9 Day all-inclusive Annapurna Circuit Trek with Hot Spring

A Complete Guide to the 9-Day All-Inclusive Annapurna Circuit Trek with Hot Spring

Starting with a drive from Kathmandu or Pokhara, this nine-day trek covers the most captivating parts of Nepal’s Annapurna region, including challenging passes, scenic villages, and sacred sites. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides (some speak English, Hindi, or Nepali), you’ll travel through lush valleys, rugged trails, and high-altitude passes, all while enjoying the comforts of an all-inclusive package for just $355 per person.

What makes this trek stand out? First, the inclusion of hot springs at Tatopani offers a perfect way to relax after days of walking. Second, the carefully planned acclimatization days help reduce the risk of altitude sickness, so you can enjoy the journey without unnecessary worry.

A potential consideration? The long travel days—up to 10 hours on the first day—may be challenging for some. But if you’re prepared for a physically demanding adventure with plenty of scenic rewards, this trek is a smart choice.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive trekking experience with cultural highlights, stunning mountain views, and a reasonable price point. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a guided trek with flexible options and are comfortable with some long days walking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From green valleys to rugged mountain terrain, the scenery keeps changing.
• Cultural immersion: Charming villages like Chame, Upper Pisang, and Manang offer authentic Nepali culture.
• High-altitude adventure: Conquering Thorong La Pass (5,416m) is a major highlight.
• Hot springs: The visit to Tatopani provides a relaxing soak after days of trekking.
• Acclimatization days: Strategically placed to help prevent altitude sickness.
• All-inclusive: From transport to accommodations, everything is taken care of for peace of mind.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Each Day

Day 1: Kathmandu or Pokhara to Chame

The journey begins with a long but scenic bus and shared Jeep transfer from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Besisahar, followed by a drive to Chame. While it’s a full day of travel—around 10 hours—it’s a great way to see the changing landscapes as you leave the city behind. We’ve read that travelers appreciate the ease of this transport, especially since it simplifies what could otherwise be complicated logistics.

Day 2: Chame to Upper Pisang

This day involves a 6-hour trek through pine forests and alpine terrain. Upper Pisang is a picturesque village with stunning mountain views, and the journey offers a real sense of entering the Himalayas. The walk provides a good mix of gentle and moderate climbs, making it manageable for most hikers. Here, you’ll start to notice the blend of local culture and natural beauty—something that many find particularly memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Upper Pisang to Manang

Another 6-hour walk, but with a major payoff: the views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Gangapurna are breathtaking. This village is a hub for trekkers and offers an excellent opportunity for cultural exchange. We loved the way the trail winds through stunning landscapes, with the towering mountains in full view. This day is often highlighted as one of the most scenic sections of the trek.

Day 4: Rest and Acclimatization in Manang

A necessary pause—both physically and mentally. This day helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude, reducing the chance of altitude sickness. You can explore the village, visit local monasteries, or simply relax and enjoy the mountain panorama. Reviewers often mention this as one of the best planned parts of the trip, because it helps you enjoy the subsequent days without feeling too fatigued.

Day 5: Manang to Yak Kharka

The trek continues with a 6-hour walk to Yak Kharka, a peaceful grazing area surrounded by high peaks. As we’ve seen in reviews, travelers appreciate the changing scenery, from lush valleys to more barren, alpine spaces. It’s a quieter spot to connect with the landscape and enjoy the mountain tranquility.

Day 6: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi

Another 6-hour walking day, climbing gradually to Thorong Phedi—the base camp for crossing Thorong La. Here, the focus is on preparing for the high pass crossing the next morning. The sense of anticipation builds, and many mention the logistical importance of this overnight stay before the big day.

Day 7: Crossing Thorong La Pass and reaching Muktinath

This is the centerpiece of the trek. An early start is essential because the 12-hour day includes a challenging ascent of Thorong La (5,416m), one of the highest mountain passes in the world. The reward? Awe-inspiring panoramic views and a true sense of accomplishment. After crossing, you descend into Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. The sense of spiritual connection, combined with physical achievement, makes this day unforgettable.

Day 8: Muktinath to Tatopani

A relatively shorter drive (about 4 hours) brings you to Tatopani. Here, the hot springs are a major highlight, offering a natural way to soothe sore muscles. Reviewers love this moment of relaxation after days of exertion, describing the hot spring as the perfect “well-earned” reward for your efforts.

Day 9: Tatopani to Pokhara

The journey concludes with a 4-hour bus ride to Pokhara, where you can unwind overlooking the famous Phewa Lake. The scenery along the way, especially as you follow the Kali Gandaki River, provides a vivid contrast to the mountain scenery of the previous days. Many travelers reflect on the trek as a life-changing experience, now with the chance to enjoy Pokhara’s peaceful lakeside atmosphere.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

Transport and Pacing

The first day’s 10-hour travel to Chame might sound daunting, but it’s a common part of Himalayan trekking. The road trip introduces you to Nepal’s diverse scenery, making the long day feel worthwhile. Subsequent days involve 6-hour treks, which are manageable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. The inclusion of acclimatization days shows thoughtful planning, helping you adjust to high altitudes gradually.

Accommodation and Comfort

Staying in tea house lodges along the trail offers a chance to experience local hospitality and enjoy simple but cozy accommodations. While these are not luxury hotels, they provide essentials: warm beds, basic bathrooms, and a chance to sample local dishes. The hot springs at Tatopani are a bonus, offering a natural comfort after the physical challenge.

Cost and Value

At $355 per person, this trek offers a lot of value considering the all-inclusive nature—transportation, accommodations, permits, and guides are included. It’s an affordable way to access one of Nepal’s most iconic treks without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Many reviewers note that the price reflects good value for such a comprehensive experience, especially with the inclusion of hot springs and acclimatization days.

Group Size and Guides

This is a private group tour, meaning you’ll have a more personalized experience. Guides speak multiple languages, and their insights into local culture and terrain enrich the journey. You’ll appreciate the flexibility and attention from guides, especially during challenging sections like Thorong La.

Why This Trek Is Worth Considering

This trek is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see iconic Himalayan peaks, experience authentic Nepali culture, and enjoy the serenity of mountain villages. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a well-organized, guided experience that handles logistics, allowing you to focus on the scenery and your personal journey.

While the long travel days and altitude make it unsuitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, the careful planning and acclimatization support make it accessible for most reasonably fit hikers. The inclusion of hot springs and cultural highlights adds layers of relaxation and meaningful connection to the environment.

The Sum Up

This 9-day Annapurna Circuit trek offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure at a reasonable price point. The highlights—including crossing Thorong La, the scenic villages, and the restorative hot springs—make it a memorable journey for anyone seeking an authentic Himalayan experience.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive trek that combines challenge with comfort, and want to enjoy iconic mountain vistas without the hassle of full independent planning, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who value guided support, cultural insights, and a well-paced itinerary that includes acclimatization and rest days.

This trek is a fantastic way to see Nepal’s most famous high-altitude landscapes while enjoying the warmth of local hospitality and the thrill of conquering one of the world’s most celebrated mountain routes.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $355?
The price covers transportation (bus and jeep), accommodations in teahouses, permits, guides, and hot springs access. It’s designed to be all-inclusive, removing the stress of managing logistics yourself.

How long are the trekking days?
Most trekking days last around 6 hours, with the exception of the crossing of Thorong La, which is a longer and more challenging 12-hour day.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
While the trek is accessible for most reasonably fit hikers, the high-altitude crossing and long days require good physical preparation. The acclimatization days help, but some prior walking experience is recommended.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable trekking shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, camera, snacks, a sleeping bag, cash, and a reusable water bottle. Weather can change quickly, so layers are key.

Are accommodations comfortable?
They are basic but cozy, with warm beds and local cuisine. They provide a genuine Himalayan experience without luxury, but many travelers find them charming and adequate.

Is there a guide available in my language?
Guides speak English, Hindi, and Nepali, ensuring good communication for most travelers.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the description notes that the plan can be tailored based on individual preferences and trekking pace.

What about altitude sickness?
The inclusion of acclimatization days is designed to minimize risks, but travelers should still be aware of symptoms and prepare accordingly.

This trek offers a balanced, rewarding taste of Nepal’s high Himalayas and authentic culture, all while keeping logistics simple and costs reasonable. Whether you’re after stunning mountain panoramas, spiritual sites, or simply the thrill of reaching a 5,000-meter pass, this adventure is a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: