Why Trek the Annapurna Circuit?
The Annapurna Circuit trek is undoubtedly the classic and best trek in the world. Despite many other options for trekking available in Nepal like the Everest Trek, Manaslu Trek or the Lantang Trek, to name of few, it is still considered the best. And that is all for good reasons. You get a complete trekking experience in this circuit.
Geographical diversity
The Annapurna Circuit trek showcases diverse geographic regions of Nepal like no other trek. You start the trek from the lowlands with rice fields and subtropical forests. As you ascend this trekking trail, you see the landscape gradually transitioning to meadows, arid highlands and high passes.
Some highlights of this diversity are listed below:
- Expansive views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre and Dhaulagiri
- Iconic landmarks like Thorung La Pass (5,416m) and Tilicho Lake
- High mountain deserts and fertile valleys
Rich Cultural Experience
The climb from Ngadi to Thorung La Pass and descent to Muktinath leads you through villages inhabited by Gurung, Thakali, Magar and Manangi communities, among others. Their culture and lifestyle offer a glimpse into Nepal’s cultural mosaic.
During the trek, you will be able to:
- Experience authentic local life in homestays and tea houses
- Savour traditional Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat, Thakali Thali and apple pie
- Learn about history, culture, and other aspects of the region through monasteries, traditional architecture and local festivals
Other Reasons
- A moderately difficult trek suitable for experienced trekkers. The beginners can also try this with the necessary preparations
- A variety of trek packages in the Annapurna region are available to suit different schedules and preferences
- Relatively accessible and flexible trek due to good infrastructure, road access points and different exit routes
- More budget-friendly trek as compared to treks in other regions of the country
Trekking in Annapurna: Know the Region and Route
Located in Gandaki Province in north-central Nepal, the Annapurna region includes the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, the largest conservation area of Nepal. This is the first conservation area of the country, covering a vast area of 7,629 sq km. It has the Marshyangdi Valley to the east and the Kali Gandaki River to the west. On its northern boundary lies Mustang, while the Pokhara Valley rests to the south.
The region is home to some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mt Annapurna (8,091m), the 10th highest mountain in the world, Mt Dhaulagiri (8,176 m), located west of Annapurna I. A total of seven peaks rise above 7,000m in this region. It has 16 mountain peaks above 6,000m. The Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest river gorge, cuts between Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri.
With such features, trekking in the Annapurna region offers a rewarding experience in the Himalayas of Nepal. Therefore, trekking in this region is equally popular amongst Nepalis and foreigners alike. The area was opened to foreigners for trekking in 1977. Since then, this area has been offering a plethora of trekking options for trek enthusiasts.
Today, the region offers diverse trekking options, like the short and long treks of the Annapurna Circuit. Other popular routes include Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Panorama Trek, Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, Jomsom Muktinath Trek, Ghorepani Poonhill Ghandruk Trek, Dhampus Sarangkot Trek with Paragliding, Mardi Himal Trek, and Khopra Ridge Trek. Trekkers can also combine itineraries like Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake.
The trekkers meet a mix of ethnic communities along the route, fertile farmlands, lush forests and mountains, offering a unique and rich trek experience.
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Annapurna Circuit Weather: Monthly Report
The trekkers visiting here should understand that the weather varies by season and by altitude. Like in most other trekking routes of the country, the best time to trek to the Annapurna Circuit is the peak seasons. Autumn and spring seasons are regarded as ideal for trekking in the classic route, as the weather is favorable for trekkers.
However, if you acquire proper knowledge about the weather conditions of the region and proceed with caution, you can trek at other times of the year, too. So, you need to make the preparations accordingly, as the trek is possible year-round.
Here is a month-wise weather report of the Annapurna region, helping you decide the best time to trek to Annapurna Circuit:
January
The temperature ranges from 10°C in lower regions to -20°C in higher elevations in January.
It is the coldest month of the year, yet you will love to see snow-covered landscapes along the route. But there are chances of the Thorung La Pass remaining closed due to heavy snowfall in January. If you have proper gear and want to trek in solitude without having to encounter many trekkers en route, January could be the month for you.
February
If you are equipped with insulated clothing and traction gear, then trekking on the Annapurna Circuit is possible in February. In this month, temperatures dip as low as -1°C to -14°C in alpine areas. Nonetheless, the skies are clear, offering good visibility, and the trails are quite unlike the peak season. But as the trail can be icy and covered with snow, you need to be careful while treading along the route.
March
March marks the beginning of spring, one of the best-suited months to trek to this region. The month greets you with blooming rhododendrons and clearer skies if you decide to be on the trekking trail. Temperatures also allow for a comfortable trek as they range from 15°C at lower altitudes to -10°C higher up. The crowd is also moderate during this month, making your trek less troublesome.
April
This is the best spring month for trekking as it boasts stable weather. Lower regions get warmer, with the temperature reaching up to 22°C. The higher points are still colder with temperatures around -5°C. The footfall, therefore, is high in April in the Annapurna Circuit due to favourable weather, good visibility and rewarding views of flora of the region.
May
May marks the arrival of pre-monsoon in Nepal, thus, you can expect occasional rain. Typically, you will see a warm and clear morning in May. The afternoons, however, can be hazy, obstructing the beautiful views of the mountains. On your trekking route, you can see the wildflowers blooming to their fullest. Talking about the temperature, it is up to 20°C in the lowland and 0°C in the highland.
June
Monsoon arrives from June in Nepal and in the Annapurna region. This month, the daytime temperature can rise as high as 30°C in valleys and 10°C in mountains. You will find a reduced number of trekkers on the trail during this month. You need to be wary of monsoon issues like rain, mud, and leeches. The risk of slippery trails and landslides persists. Yet many opt for this trek with caution.
July
If you decide to trek to the region in July, expect frequent rains and slippery trails. Due to cloud cover and heavy rainfall, the visibility is limited, obstructing your chance to see the majestic peaks. Do not forget that the July trek means trekking in the peak monsoon. Yet whenever the weather clears for shot durations, you can see mountain views. Temperature ranges from 18°C to 30°C during the day and reaches up to 6°C at night at higher elevations.
August
In August, the lower regions record temperatures of around 25°C, higher areas have up to 5°C. This month too is also good for a solitary trek experience. Yet be wary of wet weather conditions and get ready with waterproof gear.
September
It marks the start of the autumn season in Nepal, offering clear skies followed by fading rain. Lower regions record temperatures as high as 15°C, while they reach up to 0°C in higher altitudes. September is suitable for trekking, in the sense that the weather and landscapes are perfect. One advantage, the trail is less crowded.
October
The days are dry and sunny in October. Mountain air is crisp. Temperatures are between 20°C and -5°C in the lower and higher elevations, respectively. All these factors are reasons this is a peak time for trekking. The Thorung La Pass is accessible and does not remain closed during this time. Crips and dry weather add to the experience with clearer and stunning views of the landscapes.
November
The weather is cool and stable this month, allowing for a peaceful trek and scenic photography. That’s possible because of clear skies and thinning crowds in the region. As winter is approaching, the temperatures drop to -10°C in higher elevations. The lower areas record temperatures up to 10°C in November.
December
It is the time of snow and frigid temperatures at higher altitudes. While the higher areas record temperatures up to -20°C, the lower trails remain recorded between 5°C and -10°C. Snow on the trails makes the landscapes magical. But you might be denied a permit to go to the high pass, as it may be closed.
Overall, March to May and September to November are considered the best months to trek to the Annapurna Circuit.
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Entry Permit for Annapurna Circuit Trek
As the Annapurna Circuit trek route falls in the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, one needs to take an entry permit before starting the trek. It is mandatory to carry the permit during the entire trip, as the authorities concerned might want to check it.
You need special permits in case you want to trek to areas regulated as restricted. The restricted areas include Upper Mustang and Nar Phu Valley.
Entry fee
- Foreign nationals: 3,000
- SAARC nationals: 1,000 (includes tax), an additional 2.9% applies to the online payment process
- Permits issued at check-posts are charged double the fees
- No permit required for children below 10 years of age
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Annapurna Circuit Trek: Difficulty Level
Annapurna Circuit Trek is a moderately difficult trek that begins from an elevation lower than 1,000m and requires you to go above 5,000m. During the expedition, you have to walk for four to eight hours every day, covering a distance of 7 to 17 km, depending on the route and your itinerary. Sometimes you need to opt for an elevation gain of more than 500m. Add to the unpredictable weather conditions of the Himalayas.
So, before you think of being a part of this trek, make sure you understand its difficulty level. The challenges and the level of difficulty are determined by several factors, including your prior trekking experience, physical fitness, terrain and weather, to name a few.
Here is a brief explanation of what determines the difficulty level during the trek and its impacts:
Past Trekking Experiences
The difficulty level along the Annapurna Circuit becomes more comfortable if you are an experienced trekker. As you will be traversing high altitudes, you must be used to walking long and strenuous hikes for an entire day. Otherwise, you might not be able to navigate the diverse Annapurna Circuit trails. Even if you are a novice, prepare yourself in advance for the trek with short treks and hikes. This practice will let you self-evaluate if you are ready to accept the challenges of the Annapurna Circuit.
Physical Fitness
Whether it is a trek to the Annapurna Circuit or any other trails of the world, physical fitness is an important factor. Your fitness level plays a major role in the success of your trek. Therefore, if you are someone trained for trekking, you will find this trek moderately difficult.
But for someone with no stamina, this trek can turn into a challenging affair. Lack of physical fitness means experiencing fatigue easily, being unable to walk at the pace of trained trekkers, and delayed recovery from exhaustion. These factors ultimately can affect your entire trekking itinerary.
To beat the challenging trek, you must train for at least three months physically so that you can complete the trek with an enjoyable experience.
Likewise, if you are not aware of using trekking gear properly and just set off for the journey, then you are heading for a failed mission. Good knowledge of the packing list eases your trek experience, helping you to succeed in the mission.
Weather Conditions
The weather in the Annapura region is not stable, it is rather unpredictable. You can make general predictions about the weather patterns for different seasons and months. But remember that the weather can change all of a sudden here. That is a general case of the weather in the Himalayas. It means you might face a sudden snowfall or a heavy rainfall. Temperatures can fluctuate, and fog covers add a problem to visibility issues.
Such factors at times force you to alter your route, and sometimes it is difficult even to trace the path. It leads to delays in your trek. These problems are mostly common in winter and monsoon, making the trek more challenging. But if you choose spring and autumn, there is a chance for you to avoid these challenges to an extent.
Health Issues
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions that can make it difficult for you to get involved in strenuous physical activities, then it can hinder the success of your trek. Trekkers need to get themselves checked to know whether they are fit for such journeys because of their health conditions.
Likewise, minor injuries are treated on the way and typically do not affect your trekking trip. But the trek also poses the risk of altitude sickness, as one needs to go above 2,500m. A proper acclimatization is required for the body to adapt to the changing altitude and its components, like oxygen level, thinning air, and more.
Despite that, one might suffer from altitude sickness as each human body responds to such changes differently. Getting altitude sickness means a delay or aborting the trek. You should watch out for its early symptoms like lightheadedness, nausea and vomiting, tiredness, insomnia, and shortness of breath.
Therefore, get a proper understanding of altitude sickness before embarking on this journey, and even get ideas on how to prevent it. Staying hydrated, walking at a gradual pace rather than rushing to cover more than the recommended distance, adequate rest, and a nutritious diet are some of the ways to do so.
Yet again, if you show symptoms of altitude sickness, you should inform the guide immediately. Your health comes first than the trek.
Preparing for the Trek
If you want to trek to the Annapurna Circuit, prepare yourself to enhance your fitness level in all aspects, be it physical or mental. Get ready at least three months before the trek with the following guidelines:
- Opt for a weekly training schedule for maintaining physical fitness
- Try strength training like lunges, squats, wall sitting, and toes up, for strong legs
- Go for stair running, high-knee, box jumps, burpees, and jumping jacks for your heart - it later helps your body function with less oxygen during the trek
- Engage in a cardio workout a minimum of three times a week, with each session of one hour
- Hike regularly
- Set realistic expectations so the results do not disappoint you
- For mental endurance, practice meditation, yoga, and mindfulness
- Ensure your diet is nutritious, filled with lean proteins, good fats, green vegetables, and carbohydrates
Food and Drinks on the Annapurna Circuit Trek
The popular trekking destination in Nepal boasts good options for food and drinks. Trekkers can expect to choose from a range of local to international cuisine that offers variety.
Where to eat: Basic meals are available at the tea houses or lodges.
What to eat: Both the vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available. For breakfast, you can try a breakfast set of bread, eggs, potatoes, tea, and coffee. You may also opt for Tibetan bread with jam or honey, paratha, pancakes, porridge, and French toast, to name a few. Lunch and dinner let you choose from the Nepali staple meal, Dal Bhat, along with popular momo, chowmein, thukpa, pizza, and pasta.
What to drink: Hot drinks like tea and coffee are available. Soft drinks are available too. But they are expensive. Soft drinks, along with alcohol consumption, are not recommended as they cause dehydration. The best drink is water, which you can consume boiled or filtered.
Note: Since the food items are carried by porters or horses in the remote areas, the variety is limited. Also, they get expensive due to the transportation cost. Plus, the menu has fewer options in the off-season than in the peak season.
Accommodation Options
Tea houses, lodges, and homestays offer accommodation services along the Annapurna Circuit. Generally, there is no problem in finding accommodations in this region. Yet peak seasons are the exception. Therefore, you should book them in advance to ensure you get a warm bed following a day-long trek. Don’t worry, we will take care of that!
Tea Houses: It is the most commonly available accommodation facility, especially in smaller villages. It typically has rooms with twin beds, bathrooms (usually shared), and a communal dining space. Some go beyond basic services and even offer facilities of a hot shower. You can get Wi-Fi access in some accommodations.
Lodges / Guesthouses: They are more comfortable than tea houses, are located in larger villages, and most often have private bathrooms and hot showers. If lucky, you might get free internet access as well.
Homestays: Along your trekking route, places like Ghorepani have facilities for homestays. This is ideal for those looking to indulge in local culture. You stay at the locals’ homes with their family in this service.
What to expect
- Expect twin-sharing rooms with a bed, blankets, and some furnishing. Bring a sleeping bag for added warmth as well as for hygiene.
- The most common bathroom features are: squat toilets and shared restrooms
- Communal dining space
- Hot showers are available after paying an extra charge
- Internet access via Wi-Fi is not reliable. Rather, you can bring an NTC or Ncell SIM card and use mobile data.
- Electricity is powered by solar or hydropower, as per availability. Charging stations are available in the common areas of the accommodation.
Packing List: What to Bring Along
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You should pack smart as a preparation for the Annapurna Circuit Trek that entails a journey along diverse altitudes and unpredictable mountain weather. You need to carry everything essential, but without overloading your backpack. The season-wise requirements might be specific, but there is a packing list of essentials suitable for all weather conditions.
Boots, Backpack, Bag
- A reliable and durable pair of trekking boots
- A comfortable backpack or daypack
- A duffel bag (for the porter)
Trekking Gear
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Camera and binoculars
- Maps and compass
- Powerbank
Essential Clothing
- Thermal base layers
- Lightweight, durable trekking shorts
- Windproof jacket
- Fleece-lined shirts and pants
- Fleece jacket
- Casual tee-shirts
- A pair of hiking shorts
- A raincoat and waterproof trousers
- Insulated jacket
- Trekking gloves
- Trekking socks
- Warm bed socks
- Earmuffs
- Scarf or neck gaiter
- Breathable undergarments
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Slip-on footwear
Other essentials
- Toilet paper
- Soap and shampoo
- Hand Sanitizer
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen and moisturizer
- Towel
- Wet wipes
- Deodorant
- Bug repellent
- Personal medications
- First aid kit
- Female hygiene products
- Snacks like trail mix, granola bars, chocolate bars, biscuits, and dried fruits
- Passport, permits, and cash
Guide and Porter: Are They Necessary?
In Nepal, it is mandatory to hire a guide if you are going for a trek. Hiring porters is optional. But for a safe, comfortable, and quality trek, both are very essential. At Marvel Adventure, we offer experienced, licensed, and reliable guides. They are excellent communicators, well-known about the Annapurna Circuit, local culture and history. Their English is fluent.
We have the provision of assigning one porter for two trekkers. They are strong and reliable and carry up to 25 kgs of luggage combined. You will find them supportive as you trek along the route.
Tipping is a well-established custom in Nepal’s trekking community. It is not mandatory, yet most trekkers choose to offer tips to the guides and porters in appreciation for their hard work throughout the journey.
Cost Details: What to Expect
Included in the package:
- Private airport transfer for pick-up and drop-off
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
- Experienced and licensed guide with local knowledge
- Reliable porter equipped with proper gear
- Salary, food, accommodation, and insurance for guide and porter
- Accommodation at the tea house or lodge during the trek
- Ground transportation (as mentioned in the itinerary)
- Entry permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area Project
- One night standard hotel stay in Pokhara on a BB basis
- First aid kit with an oximeter to measure oxygen level
- Government taxes and official service charges
Not included in the package:
- Airfare of international flights and taxes
- Visa fee for entering Nepal
- Travel insurance
- Accommodation fare during the Kathmandu stay
- Personal expenses
- Beverages and desserts during the trek
- Tips and guides for porters
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the total distance of the Annapurna Circuit Trek? How long does it take?
The trek covers approximately 160 km to 230 km based on the start and end points of the trek. You can opt for itineraries ranging from eight days to 14 days.
How high do I go on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
You reach as high as 5,416 meters. This is the elevation of the Thorung La Pass.
What should I know about the terrain?
The terrain is diverse. The trek begins with farmlands to alpine meadows to arid regions to snow-capped mountains, and glaciers.
Is a trek permit a must?
Yes, you need to obtain a permit to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. Special permits are required to go to restricted areas of the region.
Is hiring a guide and a porter worth it for this trek?
Hiring a guide and porter ensures safe navigation, helps you gain deeper cultural insights, and makes the trek comfortable.
When should I plan my trek on the Annapurna Circuit?
The spring and autumn months are considered best for trekking in this region.
How challenging is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The trek is of moderate difficulty. You must have good physical fitness, but prior experience is not mandatory.
Can I opt for this trek as a beginner?
Yes, you can opt for this trek as a beginner. But you should make adequate preparations, which include physical training. You must train yourself for three months before the trek.
How convenient is the accommodation facility?
You spend overnights mostly at tea houses or lodges that offer basic rooms with meals, shared bathrooms, communal dining and occasional Wi-Fi.
Do the food options suit my palate?
The menu includes traditional Nepali, Tibetan, as well as basic Western food. You can decide according to your preference.
What is the mode of transportation when not trekking?
You can take a bus or jeep, or other private vehicles and drive to Ngadi from Kathmandu. When returning from the trek, you drive from Muktinath to Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Is solo trekking possible in this region?
Previously, solo trekking was possible. At present, the Nepal government requires all foreign trekkers in the region to be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide.
Are there age limits for trekking in the Annapurna Circuit?
There are no such restrictions. Everyone, including children and the elderly, is allowed the trek. But you should remember that your health and fitness should allow you to do so.
Should I get travel insurance before starting this trip?
Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for anyone willing to take the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It should cover your injury, medical expenses, and helicopter rescue, among others during the trek.
Is there a risk of altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can occur above 2,500 meters, some are even affected at lower altitudes. As this trek requires you to go above 5,000 meters, the risk of altitude sickness can be at a moderate level.
Do I have access to clean drinking water during the trek?
Many spring waters that you find along the route are safe to drink. Tea houses provide boiled and bottled water. You can also carry your bottle and purify water refilled in it with purifying tablets.
Do mobile networks work along the route?
Expect the cell phone reception with service from NTC and NCELL SIM cards in most of the routes. Yet some areas might not have good coverage.
What about Wi-Fi networks?
Most tea houses offer Wi-Fi facilities, but they are not always reliable.
What about charging devices?
Charging facilities are available at tea houses, though they come at an additional cost.
Can I rely on the ATMs available along the route?
There are ATM services in Chame, Manang, Jomson and Muktinath, but they are not always reliable. So, carry enough cash to sustain the trek.
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