One of the main reasons Nepal is a sought-after destination for many is the numerous trekking paradises it provides. If adventure is your thing and you wish to soak yourself amidst nature’s mesmerizing beauty, then hiking and trekking in the mountainous terrain of certain parts of Nepal would be pretty high on your bucket list. The Annapurna Mountains in Nepal are one of the preferred destinations. Be it the Annapurna Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, the Annapurna area is a trekker’s delight. However, trekking the Annapurna Mountains and the surrounding areas isn’t a cakewalk. It comes with its set of challenges. In this article, we will discuss trekking in the Annapurna Mountains, travel plans, and a lot more. So let’s get started.
Annapurna – Let’s Know About the Name in Depth
The Annapurna Massif derives its name from Annapurna – the food and nourishment goddess. Now, that was about the ancient lore. Coming to the mountain, let’s know some interesting facts. The Annapurna Massif is a huge thing. One of its peaks has an elevation of more than 8000m. 8091 m, to be specific. This is the highest peak and is named Annapurna I. The Massif has many other peaks, of which 13 exceed 7000 m in height, and 16 exceed 6000 m in height. The Massif is pretty long – 55 km on average. It meets the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge, separating the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
Annapurna Circuit vs Annapurna Basecamp – Which One should you opt for?
When trekking to the Annapurna Mountains, most people choose the Annapurna circuit, the most traveled route. Some may opt for the lesser-traveled Annapurna Basecamp.
You are wondering which to choose. Right? If you have a lot of time and don’t mind spending 15-20 days on average, the Annapurna Circuit will be ideal. When you visit the Annapurna Circuit, you see the diverse landscapes and natural beauty from close quarters. If you aren’t in good health or don’t have too much trekking experience
However, if you have limited time, the Annapurna Base Camp is better as it takes 9-12 days. If you are a novice in trekking, then the Annapurna Base Camp is perfect.
| Number of Days | 15-21 days |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate to Challenging |
| Highest altitude | 5416 m (17769 ft) |
| The best time to visit | March-May; September – December |
A Vivid Account of the Annapurna Circuit – A Detailed Insight into the Itinerary
The Annapurna Circuit is a long-distance route around the Annapurna Mountains. Depending on the route you select, the trip can take between 12 and 22 days. On average, it covers 160 to 230 km. The Annapurna Circuit Lake offers several detours. For instance, you may ascent Poon Hill or visit the Tilicho Lake.
You could even go up to the Annapurna Sanctuary and again join the Annapurna Circuit for added adventure. However, that will increase the number of days to your journey. The biggest takeaway from the Annapurna Circuit trek is that you get a vivid glimpse of each mountain – Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, etc. You’ll even have the pleasure of getting breathtaking views of the Machhapuchhre and Dhaulagiri mountains.
You see visually pleasing views like lowland villages, subtropical forests, paddy fields, and much more as you tread. Local tea houses are on the way to rest and spend the night. You’ll mostly find twin-sharing rooms in the tea houses with ample space and a fireplace. You get to interact with fellow trekkers at the tea houses.
The route map for the Annapurna Circuit varies from one person to the other, depending on the path you take. The trek begins at Besisahar and ends at Pokhara. You must trek in an anti-clockwise direction. So, the daily altitude gain is slow.
- The first step is to drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar. There are several options for commutation. You may take the tourist buses departing from Thamel. The journey takes 8-9 hours on average. A car rental from Kathmandu is another option to reach Besisahar. It will take five hours on average.
- Your next agenda item is to trek to Bhulbule from Besisahar. It’s a 1.5-hour walk, covering an average distance of 9 km. The trek involves the Besisahar bazaar, which takes you downstream and then to the rocky mountains you must climb. You will encounter rice paddies and sub-tropical forests as you pass the trail.
- Upon reaching Bhulbule, you can stop for the night and head towards Jagat. It’s a 7.5-hour walk, and you have to cover places. Throughout the trip, there are several stops. You may pause to fill your water bottles. You may also stop in between for lunch. Many prefer to stop at Chermu for lunch. Upon reaching Jagat, you may stay at the Paradise Hotel.
- Your next stop is Dharapani. The journey from Jagat to Dharapani is quite long, taking approximately 7-8 hours. The panoramic view of the surroundings will leave you enthralled. You’ll pass through lush forests, quaint villages, terraced fields, and much more. On your way to Dharapani, you must cross Chyamche and Tal. The area from Chyamche to Tai has some astonishing waterfalls to watch out for.
- The following destination is from Dharapani to Chame, which takes around 5-6 hours as you cover a distance of 15.7 km or 9.7 miles. To get to Chame, you must cross villages like Danakyu, Bagarchhap, Timang, Koto, and Thanchok.
- Chame to Pisang is 13.7 km or 8.5 miles. As you trek, you will witness diverse flora and fauna that will mesmerize you to the fullest. The rugged topography of the Manang Valley is a beautiful sight to behold.
- Lower Pisang to Manang is 9.7 miles or 15.7 km, and the trek takes 5-6 hours on average. It is moderately difficult, and some parts have steep climbs. To endure the climb, you should stay hydrated and drink abundant water.
- The next day is reserved for acclimatizing at Manang and exploring the valley. Taking a day or two for acclimatization will enhance your physical fitness, helping you conveniently carry on with your trek.
- Your next destination is from Manang to Yak Kharka. This isn’t a long trek and takes about 4 hours to complete. The section from Manang to Ghunsang is considered challenging, with an elevation gain of 400m.
- From Yak Kharka, your following destination is the Thorung Phedi Base Camp. It will take an average of 4-5 hours to walk.
- Upon reaching Thorong Phedi, your next stop is Muktinath. To reach it, you have to go to the Thorong-La Pass. The journey is 15 km and will take approximately 8.5 hours.
- The next trek you will take is from Muktinath to Kagbeni. The 13 km-long hike will take approximately 2.5 hours to complete. Take it slowly, and do not rush.
- From Kagbeni, your next stop is Marpha, followed by Larjung. After reaching Larjung, you trek to Ghasa, Tatopani, Ghorepani, Tikhedhunga, and Nayapul. From Nayapul, you drive to Pokhara, marking the end of your trek. The fastest way to reach Pokhara is by taxi, which takes around one hour and costs between $35 and $45. From Pokhara, you go to Kathmandu and then to your destination.
List of Alternative Trekking Routes in the Annapurna Mountains
- ABC Trek
The ABC, or Annapurna Base Camp Trek, is another alternative to the Annapurna Circuit. If you don’t have much time but wish for a mesmerizing adventure, then the ABC Trek would be perfect. Moreover, when you don’t have much trekking experience, the ABC trek is a better option. The lush forests, unique villages, and panoramic views are a delight to watch as you trek along.
- Mardi Himal Base Camp
This one is the easiest of all treks, taking you through picturesque landscapes. The green hills, oak forests, magnificent rhododendrons, and snowcapped mountains will take your breath away. You will even get fabulous glimpses of sunrise and sunset from the Mardi Himal Base Camp. If you plan a short, memorable trek, this one will be apt for you.
- Poon Hill
If you wish for a short and wholesome trekking experience, the Poon Hill is another option to choose from. This trek allows you to get diverse views of the Annapurna Mountains. Moreover, you needn’t be a skilled trekker to climb the Poon Hill. As you trek along, you’ll see the scenic beauty of the areas surrounding the Ghandruk village. You can even see the magnificent sunrise views from the adjacent Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains.
- Lake Tilicho
The Tilicho Lake trek is moderately difficult. The trail possesses many steep ascents and descents, making it difficult to pass. During the wet and winter seasons, the surface becomes slippery. Lake Tilicho is one of the world’s highest lakes at 5416m. The chief attractions are the diverse landscapes, lush forests, alpine terrain, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks.
- Nar Phu Valley
This is another challenging trek, but the scenic beauty you see after all your hard work makes it a rewarding experience. This trekking route takes you through the exotic Na and Phu villages. Some sights bound to leave you spellbound as you pass include the Tibetan villages, glaciers, yak pastures, narrow canyons, high passes, rock formations, and snow-capped peaks. This is an off-beat trekking destination because of its difficulty level. The perfect time to trek the Nar Phu Valley is March-May and September-November.
Some Tips to Follow While Trekking in the Annapurna Mountains
- You must always plan your visit at the right time of the year when there are ideal weather conditions. Checking the weather forecast beforehand is important, lest you may encounter hurdles on your way. The perfect time for trekking the Annapurna Circuit is October-November and April-May. You will be welcomed by dry and clear weather. It isn’t very cold as well as you trek to higher altitudes.
- Refrain from overloading your luggage. Carry only what you need to survive the trek, nothing more than that. The porters will carry luggage at most 10 kg (22 pounds). You are responsible for carrying extra baggage, so keep it light.
Read Also: Everest Base Camp Trek
- Never underestimate the heights of these mighty mountains. Irrespective of your physical fitness, you may still experience altitude sickness when you cross an altitude of 2500m. Consult your doctor about the medication to take when you experience discomfort at higher altitudes. You should never rush. Go slow and acclimatize well. Allow your body to rest in between strenuous hikes. Follow your guide’s instructions. If you’ve touched 5000m, that means a really high altitude; you might experience mild symptoms. Be cautious.
- Some times of the year are more ideal for trekking due to cool and pleasant weather, yet you can expect abrupt changes in the weather conditions at any point. You may suddenly experience rain, storms, or snow without warning. You should be prepared for the same and be well-equipped with proper clothing and accessories.
- Carry sufficient cash with you because, after Besisahar, you won’t find any cash machines once you’ve reached Jomsom. The teahouses are reasonable in the lowlands, but when you’ve reached a high altitude, the road disappears, and the tea houses become expensive. So be careful.
- Sometimes, severe altitude sickness is life-threatening. If you or your fellow trekker experience severe shortness of breath or intense headache, you should immediately descend 2000 feet, no matter what time of day it is.
- One of the most challenging parts of the Annapurna circuit trek is the Thorong La Pass. Carry sufficient warm clothes and acclimatize properly to prepare your body for the journey. When you’ve taken the proper precautions, the Thorong La Pass hike will be one of the most fulfilling experiences.
Conclusion
Trekking the Annapurna Circuit is an amazing experience when you follow the proper rules and regulations. For a better trekking experience, make sure to take a guide. Also, be well-equipped and carry everything you need for a comfortable trekking adventure.
FAQs – Trekking in the Annapurna Mountains
The average elevation of the Annapurna trek is not more than 3000 m or 10,000 feet. The most challenging part of the terrain is the several staircases that one has to climb. However, if trekkers train and prepare themselves well, achieving the trek isn’t a mammoth task.
The Annapurna Circuit, which circles the Annapurna Mountains, takes an average of 12-22 days and covers an area of 160-230 km.
The Annapurna trek is apt for newcomers and beginners, provided they prepare themselves well for the same.
Yes, there have been records of deaths in the Annapurna Mountains over the years. The Himalayan Database presents statistics that mention that the Annapurna Mountains have 476 summits, and there has been a record of 73 deaths. The relative risk of 8000 m peaks is deduced by no. of summits/ no. of fatalities. The results show that the Annapurna Mountains are no longer categorized as one of the most dangerous mountains above 8000 m.
The best time to trek the Annapurna Mountains is during the pre-monsoon seasons: February – March and April—May.
On average, the Annapurna Mountains trek is $895-$995 for around 18 days. If you plan your trek for 15 days, the cost is $795 – $895.
Both treks are challenging. However, the Everest Base Camp demands a lot of physical exertion due to harsh weather conditions and increased altitudes.
Climbing the Annapurna Mountains requires no technical skills or advanced flexibility. All that is needed is a good fitness level so you don’t tire soon.
There are tea houses on the way for you to stay. However, the bedrooms aren’t that warm. So, a sleeping bag will give you the required warmth, making you feel comfortable. To make your trekking experience successful, getting proper sleep at night is of immense importance. When you have a fleece liner in your sleeping bag, it gives you additional warmth.
One of the most challenging aspects of the Annapurna trek is the altitude, which makes the trek appear difficult. Your body functions hard to cope with the lessened oxygen supply, so you walk at a reduced pace. If you climb flat terrain, your speed will slow as you reach high altitudes.
Australian climber Allie Pepper achieved the remarkable feat of reaching the Annapurna I summit sans supplemental oxygen. Her guides, Nima Sherpa and Mikel Sherpa, accompanied her. Another name on the list is Peru’s Flor Cuenca, who summited Annapurna without any guide.
Some people consider the Annapurna Mountains as one of the world’s deadliest mountains, with a 40% fatality rate. When it comes to climbing, Annapurna is deadlier than K2.
Yes, several women have made successful expeditions to the Annapurna Mountains. Arlene Blum led an expedition that included 13 women and 6 sherpas. There have been other women as well. For example, Allie Pepper and Flor Cuenca of Australia and Peru climbed Annapurna without supplemental oxygen.
Many trekking routes in Nepal, mainly the Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit, require a TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card. Moreover, you’ll also need a permit to trek from the Annapurna Circuit to Tilicho Lake.
The cost depends on the length of your trek and the services you opt for. The longer you trek, the greater the expenditure. On average, the Annapurna Circuit trek costs $800-$1500. The cost includes porters, trek guides, ground transportation, meals, accommodation, permits, etc.