Annapurna Circuit Trek - 14 Days

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is typically around 160-260 kilometers (100-161 miles), depending on the route and where you start/end the trek. Major highlights include crossing the famous Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), the world’s deepest gorge at Kali Gandaki, and breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. You will also experience rich cultural interactions with the Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali communities. Moreover, you will also reach the famed Poon Hill Viewpoint and get a chance to relax in the natural hot springs at Tatopani.

You’ll trek an average of 6 to 8 hours per day on the Annapurna Circuit. This translates to covering roughly 10 to 15 kilometers (6-9 miles) each day, though distances may vary depending on the terrain and altitude. Some days, like the Thorong La Pass crossing, will be more demanding, while others will have shorter, less intense trails.

The most challenging part of the Annapurna Circuit is crossing the Thorong La Pass. The pass stands at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), and crossing it requires steep ascents and descents. You should expect a physically demanding day, often starting early in the morning to avoid strong afternoon winds. The altitude can make breathing harder, and temperatures can drop below -10°C. However, the panoramic views of the Himalayas make the effort worthwhile.

You need to be normally fit. While the trek is moderately difficult, the high altitude and long days of walking require endurance. For the trek, you need reasonable cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and stamina. Even if you’re in good shape, we advise you to prepare yourself physically. Remember, the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the trek.

For endurance, you should include cardiovascular exercises like running, cycling, or swimming. Focus on your legs, core, and back for strength. You can also simulate the trek by hiking on hills or stairs while carrying a backpack. We advise you to start training 4-6 weeks before the trek, gradually increasing intensity to prepare for the altitude and long walking days.

It’s wise to get a general medical checkup before starting the trek, especially focusing on cardiovascular health and respiratory conditions. Since altitude sickness can be an issue, you may want to consult your doctor about preventive medications like Diamox. If you have any pre-existing sensitive health conditions such as lung, heart, or blood diseases, discuss your trek plans with your healthcare provider before booking the trek.

You need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. You can obtain these permits from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or if you book the trek with us, we will arrange the permits for you.

Yes, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is mandatory for entering the Annapurna region. This permit helps with the conservation and management of the region’s natural resources.

Yes, the TIMS card is required for the Annapurna Circuit trek. It helps monitor trekkers' movements, ensuring their safety and security throughout the trek.

You need comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency helicopter evacuation up to 5,500m. Given the remoteness of the region and the high altitude, these are non-negotiable for your safety.

Yes, your insurance must explicitly cover helicopter evacuation up to the highest trek altitude (5,500 meters). This is crucial in case of altitude sickness or other medical emergencies that require a quick evacuation. Please call your insurer and double-check for helicopter evacuation.

You can obtain a visa for Nepal on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at designated land border crossings. You’ll need a passport valid for at least six months, two passport-sized photos, and the visa fee. The visa fee depends on the length of stay. The current rate for a 30-day stay is USD 50.

A typical tourist visa for Nepal is valid for 15, 30, or 90 days, depending on your choice. Yes, visas can be extended while in Nepal at immigration offices in Kathmandu if you decide to stay longer.

Yes, all Discovery World Trekking guides and porters are insured. Their insurance covers medical treatment, accidents, and emergency evacuations, ensuring their protection during the trek.

Yes, as of April 2023, it is mandatory to hire a guide for the Annapurna Circuit trek. A guide will enhance your experience, manage logistics, provide local insights, and ensure your safety.

The cost to hire a guide is usually around USD 25 to 30 per day, while porters typically charge around USD 15 to 20 per day. These rates may vary depending on the trekking agency and the service level.

You’ll stay in teahouses, lodges, or guesthouses along the trail. These accommodations are basic but provide warm beds and meals. Most rooms are standard twin-shared with common dining areas. In higher altitudes, you might have to share your room with more than one person due to limited infrastructure.

Yes, most teahouses offer hot showers and charging facilities, but these services come at an additional fee. The further you elevate, the more expensive these amenities can become.

Wi-Fi is available at many teahouses, but the connection may be slow and comes at an extra cost. As you ascend higher, expect less reliable internet access.

You can expect Nepali, Tibetan-influenced, and western food. Dal Bhat (rice with lentil soup and vegetables) is a common and energy-rich dish. Popular dishes include Dal Bhat Tarkari (rice, lentils, and vegetables), noodles, dumplings (momos), chowmein, sandwiches, burgers, etc. 

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. Most teahouses offer vegetable dishes, and they can accommodate dietary restrictions easily. In fact, we do not recommend non-veg options in trek regions due to hygiene concerns.

No, it’s not safe to drink tap water directly. You should drink boiled/filtered water available at teahouses, or use water purification tablets. Bottled water is also available but not eco-friendly, so it's better to carry a reusable bottle and fill it with boiled/filtered water that you can purchase in lodges/teahouses. 

The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these periods, the weather is stable, and the skies are clear, providing excellent views of the mountains.

At higher altitudes, temperatures can drop below -10°C, especially near Thorong La Pass. Nights can be cold, so you’ll need layered clothing and a warm sleeping bag.

Altitude sickness is a common risk on the Annapurna Circuit. To minimize the chances, you should ascend gradually, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and listen to your body. Your guide will help you acclimatize properly. If you feel symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, or dizziness, inform your guide immediately.

Basic medical facilities are available in larger villages like Manang, but for serious emergencies, helicopter evacuation is the fastest way to get medical help. Hence, your insurance should cover helicopter evacuation in addition to treatment costs.

No specific vaccinations are required, but it’s a good idea to be up-to-date on routine vaccines like tetanus, hepatitis A, and B. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Essential gear includes warm clothing (a down jacket and thermals), sturdy broken-in boots, a good sleeping bag, trekking poles, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A high-quality backpack, water bottle, and personal toiletries are also crucial. Please see our equipment and gear section for details.

You won’t typically need crampons unless you're trekking in winter when the Thorong La Pass section is icy. However, we advise you to bring trekking poles. They provide extra stability on steep ascents and descents.

Yes, you can rent or buy trekking equipment in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. Shops in Thamel (Kathmandu) and Lakeside (Pokhara) offer a wide range of gear, from jackets and sleeping bags to trekking poles and boots. If needed, we can introduce such shops to you.

It’s best to book your trek at least 1-2 months in advance, especially if trekking during the peak seasons (spring and autumn). This allows enough time to arrange permits, guide/porter services, and accommodations in popular teahouses.

The cost of the Annapurna Circuit trek varies based on the type of trek (guided or self-organized), exact route, and personal spending. On average, a guided trek costs between USD 750 and 2,000, which includes permits (ACAP and TIMS), accommodation, meals, guide/porter fees, and transportation. However, you will still need around USD 15 per trek day for personal expenses.

Teahouses along the Annapurna Circuit do not accept credit cards. You must carry enough cash (Nepalese Rupees) to cover expenses other than those included in our package, including drinks (hot/cold/alcohol), hot showers, or charging devices. 

The starting point of the Annapurna Circuit is usually from Bhulbhule or even further up at Chame, depending on how much of the circuit you want to complete.

Yes, it’s possible to fly from Jomsom to Pokhara after completing the trek. This short flight (about 20 minutes) saves you the time and effort of taking a long bus or jeep ride. However, flights are often delayed or canceled due to weather conditions. If you want to fly out from Jomsom, then, here is the trip for you.

Yes, you can find public buses from the trek's exit points like Jomsom, Muktinath, or Tatopani to Pokhara. The public transportation is included in our package.