Overview
Annapurna Circuit Trek from Pokhara
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s great classic Himalayan routes. From Pokhara, the journey connects with the Marsyangdi valley, climbs through Pisang and Manang, crosses Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, and descends toward the Muktinath and Mustang side.
This trek is ideal for travelers who want a longer, more challenging Annapurna experience with high-pass adventure and strong cultural variety.
Who This Trek Fits
Is Annapurna Circuit Trek right for you?
Annapurna Circuit Trek is suitable for fit trekkers, prepared first-time Himalayan walkers, couples, and small groups who want a longer, high-altitude Annapurna journey with real mountain variety.
Good fit if
- You have around 10 to 14 days.
- You want Thorong La Pass and high-altitude trekking.
- You enjoy changing landscapes and village culture.
- You prefer a classic Himalayan route.
Maybe not if
- You only have 4 to 5 days.
- You want an easy beginner trek.
- You are not comfortable with altitude risk.
- You dislike long walking days.
Not sure? Compare Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp or Upper Mustang before choosing.
Pace Options
Choose the right Annapurna Circuit itinerary
Annapurna Circuit should not be rushed. The right plan depends on road access, acclimatization, Thorong La crossing, and how much of the classic route you want to include.
Short and Tight
9–10 Days
Possible with road access and strong fitness, but it can feel rushed and less comfortable.
Balanced Pace
11–12 Days
A practical format for many travelers with better acclimatization rhythm and Thorong La planning.
More Comfortable
13–15 Days
Best for guests who want slower movement, more village time, and better altitude safety.
Route Flow
How the Annapurna Circuit route builds up
The route usually starts with a drive from Pokhara toward the Marsyangdi valley, then builds through the Chame and Pisang side, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi or High Camp, Thorong La, and finally descends toward Muktinath.
Pokhara
822m
Main coordination base for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Besisahar / Chame side
Road access
Entry corridor toward the Marsyangdi valley and higher villages.
Pisang
3,200m+
Beautiful village area with strong mountain views and cultural atmosphere.
Manang
3,540m
Important acclimatization village before moving toward Thorong La.
Thorong Phedi / High Camp
4,500m+
High overnight area before the pass crossing.
Thorong La to Muktinath
5,416m
Highest and most demanding section of the trek.
Itinerary
12-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary
This 12-day Annapurna Circuit itinerary from Pokhara gives a practical rhythm for the Manang side, acclimatization, Thorong La crossing, Mustang descent, and a scenic return toward Pokhara. A 9–10 day plan is possible but tight; 13–15 days is more comfortable.
01Pokhara to Chame
Long drive
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Pokhara to Chame
Long drive
Drive from Pokhara toward the Marsyangdi valley and continue by road toward Chame depending on road condition.
02Chame to Upper Pisang
5–6 hrs walk
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Chame to Upper Pisang
5–6 hrs walk
Begin walking through pine forest, river valley, and mountain village scenery toward Pisang.
03Upper Pisang to Manang
6–7 hrs walk
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Upper Pisang to Manang
6–7 hrs walk
Walk through one of the scenic high-route sections toward Manang, with strong mountain views on a clear day.
04Acclimatization day in Manang
Short acclimatization walk
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Acclimatization day in Manang
Short acclimatization walk
Spend the day acclimatizing around Manang with a short hike and rest before moving higher.
05Manang to Yak Kharka
4–5 hrs walk
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Manang to Yak Kharka
4–5 hrs walk
Move gradually higher through alpine terrain toward Yak Kharka.
06Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
4–5 hrs walk
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Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
4–5 hrs walk
Walk toward the base area below Thorong La, keeping a steady pace and watching altitude response.
07Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath
7–9 hrs walk
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Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath
7–9 hrs walk
Start very early and cross Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, then descend to Muktinath on the Mustang side.
08Muktinath to Marpha / Jomsom
Trek or drive mix
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Muktinath to Marpha / Jomsom
Trek or drive mix
Continue through the Mustang side toward Jomsom or Marpha depending on itinerary and road choice.
09Marpha / Jomsom to Tatopani side
Drive or trek mix
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Marpha / Jomsom to Tatopani side
Drive or trek mix
Move down through the Kali Gandaki corridor toward warmer lower areas.
10Tatopani to Ghorepani side
5–7 hrs walk
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Tatopani to Ghorepani side
5–7 hrs walk
Climb through villages and forest toward Ghorepani if including the classic Poon Hill finish.
11Poon Hill sunrise, trek to Ghandruk side
5–7 hrs walk
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Poon Hill sunrise, trek to Ghandruk side
5–7 hrs walk
Wake early for sunrise views, then continue through forest and village trails.
12Trek to roadhead, drive to Pokhara
Short trek + drive
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Trek to roadhead, drive to Pokhara
Short trek + drive
Walk to the nearest accessible roadhead and drive back to Pokhara.
Price Guide
Pricing should be clear,
not confusing.
The final Annapurna Circuit Trek cost from Pokhara depends on group size, itinerary length, guide or porter needs, transport, season, and comfort expectation. Send us your dates and group size, and we’ll give a clear cost breakdown before you decide.
1 Person
Solo Traveler
Highest per-person cost
Private guide, transport, and logistics are not shared, so the cost is usually higher.
2–3 People
Couple / Friends
Better shared cost
A good option for couples or friends who want a private Circuit trek with better shared value.
4–6 People
Small Private Group
Best balance
Usually gives a strong balance between flexibility, comfort, and shared cost.
7–10 People
Larger Group
Lower per-person cost
Can reduce per-person cost, but needs careful coordination, pacing, and lodge planning.
Inclusions
What can be included
A guided Annapurna Circuit package can include route planning, guide, permits, teahouses, meals, local transport, porter option, and on-trail support.
Commonly included
- Route planning
- Licensed trekking guide
- Permit guidance and support
- Teahouse accommodation
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Local transport as per itinerary
- Porter option if requested
Usually separate
- Travel insurance
- Emergency evacuation
- Personal snacks and drinks
- Hot shower, Wi-Fi, and charging where extra
- Tips for guide or porter
- Extra cost from weather, road, or route changes
Difficulty
How difficult is Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Annapurna Circuit Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek. The main difficulty comes from the longer duration, gradual altitude gain, cold mornings, route changes, and the Thorong La crossing at 5,416 meters.
Challenging route
This is more demanding than ABC, Mardi, or Poon Hill.
Highest point: 5,416m
Thorong La Pass requires careful acclimatization and early start planning.
Hardest parts
Altitude, cold mornings, long pass day, and route/weather changes.
Comfort
Food, teahouses, and trail comfort
Annapurna Circuit Trek is a teahouse trek. Rooms are simple, food is available along the trail, and facilities become more basic as you go higher.
Teahouses
Simple mountain lodges with basic rooms, beds, and shared facilities.
Food
Dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, soup, eggs, potatoes, tea, and basic breakfast items.
Facilities
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging, and private rooms may cost extra or be limited.
Permits
Annapurna Circuit Trek permits
Trekkers need the required Annapurna Conservation Area permit. TIMS and guide-related rules should be checked before departure because official requirements can change.
If you book through Thousand Miles Trek Company, we help you understand the required permit process before the journey.
FAQ
Annapurna Circuit Trek FAQs
Can I start Annapurna Circuit from Pokhara?
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Yes. The route can be coordinated from Pokhara with a drive toward the Marsyangdi valley access side.
How many days do I need for Annapurna Circuit Trek?
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Most practical plans range from 10 to 14 days depending on road access, acclimatization, and route style.
Is Annapurna Circuit suitable for beginners?
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It is better for fit trekkers with some preparation because of altitude and Thorong La Pass.
What is the highest point?
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The highest point is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.
Is Annapurna Circuit harder than ABC?
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Yes, Annapurna Circuit is generally harder because it is longer and reaches much higher altitude.
When is the best time?
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Spring and autumn are popular. Winter can be very cold and pass conditions must be checked carefully.
