+977 01 4516813 / 4512647 info@crystalmountaintreks.com

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.

Username*

Password*

Confirm Password*

First Name*

Last Name*

Birth Date*

Email*

Phone*

Country*

* Creating an account means you're okay with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.

Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Already a member?

Price

From$2,600

Save To Wish List

11236

16 days, 15 nights

Availability : April through June and September through December

Min Age : 15+

Max People : 12

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The classic Annapurna Circuit trek sometimes called the “Around Annapurna trek” circles the Annapurna massif. This massif in north-central Nepal includes one peak over 8,000 meters (26,000 ft), thirteen peaks over 7,000 meters (23,000 ft), and sixteen more over 6,000 meters (20,000 ft). The massif is encircled by the Kali Gandaki gorge and the Marshyangdi valley to the west and the north respectively. And to the south is the Pokhara valley.

The Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek begins in densely forested and terraced hills, a region inhabited by Hindu groups of Nepal. The landscape past Pisang is barren. You have now entered the Manang valley which falls in the Tibetan plateau. The inhabitants of the region, the Manangbas, are gypsy traders of Tibetan origin. After several rest and short days for acclimatization, continue north-west over Thorung pass to reach Muktinath where there is a shrine revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

The Annapurna Circuit trek ends in Jomsom. A flight through the Kali Gandaki gorge brings you back to Pokhara and then to Kathmandu. However, you may opt to continue past Jomsom and complete the full circuit. There is a newly built unpaved road from Jomsom to Tatopani (3 days trek). But views of the Dhaulagiri range from here are spectacular. Beyond Tatopani, ascend to Ghorepani Ridge and to Pun Hill for a 360 degree view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. This is indeed one of the most spectacular mountain viewpoints in the world! Furthermore, you could also consider continuing on to the Annapurna Base Camp.

WHY TREK WITH US?

All our Annapurna Circuit Treks are private treks for a minimum of one participant for a date of your choosing. Small groups allow us to provide a private, premium and personalized experience.

“Being only two people in the group was a massive advantage we had — it was easier to get helicopters with a smaller group, easier to change where we’d stay on a given day, easier to ask to push further when we felt good, etc. In fact, because of this flexibility, we beat many big groups to EBC, who took many hours longer than us because they had to wait for stragglers, and they ended up missing the views because the clouds had already come in. Basically this helped us get in/out of Lukla more easily, move faster, and adapt the schedule to the changing weather.”

Luke L., Chicago IL, USA

We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. However, some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Do read this article “Value offered by Crystal Mountain Treks” to learn more about this. We urge you to compare apples to apples.
We have been in business for over 30 years and we employ only the most professional and friendly staff. Additionally, most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals.
We are also proud to give back to our community through our giving arm – 3 Summits For Nepal – managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff.

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a lodge trek. Consequently, you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail. The quality of the lodges on this trek are comparable to those on the Everest Base Camp Trek. And quite a few of them have en suite rooms with hot showers. Furthermore, meals are also quite varied with many options including rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. Read our article about food options on lodge treks.

BEST SEASON

Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit trek are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November).

TREK RATING

The Annapurna Circuit trek is rated “STRENUOUS”. It is rated 4 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). The highest altitude reached is at Thorung La (5,416 m/17,700 ft) and the highest overnight elevation is at Thorung Phedi (4,600m/15,100 feet). Average daily hiking times is 5 to 6 hours with one long day of around 9 hours on the hike over the pass. Regardless, it is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.

Trip at a glance

Brief Itinerary (Annapurna Circuit Trek)

Day	Description	Overnight	Altitude
Day 1	Arrival in Kathmandu	Kathmandu	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 2	Exploring Kathmandu	Kathmandu	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 3	Kathmandu to Jagat	Jagat	1,300m/4,350ft
Day 4	Jagat to Dharapani	Dharapani	1,960m/6,500ft
Day 5	Dharapani to Chame	Chame	2,700m/8,800ft
Day 6	Chame to Pisang	Pisang	3,300m/10,800ft
Day 7	Pisang to Manang	Manang	3,700m/11,600ft
Day 8	Manang	Manang	3,700m/11,600ft
Day 9	Manang to Yak Kharka	Kharka	4,110m/13,500ft
Day 10	Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi	Thorung Phedi	4,400m/14,600ft
Day 11	Thorung Phedi to Muktinath	Muktinath	3,800m/12,450ft
Day 12	Contingency day	Muktinath	3,800m/12,450ft
Day 13	Muktinath to Jomsom	Jomsom	2,743m/8,990ft
Day 14	Jomsom to Pokhara	Pokhara	827m/2,713ft
Day 15	Kathmandu	Kathmandu	1,340m/4,300ft
Day 16	Kathmandu to home

Detailed Itinerary (Annapurna Circuit Trek)

Day 1Kathmandu

Arrive Kathmandu. You will be met on arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport. Transfer to Hotel. Day Free. Enjoy welcome dinner. Briefing during dinner. (Dinner)

Day 2Kathmandu

Boudhanath (also called Boudha, Bouddhanath, Baudhanath or the Khasa Caitya) is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Located about 11 km (6.8 mi) from the center in the northeastern outskirts of Kathmandu, the stupa’s massive mandala makes it one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. The influx of large populations of refugees from Tibet has seen the construction of over 50 Tibetan Gompas (Monasteries) around Boudhanath. As of 1979, Boudhanath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Drive to Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, with its two-tiered golden roof and silver door. Shiva, meaning “The Auspicious One”, also known as Mahadeva (“Great God”), is a popular Hindu deity. Shiva is also regarded as the patron god of yoga and arts. Here, you’ll probably witness a Hindu cremation along the banks of the Bagmati River and many Asetics and Sadhus.

Continue to Patan Durbar Square which is situated in the center of Patan city and also known as Lalitpur. Patan houses the residence of the former Patan royal family. Patan Square and its surroundings is a good specimen of ancient Newari architecture. There are three main courtyards in the palace: Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk. Mul Chowk, the oldest one is at the center of Patan Durbar Square.

Return to the hotel to prepare for your Annapurna Circuit Trek. (Breakfast and Lunch)

Day 3Kathmandu to Jagat (4,350 ft.)

We leave Kathmandu in our chartered vehicle through Nagdhunga, the gateway to central, eastern and western Nepal, for Besisahar and on to Jagat. The road winds downhill to Naubise and into the hills through the winding roads along the Trishuli River. Enroute we see more of the countryside that offers greenery, rivers, villages, farms and beautiful mountain vistas. At Mugling, we cross a bridge to enter Tanahun district and head towards Pokhara. We leave the highway to Pokhara at Dumre, and head north to Besisahar. About 2 hours drive from Besisahar takes us to Jagat, the starting point of our trek. You will stay overnight at Jagat. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 4Jagat to Dharapani (6,500 ft.)

Today you trek past several waterfalls and forests towards Chamje. Chamje is at an elevation of 1430m/4691ft. From Chamje you hike on towards Tal which is the first village into Manang district. Tal is at an elevation of 1700m/5577ft. From here, it is a grueling 5kms (2.5 to 3 hours) climb on switch backs to Tal where the valley opens into a large plateau of sandy beach and a river at the base of a waterfall. There will be a brief halt for lunch at Tal. After lunch at Tal, you continue to Dharapani. The hike takes you through fields of corn, barley, and potatoes, and further on through bamboo and rhododendron forests.

Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 5Dharapani to Chame (8,800 ft.)

Today is a long day of hiking. You leave Dharapani for Chame. On the way you will cross Bagarchhap (2160m/7086ft.) It is 2kms and around 1 to 1.5 hours hike from Dharapani. At Bagarchhap you will get to witness the typical flat roofed houses of local Tibetan design. Most of the day, you will be treated with the mountainous views of Lamjung, Annapurna II and Annapurna IV. Camp is at Chame, the district head-quarters. The walk from Bagarchhap to Chame is 21 kilometers and will take you around 7 hours. As you approach Chame two small hot springs by the town will add relief to your long day trek. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 6Chame to Pisang (10,500 ft.)

Today’s highlight is the Paungda Danda rock face (1500m/4921ft.), an interesting and large rock slab rising from the river. You start from Chame through a deep forest in a narrow valley. We will leave back the heavy vegetation as we go on. You will cross several suspension bridges on the way. After you sight the Paungda Danda the trail leads you to climb to Pisang. As you surface in the open from the narrow valley you will be surrounded by beautiful Himalayan peaks. You will then soon arrive at a U-shaped valley of Manang between two giant snow peaks. You then reach the camp at Pisang. Here the Pisang peak (6,091m/19983ft.) looms over Pisang village. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 7Pisang to Manang (11,600 ft.)

Today, you will find yourself above tree-line with some juniper trees. Stronger hikers may opt to take the higher route on the north-east of the valley. The mountain views from here are marvelous: Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I (8,091m) , Annapurna III (7,555m) and Gangapurna (7,454m) are visible. Continue past the village of Braka to Manang. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 8Manang (11,600 ft.)

Today is an acclimatization day in Manang. You may take a short hike to the Gangapurna glacier. Or hike steeply to the cave above Manang. You may also take a strenuous 4-5 hour hike to the Ice Lake with fabulous views of Annapurna II. Overnight Lodge. (Dinner)

Day 9Manang to Yak Kharka (13,500 ft.)

Today is a short day of 3 to 4 hours hiking to Yak Kharka. Leaving Manang, hike steeply to Tenki village. The trail then winds north-west leaving the Marsyangdi valley past several pastures and meadows to Yak Kharka (literally pasture) where you will see a lot of yaks grazing along the trail. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 10Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (14,200 ft.)

Today is another short trek day of 3 hours to the base of the Thorung la pass. Trek up the narrow Jorsang valley and then cross a bridge to begin a short but steep ascent to the base camp where there are a cluster of lodges. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 11Thorung Phedi to Muktinath

The day begins early with wake up call usually around 3:00 am. The steep ascent to the pass can take up to 5 or 6 hours with our goal being to arrive at the pass much before 12 which is when the chilly winds start to pick up. The hike begins with a steep ascent to another cluster of lodges at Thorung High camp. A little later the trail becomes more gradual with switch-backs that never seem to end. At the top of the pass, there are spectacular views of the Annapurna range and the Tibetan plateau. Then it is a long and arduous descent of around 1,600 meters to Muktinath. As you walk towards Muktinath, views of the Dhaulagiri massif dominate the horizon. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 12Contingency day

Today is a contingency day for health or weather delays. If this day is not required, you can make a side trip to Kagbeni – the gateway to Lo in Mustang. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 13Muktinath to Jomsom

Descend to Jomsom. You have the option to take the jeep back to Jomsom. Or you may take the side-trail through the village of Lubra. For this, hike to the end of Muktinath village and slog up to a ridge. The descent is on slippery switch-backs with lots of pebbles. Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri dominate the skyline. A little past Lubra village, you will rejoin the road to Jomsom. Overnight Lodge. (All meals)

Day 14Jomsom to Pokhara

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara. The day is free in Pokhara. You are free to wander around the lake side for souvenir shopping or to check out the many bars and restaurants. Overnight Big Pillow Inn or similar. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Day 15Kathmandu

After breakfast, fly to Kathmandu. Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu. Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square which is around 13 kilometers/8 miles east of Kathmandu. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square was the palace of the kingdom of Bhaktapur and the complex consists of at least four distinct squares (Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, Dattatreya Square and Pottery Square).

Farewell dinner in Kathmandu. Overnight Hotel Tibet. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Day 16Kathmandu to home

Arrive breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home. (Breakfast)

Cost Information (Annapurna Circuit Trek)

Per person price (valid until December 31, 2026)

1 persons: $3,600 per person (includes single supplement)

2 – 4 persons: $3,000 per person

5 or more persons: $2,600 per person

Single supplement: $300

US$250 PER PERSON DISCOUNT ON TREKS IN MARCH, MAY, LATTER HALF OF NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER.

This package is ALL INCLUSIVE – almost everything is included in the trip price. Budget an additional US$2,500-US$3,000 extra for your international airfare, tips, bottled beverages, Nepal visa, a couple meals in Kathmandu etc. See the “price excludes” section to learn about the extras. Please inquire for quote in AUS$/GB£ or Euros.

Payment policy:

A 20% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking.
Balance is payable a week prior to departure or on arrival in Kathmandu.

Cancellation policy:

Deposit is non-refundable. But if you cancel a month prior to trek start date, your deposit will be applied to any trek you undertake with us anytime in the future.
No refunds for unused services once trek begins.

Price Includes

All airport transfers
Two full days sightseeing in Kathmandu as indicated in the itinerary and entrance fees to monuments
Three nights twin sharing hotel accommodation at Hotel Tibet (3 star) in Kathmandu
One night twin sharing hotel accommodation at Hotel Temple Tree (4 star) in Pokhara
Chartered Transfer: Kathmandu to Jagat
Airfare: Jomsom to Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Lodge trekking as indicated in the itinerary
Three meals a day on the trek
Private room with attached bathrooms wherever available
Boiled water for your bottles twice a day
Guide and staff wages, equipment and meals
Guide and staff insurance
Use of Steripen for water sterilization
Annapurna Conservation Area Fee
Trekkers Information Management Card

Price Excludes

Your international airfare (US$1,500-$2,000)
Nepal Visa (US$50)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary (2 dinners in Kathmandu: US$50)
Bottled beverages and packaged snacks (US$ 100)
Battery charging and showers (US$50)
Tips and gratuities (US$ 200 per person approximately)
Personal equipment (a suggested list will be mailed to you)
Travel insurance (This is required – US$ 300 – 500)
Other expenses of a personal nature

Map

Trip Gallery

Options

The above is technically the half circuit. We would gladly arrange to extend the trek to:

End at Tatopani. This would add 3 more days to the trip stopping at Tukche, Kalopani and Tatopani and driving to Pokhara on the next day. Add US$ 300 per person.
End at Nayapul via Ghorepani. This would add 6 more days to the trip stopping at Tukche, Kalopani, Tatopani, Chitre, Ghorepani, Ulleri and then driving to Pokhara. Add US$ 550 per person.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

When is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit trek?

There are two preferred seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Trek: Spring (March through June) and Fall (October through November). Day time temperatures range in the 50’s and 60’s (10 to 15 Centigrade) while night-time temperatures are in the 30’s and 40’s (0 to 5 Centigrade). Expect night time temperatures of below Freezing near the Base Camp. Expect some late-afternoon showers in the Spring which is the season for rhododendrons and magnolias. October is historically regarded as the best month to trek with clear skies and better views of the mountains.

How much does the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost?

You can: A) organize your own trek; B) choose a Nepali company; or C) choose a western guided trek.

Option A is the cheapest. If you’re doing the Everest Base Camp trek on your own look to pay around $30 – $40 per person per day (without alcoholic beverages) for meals and accommodations. Add cost of guide and/or porter plus airfare and permits. There are a few luxury lodges on the trail that charge around US$150 per person per day for room. Meals are extra. Option B is mid-range and can cost between $1,000 – $2,500 with varying inclusions and exclusions. Make sure you understand what is included and what is not included in the package. The best way to choose a Nepali company is to ask for references. Option C would cost above $3,000.

How fit do I need to be to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Anyone who is reasonably fit and can hike 10-12 miles a day can sign up for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Allowing for optimal acclimatization is the key. Most of the trek is on relatively level trail with some steep ascents and descents. That said, the better shape you are in, the more you will enjoy the trek. It is advised that anyone with a pre-existing condition consult their doctor before signing up for a trek.
We rate the Annapurna Circuit Trek a 5 on a scale of 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging).

Can I drink tap water on the Annapurna Circuit Trek? How/where can I get water that is safe to drink?

Nepali tap water is NOT safe to drink. Even if you see the locals drinking water straight from the tap, never drink water before boiling or sterilizing. Bring water purifying tablets or other water purifiers. At higher elevations during the coldest times of year the water will freeze, so you’ll need to buy boiled water from teahouses. If you plan to use a STERIPEN, bring wide mouth water bottles. You would need at least 2 one-liter water bottles for the trek. Even if you plan to bring a hydration pack, bring 1 one-liter water to sterilize the water before pouring into your hydration pack.

Crystal Mountain Treks will provide you with a Steripen to use on the trek for no charge.

Do read our blog on safe drinking water options: Hydration on treks in Nepal

What kind of food should I expect on the trek?

In general, expect porridge (Oatmeal), toast, eggs (any style), muesli, hash browns, sausages etc for breakfast. And sandwich, pizzas, momos, noodles (dry and with soup), rolls, fried rice, Indian bread with vegetables etc for lunch and dinner. And expect Nepali dal-bhat (rice-lentils with vegetables and/or meat) at all the lodges.

Ours is an OPEN menu. Meaning we allow our clients to order anything from the lodge menu besides bottled beverages, specialty coffee and packaged snacks. We also don’t limit the number of items per meal as long as you aren’t wasteful. When choosing your trekking company, ask if meals are fixed or if you are only allowed to order one item from the menu. If this isn’t the case, costs can add up over 15/16 days.

Check out our article on food options for vegetarians.

Is there mobile signal on the trek? Is wi-fi available?

Most of the places on the Annapurna Circuit trek route now has cell coverage. Lodges in some locations will offer wi-fi for between $1 to $10 per hour. You can also buy a Sim card with 5GB or 10GB data for under $25: do this in Kathmandu.

How should I prepare for the trek?

The more physically fit you are, the more you will enjoy the trip. There are three aspects to training for any trek.

1) Cardiovascular Training will make your body more efficient in using oxygen. Running, walking, swimming or biking, or any combination of these are great for cardiovascular conditioning.

2) Strength Training by either using free weights or machines at the gym will build hiking strength. Walking stairs, especially with a pack will simulate the hiking environment. We also recommend practicing squats. Trekkers will encounter low hanging obstacles to duck under, and many toilets are at ground level, which requires a low squat.

3) Endurance Training is where you build endurance in the months leading up to your trek, slowly increase your length of training sessions. By the time you are 2 weeks from the scheduled trek date you should be able to ascend 3,000 ft. in a 3-4 hour period.

In the end, the more your training simulates a trek, the better off you will be. So hiking 4-5 hours outdoors, uphill and downhill, about once or twice a week in addition to other cardio vascular training at the gym or at home will greatly benefit and prepare you for the trek.

Check out our article on training for treks.

What are the toilet facilities like? Will I have a chance to shower?

Most tea houses have a common toilet. Some tea houses, especially those at the beginning of the trek, have en suite rooms. While squat toilets are more prevalent, newer lodges have Western style toilets.

It is possible to shower in almost all the lodges. And hot shower usually means a bucket of boiled water. Be prepared to pay anywhere from $2-$5 for this service.

What kind of gear do I need for the trek? Is it possible to buy or rent in Kathmandu?

Layering is key. And it’s always recommended to trek with good branded gear. A good pair of hiking boots that’s been broken in is very important. Good top and bottom base layers, a mid layer (fleece or capilene), and an outer layer (Gore-tex or other material). If you tend to get cold quickly, bring a down parka especially for the evening at the lodge. On most days, you’d be hiking in a convertible hiking pant that can be converted into shorts and one or two top layers.

if you’re trekking with Crystal Mountain Treks, we provide a sleeping bag (rated to 0 degree F or -17 degree C), duffel bags, down jacket and Steripen for water purification to our clients for no charge.

It is possible to buy cheap and relatively functional gear in Kathmandu – convertible pants, down jackets, fleece, Gore-tex jackets. But remember, you get what you pay for. Wool gloves, hats, socks are available too.

There are quite a few branded stores too. North Face, Moutain Hardwear, Marmot and Sherpa. If you’re coming from Australia or Europe, items in these shops are probably cheaper than back home. But if you’re coming from the US, it’s better to buy branded gear at home.

13 Reviews

Sort By:RatingDate

John H

Group Traveller

Crystal Mountain Treks are excellent and I don’t hesitate to recommend them. They really know what they are doing and do it really well. They took our mixed party of various ages – from their 30’s to their 70’s, from different sides of the Atlantic, and crafted something that worked for all of us and got us round the ACT in November/December (it was cold!) in a way that left all of us really satisfied with the experience. The trip was well planned and managed and they literally took care of every detail so that we could simply enjoy the experience. Their entire team seemed versatile, caring, skilled, knowledgeable, adaptable and friendly. We not only enjoyed the trek, the views, and the environment, but the guides carefully introduced us to and explained much about the various local cultures we passed through. I would certainly use them again next time and recommend them to anyone seeking a really great trekking experience in Nepal.

December 31, 2025

Karen A

Couple Traveller

We did the Annapurna Half Circuit with Crystal Mountain Treks and had a fantastic experience! I had done EBC with the same company 15 years ago so it was a no brainer to pick them again.

From the minute we arrived to the day we left everything was taken care of. We were able to borrow jackets and sleeping bags, both were very clean and exceptionally warm, we also borrowed duffel bags.

Everyone who worked for the company was very professional. Jwalant went above and beyond to make sure our trip went as smoothly as possible, even recommending massage therapists in Kathmandu after the long flight from the United States!

We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Buddhi Rai was exceptional, reminding us to keep hydrated and walk slowly, slowly. Kaleyan our porter did a fantastic job as well. They made the trek that much more enjoyable. Buddhi pointed out all the different mountains along the way, blue sheep hidden in the landscape and even a small avalanche in the distance one day.

If you are considering trekking in Nepal I highly recommend Crystal Mountain Treks, they have been in the business for 30 years and it shows, you won’t be disappointed!

December 25, 2025

Jane W

Couple Traveller

My husband and I have just finished our second trek with Crystal Mountain Treks. Once again, we are very glad that we organised our trek with Crystal Mountains as their professional and reliable service ensured that our time in Nepal was amazing. Our guide Pema did a great job of ensuring that we were well looked after, and coped well with the challenge of a change in our plans due to heavy rain at the beginning of the trek. Our porter was wonderful as well, always smiling and making sure that we were OK . The communication with Jwalant, the Team Leader/ Principal was very good and he was able to help us devise a plan for our initial trek and then provided support when our plans changed. I have no hesitation in recommending Crystal Mountain Treks if you are considering a trek in Nepal.

December 14, 2025

Kendra P

Group Traveller

We were four friends travelling from sea-level Singapore, hoping to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek on a shorter-than-usual itinerary and quite anxious about altitude sickness. From the very beginning, Jwalant answered every question with patience and care, including all our “silly” ones like whether we should shower in certain towns, and gave us time and space to discuss everything online before the trip. Thanks to him, we were matched with the perfect team: lead guide Rinji, assistant guide Fulbar, and our two incredible porters, Hira and Roshan.

Rinji was outstanding from start to finish, making sure we were comfortable with everything – not just food, but also our rooms, toilets and hot showers (wherever possible). Because we were roughly the same age, it was very easy to connect with him, and he genuinely felt more like a friend who truly cared about us than just a guide.

He constantly checked on our health and food intake to help us manage the altitude, was always the first one awake with hot drinks and breakfast, and somehow always noticed when we needed anything before we even asked. On top of that, he spent a lot of time sharing about Nepali culture and heritage along the way, and even during our rest days in Pokhara and Kathmandu he pointed us to great local spots to eat, drink and explore.

He also went out of his way to choose tea houses that matched our priorities (better toilets, hot showers where possible, good mountain views), which made a huge difference to our experience. One member of our group became quite unwell from altitude sickness near Thorong La; Rinji managed to keep the rest of us safe on the ascent while eventually catching up to our friend, who had gone ahead by horse, to look after him as well – a real demonstration of his strength, skill and professionalism.

Fulbar was the perfect assistant to Rinji, quietly making sure that all the details were taken care of so that we never had to worry. He helped us order meals on time, checked that we were warm and comfortable, and constantly kept an eye on how everyone was feeling.

On the trail, he was always the last man at the back, making sure no one was left behind and adjusting the pace so that all of us could walk safely and confidently. Together, he and Rinji made a fantastic team and created an atmosphere that was relaxed, reassuring and fun at the same time.

Our porters, Hira and Roshan, were absolute superstars. Even though there was a bit of a language barrier, they were always smiling, always on time with our bags, and often shared little bits of local know-how to make our days easier

They carried our loads with unbelievable strength and grace over long and challenging days, which allowed us to focus on enjoying the scenery and managing the altitude rather than worrying about our gear. Their presence was a huge part of why the trek felt safe, manageable and enjoyable for our whole group.

Crystal Mountain Treks delivered an experience that exceeded every expectation – from pre-trip communication to daily decisions on the trail, we always felt safe, informed and genuinely cared for. Having done multiple hikes around the world with different operators, this was by far the best guiding experience any of us have had

Crystal Mountain Treks is highly recommended, and if you choose them for the Annapurna Circuit or any other trek in Nepal, do request for Rinji as your guide (and, if possible, for the dream team of Rinji, Fulbar, Hira and Roshan). This team turned what could have been a stressful, altitude-heavy itinerary for four sea-level Singaporeans into an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

December 1, 2025

Wee M

Group Traveller

We completed the Annapurna Circuit Trek as a group of 4 and it was an unforgettable experience for all of us. We were well taken care of by the owner Jwalant from the start, and on our trek, we had the best guide Rinji and Fubar, and our strongest porters Hera and Roshan.

Initially, we were at a loss of which company to go with given the many vendors available in Nepal and the variety of trek to choose from. Eventually we narrowed down to 3 and prepared a list of questions to enquire about with each company. From the beginning, Jwalant was patient and explained in great detail about all our questions from what to bring, preparing for altitude, break down of each day, accommodations, things being provided and many more. In addition, we wanted a customized itinerary that suited our schedule and they went above and beyond to make sure the itinerary suited our needs.

Initially just reading the itinerary we did not realize the effort and detail that went into the planning but once we went on the trek, we noticed all the details. We started our hike where the scenery was the best. We stayed in accommodations that were suited to our acclimatization needs, as we came from a country at sea level, we were incredibly worried about this, but each tea house was catered to ensure we have sufficient time to acclimatize and get comfortable. At all times during our trek with the team, we felt safe, informed and assured. Rinji was very well researched, and he knew where the best places to stay at, not just in terms of altitude but food, comfort (electric blankets, hot showers, ensuite toilets). He was also very connected with the locals and we felt welcomed at every accommodation and any change in situations during the trip. Wherever we went, there was someone ready to receive us, pick us up, settle us into our accommodations or send us to our next destination.

Apart from the beautiful sights, Rinji and Fubar were perfect at taking photographs and videos at the best angles, the most photogenic spots and capturing the best moments of our trek. On top of that, this trip went beyond hiking, we learnt so much about the culture of Nepal, the diversity and beauty of this nation and the people.

Looking back, the company was absolutely amazing and we are so glad to have found friends in Nepal and possibly friends for a lifetime. Nepal used to be a bucket list thing for us but we would definitely be back for another adventure with the best people at Crystal Mountains.

November 12, 2025

From$2,600

Book Now

Login

Do not have an account?

Sign Up

Already a member?

Login

Do not have an account?

Sign Up

Already a member?

Login

Do not have an account?

Sign Up

Already a member?

ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

Adding item to wishlist requires an account

Already A Member?

Don't have an account? Create one.

Travel Advice

Similar Tours

Why Book With Us?

Got a Question?

Featured Tours

Recent Articles

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Trek

WHY TREK WITH US?

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

BEST SEASON

TREK RATING

Brief Itinerary (Annapurna Circuit Trek)

Detailed Itinerary (Annapurna Circuit Trek)

Day 1Kathmandu

Day 2Kathmandu

Day 3Kathmandu to Jagat (4,350 ft.)

Day 4Jagat to Dharapani (6,500 ft.)

Day 5Dharapani to Chame (8,800 ft.)

Day 6Chame to Pisang (10,500 ft.)

Day 7Pisang to Manang (11,600 ft.)

Day 8Manang (11,600 ft.)

Day 9Manang to Yak Kharka (13,500 ft.)

Day 10Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (14,200 ft.)

Day 11Thorung Phedi to Muktinath

Day 12Contingency day

Day 13Muktinath to Jomsom

Day 14Jomsom to Pokhara

Day 15Kathmandu

Day 16Kathmandu to home

Cost Information (Annapurna Circuit Trek)

Price Includes

Price Excludes

Map

Trip Gallery

Options

FAQ

When is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit trek?

How much does the Annapurna Circuit Trek cost?

How fit do I need to be to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Can I drink tap water on the Annapurna Circuit Trek? How/where can I get water that is safe to drink?

What kind of food should I expect on the trek?

Is there mobile signal on the trek? Is wi-fi available?

How should I prepare for the trek?

What are the toilet facilities like? Will I have a chance to shower?

What kind of gear do I need for the trek? Is it possible to buy or rent in Kathmandu?

Related Tours

CLIMBING ISLAND PEAK

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

BEST SEASON

TREK RATING

WHY TREK WITH US?

Highlights of Essence of Bhutan

WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

John H

Karen A

Jane W

Kendra P

Wee M

Proceed Booking

Already A Member?

Don't have an account? Create one.

Or Continue As Guest