Annapurna Circuit Trek (Thorong La)
Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) — the world's greatest trekking circuit
Trek Overview
What is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the world's great long-distance treks — a 230 km journey around the entire Annapurna massif in Nepal's Gandaki Province. The route passes through eight distinct climatic zones, from subtropical valleys at 760 m to the high-altitude desert plateau above Manang, crossing paths with five of the world's fourteen 8,000 m peaks: Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Manaslu (8,163 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Machhapuchhre (6,993 m). The defining moment of the entire circuit is the crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,769 ft) — one of the most celebrated high passes in the Himalaya.
The route begins at Besisahar (760 m) in the Marsyangdi river valley and travels through the Gurung and Magar villages of the lower valley, the Tibetan-influenced communities of the Manangi people in the upper valley, and across Thorong La into the Kali Gandaki — the world's deepest gorge, carved between Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri. The sacred site of Muktinath (3,710 m) marks the descent from the pass. The western route continues through the apple orchards of Marpha, the medieval walled town of Kagbeni — gateway to Upper Mustang — and finishes at Jomsom (2,670 m), where a 20-minute flight returns trekkers to Pokhara.
The Annapurna Circuit requires two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and, for those entering via the full Besisahar–Jagat section, the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP). With a licensed guide, TIMS is not required. This is a moderate to strenuous trek suited to fit and experienced trekkers who can comfortably cover 5–7 hours of walking per day over two weeks. It is one of the most culturally diverse, scenically spectacular and logistically rewarding treks in the Himalaya.
Why Trek the Annapurna Circuit via Thorong La with AltiPro Adventures?
Thorong La Pass — 5,416 m
The Thorong La crossing at 5,416 m / 17,769 ft is one of the great achievements of Himalayan trekking. A pre-dawn start from Thorong Phedi (4,450 m), a 966 m climb to prayer flags and cairns at the summit, and a 1,706 m descent to Muktinath — the defining day of the circuit, and the one you will talk about for years.
Eight Climatic Zones in One Route
No standard trek in Nepal passes through more varied terrain. From subtropical forest and terraced rice paddies near Besisahar, through rhododendron forest, pine and fir, alpine meadows, and finally into the high Tibetan desert plateau above Manang — the landscape transforms completely every two days.
The World's Deepest Gorge
The descent from Muktinath to Jomsom passes through the Kali Gandaki Gorge — more than 5,500 m of vertical relief between the riverbed and the flanking summits of Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri. It is one of the most dramatic and unique trekking corridors on earth.
Muktinath — Sacred Pilgrimage Site
At 3,710 m above the Kali Gandaki, Muktinath is one of the most sacred sites in the Hindu and Buddhist world: 108 water spouts, an eternal flame burning on water, and a Vishnu temple that draws pilgrims from across South Asia. Reaching it after crossing Thorong La makes it one of the most powerful moments of any Nepal trek.
Manang Valley — Tibetan Culture at 3,519 m
The Manang valley above the Marsyangdi river holds some of the richest Tibetan Buddhist culture found anywhere in Nepal — ancient Braga Monastery (500 years old), the Manang Mountaineering Museum, and teahouses with Annapurna and Gangapurna views from the rooftop. The acclimatisation days here are among the best of the entire trek.
Marpha, Jomsom & The Mustang Gateway
The western valley section introduces a completely different Nepal: the medieval walled town of Kagbeni (gateway to restricted Upper Mustang), the famous apple orchards and apple brandy of Marpha, Tibetan monasteries, and the windswept corridor of the Kali Gandaki leading to Jomsom and the flight home.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Route — Thorong La Pass
The circuit travels anti-clockwise from Besisahar in Lamjung district to Jomsom in Mustang district. The route follows the Marsyangdi valley northeast to Manang, crosses Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) into the Kali Gandaki valley, and descends to Jomsom for the flight back to Pokhara. Where available, AltiPro uses the Narrow Annapurna Trekking Trail (NATT) to avoid jeep road sections and maximise the trail experience.
Kathmandu → Besisahar (760 m) → Bhulbhule / Ngadi (840 m)
A 7–8 hour drive to Besisahar begins the circuit. The trek starts along the Marsyangdi River through subtropical forest and terraced farmland, passing Gurung villages. The lower valley is lush, green and wide — entirely different in character from what lies above.
Jagat (1,300 m) → Dharapani (1,860 m) → Chame (2,670 m)
Three days of excellent walking through the Manaslu Conservation Area, entering at the Jagat permit checkpoint and climbing the increasingly dramatic gorge above Dharapani. Chame (2,670 m), Manang district headquarters, is the last reliable ATM and supply point before the upper circuit.
Pisang (3,200 m) → Manang (3,519 m)
Above Chame the landscape transforms into classic mountain scenery — Annapurna II (7,937 m) dominates the southern wall and Pisang Peak (6,091 m) towers above its namesake village. Upper Pisang, on the ridge, delivers outstanding mountain panoramas. Manang (3,519 m) is the circuit's acclimatisation base, with Braga Monastery 30 minutes above the village.
Acclimatisation Day — Ice Lake (4,600 m) or Gangapurna Lake
A rest day in Manang is mandatory before the Thorong La crossing — a single 1,900 m gain day. Day hike to Gangapurna Lake (3,700 m) for a gentle option, or Ice Lake (4,600 m) for the highest and most spectacular viewpoint before the pass. AltiPro attends the Himalayan Rescue Association altitude briefing in Manang.
Yak Kharka (4,018 m) → Thorong Phedi / High Camp (4,450–4,875 m)
Above treeline the trail crosses into the upper Marsyangdi valley. Altitude effects become noticeable for most trekkers above 4,000 m. Thorong Phedi is the last teahouse before the pass — an early arrival and early bedtime are essential before the pre-dawn crossing departure.
Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) → Muktinath (3,710 m)
The defining day. Pre-dawn start (4–5 AM) from Thorong Phedi. A 966 m climb to the summit at 5,416 m, adorned with prayer flags and cairns, with the full Annapurna range visible on the horizon. A 1,706 m descent to Muktinath (3,710 m) — sacred compound of 108 water spouts, an eternal flame temple, and ancient Buddhist shrines. Total 10–12 hours walking.
Kagbeni (2,810 m) → Jomsom (2,670 m) → Fly Pokhara
Down through the medieval walled town of Kagbeni, gateway to Upper Mustang, and the famous apple orchards of Marpha to Jomsom. A 20-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara completes the circuit. Optional extension: Tatopani, Ghorepani and Poon Hill (3,210 m) sunrise viewpoint — adds 3–4 days of outstanding walking.
How Difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit is rated moderate to difficult. Good fitness and prior multi-day trekking experience are strongly recommended — this is not a first Himalayan trek. The Thorong La crossing day runs 10–12 hours of continuous walking at altitude. Above 4,000 m most trekkers feel the altitude; the acclimatisation day in Manang is non-negotiable. The circuit is recommended for trekkers who have completed the Annapurna Base Camp or Langtang Valley treks.
Best Season for Annapurna Circuit Trek
Autumn (October–November): The primary Annapurna Circuit season. October delivers post-monsoon stability, crystal-clear skies and ideal conditions on Thorong La — cold but calm. November is quieter with fewer trekkers, even sharper views but colder nights (below –10°C above Manang). The trail is at its most photogenic in autumn. AltiPro's October departures fill quickly — book early.
Spring (March–May): Rhododendrons bloom in the lower Marsyangdi valley from March, and conditions on Thorong La are excellent in April and May. Late April and early May are the peak spring months — warm enough at altitude but still clear. In May, a pre-dawn start on the pass is even more critical as afternoon clouds build. March can be cold above 4,000 m.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost
Trek packages tailored to your requirements.
Our Annapurna Circuit Trek 2027 packages cover your group size, service level and departure date. All packages include permits, Kathmandu & Pokhara hotel, domestic flights/transport, licensed guide and porter, full board teahouse accommodation, Jomsom flight and emergency evacuation standby. Optional extensions: Tilicho Lake and Poon Hill/Ghorepani. Request a full quote from our team.
Annapurna Circuit Trek — FAQs
Find answers to common questions about the Annapurna Circuit Trek via Thorong La.
Is the Annapurna Circuit Trek suitable for beginners?
The circuit is moderate to difficult and is not suited to first-time Himalayan trekkers. The Thorong La crossing is a 10–12 hour continuous high-altitude day at 5,416 m. Good stamina and prior trekking experience are essential — we recommend completing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Langtang Valley Trek first. You must be comfortable walking 6–8 hours per day for two weeks.
What is the Thorong La Pass elevation?
Thorong La is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit and the highest pass on any standard circuit trek in Nepal, at 5,416 m / 17,769 ft above sea level. The ascent from Thorong Phedi (4,450 m) gains 966 m to the summit. The descent to Muktinath (3,710 m) drops 1,706 m — the full crossing takes 10–12 hours. At the summit, available oxygen is approximately 53% of sea level — the same atmospheric pressure as Everest Base Camp (5,364 m).
How long is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The full circuit covers approximately 230 km. The AltiPro 18-day itinerary includes arrival in Kathmandu, permit processing, the full circuit from Besisahar to Jomsom, the Jomsom–Pokhara flight, Pokhara–Kathmandu connection, farewell dinner and a buffer day for weather delays. The active trekking section runs 14–15 days. A shorter 12–13 day version is possible by starting from Chame, skipping the lower Marsyangdi valley by jeep.
What permits are required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Two permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP, NPR 3,000 per person for non-SAARC nationals) for the full circuit, and the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) for trekkers entering via the full Besisahar–Jagat section. Trekkers with a licensed guide are exempt from TIMS (Nepal 2025 regulation). AltiPro processes all permits in Kathmandu before departure.
What is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit?
Autumn (October–November) and Spring (April–May) are both excellent. October is the finest month — post-monsoon, stable, dry and with perfect conditions on Thorong La. November is colder but clearer and quieter. In spring, late April and early May offer the best combination of weather and rhododendron blooms in the lower valley. Thorong La is dangerous during monsoon (June–August) and the lower gorge sections are landslide-prone in heavy rain.
What is Muktinath and why is it significant?
Muktinath (3,710 m) is one of the most sacred sites in both the Hindu and Buddhist worlds. For Vaishnavite Hindus it is one of the 108 sacred Vishnu temples; for Tibetan Buddhists it is Chumig Gyatsa — Place of One Hundred Waters. The temple complex contains 108 water spouts, an eternal natural gas flame burning on water, and ancient Buddhist shrines. Reaching Muktinath immediately after crossing Thorong La transforms the crossing day into one of the most spiritually resonant experiences in all of Himalayan trekking.
Can I add Tilicho Lake to the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes — the Tilicho Lake extension is one of the finest additions to the circuit. Tilicho Lake (4,919 m / 16,138 ft) sits on a dramatic moraine above Manang and is one of the world's highest lakes. The extension adds a 2-day, approximately 30 km side trip from Manang through Khangsar. Available as an optional upgrade with AltiPro — ask when booking.
What is the Kali Gandaki Gorge?
The Kali Gandaki Gorge, carved between Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), is considered the world's deepest gorge with more than 5,500 m of vertical relief from the riverbed to the flanking summits. The descent from Muktinath to Jomsom passes through this unique landscape — dry, windswept, ancient and extraordinary. Afternoon winds here reach 60–80 km/h. It is one of the most dramatic trekking corridors on the planet.
What is the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost?
Cost depends on group size, departure date and service level. All AltiPro packages include permits, Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels, domestic transport connections, licensed guide and porter, full board teahouse accommodation, Jomsom flight and emergency evacuation standby. Optional extensions (Tilicho Lake, Poon Hill) are available as upgrades. Request a customised quote from our team.
Highlights
- Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) — The Defining Crossing
- 230 km Through Eight Climatic Zones
- Muktinath — Sacred Compound at 3,710 m
- Kali Gandaki Gorge — World's Deepest
- Manang Valley & Braga Monastery (500 Years Old)
- Ice Lake (4,600 m) — The Circuit's Finest Day Hike
- Marpha Apple Orchards & Kali Gandaki Wind Valley
- Jomsom to Pokhara — 20-Minute Mountain Flight
Detailed Itinerary
Click on each day to view details
| Day | Program | Meals | Accom. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m / 4,429 ft) | D | Hotel | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Meet your AltiPro guide for the welcome dinner and full Annapurna Circuit Trek 2027 briefing — permits, packing and what to expect on the circuit.
2
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Kathmandu — Permit Processing & Trek Preparation |
B,D |
Hotel |
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| Collect your ACAP and MCAP permits in Kathmandu. Full gear check, trek briefing, and porter bag preparation. Free afternoon to explore Kathmandu.
3
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Drive Kathmandu → Besisahar → Bhulbhule / Ngadi (840 m) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
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| A 7–8 hour drive to Besisahar begins the Annapurna Circuit. The trek starts along the Marsyangdi River through subtropical forest and terraced farmlands, passing Gurung villages. The valley is wide, lush and green. 4–5 hrs walking.
4
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Trek Bhulbhule → Jagat (1,300 m / 4,265 ft) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
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| Suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi lead to Jagat where ACAP and MCAP permits are checked. The river gorge narrows and steepens above. 5–6 hrs walking.
5
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Trek Jagat → Dharapani (1,860 m) → Bagarchhap (2,160 m) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
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| The valley widens above Dharapani where the Manaslu Circuit route joins the Annapurna Circuit. First fir and pine forest appears, and the first views of Manaslu (8,163 m) come into sight. 5–6 hrs walking.
6
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Trek Bagarchhap → Chame (2,670 m / 8,760 ft) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
|
| A dramatic gorge and impressive waterfalls lead to Chame, the Manang district headquarters — the last reliable ATM and supplies before the upper circuit. Annapurna II (7,937 m) appears for the first time. 5–6 hrs walking.
7
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Trek Chame → Upper Pisang (3,310 m / 10,859 ft) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
|
| Above Chame the valley opens into classic mountain scenery. The option to take the upper ridge trail to Upper Pisang delivers spectacular Pisang Peak (6,091 m) and Annapurna II panoramas. Upper Pisang sits on the ridge with the finest views of the circuit so far. 5–6 hrs walking.
8
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Trek Upper Pisang → Braga (3,475 m) → Manang (3,519 m) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
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| Visit Braga Monastery — 500 years old and perched dramatically above the valley. Arrive in Manang (3,519 m), the acclimatisation base of the circuit, with full Annapurna and Gangapurna views from the village rooftops. The Manang Mountaineering Museum is worth a visit. 4–5 hrs walking.
9
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Acclimatisation Day — Manang (3,519 m) — Ice Lake (4,600 m) or Gangapurna Lake |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
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| A mandatory rest day before the Thorong La crossing. Option to hike to Gangapurna Lake (3,700 m) for a gentle acclimatisation walk, or Ice Lake (4,600 m / 15,092 ft) for the highest and most spectacular viewpoint before the pass — 360-degree views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak. AltiPro attends the Himalayan Rescue Association altitude briefing in Manang.
10
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Trek Manang → Yak Kharka (4,018 m / 13,182 ft) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
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| Above treeline, the trail crosses into the barren upper Marsyangdi valley. The last vegetation disappears. Altitude effects become noticeable above 4,000 m — walk slowly, drink plenty of water. A deliberately short day to aid acclimatisation. 3–4 hrs walking.
11
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Trek Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi / High Camp (4,450–4,875 m) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
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| A short but critical day — early arrival at Thorong Phedi (4,450 m) or High Camp (4,875 m) is essential before tomorrow's crossing. Oxygen levels at High Camp are approximately 55% of sea level. Rest, hydrate and prepare kit for the pre-dawn start. 2–3 hrs walking.
12
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THORONG LA CROSSING — Thorong Phedi → Pass (5,416 m) → Muktinath (3,710 m) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
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| Pre-dawn departure (4–5 AM). A 966 m ascent to Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,769 ft) — prayer flags, cairns and the full Annapurna range on the horizon. A 1,706 m descent to Muktinath (3,710 m): sacred compound of 108 water spouts, an eternal flame temple and ancient Buddhist shrines. The defining day of the Annapurna Circuit. 10–12 hrs total.
13
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Muktinath → Kagbeni (2,810 m / 9,219 ft) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
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| Visit the Muktinath temple complex in the morning, then descend through Jharkot and Khinga villages to Kagbeni — a medieval walled town and the gateway to restricted Upper Mustang. The landscapes are increasingly arid, dramatic and Tibetan in character. 4–5 hrs walking.
14
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Trek Kagbeni → Marpha (2,667 m / 8,750 ft) |
B,L,D |
Lodge |
|
| Follow the Kali Gandaki wind-valley south through the arid Mustang landscape. Marpha is famous for its apple orchards and apple brandy — the village whitewashed lanes and Tibetan architecture are some of the finest on the circuit. Tukuche Peak (6,920 m) dominates the horizon. 4–5 hrs walking.
15
|
Trek Marpha → Jomsom (2,670 m) — Fly to Pokhara |
B,D |
Hotel |
|
| A short final trekking day to Jomsom (2,670 m). Morning flight Jomsom → Pokhara (20 minutes) over the Annapurna range. The circuit is complete. Transfer to hotel in Pokhara for a well-earned rest. The Jomsom flight is one of the most dramatic short mountain flights in Nepal.
16
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Pokhara Leisure Day — Drive or Fly to Kathmandu |
B,D |
Hotel |
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| A relaxed day in Pokhara — optional boat trip on Phewa Lake, visit to the World Peace Pagoda, or simply rest. Drive or fly back to Kathmandu in the afternoon. Farewell dinner with your AltiPro team. Annapurna Circuit Trek certificate presented.
17
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Buffer Day — Kathmandu / Pokhara |
B |
Hotel |
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| Reserved as a buffer for Jomsom flight cancellations, weather delays on Thorong La, or an optional extension to Poon Hill and Ghorepani (3,210 m) — one of Nepal's finest sunrise viewpoints. If not needed, free day in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
18
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Final Departure from Kathmandu |
B |
None |
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| Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Your AltiPro team will see you off. The circuit, the pass, the gorge and the people of the Annapurna region will stay with you for a long time. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Services
Includes
- ✅ Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) — NPR 3,000 per person
- ✅ Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) — for full Besisahar–Jagat entry section
- ✅ Licensed guide included and arranged — mandatory per Nepal government regulation
- ✅ Nepal government taxes and company service charges
- ✅ Airport pick-up and drop — private vehicle
- ✅ 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu (BB) — single room
- ✅ 1 night hotel in Pokhara (BB) — single room
- ✅ Welcome dinner in Kathmandu and farewell dinner in Pokhara or Kathmandu
- ✅ Annapurna Circuit trek map, NATT trail guide and route notes. One AltiPro Adventures duffle bag.
- ✅ Domestic flight or vehicle: Kathmandu to Pokhara and return
- ✅ Private jeep / vehicle: Pokhara to Besisahar (trek start)
- ✅ Domestic flight: Jomsom to Pokhara (circuit exit) — 20 min flight
- ✅ All Nepalese staff transport costs throughout the trip
- ✅ Experienced, government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide for the full circuit
- ✅ Porter support — up to 15 kg per member, Besisahar to Jomsom
- ✅ All Nepalese staff and porter daily wages, salary, equipment, food and clothing
- ✅ Full board teahouse accommodation throughout the circuit (twin rooms where available)
- ✅ 3 meals per day (BLD) — breakfast, lunch, dinner throughout the trek
- ✅ Tea and coffee included with all meals at teahouses
- ✅ 6-hourly weather forecast updates, especially for the Thorong La crossing window
- ✅ HRA altitude briefing attendance in Manang (when available)
- ✅ Comprehensive first aid medical kit and altitude management throughout
- ✅ Emergency evacuation coordination — helicopter standby pre-arranged from Pokhara
Excludes
- ❌ International flight airfare (to and from Kathmandu)
- ❌ Nepalese Visa fee — USD 125 for 90 days
- ❌ Personal trekking gear, clothing, boots and sleeping bag (–15°C minimum rated above Manang)
- ❌ Soaps, shampoos, toilet paper and personal hygiene items
- ❌ Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara except included dinners
- ❌ Extra accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara beyond included nights
- ❌ Hot shower, device charging and Wi-Fi at teahouses (typically NPR 100–300 per use)
- ❌ Alcoholic beverages and personal purchases
- ❌ Travel, medical and helicopter rescue insurance — mandatory for all participants (strongly recommended minimum USD 100,000 cover)
- ❌ Tips for trekking guide — minimum USD 100–120 per guide
- ❌ Tips for porter — minimum USD 60–80 per porter
- ❌ Special filming, camera and drone permit fees (drones restricted in conservation area)
- ❌ Poon Hill / Ghorepani extension — available as optional upgrade on request
- ❌ Tilicho Lake side trip — available as optional 2-day extension from Manang on request
- ❌ Costs due to Jomsom flight cancellations, road disruptions or unforeseen situations
- ❌ Any other services not listed in the inclusions section above
Gear Lists & Useful Information
Trek Details
Peak Name
Annapurna Circuit Trek (Thorong La)
Duration
16 Days
Max Elevation
5,416 m
Best Seasons
Year_Round
Region
Annapurna Region
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Tilicho Lake Trek
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