How does the Annapurna Circuit Trek begin?
Once you share your flight details with us, our representative will greet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You will be warmly welcomed with a traditional Khada or a marigold garland, symbolizing good fortune and respect in Nepali culture. From there, you'll be escorted to your hotel in a comfortable private vehicle. If you haven’t booked a hotel in advance, we can recommend accommodations that suit your preferences and budget. On the departure day for the trek, you'll embark on a journey to Bhulbhule via a local bus your gateway to the Annapurna region. This first leg of the journey introduces you to Nepal’s rural charm and landscape, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. The drive offers glimpses of terraced fields, winding rivers, and distant mountains, offering a taste of the majestic journey to come.
What kind of accommodations can I expect during the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Throughout the twelve days trek, you’ll stay in a combination of local lodges and guesthouses, typically in twin-sharing rooms that offer basic comfort and warmth. Seven nights will be in rooms with attached bathrooms located in key villages such as Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, and Muktinath. The remaining five nights will be spent in standard rooms without attached bathrooms in Manang (2 nights), Yak Kharka, and Thorong Phedi. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll enjoy a night in a comfortable hotel offering amenities like hot water, TV, and laundry services. Electricity is generally available for charging devices, and Wi-Fi access is offered in most lodges, though often at an extra cost. Hot showers may also come at an added charge, especially in higher altitude areas. Please note that meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara before and after the trek are not included in the package. You’ll need to plan at least two nights in Kathmandu—one before starting the trek and one after completing it.
What meals are included during the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
You will be provided with breakfasts, lunches, and dinners during the trek on a full-board basis. Meals are typically served with a choice between local favorites and familiar Western dishes to suit various dietary preferences. One popular and energy-rich meal is dal bhat tarkari—lentils, rice, and vegetables—widely favored by trekkers and locals for its sustenance and nutritional value. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the variety of food options becomes more limited, so sticking with wholesome local meals is advisable. Hydration is key at high altitudes, so you’re encouraged to drink plenty of fluids such as garlic soup, green tea, and ginger tea to aid acclimatization and digestion. Note that the package does not include hot (tea/coffee), cold, or alcoholic beverages, which you can purchase separately. It’s recommended to avoid alcohol, caffeine, dairy, and meat during the trek to minimize altitude sickness risk and digestive issues. Meals in Pokhara are not included, giving you the flexibility to explore local restaurants and cuisines.
What is the luggage limit for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Each porter will carry up to 25 kg of luggage, shared between two trekkers, meaning you can bring a maximum of 9 kg per person. We recommend teaming up with a fellow trekker and packing your belongings in a durable duffel bag with a capacity of at least 60 liters. This ensures the load is manageable and within the porter’s carrying capacity. It's crucial to pack wisely—bring only essential clothing and gear, and avoid overpacking. You can store any excess luggage in your hotel in Kathmandu or with us at no additional cost. Your daypack should include water, snacks, a camera, and layers for weather changes, while the rest can be carried by your porter. Travel insurance must also cover personal items in case of loss or damage during the trek. Luggage weight limits help maintain the safety and well-being of porters, supporting ethical trekking practices.
What facilities and essentials are available during the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
You’ll find basic but essential facilities throughout the Annapurna Circuit. For water, while bottled water is available for purchase in many villages, we strongly encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste. You can refill with boiled or filtered water at most tea houses for a small fee. To stay safe, use water purification tablets or a personal filtration system, which you should bring along—though we can provide purification pills upon request. Avoid drinking directly from taps, rivers, or natural springs without treating the water. Regarding communication, you can buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu for use in the mountains, although reception may be patchy at high altitudes. Our team maintains daily communication with guides to ensure your safety and coordination, even when mobile signals are weak. Some teahouses offer paid Wi-Fi, but connectivity isn’t guaranteed, so it's best to manage expectations and enjoy the digital detox.
What travel documents and essentials do I need for the trek?
To enter Nepal, foreign nationals (except Indian citizens) need a valid visa, which can typically be obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and bring two passport-sized photos for visa processing. The cost for a 30-day visa is currently USD 50, but this can change, so check with the Department of Immigration before travel. You must also have travel insurance that includes high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation up to 5,000 meters—this is mandatory and not optional. Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage details, particularly for helicopter rescue services. ATMs are available in major cities but may not be reliable in remote areas and can carry withdrawal limits and fees. If carrying Indian Rupees, only INR 100 notes are accepted in Nepal. Prepare extra copies of your passport and insurance documents in case of emergencies or checkpoints.
How much should I budget for extra expenses during the trek?
You should budget approximately USD 15 per day for personal expenses during the trek. This amount can cover extra drinks such as bottled water, soft drinks, or tea/coffee, as well as additional snacks or meal upgrades. You might also wish to purchase souvenirs like handicrafts or prayer flags along the way. Some villages sell small essentials such as tissues, lip balm, or batteries at higher prices due to transport costs. Wi-Fi, charging electronics, and hot showers may also incur additional charges, depending on the lodge. At the end of the trek, it’s customary to tip your guide and porters based on your satisfaction with their service, so set aside some funds for that as well. These extra expenses can add up, so having small denominations of Nepali Rupees will be helpful.
What permits are required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
You will need two essential permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. The ACAP allows entry into the protected Annapurna region and helps fund conservation efforts and local community projects. The TIMS card helps keep a record of trekkers in the area and supports safety and rescue operations if needed. Both permits are mandatory and must be presented at several checkpoints along the trek. We will arrange both permits on your behalf before your trek begins, so you don’t need to worry about the paperwork. All you need to do is provide a copy of your passport and a couple of passport-sized photos when booking. These permits are single-entry and valid for the duration of your trek.
When is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During spring, the weather is mild and the rhododendron forests bloom vibrantly, creating colorful trails with good visibility of snow-capped peaks. Daytime temperatures at higher elevations range between 8°C and 0°C, while nights can get chilly. Autumn offers clear skies, dry trails, and stable weather, making it ideal for high-pass crossings like Thorong La. In summer (June to August), the monsoon brings heavy rainfall, especially at lower elevations, making trails slippery and increasing leech activity—but you’ll find lush greenery, dramatic waterfalls, and fewer trekkers. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures dropping to -10°C at high altitudes, but the landscape becomes a serene snowy paradise for those who don’t mind the cold and want to avoid crowds. Regardless of the season, dressing in layers and checking weather forecasts is key.
What does a typical day on the Annapurna Circuit Trek look like?
Each trekking day starts early with a warm breakfast served at the lodge around 7–8 am. After breakfast, you’ll begin trekking for about 3 to 4 hours, usually before the sun gets too strong. You’ll break for lunch at a tea house along the way, where you can rest, refuel, and enjoy mountain views. Post-lunch, the trek resumes for another 2 to 3 hours, depending on the day's itinerary. You’ll reach your destination by mid to late afternoon, allowing time to relax, wash up, and enjoy some downtime. Dinner is typically served around 6–7 pm, after which your guide will brief you on the next day’s plan. Evenings are often spent chatting with fellow trekkers, playing cards, or soaking in the local culture and atmosphere. This routine keeps the pace comfortable and helps your body gradually acclimate to higher elevations.
How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered moderately challenging and is suitable for trekkers with decent physical fitness and a positive attitude toward high-altitude trekking. The trek covers a wide range of terrain, from subtropical forests to alpine landscapes, and involves daily walking of 5–7 hours over steep trails, rocky paths, and occasional snow-covered sections. The most demanding part of the trek is crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m), which requires a slow and steady ascent due to the risk of altitude sickness. Acclimatization days are strategically placed to help your body adapt, and your guide will monitor your health. Although prior trekking experience is beneficial, it’s not mandatory; many first-timers complete the circuit successfully with proper preparation. Cardiovascular training, light strength workouts, and some hill or stair climbing before your trek can greatly enhance your endurance. Mental resilience is just as important as physical stamina, especially when facing altitude, cold mornings, and long days on foot.
What happens after the Annapurna Circuit Trek ends?
Once your trek concludes, we will organize a farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate your adventure and share stories with fellow trekkers and guides. During the dinner, we’ll present you with a trek completion certificate as a token of your achievement. It's a great opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed, thank your guides and porters, and enjoy a relaxing evening in a more urban setting. When it’s time to depart Nepal, we’ll arrange a comfortable private vehicle to transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport. Our team will ensure you arrive at the airport on time with all necessary support. While it may be goodbye for now, many trekkers choose to return for new adventures in Nepal, and we’ll be ready to welcome you back whenever that may be.
Can I book a private Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes, we offer completely private treks tailored to your group’s needs and preferences. Unlike group departures that combine individuals from different bookings, our private treks ensure you enjoy a more personalized and flexible experience. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, you’ll be assigned your own guide and porters, allowing for customized pacing and scheduling. For groups larger than 12 people, we also provide an assistant guide to ensure everyone receives proper attention and support throughout the journey. Private treks offer greater freedom in choosing side excursions, rest days, or accommodations. They also allow you to enjoy moments of solitude or group bonding without the constraints of mixed-group dynamics. If you have special dietary needs, specific sightseeing plans, or celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries, we can integrate these into your itinerary as well.
Is it safe to book the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Amazing Nepal Trek & Expedition?
Absolutely. Amazing Nepal Trek & Expedition is a registered and government-licensed trekking operator with years of experience organizing treks in Nepal’s Himalayas. To confirm your booking, we require only a 10% deposit, which can be made using secure and reliable methods such as credit card, bank transfer, Wise, or Western Union. The remaining balance can be paid upon arrival in Kathmandu, using cash or card. Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll need to send us your passport copy, travel insurance details, and flight information within a week to complete the pre-departure formalities. We ensure a secure, well-coordinated experience from your arrival to departure. All our guides are well-trained in first aid and emergency procedures and are supported by a responsive logistics team. Our commitment to your safety and satisfaction is reflected in our strong reputation and high return rate of previous clients.
Can I make a last-minute booking for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes, we do accept last-minute bookings for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, provided you are fully prepared to depart on short notice. In such cases, you will need to pay 100% of the trek cost at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure. We understand that travel plans can be spontaneous, and we are equipped to mobilize our team quickly. However, please be aware that last-minute arrangements may be affected by factors such as limited accommodation availability or unforeseen weather conditions, especially during peak trekking seasons. While we do our best to secure all necessary logistics even at short notice, we recommend early booking for a more relaxed and guaranteed experience. For last-minute inquiries, you can contact Paul directly at +977-9851116042 or email us at
[email protected] for immediate assistance. We will do everything we can to accommodate your adventure.
Can I change the trek dates if needed?
Yes, we offer a flexible schedule for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Although we have fixed group departure dates, we understand that plans can change due to personal reasons, visa delays, or flight cancellations. If you need to shift your trekking dates, we can usually adjust your itinerary without much hassle. Our team is committed to providing a personalized experience, and as long as you notify us in advance, we’ll make the necessary changes to your accommodation, transport, permits, and staff arrangements. Flexibility is one of our core values, so we’re happy to accommodate solo trekkers, private groups, or families seeking an alternative departure date. However, please note that changes made at the last minute may be subject to availability, especially during peak trekking seasons. Let us know your preferred dates, and we’ll do our best to make it happen.
Can I extend my trip after the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes, you absolutely can extend your trip after completing the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Many trekkers find themselves captivated by Nepal’s charm and wish to explore more of what the country has to offer. We can arrange a wide range of extensions based on your interests, including cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, a relaxing stay in Pokhara, jungle safaris in Chitwan National Park, or even another short trek like Poon Hill or Mardi Himal. These add-ons can be organized before or after your trek, with flexible scheduling to match your pace and preferences. Whether you're interested in adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery, our team will handle all logistics, ensuring your extension is just as smooth and enjoyable as your trek. It’s also a great way to unwind and reward yourself after the physical challenge of the trek.
Is the Annapurna Circuit Trek worth doing?
Absolutely! The Annapurna Circuit Trek is widely considered one of the best trekking routes in the world due to its remarkable diversity in landscapes, climate zones, and cultural experiences. You'll pass through lush subtropical forests, terraced farmlands, high alpine deserts, and remote Himalayan villages, all within one continuous journey. Along the way, you’ll encounter a mix of ethnic groups including Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali communities, each with their own unique culture, architecture, and traditions. The trek also includes iconic landmarks such as the sacred Muktinath Temple, the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki rivers, and the challenging yet rewarding Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. In addition to natural beauty, this trek offers opportunities for spiritual reflection and cultural immersion, making it more than just a hike—it’s a life-enriching adventure. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a passionate traveler, the Annapurna Circuit leaves a lasting impression.
What’s the difference between Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Treks?
While both treks take you into the heart of the Annapurna region, they offer very different experiences. The Annapurna Circuit is a longer, more diverse trek that circumnavigates the entire Annapurna Massif, crossing multiple ecological zones and the high Thorong La Pass. It typically takes around 14–18 days and includes visits to Manang, Muktinath, and the deepest gorge in the world—the Kali Gandaki Valley. The trek offers a blend of Tibetan-influenced culture, Buddhist monasteries, and dramatic shifts in scenery. In contrast, the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is shorter, usually completed in 7–10 days, and focuses on reaching the glacial amphitheater known as the Annapurna Sanctuary. ABC offers breathtaking close-up views of towering peaks like Annapurna I, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. It involves less altitude gain but steeper ascents. If you're short on time or want a less demanding trek, ABC is ideal. For those seeking variety, altitude, and challenge, the Annapurna Circuit is the better choice.
Who are the guides and porters on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Our guides and porters are the backbone of your trekking experience, and we take great pride in the professionalism, dedication, and warmth of our team. All of our guides are licensed by the Nepal government and have years of experience leading treks across the Himalayas. They are fluent in English, knowledgeable about local history and culture, and trained in first aid and high-altitude response. Many are from mountain communities themselves and offer unique insights into the local way of life. Our porters are equally crucial, carrying your gear and helping ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trek. We maintain a 1:2 porter-to-trekker ratio and limit porter loads to 18 kg shared between two trekkers. We treat all staff with respect, providing fair wages, insurance, proper equipment, and emergency support. When you trek with us, you become part of the Amazing Nepal Trek family—and our team is there to support you every step of the way.
What eco-friendly practices are followed during the trek?
At Amazing Nepal Trek, we are deeply committed to responsible tourism and minimizing our environmental footprint. We encourage trekkers to use refillable water bottles and avoid plastic waste, and we collaborate with lodges that practice sustainable waste management. Our guides educate trekkers on respecting local customs and protecting fragile ecosystems. We also support local economies by partnering with community-based accommodations and services, ensuring tourism benefits the people who live in these regions. Additionally, we follow Leave No Trace principles, urging trekkers to dispose of waste responsibly and leave natural areas as they found them. Our trekking groups are kept small to reduce environmental impact, and we regularly organize clean-up treks and eco-awareness campaigns. By choosing us, you're not just exploring the Himalayas—you're helping preserve them for future generations.
Is tipping expected on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes, tipping is customary and appreciated in Nepal, especially in the trekking industry where guides and porters work hard to ensure your comfort and safety. While it is not mandatory, it is a direct way to show your gratitude for their dedication, expertise, and effort. A general guideline is to collectively tip your guide and porter at the end of the trek, based on the quality of service and your level of satisfaction. Some trekkers prefer to tip individually, while others contribute to a group tip—both are acceptable. We recommend budgeting about 10–15% of your trek cost for tipping. Your guide can also help coordinate this process if you’re unsure. Remember, your tip goes a long way in supporting the livelihoods of local staff and encouraging a culture of respectful and ethical tourism in the region.
