The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking routes, offering breathtaking mountain views, rich cultural experiences, and an unforgettable adventure that winds through diverse landscapes — from subtropical forests to alpine terrain and desert-like highlands. If you’re planning to take on this epic trail, one of the first things you’ll want to know is: How much does it cost? And what does a typical itinerary look like?

This blog post covers everything you need — from a day-by-day breakdown of the trek, to estimated costs for transportation, permits, guides, food, and gear. Let’s lace up and dive in!

What is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

• Region: Annapurna Conservation Area, Central Nepal

• Duration: 12 to 21 days (standard itinerary: 14 days)

• Highest Point: Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,769 ft)

• Best Seasons: March–May (spring) and October–November (autumn)

• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

• Permits Required: TIMS card and ACAP permit

Total Estimated Cost of Annapurna Circuit Trek (14 Days)

Tip: Costs increase with altitude — food and amenities get pricier the higher you go due to transportation limitations (everything is carried by porter).

14-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

Here’s a popular and well-paced itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit, starting from Besisahar and ending in Jomsom.

🔹 Day 1: Kathmandu to Besisahar (820m)

• Travel Time: 6–7 hrs by bus or jeep

• Highlights: Scenic ride through Nepalese countryside

• Accommodation: Teahouse

• Tip: Start early to avoid traffic and reach before nightfall

🔹 Day 2: Besisahar to Dharapani (1,960m)

• Trek Time: 5–6 hrs

• Highlights: Walk along Marsyangdi River, waterfalls

• Optional: Take a shared jeep partway if short on time

🔹 Day 3: Dharapani to Chame (2,710m)

• Trek Time: 5–6 hrs

• Highlights: Views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II, pine forests

🔹 Day 4: Chame to Pisang (3,300m)

• Trek Time: 5 hrs

• Highlights: Stunning cliffs, Marsyangdi River gorge

🔹 Day 5: Pisang to Manang (3,540m)

• Trek Time: 6 hrs

• Highlights: Upper route via Ghyaru for better views, Tibetan influence begins

🔹 Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Manang

• Activity: Hike to Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake

• Purpose: Let your body adjust to the altitude

• Tip: Stay hydrated and eat well!

🔹 Day 7: Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m)

• Trek Time: 4–5 hrs

• Highlights: Alpine meadows, yaks, quieter trails

🔹 Day 8: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m)

• Trek Time: 4 hrs

• Tips: Rest early; the next day is the big pass day

🔹 Day 9: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,760m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m)

• Trek Time: 7–9 hrs

• Highlights: Most challenging day, early start at 3–4am

• View: Unforgettable — prayer flags and peaks all around

🔹 Day 10: Muktinath to Kagbeni (2,800m) or Jomsom (2,720m)

• Trek Time: 4–6 hrs

• Highlights: Sacred temple, dry desert landscape of Mustang region

🔹 Day 11: Kagbeni to Marpha (2,670m)

• Trek Time: 5 hrs

• Highlights: Apple orchards, Tibetan culture, whitewashed houses

🔹 Day 12: Marpha to Tatopani (1,200m) via Jeep or Trek

• Tip: Enjoy a hot spring bath at Tatopani!

🔹 Day 13: Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,860m)

• Trek Time: 6–7 hrs

• Highlights: Lush forests, rhododendrons (in spring)

🔹 Day 14: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for Sunrise, then to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara

• Poon Hill View: Annapurna & Dhaulagiri ranges at sunrise

• Finish: Return to Pokhara (2–3 hrs by jeep from Nayapul)

Permit Costs

1. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

   • Cost: $20 (independent) or $10 (with agency)

2. ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)

   • Cost: $30 USD

You can get both in Kathmandu or Pokhara at the Nepal Tourism Board office. Bring 2 passport-sized photos!

Packing & Gear Tips

• Essentials: Warm layers, good boots, down jacket, sun protection, sleeping bag (rated for -10°C), water purification

• Buy/Rent in Thamel (Kathmandu): Most gear can be rented if you don’t want to invest

• Budget: $100 – $200 for rentals or $300+ to buy everything new

Why Trek the Annapurna Circuit?

• Incredible variety: From lush lowlands to snowy peaks

• Cultural richness: Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan villages

• Thrill of the pass: Thorong La is one of the highest trekking passes in the world

• Teahouse experience: Delicious local food, warm hospitality

Bonus Tips for Success

• 🕓 Start early each day — weather is clearer in the mornings.

• 💧 Drink plenty of water — avoid altitude sickness.

• 📶 Wi-Fi is available, but gets pricier and less reliable the higher you go.

• ⚕️ Bring altitude meds (Diamox) and first aid kit.

• 🏥 Travel insurance is a MUST — make sure it covers high-altitude trekking.

 Final Thoughts

The Annapurna Circuit is more than just a trek — it’s a personal journey through some of the most awe-inspiring terrain on Earth. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a determined newbie, the trail rewards every step with spiritual beauty, majestic views, and memories to last a lifetime.