Annapurna Circuit Trek
The classic Annapurna Circuit trek (sometimes called the “Around Annapurna trek”) circles the Annapurna massif. The Annapurna massif in north-central Nepal includes one peak over 8,000 metres (26,000 ft), thirteen peaks over 7,000 metres (23,000 ft), and sixteen more over 6,000 metres (20,000 ft). The Kali Gandaki gorge and the Marshyangdi valley encircle the massif 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 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, head north-west over Thorung pass. At Muktinath 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. You may opt to continue 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 awe-inspiring. 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.
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.
WHY TREK WITH US?
All our Annapurna Circuit Treks are private treks for a minimum of two participants. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. With over 30 years of experience, most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We employ the most professional and friendly staff.
We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…