Are you dreaming of standing at the edge of the world’s deepest gorge or crossing a high-altitude Himalayan pass? The Annapurna Circuit Trek – 20 Days with Mountain Mart Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. is one of Nepal’s most iconic and rewarding trekking journeys, offering unmatched diversity in landscapes, culture, and adventure.
This incredible journey circles the majestic Annapurna Massif, taking you through ever-changing landscapes—from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and the arid, windswept terrain of the Manang Valley. Along the way, trekkers experience authentic Himalayan culture, passing through traditional Gurung and Thakali villages, ancient monasteries, and vibrant local communities that offer warm hospitality and unique cultural insights.
The highlight of the trek is crossing the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world, offering breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. The adventure continues through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge and leads to the sacred Muktinath Temple, blending natural beauty with spiritual significance. This well-paced 20-day itinerary ensures proper acclimatization, making it an ideal choice for trekkers seeking both challenge and comfort in the heart of the Himalayas.
The Annapurna Circuit is often called the “ultimate trekking route” because it circles the entire Annapurna Massif, showcasing an incredible variety of scenery. The journey begins from the lower hills and gradually ascends through terraced farmlands, lush rhododendron forests, and traditional villages inhabited by Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced communities.
As you move deeper into the trail, the landscape transforms dramatically into the dry, windswept terrain of the Manang Valley, offering a unique contrast to the green hills below. This gradual transition makes the trek not only visually stunning but also ideal for proper acclimatization.
One of the biggest highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is crossing the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Standing at the top, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and prayer flags fluttering in the wind, is a truly unforgettable achievement for any trekker.
Another remarkable feature of this trek is walking through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, considered the deepest gorge on Earth. The dramatic cliffs between the towering peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri create a breathtaking natural corridor that leaves every traveler in awe.
This 20-day journey is not only about nature but also rich in culture and spirituality. You’ll visit ancient monasteries, prayer walls, and sacred pilgrimage sites like Muktinath Temple, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The blend of traditions, rituals, and warm hospitality of local people adds a meaningful cultural dimension to the trek.
After days of trekking, relax your body at the natural hot springs in Tatopani. The trail also passes through charming villages like Chame, Pisang, and Marpha, known for their apple orchards and traditional architecture.
The 20-day itinerary is carefully designed to avoid rushing, allowing trekkers to acclimatize properly and enjoy each destination. With rest days in key locations like Manang, you can explore side hikes, enjoy panoramic views, and adapt safely to higher altitudes.
The trek passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal’s largest conservation area, home to diverse wildlife such as Himalayan thar, musk deer, and a wide variety of bird species. The vegetation changes from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and desert-like terrain, making every day unique.
Thorong La Pass (5,416m): Conquer the highest trekking pass in the world.
Muktinath Temple: A sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists with 108 eternal water spouts.
Kali Gandaki Gorge: Walk alongside the deepest river gorge on Earth.
Poon Hill Sunrise: Witness a 360-degree panorama of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.
Natural Hot Springs: Rejuvenate your muscles in the healing waters of Tatopani.
Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu (1 300 m/4 265ft): MMT staff will meet and transfer you to your hotel.
Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing and trek preparation
Day 03: Kathmandu(1,300m/4,265ft) - Jagat (1,300m/4,265 ft): 9-10 hrs drive.
Day 04: Jagat(1,300m/4,265ft) - Dharapani (1,860m/6,102 ft): 12km, 6-7 hrs.
Day 05: Dharapani(1,860m/6,102ft) - Chame (2,670m/8,760ft): 13km, 6-7 hrs.
Day 06: Chame(2,670m/8,760ft) - Pisang (3 300 m/10 826 ft): 10km, 5-6 hrs.
Day 07: Pisang(3,300m/10,826ft) – Ngawal (3 660 m/12 007 ft): 8km, 4-5 hrs.
Day 08: Ngawal(3,660m/12,007ft) – Manang (3 540 m/11 613 ft): 7km, 3-4 hrs.
Day 09: Manang: Acclimatisation and exploration day
Day 10: Manang(3,540m/11,613ft) - Yak Kharka (4,050 m/13,286ft): 8km, 4-5 hrs.
Day 11: Yak Kharka(4,050m/13,286ft) - Thorung Phedi (4,525m/15,845ft): 5km, 3-4 hrs.
Day 12: Thorung Phedi(4,525m/14,845ft) - Muktinath (3,760m/12,335ft): 13km, 8-9 hrs.
Day 13: Muktinath(3,760m/12,335ft) - Tatopani (1 ,190m/3,905ft): 6-7 hrs drive.
Day 14: Tatopani(1,190m/3,905ft) - Ghorepani (2,860m/9,382 ft): 13km, 7-8 hrs.
Day 15: Ghorepani(2,860m/9,382ft) - Poon hill (3 210 m/10 530 ft): Tadapani (2,630m/8,630ft): 11km, 6-7 hrs.
Day 16: Tadapani(2,630m/8,630ft) - Ghandruk (1,940 m/6,364ft): 9km, 3-4 hrs.
Day 17: Ghandruk(1,940m/6,364ft) - Pothana (1,990 m/6,530ft): 11km, 6-7 hrs.
Day 18: Pothana(1,990m/6,530ft) - Phedi(1,130m/3,707ft) - Pokhara (820 m/2,690 ft): 6km, 3-4 hrs walk, 45 min drive.
Day 19: Pokhara(820m/2,690ft) - Kathmandu (1,300 m /4,265ft): 6-7hrs drive.
Day 20: Final departure
At Mountain Mart Treks, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
Package Price: USD $1490 per person.
What’s Included: Licensed guides, experienced porters, all trekking permits (ACAP/TIMS), private transport, and 3 high-quality meals a day.
What’s Excluded: International flights, Nepal entry visa, travel insurance (mandatory), and personal expenses like Wi-Fi or hot showers in the mountains.
| Season | Months | Weather & Temperature | Visibility | Trail Conditions | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March – May | Mild to warm (10°C to 20°C lower regions, colder at high altitude) | Excellent | Dry and stable | Blooming rhododendrons, clear mountain views, best overall season | Slightly crowded |
| Summer / Monsoon | June – August | Warm and humid (15°C to 25°C lower regions) | Moderate (cloudy) | Wet, muddy, leeches in lower areas | Fewer trekkers, lush green landscapes | Rain, landslides, poor visibility |
| Autumn | September – November | Cool and stable (5°C to 15°C) | Excellent | Dry and ideal | Crystal-clear views, best trekking conditions, festivals | Peak season, busy trails |
| Winter | December – February | Cold (-10°C to 5°C, colder at Thorong La Pass) | Good | Snow-covered, especially at high passes | Quiet trails, peaceful experience | Extreme cold, possible pass closure |
Preparing properly for the Annapurna Circuit Trek is key to ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and successful journey around the majestic Annapurna Massif. This 20-day adventure involves long trekking days, high-altitude conditions, and crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416m), so both physical fitness and mental readiness are essential.
The Annapurna Circuit is considered a moderate to challenging trek, suitable for trekkers with a good level of fitness. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable walking 5–7 hours a day on varied terrain.
To prepare:
Training for at least 4–8 weeks before your trek is highly recommended.
High-altitude trekking is as much mental as it is physical. Weather changes, basic teahouse facilities, and long walking days can be challenging.
As you ascend into high-altitude regions like Manang Valley, your body needs time to adjust to lower oxygen levels.
Key tips:
Your guide will monitor your health, but awareness is crucial.
Having the right gear can make a huge difference in comfort and safety.
Must-have items:
Fueling your body properly is vital for maintaining energy levels.
Always trek with comprehensive travel insurance that covers:
Trekking with a licensed guide and porter ensures safety, local knowledge, and a smoother experience.
| Permit Name | Issued By | Cost (Approx.) | Required For | Where to Get | Notes |
|---|
| ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) | Nepal Tourism Board | NPR 3,000 (Foreigners) NPR 1,000 (SAARC) |
Entry into Annapurna Conservation Area | Kathmandu & Pokhara offices | Mandatory for all trekkers |
| TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) | Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal | NPR 2,000 (Individual) NPR 1,000 (Group) |
Trekker safety & record keeping | Kathmandu & Pokhara | Helps track trekkers in emergencies |
| Special Permit (if required) | Government of Nepal | Varies | Restricted areas (not usually needed for standard route) | Through registered trekking agency | Only needed if itinerary includes restricted zones |
The Annapurna Circuit Trek – 20 Days is more than just a trek—it’s a complete journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Annapurna Region, rich cultural heritage, and thrilling high-altitude adventure. From crossing dramatic mountain passes like Thorong La Pass to exploring ancient villages and sacred sites, this trek truly offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For travelers seeking more Himalayan adventures, Nepal offers several world-class trekking destinations beyond Annapurna. You can explore the iconic trails of the Everest Region, home to Mount Everest and the famous Classic Everest Base Camp Trek. The remote and less-crowded Manaslu Region provides an off-the-beaten-path experience with pristine nature and authentic culture. Meanwhile, the beautiful Langtang Region offers stunning himalayan views, traditional Tamang villages, and easily accessible trekking routes close to Kathmandu.
👉 Book your Annapurna Circuit Trek 2026/2027 with Mountain Mart Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. and embark on an unforgettable Himalayan adventure!
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