Mardi Himal Trek - 10 Days
Annapurna Region | 10 days | Easy | From $410
Annapurna Circuit Trek - 14 Days
Region: Annapurna Region | Duration: 14 days | Difficulty: Challenging | From $970
Overview
The Annapurna Circuit Trek (14 Days) is one of the world’s most legendary trekking adventures, offering a complete journey around the Annapurna massif with comfortable arrival and departure arrangements in Kathmandu. This comprehensive itinerary is perfect for trekkers who want a well-paced experience that combines dramatic mountain scenery, cultural discovery, and one of the highest trekking passes on Earth.The trek begins with preparation time in Kathmandu before heading toward the Marsyangdi Valley, where the journey starts through lush subtropical forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung villages. As the trail gradually climbs, the scenery transforms into pine forests and high mountain terrain with constant views of Himalayan giants.A key stop is Manang (3,519 m), where trekkers spend an acclimatization day exploring Tibetan Buddhist culture and adjusting to the altitude. This important pause improves safety and allows time to appreciate the unique culture and landscapes of the region.The biggest challenge comes with the crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The early morning ascent rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and a deep sense of accomplishment.After the pass, the trail descends to Muktinath (3,800 m), a sacred pilgrimage site respected by both Hindus and Buddhists. The journey then continues through the dry, wind-shaped landscapes of the Mustang region to Jomsom.The adventure concludes with time to relax in Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu for departure. This balanced itinerary allows trekkers to recover while also enjoying Nepal’s famous lakeside scenery.With its challenging difficulty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a classic Himalayan adventure. It is a perfect choice for those wanting a complete two-week journey that combines mountain challenge, spiritual sites, and Nepal’s natural beauty.General InformationDetailInformationMax Altitude5,416m (17,769 ft) at Thorong La PassBest SeasonMarch-May, September-NovemberStart PointDharapani (via Besisahar from Kathmandu)End PointPokhara then KathmanduTrek Distance160-180 km / 100-112 miles (circuit portion)Daily Walking5-8 hoursCity Days3 days (Kathmandu arrival, Pokhara recovery, Kathmandu departure)Permits RequiredACAP, TIMSIdeal ForExperienced trekkers, complete package seekersWhat makes this 14-day package ideal:Complete Experience: Unlike trek-only packages, this comprehensive itinerary includes: Kathmandu arrival day with welcome dinner, trek briefing, and proper preparation (Day 1), comfortable 10-day circuit trekking with proper acclimatization at Manang, post-trek recovery day in beautiful lakeside Pokhara (Day 12), scenic drive back to Kathmandu with time to rest/shop/pack (Day 13), and departure day matching your international flight (Day 14). You experience Nepal holistically—not just mountains but also vibrant Kathmandu culture, serene Pokhara lakes, and warm hospitality throughout.Proper Preparation & Recovery: Day 1 in Kathmandu allows crucial: jet lag recovery after international flight, comprehensive trek briefing with guide covering altitude awareness for 5,416m pass, final gear checks and last-minute purchases, permit finalization, and mental preparation. Similarly, post-trek Pokhara day (Day 12) provides proper recovery before long Kathmandu drive, hot showers and comfortable beds after 10 days trekking, celebration of accomplishment, and optional activities (boating, paragliding, massage). Day 13 in Kathmandu ensures you depart rested rather than racing to airport still exhausted.Legendary Circuit: The route showcases everything serious trekkers dream of: dramatic landscapes changing daily from lush forests to barren highlands, challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416m) requiring pre-dawn ascent and sustained high-altitude effort, spectacular panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges throughout, authentic cultural immersion in Tibetan-Buddhist villages, sacred Muktinath pilgrimage site, and the profound satisfaction of completing one of trekking's most famous circuits earning global recognition.Diverse Landscapes: Experience Nepal's incredible biodiversity and terrain variety: subtropical rice terraces and banana trees (lowlands), dense rhododendron and pine forests blooming spectacularly in spring (mid-elevations), alpine meadows with yak herds (high valleys), barren rocky terrain approaching pass, dramatic high-altitude desert (Mustang post-pass). This constant change prevents monotony despite 10 consecutive trekking days.This complete package handles everything: airport transfers, Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels (comfortable 2-3 star with hot showers), all transportation to and from trek, experienced high-altitude specialist guides, porter service, teahouse accommodation throughout circuit, all trek meals, permits, emergency support, and return logistics. Simply arrive in Nepal ready for adventure while we manage all details.
Gears
Hygiene and Safety Essentials
Biodegradable soap, toothpaste, personal hygiene essentials, high-SPF sunscreen (50+), UV-protected sunglasses (essential for snow on the pass), lip balm, first aid medication like Diamox (for altitude), pain relievers, blister plasters, personal prescriptions, and a quick-dry towel.
Electronics & Navigation Essentials
Camera/smartphone, e-book or e-reader, GPS device or map & compass, notebook & pens, high-capacity power banks (charging can be limited in upper Manang), and a headlamp with spare batteries for the 3:00 AM start over Thorong La.
Layered Clothing
Base Layer: Thermal tops and leggings (merino wool or synthetic moisture-wicking).Mid Layer: Fleece jacket or pullover and a lightweight down or synthetic insulated jacket.Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof shell jacket (hardshell) and trekking trousers.High-Altitude Essentials: Heavy-duty down jacket (rated for -15°C), warm beanie, neck buff, and insulated waterproof gloves.
Essential Trekking Gear
Backpack (45L-55L), trekking poles (crucial for the 1,600m descent to Muktinath), 4-season sleeping bag (-15°C), water purification tablets, and sturdy, broken-in trekking boots.
7-Day Weather Forecast
Forecast for Annapurna Region. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
Others
The Complete 14-Day JourneyDay 1 (Kathmandu Arrival): Land at Tribhuvan International Airport, meet representative, transfer to hotel, evening welcome dinner at traditional restaurant with cultural show, comprehensive trek briefing with guide, gear checks, questions answered. Proper preparation day ensuring confident start.Days 2-11 (Circuit Trekking): The legendary 10-day circuit from Dharapani through Manang to Thorong La Pass and down to Jomsom. This is the core adventure detailed below in Phase 1-5.Day 12 (Pokhara Recovery): Drive Jomsom to beautiful lakeside Pokhara, comfortable 3-star hotel, hot showers, clean clothes, celebration dinner, rest and reflection. Optional activities: boating on Phewa Lake, paragliding, massage, shopping, or simply relaxing watching Annapurna range reflections on water.Day 13 (Return to Kathmandu): Scenic 7-8 hour drive through countryside, arrive afternoon, evening free for last shopping/dining/packing, proper rest before international departure.Day 14 (Final Departure): Airport transfer matching flight time, farewell after incredible 14-day journey.The Circuit PhasesPhase 1 - Marsyangdi Valley Ascent (Days 2-6): Drive Kathmandu to Besisahar then Dharapani (1,860m). Trek through beautiful Marsyangdi River valley with steady ascent: Chame (2,740m) → Pisang (3,250m) → Ngawal (3,650m) → Manang (3,519m) over 4 days. Landscape transitions from subtropical to alpine, views progressively improve.Phase 2 - Manang Acclimatization (Day 7): CRUCIAL full rest day at Manang. Optional hikes (Gangapurna Lake, Praken Gompa), Himalayan Rescue Association lecture, village exploration, or simply resting. This day dramatically reduces Thorong La altitude sickness risk.Phase 3 - Pass Approach (Days 8-9): Manang → Yak Kharka (4,020m) → Thorong Phedi (4,450m). Vegetation disappears, terrain becomes rocky and dramatic, altitude effects increase. Thorong Phedi final staging with very early dinner/bed.Phase 4 - Thorong La Crossing (Day 10): Pre-dawn (4-5 AM) start, 4-5 hour ascent to Thorong La Pass (5,416m), spectacular 360-degree panoramas, 3-4 hour descent to Muktinath (3,800m). Total 7-8 hours. THE BIG DAY.Phase 5 - Mustang Descent (Day 11): Muktinath → Jomsom (2,743m) through arid Mustang landscapes completely different from lush beginning.Why 14 Days Over 12 Days?The 14-day version adds crucial comfort elements the 12-day cannot provide:Kathmandu Preparation Day: Arrive, recover from jet lag, attend proper briefing, check gear, ask questions, mentally prepare. The 12-day version often rushes this or assumes you arrive day before.Pokhara Recovery Day: Post-trek day in beautiful Pokhara allows: proper shower and rest after 10 days, celebration without rushing, optional activities, recovery before long Kathmandu drive. The 12-day drives immediately Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu (14+ hours total) same day—exhausting.Kathmandu Departure Prep: Full day to rest, pack, last shopping, proper sleep before international departure rather than arriving Kathmandu evening and departing next morning still exhausted.Who Should Choose 14 Days: First-time Circuit trekkers wanting complete package, international travelers needing proper arrival/departure buffer, those valuing comfort and proper rest over bare efficiency, families or older trekkers appreciating extra recovery, anyone wanting holistic Nepal experience not just trekking.Best SeasonSpring (March-May) - ExcellentWeather: Comfortable temperatures, stable conditionsAdvantages: Rhododendron blooms, pass typically clear by April, warmer than autumnBest months: April-MayAutumn (September-November) - PeakWeather: Clearest skies annually, stable conditionsAdvantages: Best mountain photography, crisp air, excellent visibility, festivalsBest months: October optimalMonsoon (June-August) - DangerousHeavy rain, landslides, pass often impassable. Avoid.Winter (December-February) - Expert OnlyExtreme cold, deep snow, many lodges closed. Not recommended.
What Our Trekkers Say
Average rating: 5 | 3 reviews
By Aakash Patel | 3 months ago | Rating 5
We had a great experience on the Everest Base Camp trek with Nepal Visuals. Our guide Rupesh was very knowledgeable and patient with our many questions and many, many photo sessions during the trek. Resh, the CEO, was responsive and did a great job of taking care of our needs the entire time we were in Nepal. Wonderful experience overall, I would definitely book another trek with Nepal Visuals again.
By Deepak Patel | 4 months ago | Rating 5
“Nepal Visuals” planned the whole Everest Base Camp trek very well, they were always in control of different situations & the guide was very helpful, calm & explaining everything in detail. Resh was very prompt in answering all our questions before trek & took very good care of our family upon arrival in Kathmandu till we left. We recommend Nepal Visuals to all our friends & will definitely use them when we plan our Annapurna trek.
By laura perez | 4 months ago | Rating 5
From Cañete, Chile to the Magic of Everest Base Camp with Nepal Visual The dream of reaching Everest Base Camp came true for Luis and Laura, as we departed from Cañete, Chile, on September 30, 2025. After the journey, we landed in Kathmandu on October 2, where the warmth of our guide, Prim, welcomed us. The next day, our epic trek began. Before writing these lines, I reviewed the logistics that Nepal Visual had proposed for the trip; I must confess that they far exceeded our expectations. Everything went perfectly, demonstrating a level of professionalism and attention to detail that allowed us to focus solely on the beauty of the mountain and the experience. They took care of everything. Jepe (as Prim called the boss, warm and friendly), Prim, our guide in Spanish, did everything to make us feel good. He didn't have faith in us when he saw us, but later recognized how strong we were. Ram, our porter, a strong man with his smile and humility, and Rajat, who showed us the well-documented history of his capital, KMD. At the Capital Boutique Hotel, the receptionists, Anupama and Devendra, surprised us one morning by greeting us in Spanish. Our sincere congratulations and admiration to everyone for their work, "A Whole Team." Nepal Visual's service makes this magical: safe trekking, hotels, sufficient food, assistance with souvenir shopping, soaking up the culture, its spirituality, and connectivity. We recommend Nepal Visual to anyone looking for an unforgettable, magical, and, above all, hassle-free experience at Base Camp. They are a true team who put their heart and soul into their service and speak Spanish to the best of their ability. Nepal is also very safe. Thank you, Nepal Visual, you truly are a team. A total thank you!!! Signed: Laura and Luis. (From Cañete, Biobío Region, Chile)
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