Annapurna Circuit: Nepal's Iconic Trekking Experience

Annapurna Circuit: Nepal's Iconic Trekking Experience

Navigating the Annapurna Circuit on my Great Himalaya Trail was a memorable experience. Despite some sections now paved with gravel, the breathtaking landscapes and the serene Tilicho Lake make the journey worthwhile. Here's what you need to know about: 📅Day-by-Day Itinerary and Duration of the Trek: How long it takes and what you’ll see each day, plus a detailed option to include Poon Hill. 💵Cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Experience: What you can expect to spend. 🌤️The Best Time to go round the Annapurna: Recommendations on when to go for the best experience. 🧭Going Solo or Hiring a Guide: Advice on whether to trek alone or with professional guidance. 📈Difficulty of the Trek: What to expect in terms of physical challenge. 😵Altitude Sickness: How to recognise the symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS). 🎫Necessary Permits for Trekking The Annapurna: Information on required permits and how to obtain them. 🎒A Packing List with Essentials: A straightforward list of what to bring.
Updated ago
Save
Share

Trekking around Annapurna: A short overview

The Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp trek stand out as Nepal's top trekking choices, and rightly so. The landscapes are the kind that leave you at a loss for words, with mountain vistas that stretch the limits of your imagination.

As you journey along the circuit trek, you'll wander through local villages and monasteries that capture the essence of the region. The Annapurnas, including peaks like Annapurna II and 4IV, keep you company, looming large and awe-inspiring. Carving out a bit of time for Tilicho Lake is a decision you won't regret. It's a slight detour from the main trail, a few days' journey, but the landscapes you'll encounter are the kind that stay with you.

The Annapurna Circuit's growing popularity can result in crowded trails, and the development of gravel roads along some sections may detract from the pristine trekking experience. These factors represent potential drawbacks for trekkers seeking a more remote and natural environment.

Nonetheless, does the Annapurna Circuit merit the journey? Affirmatively, yes. Despite these challenges, the trail retains an allure that transcends mere description, offering a blend of natural splendour and cultural richness that continues to captivate trekkers from all over the world.

But, if what you're after is a trek with a bit less buzz and a bit more authenticity, you might want to turn your sights to the Manaslu Circuit. Take a look at my guide on this alternative trek—it's a route that can show you a different side of Nepal, quieter but every bit as captivating.

Buy to unlock full guide

Access all the local insights and recommendations from @sonjakorevaar when you purchase this guide.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
🇳🇵 As a seasoned Nepal trekking specialist with over two decades of experience, I've explored the country's diverse landscapes from the towering Himalayas to the serene valleys. 👣 My most recent accomplishment was completing the Upper Great Himalaya Trail (GHT), a challenging thru-hike that traversed Nepal's entire breadth. This journey and countless other treks have solidified my position as a leading expert in Nepal trekking. ✅ Unlike many registered Nepali guides who are often limited to popular trails, my extensive knowledge allows me to curate personalized itineraries that cater to every adventurer's unique desires. 🌿 I am committed to responsible tourism and have over 15 years of experience in the travel and outdoor industry. ♻️Additionally, I hold a sustainable Travelife manager certificate, an official sustainability certification recognized in the travel industry. This ensures that your Nepal adventure leaves a positive impact on the local environment and communities. 🤝🏽By working directly with a Sherpa Trekking company in Nepal, I ensure that your trip benefits the local economy. 🏔 Whether you're seeking a classic Everest Base Camp trek or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, I'm here to guide you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas. 🌄Ready to explore Nepal? Let’s plan your Nepal adventure together.
What's included
Digital Map
Fully interactive, digital map for finding places nearby
32 places
32 hand-picked places with notes from the creator
2 extra guides
Access to additional guides curated by the creator.
9 photos
Beautiful, hi-res photos from the creator
1 link
1 link from the creator to go even deeper with more info
DESTINATION(S) COVERED
Annapurna Conservation Area, Jomsom, Nepal
Kathmandu, Nepal
Pokhara, Nepal
Thorung La Pass, Tanki Manang, Nepal
Nepal
FOCUSES AND THEMES
50+
Backpacker
Couples
Digital Nomads
Family
Groups
LGBTQ+
Female Solo
Vegetarian
Adventure
Budget
Outdoors
People & Culture
Photography
Slow Travel
Sustainable/Eco
BEST TIME OF YEAR
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Format
Itinerary
Itineraries typically include day-by-day plans, with food, lodging and activity recommendations for each day.
COMMON QUESTIONS
What is Thatch?
Thatch is an online marketplace that provides instant access to thousands of vetted local experts and premium travel guides - making it the easiest and most affordable way to take high quality trips with less stress. For travel creators (tastemakers, travel advisors, influencers and local experts) Thatch makes it easy to curate, publish, and sell digital travel guides, itineraries and personalized planning services.
What if I’m not satisfied with my purchase?
How do I access my purchased guides?
Can I access my guide offline?
How often are guides updated?
Can I request a personalized guide or itinerary?
Can I sell my own travel guides and itineraries?
Save for Later
Share
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Sonja | Nepal Expert 2025 Help Privacy Terms Copyright Become a Seller Seller Academy About Careers Blog Explore Places