Annapurna Circuit Trek
Nepal · 18 Days · Strenuous
Classic Trek From US $1,330 Mantra Adventure
Trip at a Glance
Destination
Nepal
Duration
18 Days / 17 Nights
Difficulty
Strenuous
Activity
Trekking
Transport
Drive + Car
Group Size
Max 16 People
Accommodation
Tea House / Lodge
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max Altitude
5,416m / Thorong La
Overview
Nepal's classic grand circuit crossing the 5,416m Thorong La — diverse landscapes from sub-tropical to arctic.
Trip Highlights
- Maximum altitude: 5,416m / Thorong La
- Duration: 18 days / 17 nights
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Expert English-speaking certified guide
- All meals during the trekking
- All permits and TIMS card arranged
- Airport transfers included
- Mantra Adventure duffel bag provided
Pricing
| Per Person | Starting From |
|---|---|
| Starting price — lower rates apply for larger groups | US $790 |
Group Discount Pricing
| Group Size | Price / Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Pax | US $1,130 |
| 2 - 3 Pax | US $1,020 |
| 4 - 7 Pax | US $940 |
| 8 - 13 Pax | US $860 |
| 14+ Pax | US $790 |
All prices are per person. Larger groups receive progressive discounts.
What's Included & Excluded
✓ Included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Domestic transport per itinerary
- All accommodation during the trip
- All meals as specified in the itinerary
- Experienced English-speaking certified guide
- Porter (1 per 2 trekkers, max 15kg)
- All trekking permits and national park fees
- TIMS card
- Mantra Adventure duffel bag
- First aid kit
✗ Not Included
- International flights
- Nepal visa (USD 30-100 on arrival)
- Personal travel insurance (mandatory)
- Meals in Kathmandu/Pokhara
- Accommodation in Kathmandu (available on request)
- Alcoholic beverages, hot showers, personal items
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips for guide and porters
Travel Tips & Useful Information
➤ Best Time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek
<strong>October–November (Autumn):</strong> The best overall season. Post-monsoon clarity, stable weather, and spectacular mountain views. The Thorong La crossing is most reliable in October and November before the winter snowfall closes the pass. October is the busiest month — book teahouses in advance.
<strong>March–May (Spring):</strong> Excellent conditions throughout, with the rhododendron bloom adding spectacular colour to the Ghorepani and Tatopani sections. Longer daylight hours benefit the Thorong La crossing. April is particularly popular.
<strong>December–February (Winter):</strong> Cold and demanding at altitude. The Thorong La can receive heavy snowfall and is occasionally closed for days. Suitable for experienced winter trekkers with appropriate gear and flexibility.
<strong>June–September (Monsoon):</strong> Not recommended for the standard circuit. The Thorong La can be snow-affected, trails below are wet and difficult. Upper Mustang (accessible via Jomsom on Day 13) is an excellent alternative during monsoon as it sits in a rain shadow.
<h3>Permits Required</h3>
<strong>ACAP — Annapurna Conservation Area Permit:</strong> NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 22). Required for all trekkers entering the Annapurna Conservation Area. Checked at multiple points.
<strong>TIMS Card:</strong> USD 20 per person for organised groups. Included in Mantra Adventure package.
Both permits are arranged by Mantra Adventure — no additional action required from trekkers.
➤ How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
This trip is rated Strenuous. Requires good fitness and ideally prior high-altitude or multi-day trekking experience. Begin cardio and hiking training 3 months before departure.
➤ Do I need a visa?
Most nationalities get Nepal visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport for USD 30 (30 days). Indian nationals do not require a visa.
➤ What permits are required?
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (USD 30) + TIMS card. Arranged by Mantra Adventure. No extra hassle for you.
➤ What is included in the price?
Included: Airport transfers; domestic flights/transport per itinerary; all trek accommodation; all meals during trek; English-speaking guide; porters (1 per 2 trekkers); all trekking permits; Mantra Adventure duffel bag. Not included: International flights; Nepal visa; personal travel insurance (mandatory); personal gear; tips.
➤ What fitness level is required?
For Annapurna Circuit Trek (Strenuous): Cardiovascular fitness built over 3-4 months including hill walks with a pack. Prior trekking experience strongly recommended.
➤ Is altitude sickness a concern?
Maximum altitude is 5,416m / Thorong La. Altitude sickness is a real risk above 3,500m. Our itinerary includes acclimatisation days and our guides carry supplemental oxygen. Diamox can be taken as prophylaxis — consult your doctor. Emergency evacuation insurance is mandatory.