All treksAnnapurna region

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The legendary Annapurna loop with village culture, alpine valleys, and the Thorong La high pass.

Duration

13 days

Difficulty

Challenging

Max altitude

5,416 m at Thorong La

Best months

Mar-May, Sep-Nov

Route overview

A strong Himalayan classic that moves from river valleys into the dry Manang side, crosses Thorong La, and descends toward Muktinath and Jomsom.

Trail sequence

Besisahar

Chame

Pisang

Manang

Yak Kharka

Thorong La

Muktinath

Jomsom

Highlights

Upper Pisang and Manang landscapes

Thorong La pass day

Muktinath cultural stop

Wide variation in climate and trail character

Preparation

Build up to 4-6 hour hikes with a loaded daypack

Practice steady uphill pacing and stair climbs

Carry tested layers, rain protection, and broken-in boots

Plan an acclimatization buffer around high-altitude days

Day-wise itinerary

Drive to Besisahar and enter the route

760 m

Start the logistics day and move toward the Marsyangdi valley.

Approach to Chame

2,670 m

Gain altitude through forested valley settlements.

Chame to Upper Pisang

3,300 m

Walk beneath rock walls and into broader mountain views.

Upper Pisang to Manang

3,540 m

Follow the scenic high trail where conditions allow.

Manang acclimatization day

3,800 m

Use a day hike to improve acclimatization before the pass approach.

Manang to Yak Kharka

4,050 m

Move gradually into sparse alpine terrain.

Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp

4,880 m

Position for the pass and keep the evening restful.

Cross Thorong La to Muktinath

5,416 m

Begin before dawn, cross the pass, and descend a long way to Muktinath.

Muktinath to Jomsom

2,720 m

Close the trek on the Kali Gandaki side.

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