Annapurna Circuit Trek: The Complete Guide
The Annapurna Circuit is the most diverse single trek in Nepal — crossing from the subtropical Marsyangdi valley, over the 5,416 m Thorong La pass, and down into the arid, Tibetan-influenced Kali Gandaki (the world's deepest valley, between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri).
It is a teahouse trek throughout, with no camping required. The climatic and cultural contrast between the green Hindu lower valley and the Buddhist, rain-shadow upper valley is the trek's signature.
The Route and Thorong La
The classic circuit begins at Besisahar and follows the Marsyangdi valley through Chamje, Bagarchap, Chame and Pisang to Manang (3,540 m), where an acclimatisation day is essential. The crossing of Thorong La (5,416 m) to Muktinath is the high point — a long day that should only be attempted in stable weather.
Road construction has shortened the classic circuit; many trekkers now start higher (Chame or Dharapani) and exit at Jomsom, flying or busing out. The Tilicho Lake side trip (4,919 m) and the Annapurna Sanctuary side trip are popular extensions.
Permits and Season
Required permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card, obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. As with Everest, a licensed guide is now required for the main national park regions — check current rules.
Best seasons are October–November and March–May. Thorong La can be impassable with snow from December to March; the pass should not be attempted in bad weather — turn back and wait.
Fitness, Gear and Safety
The Circuit is a teahouse trek throughout — lodges provide beds and hot meals, so you carry only a daypack. Strong walking fitness and disciplined acclimatisation are the requirements: take the rest day at Manang (3,540 m), ascend no more than 300–500 m of sleeping altitude per day above 3,000 m, and never cross Thorong La in bad weather — turn back and wait rather than risk it.
Carry layered clothing, a warm jacket for the high-altitude nights, a 4-season sleeping bag (teahouse rooms are unheated), and full waterproofs for the lower-valley sections. Insurance covering helicopter evacuation above 5,000 m is essential. The Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) side trip is a popular acclimatisation extension; the Annapurna Sanctuary can be added as a separate trek at the end.
Frequently asked questions
- How high is the Thorong La pass? Thorong La is 5,416 m — the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit and one of the highest trekking passes in the world. It should only be crossed in stable weather.
- How long is the Annapurna Circuit? The classic circuit is ~160–230 km over 15–20 days, depending on road use. Road construction has shortened the traditional route.
- What is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit? October–November and March–May. Thorong La can be snow-blocked from December to March.
- Do I need a guide for the Annapurna Circuit? Since 2023, a licensed guide is required for trekkers in Nepal's main national park regions. Check current Nepal Tourism Board rules before booking.
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