Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek & its Difficulty Level

The Annapurna Circuit trek is generally regarded as a moderately difficulty trek. One should have a fortune level of fitness to accomplish it.

The trekkers have to walk 6-7 hours and 7 to 14 kilometers per day; so you can cover the distance within two weeks or fifteen days.

The Thorang La Pass, the highest point of the trek, has an elevation of 5,416 meters. It can be challenging for the hikers.

The difficulty level of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is determined by several factors. It includes terrain and trails, distances, changing weather conditions, food and accommodation services during the trek and many more.

The trekkers should engage in physical training and cardiovascular exercises before the trek. Furthermore, ascending slowly, steadily, and acclimatizing play a crucial role in the accomplishment of the trek.

How will be my day & Expectations: Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek is a moderate to challenging trek. It is a promising way to experience the mountains in Nepal. The trek will conclude in 15 days.

In the everyday walking journey, you will have new adventures, experiences & exciting activities. Your trek will be flawless by seeing the sky touching mountains, diverse landscapes, challenging terrains, varied flora & fauna, wildlife animals and the beautiful rhododendron forests.

Your usual day will start with having a morning breakfast at the tea houses/lodges. Upon that, we set out for a hike. After walking for some hours, we’ll have our lunch in the serene atmosphere. Later on, our trip starts and it will continue till we reach our next destination, as per the itinerary.

Is Annapurna Circuit Trek possible for the beginner’s?

Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is quite feasible for beginners. It is challenging but equally rewarding. Even fresher can accomplish this trek. However, you should have a sound level of fitness. Furthermore, you also need a proper plan & preparations.

The trekker should be set and prepared for the narrow ridges, steep trails, river crossing and unpredictable weather conditions. The trek also involves significant altitude gain. Therefore, altitude sickness can be a big concern during the trek.

Before the trip, trekkers should engage in cardiovascular training at least 5-6 weeks before the trip. Furthermore, they may also take part in some extra activities like cycling, swimming and jogging.

We Sonam Adventure also provide experiences and trained guides to the beginners.

Preparations for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The 15 days Annapurna Circuit trek wills you to the depth of Himalayas. On 12^th day, you will land your steps at the highest point, Thorong La Pass. On a daily basis, you have to walk around 6-7 hours continuously.

To embark and successfully conclude Annapurna, one must need proper plan & preparations.

One must take part in the cardiovascular exercises like jogging, running, swimming at least 5-6 weeks before the trip.

The trekker has to walk on diverse range of terrains. Therefore, one must have good physical fitness.

Acclimatization is essential. If possible you may also involve in the altitude trekking training. The trekker’s should pack all significant things before the trek. Here are some points that may be crucial for the hikers.

• Take part in running, cycling and swimming some weeks before the trip
• Build your strength and endurances through pushups, planks and squats
• Stay Hydrated during your trekking journey.
• Be aware of nausea, vomiting, dizziness and altitude sickness during the trek
• Avoid the trek if you have any issues of asthma, bronchitis or shortness of breath.

Altitude Sickness & Overcomes

The Annapurna ranges are the 8^th highest mountains of the world. Altitude Mountain Sickness could be a major issue during the trekking.

The trekkers have to reach 5,400 meters above. As a result, headaches, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath kind of symptom seen among the hikers.

Here are some significant and preventions that surely fruitful for the trekker’s.

• Stay hydrated during the trip
• Have healthy & balanced foods during your journey.
• Acclimatization is extremely significant.
• Consult your doctor before starting the trek
• Pack all your appropriate gears
• Do not rush: take your steps slowly and gradually.

Annapurna Circuit Trek: Ideal Time

Most people choose spring & autumn for the Annapurna Circuit trek. Here are the details.

Spring (March to May) – The Spring is the peak season for the Annapurna circuit trek. During these times, there is a warm and longer day. Furthermore, you will see the rhododendron aka लाली गुराँस in full blooms.

In the month of May, there may be a little chance of rain. Therefore, you should prepare in full gear. Don’t forget to bring camera and accessories for the best photo and video shoot.

Autumn (Sep-Nov) – The autumn is the first choice of the hikers for trekking in the Annapurna circuit. The monsoon has just ended. There is no chance of rain in October & November. As a result, the weather is cool & stable. You will feel a little colder in the morning and late evening. During this time, the Nepalese celebrated their major festivals Dashain & Tihar.

Winter (Dec-Feb) – The winter is not a favourable choice for the Annapurna circuit trek. You may trek till December. However, in January due to the heavy rainfall, the routes of Thorong La Pass may be blocked.

The heavy snowfall, icy trails and extreme coldness may be troublesome for the trekkers.

Monsoon (June-August) – The monsoon is the last best option for the Annapurna circuit trek. There is a massive probability of landslides, uncertain floods and unstable mudflow in this area. Avoid this season, if possible.

Accommodations services – Annapurna Circuit Trek

While making your way through the Annapurna Circuit trek, accommodations play a crucial role.

After the trek starts, you will primarily reside in the tea houses. When you are in Kathmandu or Pokhara, you’ll stay in 3-4 star hotels. You’ll have a luxury experience by having the facilities of supportive staff, an in-house restaurant, spas, swimming pool, room services and many more.

The more you climb upwards. Your services turn out to be elegant to basic. During the trek, you have to stay in tea houses. While staying there, you have shared rooms with twin beds, shared bathrooms (squat toilets) and communal dining. You may have to pay for hot showers and gadget charging at the higher altitudes.

Food & Meals Availability

You’ll have the variety of options during the Annapurna circuit trek. Usually, we serve meals three times a day – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Here are the details.

Nepali Cuisine – The Nepali cuisine is famous during the trekking in Nepal. The traditional Dal, Bhat, Tarkari aka Rice, Lentils and vegetables, you will easily available for the traveler’s. You may also add chicken, mutton or buffalo meat to make more delicious.

Continental and International Cuisine – During the trek, you may also enjoy continental and international cuisines. The meals includes: pasta, noodles, fried rice, mo:mo (dumplings), pancakes, sandwiches and some other dishes.

Snacks and Energy Foods – Annapurna circuit is a two weeks long journey. It would be better, if you have chocolates, cookies, energy bars, nuts and dried fruits. These food products are easily available in Kathmandu.

Aside from this, fresh fruits like apple, banana, oranges is easily available in the tea houses and small shops in the Annapurna region.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Permits & Fees

Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the most thrilling and adventurous journey of Nepal. To conclude the trek – you need couple of permits.

Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) – A TIMS is a common permit you need to obtain to trek any region in Nepal. It has two variations

• Solo Permit
• Group trek permit

For solo permit you have to pay around 2000. Similarly, for the group permit, you need to pay 1000 NPR.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) –  The ACAP permit is mandatory for the trekkers to enter the Annapurna region. The cost is 3000 for foreigners and NRS 1000 for SAARC nationals.

You can easily obtain these permits at the Nepal Tourism Board Pokhara or at the Annapurna Conservation Point.

Travel Insurance & its necessities

Travel Insurance is necessary and essential for the trekker’s. This time you are going for 15 days of the Annapurna Circuit trek. During this journey, you’ll have to pass through rugged terrains and slippery paths. Furthermore, the high-altitude walking may lead you to the altitude sickness and other several other health issues.. Moreover, one may also get affected by the natural calamities like flood, landslides and other severe problems. Here are some points that glances the importance of travel insurance

• Evacuations from helicopter in emergency
• Cover all your health expenses
• Peaceful and pleasant traveling
• A complete solution to your financial expenses
• Covers all your money if fight delayed or cancelled
• Return back all your money; if trip is cancelled.