The Annapurna Circuit Trek
13th March 2024
The Annupurna Circuit is an amazing journey which leads you around the Annupurna range, crossing the biggest pass of the world, the Thorong La Pass (5414m)
How difficult is the Anna Purna Circuit trek?
First of all, it’s a very customizable trekking route, because there so many little villages where you can spend the night. How many days you want to trek is up to your own preference, because you can take a jeep to a higher village and after the Thorong La Pass you can easily take a bus or jeep down. You can also walk the entire circuit of course, it’s all up to you!
However you choose, you will enjoy beautiful scenery, amazing panoramas, meet incredibly friendly Nepalese people (and other travelers), enjoy delicious food, and wake up in the middle of the Himalaya’s.
Going over the Thorong La Pass is a wonderful way to experience really high altitude without having to climb a summit.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is not very difficult, but listen to your body and change your plans accordingly.
What do you need to start the circuit?
Depending on the season the temperatures can very a lot. If you go in March, Thorong La Pass can be as cold as -25 degrees Celcius, but later in the year there is hardly any snow on the pass.
This also has influence on the kind of clothing and other gear you have to take with you. Actually all the hotels have sufficient blankets, but just to be sure it might be a good idea to bring a good quality sleeping bag, which you can either rent (for a little price) or buy.
In Kathmandu and Pokhara you can buy everything you need for your trek, and the shop owners can advise you on what you need according to the season and altitude you are planning to reach.
So what you need depends on the season mostly.
Do you need a guide?
As of 2023 there is a law that states that all tourist to be with a guide while trekking in the Anna Purna Conservation Area. However, this law is not being enforced. Doing the Anna Purna Circuit with a guide will give you some significant benefits, such as:
- Hassle free overnight stays and dinner plans;
- Safety, the guide shows you the right way and gives you advice regarding the weather;
- Having a native speaker by your side;
- Looks out for altitude sickness signs, and makes sure you eat properly;
- Gives you additional information about the mountains and the flora and fauna.
Furthermore Nepal is an upcoming third-world country, and hiring a guide boosts the economy which is a sustainable way of tourism.
In summary
The Anna Purna Circuit is a very doable trek, exciting for skilled hikers and beginners. If you are unsure about your stamina, consider hiring a porter/Sherpa to carry your bag. They are amazing people and very skilled.
The Anna Purna Circuit is exciting, beautiful, challenging, customizable, and foremost one of the best ways to explore the Nepalese culture and nature. Don’t miss out on this when visiting Nepal!