Annapurna Circuit Trek Distance, Daily Walks And Route Options

Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the most magnificent trekking routes in Nepal. It is located in Annapurna region and offers unique experience of Himalayan landscape and cultural experiences. Many trekkers plan for Annapurna Circuit trek to experience Himalayan wilderness. However, while planning a trek, the most common questions trekkers ask is how long the Annapurna Circuit is? The answer to the questions depends upon the route, starting and ending points, and transportation option you choose. Usually, the circuit measures 160 to 230 km starting from Besisahar and ending at Jomsom or Tatopani. In this blog, we provide information about the distance, daily walking averages, and route options to plan trekking in Annapurna Circuit of Nepal.

Total Distance for Annapurna Circuit Trek

The total distance of Annapurna Circuit trek differs according to its start and ending point. The detailed information of its distance is provided below:

1. Short version trek

The short version of Annapurna Circuit trek starts from Chame or Jagat and ends at Jomsom. This trek is shorter with the distance of 160 to 180 Km and are best for trekkers with limited time.

2. Classic full circuit route

The classic route to perform Annapurna Circuit trek starts from Besisahar and ends at Nayapul after Tatopani. This classic route is traditional trail that cover distance of 200 to 230 Km.

The short version trek cuts down distance as it skips early road sections from the classic traditional route. Also, ending point as Nayapul or Tatopani adds additional distance taking more time and days. In addition to distance, the side trek to additional destinations like Tilicho lake, Ice Lake, and Milarepa cave add additional kilometers.

Daily Distance Breakdown

The daily distance to cover during the trek depends upon your acclimatization needs and preferences. The daily distance breakdown for Annapurna Circuit trek is provided below:

1. Low-Altitude Section

The low altitude section of the trek starts from locations like Besisahar and Jagat. Early trek days involves walking 15-20 km through riverside trails and lush valleys with gradual ascents and descents. If you are starting you trek through Besisahar it takes you 3 days to cross low-altitude sections. Meanwhile, starting form Jagat takes 2 days and Chame takes 1 days to cross low altitude sections.

2. Middle Section

Trekking in the middle sections takes on day 4 to 7, which constitutes walking 10-20 km, rest, and acclimatization days. Optional hikes and trek during acclimatization and rest days increase walking distance. In middle section of Annapurna Circuit trek, you pass through rocky trails, pine forests, and Himalayan viewpoints.

3. Pass sections

Pass sections are challenging and difficult segment to trek due to steep climb, high altitude, and extreme weather conditions. You trek through pass section on day 8 to 10 of your trek. In pass sections, you walk for an average of 7 to 8 km a day to reach iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).

4. Descent Section

You will be descending during day 11 to 14 of your trek. The average walking distance throughout the day will be 15 to 20Km. The ending point you choose extends the trekking distance as trekking to Nayapul takes more distance.

Major Stops and Distance Markers

While trekking, knowing rest and stop points helps to carefully plan your trek. The major stops and distance markers helps trekkers to plan their breaks, trekking distance, and acclimatization. Below are distance breakdown while trekking to Annapurna Circuit:  

From	To	Distance (km)
Besisahar	Khudi/Bhulbhule	8–10 km
Khudi/Bhulbhule	Jagat	12–14 km
Jagat	Dharapani	13–15 km
Dharapani	Chame	15–18 km
Chame	Pisang	13–15 km
Pisang	Manang	15–18 km
Manang	Yak Kharka	10 km
Yak Kharka	Thorong Phedi	7 km
Thorong Phedi	Thorong La Pass -Muktinath	15–18 km
Muktinath	Jomsom	16–18 km
Tatopani	Ghorepani	14–16 km
Ghorepani	Nayapul	17–18 km

Factors Affecting Daily Distances

While planning trek, it is important to consider factors that affects the daily distance. Some of the key factors that affects daily distances include:

• The altitude of the route affects your daily trek distance. In higher altitude, you cover lesser distance in comparison to lower altitude.
• The weather condition also affects the trekking distance. When weather is clean and comfortable, you can cover more distance. Meanwhile, condition of snowfall, rain, and wind may slow you down.
•  Trail condition also affects the distance as pace are maintained in clean and managed trails. In unmanaged and difficult trail, walking speed is slowed.
• Choosing for the side trip also affect the daily distance of the trip as they takes extra time and hours.

Conclusion

Choosing trek starting and ending point is important to mark distance and plan trekking itinerary of Annapurna Circuit trek. The distance of the trek depends upon the route, starting/ending point, and side trip you choose. Managed trails, clean weather, and low altitude significantly increases your trek pace and distance coverage. Hence it is important to plan trek during favorable weather and trail conditions.

If you are planning to trek in Annapurna Circuit or looking for customized trek itinerary, contact Trekkers Nepal. Trekkers Nepal is leading trek and expedition operator in Nepal that offers customized trek itinerary, guide support, and support to make your Annapurna Circuit trek memorable and comfortable.