Trekking in the Annapurna Circuit is an extraordinary adventure.
The Annapurna region is often considered a trekking paradise, featuring some of the most spectacular trekking routes globally.
The Annapurna circuit trek encompasses the entire Annapurna massif, and it is renowned for its unparalleled popularity among trekkers.
Its global popularity is owed to the perfect blend of awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural authenticity.
The Annapurna Circuit trek offers lush green valleys and fascinating villages, providing impressive snow-capped views of the white Himalayas.
From the Annapurna Circuit to Annapurna Base Camp, this area is consistently listed among the top 10 best treks on the planet.
It is essential to be well-prepared before embarking on this journey, considering the challenges and the rewards it offers.
Let’s dive into What you need to know before trekking to Annapurna circuit
Altitude
The Annapurna Circuit reaches over 5,000m, which is seriously high, and almost everyone will experience some mild symptoms like headaches or difficulty sleeping.
Altitude sickness can happen anytime above 2,500m.
It doesn’t matter how fit you are, the altitude can affect anyone, and it does so randomly.
To handle altitude better, Watch out for altitude sickness symptoms.
Listen to your body and take rest whenever needed, familiarize yourself with the symptoms of altitude sickness and know when to descend.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Plan your itinerary with acclimatization days to help your body adjust to the altitude.
Do not forget to pack the necessary medicines for altitude sickness and headaches.
Annapurna Circuit trek difficulty
The Annapurna Circuit trek is tough but totally doable.
A full trekking expedition around the Annapurna Circuit is always going to be demanding.
The Annapurna circuit trek spans approximately 160 km–260 km, the trek requires a considerable time commitment.
Any hike that lasts double-digit days, like the 19 days of the Annapurna circuit trek, is typically going to require a certain level of fitness.
This trek suits seasoned adventurers and novice trekkers embarking on their first Himalayan trek.
It is recommended to be physically fit, mentally prepared, and be prepared for whatever the Annapurna region has to serve.
Best season for Annapurna circuit trek
The Annapurna Circuit trek is most enjoyable during the months of October and November or April and May which is classified as Spring and Autumn season.
These periods, namely autumn and spring, are favored due to their clear skies, stable weather, warm temperatures, and the blooming of rhododendrons.
Generally, the weather during autumn and spring seasons is clear and dry, making it not too cold when ascending to high altitudes.
Moreover, these two seasons are the busiest times for trekking the Annapurna Circuit so you can expect crowded trails.
While autumn and spring are considered the best times of the year, it is necessary to be prepared for all possible conditions since the Himalayan weather is highly unpredictable.
Trekking at other times of the year is possible, but one needs to be more prepared for adverse weather conditions.
Food and accommodations during Annapurna circuit trek –
One of the best things about the Annapurna Circuit is the food and hospitality you will experience in the accommodation available along the way.
When trekking the Annapurna Circuit, you will find a range of accommodations and food options conveniently located along the trail.
The Annapurna circuit trekking trail is well-serviced by teahouses and lodges, which, while basic, offer comfortable lodging.
They provide dormitory-style rooms with common bathrooms or private rooms with attached or shared bathrooms.
Be prepared for basic amenities and facilities.
As you ascend, amenities become more basic, and you may need to pay extra for Wi-Fi, hot showers, and charging stations.
The teahouses offer a variety of food, including Nepali, Tibetan, and Continental dishes.
They serve hearty, basic meals with a variety of options, though the menu is somewhat similar across different teahouses.
A traditional Nepali dish, Dal bhat, consisting of lentil soup, rice, and curried vegetables, is a popular choice for trekkers as it provides a good source of energy and is a balanced diet.
Other common offerings in the teahouses include garlic soup, a local remedy for altitude sickness which is delicious and serves a medicinal purpose as well.
You can also find momo, fried potatoes, spaghetti with local vegetables, and, of course, apple pie – which is the Annapurna Circuit’s dessert of choice due to the apple orchards growing in many villages along the trail.
For food, you won’t need to worry, as you can find many options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Stick to vegetarian options to avoid food poisoning risks.
It is also advisable to carry some energy bars and snacks for in-between meals and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Trek responsibly
When trekking the Annapurna circuit be mindful and trek responsibly.
Trekking responsibly along the Annapurna Circuit involves adhering to principles such as Leave No Trace, respecting the local culture, and supporting the local economy.
Trekking the trails of the Annapurna Circuit offers not only beautiful views and ruggedness but also provides a cultural experience.
It is crucial to respect the locals, trails, and villages.
Try to learn about their culture and immerse yourself in the cultural colors of the Annapurna region.
Interact with the families running the teahouses and visit local gompas or temples.
Doing these will make your Annapurna Circuit trek a more enjoyable and meaningful experience.
Contribute to the local economy by staying in teahouses and purchasing meals and supplies locally.
Respect the environment by not littering and leaving no trace of your presence.
These practices help preserve the beauty of the Annapurna Circuit and ensure a positive impact on the local communities
Carry cash/ local money
When embarking on the Annapurna Circuit trek, it is essential to carry cash with you at all times.
Once you leave Besisahar, there are no cash machines on the trail until you reach Jomsom after crossing the Thorong La Pass.
Therefore, you should be prepared and carry all the money you will need for the journey.
While food and drinks in the teahouses can be cheap in the lowlands, they increase significantly as you ascend in altitude.
Having enough cash on hand will ensure a smoother and more comfortable journey without financial concerns along the way
Prepare yourself for the Thorong La Pass
Prepare yourself for the Thorong La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
It is the highest point and a crucial route on the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Trekking Thorong La Pass is a challenging but immensely rewarding experience.
The sense of achievement and the breathtaking views make it one of the most memorable parts of the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Crossing the Thorong La Pass will likely be the most demanding part of your entire Annapurna Circuit journey.
You will need to wake up before sunrise and trek over narrow ridges in thick snow.
Begin the ascent to Thorong La Pass very early in the morning (around 4 or 5 a.m.) to ensure you cross the pass before the weather worsens.
You will be walking for hours before you finally reach it.
The ascent to Thorong La Pass from either Manang or Muktinath is long and steep, requiring an early start to ensure enough time to cross the pass and descend to a lower altitude by the end of the day.
Thorong La Pass is physically demanding due to the high altitude and steep gradient.
Trekkers should be in good physical condition to attempt it.
As long as you’re prepared, wearing enough warm clothes, and have acclimatized enough to ensure your body comfortably makes the journey, then reaching the Thorong La Pass is going to be one of the most joyous moments of your trekking trip.
However, it’s crucial to be well-prepared, both physically and mentally, and to respect the challenges that such high-altitude trekking presents
Permits required for Annapurna Circuit trek
Before you hit the trails of the Annapurna circuit, you’ll need to aquire two permits,
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
This permit helps protect the unique environment of the Annapurna region. You can get it from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Besisahar.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card:
This card helps authorities track trekkers for their safety. You can also get this from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
These permits can also be arranged by the trekking agency you have chosen to trek the Annapurna circuit. Make sure you carry these permits with you all times during your trek as you will have to present it at the required places.
To acquire these permits you will need your passport and photos.
