Costs Include/Exclude
Include
- Accommodation
- Twin-sharing / double accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for 2 nights, including breakfast. (Private room available at an additional cost).
- Twin-sharing guesthouse/lodge accommodation during the trek with attached bathrooms where available in city areas.
- Meals & Drinking Water
- All standard meals during the trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
- Tea or coffee served with meals.
- Fresh seasonal fruits served after dinner during the trek.
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu on the final night of the trip.
- Transportation & Domestic Flights
- All airport transfers (international and domestic) by private tourist vehicle.
- All domestic flights and ground transportation required for the trekking itinerary in Nepal.
- Guide & Trekking Staff
- Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide trained in first aid.
- (2 guides provided for groups larger than 7 participants.)
- Porters for luggage carrying during the trek (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
- All staff expenses including wages, meals, accommodation, insurance, equipment, and medications.
- Permits & Documentation
- All trekking permits and required documentation.
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card.
- Benefits & Trekking Souvenirs
- 1 Destination Holiday Trek duffel bag / kit bag.
- Trekking map, sun hat, and Buff (neck gaiter).
- Comprehensive first aid kit, including an Oximeter to monitor pulse and oxygen levels during the trek.
- Trip completion certificate.
- Administrative & Government Charges
- All administrative costs and government taxes.
Exclude
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner).
- International airfare and airport departure taxes.
- Nepal entry visa fee
- (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days).
- Travel insurance, including high-altitude rescue and emergency evacuation coverage.
- Beverages, including bottled water, boiled water, soft drinks, and alcoholic drinks.
- Tips for trekking staff and drivers.
- Personal trekking equipment and gear.
- Any additional expenses not mentioned in the “Cost Includes” section.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview & Highlights
A Classic Himalayan Adventure
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic and rewarding trekking journeys. Famous for its incredible mountain scenery, cultural diversity, and dramatic landscape changes, this trek offers a complete Himalayan experience for adventure lovers from around the world.
The journey begins in Kathmandu with a scenic drive to Dharapani, the starting point of the trek. From here, the trail follows the beautiful Marsyangdi River through charming mountain villages, lush forests, and terraced farmland. As you pass through villages like Chame and Upper Pisang, the towering peaks of the Annapurna range gradually come into view, creating unforgettable Himalayan scenery.
As the trek gains altitude, the landscape changes dramatically. Green valleys slowly give way to dry alpine terrain influenced by Tibetan culture and traditions. Passing through peaceful villages such as Ngawal, trekkers arrive at Manang, one of the most important acclimatization stops on the route. Surrounded by spectacular mountain views, Manang offers a chance to rest, explore local culture, and prepare for the higher elevations ahead.
Beyond Manang, the trail becomes more rugged and remote as it climbs toward Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi. The air becomes thinner, the terrain more dramatic, and the sense of adventure even greater.
The ultimate highlight of the trek is crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world and the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit. Reaching the top is both physically challenging and incredibly rewarding, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks surrounding the pass.
After crossing Thorong La, the trail descends into the unique landscapes of the Mustang region and reaches the sacred Muktinath Temple, an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. From here, the journey continues through Jomsom and toward Tatopani, where trekkers can relax in the natural hot springs after days of high-altitude trekking.
The adventure concludes with an early morning hike to Poon Hill, one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. Here, trekkers witness a stunning Himalayan sunrise over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and many surrounding peaks glowing in golden light.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek combines mountain adventure, cultural discovery, and diverse natural beauty into one unforgettable journey. From lush valleys and traditional villages to high mountain passes and sacred temples, this timeless Himalayan trek continues to inspire trekkers seeking an authentic adventure in Nepal.
Key Highlights
- Drive along the scenic mountain road from Kathmandu to Dharapani.
- Ascend through the captivating Marshyangdi River valley.
- Meet and experience the rich cultures of the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities, known for their warm hospitality.
- Witness towering Himalayan peaks including Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhare.
- Walk through lush rhododendron forests, scenic alpine meadows, and remote mountain villages.
- Cross the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,769 ft), one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
- Visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Explore Jomsom, Marpha, and Tukuche, charming villages famous for their apple orchards and locally made apple brandy.
- Drive through the world’s deepest gorge in the Kali Gandaki valley.
- Relax with a soothing bath in the natural hot springs of Tatopani.
- Enjoy breathtaking sunrise views from Poon Hill, with panoramic vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
