Trip Detail Information
The Thorong La pass (5416m), the highest point, is the main perk of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which gives you a 360-degree view of the peaceful and dazzling view. The 300km Annapurna Circuit Trek does not limit only to the Himalayan experience. Still, it provides the view of enormous paddy fields, green forests, and barren landscapes, all of which are educational and inspiring experiences.
Passing through the trade route of India, Nepal, and Tibet and following the deepest valley of the Earth through Kali Gandaki River, the Manang valley and its road further await your admiration; there lies the charismatic edges of Nilgiri and the peak of Dhaulagiri, at 26,795 feet, which is also the seventh-tallest in the world. Though the trek is wild and rural without much access to modern facilities, foreign-styled restaurants, and hospitable service are enough to make you forget the strenuous walk through the route. The hike down to places like Pisang, Yak Kharka, Chame, Bahudanda, Besishahar, etc., is a moment to share as you meet yak and sheepherders along the way.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek can be a short trip if you take a jeep, but the same can be a long strenuous walk if not; no choice prevents you from gathering the incredible trek experiences provided.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty
All trekkers, from beginners to professionals, can participate in this expedition. This trek ranges from moderate to challenging, over 150 to 200 kilometers. It will take 15 to 16 days to complete the trek, and most of the landscape is consistent and quite strenuous. Many factors influence the difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit trek, including trekking duration, altitude sickness, and mountaineer kind.
Before going on a trek, one should exercise and train out a specific way to help eradicate these issues. Exercises like swimming, sprinting, and steep descents while carrying backpacks will be practical before the trek. Additionally, a tranquil trek, plenty of rest stops, and healthy nutrition can eliminate the risk of altitude sickness. Likewise, knowing how to utilize your equipment correctly can enable you to trek more promptly. Aside from that, having the proper perspective and decent body structure, as well as researching before trekking, would allow you to avoid these difficulties.
Best Seasons
Spring Season
There is no better time to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek than March through May. Additionally, the pleasant temperatures and clear skies help the expedition to be more interesting. From Poonhill up to Jomsom, the spring season offers a fresh perspective of the region. Everything becomes visible, from gorgeous views to delightful villages of the Annapurna Region above the clouds.
Autumn Season
The Annapurna Circuit Trek takes on a great feel throughout September through November. The westerly breeze dances the bloom of the terrains along the trekking trail. Similarly, both day and nighttime temperatures will be pretty beneficial. Moreover, trekking over the Ghorepani will put you amid a pine and rhododendron forest. The trip will be much more enjoyable with a bit of rain.
Winter Season
The Annapurna Region will experience a merciless month from the end of November to the first week of February. With temperatures below -15 degrees Celsius, the freezing night will be harsh. Additionally, the winter brings a lot of snowy and cloudy weather to the Annapurna Region. Furthermore, there will be a possibility of both frostbite and avalanches. You can continue your trek through the winter if you have sufficient knowledge and experience of the Annapurna Region’s snowy conditions.
Summer Season
In the Annapurna Region, the months from June through the first week of September will be challenging for trekking. The trek will be arduous because of the constant rain, thick clouds, floods, and landslides from Ghorepani to Thorong Pass. The endeavor will not be ideal for you even if flora and fauna are abundant along the route. Likewise, the nearby area also receives as much rain as Pokhara, which receives most of it in Nepal. Due to the thick clouds and heavy rain, the view won’t be apparent. Therefore, this can be the most fantastic time for you if you want to undertake an adventurous and thrilling excursion in the Annapurna region.
Trek Route
The beginning of the trekking route will be relatively easy to rise and uncomplicated, but it gradually becomes more strenuous. The Bus journey from Kathmandu (1,300m) to Besisahar (1,400m) will be beautiful, and from Besisahar, you will be trekking to Dharapani (1,960m). You will also reach Chame (2,630m) by ascending the trails that pass by the Gurung and Sherpa communities. Similarly, the trial will get you to Pisang (3,300m) after a 5 to 6-hour uphill trek.
Additionally, the mountain faces with their excellent trekking route will direct you to Manang (3,570m). Likewise, you will spend the entire acclimatization day and explore the settlements here in Manang. In addition, the trek follows Yak Kharka (4,110m) till it arrives at Thorong Phedi (4,650m). Thorong Phedi’s ascent will be gradual and challenging. Similarly, after passing through Muktinath (3,800m) from Thorong Phedi, you will trek up to Thorang La Pass (5,416m), the expedition’s highest point.
Descending back to the settlement of Muktinath, Jeep will take you to the Tatopani (1,100m) from this location. Furthermore, you get to Ghorepani after enjoying the hot springs of Tatopani. Likewise, following the northern trail from Ghorepani, you will end up in Poonhill (3,210m), where you will get a beautiful view of several mountains. In addition, you will drive from Tikhedunga to Pokhara before concluding this expedition with a bus journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Meals and Accommodation
There will be a difference between the accommodations in Kathmandu and those on the trek. The five-star or three-star hotel will greet you with one of the most fantastic services in the city of Kathmandu. Additionally, the single bedroom will have a hot shower and a lovely, comfortable atmosphere. During the hike, you will stay in traditional Nepali teahouses. There won’t be a hot shower facility, and the accommodation will feature two bedrooms and a communal bathroom.
In addition, teahouses will provide you with breathtaking views of the mountains and a glimpse into the backdrop of ordinary Nepalese homes and lifestyles. Additionally, meals are available both in Kathmandu and while on the trek. In contrast to the lunch, consisting of Continental, Nepali, Tibetan, and Italian cuisine, the breakfast will come with bread and a cup of tea. Additionally, you will have access to Nepali specialties throughout dinner. Snacks may come in various flavors, including momo, chow mein, thukpa – Tibetan Food, and many more.
Roads on the Annapurna Circuit and How to avoid them
The various highways that now touch the Annapurna trekking routes are a common sight. From the Ghorepani, the roads go up to the Manang and Jomsom. These roads may also serve as the primary sources of distraction for both residents and trekkers. There won’t be any excitement or adventure with a lengthy jeep ride up to the Manang. Additionally, these routes might gradually reduce the number of trekkers entering this region.
Some roads are complete, while others are in the final stages. In the monsoon season, several highways must take a detour because of landslides and floods. Likewise, a different trekking route on the road is available to you. Natural Annapurna Trekking Trials (NATT) enables you to enjoy the trek without ever setting foot on a road. These trekking trials are part of the Annapurna Region’s historical background.
When there were no roads, people of the Annapurna Region would take this trail to get from one location to another. This historical trail will take you deep into the Annapurna region, immersing you in nature. Andres Ruiter, a trekker, and Prem Rai, a renowned Nepalese guide, both assisted in the creation of the trial. Furthermore, with the aid of guides, you may visit village trials from where you can quickly flee from the roadways.
Trek to the ice lake at the Annapurna IV Glacier
One of the great experiences in the Annapurna Region is the trek to the Ice Lake. The ice lake will be at 4,500 meters, and the surrounding snowy environment will enthrall you. Since you’ll be gaining an elevation of more than 1000 meters, this trek will need additional effort. Additionally, you may enjoy a breathtaking view of the Annapurna II, III, and IV from here.
The trek traversing through the Himalayan people’s settlement will be strenuous due to the steep elevations and dispersed rocks. There will be a giant prayer flag all around, and the sculptures symbolize the influence of Buddhism culture in this region. Additionally, from the ice lake, a clear view of Annapurna IV and its glaciers is possible.
The ice chunks and ice sheets cover the entire surrounding environment in this location. Additionally, a smaller lake appears more prominent when approaching before reaching the top of the ascent, but the contrast between the lake and peaks remains gorgeous. Similarly, you may see the beautiful Gompa beneath the icy mountains. Also, you can see other Himalayas and glaciers from a great vantage point.
Mountains on the Annapurna Circuit
During the Annapurna Circuit hike, you’ll see the sky caressing more than 40 mountains. The Sub Mountains are part of the three largest Himalayan ranges, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV will also be visible from the trek. The enormous mountainous panorama will captivate your gaze from beginning to end. Furthermore, on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will also see the Machhapuchhre and Tilicho peaks.
Similarly, you will meet more than 25 mountains during the trek, and another 15 will be easily visible. The northern region will have an expansive view of various small mountains. During the walk, you will come across and be able to see several peaks and summits, including the Nilgiri, Ratna Chuli, Himchuli, Muktinath, Gangapurna, Mardi Himal, Gurja Peak, Nagadi Chuli, Dhaulagiri II, III, and IV, Dhorpatan, and Chulu East.
How to cross the Thorong La Pass
It will not be feasible to rise more than 1,000 meters when traversing the Thorong La pass. During the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will experience the most priceless moment when you cross the Thorong La pass. This pass offers some of the most outstanding views in the Annapurna Region, with an elevation of more than 5000m.
Moreover, ascending is difficult due to the constant slope and snow everywhere. You must be physically healthy and have muscular endurance to trek steadily for more than 6 hours. Crossing Thorong La Pass necessitates a fit physique with flexible muscles. In addition, you should be familiar with the gear you’ll be utilizing while trekking.
Additionally, by taking breaks and eating meals that will provide energy while you are trekking, you will undoubtedly traverse the Thorong La pass. However, crossing the Thorong La Pass might be problematic with the thick snow, so you must forecast the weather before embarking on this expedition. Overall, crossing the Thorong La pass will be a legendary experience on the Annapurna Circuit Trek that is both adventurous and exhilarating.
Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Trek will be one of the most memorable treks of your life, with snowy peaks and glaciers accompanying you. Despite adjusting from Day 7, the course will be the same as the Annapurna Circuit. From Manang, you will trek toward Khangsar, and after 5 hours of trekking, you will reach Tilicho Base Camp. Within 6 to 7 hours, you may reach Tilicho Lake from here by making a steady trek across frigid and dusty landscapes.
Witnessing the crystal-clear blue sky, the adjacent stone cottage, and Tilicho Lake’s brilliant blue color will be breathtaking. Further passing the suspension bridge, you will continue to descend from Tilicho Lake. Trekking over the mountains beyond Shree Kharka and Yak Kharka will bring you to the Thorong Phedi. The trial ends in Muktinath with 5 to 6 hours of trek. After finishing the trek to Muktinath and steadily rising to Thorang La pass, you will trek down to Jomsom and then travel from Jomsom to Pokhara by jeep or by flight, depending upon the weather.
How to Train for Annapurna Circuit in Nepal
The peak elevation for the trek around the Annapurna Circuit will be over 5000 meters. As a result, winning this expedition won’t be simple. Only you are capable of finishing this expedition in the best way possible with the proper training and practices. It would help if you started your preparation for this way in advance of the expedition. First and foremost, you must concentrate on your body and its upkeep. Similarly, exercise for your heart and lungs, your muscles’ strength, and flexibility will all be very beneficial to you.
Additionally, there will be a simulation that deals with keeping the oxygen level above a height of 3000 meters; this simulation is also called an ascension simulator or altitude simulation. Altitude simulation regulates oxygen levels. This mechanism mimics the oxygen content of the ocean. As a result, your body reacts and performs just as it would at a low or high altitude. Using this technique, you can keep your body and mind receiving enough oxygen at greater altitudes.
Similar to ascending hills and downhill, packs on your back before a trek would serve as the ideal preparation for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Additionally, you should have a flawless health history and physical condition, free of breathing or respiratory issues. To enhance your blood flow and metabolism, consume meals that give you energy and get adequate sleep. The Annapurna Circuit Trek will be simpler if you prepare well before it.
Why Travel with us?
Peregrine treks and tours have provided the most fabulous trekking and other unique experiences in Nepal for the past 5 to 6 years. We are one of Nepal’s trekking and tour companies playing an active role in this industry. Since our exceptional contributions to the tourist sector reflect our professionalism, first and foremost, every itinerary we create for our expedition will be unique, and every one of our guests will embrace it with grace.
Additionally, the evaluation we receive following the end of the expedition will be unique and excellent. Similar to this, we are a government-approved trekking organization. Thus deception is impossible under any circumstances. Furthermore, our guides and staff are experienced in dealing with any scenario that may arise throughout the trek. Humbly, each member of the Peregrine team offers you outstanding services.
Moreover, trekking with us gives you a sense of security because your protection is our first objective. There will always be medical and rescue support if something goes wrong during the expedition. Overall, you will consider yourself fortunate to be trekking with us and carry the most extraordinary recollections and experiences when you leave Nepal.
Duration
16 Days
Meals
Accommodation
Activities
