Cross high passes, pass hidden monasteries and walk through villages that still live by yak and prayer wheel. This 16-day Annapurna Circuit trek pairs raw Himalayan landscapes with staged acclimatization and teahouse support.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn slices the ridge in palest gold as you climb toward Thorong La, wind skipping stones and the massive peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri watching like slow-moving glaciers. The trail alternates between forested terraces, river-carved gorges and the raw, cold plateau above Manang, where yak bells and prayer flags mark each village as an unspoken waypoint.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
16–21 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness with experience on multi-day mountain hikes; ability to handle long days, steep ascents and high altitude.
Wildlife
History
The circuit follows old salt-and-trade routes linking Nepal’s hill communities; villages like Manang and Marpha retain distinct Gurung and Thakali traditions.
Conservation
ACAP manages permits and local conservation; stick to established trails, minimize single-use plastics and respect teahouse waste practices to lessen impact.
Reserve your spot on the Conquer the Himalayas: The Ultimate 16-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize on schedule
Plan rest days in Manang or spend a day hiking to higher viewpoints then returning to sleep lower to reduce AMS risk.
Layer for big swings
Temperatures vary from humid valleys to sub-zero mornings on the pass—use a breathable base, insulating mid-layer and windproof shell.
Carry cash and small notes
Teahouses accept only cash; ATMs are sporadic—bring Nepali rupees for food, tips and small purchases.
Footwear and traction
Sturdy, well-broken-in boots with good ankle support are essential—bring microspikes for occasional icy sections in shoulder seasons.
Insulated down jacket
Compressible warmth for cold mornings and high-pass exposure.
fall
Sturdy hiking boots (waterproof)
Supports ankles on stone staircases and slippery, uneven trails.
Trekking poles
Reduce knee impact on long descents and improve stability on uneven terrain.
Water purification (tablets or filter)
Access to clean water varies—treat refills at teahouses or streams to avoid illness.