Annapurna Circuit Trek

Circling the Annapurna Massif on foot is one of the greatest trekking journeys on Earth - a multi-day adventure that winds through everything from subtropical forests and arid high plateaus to icy mountain passes at over 5,400m. This isn’t just a trek; it’s a constantly evolving experience, where every few days the culture, landscape, and altitude change around you. From the lowland rice paddies to the remote Tibetan-influenced villages of Manang, and finally over the mighty Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the Annapurna Circuit is a true test of endurance and wonder. It's the trek for adventurers who want the long game - a chance to watch the Himalayas slowly unfold in all their dramatic, diverse glory.
Download the full Trip Guide

Download the full Trip Guide

Download the full Trip Guide

Download the full Trip Guide

What’s Included?

Nepal, Asia
4000 - 6000m
0 days

Meals

All meals on the trek, plus welcome & farewell dinners.

Accommodation

5* hotel before & after; cosy teahouses on the trek.

Guides, Porters & Permits

Experienced expert (English speaking) guides, porter support, and all permits sorted.

Free Equipment Hire

Winter sleeping bag & down jacket (worth £110) - free to borrow.

In-Country Transfers

Airport welcome & hotel transfers, then back to the airport at the end.

Free EverTrek Gear

80L duffel, t-shirt, cap & map to keep and a post-trip medal.

What's included?

  • All accommodation
  • All Meals During Trek
  • Expert Guides, Porters & Permits
  • Private airport transfers
  • In country transfers
  • Purified water on the majority of the trek (Saves on plastic bottles)
  • Free 80lt EverTrek duffel bag, t-shirt, cap and map
  • 3 nights accommodation in hotels with breakfast
  • Guided city tour
  • Welcome and farewell dinner
  • Free Hire of down jacket and winter sleeping bag (on request)
  • Oximeter & Heart Rate Monitor (carried by guides)
  • EverTrek Trip Planner App
  • Exclusive equipment discounts from Ellis Brigham, Osprey, The Altitude Centre and heaps more

What's not included?

  • International flight to Kathmandu
  • Nepal arrival visa
  • Single Supplements
  • Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner
  • Personal expenses including mineral water, and alcoholic drinks and beverages
  • Monument entrance fees
  • Your travel insurance that covers Helicopter evacuation
  • Any other extended trips and accommodation
  • Guide/Porter Tips - We recommend bringing roughly 10% of trip cost

Why choose us for this adventure?

We include premium features that other providers charge extra for or don't offer at all.

EverTrek Only Uses Local Guides
EverTrek Only Uses Local Guides
Using local guides gives you a richer, more authentic experience. It also helps support the mountain communities that make the Annapurna region so special.
Seamless Travel
Seamless Travel
With EverTrek's reliable team of drivers, we'll get you there comfortably by private vehicle, keeping your adventure on track without missing a beat.
VIP Treatment
VIP Treatment
EverTrekkers come first - with personalised care, outstanding service, and a trekking experience that feels a cut above the rest.
Difficulty Gauge

Difficulty:

Moderate

How challenging is the trek?

The Annapurna Circuit is longer, higher, and more remote than the Annapurna Base Camp trek, making it a more physically demanding adventure. You'll reach a high point of 5,416m at the Thorong La Pass, crossing through an incredible variety of landscapes, from lush valleys to dramatic alpine terrain.

This is a true high-altitude trekking expedition. While it’s non-technical, it does require solid endurance and a good level of fitness.

Training Plan

PLUS Get a FREE training plan from The Altitude Centre

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If you’ve already completed the ABC trek, think of the Circuit as a next-level challenge, more altitude, more variety, and a deeper sense of journey.

Here’s what to consider in your prep:

Pre-Trek Fitness Prep

Before tackling the Circuit, you should be comfortable with:

  • Trekking for 6 to 8 hours a day with a 6 to 10kg backpack

  • Handling 800 to 1,000m of elevation gain in a single day, across multiple days

  • Doing consecutive trekking days with little recovery time between

  • Building cardio endurance, leg strength, and pack fitness through regular hikes and training

Not quite there yet? That’s totally fine, with a bit of structured training, this trek is absolutely within reach. It’s not a race, and the itinerary is built to help you acclimatise and adjust as you go.

What to expect on the trek

Altitude Challenges

You’ll reach a maximum altitude of 5,416m at Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The air is thin, and the climb up to the pass is steep, especially from High Camp. Acclimatisation days are built in, typically around Manang, which is key for adjusting to the elevation safely.

The altitude makes even moderate exertion feel tougher, so pacing is important.

Duration

The classic trek takes 20 days in total. Expect to walk 5 to 8 hours per day, with a couple of longer days near the pass.

You’ll pass through multiple climate zones, from lush forests and terraced fields to high alpine terrain and barren valleys.

Terrain

The trail is incredibly diverse, both in terms of scenery and terrain:

  • Expect stone staircases, rocky paths, suspension bridges, and high mountain passes

  • Some steep climbs and long descents, especially the 1,600m descent from Thorong La down to Muktinath

  • Mostly well-marked, non-technical trails, but tough on the knees and lungs

Good footwear, strong legs, and decent trekking poles will be your best friends.

Weather

Due to the altitude range, weather varies wildly:

  • Lower sections are warmer and more humid, especially near the start

  • Higher up, it’s cold, with sub-zero nights at High Camp and around Thorong La

  • Best trekking seasons are spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) for clear skies and stable conditions

You’ll need to be ready for sun, wind, and snow, sometimes all in one day.

What customers say about us

We're Trek Prep experts and pride ourselves on providing the best experience

The EverTrek Difference

We go the extra mile – before you even hit the trail!

Trek Planning Tools

Trek Planning Tools

Get access to our mobile app with maps & countdown, plus personalised planner with trek details & essentials delivered to your door.

EverTrekker Medal

EverTrekker Medal

As a special thank you for completing your trek, a Yeti will arrange for you to receive an EverTrekker Medal. Perfect to show off to your friends!

EverTrek Goody Bag

EverTrek Goody Bag

Once you arrive in Nepal you'll receive a goody bag with a free duffel bag, cap, trip map, T-shirt, and a branded EverTrek buff. You'll really look the part!

Download the full Trip Guide

Download the full Trip Guide

Find out all of the awesome details about the trip and download the full guide and walkthrough right here.

Download the full Trip Guide

Download the full Trip Guide

Find out all of the awesome details about the trip and download the full guide and walkthrough right here.

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable Tourism

Because we only use local guiding teams it ensures your trip directly benefits the local mountain communities.

Departure Dates & Prices

No upcoming dates are currently available. Please check back later or contact us for more information.

Book with confidence

Savings

Save £100 (code FULL100) when paying in full 3+ months out. Save $100 (code PIF100) when paying in full 3+ months out.

Payment Plan

Spread the cost interest-free for up to 18 months (book 4+ months ahead).

Reschedule

One Time Free Reschedule (up to 3 months before your trek; 6 months for minimum-numbers trips).

Food & Accommodation

Trekking around the Annapurna Circuit is a massive adventure, but it is not all about switchbacks and summit passes. A big part of the journey is where you lay your weary head each night and what delicious, hearty meals you will be eating to fuel your trekking days. Here’s the lowdown on food and accommodation for your trek.

Accommodation


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Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara (Nights 1-2, 18-19)

Before and after the trek, you will stay in comfortable, tourist-standard three-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, featuring:

  • Twin-share rooms with private en-suite bathrooms
  • Hot showers available
  • Wi-Fi access and laundry services
  • Convenient locations close to restaurants, coffee shops, and the lively trekking hubs of Thamel and Lakeside Pokhara

Image

Teahouses During the Trek (Nights 3-17)

On the trail, you will be staying in the traditional Nepali teahouses, a simple but welcoming experience.

  • Twin-share rooms (basic but clean)
  • Shared toilets and bathrooms (flush toilets at lower altitudes, squat toilets at higher altitudes)
  • Communal dining areas with a central stove for warmth
  • Mattresses, pillows, and blankets provided (you will need to bring your own four-season sleeping bag)
  • Charging points available in most lodges (a small fee may apply)

Teahouse life adds a unique and authentic dimension to the trekking experience, offering warm hospitality and camaraderie among trekkers.


Accommodation Summary

Night

Location

Type

1-2

Kathmandu

Hotel (private room)

3-17

Trekking Route

Teahouse

18

Pokhara

Hotel (private room)

19

Kathmandu

Hotel (private room)

Food on the Trek


You will enjoy three hearty meals a day while you are trekking, as well as a group welcome and farewell dinner back in Kathmandu to celebrate the adventure.

What’s Included
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
  • Breakfast at the hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Group welcome and farewell dinners
Typical Meals:
Breakfast:
  • Tibetan bread, porridge, pancakes, muesli
  • Toast with jam, honey or peanut butter
  • Tea, coffee, and hot lemon
Lunch:

Image

  • Dal Bhat (Nepal’s traditional trekking meal with endless refills)
  • Sherpa stew, fried rice, chow mein, spaghetti
  • Soups (garlic soup is highly recommended for acclimatisation)
Dinner:

Image

  • Soups, pasta, rice and vegetable dishes
  • Fried potatoes with cheese or eggs
  • Momo (traditional Nepali dumplings)

At higher altitudes, menus become simpler but the food remains hearty and nourishing to support the demands of the trek.

Snacks:

It is recommended to bring your favourite trail snacks from home (such as protein bars, nuts, and sweets) as choice on the trail can be limited and prices rise with altitude.

Water:
  • Boiled drinking water is available at most lodges (small charge per litre)
  • It is strongly recommended to bring water purification tablets or a filter bottle

In March 2019, we became the first UK high-altitude trekking company to introduce purified water filters across all of our Nepal treks, reducing reliance on single-use plastic bottles and providing clean, great-tasting water without chemicals. Previously, trekkers depended on bottled water or purification tablets - neither of which were sustainable or ideal. With each trekker potentially using over 50 plastic bottles per trip, the impact added up fast. In our first season, this initiative prevented the use of around 16,500 one-litre plastic bottles in the Everest region - the equivalent height of five Ben Nevis mountains stacked

While filtered water isn’t possible in every location due to limited water sources, we use the system wherever conditions allow, as part of our ongoing commitment to responsible and sustainable trekking. In the areas where it’s not possible due to limited water sources there will be access to buy bottled water.

Dietary Requirements

Vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten-free diets are well catered for. Most teahouses are happy to adapt meals if informed in advance. Vegetarian meals are particularly common and easy to accommodate throughout Nepal.

Throughout the Annapurna Circuit, good food and warm accommodation are never far away. The facilities are simple, especially at higher elevations, but the hospitality, nourishing meals, and the incredible scenery more than make up for it.

Your evenings will be filled with hearty meals, cups of hot tea, and the shared experience of one of Nepal’s most iconic treks.

Essential Kit

Explore our essential kit picks so you’re comfortable, safe, and ready for every step. Download the full checklist to nail your packing.

Waterproof jacket

Waterproof jacket

A versatile gore-tex or similar material jacket is ideal for year round walking, hiking and trekking in the roughest weather. Jackets like the Latok Mountain GORE-TEX® Pro Jacket offer great weather protection and breathability when you need it.

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FREE equipment hire!

All EverTrekkers receive FREE winter sleeping bags and a FREE £110 down jacket – just let us know when booking to reserve.

PLUS: Get a FREE 80 Ltr duffel bag, t-shirt, cap, and map when you arrive in Kathmandu!

Insulated jacket

Insulated jacket

A down or synthetic insulated jacket is a must for sub-zero conditions. Jackets like the Montane Anti-Freeze XT Down Hoodie use water-resistant down for an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, with features like high collars and storm flaps to trap heat.

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Sleeping bag

Sleeping bag

A warm and reliable down-filled sleeping bag is essential for multi-day trekking or backpacking adventures. The Rab Ascent 700 is a great example, made with recycled materials and designed for both regular camping and mountain use.

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Base layer top

Base layer top

A warm and breathable long-sleeve base layer, combining materials like Merino wool and synthetic fibres, helps regulate body temperature in various outdoor conditions. The Helly Hansen Lifa Merino Midweight is one such example.

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Trekking shorts

Trekking shorts

Lightweight and durable walking shorts are ideal for fast-paced mountain hikes. Shorts like Montane's Tenacity Lite use stretch fabrics to offer protection from wind and abrasion.

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Trekking trousers

Trekking trousers

Tough, lightweight and versatile trousers are perfect for a range of outdoor activities. The Montane Terra Pants continue to be a go-to choice for everything from trekking to scrambling.

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Trekking poles

Trekking poles

Lightweight yet sturdy walking poles help with balance and reduce strain on steep or uneven terrain. The Leki Khumbu Lite poles are a popular option for hill walking and mountain hiking.

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Mountain sunglasses

Mountain sunglasses

Protective and high-performance sunglasses are important for alpine environments. Sunglasses like the Julbo Shield Reactiv combine style with serious high-mountain protection.

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Leggings

Leggings

Lightweight leggings with moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal for active use. The North Face Flex High Rise Leggings offer comfort and sweat management during exercise.

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Technical T-shirt

Technical T-shirt

A moisture-wicking technical tee is essential for active days in the hills. The Rab Force T-Shirt is a reliable choice for mountain walkers and runners alike.

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Hiking boots

Hiking boots

Supportive and grippy walking boots are key for long hikes and rugged trails. The Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots are built for demanding conditions and multi-day use.

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Hiking socks

Hiking socks

A good pair of merino-blend walking socks helps keep feet warm and comfortable on long walks. The Bridgedale Merino Hiker socks are a dependable option for various terrains.

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Daypack

Daypack

A 30-35L daypack is a great size for longer hikes or overnight trips. Packs like the Osprey Talon 33 balance load well and offer good back ventilation.

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Fleece mid layer

Fleece mid layer

A soft, insulating fleece is great for layering on cooler days. The North Face Cornice II is a sustainable option made from recycled materials.

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Warm beanie

Warm beanie

A warm and comfortable beanie is ideal for cold weather walks or everyday use. The Mountain Equipment Humbolt Beanie fits the bill.

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Hydration reservoir

Hydration reservoir

A 2-3L hydration bladder helps you stay hydrated on the move. The Osprey Hydraulics 3L Reservoir is stable, easy to use, and reliable.

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Water bottle

Water bottle

A durable, wide-mouth bottle is handy for refilling on the go. Nalgene's Sustain 1L Water Bottle is a classic, perfect for day hikes or longer trips.

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Waterproof gloves

Waterproof gloves

Warm, waterproof gloves are essential for wet and cold mountain days. Gloves like the Montane Respond Dry Line offer protection and dexterity in tough conditions.

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Headtorch

Headtorch

A compact and bright headtorch is important for early starts or late finishes. The Petzl Tikka 350L is simple to use and effective for low-light navigation.

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Explore our essential kit picks so you're comfortable, safe, and ready for every step. Download the full checklist to nail your packing.

Trip Extensions

Chitwan Trip Extension - Jungle Safari

£695

Chitwan National Park is the perfect way to wind down and relax after your rugged trek to Everest Base Camp. Nestled in the southern lowlands of Nepal, this pristine national park offers a different kind of adventure - one that’s all about wildlife, nature, and tranquility. Here’s why you should consider this amazing extension.

Why Chitwan National Park?

  • Rare Wildlife Sightings: Get ready for the awe-inspiring experience of seeing animals like Tigers, Rhinos, Crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Chitwan is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream come true!
  • Comfortable Accommodation: After the rustic charm of teahouses on your Everest trek, you’ll enjoy the comfort of a lodge and hotel in Chitwan, where you can relax and rejuvenate.
  • Jungle Safari: We’ve planned an awesome Jungle Safari that will take you deep into the heart of Chitwan’s wilderness, where you’ll have the chance to encounter incredible wildlife
  • Local Guide: You won’t be exploring this wild terrain alone. We provide you with a knowledgeable jungle guide during the safari to enhance your experience and keep you safe.

Thinking this add-on might just be your next big Himalayan upgrade? We hope so!

Select your extension at checkout, or if you’ve already booked your trip just give us a call at 02920 003216, and we’ll take care of the rest.

FAQs

The Annapurna Circuit trek with EverTrek typically costs between £2,450 and £2,550, depending on the time of year and route variations. This includes all accommodation, meals during the trek, permits (including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and TIMS card), transport within Nepal, and full support from our experienced local guides and porters.

The Annapurna Circuit is a challenging high-altitude trek with multiple long days of hiking and significant elevation gain. You’ll be trekking for 5–8 hours per day, sometimes on steep, rocky, or uneven terrain, and crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, the highest point on the route.

You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but a strong base level of fitness and good stamina are essential to cope with the demands of trekking at altitude over many consecutive days.

Training should focus on cardio endurance, leg strength, and long hikes carrying a pack. Hill walking, stair climbing, cycling, and gym sessions are all great ways to prepare. Try to replicate trek conditions by doing back-to-back long hikes and getting used to walking with weight on your back.

Aim to train 4–5 times per week for a few months before your trip. Consistency is key to building the fitness and resilience needed for long days on the trail.

You can also join one of our UK training weekends (such as in Snowdonia or the Brecon Beacons) for a great opportunity to meet the team and build confidence on the hills.

While most expenses are covered in the trip cost, we recommend budgeting around £20–£45 per day for extras like snacks, hot drinks, Wi-Fi, showers, charging devices, and tipping. Carrying Nepalese Rupees in small denominations is helpful, especially in remote areas where card payments aren’t accepted.

Yes, hot showers are available at most teahouses along the Annapurna Circuit, especially in the lower-altitude villages. As you gain elevation, facilities become more basic, and hot water may be limited or require a small fee. Many trekkers use wet wipes or quick washes at higher altitudes where water is scarce.

The best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit are:

  • Spring (March to May): Enjoy warmer temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and good visibility.

  • Autumn (September to November): Crisp air, stable weather, and some of the clearest mountain views of the year.

Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) when heavy rains and landslides can impact trail conditions.

Tipping is a great way to thank your trekking team for their hard work. A good guideline is to budget around 10% of your total trip cost. For a £2,450–£2,550 trek, a tip of approximately £245–£255 is appropriate. This will be shared among the guides and porters, and your guide will advise on how to distribute it fairly at the end of the trek.

The Annapurna Circuit reaches altitudes above 5,000m, so altitude sickness is a real consideration. Here’s how to reduce your risk:

  • Follow the gradual ascent itinerary with acclimatisation days.

  • Stay well hydrated, aim for 3–4 litres of water daily.

  • Avoid alcohol and smoking.

  • Know the symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue.

  • Take Diamox (acetazolamide) if advised by your GP.

  • Communicate openly with your guide, early action is key, and safety always comes first.

Yes, your main duffel bag should not exceed 15kg, as this is the maximum weight we allow per bag to protect the health and wellbeing of our porters. You’ll also carry your own daypack with essentials like water, snacks, extra layers, and sun protection.

Pack smart and keep things lightweight. Many trekkers pick up snacks and last-minute essentials in Pokhara or Kathmandu before starting the trek.