Annapurna Circuit
Trans-Himalayan loop over Thorong La (5,416 m). 9–15 days depending on jeep usage + Tilicho side trip. ACAP-only permits.
Overview
The Annapurna Circuit is Nepal’s classic long-distance trek — a horseshoe around the entire Annapurna massif that crosses the formidable Thorong La pass at 5,416 m. Over roughly two weeks you climb from subtropical river valleys through pine forest and Tibetan-influenced highland villages into a stark high-alpine world, then descend into the desert-like Manang and Mustang districts.
No other trek in Nepal packs in this much variety: rice terraces, apple orchards, glacial moraine, and one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Manang is the natural acclimatisation hub, with a built-in rest day and side hikes to Ice Lake or Tilicho before the pre-dawn pass crossing.
It is a teahouse trek throughout, and road access at both ends now lets you tailor the length — jeep transfers can trim the dustier sections. Spring and autumn give the best conditions; the Manang side sits in a partial rain shadow, so it stays drier than the Annapurna foothills.
Highlights
- ▸Cross Thorong La (5,416 m) — one of the world’s highest trekking passes
- ▸Acclimatise in Manang with side hikes to Ice Lake and Tilicho
- ▸Pilgrimage temple complex at Muktinath
- ▸Dramatic landscape shift from rice terraces to high desert
- ▸Tibetan-Buddhist culture in the Manang valley
- ▸Optional detour to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), one of the highest lakes on earth
Day-by-day itinerary
Most trekkers · 2-night Manang acclim · jeep both ends · pass-day success rate ~92%
What's included — from $650
- ✓Government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- ✓Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- ✓All teahouse / lodge accommodation on the trail
- ✓Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) while trekking
- ✓All trekking permits and national-park / conservation-area fees
- ✓Ground transport between Kathmandu/Pokhara and the trailhead
- ✓Guide and porter wages, insurance, meals and lodging
- ✓Government taxes and official paperwork (TIMS where required)
- ✕International flights to and from Nepal
- ✕Nepal entry visa fee
- ✕Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance (mandatory)
- ✕Personal trekking gear and clothing
- ✕Meals in Kathmandu / Pokhara and on rest days in cities
- ✕Hot showers, Wi-Fi, device charging and bottled/boiled water on the trail
- ✕Tips for your guide and porter
- ✕Personal expenses and anything not listed under “included”
Best time to go
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Annapurna Circuit trek cost in 2026?
A guided Annapurna Circuit trek runs about USD 900–1,400 per person, covering guide, porter, teahouse lodging, meals on the trail, permits and ground transport. It is generally cheaper than EBC because there is no expensive mountain flight — you reach the trail by road.
How hard is the Annapurna Circuit?
It is graded Strenuous, mainly because of the Thorong La pass (5,416 m) and the long daily distances. The walking is non-technical, but the pass day is long and cold with an early start. Good fitness and careful acclimatisation in Manang are essential.
How many days does the Annapurna Circuit take?
A standard circuit is 12–16 days depending on how much you walk versus jeep, and whether you add Tilicho Lake. Jeep transfers on the lower sections can bring it down to around 10–11 days; purists still walk the full loop.
What permits are required for the Annapurna Circuit?
You need the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and, where applicable, the TIMS card. A licensed guide is required. Lekaly arranges the correct permits based on your nationality (foreigner / SAARC / Nepali).
When is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit?
October–November and March–April are ideal. Because Manang sits in a rain shadow, the upper circuit is more forgiving in the shoulder months than many treks, but the Thorong La can close after heavy snow in winter.
Do I need a guide for the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes. Nepal now requires trekkers in conservation areas to use a licensed guide. Beyond the rules, a guide is invaluable for the Thorong La timing, weather calls and altitude monitoring.
Should I add Tilicho Lake to the circuit?
If your schedule and acclimatisation allow, yes — Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) is a spectacular detour. It adds 2–3 days and requires an extra acclimatisation buffer, so it suits trekkers who are confident at altitude.
Is the Annapurna Circuit still worth it with the road?
Absolutely. Roads reach parts of both ends, but the high heart of the circuit — Manang to Muktinath over Thorong La — remains a wild, road-free, high-mountain experience. Jeep transfers simply let you skip the dustier lower stretches.
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Plan Annapurna Circuit with Lekaly
Get this itinerary, offline maps, verified teahouse contacts and permit help in the Lekaly app — or request a quote from vetted local agencies.