Annapurna Circuit Trek

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16 reviews in Google Reviews
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Duration
16 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
5,416m
Group Size
1/20 pax
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking + Pass
Best Time
•Spring (April-May) & Autumn (October-November)

Overview

Annapurna Circuit is a renowned trek in Nepal that offers breathtaking mountain views, multi-cultural experiences, and diverse landscapes. The circuit is situated In the Annapurna and Mustang region of central Nepal, home of the majestic Annapurna massif. This trek circumnavigates the Annapurna massif, taking trekkers through diverse terrains, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and high-altitude deserts.

The Annapurna circuit is a classic trek that winds through Himalayan foothills and over high passes, it traditionally follows an anti-clockwise trail around the Annapurna massif taking through the Annapurna, Manang, and Mustang regions. The trek starts in Darapani around 6 to 12 hours’ drive from Kathmandu and concludes in the Kali Gandaki Gorge. The highest point is the Thorung La Pass at 5,416 meters above sea level. Road construction has impacted parts of the route, but alternative trails provide a more pleasant experience.

The Annapurna circuit typically takes 15 days to complete and the total distance covered ranges from 150-240 km, depending on your chosen endpoints or use of transportation. You will pass through rice-terraced fields, subtropical forests, and glacial environments. Major peaks visible from the Annapurna circuit, including the Annapurna Massif, Annapurna I (8,091 meters/26,545 feet) world’s 10th highest mountain, Annapurna II (7,937 meters/26,040 feet), Annapurna III (7,555 meters/24,786 feet), Annapurna IV (7,525 meters/24,688 feet), Dhaulagiri Mountain (8,167 meters/26,795 feet) the world's 7th highest mountain, Manaslu Himal (8,163 meters/26,781 feet) world’s 8th highest mountain, Machharpuchhare (fishtail mountain 6,993 meters/22,943 feet), Mardi Himal (5,587-meters/18,330 feet), Nilgiri Himal 7,061 meters/23,166 feet), Himchuli peak (6441 meters /21126 feet), and other peaks, although this trek offers stunning vistas of both 8,000-meter peaks and other surrounding mountains.

Highlights

  • Get an amazing experience of the Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft), the trek's highest point with breathtaking sweeping views.
  • Get an incredible opportunity to explore Nepal’s highest Tilicho Glacial Lake (4,919m).
  • Explore beautiful Manang Valley.
  • Explore Muktinath temple a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Trek through woods of oak, rhododendron, and rice fields, and discover the various facets of the Himalayas.
  • Trek through the Kali Gandaki Gorge world’s deepest George.
  • Offers panorama views of Annapurna massif including Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchare, Nilgiri, and Manaslu the most iconic peaks in the Himalayas.
  • Get an incredible sunrise and sunset views which are absolutely magical.
  • Natural hot springs in Tatopani is perfect for relaxation after days of trekking.

Why Does the Annapurna Circuit 15-Day's Trek?

Annapurna circuit is the one of famous destinations among others trekking destination in Nepal. Every year lots of tourists visit in this region. The Annapurna Circuit trek offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion likewise, in this trek, you will climb at an altitude of 5,416 meters Thorang La Pass one of the highest trekking passes in the world for an unparalleled sense of accomplishment.

The Annapurna Circuit trek has often been voted as the best long-distance trek in the world. On the one hand, even if it is long you will explore natural splendor, the beauteousness of the areas, and diverse landscapes from lush green valleys to arid deserts, from dense rhododendron forests to barren moonscapes, the trek showcases Nepal’s incredible geographical diversity, panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs including iconic peaks like Annapurna I (8,091 meters/26,545 feet), Manaslu (8,163meters/26,781feet), and Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters/26,795 feet) and others peaks.

On the other side, encounter vibrant Gurung, Magar, and Thakali cultures as you pass through charming villages with ancient traditions and warm hospitality, explore sacred sites and learn about Buddhist Monasteries and Hinduism Temples, try to savor delicious Nepalese local cousins and experience the local way of life.

Trek usually takes you through the dust road by jeep to Besisahar and then trek from the lush dense pine forests, numerous rivers crossings over steel and wooden bridges, waterfall, glacial lakes, and spot diverse flora and fauna, including Himalayan birds, yaks, and blue sheep wildlife animals walk through ascending and descending valley up and down hills.

At last, we have designed this 15-day trek for all who want to travel and experience the real beauties of Nepal. Hope this 15 days' packages will fulfill your dream to exploring the famous destination of central Nepal.

Are you ready for the Annapurna Circuit Trek? How to Prepare for the Trip?

The Annapurna Circuit is undoubtedly a challenging but incredibly rewarding trek. It requires a good level of physical fitness, mental preparation, and careful planning. Covering around 150-240km likewise, the trek necessitates a substantial time commitment, from 12 to 15 days or more. On average you have to walk approximately 5 to 6 hours per day, while on Thorong La pass you have to walk 7 to 8 hours per day. Here we have mentioned some tips about your physical fitness, mental preparation, and acclimatization.

Cardiovascular Fitness: To increase your endurance, regularly perform cardiovascular exercises like jogging, cycling, swimming, and running. By doing these exercises you will improve heart and lung strength. They enable you to stroll for extended periods of time without experiencing fatigue. Make an effort to engage in aerobic activities three to five times per week. As your fitness level increases, you can progressively extend the duration and intensity of your sessions from shorter beginnings.

Additionally, this workout makes it easier for your body to consume oxygen. When trekking at higher elevations, it is crucial. It might also be beneficial to incorporate interval training into your regimen, which alternates periods of high activity with rest. This gets you ready for the peaks and valleys of a trek, such as walking on level ground and ascending hills. Regular aerobic exercise will greatly simplify and enhance your trekking experience.

Flexibility and Balance: Are you aware that other aspects of your trekking plan are just as crucial as flexibility? You feel liberated enough to overcome difficulties or take large strides with your muscles. You might start practicing stretches for your calf muscles or bowing to touch your toes. Stretching daily will help you avoid muscular fatigue and overcome the possibility of having tight muscles, especially after a long day trek.

Flexibility and balance combine to make your movements fluid and under control. Yoga and other such practices are excellent because they simultaneously enhance both. It simultaneously helps you strengthen your core and stretch profoundly. Therefore, you will accomplish the goal of trekking without being hurt while aiming for flexibility and balance.

Strength and Endurance: The trek consists of difficult terrain, rocky and uneven pathways, and steep ascents and descents. To combat these problems, it is essential to focus on building your leg muscles' strength and endurance through activities like hiking, stairs, climbing, or weightlifting. Incorporate strength training activities into your fitness regimen, emphasizing the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and core muscles—muscles that are required during trekking. These muscle groups can be strengthened with exercises including calf raises, step-ups, lunges, and squats. Additionally, to replicate the circumstances you would experience during the trek, include frequent treks or hill training.

Acclimatization: Acclimatization to altitude is essential for the Annapurna Circuit Trek via Thorung La pass. The trekking schedule is structured to include rest days and a gradual ascent to let your body acclimate to the higher elevations. On rest days, spend some time exploring the neighborhood, going on quick treks, or just relaxing and drinking plenty of water. Pay attention to your body and let your guide or hiking team know if you experience any altitude sickness symptoms. Proper acclimatization lowers the danger of altitude-related health problems and increases your chances of finishing the trek.

Mental Preparedness: Because of the physical strain, altitude-related ailments, and decreased oxygen levels, trekking at high elevations can be emotionally taxing. Being mentally prepared is equally as crucial as being physically fit. To overcome obstacles in your path, cultivate a positive outlook, perseverance, and mental toughness. Long walking days, erratic weather, and possible discomfort from altitude are all things to prepare for. A healthier mental state during the hike can be achieved by being aware of the challenges and setting reasonable expectations.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Packing lists

Head wears: Woolen hats (keep warm head), buff masks (protect neck from coldness), caps (cover head from sun heat), 100% UV-protected sunglasses (to protect eyes from snows), UV-protected sunglasses (keep protects eyes from bright sun)

Hand wears: Glove thin 2 to 3 pairs, glove warm pair gore-tax 1 to 2 pairs. In high altitude areas nobody can determinant what will happen due to small clothing negligence so always have to carry enough clothing for whole body and thin gloves use to keep warm hand from coldness so carry at least 2 to 3 pair’s thin gloves. Although thin glove only gives warm but do not protect wind so for protect wind, need warm gore-tax gloves 1 or 2 pairs.

Upper Body wears: Thermal layers and fleece (thermal layers and fleece means thermal full t-shirt or sleeves which are only have to use while stay night at lodge to keep body warm), quick dry T-shirt (this help to dry sweating t-shirt quickly in a certain period of time), gore-tax jacket (gore-tax jacket use to protect body from cold, windy, and rainy weather conditions), down jacket (it is use for keep warm body and also protect wind and do not use to get cold), soft shell jacket (it is use in Sunny day while walking on day time so at that time people use to soft shell jacket for not getting hot and cold).

Lower body wear: Trekking pants, thermal trousers, gore-tax pants, trekking socks, comfortable trekking boots (make sure that your trekking boots are worn in before starting your trek), slippers

Miscellaneous: Headlamp, solar panels, spare electrical cables, vitamins/electrical cables, batteries, recommend noise cancelling headphones (that you can wear in the bedrooms at night to help sleep), reusable water bottles, water purification tablets, thermos, trekking pole, raincoats, trekking bag, backpack, large and small microfiber towels, bin liners for dry clothes inside, personal first aid kit, Adapter, charger, power bank, dry fruits, nuts and chocolates etc.

Toiletries: Toilet paper, wipes, deodorant, shampoo, soap, wet tissue, toothbrush/toothpaste hand sanitizers, Sun lotion, moisturizer, sunscreen (save skin form sunburn), lip balm with UV protection, etc.

Get the Best Annapurna Circuit Trek Service with Sherpa Summits

We, Sherpa Summits, specialize in crafting unforgettable trekking experiences for both domestic and international adventures in Nepal. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional support throughout your journey. From acquiring essential permits and arranging transportation to handling every logistical detail, we ensure a seamless experience tailored to your preferences.

Enjoy the epitome of quality service at an affordable price with our Annapurna Circuit Trek Packages. Whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure or exploring the Himalayas with family, friends, or a partner, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Our expert guides, assistant guides, and trustworthy porters, are fluent in English and other languages, guaranteeing effective communication and cultural exchange.

Customize your Annapurna Circuit Trek to align perfectly with your desires. Select your preferred departure date, group size, and daily itinerary. We welcome trekkers of all ages, as long as you possess the necessary physical and mental fitness. Rest assured, there are no hidden costs involved and you will receive transparent pricing for your trek.

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with Sherpa Summits. Our Annapurna Circuit Trek bookings for 2025 and 2026 are now open. Don’t hesitate to contact us for any inquiries or to start planning your dream Himalayan expedition.

Trip Gallery

Boudha
Trail Walk 1
Cycling
Thorung P

Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

Kathmandu to KathmanduExpand all
Max Altitude: 1,337m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel 🏩

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our airport representative will welcome you at Tribhuvan International Airport then he/she will transfer you to the hotel. If you want to explore the city in the afternoon there will be enough time for you to visit the city and the rest day is free to explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu, a UNESCO world heritage site.

In the evening, you will have a pre-departure briefing with your guide to go over the itinerary and answer any questions, you might have.

Max Altitude: 760m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Hotel 🏩

Early morning starts drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani by jeep which is located at an elevation of 1860 meters above sea level and the total distance is approximately 393km (about 240km by road). The journey typically takes around 6 to 12 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. This scenic drive offers a mix of rural landscapes and cultural experiences, making it a memorable journey.

Max Altitude: 2,650m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Hotel 🏩

The trek from Dharapani to Chame is a highlight of the Annapurna circuit trek, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The total distance is around 15.7 km and the duration it takes about 5 to 6 hours to reach Chame village from Dharapani. During this trek, offers stunning views of the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges, as well as the Marshyangdi River valley. Likewise, you will trek through narrow trekking trails, sometimes through pine and oak trees, with potential for landslides and crossing streams. The trek is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of physical exertion and the thrill of the unknown. It’s a must try for trekkers seeking to experience the Annapurna Circuit’s unique landscapes and cultural richness.

Max Altitude: 3,250m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Hotel 🏩/Lodge

After departing Chame, we travel via Telekhu and get some amazing views of Annapurna and Pisang (6091m) before having to cross again on a suspension bridge to reach the Marsyangdi River's south bank. We trek through the upper sections of the Manang Valley to Pisang after crossing the river and then ascending through a pine forest. Pisang and Chulu peaks are visible from the higher outskirts of Pisang village. You’re staying in Pisang tonight.

Max Altitude: 3,519m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Hotel 🏩/Lodge

The trek from lower Pisang to Manang via Ghyaru and Ngawal is one of the most scenic and rewarding segments of the entire route. Ghyaru is located at an altitude of 3,730m and a steep ascent leads to this charming village with panoramic views of Annapurna II and IV. The traditional stone houses and prayer flags add to its alpine charm. Although, Ngawal is situated in 3,660m heights, a quieter, less-touristy village perched on a high ridge. This views of the Marsyangdi Valley and surrounding peaks are spectacular. Braga 3,450m is home to an ancient monastery and a great spot for a short break before reaching Manang valley. The Manang is a bustling acclimatization hub with lodges, bakeries, and stunning views of Gangapurna and Annapurna III. It’s the perfect place to rest and prepare for higher altitudes. Spend night at beautiful Manang Valley.

Max Altitude: 3,519m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Hotel 🏩/Lodge

Today is your acclimatization and rest day at Manang, in trekking sectors acclimatization is the most important part because as you go up the altitude will gradually increase so to adjust to the high-altitude atmosphere you need proper acclimatization which involves hiking at a certain point elevation by staying in lower altitude places to avoid having high altitude sickness symptoms. So today you will hike up to the nearby viewpoint and after returning from the hike you will explore the Manang Valley monastery and spend your tonight at Manang.

Max Altitude: 4,150m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Lodge/Teahouse

After acclimatization at Manang, you continue your trek towards the Tilicho Lake, which is located on the west end of Manang following the trail down to the river. After crossing the Khangsar Khola (river) you reach Khangsar village this village is the traditional Tibetan and the last village of Nepal. You endure your trek passing a Khangsar village monastery up to a high ridge on a newly built path. The trails follow slopes and narrow ridge lines. It’s a much tougher day for you to end this section route and after long hours of trek finally reach Tilicho Base Camp which lies at an elevation of 4,200 meters and overnight you spend here at Base camp.

Max Altitude: 4,919m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse

Today you trek up to Tilicho Lake, Nepal's highest Lake situated at an elevation of 4,919 meters above sea level. The lake is popular as the Annapurna Circuit side hike due to trekkers’ crowdedness during trekking and peak climbing season. The trek will be one of the best trips that you have ever done before. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayas including the highest Tilicho Lake, cultural immersion with the tranquil settlement of lush green forest, and natural beauty of the Annapurna massif area. After spending moment in the Tilicho Lake you will return same way back to Base Camp because there are no accommodation facilities at the Tilicho Lake area. Tonight you spend at Tilicho base camp.

Max Altitude: 4,020m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse

Starting the day after a warm breakfast at the base camp, the journey begins along a gently weaving trail that climbs above Khangsar village. As you walk, the majestic silhouettes of Himalayan peaks rise in the distance, their grandeur framed by clusters of juniper bushes and the quiet echoes of old Khangsar’s forgotten ruins.

Off the trail venturing beyond marked paths, the route dips down toward a rustic log bridge nestled between Gunsang and Yak Kharka. This peaceful stretch is alive with the distant sounds of yak bells, as herders guide their animals across open grazing lands under the crisp mountain sky.

Evening respite as dusk settles and the mountains blush with evening light, you arrive at a cozy lodge for the night. It’s a place of warmth and calm-where the stories are shared over simple meals, and sleep comes easy beneath a star-scattered sky.

Max Altitude: 4,880m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Tent 🎪

Start with breakfast in Yak Kharka, then begin a gradual ascent along a scenic ridge with stunning high altitude views then descend to the Marshyangdi River, cross a wooden bridge, and take a quick teak break. After that climb briefly, then follow a narrow trail down to Thorong Phedi-hill foot and afternoon options then you hike to high camp for acclimatization or relax at the lodge with fellow trekkers. Overnight stay at a cozy lodge.

Max Altitude: 3,710m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Hotel 🏩

Crossing Thorung La Pass and trekking to Muktinath is a Challenging yet rewarding experience. The trails involve a steep vertical climb and the total distance from Thorung La Pass to Muktinath is nearly 16.4 km with a steep ascent and descend to the pass and descent to Muktinath. The trek typically takes between 7 to 8 hours to complete depending on the individual’s fitness level and pace. After having Breakfast, the trek descends back to the Muktinath following the down steep trails. The trek offers you the majestic views of the surrounding close snow-capped mountains and valley. If you reach early, then sightseeing around Muktinath Temple and spend night at Muktinath.

Max Altitude: 2,700m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Hotel 🏩

Today, you will drive by jeep to Jomsom Bazaar, which is located at an elevation of 2,700 meters above sea level, and it is surrounded by the stunning peaks such as mountain Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. The Jomsom is a popular destination for trekkers, as it is the gateway to the Mustang trekking region and the starting or ending point of the Jomsom trek. Jomsom Bazaar has historically been a significant trading hub due to its strategic location along the ancient salt trade route between Tibet and Nepal. If you reach early sightseeing and explore around Jomsom Bazaar.

Max Altitude: 8,27m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Hotel 🏩

Today you take flight of Pokhara or drive to Pokhara. If you take flight of Pokhara or drive of Pokhara you gets an amazing morning views of nearly by and there rivers and waterfalls with lovely villages. The flight takes you approximately 20 to 25 minutes from Jomsom. Night spend or enjoy your night at Pokhara city.

Max Altitude: 1,337m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & DinnerAccommodation: Hotel 🏩

The beautiful day begins at Pokhara and same day you will take a flight of Kathmandu. Which takes nearly 25 minutes. If you have enough time do sightseeing around Kathmandu valley’s old heritage sites. Spend night at Kathmandu.

Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy your day in Kathmandu buy some local products as memories from the local market and prepare for the journey of home. Hope this adventure journey gave you so much experience in trekking, see you soon and our team members drop you at the airport from the hotel. For upcoming days adventure treks join with us, we are happy to give you service any time. Thank you!

Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • Arrival and departure time transportation facility.
  • 2 night stay in Kathmandu before and after trek including Breakfast.
  • Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara- Pokhara- Kathmandu & airport TAX.
  • All ground transfers in private /sharing vehicles as per available for every itinerary.
  • TIMS permit (Trekker’s Information Management System).
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Entry permit.
  • Tea house/ lodges accommodations during the trekking.
  • Three Meals every day during trek (Breakfast, Lunch, dinner, and tea or coffee)
  • Seasonal fruit during the trek such as apples, oranges, guava, mango, and peaches.
  • Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and back.
  • Welcome, and Farewell dinner with cultural program.
  • Experienced English-speaking government license holder mountain trekking and climbing Guide and assistant guide.
  • Souvenirs - a company T-shirt & Cap.
  • First Aid Kit with an oximeter (an oximeter measures the saturation of oxygen carried in your red blood cells).
  • Trip achievement certificate after completing the trip.
  • Potters hires either from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
  • Shoulder Bag (should return after trekking).

Excludes

  • Meals (Lunch & Dinner) both in Kathmandu and Pokhara before and after the trip.
  • Your Travel/ Trekking insurance, - International airfare.
  • Tips for trekking guides, porters, and assistant guides (Tipping is expected).
  • All kinds of alcoholic drinks, desserts, foods
  • City guide to sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley.
  • Emergency rescue operation.
  • Personal shopping, laundry, trekking equipment, etc.
  • Nepal Entry Visa fee,
  • All types of personal nature expenses such as snacks, telephone, Wi-Fi, and hot shower during the trekking.
  • Any other things that are not mentioned in the included are excludes costs.

Note:- Additionally, costs might be raised if there are landslides, the worst weather, a change of plan for safety concerns, and other causes such as illness, and high altitude sickness.

Dates & Availability

Sep 2025
Oct 2025
Nov 2025
Mar 2026
Apr 2026
May 2026
Sep 2026
Oct 2026
Nov 2026
Departure Date
Price
Trip Status
Departure Date
16 DaysSep 06, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
Price
US$1890
Trip Status
Available
20 % Deposit
Book Now
Departure Date
16 DaysSep 13, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
Price
US$1890
Trip Status
Available
20 % Deposit
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Departure Date
16 DaysSep 20, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
Price
US$1890
Trip Status
Available
20 % Deposit
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Departure Date
16 DaysSep 27, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025
Price
US$1890
Trip Status
Available
20 % Deposit
Book Now

Join a Group or Customize Your Private Trip

We offer both group departures and private experiences to suit your travel style.

Group Departures: Ready to join like-minded travelers? Click on the Dates & Prices tab to see scheduled departures, pricing, and current availability. Once your booking is confirmed, your departure is guaranteed to run.

Private Trips: Want a more personalized adventure? Head over to the Private Trips tab and fill out the contact form. We’ll customize the itinerary around your preferred dates and can accommodate special requests for your group—whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues.

Note for Solo Travelers: Some trips require a minimum of two participants to operate (see Group Size details). If you're traveling alone, please contact us first to confirm availability before booking.

Essential Information

Good to Know

  • Diverse Landscapes: Trek through lush forests, terraced fields, arid landscapes, and high-altitude passes.
  • Cultural Immersion: Experience the unique culture and traditions of the local villages along the way.
  • Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
  • Thorong La Pass: Cross the iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest passes in the world.
  • Challenge: Summit Thorong Peak (6,144m), a rewarding climb with stunning panoramic views.
  • Technical Difficulty: While not extremely technical, the climb requires good physical fitness, acclimatization, and some prior climbing experience.
  • Unique Experience: Combine the cultural immersion of the Annapurna Circuit with the thrill of a high-altitude climb.
  • Fitness Level: The Annapurna Circuit is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness. The Thorong Peak climb adds another level of physical and mental exertion.
  • Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. Allow sufficient rest days at higher altitudes.
  • Permits: Obtain the necessary trekking and climbing permits from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • Guides and Porters: Hiring a professional guide and porters is recommended for safety and logistical support.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek. While it does not require advanced mountaineering skills but it does demand a good level of physical fitness, mental preparedness, and proper acclimatization. The trek takes you to altitudes of over 5,400 meters, increasing the risk of altitude sickness, although the trek involves a mix of terrains, including uphill climbs, downhill descents, and rocky paths.

Altitude Sickness

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Thorung La Pass carries a high risk of altitude sickness because it takes you up to 5,416 meters above sea level. So the gradual ascent of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Thorung La Pass route makes it easier for trekkers to adjust with High elevation, if it does not work take an acclimatization break and carry on your trekking such as organize the hiking or some other physical activities during your acclimatization day. The altitude gain of each days are sensible and symptoms are monitored daily, including the use of an oximeter so you need to know about the altitude sickness symptoms and preventive measures while trekking.

AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) Symptoms: Vomiting, headache, fatigue/malaise, nausea, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, insomnia, loss of appetite, etc.

HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) Symptoms: Several headaches, Weakness, loss of coordination, slurred speech, disorientation, memory loss, hallucinations (altered mental status) loss of consciousness, seizure, etc.

HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) Symptoms: Dry cough, chest tightness or pain, cough, dyspnea at rest, decreased exercise tolerance, pink frothy, shortness of breath, etc.

Preventive Measures: Stay hydrated, ascend slowly, maintain your pace, listen to your body, use Diamox, get abundant rest, drink plenty of water using water purification tablets, eat carbohydrate-rich food, and do not drink alcohol or smoke while ascending and descent as soon as possible if the condition is worst.

Travel Insurance for Annapurna Circuit Trek

In the Annapurna Circuit Trek, specialized travel and trekking insurances are crucial because of the high-altitude risks and it potential for emergency Evacuation. It’s recommended to choose a policy that specifically covers high-altitude trekking risks, including helicopter rescue, medical expenses, and coverage lost equipment and baggage, and trip cancellations. Most of the standard travel insurance policies may not offer adequate coverage for the altitude or activities involved in an Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Make sure that the trekking risks coverage insurance is not easy to do because some travel insurance covers their high altitude trekking risk with emergency evacuation though the helicopter, death, lost gears and baggage but some insurance does not want to do it so be aware about that and do or purchase insurance where covers all your risks.

Although as we all know that, a foreigner is not allowed to purchase insurance from a Nepali insurer. Point out that, for these facts and purchase and elaborates all the requirement details of your expeditions risks at your origin place insurance company, which protect their interest in case of trip cancellation, helicopter evacuation, medical emergencies, other illnesses, lost luggage theft, disasters, death, and many more.

At last, note it clearly whether the travel insurance company helps to covers all term and conditions as we mentioned above or not. Check the policy of the insurance company which are allow and which are not allow be confirm before doing insurance of travel and Trekking above 5,416 meters. Below we have mentioned some of the trekking insurance company they are as follows:-

For Worldwide

  • World Nomads
  • Generali
  • IM Global

For UK Citizens

  • British Mountaineering Council (BMC)
  • DogTag UK
  • Adventures Insurance
  • Campbell Irvine

For USA/Canada Citizens

  • Travel Guard
  • IM Global
  • TuGo
  • Ripcord

For Europe

  • Europe Assistance
  • IHI Bupa
  • AXA Insurance
  • TCS (for Switzerland and France)

For Australian/New Zealand Citizens

  • Cover-More Travel Insurance
  • Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance
  • 1 Cover Travel Insurance

For Malaysia/Singapore Citizens

  • AIG Travel Insurance
  • AIA Berhad
  • Alpha Global Solutions

Remind that, above mentioned insurance company is impartial a reference which can deliver a policy that covers your medical expenses, emergency evacuation, travel risks protection, and any other unseen conditions like loss of luggage, deaths, theft, so on. Please do not forget to ask questions to you are insurance company about these issues before buying the policy. Some of insurance company policy does not meet with your criteria for the required insurance coverage as it only covers helicopter evacuation and does not consist of medical expenses or any other risks even if they use manpower such Sherpa there should not be gaps in searching and emergency medical evacuations in order to the term and conditions.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits

The following two cards are necessary for trekkers while trekking in the Annapurna region for their safety and security purposes or to collect data and information about tourists.

  • TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) is required to enter the Annapurna region.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is compulsory for all trekkers in Nepal because it is a conservation area.

Best Time to Trek Annapurna Circuit

  • Spring (April-May): Mild temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and clear skies.
  • Autumn (October-November): Stable weather, clear views, festive season, and vibrant landscapes, peak season.
  • Winter (December-March): Offers stunning clear skies, but temperatures can be extremely cold, and the Thorung La Pass might be closed due to heavy snow.
  • Monsoon (June-September): While less crowded, the rainy season brings unpredictable weather, landslides, and increased river levels.

Note: -Ultimately, the best time to trek depends on your personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize clear skies and warm weather, spring or autumn is ideal. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind colder temperatures, winter might be an option.

Food & Accommodation during Trekking

On this 15-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will spend the night at a teahouse and lodges. The most common accommodation options along the trails are Lodges and teahouses and it's simple to accommodate with proper meals. On average most rooms have bunk beds, or twin beds, few have single beds, and have attached bathrooms overall. But may have shared bathrooms. Spend the night in lodges and teahouses they provide a warm place to stay for the night. While trek carry all toiletries with you including toilet paper.

Service in the Lodge: Services like hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging are available including extra charge in accommodation but it depends on the lodges someone may have or may not have Wi-Fi, showers and charging facilities. No heating in the bedrooms, but additional blankets or duvets are available at no extra cost, hot water not available to wash clothes or shower, and the difficulty of drying wet clothes around a communal stove.

Drinking Water: You can either purchased bottle water in lodges (but that the price increases the further away from civilization you are) or that you can buy boiled water that might not taste great and having flavored vitamins/electrolyte tablets is very helpful. Other options for drinking water such as personal filtration systems, use water purification tablets to filter water.

Snacks: Buy light snacks in Kathmandu for the trek. Pack nuts, energy bars, chocolates, and other things you love to eat during your trek journey.

FAQs for Annapurna Circuit Trek

The best time to trek in Annapurna circuit is especially in the months of Spring (April-May) during this season you gests mild temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and clear skies and Autumn (October-November) during this season there will be stable weather, clear views, festive season, and vibrant landscapes, peak season.

To complete Annapurna circuit trek it takes you nearly 16 days. So you should have to be physically and mentally prepare pre-trekking which makes you easier during your trekking.

The major highlighting point of this trek is the Thorung La Pass. Which is situated at an elevation of 5,416 meters above sea level it is harder than as usual trek to cross the pass but even it is difficult it rewards’ you offering incredible panorama vista of Annapurna massif I, II, III, IV, Machhapurchre, and Dhaulagiri.

The Annapurna circuit trek provides the central Nepal traditional cultural experience including Gurung, Magar, and Tibetan tribes. Apart from that it also offers you the mesmerizing glimpses of the world’s 10th highest peak Annapurna I, and it ranges, Annapurna II, III, IV, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchare with several other named and unnamed peaks. Furthermore, you will see its landscapes, flora, fauna, and biodiversity richness of the areas, valley, and the world deepest gorge Kali Gandaki River and several others places captivating views.

Nope, it is not for solo trekkers due to the government restricted for solo trekkers in this region, you are not allowed to do solo trek in this region without guide. The guide is compulsory during this trek.

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