Nepalese Himalayas, who would not want to visit such a country where such magnificent mountains almost touch the sky at least once? One such popular Trek in Nepal that allows visitors to get up close to the mountains in Nepal is the Annapurna Circuit trek.
The Annapurna Circuit trek is one of Nepal’s most popular multi-day hikes. Thus, embarking on this classic trek is one of the most incredible adventures that any trekker can ever do. In 2022, over 15,900 tourists visited the Annapurna Circuit area, and the number of tourists is likely to increase in 2023. With this in mind, many trekkers are visiting Nepal to complete this trekking adventure.
The Annapurna Circuit trek is considered one of the longest treks in Nepal. It generally combines snow-capped mountains, unique villages, Unique cultures, and forest areas. The standard Annapurna Circuit trek usually lasts for around 15-20 days. However, the good news is that the trek has a shorter version, which can be completed in 6-10 days. Interested trekkers can complete shorter or longer versions of the Annapurna Circuit trek as per their ability to adjust to difficulties and fitness levels. Likewise, the trek mainly suits those trekkers interested in long vacations and ready to spend most of their time in the Himalayan region of Nepal.
The treks take place within the Annapurna region, simply a trekking paradise boasting several other popular treks like the Annapurna base camp trek. Visitors who can separate themselves from the internet world long enough to commit to a long-distance trek are rewarded with remarkable experiences with the routes filled with local teahouses, subtropical lowlands, Tibetan temples, and high mountain ranges.
The classic Annapurna circuit route, shorter and longer versions, is akin to trekking via the Himalayan highlights reel. The trek offers its visitors a lifetime experience with diverse lifestyles, cultures, traditions, and weather during their hike, one of the most beautiful and collaging treks of Nepal. Annapurna district trek rote is around 170-230 km long and enters the Annapurna Massif completely.
The blog aims at helping trekkers visualize, understand, and prepare their Annapurna Circuit treks with all detailed itineraries and information possible.
Different Starting Points for Annapurna Circuit Treks
Annapurna Circuit trekking routes were officially opened for all trekkers in 1977. Since the treks opened, most of the hikes prefer to start their trek from Besisahar, located in Lamjung District. The next preferred starting point is Bhulbhule, which lies just 7km from Besisahar. Trekkers can reach Bhulbhule in a public bus or private jeep. Similarly, interested trekkers also choose Ngadi as their starting point for the Annapurna circuit treks. Before, no road networks were available leading to Manang, but with the construction of roads in recent years, reaching Manang via road is now possible. This means you can now choose Manang as the starting point of your Circuit trek, too. Here is the detailed information about the starting points of your workers.
Manang
Manang is the trailhead for Short Annapurna Circuit Trek lasting for upto 7 Days. Trekkers can reach Manang via local buses or private jeep rides. The trip starts with a 10-12 hours drive from Kathmandu. Although many other means of transportation are available to reach Manang, riding via jeep is the safest option for travelers. The driving routes from Kathmandu to Manang are not in their best condition due to their uneven, narrow, and slippery roads. So it’s best to book jeep services to reach the 7-day Annapurna Circuit trek trailhead, i.e., Manang.
Nagdi
Our Expedition to the 15-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, 12-day Annapurna Circuit Trek with a flight from Jomsom, and 15-day Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake begins with a drive to Nagdi in Lamjung. To Reach Nagdi, we first reach Besisahar from Kathmandu early in the morning. After a two-hour bumpy ride along the countryside with villages and farms, we will reach Besisahara and change the bus to reach Nagdi.
Besisahar
The 10-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek starts from Besisahar. To reach Besisahar from Kathmandu, trekkers can take a microbus, a tourist bus, a private jeep ride, or a public bus from Kathmandu. Opting for a microbus or private jeep is the best option here as it’s the fastest option for trekkers. If you travel via local bus, let us tell you there is no direct bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar. Therefore, you must first reach Dumre and take another bus from Dumre to Besisahar.
Chame
To ensure a more exhilarating adventure, we offer the option to tailor your journey starting from Chame. This allows trekkers to select Chame as their starting point during the off-season or dry months.
Chame lies 17 km ahead of Besisahar at a higher altitude. Trekkers on a limited timeframe mainly choose this destination for the Annapurna Circuit trek. Moreover, if you choose Chame as your starting point, you will gain a sudden altitude as you will travel from 700m to 2600m above sea level. Therefore, ensuring you are not developing any AMS symptoms during your trek is advisable.
Ending points of Annapurna Circuit Treks
Like the starting points, there are several ending points for Annapurna Circuit treks. Usually, the Circuit trek can be finished anywhere after crossing the Thorong La Pass.
Muktinath
Muktinath is the first place we reach after crossing the Thorong La Pass. Many trekkers prefer to finish their circuit trek in Muktinath, where they can take a bus or jeep ride to Tatopani, Jomsom, or Pokhara. Similarly, it is the ending point of our 10-day Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Jomsom
Jomsom is the next popular ending point for the Annapurna circuit trek. Our journey of 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek with a flight from Jomsom, 7 days short Annapurna tourist trek, and 15 day Annapurna Circuit Trek ends here in Jomsom. After crossing the Thorong La pass, you reach Jomsom via Muktinatha and Kagbeni. From here, you have three options to reach Pokhara – flying, taking a jeep or bus ride.
If you have spare time, we suggest you take a route to Kande or Phedi through Ghorepani (plus Poon Hill) and Ghandruk. Similarly, Kagbeni, which lies between Muktinath and Jomsom, is also an absolute not to miss the place, so we suggest you not end your trek before Jomsom. Marpha lies just south of the Jomsom and is also one of the region’s main attractions. Similarly, Ghandruk is a beautiful village mainly inhabited by the Gurungs. The village is rich in wonderful views and distinct architecture. So, if you have some time, we recommend visiting these places in the Annapurna region.
Popular Itineraries for the Annapurna Circuit
Annapurna Circuit 7 Days
This 7-day trek offers the short yet rewarding version of the iconic Annapurna Circuit trail, allowing trekkers to experience all trek highlights in a shorter timeframe. While shorter, the 7-day trek still contains the same breathtaking scenery and cultural encounters as the longer routes, providing a fulfilling adventure in a more efficient timeframe.
Day 01- Drive From Kathmandu to Manang (3519 meters) by Jeep (10-12 hrs drive)
Day 02- Acclimatization or Rest Day at Manang
Day 03- Trek To Ledar (4200 meters) from Manang (6-8 hrs trek)
Day 04- Trekking To High Camp (4880 meters) From Ledar (6 hour trek)
Day 05- Cross Thorong La (5416 meters) and Trek to Muktinath (6-8 hr trek)
Day 06- Trek To Jomsom (2743 meters) From Muktinath (6 hours trek)
Day 07- Fly to Pokhara (822 meters) From Jomsom (25 minutes)
Annapurna Circuit 10 Days
The Annapurna Circuit trek spanning 10 days offers a condensed yet most exhilarating journey via the Annapurna region’s stunning landscapes. With three other comparable Itineraries will almost the same trekking routes, this version of trek stands out among all thanks to its efficient 10-day duration. Trekkers win 10 days of experiencing the diverse terrain, breathtaking mountain views, experience crossing through La Pass, and picturesque villages. These all make this 10-day Annapurna Circuit trek an ideal choice for those trekkers looking for remarkable adventure in a moderate timeframe.
Day 01- Drive Besisahar (1,400 meters) From Kathmandu (6-7 hrs)
Day 02 – Drive to Chame (2,670 meters) from Besisahar (760 meters) (5-6 hrs)
Day 03- Trek to Pisang (3,250 meters) From Chame (4-5 hrs)
Day 04- Trek to Manang (3,540 meters) From Pisang (5-6 hrs)
Day 05- Trek to Yak Kharka from Manang (4,120 meters) (4 hrs)
Day 06 – Trek to Thorung Phedi (4,550 meters) from Yak Kharka (4-5 hrs)
Day 07- Trek to Thorung La(5,416 meters) and Muktinath (3,802 meters) from Thorung Phedi (7-8 hrs)
Day 08 – Drive To Tatopani ( 1,200 meters) from Muktinath (6-7 hrs)
Day 09- Driving to Pokhara (820 mete) from Tatopani (5-6 hrs)
Day 10- Drive back to Kathmandu (1,400 meters) from Pokhara (7 hrs)
Annapurna Circuit 12 Days
The Annapurna tourist trek, a popular long trek in Nepal, spans 12 days due to its cultural experiences and diverse landscapes. Compared to other Annapurna circuit treks, this 12-day circuit trek’s allure lies in the opportunity to encircle the Annapurna Massif while embracing lush valleys, high passes, and traditional villages rich in culture and traditions. This exceptional journey of 12 days offers trekkers a balanced blend of immersion and adventure, making it a preferred choice among other tourist treks.
Day 01- Drive to Nagdi (1100m) From Kathmandu (6-7 hrs)
Day 02- Trek to Chamje (1410m) From Nagdi (6-7 hrs)
Day 03- Trek to Bagarchap (2160m) From Chamje (5-6 hrs)
Day 04- Trek to Chame (2710m) From Bagarchap (6 hrs)
Day 05 – Trek to Pisang (3240m) from Chame (5-6 hrs)
Day 06- Trek to Manang (3540m) from Pisang (5-6 hrs)
Day 07- Acclimatization/ Rest Day at Manang
Day 08 – Trek Yak Kharka (4110 m) From Manang (3-4 hours)
Day 09 – Trek to Thorung Phedi (4,550 meters) from Yak Kharka (4-5 hrs)
Day 10 – Trek to Thorung La(5,416 meters) and Muktinath (3,802 meters) from Thorung Phedi (7-8 hrs)
Day 11 – Trek to Jomsom (2750m) Via Kagbeni from Muktinath (6 hrs)
Day 12- Fly from Jomson to Pokhara (15-20 min) and then to Kathmandu.
Annapurna circuit trek 15 days :
These 15 days, Annapurna Circuit is an awe-inspiring adventure via Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Cross one of the high passes, i.e., Thoorng la pass, visit the famous temple, i.e., Muktinath, and pass via the lush forests and charming villages with this version of the Annapurna Circuit trek. Moreover, choose this 15-day Annapurna circuit trek for its unique inclusion of the Ghorepani-Poonhill visit, offering breathtaking sunrise views. We have three other similar Annapurna Circuit itineraries, but only these combine the cultural immersion, natural beauty, and the iconic Poonhill experience.
Day 01- Drive to Nagdi (1100m) From Kathmandu (6-7 hrs)
Day 02- Trek to Chamje (1410m) From Nagdi (6-7 hrs)
Day 03- Trek to Bagarchap (2160m) From Chamje (5-6 hrs)
Day 04- Trek to Chame (2710m) From Bagarchap (6 hrs)
Day 05 – Trek to Pisang (3240m) from Chame (5-6 hrs)
Day 06- Trek to Manang (3540m) from Pisang (5-6 hrs)
Day 07- Acclimatization/ Rest Day at Manang
Day 08 – Trek Yak Kharka (4110 m) From Manang (3-4 hours)
Day 09 – Trek to Thorung Phedi (4,550 meters) from Yak Kharka (4-5 hrs)
Day 10 – Trek to Thorung La(5,416 meters) and Muktinath (3,802 meters) from Thorung Phedi (7-8 hrs)
Day 11 – Trek to Jomsom (2750m) Via Kagbeni from Muktinath (6 hrs)
Day 12- Drive To Tatopani ( 1,200 meters) from Muktinath (6-7 hrs)
Day 13- Trek to Ghorepani (2750m) From Tatopani (4-5 hrs)
Day 14- Early morning trek up to Poonhill (3,210 m) and Nayapul (1070) drive to Pokhara.
Day 15 – Drive back to Kathmandu (1,400 meters) from Pokhara (7 hrs)
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake – 15 Days
Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho Lake is a Himalayas adventure trek that can be completed in just 15 days. This exhilarating journey combines the allure of the Annapurna circuit and provides the beautiful experience of visiting the enchanting Tilicho Lake. Trek through diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to arid terrains, and experience rich cultures in local villages. With a carefully planned 15-day itinerary, choosing this trek will provide you with the fusion of cultural encounters and natural splendor. Unlike other annapurn Circuit treks, this 15-day Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake trek offers a classic Annapurna experience and a stunning detour to the world’s highest lake, making it an unparalleled 15-day odyssey.
Day 01- Drive to Nagdi (1100m) From Kathmandu (6-7 hrs)
Day 02- Trek to Chamje (1410m) From Nagdi (6-7 hrs)
Day 03- Trek to Bagarchap (2160m) From Chamje (5-6 hrs)
Day 04- Trek to Chame (2710m) From Bagarchap (6 hrs)
Day 05 – Trek to Pisang (3240m) from Chame (5-6 hrs)
Day 06- Trek to Manang (3540m) from Pisang (5-6 hrs)
Day 07- Acclimatization/ Rest Day at Manang
Day 08 – Trek to Khangsar (3735m) from Manang (4 hrs)
Day 09 – Trek to Tilicho Base Camp( 4140m) from Khangsar (5 hrs)
Day 10 – Trek to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and Shree Kharka (4050m) (6-7 hrs)
Day 11 – Trek Yak Kharka (4040m) from Shree Kharka (6-7 hrs)
Day 12- Trek to Thorong Phedi (4050m) From Yak Kharka (6-7 hrs)
Day 13- Trek to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorong La Pass (5,400m) (8-9 hrs)
Day 14- Trek to Jomsom (2750m) Via Kagbeni from Muktinath (6 hrs)
Day 15 – Fly from Jomson to Pokhara (15-20 min)
Best time for Annapurna Circuit Treks
The best time for Annapurna Circuit treks ultimately depends on what experience you are looking for. With the best season comes the best weather with it but the biggest crowds, and with fewer crowds comes unfavorable and freezing conditions, slippery/ muddy routes, and a complete lack of mountain views. With this in mind, the best months (Spring and Autumn) and shoulder season would be best if you want to avoid the crowds and get favorable trekking conditions.
Autumn Trekking:
Autumn starts in September and lasts till November; if you are looking for a trekking condition with dry weather, little chance of snow, and clear mountain views, October is the one for you. The downside of this month is that the Circuit trails are at their busiest, as October is the peak trekking season for Annapurna Circuit and other treks in Nepal. To avoid the crowds, September and November are good alternative months.
Spring Trekking:
Spring (March to May) is the next best season for Annapurna circuit treks. The weather in this season is generally clearer, with a little cold in high-altitude areas. Morning and night are cold, but days are warm, and flowers bloom. Still, rainfall or snow in high-altitude areas is a slight chance. Also, Landslides or avalanche chances increase in the season due to the melting ice.
Winter Trekking
The temperature of the Annapurna circuit area can plunge to -20℃ or colder at night in winter (December to February). Also, winter’s temperature will be the coldest in both mornings and nights. Daytime temperature will be more tolerable as the sun is at its brightest. Thus, in the daytime, trekkers may need crampons, extra UV protection, and extra warm gear for hiking. The trails are quieter as very few trekkers visit the region in winter.
Summer Trekking
Summer or monsoon trekking from May to August should be avoided. The monsoon season that comes with summer is the response to the wet trails with rain clouds, making visibility extremely poor. Similarly, leeches and increased risks of landslides are other big problems that come with the summer/monsoon months.
Short and Long Annapurna Circuit Treks Difficulty
Are both short and long versions of the Annapurna Circuit trek difficult, and what is the fitness level required for the trek? We often get used to these questions regarding Annapurna Circuit trek. These questions are always tricky, and their answers are highly individual.
Annapurna Circuit is generally considered a challenging high-altitude hike in Nepal. This trek is often compared with the itinerary of the Everest base camp trek.
The trek is full of challenges due to its moderate to strenuous nature as the trekkers must have strong determination and fitness level to reach the trek’s highest point, Thorong La Pass (5416m) and Tilicho Lake (4910m)- the world’s High altitude Lake despite the challenges you face the accomplishments during Annapurna Circuit treks.
Here are the main challenges of the Annapurna Annapurna Circuit treks-
Altitude Sickness-
Altitude sickness is quite common in shorter and longer trek versions. In fact, trekkers are more likely to get altitude sickness during the shorter version of the trek as they do not get enough time to acclimatize to the sudden altitude change.
Annapurna Circuit Trek takes trekkers to the Himalayas in higher altitude areas, so the main concerns should be proper acclimation and staying hydrated. As you hike higher from the lower elevation, the altitude, whihc is a major concern here, can cause difficulty during the trek.
Crossing Thorong La Pass
Thorong la Pass is the highest point that will be reached during the Anapurna Circuit treks. This part of the trek cannot be missed as this section is included in both short and long Annapurna Circuit trek hikes.
Crossing Throng La Pass is another difficulty trekkers may face during their Annapurna circuit journey. To cross the hike, trekkers must wake before sunrise and hike over the narrow ridges through the thick snow. They must climb continuously for hours before arriving at the prayer flags on the pass. The trekkers must be well prepared for this day, pushing the fittest and experienced hikers to their limits.
Accommodations Along the Routes of Annapurna Circuit Treks
Talking about the accommodations, tea houses, and guesthouses can easily be found on the trails. Annapurna circuit treks are generally tea house treks, providing trekkers with the quintessential Nepal experience to embrace. These Tea houses are just basic small mountain lodges that normally operate the bedding and eating facilities during their Annapurna circuit treks. Remember that these tea houses are basic but also somewhat represent how the Nepalese people live here. Simply say, these Tea Houses provide more of an authentic trekker experience.
Tea houses represent the preferred accommodation mode for travelers along the Annapurna Circuit. They are simple local homes that mainly consist of shared areas. These shared are mainly used to socialize and dine in. The rooms in the teahouses are often basic, with shared toilets.
Similarly, the rooms can also be cold and uncomfortable with no heading available besides the natural heat, i.e., coal bucket fire or wood burning in the dining area. Therefore, be prepared for the cold night as you make an ascent higher up in the mountains during the Annapurna Circuit treks. Moreover, the room’s walls are quite thin, so you may want to consider bringing the earplugs with you to avoid the noise.
Most teahouses and lodges enroute the Annapurna Circuit treks provide rooms based on a twin-sharing basis. These types of rooms are enough for trekkers to sit back and relax. Also, you can expect well-equipped guest houses with electricity, hot showers, heaters, and Wi-Fi. However, the well-equipped rooms costs more than the basic tea houses.
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