Experience Overview
Trek through the incredible Annapurna region and be awed by the Nepalese Himalayas on this 15-day adventure. These snow-capped peaks, mist-shrouded valleys, isolated communities and remote monasteries will inspire those with a bold spirit and a yearning for a definitive nature experience. Reach altitudes of more than 5000 metres, discover the ancestral traditions of the local people and immerse yourself completely in the spectacular mountain wilderness of the Annapurna Circuit. This is a challenging trip, but the sense of accomplishment will leave even the most seasoned trekker with some unforgettable memories.
Highlights
- Ascend to the clouds and reach an altitude of 5416 metres as you cross the Thorung La Pass along the Annapurna Circuit. Testing your mind and body, this is one incredible accomplishment.
- Uncover a different side of the Himalayas, trekking past terraced rice fields, oak and rhododendron forests, there’s a diverse array of nature that awaits in the Annapurna region.
- Learn about life in Nepalese mountain communities, get to know locals and meet other trekkers while you stay in teahouses in the small communities along the way.
- Discover Nepal’s compact capital in Kathmandu. With a limited amount of time spent here to discover its bazaars and temples, why not extend your stay beforehand to get a real feel of Nepalese culture.
- Spend time in the peaceful haven of Pokhara after your trek has finished. Relax with your small group on the banks of Phewa Lake and take in the mountainous surrounds that you have conquered!
Trip Details
Product Code: 2169
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator: Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: HNXR
Starts: Kathmandu, Nepal
Finishes: Pokhara, Nepal
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating: Demanding
Includes
Meals: Dinner (1)Accommodation: Guesthouse (1 night),Hotel (3 nights),Teahouse (10 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $1,604 ($107 /day)
Itinerary
Namaste! Welcome to Nepal. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 2 pm in Kathmandu, the colourful capital of Nepal. This place is a fascinating blend of traditional architecture and symbols of the 20th century. Its rich artistic and cultural heritage is evident where ornately carved balconies mingle with beautiful shrines and temples. If you arrive early, why not check out Durbar Square with its temples, markets and busy atmosphere. It’s also worth the climb to visit the Swayambhunath – the 'monkey temple'. Explore the network of street markets and alley bazaars and Pashupatinath. For those with a few extra days in Kathmandu, the neighbouring towns of Patan and Bhaktapur are also well worth a visit.
Optional Activities:
- Kathmandu - Everest Scenic Flight (240 USD)
- Kathmandu - Panorama Hike Urban Adventure (76 USD)
- Kathmandu - Spiritual Nepal Experience Urban Adventure (59 USD)
- Kathmandu - Explore Patan & Bhaktapur Urban Adventure (108 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Start your Annapurna Circuit Trek with a morning drive from Kathmandu to Ngadi. During the journey, you'll see stunning views of the Trishuli River, green hills, terraced fields and the Himalayas. Following the Marshyangdi River, you’ll pass through charming towns and Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Arrive in Ngadi by late afternoon, check into your guesthouse and relax as you prepare for your trek.
Included Activities:
- Annapurna Circuit - Porterage of One Bag (10kg/22lbs max)
- Annapurna Circuit - 11D/10N Trek
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Keep an eye out for dazzling cascades along your trail today as it makes its way through a deep wooded canyon with a few stretches of steep climbing. Wander through rice paddies, follow winding trails through sub-tropical forest, cross suspension bridges swaying over raging rivers, pass waterfalls of melted snow and climb steep mountain passes. Over the next ten days you’ll come across isolated mountain communities, each with different ancestral customs and traditions. Be prepared to be inspired, mesmerised, challenged and delighted.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today’s trek continues through the deep wooded canyon embellished by stunning waterfalls. You’ll be venturing into the Manang district of the mountain range, with much of the trail ascending throughout the day.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Marking the end of the great Marsyangdi Gorge, make a steep climb to Timang, then the trail settles into gentler slopes as the vegetation transforms from dense pine forests to drier slopes. The district headquarters of Manang, Chame, is the largest settlement after Besisahar.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
A slew of breathtaking scenery is on the cards today as the trail goes through a deep gorge then past the great sweeping slope of Paungi Danda. On the way to Chame stop at a beautiful apple orchid for a tea break. Today is mostly an easy walk with a few ascending stretches of trail dotted throughout the day.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Trek the northern trail via upper Pisang and Ghyaru – an area renowned for its spectacular views.You're sure to come across local farmers herding yaks. Here’s a hot tip – Tibetan yaks take a special interest in people wearing red, so choose your gear carefully today!
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Spend a day here to acclimatise by trekking to a higher altitude, then returning to the lower altitude of Manang for the night. Manang, a village of about 500 flat-roofed houses, offers excellent views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna and Chulu East.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today will be a steadily uphill climb into the alpine region of the mountain range. You’ll arrive at Yak Kharka, ready for an easier day of trekking tomorrow to acclimatise to the high altitude.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Due to the altitude, feel free to take the next section of the climb at a leisurely pace, meaning you’ll have time to admire the magnificent views from this part of the route. Once at Phedi, there’ll be plenty of time to rest and acclimatise to the higher elevations ready for the next part of the climb, where you’ll encounter the Thorung La Pass – the highest point on this Annapurna Circuit.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Setting off very early to cross the Thorung La Pass (5416 m), the trail is steep but easy to follow. After a climbing trek, reach the Pass's peak, adorned with prayer flags, a traditional stupa (chorten) and stone cairns built by travellers. Stop to admire the stunning views and marvel at how far you've climbed. Further along, the trail descends steeply proceeding towards Chabarbu. From here on, the trail crosses meadows, drops into a deep ravine, climbs out and follows a wide trail into Muktinath – a pilgrimage site held in great reverence by both Hindu and Buddhist populations.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Veer off the main trekking trail to make a side trip to an ancient village of Purang. Further up from the village, continue to take the less frequented route going past another village with a medieval feel to it – Jhong. From Jhong, descend to the Jhing Khola (river), following the course which you emerge on to Kagbeni. After lunch, visit the village of Marpha, known for its natural beauty, culture and heritage. Wander around the village and explore beautifully designed buildings and perhaps try some locally produced apple jam. After, drive to Kalopani. Admire stunning views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Mountain ranges including Annapurna 1, and relax while taking in the panoramic Himalayan vistas.
Included Activities:
- Marpha Village walk
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, depart from Kalopani by 4WD enjoying a scenic journey through Nepal’s diverse landscapes. As you travel, take in the lush greenery of the terraced fields, charming rural villages, and the winding roads alongside the Seti River. The route offers occasional glimpses of the majestic Himalayas in the distance. Arrive in Pokhara by the afternoon.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a free day in Pokhara to unwind, relax and give those muscles a rest after all that trekking. Your leader can advise you of sightseeing opportunities. It is worth taking a boat for a row out on the lake, especially if the weather's fine. The lakeside area has great shopping and cafes. Pokhara has an interesting old area as well as an elaborate Hindu temple and a Buddhist monastery. Perhaps visit the Peace Pagoda, where spectacular views of the mountains await. You can see the Annapurnas from here, and the famous fishtail peak, Machhapuchhare, and back across to Pokhara. You can also visit the fascinating International Mountain Museum to learn some amazing tales of past climbing expeditions.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave at any time. Pokhara is a stunning and peaceful lakeside haven, so if you would like to spend more time here, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Accommodation:
- (Number of Nights: 1)
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Jan - Traveled, March 2024
Our trip was excellent. Our leader Prem was experienced and professional. Most teahouses and lunch venues are well-selected and comfortable in the context of their remote location. Assistant leader Dawa was also excellent, with lots of experience and enthusiasm. I can see Dawa being a leader himself for sure. My main constructive feedback comment is that the trip would benefit from an additional altitude acclimatisation day between 4000 and 5000m. I would also encourage our second assistant guide to try and be more proactive in learning the skills of a leader, though I realise this was her first trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/30/2024
Graham - Traveled, March 2024
Been wanting to walk Annapurna Circuit for years. The opportunity arose and the trip exceeded all my expectations.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Willem - Traveled, February 2024
Brilliant trip, brilliant people
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/02/2024
Bethany - Traveled, February 2024
The tour by intrepid was excellent, Mr Niroj our trek leader was impeccable, very attentive and knowledgable and went above and beyond to make sure each person had what they needed to reach the end of the trek. His team of assistant guides and porters were very friendly and helpful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/02/2024
Halla - Traveled, January 2024
I had a magical trip on the Annapurna circuit trek, our group were well supported with experienced, knowledgeable and caring guides: Lila (head guide), Dawa and Min. We trekked in the heart of winter but felt prepared for the challenges and were all so well looked after. Our porters went over and above and were very encouraging! We had an amazing group of trekkers and I would definitely recommend this region for hiking - definitely the most beautiful hike I have done.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/21/2024
Steve - Traveled, April 2024
A well organised, sensible and safe expedition with capable leaders where experience can often be paramount. A fabulous trek on the Annapurna Circuit.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2024
Alexander - Traveled, April 2024
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a fantastic trip! This is a once in a lifetime experience. I throughly enjoyed all of the experiences with other trekkers and Intrepid staff. The tea houses, the hike in Manang up to the cave with the smiling Buddhist nun, Thurong la Pass, the Dhal Bhat etc. etc. Resham firi, resham firi; sometimes uphill, sometimes downhill; resham firi iii. Thank you!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2024
Shannon - Traveled, April 2024
APC trek was amazing. Well organised. Bini, Subin and Lila were so great and made the trip much more memorable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2024
Kathryn - Traveled, April 2024
If you want a physical and mental challenge that will leave you feeling more rewarded than anything you have ever done, do this trip, it’s brilliant!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2024
Olivia - Traveled, April 2024
The guides looked after us so much, super grateful!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2024
Michael - Traveled, May 2024
Our Annapurna Circuit Trek (April 2024) was led by Manoj Thapa, with assistant guides Suban Neupa and Sonia Thapam and the Porter team that carried our gear. The Intrepid team successfully got the entire group to cross the Thorong La pass, even though many in the group were suffering from stomach and other health issues during the walk. A big call out to Manoj, who personally connected with everyone in the group. He was able to provide the appropriate support to motivate, guide and assist each group member, which was challenging considering the varied backgrounds of the group. In summary, the walk was a fantastic experience, which was made more enjoyable by the Intrepid team, which did all the hard work of organising meals, accommodation, and logistics. I recommend this tour to solo travellers and small groups who want to experience the beauty of the Annapurna mountain range.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2024
Sarah - Traveled, March 2024
This is an all-round brilliant trip with a good and challenging level of physical activity, incredible scenery, good level of cultural experience and the most welcoming team. Our guides Jangbu and Subash were really excellent, super friendly, knowledgeable and supportive.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2024
Stephen - Traveled, March 2024
A brilliant trip, after completing the Everest Base Camp 2 yrs previously, the Annapurna Circuit was another fantastic experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/30/2024
Phoebe - Traveled, March 2024
Amazing trip! Very well organised with a great group. So much fun and couldn’t recommend it enough.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/30/2024
Dimity - Traveled, January 2024
This was an incredible trip. I am in awe of the Himalayas and in love with the culture. The challenge was great, but our fantastic guides supported and encouraged through it all!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/20/2024
Brett - Traveled, December 2023
Spectacular scenery and an achievable itinerary. It was more rewarding than challenging and the guides were always there to support us. Highly recommend this experience to anyone who would like to see greater Nepal.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/29/2023
Chloe - Traveled, December 2023
This trip completely surpassed my expectations! We did it in winter and the trails were blissfully quiet. Highly reccomend. Also a big thank you to our wonderful Guide Nar Tamang and Assistant Guide Subein also - they made the trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/29/2023
Brock - Traveled, December 2023
MB and Subine were fantastic and we all had the best time trekking last trek in December. The trek was so quiet and we all felt that we had this beautiful place to ourselves. Highly recommend this trek if your up for a challenge.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/29/2023
Ewan - Traveled, December 2023
Excellent trip, felt very well looked after and the intrepid organisation is very professional.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/22/2023
Share a personalized trip brochure!
Why Choose Us?
We Work for You
Our goal to make you happy! That means ensuring our travel consultants have the best product knowledge and excellent customer service. A positive customer experience is our #1 goal!
Our Products
We offer an broad selection of travel products, including all-inclusive vacation packages, pre-packaged tours, custom travel itineraries, destination weddings, and luxury vacations.
Escapes Cares
We believe in giving back. When you book with us, you are contributing to tree planting through our partners at Veritree, as well ocean conservation though Oceana Canada.