Circuit treks are one of the most adventurous and challenging trekking packages in the Himalayas, and the Annapurna circuit trek is the iconic one. During the Annapurna circuit Trek, which lasts 12 days, you will explore the pristine valleys and villages of the Annapurna region. Annapurna Circuit has a little bit of everything, whether you are looking for cultural immersion, tranquility, challenging trails, or breathtaking views.
For the longest time we remember, the Annapurna circuit has been an epic trekking adventure in the world. However, the infamous construction of roads on either side of the valley has raised questions like, is the Annapurna circuit trek still worth doing? The answer is yes. You will still enjoy the Annapurna circuit trek like before, and it is still one of the most adventurous treks in Nepal.
The construction of two roads has shortened the classic Annapurna circuit trail to 12 days. However, you have the option to combine Tilicho Lake, Annapurna Base Camp, Upper Mustang, Ghandurk Ghorepani villages, etc, in the itinerary and make it a three-week-long venture like in the past. Trust us, there is no drastic change in the scenery or trekking experience.
Following the lush foothills and picturesque villages, you will ascend to Thorong La Pass. Crossing the Thorong La (5,416 m/17,769 ft), the highest pass in Nepal, is not an easy task as you have to deal with steep, rocky trails, unpredictable weather, and high altitude. You have to be physically and mentally strong to fully enjoy Annapurna circuit trekking. And the support of our guide and porters during the trek will make a huge difference.
What to expect during the Annapurna circuit trek in Nepal?
On the Annapurna circuit trek, you will come across varied landscapes and climatic zones. The snow-capped peaks, mist-shrouded valleys, lush hills, beautiful waterfalls, picturesque villages, and ancient stupas and monasteries make the Annapurna circuit trek route phenomenal.
Starting the trek from the subtropical forests, you will enter the arid valley of the Kali Gandaki River, enjoying a vast topography. For the first few days, trek through rhododendron forests and spend nights in lovely villages inhabited by communities like Gurungs, Magars, Chhetris, and Brahmins. Manang (3,519 m/11,545 ft) is one of the biggest villages in the region and our acclimatization point.
We will hike to the isolated Ice Lake. From here, we will leave the Marsyangdi Valley and follow the rugged, steep trails of Jarsang Khola Valley that will lead to Yak Kharka (4,050 m/14,275 ft). You will trek via peaceful meadows and gradually ascend to the High Camp (4,600 m/15,092 ft) via Ledar. High Camp is the last settlement before the Thorong La pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft).
From here, the trail is narrow and steep up to the top of the pass and then descends to Muktinath temple (3,760 m/12,623 ft), a significant pilgrimage site. The trek ends in Muktinath, and from here, you will drive to Pokhara (822 m/2,697 ft), enjoying the barren mountainous landscape. The ride will be quite bumpy and thrilling.
This is what your typical day looks like on the Annapurna circuit trek
Our Annapurna circuit trek 12 days itinerary is designed maintaining daily elevation gain. So you will not be ascending more than 500 meters. The trail has many ascents and descents, so you have to be careful while trekking. Every day, you will trek from one village to another, enjoying the company of the locals and jaw-dropping mountain views.
Feel free to take breaks whenever you are exhausted. Taking small five-minute breaks frequently will help you maintain your pace and avoid altitude sickness. Our Annapurna circuit trek package provides you with three meals a day- breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You are free to have additional snacks and beverages on your own.
Likewise, on a daily basis, you will have a chance to catch beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The climate and vegetation change with the elevation change. From seeing glimpses of the mountains now and then, you will witness giant towering mountains as the trail opens up.
Annapurna Range (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Tukuche Himal (6,920 m/22,703 ft), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m/23,406 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), etc, are seen during the Annapurna circuit trek.
Is the Annapurna circuit trek 12-day itinerary right for you?
Whether the Annapurna circuit trek 12 days is the right trek for you or not depends upon your timing, fitness, and requirements. It is a standard trekking package in the western Himalayas of Nepal with basic accommodation and meal services. The trek is no doubt demanding, but also offers a lifetime experience.
We also have the Annapurna circuit trek with the Tilicho Lake package and the Annapurna circuit trek with the hike to Annapurna Base Camp package. You can check these packages for more options. Look, if you are determined to complete the trek, understand the challenges it poses, and can endure the difficulties, you can join us on our Annapurna circuit trek 2024/2025 departures.
Perks of doing the Annapurna circuit trek with us
We have the unbeatable Annapurna circuit trek price with top-notch service. Supported by our experienced and friendly team, you will get to enjoy the trip to the fullest as they will take care of all the logistics along the trail. We promise a safe trek, a friendly team, and a hassle-free journey. Below, we have mentioned some other perks that you get doing the Annapurna circuit trek with us:
- Trek with a friendly and experienced team
- Flexible itinerary that you can customize anytime
- Top-notch service and heart-touching hospitality
- Best Annapurna circuit trek cost with native guides and porters
- 24/7 support system
- Complimentary welcome and farewell dinners and airport transfers as per the itinerary
- No hidden cost or policy
