Annapurna Circuit is simply amazing. Although this trek is quite longer among other trek of Annapurna region but it's worth a walk. This trek is for those brave heart who really want to see beauty of nature within the remoteness. Trekking for more than couple of week is not a joke. Annapurna Circuit trek starts from a slow easy trail and then gradually shifting to one of the complex trekking trail of the world. In this trek you will cross the Thorung La pass and can have a clear view of the Nepal-Tibet border.
This trek starts from a ride to Besisahar. You will walk slowly enjoying nature between the rhododendron forest. Besides natural beauty you will also be able to experience Buddhist religion and get a closer look of a monk's life. Muktinath is one of the highlight of the trek. This temple is not only worshiped by Hindu but also by Buddhist. Thus, this reflects the presence of religious tolerance in Nepal. There are lot more things to enjoy and appreciate in this lovely place.
Cost Includes:
15 night accommodation with 3 meals a day during trek
2 night accommodation in Kathmandu on Bb plan
1 night accommodation in Pokhara
All entrance and Permit charge
Licensed Guide and Porter
All transfer; airport drop pick up
One way Bus or Jeep fare Kathmandu - Besiahar
One way air fare Pokhara - Kathmandu
All transport used during trek
Farewell Dinner
DAY 01: Arrival to the
capital of Nepal, Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal. First day you’re in Nepal. Our
representative will be at the airport to receive you and transfer to Hotel. Our
manager will meet you at hotel or where convenient and brief you about the trek
along with introduction to guide of the trek. Overnight at Hotel on B plan.
DAY 02: Kathmandu to
Besisahar (820 m)
In the morning, after breakfastwe will take bus and move to the
village of Besisahar. This will be a long travel journey about 8 hours of
driving. When you are approaching to Besisahar, you can catch some glimpse of
mountains on the way.
DAY 03: Besisahar to
Chamje (1,385 m)
We will start morning with drive to Syangje. The
trekking begins as we take a steep downhill to start, as we head in the direction
of Bahundanda. We will cross the Marsyangdi River and continue our trail where
rock landscapes will be replaced by the passage of green jungles and
waterfalls. A picturesque path will take place first along the left and then
right (relative to our movement) slopes of the canyon of the Marsyardi River.
DAY 04: Chamje to
Bagarchhap (2,160 m)
Another interesting day of our trek where we will step to
Tal, first village of the Manang district. As we continue to head towards
Dharapani our paths will be more rugged and windy. When we reach to Bagarchhap
we can see small stupas and chortens surrounding us.
DAY 05: Bagarchhap to
Chame (2,710 m)
Today we will make our way towards Chame. On the way we can
see old roads that were used years ago to carry out trade with Tibet. When we
walk ahead we can see people and monuments which have high Tibetan culture
influence. We can catch some glimpse of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and
Annapurna IV if the weather allows.
DAY 06: Chame to Upper
Pisang (3,250 m)
Amazing beautiful views opens on the way: on the left side of
the summit are Lamjung Himal (6893m) and the spurs of Annapurna, and on the
right side of the valley is the peak of Pisang (6095 m). From the village of
Pisang we will see a view of the Annapurna Massif, the peaks - Annapurna 2
(7937m), Annapurna 3 (7555m), Gangapurna (7454m), and Tilicho Peak (7134m).
DAY 07: Upper Pisang to
Manang (3,540 m)
The upper path from Pisang to Manang is very picturesque. We
can see lots of lakes and spruce forests. Along the way, there are wonderful
views of Annapurna 2, Annapurna 3 and Gangapurna (7455m). There are 2 variants
of the transition to Manang, the upper path is more beautiful, but more complex
and lower trail is more simple and short. Those who get tired over the previous
days can go along lower trail to save strength.
DAY 08: Manang Rest Day
Today we won’t trek ahead. We will stop at Manang for
acclimatization. You can go for a short excursion tour and explore Manang. If
it’s the best season then you will also be able to see mountaineers taking
training for expeditions. Take your camera and explore around beautiful Manang.
DAY 09: Manang to Yak
Kharka (4,050 m)
Today our trail passes through the Tenki village, taking
exit of the Marsyangdi valley all along the Jarsang Khola. While walking, we
will see cluster of mud houses and big fields to gaze yaks. Today’s destination
is Yak Kharka. Yak Kharka serves the most delicious Yak Steak on the entire
track, I recommend trying it.
DAY 10: Yak Kharka to
Thorung Pedi (4,450 m)
We will continue our journey along the gorge then along the
Thorung Khola River. We will climb up and go down and finally make up to our
today’s destination, Thorung Phedi.
DAY 11: Thorung Pedi to
Thorung La Pass (5416 m) to Muktinath (3,800 m)
11th day of trekking is one of the interesting and best day.
You will have to wake up at 3 am in the morning and set out for Thorung La
pass. You must arrange your time and get to the point before noon. On the way
you might have to face strong wind and sometimes heavy snowfall. Our path has a
steep climb but it’s not dangerous. Once we get at the top, we can see
beautiful view of Dhaulagiri peak and Tashi Kang. Without any delay we will
make early descend to Muktinath (3800 m).
DAY 12: Muktinath to Marpha (2,670 m)
Today we will take trail between Muktinath and Kagbeni.
Jomsom is about 3 hr trek from Kagbeni. If you can walk at your full strength,
this is a golden chance to explore multiple places within a single day. Marpha
village is famous for its amazing flavor apple wine.
DAY 13: Marpha to Ghasa (2,010 m)
Today we will walk along the banks of Kali Gandaki River
towards small Thakali settlement, Ghasa. On the way we will pass via Sokung.
This path climbs up and down over a low altitude tropical forest to reach the
village of Ghasa.
DAY 14: Ghasa to
Tatopani (1,200 m)
Today is quite relaxing day. Tatopani is famous for hot
springs and its name is derived respectively. Tatopani is a beautiful place
and Tamnag Thakali settlement adds more beauty in it. As today is a short trek
day, so take it easy and explore around the village as you wish.
DAY 15: Tatopani to
Ghorepani (2,870m)
After a good relaxing day today is the day to challenge
yourself. It’s going to be a long day walking across multiples of village and a
huge rhododendron forest to reach today’ destination Ghorepani. Although it
will be long and tiring day we can guarantee you that you will love the trail
where you can experience different cultures.
DAY 16: Ghorepani to
Poon hill to Pokhara
Today let’s see how
much stamina you have. Today is challenging day just as it was yesterday. You
have to wake up before dawn breaks and leave for Poon hill. Poonhill is a great
view point from where Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri I and Manaslu’s panoramic view
can be seen. You might encounter hundreds of tourist who visit to Poon hill
only in the purpose to view sunrise between the mountains. We will return back
to hotel, have breakfast and head towards Nayapul via Thilke dhunga. Naya pul is
point where our trekking officially ends. From Nayapul we will drive for an
hour or a little more to Pokhara.
DAY 17: Pokhara to
Kathmandu
After breakfast, we will now leave for Kathmandu. While
returning to Kathmandu, we suggest to take flight rather than road transport.
So, you will take a short flight of 30 mins and reach at Kathmandu. If anyone
is interested to take roadways guide will arrange air-conditioned vehicle as
per your need. After arrival at Kathmandu, our company will provide you
farewell dinner or lunch as you want. In this program you can share your
experience of the trek. You are free to express your feelings either it's good or bad.
This will also help us to upgrade our service and work more to fulfill clients
demand.
DAY 18: Kathmandu
It's time to say goodbye. Last day of your stay in Nepal. Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuwan International Airport. End of our Service
Cost Excludes:
Visa Fee (free for Indian, Chinese and SAARC nationalities except for Afghans)
Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Travel Insurance
Rental charge for sleeping bag and down jacket
Expenses during trek like charging electronic devices, WI-FI, hot shower, toilet paper rolls, mineral water, and other personal items
Tips to guide and porter
Travel Insurance:
About the travel insurance we suggest our guest to take those insurance which covers all emergency case or other travel related injury during your travel in Nepal. However, this is optional and it depends on your opinion. If you are buying any insurance you can buy which covers for a week or only for days you will be in Nepal.
There are many insurance companies, but we suggest you to get World Nomad. They have emergency evacuation even up to 6000m. But before you get it make sure you are covered for such evacuation. For those who already have insurance of other company, make sure if it covers travel insurance in Nepal and especially evacuation up to 6000m. Link for World Nomads is www.worldnomads.com
Cancellation and Refund:
Although it’s rare but sometimes we might cancel trip due to some internal problems, in such a case you will be refunded full amount of package. If guest wish to cancel trip then money will be refunded as following:
Cancelled one month before arrival full refund
Cancelled 15 days before arrival 75% refund of total cost
Cancelled one week before arrival 50% of total cost
Cancelled less than a week 25% refund of total cost
No Show No refund
Equipment and Accessories
Trekking on the high altitude area there is some requirement of equipment.
Sunglasses
Sunhat, cap or Scarf
Woolen hat
Head light and torches
Gloves
Thermals
Fleece
Comfortable trekking boots
Fleece pants
Jackets, down jacket
Sleeping bag rated to -20°C
Trekking poles
Trekking bag or Duffel bag
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Toiletries
Spare battery (if you have any to charge your electronic devices on the way)
- Can I travel alone without guide, just with a porter?
Well it’s your choice whether you want a guide or not. But what we suggest you, is to take a guide because there are thousands of solo traveler missing in Nepal. If there is a guide to assist you, you don't have to worry about where to stay for a night; how to find your way, how do you arrange your everyday trip and how do you take care of yourself if there are any bad happenings. Moreover, mountains are not like city area where you will find many to communicate, In the mountain very few speak English, and we remind you not to believe anyone you meet on the way cause there are good and bad people everywhere.
- What age people can trek in the Mountains?
There is no limit in age unless you are below 18 yrs. old. Everyone can trek if their physical strength allows them. If there is kid interested, then he/she must be accompanied by his/her parent. For those above 18 don’t have any restriction. Before you choose any trekking destination consult with your physician and then go for that which you can complete.
- How long is the trekking? How long will be the walking trail?
Trekking depends on the kind of package you choose. There are packages of a week and even of 3 weeks and more. When you are trekking average hour you will trek is four to six hours, in some cases 7 hours a day, which will be minimum of 7km and maximum 15 km of walking in a day.
- Is it compulsory to have previous trekking history?
No, if this is your first time then it's OK. Not all the trekkers have previous experience. There are many beginners who do well than those experienced ones. Before you come to Nepal indulge yourself in some walking or stamina building sports, so that it becomes easier for you to even walk for 6 hours a day.
- What things do I need to prepare before coming to Nepal?
Documents:
You will require documents like passport, color copies of passport, passport size photo graphs, if you are below 18 and travelling with friends, you will require a written document by your parents (travel agreement), if you are going under medication, written prescription by doctor is required. Besides these, if there are any other compulsory documents we will inform you during booking. For any other information you can check our travel essentials where information about Customs, Visa and Travel tips is given.
Equipment:
You will require that equipment which is listed in Equipment list. Please check there. You are free to carry other item if you need even if not mentioned in the list.
Travel Insurance:
Apart from this, most important thing you will require is Travel insurance. As, we've said it's optional but it’s better if you have one. There are many insurance companies, but we suggest you to get World Nomad. They have emergency evacuation even up to 6000m. But before you get it make sure you are covered for such evacuation. For those who already have insurance of other company, make sure if it covers travel insurance in Nepal and especially evacuation up to 6000m. Link for World Nomads is www.worldnomads.com
- What permits are required and who will arrange it for us?
For every trekking, either short or long you will require permits. For all trekking region you will require TIMS (Trekker's Information Management System). We will get it for you and you should prepare a photograph for it. Another is National Park permit. For every trekking region which falls under national park or conservation area, you will require permit. Another is for trekking in restricted area like Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpo where you will need a special permit which will be given for a week or limited days. If permit gets expired you will have to pay extra per day.
- When should I travel to Nepal?
Nepal has two tourist seasons one is spring and other is autumn. Spring season is February to May. Autumn is late August till mid-November. Summer in Nepal receives heavy rainfall which makes trails slippery and dangerous. There are many avalanches in Mountain during this time, so we suggest not to travel during summer. Another is winter; winter in mountains is too cold. Temperature drop to -20°C. There is snowfall and due to bad weather flights even get cancelled for 1 week. So, it’s better not to travel in winter as well.
- What do I need to pack?
This basically depends on which season of year you are traveling. If it is autumn then you should keep in mind that winter is approaching, so it will be cool. If it is spring then you should be aware it gets warmer day by day. Generally in all kind of trekking you will require, a down jacket, a warm fleece jacket, thermal underwear, trekking pants and shorts, trekking boots, a thermal sleeping bag, backpack, and camera. Carry light and few items as much as possible. Just make sure you have all the necessary equipment and clothes. Too much overpacking will trouble you in the end. If you are under medication, carry your medicine. If you want to bring something with yourself for the trek but you don't have it right now, we suggest you not to buy such things. Almost all the necessary gears can be easily bought or be rented at shops in Kathmandu.
- Is there any arrangement for single travelers?
Whether you are single or traveling with group, a long as you are traveling with Nep Travels, you will be given a guide. If you are single and want a porter, you have to pay extra $11 per day for a porter. If there is more than one person then, one porter will be provided automatically. Generally, we have porter in 2:1 ratio; two trekkers will have one porter.
- How much weight will porter carry?
In an average porter will carry 5kg to 15kg. We recommend you to carry bag of 10-15kg (max.) weight. Try to carry few items as possible. You have to carry your important stuffs by yourself like camera, passport, small day bag and other food (chocolates, energy drinks). Rest other will be carried by porter. So you will have two bags during trekking, one carried by porter another carried by yourself.
- What communication options exist while trekking?
Don't forget you are trekking in the remote areas. However, access to mobile and internet is expanding so you can communicate using local mobile card and internet. Many routes offer local VHF phones, while more remote trails, a satellite phone is the only option. Connections are interrupted frequently but it's still OK considering place you are traveling.
- What is Altitude sickness? What is acclimatization?
When you are trekking in mountain, as you go upwards oxygen in air decreases. Sometimes you might feel headache, vomiting and nausea followed by dizziness. So when you see these symptoms, you might be suffering from Altitude sickness. So, if you have any such symptoms immediately tell your guide. To avoid altitude sickness you will have to take rest and let your body adjust to the surrounding which is called Acclimatization. If you feel too difficult even after acclimatization the best option is to descend rather than to wait for any rescue.
- What to do in emergency cases and injuries?
If there is small injury or accident, then our guide will provide you with first aid. All our guide have received first aid training so this will not be a serious matter. However, your safety comes first. If there is any big accident, then we will take you to nearby hospital. If there is case of emergency than we will immediately contact your insurance and you will be rescued by a helicopter.
- How will the case of incomplete trip be handled?
There is rare chance of incomplete trip. However, if there is such incident then we are sorry and please understand we cannot refund you money that you've paid. All the arrangements are done before your arrival, so we have to pay in advance for hotels, lodges, guide and porter. Permit and TIMS once used cannot be refund, so we will not be able to refund your money. If due to climate reasons or our technical problem you cannot start trek, then you can change trekking package and switch to another one.
- What sort of accommodation and food will be in mountain?
Everything in the mountain will be basic. You will stay in tea houses which is lodges and small hotels in the trekking routes. Accommodation will be in twin sharing basis. You will be given three meals and a drink (coffee, hot chocolate, tea) a day. As you go up wards, you will be served simple food. We suggest you to order vegetarian food cause meat in mountains are not fresh and you may easily suffer from Diarrhea. Mineral water in mountain is expensive than city and it gets more expensive as you go upward. You can buy water purifying pills and drink water which is served in local hotel and lodges by purifying yourself.
- What about tips to guide and porter?
Well, tips are optional. If you are happy with service then you can tip as much as you want. Many guests avoid tipping to guide and porter. However, guide and porter work hard to make your trip successful, so they expect something from you. So, generally we suggest $80 as tip to porter and guide. Then they will divide within each other. If you are in group then, collect $80 per person then divide equally to guide and porter. We fairly said you the idea of tipping, if you have any other questions related to tipping, please mention them during booking.
Estimated Time
18 days
*CONTACT US FOR DEPARTURE DATE
Customize this trip.
- Number of members ? No problem.
- We can customize as per your need.
- We will help you to make this trip fit in your budget.
- Contact us for more information and enquiry.
Trip Facts
- Duration:18 Days
- Highest access:5,416 m
- Group Size:2-10
- Best Season:Spring, Autumn
- Accommodation:Tea Houses
- Difficulty level:
(Hard)
