Annapurna Circuit Trek – 15 Days

What to Expect During the Annapurna Circuit Trek 15 days?

The 15 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek offers you the 360 panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, villages dotted in the diverse landscapes, and once in a lifetime experience of conquering the Thorung La Pass. Moreover, the warm hospitality of innocent local people will definitely melt your heart with immense warmth. Although this trek will be physically tiring, you will undoubtedly cherish every moment of this trek. 

What is the  Distance and Height of Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The total round trip of the trek will cover about 160-230 km, depending on the itinerary, routes, and starting and ending points you choose. Moreover, this trek will take you to a maximum elevation of 5146 m at Thorung La Pass. 

How long is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

There are various factors, like route, itinerary, side highlights, fitness level, etc, that determine the duration of the trek. Annapurna Circuit Trek can be completed in 12 to 20 days. You will have to walk for about 4 to 8 hours on the trails per day to cover approximately 7 to 17 km.  

Some days will have short trekking hours while some days demand long trekking hours, depending on the itinerary to cover. For instance, a trek from Chame to Pisang will require 4 hours, while a Trek to Muktinath via Thorung La Pass will require 7 to 8 hours of walking.

Where does the Annapurna Circuit Trek Start and End?

There are different routes to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek, depending upon the difficulty level, preferred highlights, available time, and other factors. However, the classic Annapurna Circuit trek starts from Besisahar and ends by descending towards Tatopani from Jomson and finally taking a drive to Pokhara. However, some of the people prefer going to Tilicho Lake for a side trek. If you are short on time, then you can take a direct flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. 

How Much Does it Cost for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Usually, the total cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek ranges between $800-$2500. However, these costs may vary due to various factors like the itinerary and route you choose, the level of service, side trips, trek duration, etc. 

When is the Best Time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is open for all 12 months and 4 seasons. Each season spreads its own allure in the Annapurna region. However, considering the weather, climate, and accommodation availability, difficulty factors, etc, spring(March to May) and autumn(September to November) are considered the best times for this rewarding trek. 

During spring, the lower Annapurna trails will be full of vibrant blooms. The different red, pink, purple, and white shades of rhododendron against the green, lush trees will create a picturesque background. Moreover, the wild flowers along the trails will spread like carpets for the trekkers. Moreover, the mild temperature and clearer skies will create a pleasurable environment during the trek.

Likewise, during the autumn season, the festive environment will allow you to immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Nepal. Moreover, the longer days and clear skies will allow you to enjoy panoramic mountain views during the day and amazing stargazing at night.

Even though the monsoon Annapurna Circuit trek(June to August) can be quite tricky due to rain and fog, you will be able to witness the Annapurna region embracing the lush greenery and vibrant scenery. Likewise, the Annapurna Circuit Trek in winter will be difficult due to lower temperatures and snowy trails. However, the serene Annapurna region under a white snow blanket can be absolutely rewarding. 

Do I Need Porters and Guides for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Guides and Porters are an important part of your trek. At Mountain Trekking Adventure, we will provide you with an English-speaking guide who will help you navigate the path and provide you with necessary information. Likewise, they will help you interact with local people and tell you about their culture and traditions. Moreover, we will provide you with one porter for 2 trekkers who will be carrying your luggage and equipment.

How Difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trek is graded as a moderately difficult trek. Being one of the mainstream trekking routes, the trails of the Annapurna Circuit are quite well maintained; however, there are various factors that add difficulty to the trek. Some of the factors are given below for you to understand the overview of the trek.

Altitude 

Annapurna Circuit Trek stretches from Chame to Thorung La Pass, gaining excessive altitude of more than 5000m. So, there are high chances for trekkers to be affected by high-altitude sickness. In order to avoid high-altitude sickness, you should acclimate properly and walk at your own pace. Make sure you don't ignore any signs of your body and descend in case the symptoms get worse.

Rugged Terrain

First of all, you will be walking deep into the remote area. Moreover, you will be taking steep ascents and descents. Sometimes you will have to walk on the narrow paths alongside the ridgelines. Walking this rugged terrain with elevation can be difficult even for seasoned trekkers. Moreover, the diverse terrain, like subtropical regions, alpine areas, and arid deserts, has its own set of challenges that demand a high level of adaptability. 

Long Duration

Covering approximately 160 to 230 km in a span of 12 to 20 days requires consistent physical strength and mental endurance. Trekkers like you must endure the long walking hours and adapt to the available resources during the trek. Hence, prior preparation is really essential to successfully cope with the long duration of the Annapurna Circuit trek. 

Is the Annapurna Circuit Trek for Beginners?

Trekkers with a good level of physical and mental fitness are encouraged to embark on this trek. If you are novice trekkers, then you might be disappointed hearing this. Since this trek does not require any prior trekking experience, novice trekkers with beforehand physical and mental preparation, along with some hiking experience, can also embark on this journey.

However, if you have any medical issues, it is better to consult with your doctor before attempting this trek. 

How to Prepare for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?  

To prepare physically for the trek, you will have to make physical preparations a few weeks prior to the trek. You can try exercises like lunges, planks, squats, leg raises, push-ups, etc, for increasing your physical and core strength. Likewise, cardiovascular exercise, including aerobic exercise like cycling, swimming, and interval training, will help you to build endurance. Make sure to practice regularly. A continuous approach gives a more definite result. Going on hikes and short treks can come in handy during the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Similarly, mental resilience is also essential to complete this amazing trek. You can try meditation and yoga to concentrate your mind. Most important of all, you should keep realistic expectations about the trek. Keeping high expectations will usually kill the real joy of the journey.

Meals on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Just like the Everest Base Camp Trek or the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the trails of the Annapurna Circuit Trek are also dotted with numerous lodges and tea houses. In order to accommodate the taste palate of diverse trekkers, tea houses have extensive menus including Nepali food and other foreign cuisines too. 

For breakfast, you can expect bread, paratha, muesli, pancakes, porridge, etc. For lunch and dinner, you can expect dal bhaat tarkari, dhindo, momo, chowmin, pasta, thukpa, etc. Since you are trekking high into the Himalayas, dont miss out on trying local food and cuisine. You can try some of the local cheese. Moreover, local delicacies like yak meat and buckwheat pancakes may actually suit your taste palate.

Accommodations on the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The tea houses will provide you with a well-equipped room with twin beds and a shared bathroom. You will be eating your food at the communal dining area. Some of the tea houses may offer you the facility of WIFI and a hot shower, but you will need to pay money out of your pocket for these additional services. 

Permits for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Trekkers will need to obtain two permits to complete their Annapurna Circuit Trek.

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
2. Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card

You will require an ACAP when you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. This permit will be checked by the officials at different checking points. Likewise, the TIMS card contains the information of trekkers, which will help in trekkers' safety and record keeping.

Tips for a Successful Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Pack lightly, but do not miss out on essentials
• Carry all your necessary medications, including altitude sickness medicines
• Do not ascend rapidly
• Make sure to check the weather forecast
• Do not rush. Enjoy the entire journey, not just the destinationion

Difference between Annapurna Circuit Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Even though both the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Annapurna Base Camp are renowned trekking routes of the Annapurna region, there is quite a vast difference between the two treks.

1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered a moderately easy trek, while Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a moderately challenging trek.
2. The main highlight of the ABC trek is Annapurna Base Camp, while the main highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek are Thorung La Pass and Muktinath.
3. ABC trek usually navigates its path on subtropical and a few alpine regions, while Annapurna Circuit Trek circumnavigates its path from the subtropical region of Besisahar, to barren, wind-swept terrain in Manang, and arid desert region in Mustang.