Annapurna Circuit Vs. Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Last Updated on May 26, 2022 by Alpha Adventure Treks

Annapurna Sanctuary and Annapurna Circuit are two of the most popular treks in Annapurna’s spectacular region. During these excursions, one may expect an amazing adventure. Many people’s dream trek route to explore the significant mountain is Annapurna Sanctuary trekking. The culture and beauty of Annapurna Mountain are well-known. The Annapurna Sanctuary trek path leads to the foot of Annapurna 1’s south face and the base camp of the world’s tenth tallest mountain, which is located 40 kilometers north of Pokhara in Nepal’s central region. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is a moderate trek for hikers who can walk for at least 6 to 7 hours per day with a small backpack.

The Annapurna Circuit trek is a trekking route in Nepal’s central Annapurna mountain range. Before 1977 AD, the Annapurna area was closed to foreign hikers because to Nepalese government restrictions. The routes’ overall length varies between 160 and 230 kilometers, depending on the mode of transportation utilized when the track finishes. This route encircles the Annapurna massif and crosses two separate river valleys. This path reaches the highest point at Thorung La pass, which is located on the Tibetan Plateau’s western side. All trekkers proceed counter-clockwise because the daily attitude gain is slower this way, and traversing the high Thorung La pass is also easier and safer.

Annapurna Circuit Vs. Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: The Similarities

Both paths traverse through the Annapurna Ranges, however they travel in opposite directions and do not follow the same course. Both hikes provide spectacular views of the Annapurnas, Hiunchuli, and Macchapucchare, and hikers will encounter Gurung people (a Nepali ethnic group descending from Tibet who inhabit primarily in the country’s center and mid-western regions). However, there are more differences between the two pathways than similarities, so this is where the similarities end. The following permits are required for Annapurna Sanctuary and Annapurna Circuit Treks: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit TIMS card (ACAP) Last but not least, for hikers seeking some relief after battling their way over the mountain trails, there are pleasant hot springs on both hikes to soak weary (and dirty!) bodies in.

Annapurna Circuit Vs. Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: The Differences

The Sanctuary trek begins and ends in Pokhara, whilst the Annapurna Circuit begins and concludes in Taal. Although each traveler will have their own personal highlights, the two journeys’ main highlights are significantly different. Crossing into Mustang on the Annapurna Circuit is breathtaking. The region resembles Tibet more than the rest of Nepal. Standing at the base of two of the Himalaya’s highest mountains in a sacred site is a highlight of the Annapurna Sanctuary trek — whether or not you believe in gods, it’s easy to see why locals believe they do.

While the Annapurna Circuit’s purpose is to complete a loop, hikers on the Annapurna Sanctuary trek head to the base of some of the region’s most magnificent peaks. While the Annapurna Sanctuary trek does not completely retrace the inbound steps on the way back (it is not an out-and-back trek), some of the locations do overlap. One of the most difficult sections of the Annapurna Circuit is the 5416-meter Thorong La (pass) connecting Manang and Mustang. Many hikers experience adverse effects at that altitude, thus it’s critical to cross the mountain quickly and descend to a lower elevation. While the Annapurna Sanctuary trek has a lot of uphill and reaches 4130 meters, it does not feature any high passes.

What Are the Differences Between the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek and The Annapurna Circuit Trek in Terms of Highlights?

The Highlights are distinguished by their differences. The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek brings you to Ghorepani, a prominent ethnic settlement high above the Kali Gandaki Gorge. It also leads to a vantage point with a panoramic view of the Mount Annapurna Massif. Similarly, the Hinku Cave near Deurali, another well-known Annapurna Base Camp trek location, can be visited. The Annapurna Circuit Trek’s scenery changes as you ascend in height; places like Thame and Jagat along the way have forested hills and thick woodlands. The scenery changes as you get closer to Manang, and the liveliness is swiftly replaced by treeless stony slopes. Muktinath, one of Nepal’s most respected Hindu and Buddhist temples, is reached by the trekking trail.

What is the difference between the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek in terms of difficulty?

The Annapurna Sanctuary Trek can also be done in the winter months of December, although the Annapurna Circuit Trek may be difficult to complete due to snow blocking the mountain route. The Annapurna Circuit would be ideal for those searching for a more challenging trek. The Annapurna Sanctuary Journey is a good choice if you’re searching for a less difficult trek.

What is the difference between an Annapurna Circuit Trek and an Annapurna Sanctuary Trek in terms of budget?

Annapurna Circuit Trek:

The budget projection is dependent on the type of trek being undertaken and the amount of money being spent. However, the price often ranges from US $1000 to US $1500. It also depends on how much one wants to spent on other additional indulgences.

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek:

The budget estimation for this trek is also dependent on the type of trek being undertaken and the amount of money being spent. However, the price ranges from about $700 to $1200 in general. It also depends on how much one wants to spent on other additional indulgences.

Which of the Trek should you take?

Before making a decision, consider the following factors:

Of course, there is no right or wrong answer, but these suggestions should provide you with enough knowledge to determine which path is best for you.

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