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- Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 days
Overview & Highlights
- Based On 12 Reviews
Trip Facts
- AccommodationTea House
- Max Altitude5416m
- Best SeasonSpring/Autumn
- Trip GradeStrenuous
- Trekking TypesTea House
- MealsAll inclusive
- Group SizeMax 16
Looking for an epic trekking experience? The Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 days is the ultimate Himalayan journey—blending natural beauty, cultural encounters, and the thrill of crossing the world-renowned Thorong La Pass. Ideal for those seeking adventure, challenge, and unforgettable views, this trek is one of Nepal’s most celebrated routes.
Why Choose Annapurna Circuit Trekking
The Annapurna Circuit Trek stands out for its diversity and depth. Here's what makes it legendary:
Thorong La Pass (5,416m): The crown jewel of the trek, offering breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayas.
Cultural Diversity: Engage with Gurung, Sherpa, Tamang, Magar, and Thakali communities along the trail.
Poon Hill Sunrise (Optional): Witness one of Nepal’s most iconic sunrises if added to your itinerary.
Muktinath Temple: A revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Tatopani Hot Springs: Unwind after trekking with a therapeutic soak.
Scenic Landscapes: From subtropical forests to alpine deserts—this trek delivers visual variety at every turn.
Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days Itinerary
| Day | Route |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive Kathmandu → Besishar → Dharapani (1,860m) |
| Day 2 | Drive to Chame (2,610m) |
| Day 3 | Trek to Pisang (3,115m) |
| Day 4 | Trek to Manang (3,540m) |
| Day 5 | Acclimatization Day in Manang |
| Day 6 | Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050m) |
| Day 7 | Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,525m) |
| Day 8 | Cross Thorong La Pass → Muktinath (3,760m) |
| Day 9 | Trek to Jomsom (2,743m) |
| Day 10 | Drive to Tatopani (1,190m) |
| Day 11 | Drive to Pokhara (820m) |
| Day 12 | Return drive to Kathmandu (1,350m) |
This well-structured 12 days Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary ensures acclimatization, cultural highlights, and a smooth travel experience for all levels.
Best Time to Trek the Annapurna Circuit
Spring (March to May): Blooming rhododendrons and clear mountain views.
Autumn (September to November): The most popular season with stable weather and vibrant landscapes.
Winter (December to February): Snowy and quieter, suitable for experienced trekkers.
Monsoon (June to August): Fewer crowds, lush greenery, but possible weather delays.
Packing List for the Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days
Clothing:
Waterproof and windproof outer layers
Fleece or down jacket
Quick-dry shirts and trekking pants
Warm hat, gloves, and wool socks
Gear:
Sleeping bag (-10°C comfort rating)
Trekking poles
40-50L backpack with rain cover
Essentials:
Sunglasses, sunscreen, refillable water bottle
Headlamp with spare batteries
First-aid kit and basic medications
Lightweight towel and personal toiletries
Snacks and power bank for electronics
Cultural Experiences
Throughout the trek, you'll encounter a rich blend of ethnic groups. From Buddhist monasteries and prayer wheels to locally-prepared meals and traditional homes, each village offers a chance to connect with Nepali culture and heritage. Take the time to speak with locals, try traditional foods, and embrace their way of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
It’s rated moderate to challenging. Proper acclimatization and pacing make it suitable for most fit trekkers.
2. How many days do I need?
This Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 days plan offers a complete experience without extra days.
3. What permits are required?
You need the following:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Final Thoughts: Why the Annapurna Circuit is Worth It
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is not just a walk through mountains; it’s a full immersion into the culture, terrain, and soul of Nepal. Whether you’re conquering Thorong La Pass, enjoying the serenity of Manang, or relaxing in Tatopani’s hot springs, every moment offers something truly unforgettable.
Get in touch with Annapurna Encounter Pvt. Ltd. for accurate Annapurna Circuit trek cost details, availability, and bookings.
Contact Information:
Phone: +9779860311119, 9841537595
Email: info@annapurnaencounter.com, annapurnaregion@gmail.com
Website: www.annapurnaencounter.com
12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek – Group Pricing (Per Person in USD)
| Group Size | Budget Package | Standard Package | Premium Package |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person (Solo) | $720 | $1,400 | $2,050 |
| 2 People | $650 | $1,300 | $1,850 |
| 3–7 People | $600 | $1,200 | $1,700 |
| 8–12 People | $570 | $1,150 | $1,600 |
| 13–20 People | $550 | $1,100 | $1,500 |
— Budget = guide + permits + local transport + tea houses, no meals
— Standard = meals, porter, 3 — hotels, tourist bus/private jeep
— Premium = flights, 5 — hotels, best lodges, all extras
If you’re short on time, our 7 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a compact version of the route, while those seeking a longer adventure can join the 15 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek for a more relaxed pace. For trekkers who want to combine lakeside beauty with the classic circuit, we also arrange the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake. If you prefer something shorter in the region, consider our popular Annapurna Base Camp Trek or the scenic Mardi Himal Trek.
Itinerary
Explore the day-by-day plan for your journey.
- Start your journey from Kathmandu, heading west towards Besishar.
- The distance between Kathmandu and Besishar is approximately 200 km.
- The drive will take you through scenic landscapes, rural villages, and winding mountain roads.
- Enjoy the views of terraced fields, rivers, and small settlements along the way.
- Arrive in Besishar, a town situated at an altitude of 845 meters (2,815 feet).
- Ater arriving Besisahar drive to Dharapani
- Check into your accommodation and rest for the night.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
1860 m.
- Today, leave Jomsom and embark on a drive to Tatopani.
- Enjoy the scenic journey as you pass through picturesque villages and river valleys.
- Tatopani is known for its natural hot springs, which provide a relaxing experience.
- Take a dip in the hot springs to rejuvenate your body and soothe your muscles.
- Check into your accommodation and spend the night in Tatopani.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
1190 m.
- After breakfast, continue your drive from Tatopani to Pokhara.
- The drive takes you through beautiful landscapes, alongside the Kali Gandaki River.
- Enjoy the views of the surrounding hills and terraced farmland.
- Arrive in Pokhara, a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty.
- Check into your hotel and have the rest of the day to explore Pokhara.
- Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
950 m.
- After breakfast, bid farewell to Pokhara and start your drive back to Kathmandu.
- The drive will take you through scenic countryside and winding mountain roads.
- Admire the views of the hills, rivers, and traditional Nepalese villages.
- Arrive in Kathmandu, completing your memorable Annapurna Circuit journey.
- Check into your hotel in Kathmandu and rest for the night.
Food
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Elevation
1350 m.
- After breakfast, continue your journey from Dharapani to Chame.
- Chame is located at an elevation of 2,610 meters (8,890 feet).
- The drive takes you deeper into the Himalayan region, offering stunning mountain vistas.
- You will pass through picturesque villages, dense forests, and cross suspension bridges.
- Arrive in Chame, the headquarters of the Manang District.
- Settle into your accommodation and spend the night in Chame.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
2610 m.
- Begin your trekking adventure from Chame towards Pisang.
- The trail gradually ascends as you leave the lush forests behind.
- You'll pass through charming villages, observing the local culture and traditions.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak along the way.
- Reach Pisang, a village situated at an altitude of 3,115 meters (10,200 feet).
- Check into a teahouse or guesthouse, where you'll spend the night.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
3115 m.
- Today's trek takes you from Pisang to Manang.
- The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
- Pass through the Upper Pisang village and traverse the arid landscapes.
- As you ascend, you'll notice the change in vegetation and climate.
- Arrive in Manang, a beautiful village located at an altitude of 3,540 meters (11,300 feet).
- Rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. Overnight stay in Manang.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
3540 m.
Rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. Overnight stay in Manang.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
3540 m.
- Leave Manang behind and continue your trek towards Yak Kharka.
- The trail winds through alpine landscapes, crossing rivers and valleys.
- As you gain altitude, the air becomes thinner, so take it slow and steady.
- Enjoy the stunning views of Gangapurna and other peaks in the Annapurna range.
- Reach Yak Kharka, a grazing pasture for yaks, situated at an altitude of 4,050 meters (14,275 feet).
- Rest and prepare for the next day's trek. Overnight stay in Yak Kharka.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
4050 m.
- Begin your trek from Yak Kharka towards Thorong Phedi.
- The trail climbs steeply as you approach the Thorong La pass.
- Marvel at the rugged mountain scenery and the dramatic landscapes.
- Thorong Phedi is a small village located at an altitude of 4,525 meters (14,525 feet).
- Rest and prepare for the challenging pass crossing the next day.
- Overnight stay in Thorong Phedi.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
4525 m.
- Today is a challenging day as you cross the Thorong La pass.
- Start early in the morning to ensure you have enough time for the crossing.
- The pass stands at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,756 feet) and offers stunning views.
- Trek carefully, following the marked trail, and take breaks to rest and acclimatize.
- Descend from the pass and reach Muktinath, a sacred temple at an altitude of 3,760 meters (12,623 feet).
- Explore the temple and its surroundings. Overnight stay in Muktinath.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
5416 m.
- After breakfast, begin your trek from Muktinath to Jomsom.
- The trail descends through arid landscapes, with views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Pass through Kagbeni, a medieval village with narrow alleys and ancient architecture.
- Continue trekking until you reach Jomsom, a bustling town in the Kali Gandaki Valley.
- Rest and relax in Jomsom. Overnight stay in Jomsom.
Food
BLD
Accommodation
Tea House
Elevation
2743 m.
Trip Cost & Services
Selected packageBudget PackageThe price and services below belong to this package.
USD 720per person
Book TripBudget Package Service Includes
- Accommodation
- Tea house/lodge stays on trek (basic, twin-sharing)
- Transport
- Local bus Kathmandu → Besisahar / Dharapani
- Local jeep connections as required on trek start/end
- Local bus/jeep return from Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Airport pick-up in Kathmandu
- Meals
- Not included – trekkers pay directly at lodges
- Guide & Porter
- Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
- No porter service (optional at extra cost)
- Permits & Fees
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS card
- Extras
- Pre-trek briefing
- Basic first aid kit with guide
Budget Package Service Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu, Pokhara & during trek
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara
- Porter service (optional)
- Personal trekking gear (jacket, poles, sleeping bag, etc.)
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging in lodges (paid locally)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- International airfare & Nepal visa fees
- Alcohol, bottled water, snacks
- Tips for guide, porter, driver
- Costs due to delays/weather/natural disasters
Selected packageStandard PackageThe price and services below belong to this package.
USD 1,400per person
Book TripStandard Package Service Includes
- Accommodation
- 2 nights in 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- 1 night in 3-star hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
- Twin-sharing tea house stays during trek
- Transport
- Tourist bus Kathmandu → Besisahar / return Pokhara → Kathmandu
- Private jeep Besisahar → trek start / return trek end → Pokhara
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu
- Meals
- Breakfast in Kathmandu & Pokhara
- All meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner with tea/coffee)
- Guide & Porter
- Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
- Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, 15–20 kg)
- Permits & Fees
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS card
- Extras
- Pre-trek briefing
- First aid kit with oximeter
Standard Package Service Excludes
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
- Personal trekking equipment (rentable in Kathmandu)
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging in lodges (paid locally)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- International airfare & Nepal visa fees
- Alcohol, bottled water, snacks
- Tips for guide, porter, driver
- Extra costs due to delays/weather/natural disasters
Selected packagePremium PackageThe price and services below belong to this package.
USD 3,500per person
Book TripPremium Package Service Includes
- Accommodation
- 2 nights in 4–5-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- 1 night in 4–5-star hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
- Best available lodges on trek (attached bathroom where possible)
- Transport
- Flight Pokhara → Kathmandu
- Private jeep transfers for trek start & end
- Luxury private transfers in Kathmandu
- Welcome & farewell dinners in Kathmandu
- Meals
- All meals during trek with wide menu choices
- Breakfast in Kathmandu & Pokhara
- Welcome & farewell cultural dinners
- Guide & Porter
- Senior trekking guide
- Porter service (20–25 kg allowance per porter)
- Staff insurance included
- Permits & Fees
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS card
- Extras
- Loaner trekking gear (sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles)
- Emergency evacuation coordination (insurance required)
- Daily health monitoring with oximeter
- Cultural sightseeing assistance in Kathmandu & Pokhara
Premium Package Service Excludes
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fees
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls)
- Alcohol, bottled water, soft drinks
- Tips for guide, porter, driver
- Optional upgrades (helicopter, single supplement)
- Costs due to delays/weather/natural disasters
Explore the route
Altitude & route map
Select a preview for a full-width, zoomable view.
Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 days Altitude Profile
Route Map
Trip visual
Join a scheduled group
Fixed departure dates
Choose a confirmed date and reserve your place.
| SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 03 Mar 2027 | 12 Days | USD 720 | Available | Book Now |
Real traveller stories
Client Reviews
12 verified experiences from this trip
TOMMY MORRIS ROGOW
IsraelFun time with Naryan
Had a very good time even on off season, our guide Narayan was the best, very nice and funny person, helpful with everything.
Matthew Alan Liggins
United KingdomWonderful 12-Day Annapurna Circuit with a Caring Team and an Exceptional Guide
Booked a 12-day Annapurna circuit trek with Annapurna Encounter, and they were very friendly and kind from the first message. I particularly appreciated being picked up from the airport and taken straight to my accommodation.
The guide they assigned me, Devi, was excellent and very experienced. He helped me purchase a few essential items in Kathmandu before the trek, and handled all logistics including transport, accommodation and food which was really appreciated. Devi was also a very nice man to chat to in the evenings, and is a lovely person to get to walk and talk with.
EVELYN VERONIKA SCHOPF
AustriaThe Highlight of My Nepal Trip
The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Encounter was the highlight of my Nepal trip. Professional guides, great lodges, and perfect organization made the experience truly worthwhile.
Renata Henninger
GermanyNice Hike, Gladly Again !
I booked my tour through Annapurnaencounter and am more than satisfied. I was helped with my packing list and my wishes and questions were received and met. I was also provided with a porter who helped me with my luggage.
Devi the guide was very careful that everything is safe. He let me walk at my own pace and didn't push me up. We had a great time. We'll be back!
Ida Therese Niggemeier
GermanyEverything was great !
Everything was great! The three of us booked the 12 days Annapurna Circuit trek and felt very well taken care of. Our guide was able to tell us a few things about the trail and took care of everything we needed. When one of us got sick, he gave us good advice as to whether it would be wise to continue.
All in all it was a great experience. Thank you to Annapurna Encounter!
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Julius Emil Hellstern
GermanyThose were Beautiful days
The three of us booked a 12-day hike. The Annapurna Circuit.
After very good and extensive advice, we set off. They were very nice days. Unfortunately, one of us didn't make it to the top because of altitude sickness. Lama, our guide, then took very good care of the person. The head of the travel agency also personally looked after the person's well-being. Big praise for that!
We would book here again next time.
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Lennart Erik
GermanyGreat 12 days Annapurna Circuit trek
We did our Annapurna Circuit hike with this company.
From start to finish, we received great support and advice on all sorts of things.
After the first free conversation, we were given a very fair price, which is why we decided to go with this provider.
You had the feeling that you were in good hands and that it wasn't a rip-off like many other companies.
In addition, all the employees were very hospitable and helpful.
Our guide Lama in particular was very nice and created a good atmosphere on our hike.
In general, I can recommend this provider to everyone.
Arnold S
FranceAnnapurna Circuit Trek au top
Merci a Dev de nous avoir si bien accueilli a Katmandu et d'avoir arranger notre trek. Merci à Riman, Jit et Govinda de nous avoir fait vivre l'Annapurna Circuit Trek avec eux. Grâce à eux, nous étions en sécurité, plus proche de la société Nepalaise et toujours confortable le soir venu. C'était une expérience formidable pour nous, nous les oublierons jamais encore merci à eux.
Translation:
Thanks to Dev for welcoming us so warmly to Kathmandu and for arranging our trek. Thanks to Riman, Jit and Govinda for making us experience the Annapurna Circuit Trek with them. Thanks to them, we were safe, closer to Nepalese society and always comfortable in the evening. It was a great experience for us, we will never forget them again, thank you to them.
Anna katharina
GermanyAlles perfekt
Alles perfekt - sehr hilfsbereit, gut zu erreichen und wir haben uns sehr gut aufgehoben gefühlt. Nächstes Mal würden wir wieder über Annapurna Encounter buchen.
Mathilde A
FranceExcellent guide fran??ais
Vous pouvez faire confiance à cette agence, je vous la recommande !
Merci beaucoup a Dev pour ce magnifique trek des les Annapurnas.
Dev est disponible, accessible, il connaît tout des Annapurnas. Il parle très bien anglais et français également. Vous pouvez tout lui demander, il s'occupe de tout de A a Z et même si vous avez besoin après le trek il est encore disponible.
Il est prudent sur le parcours et ne vous fera pas passer n'importe où si c'est trop dangereux, il sait s'adapter à l'allure de chacun.
Nous avons vraiment passer un super trek, c'est un moment qui restera gravé à vie dans nos mémoires.
Encore merci, tout ceci a été possible grâce à toi Dev !
Pauline B
FranceBest Trek Annapurnas with french guide
Je n'ai pas les mots pour décrire cette expérience incroyable ! Le circuit des Annapurnas restera pour moi un trek inoubliable.
Cette agence est fiable et je la recommande vivement ! Nous avons fait la rencontre de Dev notre guide, avec qui nous avons très vite créé un lien. Il a une expérience de longue date dans l'Himalaya, il est bienveillant. Avec lui nous nous sommes sentis en confiance tout au long de notre trek. Il parle TRES BIEN français, et anglais ! Nous avons ainsi pu bénéficier de nombreuses explications sur les coutumes locales.
Il a su rythmer nos journées, nous rassurer sur le mal des montagnes, et surtout nous faire rire !!! Sans Dev, les journées de marche n'auraient pas été si agréables. Nous savions que le soir nous aurions une lodge en arrivant et que nous n'avions qu'à le suivre ! C'était une véritable chance de pouvoir profiter pleinement du trek sans n'avoir à se soucier de rien.
Nous avons beaucoup appris sur la culture népalaise, chanté sous la pluie, appris à compter jusqu'à 10 en népalais, dansé sur les passerelles himalayennes. Tant de souvenirs que je ne suis pas prête d'oublier.
Si vous souhaitez faire le circuit des Annapurnas, n'hésitez pas à demander Dev pour être certain de passer des moments incroyables ! Au début du trek, il était un guide pour moi, désormais c'est devenu un ami. MERCI DEV
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