The 9-day all-inclusive Annapurna Circuit Trek from Kathmandu is a carefully curated journey into some of Nepal’s most breathtaking scenery and vibrant village life. For $364 per person, you’ll traverse diverse terrains—lush valleys, rugged mountain trails, and arid highlands—while staying in comfortable accommodations. Led by experienced local guides, this trek offers a blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty that appeals to travelers looking for an authentic Himalayan experience without the hassle of planning every detail.
Two things stand out immediately. First, the inclusion of all necessary permits, guides, transportation, and meals makes this a true value for those who want a hassle-free experience. Second, the focus on culture and scenic highlights, including breathtaking mountain views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre, promises memorable moments at every turn.
A possible consideration is the long travel days, especially the 10-hour bus ride from Kathmandu to Besisahar on Day 1, which might be tiring for some. However, the convenience of door-to-door service and all logistics handled for you offsets this inconvenience. This trek suits travelers who are eager to explore the Himalayas with a guide, value comfort and safety, and want a well-organized adventure that balances physical activity with cultural discovery.
Key Points
- All-Inclusive Convenience: Meals, permits, local guides, transportation, and even gear are covered, simplifying your trip.
- Stunning Mountain Views: Get up close with peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre, perfect for photography and awe.
- Cultural Encounters: Pass through charming villages like Manang and Muktinath, where local traditions thrive.
- Altitude Acclimatization: Included rest days at key points like Manang help prevent altitude sickness and enhance your experience.
- Balanced Itinerary: Long walking days are balanced with rest and cultural exploration, making it suitable for most fit travelers.
- Authentic Nepali Experience: From local villages to sacred sites, the trek offers genuine cultural insights.
The Starting Point: Kathmandu/Pokhara to Dharapani
Your adventure begins with a scenic bus ride from Kathmandu to Besisahar, followed by a shared Jeep ride to Dharapani. We appreciated the convenience of having transportation included, which saves the hassle of organizing local travel and allows you to relax and soak in the changing landscape. The lengthy 10-hour drive might sound intimidating, but it’s an opportunity to see Nepal’s transition from bustling cityscapes to tranquil mountain scenery.
This first day sets the tone—you’re leaving behind the city chaos to enter a quieter, more contemplative world. At Dharapani, you’ll settle into your first night’s accommodation, ready to start your trek the following morning.
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From Dharapani to Chame
On Day 2, we trek from Dharapani to Chame, climbing through lush forests and crossing suspension bridges. The trail gradually gains altitude, and the ever-present mountain vistas start to emerge. The walk takes around 6 hours, a manageable pace that allows for plenty of photo stops and short breaks.
Chame offers a comfortable base to acclimate while still being close enough to enjoy the scenery. The changing landscapes are captivating, and we loved the way the forests gradually thinned, revealing distant peaks.
From Chame to Upper Pisang
Day 3’s trek to Upper Pisang takes around 6 hours. This section is particularly scenic, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and a winding trail that feels remote yet accessible. Upper Pisang is a picture-perfect village with traditional Tibetan-style architecture and stunning mountain backdrops.
Here, you can explore the local culture—an important aspect of the trek—and get a sense of how mountain communities have adapted to their environment. The views of Annapurna II and Annapurna III are especially impressive.
To the Village of Manang
By Day 4, after another 6-hour walk, you’ll reach Manang. This village is a significant stop, both geographically and culturally. The wide valley and the towering mountains framing the village make it a photographer’s paradise. We liked the way the mountains seemed to surround the village, creating a sense of being at the heart of the Himalayas.
This is also where we paused for an acclimatization day. Rest days like this are vital—they help your body adjust to higher altitudes, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. We explored the village, enjoying spectacular views and learning about local customs.
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The trek continues with a move to Yak Kharka on Day 6, climbing to 4,050 meters. The landscape becomes more alpine, with grazing yaks and sparse vegetation. The quiet and vastness of this area are a highlight—every step feels like entering a different world.
Next, Day 7 takes you to Thorong Phedi, just below the famous Thorong La Pass. This prep day is crucial, as you’ll need energy for the ascent to the pass. The trail is challenging, but the sense of anticipation is exhilarating.
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The Ultimate Challenge: Thorong La Pass & Muktinath
Day 8 is the tour de force—the crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. We loved the thrill of tackling this high-altitude crossing, with panoramic views that make every exertion worth it. The early start is necessary for safety and visibility, and the ascent is steep but manageable with proper acclimatization.
After the pass, we descended into Muktinath, a sacred site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The village’s spiritual atmosphere adds a profound dimension to the trek. Exploring the temple complex and local monasteries provided a moment of reflection amidst the adventure.
The Return to Pokhara
Day 9 involves a scenic bus ride from Muktinath to Pokhara, passing through dramatic landscapes that shift from arid highlands to lush valleys. The comfortable private vehicle option is available for those who prefer a quicker, more relaxed return. We enjoyed the change of scenery and the opportunity to unwind after a physically demanding journey.
In Pokhara, you can relax, reflect, and process the incredible sights and cultural encounters of your trek. Ending in this peaceful lakeside town offers the perfect conclusion to your Himalayan adventure.
This trek’s value lies in its comprehensive inclusions: permits, experienced guides, transportation, meals, and gear. The all-inclusive package means you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected costs, allowing you to focus on the experience itself.
We appreciated the local guides’ knowledge and friendliness, which enriched our understanding of the places visited. The accommodation during the trek was comfortable enough to relax after long days of walking, and the included meals gave us energy without the hassle of finding food on the trail.
The scenic diversity is another major plus—each day offers a new perspective, from lush forests and terraced fields to high mountain passes and desert-like valleys. We loved the way the landscapes change so dramatically, keeping the journey fresh and exciting.
However, be aware that the long travel days can be tiring, and the high-altitude crossings require good physical preparation. The trek is suitable for those who enjoy moderate hiking and have no serious mobility or health issues. The inclusion of acclimatization days makes it more accessible, but a reasonable level of fitness is still recommended.
This trek offers exceptional value for its price, combining convenience, authenticity, and adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want a structured yet immersive experience in the Himalayas without the stress of organizing each detail themselves.
This journey suits active travelers eager to see the stunning Himalayan scenery and experience local culture firsthand. It’s ideal for those who prefer a guided, all-inclusive package that handles logistics. If you’re comfortable with long days of walking and are interested in high-altitude adventure, this trek will meet your expectations.
While not recommended for pregnant women, travelers with mobility issues, or those with heart problems, it’s well-suited for fit, adventurous individuals seeking a meaningful trek in Nepal. The inclusion of acclimatization and rest days helps make it accessible for most reasonably fit hikers.
What is included in the price?
The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, local guides, permits, transportation, all meals during the trek, luggage storage, trekking gear, and one night of luxury accommodation in Pokhara.
Are trekking permits and paperwork included?
Yes, all necessary permits and paperwork, including the Trekkers’ Information Management System fee, are included to ensure a smooth journey.
Is transportation provided throughout the trip?
Yes. You’ll travel from Kathmandu to Besisahar by bus, from Besisahar to Dharapani by shared Jeep, and from Muktinath to Pokhara by bus. A private vehicle option is available at an extra cost.
How long are the walking days?
Most days involve about 6 hours of trekking, with Day 1 being a full day of travel by bus, and Day 8 being a longer, more strenuous day crossing Thorong La Pass.
Is there an acclimatization day?
Yes, Day 5 is set aside for acclimatization in Manang. This helps prevent altitude sickness and allows for sightseeing and rest.
What should I bring for the trek?
Essential items include a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, a sleeping bag, cash, a flashlight, and a reusable water bottle.
Are there any restrictions?
The trek is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or those with heart problems due to the high-altitude nature and demanding terrain.
How is the group size?
While not specified, guided treks typically operate with small groups, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
What is the cost relative to the experience?
At $364, this all-inclusive trek offers excellent value, considering the comprehensive logistics, accommodations, guides, and meals included.
In essence, this Annapurna Circuit Trek from Kathmandu delivers genuine Himalayan adventure wrapped in convenience. You’ll get spectacular mountain views, authentic cultural encounters, and the satisfaction of completing one of Nepal’s most celebrated hikes—all without the stress of planning every detail. It’s a solid choice for travelers craving both challenge and comfort in an unforgettable setting.
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