Annapurna Circuit Trek

18 days
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4.6/5 Excellent
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Small Group Tour
One of Nepal's classic treks, this route makes a full circuit of the Annapurna range over twelve days. Trek through rhododendron forests, mountain foothills, across barren, rocky landscapes and snow-covered passes, staying in cosy family-run tea house lodges along the way. Thorong La - Cross this challenging high pass, 5416m, offering stunning views across...
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Full schedule

Highlights

    • 11-day trek following the classic Annapurna Circuit
    • Enjoy spectacular views from the Thorong La Pass
    • Great value with all meals on trek included

What's this trip about?

    One of Nepal's classic treks, this route makes a full circuit of the Annapurna range over twelve days. Trek through rhododendron forests, mountain foothills, across barren, rocky landscapes and snow-covered passes, staying in cosy family-run tea house lodges along the way. Thorong La - Cross this challenging high pass, 5416m, offering stunning views across the Himalaya Poon Hill - Climb to the top of Poon Hill and enjoy sunrise views across to the Annapurnas and Dhaulagiri Pokhara - Take a well-earned rest by the lakeside and enjoy a cake at one of the towns many bakeries

Details

Itinerary focusOff the Beaten Path
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 20 people
Age range16 to 85 years
Flights and transportAll internal ground transport included
Start CityKathmandu
End CityKathmandu

Travel Themes

  • Hiking & Walking
  • Trekking & Expeditions

Destinations

  • Europe
  • Italy
  • Asia
  • China
  • Nepal

Attractions

  • Kathmandu
  • Pisa
  • Pokhara
  • Tibet

Activities

  • Culture
  • Hiking
  • Trekking

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Join trip in Kathmandu

The trip starts today in Kathmandu, the busy, colourful and chaotic capital city of Nepal. Your Leader plans to meet everyone in the hotel reception for a welcome meeting at 5 pm. For those that wish, there is the chance to go out together as a group for dinner a...

Day 2 Trek briefing followed by a walking tour of Old Kathmandu

After breakfast we will have a full briefing on the trekking days ahead, followed by a chance to visit a local hire shop to pick up any last minute equipment still needed. Following this, we then have a walking tour of the city, visiting the bazaars and the temples of...

Day 3 Drive to Bandipur and explore the town and its bazaar

Leaving the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu far behind we drive west, towards the beautiful mountain landscapes of Central Nepal, home to the towering peaks of the Annapurnas, Dhaulagiri and the iconic Machhapuchhre (the famous 'Fish Tail' mountain). Stopping for lunch...

Day 4 Drive from Bandipur to Besisahar then on to Dharapani (1860m) by local jeeps

Departing from Bandipur, the road descends down to the Prithivi highway, following the course of the Marsyangdi River before winding up through forest past a number of small villages to Besisahar. Swapping our bus for local jeeps, we continue the journey to the starti...

Day 5 Hike from Dharapani to Chame (2670m) with views of Annapurna II and IV

A rocky trail takes us west, following the Marsyangdi up the Manang Valley, where we enjoy some stunning views out towards Annapurna II (7937 metre / 26033 feet) and Annapurna IV. These remote highlands are home to the Manangi people, itinerant traders who have traded...

Day 6 Ascend from Chame to Pisang (3190m) through dense forests

Departing Chame, we cross over to the northern side of the river and follow a relatively easy trail up through apple orchards to the village of Bhratang (2840 metres / 9315 feet), an old Khampa settlement that is largely abandoned these days. From here we then start a...

Day 7 Trek from Pisang to Manang (3540m) via Ngawal

Continuing along the south side of the river today we make a long climb up and over a ridge that takes us past 3400 metres / 11152 feet. From here we enjoy some truly spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, before we descend into the valley and on to Hongde (3325 ...

Day 8 Acclimatisation day in and around Manang

Today has been left free to get a little more used to the conditions at these higher altitudes before we make the crossing of the Thorong La. You can spend the day exploring the area around the village, taking some shorter hikes into the mountains to enjoy the views o...

Day 9 Steady ascent from Manang to Yak Kharka (4018m)

Taking it steady today we trek to Tengi (3620 metre / 11880 feet) and begin a slow climb towards Gunsang (3930 metre / 12900 feet ), enjoying the alpine landscapes and abundance of scrub juniper and alpine grasses that grow on these high slopes. The ever expansive vie...

Day 10 Hike from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4450m), last stop before the Thorung La high pass

Our first port of call today is the small settlement of Letdar (4250 metre / 14000 feet), which we reach after an hour's steady climb out of Yak Kharka. From here we continue to climb along the eastern bank of the Jarsang Khola, making our way up to Thorong Phedi (445...

Day 11 Cross the Thorong La (5416m); descend to Muktinath (3800m) with great Dhaulagiri views

We make an early start this morning and begin the long climb to the 5416 metre / 17800 feet Thorong La, an ascent that should take us some 4 hours (depending upon the fitness of the group and weather conditions). The trail up to the pass follows a route that has been ...

Day 12 Visit the famous pilgrimage site at Muktinath; drive to Tatopani (1190m) via Kagbeni and Marpha

This morning we visit Muktinath's famous temples, one an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, the other for Buddhists. After visiting the temples we begin our long descent by local jeeps (around 7 hours drive) to Tatopani (1190 metre / 3900 feet). This journey used ...

Day 13 Hike from Tatopani to Shikha (1935m)

Today's trekking is mainly uphill as we reach Durbin Danda then cross the suspension bridge over the Thak Khola then climb steeply up through the forest to the Durbin Danda Pass. The trail then becomes a more gradual climb uphill to the village of Ghara and then on up...

Day 14 Trek through rhododenron forest to Ghorepani (2860m)

Today's trek sets off gradually uphill to Chitre, continuing to the entrance gate of Ghorepani. Along the way you will be captivated by beautiful views of the farm houses scattered across the other side of the valley. From here the trail makes a steep ascent through t...

Day 15 Ascend Poon Hill for Annapurna views at sunrise; trek to Hille (1430m)

After an early rise this morning we leave our teahouse and make the ascent of Poon Hill in time to catch the sunrise. From the top we should be able to enjoy panoramic views of the whole of the Annapurna Range and, if the weather permits, watch the sun rise over the p...

Day 16 Final morning trek along Burumdi River to Nayapul; drive to Pokhara for post trek relaxation

We have a short walk this morning to the small village of Nayapul where we say goodbye to our trekking crew and drive to Pokhara. Pokhara is Nepal's second largest town and is far more relaxed than Kathmandu. Its beautiful lakeside setting beneath the imposing shadow ...

Day 17 Drive to Kathmandu

Leaving Pokhara this morning we drive back to the capital Kathmandu. The drive takes us along the scenic Prithvi Highway, but d ue to ongoing roadworks this journey is taking longer than usual, possibly up to eight hours. 4

Meals Provided : Breakfast

Day 18 Trip ends in Kathmandu

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Kathmandu. There are no activities planned for today, so you are free to depart at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you would like to receive an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).

Meals Provided : Breakfast

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Dates & Availability

Price From $2,890
Price per day$161
Last Updated: 4/26/2024
Start Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Single Room (Optional)
Availability
06 Oct 2024
23 Oct 2024
$2,890
$180
13 spots left
27 Oct 2024
13 Nov 2024
$2,890
$180
12 spots left
23 Mar 2025
09 Apr 2025
$3,280
$190
16 spots left
05 Oct 2025
22 Oct 2025
$3,280
$190
16 spots left
26 Oct 2025
12 Nov 2025
$3,280
$190
16 spots left

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Explore!.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Explore! Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
Excellent
6,561
Great
2,178
Average
375
Disappointing
116
Terrible
56
S

Sara

Oct 2023

Written on

Annapurna Circuit

An wonderful trip, to an amazing country. Great trekking with a super group of people.

T

Trusted Customer

Oct 2023

Written on

Annapurna Circuit

Amazing experience and great group and leader / team

R

Rose

Oct 2023

Written on

Annapurna Circuit

This was the toughest walk I’ve done, hard to breathe at the high altitudes but the scenery was breathtaking and we were very well looked after by our guide Jangbu. ...

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Outstanding tour leader, exceptionally well organised, very knowledgeable, warm, friendly and fun to be with. We got the best out of each attraction, and food experi...

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Tour Operator

Explore!

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About Explore

We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.


Why we love this operator
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
What they’re known for
Famous for our expert local guides that help ease the unknowns of adventure travel while bringing a unique richness and spontaneity to each and every

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Logistics

Transportation & Flights

Bus,

Transportation & flights

Bus
Guides
Explore Tour Leader, Driver(s), Local Guide(s), Porter(s)
Cancellation policy
These conditions are applicable to Discovery & Wildlife, Cycling, Walking and Family Trips. These conditions were updated November 2022. Booked a Polar trip? Please refer to our Polar booking conditions. To make it easy to know the detail of our flexibility, we’ve put it in a grid (these terms apply to all trips apart from our Polar Voyages.) Standard cancellations or changes within 69 days of travel If you’re getting closer to your trip, cancellation charges will apply as follows: For trips confirmed by 31st December 2022: 59-42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100% For trips confirmed from 1st January 2023: 69 -42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100%
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Nepal: An entry visa is required by UK, New Zealand, Australian, US & Canadian citizens and can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu Airport and various international border crossings between Nepal and its neighbouring countries. This currently costs $30 USD for a 15 day visa, $50 USD for a 30 day visa and $125 USD for a 90 day visa. All visas are issued as multiple entry visas and are valid from the date they are issued. There have been reports of lengthy delays when completing the form to obtain the visa at the airport, especially during peak times. We therefore recommend that you fill in the visa information prior to arrival using the following link: http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/. This will produce a receipt with a reference number, which you will need to print off and produce on arrival to obtain the visa. Please note if you are filling in the form before you arrive, please do so only within 15 days of arrival as application forms are only stored for a maximum of 15 days. Whether you are filling in the form on arrival or before, a passport-sized photograph for immigration is required along with the exact cash. Payment must be made in cash, UK sterling and US dollars are both accepted. If you are ineligible for the visa on arrival or wish to obtain a visa before you travel, please refer to your nearest Nepal embassy. Trekking Permits: A Trekkers Information Management Sytem (TIMS) card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit will be applied for on your behalf by our local agents in Kathmandu. In order to facilitate this please bring a copy of your passport and two additional passport-sized photos. Your tour leader will collect these at the start of the trip.
Health & Safety
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against malaria, infectious hepatitis, typhoid, tetanus, polio and Japanese encephalitis. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on different prophylaxis available against malaria. Although not compulsory, travellers may wish to take immunisation against meningococcal meningitis. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at <a href="https://www.explore.co.uk/essential-information/know-before-you-go/travel-health">Explore Travel Health</a> and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast : 17
  • Dinner : 14
  • Lunch : 13
Age Requirements
16 to 85 years
Additional Information
Trip ID
explore-AN

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