Last updated September 23, 2026
Annapurna Circuit Trek: Route, Thorong La & Complete Guide
The Annapurna Circuit circles the great Annapurna massif through one of Nepal’s most varied trekking landscapes: subtropical river valleys, pine forest, Tibetan-influenced Manang, the 5,416-metre Thorong La, the pilgrimage center of Muktinath and the dry Kali Gandaki corridor. Modern road access means there is no longer one fixed distance or itinerary—but the high mountain heart of the circuit remains one of the world’s classic treks.
How Long Is the Annapurna Circuit?
There is no single modern Annapurna Circuit distance. Current route descriptions commonly place a broad circuit at roughly 160–230 km / 100–143 miles, but vehicle access now allows trekkers to begin around Dharapani or Chame and finish around Muktinath or Jomsom, producing much shorter walking itineraries. Most current trips take roughly 12–18 trekking days, while older full walking versions can take three weeks or more.
The core journey climbs through Manang, allows time for acclimatization, continues through Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi, crosses 5,416 m Thorong La and descends to Muktinath. That high-altitude traverse—not a specific mileage figure—is what makes the Annapurna Circuit the Annapurna Circuit.
Nepal Tourism Board currently lists the Annapurna Circuit among routes where trekkers must travel with a licensed trekking guide and carry a trekking-agency-issued TIMS card. The current non-SAARC TIMS charge is NPR 2,000. The Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit is currently NPR 3,000 for foreign visitors.
Annapurna Circuit Route Map.
The normal direction climbs gradually up the Marsyangdi valley toward Manang before crossing Thorong La and descending steeply into Mustang and the Kali Gandaki system.
What Happened to the “Full” Annapurna Circuit?
Road construction has not removed Thorong La or Manang. It has changed where trekkers choose to start, finish and leave the road.
Walk Much More
Older itineraries began near Besisahar and continued far down the Kali Gandaki toward Tatopani, Ghorepani and the Pokhara side.
Drive Higher
Road access allows many trekkers to reach Dharapani or Chame before beginning continuous walking.
Muktinath or Jomsom
Many itineraries finish after Thorong La rather than following every historic western stage.
Avoid Some Road
Footpaths on the opposite side of valleys can preserve more trekking where the main corridor now carries vehicles.
Continue South
Marpha, Tukuche, Kalopani, Tatopani, Ghorepani and Poon Hill can still create a much larger circuit.
Protect the Walking
Use road transport strategically, but do not shorten the high-altitude acclimatization sequence merely to save time.
Distance is now an itinerary choice.
A 12-day Chame-to-Jomsom trek and an 18-day route continuing through the Kali Gandaki can both legitimately be called the Annapurna Circuit. Compare itineraries by actual walking stages rather than the tour name alone.
Choose the High Trail When Weather and Fitness Allow.
The Ghyaru–Ngawal line climbs higher than the easiest valley route but rewards the effort with broader Annapurna views and useful acclimatization before Manang. The extra elevation should still fit the group’s overall altitude plan.
Photo: Wikimedia CommonsA Strong 14-Day Annapurna Circuit.
This framework protects Manang acclimatization, crosses Thorong La without rushing and preserves enough western walking to experience Mustang and the Kali Gandaki.
| Day | Route | Approx. sleeping elevation | Main purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Road transfer → Dharapani | ≈1,860 m | Reach the upper Marsyangdi corridor without spending multiple days beside the lower road. |
| 2 | Dharapani → Chame | ≈2,670 m | Forest walking, waterfalls and first major Annapurna views. |
| 3 | Chame → Upper Pisang | ≈3,300 m | Enter drier alpine country beneath Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. |
| 4 | Upper Pisang → Manang via Ghyaru / Ngawal | ≈3,540 m | High scenic route with useful acclimatization. |
| 5 | Manang acclimatization day | ≈3,540 m | Hike higher during the day, return lower to sleep and assess altitude response. |
| 6 | Manang → Yak Kharka / Ledar | ≈4,000–4,200 m | Deliberate progression into high-altitude terrain. |
| 7 | Yak Kharka / Ledar → Thorong Phedi | ≈4,450 m | Shorter approach day before the pass. |
| 8 | Thorong Phedi → Thorong La → Muktinath | ≈3,800 m | Cross 5,416 m Thorong La, then make a major descent into Mustang. |
| 9 | Muktinath → Kagbeni | ≈2,800 m | Explore the transition into the Kali Gandaki valley and Mustang culture. |
| 10 | Kagbeni → Jomsom / Marpha | ≈2,700 m | Move south through the broad, windy Kali Gandaki corridor. |
| 11 | Continue toward Kalopani | ≈2,500 m | Use quieter walking alternatives where practical rather than staying on the vehicle road. |
| 12 | Kalopani → Tatopani area | ≈1,200 m | Massive climatic transition from dry Mustang toward warmer forest. |
| 13 | Tatopani → Ghorepani | ≈2,860 m | Large final climb through forest toward the classic Poon Hill finish. |
| 14 | Poon Hill → road connection → Pokhara | Return to low altitude | Sunrise panorama and completion of the long western version. |
Exact village stops, road transfers and western walking stages should be adjusted to current conditions, guide recommendations and the amount of time available. The Manang-to-Thorong sequence should not be compressed simply to create a shorter advertised itinerary.
Altitude Planning Before Thorong La.
Thorong La is higher than any summit in the contiguous United States. Reaching it safely depends far more on the preceding week than on how strong a trekker feels on pass morning.
≈3,300 m
This is where sleeping altitude begins to matter substantially for many trekkers.
≈3,540 m
Two nights here are common because the village is perfectly positioned for acclimatization hikes.
≈4,000 m+
Keep the day controlled even when the walking distance feels short.
≈4,450 m
The normal lower staging point before pass day.
5,416 m
The route climbs into genuinely high altitude before descending thousands of feet to Muktinath.
Symptoms Override Schedule
Headache, nausea, unusual fatigue, dizziness or worsening symptoms at altitude deserve conservative decisions rather than commitment to a booked timetable.
If symptoms are worsening, continuing higher toward 5,416 m is the wrong direction. Descent remains the most important response to serious altitude illness.
Pass Day Is the Crux—Not the Whole Trek.
Most groups leave very early because the crossing is long and exposed and because Himalayan weather and wind can deteriorate later in the day. Snow, ice or dangerous forecasts can justify waiting or turning around regardless of itinerary pressure.
Photo: Wikimedia CommonsWhat Thorong La Day Actually Involves.
The headline altitude hides the second half of the challenge: after reaching the pass, trekkers still have a long descent to Muktinath.
Before Sunrise
Early departures create time margin and reduce exposure to worsening afternoon weather.
Slow + Deliberate
At 5,000 metres, ordinary walking pace can become unsustainable even for very fit hikers.
5,416 m
Spend enough time to regroup and assess everyone, but do not treat the exposed pass as a long rest stop in poor weather.
Long
The west side loses large amounts of elevation before the trail finally reaches Muktinath.
Changes Everything
Fresh snow can obscure the path and increase slips, route-finding problems and avalanche exposure.
The Pass Can Wait
A fixed flight or hotel reservation is never a reason to cross a high Himalayan pass in unsafe conditions.
Should You Add Tilicho Lake?
Tilicho Lake is one of the highest-value additions to a longer Annapurna Circuit, but it should be treated as a separate high-altitude objective rather than a casual afternoon side trip.
The detour normally leaves the Manang corridor through Khangsar toward Tilicho Base Camp before returning to rejoin the main Thorong La itinerary.
- Allow roughly three to four additional days depending on itinerary.
- The lake is approximately 4,919 m above sea level.
- Steep loose slopes and seasonal snow affect access.
- The extension can contribute to acclimatization when paced correctly.
- Do not let Tilicho force the group to rush the subsequent Thorong La sequence.
Tilicho Lake lies high above the Manang valley and is normally added as a multi-day extension rather than included in the shortest circuit.Annapurna Circuit Permits and Guide Rules.
For a normal international Annapurna Circuit, the two core documents are the Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit and TIMS. Nepal Tourism Board currently lists the circuit under its mandatory-guide system.
Current Annapurna Conservation Area entry fee, including tax.
Current Nepal Tourism Board TIMS charge.
Core foreign ACAP + TIMS fees before any agency or payment charges.
The Annapurna Circuit appears by name on NTB’s current mandatory guide/TIMS list.
NTNC’s e-permit system accepts online Visa or MasterCard payment and emails the conservation permit after successful payment. The current online payment gateway charge is 2.9%. Permits bought at a check-post are charged at double the normal fee.
Nar Phu and Upper Mustang are different permit situations.
Adding restricted areas to an Annapurna itinerary can trigger additional immigration permits and route-specific rules. Do not assume the standard ACAP and TIMS combination covers every possible side route.
How Much Does the Annapurna Circuit Cost?
There is no meaningful one-number price because package inclusions vary radically. Compare what is actually included rather than the advertised headline.
Current 12-day examples start around this level with limited inclusions.
A useful planning range for many 12–15 day local guided packages with broader inclusions.
Private guides, porters, better city hotels and upgraded transport can raise costs substantially.
Current ACAP + TIMS headline fees for a non-SAARC foreign trekker.
Ask what the quote excludes.
Flights to Nepal, visa, rescue-capable insurance, tips, drinks, hot showers, charging, Wi-Fi, porter service, Kathmandu/Pokhara hotels and private transport may sit outside a cheap trek price. A higher quote can be less expensive overall if it includes costs that a cheaper package shifts to the trail.
Best Time for the Annapurna Circuit.
Nepal Tourism Board identifies March–May and September–November as the principal seasons for the Annapurna region. The actual pass condition still matters more than the month printed on an itinerary.
| Period | Typical conditions | Main advantage | Main concern |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | Cool spring | Increasingly workable high route and fewer peak crowds | Lingering snow can still affect Thorong La. |
| April | Core spring | Warmer days, rhododendrons lower down and strong trekking conditions | Busy trail and increasing afternoon cloud. |
| May | Late spring / pre-monsoon | Warm lower trail and long days | Haze and increasing pre-monsoon instability. |
| June–August | Monsoon | Upper Mustang lies partly in the rain shadow | Lower eastern trail receives rain, landslides and transport disruption. |
| September | Monsoon transition | Landscape remains green and autumn season begins | Residual rain and cloud can persist early in the month. |
| October | Peak autumn | Generally clear skies and strong high-pass conditions | Highest demand in Manang and along the pass corridor. |
| November | Late autumn | Clearer, drier atmosphere and somewhat thinner crowds later | Very cold nights and rising winter-snow risk. |
| December–February | Winter | Quiet lower routes | Severe cold and snow can close or complicate Thorong La. |
Cross the Pass and the Landscape Changes Almost Immediately.
The eastern approach climbs through the Marsyangdi and Manang valleys. West of Thorong La, the route drops toward Muktinath and the dry trans-Himalayan landscape of Mustang before joining the Kali Gandaki.
Photo: Wikimedia CommonsHow Hard Is the Annapurna Circuit?
No technical mountaineering is normally required on the standard route in good seasonal conditions. The difficulty comes from altitude, duration, weather and Thorong La.
Mostly Trail
The normal circuit is a trekking route rather than a rope-and-crampon climbing objective.
Very High
Thorong La at 5,416 m is high enough for serious altitude illness to become a real concern.
Two Weeks+
Repeated mountain days create cumulative fatigue even when individual stages look moderate.
Long
The combination of pre-dawn climbing, low oxygen and a large descent makes this the hardest standard day.
Consequential
Fresh snow or high wind can turn a straightforward trail into a much more serious objective.
Strong Hiking Base
Train for consecutive uphill days rather than assuming cardiovascular fitness alone solves altitude.
Where You Sleep on the Annapurna Circuit.
Most normal versions of the circuit use village teahouses rather than camping. Comfort decreases as elevation and remoteness increase.
Full Trail Town
Multiple lodges, meals, shops and basic trekking services.
Mountain Teahouses
Simple rooms with extensive Annapurna views and access to both lower and higher Manang routes.
Best High-Route Services
A logical place for two nights, gear adjustments and acclimatization.
More Basic
Services thin as the route climbs above 4,000 m.
Pass Staging
Accommodation exists primarily to position trekkers for the early Thorong La crossing.
Comfort Returns
The major descent reaches a much larger settlement and pilgrimage center with broader lodging options.
Thorong La Ends at One of Nepal’s Great Pilgrimage Landscapes.
Muktinath is sacred to both Hindu and Buddhist traditions and marks the emotional end of the high pass crossing. From here the trek can stop, continue to Kagbeni and Jomsom or keep following the historic circuit south.
Photo: Wikimedia CommonsFood, Water and Cash.
The circuit does not require expedition food carries, but prices and choices change sharply with elevation and vehicle access.
Teahouse Dining
Dal bhat, noodles, rice, soups, potatoes, eggs and other trekking staples are widely available.
Prices Rise
Food and fuel must travel farther, so expect noticeably higher costs near Thorong Phedi than in road-connected towns.
Treat or Refill
Use safe treated water rather than creating unnecessary plastic-bottle waste.
Carry Food
Start with enough calories and fluid for the climb, pass and long descent.
Carry Rupees
Do not depend on reliable card systems or ATMs in high mountain villages.
Charging Costs
Wi-Fi, hot showers and device charging are commonly separate expenses as the route climbs.
Getting to and From the Annapurna Circuit.
Pokhara and Kathmandu both feed the trail, while modern jeep roads allow several starting and finishing strategies.
Besisahar
The historic eastern roadhead remains the entry point for the Marsyangdi valley system.
Dharapani / Chame
Many groups continue by jeep to reduce walking beside lower-valley roads.
Muktinath
Road transport can begin soon after the pass for very compressed itineraries.
Jomsom
A major Mustang transport hub with road links and an airport serving Pokhara.
Tatopani + Poon Hill
Continue south to retain more of the traditional circuit and finish through forest rather than by vehicle.
Do Not Tight-Connect Flights
Mountain roads and Jomsom flights can be delayed by weather, landslides or wind.
Annapurna Circuit vs Everest Base Camp.
Both are high-altitude teahouse treks, but the travel experience is very different.
| Factor | Annapurna Circuit | Everest Base Camp |
|---|---|---|
| Route shape | Traverse around a massif | Out-and-back journey into the Khumbu |
| Key altitude | Thorong La · 5,416 m | Everest Base Camp · 5,364 m; Kala Patthar commonly higher |
| Landscape variety | Very high—from forest to Manang desert to Mustang | More consistently high Himalayan / Sherpa landscape |
| Signature objective | Cross a major Himalayan pass | Reach Everest Base Camp beneath the world’s highest mountain |
| Access | Primarily road-based trailhead access | Often begins with the Lukla flight system |
| Route flexibility | High—many possible start and finish points | More standardized main corridor |
| Road presence | Significant on lower/eastern and western portions | Much less central to the standard trek |
| Best reason to choose it | You want a changing landscape and true mountain traverse | You specifically want Everest and Sherpa/Khumbu country |
The Old Circuit Ends Very Differently From the Short Version.
Continue beyond Jomsom and the trek drops back into deep forest before climbing again toward Ghorepani and Poon Hill. It adds days—but it restores the dramatic climatic loop that made the original circuit famous.
Photo: Wikimedia CommonsBuild the Annapurna Circuit Into a Larger Nepal Plan.
The circuit sits between accessible teahouse trekking and Nepal’s more remote expedition-scale journeys.
Three Skills Worth Building Before Nepal.
Thorong La is non-technical in good conditions, but weather, navigation and sustained uphill fitness still determine how much margin a trekker has.
Verify the Rules Before You Trek.
Nepal’s permit requirements, roads and trail conditions change. Use current government and conservation-area information when the departure date approaches.
Annapurna Circuit FAQ.
The questions that most often change an Annapurna itinerary.
How long is the Annapurna Circuit?
There is no single modern distance because road access and start/finish choices vary. Broad current routes are often described as roughly 160–230 km, while shorter road-assisted versions can involve considerably less walking.
How many days does the Annapurna Circuit take?
Most modern itineraries take approximately 12–18 trekking days. Longer versions retaining more of the traditional Kali Gandaki, Tatopani and Ghorepani route can take three weeks or more.
What is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit?
Thorong La is the standard circuit’s high point at 5,416 m / approximately 17,769 ft.
Do you need a guide for the Annapurna Circuit?
Nepal Tourism Board currently lists the Annapurna Circuit among routes where trekkers are required to travel with a licensed trekking guide and an agency-issued TIMS card.
What permits do you need for the Annapurna Circuit?
A normal international circuit requires the Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit and TIMS under the current published rules. Restricted-area side trips can require additional permits.
How much is the Annapurna Conservation Area permit?
The current NTNC fee is NPR 3,000 for foreign visitors and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals, including tax.
How much is TIMS?
Nepal Tourism Board currently charges NPR 2,000 for non-SAARC trekkers and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.
What is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit?
March through May and September through November are the main trekking seasons. October and April are particularly popular, but actual Thorong La snow and weather conditions should determine whether the pass is crossed.
Can you trek the Annapurna Circuit in winter?
Parts of the route remain accessible, but severe cold and snowfall can make Thorong La unsafe or temporarily impassable. Winter demands more conservative planning and current local information.
Can you trek the Annapurna Circuit during monsoon?
The upper Mustang side lies partly in the Himalayan rain shadow, but much of the eastern and lower approach receives monsoon rain and can experience landslides and difficult road conditions. It is not the standard season for a complete circuit.
Is the Annapurna Circuit technically difficult?
The normal route does not require technical climbing in good seasonal conditions. Its challenge comes from altitude, weather, duration and crossing 5,416 m Thorong La.
Do you need crampons for Thorong La?
Not normally during dry, snow-free seasonal conditions. Fresh snow or ice can change that assessment, so current conditions and the judgment of an experienced local guide matter more than a generic packing list.
How many nights should you spend in Manang?
Two nights are common so trekkers can use an acclimatization day before sleeping above 4,000 m. The correct schedule should still respond to each trekker’s altitude symptoms and prior acclimatization.
Should you sleep at Thorong High Camp or Thorong Phedi?
Both are used, but sleeping higher is not automatically better. Thorong Phedi keeps sleeping altitude lower, while High Camp reduces climbing on pass morning. The decision should reflect acclimatization rather than convenience alone.
Can you add Tilicho Lake to the Annapurna Circuit?
Yes. Tilicho Lake at approximately 4,919 m is one of the circuit’s most popular extensions and generally adds several days depending on the exact itinerary and conditions.
Where does the Annapurna Circuit start?
Besisahar is the traditional gateway, but many modern itineraries use road transport farther into the Marsyangdi valley and begin walking around Dharapani or Chame.
Where does the Annapurna Circuit finish?
There is no single modern finish. Short versions often end around Muktinath or Jomsom. Longer versions continue through Marpha, the Kali Gandaki, Tatopani and Ghorepani toward Pokhara.
Is the Annapurna Circuit still worth doing despite the roads?
The route has changed substantially, but Manang, Thorong La, Muktinath and the high mountain traverse remain intact. Walkers can also use alternative foot trails and choose start and finish points that reduce unnecessary road walking.
Is Annapurna Circuit harder than Everest Base Camp?
They emphasize different challenges. The Circuit crosses a 5,416 m pass and changes landscape dramatically, while Everest Base Camp has a more standardized high-altitude out-and-back route. Acclimatization is essential on both.
How much does the Annapurna Circuit cost?
Current 2026 package examples vary widely. Budget local guided trips can begin around US$700, while many standard guided 12–15 day packages fall around US$1,000–1,800 and private or higher-comfort trips can exceed US$2,000.
Can beginners trek the Annapurna Circuit?
A fit first-time Himalayan trekker can complete the circuit with appropriate preparation, a conservative acclimatization schedule and qualified guidance. It is not a good first experience of multi-day hiking for someone who has never trained on steep terrain or consecutive long days.
Shorten the Road Sections—not the Acclimatization.
Modern access makes it easy to build a 12-, 14- or 18-day Annapurna Circuit. Use that flexibility to remove low-value road walking or add Tilicho and western trails. Do not use it to rush from Manang toward 5,416 m Thorong La. The best itinerary is the one that preserves the high mountain journey while giving the body enough time to adapt.
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Global Summit Guide is an independent mountaineering resource founded in 2026. The team combines first-hand trekking and climbing experience with in-depth research and professional health and nutrition review to help climbers choose objectives, prepare properly, and stay safe.
Health, altitude, and nutrition content is reviewed by Taylor Ludlow (Registered Nurse) and Brigg Hoopes (Nutritionist).
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