Annapurna Circuit Trek
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Trip Duration 14 Days
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Max, Altitude 5416m
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Type Trekking
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Best Season Sept - May
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Meals Included
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Accommodation Guest House
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Activity Trekking
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Difficulty Easy
- A trek start through low elevation to Higher elevation ( 5416m)
- Explore the best view Annapurna ranges from Ngawal and Manang
- Experience the local culture in Manang village
- Roaming around Manang and Surroundings
- Observe the best of Thorong La (5416m)
- Visit Muktinath Temple and Jomsom Local Market
Overview of Annapurna Circuit Trekking
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most trafficked in Nepal trails. It includes huge areas of mountains, land, and culture. The trekking route runs through thick forests, stacked fields, high-altitude deserts, and detached villages.
The itinerary includes the Annapurna region and then traces the base of the Annapurna Massif. Standing at a low elevation, it ascends to the same level as Thorong La Pass Pass, the highest point of the route, 5,416 m. Panorama of nearby peaks such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu are also provided.
Trekkers get to experience Nepal’s cultural richness. The route winds through villages inhabited by Gurung, Thakali and Tibetan communities. They are welcoming, traditional houses and local food all together provide a unique vibe for the whole trip.
The trek typically last from 10–20 days, depending on the route. It starts at Besisahar and ends at Jomsom which is a shorter route and ending at Nayapul is a longer one. You’ll see hot springs, rivers, waterfalls, and sacred places like Muktinath Temple.
At the tea houses, one can find lodging and food along the way. The trekkers eat light meals (such as dal bhat, noodles, momos), etc. The bes time to undertake this trek is during the spring months of March to May- and during the months of September to November- when the weather remains stable and the views are clear.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is challenging. However, it’s satisfactory; it’s for the explorer and nature lover. Because of its natural beauty, cultural understanding, and thrilling nature, this trek continues to sit on the top tier of trekkers’ bucket lists globally.
A typical Day on the Annapurna Circuit Trek
You will walk through green forests, terraced fields, rocky trails, and high-altitude pathways. Indeed, resting frequently along the way to eat, drink, snack, or pose for a snapshot of the beautiful sights is not unusual.
Lunch is courtesy of a relatively mini village in the way or a local tea house where one can take a break and relax. Secondly, the afternoon hike is also moderate, being mostly an elevation gain and decrease related to the trail. Later in the afternoon, you would have reached the next destination, normally a tea house in a beautiful village.
After you settle down, you are free to chill out, wander the village and/or hang out with other trekkers. At the tea house dinner table, the light fare of dal bhat, noodles or momos is served. Evenings are used for sleep, reading, or preparing for the next day’s walk. The expedition is over when the day comes to a close, for trekkers must keep going on an adventure in pursuit of the goal and get enough rest (sleep).
Best time for Annapurna Circuit Trek
Spring (March to May)
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the best times of the year to walk it in spring. The weather is stable, and the skies are clear. The trail is choked with bloom, rhododendrons and other flowers. The temperatures are pleasant, making it ideal for trekking.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August)
The current season is very wet in the majority of the lowlands. Trails may become slippery and muddy. Upper areas of the high altitude of Manang and Mustang are rain-shadowed in nature and, as a result, are relatively dry. This is less crowded compared to. This season is not recommended.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is considered the best time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The skies are clear, and it is fine to see the mountain. The weather is pleasant because it is neither too hot nor too little heat. The trails are busy and vibrant with trekkers.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is extremely cold, and the colder, the higher altitude. Snowfall can block Thorong La Pass. However, the sky is blue, and the route is still. By good preparation, it is fair to be able to go hiking this season. This season is not recommended.
How difficult is it, Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered hard in grade as the difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on several factors. Altitude is another significant adversity since this trek causes an altitude of 5,416 m at sea level Thorong La Pass level.
Trekking participants are advised to be extremely sensitive to altitude illness, most notably while climbing. The distance criterion is around 160–230 km, depending on the extremities of a trajectory. This is a task that has to be carried out on foot during 6–8 hours per day for 15–20 days.
The (very) steep ascent and descent are accompanied by a lot of physical demand. In addition, the uneven and broken nature, especially the crests, intensifies the task. Conditions vary widely, often adverse and even extreme, with temperature extremes and strong winds at high elevations. The hike requires physical endurance and stamina as the walking route is long and uninterrupted, and the nature of the ground alters at every step.
However, it is possible only when preparation and determination are prepared. Comfortable acclimatization, slow pace, and previous experience in trekking will help this. It is not easy, but it is very beautiful and satisfying; it is truly worth all the effort to see.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Distance
The distance included in the Annapurna Circuit Trek varies with the starting point and ending point chosen, within the range of 160 to 230 km or 100 to 145 miles. Though the most generic starting point is Besisahar or Bhulbhule and the finish line is Jomsom or Tatopani however the trekkers can also go up to Pokhara.
Daily distance varies, for instance 8-20 km a day; walking time 6-8 hours a day. There are also parallel and successive ascending and descending with flat ground and thus the total challenges of the track are enormous.
But even if the path looks very long, there are walking view, cultural benefits, and extraordinary views at every step to encourage even the toughest climb over a dangerous slope.
Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permit
The Annapurna Conservation Area Project entry permit is required. ACAP stands for Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, which is compulsory to gain an access to an Annapurna Conservation Area of picturesque biological significance. A TIMS card is used to limit the flow of trekkers, and to guarantee the safety of the trekkers on the path.
Both permits can be purchased in Kathmandu or Pokhara (trekking agencies) and directly from the Nepal Tourism Board. The fee for the permit to stay at ACAP is estimated around NPR 3,000 for nonresidents and one can obtain TIMS card for approximately NPR 1,000 for solo trekkers or NPR 600 (half price) for small groups. They should be carried with them for the whole hike, as they are checked several times along the trail.
Important Considerations
During the preparation for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, some of the important things to be considered to ensure a safe and comfortable trek are:
1. Altitude and Acclimatization: The trail is at a high altitude with Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. Don’t forget the recovery days; increase them gradually so that the body has time to adjust.
2. Physical Fitness: The trek includes long days of walking on challenging terrains, including steep ascents and descents. It is necessary to be of fairly good physical shape in order to take the distance and hardship.
3. Weather and Seasons: The best time for trekking is during Autumn – September to November – and Spring – March to May when the weather is stable, and the views are clear. Do not walk during the monsoon season, from June to August, because the trails will be very slippery and muddy.
4. Packing: Pack lightly, but do not forget warm clothing for greater altitude and, above all else, in winter. The must-haves are solid trekking boots, a sleeping bag rucksack, water purification tablets, a first-aid box and a waterproof jacket.
5. Permission: Do not forget to take care of your permits related to ACAP and TIMS before starting the hike. They are mandatory (at the entrance of headquarters, Annapurna Conservation Area).
6. Travel Insurance: It is good to travel with high-altitude trekking travel insurance and all of the trip details for evacuation in case of illness or injury.
7. Hydration and Food: Don’t forget to pack enough water and snacks to be well hydrated and fuelled. There are a few teahouses on the route where food can be bought, so do not forget to carry some kind of energy bars or fruit.
8. Respect Local Culture: The Annapurna Circuit runs through villages teeming with cultural activity. Stay respectful of local customs, ask before taking photos, and discover the variety of their communities by proceeding.
9. Weather Preparedness: Weather conditions in this region can be extremely unstable and even extreme in altitude. Be aware of the potential for severe cold, prolonged rain and snowfall, in particular when trekking in winter or spring.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Accommodation
Types of accommodation vary from a basic teahouse in the highlands to a comfortable teahouse in the highlands.
At every tea house, there are basic rooms with a bed, a cloth, and sometimes a pillow. In other places, at stratospheric altitudes, rooms are often shared because private ones are scarce. Shared bathrooms could be outside your room.
Or, in the case of some tea houses, even the dirtiest options, basic squat toilets can be found, and hot showers, or the provision of such, are not always likely, nor may they come at extra cost.
Every teahouse has one general dining area which is used for trekkers’ meals, snacks, and drinks. These spaces are commonly comfortable and intimate, allowing ample space for vacationing and having a break, telling tales, and meeting fellow explorers.
Above 3,000 meters, the tea houses gradually get very basic with smaller rooms, offering less comfort. Closer to the Thorong La Pass, the highest point along the trek route, accommodation is very basic with a limited selection, but the friendliness of the locals and great scenic views make up for the basic facilities.
It should be remarked that in peak conditions, particularly in autumn and spring, the teahouses are very busy, and it may be advisable to inquire or book ahead of time, even more so in the more known areas.
Food in Annapurna Circuit Trek
Food on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is simple but nourishing, with a mix of Nepali and Tibetan to Western dishes available at the tea houses lining this trail.
The most common meal is dal bhat, a traditional Nepali dish of lentil soup served with rice, and often accompanied by vegetables and pickles. This obviously sates the stomach and gives the energy to last through a prolonged day’s straggling.
Simpler, but equally, common, locally cooked foods which are eaten include momos (vegetable or meat balls) as well as noodles and spaghetti, which are easily cooked and deliver a quick boost of energy. In higher regions, you’ll even find Tibetan bread served with butter or yak cheese, a local specialty.
In addition to these principal meals, the trekkers may also be provided with a selection of soups, such as vegetable or tomato soups, which is a specialism in altitude cold weather. For most tea rooms, chocolates, crackers, and fresh fruit are always sitting on the counter, providing easy, quick energy between meals.
Tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are common drinks, and lemon tea is a great favourite among trekkers to revitalize them with its soothing effects. Eating is more basic but is rarely anything other than delicious in order to keep the trek leaders well nourished and fueled on their expedition.
Drinking water in Annapurna Circuit Trek
Drinking water use on the Annapurna Circuit Trek should be undertaken in a specific manner to prevent its contamination. There are usually hot tea houses along the trails, and maybe it is safer for them to at least avoid drinking water they boil.
You can refill your bottles with hot water, often for a small additional fee, knowing it is free from harmful bacteria. Bottled water can be bought, but due to the littering of plastic, it is not an environmentally friendly option.
Many trekkers use water purification systems like tablets, filters, or UV purifiers for a more feasible and sustainable way of having enough water. They permit hikers to drink safely from most of the natural sources of water on the trail, such as streams and rivers. Nevertheless, drinking water from these natural streams and rivers is not advisable unless well boiled or purified.
Can a beginner trek to the Annapurna circuit?
Yes, a novice can go on to the Annapurna Circuit trek, but it should be done with proper preparation and an understanding of the dangers. Although the Annapurna Circuit is not one of the most demanding routes in Nepal, it does require relatively high fitness and stamina due to the daily long walking in combination with variable altitudes.
The trek can last up to 12-14 days, and one has to cover 5-7 hours of walking per day. Suitable experiential exercise for such a hike would require beginners to train themself by walking on different types of path-sloping terrain-climbing and to skills that will increase their stamina progressively.
Altitude is one of the more difficult challenges, especially at and above 3,000 m, and acclimatization is therefore necessary to prevent altitude sickness. The trek passes through various villages, providing rest opportunities and tea houses for accommodation, making it more accessible for those with less experience.
It is also suggested that novices seek help/guidance from a guide/porter when trekking or leading in this Himalayan region, as it is not easy to manage under this Himalayan terrain if one is not familiar with it. Following adequate preparation, reasonable physical fitness, and appropriate acclimatization, beginners can easily take part and finish the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Wifi, Electricity and Charging on the trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek provides wifi, electricity, and charging points; however, their availability varies depending on the location of access along the route.
Most tea houses at lower altitudes have wifi facilities available, even if they are not necessarily fast or reliable, especially in the mountain regions. Internet may be slower in high areas, or unavailable at all, so one should plan for limited connectivity.
Solar power is supplemented by generators to provide electric power in tea houses. There is provision in most tea houses (for example) for charging phones and other items (and there are charges to cover this). P
ower may not be available at all altitudes and even not in urban areas. Thus, it also brings a spare power bank. Do not inconvenience others while charging your electronic devices, as electrical current will likely be limited at higher altitudes.
Safety Tips:
Safety on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is paramount. Upstream of everything else, one has to consider the risk of altitude sickness. It is advised to take acclimatization by having rest days at high altitudes and drinking plenty of water. Always heed one’s body and, if feeling ill, immediately go down to lower altitudes.
Wear comfortable, well-fitting hiking boots with comfortable attire to stay safe from extreme weather, such as sudden temperature drops, particularly at greater elevations. Maintain a simple first aid box, such as bandages, antiseptic, and personal medications.
It is also a wise decision if one is expected to have a local guide or porter that is familiar with the landscape and trained in emergency assistance. Drink enough, carry enough to make it through, and stay on the trail so as not to be separated.
Cultural Etiquette:
The Annapurna Circuit visits a large number of villages, and local cultures, customs, and beliefs play an important role in people’s daily lives. It’s important to show respect for local customs. Never forget to get permission to photograph people, especially in rural or sacred sites.
When visiting temples or monasteries, remember to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Nepali people are typically very friendly and congenial, so they smile and say “Namaste” when greeting people from the local culture, with both hands forming a prayer gesture. Do not disrespect local people, especially seniors, and do not make excessive noise.
Itinerary of Annapurna Circuit Trek
After landing at the Tribhuwan International Airport, you will be picked up by our representative who will drop you off at the hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu.
- 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu
- No Meal Included
We make our way to Besisahar. After about 5-6 hours into the drive we reach the town of Dumre from where we steer right leaving the highway towards Besisahar.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Breakfast and take local jeeps to Syange and star hike to Jagat 2-3 hours. Alternatively, you candirectly drive to Jagat from Besishahar.
- Local Guest house
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
We begin our journey with a fulfilling breakfast needed for a good day’s walk. On the first part of the trail, we descend onto a river, cross a bridge, and then into a lush forest. We now climb a steep cliff overlooking the riverbank. On our journey towards Chamje, we see great views of the Annapurna mountain ranges. After Chamje, the trail becomes challenging as we make our way through a steep and slippery path to Sattale. We make our way further through a rocky trail soon descending to a grassy riverbank leading to Tal. From here we move further rugged and winding trails towards the village of Karte.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
This days’ walk is one of the most rewarding as we get tremendous views of the LamjungHimal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m/24,688ft) and to top it all off we encounter small hot springs too where we canrelax and chill for a bit.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
We embark on a challenging journey this day. We walk throughsteep narrow paths, a dense forest towards, and steep slope rising 5000 ft. We are welcomed by fantastic views as soon as we make it through the narrow path.When the valley widens we see the PaungdaDanda, a giant of a rock rising 5,000ft (1500m) above the trail. We continue until we reach upper Pisang. Overnight in Upper Pisang.
- Local Guest house
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
After a nice breakfast, we start making our way to Manang today. Manang can be reached through two ways. We choose to take the one that takes us to Upper Pisang via Geru since the route is filled with beautiful views of Annapurna and Pisang along with the stunning landscape. Visitors will notice the change in landscape and vegetation this day;the green vegetations give way to desert like arid landscape. At Manang we will visit the largest monastery in Manang -the Barge monastery. Overnight at Manang.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
As the altitude picks up we must take a day solely just to acclimatize. So, we will spend he day going on a short hike to either BhojoGumba or Gangapurna Lake. If there is some spare energy left in us we would make a visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association atVraga Village. There we can have more information about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Overnight in Manang.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Today’s journey is going to be a short but a fulfilling one. The first part of the trail has us crossing a stream, ascending toTenki and further out of theMarshyangdi Valley into the valley of JarsangKhola. We continuefurther northwards passing near the small village of Ghunsa and then through pastures where horses and yaks graze. At this point we are at the last part of today’s trail. We cross a small wooden bridge; thenpass an ancient old Mani wall in a pleasant meadow to finally reach Yak Kharka. Overnight at Yak Karka.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Today’s walk is steep but filled with beautiful views! We climb all the way to ThorangPhedi which is the last village before Thorong La pass.The first part of the journey has us crossing a suspension bridge to reach Ledar village. We climb further passing through high cliffs to reach ThorangPhedi. We get brilliant views of Mt. Khatungkan, Thorung Peak,Mt. Syagang, and Mt. Gundang. Overnight in ThorangPhedi.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Today’s challenge is the Thorong La pass- one of the highest passes in the world! It is a challenge, but we don’t want to make it that hard, do we? So, we will take the easy, safe route which is crossing the pass from east to west (Manang to Muktinath). All your hard work will be paid off at the end of the day as the views at the top is breathtaking! After reaching the top we descend towards the Muktinath Valley. Overnight in Muktinath.
- Local Guest house
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Today’s journey is going to be a spiritual one! Holy for Buddhists and Hindus, Muktinath is an important pilgrimage site. We visit a temple and a monastery at the first part of our walk for today. Then we make our way to Jomson via Ranipauwa village and Kagbeni.We walk along a plateau above Kali Gandaki River, the world’s deepest gorge for today’s journey! Alternatively, You can take a local jeep to Jomsom.
- Local Guest House
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
Morning take a domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, it takes about 30 minutes flight and you will be staying a night in Pokhara. After checked in hotel, rest and take delicious lunch then excursions in the valley.
- 3 star hotel in Pokhara
- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included
After a night of celebration, we prepare to leave for Kathmandu for some packing and more celebrations. We say goodbye to Pokhara and get on a 6-7 hours’ drive to Kathmandu. On reaching Kathmandu you will have some spare time to do some last-minute souvenir shopping and resting. A dinner party is arranged to celebrate your successful journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.
- 3 star hotel in Kathmandu
- Breakfast and Dinner Included
Information
The Itinerary can be changed from Jomsom to Pokhara with walking to Poonhill via Tatopani.
Price includes
- All the transportation between airport and hotel
- 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
- One way flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
- Transportation from Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Three meals ( Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) During the Trek
- Farewell dinner at the end of the trek
- All accommodation and meals during the stay in the trek
- An experienced English speaking guide and one porter for 2 persons each of the group
- All necessary paper work and permits (National park permit, TIMS)
- All government and local taxes
Price Excludes
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal Visa fee ( US$ 30 for 15 days and US$ 50 for 30 Days)
- Lunch and dinner at Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Any personal expense
- Travel Insurance (Must purchase your home country)
- Any type of soft drinks, Boiled hot water, shower, etc, during the trek
Extra meals apart from inclusions - Tips to porters and guides
- Extra Nights hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- All personal, medical, evacuation and emergency expenses
Have any Questions? Check out FAQ'S
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Annapurna Circuit Trek normally takes between 12 to 18 days to complete, depending on the specific route and pace of the trekker. The standard itinerary takes the total of 15 days if starting from Bhulbule and finishing at Nayapul, covering a distance of approximately 260 kilometers (161 miles).
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a moderately difficult trek, suitable for trekkers with a good level of physical fitness and some previous hiking experience.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is definitely worth it. It is a trek filled with breathtaking scenery, including amazing mountain views, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Trekkers who have completed the Annapurna circuit many times describe it as one of their most rewarding experiences.
Yes, the Annapurna Circuit can be completed in 10 days, although this is a condensed itinerary that requires a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience.
While it is definitely possible to complete the trek in this shorter timeframe, it is very important to note that doing so may limit acclimatization opportunities, increasing the risk of altitude sickness.
The Annapurna Circuit is generally considered to be slightly easier than the Everest Base Camp trek. Both treks are classified as moderately challenging, but the Annapurna Circuit has a lower maximum altitude, reaching 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) at Thorong La Pass, compared to 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) at Everest Base Camp.
Yes, beginners can undertake the Annapurna Circuit Trek, as it is considered suitable for first-time hikers. The trek is classified as moderately challenging, which means that while it involves some steep climbs and high altitudes, it does not require technical climbing skills.
However, preparation is key. Beginners are advised to engage in aerobic exercises and hiking practice prior to the trek to build stamina and strength.
No, you cannot trek the Annapurna Circuit without a guide as of April 2023. The government of Nepal has banned solo trekking and made it mandatory for all trekkers, whether solo or in a group, to be accompanied by a licensed guide.
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