The Annapurna Circuit is recognized as one of the best treks in the world, and large number of tourists visit Nepal each year to complete it. But what is it that draws people to this 230-kilometer trek across the Annapurna peaks? Everything, to be precise. The scenery, the always changing environment, the people you encounter, the prayer wheels… It’s no surprise that many travelers consider it a must-see destination.
he Annapurna Circuit is a moderately demanding trip via the Annapurna region’s high altitude environment. The routes on the Annapurna Circuit Trek are varied and might be rocky, steep, or slippery. The trail also has a lot of stairways, which can make walking on straight paths more difficult. Furthermore, the walk is made more arduous by the high and variable altitude. Another variable that will influence your trekking experience is the weather. The difficulty and problems you’ll face on the course will vary depending on the trail’s weather conditions.
The Annapurna Base Circuit trek normally takes 15–20 days to complete, departing from Kathmandu and stopping in Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu. The track is moderately difficult to difficult, with multiple river crossings via steel and wooden suspension bridges.
For a trek of 12-15 days the cost per person can range from US$1000 to $1400 (excluding international flight). The cost includes domestic transportation, trek permits, accommodation, and meals. Yet, this cost does not include insurance, visa, and personal equipment.
Yes, you will need a winter sleeping bag that can handle the temperature of below freezing point (-6 to -10 degree Celsius).
The best time to trek Annapurna circuit is during the autumn (September, October and November) season as the weather is clear with dust free trails.
Annapurna Circuit is usually cold with an average temperature of -5 to -10 Degree Celsius.
To enter the Annapurna Sanctuary Area and to trek, you need to register and pay an entry fee. This fee is NPR 1,000 for Indians and NPR 4,000 for International trekkers. This includes the fee to the National Trust for Nature conservation and for registering with the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS).
Some of the basic itinerary you shall be needing while trekking Annapurna circuit trek are as:
Clothes and trekking gear for the Annapurna Circuit!
• Two quick-drying T-shirts.
• T-shirt for sleeping.
• A T-shirt with long sleeves.
• A fleece sweater.
• 6 underpants + 2 sports bras.
• A rainproof wind jacket.
• Thermal pants.
• A thermal shirt with long sleeves
Annapurna circuit is popular among millions of travelers for hiking and trekking however camping is very rare in the region due to unforeseen reasons.
There are different routes in the Annapurna region to trek, some of the popular trekking routes are:
• Ghorepani Poonhill – Short Trek
• Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poonhill
• Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Nar Phu Valley Trekking
• Khayer Lake trekking
• Ghorepani – Poonhill – Ghandurk Trek
• Annapurna Panorama Trek
• Annapurna Base Camp – Short Trek
• Mardi Himal Trekking
Since 1970, the number of trekkers and mountaineers on the Annapurna trail has expanded dramatically, resulting in significant improvements in housing. In the tea houses and lodges, there are many lovely, cozy, and well-furnished rooms available, as well as a fantastic food menu and excellent service. Some of the newly opened routes in the Annapurna region, such as Khopra Danda and Mardi Himal Trek, required us to stay in camps, which are known as camping treks.
Yes, there are risks of getting altitude sickness, as you will be trekking above 3000 m. It depends on the person, how he/she is going to react to altitude regardless of their fitness and experience. Therefore, it is recommended that you should know about altitude sickness and its symptoms beforehand. You can consult with doctors on high altitude sickness before leaving for the trek.
Since you will be in the mountainous region, Wi-Fi might not work everywhere or for many days. However, most of the guesthouses offer Wi-Fi for free or for a little charge. It is better not to rely on the internet and enjoy your trip.
As you have to trek through dense forest, avalanche risk zones cross the raging rivers, and rough trails an assisting local guide will be very helpful for you to trek without fear and confusions. As for porter if you have not packed more than 10 kg of stuff, an average fit trekker can carry the pack by self. It is a personal preference whether to hire a porter and guide.