Explore the best of the famous Annapurna region during the Annapurna Circuit trek. It is an incredible adventurous trek in the western Himalayas of Nepal. The trekkers get to travel lush forests and mist-shrouded valleys, following rugged alpine forests and verdant Himalayan foothills. The Annapurna Circuit trek is a high-altitude, challenging trek that goes over 5,400 meters.
The Annapurna Circuit trekking is one of the favorite treks among adventure enthusiasts. If you wish to challenge yourself and go beyond the classic Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp trek routes, we highly recommend the Annapurna Circuit trekking. This trek offers beautiful nature, well-established yet offbeat trails, so many side excursions, and lovely Nepali villages.
On this trek, you will explore the immense diversity of the Himalayas. From sub-tropical forests to the alpine zone, you will come across a wide variety of vegetation. The vastness of the great Himalayan range will leave you in awe. The trail is dotted with cozy tea houses, where trekkers spend the nights, have delicious meals, and socialize with other fellow trekkers.
What to expect during the Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal?
You will start the Annapurna Circuit trek from Kathmandu. Syange is the starting point of the trek. It takes around 8 to 9 hours of driving from Kathmandu to Syange. You will change the vehicle in Besisahar and follow the uneven Himalayan foothills to Syange. The ride is very scenic.
The trail from Syange ascends deep into the Marsyangdi river valley and goes via dense forests and traditional Nepali villages. Spend nights in Chame, Dharpani, and Chame before you reach Upper Pisang. On the way, you'll come across a huge 1,500 meters rock called Paungda Danda Rock.
From Upper Pisang, you will follow a gorgeous trail with phenomenal mountain views to Manang. This village is also your acclimatization point. Hike to Ice Lake and continue trekking to Thorong Phedi via Yak Kharka and Ledar. This part of the trail is above the tree line and offers rugged landscapes.
Thorong Phedi is the last settlement before Thorong La pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft). The next day, follow a narrow, steep track to the top of the pass. It will take around 8 to 9 hours to cross the pass, and descend to Muktinath temple. The downhill route is also steep and navigates landslide debris.
Muktinath is a significant pilgrimage site in Nepal. Get blessed here and also see the eternal flame. You can buy Shaligrams here and other precious stones. The trail then follows the Kali Gandaki river gorge and gradually continues to Jomsom via Kagbeni. Enjoy arid landscapes and barley fields on the way.
Why should you do the Annapurna Circuit trekking?
The Annapurna Circuit trek route is adventurous, no doubt, but also offers a fantastic balance of Hinduism and Buddhism religions. During the trek, you will meet with many Nepali communities and see their mountain lifestyle. Get to know them closely and learn about their beliefs and culture.
The landscapes will blow your mind. You will go from lush valleys to barren hills and rocky gorges. Crossing the Thorong La pass is quite demanding. You will be pushing yourself in high altitudes and harsh environments. The Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the classic adventure treks in Nepal for challenge lovers.
Trekkers get to enjoy all the faces of nature on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Mountains like Machhapuhhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), and several others are visible throughout the trail.
Who can trek to Annapurna Circuit?
The Annapurna Circuit trek 12 days is for trekkers who have previous trekking experience. It is a very tough trek, so the participants have to be physically and mentally fit to join it. The Annapurna Circuit trek is also one of the longest treks in Nepal. Therefore, if you are looking to spend a long time in nature, this trek will suit you.
You can also combine places like Ghorepani Poon Hill, Tilicho Lake, Annapurna Base Camp, or Upper Mustang into your Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary. Contact us to curate your dream trek in Nepal. Our team will help you design the perfect trek to match your needs and budget.
How to prepare for the Annapurna Circuit trek?
For the Annapurna Circuit trek preparation, you can hike, walk, and exercise. Good fitness means you should be able to walk at least 6 hours a day. Therefore, focus on improving your stamina, endurance, and strength. If you are not physically ready for the trek, keep 4 to 8 weeks on hand to prepare. We do not recommend this trek for beginners or someone who is not in good health.
Why do the Annapurna Circuit trek with the Dream Heaven Adventure?
For a safe and hassle-free Annapurna Circuit trek experience, you will need a local travel partner like us who will organize all the logistics for you. Our team will make all the reservations and obtain permits on your behalf, saving you a lot of leg work.
Likewise, you will travel with a native mountain guide and porter during the Annapurna Circuit trekking. You can trek safely with them. Our guides and porters are good in English and enhance the journey with their knowledge and companionship.
Not only that, but you will also get benefits like free airport pickups and drop-offs as per the itinerary, one complimentary dinner in Kathmandu, a t-shirt from our side, and a trek completion certificate. We have the best Annapurna Circuit trek cost in the market.
