Waking up in Kathmandu with a backpack full of gear and a head full of dreams, I knew I was ready for something big. The Annapurna Circuit had always been on my list, but nothing could prepare me for how real and raw the journey would feel. Annapurna circuit trekking from Kathmandu is more than just a hike—it’s a full adventure through changing landscapes, warm villages, and towering mountains that stay in your heart long after you leave.
Starting from Kathmandu
Our journey began in Kathmandu, a city full of life, noise, and color. From here, we drove to Besisahar, the traditional starting point of the Annapurna Circuit. This part took about 6–7 hours. The real excitement began when we switched to a jeep ride through winding roads to Chame, where we officially started trekking. Watching the scenery change from the city to green hills and deep river valleys felt like stepping into a different world.
What the Trek Looks Like
The Annapurna Circuit covers around 160 to 230 kilometers depending on your route. We walked across different regions, from the lush forests of Lamjung to the dry, Mustang-like landscape of Manang. Each day offered something new: waterfalls, apple orchards, high mountain passes, and friendly faces in tiny villages.
One of the most exciting parts of the trek was crossing Thorong La Pass, the highest point at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). Getting there was not easy—it took time, patience, and a lot of tea breaks—but the view from the top made every step worth it. It felt like standing on the edge of the sky.
Meeting People and Cultures
As we moved through villages like Pisang, Manang, and Muktinath, we met locals who made us feel at home. We shared dal bhat with them, learned a few Nepali phrases, and laughed under starlit skies. The mix of Buddhist and Hindu culture along the trail added so much meaning to the walk. We even saw prayer wheels spinning in the wind and passed under stone gateways carved with mantras.
The unique word I took from this trek is “pachya,” which means good fortune or blessing in the local Gurung dialect. That’s exactly what the Annapurna Circuit felt like—a blessing.
How Long It Takes and What to Expect
The whole trek took us about 15 to 18 days, including time for acclimatization. On average, we hiked 5 to 7 hours each day. The paths were a mix of stone steps, dirt trails, and sometimes snow. We started from around 800 meters in Besisahar and climbed to over 5,400 meters at Thorong La, before descending to Jomsom.
Along the way, we saw the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (also known as Fishtail), and other peaks that stood tall and silent, like ancient guardians of the land.
Coming Back Full Circle
After crossing the pass and reaching Jomsom, we caught a flight back to Pokhara and then drove to Kathmandu. As we returned, it felt like we had traveled through several worlds in one trip. Forests, deserts, rivers, and high mountains—all part of one trek.
The Annapurna circuit trekking from Kathmandu is something I’d recommend to anyone who loves walking and wants to feel truly connected to nature and culture. It’s not just about reaching a high point—it’s about what you learn along the way.
Whether you’re going solo or with a group, this trek will challenge you, inspire you, and change you. If you’re ready to unplug from daily life and walk through some of the most diverse terrain in the world, the Annapurna Circuit is waiting.
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