The Annapurna Circuit voyage is an extremely popular trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region. The trekking enthusiasts might have researched the highlights however, there are unknown things to know before trekking the Annapurna Circuit.
Recognized as a high-altitude trekking destination in Nepal, it offers stunning mountain views and varied landscapes. Circuit Annapurna treks trailhead in the lowlands, where nature lovers can reveal the Marshyangdi River and Kali Gandaki River Valleys. Which also rich subtropical woods, farmlands, and ancient settlements. Generally, these attractions are the main reasons trekkers arrive in this region.
Having a height of 8091m, Annapurna Sanctuary is the 10th highest plateau in the world. Trekkers can marvel at breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna range as the trail soars through snow-covered meadows.
The adventurous quest will incentivize you with the endeavor to access the serene Tilicho Lake, the exquisite Hindu and Buddhist temple Muktinath, the outskirts, and the Annapurna region Himalayan panorama, which includes Mt. Annapurna of Nepal.
Two-thirds of trekkers evaluate The Everest Base Camp Trek vs. Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Compared to Everest Base Camp, the trek to Annapurna Base Camp is a smidge smoother because the exploration is around the lower elevation. A characteristic of the Annapurna Circuit is that it is done counterclockwise. Travel aficionados must peruse each of these well-known Nepal trekking spots discretely to truly grasp the differences.
Scroll the blog more to enlighten with more details on 12 Things to know before trekking the Annapurna Circuit.
What are the Things to Know Before Trekking the Annapurna Circuit?
A well-known excursion that offers a noteworthy expedition in the Himalayas is the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is critical to comprehend the following before starting this trek:
Choose the right season to trek the Annapurna Circuit:
The optimum timeframe to execute the Annapurna Circuit treks depends on your particular preferences and the kind of adventure you crave. Although the circuit trek to Annapurna trekking might be done year-round, however, to go Annapurna circuit trek best time is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
The finest season for enjoying the breathtaking mountain vistas and vibrant wildflowers is spring when the clear sky and pleasant temperatures prevail.
With sunny skies and comfortable temperatures, autumn is an excellent season to go hiking as well. The lower reaches of the trek’s route are covered with fall foliage, which beautifully contrasts with the Annapurna range’s snow-capped summits.
The walk may be fairly slick and wet during the summer season (June to August), but if you don’t mind the rain, it can also provide rich and verdant scenery. Although the winter months (December to February) can be rather chilly and have snow at higher elevations, they are ideal for people who want a more sedate and remote trekking experience.
Backpack essential things only:
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Annapurna circuit Trek Backpack
Overpacking is what a lot of backpackers do while trekking to higher elevations including trekking Annapurna.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a strenuous adventure in the Himalayan region, you should only carry what is utterly essential to retain your luggage lightweight and doable.
Annapurna Trek Circuit approximately needs 12-21 to conquer, which means you have to carry your luggage on your back for a couple of weeks by yourself. Things like a high-quality sleeping bag, thick clothing, medications, thermal underwear, a slipper, and a headlamp.
Bring no more than three sets of clothing: two for trekking and another for sleep. To allow for layering, one piece of hiking gear should be lighter than the other.
Bring toilet paper, a first aid kit, three to four sets of socks, and underwear that you can hand wash while hiking. Also, carry the phone to inform your loved one, the charger, and the power bank.
Be physically fit:
Both veteran trekkers and amateurs can complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek, but it is crucial to prepare mentally and physically before embarking. To improve physical fitness, one should do aerobic exercises stair climbing, running, swimming, and cycling.
Also, practice trekking with a loaded backpack. One should practice appropriate yoga positions and deep breathing exercises to manage breathing difficulties at high elevations.
It is not every trekker’s cup of tea to reach Thorong La Pass which is the widest pass in the world. Annapurna Circuit trek distance takes about 17 days to 22 days. So, trekkers need excellent fitness leveled bodies, encouraging minds, and personalities. A well-prepared mind and body are more beneficial than letting the dream pass on behalf journey.
If you want something quick and simple that requires scanty physical preparation then proceeding for Khopra Danda Trekking will be a great option. You will accomplish one of Nepal’s Annapurna trekking spots swiftly and with ickle exertion.
Don’t underestimate the altitude
Acclimatizing properly is important to avoid altitude sickness on the trek. The top thing to know before Trekking the Annapurna Circuit is altitude and it should not be underestimated.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of physical fitness, and can occur suddenly above 2500m. As the Annapurna Circuit Trek height is 5416m, there is a high chance of getting Altitude sickness.
To prevent it, trekkers should drink plenty of water, take it slow, pay attention to their bodies, and be aware of symptoms. Diamox can be taken to prevent it and if feeling unwell, it is important to return to a lower elevation and rest.
Mild symptoms like headaches or trouble sleeping are common at high altitudes, but ignoring them can be dangerous.
Be prepared for all weather conditions:
- Best Time to Annapurna Circuit
Annapurna Circuit is known for its unpredictable weather, so be prepared for rain, snow, and strong winds.
Weather is erratic while trekking to a higher altitude. No matter when you decide to go, it is imperative to be prepared for all eventualities. Even if some seasons of the year have weather that is considerably more conducive to trekking you should be prepared.
The weather is erratic high in the Himalayas, and storms, snow, or rain can occur at any time. Weather patterns have gotten even more unpredictable over the past few years as a result of climate change and global warming.
Be ready for snow or storms on the path even if you’re hiking in October. Make sure you bring enough warm clothing, waterproof boots, and sun protection accessories.
Purchase trekking permit ahead of time:
If you’re preparing to traverse the Annapurna Circuit, you must register for both a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) permit and an Annapurna conservation area entry permit.
It is mandatory to have a trekking permit for the Annapurna Circuit. There are no permit-purchasing places along the trail and without the permit, you might be fined or sent back. So purchasing a trekking permit ahead of time will be time-saving.
Strolling the Annapurna Circuit solo or with a guide:
Popular trekking routes in Nepal include the Annapurna Circuit, which has stunning mountain vistas and historical landmarks. You can trek independently or with a guide and porter while trekking the Annapurna Circuit.
Solo trekking offers liberty and excitement, but it also necessitates adequate navigational skills and safety responsibilities. Trekkers can customize the Annapurna circuit trek itinerary solo. Whereas, with higher cost and less independence, trekking with a guide offers safety and local expertise.
Depending on your expertise, interests, and comfort level, you can choose to hike alone or with a guide. A guide will assist and provide safety for novice trekkers as well as for experienced hikers who may want to travel alone.
If you traverse the Annapurna Circuit solo, still you will meet up with the bulk of trekkers throughout the trail. While trekking in Annapurna, make sure you have an adequate map, supplies, and equipment.
Don’t miss to side hike to Tilicho Lake:
- Tilicho Lake Trek With Annapurna Circuit
Annapurna Circuit trek offers many side hikes with breathtaking scenery along the way. Among the number of stunning side treks, some of which are day treks and others are overnight treks.
Likewise, Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the things to know before trekking the Annapurna Circuit. A nice side excursion that helps acclimatize before crossing Thorong La Pass is to reach the Tilicho Lake, which is proudly referred to as “the highest elevation lake in the world.”
You can combine an exquisite overnight side trip to Tilicho Lake on your itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit. Some Annapurna Circuit trekkers miss the opportunity to explore this stunning Lake because of unmanaged itineraries. So, Lake Tilicho is the must-visit side trek while going circuit trek to Annapurna.
However, the Annapurna Circuit costs USD 1240 per person and if you add up the side trip which is out of the itinerary then the price will differ.
Respect the environment and culture:
Enrolling in an Annapurna Circuit Trek can be a remarkable thing, it’s imperative to appreciate the surrounding area and the residents. Annapurna is not only about high-altitude exploration.
It is about learning the culture and traditions of the local Nepalese people around the Annapurna region.
Annapurna region is a fragile ecosystem, you should be mindful of your actions and adhere to the Leave No Trace principles. Here are a few things you may do while on your walk to contribute to the preservation of the area. like Packing your trash, using eco-friendly products, respecting local culture, being mindful of wildlife, and many more.
Carry enough cash:
There are no ATMs on the Annapurna Trail after Besisahar until you reach the Thorong La Pass and arrive in Jomsom. You must be ready and have all the necessary funds with you on the trip.
In addition, the available ATM might not work properly. The trek passes through several teahouses and lodges that offer meals and basic accommodation. However, the price gets hiked as you stroll the higher elevation.
As you might know, the price of food and beverages increases as you reach a higher elevation than at a lower elevation. Cash is the only way to pay at the teahouse because card payments are not accepted.
Therefore, before proceeding Annapurna Circuit trek we recommend every trekker have enough cash with them. Wear zip-up clothes to keep your money safe from pickpockets.
Don’t miss the sunrise view at Poonhill:
The stroll to Poon Hill from Ghorepani is another side excursion along the Annapurna Circuit. To witness the majestic view of the early sun rays over the Himalayan panorama then trek up to the Ghorepaani Poonhill. You should get up before 5 a.m. for this side trip, which lasts perhaps an hour.
Many trekkers who complete the Annapurna Circuit spend their final night in Ghorepani. The Ghorepani Poonhill has a sizable hamlet with a variety of amenities like gifts and bookstores. Reaching up to Poon Hill for a sunrise vista of the Himalayas there is an incredible way to complete the Annapurna Circuit trekking.
Buy a paper map or download the offline map of the Annapurna Circuit Trek:
To navigate the Annapurna trail buy a paper map or download the offline map if you are trekking solo. You can buy the paper map from the Thamel map house in Kathmandu and Pokhara also. A paper Annapurna Circuit trek map is a fantastic tool to determine how far you ought to hike, how long it should take, and roughly where the trail will lead you.
In addition, you can download the app Mapsdotme. In this offline app, you will see an outline of the Annapurna Circuit trek route. During the hike, the GPS on your phone can assist you in navigating.
Furthermore, it is easy to access the Annapurna Trail map. Though there is low internet service you can detect the Annapurna circuit elevation and Annapurna circuit length through the online or offline map app.
Windup for Things to Know Before Trekking the Annapurna Circuit:
By browsing this blog, you might have obtained better knowledge about the things to know before trekking the Annapurna Circuit. Every traveler to the Nepal Annapurna will encounter an absolute blast if they possess an awareness of these listed things.
If you are willing to explore the Annapurna Circuit soon you can book your trip with the trusted trekking Annapurna Circuit trek companies like Mission Himalaya Treks and Expedition. In addition, you can also tailor your own Annapurna circuit trek itinerary as per your vacation and plan.
Birendra Duwadi by profession a trekking and tourist guide and an enterpreur whose passion is trekking in the himalayas. Started Mission Himalaya Treks in 2015 with a new vision to introduce Nepal's Himlayas to the world. His vision is to explore and documentation new trekking routes . Birendra leads Mission Himalaya, a company that change the qualities of trekking in Nepal.