Trek Introduction
The Annapurna Circuit trek to most is probably the best in Nepal and one of the best in the world. Also known as Round Annapurna Trek, this classic trek offers captivating and breathtaking experiences: start with beautiful farming villages and Buddhist monasteries, pass through desolate high mountain routes, dramatic deep canyons, and all the main peaks of the Annapurna Massif. There is very heavy altitude gain along the 190km Annapurna Circuit trek route. This Annapurna Circuit trek from Kathmandu starts at Bhulbhule and reaches as high as Thorong La Pass at 5,416m (about 18 Eiffel Towers above sea level).
Our 13-day Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary route to the best of the Annapurna region allows one to get wide views of snowy peaks, including Annapurna I, II, III, and IV, also Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhare. The famous 10-day Annapurna base camp trek falls under this region. Depending on the route to be chosen, the Annapurna Circuit trek distance varies from 160km to 230km. You can finish this trek in 12 to 22 days as it circles the Annapurna mountains.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek from Kathmandu is a rather demanding one and needs a beautiful fitness level and acclimatization as most parts are located at high altitudes. However, with proper preparation and a slow ascent, the overwhelming majority of trekkers can swiftly finish it.
We will just be pleased to join you on this trek that you will undertake, which you will never forget. You can confirm the bookings for the treks for 2024 and 2025. Contact us to know about the Annapurna Circuit trek cost for Nepali or the Annapurna Circuit trek price and make your reservations today.
Highlights
- Best trekking route in the World
- Round Annapurna Trek within 13 days
- Explore the Green zone reaching up to the trans-Himalayan section
- Visit typical villages along the route
Trek Route
After a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule, the Annapurna circuit trek begins. The overnight stay will be at Bhulbhule, and the next morning the trekking as usual. Then, we’ll head on a trek to Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, and finally, Upper Pisang respectively.
Next, you will either trek to Yak Kharka or Laddar after acclimatization for a night in the beautiful Manang. The Annapurna circuit trek map by Visionary Destiny Pokhara displays the clear Himalayas, which keep you motivated throughout. On the 9th day, you will reach Thorang Phedi or High Camp according to your speed and interests.
Reach Muktinath via Thorang La Pass following the Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary. Muktinath is an important center of pilgrimage en route to this trek. Then, trek to Jomsom and take a scenic flight to Pokhara.
Your Round Annapurna trek ends on day 13 with a drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Enjoy the views of villages, rivers, and hills along the way as you remember your amazing trekking experience.
Why Should You Do The Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Round Annapurna Trek in Nepal offers varied landscapes: you will cross-ice passes, alpine valleys, and subtropical jungles before crossing deserts, rice fields, and along river valleys. This Annapurna Circuit trek from Kathmandu lets one get insight into the cultural aspects, local lifestyle of people, and their stories.
With over 50 years of popularity, Round Annapurna trek is well-endowed with quality accommodation, offering up-to-date services like hot showers, wi-fi, comfy beds, and Western toilets.
You can indulge in some shopping and great food at Pokhara and spend the night boating on Fewa Lake. This is also a great opportunity to experience Nepal’s nightlife.
For beginners, Round Annapurna trek is a great introduction to high-altitude trekking. Moreover, it is quite easy compared with most of the treks like Manaslu or Everest Base Camp trek.
Annapurna Circuit Trek best time
Round Annapurna treks are done throughout the year. Nevertheless, spring, from February to May, and the fall season, from September to the beginning of December is the best time for Annapurna Circuit Trek. The reason is that these periods of the year provide a more pleasant weather condition and better trekking conditions. Therefore they are considered as the mainstream trek seasons for most trekkers.
Spring season: March to May
Spring is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit. The stable condition of the Annapurna Circuit trek route, full bloom of flowers, firm flow of rivers producing beautiful waterfalls, and mild temperatures are the hallmarks of this season.
The sky will be clear with clearer views during Annapurna Circuit Trekking in spring. There will be occasional fog at lower altitudes. As it is the best time for the Round Annapurna trek, the trail gets crowded.
Autumn season: September to November
October and November are excellent months for treks since the rains subside. The Annapurna Circuit trek trail is no longer flooded, and days are also warm with great visibility.
You may meet locals as you go on a trek; hence you may need to give way to yaks or goat herds adding to the adventures.
The best time for the Round Annapurna trek is autumn because the temperatures are lower and there are fewer risks from mud and avalanches during this season.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty
Annapurna Circuit trek difficulty varies, but it’s ranked in the order of the most beautiful hikes of the Himalayas. Most travelers with decent health and fair fitness find it quite easy. If you are a newcomer to high-altitude treks, we at our discretion can adjust the optimum Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary with acclimatization days.
Of course, remember that this journey will carry you over more than 4,000 meters at Annapurna Circuit trek altitude, with Thorong La Pass crossing well over 5,000 meters. So rest and rehydration are essential for full and natural acclimatization to higher altitudes.
Altitude Sickness During Trek
Traveling to elevations above 2,500 meters can pose a risk of altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of physical fitness.
Individuals with a history of altitude sickness, those who exercise or drink alcohol before acclimatizing, and those with respiratory disorders are at higher risk. We recommend consulting your doctor before confirming the trek for advice tailored to your medical needs.
Some symptoms of altitude sickness can be:
- headache
- loss of appetite
- feeling or being sick
- feeling tired
- dizziness
- difficulty sleeping
If you experience any symptoms or discomfort, please inform the guides. We’ll adjust by adding extra acclimatization days or slowing the trek pace based on your condition.
Altitude sickness is a genuine risk during Himalayan treks. However, it’s preventable. You can avoid altitude sickness by:
- Ascend slowly
- Don’t drink alcohol during the trek
- Stay hydrated
- Use medications
- Eat a healthy diet, especially plenty of carbs
Annapurna Circuit Trek Vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Although both Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp are treks in the Annapurna Trek, they are two different treks that include different parts of Annapurna in the same region.
From lowlands to high-altitude villages, Round Annapurna has great views of mountains and lush surroundings. Ancient monasteries, the trading routes to Tibet, and the holy Muktinath shrine for Hindus and Buddhists are other venues you will get to visit on this trek. Adding a nicer sidestep to Tilicho Lake is also possible. The altitude of this lake is 4,916 meters, making it the highest lake in the world. There are nice views of snowy mountains and various landscapes in general.
On the other hand, one of the most renowned and finest trekking trails in Nepal is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, better referred to as the Sanctuary Trek. Compared with the Annapurna Circuit trek route, it offers a fair challenge and short experience. It contains sharp slopes throughout, rising through dense rhododendrons and rainforests to great 360-degree mountain views. From Poonhill, you can enjoy the best sunrise views with a village view of Chhomrong. This village is the homeland of the Gorkhas. It is quite a big reward in life to be at the base camp of Annapurna I. Annapurna I 8,091 m is the first climbed peak above 8000 meters. It was climbed by Mr. Mourice Herzog, a French climber in 1950.
Permits
You will need 2 permits for the trek.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
Similarly, it’s strongly recommended to have travel insurance for your safety during the trek. It should cover medical expenses and emergency helicopter rescues in case of natural calamities, injuries, or altitude sickness. This ensures a safe and worry-free trip.
Booking is open for 2024 / 2025
Are you planning a trek or tour in 2024? Find the best prices and book early.
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