Classic Annapurna circuit trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek 15 days package itinerary

Classic Annapurna circuit trek is a popular diverse culture and landscape trekking area in Nepal. The classic 15-day Annapurna circuit trek is challenging, though, it offers a unique mixed experience of both the alpine lands and the indigenous culture of Manang and Mustang. Over the past 10 /15 years, restricted trekking areas have also opened near the Annapurna circuit trek, including Upper Mustang, Nar-Phu Valley, Manaslu, and Tsum Valley. Currently, trekking in these areas requires extra permit costs because of restrictions. The Nepali government also opened the Annapurna area to foreign trekkers in 1977 after resolving disputes between the CIA-backed Khampa guerrillas, who were operating from the area into Tibet, and the local population along with the Nepali army.

The Classic Annapurna circuit trek itinerary is shorter now, and the road has now reached Chame-Manang in the Marsyangdi River Valley and Jomsom Muktinath in the Kali Gandaki Valley. In the original 23 days of the trek, only 5 walking days are without motor roads. They have marked trails and routes in some places to bypass certain sections of the road. Despite the road’s existence, the area, appearance, and atmosphere of villages have changed. Because of the road, mountain biking is more prevalent in the area. Muktinath and Jomsom have been renting mountain bikes to tourists since 2011. As the road sees very little traffic, it is possible to ride downhill (dirt road or single track) from Muktinath to Tatopani in two to three days and descend almost 3000 meters.

Cultural villages

To discover more beauty of the nature trek and cultural villages, we have developed the 15-day Classic Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary via old trails, that follow the ridge that separates the Marsyangdi River from the Kali Gandaki River, which is doable even in the monsoon time too because of well known as a rain shadow trek in the Annapurna Circuit valleys. A portion of the Circuit Trail goes around the delightful valleys of Marsyandi and Kali Gandaki. Though the trails are shortened by road, it is easier to start the hike from Bahun Danda, because of the High altitude circuit. The hike starts slowly from a low altitude, which is good for acclimatization.

History and Culture of Manang Village

Additionally, during the 15 days of Classic Annapurna circuit trails, you will encounter Manang village, which is a historical tribal Ghale and Gurung Heritage culture, a sacred sanctuary of Buddhist Bon Po monasteries and spinning prayer wheels, traditional Tibetan lifestyle, and harmony is an Annapurna classified area. In the Nepal oral history of Ghale and Gurung origin from Hyula Braka village of Manang, once upon a time, this indigenous ethnic migrated to the Lamjung, Kaski, and Gorkha from Braka.

It is a great journey for group and solo trekkers. The view during the Annapurna circuit is covered with phenomenal Himalayan peaks, Dhaulagiri I (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III ( 7555m), Annapurna IV ( 7525m), Tukuche Peak (6920m), Nilgiri South (6940m), Nilgiri North (7061m), Annapurna Fang (7857), and Manaslu Himal (8163m).

The Beauty of Circuit

They also called the Annapurna Circuit Trek (AC Trek or Nepal Circuit Trek), spanning 170 kilometers in length. A long-distance takes trekkers to two beautiful river valleys that are linked by the Thorong La Mountain Pass located in the northern-central region of Nepal, these river valleys are surrounded by remarkable topographical aspects that trekkers can enjoy on their trip. Annapurna circuit trek leads along Marsyangdi River up to Manang Valley, then climbs down to the valley of Kali Gandaki and enters the lower Mustang region. Between Mt. Dhaulagiri to the west and Mt. Annapurna to the east, the Kali Gandaki River. The depth of this gorge is five times that of the Grand Canyon, making it the deepest gorge on Earth. The ultimate destination of the AC trek is Thorung La Pass, it reaches its highest point (5,416 m/17,769 ft), which reaches the Tibetan plateau.

Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake,  known as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, is famous for the Hindu and Buddhist religions. Hindu mythology mentions the lake in the Ramayana as a holy site where the Hindu god Shiva shed tears after the death of his wife, Sati. For Buddhists, the lake is a place of meditation and tranquility, often associated with peace and reflection. Feather at a marvelous altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) above sea level, it is one of the highest lakes on the planet. Tilicho Lake is one of the beautiful holy lakes, in a lap of the Tilicho peak (7,134 m) above sea level. However, the stillness of the water, the beauty of the surrounding Peaks, and the absence of human-made noise create an atmosphere of perfect peace.

Seasons of Beauty:

Each season at Tilicho Lake offers a unique perspective on its beauty. In the summer, the lake’s waters are accessible, and the surrounding vegetation is lush and green. Autumn brings clear skies and stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. Winter covers the lake and its surroundings in a blanket of snow, transforming it into a pristine, white wonderland. Spring sees the bloom of wildflowers and the gradual melting of snow, revealing the mesmerizing views of the lake once more.

In addition, this lake will be ice-frozen in the winter, but April-May and September to November will see crystal clear beautiful blue colors. The trails are very narrow and have cliffs, and be difficult for solo trekkers to reach the lake. So, to have a guide with you or Porter can make the journey safe. 

Himalayas spiritual holy land Muktinath

One of the cultural highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is Muktinath, a significant holy temple. This trek leads you to the spiritual heart and artistic treasures. Hindu devotees consider Muktinath a sacred place of salvation. Hindus believe that taking a holy bath here cleanses their sins. According to tradition, the Hindu god Brahma lit the eternal flames burning at Muktinath. In the Mustang region, many ammonites known as Salligrams are found. Hindus consider Salligrams to be direct manifestations of the Hindu god Vishnu.

Best SIM card for Annapurna Trek

Ncell sim card is best for Circuit Trek of Both valleys in the Mustang and Manang, the SIM card can be bought from any shop in Kathmandu city, and Ncell sim network reception covers almost every place except the Thorong Phedi.

Drinking water for your trek

Please remember to bring or purchase Piyush for natural drinking water purification. Three drops (0.2 mL) per liter are sufficient, and you should aim to drink at least 3 liters per day during the AC Trek. In rural area treks, Piyush is widely employed to purify drinking water. Developed as a chlorination method, Piyush ensures that drinking water is safe for trekkers.

Best Time to Trek:

Choosing the right time for the Classic Annapurna Circuit trek is crucial for a fulfilling experience. The ideal trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During this time, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. Spring brings vibrant rhododendron blooms, while autumn offers clear views of the surrounding peaks. Winter treks are possible but pose additional challenges due to snow and colder temperatures.

Note: All published dates below guarantee departures. If they do not suit your schedule, we can arrange a trip for your preferred dates. Share your trip details, and we will make your dream destination a reality.