annapurna circuit
Highlights
Location: Nepal, Annapurna region
Highest Elevation/altitude: 5416M / 17769FT
Average walking hours: 6-7 hours every day.
Highlights: Manang village, Tilicho lake 4900M, Annapurna massif peaks, Thorong-la-pass, Lower Mustang, Pokhara
Mountains seen: Annapurna 2,3,4, Gangapurna, Chulu Peaks
OVERVIEW
The Annapurna Circuit was once listed as one of the world’s most beautiful trek in the world. We can understand why as this trek offers more variety than any other equivalent length trek, and will take you through virtually every type of scenery that Nepal has to offer. You will witness amazing views of the Annapurna and the Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and an amazing variety of landscapes varying from sub-tropical through alpine peaks to an arid semi-desert akin to Tibet. Your trek starts from the small town of Besi sahar and from there we hitch hike on a off road jeep through the off road paths. You can slowly feel the cool breeze as you pass along the rocky mountains, river flowing on to your side and finally cutting through mountains to small villages.
Annapurna circut take you mostly through the Manang district of Nepal, which is heavily influenced by Buddhist religion and tradition. Trekkers will pass through several smaller villages, locals greeting them, walking through pine forest with total wilderness experiences and snow capped mountains just in front of you all along. We highly recommend travellers, not to miss out on Tilicho lake. A glacier formed lake, which adds 3 more days to your itinerary but it worth the visit. You will only be left regretting that you did not visit this beautiful place when you were in the region. Don’t say we did not warn you. Another beautiful landmark is the village of Manang. Explore the stupas and local settings in there, hike to the lake or the ice lake and simply enjoy the magnificent view of Annapurna right in front of you. The climax of the Annapurna Circuit trek involves crossing the iconic Thorong La Pass (5416m). The majority of the trip will be based in tea-houses throughout the route where you will also get time to spend in villages inhabited by many of Nepal's different peoples, both Buddhist and Hindu. This part of the trek ends in Mustang region of Nepal. The land of mythical stories, grand canyons, howling winds and adventure of its own beauty. From Jomsom we fly to Pokhara early in the morning (30 min) flight and then enjoy a day in one of the most beautiful city of Nepal. If you want to trek further up Upper Mustang, please visit our Upper Mustang trek link.
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2025 Autumn
29th September - 13th October
2026 Spring
20th April - 3rd May
2026 Autumn
5th - 18th October
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USD 3150 P/P
Deposit required: USD 250 P/P
All-inclusive. Guaranteed departure. No extra hidden costs.
Please inquire about prices in your local currency. We accept payment in £GBP/ €EUROS/ $AUD
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NMA Certified Sherpa guide
Individual tip pool. Tip pool will be fairly distributed among all Namas staff members. (Guides, porters, drivers, hotel security and staffs). Guest may personally hand in extra tips to our guides and porters.
Namas Branded merchandise (Down Jacket, Cap, Buff)
Single room. Arrival 4* hotel in Kathmandu and 1 night before Departure.
All trekking permits (All Permit and TIMS)
All internal-local transportation to and from the trekking trail head
3 Meals everyday with pot hot water every night
Lodge accommodation during the trek
One porter for 2 trekkers
25kg personal luggage
Arrival Arrival pick up and departure
Internal flights
Basic First aid kit
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Visas and travel insurance
Guide tips USD 200 P/P (Mandatory)
Entertainment and food ( Kathmandu )
Bottled drinks and beverages
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Evacuation (will be done in your account)
Tips (Service Charge in Hotel and Restaurants are included)
Single supplement Charges
Laundry, Phone services, Personal expenditure transactions
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival, pick up at the airport by Namas staff. Hotel drop off and gear check day
Day 2 Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar 8 - 10 hours jeep drive
Day 3 Drive to Upper Pisang (3186M) 6-7 hrs
Day 4 Upper Pisang (3186 m) - Manang village (3540 m) 7-8 hours
Day 5 Rest day and acclimatization. Explore Manang or acclimatisation hike.
Day 6 Manang (3540 m) - Khangshar (3756M) : 4 - 5 hours
Day 7 Khangshar to Tilicho Base Camp 4200M
Day 8 Tilicho Lake 4919M to Tilicho Base Camp
Day 9 Tilicho BC to Yak Kharka (4000M)
Day 10 Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi 4600m - Thorong High Camp 4800M
Day 11 Thorung High camp (4800M) - via Thorung La pass (5416M)- Muktinath (3802M) - Jomsom Via Jeep
Day 12 Jomsom - Pokhara (Flight or jeep incase of flight disruptions)
Day 13 Pokhara - Kathmandu (Afternoon late flight)
Day 14 Departure
HOW DOES IT WORK?
1. Initial Inquiry and Planning
At NAMAS Adventure, we start by understanding your aspirations and goals. From your first conversation with our expert team, we provide personalized recommendation tailored to your interests. Once the perfect expedition is identified, a deposit secures your spot. We then work closely with you to plan and prepare every detail—from gear selection and training advice to arranging insurance, permits, and logistics.
2. Preparing for the Journey
As your expedition date approaches, we’ll help you finalize all preparations. This includes collecting the final balance payment (typically due 60-90 days before your trip), ensuring all necessary documents are in order, and addressing any remaining questions. Our team is available via email or phone calls to make sure you’re fully prepared and confident for the adventure ahead.
3. On-Expedition Support
Arrive at your destination ready to begin! From pre-expedition briefings and gear checks to the full support of our experienced guides and ground team during your climb, we’re here to ensure everything runs smoothly. With flexibility to adapt to any changes or needs, we’re committed to making your adventure seamless, enjoyable, and unforgettable
EQUIPMENT LIST . . .
Footwears
- Hiking shoes for the trek to base camp with ankle protection
- Gaiters
- Midweight thermal socks: 5 pairs
- Liner socks or equivalent: 2 pairs
Body Layers
- 1 merino base layers: top / bottom set
- Quick-dry sports bra (for women)
- 1 mid layer top: breathable Underwear
- Lightweight waterproof/breathable rain pants
- Convertible hiking pants
- Hooded Soft Shell jacket To be worn over other layers
- Midweight down or synthetic parka with hood
- Hooded Hard Shell: Gore Tex and breathable
- Insulated Down Jacket
- Long jones equivalent to Rab’s Polartec or equivalent: 2 pairs
Headgear and Hand wear
- Wool hat (ski hat)
- Sunhat: To shade your face / neck from the sun on a hot day
- Buff: To protect your neck / face from the sun
- Under helmet Balaclava
- Glacier glasses: Full protection with side covers or wrap around
- Lightweight synthetic liner gloves: For wearing on a hot day; 2 pairs
- Soft shell gloves: To wear for moderate cold / wind
Personal Gear
- 30 - 45 L Trekking Backpack: To carry on the trek to base camp. Simple and light.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated to at least -10 to -20C. Goose down or synthetic
- Compression stuff sacks: 2 large ones; for reducing volume of the sleeping bag, down parka, etc., in your pack.
- Trekking poles with snow baskets: Adjustable poles
- Head torch: 1 normal for base camp and 1 with remote battery systems for climbing at night. This will be used whilst climbing at night
- Sunscreen: SPF 50 or above
- Lip balm with sunblock
- Water bottles: 1 wide mouth bottles with 1L capacity
- Thermos: 1 litre (buy a good ones to keep your water warm for longer hours)
- Toiletry bag: Include toilet paper and hand sanitiser and small towel
- Hand warmers & toe warmers
- Pen Knife or multi tool (optional)
- Camera: bring extra batteries and memory cards
- Personal solar charging system (optional but recommended)
- Travel Clothes
- Duffel bags XL (1) with locks
- Base Camp extra Items: Kindle, I pad, books, smart phone, etc
- Cell phone in waterproof case
- Cell phone charging cable
- Local SIM card for cell phone (purchase in Nepal)
- Portable power device (for recharging phone or other electronics)
- Snack food: Please bring a few days of your favourite climbing snack food such as bars, energy gels, nuts, beef jerky, etc. A variety of salty and sweet is recommended to give you extra energy.
- Small personal first aid kit: Include athletic tape, Band-Aid’s, Ibuprofen, blister care, personal medications, etc
- Toothbrush (travel size)
- Toothpaste (travel size)
- Toilet paper
- Personal wipes
- Women’s hygiene items
- Pee bottle
- Hand sanitizer
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Biodegradable soap
- Deodorant
- Dental floss
- Razor and shaving cream
- Skin lotion
- Medications and Prescriptions: Bring antibiotics (Azithromycin, etc.), and altitude medicine such as Diamox and dexamethasone*
BLOG LINKS . . .
Related blog articles:
Altitude sickness
World’s most dangerous airport, Lukla
When is the best time to trek Annapurna Circuit?
Spring March - May.
We do not recommend travelling to everest region during the month of June, July or August due to heavy rainfall in Nepal with Monosoon season.
September - November. October is the busiest month during autumn.
How tough/difficult is Annapurna Circuit trek?
Annapurna Circuit trek is classed as a novice/beginners trekking route. However, you will need to be in a good shape physically (read out training for trekking blog post). If you never have been exposed to high altitude before then elevating slowly is recommended which we follow in all our itineraries. It will be challenging for all novice trekkers but the fitter you are the more you can enjoy the trek and your holiday.
Annapurna Circuit with helicopter?
Yes, you can visit Manang village with Helicopter.
Annapurna Circuit alternative/extension treks?
Annapurna Circuit trek can be made one of the longest trek. With additional 3 days you can trek Tilicho Lake 4949M and with further additional 5 days you can visit Poonhill, from there you can either head to Annapurna base camp adding further 7 days to your itinerary. Or simply visit the mystical Upper Mustang, the forbidden kingdom of Nepal.
Baggage allowance for Annapurna Circuit trek?
We allow 25kgs of personal weight for this trip
Tips for our guides and porters.
Most of our guest gives tips during the end of the trek. We suggest tips of $100 per person for the whole trip. Your guide leader will fairly distribute the tips among your assistant guides and porters. Guest also donates trekking equipments like jackets, trek poles, gloves or hats to porters which is greatly appreciated. Guest can also buy our porters dinner, during the final day of the trek for all their hard work and for making their trek possible.
Can I see Annapurna during thre trek? . . .
Yes Annapurna south is clearly visible along with other Annapurna Massif range.
Contingency Days during the trip? . . .
We do not have contingency day added in our itinerary and we do not think is necessary as 95% of the time the trek can be completed.
Guides /Sherpas for Mera Everest Base camp trek? Ratio : clients. Qualification and level of English? . . .
On this trek, we aim to have max 8 climbers, we have 1 Main guide and other assistant guides. Local guides are a joy to trek with as they will show you the local culture and help you better understand the essence of Nepal and the experience it offers.
Sherpa Guide ratio 1:4. Our Sherpas are NMA (TAAN trained/certified ). Personal Sherpa for 1:1 can be arranged who will be solely responsible for the clients but extra additional charges apply. Our Sherpas have an intermediate level of English. Can understand, reply and instruct very well.
Is Annapurna circuit suitable for beginners and what level of fitness do I need? . . .
Yes, Annapurna trek is 100% suitable for all beginner/novice travellers. The peak itself is a non-technical high altitude trek/climbing mountain. There are some uphill and rugged terrains since it is so far away from normal civilisation but anyone with a good level of fitness can complete this trip.
Physically it can be a bit demanding but our as long as you are in a good/average physical condition you will be able to enjoy and complete the trek. On a day expect to walk about 10KM.
How do I know this is the right trip for me? . . .
Ever wanted to see the great Himalayas, trek in one of the most beautiful region, see Annapurna ranges, challenge yourself to 5400M above sea level, visit Nepal, see the yaks and explore beautiful Nepal. If YES then Annapurna circuit trek is the right trip for you.
How many guides/ Sherpas will be assigned to our group? . . .
For this trek 1:4 Sherpa guides are assigned to our group.
How many in a group? . . .
Min 2 - Max 8
Who is this trip for? . . .
Everyone keen on travelling. Under 18 years old must be accompanied by adults
Who goes on this trip? . . .
Traellers from all over the globe with different backgrounds, interest and adventure enthusiast.
Can my friends and family join me on this trek? . . .
Yes, it is possible. Please email us about this and give you relevant informations.
Is it possible to organise a private Annapurna circuit trek? . . .
We will be more than happy to organise private trek for you and your group. As long as it is with in the suitable season. Extra cost will apply as we will have to organise a seperate logistical and planning for private request. Please contact our team for any private trips or expeditions.
What fitness/conditioning level is needed for this climb? . . .
You need to have some moderate level of fitness to be able to enjoy and complete the trek. Please expext to carry about 5-10kgs of personal weight and walk 10km a day on uneven surfaces.
How hard is it to complete this trip? . . .
Annapurna cricuit trek is one of the most doable trek. Moderately difficult but anyone with good fitness level will be able to complete the trek. We have 100% success with all our trekking departures.
How heavy will my bagpack be? . . .
You will just need to carry your personal items and most of your heavy gears are carried by our porter team. Your personal pack will be 5-10kgs
How do you I train for a trip like this? . . .
You can train by focusing mostly on your endurance as you be hiking daily 6 hours on average. Train by running 5 km or walking 1-2 hours 3 to 4 times a week with 5-10kgs.
Which adventure or Mountain climbing trip can I aim for after this trip? . . .
If you want to explore just trekking adventure then we suggest adding Gokyo on the itinerary or you can go for trek Everest base camp, Annapurna base camp, Upper Mustang some of the world's beautiful trek.
Peak climbing adventure: If you are feeling more adventerous and want to go higher then we suggest beginner/novice level peak climbing trips. Mera Peak 6476M, Island Peak 6189M, Chulu West Peak 6419M.
Click here - Please read our Top 5 peaks for beginner/novice climbers - Nepal.
What sort of hotels do we stay at in the city? . . .
All Namas adventure team stays at the Hotel Manalsu or Tibet in Kathmandu. Arrivals hotels are only 15 minutes walk from the tourist centre of Thamel. Our chosen hotel provides swimming pool, restaurants, spa and massage near by and plenty of local shops near by to buy souviners.
What are the lodges like? Can I have my own room? . . .
Lodges or tea houses we use during trekking days are local Sherpa tea houses. You will love the cultural ambience of the tea houses. Places we book are kept tidy, clean, modern lodges—the best that are available in each village. They are well-known locations to us and we have a good relationship with the lodge owners. Private rooms can be booked at additional cost. Our standard trips are based on shared rooms, usually twin-share and sometimes triple-share. On the mountain you will share a tent with one, or sometimes two other climbers.
How many nights in small houses on the way, are those heated? . . .
Once we land in Lukla all the way to Khare we will be sleeping in Tea houses. Almost all the houses in every trekking routes of Nepal are built the same way. The Dining hall is warm and heated but all the rooms aren't so once we are in our rooms we will have to depend on our clothes, blankets and sleeping bags to keep our self warm.
Will Showers and laundry be available? . . .
On our trekking days tea houses we stay will offer hot showers and laundry services for a small fee.
Is foods included in our booking fees? . . .
This trek is all-inclusive. Breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as ample hot and cold drinks during trek and expedition days are included. We can cater for vegetarians as well as many other special diets as long as we are informed of this prior to the trip.
What are the food like? . . .
During the trekking days in tea houses mostly foods are prepared according to your choice in the menu. Rice and Lentils (Dal bhat being the famous diet) to pasta, soups, pizza, mash potato, dumplings etc.
Mostly Rice/lentils/veg/ pasta for cooked foods and freezed dried foods, chocolate/energy bars, biscuits, hydration tablets. We will have varieties of freezed dried foods (chicken, veg, spaghetti etc ) which are specially made for expeditions.
Will you provide all the equipment to produce drinking water? . . .
Bottled waters can be bought everywhere. Boiled waters are also available on the lodges. Or we would recommend bringing your own water treatment kit or filtered water bottle. (Lifestraw filtered bottles). Water Treatment: Iodine tablets (Potable Aqua or similar) or iodine crystals (Polar Pure)
What is the best way to get to Nepal? . . .
You will need to search for flights to Kathmandu Tribhuvan Intn'l airport. Regular flights operate into Kathmandu via Bangkok, Doha, Dubai, Trukey, Hong Kong, Singapore and Delhi.
Do I need to get a visa for Nepal? . . .
Yes. For most nationalities, a visa can be obtained on-arrival into Kathmandu airport or border entry points or can be issued prior through an Nepalese embassies or consulated abroad. Upon arrival, be sure to have the correct USD amount in cash for your visa application and photos can be take through the kiosk machine available at the airport. Currently, a 40-day visa costs $40 and 90-day visa costs US$100. Please dp make sure that your passport has at least six months validity.
Do I need to arrive the day before the trip starts? And when should I book my flight to leave? . . .
We have got you all covered. All our trip programme itinerary already have an arrival day and a departure day built into them. Please plan to arrive at early hours on Day 1 of the itinerary. If you plan to come early and explore Kathmandu then you are welcome as Kathmandy offers tons of culutral experiences. If you would like a 1-2 days tours please do let us know and we can provide suggestions. Namas Nepal representative will meet and pick you up at the airport and the first of many team briefings will take place on the evening of Day One. Please do not book to depart before the scheduled final trip itinerary day. All the details will also be sent on the final email.
When should I book my ticket? . . .
We recommeend you to book 90-60 days prior to your trip start date to ensure your trip has met the minimum numbers and will operate. If you see a good deal and want to book your flights, then ensure that you can make changes to your ticket or you run the risk of losing it if we do have to cancel the trip. In such situations, we are usually able to help you book on to an alternate departure, either with us or another operator.
Can I get a cheap ticket online? . . .
Yes, please make sure you have a flexible departure date on your ticket. With the nature of our expedition and the places we do are not straight forward as we due to unforseen cisrumstances we might have to add 1-2 days extras to complete our expedition which will lead to extension of our itinerary. In those circumstances you do not want to end up paying extra for your departures.
Where do we meet? Will I be picked up? . . .
As you arrive in Kathmandu, Namas guide or representative will receive you at the airport with our shuttle car/van. If you are arriving before the scheduled trip start date and want to be receiced at airport then please do let us know in advance and we can make the arrangements to pick you up. Or there are airport taxies to help you.
What if I am arriving early or departing late? . . .
Namas team can make necessary arrangements or recommendations should you want to explore more of Nepal. Please do let us know in advance or even to our team in Nepal to help you with these matter.
Will you provide clothing and trekking equipment list? . . .
Upon trip inquiry and confirmation email we will email you all the necessary documentation needed, including detailed equipment lists. If you have questions you have after reading through our equipment list you can always reach out to us and we can assist you in preparing for the trip as well as recommending and sourcing a range of clothing and equipment suitable for the climb. Our list are prepared with recommendation from our past trip experiences.
Do I really need all the gears on the provided list? . . .
Yes, these lists have been carefully prepared and please bring everything on the list!
How heavy will my bagpack be? . . .
You will need to carry your personal items with you which we estimate will be around 8-10 kgs. All your other luggages will be carried by our porter team.
What type of sleeping bag is recommended for Everest trel? Will extra blankets available if required? . . .
3 to 4 season goose downfilled sleeping bag that can handle upto -20C is recommended. This will be clearly stated in your recommended gear list but for the trip. We suggest buying a sleeping bag big enough to allow you to wear extra clothes in if it is especially cold .
What high altitude medication will be available during the trip? Do we need to take tablets before/ during the trek? . . .
All our guides carry extensive medical kits including various medications for altitude illness. If you have a previous history of altitude illness then please discuss this with us and your physician, otherwise there is no need to take preventative medication before or during your trek.
You need to bring any medications you regularly use (don’t forget to tell us about them), plus extras. Also bring a small first aid kit including a blister kit and mild headache medication for the normal altitude headaches.
Is there internet throughout the trip? . . .
Once you get hold of local Nepalese sim card, internet can be accessed throughout the trail all the way to some areas of Gorakshep village. Internet speed wont be as reliable once we go higher but we can expect some internet coverage.
Will there be any power source for charging batteries, etc. available throughout the trip? . . .
While on trek, tea houses will also have power available with with Asian plugs (needed) and offer recharging for a fee.
What is the best equipment for photography in alpine environments? . . .
As camera technology is changing and getting smaller and better, we recommed light and durable cameras for photography. If you are a serious photographer then you will have your preferences on camera gears but just for enthusiast to record and document your memory mirrorless cameras from SONY, Cannon and small action camera like gopro or insta 360 are recommended. Drone is gaining its popularity but please ask us information for drone use rules and regulation. For safety reason Nepal is very stict with drone use and we do not want it to be a hassle during our expedition days.