Annapurna Circuit Mobile Network, Wi-Fi and Charging

Staying connected on the Annapurna Circuit is essential for safety, communication, and sharing your experience with loved ones. Since the trek involves remote and mountainous areas, we occasionally experience issues with Annapurna Circuit Network and Wi-Fi.

Knowing what to expect from phone service and internet access improves your ability to plan and stay connected during your Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

Mobile Networks on the Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit passes through very remote areas, which in turn means that mobile coverage is not universal. In Nepal, the two primary telecom players are Nepal Telecom (NTC) and Ncell.

In Kathmandu or Pokhara, you can purchase pre-paid SIM cards, which we also recommend. For registration, you will need to present a copy of your passport and a passport-size photo.

NTC (Nepal Telecom) Coverage

NTC usually has better coverage in the higher regions of the Annapurna Circuit. In villages such as Dharapani, Chame, Upper Pisang, Manang, and Yak Kharka, NTC service is available.

However, the signal strength varies from place to place and may be weak in some areas.

In very high altitudes, as in the case of Thorong Phedi, coverage is very poor to the point of nonexistence. Once past Thorong La Pass, NTC does very well in Muktinath and Tatopani.

Pros:

• Better coverage in high-altitude areas.
• Affordable call and data packages.

Cons:

• In many remote villages, internet speeds are slow.

Ncell Coverage

Ncell has strong coverage in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Dharapani, and Chame. However, as you ascend to higher altitudes, the signal quality declines more sharply than with NTC.

In areas of Manang and Yak Kharka, Ncell works, but is generally not as reliable as NTC. Once you reach Muktinath, the service from Ncell improves to full coverage, which extends to Tatopani and Pokhara.

Pros:

• Wide reach in towns and rural areas.
• Faster data in well-covered areas.

Cons:

• Poor service at high-altitude areas like Thorong Phedi.

Annapurna Circuit Network and Wi-Fi on Route

Mobile network coverage along the Annapurna Circuit varies, with better signals from NTC and Ncell in lower and mid-altitude villages. Wi-Fi is available in most teahouses at Annapurna Circuit but can be slow and unreliable, especially at higher elevations.

Dharapani (1,960 m)

Dharapani is a small village in the Manang District, surrounded by pine forests and stunning mountain views. It is a major stop along the Annapurna Circuit, which has basic teahouses and lodges.

Wi-Fi is available at some lodges, but it may be slow and unreliable. In terms of mobile networks, coverage from NTC and Ncell is intermittent here, although you can typically get a signal in open spaces.

Electricity for charging is available at some lodges, albeit at a small additional cost.

Chame (2,670 m)

Chame is the capital of Manang District, and it is better than most villages along the way. It has a large range of teahouses, bakeries, and small shops.

Wi-Fi is available in most lodges, which usually comes at a price, but the signal is better than in small villages. NTC and Ncell networks are present here, which can be unstable at times, especially in severe weather conditions.

You’ll also see that we have hot showers and charging points.

Upper Pisang (3,300 m)

Upper Pisang is a lovely village with traditional stone homes that also offer up great views of Annapurna II and III. It has a more tranquil atmosphere than Lower Pisang. Wi-Fi is available in some of the lodges, but the speed is slow.

Mobile network coverage is patchy. NTC performs better in this area compared to Ncell, but at times, you’ll have to go to different spots for service. Power is available for charging, although it may only be accessible in the evenings.

Manang (3,540 m)

Manang is a large and very developed village on the circuit. It has bakeries, shops, cafes, and a small trekking stores. Wi-Fi is available everywhere, but its speed varies depending on the time of day and weather conditions.

NTC and Ncell are the primary networks that you will see here; NTC tends to have better signal quality. As a major transit point, Manang offer good charging stations, hot showers, and a few gear stores to explore.  

Yak Kharka (4,020 m)

Yak Kharka is a small village situated in a high-altitude area. It has basic teahouses which serve simple meals. In most of the lodges in the area, they have Wi-Fi, which is on the slow side and occasionally drops out.

Mobile network coverage is poor, both NTC and Ncell do not have any network above this area. You will get electricity which is generated from the hydropower.

Thorong Phedi (4,450 m)  

Thorong Phedi is the endpoint before reaching Thorong La Pass. There are a few teahouses that are the only facilities. They do have Wi-Fi, but it is very slow and it only works at the dining area only.

Mobile service coverage is very poor here or say no coverage. It is best to alert your family before you reach this point. They do have electricity for charging and at dining only, but it may run at an extra cost and is also limited to certain hours.

Muktinath (3,760 m)

Muktinath is a pilgrimage destination for Hindus and Buddhists. In the village, there are many lodges and guesthouses as well as shops and cafes.

WiFi is present in most accommodations, and we see that mobile network coverage is good compared to higher altitudes, which is great news for NTC and Ncell. We have charging points and hot showers.

Tatopani (1,270 m)

Tatopani is known for its natural hot springs. Many trekkers stop here after days of trekking. Wi-Fi is available in most lodges and cafes, and mobile network coverage is good.

Both NTC and Ncell do very well. We have easy access to charging stations, stores, and restaurants.

Pokhara (822 m)

Pokhara is a primary tourist destination that also serves as a base for many Annapurna treks. In this place, you will get fast Wi-Fi, strong mobile network coverage, and all the modern amenities.

There is a wide range of hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops. NTC, as well as Ncell, fully cover the area, making it easy to obtain a SIM card or recharge.

Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, has it all, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. They have fast and widespread Wi-Fi, as well as excellent mobile network coverage.

A wide range of services, restaurants, and entertainment options are available to you. This is the point where your journey begins and ends, and it’s also the best place for you to prepare and relax before heading back home.

Tips for Connecting on the Annapurna Circuit

We have listed out some of the best ways to stay connected on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Please follow these to enjoy the connection on the trek.

Bring a Power Bank

In many remote villages, particularly at high altitudes, electricity is scarce. We recommend bringing a high capacity power bank (10,000 to 20,000 mAh) to help charge your phone when local charging options are unavailable or too expensive.

Get NTC and Ncell SIM cards

Coverage varies by village. With two SIM cards, you increase your chances of a signal in any given area.

Download Maps for Offline Use

Apps such as Google Maps, Maps.me, and AllTrails provide the necessary tools to download maps for offline use. This is handy when you don’t have mobile data.

Use wireless in teahouses

In most cases, teahouses provide free Wi-Fi. Speeds are slow, but it’s enough for sending short messages or checking in with family.

Bring extra charging cables and adapters

Charging options are limited, so always be prepared to charge your device at a moment’s notice. Have your own type of adapter and set of extra cables.

Use flight mode to save battery

When there is no signal, your phone drains more power trying to connect to a network. Go into airplane mode, which will save your battery life. Then, when you see a signal coming in, turn it back on.

Notify your family of Signal Gaps

Please inform your family and friends that, at times, you may not be reachable during the trek, particularly in high-altitude areas such as Thorong Phedi.

Keep your phone cozy

In cold weather, your phone’s battery drains quickly. To keep your phone’s battery life up, put it in an inner pocket near you.

Checkout Portable Solar Chargers

For extended trips out that have no access to power outlets, a small fold-out solar charger is what you will want.

Charging On Annapurna Circuit Trek

Author

Himalayan Masters

Himalayan Masters has been established by travel and trekking experts with several years of experience. Our consultants have travelled extensively and have in-depth knowledge of the region you will be traveling in.