Annapurna Circuit Trek

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
One of our representative from Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure will be waiting for you outside the airport terminal. Upon your arrival at the airport you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu, where you can relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. Enjoy your overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek preparation(4 – 6hr)
In the morning, you proceed sightseeing in some places as given below:

•  Boudhanath Stupa:

The largest stupa and center of Tibetan Buddhism in the Kathmandu valley. One of the best places to relax and take a hint of Buddhist culture is in Kathmandu.

• Pashupatinath Temple:

The Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples in Asia with over 500 small and big shrines, Lingams, and temples in the temple complex.

• Patan Durbar Square:

Patan Durbar Square is an intriguing blend of palace structures, artistic courtyards, and elegant pagoda temples. Among its main attractions is the 17th-century Krishna Mandir (Temple). The Patan Museum contains bronze statues and other religious objects which has great significance. Durbar Square has both religious and cultural importance and the surroundings are artistically beautiful.

• Swayambhunath Stupa:

Also known as the ‘Monkey Temple’, this is one of the oldest heritage sites in Nepal. From the top viewpoint, you will have an amazing view of the capital city “Kathmandu”.

Included Meal: Breakfast

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Syange/Jagat (1100m) to Dharapani (1,860m / 6,200ft) 9 – 11 hours

Early wake up in the morning, and drive to Beshisahar by local bus. Then drive to Syange by local Jeep for 8/9 hours through Trishuli and Marshangdi River (famous River for rafting) and village countryside. Some insight into the rural people’s lifestyle and their culture on this drive. From Syange, we begin our trek. We’ll walk to Jagat. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Driving Distance – 210Km

Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 04: Dharapani to Chame (2,610m / 8,890ft) 5 – 7 hours

Enjoy the trail, climbs along the mule track into a fir forest, and cross the river surrounded by higher oak and maple trees. Admire the awesome views of major Himalayan peaks on the way and walking further you reach Chame. Stay overnight at Guesthouse.

Trek Distance – 15.5km / 9.6miles

Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 05: Chame to Pisang (3300m) 5 – 6 hours 

Passing through a steep and narrow river valley in dense woodland on our trail. The spectacular view of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II on our way is fantastic. Stay overnight at Teahouse/Lodge.

Trek Distance – 14 km / 8.2miles

Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 06: Pisang to Manang (3570m) Duration: 6 – 7 hours 

We trek to Manang vupper route via Ghyaru, Ngawal and Mungji. The panoramic views of Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and several other peaks are breathtaking upon reaching the top. The view of the change in topography as we reach here and a memorable short visit the largest Barge monastery of that district. Stay overnight at Teahouse/Lodge

Trek Distance – 17km / 10.6miles

Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 07: Manang (Rest day to acclimatize)

Today is acclimatization day so it would be easier to proceed further to the higher altitude. Tour around monasteries with a side trip to Lake Gangapurna. Visit the Himalayan Rescue clinic and nearby local villages and interact with them. Learn about their culture and tradition and stay overnight at Teahouse/Lodge.

Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 08: Trek Manang to Yak Kharka (4195m), (4 – 5 hrs)

We ascend to the Tenki village and then climb out of the Marshyangdi valley up to the Jarsang Khola. Passing through pasturelands, Juniper trees, and Ghunsa village, witnessing yaks and horses grazing to reach the beautiful village of Yak Kharka. We cross a wooden bridge and pass through the ancient Mani wall and finally reach Yak Kharka. Stay overnight at Teahouse/Lodge

Trek Distance – 8Km

Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 09: Trek Yak Kharka to Phedi (4430m), (4 to 5 hrs)

We pass through the busy settlement of Thorong Phedi to the point where many trekkers used it as a base camp. We stop at Thorong Phedi as our next day trekking is tough and to get proper acclimatization we stay overnight at Teahouse/Lodge

Trek Distance – 7Km

Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 10: Trek Phedi to Thorong-La (Pass), (5416m) and Muktinath (3802m), (8 – 10hrs) 

Walk through a steep ascent and rocky ridges to reach the top of the peak which is slightly icy from melting snow. The stunning views of snow-capped mountains from the top including the Annapurna Ranges. The beautiful Kali Gandaki gorge as we continue our trail and descend downhill to reach the holy Hindu pilgrimage Muktinath (3800m). Many Tibetan ethnics and Buddhist devotees reside here. Stay overnight Tehouse/Lodge

Trek Distance –16km

Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 11: Muktinath to Jomsom (2600m) 5 – 7 hours

We complete our Annapurna Circuit Trek after visiting the sacred Muktinath temple and trekking further to Jomsom. Stay overnight at Teahouse/Lodge.

Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 12: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (25 min)

An adventurous 25-minute morning flight to Pokhara from Jomsom. Rest and relax for a while in a hotel. Rest of the day tour nearby places or visit local markets if you wish to. Enjoy the nightlife in Pokhara. Stay overnight at a hotel.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 13: Drive Back to Kathmandu (7 – 9hr)

After Breakfast in the morning we will transfer you to the Tourist Bus Station to  catch the Tourist bus back to Kathmandu . Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Driving Distance – 200Km

Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 14: Departure Day

On the day of your departure, our driver will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. We wish you all the best for your travels and hope your next destination brings you more incredible adventures.  

Note: Above itinerary can be designed to your preferences. Please let us know whether you would like to make a shorter or longer or Upgrade Accommodation and Transportation.

What Is Included

• Pickups and drops from hotels and airport
•  3-star Category hotels Accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara including Breakfast
• Private Transportation  to the trekking starting Point
• Jomsom to Pokhara flight
• Pokhara to Kathmandu Tourist Bus
• Kathmandu Heritage Sites Sightseeing(4 – 6hr)
•  Teahouse/Lodge Accommodation including Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
•  Farewell dinner at the end of Trek
• Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure Duffel Bag
• An experienced English-speaking Trekking guide, and  porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging
• All necessary paperwork and permits (ACAP, TIMS )
• A comprehensive medical kit
• All government and local taxes

What Is Excluded

Features of Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Popular  trek
• Panorama Views: Magnificent vistas of the Himalayan peaks Annapurna I–IV, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Manaslu, and others.
• Highest Pass(Thorangla): One of the world’s highest trekking passes, standing at 5,416 meters/17,769 ft.
• Challenging and Rewarding: Because of its difficulty and breathtaking 360-degree views, this journey is a favorite among most trekkers.
• Ethnic Diversity: Get to know communities with Tibetan, Thakali, Manangi, and Gurung influences.
• Temples and Monasteries: Visit places of worship such as Muktinath Temple, which is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus.
• Traditional Villages: Braga, Manang, Marpha, and Tukuche are examples of authentic Himalayan villages.
• The first and biggest conservation area in Nepal, the Annapurna Conservation Area is home to a wide variety of plants and animals.

Accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Lodges or teahouses with basic facilities such as beds, blankets, and pillows are accommodation types during the Annapurna Circuit Trekking. The availability of attached bathrooms is there in the lower regions only.  As you go higher, the bathrooms are outside the teahouses. The additional facilities like using Wi-Fi, charging electronic devices, laundry, hot shower, etc. Need to pay an extra.

Meals during the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The 3-course full-board meals are provided during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Meal options are limited. Dal-Bhat is the primary option with some options like soup, eggs, noodles, hot tea, etc. available.

Drinking Water during the Annapurna Circuit Trek

No mineral Available in Higher elevation so  tap water or boiled water are drinking water options during the  Trek. Pay an extra cost for boiled water at teahouses or lodges . For safe drinking water, we suggest you to carry water purification kits and a water bottle for ease.

Internet and Phone Networks during the Circuit Trek

Internet and Phone networks during the Annapurna Circuit Treks are stable mostly in the lower regions. In the higher regions, networks are unstable. For the use of Wi-Fi is chargeable so you should pay an additional cost at teahouses.

Best Season for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) are the best seasons for the  Annapurna Circuit Trek. The clear weather, stable temperatures, awesome panoramic vistas, and comfortable trekking trails make these seasons ideal for this trek. The rainy (Jun-Aug) and winter (Dec-Feb) seasons are not ideal due to unpredictable and unstable weather and temperature. The trekking trails are slippery, muddy, or snowy, and the availability of accommodations is limited. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

The highest elevation during Annapurna Circuit Trekking is Thorang- la(5416 m/17764 ft) . Annapurna Circuit  Trek is difficult considering its ascends and descends, high elevations, daily long hours of walking, rough trails, and limited availability of teahouses or lodges. Also, the chances of getting altitude sickness are common. Thus, acclimatization rest is essential. With proper preparation,

Altitude Sickness and Preventions during the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Altitude Sickness is common in the Annapurna Circuit Trekking. To prevent it, acclimatization rest is essential. Thus, utilize rest days properly to adapt to the surroundings.

Symptoms of altitude sickness are

• Headache
• Lethargy
• A drop in performance
• Loose of motion
• Insomnia
• Appetite loss
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Inform your guides if you experience any symptoms during the trek.

Preventive measures for Altitude Sickness are:

• Stretch and warm up before trekking.
• Stay hydrated with regular water intake.
• Ascend gradually and rest well.
• Avoid salt, alcohol, and smoking.
• Urinate frequently.
• Descend if feeling unwell.
• Consult guides for medicine

Fitness Level during the ACT  Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek is demanding due to its challenging terrain, daily long hours of walking, high elevations, several ups and downs, and rugged trails. Thus, a strong fitness level is a key factor for this trek. Therefore, we recommend trekkers participate in physical exercises and short hikes for a few months, and necessary physical check-ups before commencing this trek.

Travel Insurance during the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Travel Insurance is a safety tool for trekking in the mountains. It should cover all emergencies including medical costs, loss of goods, flight delays, evacuation, and high elevations above 5000 m. For a worry-free and smooth Annapurna Circuit Trek, getting travel insurance is beneficial.

Guides and Porters during the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Guide and  Porters are optional but for a comfortable trekking experience hiring a Guide and porter is the ideal decision. Our guides and porters are professional and have lots of experience in the mountains. Our team ensures trekkers’ safety as it is the top priority.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits

The required permits for Annapurna Circuit Treks are as follows:

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

USD 30/person (Foreigners)
NPR 1000/person (SAARC)

This equipment list is only a guideline, however, you can choose from your preferred brands using your expertise.  You can also Buy or rent some of the item   at a reasonable price at stores in Thamel, Kathmandu. The personal items are of individual interest and choice. The most important fact that one should keep in mind is that one should have enough clothes to tackle the cold weather in the Himalayas.

Upper Body – Head / Ears / Eyes

• Sun hat
• Wool or synthetic hat that covers the ears
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Headlamp
• Neck warmer

Hand

• Liner gloves
• Heavier shell gloves

Core Body

• T-shirts 
• Lightweight expedition thermal tops
• Fleece jacket or pullover
• Water/windproof shell jacket (Preferably breathable fabric)
• Synthetic sports bras (for women)

Lower Body – Legs

• Lightweight expedition thermal bottoms
• Nylon hiking shorts
• Soft shell and hard shell trekking pants
• Water/windproof trousers
• Casual pants

Feet

• Liner socks
• Heavyweight socks
• Waterproof hiking/trekking boots
• Light shoes/sneakers
• Gaiters (For monsoon and winter)

Other Essential 

• Passport and extra passport photos (2 copies)
• Airline tickets 
• Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport
• Water bottle/bladder
• Water purification Iodine tablets
• Toiletries (Include toilet paper, wet wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap)

Medicines and First Aid Kit

• Extra Strength Excedrin for altitude-related headaches
• Ibuprofen for general aches and pains
• Immodium or Pepto bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea
• Diamox (commonly prescribed as Acetazolamide) 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness
• Anti-infection ointments
• Band-aids
• Lip balm (At least SPF 20)
• Sunscreen (SPF 40)

Optional

• Adjustable trekking poles
• Favorite snacks
• Cameras (Memory cards, chargers and, batteries)

Fitness Level:  This Trip Requires you to be in Good Health with Physically Fitness.

Skills: Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points.

• Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival ?

Upon your arrival at the airport, our representative from Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure will be waiting for you outside the airport terminal. You will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu, where you can relax and prepare for the adventure ahead. Enjoy your overnight stay in Kathmandu, where we’ll go over final details of your trek  

• Can I obtain a visa for Nepal on arrival at the airport ?

You can easily obtain your tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The available options are as follows:

• 15-day Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries: USD 30 (or equivalent foreign currency)
• 30-day Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries: USD 50
• 90-day Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries: USD 125
• Please ensure you bring 2 passport-size photos with you for the visa application.

• Can I use credit cards in the places I visit in trekking?

Once you leave the cities, cash is the only accepted form of payment. We recommend exchanging your currency to Nepali Rupees before heading to the mountains to ensure you have everything you need during your trek  

• I am a Vegetarian, is that a Problem?

No problem at all! Most of the lodges serve vegetarian meals, which are generally safer and easier to digest at high altitudes. We highly recommend our clients to stick to vegetarian options to avoid food-related issues, as heavy and non-vegetarian meals can sometimes lead to stomach problems at higher elevations.  

• Do I need to bring toilet paper for the trek?

Almost all the guest houses sell toilet paper so you can buy it there. Hand sanitizer and a towel you must bring your own.  

• Where do we go to the toilet along the trail?

In most cases, you can use the toilet provided by the tea houses/lodges on the trail but normally in case of emergency, you just do the toilet along the trail wherever you find privacy.  

• What sort of accommodation can I expect in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and trekking?

We use standard rooms at 2-star category hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast. Along the trekking routes, Teahouses/lodges generally provide basic clean facilities with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. The lodges in trekking routes usually provide single and double rooms, or occasionally a dormitory style. At times when possible, dining will be around a bonfire. In teahouses, food will be prepared in the kitchen, which you should not enter without permission. The toilet in teahouses provides essential and basic facilities and is always outside the room.  

• What is the drinking water facility in the mountain?

Bottled water is easily available at the lodges and teahouses, which you can buy at the cost of USD 1 at lower elevations up to USD 4 to higher elevations per liter. If you are planning to drink normal water during trek, purifying water with any sort of purification tablets or drops is a must. You can bring your purifier or can purchase it in Kathmandu.

• How much additional money do I need per day?

It depends on your spending habits. Generally, in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can allocate USD 10 to USD 15 for lunch and dinner. USD 10 to USD 15 per person a day will be enough to buy bottles of water, and chocolates, pay for the hot shower, and a few drinks during the trekking.

• What is the weather & temperature like in trekking?

One of the most unpredictable elements of the mountain is the weather. If you’re not properly prepared for the twists, turns, and volatility of the conditions that can occur in this breathtaking region, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable and unpleasant situation.

• Spring – March / April / May / June

During springtime, the average temperature is 20 degrees C (68 Degrees F), with a maximum of 25 degrees C (77 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of 0 degrees C (32 Degrees F), in the morning and at night for areas above 2500 meters.

• July / August Through Mid- September is Monsoon Season

This season is not recommended to travel as it rains in the lower altitudes. There are positive sides to trekking during the monsoon months as the excess rainfall can provide ample chance to see spectacular views of the waterfall and it’s also the best season to avoid the crowds. During this time, the average temperature is 25 degrees C (77 Degrees F), with a maximum of 30 degrees C (86 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of 5 degrees C (41 Degrees F), in the morning and at night for areas above 2500 meters.

• Autumn – End of September / October / November

The average temperature during the fall is 20 degrees C (68 Degrees F), with a maximum temp of 25 degrees C (77 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of -5 degrees C (23 Degrees F), in the morning and at night, for areas above 2500 meters altitude.

• Winter- December/ January/ February

Winter starts from mid December till mid-February in this region. The average temperature during the winter is 10 degrees C (50 Degrees F), with a maximum temp of 17 degrees C (62.6 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of -10 degrees C (14 Degrees F), in the morning and night, for areas above 2500 meters altitude. The above temperature is based on the outside of the guesthouse temperature. No need to worry about the cold temperature as we provide the sleeping bag plus the extra blanket to make sure our clients are warm enough during their time of need.

• What is the temperature rating of the sleeping bag that you lend to trekkers?

The temperature rating of the sleeping bags we provide is about -10 degrees C (14 Degrees Fahrenheit), our guide can provide a liner or extra blanket from the lodge in the mountain if the sleeping bag is not warm enough for you.

• Do your guides have trekking guide certificates from the Hotel Management and Tourism Center? Have they received first aid training for high altitude? Yes, they have all received a 45-day training from the Hotel Management and Tourism Center in Nepal. The guides have also received high-altitude first aid training from KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project).
• What immunizations will I need?

You don’t need to submit any immunization documents to enter Nepal however if you have been immunized with diphtheria TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, malaria, typhoid, polio, and tetanus then that is a plus point but it’s not mandatory. We also recommend: A dental check-up before travelling. You know your blood group in case of emergency

• If I am sick can I continue the trek the next day after a day’s rest?

It depends on the level of your sickness. Once you are sick at a higher altitude you need to rest at a lower altitude and you at least need 3 days to a week for recovery. If you are on private or solo trip you can discuss and decide with a guide depending on your health status. If you were in-group then this option would be limited so please make sure you discuss with a guide and catch up with the group later on.

• Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes. Our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. They carry the Nepal Telecom and Ncell Sim that has good network coverage.

• Can I charge my digital camera or other equipment on my trip?

These facilities will be available in most of the places in your hotel reception by paying some service charges. Remember to bring TWO and THREE-pin travel adapters! You can also buy the adapters in supermarkets or electronic shops in Kathmandu. Our guide can help you with it.

• Do you use yaks/porters on the trek or do we carry all of our gear ?

While on the trek, our porter will take care of your luggage. All you need to carry is your small day bag for your personal belongings like a camera, water bottle, sun cream, etc.

• Will there be a place to store items/clothing not required for the trek ?

The hotel in Kathmandu does provide free storage services. So you can leave all your items that are not required for the trekking at your hotel.

• Do I need to tip my guide and porters? How much would that be ?

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a wonderful way to show appreciation for your guides and local porters. The amount can vary, typically ranging from USD 20 to USD 100 per person depending on your level of satisfaction and personal interaction with the guide. We recommend that the tip reflect the quality of service provided. As a general guideline, it’s customary to spend at least 10% of your total trip cost for tipping the entire local staff. This gesture of thanks will go a long way in supporting the team that helps make your trek a memorable experience

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