Dazzling Himalayan Majesty In 12 Days
Dazzling Himalayan Majesty In 12 Days
The Annapurna Circuit Trek, once celebrated as one of the premier long-distance hiking routes in the world, has experienced significant changes due to the construction of motor roads. While these roads have shortened the trekking days and changed the traditional path, the trek still offers an extraordinary adventure through diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and remarkable natural beauty.
Diverse Landscapes
One of the most captivating aspects of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the incredible variety of landscapes encountered along the route. Starting from the subtropical lowlands, the trail ascends through terraced fields, lush forests, and alpine meadows, eventually reaching the high mountain passes. This diversity in terrain provides a constantly changing backdrop, keeping the trek exciting and visually stimulating.
The lower regions of the trek are characterized by dense forests filled with bamboo, rhododendrons, and oak trees. These forests are vibrant with wildlife and birdsong, providing a serene and refreshing trekking environment.
As the trek progresses, you’ll encounter the iconic terraced fields of Nepal, where local farmers grow rice, millet, and barley. These terraces showcase the ingenuity of traditional farming practices and add a picturesque quality to the landscape.
Higher up, the landscape transforms into expansive alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers in the spring and summer. These serene meadows offer breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding peaks, a tranquil oasis in the rugged wilderness.
The trek goes over the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. It offers unparalleled vistas of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu ranges, rewarding trekkers for their demanding ascent.
The Annapurna Circuit is more than just a breathtaking trek through stunning landscapes; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Each village along the trail offers a unique window into the lives of the diverse ethnic communities that call this region home, inviting travelers to experience their traditions, customs, and warm hospitality firsthand.
The lower regions of the trek are home to the warm and welcoming Gurung people, known for their warm hospitality and vibrant cultural traditions. Visitors can explore traditional Gurung homes, participate in local festivals, and enjoy folk dances and songs.
As you ascend, you’ll enter the Thakalis region, famous for its cuisine and entrepreneurial spirit. The Thakalis are known for their rich cultural heritage, which includes intricate weaving, metalwork, and unique architectural styles.
Higher up, the Manang Valley is home to the Manangis, a Tibetan-Buddhist community with a distinct culture and way of life. The villages in this area are adorned with monasteries, prayer flags, and chortens, providing a spiritual and tranquil atmosphere.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is steeped in spiritual and religious significance, with numerous monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags dotting the landscape. These spiritual landmarks add a profound dimension to the trek, offering moments of reflection and tranquility.
Buddhist Monasteries: The trail is lined with serene Buddhist monasteries, where trekkers can witness monks engaged in prayer and rituals. These monasteries, often set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, provide a peaceful retreat from the rigors of trekking.
Chortens and Mani Walls: Chortens (stupas) and mani walls, inscribed with Buddhist prayers and mantras, are scattered throughout the trek. These sacred structures remind trekkers of the region’s deep spiritual roots and offer a chance to engage in quiet contemplation.
Prayer Flags: Colorful prayer flags, believed to carry blessings on the wind, adorn the trail. Prayer flags are believed to carry prayers and blessings to the heavens, adding a spiritual connection to the journey.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is renowned for its challenging yet rewarding nature. Trekkers must navigate steep ascents, rugged terrain, and high altitudes, but the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment make it all worthwhile.
Thorong La Pass: The trek’s highest point, Thorong La Pass, is a formidable challenge due to its high altitude and steep ascent. However, reaching the pass provides an unparalleled sense of achievement and offers panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks.
Suspension Bridges: The trek involves crossing numerous suspension bridges over roaring rivers. These bridges, often swaying in the wind, add an adventure and thrill to the trek.
Altitude Sickness: Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness, especially when ascending to higher altitudes. Trekkers must take their time, stay hydrated, and listen to their bodies to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
A unique feature of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is staying in traditional tea houses along the trail. These establishments offer trekkers a unique cultural immersion while providing comfortable accommodations.
Comfortable Lodging: While the amenities are basic, tea houses offer comfortable lodging with cozy beds and warm blankets. The communal dining areas are a great place to meet fellow trekkers and share stories.
Local Cuisine: Tea houses serve various regional dishes, including the famous dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (steamed dumplings), and Tibetan bread. These hearty meals provide much-needed energy for the trek.
Staying in tea houses allows trekkers to engage with local families, learn about their customs and traditions, and experience the warmth of Nepali hospitality.
Responsible trekking is essential to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Annapurna Circuit. Trekkers should be mindful of their environmental impact and follow ethical practices.
Waste Management: It’s essential to carry reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics. Trekkers should dispose of waste properly and support tea houses that practice sustainable waste management.
Respect for Local Culture: Trekkers should dress modestly, respect local customs, and seek permission before photographing people or religious sites. Being culturally sensitive helps foster positive relationships with the local communities.
Choosing locally run tea houses and purchasing local products helps support the region’s economy. Hiring local guides and porters also provides valuable employment opportunities and enriches the trekking experience with their knowledge and expertise.
The best times to embark on the Annapurna Circuit Trek are during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) periods.
Pre-Monsoon (March to May): The pre-monsoon season is characterized by blooming rhododendrons and vibrant landscapes. The temperatures are moderate, making it a pleasant time to trek. However, this is also a popular season, so expect more trekkers on the trail.
Post-Monsoon (September to November): The post-monsoon season offers blue sky and stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. The weather is stable, and the trails are less crowded than the pre-monsoon season. This is considered the best time for trekking in terms of visibility and overall experience.
Health and safety are vital for a successful Annapurna Circuit Trek. Thorough preparation and sensible precautions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Acclimatization: Gradual ascent and proper acclimatization are crucial to prevent altitude sickness. Trekkers should plan rest days and avoid rapid elevation gains.
Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential, especially at higher altitudes, where dehydration can exacerbate altitude sickness. Keep drinking and stay hydrated.
Physical Fitness: The Annapurna Circuit trek requires good physical fitness. Regular exercise and cardiovascular training before the trek can help prepare the body for trekking demands.
Travel Insurance: To fully protect yourself on this trek, we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. Unexpected challenges can arise in the mountains, so being prepared is essential.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek remains an iconic journey that offers the essence of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventurous spirit. Despite the changes brought by new roads, the trek continues to provide a unique and rewarding experience for trekkers of all levels. From the lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to the alpine meadows and high mountain passes, the diverse landscapes are a testament to the incredible beauty of the Himalayas.
The cultural immersion, spiritual significance, and warm hospitality along the trail make this trek an unforgettable adventure. By practicing responsible trekking and respecting local traditions, trekkers can help preserve the pristine beauty of the Annapurna Circuit for future generations to enjoy. Whether you are an expert trekker or trekking for the first time, the Annapurna Circuit Trek promises a journey of discovery, challenge, and deep connection with nature.
Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, where you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. Spend the day resting and preparing for the trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Start your journey early in the morning from Kathmandu and head towards Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. The drive takes approximately 6-7 hours and covers a distance of around 175 kilometers. Besisahar is at an altitude of 760 meters above sea level.
Today, you’ll continue your journey from Besisahar to Chame by jeep or bus. The drive usually takes 4-6 hours and covers an approximate 65-kilometer distance. Chame is situated at an elevation of 2,670 meters.
You’ll begin your trek from Chame, ascending through forests and crossing a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River. Today’s trek covers about 19 kilometers and takes around 6-7 hours to reach Pisang, located at an altitude of 3,200 meters.
Today’s trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna range as you travel to Manang. The distance covered is approximately 15 kilometers, and it takes about 5-6 hours to reach Manang, situated at an altitude of 3,540 meters.
Take a rest day in Manang to acclimate to a higher altitude. You can explore the village, visit monasteries, or take short hikes to nearby viewpoints.
Leaving Manang behind, you’ll trek towards Yak Kharka today. The trail gradually ascends, passing through yak pastures and crossing a small stream. The distance covered is around 10 kilometers, and it takes about 4-5 hours to reach Yak Kharka, situated at 4,050 meters.
Continuing your ascent, today’s trek takes you to Thorong Phedi, the base camp for the Thorong La Pass. The trail climbs steadily, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The distance covered is approximately 5 kilometers, and it takes around 3-4 hours to reach Thorong Phedi, located at an altitude of 4,450 meters.
This is the most challenging trek day as you cross the Thorong La Pass, standing at 5,416 meters. Start early to avoid the strong winds that usually arrive later in the day. After crossing the pass, descend to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. The total distance covered today is around 15 kilometers, and it can take 8 to 10 hours to reach Muktinath, situated at an altitude of 3,800 meters.
After exploring Muktinath, you’ll drive back to Pokhara. The drive takes 7-8 hours and covers a distance of approximately 160 kilometers. Enjoy the scenic views along the way as you descend from the high mountains to the picturesque city of Pokhara, which is located at an altitude of around 820 meters.
When traveling from Pokhara to Kathmandu, one can choose between a scenic but long, bumpy drive and a short flight, offering unique perspectives of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, taking with you memories of Nepal’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
The Annapurna Circuit is a classic trek in the Himalayas of Nepal, renowned for its diverse landscapes, stunning mountain views, and cultural experiences. Trekking through lush forests, terraced fields, charming villages, and high alpine meadows, you’ll encounter dramatic scenery and towering peaks like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
The Annapurna trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves walking for several hours daily over varied terrain and at high altitudes. While no technical climbing is required, trekkers should be prepared for steep ascents, rocky trails, and changes in weather conditions.
The best time to trek to Annapurna Circuit is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) season from September to December. These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and favorable trekking conditions.
While a good fitness level is recommended, trekkers of varying fitness levels can undertake the trek to Annapurna Circuit. Regular cardio exercise and hiking preparation are advisable to ensure physical fitness for the trek’s demands.
Sufficient acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. Trekkers should ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness. Including rest days in the itinerary for acclimatization and to descend if symptoms become severe is recommended.
Accommodation along the trek route ranges from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges with hot showers and WiFi. Most trekkers find delicious food along the trail, and there are different meal options. As the trek to Annapurna Circuit becomes more commercial, food and accommodation facilities are improving to serve the trekkers.
While it’s possible to trek independently, many trekkers hire a guide or porter for added support, safety, and convenience. Guides can provide valuable insights and assistance, while porters can help carry trekking gear and luggage, reducing physical strain.
Essential items to pack include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a good-quality sleeping bag, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a first aid kit. It’s critical to pack light, but ensure you have all the necessary gear for the trek.
The cost of the Annapurna Circuit trekking can vary depending on factors such as the duration of the trek, accommodation preferences, and whether you choose to hire guides or porters. On average, trekkers can expect to budget between $1,000 and $2,000 for the entire trek, including permits, accommodation, meals, and incidental expenses.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
I did the Annapurna Circuit Trek in November of 2013 with Saligram. It was tough picking a guide with so many options out there. I’m glad I choose his company, since we were in good hands. When I was there the country was going through elections, so Saligram had to account for strikes and unrest. Having someone that was confident and knowledgeable came in handy in this situation.
He handled my bags with care and guided me through the airport on this adventure. I spend about 4-5 on the trek with him as a guide and his porter who did a great job. I felt that he would do whatever was needed to make sure I was happy. I plan on going back to Nepal and wouldn’t hesitate to use his services again.
My first trek in Nepal Annapurna circuit
My first trek in Nepal, Annapurna circuit Tilicho Lake Thorang la pass with my friend organige by Sali Trekking . Sali and his team were perfect, helpful, well taken care, thanks to suresh and Milano . And trek was awesome, clear weather sunny days and stunning mountain views highly recomended to all to do annapurna trek and go with sali and his team 10stars
Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho Lake
This is my second trip with Sali and his team . I did Mardi himal first trek and this time Annapurna circuit, everything well managed and guide and porter were so helpfull. We completed the trip without any issues. Thanks sali suresh and Milano. See you guys again for another trip. Namaste
BEST GUIDE AND PORTERS ON OUR ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK
Did a trek to Annapurna Circuit with Ishwor (guide) from Sali Trekking. We decided to do the trek with Sali Trekking after recommendations from our friends who had previously did a similar trek to ABC with them before covid. They are really the best team to go trekking in Nepal with! Not only were we well taken care of throughout the entire trek, they were also very helpful in helping us arrange activities in Pokhara (Eg. paragliding). Trekking was at a good pace as well and the views were really out of the world. Its unreal. So beautiful. YOU HAVE TO SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT.
Special thanks also goes out to our guide Ishwor and our porters Rum, Saruch and Tobandi! Couldn’t have done it without their help!
P.S. In my opinion, if it matters to anyone reading this, they seem to be one of the more ethical companies around. One porter carried two person’s belongings – roughly around 20-25kg. In comparison, I saw porters from other companies carrying 40kg each for travellers. The working conditions of porters from Sali Trekking is really one of the better ones around. Our porters were also in great spirits throughout the trek which was really nice to see.
ANYWAYS, A TREK WITH SALI TREKKING IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Trek to Annapurna Circuit Trek
If you are trekking in Nepal there is none better than Sali Trekking and its owner Saligram Aryal to take you through the trip! After the Everest Base Camp trek in 2018, this was my 2nd trip with them. The engagement with Sali bhai as we call him starts from the day you book your trip and then is a lifelong bond! From guidance on preparations, packing lists, attire, transportation and then the entire trek is all handled with utmost professionalism and care. There is so much of a “personal touch” which makes you feel safe and in good hands. Once you have done a trek with Sali trekking , you will never let go. Iam already booked for the Mardi Himal next and looking forward to going back!
