15 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna circuit has been voted the best long-distance trek in the world. The total length of the route varies between 160 and 230 km, depending on the transportation used. The trek crosses two different river valleys, the Kali Gandaki and Marshyangdi river valleys. This Circuit holds the highest point of 5416m at Thorung La Pass which reaches the edge of the Tibetan Plateau and then descends into Kali Gandaki -the deepest gorge in the world 5571m. Most trekkers hike the route anticlockwise assuming that the daily altitude gain is slower which will help them to conquer Thorang la pass easier and safer.

This Circuit surprises you with the majestic mountain scenery, consisting of Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I-IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, and Paungda Danda. Numerous other peaks of 6000-8000m in elevation rise from the Annapurna range.

Trekking around Annapurna is more than just a mere adventure for veterans or amateur trekkers, the best part of what trekking offers is that the experienced and the novice are combined in one perfect package – overwhelming chills at high altitudes and magnificent scenery. Customized itineraries that complement the varying speeds and preferences of the trekkers can be arranged for a 10 to 12-day trip to explore this glorious terrain, where we stop for a moment to find solace in every location passed along the way and enjoy it fully.

Annapurna circuit trek can be customized as below :

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Manasalu and tsum valley (28 days) 
Annapurna Circuit valley with Narphu valley
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Upper Mustang 
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Poon Hill

Challenges/Difficulty :

The Annapurna Circuit trek is a challenging but rewarding trek that takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the world. The trek is considered to be moderately difficult, but there are a number of factors that can make it more or less challenging for individual trekkers.

The Annapurna Circuit trek is a long trek, covering a total distance of around 160-210km depending on the route you take. The trek typically takes 2-3 weeks to complete, and you can expect to walk for 5-6 hours each day. The terrain is varied, with some sections being relatively flat and others being quite steep. There are also a number of high-altitude passes that you will need to cross, the highest of which is Thorong La Pass at 5,416m.

The biggest challenge of the Annapurna Circuit trek is the altitude. The trek starts at a relatively low altitude, but it quickly gains altitude as you head towards the mountains. This can make it difficult for some people to acclimatize, and altitude sickness is a real risk. It is important to take your time and ascend gradually to allow your body to adjust to the thinner air.

Other challenges that you may face on the Annapurna Circuit trek include:

The weather: The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, and you may experience everything from sunshine to snow. It is important to be prepared for all types of weather conditions.

The food: The food on the Annapurna Circuit trek is typically simple and basic. If you have any dietary restrictions, it is important to be prepared to eat simple meals.

The accommodation: Accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit trek is basic, and you can expect to stay in teahouses or guesthouses. These are often crowded, and the facilities are basic.

Overall, the Annapurna Circuit trek is a challenging but rewarding trek. It is important to be prepared for the challenges that you may face, but if you are up for the challenge, it is an experience that you will never forget.

Food on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The food available on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a mix of Nepali and international dishes, with a focus on hearty and filling options to fuel trekkers. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

Nepali Cuisine:

Dal Bhat: This staple Nepali dish consists of lentil soup, rice, and a variety of curries and vegetables. It's a nutritious and filling meal that's readily available in most teahouses.

Momo: These steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat are a popular snack or appetizer.

Thukpa: This Tibetan noodle soup is a warm and comforting option, especially on colder days

Sel Roti: This sweet fried bread is a traditional Newari dish that's often served for breakfast.

International Cuisine:

Pasta: A variety of pasta dishes, such as spaghetti, macaroni, and penne, are available with different sauces.
Noodles: Chow mein and fried rice are popular options for a quick and easy meal.
Pizza: While not always authentic, pizza can be a welcome change from Nepali food.
Sandwiches: Simple sandwiches with fillings like cheese, ham, or vegetables are available at some teahouses.
Snacks and Treats:

Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate bars, cookies, nuts, and dried fruits are readily available at teahouses and small shops along the trail.
Desserts: Apple pie, pancakes, and other sweet treats are often available for a post-dinner treat.
Dietary Considerations:

Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Most teahouses offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as vegetable curries, dal bhat, and vegetable momos.
Dietary Restrictions: If you have any specific dietary restrictions, it's important to communicate them to the teahouse staff in advance. While not all teahouses can accommodate every dietary need, they will do their best to provide suitable options.

Accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit Trek primarily consists of teahouses and lodges. These range from basic guesthouses with shared rooms and bathrooms to more comfortable lodges with private rooms and en-suite bathrooms. Here's what you can expect:

Teahouses:

Shared Rooms: Most teahouses offer shared rooms with bunk beds, typically accommodating 4-6 people.
Basic Amenities: Basic amenities like blankets and pillows are usually provided.
Shared Bathrooms: Bathrooms are typically shared and may not always be clean or well-maintained.
Limited Privacy: Shared rooms can be noisy and lack privacy.
Affordable: Teahouses are the most budget-friendly accommodation option.
Lodges:

Private Rooms: Some lodges offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, providing more privacy and comfort.
Additional Amenities: Some lodges may offer additional amenities like hot showers, electricity, and Wi-Fi.
More Expensive: Lodges are generally more expensive than teahouses.
Other Accommodation Options:

Camping: Camping is an option for those who prefer to be self-sufficient and enjoy the outdoors. However, camping permits are required and camping is only allowed in designated areas.
Luxury Lodges: A few luxury lodges are available along the Annapurna Circuit, offering high-end amenities and services. However, these are significantly more expensive than standard teahouses and lodges.
Choosing Accommodation:

Budget: Consider your budget when choosing accommodation. Teahouses are the most affordable option, while lodges and luxury lodges are more expensive.
Comfort: If you prioritize comfort and privacy, consider staying in a lodge with a private room.
Availability: Accommodation can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It's advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season.
By understanding the food and accommodation options available on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you can make informed decisions and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.

Drinking Water

Water is the most important beverage to have while trekking. One should consume 4 liters or more water daily in order to stay hydrated as there’s more water loss in the form of sweat while hiking. Staying hydrated with water helps you fight altitude sickness and adjust better to the increasing altitude every day.

You won't find any drinking water supply on the trails because of their remote location. Locals rely on natural water sources like rivers and springs, which are unsafe for tourists to drink directly. Thus, the tea shops heat up water and offer it to their customers. While the tea house where you stay provides free boiled water, you will need to pay a small fee of $1 or $2 at the tea shops located along the route for a liter of boiling water. You can further clean boiling water by adding a purifying liquid or tablets if you're still not sure if it's safe. Carrying a water bottle with a built-in filtration system and filtering the water from natural sources along the trail is the best solution.

You can also purchase bottled water for $1 to $2, although we strongly discourage using single-use plastic bottles on the path due to the growing amount of plastic debris in the Annapurna trails.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Required Permits and Fees

To begin the Anapurna Circuit Trek, trekkers need to have their permits that have been issued and alternative fees paid. Trekkers will obtain permission through ACAP and TIMS. ACAP strives to keep the natural splendor and cultural patrimony of the Annarpatina area while empowering the trekkers with the TIMS card for safety assurance. The fees for these permits vary with the national chit occurring per several seasons and the rates are adjustable, especially during the off-season. The purpose of this permit is not only to legally let trekkers use the Annapurna Circuit Route but also to minimize the impact of travelers in these ecologically fragile areas and to conserve these areas to be utilized by future generations.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit Costs

Guides and Porters during the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Regarding high-altitude adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal, trekking along the Annapurna Circuit cannot be overlooked; strategic organization is always in the spotlight, while the guidance of seasoned personnel is indispensable. Appropriately choosing the right guide with previous experience and porter is vital for safe travel and a successful Annapurna trek. As a company, we offer adventure and professional guides along with porters for the Annapurna Circuit Route Trek, which becomes the base for trekkers to ascend toward high altitudes without any stress, thus allowing them to accomplish their planned trek.

In that, through years of studying the Annapurna Ranges, our team of "topnotch" guides and porters has developed a great experience with the trail and local terrain. They know how to help you in your specific situation, though they are usually there to provide you with knowledge. They can enrich the trip with their experience and skills that will leave you with a most memorable hike, from preparing tasty meals and snacks that delve into local cuisines to applying first aid and keeping an eye on safety. Our team is dedicated to continuing this work to better the experience of our trekkers day and night.

Besides the bird's eye view guiding services, we also allow trekkers in their vehicle rental services, which are different from other rental vehicle services because trekkers require unique rental vehicles for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. By maintaining our transport fleet in good condition and employing experienced drivers acquainted with mountain peaks and curve-ridden roads, we strive to provide a safe and convenient delivery service for trekkers, eliminating the hassle and lateness. We will be your companion on the hike to the Annapurna circuit or by exploring other Himalayan treasures in Nepal.

Our company strives to ensure the traveler's safety, skilled guidance, and unique hospitality to make it a trekking experience unrivaled in its caliber.

Note: A porter will be provided for each of the two Trekkers.

Qualities to Consider When Hiring a Guide and Porter

Choosing the Annapurna Circuit Trek guide who meets all the qualifications is paramount to having a safe and amazing trip. Thus, we offer guides and porters who are excellent in the following areas.

• Government-licensed professionalism: Prefer a guide who is licensed by the government. Their permit proves they adhere to the sector's standards and regulations.

• Extensive trekking experience: Identify guides who have previously taken hikers around the Anapurna Circuit; therefore, they are deficient in difficulty levels.

• Comprehensive knowledge of routes and local culture: Select a representative who is fluent both with the climbing routes and with the local cultural heritage and the traditions related to the people of the communities that lie across the track.

• Understanding local history and mythology: Find people who can tell dumb tales and funny incidents about the sites and villages along the trek and do them justice by making them sound interesting.

• Seasonal expertise: The rider should have a guide aware of seasonal changes and the possibility of sudden difficulties along the way. This will allow the rider to adapt and prepare to face those changes.

• Proficiency in trail navigation: Make certain that your guide is skillful in leading you through all the Annapurna Circuit trial networks, which does not lead you to get lost on the wrong track.

• First-aid training: Prefer guides who are qualified for first aid and prepared for any medical emergencies that could occur on the trek. The main focus will be on rescuing trekkers.

• Emergency response experience: Select tour guides who are experts in handling emergencies, prove their capabilities to stay cool-headed amid unexpected challenges, and take adequate and effective measures when stuck in an emergency.

Some Qualities to Look for When Hiring Porters for the Annapurna Circuit Trek:

• Ability to carry heavy loads: It's important to find porters who demonstrate strong muscles and stamina and can bear any weight between 20 and 25 kilograms, which could encompass backpacks and equipment since they will be shouldering the luggage.

• Capacity to handle multiple clients: Allocate the workload that each porter shall handle with the amount of 2 clients' bags to ensure that the porter is not overburdened and that efficient group trekking is guaranteed.

• Helpful and sincere demeanor: Proficiency in English may not be a prerequisite, resort to hiring porters who display an excellently communicative and caring attitude, for them to be the positive segments through which your customers get to enjoy their trips fully from their sincere and helpful nature.

• Strong people-handling skills: Look for guides with finesse in handling people. This is mostly needed at the Circuit Trek to Annapurna because the guide is required to be effective at tasks like accommodating clients' luggage and ensuring that they are as comfortable and safe as possible throughout the journey. 

• Familiarity with local language and culture: Consider using porters who may communicate in the local languages and are conversant with local customs. The individuals will have a vital role in acting as intermediaries between the visitors and the locals, facilitating smooth communication and interaction between the two groups. Thus, the cultural exchange will be enhanced, and communication among the other members will be effective.

• Qualifications and experience: Stress that the trekkers must hire licensed and experienced porters for the Annapurna Circuit Trek since they know the path well and are positively experienced, which can ensure a safe and successful journey for you.

By focusing on the essential aspects of competency and reliability while hiring porters for the Annapurna Circuit trail, trekkers can be highly entertained and enjoy majestic views of the Himalayas in the company of useful ones.

Best Time for a Round Trek for Annapurna

The Annapurna Circuit trek turns out to be an adventurous trip through the scenic Annapurna region, and the number of seasons is a very determining factor for the quality of the experience. It has been known by trekkers that Spring is their preferred season for trekking due to fair weather and magnificent flower blooming which usually lasts for three months from March through May. On the way, they find rhododendron-covered trails that make the scenery of the trekking route even more incredible. For mild temperatures, clear skies, and monsoon rains, the trekking is enjoyable and safe, while the local cultural festival in the area enhances the knowledge of the traditions and customs.

The autumn journey of the Annapurna Circuit is another best season that might as well be considered while planning the trek. Here, trekkers get fresh air, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making this time perfect for them to conquer the circuit trek, which is rough. The non-existence of monsoon rains reduces the risk of landslides, thus making the trail conditions safer for trekkers. The autumn landscape is also decorated with colorful leaves of red, yellow, brown, and orange, which enhance the beauty of the Annapurna range even more and offer excellent views of the scenery and the surrounding peaks.

Spring and autumn are amazing for trekkers who want to get deep into the Annapurna region's unknown nature and vivid culture. By undertaking the circuit trail during the period of colorful spring bloom or at the time of the incredible display of autumn leaves, each season gives you a new and memorable trekking experience. The trekkers find comfort and friendship in the tea houses scattered along the trails, where they can rest well and enjoy Nepalese people's hospitality. After all, whatever the chosen season for the Annapurna Circuit trek will turn into a transforming experience, encountering wonderful landscapes and cultural encounters and keeping in your memory hiking this iconic trail circuit path.