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Annapurna Circuit Trek

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Overview Itinerary Trip Info

Overview

In the high Himalayas of the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Circuit trek stands as a popular trekking destination. A favorite among trekkers, this trek offers a thrilling adventure along with some breathtaking mountain views. The 14-day Annapurna Circuit trek is a great way to take a closer look at the natural beauty of the Annapurna region. Beginning at an altitude of 800m in the bustling capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, the trek rises up to an altitude of 5416m at the Thorong La Pass.

The trekking trail to the summit itself is an incredible journey. Along the way, you will pass through forests, meadows, fields, high-altitude deserts, lovely remote villages, and a few suspension bridges covered in prayer flags. As you climb higher, views of Himalayan giants like Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna III unfold with every turn.

The trek also lets you visit the Muktinath temple, a place of worship for both Hindus and Buddhists. In addition, you can interact with the locals to understand their lifestyle and become a part of their community for a short period. The 14-day Annapurna Circuit trek is a memorable journey that allows you to explore the less traveled areas in the Himalayas.

Trekking Trips Activity
Easy Grade

Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights

  • Passing through terraced farms and changing terrains.
  • Descending into one of the world’s deepest gorges, Kali Gandaki gorge.
  • Exploring beautiful mountain villages and interacting with the locals.
    Reaching Jomsom, the headquarters of Mustang.
  • Stopping by the Tatopani village to dip in a natural hot spring.
  • Thrill of crossing the Thorong La Pass, which sits at an altitude of 5416m.
  • Stunning views of Annapurna II, Annapurna Chula West, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Thorung Peak, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna IV, and Annapurna 3.
  • Early morning sunrise view from Poon Hill
  • Entering the pilgrim site Muktinath.
  • Exploring several monasteries, including the Barge Monastery.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

Day 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule (845 m) west of Kathmandu.

The first day of our journey towards the Annapurna region begins with an adventurous drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule. Today we will be covering a total of 181km on a hilly road. The drive will be enjoyable with the views of far-standing mountains and lush green terrains. Along the way, we will pass through remote villages and changing terrains, offering a glimpse into the beautiful landscape of Nepal. After passing through all these and driving for 8 hours straight, we will finally reach our today’s destination, Bhulbhule, in the late afternoon. We will spend the remaining time of the day exploring this beautiful village and spend the night in one of the lodges.

Flight Time:

8 hrs

Altitude:

845 m

Place:

Kathmandu

Day 2 | Trek from Bhulbhule to Jagat (1,300 m).

The second day marks the beginning of the trekking part of the journey. After having breakfast in Bhulbhule, we will embark on foot towards Jagat, a beautiful traditional village in the Lamjung district. Winding along the Marshyangdi River, the trail takes us past terraced fields, lush jungles, and villages like Bahundanda, Ghermu, and others. Today’s climb is mostly easy but does need caution at some turns. After a final push through a challenging section, we will arrive at the village of Jagat. We will rest for the night in one of the lodges before continuing upwards.

Flight Time:

5 hrs

Altitude:

1,300 m

Place:

Jagat

Day 3 | Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1,860 m).

Our journey in the Annapurna region continues on the third day with an early morning hike towards Dharapani. The route that we follow today will take us deeper into the region through suspension bridges and lush greenery. Starting at 1300 meters, we will cross Chyamche and Tal, along with a few other small settlements. While walking past these villages, we will also have time to appreciate the beautiful views of the rolling hills. After trekking for a total of 15km, we will arrive at Dharapni, a village at 1860m. Here, we will take a closer look at the beautiful stone houses, chat with friendly locals, and enjoy a heartwarming meal before spending the night at a lodge.

Flight Time:

5 hrs

Altitude:

1,860 m

Place:

Dharapani

Day 4 | Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,610 m)

On the fourth day, we climb up higher towards the village of Chame. With increasing altitude, the trail condition and the surroundings also change, offering a new perspective on the Annapurna region. The rugged mountains turn green with alpine meadows and several wildflowers. Along the way, we will cross lush forests, serene villages, and rushing rivers on a suspension bridge. One of the villages will be our stop for lunch. After lunch, we continue walking until our today’s stop, Chame, comes into sight. Today, we will walk for around 6 hours on a slightly demanding trail.

Flight Time:

6 hrs

Altitude:

2,610 m).

Place:

Chame

Day 5 | Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300 m)

Today’s trek takes us from Chame to Upper Pisang, offering stunning views along the way. The path is a mix of gradual climbs and some rocky sections. As we walk, we will pass through small villages and enjoy the surrounding nature. On the way, we will stop at the villages to get used to the thin air. Once we reach Upper Pisang, we will relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the village. The beautiful mountain views from here make the effort worthwhile.

Flight Time:

6 hrs

Altitude:

3,300 m

Place:

Upper Pisang

Day 6 | Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540 m)

The trek continues on the sixth day as we will head towards Manang, which is 6 hours from Pisang. The trail passes through alpine meadows, narrow valleys, and small villages. The air continues to get thinner as you gain altitude, and the views of the Annapurna massif become more beautiful. Along the way, we will see impressive mountain landscapes and may spot wildlife. Before the evening, we will arrive in Manang, take time to relax, and enjoy the stunning surroundings. As the night gets closer, we head to the lodge and rest for the night.

Flight Time:

6 hrs

Distance:

3,540 m

Place:

Manang

Day 7 | Rest and acclimatization day at Manang

On the seventh day, we will just sit back, relax, and rest to acclimate. We will let our body adjust to the high altitude of Manang. This day will help us prevent altitude sickness further into the trek. We will take a short hike to a nearby viewpoint and explore the village at a slow pace. While touring the village, we will have several opportunities to explore the typical village life from a close distance. This rest day will also give us time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and prepare mentally for the next stage of the trek.

Place:

Manang

Day 8 | Trek from Manang to Ledar (4,250 m)

The altitude on the eighth day gets even higher as we hike toward the village of Ledar. Today we will have to walk for 5 hours on a scenic path. Beginning with a flat trail, with increasing altitude, it becomes more rugged. In the meantime, the views of the mountain peaks and deep valleys will continue to entertain us. As we ascend, we will pass through smaller villages and see the changes in vegetation. With a final push at a slightly difficult section, we will arrive at Ledar, a small settlement at an altitude of 4,250. Here we will have more clearer view of the mountains with

Flight Time:

5 hrs

Day 9 | Trek from Ledar to Thorong High Camp (4,925 m)

Today, we will trek from Ledar to Thorong High Camp through rocky terrain and higher altitudes. The trail begins with a steep climb followed by a descent towards the banks of the Marsyangdi River. After walking a few hours along the river, we will cross it on a wooden bridge and continue climbing up to reach the Thorong Phedi. Here we will take a short break to catch our breath before approaching a steeper path. After crossing this section of the trail, we will finally arrive at the high camp. Once we reach Thorong High Camp, we will prepare for the challenging day ahead with proper meals and rest. This will be our last stop before crossing the Thorong La Pass.

Flight Time:

5 hrs

Altitude:

(4,925 m

Place:

Thorong High Camp

Day 10 | Trek from Thorong High Camp to Muktinath Temple (3,760 m) via Thorong La High Pass (5,416 m)

This day of all is the most challenging day of the entire trek. Starting the day with an early morning hike, we will embark on a journey to cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek. The trek will take about 9 hours in total. Reaching the top of the pass at 5416 meters is thought, but the views from the top are incredible. At the top, we can rest and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Further, we will trek to Muktinath Temple through a steep descent. This part of the trek is a bit tricky and needs a careful approach.

Flight Time:

9 hrs

Altitude:

5,416 m

Place:

Muktinath Temple

Day 11 | Drive from Muktinath to Jomsom and Tatopani (1,200 m)

After yesterday’s challenging trek, today is a more relaxing day. Today we will take a short break from treaking and drive from Muktinath to Tatopani, passing through Jomsom. The driving route offers great views of rivers, valleys, and villages. The condition of the road is not very good in some sections, but the scenery is beautiful. After a long 7-hour drive, we will reach Tatopani in the evening. Here, we will have an opportunity to enjoy the natural hot springs in a beautiful landscape.

Altitude:

1,200 m

Place:

Tatopani

Day 12 | Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,860 m)

On the twelfth day, we will resume trekking and set out on foot towards Ghoreapani. The trail passes through forests, waterfalls, and small settlements of Gurung and Magar people. The walk is mostly uphill, and the path only gets difficult with every turn. The views seen from Ghorepani make all the hassle of the trail worthwhile. As we get higher, beautiful views of the mountains start to appear. Once we reach the village, we will have a meal and get to bed early.

Flight Time:

7 hrs

Altitude:

2,860 m

Place:

Ghorepani

Day 13 | Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m), then trek to Birethanti (1,039 m). Drive to Nayapul, Pokhara

After waking up early in the morning, we will hike to Poon Hill for a beautiful sunrise view. The top of Poon Hill offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. After enjoying the sunrise and taking a few pictures, we will trek down to Birethanti. From Birethanti, we will then drive to Nayapul to catch a bus back to Pokhara. In the evening, we will arrive at Pokhara and spend the night relaxing and exploring the beautiful lake city. As a celebration of completing the Annapurna Circuit Trek, we can even go out for dinner.

Flight Time:

5 hrs

Altitude:

1,039 m

Place:

Pokhara

Day 14 | Drive from Pokhara (820 m) to Kathmandu (1,350 m).

On the final day of our trek, we will end our journey with a drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The journey takes about 7 hours, and we will drive through the same road that we took earlier. Pass through beautiful hills, valleys, and rivers; we will reach Kathmandu. On arrival, we will share our goodbyes and head directly toward the hotel to rest. At Kathmandu, we will have enough time to explore the valley one last time before leaving Nepal. Goodbye, Namaste.

Altitude:

1,350 m

Place:

Kathmandu

Distance, Elevation, and Duration of Annapurna Circuit

istance, Elevation, and Duration of Annapurna Circuit

Day Destination  Elevation Distance  Trek Duration
Day 1 Kathmandu to Bhulbhule 845m 818 km (drive) 8 hrs (drive)
Day 2 Bhulbhule to Jagat 1300m 13 km 5 hrs
Day 3 Jagat to Dharapani 1860m 15 km 5 hrs
Day 4 Dharapani to Chame 2610m 16km 6 hrs
Day 5 Chame to Upper Pisang 3300m 18km 6 hrs
Day 6 Upper Pisang to Manang 3540m 17km 6 hrs
Day 7 Rest and acclimatization in Manang 3540m – Rest Day
Day 8 Manang to Ledar 4250m 11km 5 hrs
Day 9 Ledar to Thorong High Camp 4925m 6km 5 hrs
Day 10 Thorong High Camp to Muktinath 3760m 12km 9 hrs
Day 11 Muktinath to Jomsom and Tatopani 1200m 37km (drive) 7 hrs (drive)
Day 12 Tatopani to Ghorepani 2860m 14km 7 hrs
Day 13 Poon Hill (sunrise) to Birethanti to Pokhara  822m 13km 

41.8km (drive)

 5 hrs

1.5 hrs (drive)
Day 14 Pokhara to Kathmandu 1350m 200km (drive) 87 hrs (drive)

Major Attractions of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Thorong La Pass

Thorong La Paas, a high mountain pass nested in the Annapurna region, is the highest point we can reach on the Annapurna circuit trek. From an altitude of 5416m, the top of the pass offers a panoramic view of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Fisthtail. However, the view doesn’t come easy, as you will face challenges of uphill and downhill climbs, the risk of altitude sickness, and harsh weather conditions. But for those willing to conquer these challenges, the vistas from the top are totally worthwhile.

Tilicho Lake

The Annapurna circuit trail also passes through Tilicho Lake, which is the world’s second-highest lake, sitting at an altitude of 4991m. Surrounded by Khangsar Himal, the Muktinath Peak, and the Tilicho Himal, the lake gives a stunning view. Reaching the lake itself is a joyful experience as you will walk past diverse and beautiful landscapes. The pleasant surroundings of the Annapurna region add extra excitement to the journey.

Jomsom

Located in the Kali Gandaki Valley, Jomson is a beautiful small town. It is home to the Muktinath temple and is a popular stop for trekkers. The scenic landscape of the town is what makes it a unique destination. From the town, stunning views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountains can be enjoyed. In addition to the view, the town also offers an opportunity to explore the daily life of the Thakali people.

Muktinath Temple

Muktinath temple is one of the most popular stops of the Annapurna circuit trek. It is a religious site sacred to the people of both Hindu and Buddhist religions. As a popular attraction of the Mustang district, this is one of the places you don’t want to miss during the Annapurna Circuit trek. The historical significance the Muktinath temple holds makes it even more attractive. Since the temple is located at a high altitude, it is also an ideal place to watch mountain views.

Poon Hill

Poon Hill, a popular viewpoint in the Annapurna region, is often considered the best place to view sunrise. Situated at an altitude of 3210m, the views from this place during sunrise are quite mesmerizing. Several mountains surrounding the top from all the way around start to light up, creating a breathtaking display. However, you will have to wake up early and hike to the top to enjoy the view. Still, if you missed the sunrise view, the vistas seen during the afternoon can also make up for the trip very well.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit

When talking about the best season for the Annapurna circuit trek, it is hard to point out one. It all depends on what you want to experience. However, the weather and trail conditions do vary according to season. The average temperature during summer ranges from 10 to 25 degrees, while it is completely opposite for winter, with temperatures dropping below to as low as -2 degrees. Autumn and spring, on the other hand, bring stable weather with enhanced views of the mountains and the surroundings.

Spring (March to May)

Spring, also known as the pre-monsoon season in Nepal, is often considered one of the best times to trek. Just a few months before heavy rainfall, this season offers manageable temperatures, clear blue skies, and unobstructed trails. Likewise, the views seen during this season are also quite mesmerizing and are enough to make your trek effort worthwhile. The booming rhododendrons and other wildflowers cover the entire landscape, turning it into a colorful garden. Animals like Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan Monal, Musk deer, and Blood Pheasant also keep making an appearance, making the trek more pleasant.

Summer/Monsoon (July to August)

Summer, the season of unbearable heat, is not a great time to trek the Annapurna Circuit. The weather is not very favorable due to the monsoon that follows. The unexpected rainfall often makes the trail muddy and slippery, adding extra challenges to the trek. At higher altitudes, there is always a risk of landslides that could block the trek and get you stuck in the remote villages for many days. Additionally, the views are also not very exciting as most of the peaks are covered with clouds. Despite some challenges, trekking is still open during summer, but it is not recommended to travel during this time of the year.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another perfect trekking season in Nepal. The season of rebirth, Autumn gives a unique flair to the landscape with clear blue skies and lush greenery. The monsoon that has just passed leaves behind its traces, clearing out all the dirt from the trail and the surroundings. The temperatures are stable, the visibility is excellent, and the mountain views are simply stunning. Coincidently, Nepal’s biggest festivals, Dashain and Tihar, also fall under this season. Experiencing these festivals gives a cultural touch to the trek.

Winter (December to February)

This season of the year brings some of the harsh trekking conditions in the Annapurna region. The temperatures in Wither are extremely cold, windy, and snowy. The route gets more complicated with snow covering them, and the high Thorong La Pass might even get closed. Accommodation during this season can also be a problem as many teahouse and lodge operators close their business at higher altitudes. However, trekking the Annapurna region in winter lets you see the raw beauty of the Himalayas amidst a few challenges.

Permits For Annapurna Circuit Trek

For the Annapurna Circuit trek, you will generally need two different permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card. These are important for monitoring trekking activities and preserving the environment. You must carry them in hand at all times, as many checkpoints on the route ask to see them.

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit

The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit is required to enter the Annapurna region. A huge part of this permit goes towards conservation projects. It also promotes eco-friendly tourism and helps manage the trails in the Annapurna region. You can obtain the ACAP from either the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara or through registered trekking companies or guides.

The cost of ACAP varies according to the nationality of the trekkers. For Nepali citizens, the cost is NPR 100; for citizens of SAARC countries, the cost is NPR 1000; and for citizens of other countries, the cost is NPR 3000 per person.

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card

The Trekkers Information Management System is not a permit but a card designed to ensure the safety of trekkers. The TIMS card tracks every movement of the trekker and aids in rescue operations in case of emergencies. Similar to the ACAP, this card can be collected from the Tourism Board Office or through trekking agencies.

Citizens of Nepal can obtain a TIMS card for free, whereas trekkers from SAARC and non-SAARC countries will have to pay a fee of NPR 1000 and NPR 2000, respectively.

Packing List for Annapurna Circuit

If you are trekking to Annapurna Circuit, then it is essential for you to do proper packing. We generally recommend you not to carry more than 9 kg. But you may be wondering what to pack and how to limit the essentials. Here is a list that can help you:

Backpack & Accessories

Trekking backpack (40-50L) with rain cover
Daypack
Waterproof stuff sacks or dry bags for keeping clothes and electronics dry
Hydration system
Water purification
Trekking poles

Clothing

Base layer
Insulating layer
Outer shell layer
Trekking pants
Trekking shirts
Thermal underwear
Hiking socks (at least 4-6 pairs)
Hat/Beanie
Buff or neck gaiter
Sun hat or cap
Gloves
Down or synthetic jacket
Gaiters

Footwear

Sturdy trekking boots (waterproof, broken in, comfortable)
Camp shoes

Sleeping Gear

Sleeping bag (3-season or rated to -10°C / 14°F for cold temperatures)
Sleeping bag liner

Toiletries & Personal Care

Toothbrush, toothpaste
Towel (lightweight, quick-dry)
Toilet paper (carry extra, especially for remote areas)
Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Lip balm (with sun protection)
First aid kit (bandages, blister care, pain relievers, antiseptic, etc.)
Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
Personal medication (carry extra if necessary)
Moisturizer (for dry skin in higher altitudes)

Electronics & Photography

Camera or smartphone
Power bank (solar charger is useful in remote areas)
Headlamp (with extra batteries)
Universal adapter (Nepal uses type C, D, and M plugs)

Food & Snacks

Energy bars or snacks (for quick energy during the trek)
Electrolyte tablets or powder (to stay hydrated and prevent cramps)
Trail mix (nuts, dried fruit, seeds, etc.)

Documents & Miscellaneous

Passport
Trekking permits
Travel Insurance
Cash

Meals and Accommodations

Similar to the Everest Base Camp trek, meals and accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit trek are neither the best nor the worst. You can expect to find basic facilities that are enough to survive at such high altitudes. Teahouses and lodges are the only options available on the Annapurna circuit trek route for shelter and food. They offer a variety of meals, including classic Nepali dishes as well as Western dishes. You can expect to find meals like dal bhat, momos, noodles, pancakes, burgers, and porridge. Every meal is properly balanced to help you overcome the challenges of the route.

On the other hand, accommodations along the Annapurna circuit trek are quite basic but enough to get proper rest. Teahouses are the best affordable option, while lodges can be a bit expensive due to additional facilities. You can choose to either rent a shared room with a shared bathroom or a private room with attached bathrooms. However, the cost may also vary according to your choices. As you climb higher towards the summit of the trek, the facilities get limited, and you might only find shared rooms. The best part of spending nights at the teahouses and lodges is you get to have a tasty meal in a huge dining hall while connecting with other fellow trekkers.

FAQs For Annapurna Circuit Trek


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A Typical Day in Annapurna Circuit Trek

A typical day on the Annapurna Circuit Trek begins with an early wake-up, usually around 6 or 7 am, to enjoy breakfast before starting the hike. Each day brings new challenges along with some exciting views. Walking for 5 to 7 hours throughout the trek, we will walk past beautiful landscapes, small villages, forests, and rivers. We will take a short lunch break at around 12 am to 1 pm, either in a teahouse or an area offering beautiful scenic views.

Resuming our journey, at about 4 pm to 5 pm we reach our destination. We will have time to relax, stretch, and enjoy a warm meal. In the night, you can gather in local teahouses to share stories, have dinner, and prepare for the next day’s journey. The pace is steady, allowing time for acclimatization and enjoying the stunning surroundings.

Meals and Accommodations

Similar to the Everest Base Camp trek, meals and accommodation on the Annapurna circuit trek are neither the best nor the worst. You can expect to find basic facilities that are enough to survive at such high altitudes. Teahouses and lodges are the only options available on the Annapurna circuit trek route for shelter and food. They offer a variety of meals, including classic Nepali dishes as well as Western dishes. You can expect to find meals like dal bhat, momos, noodles, pancakes, burgers, and porridge. Every meal is properly balanced to help you overcome the challenges of the route.

On the other hand, accommodations along the Annapurna circuit trek are quite basic but enough to get proper rest. Teahouses are the best affordable option, while lodges can be a bit expensive due to additional facilities. You can choose to either rent a shared room with a shared bathroom or a private room with attached bathrooms. However, the cost may also vary according to your choices. As you climb higher towards the summit of the trek, the facilities get limited, and you might only find shared rooms. The best part of spending nights at the teahouses and lodges is you get to have a tasty meal in a huge dining hall while connecting with other fellow trekkers.

Internet and Connectivity

Despite the remote and rugged terrains of the Annapurna region, the internet can still be accessed along the Annapurna Circuit trek. Many teahouses and lodges on the route offer WiFi services for trekkers. However, to access the Internet, you will have to pay an additional cost. Instead of using the WiFi for an additional charge, carrying a local SIM card can also help you stay connected. Popular service providers like Ncell and NTC offer some delightful internet packages at a reasonable price.

While connectivity options are available, they can get interrupted in more remote sections of the trek. Some areas might have weak signals or no coverage at all. It is better to download maps and essential information beforehand. This way, you will have all the necessary documents in hand in case of emergencies. Meanwhile, for someone looking to unplug from the chaos of daily life, trying out digital detox can be helpful.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a slightly challenging route compared to other treks around the Annapurna region. The difficulty level of the trek varies according to the seasons and the condition of the trail you follow to reach the summit. The changing terrains, from lush forests to rugged mountains, can be challenging for most trekkers. The difficulty further increases due to the high altitude, with the highest point being the Thorng La Pass at 5416m.

Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. Apart from that, the steep ascents and descents demand a good level of physical fitness. Trekkers should be prepared for long hours of walking each day, often in unpredictable weather conditions. Covering a total of 200km in such weather comes with the risk of injuries and other health-related problems. However, with proper preparations and a thoroughly planned itinerary, the Annapurna Circuit Trek can still be accomplished.

Can a Beginner Trek To Annapurna Circuit?

Although the Annapurna Circuit is a slightly difficult route, beginners can surely complete the trek. As a beginner, tackling the challenges of the Annapurna circuit trek might also be quite difficult, but with the right preparations and mindset, every challenge feels like nothing. A good level of physical fitness can further make the trek more enjoyable and safe in every manner.

Acclamaitaztion is another important factor in trekking. It is essential you take proper measures to protect yourself from altitude sickness. Pack up essentials like sturdy boots, warm clothes, a first aid kit, and enough water to complete the trek with ease. For beginners, hiring a guide and porter can enhance your safety and loosen up your loads. Doing this will let you enjoy the surroundings more properly without having to worry about anything else.

Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization Days

Altitude sickness is a common concern for trekkers in high-altitude regions like the Annapurna Circuit. With increasing height, the oxygen levels decrease, which can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. It’s important to listen to our body and be aware of these symptoms to avoid serious conditions. To minimize the risks of altitude sickness, it is essential to take the trek slowly. This will give our body enough time to adjust to the changing altitude.

Acclimatization days are a great way to help our body adjust. These are planned rest days at a few places in the Annapurna Circuit. In these places, we will stay at a certain altitude for a day or two before continuing forward. During these rest days, we can also perform short hikes to higher altitudes and return back to the base camp. This will help our body adjust to the reduced oxygen levels. Following a proper acclimatization schedule is generally considered a good practice during trekking It will help trekkers continue the trek safely and comfortably.

Preparations of Annapurna Circuit Trek

Physical Preparation

As a moderately challenging trek in the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Circuit trek does demand a good level of physical fitness. You will need enough stamina and strength to tackle the challenges that you can encounter during the 14-day journey. Getting involved in physical activities like running, jogging, hiking, cycling, and swimming two to three months prior to the trek can help build stamina. For strength building, you can try weight lifting exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. With a physically fit body, the trek becomes more enjoyable as you are likely to overcome all the challenges with ease.

Mental Preparation

Along with physical preparations, you will also need to prepare yourself mentally. The challenging terrain, weather, and the uphill and downhill climb can make you mentally tired. So it is important to stay positive and face the challenges with a smile throughout the journey. To fill yourself with energy, you can try some breathing exercises before or while on the trek. Additionally, practicing mindfulness through meditation will also be helpful in the journey.

Safety Tips For Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Avoid rushing the trek and climbing to high altitudes to stay safe from altitude sickness.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking enough water, energy drinks, or herbal teas.
  • Keep track of your health throughout the journey and descend immediately if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
  • Stay away from the wildlife seen along the trail.
  • Walk close to your trek guide and fellow trekkers to ensure safety and stay aware of the route.
  • Collect and carry all the necessary permits throughout the trek.
  • Get travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking to stay protected in case of emergencies.
  • Be prepared for changing weather and cold temperatures with warm clothes.
  • Consult a doctor before the trek to know about your health conditions and prepare accordingly.

Why Book With Us

HCTreks, a trusted name in Nepal’s tourism, offers unforgettable Himalayan adventures with expert guidance and 24/7 support. From Everest treks to hidden trails like Upper Dolpo, we ensure your journey is seamless and memorable.

Expert Travel Guides

Himalayan Challenge Treks believes no journey will be safe and smooth without a good travel team. Thus, we are proud of our expert travel guides, who make our clients' expeditions remarkable. Likewise, our guides are highly experienced, government-licensed, and trained in first aid and emergency responses.  Trekking with HC's guide is like walking with a companion who ensures your safety and makes a journey memorable and extraordinary.

Safety First

The Himalayan Challenge trek ensures that your safety is our top priority. When you made a booking with us, you became our family member. And we won't let our family be in any trouble. Thus, from the beginning of the trek to the time you fly to your home country, we'll take care of every detail and get in touch with you. Similarly, our well-planned itinerary, acclimatization strategies, and emergency support ensure a smooth and safe trekking experience.

Customizable Trips

Himalayan Challenge Trek knows that even one coin's two sides are not the same, so how can two different clients be the same? Considering the fact that everyone is different and has unique preferences, we offer customizable trekking packages. This personalized option allows trekkers to tailor their itinerary to suit their preferences, fitness level, and time availability.

Eco-Friendly Tourism

Sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices set us apart from other trekking agencies. We don't just make you explore the Himalayas but also train you to protect nature for future generations. We take different steps to ensure that your journey in the mountains has a positive impact. For suitable and eco-friendly tourism, we follow a zero-waste approach to support local and organic products.

Competitive Price

HC Treks's top-notch service at a competitive price ensures that even tight-budget trekkers get the best value for their money. Likewise, we maintain 100% transparency with no hidden costs. We arrange itineraries that maximize the trekking experience without unnecessary expenses, as everything required is included in the package. Further, we offer group discounts and assist trekkers with rental gear to help them reduce costs. 

Route Updates

We believe that staying updated on the weather and providing updates to trekkers are crucial for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Thus, we provide daily weather forecasts and route updates, ensuring trekkers are prepared ahead. For weather updates, our guide monitors official meteorological sources and local reports, ensuring a safe journey and no interruption due to changes in weather during the trek.