Route Guide
Trek Route Map
Annapurna Circuit – over Thorong La and into the Kali Gandaki valley
Illustrative map of the Annapurna Circuit trekking route – Besisahar to Jomsom/Pokhara.
Around the Annapurna massif – diverse landscapes, ancient villages, and the mighty Thorong La Pass
A dramatic trek deep into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, where towering peaks surround you on all sides in a natural amphitheatre. Standing at 4,130m with Annapurna I — the world's 10th highest mountain — filling your entire view is an experience few ever forget.
The trail rises through rhododendron forests, Gurung villages, and glacial moraines before delivering you to one of the most enclosed and awe-inspiring mountain arenas on the planet. Compact, powerful, and unforgettable.
Everything you need to know about the classic Annapurna Circuit.
Annapurna, Nepal
5,416 m (Thorong La Pass)
12–18 days
16‑day standard
Hard – sustained walking, high pass
Mar–May & Sep–Nov
Thorong La · Muktinath · Kali Gandaki gorge · Annapurna views
From Kathmandu to crossing Thorong La – every step planned.
Official documentation and honest cost estimates.
| Permit | Cost (Foreigners) | Where to Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area) | NPR 3,000 | Kathmandu or Besisahar |
| TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management) | NPR 2,000 | Kathmandu or Besisahar |
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Tea house room (basic) | $5–10 |
| Breakfast | $3–6 |
| Lunch (dal bhat / noodles) | $4–8 |
| Dinner (dal bhat / pasta) | $5–9 |
| Hot water (1 L) | $1–3 |
| Shower (where available) | $2–5 |
| Wi‑Fi / charging | $2–5 per device |
Transparent breakdown – what we cover and what you need to budget.
Pack smart – your porter carries up to 10–15 kg. Thorong La can be freezing.
Kathmandu's Thamel district is your one‑stop shop – rent or buy at reasonable prices.
| Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Down jacket | $30–80 |
| Hiking boots | $40–100 |
| Fleece jacket | $10–25 |
| Trekking trousers | $10–20 |
| Sleeping bag (−10°C) | $30–60 |
| Headlamp / poles / sunglasses | $5–25 each |
Lila's field knowledge – read before you go.
Start at 4:00–5:00 AM from High Camp. Winds pick up after midday – crossing must be before noon.
Rest day in Manang (Day 7) is CRITICAL. Never skip. Drink 3–4 litres of water daily, walk slowly.
ATMs available up to Manang; carry enough Nepali rupees for the second half. Jomsom has ATMs but may be unreliable.
Many trekkers now drive from Kathmandu to Chame (2,670 m) in 1–2 days to save time, skipping the lower villages.
Try the famous apple pie, apple brandy, and local apple products in Jomsom – a well‑deserved treat after the pass.
Must cover helicopter evacuation up to 5,500m. Rescue from Thorong Phedi / High Camp can cost $5,000+.
Annapurna Circuit – over Thorong La and into the Kali Gandaki valley
Book your trek with Lila – expert local guidance, fair transparent pricing, and memories that last a lifetime.