Friends, dreaming of snow-lit peaks, swinging bridges, and friendly tea houses spaced like mileposts? The Annapurna Circuit delivers a full-spectrum Himalayan trek—broad valleys, high passes, and village life—without technical climbing.

Use this guide for clear seasons, realistic costs in dollars, permits, transport, and a pacing plan that keeps altitude on your side.

Why Go

This classic loop skirts the Annapurna Massif for 100–145 miles, topping out at Thorong La Pass (17,769 ft / 5,416 m). The route is well-marked, villages appear every few hours, and tea houses mean you can carry less and focus more on the journey.

When to Go

- Best: October–November for crisp skies, clear views, and stable trails.

- Also good: April–May for warmer conditions and blossoming hillsides.

- Quiet: June–September brings warmth and some rain, but many sections are in a rain shadow.

- Winter: Peaceful but harsh; snow and closures are possible—attempt only with serious cold-weather experience.

Route Basics

Most trek east to west: Besisahar → Thorong La → Birethanti. Many start higher to skip road sections. Total trekking: 12–18 days plus travel. Build in 1–2 acclimatization days in Manang.

Permits & Insurance

- ACAP permit: $18

- TIMS card: $20 (independent) or $10 (group)

Pick up in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Travel insurance must cover up to 6,000 m evacuation.

Costs & Budget

- Transport: $10–$25 to the start; $15–$35 back from exits.

- Lodging: $3–$10 per night.

- Meals: $12–$25/day depending on altitude and appetite.

- Guides: $25–$40/day.

- Porters: $18–$30/day.

- Extras (Wi-Fi, hot showers, charging): $1–$4.

Expect $25–$45/day on an independent budget, plus permits and transport.

Getting There

Fly into Kathmandu. Options:

- Bus/jeep to Besisahar: 7–9 hrs.

- Flight Kathmandu→Pokhara ($60–$130) then road transfer.

Most finish near Jomsom, Tatopani, or Nayapul and head to Pokhara the same day.

Trail Reality

Gain altitude steadily. Sleep no more than 500 m (1,500 ft) higher than the previous night after 3,500 m (11,500 ft). Expect suspension bridges, pine forests, and broad valleys. Tea houses every few hours provide food and beds.

Sample Pace

- Days 1–3: Besisahar → Jagat/Chamje → Dharapani

- Days 4–6: Chame → Upper Pisang → Manang (acclimatize here)

- Days 7–9: Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi → Thorong La → Muktinath

- Days 10–12+: Marpha/Jomsom → Tatopani (hot springs) → Ghorepani → Birethanti exit

Adjust with side trips or shortened sections as needed.

Guided or Solo

- Solo: Safe and popular; the trail is clear and villages frequent.

- Guided: Adds cultural insight, smooth logistics, and language help.

Either way, confirm daily conditions with locals.

What to Pack

- Base and warm midlayer, hooded puffy.

- Waterproof jacket and pants.

- Sleeping bag rated –6 to 0°C (20–32°F) plus liner.

- Sun hat, buff, beanie, gloves (light + insulated).

- Sturdy boots, gaiters, trekking poles.

Roads & Reroutes

Parts of the circuit overlap jeep roads. Follow waymarked “upper trails” posted in villages to avoid traffic, or start higher with a jeep transfer to skip low road sections.

Tea House Tips

Eat where you sleep—it supports the lodge. Order early in the evening. Carry cash; remote spots don’t take cards. Keep electronics warm overnight to preserve battery.

Training Plan

Two months out:

- 3–4 cardio sessions weekly (stairs, hills).

- 2 strength sessions (legs, core, glutes).

- Weekly long hike with weight.

Conclusion

Lykkers, the Circuit is pure rhythm: each day opens up new valleys, peaks, and perspectives. Will you choose the crisp clarity of autumn or the blossoming hillsides of spring?