Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 days is a challenging yet rewarding high-altitude journey that takes you to Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the world’s highest trekking passes. The 12 days Annapurna Circuit Itinerary typically involves significant driving portions to shorten the trekking duration, focusing on the core high-altitude section of the circuit.
Annapurna Circuit Difficulty reflecting concerns about the trek’s demands. The Annpurna Circuit Trek is considered moderate to strenuous trip. The trek requires good physical fitness and mental preparedness due to the high altitude and rugged terrain. Proper acclimatization, especially in Manang, is helpful to mitigate the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Hence, Manang acclimatization is a crucial part of most itineraries.
Annapurna Circuit permits-the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card are mandatory. These trek permits are took cared by Mission Eco Trek, the best trekking company in Nepal. Just bring your passport-sized photos for processing. Likewise, the best time Annapurna Circuit trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) due to stable weather conditions and clear mountain views.
Annapurna Circuit Short Trek with Thorong La Pass is the trek’s highest point. Muktinath Temple is a major cultural and religious highlight along the Annapurna Circuit route. Jomsom flight is also a common transportation option to shorten the return journey.
The 12 days Annapurna Circuit trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna range with rich cultural encounters, diverse ecosystems, and a journey to the heart of the Himalayas. It’s moderately difficult but manageable with preparation. The trail includes both gradual and steep sections.
The solo travelers can join our group treks to share the experience and meet fellow adventurers. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is physically challenging due to steep ascents, descents, and altitude. Regular fitness is enough to complete the trek. Tight cardio, walking, and hiking for 3–6 weeks before the trek can make it easier and more enjoyable.
You’ll walk 5–7 hours daily, depending on the trail and altitude. It’s beginner-friendly with the right preparation and guidance.The first-time trekkers can do our 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek. The experienced guides and porters will assist you to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek. Our guides are fluent in English and familiar with assisting international trekkers. A porter will carry 20-25 kg luggage, and there will be 1 porter for every two trekkers.
Teahouse accommodations with basic twin-sharing rooms are provided. They are clean, warm, and comfortable. The hot showers and Wi-Fi are available at teahouses, but extra charges may apply. Your phone and devices charging is available at teahouses for a small fee. Carry a power bank for emergencies. The most teahouses have basic toilets, with squat-style toilets more common at higher altitudes.
You’ll find a variety of meals, including Nepali dal bhat, noodles, soups, curries, and some international dishes like pasta and pancakes. Both vegetarian and vegan meals are available at most teahouses. Inform your guide in advance to ensure options are prepared. We recommend drinking boiled water or using water purification tablets. Bottled water is available but may cost more at higher altitudes. The snacks, soft drinks, and energy bars are available at teahouses and shops along the trail, though prices increase with altitude.
The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are ideal for clear views and pleasant weather. The monsoon brings rain, and winter has snow and cold weather, making the trek more challenging, still possible for this trek.
Expect warm days (10–20°C) and cold nights (below freezing at higher altitudes). Weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. Essentials include trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, rain gear, sunscreen, a water bottle, and personal toiletries. A sleeping bag is essential for warmth, especially at higher altitudes where temperatures drop significantly at night.
You can safely store extra luggage at your hotel in Kathmandu. The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besishahar, the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit trek. All the transportation between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Besishahar are included in the package.
The 12-day Annapurna Circuit Cost ranges from $ 560 to $1260, depending on the services and length of the trek. Annapurna Circuit Trek discovers 160 km travel distance by trek with daily hike covering 10 to 15 km for 6 to 7 hours walk. The beautiful Annapurna Circuit Trek has everything from lush forests to arid deserts, high-altitude passes, and traditional villages. Our 12 days Annapurna Circuit Trek is excellent for beginner to senior hikers.
The Annapurna Circuit Short Trek is physically demanding, hence a good physical fitness is required to encircle the Annapurna massifs. Also, the Annapurna Circuit route is surrounded by the picturesque landscapes and the Himalayas with variety of landscapes, forests, hills, deep valleys and villages.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is more than just a hike and it offers an experience filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and personal achievement. It is a shorter version of the full Annapurna Circuit Trek also known as Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek with Thorong La Pass at 5416m, the excessive classical treks in Nepal.
The 12 days is an ideal length of trekking around Annapurna, and a must do trek in Nepal for a life time experience. The valleys, lakes, glaciers and high passes gives you a great sense of adventures. Physical training like gym and jogging is surely helpful for the 12 day Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary.
Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 days Itinerary
Day 01:Kathmandu – Besishahar – Ngadi (1000m)
Day 02:Nadi – Jagat (1100m, 5 hours)
Day 03:Jagat – Dharapani (1960m, 7/8 hours)
Day 04:Dharapani – Chame (2710m, 5/6 hours)
Day 05:Chame – Pisang (3300m, 5/6 hours)
Day 06:Upper Pisang – Manang (3500m, 6/7 hours)
Day 07:Manang
Day 08:Manang – Yak Kharka(4110m, 3/4 hours)
Day 09:Yak Kharka – Thorong Phedi(4600, 3/4 hours)
Day 10:Thorong Phedi – Thorong La – Muktinath(3800m, 7/8 hours)
Day 11:Muktinath – Tatopani(2135 m, 4 hours)
Day 12:Tatopani – Pokhara (2800m)
