Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek has moderate difficulty. Good fitness allows you to enjoy the trek more. We advise training the body at least 12 weeks before the trek so your body is in the ideal condition.

• Cardio Training: Jogging, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking improves stamina. Do these aerobic exercises for about 30 to 60 minutes, about 3-4 times a week. Mix high and low intensity training to improve your endurance.
• Hiking Practice: Hiking makes your body used to consecutive trekking days. Going up hills during weekends. Try to walk about 5 to 6 hours each hike. You can also practice hikes with your full trekking gear to get used to the daypack weight. It also helps check the condition of your gears. If hiking is not possible, climb stairs.
• Strength and Flexibility: Legs and core strength help with balance on uneven terrain. Do exercises like squats, planks, lunges, sit-ups, etc. DO yoga and stretch regularly to avoid muscle injury.
• Pack Training: Begin exercising with your loaded backpack of around 5 to 7 kg. It helps you get used to walking with a weight and adjust your shoulder and back.
• Acclimatization Mindset: There is no definitive answer on who will get altitude sickness. It can happen to even the fittest of people. Practice controlling your breath and walking at a comfortable pace. It is better to pace yourself instead of pushing your body.

Note: Consistency in training is more important than intensity. Doing regular exercise helps more than intense workouts right before the trek. Consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing conditions. Stop your exercises a week before the trek in case of injuries or torn muscles.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can affect anyone. It is essential to be aware of it, especially when nearing the Thorong La pass.

• Common Symptoms: Headache, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, dizziness, or fatigue are common. Inform your guide immediately if you recognize any symptoms.
• Prevention: There is no one answer to preventing altitude sickness. Staying hydrated and climbing at a steady pace helps. We have a limit on daily altitude gain and acclimatization days in Manang. These steps allow the body to adjust to the changing altitude. Please don’t drink alcohol or smoke, as they dehydrate the body. Eat meals with high calories for energy. Consult your doctor before the trek to see what medication you can use. Most trekkers take Diamox.
• During Trek: Your guide will check blood oxygen in high camps daily. They can recognize symptoms of AMS and will make the appropriate decision. If someone has severe AMS, they may descend immediately, or a helicopter will rescue them. The guide will decide on the group’s activity based on the group’s health. Listen to their advice and follow it.

Many trekkers finish the trek every year without many complications. You should pace yourself and take preventive measures to avoid AMS. We will brief you on altitude sickness before the trek so you can prepare yourself better.

This section covers information regarding the Nepal tourist visa:

• Visa on Arrival: Most nationals can easily get a Nepal tourist visa on arrival. You need a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity and a few blank pages left. For visa fees, Nepal accepts major currencies like USD, EUR, or NPR. You need to pay $30 for 15, $50 for 30, or $125 for 90 days. These fees may change, so check the Nepal government website in advance. Buy a 30-day visa for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
• Procedure: Fill out the visa form and arrival card at the airport, pay the fee, and get the visa sticker. Don’t lose the receipt until your departure.
• Visa in Advance: Before the trek, you can get a Nepal Visa from the Nepal Embassy in your home country. You can get the visa from the Department of Immigration’s website.
• Documents: Bring some passport-sized photos for a visa on arrival. You need more of your permits. Carry a print of the travel itinerary and flight details that we provide before the trek.
• Visa Extension: You can extend your visa from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara for a fee.

• Exchange Rates: 1 USD is roughly NPR 130, and 1 EUR is NPR 140. It fluctuates regularly, so check the exchange rate before the trek in Kathmandu. We recommend reliable banks and authorized money exchange centers. No ATMs are in the trail, and lodges don’t accept credit cards, so carry enough Nepal cash in small bills to buy anything.
• Cash vs Card: Pokhara and Kathmandu accept cards with a 3-4% charge. However, the trekking trail doesn’t receive any cards. You need cash for all economic transactions. Carry enough Nepali cash for the trek.
• Trekking Expenses: The package includes your lodge and three meals daily. If you want to buy any personal extras, you need cash. You also need money to tip your guide and porter. Charging electronics, hot showers, WIFI, etc, all cost extra. Prices increase as the altitude increases, as transportation is not easy at higher altitudes.
• Tips: Although not mandatory, tipping is like an unwritten trekking rule. Your guide and porter work hard to make your trek better. It is common to tip about 10% of your total trek cost. The crew shares the money after your departure.
• Bargaining: While bargaining is common in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you should avoid bargaining on the trail. They have fixed prices listed in the menu. These fees help support local businesses and families. Pay the marked price.

Carry your cash securely. You can buy a money belt or keep your money in a zippered inner pocket. While Nepal is a safe country, petty theft can happen anywhere. Don’t flash your cash in public, and keep your money safe.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers both natural and cultural beauty. It is home to Hindu and Buddhist cultures and has many cultural heritages. It is essential to respect the culture and traditions of the place you are visiting.

• Greetings: In Nepali, you can join your two hands in a prayer pose and say “Namaste” with a slight bow to greet people. Locals, especially children, love it when trekkers do this.
• Dress Modestly: Wearing shorts and tank tops while trekking is okay, but cover yourself in villages. If you are visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and legs. Remove your shoes and hats before entering these cultural heritages. Respect the locals’ wishes regarding their culture.
• Photography: Don’t click pictures without consent. Ask before taking photographs and respect their decision.
• Monasteries/Temples: Walk clockwise in stupas and monasteries. At temples, respect the people and their beliefs.
• Eating Etiquette: Wash your hands before and after the meal. Eat with your right hand and avoid leaving food. Don’t touch shared meals with your used utensils.
• Trail: You may encounter animals en route; give way to them. Stand on the hillside, as they can push you off the cliff. Don’t pat people on the head, as the head is considered sacred in Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. Say simple phrases like “Dhanyabad” to say thank you.

Respecting the Environment: Most people worship and appreciate nature as it is their home. Don’t litter the environment. Avoid single-use plastics and carry your Easter with you to throw it in a waste collection center. Don’t pick flowers and respect the wildlife.

Your safety is our priority. Trekking is fun and thrilling, but it also has many risks. Our experienced team will do its best to let you enjoy the trek stress-free.

• Stay with the group: Don’t hike alone or wander off. Let someone know if you must slow down, stop, or go ahead of the team. We have a lead and assistant guides if the group needs to separate for a while. You are unfamiliar with the area and can get lost easily, so stick to the group.
• Trail Awareness: There is no singular route for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, but safer trails certainly exist. Trust your guide to follow the safest and most efficient route. Don’t take shortcuts and cross bridges carefully. Stand on the hillside when giving way to yaks or mules.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Hiking for many days is challenging, and altitude gain makes it even harder. Sip water and snack on small bites regularly for energy boosts. Eat your meals even if you don’t feel like it.
• Weather Caution: Mountain weather is unpredictable. Mornings can be clear with rainfall in the afternoon. It is essential to layer it in any weather. Keep your waterproof jacket, warm layer, and a hat in your daypack for quick access. In case of storms, your guide may delay or reroute the trek for safety.
• Illness or Injury: Let your guide know if you feel discomfort or recognize any symptoms of AMS. They have training in mountain altitude sickness and carry a first aid box. In case of emergencies, they will arrange a helicopter rescue.
• Nighttime Safety: The trail is relatively safe, but you can never be too sure about safety. Use a headlamp to go outside after dark. Keep your valuables like cash and passport safe with you. Temperature drops during nighttime, so stay warm and set your sleeping gear properly.
• Communication: Your guide will be carrying a cell phone and walkie-talkies. Mobile signal is improving along the trails of the Annapurna Circuit. Theta is in regular contact with our Kathmandu office and will message or call for help in emergencies. You can also buy an Ncell or NTC SIM card for personal use, though cell coverage can be rare in high mountain areas.

Travel Insurance is a requirement for all our trekking guests. Even minor incidents can be hazardous in high mountain areas. Travel insurance helps cover the costs of these injuries. Helicopter rescue can drain your pocket without insurance.

• High-Altitude Coverage: Standard insurance often doesn’t include high-altitude trekking. Choose a policy that covers trekking up to 5,500m. Thorong La, at 5,416m, is the trek’s highest point. Sometimes, you also need to buy an adventure or specialist trekking policy. You need to share the policy details with us before the trek, so we know what phone calls to make in an emergency.
• Emergency Evacuation: If you get severe altitude sickness or in case of extreme injury, we will conduct a helicopter rescue. It can cost thousands of dollars without insurance, so choose the policy that includes a helicopter evacuation. Local hospitals and operators can cover these costs on your behalf.
• Medical Treatment: You must pay your medical fees upfront, as most of Nepal’s medical facilities for foreign nationals are private. Make sure your travel insurance also covers the medical expenses.
• Trip Cancellation and Interpretation: Choose a travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, as they can be expensive. It will protect you if you must cancel the trek or fly home early due to an emergency. Some packages even offer support in rescheduling or reimbursing unused services.
• Theft and Loss: Insurance covering lost baggage, documents, or theft is better. Most valuable items have a coverage limit, so leaving expensive gear and jewelry at home is better.
• Insurance Documents: Don’t forget to bring a copy of your policy and the contact number of your insurer. We will keep a copy and help coordinate directly in your name if emergencies occur.

IMPORTANT: Make sure to double-check your insurance policy. It should cover high-altitude trekking, helicopter rescue, and medical expenses. Some insurers expect you to pay upfront and then claim later. Don’t choose these policies as they are not ideal for emergencies. Most Nepal trekkers use companies like World Nomads, Global Rescue, or the Alpine Club (UK). Choose the policy best suited for you and your country.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is the ideal season for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Autumn falls right after monsoon with clear skies and lush forests. October is especially popular for its incredible views and stable weather. Nights are still cold in higher altitudes, but manageable with the right gear.

• Pros: Clear sky with great mountain views and comfortable weather. Major Nepali festivals like Dashain/Tihar are fully open trails with operating lodges.
• Cons: Crowded trails with many trekkers. Book early for good lodges.

Spring (March to May): Spring is another popular season with warmer weather and blooming buds. The forest is colorful with flowers, and the views are generally good. There might be some snow in Thorong La with haze developing in late spring, but the temperature is comfortable.

• Pros: Lush forests with blooming flowers, with warmer temperatures. More extended daylight and slightly fewer crowds than in autumn.
• Cons: Haze in late spring and occasional showers

Winter (December to February): Winter is off-trekking season. It brings freezing temperatures with snowstorms. Early December 9os still pleasant with clear skies, but January and February are below freezing with snow blocking trails to the Thorong La Pass. Many teahouses close down for the season due to extreme cold.

• Pros: Empty and peaceful trails with clear skies
• Cons: Temperature below -20°C at night with high risk of snowfall and blocked trails. Most lodges close down at higher altitudes.

Monsoon/Summer (June to August): Monsoons bring heavy rainfall. It is also the least recommended season. Heavy rain, slippery trails, leeches, and landslides are common, especially on the lower trail. Manang and the region beyond it are dry as they lie in the rain shadow. Some trekkers reroute to avoid the slippery trail.

• Pros: Lush and green forests at a higher altitude with almost no trekkers making the trail peaceful.
• Cons: Hot, humid, muddy, and leech-prone trials. Frequent rain and clouds disrupt the views.

Shoulder Season (Early December and late February):    Early December has clear skies, stable weather, fewer crowds, and increasing cold. Late February has spring-like conditions with risks of snowstorms.

• Pros: Few crowds on the trail with mixed but favorable weather
• Cons: Unpredictable conditions like snow, storms, or clear days with cold nights.

Our Recommendation: Try to trek during October or April for stable weather and excellent conditions with a fully open trail. Trek with proper gear and preparations if you want to trek during the off-season.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is moderately challenging. Most people can finish it with proper gear and preparation. The trek is challenging due to its duration, elevation, and different terrains. It doesn’t include any technical climbing.

• Walking Hours and Terrain: You will walk about 5 to 7 hours daily, covering 10-15 km. The consecutive walking days will be hard on the body. The trail includes dirt paths, stone steps, and rocky stretches without technical climbing. Some sections with steep climbs or descents may be difficult for the knees, especially with the growing altitude. Crossing the Thorong La Pass is the longest day, with 8-9 hours of trekking through rugged terrain.
• Altitude Factor: The trek’s highest point is 5,416m in Thorong La Pass. This high altitude has little oxygen, and even easy terrain feels exhausting. Our route does include a gradual ascent with an acclimatization day, helping your body adjust. Shortness of breath, light headache, or trouble sleeping are common altitude effects. These are normal with no significant danger.
• Duration and Fatigue: The trek includes 10 days of consecutive walking, resulting in fatigue. Pace yourself, stay hydrated, and rest well to manage it. The itinerary progresses gradually with easier days in the beginning, and rest days. Good fitness and mental preparation make the trek easier.
• Weather and Conditions: Mornings are cold near high camps, and nights can be freezing. Trails can be muddy or icy due to rain and snow. Pack proper gear and hike with caution for safety. We check the weather every day and make adjustments accordingly.
• Comparative Difficulty: Compared to other Himalayan treks, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is equally challenging due to altitude, like the Everest Base Camp Hike. However, the trek is much easier due to road access at a lower elevation in recent years. It shortens the trekking time and adds the scenic Poon Hill hike. It is the perfect option for beginner trekkers.
• Support from Our Team: We hire a porter and a guide for your trek. Your porter will help you with your load and carry most of it so you can easily trek. The guide sets the pace and reroutes when needed. Both are an essential part of the trek. With these support systems, anyone can finish the Annapurna Circuit Trek successfully.

Guides and Porters are the intricate members here at Peregrine Treks and Tours.  They make the Annapurna Circuit Trek safer and unforgettable.

Guides: Our guides are professionals with a license from the Nepal Tourism Board. They are trained in mountain altitude sickness and are familiar with each trail of the trek. They are fluent in English and Nepali, with some also knowing German, Hindi, or French. They act as a bridge between you and the local community as well. They check your health and proceed in the group’s best interest. They will brief you on the trail conditions, route, terrain, and what to expect for the day.

Porter: We hire a porter for every two trekkers. They carry your weight for the trek, about 20-30 kg, allowing you to walk with your daypack. We follow ethical and responsible working practices to ensure no mistreatment of our porters. They might walk ahead to deliver your bags to the next teahouse or walk with the group. Pack light so the trek is easier for both you and your porter.

Ethical and Responsible Trekking: We at Peregrine Treks and Tours take pride in our ethical working system. We provide our staff with proper pay, food, gear, and insurance. We ensure they get warm clothing, shoes, sunglasses, and protective gear. We support these hardworking individuals and follow a responsible and ethical trekking way.

Guides and porters work together to make your trek better. Most regional locals have a deep understanding and love for the place. You can learn basic Nepali phrases like “Namaste” to greet and “Dhanyabad” to say thank you.

We try our best to follow the itinerary as planned, but we also realize that flexibility is the key to an enjoyable trip. Since the weather is unpredictable, there may be many trekking pauses.

Weather Delays or Changes: We prioritize safety above all. If heavy snow or a landslide blocks the trail, we will delay, reroute, or adjust the schedule. Remember, every decision made is for the group’s safety. Our guides will monitor the weather and trail and update the schedule in real time through local teams and the network.

Group Pace and Health: If someone wants to go ahead or needs a break, we can break the group or adjust the pace. We can stay overnight in an earlier village, shorten the walking day, or add a bonus hike depending on the group’s wants.

Custom Side Trips: We arrange custom side trips for flexible or private trekkers. Here are some side treks or custom routes you can request:

• Tilicho Lake (additional 2-3 days)
• Ice Lake Hike in Manang
• Skip Poon Hill and exit early through Jomsom
• Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara instead of driving

We can adjust group treks if the group unanimously agrees that the conditions are suitable. There may be additional charges, so keep it in mind.

Accommodation Flexibility: We can switch accommodation based on availability or the group’s preference. You can request a better lodge in Manang or Muktinath at extra cost. These upgrades are also available in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Time in Kathmandu/ Pokhara: If you finish the trek early or you want to extend your stay, we can arrange more days in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You get extra hotel nights, activities like paragliding, sightseeing, etc., in Pokhara, and even a Chitwan Jungle Safari. The return flight is flexible depending on your international flight.

Private Treks: The itinerary is fully customizable for private groups. We can adjust more trekking days, different starting or ending points, rest days, and combine other trekking routes. Depending on the group’s preference, we can make the itinerary a 10-day or a 20-day route.

Communication: The guide will be fully transparent in any case of changes to the itinerary. They will explain why and offer other options for the change in route or delay. If you have any questions or want to share your opinion, feel free to do so.

Acclimatization is the process of the body adjusting to the growing altitude. It is essential for any high-altitude training. The Peregrine Treks and Tours itinerary includes gradual Acclimatization and a rest day to help their body adjust.

• Built-in Acclimatization Days: The itinerary includes a full acclimatization day in Manang as an adaptation period. The body produces more red blood cells and adjusts to the elevation gain. It ensures safety for higher climbs.
• Gradual Ascent Profile: Our daily elevation tries to stay below 500m. The trek from Manang to Yak Kharka is +550m, but the acclimatization day on the previous day balances it. There is no leap in altitude, ensuring your body adjusts well.
• Climb High Sleep Low: The Climbing High and Sleeping Low principle naturally stimulates the body and boosts oxygen adaptation. For example, a hike to Chongar Viewpoint while acclimatizing in Manang makes the body adapt better.
• Guide Monitoring: All of our guides have mountain altitude sickness training. They can recognize the early symptoms and know exactly what to do. If you feel sick, inform them immediately so they can take appropriate action.
• Oxygen and First Aid: The guides carry an emergency oxygen cylinder in emergencies. Trekkers should consult their doctors before the trek so they can take medicine as a preventive measure.
• Adapting Acclimatization Needs: Everyone adjusts at a different rate. We can slow the trekking time or arrange an assistant guide to walk with you at a slower pace. We can also add a buffer day if you don’t feel well.
• Hydration and Diet: Proper hydration and high-carb meals give strength to your body. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and fatty foods, and eat regularly. These fuel your body and prevent dehydration, which makes altitude sickness worse.
• Acclimatization in Itinerary: The itinerary is flexible. We can pace it according to the group’s adjustment to the altitude. Most trekkers only experience mild symptoms and recover quickly. The built-in acclimatization day and careful monitoring help make the trek easier and minimize risks.

How to Book?

You can book directly through our website. You also have the option to email, call, or visit us at our Kathmandu Office. Provide your inquiry, and we will reply as soon as possible.

We recommend early booking for peak seasons, about a few months before securing permits, lodging, and flights.

We take last-minute bookings based on availability. You need to be flexible with your trekking date in case of late bookings.

Deposit and Payment:

Pay about 30% of the total trek price to secure your deposit. Deposits are generally non-refundable as we use them to pay for permits and advanced booking. You can pay the full balance about 30 days before the trek starts. You need to pay upfront or on arrival in case of late bookings.

We accept bank transfer, credit cards, or online payment. Remember that credit cards charge a 3-4% processing fee.

Cancellation Policy:

Here is our cancellation policy:

• 60 days before the trek: We refund any additional amount you may have paid, except the deposit.
• 30 days before the trek: We charge you 50% of the total trek cost as a cancellation fee and will refund any amount paid beyond that.
• 15 days or less: We offer no refund after the 15-day mark.

Postponing or changing the date:

You get one free date change if you request it 30 days before the trek. You may have to pay extra for these changes. You get a full refund or an alternative date if we have to cancel the trek due to any circumstance.

Group Departures and Private Treks:

We offer both group and private treks. Group treks are budget-friendly and great for meeting new people with similar interests. Private tours are ideal for friends, families, or couples who want flexibility.

After Booking:

After booking, we provide you with a confirmation, packing list, guide, and contact information for your hotels and guide. You must send us your travel details, such as a copy of your passport, arrival time, dietary restrictions, and travel insurance details.

We will pick you up from the airport and help you every step of the way while trekking. After the trek, you can complete a feedback form and chat with us. Share your experience and suggestions for improvements.

Booking with us ensures a trusted, local team who work for your comfort and safety. Contact us today to begin your trek to the Annapurna Circuit.