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Woman overlooking river valley and mountains, Manang, Nepal.
4.9
| 103 reviews

Trek the Annapurna Circuit

16 nights
Challenging

High-altitude trails, epic scenery and the highest navigable pass on the planet – this is bucket list stuff in the making

What's Included?

Activities & Certified Guides

Expert, local, English-speaking guides

All accommodation

4 nights in hotels or guesthouses; 12 nights in teahouses

Meals

3 breakfasts and 2 dinners

Internal flights & transfers

Flights between Jomson and Pokhara; airport transfers and all local transfers

Permits & Porterage

Porters to transport your overnight luggage; all entry fees and permits

Small Like-minded Groups

Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From

excluding flights
From

excluding flights

What's it like?

4.9
| 103 reviews
I want to go back!
May 2024
Matthew D.
I want to go back!
May 2024
Matthew D.
I want to go back!
May 2024
Matthew D.
An excellent trek with a great team
May 2024
Russell D.
Unbelievable trip - highly recommend
May 2024
Valentina T.
Unbelievable trip - highly recommend
May 2024
Valentina T.
Unbelievable trip - highly recommend
May 2024
Valentina T.
Unbelievable trip - highly recommend
May 2024
Valentina T.
Unbelievable trip - highly recommend
May 2024
Valentina T.
Unbelievable trip - highly recommend
May 2024
Valentina T.
Unbelievable trip - highly recommend
May 2024
Valentina T.
Unbelievable trip - highly recommend
May 2024
Valentina T.
Amazing scenery and wonderful people
April 2024
Baiba Ē.
Amazing scenery and wonderful people
April 2024
Baiba Ē.
Amazing scenery and wonderful people
April 2024
Baiba Ē.
Amazing scenery and wonderful people
April 2024
Baiba Ē.
A Much Better Adventure
April 2024
peter z.
A Much Better Adventure
April 2024
peter z.
A Much Better Adventure
April 2024
peter z.
Woman overlooking river valley and mountains, Manang, Nepal.
Two hikers in the Annapurna Mountains, Nepal.
Two hikers crossing a Himalayan rope bridge above a river, Nepal
Hikers on the Annapurna Circuit trail, Nepal.
A string of trekkers on the Thorong La Pass, with the sun rising over the mountains in the background, Nepal.
Trekkers on a trail in the snow at sunrise, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Nepal.

Explore one of the most incredible trekking routes in the Himalayas – 145km of devastatingly beautiful mountains

Cross through the thrilling Thorong La Pass (5416m), the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Enter Kali Gandaki, the deepest gorge in the world – a whopping three times deeper than the Grand Canyon

Key Information

Day 1

Kathmandu awaits

View across the rooftops of temples in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Check into your guesthouse in Thamel – heart of the sensory overload that is Kathmandu. Join a pre-departure meeting with your guides to run through the plans for the Annapurna Circuit Trek and then finish the day with a group dinner alongside the rest of your team.

Day 2

The road to Tal

Aerial view of a village in Dhaulagiri area, western Nepal.

Driving

9-10hrs

This morning you'll start the long journey to Besisahar, driving through lush river valleys, stunning Himalayan scenery and terraced farmland. Stop for lunch, then swap to a local jeep and continue on to the remote village of Tal, the starting point of your trek. Cross beautiful, rugged terrain with steep ravines, streams, waterfalls and a bunch of tea houses, then check into a local guesthouse and rest ahead of the epic adventure starting tomorrow.

Day 3

First steps on the circuit

Rope bridge crossing the Marshyangdi River, Nepal.

Hiking

5hrs · 13km · 1205m up · 450m down

Follow a rough track out of town and along the Marshyangdi River. Walk through the narrow valley, following the jeep track which passes through the village of Dharapani, where your permits will be checked. Continue hiking through the forest, gaining altitude gradually, then cross into the insanely beautiful Bagarchap Valley and spend the night in your first traditional Himalayan teahouse at 2160m.

Day 4

Bagarchap to Chame

Buddhist stupa in Chame village, Annapurna Circuit, Nepal.

Hiking

6hrs · 14km · 1225m up · 425m down

Hike past a small waterfall and follow a steep uphill trail through a beautiful mixed forest of rhododendron and oak, gaining more than 400m elevation in a single stretch. On reaching Timang village, enjoy a well-deserved lunch and sip hot tea or coffee, while admiring the mesmerising views of Manaslu Peak from a panoramic terrace. Hit the trail again and ascend gently, passing the beautiful villages of Thanchok and Koto and finally reach Chame (2670m), your base for tonight.

Day 5

Chame to Upper Pisang

Upper Pisang village and Annapurna 2, Nepal.

Hiking

6hrs · 18km · 976 up · 296 down

Things get serious today, as you'll climb above 3000m. Cross the Marshyangdi River and walk past a chorten (shrine), then hike an undulating forest trail to Bhratang. A beautiful waterfall appears on the other side of the mountain as you change direction. Cross the river once again, and ascend to Dhikur Pokhari for lunch. To your right stands Swargadwari, a huge bare rock formation which is believed to be the path to Swarga (heaven). As you trek on, the valley becomes wide and vegetation sparse. End the day in the small village of Pisang at 3300m.

Day 6

Upper Pisang to Manang

Woman overlooking river valley and mountains, Manang, Nepal.

Hiking

7hrs · 18km · 975m up · 755m down

Set off hiking through a lush zone of yak pastures and crop fields, stopping for photos at a remote Tibetan monastery. Ascend on a winding path to the remote village of Ghyaru. From here onwards, the trail rolls through arid landscapes all the way to Ngawal. Stop for lunch, then continue on to Manang (3540m), one of the largest villages on the circuit. Be sure to listen out for the local Manangi language, unwritten and dangerously close to extinction.

Day 7

Acclimatisation day

View of Gangapurna Lake, Nepal.

Spend the day acclimatising to the altitude. Enjoy a cup of smoky chai in Manangi town and take a leisurely walk through the old alleys, exploring the traditional stone-thatched houses with intricate wooden windows and prayer flags flapping in the air. If you are feeling energetic, take an optional walk to Gangapurna Lake, or visit the Himalayan Rescue Association post to see how they're saving lives across some of the most challenging terrain in the world.

Day 8

Manang to Sri Kharka

Manang Valley, Nepal.

Hiking

5hrs · 8km · 440m up · 143m down

Today you'll hike along a rarely used and completely idyllic stretch of trail as you climb to Sri Kharka. Start off hiking through barley and buckwheat fields and across Thorang Khola River via a suspension bridge. Continue with a gentle ascent on a wide trail through juniper forest and meadows to Khangsar, the last village in the area. You will notice the effect of the low oxygen level in your body while climbing, but a slow gradual ascent will make the going manageable. Reach Sri Kharka (3880m), tuck into a well-deserved hot meal and enjoy the serenity of the mountains as you prepare to see one of the great wonders of the world tomorrow.

Day 9

Tilicho Base Camp

Silhouette of person with arms spread high at Tilicho Base Camp, Nepal.

Hiking

5hrs · 6km · 400m up · 140m down

Follow trail alongside the stunning views of Annapurna II and Gangapurna, crossing a couple of streams en route using high suspension bridges that will pump up the adrenaline. Tackle an exposed rocky slope to reach Tilicho Base Camp at 4150m. Rest up for the afternoon, then enjoy a high-altitude night sky chock full of stars. Please note, it's possible that the trail to base camp may be closed or disrupted during winter (January to March), and sometimes even in the peak season. Your guide will decide whether to continue or skip this section, based on the local weather conditions.

Day 10

Tilicho Lake

Two Buddha statues at Tilicho Lake, covered with prayer flags, backed by a blue lake and mountains on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Nepal.

Hiking

7hrs · 15km · 980m up · 1240m down

Wake up early today and get your head torch on, to start hiking along a trail that gently climbs up the hillside. Tackle a steep ascent to reach the pass, from where the trail levels up all the way Tilicho Lake (4919m). Take time to explore one of the highest and most beautiful lakes in the world. Hike back to Base Camp for breakfast, and when you're ready, hike back down to Siri Kharka (3880m) to relax in your teahouse – you’ve earned it.

Day 11

The trail to Yak Kharka

Landscape view of Annapurna III and the Gangnapurnas, Nepal.

Hiking

6-7hrs · 12km · 760m up · 520m down

Ascend gently to Old Khangsar, overlooking the new Khangsar village. See the ruins of the abandoned settlement with a stunning backdrop of towering peaks and the Manang Valley. Climb up gently past pastures and herds, eyes peeled for mighty yaks. As the trail reaches the ridgeline, descend to the Thorang Khola River and join the Annapurna Circuit route again, following the trail as it winds through some truly awesome scenery on the way to tonight's destination, the village of Yak Kharka (4050m).

Day 12

Prelude to the big one

Two hikers on the way to Thorung Phedi Base Camp, Nepal.

Hiking

4-5hrs · 7km · 587m up · 84m down

The trail to Thorang Phedi is similar to the one you've walked a few days back – however, due to the altitude, you may notice the pace is slower and the air much thinner. Ascend gently, passing by Ledar village along a narrow and dry path, then cross the Thorang Khola River to reach Thorang Phedi Base Camp (4450m) early afternoon. Rest up for a big day tomorrow – you’ll need it.

Day 13

To Muktinath via the Thorong La pass

A string of trekkers on the Thorong La Pass, with the sun rising over the mountains in the background, Nepal.

Hiking

10-12hrs · 17km · 980m up · 1648m down

The big one! Start the day around 04:00 am and navigate a steep uphill stretch to Thorong High Camp, the last settlement before the highest point of this trek. Cross the Thorang Khola River one final time and continue with a gradual but steady ascent all the way to Thorong La (5416m), the highest navigable pass in the world. Take a moment to celebrate your epic achievement as you soak in some of the best views of the whole circuit, including the high desert mountains along the Kaligandaki Valley – a perfect opportunity for some amazing photos. Begin your descent to Muktinath (3750m) and experience the serene Vishnu temple, holy to both Hindus and Buddhists and the perfect place to enjoy the tranquillity of the mountains.

Day 14

Descend to Jomsom

The turquoise waters of Dhumba Lake from Jomson, with prayer flags in the foreground, Nepal

Hiking

9-10hrs · 18km · 267m up · 1296m down

Set off on a downhill path to Kagbeni, and follow the banks of the Kali Gandaki River as it crosses through the deepest canyon on earth. Take in the magnificent views of Mount Annapurna and Dhaulagiri and then spend the night at a teahouse in Jomsom, gateway to an ancient trade route that once spanned the Himalayas.

Day 15

Fly to Pokhara

Pokhara Lake with the Annapurnas in the background, Nepal.

Fly over the Himalayas to the lakeside town of Pokhara and check into your hotel near the lake. (Please note, flights from Jomsom don't operate over winter – so if you're travelling between mid-November and mid-February you'll drive instead, which takes approximately 7-8 hours). Time permitting, head out to explore the picturesque lakeside promenade. Celebrate the end of the epic Annapurna Circuit trek with your group in one of the cosy waterfront bars or restaurants – you've earned it!

Day 16

Return to Kathmandu

Aerial view of Kathmandu, Nepal at sunset with a stupa rising into the skyline.

Driving

7-8hrs

Rise early and take a bus through the mountains and back to Kathmandu (approximately 7-8 hours, depending on traffic). Spend some free time exploring the city.

Day 17

Your final day in Nepal

Tree roots taking over a temple in Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Enjoy a lie in, then explore the city some more. Visit a holy Hindu temple or one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, before heading for the airport and back to reality.

The Area

map

Logistics

Starts

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

Arrive by 16:00 on Day 1

Ends

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

Any time on Day 17

Transfers

Airport arrival and departure transfers are included no matter when you arrive and depart (even if you book extra nights before or after the trip), provided you have completed your passenger information form and have supplied your flight details in advance. On Day 1, your tour leader will arrange a group briefing before a welcome dinner, so we strongly encourage you to book a flight landing by 16:00 in order to be able to join this on time.

Travel options

There are regular flights to Kathmandu from major airports across the UK and Europe.

Day 1

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 2

Guesthouse · Twin or triple share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 3 – Day 14

Teahouse · Twin or triple share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 15

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 16

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 17

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

What is the food like?

Traditional Nepalese meal of dhal bhat.

Breakfast is usually either hot porridge, muesli or Tibetan bread served with an omelette or boiled eggs. The menus in the teahouses are very similar at every stop and there will usually be a choice of traditional Nepalese dhal bhat (a mixed plate of lentils, rice, vegetables and pickles – delicious and healthy!), momos (Nepalese dumplings), mixed noodles, pasta and even pizza. Although meat is available at some teahouses, we suggest you ask your guide for their advice, as it tends to depend on how far it has travelled as to whether it is a safe option.

Dairy-free, vegan or vegetarian diets can be catered for while trekking although meals may get a bit repetitive – dhal bhat will likely be your go-to staple. Gluten-free/coeliac diets are tricky to cater for on teahouse treks (beware that powdered soups and seasonings used often contain gluten, and cooking oil is commonly reused and may cause cross-contamination). Please explain your dietary requirements to your guide so that they can assist when ordering, and bringing along some extra food/snacks is advisable.

What is the accommodation like?

Typical street in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Kathmandu

On your first and last nights, you’ll stay in a centrally located tourist hotel in Kathmandu's Thamel area on a twin-share basis, with en-suite bathrooms, air-con and WiFi. The hotel is located in the heart of Thamel, close to the main shopping area and the heritage sites.

Traditional Himalayan teahouse in the lush green valleys of the Annapurna range, Nepal
Annapurna Circuit

During the trek you'll stay in traditional teahouses – these are mountain lodges that tend to have a communal dining area and basic toilets. Rooms are usually sorted by gender and many offer hot showers or phone charging for a small fee. There’s no heating, so your warm sleeping bag is needed.

Pokhara Lake with the Annapurnas in the background, Nepal.
Pokhara

On your night in Pokhara you'll stay in a hotel near the lake, close enough to all the action but still in a quiet spot.

Upgrades

For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. This is only applicable to the nights spent in hotels and is subject to availability. Please request this at the time of booking.

This trip has been rated as Challenging

Much of this trek is within the capabilities of people with good fitness who are keen trekkers. Still, it is important to note that trekking at altitudes above 3000m/10,000ft is more demanding on the body than walking at low elevations.

Some training beforehand will help and we advise doing at least one weekend of back to back days walking. The guide will set the pace and as with all altitude treks, the theme is ‘slowly slowly’ to help you adjust to the altitude.

What will I need to carry?

This trip includes one porter for every two trekkers. They will carry up to 20-25kg of kit so your overnight bags and spare clothes will be transported for you (maximum 12kg per person). You will only need to carry a daypack with essentials in (extra layer, snacks, water, suncream, camera etc).

There are 3 different seasons for trekking in Nepal:

Winter (Dec-Feb): Despite being seen as ‘off-season’ this is often the best time to trek in Nepal. The nights can be very cold (down to -20ºC) but the trails are quieter and the mountain views are often at their best due to the clear sunny skies.

Pre-Monsoon/Spring (Mar-May): Temperatures rise significantly in spring and flowers are in full bloom in the lower areas. Although it can still drop below freezing at night, the daytime temperatures tend to sit between 10-15ºC.

Post-Monsoon/Autumn (Sep-Nov): This is the most popular time to trek in Nepal with generally sunny and mild days. It can get cold and windy at higher altitudes, however the skies are usually clear.

Of course, mountain weather is notoriously hard to predict and snow can be expected on any trip so come prepared.

As the Annapurna Circuit has wide trails, and much of it sits in a rain shadow, the summer months of June-August are still good for trekking. These months are a great time to have the trails almost entirely to yourself.

Sushma H.(November 2024)
A journey to remember

On a trek that was sure to test me, I couldn’t have asked for a better team that Tika, Ujjwal and Prabin. Tika was our lead guide and boy nothing escapes his eye.. how much you drank/ate, your pace, even a faltered step from 100 mts away. Our safety was clearly Tika’s utmost priority and it was comforting to know that with his guidance we couldn’t go wrong. Prabin and Ujjwal as our assistant guides ensured that our every need was anticipated and met, with deliberate thought and delightful charm. Last, but not the least, our porters, Bikal, Suman, Sujan, Ajeya and Suresh were simply rockstars. The load the carried for us allowed us to scale heights that otherwise might not have been possible. And they did it all with a smile on their face and warmth in their high fives every time we got through a day. This trek was a life changing experience and it wouldn’t have been possible without this incredible team!

Claire Y.(October 2024)
A trip beyond any expectations

The team supporting this trip did a phenomenal job. Our porters Purna, Suresh, Suman, Sujan, Ajaya, and Bikel were such good sports carrying our heavy luggage through the difficult terrains while always greeting us with a smile and a high-five at the end of each day. The assistant guides Ujjwal and Pravin were incredibly attentive to our every desire and need while being the most cross-functional members of the team. We felt so cared for in their company. Finally, our guide Tika was the pillar that made the trip what it was. His tireless dedication to the health and well-being of every trekker in the group was admirable. We fully trusted his expertise at every stage of the trek and he has never once led us astray. The depth of his knowledge on the trekking experience allowed us to complete the trip with minimal difficulties, culminating to the rewarding experience we now all share.

Nigel D.(October 2024)
Brilliant

Ours was rather a different trip to what we were expecting through the initial delay because of the floods, then a modified trip through illness. However we thoroughly enjoyed it and despite everything had the trip of a lifetime. Amazing scenery, really good group dynamic. Fantastic people to share the trip with. Tika, Pravin and Diliram had huge challenges initially but always found a solution with a smile. Very professional and a big 10/10. Very supportive and a personal special thank you to Diliram who helped us through our modified circuit. Time afterwards in Pokhara I would very much recommend. Definitely lived up to its billing as a "Much Better Adventure"

Katherine E.(October 2024)
Incredible!

I can't recommend this trip enough! The whole experience was incredible - the views stunning, the trek was just the amount of challenge and I met some wonderful people to enjoy this experience with too!

The whole trip was organised so well and any questions or queries I had before I left were answered immediately. Tika, our head guide, did a fantastic job of looking after us, supporting us and making sure everything ran smoothly. Diliram and Pravin, the assistant guides were brilliant too - nothing was ever too much trouble. I loved staying in the tea houses and the food was great. An unforgettable trip!

Emma H.(October 2024)
Everything I could have wished for and more!

This trek was truly the trip of a lifetime - hiking in beautiful valleys, through ancient villages and among incredible mountains. Highlights included breathtaking views of tilicho lake, the whole group reaching thorong la pass and waking up many mornings to sunrise over the Himalayas.

Our lead guide Tembi was excellent. He got every person through this trek safely and appropriately managed the other guides (Deepesh & Nima). Assistance was always available when we needed it. We were able to walk at our own pace and regroup at regular intervals. They worked all day ensuring everyone in the group was fed, hydrated and having a good time.

Tembi was organised, approachable, knowledgeable and so much fun. He was responsible for creating the best group dynamic between guests/guides/porters. 3 of the porters were working for the first time and Tembi was such a great support and role model to them. He encouraged us to get involved with the porters, celebrating their festival and got us dancing together many times - including at almost 4000m during an acclimatisation hike!! Thank you to Anish, Saroj, Uttam, Nabin and Sunil for always being so excited to be part of this trek.

I am so grateful for every member of the team who made this trip happen for us. I loved getting to know everyone and will leave Nepal with new lifelong friendships. I’d 100% encourage anyone to do this trip - the scenery, culture & people are unbeatable!

Some bits I would have wanted to know before: You can do laundry half way round the trek in Manang (acclimatisation day) It’s probably 50:50 squat and western toilets and you always need your own toilet paper but can buy more almost any day of the trek Tea houses generally exceeded expectations - simple twin/double rooms, occasionally with attached toilet. Dining area often with fire and majority of the time had a warm shower Rooms cold at night but was ok with sleeping bag + thermals and sometimes used blanket provided by tea house There was some debate in our group about having micro spikes - probably worth just bringing them if you already own them or you can buy in Kathmandu/on the trek (can discuss at meeting with lead guide) - weather is obviously unpredictable in the mountains It was really dusty on the trail so have clean clothes for evenings and buff for covering face in the day Was surprisingly hot in the day as the sun is so strong - would recommend long sleeve lightweight hiking tops to protect from the UV

Gavin G.(October 2024)
Trip Of A Lifetime!!

The Annapurna Circuit trek exceeded anything I could have imagined. The people, culture, food and magic of the Himalayas made this trip so special and one that I will never forget.

Our three guides from Freedom Adventures, Tembi, Deepesh and Nima were unwavering in catering to all of our requests, needs and questions. They were up before dawn making sure our breakfast orders were underway and didn't stop until the entire group retired for bed in the evening. Every night after dinner, our lead guide, Tembi, gave a thorough briefing of what to expect for the day ahead which not only provided a great overview of the region through which we would be hiking but also allowed us to mentally prepare for the journey. Our group composition was a bit unique with 7/10 of us between the ages of 24 - 29 and 3/10 between 40 - 60. I thought the guides did an amazing job working together to manage the different paces and keep the group together. The guides also offered plenty of opportunities for additional 'side hikes' once we arrived at our destination for the day - these included a hike to a local village across the river from Dankyu, a monastery perched above Manang and a beautiful stupa above Shreekharka. These additional hike were always optional but were a great way to increase our fitness and make sure we were properly acclimatized. It was also SO much fun getting to know the young group of porters carrying our bags - they were energetic, enthusiastic and always had big smiles on their faces despite carrying heavy loads. These guys also know how to dance!!

I was not quite sure what to expect with the teahouses but the accommodations honestly exceeded my expectations. The rooms were clean and the beds typically came with large duvets that were more than enough to stay warm during the cold nights. I would not expect Michelin star meals but I also really enjoyed the food. The menus were similar throughout the trek but offered enough variety to mix things up. I can safely say that I am now a Dal Bhat connoisseur. One thing to be aware of is the bathrooms were at times a bit smelly and not always the cleanest with a couple of the teahouses only providing squat toilets but it's something that you get used to and all part of the experience of being in the Himalayas!

Another big takeaway of mine is the incredible bond formed between the people in our group. The lone American in a group of Brits, I ended up on the wrong end of a couple jokes :))) but I can confidently say that I have a new group of lifelong friends across the pond! Many of the hours walking were spent chatting about life, getting to know each other and lots of laughs of course.

If I had to give some critical feedback, I thought that while Freedom was generally super accommodative and flexible with travel plans after the trek - many of us chose to stay in Pokhara for a couple extra days and/or travel directly to Chitwan national park, in my opinion, the communication could be improved slightly, especially regarding the transfers on the ground to and from the airport and bus stops. Everything worked itself out in the end but there were a couple times when I was a little nervous if my driver was going to arrive on time.

All-in-all, I had such an amazing time on the trek and made some incredible memories. I would highly recommend to anyone who is considering - you won't regret it!!

Meredith R.(October 2024)
Fantastic!

Tika and his team were fantastic! Tika went above and beyond to make sure we were safe, happy, and enjoying every minute. He had a LOT to deal with on our trip with the the extreme weather conditions just before our departure but he pulled it all together flawlessly! We LOVED our experience and will remember it forever.

Pravin and Diliram (our two assistant guides) were fantastic as well! They taught us a lot and also made sure we had so much fun, while being safe always!

We are so lucky we had such a fantastic team lead by Tika and will cherish the memories forever!

Peter B.(October 2024)
I had a fantastic time

I had a fantastic time on the Annapurna Circuit trek. The Tilicho Lake addition was a great way of demonstrating how the Thorung La Pass would indeed be possible, whilst providing additional acclimatisation and a great lake view as well. It was a 5 star experience and had been on my bucket list for the best part of 20 years.

That said, there were a couple of rough edges I should mention, in the hope that even better experiences can be achieved in the future. These in fact stemmed, I think, from the particular make up of our group of 10.

In preparation for the morning of the Thorung La Pass, I had asked how the 3 guides proposed to ensure we were all shepherded up the slope safely - mindful that it was very busy with other climbers, very steep at the beginning and pitch black. I was given an unconvincing response that we should all stick together and it would be alright. It wasn’t really alright. Everyone was dealing with the ascent in their own way. I pushed on until the High Camp, where there was a tea house of sorts (still pitch black). I could not find any of our team, or any of the guides. It was really very dispiriting, and I knew I faced another 75% of the effort to the Pass. The dynamics of our group were that 7 out of our 10 were very athletic 20 somethings. 2 were seasoned adventure sportsmen in their 40s. I am 60, reasonably fit and not the slowest , but given the field, I struggled on occasion. The youngsters, naturally and without malice, were very cohesive as a group. On that morning I was battling on my own. I think more should have been done to ‘check us through’ at High Camp, not least as this was a point at which anyone at all could have been in distress.

There was another incident at Jomsom where I became detached from the group having taken a 3 minute toilet break. When I got back none of the others were anywhere to be seen. The lead guide, who likewise didn’t know what was going on, went into auto blame mode, telling me it was my fault I was adrift from the group. An unacceptable response from him in the circumstances. No damage done though.

Rebecca R.(October 2024)
Team work makes the dream work

The Annapurna Circuit was an amazing experience! Although it was sometimes tough, Pujan, Krishna, Santosh, and Kevin helped me and our group throughout the trek! Without our porters Dipendra, Diliram, Devon, Nabin, Mohan, and Surya we couldn’t have done it! They worked so hard and always had smiles on their faces, giving us extra energy with their encouragement. I have so many good memories from this trip, and I will never forget when our guides ran toward me in happiness as I cried with joy upon reaching Thorong La Pass. Freedom Adventures was a great help in planning the trip and ensuring everyone's safety even during significant rainfall and landslides - behind the scenes Himal was working to make sure our safe return from Jomsom!

Kathryn K.(October 2024)
An excellent adventure

This trip was so much fun and, whilst it was challenging, each day was so rewarding and unforgettable. Our guides (Pujan, Krishna, Kevin and Santos) were all great at keeping the energy up and looked after us 24/7. Our team of porters were also amazing and greeted us with smiles and applause each day when we arrived at the next tea house.

Top tip if I was to do this again - bring snacks! Especially for the 2 long days of trekking as you will need them.

Lee B.(October 2024)
Well-organised, well-paced, epic adventure

Everything about this trek was excellent from start to finish. The organisation between Much Better Adventures and the local company (Freedom Adventures) was second to none from the moment of landing in Kathmandu to arriving at the airport for my international flight.

The trek itself is astounding. Our group was blessed with excellent weather for 90% of the trek, giving us outstanding views of the Annapurna range, Tilicho Lake and Thorongla Pass.

The itinerary is well paced, enabling the group to acclimatise effectively, meaning you can enjoy the views without having to worry about early symptoms of altitude sickness.

The entire support group (guides and porters) were magnificent. Our lead guide, Pujan, was full of energy and enthusiasm, whilst our assistant guides Krishna, Kevin and Santos each brought their own knowledge, enthusiasm and humour. Together they formed a great team that made this trek a breeze - there was never a moment where I needed to worry about the food, water, destination and so on.

A special shout out to Himal and the operations team behind the scenes. The end of our trek coincided with the worst flooding Nepal has seen in 50+ years. The entire Freedom Adventures team went well above and beyond the call of duty to ensure our safety and safe passage back to Kathmandu and beyond. Even after we had finished the trek in Pokhara, their customer service was excellent, and ensured I left Nepal with fond memories.

Finally, this trek was fantastic as a solo traveller. I had hoped to find a group of likeminded individuals, and I find that, exactly as advertised.

Cody F.(September 2024)
The whole team was amazing

The whole team was amazing from the guides to the porters, they all made the trip very enjoyable and easy.

David M.(June 2024)
The Annapurna trek was excellent

The Annapurna trek was excellent with some spectacular views - we travelled in May and, while the first few days were foggy and a bit worrying, the weather cleared up and we had some great days to follow (including a snowy pass which was a major highlight).

The walk was well paced and we never felt in any danger, so many thanks to our leader Pujan. Our assistant guide, Sebika, was outstanding and was great fun to be with during the entire circuit. Uttam, Balaram and Surya were excellent porters and were quick to help the group.

The accommodation (including showers and toilets), food, and availability of cheap/free wifi (don’t bother buying a SIM card) were all surprisingly good and there’s nothing to be worried about!

My only criticisms of the itinerary would be the walk through canyon which was unnecessary and unpleasant, and the drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu - I’d have much rather driven straight to Jomsom and flown to Kathmandu.

Mr H.(June 2024)
Brilliant well run trek

We had a fantastic time on our Annpurna Circuit Trek! The views are incredible.

Our lead guide Tika was fun and friendly but also incredibly professional and we always felt very safe in his care. Assistant guides Pasang and Tej were also wonderful. Always incredibly helpful and friendly.

Would definitely recommend Much Better Adventures and Freedom Adventures to anyone interested in doing the Annapurna Circuit!

Cory A.(June 2024)
Can't Stop Talking About This Trip!

Exceeding my expectations from start to finish, this was the trip of a lifetime that I can't stop talking about! From start to finish, this itinerary was expertly planned and managed by local operator Freedom Adventures. Kush, our lead guide, was on top of it all without ever letting us see him sweat - from smoothing over a mishap at an over-booked tea house to reorganizing departure transport due to flight cancellations - he runs a flawless show that takes 5-star care of his clients AND team. Anil and Asman were outstanding right-hand-men to Kush, bringing humor, ensuring client safety, and literally waiting on us all hand and foot day after day. And, you can expect more than just trekking through some of the most beautiful scenery on earth... we got a full education on every place we visited. Lastly, I couldn't have been happier with my trek-mates - it's evident the type of people who book through Much Better Adventures are like-minded adventurers: inspiring, independent and hilarious!

Charlotte C.(June 2024)
Exceptional Trip!

My husband and I completed the Annapurna Circut in May 2024 and it was a truly incredible experience that exceeded our expectations. The whole team where brilliant but a special shout out to Pujan our leader who went above and beyond to teach us about the area and Nepal as a whole. Sebika was outstanding in every way and i hope she soon becomes a leader as I couldn't fault her, she was a real delight! Balaram and Uttam were wonderful, incredibly strong and their cheery faces at every tea house were a wonderful sight to see. We had a wonderful group of other walkers and the route is awesome! Highly recommend the trip to others

Matthew D.(May 2024)
I want to go back!
I want to go back!
I want to go back!
I want to go back!

Epic trip. Kush and the team were excellent guides, knowledgeable and thoughtful. The whole trip was well planned and communicated. Love the evening story-times and can't wait to come back to this amazing country. A good starter trek that makes me want to do more.

Matilde C.(May 2024)
Memorable trip!

It was an incredible trip from start to finish! The guides assisted us with every need and informed us the day before about the route, the altitude difference, the weather, and the effort that would await us the following day. They also assisted us if anyone in the group did not feel well, and checked daily if we had any AMS symptoms. The trek requires a lot of physical and especially mental effort, but it is always shared with beautiful people! The support from the guides Kush, Anil, and Asman was huge. I highly recommend MBA and Freedom Adventures!

Russell D.(May 2024)