Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek takes you through all sorts of scenery, cultures, and weather. It kicks off in the Lamjung foothills with rice fields and waterfalls, then climbs through pine woods to the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. Once you're past the pass, you're in the dry Mustang area, which is in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.

On the way, you will walk through villages with Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Tibetan influences. You'll see monasteries, mani walls, and mountain views that keep changing as you go. Most hikers go around the circuit counterclockwise, so they can get used to the altitude gradually before tackling the pass.

Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Thorong La Pass (5,416 m): One of the highest trekking passes in the world. Offers views of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), and Manaslu (8,163 m).
• Tilicho Lake (4,919 m): High-altitude lake located below Tilicho Peak (7,134 m). Reached via a side trail from the main circuit through Khangsar and Yak Kharka.
• Muktinath Temple (3,800 m): Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site featuring 108 stone water spouts and a continuously burning natural gas flame.
• Manang (3,540 m): Acclimatization stop with access to short hikes offering views of Annapurna III (7,555 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), and local glaciers.
• Kagbeni (2,800 m): Settlement with Tibetan-influenced architecture and a monastery dating to the 15th century. Entry checkpoint for the Upper Mustang region.
• Marpha (2,650 m): Thakali village known for apple farming, stone-paved lanes, and a monastery located on the hillside.
• Trail Terrain: The route includes subtropical valleys, pine and fir forests, high-altitude alpine zones, and semi-arid terrain in the rain shadow of the Annapurna Range.
• Cultural Regions: The route passes through areas inhabited by Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities. Tibetan Buddhist elements are present in the upper Mustang and Manang areas.
• Kali Gandaki Gorge: A Section of the trail runs through the gorge located between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs.
• Route Options: Trek durations vary from around 7 to 21 days, depending on starting and ending points. Road access is available at multiple sections of the circuit, including Besisahar, Manang, Muktinath, Jomsom, and Tatopani.

Fitness Preparation

Cardio base, hill repeats, and back-to-back long hikes help; practice with a loaded pack and, for cyclists, hike-a-bike at altitude.

Essential Gear

• Trekking boots - Waterproof, broken-in, ankle support essential

• Layering system - Base layers, insulating layers, and outer shell

• Down jacket - For warmth at higher altitudes

• Rain shell - Waterproof and windproof protection

• Sleeping bag (-10°C) - Or rent in Kathmandu/Pokhara

• Trekking poles - Essential for stability and knee protection

• Hat - Warm hat/beanie for cold conditions

• Gloves - Insulated and waterproof recommended

• Sunglasses - UV protection, essential for snow glare

• SPF sunscreen - High altitude UV protection

• Headlamp - LED with extra batteries

• Water treatment - Tablets or filter for safe drinking water

• Power bank - High capacity for device charging

• Personal first-aid kit - With altitude medications as advised by your clinician
  

For Cyclists: Bring robust tubeless tires, brake pads, and a derailleur hanger; expect long pushing sections and possible ice/snow near the pass.

Connectivity, Money & Practicalities

Cash & ATMs: Carry sufficient NPR; ATMs are limited/unreliable beyond gateway towns (e.g., Jomsom sometimes, not guaranteed). Expect to pay cash for rooms, meals, charging, and Wi-Fi.

Wi-Fi & Power: Many teahouses offer paid Wi-Fi and device charging; bring a high-capacity power bank.

Road Access: Ongoing road links allow jeep transfers to shorten or reroute days; this also enables bike shuttles.

SIM & Coverage: NTC/Ncell works mostly; don't rely on continuous data. (Buy a local SIM in Kathmandu/Pokhara before departure.)

Water & Waste: Use bottle-refill stations where available, purify all water to reduce plastic.

Additional Recommended Items

• Trekking pants - Quick-dry, comfortable for long walks

• Hiking socks - Merino wool, bring 4-5 pairs

• Camp shoes - Light sandals or slip-ons for teahouses

• Backpack (40-50L) - Comfortable, quality pack with rain cover

• Water bottles - 2-3 liters capacity

• Lip balm with SPF - Prevention against chapping

• Quick-dry towel - Compact and lightweight

• Plastic bags/dry bags - Keep gear dry

• Energy bars and snacks - High-calorie trail food

Important Notes

Altitude: The trek reaches 5,416m at Thorong La Pass. Proper acclimatization and gear are crucial for safety.

Weather: Weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for rain, snow, and extreme cold.

Permits: ACAP permit and TIMS card required.

Travel Insurance: Must cover high altitude trekking up to 6,000m.