The Annapurna Circuit Group Join Trek is one of the most complete trekking experiences in Nepal - a 14-day loop around the Annapurna massif that carries you from subtropical rice terraces to the high alpine desert of Mustang, crossing the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m) along the way. Unlike the restricted Manaslu region, the Annapurna Circuit only requires the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card, making it one of the most accessible high-altitude treks in Nepal for both solo travelers and small groups.
Joining one of Peace Nepal Treks' scheduled fixed departure dates means you trek alongside other travelers from around the world, sharing your guide and transport costs, while our team handles every permit, teahouse booking, and acclimatization decision along the route - from the green Marsyangdi Valley, through Manang, over Thorong La, down into Muktinath and the deep Kali Gandaki gorge.
| Duration | 12 Days |
| Max Altitude | Thorong La Pass, 5,416m |
| Trek Grade | Moderate to Strenuous |
| Group Size | 2–12 trekkers (fixed departure) |
| Starts / Ends | Besisahar (or Dharapani) / Muktinath–Jomsom |
| Accommodation | Teahouse / Guesthouse |
| Meals | Self - Paid |
| Best Season | March-May & September-November - December |
| Price (Group Join) | From USD 525 per person |
| Permits Required | ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) |
The Annapurna Circuit doesn't legally require a minimum group size the way Manaslu does, but joining a fixed-departure group remains the smartest way to trek it for most travelers, because it means:
Peace Nepal Treks runs guaranteed Annapurna Circuit fixed departure dates through spring and autumn - we do not cancel or delay departures for low headcounts.
This is our standard fixed-departure itinerary. Overnight stops may adjust slightly for trail, road, or weather conditions - your guide will always prioritize safe acclimatization over the printed schedule.
Elevation: Kathmandu – 1,400 m | Driving: Approximately 20–30 minutes | Walking: No trekking
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After checking in, you can rest and prepare for your Annapurna Circuit adventure.
Elevation: Kathmandu – 1,400 m to Dharapani – 1,860 m | Driving distance: Approximately 235–245 km | Driving time: 10–12 hours
After an early breakfast, travel from Kathmandu to Besisahar by local bus. From Besisahar, continue by shared local jeep along the mountain road to Dharapani, the starting point of the trek. Overnight stay in a tea house in Dharapani. Travel time may change depending on traffic, road and weather conditions.
Elevation: Dharapani – 1,860 m to Chame – 2,670 m | Walking distance: Approximately 15.5 km | Walking time: 5–6 hours
Begin trekking through pine and rhododendron forests, traditional villages and beautiful river valleys. The trail gradually climbs through Timang and Koto before reaching Chame, the administrative centre of Manang District. Overnight stay in a tea house in Chame.
Elevation: Chame – 2,670 m to Upper Pisang – 3,300 m | Walking distance: Approximately 13.5 km | Walking time: 5–6 hours
Follow the Marsyangdi River through peaceful forests and dramatic mountain landscapes. The trail passes Bhratang and Dhikur Pokhari before climbing to Upper Pisang, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Annapurna II and the surrounding peaks. Overnight stay in a tea house in Upper Pisang.
Elevation: Upper Pisang – 3,300 m to Manang – 3,540 m | Walking distance: Approximately 15–18 km | Walking time: 6–7 hours
Continue towards Manang through the wide upper Marsyangdi Valley. Depending on the selected trail, you may pass traditional villages, monasteries and scenic viewpoints with wonderful views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak. Overnight stay in a tea house in Manang.
Elevation: Manang – 3,540 m | Optional walking distance: Approximately 3–5 km | Walking time: 3–4 hours
Spend an extra day in Manang to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. You may take a short acclimatization hike to Gangapurna Lake, a nearby viewpoint or a monastery before returning to Manang. The rest of the day can be used for relaxation and preparation for the journey to Tilicho Lake. Overnight stay in a tea house in Manang.
Elevation: Manang – 3,540 m to Tilicho Base Camp – 4,150 m | Walking distance: Approximately 16–18 km | Walking time: 7–8 hours
Leave Manang and follow the trail through Khangsar and Shree Kharka. Continue carefully across the dry and rocky landslide section before reaching Tilicho Base Camp. This is a long trekking day, but the surrounding mountain scenery makes the journey rewarding. Overnight stay in a tea house at Tilicho Base Camp.
Highest elevation: Tilicho Lake – 4,919 m | Overnight elevation: Shree Kharka – approximately 4,060 m | Walking distance: Approximately 20–22 km | Walking time: 8–10 hours
Start early in the morning and climb steadily to Tilicho Lake, one of the major highlights of the Annapurna region. Enjoy the beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-covered mountains before descending to Tilicho Base Camp. After a short rest, continue to Shree Kharka for the night.
Elevation: Shree Kharka – approximately 4,060 m to Yak Kharka – 4,050 m | Walking distance: Approximately 11–12 km | Walking time: 5–6 hours
Follow a scenic trail through the upper Manang Valley and reconnect with the main Annapurna Circuit route. The trail includes both uphill and downhill sections and may offer opportunities to see blue sheep and Himalayan birds. Overnight stay in a tea house in Yak Kharka.
Elevation: Yak Kharka – 4,050 m to Thorong High Camp – 4,880 m | Walking distance: Approximately 8–9 km | Walking time: 5–6 hours
Walk slowly towards Thorong Phedi while allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. From Thorong Phedi, make a steep final climb to Thorong High Camp. Rest early and prepare for the challenging pass crossing the following morning. Overnight stay in a tea house at Thorong High Camp.
Highest elevation: Thorong La Pass – 5,416 m | Overnight elevation: Muktinath – 3,800 m | Walking distance: Approximately 15–16 km | Walking time: 8–10 hours
Begin before sunrise and climb steadily to Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit. After enjoying the mountain views and taking photographs at the pass, descend carefully towards Muktinath. The long descent leads into the dry and beautiful Mustang landscape. Overnight stay in a tea house in Muktinath.
Elevation: Muktinath – 3,800 m to Pokhara – approximately 822 m | Driving distance: Approximately 170 km | Driving time: 8–10 hours
After breakfast, drive from Muktinath to Pokhara through Jomsom, Marpha, Tatopani and the Kali Gandaki Valley. The journey offers beautiful views of Mustang villages, waterfalls, rivers and mountain landscapes. Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a comfortable rest after completing the trek.
| Package | Duration | Price per person (Group Join) |
|---|
| Budget Trek Package | 12 Days | From USD 525 |
Final price depends on group size, season, and departure date - larger fixed-departure groups reduce the per-person cost.
The following equipment is available when needed and must be returned after the trek:
Bottled water is available along the trekking route and must be paid for by guests. We recommend using tap or spring water with purification tablets, as it is safe, affordable and helps reduce plastic waste.
Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara and during the trek are not included. Please budget around USD 30–40 per person per day for food and lodge expenses.
Snacks, bottled water, soft drinks and alcoholic drinks are also self-paid. We can help arrange hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara according to your budget.
A porter can be arranged for USD 216 and can carry up to 25 kg. Each guest may give approximately 10–12 kg to the porter and carry only a small daypack.
The jeep cost can be shared among the group. One jeep can comfortably carry around six passengers.
Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover trekking accidents, altitude sickness, medical treatment and helicopter evacuation.
All rescue and medical costs are paid by the guest or insurance provider. Peace Nepal Treks will fully assist with emergency arrangements when needed.
The following expenses are not included:
The Nepal visa fee is not included:
Most travelers can obtain a visa upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport.
Tips for guides, porters and drivers are appreciated but not compulsory. Around 15% of the total trip cost may be given depending on the service and your satisfaction.
Any service not mentioned in the Cost Includes section is not included.
The Annapurna Circuit is easier to arrange than restricted routes like Manaslu, requiring only two documents — both handled for you by Peace Nepal Treks as part of your group-join package:
| Permit | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | USD 30 |
| Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card | USD 20 |
Since April 2023, all foreign trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit must also be accompanied by a licensed guide — independent, unguided trekking is no longer permitted on this route.
| Month | Departure Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| October 2026 | 12 October | Guaranteed |
| October 2026 | 18 Ocotber | Guaranteed |
| November 2026 | 10 November | Guaranteed |
| Febryary 2027 | 15 February | Guaranteed |
| February 2027 | 26 Febryary | Limited spots |
Don't see a date that fits? Contact Peace Nepal Treks - we can also open a new fixed departure once 2 or more trekkers confirm a preferred date.
The Annapurna Circuit is graded moderate to strenuous. Trekkers should be prepared for:
Peace Nepal Treks builds in a dedicated acclimatization day at Manang and keeps daily altitude gain within safe limits to reduce altitude-sickness risk before the pass.
A full, printable packing list is provided at your pre-trek briefing in Kathmandu.
How much does the Annapurna Circuit Group Join Trek cost? A 12-day Annapurna Circuit Group Join Trek with Peace Nepal Treks starts from USD 525 per person, including permits, guide, porter, teahouse accommodation, and meals on the trail.
How many days does the Annapurna Circuit Trek take? Most group-join itineraries run 12–16 days including arrival and departure days in Kathmandu, with 10–11 actual trekking days on the trail. Shorter and longer variants (10 to 20 days) are also available depending on how much of the classic route you cover.
Is a guide required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek? Yes. Since April 2023, Nepal requires all foreign trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit to be accompanied by a licensed guide - independent trekking is no longer permitted on this route.
What permits do I need for the Annapurna Circuit Trek? You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card. Both are arranged for you as part of your Peace Nepal Treks group-join package.
What is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit? September to November (autumn) and March to May (spring) offer the most stable weather and best visibility for crossing Thorong La Pass.
How difficult is crossing Thorong La Pass? Thorong La (5,416m) is a long, high-altitude day - typically 8-9 hours of walking, started before dawn to avoid strong afternoon winds. It requires no technical climbing skill, but good acclimatization and fitness are essential.
How is the Annapurna Circuit different from the Annapurna Base Camp Trek? The Annapurna Circuit is a longer loop trek that crosses the high Thorong La Pass and descends into the dry Mustang region, while the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a shorter, out-and-back route into the Annapurna Sanctuary itself. The Circuit covers more varied terrain and altitude; ABC is generally shorter and less demanding.
Can I extend the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake? Yes - Peace Nepal Treks offers a combined Annapurna Circuit + Tilicho Lake extension (17–18 days total) for trekkers who want to visit one of the highest lakes in the world before crossing Thorong La.
Ready to join the next fixed departure? Contact Peace Nepal Treks today to confirm your spot on the Annapurna Circuit Group Join Trek, check current availability, or ask about customizing your itinerary with the Tilicho Lake extension.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, you can rest and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may also explore the nearby streets, shops, restaurants, and cultural areas of Kathmandu.
After breakfast, you will travel from Kathmandu to Besisahar by local bus. The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours and follows scenic highways beside rivers, hills, farming villages, and terraced fields. After reaching Besisahar, you will continue towards Dharapani by shared local jeep. The second part of the journey takes around 4 hours and follows a rough mountain road through beautiful valleys and traditional villages.
Driving distance: Approximately 240 kilometres
Driving duration: Around 9 to 10 hours
Overnight stay: Lodge accommodation in Dharapani
Altitude: 1,860 metres
Today, you will begin your trekking journey from Dharapani to Chame, the administrative centre of the Manang district. The trail passes through forests, small villages, suspension bridges, waterfalls, and riverside landscapes. During the walk, you can enjoy your first impressive views of Annapurna II, Manaslu, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Walking distance: Approximately 15.5 kilometres
Walking duration: Around 5 to 6 hours
Overnight stay: Lodge accommodation in Chame
Altitude: 2,670 metres
After breakfast, you will trek from Chame towards Upper Pisang. The trail follows the Marsyangdi River and passes through beautiful pine forests, rocky cliffs, apple-growing areas, and the village of Bhratang. You will also walk through the impressive Paungda Danda rock face before reaching the wide and scenic Manang Valley. Upper Pisang offers wonderful views of Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, and other nearby mountains.
Walking distance: Approximately 15 kilometres
Walking duration: Around 5 to 6 hours
Overnight stay: Lodge accommodation in Upper Pisang
Altitude: 3,300 metres
Today’s trek takes you from Upper Pisang to the beautiful mountain village of Manang. The route offers excellent views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and other Himalayan mountains. You will pass through traditional villages, dry mountain landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, and cultivated fields before reaching Manang.
Walking distance: Approximately 15 kilometres
Walking duration: Around 5 to 6 hours
Overnight stay: Lodge accommodation in Manang
Altitude: 3,540 metres
Today is an important acclimatization and rest day in Manang. This extra day allows your body to adjust to the increasing altitude before continuing towards Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass. You may take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, Bhojo Gompa, or one of the nearby viewpoints. Walking to a higher place and returning to sleep at a lower altitude is helpful for acclimatization.
Optional walking distance: Approximately 3 to 5 kilometres
Optional walking duration: Around 2 to 3 hours
Overnight stay: Lodge accommodation in Manang
Altitude: 3,540 metres
After breakfast, you will leave Manang and trek towards Tilicho Base Camp. The trail passes through Khangsar village and the scenic area of Shree Kharka. From there, you will continue along a narrow and adventurous trail through landslide areas with impressive views of Tilicho Peak and the surrounding mountain landscapes. You should walk carefully and steadily because of the high altitude and challenging trail conditions.
Walking distance: Approximately 12 kilometres
Walking duration: Around 6 to 7 hours
Overnight stay: Lodge accommodation at Tilicho Base Camp
Altitude: 4,150 metres
You will start early in the morning and hike from Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake, situated at an altitude of approximately 4,919 metres. The climb is challenging, but the views of Tilicho Lake, Tilicho Peak, and the surrounding snowy mountains are unforgettable. After spending some time at the lake, you will return to Tilicho Base Camp for a short rest and continue trekking towards Shree Kharka.
This will be one of the longest and most demanding days of the trek, so you should walk slowly, drink enough water, and follow the guidance of your trekking guide.
Walking distance: Approximately 17 kilometres
Walking duration: Around 7 to 8 hours
Overnight stay: Lodge accommodation in Shree Kharka
Altitude: Approximately 4,050 metres
Today, you will trek from Shree Kharka towards Yak Kharka. The trail gradually joins the main Annapurna Circuit route and passes through high-altitude grasslands, small streams, rocky paths, and open mountain landscapes. You may see yaks, horses, mountain goats, and blue sheep along the way. The shorter walking day also provides more time for rest and altitude adjustment.
Walking distance: Approximately 10 kilometres
Walking duration: Around 4 to 5 hours
Overnight stay: Lodge accommodation in Yak Kharka
Altitude: 4,050 metres
After breakfast, you will continue trekking towards Thorong High Camp. The trail passes through Ledar and Thorong Phedi before climbing steeply towards the high camp. Because of the increasing altitude, you should maintain a slow and steady pace. After arriving at the lodge, you can rest and prepare your clothing, equipment, water, and snacks for the early-morning crossing of Thorong La Pass.
Walking distance: Approximately 7 kilometres
Walking duration: Around 4 to 5 hours
Overnight stay: Lodge accommodation at Thorong High Camp
Altitude: 4,925 metres
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You will start very early in the morning and climb towards Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the journey at 5,416 metres. The ascent is demanding because of the cold temperature, strong winds, snow conditions, and high altitude.
After reaching the top, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and surrounding Himalayan ranges. You will then make a long descent towards Muktinath, an important pilgrimage destination for both Hindu and Buddhist people.
Walking distance: Approximately 15 kilometres
Walking duration: Around 7 to 9 hours
Highest altitude: Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres
Overnight stay: Lodge accommodation in Muktinath
Sleeping altitude: Approximately 3,800 metres
After completing the trekking journey, you will travel from Muktinath to Pokhara by local bus or shared local jeep. The drive passes through Jomsom, Marpha, Kalopani, Tatopani, Beni, and several beautiful mountain villages. You will enjoy views of the Kali Gandaki Valley, waterfalls, rivers, hills, and changing landscapes along the journey.
After arriving in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel and enjoy a comfortable rest after completing the Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, and Thorong La Pass adventure.
Driving distance: Approximately 172 kilometres
Driving duration: Around 9 to 10 hours
Overnight stay: Hotel accommodation in Pokhara
Altitude: Approximately 822 metres
All trekking distances and walking times are approximate. The actual walking duration may vary depending on the guest’s walking speed, weather, trail conditions, altitude, rest breaks, and accommodation availability.
The following equipment is available without additional charge. All borrowed items must be returned after the trek:
Guests may safely leave unnecessary luggage, city clothes and other personal belongings at our office during the trek. We will keep everything secure until you return.
For meals and accommodation during the trek, please budget around USD 30-40 per person per day, depending on your food choices, lodge standard, and altitude.
Snacks and drinks such as chocolates, energy bars, soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages are also not included.
One porter can be arranged for USD 216 and can carry up to 25 kg. Each guest may give the porter around 10–12 kg of luggage and carry only a small daypack with daily essentials.
Kathmandu to Dharapani: Private jeep transportation from Kathmandu to Dharapani, the trek starting point, can be arranged upon request. The additional cost is USD 200 per jeep, which can be shared among the group members. One jeep can comfortably accommodate approximately 6 passengers.
Muktinath to Pokhara: Private jeep transportation from Muktinath to Pokhara can also be arranged upon request. The additional cost is USD 180 per jeep, which can be divided among the group members. One jeep can comfortably accommodate approximately 6 passengers.
The Nepal entry visa fee is not included. Most travelers can obtain a visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
Current tourist visa fees are:
For an easier and faster process, guests can complete the online tourist visa form before arriving in Nepal. Please carry the application receipt, a valid passport and cash or another accepted payment method for the visa fee.
Guests are responsible for bringing their own personal trekking clothes, hiking boots, daypack and other personal equipment. Some trekking equipment may be borrowed or rented in Kathmandu when required.
Choose a scheduled departure and reserve your place.
The Annapurna Circuit Group Join Trek is a shared trekking adventure where individual travellers join other trekkers on a scheduled departure. The journey passes through traditional mountain villages, forests, river valleys and high-altitude landscapes before crossing Thorong La Pass. Joining a group is a good way to share the trekking experience and reduce guide and transportation costs.
The current Peace Nepal Treks itinerary is a 12-day program. It begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, followed by road travel to Dharapani. The trek continues through Chame, Upper Pisang, Manang, Tilicho Base Camp, Shree Kharka, Yak Kharka and Thorong High Camp. After crossing Thorong La Pass, the trek finishes at Muktinath, followed by a drive to Pokhara.
The current Budget Trek Package costs USD 525 per person on the available fixed departure dates. The price may change depending on the departure date, group size, transportation arrangements and any additional services requested. Guests should confirm the final package price and available places before booking.
Yes. Solo travellers are welcome to join one of the scheduled group departures. You do not need to bring your own trekking partner. Peace Nepal Treks will place you with other travellers who are following the same itinerary. The usual fixed-departure group size is approximately 2 to 12 trekkers, depending on bookings for each date.
The trek is considered moderate to strenuous because it involves long walking days, steep trails, cold weather and high altitude. Most trekking days require around four to seven hours of walking, while the Thorong La crossing may take seven to nine hours. Technical climbing experience is not required, but good physical fitness, proper preparation and a positive attitude are important.
The highest point is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres above sea level. Trekkers normally begin the pass crossing very early in the morning to avoid strong afternoon winds and changing weather. The ascent is physically demanding, but the top offers impressive views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and surrounding Himalayan ranges.
Yes. The itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Manang at 3,540 metres. On this day, trekkers can rest or take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, Bhojo Gompa or a nearby viewpoint. This helps the body adjust before continuing towards Tilicho Lake, Thorong High Camp and Thorong La Pass. Guests should walk slowly, drink enough water and inform the guide immediately if they feel unwell.
Accommodation during the trek is provided in locally operated mountain lodges or tea houses. Rooms are generally simple, clean and arranged on a twin-sharing basis. Most rooms have two separate beds, blankets and basic furniture. Bathrooms may be shared, especially at higher elevations. Facilities become more basic around Tilicho Base Camp, Yak Kharka and Thorong High Camp.
Meals are not included in the Budget Trek Package. Guests can order breakfast, lunch and dinner directly from the lodge menus and pay for their own food. Common choices include dal bhat, noodles, fried rice, soups, pasta, potatoes, eggs and Tibetan bread. Guests should budget approximately USD 30–40 per person per day for meals and accommodation-related personal expenses, depending on their choices and altitude.
The package includes the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, required local entry fees, government taxes and the services of an experienced, licensed English-speaking trekking guide. Transportation includes a local bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar, a shared local jeep to Dharapani, local transportation from the trek ending point to Pokhara and a tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Some trekking equipment can also be borrowed when available. An optional porter can be arranged for an additional charge
The best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Group Join Trek are autumn from September to November and spring from March to May. These months normally offer more stable weather, clearer mountain views, comfortable daytime walking conditions and better chances of safely crossing the 5,416-metre Thorong La Pass.
Among these months, October is generally the best autumn month, while April is one of the best spring months. However, Himalayan weather can change quickly at any time, especially around Tilicho Lake, Thorong High Camp and Thorong La Pass.
Autumn is the most popular season for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. After the summer monsoon, the air is usually cleaner, the hills are fresh and green, and the Himalayan views become clearer. The weather is generally more stable, making autumn one of the most reliable periods for trekking through Manang, Tilicho Base Camp, Yak Kharka and Thorong High Camp.
September marks the beginning of the autumn trekking season. The lower part of the route may still receive occasional rain, especially during the first half of the month. Trails around Dharapani, Chame and Upper Pisang can be wet or muddy, but the landscapes are green and beautiful.
By late September, the weather usually becomes drier and mountain visibility improves. September is suitable for trekkers who prefer greener scenery and slightly fewer people than in October.
October is widely considered the best month for the Annapurna Circuit Group Join Trek. The weather is generally stable, the skies are clearer and the mountain views are excellent. Daytime temperatures are usually comfortable for walking, although mornings and nights become cold above Manang.
October is also the busiest month. Tea houses, trails and transportation can be crowded, so advance reservations are recommended for group departures.
November is another excellent month for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The skies are often clear, visibility is good and the trails are usually dry. However, the temperature becomes noticeably colder, particularly around Tilicho Base Camp, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi and High Camp.
Early and mid-November normally provide a good combination of clear views and stable trail conditions. By late November, heavy snowfall can occasionally affect the Thorong La crossing.
Spring is the second major trekking season for the Annapurna Circuit. The weather gradually becomes warmer, the days become longer and the lower forested sections may be colourful with blooming rhododendrons and other Himalayan flowers.
Spring is an excellent choice for trekkers who want warmer daytime conditions and beautiful natural scenery.
March is the beginning of the spring season. The lower sections are generally pleasant, but snow and cold conditions may remain at Tilicho Lake, Thorong High Camp and Thorong La Pass.
Early March can be challenging after a snowy winter, while late March generally offers better trail conditions. Trekkers should still carry proper winter clothing, gaiters and traction devices when required.
April is one of the best months for this trek. Temperatures are generally warmer than in March, the days are longer and mountain visibility is often good. The lower trail is colourful, while the higher route normally becomes more accessible.
April is especially suitable for group trekkers who want a good balance of comfortable temperatures, Himalayan views and safer high-pass conditions.
May is warmer, particularly at lower elevations. The mornings may remain clear, but clouds can develop later in the day as the monsoon season approaches. Occasional rain or thunderstorms are possible.
The trek is still possible during May, but starting early each morning is recommended. Snow around the high pass is usually less severe than in early spring, although weather conditions can change quickly.
The Annapurna Circuit can be trekked during winter, but it is recommended mainly for experienced trekkers who are properly equipped and able to follow a flexible itinerary.
Temperatures can fall well below freezing at higher elevations. Heavy snowfall may block Tilicho Lake trails or Thorong La Pass, and some high-altitude lodges may close temporarily. Shorter daylight hours and icy paths also make walking more difficult.
Winter trekkers need a warm sleeping bag, heavy down jacket, thermal layers, waterproof boots, gaiters and microspikes or crampons. The final decision to cross Thorong La must always be based on current weather, trail conditions and the trekking guide’s safety assessment.
The monsoon period is not the first choice for the complete Annapurna Circuit route. The lower and eastern sections around Dharapani and Chame can receive heavy rainfall, creating muddy trails, poor visibility, leeches, road delays and possible landslides.
Upper Manang and parts of Mustang lie in a rain-shadow area and may receive less rain. However, trekkers must still travel through wetter lower sections to reach these areas. A monsoon trek is possible with proper preparation, a flexible itinerary and regular local weather assessments, but autumn and spring provide more dependable group-trekking conditions.
Best overall month: October
Best spring month: April
Best period for clear mountain views: October to November
Best period for warmer walking conditions: April to May
Quieter shoulder-season choices: Late March, early September and late November
Most challenging period: December to February
Wettest and least reliable period: June to August
The Annapurna Circuit reaches high, cold and windy Himalayan areas. Trekkers should pack lightweight layers suitable for warm valleys, freezing temperatures, rain, wind and possible snowfall. Carry only essential items, particularly when trekking without a porter.
Bring waterproof, well-broken-in trekking boots with good ankle support. New boots should not be used for the first time on the trek because they may cause blisters.
Recommended clothing includes:
A layered clothing system is important because temperatures change significantly between the lower valleys and Thorong La Pass.
A comfortable 30–40-litre daypack is recommended for carrying water, warm clothing, rain protection, snacks, medicines, documents and personal valuables.
Guests using a porter can pack their main belongings in a 60–80-litre waterproof or water-resistant duffel bag. A four-season sleeping bag with a comfort rating of approximately –15°C is recommended for colder conditions and high-altitude lodge stays.
Important trekking items include:
Internet, card payment and ATM services are limited in remote mountain villages, so guests should carry enough cash during the trek.
Subject to availability, Peace Nepal Treks can provide:
Borrowed equipment must be returned after the trek. Guests should bring their own personal clothing, trekking boots, daypack and medicines.
Comprehensive travel insurance is required for every guest joining the Annapurna Circuit Group Join Trek. The route reaches Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres and travels through remote areas with limited road access and medical facilities.
The insurance policy should clearly cover:
Guests should confirm that altitude sickness and helicopter rescue are not excluded from their policy.
Before arriving in Nepal, guests should send a copy of their insurance certificate to Peace Nepal Treks and carry both printed and digital copies during the trek. The insurer’s policy number, emergency telephone number and approval process for helicopter rescue should be easily available.
Peace Nepal Treks will assist with emergency communication and rescue coordination. However, helicopter evacuation, hospital treatment and medical expenses must be paid by the guest or covered by their insurance company.
Peace Nepal Treks arranges insurance for its licensed trekking guides and applicable trekking staff. Their wages, meals, accommodation and necessary trekking equipment are also covered according to the confirmed package.
Staff insurance generally includes protection for trekking-related accidents, medical treatment, altitude illness, rescue assistance, accidental death and disability according to the insurance policy limits.
Guests do not need to purchase separate insurance for the guide or porter. Every traveller is responsible only for arranging their own personal travel insurance.
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