Annapurna Circuit Trek | ABC Trek in Nepal

Expedition Architecture

Annapurna Circuit Trek – Overview

The Annapurna Circuit is widely celebrated as one of the world's greatest long-distance mountain treks, encircling the entire Annapurna Massif through distinct ecological zones.

From the subtropical lowlands of Lamjung, the trail climbs alongside the Marsyangdi River through Tibetan Buddhist settlements in Manang, crosses the high glacial barrier of Thorong La Pass (5,416m), and drops into the sacred rain-shadow desert of Mustang and Muktinath.

Thorong La Pass (5,416m)

Cross one of the highest navigable trekking mountain passes in the world.

Manang Cultural Immersion

Spend acclimatization days exploring 500-year-old Buddhist monasteries and cliffside caves.

Two Contrasting Worlds

Transition from green subtropical gorges into the arid Tibetan-plateau desert of Mustang.

Sacred Muktinath Temple

Visit the holy pilgrimage site sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists.

Field Schedule

Day-by-Day Expedition Itinerary

Paced for optimal safety, terrain enjoyment, and cultural immersion.

Scenic drive into the Marsyangdi River valley, entering the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Trek through pine and oak forests into the district headquarters of Manang at Chame.

Witness the dramatic Paungda Danda curved rock face and stunning views of Annapurna II.

Spectacular high-route overlooking the broad Manang valley and Annapurna III and IV.

Day hike to Gangapurna glacial lake or Praken Gompa for high-altitude acclimatization.

Lead Guide Field Note

Hydrate well and practice slow breathing. Oximeter checks conducted.

Gentle climb above the tree line into alpine pastures where blue sheep and yaks graze.

Ascend to the foot of Thorong La Pass. Rest early in preparation for the high pass crossing.

Pre-dawn 4 AM departure. Reach the prayer-flag-strewn summit of Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Long descent to Muktinath.

Lead Guide Field Note

Crucial day. Microspikes and warm windproof layers mandatory.

Trek through the windy Kali Gandaki gorge past ancient Mustang villages to Jomsom.

Scenic morning flight between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks back to Pokhara Lakeside.

Price Integrity

Transparent Inclusions & Exclusions

Included in $1290 USD

All Permits: ACAP and government park entry permits.
Licensed Mountain Guide: English-fluent, certified in Wilderness First Aid.
Insured Porters (IPPG): 1 porter per 2 trekkers, 20kg maximum load cap.
Teahouse Lodging: Hand-vetted mountain lodges throughout the route.
All Meals on Trail: 3 daily meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) plus hot tea.
Ground Transportation: Private transport to and from trailheads.

Exclusions

International Flights & Visa: Nepal entry tourist visa ($30/$50).
Emergency Travel Insurance: Mandatory policy covering high altitude and rescue.
Teahouse Incidentals: Hot showers, Wi-Fi cards, and device charging fees.
Personal Gear & Tipping: Discretionary gratuity for guide and porters.

Practical Intelligence

Frequently Answered Questions

Thorong La is challenging due to the high elevation (5,416m) and early morning sub-zero temperatures, but does not require technical mountaineering skills.