Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days

Annapurna Circuit Trek is of moderate to challenging difficulty. Although it is true there are no technical climbing skills required, there are a few aspects of the trek that need to be considered. These include many hours of walking, considerable steep climbs, extended descents, possible high altitude sickness, and prolonged exposure to high altitudes. At a maximum altitude of 5416 meters, Thorong La Pass the trek will demand some level of cardiac endurance and mental fortitude. For the unaccustomed, multiple days of high altitude trekking is a considerable bodily challenge, but first time trekkers can do it, if there is a reasonable acclimatization schedule, proper pacing, and good overall prep. Completing the trek is possible for first time trekkers provided there is reasonable prep.

No, prior trekking experience is not a requirement to complete Annapurna Circuit. Fitness, a solid prep, and some level of stamina are however essential. Many beginners take the trek and do well as it is their first high altitude adventure. This is possible due to the time taken and support from experienced guides and porters. To prepare, one should do some cardio, hill walking, or short hikes to boost strength and endurance. The will to complete the trek is required for the stamina front. An overall reasonable pace will offset any possible lack of experience.

Thorong La Pass is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit. At an altitude of 5,416 meters (or 17,756 feet), it is one of the highest trekking passes in the world. It is certainly a high point of this journey, both emotionally as well as physically. The steep ascent is, of course, a challenge due to the altitude and the cold the early morning brings, but the challenge is worth it when one gets to enjoy the incredible views of the snow-capped peaks, as well as the feeling of accomplishment that comes from crossing the pass.

For best views of the Annapurna Circuit, the recommended times are in the spring (March to May) and in the autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is stable, temperatures are mild, and there are spectacular views of the mountains due to the clear skies. In spring, the landscape is also pretty as the rhododendrons are in bloom. After the monsoons, the landscape is clear, and visibility is excellent. High winter months provide the trek with spectacular views, but also, the trek becomes colder and the snow at higher altitudes becomes heavy. The monsoon season is not recommended due to the heavy rains, leeches, and slippery trails.

There is a risk of altitude sickness on the Annapurna Circuit, especially above 2,500 meters. The primary symptoms to be concerned about include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. The most rapid elevation gain on the circuit occurs as you approach and pass Thorong La Pass. To mitigate this risk, take a gradual ascent while ensuring you are hydrated, not consuming any alcohol, and taking at least one acclimatization day in Manang. While Diamox will assist in the acclimatization process, one should be aware of the signs of altitude sickness and the need to descend to a lower altitude.

Accommodation on the circuit is from locally run teahouses. Each one provides the basics with a simple room comprising twin beds a mattress, a pillow and blankets and in most places, you will be charged a fee for a hot shower. Shared bathrooms are the norm. They become progressively more basic and rustic as you advance. While the first few may not offer all the comforts and facilities bodies need and the sentiment might be negative, one would be positively embraced with a hearty meal in the room, and the beauty of the mountains surrounding the teahouses during the trek.

Food provided during the trek is healthy, and there is a surprising range of food available as well. Each teahouse presents a set menu with options that may include dal bhat (rice, lentils vegetables), noodles, fried rice, and soup, as well as pancakes, pasta, and momos. You can get a good amount of food with a vegetarian option. It is recommended that you stick to vegetarian food during the trek because it is a little lighter and will reduce stomach issues which helps the trek. The food prices do go up as all the food variety is good and you should still find good quality food with a variety.

Drinking water straight from the tap or a stream is not safe. You can stay hydrated by using purification tablets, a water filter, or UV sterilizers (like SteriPEN). Boiled water is provided at teahouses for a small fee. It is not environmentally friendly, but you can buy bottled water which is a waste. The best option is to carry refillable water bottles with purification systems. It is the best way to stay safe and reduce plastic waste that is produced on the trek.
Do I need permits? Yes, two permits must be carried by every trekker on the Annapurna Circuit: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. These can be secured by the National Tourism Board office in either Kathmandu and Pokhara. During the trek, permits are required for legal trekking and safe monitoring at various check points. For the application, be sure to carry a copy of the passport and passport-size photographs.

Most villages have electricity, and at higher elevations, solar-electricity may be provided. The teahouses offer charging for a small fee for phones, cameras, and other gadgets. It is possible to find Wi-Fi in the lower villages, but it is often too slow, and a fee or slow Wi-Fi is the case for most. A local SIM card (recommended NTC) with a data package may be used for internet access, but coverage is uneven and not guaranteed along the entire route.

A successful trek is mostly determined by good gear. These will consist of hiking boots of the well-broken-in variety, sun protection, good-quality backpack, down jacket, layered clothes to suit the changing weather, sleeping bag with a -10 degrees Celsius or lower rating, and trekking poles. Due to the warm days and the freezing nights, especially in and around the pass, an elaborate packing list is to be developed. Finally, there must be a water purification technique and a personal first aid kit.

There is a combination of overland transport for the trek. It usually starts with a drive to Besisahar from Kathmandu, then a jeep ride to Dharapani or Chame. After the trek, there is a jeep or local bus from Jomsom to Tatopani and then to Pokhara. From Pokhara to Kathmandu, there is a choice of a quick domestic flight or a road drive. Because of the rough mountain roads, 4WD jeeps are usually used.

Yes. It’s definitely best to hire a licensed guide and/or porter. Guides assist with navigation and help with cultural interactions while ensuring your safety. In an emergency, guides are a significant help. Porters are a great help as they carry your heavy backpack (20-25kg) while you trek. They help you trek much more comfortably. Engaging with local staff also adds to your experience, and they provide support to the local economy. If you do decide to trek solo, it will be at your own risk due to altitude, trail divergence, and other potential health issues.

It is very important that you bring cash as there will be no ATMs after Besisahar and you will need to pay in Nepali Rupees. You will also need extra cash for personal items and activities such as hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging your devices, snacks, beverages, and tips. You may want to budget for these items about $20-30 USD a day, though this will depend on your personal spending. Remember, statement pieces like large denomination bills will not be useful as teahouses and shops do not accept cards. Make sure you bring cash in small denominations.

Anticipate a journey of physical challenges, but at the same time, rewarding. You shall also explore many ecosystems of subtropical forests to high alpine desert as you experience the breathtaking scenery and culture of the Gurung, Thakali and Tibetan peoples. Note that the facilities will get simple as you climb up the mountain, the weather is unpredictable, and the path will challenge your endurance. But you will be paid off with breathtaking views, warm hospitality and a feeling of strong accomplishment. The Annapurna Circuit is another trek of its kind. It is journey to the satisfaction of the mind, body and soul.