Annapurna Circuit Trek

Why trek Annapurna Circuit trek with Nepal Eco Adventure? Well if you’re puzzled by the question or having trouble deciding whether to visit the destination or not then let me put it straight. Annapurna Circuit trek is a complete package of adventure, fun, and challenges. It’s unlike any trekking spot in the world, incredibly stunning and packed with a surreal view of Mt. Annapurnas.

Nepal’s trekking trails are worldwide acclaimed for their spectacular views, dramatic landscapes, and wilderness. Their peaceful setting with unique geological wonders, high-mountain meadows, and glacially carved valleys pull the trekkers from across the world.

Annapurna Circuit trek hosts visitors from all around the world. In fact, it’s one of the few trekking destinations in Nepal, where there’s an overflow of hikers throughout the year. Visitors seem to be flattered walking the demanding trails of the circuit as it provides them an unforgettable experience.

Annapurna Circuit trek is sheer beauty with a pristine trail that offers a minute scene of snow-capped mountains, sweeping hills, and a steep-sided valley. It gives every better reason possible for trekkers to hike the classic trail that heads all the way up to Thorong La Pass.

The trek provides a fascinating insight into the local customs and traditions of different ethnic groups living in the region. But, most importantly, it exposes the visitors to the unique culture, heritage, and lifestyle of the Gurung community.

Visitors will be able to witness the great influence of the people in the region, especially with their villages, historical and religious sites. Other ethnic groups whose spiritual and cultural impacts are equally noticed in the local community are Thakali, Tamang, Magar, and Brahmin.

Annapurna Circuit Trek lies in central Nepal and has a trek length of 100-145 miles. It begins with a half-day drive to Besisahar and a short walk off the mountainside to Bulbule. The trek continues with an uphill walk on the next day and has us crossing several bridges to arrive at Chamje.

We’ll walk past many villages in the following days, including Chame, Pisang, and Manang. Since the trek above Manang is more difficult with low atmospheric pressure, we’ll stop at the village to give the body a whole rest. From Manang, we head to Yak Kharka, which has only a few settlements.

You can see a lot of yaks grazing here, though. From here, we take the most strenuous walk to Thorong Phedi via Thorong La Pass. From the cliff, we’ll get a fantastic view of Annapurna massif and Dhaulagiri. After crossing the pass, we’ll descend the trail to Muktinath and visit the religious shrine here. From there, we navigate the path to Jomsom that is rugged and looks more like a desert.

After arriving at the lovely village of Kagbeni, we'll take a short break for breakfast and then immediately rush to the trail. The journey to Jomsom continues with a gentle walk on the trail that overlooks the beautiful Kali Gandaki River before taking a rocky uphill climb.

Walking past the terrace farm and through the brink of the deep valley, we’ll reach the village. The next day, we’ll take a picturesque drive to Tatopani, where you can also enjoy a hot spring bath and then finally return to the valley.

In between the trip, we’ll also take a short uphill walk to Ghorepani, which is one of the trekkers’ favorite spots to stop by and watch the beautiful view of Machhapure and Gangapurna.

A lot of trekkers who’re pushed for time and cannot make it to the circuit trek Ghorepani to catch a beautiful sight of Annapurna. We’ll also be walking the steep trail of Poon Hill to see the beautiful sunrise view. In this way, with Nepal Eco Adventure, you’ll get an amazing experience of trekking the Annapurna Circuit.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek

• A pristine view of high mountain ranges, including Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, and Lamjung Himal
• Travel across splendid river valleys, Marshyangdi River Valley and Kali Gandaki River Valley en route
• Submerge in the local Himalayan lifestyle and culture
• Explore the serene glacial lake of Tilicho and its undulating landscapes
• Cross the Thorong La Pass and traverse alongside the world’s deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki Gorge
• Hot spring bath at Tatopani to relieve the stress
• Watch shimmering glacial lakes, waterfalls, and gorges
• Visit Muktinath, a sacred temple of Hindus and Buddhist
• A short tour of Barge Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in Manang district

Why trek Annapurna Circuit?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most visited trek destinations in Nepal. Thanks to its spectacular scenery, good services, and reasonable price. Its unique geographical features and diverse landscapes put an excellent display for the hikers. It also delights them with the lovely view of rolling hills, green fields, and roaring white rivers.

Annapurna Circuit is one of the few hiking trails that’s always ready to accompany the visitors and treat them to the most incredible scenery. As a great host, it provides them with the best of the best panoramic vista that looks even more gorgeous in Spring and Fall.

That’s not all; even the locals here are amiable and never upset to accommodate the visitors. And this is only to mention some of them. There are several reasons why Annapurna Circuit is so popular among hikers. A few of them are as follows.

1. Scenic View

With breathtaking sights all year round, Annapurna Circuit Trek is every photographer’s dream. It’s the trekkers’ ultimate destination to escape the city hassle and soak in the natural beauty of the Himalayas.

It doesn’t matter which year they visit Annapurna Circuit; hikers will always find something interesting to watch. Right from the start of the expedition, they’ll be pleased by the lovely view of sweeping hills, clifftops, and beautiful Nepali villages.

Annapurna never fails to offer the most astounding scenery in the world to its guests. Almost anywhere on the trail, they’ll end up gazing at the lofty snow peaks including the famous Annapurna massif.

Trekkers are also likely to view diverse landscapes, steep-sided valleys, cascading waterfalls, and streams. Along the path, they will witness sweeping hills and meadows filled with grazing yaks.

Visitors will even get to explore old Tibetan monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags that recollect the primordial times during stops at numerous villages. The unique landforms of Annapurna Circuit also have many stunning and hidden places to scout.

3. Great Facilities

When seeking a perfect trek destination in Nepal, lodging is what comes first in the mind of trekkers. That’s perhaps because many remote places in Nepal don’t have human settlements and are difficult to reach.

But, thankfully trekkers of Annapurna Circuit don’t have to fear it as they will mind plenty of lodging from on the budget to a high standard. They have a wide range of accommodation options to choose from depending on the price.

Keep in mind that the options get limited with the increase in altitude. Usually, it’s the tea houses and trekking lodges that trekkers count on most for the accommodation service on Annapurna Circuit Trek. They have basic facilities and come at a reasonable price that you can’t complain about a lot.

4. Diverse Culture

Although spread in a small geographical area with a few settlements, Annapurna Circuit Trek has great diversity and inclusion. Trekkers can find people of varied cultures and religions living cordially during their visit here.

They’ll also get to take a look inside the rich traditions and customs practiced by different ethnic groups and castes while stopping by the village. Its rich history, imposing cultural heritage, beautiful pilgrimage, and monasteries that carry historical value also awe travelers.

5: Beautiful sunrise view

Annapurna Circuit Trek comes with a short morning walk to Poonhill, from where the trekkers can enjoy a lovely sunrise view. The sight of vivid valleys and colorful towns is a bonus to visitors for making it all the way up. They can also see the magnificent view of Annapurna massif, Dhampus, and Gangapurna at the backdrop.

Trek to Poonhill is mostly uphill, which causes hikers to get tired sooner, so we start the expedition at dawn. But, once they reach the hilltop, all their fatigue will be gone, especially when they sneak a look at the magical views of glittering snow-capped mountains. Trekkers who visit Poon Hill in Spring will also get the sight of lush green hills, terrace farms, and blooming rhododendron flowers.

6. Visit Muktinath Temple

Another major reason to trek Annapurna Circuit is a visit to Muktinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple. It carries a religious significance and is the abode of Lord Vishnu. Trekkers will get to explore this sacred Hindu Temple on their trip. They can even participate in the rituals and offer prayers to the deities. Visitors are also allowed to take a tour of the pilgrimage and shower under the 108 holy taps.

Sitting at the foot of Thorong La Pass, Muktinath Temple also offers a surreal view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and surrounding snow peaks. Those who want to explore the Muktinath Valley and make a visit to the villages can walk a few more miles.

Difficulties of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Although it’s considered a moderate hiking route, Annapurna Circuit Trek isn’t as easy as it seems. Its trails have many ups and downs, with gushing streams to cross over. The alpine meadows are easy to traverse, but the steep hills and rough terrains are demanding and strenuous.

Its long-drawn trails leave many trekkers with back pain, weariness, and cramps. The constantly changing weather doesn’t ease the hiker either and might create trouble. Other difficulties that the Annapurna Circuit trek might toss at them are as follows.

1. Altitude Sickness

But, it’s occasional for hikers of Annapurna Circuit to suffer from acute mountain sickness as they start the trek from low altitude. And by the time they arrive at Manang, the trekkers will have already acclimated themselves by spending enough time to reach the town.

It means that the visitors are able to withstand the environment and weather until they arrive at the highest altitude. It also helps minimize the risks to trekkers climbing Thorong La Pass and above stops and don’t bear the sickness.

Acclimatization is a must during Annapurna Circuit trek as it helps cope with the changing atmosphere. The hiker must give their body enough time to adjust to the climatic condition and weather to not suffer from altitude sickness.

2. Weather and Temperature

Unpredictable weather and temperature are just one of the many challenges trekkers have to endure during the Annapurna Circuit trek. They have to brave the cold in winter while navigating muddy and wet trails during the monsoon.

Tropical storms, low humidity, and blizzards make the hiking difficult and sometimes even leave them stranded on the trail. During winter, heavy snowfall blocks the path to Annapurna Circuit and makes it hard for trekkers to walk.

Not just that, looming fog and mist impacts the visibility and reduces the speed of the trekkers. Monsoon rain makes the trek equally difficult for hikers, especially beginners who’ve never walked mountainous terrain.

It makes the trails wet and slippery, so it’s impossible for trekkers to navigate the path without taking a tumble. Continuous rainfall is likely to trigger floods and landslides on the way to Annapurna Circuit. Therefore, trekkers will have to be sharp and wary while walking the trail in those areas.

The perk of trekking Annapurna Circuit in Monsoon is the incredibly clean and crystal-clear view. After the rain washes all the dirt in the air, trekkers will get to snap at the plain sight of shimmering snow-capped mountains, lush green hills, and terrains. Monsoon also brings the much-needed moisture and makes the climb less difficult.

3. Fatigue

Fatigue results from physical exertion and overtiredness. Walking a long distance with a heavy backpack, little water, and insufficient rest often causes tiredness. Unfortunately, trekkers of Annapurna Circuit have to deal with it, at most of the days of their trip, which often leads to exhaustion.

Due to steep trails and several hours of walking each day, they often lack the energy to traverse the path. Trekkers are often seen being drowsy due to overwhelming long walks and having trouble concentrating.

Hence, every traveler hiking Annapurna Circuit will have to take excellent care of their health and get enough rest. They’ll have to eat a balanced diet, get regular exercise, and drink more water to avoid dehydration.

4. Long and difficult trails

Annapurna Circuit trek has a hard and challenging trekking route that can’t be done without proper preparation. Like many other treks in the Himalayas, it too can intimidate hikers and make them anxious right from the start. The long winding paths of the Annapurna Circuit can be extremely strenuous and tiring.

However, if carefully planned, hikers will find the trails much easier to traverse. In fact, those who have continuously worked on their physical exercise will find the trails a breeze, especially when it’s so easily accessible.

Beginners will have to invest a little more time in the training, or else they won’t beat the trail. Trekkers must be more vigilant when walking steep inclines with narrow lanes as it causes distress and altitude sickness.

When is the best time for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The best time for an Annapurna Circuit Trek visit depends entirely on what the travelers expect to form the trip. While its trail can be walked any time of the year, the ideal time to visit is Autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Annapurna Circuit Trek in Autumn Season

Autumn embarks the trekking season in Nepal with a calm and serene atmosphere. It has crowds flocking all over the places in the Himalayas, making the most of low temperature and magnificent vista.

They start to swarm the trail from mid-September and continue to occupy it till late November. Temperature is blazing hot early in the season, with some places even receiving a little rainfall.

But, as time goes by, the weather starts to cool off. Even the temperature tips from 15 to 7 degrees Celsius, making it easy for hikers to navigate the trail. In Autumn, forests and valleys burst out with colorful tree leaves and the chirping of birds.

With the crystal-clear snaps of lofty mountains and beautiful waterfalls gushing down the cliff, trekkers will enjoy walking the path. The continuous flow of religious festivals and events will keep them busy and entertained.

Annapurna Circuit Trek in Spring Season

Spring is clearly another best time for Annapurna Circuit Trek as it offers warm and lovely weather with scenic views. It brings everything in alive after the frigid and snowy winter. The flowers start to bloom again while the animals come off from their shelter, putting on a fantastic display.

However, with the winter still roving around the circuit, the climate is cold and wet at the beginning of the season. As time passes, the temperature gets balmy and warm with radiant sunshine all day long. Visitors will have a great time navigating the path to the circuit, which unfolds magnificent scenery.

Due to the clear blue sky and clean air, trekkers can spot the Annapurna massif and its sweeping landscapes from far away. They’ll also have a great time walking along the path due to the lovely surroundings with varied flora and fauna. The weather is comfortably cool in Spring, so traversing the track won’t be much disturbing.

Walking the old smooth trail that goes into the forest will seem like a regular walk in nature. But, the ascent to the steep hills will be exhausting for trekkers, so they better relax and take slow steps instead of rushing. In this way, they will be able to avoid common problems that occur during trekking.

Annapurna Circuit Trek in Winter

Since the Annapurna Circuit trek has a convenient trek route, travelers will visit it even during winter and monsoon. But, it doesn’t mean they will get delightful weather like the previous seasons. Visitors in winter may encounter various challenges such as harsh climate, snow hazards, reduced visibility, and hypothermia.

Walking the snow-covered trail might cause them blisters while the steep mountain ridge steals the traction. Therefore, hikers have to be rigorous while walking the tracks as it can cause them severe injuries. They’ll have to take preventive measures before trekking the circuit in winter.

It includes staying up-to-date about the weather forecast and planning the trip accordingly. Travelers must carry warm clothes with high insulated jackets, gloves, and trekking poles. Using a sturdy boot with crampons while traveling the course can be of great help.

If done so, the trekkers will be able to enjoy the fantastic scenery that the season has to offer during the trip. They get to watch the snow-blanketed meadows, frozen lakes, and glaciers from the lap of Annapurna Circuit. Nights in winter may be chiller here, but the days are refreshingly warm and clear, making it easy to glance at the snow peaks.

Annapurna Circuit Trek in Monsoon

Monsoon isn’t a great time either for a trek to Annapurna Circuit due to the flash flooding rains, severe thunderstorms, and low precipitation. Strong winds and relentless rainfall keep affecting the region and make it impossible to walk the trail.

It can even put ice on the travel and ruin the whole schedule. Heavy rain can cause landslides and even block sidewalks. Therefore, trekkers will have to be extremely careful while hiking the routes in the mountains.

Post-rainfall, Monsoon brings a little joy to the visitors and provides stunning views. The waters wash away all the specks of dirt in the air, offering clear pictures of the glacial valleys, towering hills, and beautiful villages. Continuous rain feeds the surrounding rivers and waterfalls to the absolute limit that it looks pretty impressive.

Trekkers can feel the summer heat in the daytime, but nights are slightly cold, with the temperature falling up to -3 Degree Celsius. The rainy season lasts from June to August, so those planning to travel the region will have to prepare for the trek.

Preparation for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek may be easy compared to other Himalayan camping treks, but there are still many challenges that have to be overcome to reach the viewpoint. Trekkers have to come prepared before starting the hike. They must be physically fit and mentally strong to withstand the 40 miles long trail of Annapurna Circuit.

Physical Preparation

If going to trek Annapurna Circuit, trekkers have to be in good physical condition. They must be strong enough to beat the meandering trail that runs peaks and valleys. Trekkers of Annapurna Circuit have to spend adequate time on physical training and exercise to increase their core strength and develop endurance.

They should focus on cardio exercises like jogging, cycling, running, and squat jumps to strengthen joint muscles. Aerobic exercise can also be added to the fitness regimen for improving balance and have a more solid base to walk the uneven terrain.

Apart from physical fitness, trekkers must also take a walk over different terrains so that they can easily tackle the course of Annapurna Circuit. They can start with the short day trip and, after getting comfortable, move onto long hikes.

Mental Preparation

Trekking Annapurna Circuit with or without a guide is always intimidating. Its long trails with several ups and downs can quickly get in the nerves of hikers and even compel them to give up. The changing weather, endless paths, and rising altitude can be the source of mental stress and anxiety for hikers.

The long-distance walk often gets daunting due to the lack of the right equipment and gear. Therefore, they have to be well-prepared and extremely cautious of what they pick before trekking Annapurna Circuit.

Trekkers have to ensure that they have all the needed essentials to make the trip as comfortable and plain sailing as possible. Lack of confidence can often cause disquiet and panic among trekkers, so trekkers must be emotionally charged.

They have to put enough research on the itinerary and the weather on the Annapurna Circuit. It will give you an idea of what to expect from the trek and how to combat it. Taking a few tips from your tour guide will also help plan the trip and keep your mental strength high.

Essential Equipment

The right equipment at the right place and at the right time can make the journey bliss while its absence can cause havoc. Therefore, trekkers have to make an accurate assessment while choosing the items for the trek. Anyone visiting the circuit must know what gear and equipment are appropriate for the favored season.

This will ease their time on the trail and make it easy to reach the circuit. Simultaneously, they’ll also have to ensure not to carry any extra apparatus that won’t be used even once. This unwanted clothing and equipment will occupy more space in the backpack and make it difficult to walk the trail.

Trekkers in winter will need warm and high insulated clothes, including windproof jackets, gaiters, and mufflers, while those visiting the circuit in Autumn can relax. Since the weather is bright and sunny in Spring and Autumn, travelers can carry light and comfortable clothes. For option, they can carry anyone pair of warm outfits.

Many local stores and clothing shops in Thamel are willing to help the trekkers with trekking gear and equipment, from decent purchase to branded. Buyers can also lease the trekking gear at these convenient stores and return it without damage after trekking.

Clothing

• Warm insulated jacket or vest
• Mountaineering pants
• Quick-drying t-shirts
• A fleece sweater and pants
• Thermal shirt with long sleeves

Footwear

• Hard-wearing mountaineering boots
• Pairs of synthetic socks
• Climbing shoes

Miscellaneous items

• First-aid kit with prescription medications
• Personal toiletries and hand sanitizers
• The portable solar charger and extra batteries
• Walking poles
• Water bottle and purifier