The Annapurna Circuit Trek circles the Annapurna massif from the green Marsyangdi valley, over Thorong La (5,416 m) and down to the sacred temple of Muktinath. New roads have changed the route over the past decade, so a well-designed itinerary matters more than ever. Here we compare our two most popular options – 13 days and 15 days with Tilicho Lake – day by day.

Hand-picked itineraries

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Annapurna Circuit Trek 13 Days 13 Days Easy & Moderate View trip Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake- 15 days 15 Days Strenuous View trip Tilicho Lake Trek 11 Days Easy-Moderate View trip

Classic 13-Day Annapurna Circuit Itinerary

Highlights of the 13-Day Route

The Upper Pisang and Ngawal high route

Instead of following the jeep road along the valley floor, our itinerary climbs to the upper trail through Ghyaru and Ngawal. It is harder work, but it gives the best views of Annapurna II and Gangapurna, avoids road dust, and helps acclimatisation by climbing high and sleeping slightly lower in Manang.

Manang

This Tibetan-style village is the Annapurna Circuit’s acclimatisation hub. Short hikes to the Gangapurna glacier lake, the Praken Gompa or the Himalayan Rescue Association’s free altitude talk (in season) are all worthwhile.

Thorong La and Muktinath

The pass day starts before dawn and ends at Muktinath, a temple complex sacred to Hindus and Buddhists with 108 water spouts and an eternal flame. See our Thorong La pass guide for how to prepare for this big day.

15-Day Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

The 15-day itinerary adds a detour from Manang to Tilicho Lake, a vivid blue glacial lake beneath the north face of Tilicho Peak.

Because you reach nearly 4,919 m at Tilicho three days before the pass, this version gives excellent acclimatisation for Thorong La. The trail to Tilicho Base Camp crosses a landslide-prone slope, so it is best done with a guide and early in the day.

Which Itinerary Should You Choose?

If Tilicho Lake is your main goal and you prefer not to cross Thorong La, see our dedicated Tilicho Lake Trek.

Tips for Planning Your Annapurna Circuit

• Trek anti-clockwise. Crossing Thorong La from Manang is far safer for acclimatisation than from Muktinath.
• Keep a spare day in case snow or wind delays the pass crossing.
• Consider flying Jomsom–Pokhara to skip a long, dusty drive.
• Check the season: October–November and March–April are best; Thorong La is often snowbound in mid-winter.

Budgeting? Read our Annapurna Circuit cost guide. Deciding between circuits? See Manaslu vs Annapurna Circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need for the Annapurna Circuit?

Plan 13 days from Kathmandu for the classic route, or 15 days if you add Tilicho Lake and a full acclimatisation day in Manang. Longer itineraries of 17–21 days include more side trips and walking on the old trails.

Which direction should I trek the Annapurna Circuit?

Trek anti-clockwise, starting from Besisahar and crossing Thorong La from Manang to Muktinath. This direction allows gradual acclimatisation; the climb from Muktinath is much steeper.

Is Tilicho Lake worth the extra days?

Yes, if you have the time. Tilicho Lake is spectacular and the extra high-altitude time improves acclimatisation for Thorong La.

Has the road ruined the Annapurna Circuit?

Roads now reach Manang and Muktinath, but well-planned itineraries use alternative trails such as the Upper Pisang–Ngawal route, which avoid the road and offer better views.

Where does the Annapurna Circuit end?

Most itineraries finish in Jomsom or Muktinath, then continue by road or flight to Pokhara.