Trekking Through Nepal's Breathtaking Annapurna Circuit: A Complete Travel Guide

The Annapurna Circuit in Nepal is not just a trekking route—it’s a life-changing journey through one of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. Encircling the mighty Annapurna Massif, this 160 to 230 km trek (depending on the start/end points) takes you through lush subtropical forests, terraced rice fields, arid high-altitude plateaus, and across the world's highest mountain pass, Thorong La (5,416 meters).

From ancient Buddhist monasteries to picturesque mountain villages and glacial rivers, the Annapurna Circuit is a mix of adventure, natural wonder, and cultural richness. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a determined beginner, this route offers something truly unforgettable.

Located in north-central Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit loops around the Annapurna mountain range in the Himalayas. It's one of the most popular and diverse trekking routes in Asia due to its unique combination of topography, ethnic diversity, and accessibility.

Why it's special:

• Panoramic views of peaks like Annapurna I (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare
• Hot springs, waterfalls, glacial lakes, and alpine meadows
• Exposure to both Hindu and Tibetan Buddhist cultures
• The thrill of crossing Thorong La Pass—the highest point on the trek

The ideal trekking seasons are:

• Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, excellent visibility, moderate temperatures
• Spring (March to May): Blooming rhododendrons, stable weather, and longer daylight hours

Avoid:

• Monsoon (June to August): Landslides and leeches
• Winter (December to February): Extremely cold, high passes may be closed due to snow

Starting Point: Most trekkers begin in Besisahar, which is accessible via road from Kathmandu or Pokhara.

• Kathmandu to Besisahar:
  • Bus: 7-9 hours, NPR 800–1,200 ($6–$10 USD)
  • Private jeep: NPR 12,000–15,000 ($90–$110 USD) for a group
• From Besisahar, you can trek or take a jeep further to Chamje or Chame if you want to shorten the walk

Ending Point: Many end their trek at Jomsom and fly to Pokhara, or take a bus/jeep.

• Jomsom to Pokhara flight: ~$100 USD
• Jeep/bus: 8–10 hours, NPR 1,000–2,000

To trek the Annapurna Circuit, you must obtain:

• TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): NPR 2,000 (~$15 USD)
• ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): NPR 3,000 (~$22 USD)

Both can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara at the Nepal Tourism Board offices.

Lodging is typically in “tea houses”, which are local guesthouses providing basic amenities.

Accommodation types:

• Basic rooms: Twin beds, shared bathroom, blanket (bring your own sleeping bag)
• Cost: NPR 300–500 ($2–$4 USD) per night in most villages
• In higher altitudes or busy areas, prices may rise to NPR 800–1,200

Popular overnight stops include:

• Besisahar
• Chame
• Pisang
• Manang (good for acclimatization)
• Yak Kharka
• Thorong Phedi (last stop before Thorong La)
• Muktinath
• Jomsom

Tea houses also offer food—mostly simple but hearty meals perfect for trekking.

Common Dishes:

• Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice and veggies): Unlimited refills, NPR 400–600 (~$3–$5)
• Momos (dumplings): NPR 250–400
• Pasta, noodles, soups, and pancakes are also common
• Hot drinks (tea, coffee, ginger lemon honey): NPR 100–300

Food prices increase with altitude due to transportation difficulty. At high passes, a meal may cost up to NPR 800–1,000.

Here’s a basic 14-day version:

1. Kathmandu → Besisahar (Drive)
2. Besisahar → Chamje
3. Chamje → Dharapani
4. Dharapani → Chame
5. Chame → Pisang
6. Pisang → Manang
7. Acclimatization Day in Manang
8. Manang → Yak Kharka
9. Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi
10. Thorong Phedi → Thorong La → Muktinath
11. Muktinath → Jomsom
12. Jomsom → Pokhara (by flight or bus)
13. Optional buffer days or additional rest days

Here’s a breakdown for a mid-budget, independent trek (not including guides or porters):

If hiring a guide/porter:

• Guide: ~$25/day
• Porter: ~$15–20/day

You can also book package treks via agencies, typically costing $800–$1,200 including all logistics.

Altitude Sickness:
The biggest risk is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), especially near Thorong La. Acclimatize well—don’t skip rest days.

Tips to avoid AMS:

• Stay hydrated
• Gain elevation slowly
• Consider carrying Diamox (consult a doctor)
• Watch for symptoms: headaches, nausea, shortness of breath

Other cautions:

• Weather: Weather can change rapidly in the Himalayas. Always be prepared with warm, waterproof gear.
• Maps/GPS: Carry a physical map or download offline maps (Maps.me is great).
• Insurance: Always get travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in some tea houses for a fee, but signals are weak or absent in many areas.

Final Thoughts: Is the Annapurna Circuit Worth It?

Absolutely. If you’re looking for a trek that combines natural wonder, physical challenge, and cultural immersion, the Annapurna Circuit delivers on every front.

From gazing at snow-capped peaks to sipping tea in quiet mountain villages, each day offers something new and soul-stirring. And while the journey will test your endurance, it also rewards you with lifelong memories and an unshakable connection to nature.