Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview

Annapurna Circuit is one of the world’s best trekking trails. This trek is also known as Annapurna Circuit Hiking, and it’s becoming more popular day by day as it’s one of the top trekking trails among the ten best trekking destinations around the world. On the Annapurna Circuit Trek, we will view the world’s highest Lake Tilicho, the world’s highest Kaligandaki Valley, and the Dhaulagiri ice flow. The Annapurna Circuit Trek covers just over 300 km as it circles around the Annapurna massif.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek starts right from Besishahar and follows the Marshyangdi River with an excellent view of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east. On the Annapurna Circuit, we will enjoy regular contact with friendly villagers and can easily feel the cultural shift as we reach the high mountains. The highest point of the trek is the Thorong La Pass at the top of the valley at 5,415m (17,769 feet) high, where we can see one of the holiest shrines, revered in both Hinduism and Buddhism. The Annapurna Circuit Trek follows ancient paths used as trade routes between Nepal and Tibet.

We begin our 20-day trip in Kathmandu with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage sites and then head to Besishahar. The next day, we’ll embark on one of the best, most popular, and challenging circuit trails in the world: the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

We are here to offer the tour and trek of your life, allowing you to witness the Himalayan wilderness with an expert guide, trekking in Nepal, provided by us.

Route to Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Kathmandu to Besi Sahar: Your journey begins in Kathmandu with a city tour of UNESCO World Heritage sites before driving to Besi Sahar, the starting point of the trek
• The Trek: The trek takes you through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming villages like Chame, Pisang, and Manang, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The adventure continues as you cross the iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of the trek, before descending to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site.
• Descent and Return: From Muktinath, the trail descends through Jomsom, Kagbeni, and Tatopani, where you can relax in natural hot springs. The journey continues to Ghorepani, where a sunrise hike to Poon Hill rewards you with stunning panoramic mountain views. Finally, you trek to Nayapul and take a scenic drive back to Pokhara, marking the end of this incredible circuit.

Accommodation during Annapurna Circuit Trek

• In Kathmandu and Pokhara, we provide comfortable accommodation in 3-star hotels with breakfast on a twin-sharing basis.
• During the Trek, during the trek, accommodations are on a twin-sharing basis, offering simple facilities with stunning views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. However, hot showers, WiFi, and charging are available for an extra fee.

Required Permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 per person.
• Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card: NPR 1,000 per person.

Acclimatization during the Annapurna Circuit Trek

As you ascend through the Annapurna Circuit, the altitude gradually increases, especially after reaching Manang (3,540m). To prevent altitude sickness, we include an acclimatization day in Manang, allowing your body to adjust while exploring nearby viewpoints.

Beyond Manang, the trail climbs towards Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of the trek. We maintain a steady pace, ensuring proper hydration and rest to adapt to the thinning air. Our experienced guides monitor your health and provide support, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

Emergency Procedures for AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness)

What to Do if You Experience AMS Symptoms?

• • Stop Ascending: Rest and let your body acclimatize.
  • Hydrate and Eat: Drink water and consume energy-rich foods.
  • Medication: Use acetazolamide (Diamox) or consult a doctor before the trek.
  • Descend if Necessary: Move to a lower altitude if symptoms persist.
  • Seek Medical Help: In severe cases, seek urgent medical care.

Meals on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Breakfast: Porridge, eggs with toast, pancakes, Tibetan bread, or rice and noodle dishes, with hot tea or coffee.
• Lunch: Thukpa (Tibetan soup), Nepali Dal Bhat (vegetable curry and rice), fried rice, noodles, and momos.
• Dinner: Similar to lunch, with additional dessert options like apple pie, rice pudding, or custard pudding.

Hot Showers and Electricity on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Hot showers and electricity are available, though hot showers may have an additional fee and availability may vary.

Important Notes for Annapurna Circuit Trek

• The drive from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar takes around 6-7 hours. You can also hire a private jeep for a more comfortable journey.
• The drive from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar takes around 6-7 hours. You can also hire a private jeep for a more comfortable journey.
• Meals are included during the trek, but food expenses in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not covered.
• Accommodation during the trek is in teahouses on a twin-sharing basis, with hot showers and charging available for an extra fee
• The trek involves high-altitude sections, including Thorong La Pass (5,416m), so proper acclimatization and hydration are essential.
• Weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable, and conditions at high passes can change rapidly; always be prepared with proper gear.
• Drones are not allowed without prior permission, which can be difficult to obtain.
• Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation is strongly recommended.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Physical Requirements

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek that requires good physical fitness and endurance. Trekkers should be prepared for long daily hikes of 5-8 hours, steep ascents and descents, and crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Prior trekking experience is beneficial but not required, as regular cardio, strength training, and hiking practice can help build stamina. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a steady pace are key to a successful trek.