Budget Annapurna Circuit
The classic loop at backpacker prices
The Annapurna Circuit is often called the greatest long-distance trek on Earth. You cross the Thorong La pass at 5,416m, walk through subtropical forests, arid Tibetan-influenced landscapes, terraced rice paddies, and high-altitude desert — all in one trek. Our budget price of $600 for 16 days covers everything: guide, porter, all permits, accommodation, and meals. The Annapurna Circuit does not require an expensive flight to Lukla, making it inherently cheaper than EBC. We pass those savings directly to you.
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Day-by-Day Itinerary
A detailed look at each day of your Budget Annapurna Circuit adventure. Every itinerary is crafted to balance trekking, acclimatization, and cultural experiences.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Besisahar — Trek to Bhulbhule (840m)
Drive to Besisahar (6-7 hours). Begin trekking through rice paddies to Bhulbhule. Walking time: 2-3 hours.
Day 2: Bhulbhule to Chamje (1,430m)
Follow the Marsyangdi River through villages. Suspension bridges and gentle gradients. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 3: Chamje to Bagarchap (2,160m)
Waterfalls and dramatic gorges. Tibetan Buddhist architecture starts appearing. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 4: Bagarchap to Chame (2,670m)
Pine and fir forests. Chame has hot springs — a free soak for tired legs. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 5: Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)
Deep forest with Annapurna II views. Tibetan-style village with centuries-old monastery. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 6: Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m)
Broad Manang Valley — dramatic landscape. Last major settlement before the high pass. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 7: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Rest day. Optional hike to Ice Lake or Gangapurna Lake. Explore Braga village and its ancient monastery.
Day 8: Manang to Yak Kharka (4,018m)
Vegetation thins. Yak herders in surrounding meadows. Walking time: 4-5 hours.
Day 9: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m)
Base camp for the big pass. Early dinner, early sleep. Walking time: 3-4 hours.
Day 10: Cross Thorong La (5,416m) — Muktinath (3,710m)
The defining day. Depart before dawn. Prayer flags at the pass. Steep descent to the sacred temple town. Walking time: 8-10 hours.
Day 11: Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m)
Descend through the Kali Gandaki — the deepest gorge in the world. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 12: Jomsom to Tatopani (1,190m)
Apple orchards of Marpha. Natural hot springs at Tatopani — free and glorious. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 13: Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,860m)
Big climb day through rhododendron forests. Worth it for tomorrow. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 14: Poon Hill Sunrise — Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m)
Legendary sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m). Bonus sunrise included free of charge. Descend to Ghandruk. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 15: Ghandruk to Nayapul — Drive to Pokhara
Final trekking day. Drive to Pokhara. Lakeside celebration dinner. Walking time: 3-4 hours.
Day 16: Pokhara — Departure
Fly or drive to Kathmandu. Or stay in Pokhara — you have earned a lazy day by the lake.
What Is Included
Included in Your Trip
- Where Your $600 Goes
Full transparency: Drive Kathmandu-Besisahar ($25), permits — ACAP + TIMS ($50), guide ($200 for 16 days), porter ($160 for 16 days), accommodation ($0 — included with meals at teahouses), drive Pokhara-Kathmandu ($15), coordination & emergency fund ($25), Poon Hill entry ($0 — included in ACAP). No Lukla flights = massive savings.
- No Expensive Flights Needed
Unlike EBC, the Annapurna Circuit starts with a bus ride, not a $360 flight. This is the single biggest reason this trek is cheaper. Same quality, naturally lower cost.
- Experienced Local Guide
Certified, English-speaking guide who knows every village, shortcut, and alternative trail on the circuit. Especially important for avoiding road sections.
- Porter Support
One porter per 2 trekkers. Your porter carries up to 15kg of your gear. Fair wages and proper equipment provided.
- All Permits Included
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card. No surprise fees at checkpoints.
- All Meals & Accommodation
Three meals a day at teahouses for the entire 16 days. Twin-share teahouse rooms throughout. Poon Hill sunrise bonus included.
Not Included
- International flights to and from the destination
- Travel insurance (required, purchased separately)
- Personal gear and equipment
- Tips for guides and support staff (recommended)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
Difficulty: Moderate
Understanding what to expect helps you prepare properly and enjoy your trek to the fullest.
Fitness Requirements
- Want the greatest long-distance trek in the world at the lowest possible price
- Have 16 days available and good cardiovascular fitness
- Comfortable walking 5-8 hours daily on varied terrain for over two weeks
- Do not need luxury — you want authentic teahouse trekking at an honest price
- Excited by diversity — you will see subtropical forest, high desert, glacial terrain, and hot springs in one trek
Budget Annapurna Circuit — Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Annapurna Circuit cheaper than EBC?
How hard is crossing Thorong La pass?
What about the road construction on the circuit?
Can I do the circuit clockwise?
What is the best season for the Annapurna Circuit?
Ready to Book Budget Annapurna Circuit?
Secure your spot on this incredible adventure. 16 days of expert-guided trekking from $600. Contact us today to check availability.