The second best trekking location in Nepal may be Annapurna, which offers a variety of landscapes, cultures, and wildlife in addition to a breathtaking perspective of the Himalayas.

Compared to other high-altitude treks in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is by far one of the simpler and quicker hikes. It is a journey through central Nepal’s Himalayan ranges, passing through Thorong La, the highest pass (5416m).

Walking across the rim of the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki, the circuit trek circles the entire Annapurna range.

It is one of the less difficult climbs in comparison to other difficult mountain treks in Nepal since almost all hikers follow the path counterclockwise, slowing the altitude increase each day.

We have a panoramic view of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna I, II, III, and IV, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Himchuli, and Lamjung while on the circuit walk to Annapurna.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulties

On the other hand, we will experience the breathtaking mountain vista from Poonhill and get a sense of the Annapurna region’s diversity.

Similar to this, the Annapurna Circuit Trek brings us to Manang, Mustang, and Muktinath, a well-known tourist destination in the Himalayan region that allows travelers to see the varied Nepali landscapes as well as the culture and heritage.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is specifically designed for individuals who want to experience the rich culture, natural vegetation, geography, and many climatic zones of the Annapurna Region on a more adventurous trek toward the Nepali Himalayas.

The Annapurna Circuit Walk is a difficult trek that includes small, dirty, and uneven roads. Beginning with a beautiful journey from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule, the hike begins.

The trials then continued through the valley of the Marsyangdi river, passing through a number of villages in Jagat, Dharapani, and Chame until arriving in Pisang.

You can get a breathtaking view of the north face of Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Pisang, Gangapurna, Tilico, and other peaks from this trek.

Additionally, the trail travels through a number of Tibetan towns, giving hikers the chance to learn more about Buddhist tradition and culture.

Next, we will hike to managing, where we will acclimate for a full day. The following day, we will walk up to Thorung Phedi and ultimately, at a height of 5416m, to the Thorong La Pass.

We shall descend to the holy site of Muktinath after negotiating the Thorong La Pass. It is a holy location for both Buddhism and Hinduism.

Then, after leaving Muktinath, we’ll go to Tatopani, where we’ll spend the night. We shall travel to Ghorepani Poonhill the following day.

It is one of the most well-liked locations for both the breathtaking Himalayan views and learning about normal rural life in Nepal.

We shall observe the customs and cultures of the primarily Gurung and Magar populations there. Similar to that, we will drive to Pokhara after hiking from Poon Hill to Birethanti.

How difficult is Annapurna Circuit Trek?

We shall descend to the holy site of Muktinath after negotiating the Thorong La Pass. It is a holy location for both Buddhism and Hinduism.

Then, after leaving Muktinath, we’ll go to Tatopani, where we’ll spend the night. We shall travel to Ghorepani Poonhill the following day.

It is one of the most well-liked locations for both the breathtaking Himalayan views and learning about normal rural life in Nepal.

We shall observe the customs and cultures of the primarily Gurung and Magar populations there. Similar to that, we will drive to Pokhara after hiking from Poon Hill to Birethanti.

Annapurna Trek

Being prepared might make the challenging Annapurna hike more convenient. The trek can be completed in 14 days rather than the typical 18 days.

However, you are essentially here for the trek, right? Your trip will undoubtedly be much easier if you bring a porter and a guide. Stress can be reduced on both a physical and emotional level.

Even when traveling alone, it doesn’t get much more difficult if you are well-equipped with the necessary equipment, mindset, and level of fitness.

However, the weather during the Annapurna Circuit Expedition adds a new level of hardship to the trek. The weather is as erratic as in Nepal’s Himalayan area.

Additionally, the Himalayan region may experience snow, rain, or strong winds at any time. In some cases, poor weather may force you to remain in one location.

The trail itself is another challenge for the Annapurna circuit trek. The path leading to the Circuit hike is strenuous, dry, steep, and rugged; during periods of heavy rain, it may even be slippery.

Also, sometimes the path may be blocked by a lot of snow. As a result, you should be aware of the challenges you’ll encounter before beginning your walk to the Annapurna Circuit. Because “Prevention is better than cure,” as the adage goes.

Altitude Sickness in Annapurna Circuit Trek

One of the biggest challenges of a high-altitude trek like the Annapurna Circuit Trek is altitude sickness.

Those who lack physical stamina and fitness may find it challenging to hike in such a high altitude.

Even though it is one of the simpler treks to the Nepalese Himalayas, it is still highly challenging for novices, first-timers, and those who have never trekked in the Himalayas.

The atmospheric pressure thins and the oxygen content declines as you ascend higher. Your body is abruptly exposed to unfamiliar settings of different types.

Your breathing may become difficult as a result. The main cause of altitude sickness is an inadequate acclimatization process.

Altitude sickness can occasionally strike even physically fit and healthy people. Your body simply cannot adapt to the new environment, which contains less air.

You might have issues like nausea, headaches, loss of appetite, and, most frequently, fainting. A height above 2500m might cause altitude sickness at any moment.

You will hike to a higher altitude of 5146m throughout this trek, and because your body is not accustomed to such high altitudes, you will experience altitude sickness. By taking medication, you can recover from such an illness.

Altitude sickness can also be lessened by drinking a lot of water, walking carefully if you’re tired, and paying attention to your body. Don’t push your body or rush for it.

Because of the trek’s extreme altitude, practically everyone may encounter a few moderate symptoms, such as headache or nausea. So, pay attention to your body and take a nap if necessary.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

However, because of its relatively high altitude, the journey to the Annapurna circuit is one of Nepal’s moderately challenging treks to the Himalayas.

For newcomers who have not had any training or preparation, it may be slightly more difficult.

The steep and slick trails, the torrential rain and snowfall, altitude sickness, and most importantly the weather, all contribute to making the trek tougher and harder.

Being over 5000 meters above sea level in Nepal’s Himalayan region is not a simple undertaking, either. It will

If you’ve been walking uphill and downhill for an hour, you can feel worn out and exhausted. You might even have headaches and other frequent symptoms like nausea.

Despite the difficulties, the voyage is full of inspiration as you get to know the many cultures and villagers’ residents. These factors may make the Annapurna Circuit Trek challenging for you.

Altitude

One of the main challenges of this Circuit walk is the altitude. Anyone who travels at an altitude higher than 2500m may experience altitude sickness because the highest point of this walk is at 5416m at Thorong La Pass.

Since altitude sickness begins at elevations above 2500 meters, the majority of people may have symptoms like nausea, headaches, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Beginners at higher altitudes frequently experience this, but if it worsens, you may have altitude sickness.

Weather

Weather conditions are one of the most frequent challenges that hikers encounter. As in Nepal’s Himalayan region, inclement weather might strike at any time.

In the Nepalese Himalayan region, the weather is erratic. Additionally, the Himalayan region may experience snow, rain, or strong winds at any time. In some cases, poor weather may force you to remain in one location.

On the other hand, the greatest elevation at Thorong La Pass is occasionally inaccessible to trekkers due to excessive rainfall. One may have to blame their route if there is a strong wind, rain, or dark weather.

Roads Condition

The path itself is another characteristic of the Annapurna Circuit trip. The majority of the Himalayan region’s route is narrow, harsh, arid, and steep.

The route to the Annapurna circuit hike is quite challenging. However, due to the significant rains, several trails have slick roads.

On the other hand, a significant snowfall could close a road, forcing you to wait for it to thaw and clear.

As a result, one of the biggest challenges for a walk to a high altitude, like the Annapurna Circuit trek, is the weather.

Lack of Physical Fitness

For a demanding journey like trekking to the Annapurna region, physical fitness is extremely important.

As you will be trekking for a minimum of 14 days and a maximum of 18 days, you must mentally and physically prepare for the long walk. For the following 14 to 18 days, you will be walking continuously.

The excursion will be harder for you if you are unable to walk or lack the necessary stamina. Therefore, the success of the fantastic walk can be attributed to being physically and mentally fit.

Best Season for Annapurna Circuit Trek

One of the most well-liked treks is the circuit to Annapurna, and it can be completed any time of year.

The Annapurna Circuit Hike is an exception to the rule that it is not possible to trek in Nepal’s mountains year-round due to the area’s rain shadow.

The Annapurna Circuit trip, however, can be a little more difficult mostly in the winter and monsoon seasons.

The winter months bring substantially colder weather, and the Annapurna region experiences below-freezing temperatures.

The highest point of the hike, Thorong La Pass, is blanketed in snow, making it impossible to access.

However, going on the hike in the winter may require you to bring more gear and do more hiking.

On the other hand, during the monsoon season, there may be a danger of mudslides and landslides in the lower region.

Due to landslides, you will either be stuck in the upper area or forced to cancel your trip during the lower season.

Leeches may also cause you problems during the monsoon season. However, with the appropriate packing list and guide, the journey can be considerably more adventurous during this season even if the monsoon season draws fewer hikers to this trail.

October and November

In Nepal, October and November are the busiest months for trekking. The Annapurna Circuit trip is most popular during this time of year with hikers from around the globe.

The busiest trekking and tourist months in Nepal are the fall months of October and November.

The weather is also in the trekkers’ favor, giving them a panoramic view of the Himalayas and the surrounding areas.

A magnificent experience to treasure for a lifetime is walking beneath a clear blue sky while taking in the hypnotic view of Mt. Annapurna Massif and other mountains like Machhapurchre, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri. During these seasons, it is less likely to snow or rain.

In a similar vein, October and November have ideal weather, with mild days and chilly nights. The weather is ideal for the trip because it is neither too hot nor too chilly.

The daytime temperature is 15 degrees Celsius, and the nighttime temperature is 7-8 degrees Celsius.

The temperature is below freezing, though, at higher elevations like Thorong La Pass. Similarly, it is impossible to forecast the weather in the Himalayan region. However, it is advised that hikers pack warm clothing.

March to May

The Annapurna Circuit experiences mild to hot weather from March to May. After October and November, these months are the most popular time to walk the Annapurna Circuit.

In Nepal, spring, which is also known as the season of colors, lasts from March through May.

This season, while you climb the Annapurna Circuit, you’ll see a variety of Nepalese flowers, including the Rhododendron, the country’s official flower.

One benefit of hiking in the spring is the breathtaking view of a vibrant Rhododendron in blossom. The temperature is still quite consistent, and the air is less humid.

You will enjoy taking a stroll through the lovely village and taking in the breathtaking vista of the high Himalayas.

In the Annapurna region this time of year, the average temperature can soar to 20 degrees Celsius.

The temperature does, however, drop with elevation and is colder at night. The mornings are pleasant at higher altitudes, but the evenings are quite cold.

June to August

In Nepal, the monsoon season lasts from mid-June through the beginning of September. Since Nepal’s monsoons are severe, the off-season for hiking in the Himalayas is frequent at this time.

However, because most of the paths on the Annapurna Circuit are in a wet area, trekking is still viable this month.

However, in the event of significant rains, the trail to the lower elevation may become slick and muddy. As a result, one needs to have their hiking supplies, tools, and boots ready.

On the other hand, this month sees fewer hikers on the trails. So this month is perfect for you if you want to peacefully enjoy the best of nature.

In July, the Bay of Bengal’s monsoon wind was at its strongest. Moreover, producing significant snowfall at higher altitudes can produce severe rains and lightning on the hills.

At the lower part, the temperature maintains between 15-20 degrees Celsius on average, but as you go up in altitude, the temperature drops.

December to January

During Nepal’s winter months, the high mountains are blanketed in snow and the sky is crystal bright, providing a breathtaking perspective of the natural world. Winter months have relatively little possibility of precipitation.

The entire Himalayan range will be seen to the trekkers without obstruction. Compared to the high season, the Annapurna Circuit Trek has less traffic on the roads, in the lodges, and at the teahouses.

However, it is difficult to walk because of the snow that has fallen on the trails. In the right circumstances, the snowfall may persist up to 36 hours.

At lower altitudes, the temperature is almost as cold as it is at higher altitudes, which is below the freezing point.

The stormy wind begins to blow at nine in the morning, therefore one should use caution when crossing Thorong La Pass, which is at an elevation of 5416m.

The Annapurna Circuit maintains an average temperature of 5 to 10 degrees Celsius. At a greater altitude, though, the temperature might drop below -20 degrees Celsius.

Trek Facts of Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Journey is the most adventurous and enlightening trek there is.

With this walk, you may learn about the locals’ Himalayan way of life while also seeing a number of monasteries and gompas and learning about their Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions.

With this walk, you will have an incredible experience in the Nepali Himalayas, including the Annapurna massif.

Here are some details regarding the treks around the Annapurna Circuit.

Trip Name: Annapurna Circuit Trek
Country: Nepal
Length: 131 km
Duration: 14-18 days
Max. altitude: 5416m at Thorong La Pass
Accommodation: Lodges, tea house, and homestay
Grade: Moderate difficult
Best season: All around the year with the right gears and equipment. However, October to November is the peak season.

Facts about Annapurna

Hindus refer to the mountain as Annapurna, which means “the God of harvest or the God of nutrition.”
The word “Annapurna” means “full of food” in Sanskrit.
The massif known as Annapurna is located in the Himalayas in north-central Nepal, and Annapurna I is its highest peak.
The Annapurna massif is made of of Gangapurna, Annapurna I, II, III, and IV.
Similar to Dhaulagiri and Everest, the peak of the Annapurna is made of limestone.
One of the riskiest 8000-meter summits to climb, Annapurna has a success rate of only 38%.
The Annapurna Conservation area safeguards the entire Annapurna Massif.
Most trekking paths are available in Annapurna.

Tips for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek has a lot of difficulties in the way. So, everyone traveling here should travel here carefully.

Start Early

Always begin your walk early if you’re going to the Annapurna Circuit. In the Himalayan region, leaving early is always safer than lingering late.

One who rises early might enjoy views of the Himalayas and other magnificent surroundings. You can have more time to explore nature if you get going early.

The Annapurna Massif is likely to avoid any form of weather disturbance by getting started and finishing early.

Choose the Right Backpack

Your walk might be more convenient and comfortable by using the correct backpack. Make sure you just bring what is necessary to avoid agony and discomfort throughout your vacation and to make your bag appear smaller.

Stay Hydrated

Make the decision to stay hydrated by drinking water every hour. Your body requires water for a long walk in the Annapurna region, and staying hydrated lowers your risk of altitude sickness.

Because of the rapid hydration loss caused by the high altitude, you will need to drink a lot more water to make up for it.

Choose Comfortable Trekking Shoes

Trekkers should always wear appropriate boots with a solid sole. You have a long way to walk via a variety of gradients and difficult terrain.

Therefore, regular sports shoes are unable to relieve your feet of pressure. Trekking boots are therefore a need for making the walk to the Annapurna Circuit.

Carry Diamox for Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness becomes a risk as you ascend higher. As the temperature rises, the oxygen level falls.

Altitude sickness is possible starting at altitudes higher than 2500 meters. However, Thorong La Pass, at 5416m, is the trek’s highest point.

Thus, one could have a number of symptoms, including headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. So, keep Diamox on hand for altitude sickness relief.

Brings food from Kathmandu or Pokhara

Carrying additional food from Pokhara or Kathmandu will be a smart move. You will save money by doing this because food is relatively expensive in the upper region.

You can only eat your lunch, dinner, and breakfast in the higher area. You can transport more dry foods from Pokhara.

Tej Bahadur Gurung

With an experience of almost two decades, founder Mr. Tej Bahadur Gurung has established Nepal Alternative Treks as a widely recognized and reliable tourism operator. His degree in Tourism Studies and devotion to the sector has given him in-depth knowledge about trekking, climbing, cultural, and geological aspects of the country. He is a pioneer in introducing the concept of ‘off-beaten tracks’ and ‘alternative routes’ as well as treks and tour packages surrounding it.