The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic and popular trekking routes, attracting around 30,000 to 40,000 trekkers each year from all over the world. Spanning diverse landscapes—from lush subtropical forests to high alpine deserts—and passing through charming villages, this trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and challenging adventure. Trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views of towering peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu, as well as the thrilling experience of crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.

Each year, thousands choose the Annapurna Circuit for its well-established trails, vibrant local culture, and accessibility. The trek typically takes about 12 to 21 days, with the 12-day itinerary offering a well-paced adventure suitable for moderately fit trekkers. With growing popularity, it remains one of Nepal’s best-loved treks, celebrated for its breathtaking scenery, hospitable communities, and the unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas.

The 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is an ideal adventure for those seeking to immerse themselves in the grandeur of the Himalayas while experiencing a remarkable blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. This trek is one of the most renowned trekking routes in Nepal, taking you through diverse landscapes—from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to high alpine deserts and dramatic mountain passes. Along the way, you’ll cross rushing rivers, quaint villages, and enjoy panoramic views of towering peaks such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu.

As you journey through traditional villages like Chame, Pisang, and Manang, you’ll meet local communities representing various ethnic groups, including Gurungs and Thakalis, known for their warm hospitality. Staying in cozy tea houses run by local families, you’ll have the chance to savor authentic Nepali cuisine and hear stories that offer a glimpse into rural Himalayan life. The trek also passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, where you might spot unique alpine flora and fauna, including colorful rhododendrons and Himalayan wildlife.

Designed with acclimatization in mind, this itinerary allows you to gradually adjust to higher altitudes, culminating in the challenging yet rewarding crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. Beyond the physical journey, the Annapurna Circuit Trek invites you to disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with the serene mountain environment. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a nature enthusiast eager for cultural encounters, this 12-day trek promises an unforgettable Himalayan experience filled with breathtaking landscapes and genuine human connection.

Highlights of 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek

Here are the highlights of the 12-day Annapurna Circuit Treks:

• Spectacular panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and other towering Himalayan peaks
• Crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world
• Exploring diverse landscapes—from lush subtropical forests to arid high-altitude deserts
• Experiencing rich cultural diversity with visits to traditional Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced villages
• Staying in cozy tea houses run by local families, enjoying authentic Nepali cuisine and warm hospitality
• Witnessing unique flora and fauna within the Annapurna Conservation Area, including rhododendron forests and Himalayan wildlife
• Acclimatization day in Manang, allowing for rest and optional hikes to stunning viewpoints
• Trekking along the scenic Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki river valleys with dramatic canyon views
• Visiting the sacred Muktinath Temple, an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists
• Flying from Jomsom to Pokhara and enjoying the tranquil lakeside city
• Opportunity to experience traditional Nepali rural life and vibrant local markets
• A well-paced itinerary designed to balance adventure, culture, and natural beauty

When is the Best Time for the 12-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The best time to embark on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is during the Autumn (mid-September to November) and Spring (March to May) seasons—and there are great reasons for this.

In Autumn, the monsoon rains have cleared the dust and haze, leaving the air crisp and the skies crystal clear. The trails are fresh and green, and you’ll be treated to spectacular views of snow-capped peaks shimmering under bright blue skies. It’s the most popular trekking season because of the pleasant weather and ideal visibility.

During Spring, the region bursts into color as rhododendron forests bloom in vibrant reds, pinks, and whites. The temperatures are mild, making for comfortable trekking conditions. Everything around feels lively and vibrant, enhancing your experience with fresh mountain air and gorgeous wildflowers.

Trekking in these seasons means you can expect mostly clear skies and moderate temperatures—not too hot, not too cold. It’s also a perfect time for spotting wildlife along the route. The panoramic mountain views during these months are truly breathtaking.

That said, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is accessible year-round, but each season has its challenges. The Monsoon season (June to early September) brings heavy rain, slippery trails, and the possibility of leeches. Meanwhile, Winter (December to February) can be very cold with snowfall, especially at higher elevations, making trekking more difficult. Planning your trek during the optimal seasons will ensure the best experience and safety.

Alternative Treks You Might Want to Explore

If you’re short on time but still want to explore Annapurna Base Camp, we have an offer to make. You can join our Short Trek to Annapurna Base Camp Trekking.

Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

If you are someone who is complete newbie to trek or families planning trekking with kids, Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek could be perfect fit for you. It’s an easy 8 days trek.  We have designed it’s itinerary slow and relaxed walking with plenty of breaks in between. You can still experience majestic mountain views, vibrant villages, local culture without the need for high-altitude challenges in the Annapurna range.

Annapurna Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trekking is a new and exciting trek in Nepal which just opened in 2012. It gained popularity really fast among local trekkers residing in Nepal as well as international trekkers. This trek is not too hard, gentle and gives you memorable views of Mt. Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. Many of our trekkers at Blissful Himalayas have shared how much they loved this journey — from walking through peaceful forests to crossing swaying suspension bridges over rushing rivers. Along the way, you’ll enjoy warm Nepali hospitality and delicious local meals like the classic Daal Bhaat.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The short ABC trek is favourite for the trekkers from all around the world. You’ll see mesmerising mountain views like Annapurna I (8,901m) , Annapurna South (7,219m) and Machapuchhre (6,993m). The interesting thing about this trek is how quickly the landscape changes. One fine day, you’ll pass through green lush forest and another fine day you see snowy peaks. Additionally, along the way, you’ll meet local people and experience their culture. If you are wondering what’s the best part on this 8 day Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it’s watching sunrise over the huge Annapurna mountains. 

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
Day 02: Drive to Dharapani (via Besi Sahar) – trek start
Day 03: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,670m)
Day 04: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,200m)
Day 05: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m)
Day 06: Acclimatization day in Manang
Day 07: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m)
Day 08: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,540m)
Day 09: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and trek to Muktinath (3,790m)
Day 10: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,710m)
Day 11: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
Day 12: Fly or drive back to Kathmandu

Itinerary flow:

Includes:

✅ Airport pick-up by private vehicle

✅ All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner + tea/coffee at breakfast)

✅ Tea house accommodation during the trek

✅ Ground transportation (local bus or shared jeep as per itinerary)

✅ Licensed English-speaking guide with all expenses and insurance

✅ Monastery entry fees

✅ ACAP permit and TIMS card

Excludes:

❌ Drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, alcohol, etc.)

❌ Porter service (available for USD 250 including all expenses)

❌ Personal snacks (chocolates, sweets, etc.)

❌ Personal expenses (laundry, Wi-Fi, tips, etc.)

❌ Hotels and activities in Kathmandu and Pokhara

❌ Private transport (if preferred)

❌ Nepal entry visa fees

Elevation and Altitude Profile

The highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the Thorong La Pass, which stands at an impressive 5,416 meters. This challenging yet rewarding pass is typically crossed on Day 9 of the trek, after several days of steady ascent and acclimatization.

The trek usually begins with a drive to Dharapani, from where you follow a scenic trail passing through beautiful villages such as Chame (2,670m), Pisang (3,200m), and Manang (3,540m). After spending time acclimatizing in Manang, you continue trekking through Yak Kharka (4,050m) and Thorong Phedi (4,540m) before reaching the Thorong La Pass itself.

After crossing the pass, you descend to the sacred town of Muktinath (3,790m) and then continue downhill through the Kali Gandaki Valley to Jomsom (2,710m). From Jomsom, you take a flight to Pokhara and then return to Kathmandu, completing your unforgettable 12-day Annapurna Circuit journey.

Route Summary of Circuit Trekking

Your Annapurna Circuit adventure begins on Day 1 with your arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital. After clearing immigration, a friendly representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel, where you can rest and prepare for the journey ahead. On Day 2, you’ll leave the city behind and enjoy a scenic drive to Dharapani, passing through Besi Sahar and tracing the Marsyangdi River valley. This long but beautiful drive marks the official beginning of your trek, as you enter the Annapurna region.

On Day 3, your first full day of trekking takes you from Dharapani to Chame (2,670m), the district headquarters of Manang. The trail winds through pine forests, apple orchards, and charming villages, with views of snow-capped peaks emerging along the way. Day 4 takes you deeper into the mountains as you trek to Pisang (3,200m), where the landscape starts to shift into alpine terrain and the air becomes noticeably cooler. The following day, Day 5, you continue toward Manang (3,540m), one of the most picturesque and culturally rich villages on the circuit. This stretch offers stunning views of Annapurna II, III, and IV, as well as Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak.

Day 6 is a designated acclimatization day in Manang, which is essential for your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. You can spend the day exploring the village, visiting a local monastery, or hiking up to Gangapurna Lake or the ridge for panoramic views of the Annapurna range. On Day 7, you’ll resume trekking and gradually ascend to Yak Kharka (4,050m), passing sparse vegetation, grazing yaks, and a growing sense of wilderness. The journey continues on Day 8 as you make your way to Thorong Phedi (4,540m), the base camp for the next day’s high pass crossing.

Day 9 is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You’ll rise early to cross the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, the highest point of the trek. After taking in the awe-inspiring views from the top, you’ll begin a long descent to Muktinath (3,790m), a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. On Day 10, the trail descends further through the arid, dramatic landscapes of Lower Mustang as you make your way to Jomsom (2,710m), a windy town known for its unique trans-Himalayan setting.

On Day 11, you’ll take a short but scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, where you can relax by the lakeside, enjoy a hot shower, and celebrate the completion of your trek. Finally, on Day 12, you’ll return to Kathmandu—either by a short domestic flight or a drive along the Prithvi Highway—bringing your journey through the Annapurna Circuit to a memorable close.

How is 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Different from 16 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek and the 16 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek both explore one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking routes, but they differ in terms of pace, route coverage, acclimatization, and cultural immersion. The 12-day version is a shortened and more direct itinerary, ideal for trekkers with limited time who still want to experience the dramatic landscape changes and the thrill of crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m). In contrast, the 16-day trek follows a more gradual and comprehensive route, allowing for additional acclimatization days, side trips, and deeper exploration of the local culture and villages along the way. Here’s a detailed comparison:

How Safe is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered one of the safest and most accessible high-altitude treks in Nepal, provided you are reasonably fit and follow basic precautions. While it’s classified as a moderate trek, you don’t need to be an elite athlete to complete it. The trail is well-established, and the gradual ascent allows most trekkers to acclimatize naturally to the altitude. The highest point on this trek is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, which is certainly high, but with a carefully planned itinerary and one or two acclimatization days, most people complete the crossing without serious issues.

Unlike more intense routes like Everest Base Camp, the Annapurna Circuit offers a more forgiving pace and route variety, making it manageable for first-time trekkers. That said, mountain safety is always crucial, and being well-prepared makes a big difference.

Here are some essential safety tips to follow during your trek:

• Purify all drinking water—either by boiling, using purification tablets, or a filtration device. Avoid drinking directly from natural sources.
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking at least 4 liters of water per day, which helps with acclimatization and overall stamina.
• Travel with comprehensive insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation by helicopter, just in case.
• Carry a personal First Aid Kit, including basic medications for altitude sickness (like Diamox), gastrointestinal issues, pain relief, and wound care.
• Avoid rushing the itinerary—listen to your body and allow time to acclimatize, especially in Manang or other mid-altitude villages.
• Have a reliable means of communication, such as a satellite phone or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), particularly in remote areas with limited signal.

When trekking with experienced guides, such as those from Blissful Himalayas, safety is a top priority. Guides are trained in first aid and altitude response, and they monitor your condition throughout the journey. In summary, the Annapurna Circuit is very safe as long as you prepare well, pace yourself, and stay alert to how your body feels at altitude.

Is the Annapurna Circuit Trek Good for the First Time Trekkers?

Yes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek can be a great choice for first-time trekkers—as long as you're reasonably fit, well-prepared, and take the time to acclimatize properly. Here's why it's suitable:

Why the Annapurna Circuit is Good for First-Time Trekkers:

1. Gradual Altitude Gain:
   The trek is designed to ascend slowly, giving your body time to adjust to the altitude. This lowers the risk of altitude sickness, especially if you include rest days (like in Manang).
2. Well-Established Trail:
   The route is one of Nepal’s most popular treks, with clearly marked trails, frequent teahouses, and support available along the way.
3. Diverse Scenery and Culture:
   You’ll experience everything from subtropical forests to high alpine deserts, with changing landscapes every day. Plus, you’ll pass through culturally rich villages inhabited by Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan communities—offering more than just a mountain experience.
4. Flexible Itineraries:
   The trek can be shortened or extended depending on your pace, fitness, and time. Many first-timers opt for the shorter 12-day version or even skip certain segments using road access or flights (e.g., flying out from Jomsom).
5. Availability of Teahouses:
   You don’t need to camp—comfortable teahouse accommodation is available at every stop, with hot meals, warm beds, and a chance to meet fellow trekkers.
6. Well-Supported by Guides and Porters:
   If you're trekking with a reputable company like Blissful Himalayas, experienced guides can help with pacing, altitude monitoring, and general safety, making the experience more relaxed and enjoyable for beginners.

A Few Considerations:

• You should be in moderate physical shape, as you’ll walk 5–7 hours a day for over a week.
• Altitude awareness is still important. While it’s not extreme compared to Everest Base Camp, Thorong La Pass (5,416m) is high, and proper acclimatization is necessary.
• Weather and trail conditions can vary depending on the season, so first-timers should ideally trek in spring (March–May) or autumn (Sept–Nov).

Bottom Line:
Yes, the Annapurna Circuit is a beginner-friendly trek—challenging but achievable, rich in scenery and culture, and fully supported. Many people do it as their first multi-day trek and come back for more!

What should I know before I sign up for this adventure?

While the adventure that you are going to sign up for is breathtaking—both for its stunning beauty and high altitudes—it’s important to be well-prepared before you set your first step into heart of the Himalayas.

• Altitude Gain & Acclimatization:
  If it’s your first time trekking high in the mountains, the ABC trek can feel a bit tough. Each day, you go a little higher. This can sometimes make you feel dizzy or tired because of the altitude. As mentioned above, drink at least 4 liters of water to stay hydrated. Make sure you spend plenty of time to acclimatize in the lower altitudes and keep a slow but steady pace.
• Physical Endurance:
  You’ll be walking for 4 to 8 hours every day through hills and mountains. So, you need to be a little fit. If you're not used to walking for many days, you might get very tired.
• Weather & Seasonal Challenges:
  The weather in the mountains can change quickly. If you trek during the rainy season or winter, the paths can get slippery and cold. Sometimes, it’s hard to see clearly too. That’s why it’s smart to check the weather and best season before you sign up for this adventure.
• Remote Terrain:
  You’ll walk through quiet, faraway places. There won’t be big shops or fancy hotels. Help might take time to reach if anything goes wrong. So, you need to be strong both in body and mind for this wild and beautiful adventure.

  If you're worried about planning the trek, we at Blissful Himalayas take care of everything for you.

From packing and preparing…
To where you’ll sleep, what you’ll eat, and even clean drinking water. Need internet or gadgets? We help with that too!

Want to know more? Just check the FAQs section below.

Important Things to Consider

It’s a relatively short journey, yet it packs in stunning views and an unforgettable experience. That said, to make the most of it and truly enjoy every moment, a little preparation goes a long way.

Here are a few important things to keep in mind before you hit the trail.

Why is Travel Insurance Required?

Travel insurance is a must when you're heading into the high Himalayas—especially for treks like the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Here's why it’s so important:

Imagine dealing with a sudden injury, illness, or altitude sickness in the middle of your trek.

✅ Insurance helps you get quick medical care, covers doctor visits, medication, and even helicopter evacuations if needed.

✅ Lost, delayed, or stolen baggage? Covered.

✅ Flight or trip delays? Covered.

✅ Non-refundable bookings like permits, hotels, or flights? Covered too.

Basically, it lets you focus on enjoying trek without the stress of “what ifs”.

Nepal Visa Requirements

You can apply for Nepal Visa in two ways,

Firstly, you can fillout form online through the official government website from your home country. Or you can get a visa on arrival after landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. But remember, only citizens from certain countries are allowed to get visas on arrival.

Nepal offers three types of tourist visas:

• 15 days: USD 30
• 30 days: USD 50
• 90 days: USD 125

  If you want to stay longer, you can extend your visa after it expires.

To apply for a visa, you’ll need:

• A passport valid for at least six more months
• A few passport-size photos
• Proof of your travel plan, like flight tickets

Preparation for Annapurna Trek

• Get yourself some good-quality gear. Durable, lightweight, and weather-appropriate clothes make a big difference.
• Start training a few months before your trek. You don’t need to be an athlete, but a decent fitness level helps a lot.
• Mix in some cardio and strength workouts—this will boost your stamina and make the hike easier.

Note: Remember, mindset matters!  Stay positive and keep pushing, even when it gets tough. Also, if you have any health concerns, check in with your doctor before the trip.

Trek Smart: Do’s and Don’ts

✅ Acclimatize slowly, hydrate well

✅ Respect local culture and dress modestly

✅ Use Eco-friendly practices

✅ Follow your guide’s advice at all times

❌ Rush uphill — risk of AMS

❌ Take photos of locals without asking

❌ Bargain too hard in remote villages

❌ Leave trash behind

Booking with Us

Trust can be a big worry when booking a trip to a foreign country. Blissful Himalayas is registered trekking agency. We are a trusted and well-known local company. We are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Pacific Asia Travel Association Nepal (PATA Nepal). 

• We provide standard gear and equipment for the trek
• We’ll customize the trek itinerary just for you—based on your interests, fitness level, trekking experience, and how much time you have for the trip
• The airlines we consider for domestic flights are with high standards having high rate of excellence in quality and service
• The guides are well trained for mountain sickness, first aid medication, and emergency management during landslides or any other risk that may arise during the trek.
• The Guides are certified in customer handing via various trainings on aptitude and attitude: they are well behaved and properly service oriented.
• The guides are well aware of risk on the road and have idea of alternative routes with good knowledge on mountain navigation.
• The central management in Kathmandu city office are 24/7 available for handing any case of emergency even in the case of helicopter rescue, hospital arrangement, and others to follow.
• There is a separate safety protocol of the company which each of our staff has signed ensuring that they will behave with the clients and provide information and service to protect our clients throughout the trip.
• The quality of ground transportation vehicle is well checked before departure and safety are always kept as first priority.
• We listen to the clients, their interest and need prior to the trip and act accordingly as per their requirement.

To secure your spot, we require a 10% of trip deposit upfront. You can pay via bank transfer or through online portal. The rest of your payment can be made when you arrive in Nepal using cash, bank transfer, or credit card.

After booking, please send us:

• A copy of your passport
• Passport-sized photos
• Travel insurance documents
• Your flight details

We also have last minute reservations. In this case, you should make a full payment within 24 hours of departure. While we always do our best to stick to the schedule, please understand that some delays may happen that are beyond our control.
Why This Trek with Blissful Himalayas

We also have last minute reservations. In this case, you should make a full payment within 24 hours of departure. While we always do our best to stick to the schedule, please understand that some delays may happen that are beyond our control.
We're more than just a trekking company — we’re your local mountain family. Here’s why travelers trust us:

• Licensed, trained, and experienced guides withfirst-aid, high-altitude, and navigation training
• Flexible itineraries tailored to yourfitness level and travel goals
• Safe, well-maintainedtransport and gear
• Emergency response team on standby 24/7 from Kathmandu
• Clean accommodation andsafe drinking water arrangements
• Respectful, eco-conscious, and culturally sensitive approach

Last-minute booking? No problem. Just let us know and we’ll handle the rest — even within 24 hours of departure.

Link:

PATA Nepal: https://www.pata.org.np/

NTB: https://ntb.gov.np/

TAAN: https://www.taan.org.np/