Annapurna Circuit Trek — Route, Duration & Highlights (2026 Complete Guide)

The Annapurna Circuit trek stands as one of the world's beautiful Himalayan journeys. It circles the entire Annapurna massif, takes you through landscapes that shift from subtropical forests to alpine deserts. 

You'll cross high mountain passes, walk through ancient villages, and witness cultural transformations that few other treks can match.

For this, you need solid information about routes, timing, and logistics. Many trekkers spend months researching the perfect itinerary. They want to know which path to take, how many days to allow, and what challenges await them. 

This guide gives you everything you need to plan your 2026 Annapurna Circuit trek.

Why the Annapurna Circuit Is a Legendary Himalayan Journey?

Annapurna I reaches 8,091 meters into the sky. It covers roughly 160 to 230 km. This massive loop takes you through the Annapurna Conservation Area, which protects over 7,600 sq.km of the Himalayas.

 You start at 760 m in lowland Nepal. It has rice paddies and banana trees to witness. The air feels thick and humid.

As you climb higher, everything changes. The Marsyangdi River valley narrows. Pine forests replace banana groves. Buddhist prayer flags appear on bridges and passes. The villages look different, too. 

Stone houses with flat roofs replace thatched-roof huts. You've entered the Tibetan cultural zone. People here practice Buddhism. They speak Tibetan languages. The food tastes different from lowland Nepali cuisine.

Above 3,000 meters, trees thin out. Juniper bushes cling to rocky slopes. At 4,000 meters, you're in an alpine desert. Brown hills roll toward snow peaks. The air feels dry. Wind sweeps across barren valleys.

This looks more like Tibet than Nepal. In fact, you're walking through what locals call the "rain shadow." Monsoon clouds can't cross the high peaks. The northern side of the Annapurna range stays dry even during the rainy season.

A dirt road now follows the Marsyangdi valley up to Manang. Jeeps and motorcycles kick up dust on the lower sections. 

Some trekkers worry this ruins the experience. But the reality is more balanced. Most trekkers now use creative ways. They take buses to higher starting points. Some choose side trails that avoid vehicle traffic. 

The circuit's true magic lies in its cultural depth. You'll share tea with lodge owners who've hosted trekkers. You'll watch monks perform morning prayers in monasteries. You'll eat dal bhat with Gurung families and momo dumplings in Tibetan villages. This human connection, combined with mountain scenery, is memorable.

Where Does the Annapurna Circuit Trek Start and End?

The Classic Route Overview

The standard Annapurna Circuit follows a clear path:

 Besisahar → Chame → Manang → Thorong La Pass → Muktinath → Jomsom → Pokhara. 

 You climb gradually on the eastern side and descend quickly on the western side after crossing the pass.

Starting Point: Besisahar 

Besisahar is the starting point for most trekkers at 760m elevation. The drive covers about 175 km. Many trekkers skip the first few days of walking. They take local jeeps from Besisahar to Chame or even Dharapani. This cuts out road sections where dust from passing vehicles makes walking unpleasant. The jeep ride from Besisahar to Chame takes 4-5 hours on a rough mountain road. You'll share the vehicle with locals, their cargo, and other trekkers. The ride is bumpy, but it gets you to better trekking.

The Main Route Sections

Besisahar to Chame (760m to 2,710m

Chame to Manang (2,710m to 3,540m)

Manang to Thorong La Pass (3,540m to 5,416m

Crossing Thorong La Pass

Muktinath to Jomsom (3,800m to 2,700m)

Ending Options and Extensions

Most trekkers finish in Jomsom. The small airport offers daily flights to Pokhara. These flights take 20 minutes but are often cancelled due to strong winds. If flights are canceled, you can take a jeep. The road from Jomsom to Pokhara follows the Kali Gandaki river gorge on a rough road. Many trekkers extend the circuit by continuing south from Jomsom. 

The trail leads through Marpha, famous for apple orchards and apple brandy. In the south, Tatopani offers natural hot springs. You can soak your tired muscles in mineral-rich pools. 

From Tatopani, a steep climb leads to Ghorepani. This village gives access to Poon Hill, one of the famous sunrise viewpoints. From Ghorepani, you can descend to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara.

Alternative Sub-Routes

Marpha Detour: This apple-growing village sits between Jomsom and Tatopani.

Tatopani Hot Springs Route: After the high-altitude challenge of Thorong La, many trekkers appreciate dropping to 1,190 meters. 

Ghorepani-Poon Hill Extension: It adds the best sunrise to your circuit. You climb to Poon Hill (3,210m) before dawn. Enjoy Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre views from here.

Transportation Options

Getting to the Trailhead:

You can use a tourist bus, or local bus, or a private jeep for this trek. Jeeps are available from Besisahar to Chame.

Leaving the Trail:

After you leave the trail, there are flight options easily available or a tourist bus for your journey.

How Long Does the Annapurna Circuit Take?

Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on several factors, like your fitness, acclimatization needs, chosen route, and whether you add side trips or not. 

Most trekkers complete the journey in 12 to 21 days. Here's how it is:.

Standard 15–17 Day Itinerary (Most Recommended)

Here, you walk 5-7 hours most days. Rest days let your body adjust to the altitude. See the  breakdown below

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (or Chame). If you drive to Chame, you skip the first 2-3 days of walking. Many agencies start from Chame or Dharapani.

Day 2: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,200m). The trail follows the river through pine forests. Views of Annapurna II improve as you move up.

Day 3: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m).  You can choose the upper or lower Pisang routes. Both reach at Manang. The landscape becomes drier.

Day 4: Rest and acclimatization day in Manang.

Day 5: Trek Manang to Yak Kharka (4,000m). It’s your rest day. The trail crosses meadows where yaks graze.

Day 6: Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,600m). Another short day that positions you for the pass crossing. Thorong Phedi means "base of the pass" in Nepali. The lodges here are basic but enough.

Day 7: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath (3,800m). This is your longest and hardest day. 

Day 8: Rest day in Muktinath or trek to Kagbeni (2,800m). After the pass, many trekkers need a recovery day. Muktinath's sacred sites give you cultural activities.

Day 9: Trek from Kagbeni to Marpha (2,670m). Walk in the morning when it's calmer.

Day 10: Trek Marpha to Tatopani (1,190m). Long descent through Ghasa and other villages. The vegetation changes from desert to forest as you drop in height.

Day 11: Trek Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,860m). This is a big climbing day. Over 1,600 meters of ascent. 

Day 12: Hike Poon Hill (3,210m) for sunrise, then trek to Tadapani (2,630m). You wake at 4 AM for the Poon Hill climb. After sunrise, you return to Ghorepani . Then you trek through forests to Tadapani

Day 13: Trek Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940m). Ghandruk is a large Gurung village with cultural museums.

Day 14: Trek Ghandruk to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara. The trail descends slowly to Nayapul. A tourist bus or jeep takes you to Pokhara.

Days 15-17: Buffer days for weather delays, rest, or exploration in Pokhara.

This itinerary gives you time to enjoy each location. You're not rushing. Your body acclimatizes properly. The risk of altitude sickness drops slowly.

Short Versions (10–12 Days)

Some trekkers complete the circuit in 10-12 days. They use different ways to save time. They might take jeeps to Manang from Besisahar. This cuts out 3-4 days of walking. Or they end in Jomsom without the Poon Hill extension. This saves another 3-4 days.

 10-Day Fast Circuit:

• Day 1: Drive to Manang

• Day 2: Acclimatization day in Manang

• Day 3: Trek to Thorong Phedi

• Day 4: Cross pass to Muktinath

• Day 5: Trek to Marpha

• Day 6: Trek to Tatopani

• Day 7: Trek to Ghorepani

• Day 8: Poon Hill sunrise, trek to Tadapani

• Day 9: Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara

• Day 10: Buffer day

But it has serious risks. You gain altitude very quickly. Your body doesn't get gradual acclimatization. The chance of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) increases. Many trekkers who rush the circuit end up with bad headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Some have to even abandon the trek.

We don't recommend fast itineraries for first-time high-altitude trekkers. The extra days in the standard route make your experience safer and more fun.

Extended Versions (18–21 Days with Side Trips)

If you have more time, several extensions add the best value to your circuit. These side trips take you to remote areas that few trekkers visit. You'll see different landscapes and meet people living traditional lifestyles.

Tilicho Lake Extension (Add 2-3 Days):

Tilicho Lake sits at 4,919 meters in a high glacial basin. Many geographers consider it the highest lake of its size in the world. You trek from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp. It takes  5-6 hours. The trail is rough and exposed. You sleep at basic lodges. The next morning, you hike to the lake, which takes 3-4 hours. The trail climbs steeply across a landslide zone. Fixed ropes help in exposed sections.

Nar-Phu Valley Extension (Add 4-5 Days):

Nar and Phu villages sit in a restricted area north of the main circuit. You need a special permit for this. Very few trekkers visit here - maybe 1,000 per year compared to 50,000+ on the main circuit.

The Nar-Phu extension is good for your photos. The villages have unique architecture. Colorful prayer flags contrast with gray stone walls.

People still practice traditional Tibetan Buddhism. You'll see them spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The cultural immersion here exceeds what you'll find on the main circuit.

Route Breakdown with Key Highlights

This section breaks down the circuit into detail. You'll understand what to expect each day, like the terrain, altitude gain, scenery, and cultural experiences.

Besisahar to Chame — Waterfalls & Lush Valleys

The trek from Besisahar to Chame on Nepal's Annapurna Circuit takes you through the Marsyangdi Valley. You will see waterfalls like Boong Falls, and lush valleys with green forests, terraced fields, and views of snow-capped peaks. 

Chame to Manang — Alpine Transition & Cultural Stops

The 2-3 day trek from Chame to Manang on the Annapurna Circuit is beautiful. It takes you from pine forests to alpine forests. You will love the stunning views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak, the ancient Braga Monastery with its Tibetan Buddhist charm, and lively Manang town. It offers cozy teahouses and acclimatization hikes.

Manang to Thorong Phedi — High-Altitude Drama

The 1-2 day trek from Manang to Thorong Phedi on the Annapurna Circuit is very exciting. It is a high-altitude adventure. Don’t forget to enjoy the views of Gangapurna and Thorong Peak, cozy teahouses at Yak Kharka with grazing yaks, and the exciting Thorong Phedi base camp at 4,540 meters.

Crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m)

The pre-dawn start from Thorong Phedi to cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) begins in icy darkness.  At the summit, the panoramic view of Dhaulagiri’s majestic snow-capped peaks looks magical.

Muktinath to Jomsom — Sacred Valleys & Desert Vistas

The trek from Muktinath to Jomsom on the Annapurna Circuit is a scenic 1-2 day descent. You go through sacred valleys and dry desert. You can visit the spiritual aura of Muktinath, with its temple and eternal flame drawing visitors. The Kali Gandaki Valley, with desert-like landscapes, looks beautiful with snow-capped peaks. The charming town of Jomsom, with its busy market and cozy teahouses, offers a lively cultural stop here.

Route Summary Table:

[Link to Annapurna Trek Difficulty and Safety Guide]

Side Trips Worth Adding

Tilicho Lake (4,919m) — World's Highest Glacial Lake

Tilicho Lake sits in a high glacial basin. It is surrounded by ice peaks. The blue water reflects white mountains and gray rock. This detour adds 2-3 days to your trek. The route branches from Manang toward the northwest.

At the lake, you'll find peace. Few trekkers make this detour. The setting feels remote and wild. The weather changes quickly. Snow can fall any month.

Note: Check conditions in Manang before committing to this extension.

Ice Lake & Milarepa Cave from Braga

Ice Lake provides an excellent acclimatization hike from Manang. You climb through juniper forest to reach the lake at 4,600 meters. Glaciers and rock formations surround the water.

Milarepa Cave sits near Braga village. This meditation cave has religious importance for Buddhists. The famous yogi Milarepa practiced here centuries ago. The climb takes 2-3 hours. Local monks maintain a small shrine inside the cave.

Nar & Phu Valleys — Remote Tibetan Culture

Nar and Phu valleys have cultural importance. It is a restricted area that requires special permits. Everything here is beautiful. This is best for photography, a the ancient stone houses cluster on the hillside.

From Phu, you trek to Nar village at 4,150 meters. The trail crosses Kang La Pass at 5,320 meters to return to the main circuit.

Acclimatization and Altitude Profile

Let’s check the altitude profile slightly below:

Key Altitude Points:

• Besisahar: 760m (normal oxygen levels)

• Chame: 2,710m (mild altitude effects possible)

• Manang: 3,540m (acclimatization needed)

• Thorong Phedi: 4,600m (significant altitude)

• Thorong La Pass: 5,416m (extreme altitude)

• Muktinath: 3,800m (recovery begins)

• Jomsom: 2,700m (much easier breathing)

The entire journey comes with risks. The main threat here is Acute Mountain Sickness. The symptoms includes headaches, which are most common. Other symptoms might include Nausea or vomiting, dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping.

If symptoms worsen despite rest, descend immediately. Going down is the only reliable cure for AMS. Don't risk your life by continuing upward with severe symptoms.

Your body needs time to adjust to high altitude. The Annapurna Circuit climbs from 760 meters to 5,416 meters. It’s extremely difficult to breathe.

At 5,416 meters, the air contains roughly 50% of the oxygen found at sea level. Your body must adapt by producing more red blood cells. This process takes time. If you rush the ascent, you might definitely risk Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

This is why Manang serves as your primary acclimatization hub. The village sits at 3,540 meters. Most trekkers spend two nights here. The first day involves a rest with an acclimatization hike. You climb to 4,000-4,600 meters, then return to sleep at 3,540 meters. This pattern helps your body adjust and get enough rest after your hectic trips.

Difficulty Level and Preparation

The Annapurna Circuit is an easy-to-the-most challenging route. The main difficulties come from altitude, long days, and varied terrain. You have to walk daily from 5-7 hours. Pass day can take 8-10 hours.

Let's see what makes it difficult:

Challenge Factors:

• High altitude (5,416m maximum)

• Daily ascents of 600-800 meters

• Long descents that stress knees and thighs

• Cold temperatures at night (below freezing above 4,000m)

• Possible snow on Thorong La Pass

• Thin air makes all activity harder

But with the right ways, you can definitely make it safe for this trek, like:

Physical Preparation (4-6 Weeks Before):

• Hike with a loaded backpack on weekends

• Build cardiovascular stamina (running, cycling, swimming)

• Practice uphill and downhill walking

• Strengthen your legs with squats and lunges

• Test all your trekking gear before you start your trip.

You don't need to be an athlete. But regular fitness is a need. Good preparation makes the trek more enjoyable and reduces injury risk.

Permits and Logistics (2026 Rules)

Two permits are required for the Annapurna Circuit trek:

ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit):

• SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 (approximately $7.50)

• International trekkers: NPR 3,000 (approximately $22.50)

TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System):

• Individual trekkers: NPR 2,000 (approx. $15)

• Organized groups: NPR 1,000 (approx. $7.50)

You can get the permits from the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu, the Tourism Office in Pokhara. But mostly, your trekking agencies handle them all. Delve more into the Himalayan odyssey.

Processing takes 15-30 minutes if you apply in person.

Keep your permits accessible during the trek. Checkpoints verify permits at multiple locations. You cannot replace the lost permits cannot on the trail.

Cost Overview — How Much Does the Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost?

Your total cost depends on comfort level, guide services, and duration. Here's a realistic breakdown:

Budget Trek ($600-$900 Total):

• Tea house accommodation: $3-$8 per night

• Meals: $15-$25 per day

• No guide or porter

• Local bus transport

• Basic lodges and simple food

• Total: 15 days at $40-$60 per day

Mid-Range Trek ($1,500-$2,200 Total):

• Better tea houses: $10-$20 per night

• Meals: $25-$35 per day

• Licensed guide: $25-$30 per day

• Porter: $20-$25 per day

• Private jeep to the trailhead

• Total: 15 days at $100-$145 per day

Luxury Trek ($3,000-$5,000 Total):

• Best available lodges: $25-$50 per night

• Premium meals: $40-$60 per day

• Experienced guide and porter team

• Private transport both ways

• Helicopter exit from Jomsom ($400-$500)

• Travel insurance included

• Total: 15 days at $200-$330 per day

Additional Costs:

• Permits and fees: $40-$50

• Kathmandu hotels: $15-$150 per night

• Pokhara hotels: $10-$100 per night

• Gear rental: $50-$200

• Snacks and drinks: $5-$15 per day

• Hot showers: $2-$5 each

• Device charging: $2-$5 per charge

• WiFi: $2-$5 per hour

 Note- Prices increase 20-30% during peak season (October and April).

 Book lodges in advance during these months. Budget extra for weather delays and contingencies.

Best Season to Trek the Annapurna Circuit

Autumn (September-November) — Peak Season

Autumn offers the best conditions. Clear skies dominate. Temperatures stay comfortable. October is the busiest month when tea houses fill quickly. Make sure you book in advance.

Spring (March-May) — Second Best Season

Spring brings blooming landscapes. Rhododendron forests turn red and pink. The weather remains stable. Temperatures warm up. May can be hot at lower elevations. This is one of the best seasons after autumn.

Seasons to not trek:

Winter (December-February)

Winter is cold. The pass can close due to heavy snow. Some higher lodges close.Very cold nights (below -20°C at pass). The nights are cold. There are very limited options available. You cannot ignore the avalanche risks. It’s best to trek only if you are an experienced trekker.

Monsoon (June-August) — Not Recommended

Monsoon brings heavy rain to the lower sections. Leeches appear on trails below 3,000m. Clouds hide mountain views. The Manang section stays drier due to rain shadow.  There are landslide risks on the road. The wet, muddy trails make the trek difficult to walk.

Transportation Options — Kathmandu to Trail Head and Exit Points

There are different transportation options available:

Kathmandu to Besisahar

Local Bus: 

You can take the local bus from Gongabu Bus Park. It has basic seats. Many stops. Slightly crowded but authentic.

Tourist Bus: 

You can book through us. The tourist bus has better seats and is more comfortable.

Private Jeep:

You can split among passengers for private use. This is the most comfortable option.

Besisahar to Chame (Optional Skip)

Many trekkers take local jeeps to skip lower road sections. It might take 4-5 hours on rough roads.

Jomsom to Pokhara

Flights are available for morning departures only. It mostly depends on the weather. There are chances of flight cancels common due to wind. 

Jeep/Bus: You can take a Jeep/Bus. It works in any weather. The roads are rough road but scenic. It is one of the reliable backup cancellation options.

Helicopter Charter

This is the next option. It is quite expensive but easy. Helicopters are available in case of emergencies or for luxury exists.

Highlights That Define the Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna Circuit Trek has a lot to offer. Starting from the natural beauty to exploring everything is very exciting. You can check some of the major highlights surfacely:

The Thorong La Pass Crossing

You'll love this pass. The pre-dawn start feels very exciting. Stars fill the dark sky. Your headlamp lights the rocky trail. Each step brings you higher. Wind increases near the top. Prayer flags snap violently.

At 5,416 meters, you stand surrounded by big snowy mountains. Dhaulagiri in the west. Annapurna peaks spread south. Other trekkers celebrate with you. Everyone shares this natural piece of art. Photos capture the moment. This achievement stays with you forever.

Muktinath Temple and Pilgrimage Sites

Muktinath holds sacred meaning for everyone. Muktinath temple sits at 3,800 meters. An eternal flame burns inside where water flows. This combination creates what believers call a miracle.

Outside, 108 water spouts surround the courtyard. Pilgrims bath in freezing water for purification. This is a belief that if you bath it cleans your soul and negativity. Watching these rituals offers cultural depth. The temple complex has ancient architecture and beautiful artwork.

Apple Orchards of Marpha

Marpha village produces Nepal's finest apples. Orchards line clean streets. Traditional white houses stand in neat rows. Local families make apple brandy called raksi.

Small shops sell apple pie, apple juice, and dried fruit. Stop here after the pass. Rest in pleasant surroundings. The village offers a peaceful environment to high-altitude challenges.

Hot Springs of Tatopani

Tatopani means "hot water." Natural hot springs flow into riverside pools. After days of trekking, your muscles start to pain. Soaking in mineral-rich water brings relief.

You can spend hours in the hot pools. Stars appear overhead as evening arrives. Everything looks beautiful to see. Local people also believe that the water here has healing properties. Many trekkers rate this as a trek highlight.

Panoramas from Poon Hill

Poon Hill offers one of the Himalayas' most famous sunrise views. You wake at 4 AM. This is quite early, but most say it is totally worth it. The climb takes one hour to 3,210 meters. You arrive before dawn.

First light touches Dhaulagiri at 8,167 meters. The peak glows orange. Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre catch the light next. Mountains change colors as the sun rises. This view rewards the early wake-up.

Comparing the Annapurna Circuit with the Base Camp Trek

Trekkers are confused about which is the best place for you. Below is the comparison chart that might come in handy to you later:

If you have time, want cultural variety, love high passes, and prefer loop treks, you can choose Circuit.

 You have limited time, want close mountain views, prefer lower altitude, want simpler logistics, you can choose the base camp trek.

Conclusion — Why the Circuit Still Matters in 2026

Annapurna Circuit Trek is not just your traveling journey but also your companion to tell stories in the future. It not only takes you to places but also to the people you meet, the stories you share, and the bond you cherish with strangers. The roads may be off, but are lovely.

Ready to plan your 2026 adventure? We'll help create a custom itinerary. We match routes to your fitness level and interests. The mountains are calling. Answer them.

Your Annapurna Circuit adventure starts now.