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Annapurna Circuit Trek | 15 Days

Annapurna, Gandaki Province, Nepal

15 Days

Trek-region

Annapurna

Group Size

1-12 (Private & Small Group)

The 9-day Annapurna Base Camp trek is a well-paced teahouse journey into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, perfect for trekkers who want the full base camp experience without rushing the trail. The ABC trek itinerary adds extra comfort compared to shorter versions, giving more time to enjoy villages, forests, and the changing landscapes as the route climbs higher.

Your Annapurna trek reaches Machhapuchhre Base Camp and finishes at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), surrounded by a dramatic amphitheatre of Himalayan peaks. The return includes a rewarding stop at Jhinu Hot Springs, making the journey a balanced mix of challenge, scenery, and recovery.

Trip Info 

  • Dharapani (after drive Kathmandu to Besisahar to Dharapani
  • Muktinath
  • 85 km
  • Trekking/Hiking + Scenic Drives
  • Moderate to Strenuous
  • Mar to May, Sep to Nov
  • Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
  • 5 to 8 hours (longer on pass day)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara; teahouses during the trek
  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Licensed guide; 1 porter for two trekkers

Why go?

This 15-day Annapurna circuit itinerary is built around the classic high-pass crossing of Thorong La (5,416m), with a comfortable rhythm that includes an acclimatization day in Manang. You begin with the drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, continue by road to Dharapani, then trek through the Manang valley route via Chame and Pisang, where the scenery shifts from green pine forests to wide alpine landscapes.

From Manang, you trek to Ledar and High Camp, then take on the main challenge of the trip, crossing Thorong La Pass and descending to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site. The journey then turns relaxing, with a drive to Tatopani for hot springs, time in Pokhara, and a return to Kathmandu for a dedicated spa and massage day before flying home.

Trek Highlights 

  • Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal.
  • The cultural and scenic journey through Manang Valley with an acclimatization day.
  • Classic circuit villages and trails via Dharapani, Chame, and Pisang.
  • Dramatic landscape change from green forests to high alpine and Himalayan desert terrain.
  • Sacred Muktinath Temple, a major pilgrimage site in the region.
  • Relaxing soak at Tatopani Hot Springs after the pass crossing.
  • Scenic drives and lakeside downtime in Pokhara.
  • A dedicated spa and massage day in Kathmandu to end the trek refreshed.

Tour Plan

As you arrive in Kathmandu, we transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, the day stays relaxed, giving time to rest after the flight and settle in. You take a short walk around Thamel for local shops and cafes. You stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Not included

Note: A brief trip briefing and gear check can be done in the evening.

You leave Kathmandu and drive west toward Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. The road follows river valleys and rolling hills, passing terraced farmland and lively roadside towns, with a few stops along the way for tea and stretching.

You arrive in Besisahar by late afternoon and settle in for the night. The evening is a good time to rest, organize trekking gear, and prepare for the off-road drive to Dharapani the next day.

  • Drive duration: 6 to 7 hrs
  • Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge in Besisahar
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Note: Road conditions vary, so the drive time can change slightly.

You start the day with an adventurous drive from Besisahar toward Dharapani, following the Marsyangdi River valley deeper into the mountains. The road is rough and scenic, passing waterfalls, suspension bridges, and small settlements as the landscape turns more alpine.

As the altitude rises, the views become wider and the air cooler. You arrive in Dharapani, a key village on the Annapurna Circuit, and settle into a teahouse for the night. The evening is ideal for rest, as trekking begins the next morning.

Drive duration: 6 to 8 hrs

Accommodation: Teahouse in Dharapani

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Note: The drive is bumpy on off-road sections, so an early start helps.

You begin your Annapurna circuit trek walking through pine and fir forests along the Marsyangdi valley, passing small villages, stone houses, and terraced fields. The trail follows a steady uphill rhythm with a mix of gentle climbs and short steeper sections as the landscape becomes more alpine.

As you move deeper into Manang district, the views open to rugged hillsides and distant snow peaks. You reach Chame, the district headquarters, where you can enjoy a warmer teahouse, bakeries, and mountain views before resting for the next day.

  • Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Chame
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Note: Temperatures drop in the evening, so keep a warm layer handy.

You leave Chame and follow the trail deeper into the upper Marsyangdi valley, walking through pine forests and rocky sections with dramatic mountain backdrops. The route includes suspension bridges, river views, and narrow paths carved into cliffs, making the day both scenic and exciting.

As altitude increases, the landscape becomes drier and more open, and the peaks feel closer. You reach Pisang, a traditional village with wide views of the Annapurna range, and settle into the teahouse for the night to rest before heading toward Manang.

Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours

Accommodation: Teahouse in Pisang

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Note: The air starts feeling thinner here, so pace steadily and hydrate well.

You trek along a high valley route with wider landscapes and stronger Himalayan views as you approach Manang. The trail passes through dry alpine terrain, traditional settlements, and open ridgelines, with the scenery gradually shifting into a high-mountain desert feel.

As you gain elevation, the mountains feel closer and more dramatic. You arrive in Manang, a key acclimatization stop on the circuit with teahouses, bakeries, and great viewpoints. The afternoon is ideal for rest, hydration, and light exploration before the acclimatization day tomorrow.

  • Trek duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Manang
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Note: A slow pace today helps prepare the body for higher altitude days ahead.

You take an acclimatization day in Manang to help your body adjust before trekking higher toward the pass. The day stays active with a short hike to nearby viewpoints, giving wide mountain panoramas and helping the body adapt with the climb-high, sleep-low approach.

The afternoon is relaxed for rest and recovery. Manang has comfortable teahouses, bakeries, and small shops, making it a good place to recharge, hydrate well, and prepare for the next stages toward Ledar and High Camp.

Trek duration: 2 to 4 hours (optional)

Accommodation: Teahouse in Manang

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Note: Hydration and a slow pace support acclimatization at this altitude.

You leave Manang and trek higher into a drier, more open alpine landscape. The trail follows the upper valley with wide views, gradual climbs, and a cooler atmosphere as the mountains begin to feel closer and more imposing.

As you gain altitude, the pace naturally slows, and rest stops become more important. You reach Ledar, a small settlement used as a staging point for the Thorong La crossing, and settle into the teahouse early to rest and prepare for the higher camps ahead.

  • Trek duration: 4 to 5 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Ledar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Note: Keep the pace slow and steady, and drink plenty of water.

You leave Ledar and climb gradually toward the Thorong area, trekking through high alpine terrain with sparse vegetation and wide valley views. The trail becomes more rugged and the air noticeably thinner as you approach the higher camps.

You reach High Camp, the final staging point before crossing Thorong La Pass. The afternoon is best kept quiet and restful, with an early dinner and plenty of hydration, since the next day starts before sunrise for the long pass crossing to Muktinath.

Trek duration: 4 to 5 hours

Accommodation: Teahouse in High Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Note: Sleep early tonight, as tomorrow is the toughest day of the trek.

You start before dawn for the biggest challenge of the trek. The climb to Thorong La Pass is long and steady, with cold wind and thin air at high altitude. Reaching the prayer-flagged pass is a major achievement, with dramatic Himalayan views all around.

After the pass, the trail descends steeply toward Muktinath, and the air feels easier as you lose altitude. You arrive in Muktinath by late afternoon and rest well after the long day. If time allows, you can visit the sacred Muktinath Temple area.

  • Trek duration: 8 to 10 hours
  • Accommodation: Teahouse in Muktinath
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Note: Carry warm layers, a headlamp, and move steadily with frequent short breaks.

You leave Muktinath and start the scenic drive toward Tatopani, descending from the high Himalayan desert into greener lower valleys. The route passes through Mustang-side landscapes and the Kali Gandaki corridor, with changing scenery as the altitude drops.

You arrive in Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs, and the warmer air feels refreshing after the high pass days. The evening is ideal for a relaxing soak and a comfortable rest before heading to Pokhara tomorrow.

Drive duration: 6 to 8 hrs

Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge in Tatopani

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Note: Hot springs are best enjoyed in the evening, so keep a towel and sandals handy.

You leave Tatopani and drive toward Pokhara, following winding roads through hills, river valleys, and terraced farmland. The scenery stays lush and warm, and the journey feels comfortable after the high-altitude days on the circuit.

You arrive in Pokhara by afternoon, check into the hotel, and enjoy a well-earned rest. The evening is free for a relaxed walk around Lakeside, a hot shower, and a comfortable meal beside Phewa Lake.

  • Drive duration: 4 to 6 hrs
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Note: Road conditions vary, so drive time can change slightly.

You leave Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu, following the main highway through river valleys, terraced hills, and lively roadside towns. The journey includes a few short stops for tea, snacks, and stretching, keeping the long drive comfortable.

You arrive in Kathmandu by late afternoon and check into the hotel. The evening is free to rest, enjoy a final meal in the city, or explore Thamel for souvenirs and cafes.

Drive duration: 6 to 7 hrs

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

Note: A short flight option is available instead of driving if preferred.

Today is set aside for full recovery after your Annapurna round trek. You enjoy a relaxing spa and massage session, perfect for easing tired legs, loosening muscles, and ending the adventure on a comfortable note.

The rest of the day is free to explore Kathmandu at your own pace, visit nearby markets, or simply rest at the hotel. It is an easy, low-activity day before international departure.

  • Trek duration: No trekking
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Note: Spa timing can be scheduled for morning or afternoon based on availability.

You wrap up the trip with a relaxed morning in Kathmandu, using time to pack and check out of the hotel. A scheduled transfer takes you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.

Day 15 marks the end of the Annapurna circuit trek itinerary, with a comfortable finish in Kathmandu.

Accommodation: Not included

Meals: Breakfast

Note: Airport drop-off is arranged as per the flight schedule.

Included/Exclude

Cost Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop-off
  • All ground transport
  • Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Hotel in Pokhara
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Government-licensed guide (English-speaking)
  • Porters during the trek (1 porter for two trekkers)
  • All required trek permits
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Spa and massage session in Kathmandu
  • All government taxes and service charges

Cost Excludes

  • International flights to/from Nepal
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal trekking gears and equipments
  • Extra teahouse costs (drinks, boiled water, hot showers, Wi-Fi/charging)
  • Snacks, tips, laundry, and personal expenses
  • Any extra nights in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or on the trail
  • Costs for rescue/evacuation (covered by your insurance)

Location Map

Trek Around the Classic Annapurna Circuit With a Comfort Finish

From the Manang valley and high-pass crossing to hot springs and a spa day in Kathmandu, the Annapurna round trek delivers a complete circuit experience with the perfect recovery at the end.

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