Annapurna Circuit Trek
About this trip
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular hiking route located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful and diverse trekking routes in the world, offering stunning views of the Himalayas, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek typically takes around 2-3 weeks to complete, and covers a distance of approximately 160-230 kilometers, depending on the route taken. The trek starts in the town of Besisahar and passes through various traditional Nepalese villages, including Pisang, Manang, and Thorong La Pass, before ending in Jomsom or Nayapul.
Along the way, trekkers are treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu, as well as lush forests, rivers, and waterfalls. The trek also offers opportunities to experience Nepalese culture firsthand, with visits to local monasteries, traditional villages, and markets.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered to be a moderately difficult trek, with a maximum elevation of 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass. It is important for trekkers to be physically fit and acclimatized to the high altitude, as well as prepared for the variable weather conditions that can occur in the mountains.
Overall, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is an unforgettable adventure that offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural immersion. It is a must-do for anyone interested in hiking and exploring the Himalayas.
Major Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek
Diverse Landscapes: The Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, including lush green forests, terraced farmland, high altitude deserts, and snow-capped mountains.
Scenic Views: The trek offers stunning views of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu.
Thorong La Pass: One of the main highlights of the trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 5,416 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Cultural Experience: The trek provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and customs of the people living in the Annapurna region, including the Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities.
Holy Sites: The trek also takes you through some of the most revered religious sites in the region, including the Muktinath temple and the Braga monastery.
Natural Hot Springs: After a long day of trekking, you can relax in the natural hot springs at Tatopani, which are said to have healing properties.
Local Cuisine: You can sample some of the delicious local cuisine, including dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), and thukpa (noodle soup).
Challenging Terrain: The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered to be one of the most challenging treks in Nepal, with steep ascents and descents, and high altitude terrain.
Wilderness Experience: The trek takes you through remote areas with no road access, providing a true wilderness experience.
The best time to go on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies offering unobstructed views of the mountains.
Also, the temperatures are moderate, which makes the trekking experience more comfortable. In winter (December to February), the sky is clear; colder temperatures have the risk of heavy snowfall blocking the Thorong La Pass. whereas, in monsoon season (June to August), there are heavy rains, landslides, and leeches on the lower trails, which makes trekking less favorable. Though the rain shadow area beyond the pass remains relatively dry.
Best Time to Trek
The best time to go on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies offering unobstructed views of the mountains.
Also, the temperatures are moderate, which makes the trekking experience more comfortable. In winter (December to February), the sky is clear; colder temperatures have the risk of heavy snowfall blocking the Thorong La Pass. whereas, in monsoon season (June to August), there are heavy rains, landslides, and leeches on the lower trails, which makes trekking less favorable. Though the rain shadow area beyond the pass remains relatively dry.
Trip Difficulty
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a moderate to challenging trek. While the paths are generally well-maintained, the trek's difficulty stems from the long duration, high altitude, and the need to cross the Thorong La Pass. Trekkers should be in good physical condition, with prior experience in high-altitude trekking being an advantage. Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness, especially when approaching the pass.
Route Information
- Starting Point: Besisahar (820m)
- Ending Point: Jomsom (2,720m) or Nayapul (1,070m)
- Highest Point: Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
- Duration: 15-20 days, depending on pace and acclimatization
- Distance: 160-230 km (100-145 miles)
Necessary Documents and Permits
To trek the Annapurna Circuit, you'll need the following permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Mandatory for safety and tracking purposes.
These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.
Preparation Tips
- Physical Fitness: Begin a regular exercise routine at least 2-3 months before the trek, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and flexibility.
- Acclimatization: Plan for adequate rest days to allow your body to adjust to the altitude, especially when approaching Thorong La Pass.
- Gear: Invest in high-quality trekking gear, including a warm sleeping bag, down jacket, good quality trekking boots, and layers suitable for fluctuating temperatures.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water and consider bringing water purification tablets or a filtration system.
- Nutrition: Carry snacks like nuts, energy bars, and dried fruits to keep your energy levels up during the trek.
Annapurna Circuits Trek 17 Days for 2024 and 2025
| No. of Pax Booking Together | Starting Price (pp) |
| 1 Person | USD 1490 |
| 2 Persons | USD 1190 |
| 3–5 Persons | USD 1100 |
| 6 - 10 Persons | USD 1050 |
| 10 + Persons | USD 999 |
Itinerary
The first day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Besishahar. It is a 6-7 hours drive covering a distance of 185 km. The drive goes through the Prithvi Highway, which is a scenic route with views of terraced fields, rivers, and green hills. The road is bumpy and dusty in some sections, but the journey is enjoyable nonetheless.
Once you reach Besishahar, you will switch to a local jeep or bus to reach Chamje, which is another 2-3 hours drive. The road is narrow and winding, with steep cliffs on one side and a roaring river on the other. The drive can be nerve-wracking for some, but the views are breathtaking. You will pass through small villages, suspension bridges, and waterfalls along the way.
Chamje is a small village situated at an altitude of 1,410 m/4,625 ft. It is the starting point of the trek, and you will spend the night here. The village has basic lodges and tea houses where you can rest and acclimatize to the altitude.
Altitude profile
Trip map
Inclusions & exclusions
Included
- All airport transfers
- Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Teahouse accommodations during the trek
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- Experienced trekking guide and porters
- ACAP and TIMS permits
- Domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
- First aid medical kit
Not included
Cost Excludes:
- International flights
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Personal trekking gear
- Travel insurance
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Tips for guides and porters
- Extra nights in case of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek
- Any other expenses not mentioned in the "Includes" section
Important information
The best seasons for Annapurna Circuit Trek are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). During these seasons, the weather is generally stable, and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the mountains. The temperature is mild during the day and cold at night, making it perfect for trekking.
In the autumn season, the foliage turns golden, and the air is crisp, making for breathtaking scenery. In the spring season, the rhododendrons and other flowers are in bloom, and the entire region is painted in a riot of colors.
The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall and landslides, making the trek challenging and dangerous. The winter season (December to February) brings extreme cold and snow, making it difficult to trek, especially at higher altitudes. Therefore, it is not recommended to trek during these seasons.
There are two permits required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is mandatory for all trekkers entering the Annapurna Conservation Area. You can obtain this permit from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu, Pokhara or directly from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) office in Besisahar.
Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card: This card is also mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal. The card helps to keep a record of trekkers in the area for their safety and security. You can obtain the TIMS card from the Nepal Tourism Board office or Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
It is recommended to carry a copy of these permits during the trek. Please note that the permit fees may vary depending on the season and nationality of the trekker.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular and beautiful treks in Nepal, attracting thousands of visitors each year. During this trek, you can expect a variety of accommodation options, ranging from basic tea houses to more luxurious lodges. Here are some of the accommodation options you can expect during the Annapurna Circuit Trek:
Tea houses: These are basic lodges that offer a bed, a shared bathroom, and simple meals. Tea houses are the most common type of accommodation along the trek, and they are usually run by local families.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses are more comfortable than tea houses and often have private rooms with attached bathrooms. Some guesthouses also have communal areas where you can relax and socialize with other trekkers.
Lodges: Lodges are more upscale accommodations that offer private rooms with attached bathrooms, hot showers, and other amenities such as Wi-Fi and electricity. Lodges are generally more expensive than tea houses or guesthouses, but they offer greater comfort and convenience.
Camping: If you prefer to camp, there are designated camping areas along the trek where you can set up your tent. However, camping requires more equipment and planning than staying in tea houses or lodges.
It's important to note that accommodations along the Annapurna Circuit Trek can vary in quality and availability depending on the season and location. It's always a good idea to book your accommodations in advance during peak season to ensure availability.
During the Annapurna Circuit Trek, guides and porters play an essential role in making the trip successful and comfortable. Here is everything you need to know about them:
Guides:
A guide is an experienced and trained professional who helps you navigate through the trail, provides you with valuable insights about the local culture and traditions, and ensures your safety throughout the trek. They speak English and have extensive knowledge about the region, including the history, geography, and flora and fauna.
They are also trained to administer first aid in case of an emergency. They help you with route planning, food and accommodation arrangements, and act as a liaison between you and the locals. They can also help you with translation and communication with the locals.
Porters:
A porter is responsible for carrying your luggage, including your backpack and other essentials, and makes your trek a lot easier. They are usually local villagers who are physically fit and experienced in trekking. They carry your belongings on their back and move at their own pace, usually arriving at the teahouse or lodge before you.
They are usually hired on a per day basis and can carry up to 25 kg. They are also an integral part of the trekking industry in the Annapurna region and contribute significantly to the local economy.
It is important to treat your guides and porters with respect and kindness. They work hard to make your trek a memorable experience and deserve to be treated well. You can also show your appreciation by tipping them at the end of the trek. The recommended tipping amount is around USD 10-15 per day for the guide and USD 8-10 per day for the porter.
Trekking gear: Hiking boots, trekking pants, thermal innerwear, woolen socks, waterproof jacket, and gloves are some of the essential trekking gear you need to carry during the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Sleeping bag: A good quality sleeping bag is a must-have as temperatures can drop significantly at night in the mountains.
Trekking poles: Trekking poles help reduce the strain on your knees and give you extra stability on the trail.
Water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial during the trek. Carry a water bottle or a hydration pack to keep yourself hydrated.
First aid kit: Carry a first aid kit that includes essentials like bandages, painkillers, antiseptic cream, etc. in case of any emergencies.
Sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun's UV rays can be harsh at high altitudes. Carry sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
Headlamp/flashlight: The trek involves early morning and late evening hikes. A headlamp or flashlight will come in handy during these times.
Power bank: A power bank will help keep your electronic devices charged during the trek.
Snacks: Carry high energy snacks like energy bars, chocolates, nuts, and dried fruits to keep yourself fueled during the trek.
Cash: It is advisable to carry cash as there are no ATMs on the trek. You will need cash for meals, accommodation, and other expenses during the trek.
FAQs
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through varied landscapes, remote mountain villages, and high passes. It is considered one of the best treks in the world.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek usually takes around 18 to 21 days to complete, depending on the route and your pace.
The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek is from March to May and September to November when the weather is clear and dry. However, it is possible to do the trek throughout the year.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a strenuous trek that involves long days of walking, high altitude, and steep ascents and descents. However, with proper preparation and training, anyone with a moderate level of fitness can complete the trek.
Yes, you need a trekking permit to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You will need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
The highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the Thorong La Pass, which is at an altitude of 5,416 meters.
There are a variety of accommodation options available on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, including guesthouses, tea houses, and lodges. Most of the accommodations offer basic facilities such as a bed, blanket, and a shared bathroom.
While it is possible to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek without a guide, it is recommended to hire one for safety and convenience. A guide can help you navigate the trail, arrange accommodations and meals, and provide insights into the local culture and customs.
You should pack warm clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, a backpack, a sleeping bag, a water bottle, a first-aid kit, and other essential items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is generally safe, but there are some risks associated with high altitude and unpredictable weather conditions. It is important to take proper precautions and follow the guidance of your guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.
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