Annapurna Circuit Trek

Among the country's many trekking agencies and adventure outfitters Nepal Hiking Team stands out for the impeccable service that it has been providing to its clients. Why should you choose the Nepal Hiking Team? Here’s why,

• The Nepal Hiking Team has been organizing tours and treks in the Himalayas for more than 15 years.
• The company employs local guides for the Annapurna Circuit Tours. The guides are well-trained and possess a trekking guide license. They are highly skilled and consistently earn praise from our clients.
• Your safety remains our top priority. We focus on your well-being and dedicate ourselves to ensuring your satisfaction while on the trail.
• Our reliability and transparency have earned the trust of our loyal clients, making them choose us consistently for their Himalayan adventures.
• Personalized trekking and cultural tours are our specialty. We tailor each experience to meet individual preferences.
• Our pricing is detailed and transparent, with no hidden charges.

The Annapurna Circuit in Nepal is different from other treks in the Annapurna as it offers a diverse and rich trekking experience. Be it the rich and diverse cultures or the different landscapes one encounters, the Annapurna Circuit has all the ingredients of a great Himalayan trek. The trail takes you from subtropical forests to windswept alpine valleys and a glacial pass close to Tibet. Along the way, you will get to stay at Hindu and Buddhist villages adorned with sacred temples, monasteries, and stupas.

The Annapurna Circuit has one of the longest trekking routes in the world, spanning different climatic zones. The highlights of the trek include a thrilling crossing of the Thorung La Pass, a glaciated mountain pass, and a spiritual visit to the sacred Muktinath Temple, a place for Hindus to receive salvation or moksha. The circuit indeed offers one of the most unique trekking experiences in Nepal.

The Annapurna Circuit Trekking is graded as moderately strenuous. The trek requires 6-8 hours of walking daily for 10–11 days. The route includes uphill and downhill terrains, with the highest point at Thorung La Pass (5,416m). The most challenging section of the trek is the crossing of the Thorong La.

At high elevation, altitude sickness is a grave concern. However, our 14-day itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Manang, ensuring proper adaptation. You will start your trek at a lower elevation and gradually walk up to a higher elevation. Our guides will maintain a slow and steady pace, helping trekkers adjust comfortably, making this adventure suitable for both beginners and as well experienced trekkers.

While every precaution is taken from our side to make your trek safe and successful, we urge you to do your part too, and follow the dos and don'ts while on the trail. For example, refrain from smoking or consuming alcohol, respect the local culture, dress warmly or according to the weather (low body temperature is one of the causes of altitude sickness), drink plenty of water, eat healthily, and refrain from skipping meals, inform your guide if you feel unwell and do not venture out alone in the wilderness.

Standing at an elevation of 5,416m, the Thorong La Pass is the maximum point of Annapurna Circuit Trek. The Thorung La is renowned as one of the longest and highest passes in the Himalayas and lies close to the Tibetan Plateau. From the top of the pass, one can enjoy grand views of Annapurna 2 and IV, Dhaulagiri Himal, Gangapurna, Thorung Peak, Chulu East and Dhampus.

As per this 14-day itinerary, you will reach the highest point of the trek, Thorong La Pass, on the tenth day of your journey.

You can book your trek by following these steps. However, we urge you to first read the detailed 14–day Annapurna itinerary to understand the trek plan and route.

If you find the itinerary doable, then,

• Click on the departures option on the navigation bar to select your preferred month and departure date.
• Fill up the Booking Form and confirm your booking with a 20% deposit of the total cost.

In case you wish to customize the itinerary to meet your requirements, feel free to contact us. Departures are guaranteed once your booking is confirmed.

No, the security deposit is non-refundable. However, you have the option to postpone or reschedule your trek if you are not able to travel during the stipulated timeframe. Your deposit will be transferred as credit for a future trek.

Once you have completed the booking process and paid the deposit, we will send you a confirmation letter via email. Along with the confirmation mail you will find the details of your trip, including the day-to-day itinerary, included services, packing list, and other important information.

Yes, we do offer private trips to clients seeking a more personalized trekking experience. If your group consists of two or more people, there's no extra cost for booking a private trip. The private trips are available year-round and offer flexibility without following the fixed departure dates listed on our website.

For solo travelers requesting a private trip, additional costs will apply.

Yes, we do accept last-minute bookings. However, this depends on the availability of guides, accommodation, etc. During the peak seasons, the trails get busy and crowded and it is difficult to arrange accommodation.

You can get in touch with us via WhatsApp or call us directly. If you know where we are located you can drop in at our office and discuss your plan

• Contact Number: +977 1 4389212
• WhatsApp: +977 9851058678

Yes, you can postpone your trek if you are not able to travel during the time fixed for your adventure. You can inform us and simply choose a new date that suits you. We will make the necessary arrangements at no extra cost. But please remember to inform us about your change of plans and at least two weeks before you arrive in Nepal.

While there's no age restriction for Annapurna Nepal Circuit Trek, very small children (below 10 years) may find the crossing of the Thorung La difficult. The Thorung La pass can be challenging during bad weather and the difficult crossing is not recommended at all for small kids. Even adults struggle with the crossing and children will find this more difficult. Moreover, young children may not be able to express their discomfort( symptoms of altitude sickness) which can be challenging. The long descent to Muktinath may also be tiring and boring for the young ones.

Regardless of your age, do bear in mind physical fitness and mental strength are essential. One has to be physically as well as mentally prepared for the tough challenges that one will face at high altitudes. Those who have already done a high-altitude trek will find the going smooth. However, for novice trekkers, the hardest day of the trek could be the crossing of the Thorung La pass in a single day. It takes more than eight hours to cross the high mountain pass.

If you can cover long distances on foot without any serious health issues you can certainly do this trek. Try climbing staircases and go on multi-day hikes on a hilly terrain. If this leaves you breathless and exhausted then you should work on your fitness. If you do not enjoy the experience and feel uncomfortable while hiking, then you should certainly think twice about booking this trip, as it will be harder on the actual trail.

You need to be physically fit and should be used to hill-hiking to do Annapurna Circuit. Before you embark on your journey, we suggest you train for at least few months. You can try rigorous exercises like jogging, swimming, cycling, etc. to build up your endurance.

Consider your physical state, your ability to complete certain activities, and overall health conditions to determine whether you are fit enough for the challenge. If you have any serious illnesses, we urge you to consult your doctor before booking this trek.

Yes, this trail is safe enough for solo female trekkers. Regardless of your gender you can trek and explore freely the entire Annapurna Circuit. Not only in the Region of Annapurna, solo female travelers can travel safely throughout Nepal. This Himalayan country is one of the safest holiday destinations in the world.

Yes, Travel insurance is mandatory for Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trek takes you to harsh and rugged terrains, where landslides and avalanches can occur during bad weather. It is better to be prepared for the worst situation. Make sure that your insurance policy covers high-altitude rescue and evacuation above 5400 meters, apart from the coverage for lost baggage, flight cancellation, etc.

Yes, we provide a trekking guide when you book this trek. The Nepal Hiking Team organizes guided tours and treks only. While trekking in an isolated and remote area like the Annapurna Circuit, having a local guide accompanying you will keep you safe and on the right trail. Since the trails are isolated, there have been instances of independent trekkers (who trek without a guide) losing their way in the wilderness.

The local guides are familiar with the terrain and know all the routes. If faced with an emergency they can make backup plans and seek help quickly. Even if you are highly prepared, trekking at high altitudes is fraught with risks.

Our guides are trained in wilderness survival and first aid. They carry with them an oximeter to check the oxygen levels in your body and a first aid kit. They can pick the symptoms of mountain sickness and will advise you if you need to take medication at higher elevation.

The guides also check the quality of food and drinking water at the teahouses. Since they are acquainted with the guesthouse owners, they will be able to relay any dietary concerns you may have to the guesthouse owners.

Our guides have walked on this route several times and are familiar with the route and weather of Annapurna Circuit. If there are any emergencies on the trail that they can't manage, then they will call the head office and arrange to fix the problem.

No, the trip will not get canceled if a group member falls ill. In case someone from the group falls sick, the guide will assess and monitor his or her condition and recommend prolonged rest, descent to a lower elevation, or air rescue as per the condition of the client.

Our trekking guides are trained in first aid and equipped with an oximeter to regularly check oxygen levels. If someone is unwell, the group continues the trek while the affected individual is supported by an assistant guide or trekking staff.

While there are crossings via suspension bridges en route, these are few and far between. The bridges are strong and sturdy and have railings on either side for support. If you find it difficult to cross the bridge alone, our guide and porters will help you with the crossing.

Yes, we do provide some items needed for the trek to our clients free of cost. Among the items that we offer include a -20 °C down jacket according to your size, a 70L duffle (rucksack) bag, and a four-season sleeping bag. These items should, however be returned after the completion of the trek.

We also give away a Nepal Hiking Team T-shirt, cap, a map of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking, and a trip completion certificate with maximum elevation mentioned.

If your choice of accommodation is in Thamel, then you will find plenty of shops selling trekking gear and equipment close to your hotel. These shops and rental outlets offer items at a fair and reasonable price. Whether you want to buy branded goods or go for cheap (but sturdy) knockoffs, you will find a variety of choices. Shops here offer items like down jackets, trekking poles, boots, sleeping bags, warm thermals, etc.

If you are still confused about what to buy and pack for the trek, check out our complete packing list for Annapurna trekking in Nepal.

For the Annapurna Circuit, choose a light pair of hiking boots with good traction, waterproof protection, and ankle support. Choose boots that have a waterproof membrane and can protect you from rain and snow. It should offer stability on uneven terrain and have strong traction for rocky paths and scree. Lightweight boots are ideal for long days of trekking.

The trekking guides carry an oximeter and a medical kit. Oxygen cylinders or gamow bags are not usually needed for treks of moderate difficulty. However, if you feel secure traveling with supplementary oxygen and a gamow bag we will arrange it for you at an extra cost. Oxygen cylinders will cost $180, and gamow or chamber bag $250. If you need these items, please inform us while booking your trek.

Sure, you can. The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers you ample opportunities to interact and engage with the local communities. As you will be staying at lodges and guesthouses run by local villagers you will get the opportunity to interact with them and learn more about their culture.

At villages like Pisang, Ngawal, Braka, Manang,etc. You will get to experience Tibetan Buddhist and Bon cultures which are very different from the Hindu cultures predominant in the big cities and towns of Nepal. The people living in these villages are of Tibetan origin. They migrated from the Tibetan plateau centuries ago and their lifestyle, customs, and traditions are very similar to the inhabitants of the Tibetan plateau. While Tibet has seen a lot of modernization under Chinese rule, these small hamlets and villages in the high mountains of the Annapurna Area have still managed to preserve the old Tibetan lifestyle and customs.

You can interact with shop owners who sell locally produced handmade products such as woolen scarves and traditional jewelry. Buying local items will help support the local economy and make a positive contribution to the local community.

A backpack of 20 – 30L capacity will be ideal for you. Your heavier items will go on the duffel bag which the porter will carry, while you will carry only a light daypack. Choose a backpack with comfortable shoulder straps and a hip belt to distribute weight evenly. Make sure there are multiple compartments to keep your stuff (water bottles, snacks, camera, batteries, snacks, head torch, tissues, wallet, etc.) in an organized manner.

1 porter carries the luggage of 2 trekkers. He can carry up to 25 kilograms. Make sure your duffel bag doesn't weigh more than 10 - 12.5 kg (22–27 lbs).

Yes, you can leave the stuff that you won't be needing during the trek at your hotel. The hotel staff will store your luggage safely and return it after you arrive in Kathmandu. While this is a free service, make sure to lock your luggage securely if you are leaving some costly and important items. Nepalese are generally honest, but it's better not to take chances.

Yes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek can be done in summer. Summer or monsoon season is an off-season and the trails usually remain empty. Trekking during this season can be great for those who wish to avoid the crowded peak seasons. The weather remains humid and wet, transforming the landscape into a verdant paradise covered in lush vegetation and silvery waterfalls. While clouds are expected one can enjoy stellar views of the Annapurna massif as the weather clears up.

Trekkers usually prefer to stay away from the trails during summer as there's heavy rainfall, fog, and mist. The trails turn muddy and slippery and get infested with leeches. If you can walk in these conditions then you can certainly enjoy a summer trek. However, do make sure to pack according to the season. Include rain gear, waterproof items, and bug spray. Also, pack a small packet of salt to repel the leeches. Keep yourself up to date with the condition of the trail and the weather. Landslides are common during monsoon season. So be careful while on the trail.

No, the hike to Annapurna Circuit is not suitable during winter (end of December till early March). Winter trekking along the Annapurna Circuit is not recommended as there's heavy snowfall at the higher reaches and the route to the Thorung La Pass remains impassable. Since there's a high risk of avalanche on this route the teahouse owners also close their businesses and move to a lower elevation.

The weather during winter remains unpredictable and constantly changes. There will be limited accommodation on the trail as lodges remain closed during winter. Further, the temperature dips drastically, making it difficult to walk at high elevations.

If you want to trek in the Himalayas in winter, do check out the Top Winter treks we offer in Nepal.

We book your rooms at 3-star hotels in both Kathmandu and Pokhara, ensuring a comfortable stay.

In Kathmandu, we arrange hotels in the Thamel area, a vibrant and centrally located tourist hub. In Pokhara, we arrange accommodations near the scenic Lakeside area, which offers great views of Phewa Lake and Fishtail Peak.

Yes, we can arrange an upgrade as per your request at an additional cost. There are several 4-star, 5-star, and luxury boutique hotels and resorts you can choose from. Let us know where you would like to stay and we will book a room for you at that establishment. Or let us know the kind of accommodation you prefer and we will pick a hotel that suits your requirements.

Teahouses along the Annapurna Circuit are clean and comfortable. Most of them provide twin-sharing rooms equipped with proper beds, thick foam mattresses, pillows, bed sheets, blankets or quilts, window curtains, and a small table.

Accommodations on this route are modernized, with private bathrooms available at most places. Except at a few higher-elevation locations like Yak Khharka and Thorong Phedi, western toilets are available at all teahouses. However, toilet paper and towels are not provided, so it's essential to carry your own.

Hot showers are available daily—free at some teahouses and payable at others. Teahouses also stock essentials such as energy bars, bottled mineral water, hot water, tissues, and toilet paper. The price of these items can be higher compared to the cities.

While the rooms are not heated, teahouses feature warm dining areas with heating, powered by a large woodstove with a chimney to keep you warm and comfortable after a day of trekking.

Of course, this can be done. However, if you want to add extra nights after the start of your tour during peak season, there's no guarantee that you will get the same room or the same hotel. If the room is already booked, we will arrange a different hotel of the same standard for you.

For 3-star hotels in Kathmandu, the cost is typically USD 45 per night for a single room and USD 50 per night for a double or twin room.

In Pokhara, the cost is USD 35 per night for a single room and USD 40 per night for a double or twin room.

There is a luxury agro resort in Brathang known as the Farmhouse. The resort sits in the middle of a sprawling apple orchard. A newly built resort in Muktinath named Lo Mustang Himalayan Resort also offers luxury accommodations. These are the only two luxury accommodation options available on the Annapurna circuit trekking trails.

While the amenities may not be luxurious at the standard teahouses en route, they offer warm hospitality, freshly cooked food, and sleeping beds.

Most of the tea houses or guest houses on the Annapurna Circuit trail provide twin-sharing rooms. If you are traveling solo and prefer a single room, it is usually available for an additional cost. In high-altitude areas like Yak Kharka and Thorung Phedi where there are only a few stay, single rooms may not be available.

No, as a solo female traveler, you won't have to share a room with male trekkers. You will be provided a room with another female trekker or a single room if available. Most guesthouses en route have rooms with two separate beds, blankets, and pillows, which are provided to two trekkers.

You will be served freshly cooked meals on the trail. Apart from the common Nepalese dishes like dal-bhaat and momo, you will get to choose from a range of Indian as well as continental dishes at the Annapurna tea houses.

For Breakfast Annapurna tea houses typically offer chapati, tea, hot chocolate, egg, potato curry, fried rice, browns, muesli, pancakes, and Tibetan bread (with honey, jam, or honey).

Generally, lunch and dinner are the same. The most popular dish is the Nepali Dal Bhat set(rice, lentil soup, curry, and pickle). Other options are noodles, Thukpa, soup, potatoes, different curries, pizza, spaghetti, and other items on the menu.

Chicken and yak meat are also available at most lodges. However, it’s better to go vegetarian at higher altitudes. If you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies, please do let us know in advance, so that we can make proper arrangements for you.

Yes, drinking water is readily available along the route, with options to fill your bottles from teahouses or village spring water taps.

Bottled mineral water can also be purchased but we discourage the purchase of mineral water bottles as it adds to the plastic waste in the mountains. We promote sustainable and eco-friendly travel and encourage our clients to carry reusable water bottles with a purification system.

Our guides also carry water purification tablets to ensure safe drinking water from any source. By using these tablets and avoiding single-use plastic bottles, you can have a more sustainable and environmentally friendly trekking experience.

You may also buy hot water from teahouses, which is a practical option to stay warm during the trek.

Cell phone reception is available along most parts of the Annapurna Circuit. However, the region's rugged terrain can cause spotty coverage in some areas.

Ncell and NTC sims provide good mobile coverage on most of the routes of Anna purna. You can buy a sim card at the airport or a mobile shop close to your hotel. These SIM cards cover almost every spot, but after Pisang, the reception gets sketchy. In remote areas, NTC has better coverage than Ncell.

Wi-Fi and internet access are available on most of Annapurna's routes. At teahouses in the remote areas, wi-fi is accessible only in the main dining area. Teahouses charge extra for wi-fi access.

Yes, there are ATMs in places like Chame, Manang, Muktinath, and Jomsom. However, it's better not to rely on ATMs to withdraw cash as most of the time are either out of cash or shut down due to technical issues.

It's better to get the local currency from Kathmandu or Pokhara. You can use your card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) to withdraw money from any of the ATM kiosks or exchange foreign currency for Nepalese rupees at one of the money exchange centers in Thamel.

No, we do not provide ticketing services for international flights. You will have to arrange your international flight tickets by yourself.

Yes, once you book a trip with us, we will arrange airport pickup and drop-off. A representative from our team will be assigned the duty of picking you up from the airport upon your arrival and dropping you off on the day of your departure.

You will have to inform us about your arrival details and we will arrange airport pick-up and accommodation.

All the ground transfers are done in a private vehicle from the airport to the hotel. From Kathmandu to Jagat, and from Pokhara to Kathmandu, a private vehicle or bus will be used according to your itinerary. The transportation is included in the package and is arranged by the team.

Yes, our Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary includes an acclimatization day. It is on the seventh day of your trip to Manang Village (3540m).

On this day, you have the option to hike to Gangapurna Tal and Milarepa Cave or explore Manang village.

Yes, you can extend your stay in Pokhara at the end of your trek and postpone your return journey to Kathmandu at a later date. Many trekkers choose to do this to relax after a tiring trek and to explore the lakeside city.

If you wish to extend your stay and change the transfer dates, you need to inform us beforehand so that we can make the adjustments.

Yes, you can choose to fly instead of opting for a long drive. A domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu will cost an additional 90$. Taking a flight saves you time and gives you a chance to enjoy aerial views of the Himalayas.

Yes, we do offer local sightseeing tours. If you arrive earlier or leave later than the schedule of our Annapurna Circuit Trek package, you can join one of our Kathmandu Valley guided tours. We offer local tours with an experienced tour guide. We have a couple of popular sightseeing packages that cover cultural and heritage sites, including visits to temples and Durbar Square sites. The cultural tour will be an excellent addition to your Nepal trip as this will allow you to gain insight into Nepal's rich culture and history.

The Classic Annapurna Circuit Trekking is an extended version of the 14-day Annapurna Trek. It takes about 18 days to complete. In this itinerary, after Muktinath, there is an additional four-day trek to Marpha, Ghasa, Tatopani, and Ghorepani (Poon Hill), before returning to Pokhara.

Whereas in the 14-day Annapurna Circuit package, after Muktinath, the trek continues to Jomsom from where one catches a direct flight to Pokhara, skipping the trek to Marpha, Ghasa, etc.

Yes, customization is available. You can customize the trek to match your time, interests, and preferences. We treat customized treks as private trips, so group tours are not available on modified itineraries.

Both Everest and Anna purna trekking offer unique experiences, challenges, and rewards. The Nepal Annapurna trek is less strenuous and generally involves walking at lower altitudes. Readily available accommodations on the Annapurna route also make it slightly easier for trekkers. The trek starts from Jagat and ends in Jomsom. The trekking experience is more enriching as you get to walk through new places each day.

The Everest Trek is slightly more difficult because of the longer time spent at higher altitudes. One also has to return via the same route on the trail which makes it boring.

While the Annapurna Circuit trail gets steep in some sections, however, there are no trails along the cliffs. The steepest parts are between Dharapani and Chame and during the ascent and descent of Thorong La Pass.

To trek the Annapurna Circuit, you will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)card. These permits can be arranged through the Nepal Tourism Board.

You won't have to worry about the permits as we will get the permits for you. Trekking permits and permit fees are included in our package. A passport-sized photo and a copy of your passport are needed to obtain to permits.

You will experience three types of terrain in Annapurna Himalaya Nepal. In the lower region, there are farmlands and sub-tropical forests of oak and moss. As you head higher, the landscape changes to alpine meadows with snow-capped mountains and glaciers. Finally, in areas like Manang valley, Muktinath, and Jomsom, you will see desert-like terrain, devoid of any vegetation. The changes in climate and terrain within a short period make trekking to Annapurna Circuit one of the most unique treks in the world.

Yes, there are some motorable roads along the route, particularly between Jagat and Manang and from Muktinath to Jomsom. However, we will opt for the designated hiking trails wherever possible and minimize walking on these dirt roads as much as possible.

Annapurna Circuit Trek covers a trekking distance of approximately 110–115 km. On average 8–10 km will have to be covered per day, requiring 6–8 hours of walking. The total walking distance depends on your itinerary.

In our itinerary, trekkers cover 115 km on foot and around 390 km by drive to and from Kathmandu.

The starting point of our 14-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is Jagat, located in the Lamjung District. It takes around 7–8 hours to drive from Kathmandu to reach Jagat. The ending point of this trek is Jomsom, situated in the Mustang District. From Jomsom, you can either fly or drive to Pokhara, depending on the weather conditions.

We recommend a budget of around 25000-30000 in local currency for your Annapurna Circuit extra trip cost. This amount will be enough to take care of your personal expenses like hot showers, snacks, extra meals, Wi-Fi, beverages, and electronic charging fees during the trek.

You can get local currency (Nepalese rupee) from the ATMs or the money exchange centers. Please note, that foreign currency and card payment are not accepted on the trail.

Yes, it is customary for clients to tip their trekking guides, porters, and drivers. There is no set amount and you can tip as per your satisfaction with their service, the trek duration, and your group size.

Tipping shows your gratitude and appreciation towards the guides and porters who worked hard to make your trek successful and kept you safe in the mountains. While you can tip the porter on last day of the Annapurna Circuit journey, which is Jomsom, as his service will end there, you can tip your guide at either Pokhara or Kathmandu. The tipping amount can be in US dollars or Nepalese Rupees.