra walk and then we will be at Ghorepani Deurali.

From there, it only takes around an hour and a half to reach Ghorepani.

Day 12
Hike to Poon Hill (3210m) and Then to Ulleri / Hile and Drive to Pokhara (822m)

On the twelfth day of your journey, most activities will be completed. We will return to Pokhara at the end of this day. But before that, we will hike to Poon Hill for the beautiful scenery of the local surroundings and the Himalayas including Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri.

From there, we will hike towards Ulleri or Hile and catch a bus to return to Pokhara. The journey takes a few hours, offering scenic views of terraced fields, lush green forests, and remote settlements.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, we will be escorted to our respective hotels. Enjoy an overnight stay with amenities such as hot showers, attached bathrooms, and continuous access to electricity and internet services.

Day 13
Drive to Kathmandu (1400m)

On the thirteenth day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, we will return to Kathmandu by a comfortable tourist bus. The 6-7 hour drive will take us through Tanahun and Dhading districts, offering picturesque views of the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers.

We will enjoy the journey back as we pass through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming settlements, taking in diverse landscapes along the way.

Day 14
Fly home

This is your last day in Nepal. After successfully completing the trek to Annapurna Circuit, you’ll now return back to your home country. Our officials will help you reach Tribhuvan International Airport. You’ll board a flight back to your home with the beautiful and adventurous memories of Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal.

Price Includes

  • Airport transfers pick-up and drop-off.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area permits.
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS card) permit.
  • Three meals a day (breakfasts, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
  • Tea/Coffee three times a day.
  • Fresh fruit every evening after the dinner.
  • All accommodations during the trek.
  • English speaking native Sherpa trek guide.
  • Porter to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 trekkers).
  • All necessary paper works and entry permits.
  • From Kathmandu to Besisahar by Toyota Hiace van and then by Jeep to Chame.
  • Transportations, accommodation, wage, food, insurance, equipment for the guide and porter.
  • Himalaya Discovery duffel bag.
  • Hiking pole for the trek, if needed.
  • Trek map.
  • Farewell dinner at typical Nepali restaurant after the trip completion in Kathmandu.

Price Excludes

  • International airfare and Nepal visa.
  • Tips for guide/porters (Tips is expected)
  • Travel insurance which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on the 'Price Includes' section.

Q. Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

A. Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. S/he will be displaying an Himalaya Discovery Adventures sign board outside the airport terminal. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.

Q. When is the best time to travel to Nepal?

A. For the trekking regions of the Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, Jumla Rara Lake, Makalu, Kanchenjunga and Manaslu we recommend the periods February to May and September to December as the best time for travelling.

  •  For trekking in Mustang or Dolpo region we recommend May to September.
  • The Poon hill  trek  in the Annapurna region takes place throughout the entire year.
  • Cultural tours takes place throughout the entire year. For the best mountain views the periods February to May and September to December are recommended.

Q. How is the climate (temperatures) during the seasons?

A. Winter – January and February. Pleasant temperatures. The nights, mornings and evenings can, however, be quite cold (approx. 0°C – 5°C. Throughout the day, it is mostly sunny with cooler temperatures (approx. 18°C – 20°C).

Spring – March to May. Hot and dry pre-monsoon season (approx. 25°C – 30°C during the day, and approx. 7°C – 20°C at night). May is the hottest month in the lowlands. June is the hottest month in the mountains.

Summer – Monsoon from June to August (approx. 28°C – 30°C during the day, and approx. 20°C at night). Strong rainfall, continuous sultriness and high humidity.

Early autumn – From September the monsoon season is constantly interrupted by periods with only a slight rainfall. Towards the end of August the pauses in rainfall become more frequent and longer.

Late autumn – Post-monsoon season from October to December. The nights, mornings and evenings can be relatively cool (approx. 5°C – 10°C). During the day the sun shines and it is warm (approx. 20°C – 27°C).

Q. Where can I change money?

A. Any cash you have taken with you can be exchanged into Nepalese rupees at the banks, large hotels and the numerous bureau de changes.

Q. Can I use my mobile phone in Nepal?

A. The network coverage is meanwhile quite good in the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara and other parts of the Terai (in the rural areas it is very unpredictable).

Basically, foreign SIM cards (providers having international roaming contracts with Nepal) can also be used. However, it is cheaper to buy a local SIM card (Mero Mobile, NTC (GSM) – for approx. NPR 500 or more) and top this up.

Q. Can I use the tap water for drinking and brushing teeth?

A. Tap water is not suitable for drinking in Nepal and it should not be used for cleaning your teeth, either. As there is often a scarcity of water in the countryside, water should be used very sparingly.

Q. What should I concern during my stay in Nepal?

A. Nepali people are very kind and friendly, but there are some things that you should be aware of:

  • Do not take photos of anyone without their permission; always ask permission first!
  • Do not wear hot pants/short paints or stylish clothes in the remote area! (shoulders and legs should be covered)
  • Do not wear hats or caps when you enter a chapel!
  • Do not touch Buddha statues or ritual offerings inside of a monastery!
  • Do not kiss or hug in public places, especially in monasteries!
  • Do not step across someone’s feet, cups or cooking gears!

Q. What documents do I need to visit Nepal?

A. A tourist visa is required for entering Nepal. The tourist visa can be applied for, for different lengths of stay. A visa is required for children under 10 years but no fee is charged. The entry to Nepal must take place within 6 months of issuing the visa.

Q. How much does the Visa for Nepal cost?

A. The fees for the tourist visa (fees valid since 16.07.2008) are staggered as follows:

  • 15 days (several entries possible)  $ 30 (approx. EUR 27.00)
  • 30 days (several entries possible)  $ 50 (approx. EUR 45.00)
  • 90 days (several entries possible)  $ 125 (approx. EUR 115.00)

An extension of the visa to a maximum of 150 days is possible (per year – January to December). The extension must be made at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu. A fee of $ 2.00 is charged in Nepalese rupees (NPR) per day of extension.

Q. Can I find a hospital with western doctors?

A. CIWEC Clinic with western doctors is located in Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Tel. +977 1 442 4111, info@ciwec-clinic.com.

Q. Do I need an international health and travel insurance?

A. It is recommended taking out a travel and health insurance covering the following risks:- Emergency and personal accident transport/emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue, rescue costs in a case of illness or accident), medical and personal accident risks, repatriation, tour cancellation, damages and theft of baggage.

Q. What happens in bad weather periods?

A. There is virtually always a possibility of a flight delay or postponement owing to highly unpredictable weather conditions that may occur in Himalayan regions, in particular, in the Everest region (Lukla), Jomsom, Dolpo, Simikot and the Jumla region, etc.

When trekking in remote areas or those described above, and especially outside the trekking season, the clients are strongly advised to reserve extra days for making  allowance for possible delays, and thereby avoid any frustrating consequences. In the case of a delayed flight prior to commencing the tour, or at the end of the tour, the participants shall pay for their own accommodation, food costs, etc.

Q. Where can I store my unneeded luggage during trekking?

A. As a rule there is the possibility before commencing the trek, of depositing part of the baggage in the hotel in Kathmandu or in Pokhara.

Q. What kind of meals I can have during the trekking?

A. All Meals on full board basis will be provided during trekking. Freshly cooked food is served at all times (western, continental and Nepalese, Chinese, Indian and Tibetan meals are available in all places).

Q. Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

A. There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

Q. Can I re-charge camera batteries along the trek?

A. Yes, Most of the places, you can charge batteries along the trek (per hour USD 2 – 3 for charging).

Q. What kinds of banking facilities in Nepal?

A. Nepal has modern banking facilities and some international banks even have offices in Kathmandu. Almost all foreign currencies along with credit cards such as American Express, Visa, and Master card are accepted in Nepal. Nepal has also ATM facilities as well.

The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. This itinerary can be customized according to the duration of your holiday. We have many options for shorter visits based on your interests and budget.

On an adventure trek of this type, weather, politics strike, transport or a multitude of other factors beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is however very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

Trek Leader and Crew

Here at Himalaya Discovery, we firmly believe that the way to get the most out of your staff is to treat them well; a happy staff is a hard-working staff. And this belief manifests itself in every way we deal with our staff.

We employ only local leaders and staff to help sustain the local communities we work with. We provide training for all our staff and all our trek leaders are trained in the following as a minimum;

  •  Intensive Wilderness First Aid
  •  Trekking Guide Training
  •  Eco Trekking Workshop & Adventure Meet
  •  English Language
  •  Conservation & Biodiversity
  •  Rock & Ice Climbing & Mountaineering (for expedition leaders)

So, we can guarantee you your trip will be led by the best, most professional and experienced guides there are. All of our guides good English-speakers, All our guides are carefully selected for their experience, leadership skills and personal ability. We have learnt that effective leadership is a vital for a trip to be safe, enjoyable and successful.

In fact, not only are all our guides experienced working in these regions, but most of them actually grew up in these mountainous regions of Nepal. Its home for them, it’s in their blood. They’re not only ‘familiar’ with local communities and culture; they’re a part of them and they practice it. They truly love their home and relish getting the opportunity to show travellers.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Annapurna Circuit Trek
From $985.00
per Adult

Trip Facts

  • 14 to 20 Days
  • Moderate to Demanding
  • Min. 2 to Max. 12 people
  • March to August, September to November.
  • 5,416m.
  • KTM/KTM
  • Dharapani/Pokhara
  • 4 to 6 hrs.
Chhiring Sherpa - Trip Planner

“I was born and raised in Nepal, nearby Everest region. I am proud to be a native Sherpa, and I have been a Mountain guide over a decade now. Following my passion, I decided to start helping travelers with their travel plans! I think life is a journey, a trip where you collect experiences when you share with other people and with nature.”