Reason to do Annapurna Circuit Trek / Annapurna Round / Thorong La Pass Trek

• Most diverse trek in terms of scenery and altitude (760m to 5416m)

• Oligotrophic glacier lakes Ice Lake and Gangapurna Lake 

• Ascent Village monastery, memorials, and walls 

• Gigantic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Rage

• Muktinath is the Most popular Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site

• Experience at once real ethnic Nepali and Tibetan culture

• Every year listed as the best trekking route in the world

• Highest pass trekking between the seventh and tenth highest mountain in the world 

Useful tips to make the perfect Annapurna Circuit Trek / Annapurna Round / Thorong La Pass Trek 

• Start trekking from a lower altitude to prevent altitude sickness

• Try the natural hot spring at Chame 

• Go Trekking through Ghyaru and Nawal village for stunning scenery and ascent villages 

• Hike to Ice Lake for Thorong pass preparation and best acclimatization

• Pack lightweight

• Bring water purification tablets or a filter bottle

• Bring a solar power bank

• Avoid the heavy rains and snowfall season (i.e. June, July, August and December, January, and February)

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List of Mountains you see during this Trek

The Annapurna Massif primarily supplies high peaks on the Annapurna Circuit. One peak over 8000 meters, thirteen peaks over 7000 meters, and sixteen more peaks over 6000 meters can be found in this massif. To put things in perspective: The height of Mount Kilimanjaro is 5,896 meters. When hiking the Annapurna Circuit, you can o observe the following peaks.

• Annapurna I Central (8,041 m – 26,414 ft)

• Annapurna II (7,937 m – 26,040 ft)

• Annapurna III (7,555 m – 24,786 ft)

• Annapurna IV (7,525 m – 24,688 ft)

• Annapurna South (7,219 m – 23,684 ft)

• Annapurna Fang (7,647 m – 25,089 ft)

• Khangsar Kang (7,485 m – 24,557 ft)

• Tarke Kang (7,202 m – 23,629 ft)

• Lachenal Peak (7,140 m – 23,425 ft)

• Tilicho Peak (7,135 m – 23,409 ft)

• Nilgiri Himal North (7,061 m – 23,166 ft)

• Nilgiri Himal Central (6,940 m – 22,769 ft)

• Nilgiri Himal South (6,839 m – 22,438 ft)

• Machhapuchchhre a.k.a. Fish Tail Mountain (6,993 m – 22,943 ft)

• Hiunchuli (6,441 m – 21,132 ft)

• Gandharba Chuli (6,248 m – 20,499 ft)

• Gangapurna (7,455 m – 24,457 ft)

Length of the Annapurna Circuit Trail

The Annapurna Circuit is approximately  230 kilometers long (145 miles) however we will not trek from Beshisahar to Chame Part because of the road accessibility, so this trek will be  Some hikers avoid it here because the circuit has been tarred in recent years. Many trekkers opt to complete the Manaslu Circuit trip instead for the same reason. Nowadays, most Annapurna Circuit Trek itineraries are shorter than the traditional three-week trek, which was once the norm.

It makes more sense to look at the number of days rather than the distance while viewing itineraries. Make sure to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek in at least 13 days if you want to do it perfectly with proper acclimatization. A fantastic example of a 13-day itinerary is provided here. It can also be completed in 17 days if you have additional time. Both will enable ideal acclimatization and enjoyment of the Annapurna Massif's magnificence.

The weather of Annapurna Circuit Trek / Annapurna Round / Thorong La Pass Trek 

Normally, the weather in high mountain areas is difficult to predict. In the rainy season (June, July, and August) the lower trekking area gets more rainfall  likewise the higher trekking area on the mountainside gets more snowfall in winter (December, January, and February)

The temperature of Annapurna Circuit Trek varies in their places even at the elevation of the same place facing different directions have different temperatures. so Temperature the approximate temperature of  major places of Annapurna Annapurna Circuit Trek / Annapurna Round / Thorong La Pass Trek are as follows 

Autumn (September October and November) and Spring (March April May) 

In winter 

Best time for Annapurna Circuit Trek / Annapurna Round / Thorong La Pass Trek 

Autumn (September, October, and November) and Spring (March, April, and May) are the best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Trek (Thorong La Pass Trek). both seasons offer blue sky with clear views, absolute temperature, and fewer chances of rainfall and snowfall. Blooming small flowers in autumn and tall big flower trees in spring make the trek stunning.

Winter seasons (December, January, and February) are also the doable season for the Annapurna Circuit Trek (Round Annapurna Trek) which offers crystal clear mountain views although sometimes heavy snowfall may get difficult to cross the high pass of the trek.

It is difficult to complete Annapurna Circuit during the rainy season because the rainy season (June, July, and August), heavy rainfall may occur landside, and floods which make it difficult in lower altitude trekking areas, and white mountains may be covered by clouds although high-flow of water in rivers and waterfalls and greenery all around the trekking routes makes trek beautiful.

Annapurna Circuit Trek / Annapurna Round / Thorong La Pass Trek Difficulty 

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is moderately challenging to challenging. It involves significant altitude gain, varied terrain, and long walking days. Physical fitness, mental stamina, and proper acclimatization are essential. Weather conditions, including cold temperatures and snow at higher altitudes, can add to the challenge. While not overly technical, the trek demands solid trekking skills.

You may be interested in: Tips to Make a perfect successful trek 

How to prepare for this trek?

Physical Preparation:

Cardiovascular Fitness: To increase your endurance, practice frequent aerobic exercises like jogging, cycling, or swimming. Long periods of walking are required when trekking, therefore having good cardiovascular health will help you withstand the continual physical strain.

Strength training: Focus on strengthening your legs, core, and upper body during strength training. To improve your entire body's strength, stability, and balance, use exercises like squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks.

Hiking practice: Practice your hiking by going on hikes or lengthy walks that mimic the circumstances of a trek. To develop your endurance and become adapted to various terrains, gradually increase the distance and elevation gain.

Mental Preparation:

Mental Resilience: Train your mind to overcome challenges and discomfort. Push yourself during training sessions to develop mental toughness that will help you tackle difficult sections of the trek.

Adaptability: Develop the ability to adapt to changing conditions. Training in different weather and terrains can help you become more adaptable to unexpected situations.

Preparation Research: Read about the trek, its challenges, and the experiences of other trekkers. Knowledge about what to expect can reduce anxiety and help you mentally prepare.

How to prevent Altitude sickness?

Here are some important things to keep in mind to minimize the risk of altitude sickness:

• Ascend gradually: Follow an itinerary that allows for proper acclimatization. Avoid gaining more than 300-500 meters (1,000-1,600 feet) in elevation per day above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet).

• To avoid dehydration, consume moderate amounts of alcohol and coffee while drinking lots of fluids to stay hydrated.

• Eat a balanced diet strong in carbs, and stay away from greasy, spicy, and heavy foods that can be difficult to digest at higher elevations.

• To stay warm, layer your clothing. The symptoms of altitude sickness might be made worse by cold weather.

• Acetazolamide (Diamox) can be prescribed by a doctor to help prevent altitude sickness. Discuss the dosage and possible side effects.

• Be aware of early signs of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

• If symptoms of altitude sickness worsen or become severe, descend immediately to a lower elevation. Do not ignore the signs.

• Alcohol and sleeping pills can suppress your respiratory system, which is already compromised at high altitudes.

• If you have a history of respiratory or cardiac issues, consult a doctor before attempting high-altitude trekking.

• Follow the advice of your guides, as they are knowledgeable about altitude-related risks and prevention.

Medical check-up before the trek

This examination includes a review of your general health, cardiovascular health, lung function, and routine blood tests. Consulting a doctor is essential if you have pre-existing conditions or concerns in order to receive individualized guidance and safety measures. 

To provide time for any necessary changes or treatments, it is recommended to get the check-up a few weeks prior to the expedition. 

Documents required

Passport

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after the day you intend to leave Nepal.

Visa:

Get a tourist visa for Nepal either in advance of your trip or at the Kathmandu airport. You will need to supply a passport, two passport-size pictures, information on your accommodations, proof of travel insurance, etc. in order to get a VISA. Following your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, we will process and provide the visa to you.

Permits for Hiking:

Trekking within the Annapurna Conservation Area requires an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

To promote safety and effective management, trekkers in Nepal must have a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card.

We will help you provide these permits, so you can rest assured.

Travel Insurance:

Although it is not mandatory, however, it is a remote area trek of Nepal so buying travel insurance manages unpredictable financial risk and gives protection to travel freely. Travel insurance should cover medical treatment and helicopter rescue expenses up to the maximum elevation (5416m) of the trek.

Packing List

Clothing:

• Lightweight Moisture-Wicking T-Shirts (long and short-sleeved)

• Thermal Base Layers (tops and bottoms)

• Insulated Jacket or Down Vest

• Fleece or Softshell Jacket

• Waterproof and Windproof Jacket (with hood)

• Trekking Pants (convertible to shorts is a plus)

• Waterproof and Windproof Pants

• Warm Hat and Gloves

• Sun Hat or Cap

• Sunglasses with UV Protection

• Quick-Drying Underwear and Socks (synthetic or Merino wool)

• Lightweight Sleepwear

Footwear:

• Sturdy and Comfortable Trekking Boots (broken-in)

• Camp Shoes or Sandals (for relaxing at lodges)

• Wool or Synthetic Socks (multiple pairs)

Accessories:

• Trekking Poles (helpful for descents and uneven terrain)

• Headlamp with Extra Batteries

• Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration System

• Water Purification Tablets or Filter

• Basic First Aid Kit (bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, etc.)

• Personal Medications

• Insect Repellent and Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

• Lip Balm with Sun Protection

• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc.)

• Quick-Drying Towel

Miscellaneous:

• Backpack (40-50 liters)

• Daypack (smaller size for daily essentials)

• Dry Bags or Ziplock Bags (for keeping electronics and clothes dry)

• Travel Adapter and Charging Cables

• Portable Battery Charger

• Camera and Binoculars (optional)

• Snacks and Energy Bars

Drinking water facility in the Annapurna Circuit Trek

While you are on Annapurna Circuit Trek you need to drink 3-4 liters of water as per your physical exercise and body structure  All the tea houses of Annapurna Circuit Trek (Round Annapurna Trek) provide safe drinking water, as well as a mineral water facility which you can get everyone to two hours, however, buying the mineral water at such a high altitude, can be expensive and drinking tap water may not be safe. So, we request to all our trekkers make water drinkable by using a water filter bottle or purification tablets which helps to save the budget as well as nature. 

Electricity facility in Annapurna Circuit Trek

During the Annapurna Circuit Trek, all the tea houses provide good electricity facilities to charge your gadgets and lights in the room. Charging your gadgets may take extra in high-altitude areas. Taking a solar power bank if you have one can be the best option to save your budget. 

Wi-Fi and Mobile networks in Annapurna Circuit Trekking Route

Nepal's local mobile networks (NTC & Ncell) work in most of the area of Annapurna Circuit Trek where you can use 4G Internet. likewise, all the trekking lodges provide Wi-Fi facilities which take extra charge in high-altitude areas. 

Hot Shower and Laundry

There is a good facility for the hot shower during Annapurna Circuit Trek although a few tea houses only at lower altitudes trekking area provide laundry services so we request to all our trekkers bring enough clothes to change into if they got dirty. 

ATM and Bank 

On the Annapurna Circuit trekking routes Chame, Muktinath, and Jomsom only have some banks and ATMs even these may not work sometimes and all the banks do not provide foreign money exchange facilities so request to carry enough money that should be enough for the trek. and also there is no registered money exchange counter to exchange your money with Nepalese rupees.

Nepal Visa Process 

Except for Indian citizens, Every foreigner requires a visa to enter Nepal. Expect Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and Syria all foreigners can get an arrival visa at International Airport or each Entry border. Travelers need to fulfill the following requirements to get a Nepal visa 

• Original passport which is valid for at least the next two months and two blank visa pages.

• The Nepal Tourist Visa Application Form (completed online and printed)

• Photocopies of the personal information page of your passport.

• At least one recent passport-size picture of yourself.

• The completed and signed Nepal Tourist Visa Application form.

• Proof of sufficient financial means.

• Proof of having paid the Nepal visa fee. 

• Proof of accommodation in Nepal (such as a hotel reservation or an address)

• Valid return flight or travel ticket

Guide and porters

Guide and porter will enhance your Annapurna Circuit Trek, providing a well-rounded experience and easing logistical challenges. A local guide is a knowledgeable companion who brings depth to your journey. They possess insights into the trail's intricacies, pointing out hidden gems and explaining the local flora, fauna, and culture. 

Guides provide reassurance in navigation, ensuring you stay on the right track even in areas where paths might be less defined. Moreover, their cultural insights add a layer of context to your surroundings, offering tales of local history, traditions, and customs. We generally provide a single guide for a group size of 5-6 trekkers, whereas, for larger groups, additional guides are provided.

On the practical side, porters play a pivotal role in lightening your physical load. Carrying the bulk of your trekking gear and equipment, they allow you to hike with a lighter daypack, enhancing your comfort and enjoyment. Porters are familiar with the terrain and can deftly navigate challenging sections, ensuring a smoother journey.

The weight limit for Porter and Jomsom Pokhara flight

One porter carries the 20 kg loads for 2 guests which means one guest's load should be around 10 kg similarly if you have backpacks of more than around 10 kg please feel free to inform us similarly Jomsom Pokhara flight allowed 10 kg baggage and 5kg hand-carry if your total backpack is more than 15 kg the airline will charge extra cost calculated in per kg system.

Tipping culture in Nepal

Tipping guides and porters are an important aspect of the trekking culture in Nepal. It is a way to show your appreciation for their hard work, dedication, and the services they provide. Generally, we recommend you tip 15% to 20% of the total trek cost to the guides and porters.

Respectable Etiquette

Here are some respectful etiquette guidelines to follow:

• When going through or entering a hamlet, say "Namaste" (hands clasped in front of your chest) or "Tashi Delek" (in Tibetan regions) to the inhabitants.

• When visiting villages or areas with places of worship, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Respect for regional traditions and customs is shown in this.

• Before photographing locals, especially in close-ups, always get their consent. If they choose not to, respect their decision.

• Avoid intrusive photography in religious sites and during sensitive moments.

• Remove your shoes before entering homes, monasteries, and temples. Follow local customs for entering sacred places.

• Dispose of waste responsibly. Carry a reusable water bottle to minimize plastic waste and carry out all non-biodegradable trash.

• Observe wildlife from a distance without disturbing animals or their habitats.

• Avoid picking plants or disturbing natural formations.

• Practice the "Leave No Trace" principles by minimizing your impact on the environment and leaving the trail as you found it.

Expandable Trekking options

Upper Mustang Extension:

From Kagbeni (a village on the Annapurna Circuit), you can continue into the restricted area of Upper Mustang. This extension takes you to the "Forbidden Kingdom" with its unique Tibetan-influenced culture, ancient monasteries, and desert-like landscapes.

Nar Phu Valley Extension:

Before reaching Manang on the Annapurna Circuit, take a detour to the hidden Nar Phu Valley. This remote region offers off-the-beaten-path trekking, traditional Tibetan villages, and spectacular mountain scenery.

Manaslu Circuit Trek:

After completing the Annapurna Circuit, travel to the neighboring Manaslu region to embark on the Manaslu Circuit Trek. This trek offers diverse landscapes, cultural encounters, and the challenging Larkya La Pass.

Keep in mind that these extensions often require additional permits due to their restricted and special region status. It's important to arrange the necessary permits and adhere to local regulations.