Annapurna Circuit Trek - 12 days

Best time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Even though this trek falls under a thrilling adventure that crosses the world’s highest pass. To your surprise, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is an all-year-round trek in Nepal, opening its gates to every enthusiastic hiker across the globe without demanding any specific season.

However, one might find it challenging to undertake this trek to the Annapurna circuit in winter and monsoon (off seasons) as the trails are covered with snowy sections due to the high precipitation, heavy rainfall and snowfall that makes the trail completely strenous to navigate for beginners who has zero idea of walking such terrains. 

Nonetheless, by carrying proper gear and equipment and following a well-planned itinerary, this odyssey can be completed any time of the year. Here is a detailed overview of what each season has to offer, depending on uniqueness and some highlighted aspects:

What to expect in Spring (March to May)?

There’s no doubt how Spring stands out to be everyone’s favourite to do this journey, as the Annapurna Circuit Trek route is adorned with the blooming rhododendrons, pines and filled with lush green hills in every possible way. 

The temperature only ranges from 22-24 degrees Celsius at its maximum level and doesn't fall below - degree celsius until we cross the Manang, offering a mild humidity to trail along at the first half. After crossing Thorung Phedi to Thorung La Pass, the weather condition might be cold, falling to - 5 degrees at night time, however, one can easily navigate by this trail as it is a perfect season of the year having a favorable climatic situation.

Besides, due to the zero chance of heavy rain and snowfall, the towering Annapurna range dominating the sky, such as Annapurna II, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchare, can be seen during this Annapurna Circuit Trekking, creating a lifetime memory within us.

What to expect in Autumn (September to November)?

Autumn is hands-down another best season to for the Annapurna Round Trekking, where the temperature only ranges from 15 to 22 degrees Celsius at the lower trails and doesn't fall below -8 degrees Celsius at high altitude, providing a stable timeframe to begin the hike with. Besides, the main festive season of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, falls in between this timeframe, rewarding hikers with the cultural immersion and witness how such vibrant celebrations are done in the Annapurna region.

The trails are filled with other enthusiastic hikers along the Annapurna trail as it is linked with other popular destinations as well where you can mingle with other fellow hikers and have an amazing companion throughout the journey, enriching this trek even more.

What to expect in winter and Monsoon (off seasons)?

As these particular seasons bring a high level of rainfall and snowfall, the trails become muddy, slippery, and challenging to walk over in monsoon season. Due to the snowy trails with a low frequency of hikers, the locals here take a break closing their tea houses, which becomes inaccessible for the visitors to settle in.

The temperature might fall to 10 degrees Celsius at the upper sections, which becomes challenging to accommodate in, not only that, but Thorang La remains closed at this timeframe for few days. So, you must plan accordingly, watching over the right seasons and setting 1-2 contingency days to book your flights back home in case the route of the Annapurna circuit remains closed.

Despite such difficulties, you can merely enjoy the snowy, frosty peaks and also get to build a snowman en route. The insight of whitely covered pathway seems insanely beautiful from Manang, making the hike one hundred percent worth it.

Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty

Annapurna Circuit Trek falls under easy to moderately challenging level treks in Nepal that pass by the diverse landscape and varied terrains, which can smoothly done by hikers having prior experience to high altitude. In total, this trek covers a distance of 142 miles (228.5 km) that demands at least 5-6 hours per day that can be easily done by even novice hikers, but of course! with preparations beforehand; otherwise, the trailhead can be frustrating to some having zero knowledge of what remote region treks seem like.

This Annapurna Circuit Trail simply covers the 2 sections, one the easiest one and another the steep route part. Before we reach Manang from Dharapani, the route is well maintained and simple to navigate; meanwhile, after we cross Yak Kharka (4030 meters), the trail bypasses through the rugged, steep and slippery sections till Muktinath. 

Also, another concerning part is crossing the world's highest pass- Thorong La Pass, with an elevation of 5416 meters, where it navigates by the snowy trail head, so make sure to wear crampons to avoid the risk of slipping away. Nonetheless, this trek to the Annapurna circuit is an easy-going expedition with some prep and a well-crafted itinerary by the proper guidelines. To know more about challenges and preparation, you can check this blog entitled: How difficult is it to trek to Annapurna Circuit?

Annapurna Circuit Elevation and the Risk of Altitude Sickness

After reaching a high altitude, the possibility of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is always there, no matter whether you are a pro or just a beginner. As this Annapurna circuit trek elevation reaches 5416 m at Thorung La, the risk of altitude sickness is always there.

But if you are panicking about whether you could get one, then do not worry, as our 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary starting from Dharapani (1830 meters) is properly tailored by the pro-expert team, where we'll take a gradual ascent of 400-500 meters each day. 

Till we reach the highest altitude, the elevation that we will be covering is approximately 4500 meters, till we attain the high pass which usually takes a week (7 days). In between, we've set 1 meaningful acclimatization day in Manang (3519 meters) before ascending, which also stands to be one of the highlighted aspects of the entire trek. 

If you are a beginner, then do not worry! The risk of AMS is the bare minimum, and this Annapurna Round Trekking is easy to complete with the assistance of our trekking guide and specialized itinerary.

What are the preparations required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal?

Having said that, "no any expeditions gets completely successfully, if there is no prior preparation", to avoid any uncertain possibilities that might come along the way during the Annapurna Circuit Trekking. It is always the best thing to look out for future unfortunate conditions and make ourselves fully geared up and prepared, hence, there are some major considerations and preparation that must be done beforehand:

Mental Preparation

WELL! we all are well known how vital role does being mentally preparedness plays when it comes to make our any adventure a complete success. Especially when we are planning to do the mountain area trek in the Annapurna region where the possibility of harsh weather and climate conditions is always there.

Always create a positive mindset to make your power strong, as at certain points, we might feel like giving up just because of the challenging route, accommodations, and terrains which are expected at annapurna trail, so follow 3 P's of Perseverance, Persistence and Consistency to make the trip go by smoothly despite of challenges.

Physical fitness

This Annapurna Circuit Trek demands a hike of 5-7 hours per day, covering at least 10-12 km of distance each day, so a basic level of fitness is a must. For a new bie it might be challenging to walk over the high passes and long duration of hike through several ascends and descends so, it is highly suggested to get engage in some kind of physical strengthning activities such as running in treadmill, or just nearby, swimming, cycling or even just do several ascends and desends by staircase completing the 10,000 step that way it helps to build the calves stamina.

Altitude acclimatization

This Annapurna Circuit Trekking takes you to higher altitudes each day, most importantly, with the highest point being the Thorong La Pass at 5416  meters of altitude. Remember to be patient and walk along with a guide without rushing out things and take a gradual ascent. While settling in at the tea houses, try to monitor the pulse rate through oximeter and check what can be done if it goes below the normal level than the usual one. Consistency is the key to making this trip run more smoothly.

Meals during Annapurna Circuit Trekking

One of the most fascinating parts of this Annapurna Circuit Trek is the varied choice of food and drinking options won't be compromised. As this trailhead is being linked with many other popular Annapurna region treks, you'll get many options for drinking, quick snacks, and the main standard meals. All the foods are prepared by the locals themselves, ensuring it is hygienic and catering to the taste palettes of everyone.

Throughout the trek to the Annapurna circuit, you’ll get three proper 3 times meals per day with a wide range of menu options consisting of Asian and Western cuisines that cater to the taste of all the people trekking to the region. Although every lodge serves a variety of cuisines, we also highly recommend you try their local Sherpa foods like Yak Cheese, Tibetan butter tea, Sherpa stew, Riki Kur (potato pancakes), and many more.

Morning menu: There are different options available, like Tibetan local food (Roti, curry, and boiled eggs), English breakfast, Veg and non-veg soups with tea and coffee, etc., which are provided before the hike.

During lunch and dinner time: The foods are made according to your preference from the menu like Dal Bhat, Ramen, Nepali noodles, Fried rice, non-veg and veg curry, dry meats, Thenduk, momo, Burgers, Spaghetti, Sherpa foods, Pizza, etc.

Note: Make sure to inform the trekking guide to inform the tea houses if you are allergic to some sort of food items such as being lactose intolerance, or if you want a gluten free foods then, it is highly suggest to inform before hand. Also, please take a note that, even though there are varied of options available in the menu try to avoid caffeine, cold beverages, and alcoholic beverages that could lead to altitude sickness. Try to fuel your body with 3-4 litres of water per day and drink hot ginger water to warm up the body. 

Accommodation during the trek to Annapurna Circuit

As the Annapurna Circuit Trail is well maintained with highly facilitated amenities, throughout this trek, you will get the best lodging possible. In the lower sections, there are luxury amenities available, such as attached electric sockets and washrooms within the room. You might even get single rooms with king-sized beds till we reach upper Pisang, the mid-section of this trek.

Meanwhile, moving to the upper section after crossing Manang, that is Thorung Phedi, the lodging facility gets limited like the sharing washroom in sitting style, bed rooms will be managed if you are doing the Annapurna Circuit Trek solo with no partner, so for that you do not have to panic! Also, take note that for a cozy mattress, beds, pillows, and warm blankets will be provided.

If you are still wondering about the high-altitude coldness, then we can provide you with a sleeping bag that will be carried by a porter. If you want a single room then, try to do bookings in early as it will be a hassle to find accommodations.

Drinking Water and Communication Facilities along the trail

Throughout the trek, drinking water is easily available at every teahouse, and along the trail, you can simply use the water from the tap or river streams or buy the bottled water that is available at each stopping point. However, it is highly suggested to use a water purification tablet, which will be provided by us, to purify the water just to make sure that it's safe enough to drink

Every lodge offers boiled water during breakfast and dinner time, or else you can buy bottled mineral water paying $2-$3 extra en route. 

For internet connectivity, every tea house has the accessibility of WIFI connectivity, but it is only available at the dining area in the upper sections. Throughout, the wifi services are available to connect back home. While meandering along the Annapurna Circuit trekking route, buy the NTC SIM Card paying NRS 100 at the city area to get access to phone calls. 

What are the Permits required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal?

To get access within this restricted territory, there are two permits required; they are the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and the TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System Card). 

After your booking procedure is made with us, these necessary Annapurna Circuit Trek permits will be managed by us after you arrive here in Nepal.

Annapurna Conservation Permit costs around NRS 3000/- per person, which is approximately USD 26 and will be only attained in either Kathmandu or Pokhara. It is usually required and plays a vital role in protecting the wildlife and preserving this landmark in pristine condition as the contribution of permit fees go directly for the protection acitivity.

Whereas, the Trekkers Information Management System Card costs around USD 20, which means NRS 2200 per person that must be applied through the registered trekking company. TIMS Card helps in tracking the in and out going of the hikers, monitoring their well-being at the Annapurna region.

Make sure to carry these required permits throughout the journey, as they get checked at many stopping points.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Solo Vs Group

Willing to do this trek but have no travel partner to trail with? Well, in that case, we've fixed departures where other fellow hikers are all set to trek to the Annapurna trail together. What we do is we simply offer many fixed departure dates, where you can just join us anytime.

Even if our journey dates don't match your holiday duration, you can customize this Annapurna circuit trek itinerary according to your dates, we'll find another free-minded traveler like you, or else you can just walk along with our trekking guide that ensures your safety and also make you trail along the highlighted corner of the Annapurna region.

If you are planning to do this Annapurna circuit trek solo, no worries, as we offer private trips as well which is even more fascinating, where you can meander around at your own pace with the guide and even craft your packages anytime. Hiking alone lets you immerse in the tranquil surroundings throughout the journey; maybe it's your time to connect with nature and leave the crowd and busy life behind.

Travel Insurance

As this trek to Annapurna Circuit ascends to the highest elevation of 5416 m at Thorung La, getting travel insurance is mandatory. On top of that, every day, the high altitude is maximized by 300-400 meters, so altitude sickness risk is always there, circulating for both pro and novice hikers. No, we are not saying that Annapurna Circuit Trekking in Nepal is dangerous, but we just want you to be safe and enjoy the hike with a free mind without worrying about future possibilities.

While getting your travel insurance, make sure to include policies such as trip cancellation, theft, luggage, medical injury, and not to forget! the helicopter evacuation over 3000 meters. It helps us to arrange the immediate aircraft in an argent manner at peak seasons, even at higher altitudes in one go. 

Willing to sign up with us? Booking Procedure

Looking forward to signing up with us? Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition is a registered, licensed, government-approved trekking and tour operator here in Nepal with almost 15 years of services. Hence, you can confidently book with us, a safe booking procedure.

We only deduct 20% of the total cost of the trip, and after you arrive here in Nepal, you can pay the remaining amount in person. For the booking confirmation, we just require your passport photo, 1 passport-sized photo, and a copy of your travel insurance (If you have one), The payments can be made through the website, where the payment methods are displayed via cash, card, and bank transfer. 

For booking confirmation or any inquiries about the trip, please reach us by emailing info(a) info@destinationhimalayatreks.com or you can even whats app, viber, or call at +977 9851016814 through phone or WhatsApp. 

Essential Tips for Annapurna Circuit Trek (Acclimatization, Foods, Electricity, Gears, Personal Expenses, 

• At every stopping point, make sure to check the pulse rate with an oximeter, and if you feel any sort of altitude sickness symptoms such as severe headaches, vomiting, nausea, skin turning pale, dizziness, or insomnia (loss of sleep and appetite), inform the guide immediately and take time to acclimatize and descend immediately if the things get worse.
• Do the money exchange while you are in Kathmandu or Pokhara as the trail has 0 sign of ATMs and credit card facilities, so estimate the personal expenses and carry the cash as per requirements.
• Even though our Annapurna Circuit Trek package covers all your necessities for the trip, you might require cash for hot showers, laundry facilities, buying sovuniers, for bottled water and extra beverage. It will be enough if you carry $ 10-15 estimating per day expenses, excluding the extra cost of buying gifts and gear.
• At the higher trails, after crossing upper Pisang and entering the completely isolated area, there is less possibility of finding electricity sockets attached to the room. So, carry power banks (2) to plug in the charging in an emergency. Also, remember that the charging facilities are available at the dining area, but it will be too frustrating to just wait for charging in a queue.
• Buy the quick snacks in marts at city area, as at some route there are 0 sign of tea houses, so it will be quite handy to have a quick munch in. Carrying granola bars, protein bars and even dry garlic to warm up the body and energize the stamina would be effective.
• Do not overload the bagpack even if you have porters along with you; just carry essentials as warm gear, crampons, trekking sticks, suns cream 30+ SPF, and a waist bag to fit in basic medicines and gadgets.