Annapurna Circuit Trek

Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing
Day 3: Transfer to Bhulbhule via Besisahar and Trek to Ngadi: 8 Hours
Day 4: Ngadi to Jagat (1300m): 4-5 hrs walk
Day 5: Jagat to Dharapani (1860m): 6 hrs walk
Day 6: Dharapani to Chame (2670m): 5 hrs walk
Day 7: Chame to Pisang (3300m): 5 hrs walk
Day 8: Pisang to Manang (3570m): 4 hrs walk
Day 9: First Acclimatization Day
Day 10: Hike to Yak Kharka (4,050m): 3 – 4 hrs walk
Day 11: Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (4,525m): 3 – 4 hrs walk
Day 12: Thorung Phedi to Muktinath (3,760m) crossing over Thorung La Pass (5,416m): 7/8 Hours
Day 13: Muktinath to Kagbeni (2810m): 4 hours
Day 14: Kagbeni to Marpha (2670m): 6 hours
Day 15: Marpha to Kalopani (2010m): 4 hrs walk
Day 16: Kalopani to Tatopani (1190m): 5 hours
Day 17: Tatopani to Ghorepani (2860m): 5 – 6 Hours
Day 18: Hike to Poon Hill (3193m), Trek to Nayapul, and Drive to Pokhara: 7 – 8 Hours
Day 19: Return to Kathmandu via Tourist Bus: 6 Hours
Day 20: Departure

Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival

Once you arrive at Kathmandu airport, you will meet our Quest Himalayan Trek and Expedition team representative and get transferred to the hotel. After checking in, you can relax, explore the nearby places, or even visit our office; it’s your choice. In the evening, a welcome dinner is hosted for you guys in a traditional Nepalese restaurant. Enjoy the taste of Nepalese food while watching the cultural performance.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing 

After enjoying breakfast in the hotel, you will be ready for today’s historical and spiritual sightseeing. Some places you will visit include World Heritage Sites such as Pashupati Nath, ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath), the historic Durbar Square, the Buddhist shrine (Buddha Nath), and so on. In the afternoon, you will have a chance to meet your trek leader today. In this meeting, you will receive a detailed itinerary about the upcoming Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Day 3: Transfer to Bhulbhule via Besisahar and Trek to Ngadi: 8 Hours

Today you will get transferred to Bhulbhule on the bus passing Besisahar on your way. This drive to Bhulbhule from Kathmandu will give you some insight into the rural habitats of Nepal; their lifestyles and cultures are quite different from those living in the cities. After reaching Bhulbhule, we will trek toward Ngadi. We will spend our night at Ngadi.

Day 4: Ngadi to Jagat (1300m): 4-5 hrs walk

It’s a short trek from Ngadi to Jagat for today. Walking along the Annapurna and Manaslu Conservation Area border, our hike first heads towards Bahundanda. Then, we make our way to Ghermu Ohant and ascend to Syange, walking opposite the flow of the Marsyangdi River. From Syange, Jagae is only a couple of walks away. After reaching Jagat, we will relax and enjoy our dinner. We will stay here for tonight.

Day 5: Jagat to Dharapani (1860m): 6 hrs walk

From Jagat, we will head towards Chamje-a small residential area surrounded by sheer vertical cliffs and laden with a waterfall. After crossing a suspension bridge over the Gandaki River, the trails take us uphill through thick Oak forests. We will continue our walk to reach Dharapani along the Marsyangdi River. After enjoying a hot and delicious dinner, we will spend our night here in Dharapani.

Day 6: Dharapani to Chame (2670m): 5 hrs walk

Today’s trail climbs along a mule dirt track into a green forest and then follows the river alongside oak and maple trees. The courses provide stunning views of the world’s highest peaks, such as Manaslu (8162m), the Annapurna II (7937m), the Lamjung Himal (6983m), etc. This area is inhabited mainly by the Limbi, Rai, and Gurung communities. We will spend our night in Chame.

Day 7: Chame to Pisang (3300m): 5 hrs walk

We will leave the Chame passing through its Chorten-gate and the Mani wall, and continue our walk, which follows a steep and narrow river valley winding through deep woodlands. The trails become challenging after Bharatang, and the sheer cliff rises to one side of the course while the other drops off gapingly towards the Marsyangdi River. Continuing our walk, we will come across the view of the Pangdi Danda. Today, we will spend our night in Pisang.

Day 8: Pisang to Manang (3570m): 4 hrs walk

Today we head towards the upper route to Manang through Ghyaru and Ngawal. We will experience more fantastic scenery as the towering, majestic mountains overwhelm our senses with stunning views of Annapurna (8,091m), Pisang Peak (6,091m), and various other peaks. We can also have a short visit to the renowned Braga Monastery, the largest in this district of Manang. We will spend a comfortable night at Manang.

Day 9: Acclimatization Day

This is an acclimatization day as our body must be prepared for an upcoming challenging adventure. You can relax, explore the Manang Valley, or hike with your groups. Manang houses many monasteries, including Boozo Gompa and Braga Gompa, about 900 years old. You can also take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake and spend your day. Moreover, we will spend our night at a teahouse in Manang.

Day 10: Hike to Yak Kharka (4,050m): 3 – 4 hrs walk

From Manang village, we will ascend to the town of Tengi above Manang. After reaching Tengi, we will continue our walk and climb out of the Marsyangdi Valley, turning northwest up the valley towards the Jharsang Khola. Then turning right into a side valley of Thorung Khola, we will continue the trek around the Annapurna to reach our final destination. Yak Kharka is a small village where yaks graze on the slopes of the settlements. We will spend our night here in Yak Khaka today.

Day 11: Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (4,525m): 3 – 4 hrs walk

Our trek begins with a gradual ascent to Ledar. The trail takes us through the Kone River as we head toward Thorung Phedi. During the tour, we can get views of beautiful Mount Chulu ranges and barren yet unconventionally beautiful landscapes. After a short walk crossing the Kone River, we will reach today’s final destination, Thorung Phedi. We will spend our night at a teahouse in Thorung Phedi.

Day 12: Thorung Phedi to Muktinath (3,760m) crossing over Thorung La Pass (5,416m): 7/8 Hours

Today we will start our trek early in the morning and head to Thorung La Pass (5416m). The pass offers stunning views of the snow-capped mountains such as Annapurna South (7,219m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna III (7,555m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m), Mount Gangapurna (7,454m), Nilgiri (7,061m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna II (7,937m), and many others. Then, we will head towards Muktinath, a renowned, well-preserved pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. We will spend our night in Muktinath.

Day 13: Muktinath to Kagbeni (2810m): 4 hours

Leaving the Muktinath Temple behind us, we will start our journey towards the village, the entrance to Upper Mustang, Kagbeni. We will head west from Muktinath. As the trails get flat and descend, we are accompanied by the occasional breezes and views of the neighbouring areas. After walking for a few hours, we will reach our destination Kagbeni. We will spend our night here in Kagbeni.

Day 14: Kagbeni to Marpha (2,670m): 6 hours

After enjoying our breakfast, we will head to Thomson to enjoy the beautiful landscapes on our way. On our way, you will get to see many of the Buddhist-influenced monasteries and local culture. Then, we continued our walk and went past Rinjing and Solmi Gompa before reaching our final destination, Marpha, i.e., famous for apple production. We will spend our night in Marpha.

Day 15: Marpha to Kalopani (2010m): 4 hrs walk

We will descend through the valley following the Kali Gandaki to Kalopani. Walking along the Kali Gandaki River bank, you can enjoy the deep-set terrain surrounded by tall gores. The black river of Kali Gandaki under the brooding sky, gushing its way mightily from far-off Muktinath and cutting its way through the landscapes, makes trekking quite serene. We will spend our night at a local house in Kalopani.

Day 16: Kalopani to Tatopani (1190m): 5 hours

Today, we continue to head towards Tatopai descending through the Kali Gandaki River Valley. Our today’s destination is famous for its natural hot springs. This place will surely be one of your favourite places to visit so you can relax your pain by enjoying the hot springs. Today, we will spend our night at Tatopani.

Day 17: Tatopani to Ghorepani (2860m): 5 – 6 Hours

Heading towards the South, the trek takes us toward the heart of the Annapurna region, where Gurung communities have settled. From Tatopani, the ascent takes us to Shikha. From here, passing through small residential areas and tea shops, we will reach Phalate. Continuing our walk from Phalate, we will head towards the Gurung village of Ghorepani. We will spend our night at Ghorepani.

Day 18: Hike to Poon Hill (3193m), Trek to Nayapul, and Drive to Pokhara: 7 – 8 Hours

Today, we woke up early and headed to the viewpoint at Poon Hill. A short hike from Ghorepani leads us to the vantage point offering enchanting sunrise views over the Himalayas in the Annapurna region. Later, we will go back to Ghorepani and prepare for a final trek to Nayapul. You can catch a glimpse of the village people working on the farms. After a short drive, we will reach Pokhara. We will spend our night here at the hotel in Pokhara.

Day 19: Return to Kathmandu via Tourist Bus: 6 Hours

Today, you will say goodbye to the Annapurna Mountains as you return to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, trekking in the most beautiful landscapes, you can either rest in your hotel rooms or explore the capital city alone. You will spend your night comfortably in the hotel room.

Day 20: Departure

Quest Himalayan Trek and Expedition will drop you off at Kathmandu Airport for your flight to your hometown. Enjoy your breakfast and say goodbye, promising to meet again on another trekking trip to Nepal.

• Domestic flight Tickets: Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu
• Kathmandu: Accommodation on Bed & Breakfast Basis
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
• Accommodation in tea houses
• Kitbag for storing your belongings
• Sleeping bags for a comfortable night’s sleep (on a trek in minus-25 degrees)
• Entrance Permit: Everest National Part, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality
• Government-licensed trekking guide
• Discount on the total price of the trek (if there are more than 5 trekking groups)
• Necessary paper works managed by our team (all government and local taxes)
• Certificate of appreciation from Quest Himalayan Trek and Expedition after the successful trek

• International Flight Tickets
• Nepal entry visa fee (15 days: $25-30)
• Personal equipment for high and cold temperature
• All beverages: soft and caffeinated drinks such as beer, coke, coffee, etc.
• Hot shower, laundry and mineral water
• Drinking water/mineral water during the trek
• All the other expenses are not included in “cost includes”.
• Inclusion of cost or delays in the control of the management due to illness, safety concerns, weather conditions, changes in government policies, etc.

Trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal needs proper planning and preparation, including packing the right equipment and clothing. Trekking in Nepal’s Himalayas is a wonderful experience, but you must be prepared ahead for what you are going to experience. So the packing list must be prepared carefully. You probably don’t know what to pack and what to don’t, right? Don’t worry we got you. Here in Quest Himalayan Trek and Expedition, we have mentioned the trekking packing list for all the mountain trekking and mountain climbing activities in Nepal. Your trip to Nepal will surely be memorable, and adventurous if you carry all this mentioned equipment with you for the upcoming trekking days. Be sure to check out the equipment list and manage it before you go on your trek to make sure you have everything you need. Also, there might be differences in the items from one area to another, and from season to season.

Therefore, before you book your Nepal trekking or peak climbing, please read this packing list carefully and arrange it with you. The following are the list of equipments that we suggest to you for trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal.

Trekking Boots: You must pack sturdy and comfortable hiking waterproof boots that provide support and protection to your feet and ankles. Also, be sure that you tie and untie the laces with ease and check that the boot has deep-cut traction on the sole.

Backpack: Choose a backpack with a good quality having of capacity 40-60litres to carry all your gear and personal items. Duffle bag or kit bag is necessary to carry gear while trekking.

Sleeping Bags: It is best to carry your own sleeping bags. For trekking in high-altitudes in Nepal, we advise you to carry a warm and lightweight sleeping bag rated to at least -25C.

Clothing: You will need a variety of clothing depending on the season of your trekking. But for any season trekking, always carry quick-drying, moisture-wicking clothes. Also not to forget the layers are very important for adjusting to changing temperatures during trekking days. So, choose the best brands for a base layer, insulation layer, outer layer, trekking trousers, shirts, waterproof jackets, etc.

Trekking Poles: The use of poles during trekking days is very essential as they help to reduce the impact and stress on your joints and make your trekking days easier, especially on steep and rugged terrain.

First Aid Kit: Don’t forget to carry a first aid kit with essentials such as antiseptic, bandages, pain relievers, blister treatments, etc.

Water Filtration System: Rather than buying bottled water in every lodge, or tea house, we suggest you carry a water bottle with a built-in filter or water purification tablets for safe drinking water.

Footwear for Trekkers:

• Trainer or casual shoes, for trekking and/or travelling.
• Warm thermal socks for colder areas.
• Gaiters, in case of rain or snow
• Pair sandals/trekking shoe
• Microspikes
• Socks

Body:

• Choose a variety of T-shirts and long sleeves, ideally not made of cotton.
• Warmer climates need thermal clothing.
• Warm clothing, perhaps fleeces, for colder climates.
• A wool sweater or a fleece jacket.
• Higher altitude outer shell clothing that is wind and waterproof.
• Windproof and watertight down jacket for chilly mornings and evenings

Head/Hands:

• Hat made of wool, fleece, or a balaclava.
• For sun protection while day hiking, use a hat or cap.
• Goggles or sunglasses
• Cozy gloves

Leg Wear:

• Loose-fitting, everyday pants for trekking.
• Leggings for chilly climates.
• Daytime wearable half-pants
• Women’s long skirts as an alternative to pants.
• Waterproof pants
• Heavy-duty clothing for high altitudes (not for the short trek)
• Trousers

Other necessary items:

• Strong rucksack or large hold all to be carried by porters.
• Day rucksack to be carried personally.
• Plastic bags or stuff sacks to store/separate trekking gear inside your main bag.
• Water bottle.
• Personal first aid kit to include essential items.
• Sleeping bag( 4 seasons).
• Torch, ideally headlight.
• Digital Camera and a spare battery and battery charger! – For those not to be forgotten shots of the Himalayas.
• Toiletries
• Hand Sanitizer
• Towel
• Portable Charger
• Large handkerchief/bandana for neck
• Passport/Money
• Water Purification Tablets
• Hand Sanitizer

Optional Items:

• Binoculars
• Books (In your free time you can read books, you love reading)
• Altimeter
• Compass
• Headlamp: A good quality headlamp with extra batteries is essential for navigating trails in the dark
• Playing cards/background/chess set

Note: You can also buy the sleeping bag or rent the sleeping bags in Kathmandu for Nepal Trekking to higher altitudes including the Everest base camp trek, Annapurna Circuit, Makalu base camp trek, and many other treks over 5600m. Pack lightly and bring only the essentials. Furthermore, for any queries related to trek, packing list, bookings, etc, Quest Himalayan Trek and Expedition is always here for you.