Annapurna Circuit Trek

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

The best time for Annapurna Circuit trekking is when the weather is good and there is little precipitation during spring (March, April, and May). This season is indicated by mild temperatures, clear skies, and blooming vegetation throughout the year.

Another good time to visit the Annapurna Circuit Trek is autumn (September to November). Autumn is the most preferred time for trekking because of the favourable weather, clear visibility, and comparatively low traffic.

It is advised not to visit during the monsoon season because of the heavy rains, landslides, and low visibility from June to August.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Experience

Although prior trekking experience is preferred, it is optional to have done high-altitude treks before. The Annapurna Circuit Trek involves hiking through different landscapes with steep slopes, surfaces ranging from rocks to gravel, and suspension bridges.

Notably, a certain degree of flexibility and morale can go a long way toward completing the trek. For newcomers to trekking, it is recommended to use the tour services or hire a porter to carry your belongings, making the journey more exciting and accessible.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Weather

The weather in the Annapurna region may change occasionally and even during the day.

The climate is typically mild, with daytime temperatures averaging between 10°C and 20°C in spring and autumn and cooler temperatures, even freezing at times, at night, especially at higher altitudes.

You can expect temporary climate changes and pack the proper clothing and equipment for rain, snow, and wind.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is moderately difficult due to its altitude, which reaches 5,416m at Thorong La Pass. Altitude sickness is common among trekkers and can start at altitudes above 2,550 meters. It may cause nausea, headache, and tiredness.

The walk is moderate and takes about 5 to 6 hours a day to cover 8 to 15 km or more, which means hikers need to be fit and acclimatized because of the high altitude and less oxygen.

Challenges such as harsh weather conditions and altitude changes, steep and narrow paths, and the chance of sudden altitude changes add to the difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Roads on the Circuit and How to Avoid Them

Despite being a popular trekking area since 1977, roads have been constructed in the region since 1980, causing controversy. Only five days on the Annapurna Circuit route are completely road-free.

To avoid roads on the Annapurna Circuit, hikers can use alternative trails marked by the New Annapurna Trekking Trail (NATT) system. Bike packing the Annapurna Circuit is a unique adventure with a different landscape perspective.

Trip Grade: Fitness Level, Medical, & Health

It is an average moderate to challenging trek, preferably for accomplished trekkers or people with physically active lifestyles. Trekking entails walking five to eight hours a day and, at times, at higher altitudes than usual.

Before the trekking adventure, it is suggested that one undertake cardiovascular exercises, including hiking, running, and biking, for at least 8-12 weeks before the trip.

Correct acclimatization is necessary to reduce the possibility of altitude sickness. If you have had any health issues or problems, it is always a good idea to check with your doctor before you go on the trek.

Altitude Sickness in Annapurna Circuit Trek

Acclimatization, or altitude sickness, is a dangerous disease that may develop in people who quickly climb mountains or go to high-altitude areas. Some symptoms that need to be examined include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

One can take measures to prevent altitude sickness, including climbing gradually at slow rates to avoid a sudden change in altitude pressure. One must also stay hydrated, avoid consuming alcoholic beverages, and take various drugs such as Diamox (acetazolamide) when advised by the doctor.

Emergency and Evacuation in Annapurna Circuit Trek

Local hospitals are available in towns like Manang and Jomsom in case of emergencies or severe medical conditions. Annapurna helicopter evacuations can be arranged, but weather conditions may affect availability.

It’s highly advisable to have complete travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency medical expenses, including evacuation costs. Inform your insurance provider about the details of your trek and obtain a policy that meets your needs.

Insurance for Annapurna Circuit Trek

It is always advisable for any trekker to have all-inclusive travel insurance when going on any trek, especially the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Full insurance, including high-altitude trekking, medical charges, and evacuation expenses, should be taken. Ensure you carefully review the terms and learn the coverage and excluded areas. Another precaution is carrying an insurance policy slip with you during the trek.

Special Training for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Although not compulsory, undertaking specific training that targets endurance and strength regions adds to the experience of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Cardiovascular activities like hiking with a backpack, cycling, or jogging can prepare one to endure trekking steeply up the country.

Communication on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

As for communications, most of the trekking trails have a mobile communication network; however, it may need to be more assertive at some distances. The local SIM cards, NCELL or Nepal Telecom (NTC), are sufficient for connectivity.

Furthermore, most teahouses en route provide Wi-Fi with a slow connection or are charged cheaply. Is staying in contact with your family and friends or your trekking agency facilitated by the availability of communication, or is it in the middle of the Himalayas?

Safety on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Nepal is certainly one of the safest countries for travellers. But it’s always good to check the latest update if there is something going on. It is very unusual to be robbed throughout the trekking exercise, even though it does occur. You can leave behind other valuables that you do not need in the ABC trek, either in our office in Kathmandu or at your hotel.

While on a trekking journey, there are specific procedures that you are supposed to follow in the event of an emergency, as advised by the guide. Although avalanches, floods, landslides, earthquakes, etc., are rare, they may happen anytime.

Similarly, altitude sickness is common at higher altitude treks like the Annapurna Circuit trek. In such a case, please inform your guide and follow all the safety measures that will be laid down.

Permits for Annapurna Circuit Trek

You will need two major permits for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. They are:

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
   This permit allows you to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.
2. Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card:
   This card contains information about trekkers to ensure their safety and manage the locality.

These permits are available at Kathmandu or Pokhara before the trekking begins. Ask your trekking agency to help you with the paperwork and ensure you have all the necessary documents.

Porters Versus No Porter on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

If you do not have a habit of carrying a backpack over 10 kg, you might want to hire a porter. Trekking through Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters (17,769 ft) for about 8-9 hours could be a serious challenge.

Hiring a porter not only lightens your load but also allows you to enjoy the scenery and make the most out of the trip. However, you need to carry your daypack, containing your medicine, sunscreen, camera, water bottle, snacks, etc.

A porter can carry up to 26 kg. If you do not have that much load, you can share the porter with another trekker. A porter costs you $20-$25.

Tips on Hiring a Porter

• Do not overpack. We provide a duffle bag specially designed for the convenience of the porter.
• The cost for the porter is included in the package provided by Himalayan Masters.
• The porters will walk faster than you and only meet at the teahouse, where you will stay overnight.
• By hiring the porter, you not only support his income but the livelihood of his family.

Tipping the Guide and Porter for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Your guide and the porter go in every possible way to ensure that you have a comfortable and great time. For their commendable contribution, we suggest that you tip them, although it is not mandatory.

Most importantly, the tips you give, get to them without any cut for the company.

Normally, the rate for tipping is 10% of your trip. But it is much appreciated if you are paying more.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost

The total cost of the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek is $1200 per head, which is reasonable for every trekker. The price is a complete package that covers the cost of transportation, food, lodging, hiring a porter/guide, and other necessary expenses. You must also pay the tips for the guide and the porter.

Additional Expenses

However, are there other expenses you might also have to pay on your trekking trip? The extra charges can include fees for tips, more food, and other items you buy for your friends and loved ones.

ATM on Annapurna Circuit Trek

There are significant towns along the Annapurna Circuit Trek where people can access ATMs. ATMs are in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Beshishar, Chame, and Manang.

But it is advisable to note that you keep a bit of cash with you, especially if you are going to an area where you need help finding an ATM to withdraw some money.

Expenses and Currency in Annapurna Circuit Trek

All the prices for food, accommodation, public transport, guides, and porters are included in the trip package. However, you might need to pay an additional amount for additional services.

To book the trek, you can pay Himalayan Masters in cash or by card in any currency. As there are no card payments or ATM services on the trek route, you need to pay in cash in Nepali currency. To do so, you need to get Nepali currency cash.

You can exchange the money in any authorized money exchange booth in Kathmandu or Pokhara as soon as you arrive Nepal. Although payment by visa or Mastercard is possible in Kathmandu or Pokhara, you will need to pay 3.5% extra. Doing so might not a wise decision.

Note: In Asia, most banks only accept foreign currency notes if they are in good condition. So, make sure you have new notes that are not torn or faded.

Packing List for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Proper gear and equipment are necessary for a comfortable and safe trek. Some of the critical items you’ll need include:

Clothing

• 2-3 hiking shirts
• 1 long-sleeved shirt
• Hooded rain jacket
• Fleece jacket
• 2 pairs of lightweight cotton pants
• 3-4 t-shirts (bring lightweight wool)
• Down jacket (Complimentary by Himalayan Masters)
• Sweater
• Waterproof jacket and pants

Head

• Sun hat or scarf
• Winter hat, or wide-brimmed hat
• Headlamp with extra batteries

Face

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Face/body wipes

Hands

• Lightweight gloves
• Heavyweight winter gloves

Footwear

• Hiking boots
• 5-7 pairs of thick wool socks, plus an extra pair of thick light socks

Essential Gear

• Backpack or daypack (40-50L capacity)
• Thermal bottle
• Water purification tablets
• Trekking poles
• Sleeping bag (-25°C bag is best in high altitude) Complimentary by Himalayan Masters

Toiletries

• Medium-size drying towel
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Floss
• Biodegradable bar soap

Personal Accessories

• Money
• Watch
• Cell phone
• Camera

Extra Items

• First aid kit
• Extra passport photos and photocopies of passport
• Notebook and pen
• Binoculars
• Microspikes or crampons (if the trail is icy or snowy)

Note: Please pack light and only bring essential items to make the trek more manageable. Also, always carry an Annapurna Circuit Trek map with you.

Food & Accommodation During the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Accommodation and food in Annapurna Circuit typically consists of teahouses, which are basic lodges or guesthouses. Although the accommodation is not in any star hotels, you will be staying in good quality teahouses and guesthouses.

During the trek, teahouses provide neat and warm beds, delicious and healthy food, and other additional services. From the teahouse, you can see stunning mountain views while having a cup of tea or coffee.

Local Nepali food

Food on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all 3 meals are included in the trip package. Apart from them, if you want to have tea, coffee, snacks, or hard or soft drinks, you need to pay an extra amount.

You will have breakfast and dinner in the teahouse where you stayed overnight. We will stop in a certain teahouse for lunch, or you can ask the guide to stop by anywhere you like.

The food during the trek is influenced by Tibetan culture. However, you can also have Nepali or Chinese food. You can even order food from the menu in Manang, Mustang, and Jomsom.

We provide one night of accommodation in Pokhara and one night in Kathmandu after completing the trek. You might want to explore Pokhara, so you can visit around the city and have dinner anywhere you want to.

Breakfast at the teahouse on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Toast
• Any variety made from egg
• Porridge with milk
• Muesli
• Corn flex
• Fried potato
• Tea/coffee
• Pancake
• Tibetan bread
• Chapati and bread
• Apple and banana

Lunch at the teahouse on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Dal Bhat
• Noodles
• Potato items
• Pasta
• Sandwich
• Pizza
• Momo
• Fry rice

Dinner at the teahouse on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Dal Bhat
• Noodles
• Veg and non-veg soup and curry
• Fry rice
• Chapati and bread
• Custard, rice pudding, apple pie
• Apple and banana fitter
• Chocolate rolls

Drinks on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Tea
• Coffee
• Soft drinks
• Fruit juice
• Beer
• Local and packed alcohol

Dietary restrictions

All sorts of vegetarian and non-veg food can be found on the menu during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Although, the options for vegan might be limited. The major surplus for the trek is Dal Bhat and curry, which are abundant in nutritional value. It provides enough energy required for the trek.

Moreover, for vegans, plant-based milk, tofu, or paneer might only be available sometimes. So, it might be little difficult for them.

Also, if you have any food or any allergies, please let us know so we can plan accordingly. We will make sure that the teahouses are aware of it.

Tips on Food

• Try to eat fresh and healthy food, maybe soup items, that are easily digestible.
• Pack some dried fruits, nuts, chocolates, and power bars for snacks.
• Avoid any meat items if you do not have a good digestive system.
• Usually, the teahouse owners know about foreign tastes, but let them know if you do not have spice tolerance.
• How tired you are, do not miss any meal.

Teahouses on Annapurna Circuit Trek

The teahouses on the Annapurna Circuit Trek are somewhat well-managed. They are especially better in the regions where the roadway is available.

In the majority of the trekking trails, the teahouses do not have attached bathrooms, although they might have hot showers. You might need to pay an additional fee for hot showers and other services like Wi-Fi, charging batteries, and amenities.

Though it is not guaranteed, we will try to provide you with teahouses with attached rooms.

You can find private and shared clean and warm rooms. Further, during the peak trekking season, if you are travelling solo or as a couple, you might need to share a room with others.

Usually, the dining halls of teahouses have heating stoves to keep the room warm. You can charge your mobiles in the dining hall and spend cozy time with fellow trekkers here.

The teahouses usually provide a bed and a blanket, but you might want to carry your own sleeping bag in case the blankets are not warm enough.

Tips on Accommodation

• Hot showers cost you around $2.
• You are not allowed to enter the kitchen unless you are invited.
• Charging gadgets and Wi-Fi costs you around $2-$5.
• There are no heating or charging plugs in your room.
• It is easier and faster if you order the same food if you have a large group.

Electricity & Charging During the Trek

Electricity is available in most teahouses along the route, but charging devices may incur a small fee. Carrying a power bank or extra batteries ensures your devices remain charged throughout the trek. Safe drinking water can be purchased at the teahouses or treated with purification tablets. Carrying a reusable water bottle is recommended to reduce plastic waste.

Water on Annapurna Circuit Trek

Avoid drinking tap or spring water directly without filtering or treating it. Purify the water with a water purifying tablet (a complementary water purification tablet from Himalayan Masters).

Bottled mineral water is banned in the Annapurna region, so bring your own water bottle (which is also complementary to ours). Drink at least 4 litres of water daily to keep yourself hydrated.

Group vs Private Trek

If you are a solo traveller, you can either join another group or hire a private guide. Moreover, during peak seasons (spring and autumn), private guides might not be available.

Furthermore, private accommodation is available at lower altitudes and during the off-season but cannot be guaranteed at other times. In that case, you might need to share the room with others.

For the group trek, you can have up to 7 individuals in a group. For a single group, 2 guides will be assigned. Likewise, if you have a larger group, you will be divided into groups and guides, and porters will be assigned accordingly.

Why Choose Himalayan Masters?

Booking your Annapurna Circuit Trek with experienced guides, such as Himalayan Masters, can significantly enhance your trekking experience. Himalayan Masters employ knowledgeable and experienced guides familiar with the region’s terrain, culture, and language.

Booking/Airport Pickup

Most trekking companies offer airport pickup services in Kathmandu or Pokhara, depending on your arrival airport. When booking your trek, confirm the availability of airport pickup with your chosen trekking agency.

Support Team

A typical support team for the Annapurna Circuit Trek includes a lead guide, assistant guides, and porters. The size and composition of the support team may vary depending on the size of your trekking group.

Online Trip Briefing

Generally, the trip briefing is done in the Himalayan Masters Office. However, if you need to discuss anything online, we are here to provide you with the required information. Once you are clear about the trip details and we know your requirements, you can book the trip. Then, we will email you the available dates and itinerary regarding the trek.

Starting Point/Ending Point of Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek typically starts in Besisahar and ends in Nayapul, covering approximately 160-200 km.

Alternative Trekking Routes in Annapurna

1. Trek to the Ice Lake at the Annapurna IV Glacier: A five-day hike with spectacular views of Dhaulagiri, Lamjunh Himal, and Fish Tail.
2. Hike to Annapurna Sanctuary: A 10-day trek through snow-capped mountains, rhododendron forests, and Gurung settlements.
3. Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp: This trek opened in 2011 and offers diverse views, including Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre.
4. Poon Hill Ghorepani Trek: A shorter trek with steep climbs, ending in a sunrise view from Poon Hill.
5. Trek to Lake Tilicho: A bypass from the Annapurna Circuit to the highest lake of its size in the world.
6. Lower Mustang: A visit to the dry and barren region accessible by bus or flight, offering unique geological features.
7. Nar Phu Valley: A remote and under-visited area between Annapurna and Manaslu, providing an adventurous trek with rugged trails and Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Booking Procedure for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The process of booking the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Himalayan Masters is pretty straightforward. You can check the availability of the classes and book from our website. Alternatively, you can contact us through the official email, [email protected].

Please visit our site to make your trek booking. Clients should note that the facilities cannot offer cash refunds once they have booked their services or products. However, the amount paid for a year can be used to pay for any trek. If you cannot join, get someone else to do it because the payment is for the same trek.

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek vs. Annapurna Circuit Trek

ABC Trek is less strenuous and shorter than the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which is challenging and long. It is shorter and takes one directly to the base of the Annapurna massif, where one gets to view some of the world’s tallest mountains, such as Annapurna I and Machapuchare. This trek is perfect for those who want a short one with stunning views.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is longer and requires more physical fitness than the ABC Trek. Also, the highest altitude of the ABC Trek is 4140 meters, and the Annapurna Circuit Trek is 5416 meters, which is a lot. Both durationally and physically, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is more difficult than the Base Camp Trek.