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Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days

Nepal

annapurna circuit trek 10 days
Trip Facts
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Trek Doration 10 Days
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Grade Hard / Challenging
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Maximum Altitude 5416m
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Trek Start Dharpani
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Trek End Pokhara
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Group Size 1+

Overview

Annapurna is full of hiking trails, many of which are easily accessible and ideal for beginners. They are scenic as well as adventurous, with mixed terrains that pass through sweeping hills and river valleys to make it to the top.

One of many such treks in the Himalayan ranges of central Nepal is Annapurna Circuit. It’s probably the most intriguing trek that captures the raw beauty of the Himalayas in the best possible way. The favorite of many trekkers, 10 days Annapurna Circuit trek is nothing if not awe-inspiring.

Its dramatic landscapes with towering hills and rugged cliffs are spectacular and dramatic. There is so much to explore and discover on the trek to 10 days Annapurna Circuit. It includes the culture, topography, and biodiversity of the Annapurna region, which is amazing.

The 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary is half Version Trekking which  Start from Dharapani and end to Jomsom .  This Journey  begins with a scenic 73 miles drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. The journey to Chame takes a little over 6 hours and requires you to walk along terraced fields and the Marsyangdi River. You’ll pass several villages, cross the suspension bridge, and ascend a steep hill to get to Chame.

The trek continues with a long walk through a narrow valley and a descent to the Manang Valley floor to reach Pisang. From here, we head to Manang, trekking the dusty trail with an arid landscape. The trail runs through beautiful Tibetan settlements abound with ancient Buddhist monasteries, old mani walls, and chortens.

After a day of rest, we’ll leave Manang and head to Yak Kharka via Ledar. First, the trail crosses a small stream and climbs Tenki village before heading out to Jar Sang Khola Valley, which lies northwest of Marsyandhi River.

From here, we’ll walk the Juniper forest and cross the wooden bridge to wind up at Yak Kharka. The next day, we’ll trek Thorong La, which is challenging and strenuous. It’s the longest trek and probably steepest, making it quite hard to reach the top.

But, once it’s done, the trek will provide us with a splendid view of Annapurna II, Manaslu, and Tilicho Peak. You can also see the beautiful landscapes and glaciers above the snowline. After sightseeing, we’ll descend to Muktinath via Thorong La High Pass, which is quite tricky.

The trek is mostly downhill but still difficult due to rough and rocky terrains. We’ll pave the way through Kagbeni and finally arrive at Jomsom, which offers a lovely view. You can see Dhaulagiri and visit many religious shrines in the town. After spending a night at Jomsom, we’ll fly to Pokhara and wrap up our expedition.

Highlights of  10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • An awe-inspiring view of Annapurna massif, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Thorung Peak
  • Arid landscapes, holy spring, and hidden caves of Manang
  • Experience the local Nepalese culture, food, and lifestyle
  • Crossing the mountain pass Thorong La in Damodar Himal
  • Shimmering lake, steep scree slope, and glacial moraine
  • Beautiful yak pastures, lush meadows, and tropical forests
  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
  • Explore the colorful town and broad glacier-filled valley of Manang
  • Breathtaking sunrise view from Poon Hill
  • Discover the unique flora and fauna in Annapurna Conservation Area

 

10 Days Annapurna Circuit  Difficulties

Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 days may have moderate hiking trails, but it’s not easy to get it done. The trek is quite intimidating, with varied tropical and alpine terrains. It stretches from the base at Chame to Thorong La, gaining excessive elevation and affecting the health of trekkers.

The sudden exposure to high elevation often leads trekkers to altitude sickness. They mostly experience mild symptoms like dizziness, insomnia, and loss of appetite. This mostly affects beginners who are not used to trekking high altitudes.

The rising elevation and deadly drops can be strenuous and physically demanding for hikers. Its long and winding trails drain much of the energy during the trek. Therefore, you’ll have to build stamina and improve your endurance to finish the walk.

With an average trekking distance of 10 to 12km, hiking Annapurna Circuit isn’t easy. You’ll have to defy steep hills, mountainous terrains, and rugged cliffs to reach the acme, which is quite exhausting. The impact can worsen if you are stuck on the trail or encounter bad weather.

Therefore, picking the right season is important for a hassle-free trek. In case you didn’t know, winter in 10 days Annapurna Circuit trek can be brutal with freezing temperatures. You may have to brave windstorms, blizzards, and snowfall, which sometimes makes trekking impossible.

Annapurna Circuit Trek - 10 Days Itinerary

Day 1

Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani By Private Jeep (1950m) 7 Hours Drive

Kathmandu: 1,400 m
Dharapani: 1,950 m
Trek Duration: 7 Hours

Your incredible 10 day journey begins early in the morning. You will depart from Kathmandu in a comfortable private jeep. This road journey offers beautiful sights of rivers, green hills and roadside markets and towns. You will have a brief stop for lunch at a local eatery. Thus, you will get to taste authentic Nepali cuisine.

You can see beautiful scenery of hills, rivers and waterfalls during the drive. As you approach Dharapani, you will be travelling on bumpy roads, enjoying an off road adventure. Upon reaching Dharapani, you can settle into a cozy teahouse and take a rest. You may spend the rest of the time exploring the scenic Dharapani Village.

Dharapani is a scenic village of Nepal’s Manang district. It is a renowned overnight stop for trekkers along the Annapurna Circuit Trail. At Dharapani, you can see beautiful traditional houses with wooden windows providing a glimpse into the traditional Nepali architecture of the Annapurna Region. It is a good place to rest and prepare for the adventure.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation –  Lodge

Day 2

Trekking to Chame ( 2700 m ) 5 hour Trek

Dharapani: 1,950 m
Chame: 2,700 m
Trek Duration: 5 hours

Your adventure on foot starts on Day 2. You will depart Dharapani early in the morning. Your destination on this day is Chame. You will navigate steep stone steps on the way. The beautiful views of cliffs and snowy peaks which will make your journey more captivating. After about two hours of scenic trekking, you will reach Timang village. You can see a few teahouses in this village.

Afterwards, you will continue walking through pine forests, waterfalls and villages. You will walk through forests and riverside trails towards Koto and make your way towards Chame. You will reach the scenic Chame walking for around 25 to 30 minutes from Koto.

Chame is surrounded by beautiful Himalayan peaks. It has several traditional stone houses that are truly fascinating. You will find lodges with comfortable amenities at this stop point. In addition, there are several small stores and cozy bakeries in the village. It is an ideal place to rest and enjoy spectacular views of the surreal surroundings.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation –  Lodge

Day 3

Trekking to Pisang (3310 m ) – 5 hours

Chame: 2,700 m

Pisang: 3,310 m

Trek Duration: 5 hours

 

Your stop on 3rd Day of Annapurna Circuit Trek is Pisang. You will leave your Chame teahouse at around 8 A.M. Your journey begins with refreshing walk through pine forests. This day is incredibly rewarding. You will be treated with the clear views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal which will keep you captivated at every step.

 

The trek takes you through a series of charming villages with their distinct charm. One of the major highlights is Bhratang Village. It is a quiet settlement. This village is known for its beautiful apple orchards. Here, you can take a much needed rest. You can try the popular fresh apple juice and homemade pies and enjoy a delightful break at this stop.

 

Soon afterwards, you will move towards a more highland terrain. You will follow the trail along the flowing river. The sounds of waterfalls and the fresh air of pine forests will make the journey feel refreshingly soothing and calm.

 

You will traverse the tranquil forest path and reach Dhukur Pokhari. You will continue along the trail as it winds through scenic landscapes, pine forests and prayer wheels with exceptional views of Pisang Peak and finally arrive at your teahouse in Pisang.

Pisang, located at 3,310 meters is a mountain village that offers beautiful views of mountain peaks. The sights of the Annapurna range are stunning from this scenic spot. You can see Tibetan Buddhist heritage, vibrant prayer flags and a historic monastery at this tranquil place. In addition to beautiful scenery, the place offers several chances for cultural immersion as you get to observe their tradition and culture. It serves as a peaceful spot where trekkers can rest and enjoy the scenery.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation –  Lodge

Day 4

Trekking to Manang (3519 meters) – 6 hours

Manang Elevation : 3,519 m

Trek Duration: 6 hours

 

You will start the day early, setting off between 7:30 to 8 A.M for one of the most rewarding sections of the Annapurna Circuit. The journey begins with a pleasant walk in the majestic scenery of the Annapurna range mountains.

 

You will walk along the serene pine trees, traditional homes, and Buddhist landmarks like chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags. Afterward, you will cross a bridge and take an uphill path heading towards Ghyaru. You may take a rest break here to rehydrate.

 

From Ghyaru, you will follow a trail leading toward Ngawal. You can see beautiful barren terrains at this place. You may consider visiting Braga Monastery enroute, where you can observe Buddhist practices and glance at the beautiful vistas. Continue the journey further, and you will finally make it to Manang and settle your backpacks at your designated teahouse.

Manang is a culturally rich village gifted with alluring landscapes. You can spend your time in Manang by simply resting or enjoying the close-up views of snowcapped peaks. This enchanting Himalayan town is a popular place where trekkers stay for acclimatization. You can see several teahouses, coffee shops, bakeries, and ancient shops at this place. It is a perfect spot to observe the rich local culture and spectacular Himalayan landscapes.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation –  Lodge

Day 5

Free & Acclimatization day at Manang (3,519 m)

The 7th day is your rest day on the trek. You have to allow your body to adapt to thin air before you continue your journey further towards higher zones. So, you will stay in Manang and spend time visiting nearby areas. It is an ideal location for this break. After having breakfast, you may head out and explore the nearby awe-inspiring spots with a leisurely hike. This helps you acclimate and stay healthy to navigate high-altitude terrains

 

The popular short excursion most trekkers prefer is to visit Gangapurna Lake. The visuals are exceptional throughout. By hiking gradually, you can experience the tranquility of a high-altitude environment. Gangapurna Lake is located at about 3,440 m. It rewards trekkers with unforgettable vistas. Thus, it is a must-visit place for anyone doing the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

 

You may also take the time to explore some of the local cultural sites and monasteries of the village. These peaceful spiritual sites provide insights into the Buddhist heritage of the region. After completing exploration in Manang, you can head back to your teahouse. You can then enjoy the dinner and get the needed rest.

 

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation – Lodge

Day 6

Trekking to Letdar (4,200 meters) – 4 hours

Letdar Elevation: 4,200 m

Trek Duration: 4 hours

 

You will leave Manang at 8 A.M after breakfast and head towards Letdar.  You will follow an uphill path and navigate the scenic and exhilarating landscape on this day. The trail requires you to ascend gradually above the valley. Thus, walking with caution is essential.

 

Along the trail, you can gaze upon mesmerizing views of Gangapurna and Annapurna III. The landscape en route at even more barren here. You may spot yaks across the hillside as you advance towards Yak Kharka.

 

Vegetation becomes sparse in this area. You can see alpine grasses, juniper shrubs and open areas where yaks and horses graze. After reaching Yak Kharka, you may stop for a rehydration break. Many trekkers also stop at Yak Kharkha for an overnight stay.

 

From Yak Kharka, you will continue further through the scenic landscapes witnessing enchanting sights of the snow clad peaks. Then, you follow an uphill trail to Letdar and reach this point in an hour’s hike from Yak Kharka.

Letdar lies at 4,200 m and is a scenic stopover point where trekkers stay to rest before continuing the journey further to the higher elevations. It offers a serene overnight stay with beautiful mountain backdrops. There are no villages in place, only guesthouses that are built to accommodate the trekkers.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation – Lodge

Day 7

Trek to High Camp (4,800 meters) – 4, 5 hours

High Camp Elevation: 4800 m 

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours 

 

On the 7th day, you will begin the trek from Letdar early in the morning. You will walk past grazing yaks in the highland areas and follow an uphill Trail. The trail requires making a series of gentle ascents, short descents along the route. There are also some sections of relatively flat stretches with green shrubs and grasses.

 

Yoy will be trekking in dry, rocky, and narrow trails across steep and landslide-prone slopes. However, the mountain views that can be seen along the trails are fascinating from every direction.

 

Eventually, you will reach Thorong Phedi, where you can see a few accommodations nestled beneath the steep slopes. After resting at this point for some time, you will continue the trek heading to High Camp. The trail is steep and demanding. There is virtually no vegetation along this path. You will continue the trek through rugged terrains and reach High Camp.

High Camp lies at 4,800 m. It is one of the stopover point along the Annapurna Circuit Trail.  From a viewpoint in High Camp, you can behold the stunning views of the valley and peaks like Gangapurna and Annapurna III. There are a few teahouses with basic facilities at this place. Several trekkers choose to stay in High Camp instead of Thorong Phedi to avoid climbing extra meters to reach Thorong La Pass. However, it lies at a high altitude. So, ensuring proper acclimatization is essential.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation – Lodge

Day 8

Trekking to Muktinath (3800 meters) via Thorang La Pass (5,416 meters) – 8 hours

Muktinath 3,800 m

Thorong La Pass 5,416 m

Trek Duration: 8 hours

 

Day 8 is one of the key highlights as well as the challenge of the trek. You will start the adventure early for the long and challenging ascent to Thorong La Pass. It is among the highest scenic trekking passes in the world. The trail is steep and requires careful footing. This pass was once an ancient route that was used by locals for herding sheep and yaks.

 

The climb to Thorong La is tough because of the thin air. There is also a small teahouse about halfway that offers a rest stop. The terrain becomes more barren as you trek further. As you reach the top of the pass, you can see colorful fluttering prayer flags. In addition, the enchanting panorama of Himalayan peaks can also be seen from the pass. You may take time to soak scenery from 5,416 meters before descending to the serene Muktinath.

 

The trail down to Muktinath is also steep but very rewarding. The sights of the Dhaulagiri range peaks seen during the ascent are truly mesmerizing.  You can see unique arid landscapes as you approach Muktinath, which makes this steep walk engaging. Upon arriving at this famous pilgrimage site, you can visit the temple and feel its spiritual atmosphere.

 

Muktinath lies at 3,800 meters. It is a significant spiritual destination for Hindus and Buddhists. The devotees travel from all around the world to Muktinath. The pilgrims rinse themselves under 108 sacred water spouts and the ponds of the Muktinath Temple.

 

This scenic place is known for its mesmerizing natural beauty and religious importance. The area has well developed infrastructure and features good lodging options, a temple complex and a local market where you can find several local crafts and snacks.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation – Lodge

Day Day 9

Drive to Pokhara by Private Jeep

Pokhara Elevation: 822 m

Drive Duration: 8 to 9 hours

 

You have wrapped your the hiking part of this adventure. Today, you will enjoy a thrilling and picturesque Jeep ride to Pokhara. From the rugged mountain trails, you will reach the serene landscapes of Nepal’s lake city. At around 8 A.M, you will leave Muktinath and embark on this ride. The duration of this adventure is 8 to 9 hours depending on the weather conditions.

 

The journey presents incredible views of rugged cliffs and desert like landscapes of the Mustang Region. At some points, you will get fascinating glimpses of the snowy mountains. As you will be taking a private jeep for the journey, you will have several opportunities to pause for a photo at the charming villages like Lete and Marpha on the way.

 

As you approach Pokhara, the landscape changes, and the sights of beautiful hills and modern buildings can be seen. You will first stop at your hotel, and once you settle in and rest, you can stroll around Lakeside. This tranquil area has vibrant shops, cozy cafes, and beautiful lake views.

 

You may just enjoy a leisurely walk or simply enjoy the lakeside views with views of distant mountains as a backdrop. By exploring Pokhara leisurely at your own pace, you can immerse yourself in its tranquil charm, which will elevate your overall experience.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation –  Hotel

Day 10

Drive Back to Kathmandu by Tourist Bus

Drive Duration: 6 to 7 hours

 

On this day, you will return to Kathmandu from Pokhara. Once again, you can see incredible beauty of Nepal’s diverse landscapes. After a delicious and wholesome breakfast at your hotel, you will leave Pokhara and enjoy an exhilarating ride on a tourist bus.

 

The sights of the Trishuli River rolling hills, small towns, terrace fields markets will keep you captivated. You will have multiple stops along the way for refreshments. You can have tea, coffee, and lunch during the stops, which will keep you fueled. Passing through places like Damauli, Kurintar, Dhading, and Naubise, you will eventually reach Kathmandu.

 

After arriving at your accommodation, you will have a chance to rest or explore further, depending on your energy levels. You can walk around the streets of Kathmandu or shop for souvenirs like prayer flags or handmade crafts. You can also choose to enjoy your time sitting at a cafe enjoying the surrounding view and reflecting on the enchanting experiences and memories you made during the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Meals – Breakfast
Accommodation –  No
Transportation – Bus Ticket

Cost Include / Exclude

What’s include

  • Annapurna Conservation permit and TIMS Card
  •  3  Meals a day during the trek ( Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
  • Ground Transportation :-  By Private Jeep
  • All accommodations in lodges/tea houses during the treks.
  •  Trekking Guide – A professional English Speaking  Trekking guide
  • Trekking porter ( one porter for two members)
  • Trekking Equipment – Sleeping bag, Walking pole,
  • Seasonable- Fruits- Like Banana, orange, Apple
  • Oximeter- check heart beat, measures your blood oxygen levels
  • Adventure Certificate.
  • All government taxes.
  • Service charge.

What’s excluded

  • International airfare  and Nepal entry visa fee
  • Personal travel insurance and also rescue evacuation in case of emergency
  • All the bar bills like coke, beer, All kinds of hotel and bottle of drinks
  • Tips for guide, porter

Packing List

BAG/ RUCKSACK

  • Duffel bag / rucksack to take your gear
  • Day pack Self carrying your Valuable things

Gears

  • Sleeping bag
  • Down Jacket

Head Were

  • Sun Hat
  • sun glass
  • Warm hat

View More

Trip Map

Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 day Map, Route

Enquiry Form

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