Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal is one of the best options for an amazing trek. It is situated in the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). It is well-known for its amazing scenery and variety of landscapes. It is a long-distance trekking route, but it depends on which route you choose. These treks have more different routes than any other treks. This walk, which circles the whole Annapurna range, is ranked among the 10 best treks in the world.

The trek usually starts from the town of Besisahar or Bhulbhule and finishes in Pokhara or Jomsom, and this trek covers 160-230 kilometers (100-145 miles). It normally takes 12-21 days to finish. To uncover more details of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking and prepare yourself for the trek.

Trip Highlights:
Witness tall peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu.
Explore diverse landscapes, from lush subtropical forests to rugged alpine terrain.
Encounter ethnic communities such as Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi.
Conquer the tough Thorong La Pass, standing at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).
Visit Muktinath, a sacred site with 108 water spouts and an eternal flame for Hindu and Buddhist devotees.
Enjoy natural hot springs on the trek for muscle relaxation amid the rugged scenery.
Discover charming villages like Manang, Marpha, and Pisang, each offering a unique cultural insight into traditional mountain life.
Explore Annapurna Conservation Area, a UNESCO site known for biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Enjoy local teahouses and guesthouses for cozy stays and delicious Nepali cuisine after trekking.

In the history books, around 1950, Maurice Herzog and his French expedition successfully summited Annapurna I. Then, the Annapurna region began to attract western mountaineers and explorers. There were conflicts between the local people, the Nepal army, and the CIA-backed Khampa guerrillas. So, the Annapurna Circuit Trek was only opened for trekking in early 1977 after the conflicts were resolved. Since its opening, this route has become one of the most renowned trekking destinations in the world.

Initially, it was a route used mainly by residents and traders. They traveled between villages in the region. At that time, if you traveled this route, the trek took 23 days. This was due to the lack of infrastructure. However, trekking tourism in Nepal has made the Annapurna Circuit faster. It has become popular among international trekkers.

What makes the Annapurna Circuit Trek so special?
You’ll walk through different types of places. They include lush green valleys, terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and high alpine terrain. As the scenery changes, you will also see different, unique plant species, birds, and animals on the way. You will see the stunning views of the Annapurna mountains. They are named Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV. You will also see peaks over 6000m like Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu.

Here, you will conquer the tough Thorong La Pass. It stands at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). You will also enjoy wide views of the surrounding mountains. You will not only conquer the challenging past but also visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath. At Muktinath, you’ll find 108 water spouts. They flow with sacred water that is believed to cleanse sins. There is also an eternal flame fueled by natural gas, which is considered sacred by both Hindu and Buddhist devotees.

You will find the natural hot springs along the trekking routes. It’s a relaxing break for tired muscles and a refreshing mood. There are benefits to soaking in hot springs. It helps in relaxing muscles and reducing fatigue.

As you walk, you can explore beautiful villages like Manang, Marpha, and Pisang on the way. They offer a mix of cultural richness, beauty, and traditional mountain life. You will pass through villages. There, you can meet and learn about the local cultures and their lifestyle.

These are the cultures of the Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities. Each village offers its unique atmosphere and attractions. Some of them are famous for their unique Tibetan culture. They have special architecture, ancient temples, and monasteries. Whereas some villages, like Marpha, are famous for the production of apples. So it is called as Apple Capital of Nepal.

Most local families run the tea houses and the guest houses. They welcome guests with warmth and great hospitality. You will find the basic rooms. But they are comfortable, and some of them have views of the surrounding mountains. You will also get opportunities to taste the traditional Nepali dishes.

Can a beginner do the Annapurna Circuit?
The Annapurna Circuit and Throng La pass trek in Nepal is hard. However, it is achievable with the right preparation and mindset. It’s important to understand the needs of the route and make appropriate preparations according to it.

Here are a few preparation tips for beginners:

Physical fitness: The trek doesn’t need technical climbing skills, but it requires walking long distances at high elevations. So, beginners should be fit and able to handle multiple days of hiking in a row. You can do regular walking, jogging, or hiking before your trip. It will help you to build stamina and strength.
Pacing and Resting: Beginners should walk slowly at the same speed and take plenty of time for rest and to adapt their bodies according to the temperature and the environment. It’s not a race, and pushing too hard can lead to fatigue or altitude-related problems. You have to listen to your body and shouldn’t rush.
Proper Gear: Having the proper gear is important for comfort and a safe trek. This includes having a high-quality backpack, suitable layers of clothes, and durable hiking boots.
Hydration and Nutrition: You should be hydrated and eat well for the trek. You can also carry snacks to keep your energy level up.
Guided Treks: You can take a guide with you as they can help you with navigation, local information, and language challenges. For first-time hikers, they can also consider a short AC trek, as it is a more comfortable option for them.

What level of fitness is required to do the Annapurna circuit trek?
In Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Nepal is regarded as a classic trek. This journey is best suited for hikers with a moderate level of fitness and a lot of hiking and trekking experience. The Annapurna circuit hike requires several hours of walking. It doesn’t require high physical fitness or experienced climbing skills.

Trekkers on this journey will have to go through difficult, uneven ground every day that is situated at a high altitude. So, we strongly advise trekkers to regularly engage in the following activities before attempting such types of terrain:

Cardiovascular Fitness: Our cardiovascular system should be in good condition. So, you should often do aerobic activities. These include jogging, swimming, and cycling. They can help to improve your lungs and heart.
Altitude Preparedness: This trek will reach high altitudes up to 5416 meters. To prevent altitude sickness, you can take some rest.
Mental Preparedness: Trekking is not just 2 or 3 days of walking; it might take 12 to 21 days, just walking continuously. So, you must be mentally prepared before going trekking. You should stay positive and always be prepared for any weather conditions.
Strength training exercises: It is also important to have strong legs for the uphill and downhill sections. It involves exercises like squats, lunges, and step-ups. You can also include exercises like planks and sit-ups, which can be helpful in balancing and carrying a backpack.
Therefore, you don’t need to be an athlete or have mountaineering stamina to do the Annapurna circuit hike. You just need to exercise regularly and be in good physical condition.

Annapurna Circuit Trekking difficulty
As we know Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the longest treks in Nepal. It might take 12 to 21 days to complete the trek. The difficulty level of this trek also depends upon various factors like the fitness level, their preparation, weather conditions, and the route they choose. Here are some key factors regarding the difficulty level of the Annapurna Circuit Treks:

Altitude: One of the main challenges of the trek is the altitude. While walking through the high altitude area, your body will get tired more quickly. Here in this trek, trekkers will ascend to high elevations, with the highest point being Thorong La Pass at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). So before reaching this point, the difficulty level increases as you go up the altitude. Know that, for every thousand meters increase, the travel becomes 10% harder. So, altitude sickness is a risk. It is important to adjust by climbing up gradually. You need to allow time for rest and adjustment.
Duration: The Annapurna Circuit with Throng La pass trek takes about 12 to 21 days. It covers about 160 to 230 kilometers (100 to 145 miles). The distance also depends on the route and side trips. The long-duration version of this trek will require physical stamina and strength.
Terrain: There are many types of environments to walk on during the trek. These include rocky roads, dirt trails, stone steps, and some steep ups and downs. Trekkers may have to cross rivers. They will walk across suspension bridges and pass through tough terrain.
Weather: The weather can be uncertain during the Annapurna Circuit Trekking from December to February in winter and from June to September in the monsoon season. Trekkers could face wind, rain, snow, and freezing conditions, particularly at higher altitudes. So, to deal with changing weather conditions, you must have the right clothes and equipment.
Tea house Facilities: There are hotels and teahouses along the route. But the quality of the lodgings and services may vary. Some teahouses may be more comfortable than others, while still having only the most essential facilities. Trekkers should be prepared for shared lodging, simple meals, and minimal bathrooms.
Right Gear: You should choose the right gear for trekking. You should be sure that all your equipment is well-made and light. It should work in dry and cold weather. If you plan the right gear, it will make your hike safer, more comfortable, and more fun.
Best time for Annapurna circuit treks in Nepal
The Annapurna Circuit trek will be great if you plan and choose the best time to travel. October through November and April through May are the best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit. This is the time when high altitudes won’t be very cold. The skies are clear and the weather is dry. Let’s talk in more detail about these seasons.

Ideal Seasons:
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is an ideal choice for trekkers as it offers beautiful skies and peaceful weather after the monsoon. The beautiful mountains are easy to see. This is because of the warm temperatures and clear air. The beautiful surroundings are restored after the monsoon rains. They add more attraction to the autumn trekking. Also, many visitors go to the teahouses in a well-known place like Manang.

Spring (March to May)
Spring is another excellent time to trek the Annapurna Circuit. Warm, long days and peaceful weather are features of the spring season. The brilliant colors of the rhododendron forests are also seen here. It’s the perfect moment for photographers to get amazing landscapes of the nearby peaks under clear skies. However, as May month is near, you may feel the environment a little bit cloudier.

Hence, trekking is great in spring and autumn. So, you can choose the time according to your schedule and interest. Spring may be best for you. It has somewhat warmer weather and blooming flowers. However, autumn can be a better option. It offers bright skies, warm temperatures, and lovely scenery.

Consideration Seasons:
Winter (December to February)
In winter, high altitudes get snow and cold. They make the walk hard and maybe risky. But if you’re ready for hiking in freezing weather, you can find peace. The stunning winter scenery at lower elevations is also more peaceful.

Monsoon (June to August)
Trekking the Annapurna Circuit in the monsoon season (June to August) is possible. But it is not usually advised. This is due to the possibility of avalanches and landslides, leeches, and heavy rain. The rainfall and the cloudy skies may also result in poor visibility and slippery routes.

How to prepare for the Annapurna Circuit Treks?
The Annapurna Circuit Trekking must be safe and pleasant. But this requires careful planning and preparation. Here’s a brief step-by-step guide to help you get ready:

Physical Conditioning:
You should start your fitness training two or three months before you trek. You can do activities like running, cycling, walking, and swimming to improve your stamina and cardio functions. You can also focus on leg and back muscle training to handle the long hikes and carrying a backpack.

Altitude acclimatization:
The Annapurna circuit involves walking in high altitudes. You can also get altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It is a condition when your body struggles with a low level of oxygen at higher altitudes. Proper acclimatization is important for an enjoyable and safe Annapurna Circuit Trek. Before the trip, you can spend some time in a high-altitude place like Namche Bazaar or Manang. It will help your body to adjust to lower oxygen levels. You should drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. You should avoid alcohol or caffeine products because they might dehydrate your body. You should have an idea about symptoms and prevention. So, you can learn about it.

Packing Essentials:
You can create a detailed packing list. It should include all the needed clothing, equipment, and supplies for the trek. This includes trekking poles, a sleeping bag, a headlamp, water bottles, water purification tablets, a first aid kit, snacks, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, an insulated jacket, moisture-wicking clothing layers, trekking boots, trekking poles, and waterproof outer layers.

Permits and Documentation:
Before starting any trek, please be sure that you have the necessary permits and documents. You can get the required licenses and paperwork for Annapurna Circuit Trekking. It usually requires permits like the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Weather Awareness:
For a successful trek, you can check the weather and understand it. You can get updates from the Meteorological Forecast Department. You can also use different websites and mobile applications like Weather.com, Mountain-Forecast.com, Windy, MyRader, etc., to know about the weather. It will help to make your trek safe and enjoyable.

Emergency Preparedness:
You should be well prepared for emergencies while trekking, like the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Be aware of the emergency contact and alternative routes nearby. You can carry the emergency contact information and a first Aid kit, which includes things like Pain relievers, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, and personal medication if you are taking any. You can also get basic training, like a CPR course.

You must be sure that your mobile phone is fully charged, and also get a portable charger. You can get a handy map for navigation and tracking your location. You can also get travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking.

Mental Preparation:
The Annapurna Circuit trek may be hard on your body and mind. Prepare yourself mentally. You will face long days of walking, different geography, and possibly altitude sickness. For a safe and fun trek, keep a positive attitude and listen to your body.

By following these steps, you get ready physically and mentally. There is no reason to doubt that you will face the trek’s difficulties.

General details Trek Itinerary 15 days of Annapurna Circuit Trek
Here is a perfect 15-day details itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. We’ve designed this with great care, providing a brief overview in our main itinerary. You can refer to it for more details.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu – Transfer to Hotel – Briefing for Trekking.
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, and a representative of Trekking Hub company will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu by private vehicle. A Manager will brief you about your trip and check your packing list. Stay at a nice Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2:Kathmandu to Besisahar by comfortable bus and transaction to Syange
Kathmandu to Besisahar by public sharing bus It takes 7 hours. Drive, then the next transaction will be till beautiful Syange village in 2 hours. It is off-road driving. It will be wonderful to stay at a nice lodge near a waterfall.

Day 3:Trek to Dharapani (2113m) or Danaque (2260m) walking (7 hrs)
It is beautiful walking along the Marshyangdi River and having lunch at a beautiful village in Tal. Then trekking will continue along Khotro and Dharapani. It is 6/7 hrs. walking. Stay overnight at a nice lodge.

Day 4:Trek to Chame (2620m) walking (6-7 hrs.) stay overnight at lodge.
It is a wonderful walk with scenic beauty. Walking along the beautiful village of Bagarchhap, the Danaque trail is gradual, and before Timang village, it takes a couple of hours to ascend. It is great viewing and a nice lunch place. Chame is the district headquarters of Manang district. Here is a natural hot spring; you can look around.

Day 5:Trek to Pisang (3250m) walking (6/7 hrs) Stay overnight at lodge.
After taking a breakfast trek, head smoothly to Bratang village, where there are nice Apple gardens. The product has lots of Apples. Then, the trek continues along a big road called the Gate of Heaven. Lunch will be at Dukur Pokhari. Pisang has nice Monetary and Mani walls. It is so beautiful. Stay overnight at a nice lodge.

Day 6:Trek to Manang Village (3540m) – Walking (5 to 7 hrs.) Stay at nice Lodge.
Here are two trails, short and long (5 hours or 7 hours of walking). We recommend you walk uphill and view the trailer. It takes 7 hours, but you will see many white snow peaks. If you follow the lower track, you can see good views. If you follow the upper trail ascending Ghyaru and Ngawal villages, Viewing the Annapurna ranges as Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak Lunch will be at Ngawal village, then the trek will continue along Braka village and arrive at a nice village in Manang. It is a beautiful village. Here is a nice mountain bakery as well. Stay at a nice lodge.

Day 7:Rest Day – Acclimatization Day, but short-day excursion Manang village.
A special day in a beautiful village at Manang (3450 m) The day excursion will be on a small hillside in front of Manang village. There is one beautiful lake called Gangapurna Lake, Viewpoint, which explores old villages and monasteries. Stay at a nice lodge.

Day 8:Trek to Yak Kharka (4100m) or Ledar walking (5-6 hrs) stay overnight at lodge.
It is a short walk, but at altitude, you should walk slowly. It is 4/5 hours. Walking. Most of the trail is easy and gradual, and you will arrive at lunchtime. It is an open viewing trail and moraine. We recommend, after taking lunch, hiking a few hundred meters uphill. It will help with better sleep and acclimatization. Stay at a nice lodge in Yak Kharka or Ledar.

Day 9:Trek to Thorong Phedi (4441m) or High Camp (4850m) walking (4/5 hrs)
Trek to Thorong Phedi (4441 m) by walking (4 hrs.) or Thorong High Camp (4850 m) by walking one more hour. We take you slowly first in Phedi, take lunch, and if all is fine and there are no symptoms of altitude, it is better to ascend an hour to High Camp. It takes an hour to ascend. It is a wonderful viewing. It is a tough night, staying at the highest elevation. You will feel light symptoms, but don’t worry, be confident, and keep warm. Keep drinking, keep eating, and think positively. Don’t think much. It helps a lot. If anything becomes serious, consult with your guide and ask him where he sleeps at night. Stay overnight at a nice lodge in High Camp.

Day 10:Adventure High Pass of Thorong La (5416m) Trekking to Muktinath (3800m)
Thorong La Pass: early in the morning, you need to start; it is an adventure high pass. Thorong high camp to top 3 and a half to 4 hours, descending 4 hours. It takes a total of 7/8 hours. It is a tough, challenging high pass. Starts early in the morning and arrives in the afternoon. Thorong High Camp is 4950m, ascends to 5416 m, and descends to 3800m. Muktinath has Hindu and Buddhist temples and monasteries. Lots of pilgrims come to pray here. It is a nice place, and you will find it easy to breathe. Stay overnight at a nice lodge.

Day 11:Muktinath to Tatopani (1190m) driving by bus (5/6 hrs) Stay at Hot Spring.
It is 5-6 hours. Off-road driving. Tatopani means a natural hot spring that is well-managed and warm enough. You can drop into a warm pool for an hour to get relief from your adventure-tired muscles. It is a nice place to stay overnight.

Day 12:Trek to Ghorepani (2874m) walking (7 hrs) ascending and stay at nice Lodge.
It is beautiful walking almost all the way, ascending and crossing many villages. Shikha is a nice place to take lunch, then continue to Chitre village and arrive at Ghorepani. It is a great viewing camp. Stay overnight at a nice lodge.

Day 13:Early morning visit to Poon Hill 3210m and Watch 360-degree view then back to Pokhara.
Early in the morning, ascend Poon Hill (3210m) for about an hour. We should arrive there before sunrise and have a 360-degree view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with Machhapuchhre (Holy Mountain) and many more peaks we will be able to view. Then descend to the hotel to take breakfast, pack our bags, and trek to Ulleri, Hile Tikehdunga, catch a local jeep, and then back to Pokhara. It is a long day of walking, but you will arrive at the beautiful city of Pokhara. Here is a large lake; you can hang around. You can have nice meals and stay at a nice Hotel.

Day 14:Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist bus or by flight optional and stay at Kathmandu.
Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus (7 hours, 202 km) or by flight (35 minutes), or by private vehicle (car, jeep, or Toyota Hiace) You can choose what you prefer. We organize accordingly. Stay at a nice Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 15:Final Departure – Airport drop service by private vehicle.
A representative of Trekking Hub company will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport by private vehicle.

Trekking Hub will organize your trip to Annapurna circuit for 15 days or if you have your own itinerary we are happy to obtain or customized your itinerary please contact at info@trekkingshub.com

Annapurna Circuit Trek