Is altitude sickness a possibility in the Annapurna region?

When going above 3000 meters, altitude sickness, often known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a common danger. Due to the trek's elevation gain of above 5000 meters, there's a potential that you could get AMS. The main symptoms include headaches, dyspnea, fatigue, lightheadedness, and anorexia, though each individual experiences the condition differently.

How can I avoid getting altitude sickness when hiking?

Altitude sickness can be prevented by maintaining a balanced diet, obtaining adequate sleep, and drinking enough fluids. A good acclimatization process is also important in avoiding AMS. Keep alcohol out of your system when you're climbing. If the patient's condition deteriorates, they should be sent to a lower altitude immediately. In an emergency, the patient will be evacuated to safety and brought to a hospital in Pokhara or Kathmandu.

What happens in the event of a weather or health emergency?

Your trek guide will take care of your safety if the emergency is manageable at the location. You will be examined to find out if the situation requires immediate attention. A jeep will be dispatched to retrieve you if the place is reachable by road. If you are in a distant area, you can be transported to Pokhara or Kathmandu by air ambulance. After that, you'll be brought to a hospital. Working staff from Outfitter Nepal will be available around the clock during the expedition.

Does this expedition require travel insurance?

Absolutely! Travel insurance is a must. Typically, lost luggage, postponed or canceled flights, and medical costs associated with travel accidents are covered by travel insurance. Occasionally, when trekking in the high Himalayas, a natural calamity or an emergency medical situation may require the use of a rescue helicopter to transport you to safety. Travel insurance is often beneficial in these situations. Consequently, make sure the insurance you buy covers emergency helicopter flights.

Should I bring a first aid kit on the hike?

As there are no hospitals along the route, you must have a medical kit that includes common prescriptions, bandages, painkillers, diarrhea pills, cough syrup, and other basics for your own protection. Please consult with your doctor before beginning the hike as it can be dangerous for some individuals with underlying health conditions like asthma and heart disease.

What is the most difficult section on the Annapurna circuit?

One of the trickiest sections of this trekking route is the Thorang La Pass. You have to start the day early in the morning and reach the elevation of 5416 meters before noon. This kind of altitude could be problematic for you, particularly if the wind picks up. Aside from that, you will typically need to walk for more than six hours each day while trekking, something you may become used to as the weeks pass.

How can I get ready for the Classic Annapurna Circuit hike?

There's no one right way to prepare for a hike. If you are fit, both physically and emotionally, you can finish the walk. It is ideal to have prior experience trekking at high altitudes due to the hike's length and elevation. If not, you can schedule regular cardiovascular exercises to begin preparing. Try jogging, swimming, or hiking in your neighborhood. Also include strength endurance training in your workout routine.

Can a woman traveling alone complete the trek?

It is safe for women to travel alone in Nepal. When traveling alone, though, it is always good to exercise caution. On our journey along the Annapurna Circuit, we will pass through several traditional communities that are a little superstitious, so please dress modestly and be respectful of the inhabitants. During the hike, a guide will be with you to keep you safe. He'll be your protector and look out for you.

Can I purchase hiking equipment in Nepal?

The streets of Thamel are lined with stores that sell hiking gear. In Thamel, you can purchase anything from hiking boots to a rain jacket. When compared to the pricing in your country, the price is reasonable. They are appropriate for the Himalayan climate, but they won't be the best quality.

Should I bring any cash with me on the hike?

Our trek package includes lodging in a mountain lodge and three basic meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and supper) while on the trail. Additional costs for drinks, tea, coffee, snacks, etc. are your responsibility. It is best if you bring some cash with you, as the isolated lodges do not accept other payment methods.

Does the journey take me to Annapurna Base Camp?

No, this journey circumnavigates the Annapurna range in the opposite way from the one that leads to the Annapurna Base Camp. We can extend the trek for you if you would like to accomplish ABC in addition to this one. Simply contact us with your request.

Is it feasible to camp while on the hike?

For millions of hikers, the Annapurna Circuit is a popular destination for hiking and trekking, although due to erratic weather, camping is uncommon. If the weather suddenly changes, the camping trip may not proceed as planned. The tea houses along the trail are far safer than campgrounds.

Are there any ATMs along the route?

The Annapurna Circuit Trail does not have any ATMs. Make sure you withdraw enough cash before starting the journey because there are a few ATMs in Besi Sahar and plenty of them in Kathmandu.

How can I convert my foreign money into Nepalese rupees?

If you are going to be traveling from your home country with cash, you can exchange that cash for Nepalese rupees in Kathmandu. In Kathmandu, especially in Thamel, where our office is located, money changers are everywhere.

Is it possible to customize the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Of course! We are happy to make any changes to your itinerary and lodging if you reserve a private trip. However, because altering the group departure trips could be unfair to other participants, we are unable to do so.

Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek, 20 Days 2024

The Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek 20 Days is an exciting trekking excursion that covers several climate zones, striking topographical variations, and above all, distinctive cultures and populations, which makes the Annapurna Circuit the best long-distance trekking journey globally. Ideal for both experienced and novice hikers, this Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek provides an unforgettable experience. You may take in up-close views of the massive Himalayas, which rise to a height of over 7000 meters, as well as small, historically significant communities nestled at the foot of these massive peaks and a variety of harsh, verdant landscapes.

With views of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Annapurna (8,091 m), the seventh and tenth highest mountains in the world, respectively, this elegant journey leads you along some of the most breathtaking trekking trails in the world. The world's deepest gorge of the Kali Gandaki River makes the trek even more captivating. Landmarks like the Thorung La Pass, Muktinath Temple, Poon Hill, and the peaceful village settings of Manang, Jomsom, and Ghorepani add icing on the top.

The Classical Annapurna Circuit trekking route gradually grew in popularity since Manang welcomed its door to hikers in the 1980s. Now, it is one of the most popular trekking routes in, not only Nepal but the entire world. Wandering around the Annapurna range will offer you dreamlike views of the surrounding mountains, which is why, trekking lovers worldwide have a dream of completing the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek at least once in their lifetime.

Traveling through the Annapurna region is interesting because of its many climatic zones and scenery, which range from the lush green forests of the sub-tropical region to the arid stony regions of the alpine region. Every day of the hike offers something new to view. In addition to being a natural experience, trekking in the Annapurna Circuit also possesses great cultural exposure. You get a taste of the renowned culture and way of life of the ethnic people from Gurung, Manange, Thakali, and Magar communities, living in the little villages along the trail.

This expedition differs from the traditional 17 days Annapurna Circuit as you will use road transportation wherever feasible, which will cut down on the overall amount of hiking days. The development of roads to the isolated settlements along the circuit, which were undeveloped only a few years ago, has allowed for a shorter schedule of just 20 days. It's a shorter trip, but you won't miss anything significant. We take you from Kathmandu to Chamje on a bus, then trek through Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Thorong La, Muktinath, and Jomsom. From Jomsom, we take a jeep ride to Tatopani and again resume the hike to Shikha, Ghorepani, Poon Hill to Hile, where we catch a local jeep to Pokhara. We end the trip with a picturesque drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Our Outfitter Nepal professionals have put together everything you'll need to successfully finish your Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek in 20 days. We handle everything, including lodging, meals, and transportation, so you can hike stress-free. Moreover, your trip will be safe and enjoyable, thanks to our qualified trek guides and skilled potters.

Best Features of the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek

Trekking excursion at high-altitude central Himalayas with rugged terrain
Picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Chamje, Jomsom to Tatopani, and Pokhara to Kathmandu
Wandering through the lush green woods of Rhododendrons, oak, birch, and juniper
Surround yourself with 7000+ meters of mountain peaks
Getting to know the locals of Manang village while acclimatizing
Savoring the breathtaking view of Gangapurna Glacier from Manang
Reaching the challenging Thorung La Pass, the trek's highest point at 5416 meters
Visiting Muktinath Temple in Mustang, a sacred Hindu and Buddhist shrine
Relaxing your tired muscles at Tatopani Hot Spring
Enjoying the glorious sunrise view of the Annapurna range from Poonhill

“If you can only trek once in your lifetime, make it the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek.” Why do people say this?

As we said earlier, The Annapurna Circuit is considered the most beautiful trekking route in the world. There are various reasons for that! First and foremost, the trekking trail offers outstanding natural beauty featuring verdant forests, traditional Himalayan villages, terraced farmlands, vibrant flora and fauna, roaring waterfalls, enormous snow-covered mountains, and the list goes on. Secondly, the landscape of the Annapurna region is so diverse that you’ll get to witness something new each passing day during the trek.

Likewise, the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek is not only naturally beautiful but also culturally rich. The various ethnic groups living in the remote villages of the Annapurna region is the proof of that. Furthermore, it’s a difficult trek in the rough Himalayan terrain but also provides all basic amenities for fooding and lodging on the way making the trek comfortable. The 20 Day Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek is unique among other trekking routes due to its unrivaled natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diversity of landscapes within a condensed time frame. That’s why one must trek to Annapurna Circuit if they can only go on one trekking journey in their lifetime.

What is so unique about the landscape of the 20 Days Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Classic Annapurna Circuit differs from other trekking routes because of its constantly shifting climatic zone, vegetation, and weather patterns. The trekking adventure begins in a lush subtropical setting where, in the pleasantly warm weather, you cross numerous terraced farms and fields. Hikers see several Himalayan communities built in a conventional manner. Then, among chilly deciduous forests, you approach the Marsyangdi River Valley. You will find subtropical plants such as birch, oak, juniper, and rhododendron thickly forested in most of the woodlands you traverse.

After a few days, the Annapurna Range will come into view which has the highest mountain in the area, Annapurna I (8,091 m), and the tenth-highest peak in the world. Once you get over the tree line, you will see desolate ravines and parched slopes surrounded by snow-capped summits. The Manangis, or people of Manang, live in a sparsely populated location where there is sometimes a fierce wind in an area of the Himalayas that resembles a desert. The Khatung Kang and Yakawa Kang mountains meet at the mountain pass known as Thorong La (5416 m), which is the highest point of the Annapurna Trek.

Thorung La Pass offers views of the magnificent, desert-like Himalayan slopes, that are distinguished by their unusual purplish hue. The remainder of the journey is mostly a decline till Jomsom. Once again, you will leave the alpine setting and pass through a profusion of subtropical vegetation going uphill and downhill before reaching Pokhara's stunning Valley of Lakes.

How does the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek highlight the cultural significance of the region?

In addition to offering a breathtaking view of the highest mountain peaks in the world, the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek offers an enthralling glimpse into the customs, culture, and rituals of the region. Along the way, we will experience both natural and cultural splendor, such as up-close views of some of the tallest mountains on Earth and the exceptional hospitality, customs, and religion of the local people. The walk through the Annapurna Region is an enjoyable experience for mountaineers and many others who appreciate the grandeur of the landscape and the warmth of the culture.

You will witness authentic culture during the Annapurna Circuit hike while staying in guest houses run by locals and eating local delicacies in multiple villages along the way. This trip will allow you to observe the customs, values, and age-old practices of ethnic groups, which are primarily dominated by Gurung, Brahmins, Manangis, Thakalis, and Magars. The significant religious and cultural history of the area is exemplified by the numerous Buddhist stupas, gumba, and chortens that you'll visit. In addition, you'll pay a visit to Muktinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples.

Major Attractions of the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek

Magnificent views of the Annapurna range and other tall mountains

Since you will be encircling the entire Annapurna range, it is evident that you will witness its mountains from the start to finish of the trek. Numerous peaks can be found on this 55-kilometer-long massif, such as Tilicho Peak (7135 m), Nilgiri Himal (7061 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7455 m), Mt. Machhapuchhre/Fishtail (6993 m), the 10th highest peak, Mt. Annapurna I (8091 m), and others. Aside from these, you'll also be able to see other mountains including Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6986 m), and summits rising to heights of 7000 meters and higher. You will be encircled by mountains covered with snow all around you.

Gorgeous Himalayan scenery with a variety of vegetation

The 20 days Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek begins in a subtropical area with tumbling rivers and thick woods. The weather is nice as you go across endless paddies and terraced fields. After a few days, one may observe the alpine vegetation with its arid slopes and lonely ravines surrounded by mountains covered in snow. You will cross Thorung La Pass and enter the desert-like landscape with parched soil and no flora. You'll descend to the tropical forest once more before the adventure ends. All things considered, the hike becomes increasingly fascinating as each day goes by with continuous changes in the surrounding landscape.

Passing across challenging Thorung La Pass, a high mountain pass

Standing at 5416 meters, the formidable Thorang La Pass is situated between the peaks of Khatung Kang and Yakwa. The steep, upward approach to the top of the pass, along with the thin, high-altitude air that has limited oxygen, makes this section of the hiking adventure the most difficult. Your persistence and hard work will seem well worth it when you eventually reach the summit and enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding mountains. It's impossible to put into words the feeling of accomplishment you get from seeing the breathtaking vista from the top of the pass. You must witness it for yourself.

The charming village of Manang and its surroundings

At an elevation of 3519 meters, Manang is a stunning alpine town located to the north of the Annapurna Range. Manang is home to descendants of Tibetans who follow Buddhism and speak Manange, a Sino-Tibetan language spoken in Nepal's northern Himalayas. They are modest people who make their living from yak herding, tourism, and a small amount of agriculture. You will be spending a full day in Manang to acclimate, which is an excellent chance to take in the surroundings, engage in conversation with the locals, and discover their distinctive, long-standing customs and culture. The view of Gangapurna Lake and Glacier is plenty for those who enjoy the natural world.

Healing your sore muscles in Tatopani's hot spring

In Nepali, tapo pani translates to "hot water". Tatopani, named after a natural hot spring in the vicinity, is a highlight of this 20-day classic trek over the Annapurna Circuit. It's said that the spring water has a special ability to ease pain and promote recovery. Hot spring baths are said to have the power to purify the soul as well. So we suggest that you have a little soak in the hot spring before starting your uphill climb to Ghorepani. It will undoubtedly ease discomfort and help to relax your muscles, but we cannot promise soul purification.

Visiting the revered Muktinath Temple

Situated at the foot of Thorong La Pass, Muktinath Temple is a highly esteemed site for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimages. Bathing in the sacred taps within the Muktinath temple precincts is believed to wash away all sins and provide good fortune. The temple is also known as Mukti Kshetra (place of freedom). From all over India and Nepal, thousands of pilgrims come to this temple to bathe under the taps, believing the water will atone for their sins. While on your adventure tour across the Classic Annapurna Circuit, you have the unique opportunity to seek blessings for yourself at the Muktinath temple.

Meet modest locals from various ethnic backgrounds

The hike offers a stunning perspective of some of the highest mountain tops in the globe, as well as an insightful glimpse into the customs and cultural traditions of the region. You will have the opportunity to witness the primitive lifestyles of the Gurungs, Brahmins, Manangis, Thakalis, and Magars while on the hike. The hospitable inhabitants will assist you in learning the long-standing customs, beliefs, and traditions of the area. The various ancient temples, stupas, gumbas, and chortens that are still standing strong demonstrate the cultural richness of the region.

Beautiful sunrise view over the Annapurnas from Poonhill

The Ghorepani-Poonhill trekking route, which is a separate trek in itself, is also a part of the Annapurna Circuit. Poonhill is well-known for its breathtaking sunrise views of the Annapurna range and the neighboring mountain ranges. The Annapurna Range, Mt. Machhapuchre, and Mt. Dhaulagiri all seem to be glowing in golden rays during the spectacular Himalayan sunrise. The hike from Ghorepani to Poonhill is a short stroll uphill in the early morning and offers some magnificent views.