Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary and map breakdown

The Annapurna Circuit is known as one of the most popular treks routes in Nepal, offering a rich blend of ethnic heritage, stunning mountain scenery, and a diverse range of landscapes. The trek includes the spectacular views of the Annapurna Massif and has rich subtropical forests, alpine regions, as well as the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. The Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal has numerous pathways to suit your trekking experience and in this blog we will provide you a detailed itinerary and main breakdown of the three main variations:

Annapurna Circuit Trek

In the midst of the Himalayas, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the iconic trekking routes in Nepal. The trek takes you through beautiful subtropical forests, terraced fields, and remote villages as you gradually climb up to the Thorong La Pass which is known as one of the highest trekking passes in the world. You will experience the breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machapuchare as you pass through the traditional Tibetan and Gurung villages including the sacred sites like Muktinath and serene alpine lakes.

The trek has challenging high altitude therefore, it is recommended to moderately experienced trekkers. The sunrise at Poonhill, natural hot springs at Tatopani and the cultural richness of Manang and Marpha adds a beautiful experience during the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek: 

• Enjoy the scenic drive through rivers, terraced fields, and hillside villages as you trek through pine forests, waterfalls and Tibetan style villages.
• Experience the panoramic views of Annapurna, Lamjung and surrounding peaks from the Upper Pisang route leading into Manang.
• Explore Gangapurna Lake, Ice Lake, and cultural exploration in Manang during the acclimatization hike.
• Trek through the Kali Gandaki Valley, Kagbeni, and Jomsom and cross Thorong La Pass with the amazing Himalayan views.
• Relax in the natural hot spring at Tatopani and also enjoy the sunrise view over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Poon Hill.
• Uncover the beautiful sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath for both Hindus and Buddhists, nestled at the foot of the Thorong La Pass.

Itinerary of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, then to Dharapani
Day 2: Trek from Dharapani to Chame
Day 3: Trek from Chame to Pisang
Day 4: Trek from Pisang to Manang
Day 5: Acclimatization day in Manang
Day 6: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
Day 7: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Day 8: Cross Thorong La Pass, trek to Muktinath
Day 9: Trek from Muktinath to Marpha
Day 10: Trek from Marpha to Kalopani
Day 11: Trek from Kalopani to Tatopani
Day 12: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani
Day 13: Hike to Poon Hill, trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara
Day 14: Drive or fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Map of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Poonhill

The Annapurna Circuit with Poon Hill Trek is considered one of the most legendary trekking routes in Nepal, incorporating the famous Annapurna Circuit trail with breathtaking sunrise views of the Himalayas at Poon Hill. This 14-day tour will lead you through the green valleys, alpine forests, typical Gurung and Thakali villages, and the difficult high-altitude route of Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).

Spectacular mountains, such as Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak, will be all around you as you hike through some beautiful villages, including Chame, Upper Pisang, and Manang Valley. Manang has a special acclimatisation day that helps you adjust to the altitude and be ready to cross the highest point of the trek, Thorong La Pass.

After passing through, the trail takes you to Muktinath, a holy pilgrimage site, followed by Tatopani, where you can enjoy the natural hot springs. The best part of the second half of the trek is the sunrise trek to Poon Hill (3,210 m), which offers panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit with PoonHill Trek:

• Pass through the mythical Thorong La Pass (5,416 m): One of the highest trekking passes in the world that provides a breathtaking view of the Himalayas.
• Enjoy the spectacular sunset at Poonhill (3,210 m): A panoramic view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri in golden colour.
• Visit Manang Valley (3,519 m): A culturally rich Tibetan-inspired village, which is surrounded by dramatic scenery and glaciers.
• Tatopani Natural Hot Springs: The natural hot springs are ideal for relaxing tired muscles after a day of trekking.
• Explore the holy temple of Muktinath: A religious centre of worship for both Hindus and Buddhists.
• Hike across a variety of terrain: Subtropical forests, rice terraces, high alpine deserts and glacial valleys.
• Have a rich cultural experience: Enjoy local hospitality in the Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan communities and visit local tea houses.

Itinerary of Annapurna Circuit with PoonHill Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to hotel
Day 2: Drive to Dharapani via Besisahar
Day 3: Trek to Chame
Day 4: Trek to Upper Pisang
Day 5: Trek to Manang Valley
Day 6: Acclimatization day at Manang
Day 7: Trek to Yak Kharka
Day 8: Trek to Thorang High Camp
Day 9: Cross Thorang La and Muktinath
Day 10: Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani
Day 11: Trek to Ghorepani
Day 12: Hike Poon Hill and trek back to Ulleri
Day 13: Drive or Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 14: International Departure

Map of Annapurna Circuit trek with Poonhill

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a 15-day mythical Himalayan tour in the Annapurna Region. It is the longer version of the Annapurna Circuit, in which you will undertake an exciting and legendary trekking trail to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), one of the highest glacial lakes in the world. The trek offers an enriched experience of high-altitude adventure, spectacular mountain views, and extensive cultural immersion in the Annapurna Region, Nepal.

The Tilicho Lake side trip is a challenge, but also a reward for your Annapurna Circuit trek. At Tilicho Lake, you will be able to take in the beautiful sight of snow-capped peaks and glacial moraines, including Tilicho Peak, Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna. Having reached the lake, the path rejoins the circuit trek and proceeds to the spectacular Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). It is one of the best and rewarding trekking experience in the Himalayas.

Whether you want adventure, spiritual enlightenment or natural beauty, the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake has it all. The trek offers a diverse range of landscapes, cultures, and experiences, complemented by a moderate level of physical adventure. 

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek:

• The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a legendary long-distance trek in the world, featuring a spectacular change in elevation between subtropical valleys and high alpine passes.
• In the course of the trek to Annapurna Circuit, you will also visit Tilicho Lake that is regarded as one of the highest lakes in the world. It is a wild and rough beauty with the breathtaking views of Tilicho Peak and glaciers around.
• Thorong La Pass at 5,416m is the highest point of Annapurna Trek and the views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges are spectacular.
• The beauty of Annapurna Region is the diversity of the landscapes, abundance of rice terraces, pine forests, rocky cliffs, and alpine deserts as well as the Tibetan Buddhist culture in such villages as Manang and Pisang.
• Visit monasteries, chortens and prayer wheels along the trail and also visit the sacred Muktinath Temple situated at lower Mustang which is significant among both Hindus and Buddhists.
• The villages of Siri Kharka, Yak Kharka, and Tilicho Base Camp have the original Himalayan culture in which you can interact with Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi people.

Itinerary of Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat
Day 2: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani
Day 3: Trek from Dharapani to Chame
Day 4: Trek from Chame to Pisang
Day 5: Trek from Pisang to Manang
Day 6: Acclimatization day in Manang
Day 7: Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka
Day 8: Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp
Day 9: Early morning hike to Tilicho Lake and return to Siri Kharka
Day 10: Trek from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka
Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Day 12: Cross Thorong La Pass and trek to Muktinath
Day 13: Trek or drive to Jomsom
Day 14: Morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
Day 15: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu

Map of Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

In the Annapurna Region, the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek in the mountain ranges of central Nepal is the ideal place where you can get to experience the natural beauty of Nepal. Crossing the beautiful and frozen mountains of the Himalayan range, you will have a feeling of heavenly views along with natural hot springs. The mountains are covered with snow like Annapurna I and II, Gangapurna, and Pisang Peak, which are encircled by rhododendron forests and Gurung villages, which are a view you should see at least once in your life. To have a fulfilling culture experience, mingle with the locals and learn their everyday way of life.

Trace the Marsyangdi River and enjoy the waterfalls and cliffs around and be awed by the Gangapurna Glacier, including the beautiful Manang Emerald Lake. Use your time to absorb the amazing landscape as you get to know more about the traditional Tibetan architecture. Arrive at Thorong High Camp and pass the longest Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) in the world and feel the excitement of being at the highest point of this trek. It is a journey that combines nature and culture in one adventure.

Highlights of Short Annapurna Circuit Trek:

• Pass through the Iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416 m): Feel the excitement of crossing one of the highest trekking passes in the world with a spectacular view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu ranges.
• Scenic Drive and Trek Along Marsyangdi River Valley: Follow beautiful river valleys, tumbling waterfalls, and beautiful villages as you observe dramatic sceneries.
• Visit Manang and Gangapurna Glacier: Visit the emerald-green Manang Lake and be near the Gangapurna Glacier.
• Cultural Interactions with Gurung and Thakali Communities: Get to know the rich culture, Tibetan style buildings and the friendly nature of the locals.
• Natural Hot Springs at Tatopani: Relax your body and refresh in the well-known natural hot water springs.
• Himalayan Panoramas that are Stunning: Take in the panoramas of Annapurna I & II, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, and the snow-capped giants around.

Itinerary of Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Day 1: Drive to Dharapani via Besisahar
Day 2: Trek to Chame
Day 3: Tek to Pisang
Day 4: Trek to Manang Valley
Day 5: Acclimatization at Manang Valley
Day 6: Trek to Yak Kharka
Day 7: Trek to Thorong HIgh Camp
Day 8: Cross Throng La and Muktinath
Day 9: Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani
Day 10: Drive or flight back to Pokhara 

Map of Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Which Annapurna Circuit Route Should You Choose?

Beside the standard Annapurna Circuit Trek Route, you can choose other variations of the trek based on your preference of trekking days and other criteria. With the help of the following table you can option for the route that suits you the best!

Route	Duration	Best For	Key Highlights	Ideal For
Short Annapurna Circuit	10 Days	Trekkers with limited time.	Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), Manang Valley, Tatopani hot springs.	Beginners with good fitness or those on tight schedules.
Annapurna Circuit and Poon Hill Trek	14 Days	Cultural lovers and sunrise chasers.	Thorong La Pass, Poon Hill sunrise (3,210 m), Gurung and Thakali villages.	Moderate trekkers wanting both high passes & cultural trails.
Annapurna Circuit Trek and Tilicho Lake	15 Days	Adventure seekers and experienced trekkers.	Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), Thorong La Pass, less crowded trails.	Experienced trekkers seeking unique high altitude experiences.

Annapurna Circuit vs Annapurna Base Camp: Which Trek is Right for You?

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is another popular option in the Annapurna region, in addition to the Annapurna Circuit Trek (ACT). Although ABC will bring you to the foot of Annapurna I (8,091 m) and an impressive amphitheatre of mountains, it is a shorter trek and the route is less complicated. Conversely, ACT provides a full 360 degree experience of the Annapurna range with a mixture of cultural experiences, varying landscapes and the exhilarating adventure of crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).

To trekkers who want a more diverse experience, ACT is usually seen to be better, because it has a rich cultural experience, a lot of variety in scenery, and is longer hence you can actually have a feel of the core of the Himalayas. Although ABC is ideal to those trekkers who have little time and desire to get intimate views of the mountains, the Annapurna Circuit offers a more inclusive trekking experience in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

Your Trusted Partner: Yeti Hikes

If you intend to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek or any of its popular variations, Yeti Hikes is here for you to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. We have professional guides, organized itineraries and are very serious about responsible tourism. No matter which of the popular Annapurna Circuit, the Tilicho Lake extension, or the sunrise on Poon Hill you want to cover, Yeti Hikes offers tailored services so that trekkers of any experience level can get the most out of their time in the Himalayas.

Why Should the Annapurna Circuit Trek Be on Your Bucket List?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a unique combination of the most spectacular natural beauty. It has a wide range of culture and thrilling adventure including the lush subtropical forests and the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,400 meters. The range of Annapurna Circuit suits everyone, from experienced hikers to dedicated beginners. Whether the standard Nepal Annapurna Trek itinerary or Tilicho Lake Trek, Poon Hill Trek, you can choose which is best for you. It is a life changing experience and should be on every traveller’s bucket list because of its mesmerizing mountain view as well as friendly local communities of Nepal.