Beyond Alone · Best: Oct – Nov, Mar – Apr
Annapurna Circuit
The classic Nepalese long trek — jungle to high pass, four ethnic regions in a single walk.
Nepal
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Annapurna Circuit, Nepal.
- Biome
- Sub-tropical to trans-Himalayan
- Elevation
- 800 – 5,416 m (Thorong La)
- Best window
- Oct – Nov, Mar – Apr
- Key draws
- Thorong La, Manang, Tilicho Lake side trip
- Watch for
- Altitude, weather on the pass
The country
The circuit walks around the Annapurna massif, starting in sub-tropical Marsyangdi valley and climbing through Manang's high desert to Thorong La and down into the Mustang rain shadow.
Why enthusiasts come
One of the finest cultural-plus-mountain treks in the world. Road extension has shortened it, but the core high section is still glorious.
Planner-relevant notes
TIMS card + ACAP permit required. Teahouses take dollars in high season; small notes preferred. Consider the Manaslu Circuit as a quieter alternative.
Field notes
- Cross Thorong La in the pre-dawn hours to beat the wind.
- Tilicho Lake side trip is worth an extra 2 days if you're acclimatized.
- Descent to Muktinath is a big-drop knee test — poles help.
Frequently asked about Annapurna Circuit
- Where is Annapurna Circuit?
- Annapurna Circuit is in Nepal. The classic Nepalese long trek — jungle to high pass, four ethnic regions in a single walk.
- What is the climate like at Annapurna Circuit?
- Sub-tropical to trans-Himalayan. The circuit walks around the Annapurna massif, starting in sub-tropical Marsyangdi valley and climbing through Manang's high desert to Thorong La and down into the Mustang rain shadow.