Itinerary
DAY 1: THE JOURNEY BEGINS
You will depart the UK for your Annapurna adventure! If you have booked flights with us (option available for Bucket Lister + trips only), we’ll provide all the information you’ll need to meet your guide. If you are arranging your own flights, have a safe journey!
DAY 2: ARRIVE IN NEPAL
On arrival in Kathmandu you’ll make your way to the accommodation. If you have booked transfers through us, we’ll send you the details before your trip.
There is time to freshen up and explore the local area for the afternoon or just relax.
Special Information: Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today.
DAY 3: DRIVE TO NGADI
In the morning we will drive by bus to Besisahr and then catch a ride by jeep to Ngadi (830m). There will be good views of Lamjung Himal on our left and Himalchuli on our right. We will be staying in Ngadi and getting some sleep before the exciting and challenging days that lie ahead.
DAY 4: TREK TO JAGAT (912M)
Our trek will commence with a gentle climb along the Marsyangdi River towards the village of Jagat. Where the Marsyangdi swings north, the trail will rise higher, revealing incredible views of Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli. We will continue up the east bank of the river and glimpse our first view of Annapurna II.
When we reach the Bahundanda ridge (1310m) we will begin our descent towards the river once more. We arrive at our destination, Jagat (912m) – the northern limit of rice cultivation in Marsyangdi valley – after another two and a half hours where our accommodation will be for the night.
The total trekking time today will be between seven and eight hours.
DAY 5: TREK TO DHARAPANI (1860M)
Today, our trail will ascend slowly and follow one of Annapurna’s magnificent canyons.
The trail meanders up and through the Chamje area (1430m).
Our destination, Dharapani (1860m), is a further 4 hours away.
The presence of prayer flags and chortens tells you you’re entering the Buddhist region of the trek.
DAY 6: TREK TO CHAME (2670M)
Our climb continues steeply upwards towards Namun Bhanjyang La pass and Timang Meadow – some of the more remote, but remarkable sections of the trek.
From the Timang meadows, we travel through Thankchok Village and back down towards the river to a place named Kupar, which marks the junction of the Marsyangdi and the Nar Rivers.
There is a police checkpoint here before arriving at Chame (2670m), where our accommodation will be for the evening.
DAY 7: TREK TO PISANG (3330M)
Today we will cross the enclosed bridge built by the Tibetan Khampas people who once had a camp nearby. This will take us to the north side of the river near a horticultural apple farm in Brathang.
It is now that the spectacular ascent to Pisang begins!
We will soon come to a hairpin turn marking the beginning of the rain shadow. This is the mysteriously dry side of the mountain from where there are fantastic views of the surrounding peaks. The wind and rain gain momentum to break through the line of the main Himalayan Range between Annapurna II and Manaslu.
When we arrive at Pisang (3300m), we stay in Upper Pisang with a view of the monastery in plain sight.
DAY 8: TREK TO NGAWAL (3660M)
Today’s journey will take us through easy terrain and among forests to a small ridge. Here we will rest and gain altitude experience.
DAY 9: TREK TO MANANG (3537M)
Today’s journey will take us through easy terrain and among forests to a small ridge at 3445m. Below us, we will see the Upper Manang Valley stretching into the distance. The southern tier of this valley is walled by the peaks of Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna III (7555m), Gangapurna (7455m) and Tarke Kang (7193m). Visible just to the south of a distant sharp rock peak, is the Great Barrier and the basin containing Tilicho Lake (7193m). To the north, we will see Thorung La (5416m) and Thorungtse (6483m), and a long ridge of over 2000 peaks!
Descending from this incredible viewpoint, our path will cross a large plain and pass Hongde airstrip (3280m). As we continue trekking, we will progress beyond Sabje Khola to Manang (3537m) viewing impressive monasteries along the way.
DAY 10: ACCLIMATISATION DAY AT MANANG
Acclimatisation day at Manang. This is a fantastic spot to take an active acclimatisation day. A beautiful emerald lake lies at its foot. It is possible to take treks to the lake which is about three hours north of Braga at 4818m, to the main Manang Gompa, or Khangsar (3740m) on the trail to Tilicho Lake.
DAY 11: TREK TO LEDAR (4230M)
Today we will pass through Yak Kharka (4035m) to Churi Letdar (4230m) where you might be lucky enough to enjoy some tea at the tea shop!
Our accommodation for the evening will be here. We can also embark on an extra trip up the stream following the West Chulu Peak if time permits.
DAY 12: TREK TO THORONG PHEDI
The trail turns northwest up the tributary valley of Jargeng Khola. It is sometimes possible to see herds of blue mountain sheep along the cliffs. Cross a covered cantilevered bridge and ascend to Phedi Village (4781m), where we will stay for the night.
DAY 13: CROSS THORONG PASS (5416M) AND TREK TO MUKTINATH (3760M)
Today will be the most strenuous day.
We’ll start with a steep ascent for two hours, then move along an undulating trail to the highest point of the trek – Thorong La Pass (5416m). There are unforgettable views of the Annapurna Range to the south and the Mukut Himal Peak to the west. We will feel on top of the world!
Our descent will begin later, through Mustang, on a steep downhill trail (with remarkable sights of Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Tukuche peak) for three hours to Muktinath.
Muktinath is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Whilst here, we may see a glimpse of pilgrims bathing in the holy water.
DAY 14: TREK TO JOMSOM (2713M)
The final day of our trek sees us descending on a walkable main road, passing buses of pilgrims as they ascend to Muktinath. We will stop at Kagbeni, one of the oldest villages in the Himalayas and home to an ancient Buddhist monastery.
From here, we will travel by jeep to the headquarters of Mustang District, Jomsom (2720m).
DAY 15: FLY TO POKHARA AND EXPLORE
Today we fly to Pokhara – the city on Phewa Lake. We will have time to explore the area and visit local restaurants. Take in the outstanding scenery and reflect on your amazing accomplishment!
DAY 16: DRIVE TO KATHMANDU AND EXPLORE
From Pokhara, we will make our way to Kathmandu, admiring the views along the way.
DAY 17: KATHMANDU
Today is a free day to explore Kathmandu at your leisure. Explore the bustling streets of Thamel, head to a tea house, eat freshly cooked momos or visit one of many Buddhist temples around the city at your leisure.
DAY 18: TRANSFER TO KATHMANDU AIRPORT
This marks the end of our Nepalese adventure...alternatively, you could continue your adventure with a 3-day add-on to Chitwan National Park!
Food & Accommodation
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Day 1 FlightBreakfast
Lunch Dinner -
Day 2 3* Hotel - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 3 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast
Lunch Dinner -
Day 4 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 5 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 6 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 7 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 8 CampingBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 9 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 10 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 11 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 12 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 13 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 14 Teahouses - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 15 3* Hotel - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 16 3* Hotel - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 17 3* Hotel - Twin roomBreakfast Lunch Dinner
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Day 18 FlightBreakfast Lunch Dinner
What’s the Food Like on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Food on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is simple, hearty and designed to keep you fuelled for long days on the trail. Most meals are served in teahouses along the trekking route — cosy, family-run establishments that offer a taste of local Nepali hospitality as well as nourishing food.
Breakfast usually includes items like porridge, eggs, toast or chapati, along with hot tea or coffee to warm you up before you set off. Lunch and dinner often feature dal bhat (a traditional lentil and rice dish served with vegetables and pickles), vegetable curries, noodles or pasta, and occasionally meat for those who want it. Nepali food tends to be mild rather than spicy, wholesome and filling — just what you need after a big day of trekking.
Snacks like biscuits, chocolate, fruit and energy bars are readily available on the trail and make great refuelling between meals. Hydration is key at altitude, so plenty of tea, hot lemon or boiled water is recommended throughout your trek.
Overall, the food is modest, nourishing and comforting — not fine dining, but perfectly suited to the rugged terrain and altitude of the Annapurna region, and often a highlight of the shared teahouse experience with fellow trekkers.
How Difficult Is It?
How Difficult Is The Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered moderate to strenuous. While it’s a non-technical trek with no climbing experience required, it is a long, high-altitude journey that demands good fitness and endurance. The main challenge comes from crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, where thinner air, colder temperatures and long walking days can make the trek feel tougher, even for experienced hikers.
Most days involve 5–8 hours of trekking over mixed terrain including rocky trails, steady climbs and long descents. With proper acclimatisation, a sensible pace and the support of experienced guides, the trek is very achievable for fit walkers with some hiking experience. If you’re comfortable with long days on your feet and have trained for hills and stamina, you’ll find the Annapurna Circuit challenging but hugely rewarding.
What's Included?
What’s Included on the Annapurna Circuit Trek
This Annapurna Circuit Trek is fully supported from start to finish, allowing you to focus on the journey, the landscapes and the challenge ahead.
All transport within Nepal as outlined in the itinerary (this excludes international airport arrival & departure transfers – unless added to your booking, or if you have added Group Flights to a BL+ trips)
All accommodation during the trek in local teahouses (twin-share)
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Expert local trekking guides throughout the Annapurna Circuit
Assistant guides and porters to support the group
All required trekking permits and conservation area fees
Full logistical support throughout the trek
Support from The Bucket List Company team before and during your trip
- UK Bucket List Company Leader on all BL+ departures
- Access to the Vamoos app with full itinerary, packing lists and key trip info
What's Not Included?
What’s not Included on the Annapurna Circuit Trek
Some costs are not included in the trip price and should be budgeted for separately.
International flights
Flights to and from Nepal are not included in the base trip cost. These can be added on Bucket Lister Plus trips if you’d like us to arrange everything for you.
Airport Arrival & Departure transfersThese are excluded from the base cost of your trip but can be added to your booking. If you are booking Group Flights with us on a BL+ trip, then these transfers are included automatically.
Meals not listed
Any meals not specified in the itinerary.
Visas
Visa fees (if applicable) are not included.
Travel insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory. It must also cover high-altitude trekking up to 5,500m and emergency helicopter evacuation
Personal expenses
Snacks, drinks, charging devices, Wi-Fi, laundry, souvenirs and optional extras.
Tips
Tips are not included – trip-specific guidance will be provided.
UK Leaders on BL Trips
BL trips will not have a UK Bucket List Company Leader present.
Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?
Because entry requirements can and do change, and because we have clients of many nationalities, we always recommend checking this with your own government’s website. Be sure to allow enough time to apply for any visas or permits required; don’t leave your checks until the day before!
What vaccinations do I need?
These change, so it is important that you check with either a travel health clinic or your doctor’s surgery. You should allow plenty of time for this process, as some vaccines need multiple doses. The TravelHealthPro website is another useful source of information – https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries
How can I avoid roaming charges but still use my phone?
Your mobile provider might have reasonably-priced roaming add-ons, so it is worth exploring these. Or you could buy an eSim; these are often much cheaper than add-ons and are easy to activate and use. See our article for more information – https://thebucketlistcompany.co.uk/unlock-seamless-connectivity-with-esims-the-ultimate-travel-companion/
Do I need a trekking permit?
You will – we will ask you for any necessary supporting documents/information and arrange it for you. The permit price is included in the base cost of the trip.
How do the monthly payments work?
If you choose to pay for your trip monthly your payment plan will start the month after your booking is made, and will end a minimum of 28 days prior to departure. After deposit, the outstanding balance will be divided by the number of months available and we’ll charge this amount each month to the card of your choice. If you have a preferred date of the month for payments to be taken just let us know. If at a later date you wish to add an extra experience to your trip we can modifiy your payment plan to accommodate this.
Can you cater for different diets?
When you book you will receive a link to your portal, where you can fill in your passenger information, including dietary and medical requirements. These will be shared with our guides and providers (including airlines if you have also booked flights). Please provide this information as quickly as possible, so we can make any necessary arrangements for you.
Whilst we do our utmost to ensure your needs are met, in some locations options for very specific diets may be extremely limited; we therefore suggest bringing some suitable snacks.
If you have a severe food allergy please ensure you carry your medication at all times, and that we are made aware. We will pass this information on, but a conversation with your in-country guide on arrival will help them give you the best possible guidance regarding suitability or otherwise of foods.
If you have specific concerns we always suggest contacting us to discuss before booking.
Can I drink the tap water?
No; we would also recommend you use treated/bottled water for teeth brushing.
