From Kathmandu or Pokhara: 10 Day Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a revered trekking experience that showcases Nepal’s captivating natural landscapes. Whether you start from Kathmandu or Pokhara, this 10-day adventure takes you through diverse terrain, from lush forests to towering mountain passes. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations, trekkers enjoy the rich cultural heritage of local communities while marveling at the stunning vistas of the Annapurna range. But what truly sets this trek apart is the challenge of conquering the renowned Thorong La Pass at an elevation of over 5,400 meters. Prepare to be tested, yet rewarded with an unforgettable journey that will leave you yearning for more.

Key Points

• The 10-day Annapurna Circuit Trek offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, starting from either Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• The trek features a challenging high-altitude crossing at Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), along with immersion in the rich cultural heritage of local communities.
• Accommodation is provided in tourist-standard guest houses, and the package includes transportation, trekking guides, permits, and first aid support.
• Participants should be prepared for diverse weather conditions and have a good level of physical fitness to handle the demands of high-altitude trekking.
• The trek can be booked through the tour operator’s website or email, with prices starting from $619.79 per person and a flexible cancellation policy.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trek Overview

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a renowned 10-day hiking trail that takes trekkers through the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna mountain range in Nepal.

The trek starts from either Kathmandu or Pokhara and is priced from $619.79 per person. Accommodations are in tourist-standard guest houses, and the trek can be booked as a private group.

Trekkers can expect to encounter diverse environments, including lush forests, arid valleys, and high mountain passes, as well as opportunities to interact with local Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities.

The trek features a cancellation policy with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Trek Experience

Renowned for its stunning vistas and diverse landscapes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek offers trekkers a captivating experience.

As they journey through lush forests, arid valleys, and high mountain passes, hikers will be treated to breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

The trek’s highlight is the challenging Thorong La Pass, standing at an impressive 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).

Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities, making for a truly memorable adventure.

Itinerary

The Annapurna Circuit Trek spans 10 days, taking trekkers on a captivating journey through the Annapurna Mountain range.

The itinerary includes:

• Starting in Besisahar, trekkers ascend to Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, and Manang, where they’ll acclimatize to the high altitudes.

• The challenging Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters is the trek’s climax, connecting Ledar and Thorong Phedi before descending to Muktinath.

• Thereafter, the route takes trekkers to Jomsom, Tatopani, and Pokhara, eventually returning to Kathmandu, showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural encounters along the way.

Inclusions

The Annapurna Circuit Trek package includes one night’s hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast, as well as round-trip transportation by sharing bus according to the itinerary.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off, an experienced English-speaking trekking guide, and all trekking permits and official documents are provided. Guests will stay in tourist-standard guest houses during the trek, and the guide’s food, accommodation, and expenses are covered.

An emergency first aid kit, private tour, and trekking poles are also included. However, food, drinks, personal expenses, and gratuities are excluded.

Hiring a porter is an additional cost of $25 per day.

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Exclusions

Aside from the inclusions, the Annapurna Circuit Trek package doesn’t cover food and drinks, which are available for purchase during the trek.

Plus, the package excludes:

• Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, and souvenirs
• Gratuities for the guide and porters, which are optional
• The cost of a porter, which is an additional $25 per day if required

These exclusions provide the traveler with the flexibility to manage their expenses based on their personal preferences and needs during the trek.

Important Considerations

While the inclusions and exclusions provide a clear understanding of what the Annapurna Circuit Trek package covers, there are several important considerations travelers should keep in mind when planning their journey.

The trek’s high elevation, reaching up to 5,416 meters, requires proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. Trekkers should also be prepared for varied weather conditions, as the route passes through diverse landscapes.

Plus, the difficulty level of the trek, especially the challenging Thorong La Pass, necessitates a good level of physical fitness.

Getting to Start Location

Travelers can access the starting points for the Annapurna Circuit Trek from either Kathmandu or Pokhara, the two major hubs in Nepal.

From Kathmandu, the trek typically begins in Besisahar, which is about an 8-10 hour drive. From Pokhara, the starting point is more convenient, as it’s only a 2-3 hour drive to Besisahar.

Alternatively, the trek can commence in Pokhara itself, which is a popular option for trekkers. The choice of starting location depends on the trekker’s preference and overall travel plans within Nepal.

Regardless of the starting point, the Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a remarkable journey through the stunning Himalayan landscape.

• Kathmandu to Besisahar: 8-10 hour drive
• Pokhara to Besisahar: 2-3 hour drive
• Option to start from Pokhara

Booking and Payment

To book the Annapurna Circuit Trek, travelers can contact the tour operator directly through their website or by email.

The trek costs from $619.79 per person, and a private group option is available. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The price includes hotel accommodation in Pokhara, round-trip transportation, an experienced guide, trekking permits, and emergency first aid.

However, it excludes food, drinks, personal expenses, and optional porter service.

Travelers can pay via credit card or bank transfer.

It’s recommended to book well in advance, as the trek’s popularity means limited availability, especially during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Trek?

The trek can be done as a private group, allowing for flexibility in group size. The typical group size ranges from 2 to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized trekking experience.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?

There is no minimum age requirement to participate in the Annapurna Circuit Trek. However, the trek may not be suitable for very young children due to the challenging terrain and high elevations reached during the hike.

Can I Bring My Own Trekking Equipment?

Participants can bring their own trekking equipment, though the tour provider offers essential gear like poles. Hikers should ensure their equipment is in good condition and suitable for the challenging terrain of the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Are There Any Altitude Sickness Precautions Recommended?

The trek involves significant elevation gain, so it’s important to acclimatize gradually. Proper hydration, slow ascent, and rest days are recommended to prevent altitude sickness. Trekkers should monitor their symptoms and notify the guide if they experience any concerning effects.

Can I Extend or Customize the Trek Itinerary?

Yes, the trek itinerary can be extended or customized. Travelers can choose to add extra days for acclimatization, explore side trails, or modify the route based on their fitness level and interests. Flexibility is key for a personalized Annapurna trekking experience.

Recap

The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers an unforgettable journey through Nepal’s stunning Himalayan landscapes. Trekkers can expect diverse terrain, challenging high passes, and immersive cultural experiences, all while enjoying the comforts of tourist-standard accommodations and the expertise of experienced guides. Whether starting from Kathmandu or Pokhara, this 10-day trek provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the awe-inspiring Annapurna region at a reasonable cost.

You can check if your dates are available here: