The Annapurna Circuit used to be a three-week wilderness trek. Roads have since crept into the lower valleys, but the high section — climaxing at the 5,416m Thorong La pass — remains one of the most rewarding multi-day treks on the planet, moving through subtropical valleys, pine forests and high alpine desert in a single route.
Route Overview
Most trekkers now start from Chame or Koto to skip the roaded lower section, completing the loop over 10-14 days depending on acclimatization days and side trips to Tilicho Lake.
Acclimatization Is Non-Negotiable
Altitude sickness is the single biggest risk on this route. Build in rest days at Manang (3,540m) and ascend no more than 300-500m per day above 3,000m.
Watch for AMS symptoms
Headache, nausea and dizziness that don't improve with rest and hydration mean you should descend immediately — don't push through to the next village.
- Day 1-4: Besisahar to Chame through subtropical valleys
- Day 5-7: Chame to Manang, gaining altitude through pine forest
- Day 8-9: Acclimatization day and optional Tilicho Lake side trip
- Day 10-11: Manang to High Camp, crossing Thorong La at dawn
- Day 12-14: Descent to Muktinath and on to Jomsom
What to Pack
Layering is everything — you'll move from t-shirt weather to sub-zero wind chill in the same day. A -15°C rated sleeping bag, down jacket, and quality trekking poles are non-negotiable for the pass crossing.
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by
Liam Hayes
Adventure & Trekking Correspondent
A former mountain guide turned writer, Liam has led treks across the Andes, the Rockies and the Himalayas. He writes Trek Tales Online's adventure and road trip coverage, usually filed from a tent.
