10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek

Trekking the famous 10 days 10 days Annapurna Circuit Trek Trek is quite an adventure. Some consider this trek as the best trek in Nepal and amongst the very best around the world.

What if you could complete this trek within a short time?

Many trekkers have limited time to explore Nepal. Having such an experience without a long itinerary is what a trekker dreams of.

Wanna hear something great?

You can complete this trek in a shorter period. The Annapurna Circuit Trek 10-Day Itinerary allows you to explore the fantastic circuit in such a short duration. Now, trekkers having less than TWO weeks can give it a try.

And the best part is,

Shorter trek doesn’t mean skipping major highlights or destinations. You’ll have precisely the same experience as the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek. So, this alternative is the best for those who desire to have memories in the least time possible.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek 10-Day Itinerary

1. Explore the Annapurna Circuit in a short period.
2. Exceptional vistas of mountain peaks like Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri.
3. Beautiful trail that takes you through changing terrains and landscapes.
4. Rich flora and fauna; home to rare species like the snow leopard.
5. Come across Tibetan inspired lifestyles.
6. Settlements of Magar, Thakali, Gurung and many other castes.
7. Cross the spectacular high pass-- Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters from sea level.
8. Witness views of the World's Deepest Gorge-Kali Gandaki Gorge.
9. Get a chance to visit the holy Hindu temple- Muktinath.
10. Rejuvenate yourself in the hot springs at Tatopani.

Best Seasons

The best trekking and tourism seasons in the country are Autumn and Spring.

Autumn is the best season for trekking as the weather is perfect for any adventure. The weather remains calm while the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold. Also, the skies remain clear mostly, and you can see the best views of the Annapurna Circuit.

Spring is also a fantastic season for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You see flowers and greenery everywhere. The climate also remains mild, and the views are equally stunning.

Off-season

With proper preparation, you can still trek the Annapurna Circuit during winter and monsoon. These seasons are the off-seasons as the weather does not remain ideal. You need more preparation and precaution before traveling in these periods of the year.

Winter means cold and sudden weather changes. It means you need to prepare yourself before trekking. Packing all the necessary items and wearing warm clothes is crucial.

On the other hand, monsoon preparation is also crucial. Wearing waterproof clothing and non-slippery boots work wonders against the rainfall.

Also,

The monsoon means a lot of humidity while winter means cold. You need to prepare for all these.

Some parts on the circuit trail yet fall under the rain-shadow area. You can expect incredible views even in these periods. Also, off-season means fewer crowd with chances of getting better services, rooms, and discounts at teahouses.

Trekking the place in any season is very peculiar, but for the Annapurna Circuit 10-Day Itinerary, it’s best to travel during the peak season. The off-season conditions can cause problems to complete the trek within the stipulated time.

Trekking Permits for the Annapurna Circuit

You need two types of permits during the Annapurna Circuit Trek:

1. TIMS Card

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card is necessary if you’re planning to trek across Nepal. It is also mandatory for the Annapurna Circuit Trek because the Nepal Tourism Board issues this permit to ensure the protection and safety of the trekkers.

Cost of TIMS Card (other nations):

For Group trekkers: USD 10 (NPR 1,000)

For Solo travelers: USD 20 (NPR 2,000)

Cost of TIMS Card (SAARC nations):

For Group trekkers: USD 3 (NPR 300)

For Independent travelers: USD 6 (NPR 600)

2. ACAP cards

ACAP stands for Annapurna Conservation Area Project. As you trek around the Annapurna Circuit, you pass through some places under the ACAP region.

So, you require the specific permit-- ACAP to enter these areas.

It costs around US$ 20-23 per person. You can easily get these permits from Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu.

Complete Packing List- Annapurna Circuit Trek

What to wear- Clothes

• Undergarments (7-10 pairs)
• 2-3 pairs of moisture-wicking thermals
• Trekking t-shirts and trousers (3-5 pieces each)
• Water and snow-proof jackets and trousers (Outer layer)
• A pair of inner woolen gloves and waterproof outer gloves each
• Sun-hats, beanies, caps, scarves, bandanas

What to wear- Footwear

• A pair of strong and worn-in trekking boots
• Trekking socks as well as normal woolen socks (7-10 pairs)
• A pair of sandals or slippers
• A pair of regular sports shoes or sneakers

What to carry- Necessary Equipment for Trekking

• A pair of strong trekking poles
• High-quality UV protection sunglasses
• 100% UV protection sunscreen and lip balm
• A sleeping bag with suitable temperature ratings
• Long-Lasting power banks
• A re-usable thermo-seal water bottle
• Water purifying tablets
• Basic first-aid kit
• Insurance (Medical, travel or emergency)

What you need- Documents and others

• Travel Insurance
• Permits
• VISA
• Passport and its copies
• Money (Nepalese currency)
• A couple of passport-sized photos

Don’t forget- Day to day essentials

• A personal toothbrush and toothpaste
• Bar soap or liquid body wash
• Personal towel
• Wet wipes, toilet papers, and napkins
• Other stuff (personal items)

Tips for Annapurna Circuit Trek 10-Day Itinerary

1. Walk at a slow yet steady pace. Hurrying or even taking too many breaks is not a great idea.
2. Buy high-quality boots and clothing.
3. During the off-season, pack waterproof clothing and other stuff like raincoats or umbrellas.
4. Always keep yourself hydrated to prevent chances of altitude sickness. While trekking,  your body needs well over THREE liters of water every day.
5. If you want to drink water from local taps, use water purifying tablets before you drink it.
6. Trek with experienced and licensed guides. Hiring porter is also a good idea if you want to travel light.
7. Make sure you carry enough cash. Also, don’t carry foreign currency as most teahouse owners accept only Nepalese currency.
8. Avoid alcohol as well as smoking throughout the trek. It tends to dehydrate your body.
9. Carry a hand-held torch with you. If you need to use the toilets at night, you will need some source of light.
10. If possible, get some months of physical practice before the trek. This trek is quite challenging.
11. It’s better to learn some basic Nepali phrases or sentences to help communicate better with the locals.
12. Always take care of your luggage. Keep important stuff like cameras and mobile phones with you all the time.

Conclusion

In such a short period, the Annapurna Circuit Trek 10-Day Itinerary is one of the most concise yet best ways to explore the Annapurna Region.

The Annapurna Circuit is a treasury in the Himalayas that offers you the rarest moments in the Himalayas. You get to traverse through the changing terrains and see fantastic mountain views. All in all, it’s an adventure you don’t wanna miss!