Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trip Style: Trekking
  • Transport: Public Vehicle & Tourist Bus
  • Food: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
  • Group Size: 1 - 16
  • Max Elevation: Thorong La Pass (5416m)
  • Total Distance: 160 to 230 KM

Highlights

  • Panoramic Mountains view. These include the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri(8167m), Fishtail(6993m), Gangapurna(7455m), Manaslu(8156m), and many more.
  • Visit the infamous Muktinath temple.
  • Incredible trekking routes with beautiful landscapes and waterfalls.
  • Gangapurna lake in Manang.
  • Explore the beautiful Manang village and its surroundings.
  • One of the highest passes in Nepal, Thorong La pass.
  • Desert like landscapes and traditional houses.
  • Visit one of the oldest monasteries in Braga.
  • A scenic drive with beautiful views.
  • Explore villages with ancient traditions and cultures.
  • Learn more about Tibetan-Buddhist culture
  • The deepest gorge in the world, the Kali Gandaki gorge

Description

Surrounded by mountains and beautiful landscapes, all you can do is lose yourself in nature and its beauty. The Annapurna circuit trek takes you deep into the valleys and onto the lap of mighty Himalayas. It is one of the most if not the most famous classical trekking routes in the world.

Annapurna circuit is ideal for photographers. This trek allows you to experience the typical mountain life, and explore some of the most remote parts of Nepal. Annapurna circuit trek is exciting, adventurous, and thrilling.

The trekking trail is incredible, as well. There are numerous suspension bridges and lots of beautiful waterfalls. On top of that, the sound of the glacial River below makes you calm throughout the journey.

Each year hundreds of trek enthusiasts grab their gear and head off to the Annapurna circuit trek. The snow-capped Mountains look tall and beautiful. One can complete this trek in two weeks. But you can always customize the itinerary that suits well for you.

Our journey starts in Kathmandu (1320m), and the actual trekking starts at Besisahar (800m) or Bhulbhule (840m). Further, we will stay overnight in Chamje(1385m), Timang (2350m), Dhikur Pokhari (3240m), and Ngawal (3680). Finally, we will reach Manang (3520m) on our sixth day of the journey.

Manang is a beautiful village. It is surrounded by hills and Mountains. After a proper acclimatization day at Manang, we will head towards Ledar (4200m). Trekking from Ledar to Phedi (4660m) or High camp (4880m) includes beautiful scenarios all around. The rocky trail might look tiring, but the actual experience is incredible.

We cross Thorong La Pass (5416m) and reach Muktinath (3710m) on our tenth day. After that, we will stay in Marpha(2800m) and Tatopani(1200m) before finally reaching Pokhara(900m). Our incredible journey ends once we reach Kathmandu.

Read the full guide if you are planning for Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days?  

Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits

Two permits are required for this trek.  The first one is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

  • $30 for tourists from a Non-SAARC country
  • $10 for tourists from a SAARC country
  • $1 for Nepali
  • Free for below 10 years

Another one is the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card.

  • $20 for individual & $10 for group trekkers.
  • $6 for individual & $3 for group trekkers per entry for SAARC countries. 

How is the accommodation in Annapurna Circuit Area? 

Since the Annapurna circuit trek is one of the most famous trekkings in the world, there are plenty of accommodations in this route. It is a tea house trekking. Which means you basically trek from one tea house to another.

However, the route becomes crowded during peak trekking seasons. Hence, all the tea houses and lodges tend to be full. Pre-booking is necessary, and if you are trekking with a guide, he/she will manage it for you.

What kind of foods and drink do we get while trekking to Annapurna Circuit?


You can find plenty of food options in this trekking route. The tea houses serve a hygienic and good meal. Dal Bhat curry (Rice with lentil soup and curry) is the most popular food option. But you can get fried rice, eggs, noodles, pizzas, sizzlers, Yak steak, Yak  Burger and many more. 

There are many bakeries, as well. There are around 4 bakeries in Manang. The locally-made bread tastes delicious. And there are one or two bakeries ahead of Manang also.

You can get tea, coffee, hot chocolate, juice, soup, and more as a drinking menu. Alcohol is not recommended at such an altitude. You can also find a nice tea house at Thorong La pass. 

How Difficult is Annapurna Circuit Trek?


Now, let's be specific. We will give the Annapurna circuit trek a moderate difficulty rating. With proper acclimatization, this trekking is not difficult. What makes this trek slightly challenging is the route and weather.

There are lots of landslide areas during this trek. You have to be very careful while walking past these areas and we recommend taking at least one guide. Over the years, there have been many injuries in this route. Although the injury rate has decreased significantly, you have to be careful at each step.

Remoteness is another factor that adds to Annapurna circuit trek difficulty. This trekking takes you to some of the most remote parts of Nepal. There are no motor roads, and the nearest hospital is miles away. In such conditions, it will be an issue if you become sick or injured.

What you have to understand is that people get homesick or demotivated in these areas. Self-motivation and positive thinking is the key to overcoming your fears. Believe in yourself, and the difficulties stay away from you.

Altitude sickness is easily the most devastating factor in any trekking. We will talk about altitude sickness and the ways to overcome it below.

14 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

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The first day of our journey includes a long drive and a short hike. After breakfast, we leave Kathmandu behind and drive along the scenic highway beside the Trishuli River.

After about 6-7 hours, we will reach Besisahar. After Besisahar, the road condition is bad. We will take off-road for another one hour or so and reach Bhulbhule.

Our trek starts at Bhulbhule. A short one hour hike will take us to Nagdi, where we will rest for the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 190km /8-9 hrs
  • Altitude: 920m

We are going to see some beautiful waterfalls today. We start our trekking after a lovely breakfast at the hotel. The trail is beautiful. There are beautiful landscapes all around, and the Marsyangdi River flows beneath the trail.

Upon reaching Jagat, we rest at a lodge.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 18km / 6-7 hrs
  • Altitude: 1300m

We start early today, as we have to gain some altitude. After having our breakfast, we then start hiking towards Tal. Tal is a beautiful village beside the Marsyangdi River. The village looks even more beautiful from a height.

We can rest and relax beside the banks of the River in Tal. Then we start climbing with a beautiful view of the valley below. The trekking trail is difficult and sometimes gets damaged by landslides. There is a motor road, as well.

We will reach Dharapani in the late afternoon. We will rest at a lodge for the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 23km / 7-8 hrs
  • Altitude: 1960m

We start our day after having breakfast at the lodge. We will reach Chame(2700) after about 3 hours. Chame is the biggest settlement that falls in this trail. There are lots of hotels and offices. It is also a perfect place to grab some snacks if you feel like it.

Then we continue our journey towards Dhikur Pokhari. With a beautiful view across and beneath the hill, we climb upwards. The view of Annapurna will definitely make you happy.

Upon reaching Chame, we rest at a lodge for an overnight stay.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 18km / 7-8 hrs
  • Altitude: 2700m

We have a beautiful journey waiting for today. The trail from Dhikur Pokhari to Ngawal is beautiful. The trail is also an easy one comparatively. You can see the beautiful snow-capped Mountains and huge desert-like hills across.

The trail takes you across beautiful forests and woods. We continue walking ups and downs before reaching Pisang. Overnight at a hotel.  

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 17km / 7-8 hrs
  • Altitude: 3300m


Finally, we will reach Manang village today. The trail is simple and smooth. We will make a small stop in Braga, where we will visit one of the oldest monasteries in the area. Leaving the magical view from Braga behind, we start walking towards Manang.

Upon reaching Manang, you can see many hotels, lodges, and teahouses. The village of Manang is truly beautiful. It lies beneath a cliff across the Gangapurna mountain and Annapurna region at a distance.

There are a few bakeries in Manang. So make sure to try the locally made bread and desserts. Overnight at a hotel.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 10km / 3-4 hrs
  • Altitude: 3520m

Finally, we have a rest day. Rest days are for proper acclimatization to the altitude. And you have to be in top condition for further journey. Explore this beautiful town, as there are plenty of places for you to enjoy.

You can visit the Gangapurna lake which is only 20 minutes far from Manang. You can hike to even higher altitude which offers better views of the village and Gangapurna.

Khangsar village is another popular destination while you are in Manang. It will take you about 3 hours to reach Khangsar. It all depends on how you want to spend the acclimatization day in Manang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 3-4 hrs
  • Altitude: 3520m

The destination for us today is Ledar. We take a steep climb right after leaving Manang behind. After that, the trail is basic until we reach Yak Kharka where we cross the 4000m altitude.

We walk further and after about 2 hours from Yak Kharka, we will arrive at Ledar. You can feel the altitude here. This place is cold and the landscapes change drastically. There are a few tea houses in Ledar, and we will stay for the night in any one of them.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 11km / 4-5 hrs
  • Altitude: 4200m

After having breakfast at a teahouse, we start our trekking with a climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the Marsyangdi river and crossing via a suspension bridge, after a short ascent up the mountain path on the right bank, you follow a narrow trail across an unstable scree slope and then descend to Thorung Phedi. Overnight at a Teahouse.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 8.5km / 3-4 hrs
  • Altitude: 4660m

It will be our final day in Manang, and today we will cross the Thorong La pass. It will take us around 3 to 4 hours to reach the pass. We start early so that we can reach the pass before a strong wind starts at noon.

The path is filled with rough surfaces and landslide areas. You have to take each step carefully. But the reward cannot be described in words. The feeling of reaching the Thorong pass is itself a magnificent achievement. On top of that, the view is mindblowing. You can see the desert-like terrain in Mustang and lots of white Mountains.

After a pleasant stay at the top and gathering our strength back, we start descending towards Muktinath. The descend is challenging, and you will feel great pressure in your knee. The path might be covered with snow and ice, which can make this trek more challenging.

It will take us about 5 hours to reach Muktinath. Upon reaching Muktinath, you are back to civilization. Modern houses, motor roads, and lots of vehicles are common in Muktinath. We stay at a hotel for the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 17km / 7-8 hrs
  • Altitude: 3800m

We visit the Muktinath temple in the morning and leave for Jomsom after breakfast. On our way, we can see the desert-like landscapes Mustang is famous for. It almost seems like the terrain of upper Mustang.

We will have lunch in Kagbeni. It is a beautiful settlement beside the Kali Gandaki River. Jomsom is almost 2 hours far from Kagbeni. We will walk beside the Kali Gandaki River and reach Jomsom. From Jomsom, we have to walk another 2 hours or so to reach Marpha.

Marpha is a small settlement famous for numerous dishes made from apple. The apple brandy and dried apples are amongst many.

Overnight at a hotel.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 21km / 6-7 hrs
  • Altitude: 2800m

Our trekking days are over, as we will take a jeep to Tatopani. The deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki gorge is one of the major highlights of today’s journey. Besides that, there are natural hot springs in Tatopani.

These natural hot springs are the perfect place to relax, heal, and have a good time after he vigorous trekking. Enjoy your stay in Tato Pani.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
  • Distance: 45km / 3-5 hrs
  • Altitude: 1200m

Today we will drive to Pokhara. There are buses and jeeps available from Tatopani to Pokhara. The journey takes almost 8 hours. The road is basic, with some off-road experiences. Upon reaching Pokhara, we transfer to a luxurious hotel with all the facilities included.

The nightlife in Pokhara is splendid. You have plenty of options to choose from. You can have a relaxing time strolling through lakeside. Window shopping is popular around Pokhara, and you will find lots of beautiful souvenirs for your loved ones back home.

You can also have a peaceful time at a restaurant with a glass of chilled beer or coffee. Another option is a lovely place called Pame. Pame lies at the other corner of the lakeside, where you can taste delicious local fish.

Anyhow, you will have an excellent time in Pokhara. 

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotels
  • Distance: 90km / 4-5 hrs
  • Altitude: 820m

On our final day, we drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The journey takes about 7 hours. During this drive, you will trace back the same highway from the first day of our journey.

You have another option of taking a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu on an additional cost. If you do so, you can explore Pokhara even more. The flight duration is about 35 minutes only.

You can stroll the streets of Kathmandu in the evening. We will stay at a luxurious hotel in the heart of Kathmandu.

  • Meals: No Meals
  • Accommodation: No Hotels
  • Distance: 210km / 6-7 hrs
  • Altitude: 1320m

Trip Map

14 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek map

What to Expect

Cost Includes

  • Airport Pickup and Drop 
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
  • Local Bus Ticket (Kathmandu to Bhulbhule)
  • Local Jeep (Marpha to Tatopani)
  • Local Bus Ticket (Tatopani to Pokhara)
  • Tourist Bus Ticket (Pokhara to Kathmandu)
  • Hotels in Pokhara with Breakfast (Twin Sharing)
  • English Speaking Trekking Guide with Insurance, Transportation, Food and Accommodation
  • All Trekking Permits (ACAP and TIMS Card)
  • Use of sleeping bag & Duffel bag (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed)
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits after dinner 
  • A first aid kit carried by the guide (Oximeter to measure your oxygen and pulse in high altitude) 
  • All Government and Local taxes

Cost Excludes

  • International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
  • Hotel & Meals in Kathmandu
  • Meals in Pokhara
  • Extra night accommodation in Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the trek (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Personal expenses (WiFi, Phone calls, Laundry, Bar bills, Battery Recharge, Water, Shower, and Tea / Coffee)
  • Other costs not mentioned in 'Cost Includes' section
  • Travel and Rescue Insurance
  • Tips for Guides, Porters, and Drivers

Optional

  • Kathmandu To Bhulbule Private Jeep USD 150$ Per Transfer
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu Flight USD 106$Per Person
  • 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu Twin Sharing on BB USD 60$ Per Night 

PRICES & DATES

Trip DatesAvailabilityPrice  
05 Nov, 2024 - 18 Nov, 2024GuaranteedUS$750
11 Nov, 2024 - 24 Nov, 2024GuaranteedUS$750
15 Nov, 2024 - 28 Nov, 2024GuaranteedUS$750
19 Nov, 2024 - 02 Dec, 2024GuaranteedUS$750
27 Nov, 2024 - 10 Dec, 2024GuaranteedUS$750

Useful Information

How to prevent Altitude Sickness Trekking in Nepal? 

Altitude sickness is a serious issue in this trekking route. An altitude of 5416m is not a joke. You have to be cautious when it comes to altitude. 
Anyone can get altitude sickness at this altitude. Level of fitness, age, and gender does not matter when it comes to altitude sickness. People may find it hard to breathe at around 4000m.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

  • Headache
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Rapid heartbeat

If you see even a small sign and symptom, you have to take action. If you get altitude sickness while walking, descend asap if you can. If not, call for help. If you can descend by yourself, get to a lower altitude and catch your breath.

And if you think you can ascend, do it at a uniform and slow pace. Rest every few steps. But you should never overdo things. It might get worse. So, if you need another day for acclimatization, take it.

You can find different medicines for altitude sickness in Kathmandu. Diamox is one of them. It is available without prescriptions. 

But our suggestion is that you know about your body beforehand. Visit your doctor and make sure you are okay before going on such trips.

What are other side trips to Annapurna Circuit Trek?

There are numerous side trips you can make during this trek. Of course, you need to change the above-mentioned itinerary for any of these side trips. 

You can visit the world’s highest lake, Tilicho lake during this trip. It will add another 2 days to your journey. Tilicho trek is another beautiful trek with majestic views of the mountains and the pristine blue lake. Find the outline itinerary for Annapurna Circuit Trek and Tilicho Lake

You can visit Poon hill and Ghandruk from Tatopani. Many trekkers prefer this route rather than driving to Pokhara from Tatopani. Poon hill is a photographer’s paradise. Are you planning for Annapurna Circuit Trek and Poonhill? 

Upper Mustang is another option as a side trip during this journey. But I suggest you make a different trip to the upper Mustang. This place has another level of beauty. Also Read: Annapurna Circuit Trek and Upper Mustang itinerary

You can visit the Annapurna base camp. It is another heaven on earth. This trek takes you to the lap of the mighty Annapurna mountain and Fishtail mountain. You will have a magical 360 panoramic view of the Mountains. Do you need help planning your trip to Annapurna Circuit Trek and Annapurna Base Camp? Contact us

Last but not least, Nar Phu Valleylies in the remote area of the Manang District. This is one of the biggest reasons why this region has preserved its centuries-old customs and traditions. The trekking trails are also fresh making the trek a delight for anyone looking to be amazed by the wilderness of nature. 

What kind of weather you should expect in Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Weather in this route can be unpredictable. It might snow, even if it is not the season for snowfall. Make sure you keep an eye on the weather and listen to the locals. They have the most experience with this route than others.

Temperature and weather also depend on which season you visit. 

When is the Best Time to go to Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Autumn Season (Mid-September to November)

15 degrees Celsius as average temperature and 6-8 degrees as the minimum temperature in lower altitudes. The temperature reaches minus degrees at the altitude above 4000m. 


Spring Season (March to May)

The temperature in spring is similar to that in autumn. The average temperature is around 12 degrees in lower altitudes. The nights are colder at about 6 degrees. It gets to freezing point at the altitude above 4000m.


Summer Season (May to September) 

There will be chances of heavy rainfall during the summer season. So it is not recommended for trekking. During the day, the temperature can reach up to 22 degrees and the minimum temperature stays around 10 degrees at night. Higher altitude gets much colder. 


Winter Season (December to February)

It is almost impossible to reach Thorong La pass in winter. The temperature at higher altitude reaches negative reading even during the day. The lower regions can have an average temperature of 5 degrees in the day and minus degrees at night.

Should we plan Annapurna Circuit Trek Solo or With Guide? 

This trek is doable without a guide. There are plenty of accommodations and rest stops that attract hundreds of solo trekkers each year. But I highly recommend taking a guide with you if you want to enjoy this trek even more. A guide can be your ultimate friend during this trek. You need a friend to chat within such a remote area. You can share your pain and pleasure with a guide. 

Another reason to take a guide with you is accommodation. Like I have mentioned earlier, this route gets crowded during peak seasons. Therefore it might be difficult to find proper accommodation if you are trekking alone or in a group without a guide. 
A guide will pre-book the accommodations you will have a proper space to rest after a long and tiring day. 

An experienced guide knows the best places for a stay, and rest in between the trek. You will find the best places for the lovely photographs. A guide will take you through the safest tracks as well.

A proper guide can manage lots of your needs in a short period of time. Besides these, you need to take a bus or a jeep in this trekking. It can be tricky sometimes.

However, you do not need to worry about finding a guide or porter if you book this trip with us. We have the best guides in our team, and we will manage everything for you. 

Contact us for any further information. 

Do we need Travel Insurance for Annapurna Circuit Trek? 

We highly recommend getting travel insurance this trek. In fact, travel insurance is important for all kinds of trips or treks. Annapurna circuit trek takes you to a high altitude. Walking at such an altitude always has some risk factors involved. There are possibilities of altitude sickness, allergies, other acute illnesses, injuries, and many more. We suggest you get international travel insurance that covers emergency helicopter evacuation up to 6000m. Do this insurance with a trusted and proper insurance company in your country.

Top Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Annapurna Circuit 

1. Are Trekking Gears Necessary for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The highest point in this trek is the Thorong La Pass. Since there are no hard climbs and challenging Mountains, you do not need high-end trekking gears for this trek.

All you need are proper trekking boots, trekking poles, proper clothing, medics, and other basic accessories. It would not hurt to carry a pair of crampons with you. But this trek does not require it.

2. Is Upper Mustang a Destination during Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Even though we touch most parts of the lower Mustang, we do not touch the upper Mustang areas. The upper Mustang trail separates from Kagbeni.

3. What Level of Fitness Do I need for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Super fitness is not required for this trek. You have to be moderately fit and should have good stamina.

4. Is pre-hiking necessary for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Pre-hiking is always better. Although it is not compulsory, maintaining fitness is better. I suggest you get involved in cardiac and other basic exercises. You can go cycling or swimming. Small hiking before this trek can be better.

5. Is there Wifi and other network services?

You can get free wifi in most accommodations until Manang. And there is a telecom tower at Manang. Because of it, you will have proper network services in Manang.

But the same cannot be said after you leave Manang. The wifi might cost you some money, and it might not be available in a proper manner.

6. How can I charge My devices in Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Well, this one can get tricky. Like I mentioned earlier, you will have no problem until you reach Manang. But after that, charging may cost you some money. Your guide might manage to get it for free.

Still, I think packing a high-power portable charger is a must. 

7. Is Hot Shower Available in the Route?

Showering can be important for many. There are hotels with proper hot showers until Manang. After Manang, it is rare to get a hot shower for free or a hot shower at all.

I suggest you pack baby wipes to maintain your hygiene.

8. Can I get a VISA on Arrival in Nepal?

Yes, you can get a visa upon arriving at the international airport in Nepal. 

  • USD 30 for 15 days
  • USD 50 for 30 days
  • USD 125 for 90 days

9. Are There ATMs in Annapurna Circuit Trek?

You will find ATMs from all of the banks in Besisahar. After Besisahar, there are one or two ATMs in the route but most of the time the ATMs stay out of order. I suggest you withdraw enough cash in Besisahar.

10. How has the 2015 Earthquake affected Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Luckily, Annapurna Circuit did not suffer any damage from the devastating earthquake that occurred in 2015. Neither the accommodations nor the route was damaged by this earthquake. 

Tips for Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Stay hydrated at all times. Dehydration is one of the most vital issues while trekking. Make sure you drink enough water throughout the journey. 
  • You should carry enough Nepali money in cash. Carry some extras, as well.
  • Never keep all your money in the same pocket or wallet. Divide your money and keep them separately. You should always be ready for worst-case scenarios,
  • You should pack wisely. Never overpack, and try to keep your packing list to basics. Pack all the required materials but no more than you can handle.
  • Keep a good relationship with your guide and porter. It will be highly beneficial.
  • Pack a proper sleeping bag with at least -10 degrees rating.
  • Maintain your hygiene. It is the most important thing that people tend to forget. You should not risk getting ill or infections.
  • You should rest more often. Many trekkers overdo their trekking and end up regretting later. Always walk at your own pace and maintain a uniform walking speed. 
  • Make sure your body is acclimatized properly.
  • Keep a sharp eye to the weather and surroundings.
  • Make friends.
  • Keep the environment clean. There are many dumping areas in the route. Dump your garbage only at such pits. And if you don’t see any, keep it in your bag.
  • Always follow the local and Nepal government’s rules and regulations.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Review  

The most famous trekking route certainly lives up to its standards. Yes, the altitude is something you must be careful of. But with proper guidance and acclimatization, you can conquer this trek with much ease.

Make the Annapurna circuit trek your next trip and you will have one of the best times of your life. You will cherish these moments forever, and find a new version of yourself.

FAQs

What is Trekking, and how it is different than Hiking and Climbing?

Trekking is an activity of walking the natural landscapes (especially the side of the mountain) with a specific purpose of exploring and enjoying the scenery. Trekking is generally a multi-day walk, where you stay overnight at trails. 

It tests the trekker's physical ability, stamina, endurance, and also the psychological capacity. Trekking is different from hiking as trekking is a rigorous and challenging activity, whereas hiking is mainly a leisure activity. Hiking generally ranges from a single day walk. 

Climbing, on the other hand, is a much more challenging that requires various technical skills like abseiling, rope fixing, among others. A climber is much riskier requires specialized equipment, as well as rigorous training.

How many hours should I walk daily?

The trekking hours depend upon the trekking routes you choose. In general, a trek like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Kanchenjunga treks requires five to six hours of walking on average. The duration also depends on your pace too. 

It is not advisable to trek more than 600m altitude in a day. Starting your trek early is key to avoiding the midday heat and arriving at your destination early. This leaves you enough time to rest, acclimatize, and explore the region.

How difficult is trekking in Nepal?

The level of difficulty depends on the trekking route such as Everest region treks, Annapurna region treks, and other remote area treks. It is also subjective to each individual and their level of endurance. A basic level of fitness is necessary to trek the high altitude region of Nepal with considerably challenging trails. 

Also Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty 

Some regular exercise, including cardiovascular activities including but not limited to hiking, cycling, swimming, is a must. Trekkers must have a healthy heart, lungs, and joints. You must start the training regime at least two weeks before the trek.

Is Trekking recommended for all age groups of travelers?

Trekking in Nepal is ideal for all age groups. Trekking can be fun for children as well as for people in their seventies. You can choose the trek based on the difficulty level and suitability.

However, with children, you need to be extra careful in the high altitude regions as they cannot express their pain and fatigue properly. For older people, treks can get customized with accommodating enough rest, acclimatization, and cultural exploration.

You can opt for Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, as it is one of the most popular easy treks in Nepal. This trek is suitable for all age groups with children and family as well. 

Also Read: Top 10 Best Short Treks in Nepal

What is the minimum duration for trekking?

The minimum duration of trekking depends upon the trek destination and trail type. There are many treks that last around 3-8 days. 

These treks are short and specially designed for beginners. The trek journey can get modified by increasing or decreasing the rest and acclimatization days.

Do I need to get some training before doing trekking in Nepal?

Yes, it's better to get some training before doin trekking in Nepal. The training should consist of practice hikes, cardiovascular endurance (aerobic exercise), strength training, and mental strength exercises.

What are the basic tips for beginner trekkers who don’t have any experience?

The essential tips for beginners trekkers who don't have any experience are:

  • Walk at a slow but steady pace
  • Do not rush in your trek
  • Acclimatize and hydrate regularly
  • Pack all your necessities properly
  • Start early on your trek
  • Pre-book your trip

How safe is the water to drink?

The tap water in Nepal is unsafe to drink. The trekkers need to boil their water, use water purification tablets, or bottled water. In high altitude conditions, you need to boil water longer than at lower elevations. 

If you choose to carry or buy bottled water, you should always check if the bottle cap is properly sealed and not tampered. Water purification tablets and drops like Piyush, Water guard use chlorine solution to purify waters. 

You can use any of these methods and drink lots of water to reduce dehydration and cope with altitude sickness.

Where are we staying each night during trekking?

Nepal is famous for the teahouse treks. There are tea houses, lodges, guest houses all along the trails. You will stay at these accommodations each night on your trekking adventure. 

These accommodation facilities provide twin beds, a pillow, and a warm fuzzy blanket. You might find it challenging to find proper accommodation facilities along with the remote off the beaten treks. You might have to camp in such conditions. 

What is Teahouse Trekking Nepal?

The teahouses trekking means staying in a teahouse or lodge every night in your trekking journey. The tea houses offer necessary facilities of lodging and meal and allow trekkers to carry a minimum amount of gear. 

A teahouse can range from comfortable lodges, like in the Solu Khumbu region to a small bamboo hut in the remote trails of western Nepal.

Which are the permits required for trekking? Can I apply as an individual?

A TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management Systems) card is a necessary trekking permit required for any trekking activity in Nepal. Besides that, you will need area-specific trekking permits at varied costs based on the region. 

For example, you will need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) if you want to do the Annapurna Circuit trek permit and a Sagarmatha National park permit for the EBC trek. You can get the TIMS card and other area-specific permits at the office of the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu.

Is Travel Insurance compulsory while you travel to Nepal?

Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all travelers traveling to the region. You must get an excellent travel insurance package that covers both the medical and emergency evacuation cost. A travel insurance package of a minimum of USD 100,000 is ideal.

What if I get sick in the mountains?

When trekking in the remote mountain areas, you will only get elementary medical facilities available or none at all. You can find the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) health posts run by western volunteer doctors at Pheriche and Manang in the Everest and Annapurna region, respectively. 

The doctors provide consultation and services if necessary. If you get severely ill or accidents, then you might as well need a helicopter evacuation back to Kathmandu or Pokhara.

How high is the chance to get altitude sickness? How will a guide help?

The chance to get altitude sickness is exceptionally high in these Himalayan regions. A guide will help you to acclimatize appropriately, which is a crucial step to avoid altitude sickness. The guide can also help you to recover in case you get altitude sickness or with any emergencies. 

How to avoid altitude sickness?

The primary key to avoid altitude sickness is to acclimatize properly. You should not gain more than 600m in altitude in the high altitude regions. Expert trekkers advise to take it slow and not to trek in a rush. 

Regular hydration with at least 5 liters of water is a must. You can also take precautionary tablets under the supervision of a medical professional if needed.

Why is the domestic flight specially to and from Lukla or Jomsom delayed?

The domestic flight to and from Lukla gets delayed frequently due to unfavorable weather conditions. The weather around the high altitude regions is quite unpredictable. 

Lukla airport is also one of the smallest airports in the world. The short runway means that multiple flights cannot land at the same time and can even cause unwanted delays.

Who will carry my backpack?

You can hire a porter for the high altitude trek. They will carry all your luggage that might include your trekking and sleeping equipment. Hiring a porter significantly reduces the weight off your back. 

You can carry a light daypack consisting of water, a camera, snacks, and rain gear. The heavy luggage will get carried by a porter. Some guides work as porters, as well. 

What are the food items that we can eat in the teahouse?

For breakfast, the tea houses provide a regular bread toast along with hot tea or coffee. For lunch and dinner, the staple dish of “Dal Bhat” gets served on the tea houses. The Dal Bhat is highly nutritious, with a balance of carbohydrates and protein. 

It consists of if rice, cereal, vegetables, lentils, spinach, meat, and pickles. Some tea houses do serve a limited variety of western cuisines like pizza, burgers, and pasta, as well. 

What are the services that we get from each teahouse?

The tea houses provide lodging and meal facilities. They provide a twin bedroom with a pillow and a fuzzy blanket. You will have to share a shared bathroom with fellow trekkers. The toilets are generally of squat style. 

Besides that, you will get all the meal facilities in the tea houses as well. You can get all the meals of the day i.e. breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the tea houses. The food might not be fancy but provides you with excellent nutrition and adequate energy for the trek. 

How safe is Nepal for solo woman traveler?

Nepal is generally safe for women travelers. The Nepalese society is quite conservative and has a specific idea of modest clothing. Dressing modestly by covering thighs and shoulders will save you from unwanted gaze on the streets. 

Female travelers should not travel alone, especially at late nights. You should also choose your guide wisely after a thorough background check. If you keep these things in your mind, you will remain safe while traveling in Nepal.

How much money should I bring for trekking?

A general estimate of $25 per day per person on average would be enough for trekking in Nepal. The food and accommodation costs are generally paid upfront and costs around $2 - $3 per bed. This also includes the food costs that are available provided in the teahouses. 

If you wish to take hot water showers or recharge electronic gadgets, it might cost you a couple of bucks more. If you are a budget traveler, spending frugally might get the costs down to $15. Overall, the rough estimate of $25 is ideal for the trek.

Are there any ATMs on the way to trekking routes?

There are no ATMs along the trail in the high altitude region. The last ATM can is in Namche and Lukla if you are trekking the Everest Base Camp region. You will have to use the ATM in Kathmandu and Pokhara and carry the necessary cash along with you in the trek. 

How much weight can one porter carry?

A porter generally carries 10kg per client, and they carry for two clients, which means they can carry a maximum of 20kg. However, it is advisable to reduce the amount of luggage and only take the necessary ones.

How many tips should we give to guide and porter?

The general unwritten but widely followed rule is to tip 15 percent of the total cost spent trekking. If you are trekking solo, the rule of thumb is to tip $5 per day or equivalent for guides and $2 to $4 per day or equivalent for porters. 

For group trekking, you can tip $10 per day for guides and $5 per day for porters. You can also tip as you wish based on the weight carried and the service provided.

What are the best seasons for trekking in Nepal?

The best time for trekking is the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During spring, wildflowers, including rhododendrons bloom all over the trails. The clear skies and stable weather is the major attraction of the trek.

The autumn months of September to November is famous for its soothing climate and favorable temperatures. In addition to these perks, autumn is also a festive season with vibrant festivals Dashain and Tihar falling at this time of the year. 

The monsoon and the winters are generally avoided because of the risks and the challenges.  

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Nepal

What are the basic criteria for physical fitness?

Many people assume that they need to have an athletic strength to complete treks in Nepal, which is not true. A basic level of fitness with good stamina can easily lead you to success in the trails of Nepal. 

Some cardio (aerobic) exercises, including hiking, cycling, swimming, tai chi, etc. can help you gain fitness before the start of your trek. One important thing to consider is that the treks are not a race, so you need to maintain a gentle pace with sufficient breaks and acclimatization. 

If your fitness levels are on the higher side, you will enjoy the treks more and find more energy for extra activities.

Can I do trekking solo without a guide and porter?

Yes, you can trek solo in Nepal without a guide or a porter on many routes. If you come well prepared with a map or traveling a well-trodden path, you can trek pleasantly in solitude.

However, some restricted trails like Manaslu Circuit Trek do require a guide by compulsion. But there are risks of traveling without a guide mostly related to health issues and freak weather conditions. 

Also Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek Without Guide

Can you list out the packing list for trekking?

The packing list for trekking in Nepal are as follows:

Clothing

  • Trekking pants and jackets
  • Rainproof pants and jackets
  • Thermals underwear
  • Pair of Gloves
  • Short-sleeved trekking shirts
  • Long-sleeved trekking shirts
  • Woolen cap/ beanies
  • Insulating jackets
  • fleece-lined jacket
  • Lightweight Sweaters 
  • Trekking boots

First Aid

  • Band-aids
  • Anti-nausea Medicines
  • Sanitary pads/ Tampons
  • Mosquito repellent spray or ointment

Toiletries

  • Toilet Paper
  • Shampoo 
  • Soap
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer

Accessories

  • Cameras
  • Water Bottle
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sunglasses
  • Chargers
  • Extra Batteries

Important Documents

  • Passport
  • Photo
  • Travel Permits

Can I recharge my camera batteries, phone, and other electronic batteries?

Yes, there are facilities for charging electronic gadgets like cameras, phones, and other electric batteries at an added cost. However, the charges are on the higher side, and charging time gets limited. Hence, carrying a solar-powered charger or power bank is a good option.

Can I get trekking gears and equipment on rent?

Yes, you can get any trekking gears and equipment on rent. The famous street of Thamel in Kathmandu is popularly known as “backpacker’s alley.” You can get all kinds of trekking gears and equipment, including sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking boots, for rent. 

There are many gears of knock-off brands that work surprisingly well. But you should always stay away from substandard stuff that might cause you nuisance along the trek.

Is laundry services available in teahouse?

There are a few laundry services available in places like Namche. However, in the high altitude region, these facilities get scarce. You will have to wash your clothes on your own in the sink. You can use a small amount of warm water to wash your clothes.

What is the weather like in Nepal?

There are five distinct seasons in Nepal. The summers are hot and wet, and the monsoons are wet with chances of landslides. The winters are cold with freezing temperatures in the high mountains. These seasons are not the best time to trek the region. 

The peak trekking seasons in Nepal are the autumn and the spring season. The autumn months come after the monsoon, and thus trekkers can enjoy the stable weather with perfect trekking temperatures. 

The spring is when the trails look its best. The beautiful wildflowers, including rhododendron bloom all over the trails and the scenic environment, makes the trek quite pleasant.

What types of trekking shoes or boots do I need to bring?

You will require waterproof, sturdy hiking boots for trekking the Himalayas in Nepal. There are various shops in and around Thamel in Kathmandu that lets you buy or rent specialized trekking shoes.

Trekkers do not necessarily require crampons, but if you are trekking on a snowy trail, crampons fitted trekking boots helps you get past the snow with ease. 

How will the travel company solve the problem in case of an emergency?

The guides and porters are adequately trained and skilled in handling emergencies. The travel agency is in communication with the team leader at all times through a mobile or a satellite phone. 

You will get immediate first aid and all necessary help if required. Helicopters are at standby positions in case the conditions get worse, and you need an emergency helicopter evacuation.

Are there any other outdoor activities besides trekking in Nepal?

Nepal is an adventure-lovers delight. There are many outdoor activities, including bungee jumping, paragliding, zip-lining, rafting, rock climbing, canoeing, jungle safari, and others in Nepal. You can choose the best one according to your desire and schedule.

How expensive or costly is to do trekking?

While the cost may vary according to the trails, in general, the cost of trekking ranges around $1000-$2500 on average, excluding the international flight costs. This cost includes food, accommodation, permits, guide/porter, and other fees.

Which were the trekking routes damaged by an earthquake in 2015?

The popular routes Annapurna Base Camp trek and the Everest Base Camp trek was not much affected by the earthquake in 2015. However, the pristine Langtang and Manalsu trekking region were severely affected. 

The landslide after the earthquake swept away many teahouses in the Langtang region, and more than 300 lives were lost. The quick rebuilding process led by the local community ensured that all the trekking routes get restored and repaired immediately. 

These trails are safer than ever for a trekking adventure. Trekking has since resumed in the Langtang region.

Where the most popular places to do trekking in Nepal?

There are many trekking trails in Nepal. Some of the famous trekking trails include the Everest Base Camp Trek in the Everest region. The Annapurna Circuit trek in the tranquil Annapurna region is also quite popular. 

The Upper Mustang trek, Manaslu trek, Langtang trek are also quite popular. Besides these, many off the beaten trekking routes are gaining popularity as well.

Does my guide carry a simple medical kit for general treatment?

Yes, the professional guides do carry a simple medical/ first aid kits. They are well trained and are adept at performing simple first aid if necessary. However, if the condition worsens, you will need professional medical help or even evacuation.

Do I need to carry a sleeping bag or not?

Although a warm blanket gets provided at the teahouses, carrying a sleeping bag is always a good option. The trails can get busy, and in freezing conditions, a single blanket might not be enough, and an extra blanket might not be available. Hence, a sleeping bag helps you get a good night's sleep after a long day of the trek.

What is the basic equipment do I need to bring for trekking?

The essential equipment you need to bring for trekking includes standard trekking gears and clothes, first aid kits, toiletries, and other accessories. The trekking gears and clothes include waterproof trekking jackets, sturdy boots, waterproof pants, gloves, and others. 

For first aid, you can pack band-aids, insect repellents, anti nauseant tablets, etc. You can also bring other accessories like a camera, charger, power banks, and others. 

Should I bring a tent or a mattress?

Since you will be staying in tea houses along the trek, a tent or a mattress is not necessary. The tea houses along the trail provide the facilities of bed, mattress, and blankets. 

However, if you wish to camp outside or want to trek the off the beaten remote trails, then you might need to bring your tent or mattress as the tea houses are scarce in these remote regions.

Where can I leave my personal stuff in Kathmandu when I am trekking?

You can leave your stuff in the guest houses and hotels where you will be staying in Kathmandu. These guesthouses have a unique service designed for trekkers who need to store their belongings while they go on a trek in the Himalayas. 

You can ask the caretaker to handle your backpack with care and also put up a large and visible name tag on the bags to avoid misplacement. The guesthouses readily agree to store your stuff as they can serve you further after your return from the trek.

How experienced is my trekking guide?

All our guides have been around the trekking scene for quite a while and are highly experienced. They are well equipped with proper knowledge regarding the trails and are quite pleasant and friendly. 

In case of any emergencies, the guides will prove to be a great helping hand as they are well versed in first aid. Many of them are fluent in English and other languages like French and German.

Are guides and porters insured in case of accidents while trekking?

Yes, all the guides and porters are duly insured with proper insurance in case of any accidents while trekking

Do guides and porters have proper gears?

Yes, guides and porters are well equipped with proper gear for the trek. The guides and porters are also provided with special medical/ first aid kits for emergency conditions.

Should I bring my personal medicine?

If you need to have certain medicines regularly, then you should bring your medicines on the trek. Besides that, you should also consult your doctor for any medication that you might need along the trek.

Do I need extra days in case of flight cancellation?

Adding a couple of days to your holidays is always a good idea. The flights in the Himalayan region are notorious for frequent delays or even cancellation based on the unfavorable weather conditions. A few additional days to your trekking adventure ensures that you can relax and trek without any hassle.

What is the visa cost for Nepal?

The new provision states that foreigners visiting Nepal on a 15-day multiple-entry tourist visa will have to pay $30 in fees. For a 30-day multiple-entry tourist visa, the cost is $50. The 90-day visa multi-entry tourist visas cost around $125.

Read More: The Complete Nepal Visa Guide 

Can I apply for the Nepal visa online?

Although most of the tourists apply for a visa on arrival, you can apply for the Nepal visa online in advance, as well. You can apply for the Nepal visa at most 15 days ahead of arrival in Nepal. The things required are the address of the hotel, a recent digital version of a passport-sized photo, and the filled application form online

Once you complete the submission process online, you can print out the confirmation receipt. You can display it to the Immigration officer upon your arrival at the airport and pay the proper amount to get your visa.

For further questions, please chat us online or contact us. We will get back to with answers as soon as possible. 

Customer Reviews

  • We organised our trip on the Annapurna Circuit through Mount Mania. During this process we communicated a lot with Rupak, who always responded very quickly to our questions and put together an itinerary according to our wishes. Once in Kathmandu we received a final briefing where we also met our guide Ganesh for the following trek. Ganesh has close to 20 years of guiding experience from which we greatly profited. He always chose teahouses along the way with fantastic accommodation and dining and always had our wellbeing at heart. He also did a fantastic job at getting us acclimatised to the altitude aiding us in crossing the pass safely and with hardly any symptoms of AMS (Thorong La is, after all, 5416m above sea level). During the trek slight changes in the itinerary were never a problem and promptly managed. We had an unforgettable trip and hope to do the Manaslu Circuit with Ganesh in two years time. Thank you Rupak, Binod and Ganesh for making this trip possible, we will definitely recommend Mount Mania!

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  • I was extremely lucky to find MountMania amongst all the other trekking companies advertising in Nepal. Right from the start, Rupak, the director of Mount Mania, was very helpful in planning my complete circuit of the Annapurna Massif. Any questions I had were quickly resolved and answered by email. This gave me the confidence that I was dealing with a very professional company. Rupak organized my guide and porter Mahon and Naresh, and I could not have been happier with the choice as both men took very good care of me and made the trek an extremely enjoyable experience.
    I would not hesitate to recommend MountMania, to any individual or group wanting to experience walking the roof of the world guided by the excellent trekking company, Mount Mania. 

    P.S Rupak and I have already had priminary discussions about a trek to Annapurna Base Camp next year.

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  • The trek was supposed to take 2 days longer than we had allocated but Binod made it happen! It was well organized and we never had to think about where we were staying or where to eat as Binod had it all organised. It meant we could trek hard and enjoy the views and the experience!

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  • I took a 20 day trip with Binod through the Annapurna circuit in January as a solo female. It was off-peak and freezing cold, getting down to -20 some days but it was the best trek I have done by far. Binod was an excellent guide, he genuinely cared about how I was feeling and making sure I was having a good time. He always tried to take us to the nice hotels rather than some operators who take you to the cheapest so they get a bigger cut. His English is impeccable and he is entertaining and always happy to share stories about his family and culture. I could not recommend him highly enough.

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