The Annapurna Circuit and ABC Trek reach Thorong La Pass (5416m), Annapurna Sanctuary (4130m), & Poon Hill, gradually covering iconic viewpoints. It is an expertly crafted itinerary that unveils the two famous trekking routes in the Annapurna region, letting you explore the varied Himalayan terrains, distinct landscapes, and the daily livelihood of the mountain Tibetan and other ethnic communities, with the surrounding himalayan gignatic peaks, pushing your limits and endurance level.
Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek Overview: 18 Days
Confused about which trek to choose, either the Annapurna Circuit or the Annapurna Base Camp? Well, if that's the case, then we've got you. This 18-day Annapurna Circuit with ABC Trek is a combination of the two famous trekking routes, covering Thorong La Pass and Annapurna Base Camp. The trek stands out as one of the most adrenaline-filled adventures, which demonstrates to you the unique insight of the Annapurna Himalayas, where every day is a new journey, with distinct landscapes and alluring views of the mountains.
The Annapurna Sanctuary and Thorong La Pass route represents the unparalleled beauty of the Himalayas, showing the panoramic views of mountains touching the great heights to the sky exceeding 6000 meters, and 8000 meters, including the 7th and 10th tallest peaks, Annapurna I (8091 meters) and Dhaulagiri range (8167 meters).
Throughout the journey, many legendary mountains, including Mount Fishtail (Macchapuchare), Gangapurna, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and Lamjung Himal, stretch to the vista of Tilicho Peak (7134 meters) and Tukuche Peak (6940 m) along with other Himalayan peaks. The journey starts with forested verdant hills, with a thriving rhododendron trail, pines, oaks, small river streams, cascading waterfalls, suspension bridges, and terraced fields, with yaks grazing, and attains the open landscape and alpine valleys with a transformation from rugged terrains, rocky sections, to the alpine valleys, showing the six climatic zones of the Annapurna region.
We've tailored the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp Trekking itinerary, with a gradual ascent, avoiding repeating the same trailhead, with 1-day acclimatization at Manang village, with a side trip to Gangapurna lake and Ice Lake, before reaching the highest elevation of 5416 meters, at Thorong La Pass, ensuring safety and comfort at the same time.
This trek covers the first half of the Annapurna Circuit Trail, and touches the route to the Mustang region after descending from the world's highest trekking pass of Thorung La, to the Muktinath Temple (3710 meters), along the world's deepest gorge, of Kali Gandaki Valley.
Then, afterwards, with a drive to Tatopani, this trek enters the route to the iconic Poon Hill View Point (3210 m), and joins the Annapurna Base Camp route from Tatopani. On the following days, the trailhead passes through the diverse settlements of Chhomrong, Hotel Himalaya, Bamboo, and Dovan, and finally ascends to the Macchapuchare Base Camp (3500 meters) and Annapurna Base Camp (4173 meters), surrounded by the panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, which stands out being the final ultimate destination of our 18 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp.
Highlights
- Cover 3 iconic destinations within the Annapurna region, reaching the best Annapurna viewpoints, that perched at an altitude of 4000 to 5500 meters
- Feel the thrill of adventure, covering the adrenaline-boosting Annapurna Circuit and reaching the ascent to the lap of the world's highest peak, Annapurna Base Camp at 4173 meters
- Unveil the magical, untamed beauty of the Annapurna Conservation Area, covering every highlighted corner, gazing at the western Himalayan mountain in every stride, and rapid changes in landscapes
- Learn about the distinct lifestyle of the Tibetan Buddhism communities, enjoying their warm hospitality and remote way of livelihood, and agricultural farming
- Experience the beauty of the Manang valley, and enjoy the side trip to Gangapurna Lake and Ice Lake, just a few hours away
- Cross over the highest trekking pass to exist, Thorong La Pass at an elevation of 5416 meters, which showers you with a unique insight into the mountains and Tibetan plateau landscape above the Kali Gandaki valley
- Walk along the world's deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki, touching the route to the Mustang region, and visit the holy Muktinath Temple, one of the sacred sites for Buddhism and Hinduism
- Reach the Poon Hill View Point at 3210 meters, which demonstrates the captivating golden sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range
- Spend a day at Ghorepani village, enjoying the locally cooked foods, and some fascinating stories of the Gurkha regiments, and experience more about gurung culture
- Relish in the Annapurna Base Camp for one night, gazing at the stars and beauty of the highlands, before returning and concluding the journey
- Soak in the natural hot spring at Tatopani and Jhinu Danda, relaxing the muscles before and after the trip
What makes this combined Annapurna Circuit with ABC Trek worth it?
The Annapurna Circuit + ABC combo is the perfect combination of the Himalayan adventure for, who are willing to make the best out of their journey to the Annapurna region, where a thrilling journey collides with the beauty of diverse landscapes, villages, pass through varied terrains, and immerse in the rich Himalayan flora and fauna, with a rich tapestry of culture of the Tibetan Buddhism influenced traditions. Recently, these combined Himalayan odysseys have been trending among adventure seekers, who are looking forward to reaching new heights, reaching the foothill of the iconic mountain, and reaching the top of the iconic high pass.
Trail around the untamed beauty within the Annapurna Conservation Area
Hosting more than 1200 diverse plant species (flora), 520 bird species, and rare mammals and reptiles, marking the Annapurna Conservation Area as Nepal's largest protected area. Known as the home of diverse ethnic communities, highly influenced by groups like Gurung, Magar, and Thakali, this trekking route showcases the warm hospitality of the locals and their norms, customs, and languages passed down through generations.
Starting from the forested woodland, decorated with the blooming red rhododendrons, with the chirping sounds of birds, you might encounter the langur monkeys, playing back and forth, the Himalayan tahr, and maybe the elusive red panda as well, then, the route opens up with several villages with yaks grazing on the terraced fields, whereas, moving to the high elevation above 4000 meters, if luck fits, encountering with snow leopard, might amuse you, with the himalayan blue poppys, and lavender shade wide flowers thriving in the mountains.
Meaningful Acclimatization Day at Manang: Side Trip to Gangapurna Lake
The acclimatization day during the 18-day Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Sanctuary journey stands out at Manang (3500 meters), where you can explore around the Manang village, which was also used to be the ancient trade route from the Nepal-Tibet border; hence, the culture here is highly influenced by ancient Tibetans. The proof itself remains with the locals, fully decked up in culturally colorful clothing, jewelry, and the boisterous festival celebrated here, which is why Manang Valley stands out as the iconic spot surrounded by the old monasteries like Braga monastery, Lama cave, and several other meditation spots. Several mountain views, including the Annapurna I, South, II, Tilicho Peak, Hiunchuli, surround the valley with rugged and hugely formed landscapes, making the 1 day rest here one hundred percent worth it.
To adopt the rising high elevation, in the following days, and reach the highest altitude of 5416 meters, we will basically take a side trip from Manang to Gangapurna Lake, for 3 to 4 hours, which shows the panoramic views of the mountains such as Pisang, Annapurna II, South, Chulu Peaks, Tilicho, that reflects magically in the lake as well. Additionally, we can even take a hike to Ice Lake, as well, if you've got a little stamina left in your body. This intellectually set itinerary with rest (excursion day) ensures a safe ascent to further days, with a hike to one of the prominent spots as well.
Ascend to the World's Highest Pass of Thorong La at 5416 meters
The highest elevation of this Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek leads you to the world's highest trekking pass - Thorong La Pass at an altitude of 5416 meters above sea level. This section is the most challenging one that you will ever come across, which begins from 4 AM, early in the morning, and takes a strenuous walk to the top of the pass through a rugged and steep section. Reaching here is an accomplishment in itself, as attaining such a pinnacle is no joke, after such hurdles and ample preparation.
Thorung La Pass stands tall between the peaks of Katung Kang and Yakwa, which offer panoramic views of several mountains and the Tibetan Barren landscapes of the Mustang region, along with the Kali Gandaki valley. Flanked by the colorful Tibetan flags, and the snow-capped peaks of the world's 7th and 10th-tallest peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range, make the best out of it, clicking great pictures, before descending downhill.
Visit the Hindu Pilgrimage Site at Muktinath Temple
Located at the foothill of the Thorong La Pass itself, the Muktinath Temple stands out as one of the most visited holy temples of Nepal, where Buddhism and Hinduism, more than 1,00,000, come to visit it every year. After crossing the high pass, you will basically touch the mustang region following the world's deepest gorge - Kali Gandaki, and pay a visit to the sacred site, also known as the place of liberation, that washes away all your sins, and brings blessings purifying the soul, if bathed in 108 tap water. Here, locate the natural burning gas (agni), the huge statue of the Lord Buddha, and small temples as well, where you can seek blessings of the Hindu deities, and from the creator of the universe - Lord Vishnu himself.
Sunrise Himalayan Panorama from the iconic Poon Hill View Point at 3210 meters
One of the most highlighted sections of this trip is the viewpoint of Poon Hill itself, as it is a world-renowned vantage spot, demonstrating the sunrise view over the panorama of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range, with 10 other notable mountains. Standing here, sipping a hot chocolate, and gazing at the Himalayan range is a divine feeling, watching over the golden hues and pink shade providing colors to the white peaks. Meanwhile, before reaching this Poon Hill viewpoint (3210 m), you will also explore the Ghorepani village, where the ex-brave Gurkha troops reside, sharing the culture and tradition of diverse ethnic groups of Gurung, Magar, Rai, and so on, showing the rich insight into local traditions and lifestyle.
Stand in the foothills of the world's tenth-highest mountain
The final destination of this trek stands out to be the lap of the world's 10th-tallest peak, Mount Annapurna (8091 meters), which is one of the popular Himalayan adventures in Nepal, after Everest Base Camp. Reaching here gives you the front row ticket to gaze at some of the legendary mountains, such as Annapurna I, South, Nigiri, Mt. Fishtail, Gangapurna, and several others, along with glaciers. We will also settle here at ABC (4173 meters), witnessing the breathtaking Himalayan range and glaciers, towering in front of our eyes.
Can a beginner undertake this combined adventure smoothly?
No, if you are a first-time trekker and have no prior experience regarding high altitude, then this combined Annapurna Circuit and ABC adventure is not highly recommended. This combined trip, itself, is a physically demanding trail, which covers a 5 to 6-hour hiking route daily, with 8 to 14 kilometers, which is not a task that can be completed with a blink of an eye.
Together, this himalayan odyssey takes almost 18 to 21 days to complete, and spending beyond 2 weeks on the isolated and remote route can be mentally tiring for some, newbies, who have no idea how the scheduled pathway actually is, whereas, on the other hand, some beginners might love the uniqueness and warm hospitality, peaceful time beyond chaos world, with a distinct perspective of the himalayan peaks and varied landscapes, thus, it depends on the individual to individual basis.
Apart from that, referring to the challenging aspect, this merged route is considered one of the strenuous trailheads, to proceed, with a wide range of pathway variations from forest area to rugged, rocky, steep sections, which feature several ascents and descents, testing your endurance stamina, for sure! Hence, basic fitness, or a good physique, is crucial if you do not want any punishing navigation.
Besides this expedition, it reaches the two highest vantage points, firstly at Thorong La Pass, and secondly to the Annapurna Base Camp (Sanctuary) itself, perched at an elevation of 4130 meters, with a daily altitude gain, which might cause the risk of altitude sickness; meanwhile, it is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. Ensure to follow the preventive guidelines from the very beginning till the end; however, the possibility of AMS is low, as this itinerary takes a gradual ascent, with significant elevation gain of 300-500 meters per day, along with acclimatization days included, so that even beginners adopt such rising altitude, which minimizes the possibility of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Even though you are just new to such himalayan trail, you can surely undertake this hike by engaging in prior physical preparedness, training, and overall strength level, to at least cover the daily trekking distance, by engaging in cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and weight workouts. Also, do some research on the expectations of the difficulties, weather conditions, terrain conditions, and logistics, so that you can plan and prepare accordingly. Apart from that, our experienced licensed trekking guide, who is medically trained and equipped as well, will be there with you 24/7 along the trail, ensuring safe navigation and quick medical response at the same time.
What is the cost for this Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek in 2026?
The combined trek to Thorong La Pass and ABC Trek costs start at USD 699 and go up to USD 1199, depending on the number of hikers in your group. Whereas, for a solo private trip, the cost stands out to be $ 1199 per head, and if you are a duo hiker, trailing along with a partner, then we offer $ 899, whereas the lowest price that we can offer is $ 799, if your group exceeds more than 7 trekkers. Our package includes all the essentials, from basic amenities such as food, accommodations, and transportation to trekking permits, an experienced, licensed guide, and other complimentary extras. Here is the costing, recently updated for the years 2026 and 2027, depending on the number of hikers in the group:
| No. of Hikers | Price (USD) |
| 1 | 1199 |
| 2 | 899 |
| 3-6 | 849 |
| 7-10 | 799 |
Benefits of Booking with Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition
We at Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition continue to maintain our legacy, for 15+ years, as a registered, licensed trekking, tour, and climbing agency, being a member of NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Expedition) and TAAN (Trekkers Association Agency of Nepal). With us, you can ensure that your journey to the Himalayas becomes safe, budget-friendly, and hassle-free at the same time, with a finely customized journey with gradual ascent by the professional expert teams.
Throughout this himalayan adventure, you will be assisted by an experienced licensed guide, who has led more than hundreds of hikers, and medically equipped at the same time, where at such remote trailheads, the guides will be your first-hand emergency assistance. Our expert teams will ensure that the itinerary matches your holiday duration, preference, and budget estimation, so if you want to alter it (customize it), as per your time and cost, then, just within a few minutes, it will be done, no matter of time, making sure that, the trip is altered as per your fitness, experience and routes as well.
Besides, our costing isn't hidden; whatever you see, you get it. We do not charge you extra until it's out of our inclusive section and not included in our package. We even offer additional benefits, as a compliment and gratitude, to elevate your Himalayan adventure, and make the trip go by smoothly. To book your Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp Trek in 2026 and 2027, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp, Viber, or direct call at +977 9851016814 or email at info@destinationhimalayatreks.com, anytime.
- Extra 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu on a standard basis with BB during arrival and departure day
- Airport pick-up and drop-off via private vehicle to the hotel
- 24-hour communication while on the trail via WhatsApp +977 9851016814 or email at info@destinationhimalayatreks.com
- Duffle Bag and Sleeping Bag (upon request and must be returned after the trip concludes)
- Basic First Aid Kit - oximeter and water purification tablet
- Company DHT T-shirt and Cap
- Excessive Luggage Storage, as long as you can, in our office
- Trip Completion Certificate with a token of love
- Complimentary Dinner in a Nepalese Fine Dining Restaurant
- Customization of the trip as per your budget, time, and preference with expert guidance








