Annapurna Circuit Trek - 14 Days

Day 1 Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule (845m / 2,815ft)

Your Annapurna Circuit adventure begins early in the morning with a private vehicle drive from the bustling streets of Kathmandu westward through winding mountain roads. The journey offers glimpses of Nepal's rural life, terraced fields, rivers, and distant Himalayan peaks. After approximately 7-8 hours (around 185-200 km), you arrive in Bhulbhule, a peaceful riverside village marking the official start of the trek. Settle into your teahouse, enjoy the fresh air along the Marshyangdi River, and prepare for the days ahead with a relaxed evening.

Day 2 Trek from Bhulbhule (845m / 2,815ft) to Jagat (1,300m / 4,265ft)

After breakfast, the trek commences on a pleasant trail following the Marshyangdi River through lush subtropical forests, small settlements, and suspension bridges. You'll pass charming Gurung villages like Bahundanda with its panoramic views before descending and ascending gently to Jagat. The path features cascading waterfalls, terraced farmland, and opportunities to observe local life. This moderate 5-6 hour trek (about 15-18 km) ends in Jagat, a welcoming village with teahouses and the chance to explore nearby hot springs or simply unwind.

Day 3 Trek from Jagat (1,300m / 4,265ft) to Dharapani (1,860m / 6,200ft)

The trail continues upstream along the river, passing through forested sections and the scenic village of Tal with its beautiful waterfall-fed lake. You'll cross more suspension bridges and enter the Manang district at Dharapani, where the landscape begins to open up with views of snow-capped peaks. This 5-6 hour trek (around 15 km) introduces you to Tibetan-influenced architecture and prayer flags, culminating in Dharapani—a larger village ideal for resting and enjoying local cuisine.

Day 4 Trek from Dharapani (1,860m / 6,200ft) to Chame (2,610m / 8,890ft)

Today's route winds through pine and rhododendron forests with increasingly dramatic mountain vistas, including Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Pass the district headquarters of Chame, featuring apple orchards, a monastery, and hot springs for a soothing soak. The 5-6 hour trek (about 16-18 km) is rewarding with consistent uphill sections balanced by stunning scenery and cultural stops at chortens and mani walls.

Day 5 Trek from Chame (2,610m / 8,890ft) to Upper Pisang (3,300m / 10,826ft)

Leaving Chame, the path climbs steadily through forests to Pisang village, where you opt for the scenic upper route to Upper Pisang for superior views of Annapurna II, III, and IV. This higher trail offers breathtaking panoramas and a peaceful Tibetan-style village with ancient gompas. The 5-6 hour trek (around 14-16 km) marks a noticeable altitude gain, preparing you for the higher regions ahead.

Day 6 Trek from Pisang (3,115m / 10,200ft) to Manang (3,540m / 11,300ft)

A relatively easier day with gradual ascent through dry, arid landscapes and charming villages like Braga. Enjoy views of Gangapurna and Annapurna III as you arrive in Manang, a vibrant hub with bakeries, shops, and monasteries. This 5-6 hour trek (about 15 km) allows time to explore the town and acclimatize gently.

Day 7 Rest and Acclimatization day at Manang (3,519m / 11,545ft)

A crucial rest day in Manang to adapt to higher altitudes. Options include short hikes to nearby viewpoints like Gangapurna Lake, the Ice Lake, or ancient gompas for cultural insights. Relax, enjoy local apple pie, visit the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic, or simply soak in the serene surroundings with panoramic mountain views.

Day 8 Trek from Manang (3,540m / 11,300ft) to Ledar (4,250m / 13,943ft)

The trail ascends steadily into the alpine zone, passing yak pastures and the villages of Yak Kharka. The landscape turns barren yet strikingly beautiful with close-up views of Annapurna and Gangapurna. This 4-5 hour trek (about 10-12 km) brings you to Ledar (also known as Letdar or Yak Kharka area), a quiet spot for overnight rest.

Day 9 Trek from Ledar (4,250m / 13,943ft) to Thorong High Camp (4,925m / 16,158ft)

A short but steep ascent to Thorong Phedi and then to the High Camp, offering dramatic high-altitude scenery. This 3-4 hour trek prepares you for the pass crossing, with time to rest early in preparation for the big day. Enjoy sunset views over the surrounding peaks from this lofty perch.

Day 10 Trek from Thorong High Camp (4,925m / 16,158ft) to Muktinath Temple (3,760m / 12,623ft) via Thorong La High Pass (5,416m / 17,756ft)

The trek's pinnacle—an early start to cross Thorong La Pass, the world's highest trekking pass. Revel in 360-degree Himalayan panoramas including Annapurna I, Thorong Peak, and Dhaulagiri. Descend steeply to Muktinath, a sacred Hindu-Buddhist temple site with 108 water spouts and eternal flame. This challenging 7-9 hour day (about 15-18 km) is immensely rewarding.

Day 11 Drive from Muktinath (3,760m / 12,623ft) to Jomsom and Tatopani (1,200m / 3,940ft)

After morning temple exploration, take a scenic jeep drive down the Kali Gandaki Valley through apple orchards and windswept landscapes to Jomsom, then continue to Tatopani. Relax in the famous natural hot springs—perfect for soothing tired muscles after the pass. This full-day drive offers a relaxing transition to lower elevations.

Day 12 Trek from Tatopani (1,200m / 3,940ft) to Ghorepani (2,860m / 9,385ft)

Re-enter lush forests and rhododendron trails, climbing steadily past charming villages and waterfalls to Ghorepani. This moderate-to-strenuous 6-7 hour trek (about 15-18 km) rewards with views of Dhaulagiri and the promise of tomorrow's sunrise.

Day 13 Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m / 10,525ft) - then trek to Tikhedhunga (1,570m / 5,150ft) - Drive to Nayapul, Pokhara

Rise before dawn for a 45-60 minute ascent to Poon Hill's famous viewpoint for a spectacular sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Descend to Ghorepani for breakfast, then trek downhill through terraced fields and villages to Tikhedhunga. From there, a short drive to Nayapul and onward to scenic Pokhara for lakeside relaxation, shopping, or boating on Phewa Lake.

Day 14 Drive from Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) to Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,450ft)

A scenic 6-8 hour drive back to Kathmandu along rivers and hills, reflecting on your epic journey. Arrive in the afternoon for free time, perhaps shopping in Thamel or a farewell dinner, before concluding this remarkable Annapurna Circuit experience.