Annapurna Circuit Trek

Planning a trek through Nepal’s Annapurna region? You’ve come to the right place. This 22-day guided journey offers an opportunity to see some of the most awe-inspiring mountain scenery on Earth, along with a taste of local culture and warm hospitality. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve completed this trek to give you an honest, detailed overview of what to expect.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the expert guides and porters are repeatedly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the often challenging high-altitude walk more manageable. Second, the stunning vistas of peaks like Annapurna II and the view from Poon Hill are unforgettable. And third, the well-organized itinerary offers a balanced mixture of trekking, sightseeing, and rest days, providing good value for the cost of $2,240 per person.

That said, it’s a long trek at nearly a month, so it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness and a love for adventure. If you’re after comfort with minimal effort or have mobility concerns, this might be a tougher experience. But if you’re eager for an authentic Himalayan adventure, this trek can deliver one of the most memorable journeys of your life.

Key Points

• Experienced guides and porters ensure safety, cultural insight, and support on high-altitude days
• Breathtaking mountain views including Annapurna II, Himchuli, and Tukuche Himal
• A variety of landscapes from lush forests and rivers to arid high passes
• Cultural highlights like Pashupatinath Temple, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and local villages
• Hot springs and rest days provide relief and added comfort amidst the trek
• Excellent value for an all-inclusive tour with accommodation, permits, and most meals

What’s Included in the Tour?

This tour offers a comprehensive package that covers nearly every aspect of your journey — airport transfers, sightseeing, accommodations, permits, and most meals. Staying in guesthouses during the trek means you’ll experience authentic local hospitality, with twin-share or dormitory rooms that keep the vibe communal.

Your guide is licensed and English-speaking, guiding you through the challenging high passes and providing valuable insights along the way. The inclusion of a porter for two clients helps lighten your load, so you’re not lugging your backpack over mountain passes—an appreciated touch, especially after hearing how many reviewers raved about their guides’ professionalism.

Transportation is well-organized, with a mix of public buses, shared 4WDs, and tourist vehicles, making the long travel days more comfortable. The tour also provides gear such as a down jacket and sleeping bag, which are returned at the end—saving you from packing bulky equipment.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Days 1-3: Kathmandu and Pokhara

Your adventure kicks off with a quick sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s highlights, including Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa — both are must-visit spiritual sites that set the tone for your trip. Bhaktapur Durbar Square adds a royal touch and introduces you to Nepal’s architectural grandeur.

On Day 3, you’ll leave the chaos of the city behind with a six-hour bus ride to Besisahar, followed by a scenic 2-hour drive to Syange. The journey itself is a feast for the eyes with rivers, waterfalls, and terraced fields.

Days 4-8: Trek to Chame and Upper Pisang

Starting from Syange, you’ll begin walking along the Marsyangdi River, passing waterfalls and lush forests. Days 4 and 5 involve moderate ascents to Tal and Danakyu, with stunning mountain views—reviewers mention taking countless photos of the mountains, waterfalls, and traditional villages.

In Chame, the trek becomes more accessible, and the vibe shifts as you reach the administrative hub of Manang. The walk to Upper Pisang provides views of the iconic Paungda Dada rock face — an Instagram favorite, as many reviewers noted.

Days 9-11: Acclimatization and the High Passes

Manang is a key stop for acclimatization, with travelers often mentioning the visits to monasteries and Gangapurna Glacier Lake. The day spent here is crucial to avoid altitude sickness—something many reviewers appreciated, citing how guides helped with pacing and acclimatization.

From Manang, you’ll head to Yak Kharka, climbing steadily to 4,000 meters. The ascent is manageable thanks to the support from the guides, who are widely praised for their experience. The day before crossing Thorong La is a big milestone for trekkers.

Days 12-14: Crossing Thorong La and Descending to Jomsom

The highlight—climbing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters—is tough but rewarding. The early morning start (some guides advise leaving at dawn) helps avoid dangerous weather conditions and heavy snow, something reviewers repeatedly emphasized. Reaching the top offers panoramic views that make the effort worthwhile.

Descending into Muktinath and then Jomsom feels like a different world—more arid, with dry mountain scenery. Jomsom, the district’s administrative center, gets high praise for its facilities and local culture.

Days 15-18: Hot Springs, Ghorepani, and Poon Hill

A rest day at Tatopani’s hot springs is a treat, with many travelers mentioning how relaxing soaking in warm water after days of trekking is a highlight. The next day’s walk to Ghorepani is a climb, but the promise of stunning mountain vistas and the famous Poon Hill sunrise makes it all worth it.

Early morning at Poon Hill delivers unforgettable views of Annapurna South, Himchuli, and Tukuche Himal — a sunset or sunrise here is often described as a “must-do” experience. The walk down through rhododendron forests is an added bonus, especially when in bloom.

Days 19-21: Pokhara and Kathmandu

In Pokhara, your sightseeing includes visiting Shree Bindhyabasini Temple, Devis Fall, and Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave—all offering a glimpse of local spiritual life and natural beauty. The Seti River Gorge provides a stunning natural spectacle, and the Tibetan refugee camp showcases Nepal’s multicultural fabric.

The return to Kathmandu wraps up your journey, with the opportunity to indulge in local cuisine and reflect on your adventure. Many reviewers highlight the well-organized transfers and the celebratory farewell dinner, which caps off the trip nicely.

Practical Aspects and Value

This tour strikes a good balance between cost and experience. At $2,240 per person, it includes nearly everything—accommodation, permits, guide, meals, and transportation. The inclusion of a licensed guide and a porter enhances safety and comfort, especially crucial for trekking at high altitudes.

Reviewers consistently praise the professionalism of the guides, like Madan, Ganesh, and Ram, who are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. Their familiarity with the terrain and cultural insights enrich the trek beyond just the mountain views.

Transportation is a mix of public and private vehicles, which keeps costs down while maintaining comfort. The guesthouse accommodations during the trek are basic but comfortable, and the food—mainly Nepali staples with occasional Western options—receives positive feedback.

Challenges and Considerations

The trek is quite long and physically demanding, especially at high altitudes and on the Thorong La crossing. It’s clear from reviews that a moderate fitness level is necessary to fully enjoy the experience. Also, while most of the meals are included, some meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not, so budget accordingly.

Weather can be unpredictable, especially at high passes, so flexibility and patience are key. The tour’s cancellation policy states that poor weather could cause cancellations or rescheduling, which is something to keep in mind.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re an adventure lover with some trekking experience or good fitness, this tour offers an excellent mix of challenge, scenery, and cultural exposure. It suits those who want a guided, all-inclusive experience with knowledgeable guides, comfortable logistics, and a supportive team.

It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy meeting others on a small group tour, value safety, and are eager to see Nepal’s most iconic mountain scenery. If you’re looking for a trip that combines adventure, cultural insight, and natural beauty, this trek could be your perfect Himalayan escape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
While it does require moderate physical fitness, many sections are manageable for those with trekking experience. Proper acclimatization and guidance help make the journey safer and more enjoyable.

What’s the main highlight of the trek?
Most travelers cite crossing Thorong La, with its breathtaking panoramic views, and the early morning Poon Hill sunrise as the standout moments.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), but meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not. It’s advisable to budget for extras in these cities.

What kind of accommodations can I expect?
During the trek, you’ll stay in guesthouses offering twin-share or dormitory rooms. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, comfortable three-star hotels are provided, with guided sightseeing included.

How physically demanding is the trek?
It involves walking for about 17-18 hours on most days, including some steep ascents and high-altitude passes. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, and altitude acclimatization days are built into the itinerary.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 3 days before the trip will not be refunded, and weather-related cancellations are covered, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Final Thoughts

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Ace the Himalaya is a carefully curated adventure that combines spectacular mountain scenery, culture, and expert guidance. The journey is designed for those who seek authentic Himalayan experiences, coupled with the comfort of organized logistics and knowledgeable support.

It’s a trip that promises unforgettable memories—from the thrill of crossing high mountain passes to the serenity of hot springs and the vibrant life in local villages. If you’re prepared for a physical challenge and crave an immersive trek through one of the world’s most iconic landscapes, this tour is a solid choice.

Perfect for adventure travelers who value safety, cultural insights, and stunning scenery, this trek offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience that will leave you with stories to tell for years.