Annapurna Circuit Trek – 15 Days

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most famous treks. It offers stunning landscapes, rich culture, and amazing mountain views. The trek begins in subtropical regions. 

You’ll walk through lush forests, terraced fields, and small villages. As you climb higher, the landscape changes to high-altitude deserts and alpine terrain. This variety makes the trek special.

You’ll enjoy incredible views of Annapurna I (8091m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), and Machhapuchhre (6997m), also known as Mt. Fishtail. These peaks look different as you continue the trek. The main highlight is crossing Thorong La Pass. It’s a challenging section due to the high altitude. But the views are worth the effort. Reaching the pass is a major accomplishment.

Along the way, you can visit Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples, like Muktinath Temple. This sacred site is important to both Hindus and Buddhists. The landscape changes constantly. You will walk through rhododendron forests, rushing rivers, and dry highlands. In spring, wildflowers bloom. 

In winter, the snow-covered peaks are stunning. The Kali Gandaki Gorge is another highlight. It is the deepest gorge in the world, located between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

Wildlife lovers will enjoy the Annapurna Conservation Area. You may spot snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and blue sheep. Birdwatchers can see species like the colorful Himalayan monal, Nepal’s national bird.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is more than just a physical challenge. It’s a journey through beautiful landscapes and rich culture. This trek stays with you long after it ends. 

General Gear:

• Puffy down jacket (Rental available for an extra USD 35)
• Four-season sleeping bag (0°C) (Rental available for an extra USD 35)
• Daypack (Recommended size: 35-45 liters) with a rain cover
• Sleeping bag liner

Accessories:

• Sun hat or cap
• Beanie or knit hat
• Scarf or neck gaiter
• Headlamp
• Sunglasses
• Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
• Insulated outer gloves (for colder conditions)

Clothing:

• Technical fabric base layers (lighter for warm weather, heavier for cold)
• 2 short-sleeve and 2 long-sleeve technical fabric shirts
• Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
• Fleece jacket or pullover
• 2 pairs of hiking pants
• Comfortable indoor pants for teahouses
• Waterproof and windproof outer shell pants
• Hiking shorts

Footwear:

• Wool or technical fabric warm socks
• Hiking socks
• Liner socks (optional, like silk)
• Waterproof trekking/hiking boots
• Ice cleats/microspikes (recommended from November to March for icy or wet surfaces)
• Casual shoes
• Gaiters (lightweight for dust, heavier ones for snow in colder months)

First Aid & Medications: (Note: Guides carry first aid kits and medication, but personal supplies are recommended.)

• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Ointment

Essential Items:

• Passport
• Extra passport-sized photocopies
• Reusable water bottle
• Toiletry kit
• Water purification tablets or UV purifier (if you plan to treat water)
• Hydration bladder
• Towel
• Pillowcase
• Toilet paper (2 rolls)
• High-protein snacks (like protein bars or nuts)
• Waterproof/dry bags for documents and money
• Airline tickets (Leave a copy at our Kathmandu office in case of flight changes)

Optional Gear:

• Extra supplies and gear can be bought in Nepal, particularly in Kathmandu’s Thamel area, where affordable trekking shops are available.
• Power bank or extra batteries
• Camera and mobile phone
• Cards or a book
• Pee bottle or funnel (for women)
• Trekking poles
• Whistle
• Thermos for hot drinks