A panoramic view of the Chu-East and Chu-West mountain ranges, as seen on the way from Thorong La Pass during the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Annapurna II (7937m) as seen from Gyaru village during the Annapurna Circuit trek.
A majestic view of Throng peak (6,144m) during the Annapurna Circuit trek. The peak stands tall in the background, with a blanket of snow covering its summit.
A picturesque view of Jarkot village, located in the Lower Mustang region during the Annapurna Circuit trek.
A breathtaking view of Tilicho Peak (7,134m) during sunset with clouds in the sky. The peak stands majestically in the background, with its summit bathed in warm orange and pink hues of the setting sun

Annapurna Circuit Trek in 17 Days.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

  • Tour Kathmandu and high Pass in the Himalayas.
  • Explore Buddhist Monasteries and Hindu Temples.
  • Visit ancient cities and meet locals in villages. 
  • Discover the Nepal Highland Geography .
  • Trekking in High Himalayas with Local Guide. 
  •  Explore Buddhism and Hinduism in Nepal.  
A charming view of Kagbeni village is nestled between the rugged mountains, surrounded by terraced fields and traditional mud-brick houses.
Return Guests get a 10% discount on all Trips!
  • Trip Type:

    Hiking & Climbing

  • Group Size:

    1-12 People. 

  • Best Time to Visit:

    April/May and Sept/Oct

  • Max Altitude:

     6,476 meters.

    (21,247 ft.)

  • Start-End:

    Kathmandu - Kathmandu. 

  • Daily Activity:

    Tour, Hiking & Climbing.

Location:

Kathmandu Valley (Nepal) and Tibet Autonomous Region. 

  • Fly into Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

              Connect With Us: 

                            

DESCRIPTION

Annapurna circuit trek is one of the most popular and beautiful trekking trails in the Himalayas. Road and air connectivity change the classic features of trails but make them more accessible and safer for trekkers. The magnificent view of the Annapurna range, high pass, unique culture, landscape, apple orchards, and people's lifestyle are the key attractions of this trek. Throng-La (5416m) pass is one of the world's highest challenging passes between Kali-Gandaki and Manang valley, the highest point of Annapurna Circuit Trek. This is one of the best trekking trails in Nepal for scenery, cultural and geographic diversity. 

A minimum of 12 days is enough for Throng-la to pass and fly to Pokhara. If you like to extend trekking days, there are multiple trekking side trails. It takes more than 21 days to trek the entire Annapurna circuit, but you can customize your trek as your holiday duration

TRIP ITINERARY

DAY- 1: Arrive in Kathmandu.

Schedule your flight as your itinerary, and our trekking member will pick you up and drop in hotel. He will brief the next-day schedule.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu. 

DAY- 2: Kathmandu Heritage tour and sightseeing.

As per the plan, our guide will pick up for city sightseeing. Three primary Kathmandu heritage
sites, Baudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar-Square, are scheduled for this day.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu. 

DAY- 3: Drive to Tal (1700m): 9-10 hours’ drive.

We start driving after breakfast from Hotel, following the road to Pokhara along the Trisuli river. At Dumre, we change track and go north to Besi Sahar, following northwards of Marsyangdi river. Besi Sahar to Tal is a bumpy drive prepare yourself for that. Continue, following northwards of Marsyagdi river with beautiful forest on the way we pass through Syange, Jagat, Chamje village. Tal is a lovely village alongside the river with a huge waterfall.
 
Stay overnight in the Local Tea House.

DAY- 4: Trek Tal to Danaque (2190m): 5-6 hours.

Continuing our first-day trek alongside the Marsyangdi river with a dramatic section of carved road on the other side of the river on the rock wall. Crossing the bridge at the trail's end takes you to the other side of the road. Following the main road led to Dharapani, where authorities check your permit. Walking through the forest and beside gravel roads for around 3 hours takes to get beautiful small village surrounded by high hill Danaque.

Stay overnight in the Local Tea House. 

DAY- 5: Trek Danaque to Chame (2670m): 5-6 hours walk.

Starting the day with gently climbing northwards trail led to the small village Timang in between the jungle. After you reach the top of the Timang, the trail goes up and downs to the old town of Thanchowk on a ridge, which is worth seeing. Follow the road trail for about an hour to reach Koto, which is best for lunch and tea breaks. 30-45 minutes straight walk alongside the river, you will be at headquarter of Manang-Chame.

Stay overnight in the local Tea House.

DAY- 6: Check-in Manang valley and overnight in Pisang (3200m).

Walking through a deep gorge and slowly entering into high elevation, you experience a dramatic change in scenery. Beautiful apple orchards on the riverbank in Bhratang in between an alpine forest and a carved road out of a vertical rock wall high above the river beyond Bhratang make the trek memorable. Follow the trail and take in the spectacular view of the steep polished enormous rock called Swarga Dwari “gateway to Haven”, offering you a spectacular view. Cross the river on a suspension bridge and climb up through a dense forest trail led to the small settlement of Dhukar Pokhari, best for lunch and a view of Manang valley. From here, 45 minute Straight forward road between forest take you lower Pisang.

Stay overnight in the Local Tea House. 

DAY- 7: Trek to Manang (3540m) via Gyaru and Ngawal.

After breakfast passing through the long Mani wall and crossing the suspension bridge trail, start climbing straight up to the typical village Gyaru. Overlooking the valley with perfect views of Annapurna II, IV, and III, Gyaru is ideal for brief rest and taking pictures. With an excellent view over the entire valley trail, continue straight to the west, leading you to the village of Ngawal. Fuel up for a further walk in Nagwal and a short descent and gentle walk around an hour join to main road at Munchi. Trek continues alongside fields and passes through the old village of Braga; this will take around an hour to Manang from Munchi. 

 

Stay Overnight in The Local Tea House.

DAY- 8: Acclimatization Day in Manang (3540m).

Today is rest and acclimatization day in Manang. Spend enough time for rest in bed, and after breakfast, short 3 hours hike around Manang is the best to learn about Manang. Crossing Marsyandi river, it is an hour's walk up to the Gangapurna glacier lake. This is perfect for closer looks at Gangapurna, Glacier Lake, Manang valley, and other surrounding mountain views.

Stay overnight in the Local Tea House.

Day- 9: Trek Manang to Leder (4200m).

Today is the shortest walk of the entire trek. Only around 2 hours walk is enough to get to Throng Phedi. Altitude makes it quite difficult while climbing the trail. After crossing a small river on the way climbing there is 2 landslide area before reaching Throng Phedi. Step gently at the landslide area and follow your group member. Throng Phedi is the base for the throng-La pass so prepare yourself for the next day's long and high pass.

Stay Overnight in the Tea House. 

Day- 10: Trek Leder to Throng Phedi (4450m).

Today is the shortest walk of the entire trek. Only around 2 hours walk is enough to get to Throng Phedi. Altitude makes it quite difficult while climbing the trail. After crossing, a small river on the way climbing there is 2 landslide area before reaching Throng Phedi. Step gently at the landslide area and follow your group member. Throng Phedi is the base for the throng-La pass so prepare yourself for the next day's long and high pass.

Stay Overnight in The Local Tea House. 

Day- 11: Cross Throng-La Pass (5416m) and trek to Muktinath (3760m).

Start climbing early morning with the necessary gear items. This is a challenging day of Trek. Almost 7-8 hours to walk in highlands is not an easy task. It takes a steep climb of an hour to get to High Camp, and after around 25 minutes, you will reach a little iron bridge. Climbing multiple small ridges slowly takes almost 3 hours to reach Summit (5416m). At the summit, you will see some prayer flags and a small board with “Throng-La 5416m) written on it. Spend a short time on the pass and celebrate your achievement with group members. Ready yourself long descent of 1600 meters to Muktinath.

Stay Overnight in the Tea House.

(Note: in case of heavy snow fall and bad weather condition, it’s better to stop overnight in Phedi and try to cross next day.)

Day- 12: Trek Muktinath to Kagbeni (2810m).

After breakfast, visit the temples and monasteries of Buddhists and Hindus in Muktinath. Continuing walking, we cross the Jhong Khola and climb up to Jhong, a Small ancient village of Mustang famous for its old monasteries and landscape. Passing wind-eroded cliffs, we continue to follow the trail to Kagbeni. Kagbeni is best for exploring Tibetan Buddhism and its lifestyle.

Stay overnight in The Local Guest House.

Day- 13: Trek Kagbeni to Jomsom (2760m).

Follows the southwards of Kali Gandaki River early in the morning; there are strong winds after 11 clocks. 3-4 hours straight walk alongside the river, passing through Ekle Bhatti – a small tea house; you will see Jomsom on the riverbank of Kali Gandaki in 30 minutes. Enjoy your last trekking day in Mountains.

Stay Overnight in the Local Tea House.

Day- 14: Fly Jomsom to Pokhara and Rest Day in Pokhara (820m).

Early morning, we fly to Nepal's second biggest Pokhara city. Flights take 20-25 minutes and fly between the highest mountain Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. We check into the hotel, rest and walk around Phewa lake. 

Stay Overnight in Temple Tree or Fishtail Lodge, Pokhara. 

Day- 15: Tour in Pokhara.

Short drive from the hotel and visit International Mountain Museum (IMM). IMM is best for knowledge about the Himalayas, and the cultural lifestyle of the people of the Himalayan region. 2 hours is enough to explore the museum. From IMM short drive to visit Devi’s Fall and Tibetan Refugee settlement. Tibetan refugee camp monastery and Museum offer you a vast knowledge of Tibetan lifestyle and culture. Another short drive to World Peace Pagoda. Which is a good viewpoint of the Pokhara, lake, and Annapurna ranges. Short hike from stupa to Phewa lake and take a boat across the lake.

Stay Overnight in Pokhara.

Day- 16: Fly back to Kathmandu.

Fly back to Kathmandu. Good weather offers you an excellent view of the mountains. Check-in hotel, rest, and shop. Your guide will update you about the next day's schedule.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

 

Day-17: Final Departure.

Our office staff will drop you at the airport Three hours before the flight schedule.

TRIP DETAILS

WHAT'S INCLUDED

✓ 3 nights’ in Kathmandu and 2 nights’ in Pokhara 4 stars hotel. Tea houses on sharing basis during trek.

✓ All listed transport and activities.

✓Entry fees in Heritage site in Kathmandu as per itinerary.

✓ Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner during Trekking.

✓ Trekking permit and national park fees.

✓ Trekking permit, Mera Peak Climbing Permits, and national park tickets.

✓ Arrival and departure transfers.

✓ Experienced Trekking guide and other support staff.

✓ Flight ticket KTM – Lukla - KTM.

✓ Flight Tickets Pokhara to Kathmandu.

✓ Proper Insurance of all local staff, including porters.

✓ Service Charge & Government Taxes.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

 Personal Travel and Medical Insurances. (Travel insurance is compulsory for all travelers.)
 Personal Trekking Gear and Equipment.
 Tips and gratitude to the guide and driver.
 International flight tickets. 
 Personal expenses, like laundry, phone calls, snacks & soft drinks.
 Lunch and Dinner during staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara. 
 Extra cost occurs due to unforeseen circumstances during the trip, like flight cancellation and medical issues. 
 Visa fees and vaccination. (Covid-19 vaccination is mandatory for all travelers.

 

WHAT GEAR TO BRING

Once you book  this trek you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list.

FAQ

How do I sign up for a trip?

Reserving a trip is easy. Send us a note or call us at  734-997-7229 or contact us directly:  Pem Dorjee Sherpa at 303-834-5512, info@imperialexpedition.com.  Once we have received your information, we will send the trip application.  Please complete and return these forms with your deposit of $500 for each person, which amount is applied toward the cost of your trip.  Full payment is required if you sign up within 45 days of the trip’s departure.  We recommend that you sign up as early as possible.  The trip deposit is fully refundable until 90 days before departure, so there is no risk in reserving your space early.  All prices quoted are in US dollars and are subject to change.  All payments must be made in US dollars.  We accept Visa®, MasterCard®, and American Express® as well as personal checks or PayPal. We are also open to creating trips on a first-come-first-serve basis.  If there is a trip that you have an interest in particular dates that you have in mind, we will organize a trip just for you.  
Once you have paid the deposit, we will finalize your itinerary and send information about health, culture, packing lists, and more to help you get ready.  We can also help you find international flights to your destination.  Full payment will be due about a month before departure.  We will ask for a copy of your passport, a medical form, a release of liability form, an acknowledgment of terms and conditions, a copy of your flights, emergency evacuation insurance, etc.  We will be available by phone and email to answer questions and help you organize your trip's details.  We will pick you up at the airport and make all local arrangements abroad so that you can get the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE TO TREK IN THE HIMALAYAS?

You should be moderately fit, exercise regularly, and enjoy active vacations, walking, and hiking in mountainous terrain.  For the Everest base camp trek, you should be able to run for an hour without stopping at any speed and still feel good to continue – OR – walk for 5-6 hours in a day with rests.  Trekking is an endurance sport.  Mostly you need a good attitude, which will go a long way toward the success of reaching your goal.

 

What is the best time to Trek in Annapurna Circuit?

The popular time for the Annapurna circuit trek is Mid-March to Mid-May; this time is warm and the best time to see changing color of Nature. Another popular time is Mid-September to Mid-November, especially October, considered the best time to trek; during this time temperature is best for hiking. Annapurna circuit is open for all seasons, and you can do any season, but you must prepare as per the season and weather conditions in this region. 

Do we need climbing equipment to pass Throng-La?

No, the Throng-la pass not require any climbing equipment. This pass is, as usual, another trekking train. The problem is when there is high snow or snowstorm during the pass. Please check the weather before passing this trail and make sure the weather is favorable. You must take wark clothes like waterproof , a down jacket, and a windproof jacket to deal with the temperature.

Can we shorten the trek day or itinerary?

 Yes, you can shorten your trekking trip by driving; you can use a jeep to go directly to Manang, which is not recommended because of the possibility of high altitude sickness. However, you can take a jeep to Chame or Pisang to Start the trek. Another alternative is to take a helicopter to a certain point and start trekking.

Can we fly to Humde or Manang Airport from Kathmandu or Pokhara?

No, Humde or Manang Airport is close, and No commercial flight is running. You can inquire about charter flights or Helicopter as an alternative. Due to high mountain terrain and low passenger number, this airport is not running commercial flights.

How big will the group be?

We try to bring together a small group of like-minded people.  Our trekking groups generally range from 2 to a maximum of 12 members, although we can accommodate smaller groups. You can go for a solo trip to Mera peak though the cost is higher than joining the group. 

How difficult is Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit trek is for those who regularly hike and are physically fit. This Trek considers a difficult trail due to the high altitude and long walking distance. The main problem during the trek is high altitude sickness in the Mountains, whereas we design our itinerary to acclimatize enough during the walk.

WHAT SORT OF EXPERIENCE DO YOUR GUIDES HAVE?

Our guides are dependable, competent, and highly qualified, with more than ten years of trekking experience, leading trips, treks, climbs, and expeditions in the Himalayas.  Our guides speak English and the local language.  We are trained in first aid and CPR. Most importantly, our guides are friendly and enjoyable and passionate about sharing Nepal's rich cultures, traditions, and natural beauty.

WHAT IS THE ROUTINE ON THE TREK?

Most trekkers start their day early, around 7:30 to 8:30 am, after a hot breakfast.  The morning sun offers nice mountain views.  You will carry a light pack for your camera, water, a jacket, and a wind layer.  Around noon we will reach the lunch stop, where we will spend time drinking tea, resting, and having lunch.  After lunch, we usually walk for 2 to 3 more hours before arriving, where we will stop for the evening.  Here at the lodge, we will have hot tea and relax for the rest of the day.  Our day ends with dinner, and then off to bed in single or double rooms in the trekking lodge.

 

What if I have to cancel?

If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due to Imperial Expedition prior to departure when we receive written notice of your cancellation. Cancellation Fee Schedule for tours and treks:

  • 90-81 days prior to departure You forfeit half the deposit
  • 80-60 days prior to departure You forfeit the deposit
  • 59-31 days prior to departure You forfeit 50% of the total amount
  • 30 or fewer days prior to departure You forfeit the entire cost of the trip

Cancellation Fee Schedule for Climbing Trips and Expeditions:

  • 180-150 days prior to departure You forfeit
  • 149-89 days prior to departure You forfeit 50% of the total amount
  • 90 or fewer days prior to departure You forfeit the entire cost of the trip
 



HOW LONG DO WE WALK EACH DAY?

Our trips are classified into three categories according to the level of difficulty.  Easy adventure treks are about a week to 10 days in duration.  They generally don’t go above 13,000 feet (4,000m).  You can expect hiking/walking for around 4-5 hours daily.  Moderate to somewhat challenging treks are longer treks that go into a high mountain country above 13,000 feet (4,000m).  Physically these trips are more demanding and tiring and may involve 6-8 hours of trekking along rocky trails in high Himalayan terrain.  Strenuous treks are longer treks that go beyond the everyday activities of trekkers and tourists.  These include ice climbing and mountaineering expeditions.  Physically challenging, these trips may involve 7-9 hours of trekking in a day and are likely to include unfavorable weather conditions and strenuous activities.  Some level of experience may be required for these trips.

Can we access the internet and use our cell phones during Trek?

Yes, you can activate your international roaming service before entering Nepal, which costs more expensive than your regular service at home. You can use WIFI in the Local Tea House, where you have to charge $2 to $5 to use WIFI, or you can buy a recharge card to use internet data. Specific locations may be out of connection by cell phone service and WIFI where we can use the satellite phone. 

What happens in case of an emergency?

In the case of a serious illness or a life-threatening emergency during your trek, a helicopter rescue will be initiated.  You are responsible for all the expenses incurred in such an evacuation.  It is required that you have insurance that covers emergency helicopter evacuation throughout your trip.  However unlikely, we are prepared for emergencies, and your guide will respond quickly to get any necessary medical help.  We aim to avoid such circumstances with education and a large dose of preventative medicine.

Can I get a Nepal visa on arrival?

Yes! A Nepal visa is readily available upon arrival at the entry places. Make the process easier by downloading & completing the application form, having the correct USD cash, and two passport photographs. Visa fees are mention as below: 
Multiple entry15 daysUS$ 25 or equivalent Nepali currency
Multiple entry30 daysUS$ 40 or equivalent Nepali currency
Multiple entry90 daysUS$ 100 or equivalent Nepali currency

Custom Declaration on Kathmandu, Nepal Arrival (For Foreign Nationals)

1. Travelers must declare goods over permitted personal effects and duty-exempted consumable goods and restricted/prohibited goods and commercial goods at the red channel. Travelers possessing such goods may use the green channel.
2. Export or import narcotics, arms and explosives, wildlife and its products, and commercial goods are restricted/prohibited. Attempt to import or export such goods may lead to confiscation of goods, penalty, and arrest resulting in prosecution.
3. Travelers must declare foreign currency at the red channel if the sum exceeds US$2000 or equivalent.
4. Permitted used personal effects are as follows in condition to return at the time of departure:
1. Binocular one set.
2. Video Camera and still camera one set each.
3. Portable music system one set recorded media 10 pcs.
4. Cloths and goods of day-to-day use.
5. Perambulator and tricycle, one set each.
6. Bicycle one set.
7. Watch one piece.
8. Cellular mobile phone one set
9. Professional hand tools are one set for professional personnel.
5. Duty-exempted consumable goods are as follows:
1. Whiskey/wine not exceeding 1.15 liters or beer up to 12 cans.
2. Cigarettes 200 sticks, cigar 50 sticks, tobacco 250 grams.
3. Camera film up to 15 pcs and movie film 12 reels.
4. Readymade and can foods not exceeding NRs.1000.00.
5. Medicine not exceeding Nrs.1000.00.
6. Fresh fruits not exceeding NRs.1000.00

Is it possible to deviate from the itinerary?

Our specific itineraries are custom crafted with you in mind.  Once we agree on a plan, we can make minor changes and adjustments en route.  The itinerary acts as a general plan for the trip.  However, there are often local events, festivals, and holidays that could affect or change our schedule. As long as everyone agrees on these changes, that is fine. Significant changes to the itinerary may be made if there are political or environmental concerns.  Your guide will be able to help to make any necessary adjustments.  Our trips are adventures that may take you into remote regions where unforeseen circumstances may contribute to the need for a change in the itinerary.

Do you have any suggestions on what to do and what not to do concerning the Nepalese culture?

Nepal has many diverse ethnic groups, traditions, and religions.  Numerous cultural practices may appear unusual to a person on his/her first visit to the country.
  • The most common greeting in Nepal is “Namaste,” performed by placing the palms together and bowing as if praying.
  • Before entering a Nepalese home, temple or monastery, remember to remove your shoes and place them neatly side-by-side.
  • Be careful not to use your spoon, fork, or hands to touch another person’s food, plate, cooking utensils, or even the serving dish.  Do not eat from other people’s plates, and do not drink from other people’s water bottles or glasses.  This is considered to be impure by the Nepalese.
  • Never touch anything with your feet.  The feet and the floor are considered dirty.
  • While traveling, please feel free to dress appropriately.  Women should avoid short skirts and sleeveless shirts.
  • Seek permission before entering a Hindu temple.  Many Hindu temples do not allow non-Hindus to enter.
  • Leather is prohibited inside temples because cows are considered sacred and are not used for slaughter.
  • Walking around temples or Buddhist stupas is traditionally done clockwise.
  •  Ask before taking photographs of the locals.  Some believe part of the soul is taken when a picture is snapped.
  • Public displays of affection between a man and a woman are frowned upon and are not generally accepted.
  • When the Nepalese shake their head from left to right, they may mean, “Yes.”
  • Develop a genuine interest in Nepal and meet and talk to the Nepalese people.  Do your best to respect their local customs and traditions.

Payment methods.

For your convenience, we have different payment methods, as mentioned below. You can choose any of these methods:
1. Bank Transfer (ask for account info) 
2. Mail a check made out to 'Imperial Expedition' to Imperial Expedition  218 S. Main St. Ann Arbor, MI. 48104
3.  You can also pay by credit card, over the phone, or online

What about transferring trips?

Tours and trekking trips may be transferred to the next year or another date; however, the transfer must be made 90 days or more before departure.  Otherwise, if the transfer is made 90 days or less before departure, you must pay the cancellation fees outlined above.  There are no extra fees for transferring trips more than 90 days before departure.  However, for climbing trips and expeditions, if you would like to change our trip to the next year or different dates, an automatic transfer fee of $1,000 must be paid to Imperial Expedition.

Should I purchase trip cancellation insurance?

Suppose you must cancel your trip due to illness, injury, or death of yourself or an immediate family member, trip cancellation insurance protects all your deposits and payments for air and land costs.  It is recommended that you buy trip cancellation insurance, but optional.

 



What if Of Imperial Expedition cancels my trip?

Imperial Expedition reserves the right to cancel all or a portion of a trip due to political or environmental circumstances which may hinder trip operations or for other reasons beyond our control.  In case of such a cancellation, we will give a full refund for the cost of the trip.  However, Imperial Expedition is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by you in preparing for the trip, visa fees, gear, insurance, or medical expenses prior to the trip.  The airline's refund policy applies if international air tickets have been purchased.

What other expenses should I consider?

Medical advice and inoculations, health and travel insurance, travel and trekking gear, international airfare, Nepali visas, airport tax, spending money, and most meals are not included in the cost of your trip.

How much should I budget for tipping?

Your support team will work hard to please you during your trip.  They will appreciate receiving a tip at the end of their service.  The amount you give depends on you and your appreciation of their work.  We recommend giving tips from $200 – $300 to your porters. 

 



Electricity in Nepal

Residential electrical outlets in some countries, including the United States, use 110-120 volts of electricity and accept certain plugs. Many other countries, including Nepal, use 220-240 volts to power their appliances and different plugs. If you try to plug an American device, such as a shaver or hair dryer, into an outlet of a different voltage, you may destroy the appliance and cause yourself injury. Before you travel, you should know a few things about other countries (like Nepal).

Contact Us

We are always available to answer your questions.  Please let us know what’s on your mind.  Good communication is essential for a safe and fulfilling trip!  Send us a note or call us directly:
Name:  Pem Dorjee Sherpa
Phone:  303-834-5512
Email:  info@imperialexpedition.com