How Many Days Does It Take to Complete The Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Annapurna Circuit Trek is an incredible adventure in the natural landscapes of the Annapurna region. The geographically diverse terrains of the Annapurna region offer excellent trekking opportunities. These scenic trails also provide incredible views of the majestic Himalayas throughout the trek.
But how many days does it take to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek? You might wonder. This spectacular trek takes around 10 to 20 days to complete and has a total length between 160 to 230 Kilometres. The use of transportation facilities and the starting point of the trek also determines the number of days required to complete the trek.
Moreover, trekkers will pass through the diverse geographical landscapes, that ranges from lush alpine forests to dry, arid and desert-like landscapes during this trek. You can observe the Tibetan Buddhist influenced settlements of the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali community. The unique culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the people will spellbind you.
Furthermore, you will stay at the tea houses and lodges run by the local community. The incredible hospitality of the Nepalese people will melt your heart. This fantastic trek is an exceptional trekking experience for both beginners as well as experienced trekkers. Overall, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is an incredible adventure of around 10 to 20 days. In this Exciting Nepal’s article, you can read further for more information about the exciting trek in detail.
Outline Itinerary – Annapurna Circuit Trek
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 02: Free and arrangement day
Day 03: Drive to Bulbule (923m)
Day 04: Trek from Bulbule to Chamje (1400m)
Day 05: Trek from Chyamje to Bagarchhap (2160m)
Day 06: Trek from Bagarchhap to Chame (2630m)
Day 07: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3300m)
Day 08: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3500m)
Day 09: Acclimatization day in Manang
Day 10: Trek from Manang to Ledar (4250m)
Day 11: Trek from Ledar to Pedi or High camp (4,600m)
Day 12: Trek from Phedi to Muktinath (3,710m)
Day 13: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2750m) Via Kagbeni
Day 14: Jomsom drive to Tatopani (1190) Natural hot spring
Day 15: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2850m)
Day 16: Trek from to Poon Hill to Ghorepani and Nayapul – Drive back to Pokhara
Note: This itinerary is always customizable. Contact us if you need your few days itinerary.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Route
Annapurna Circuit Trek takes around 15 to 20 days to complete. The number of days depends upon the transportation facilities used and the starting point of the trek. You can either shorten or lengthen the trek based on your expectations and requirements. This spectacular trek’s total distance ranges between 160 to 230 Kilometres.
The trek starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar via the Prithivi Highway. We start our trek from Besisahar to Manang trekking along with the villages of the Syange, Chame, and Pisang. The trek route then leads us to the beautiful Marshyangdi valley and the vast meadows of Yak Kharka before arriving at the magnificent Thorung La Pass (5,416m).
Thorung La Pass is also the highest point of the trek. We then ascend to the Upper Mustang region along the upper Kali Gandaki Valley from the majestic pass. The pilgrimage to Muktinath is also on our list. Moreover, the sacred temple of Muktinath temple is an important spiritual hub of the region, worshiped by both Buddhist and Hindu communities.
According to local beliefs, bathing in the 108 showers of the Muktinath Temple premises cleanses the sins of past life and you can attain “Moksha” or “Nirvana”. The trail then leads us to Marpha and we trek back to the lovely Poonhill viewpoint via Tatopani. From the Poonhill viewpoint, we can observe the beautiful Himalayan sunrise overlooking the snow-capped mountains.
You will also get to observe the views of the majestic Annapurna Massif during the trek. We then drive back to Pokhara as our trek comes to an official end. Alternatively, you can also take the domestic flight from Jomsom in case you want to shorten the trek.
Few related treks:
Annapurna Circuit Trek – When To Go?
Annapurna Circuit Trek is possible all around the year with favorable weather conditions. However, the best time for this trek is the Autumn months of September to November and the Spring months of March to May.
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal. The months of September, October, and November provide excellent weather conditions for Annapurna Circuit Trekking. Thus, the trails remain crowded during the Autumn season with lots of trekkers.
The average daytime temperature ranges around 8-12 degrees between the altitude of 2000 m-4000 m in September. Moreover, the average temperature in November and October is around 15 degrees in the daytime. The night time temperatures, on the other hand, drops down to 7 degrees.
The stable weather conditions and less precipitation is the highlight of the trek in the Autumn season. Besides that, the spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains of the Annapurna region will enchant you. Moreover, the accommodations, including the tea houses, lodges, and hotels, get packed easily. Booking your accommodations is a must in Autumn.
Spring (March-May)
The Spring season is another favorable time for Annapurna Circuit Trekking. The natural beauty of the Annapurna region comes alive as the wildflowers, including the rhododendron bloom all over the hills. Fresh air and sweet aroma of the herbs will follow you all along the trails and the stunning view of the Himalayas will spellbind you.
Moreover, the average temperature in early March is around 10 degrees. The temperature gradually increases from March and ranges around 18 – 23 degrees in April and May. However, the nights remain colder, with temperatures around 5 degrees. Besides that, you will get beautiful surroundings with fewer chances of rainfall in Spring. The wildlife of the region comes to life after their winter hibernation.
The offseason treks in the winter and monsoon season come with their own sets of challenges. The trails get slippery and there are the risks of avalanches and landslides during the wet monsoon season. Besides that, the winters are frigid and there are heavy snowfalls in the region. With proper packing and preparation, the offseason treks are also possible.
How Difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a challenging adventure in the harsh terrains of the Annapurna region. You will have to cross the majestic Thorong La pass (5416m), which is the highest point of the trek. The trek goes uphill and downhill quite a lot and also passes along steep and narrow ridges.
This trek is also challenging because of the high altitude and weather conditions. The weather in the upper region gets quite colder, especially in the mornings and the nights. Besides that, the duration and the distance of the trek are also the major factors that increase the difficulty of the trek.
You will have to walk for 6-7 hours during this trek. First-time trekkers might find it challenging to trek continuously for long distances in the harsh terrains. But with a proper training regime, two to three months or at least two weeks before the trek is essential. Overall, this adventurous trek of the Annapurna Circuit is moderately challenging.
How to Reduce the Difficulty of the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Customize the Trek
You can customize the trek as per your desire and schedule. The transportation facilities used in the Annapurna Circuit also determines the length of the trek. The Kathmandu to Besi Sahar drive can get extended to Syange or Chame, which reduces the trek itinerary by a couple of days.
You can also take a ride at various points during the trek as well to avoid the harsh terrains. The treacherous roads are dusty and not in excellent condition, but it is manageable. Thus, you can customize the trip to reduce the total trekking days by a significant amount.
Besides that, the beautiful landscapes, terrace farms, charming villages, and magnificent mountain views during the bus ride will amaze you. Alternatively, you can also take the domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara to complete the trip comfortably.
Trek in a Group
Trekking in a group is a great idea to keep you occupied during the trek. You can trek with ease and not get distracted by the length and duration of the trek. Moreover, you can travel with friends and guides who will make the trek more fun and exciting. Hence, trekking in a group is a great idea to tackle the fatigue factor during the trek.
Hire a Porter
Hiring a porter can reduce the difficulty of the trek significantly. The trek passes along the harsh terrains and gets quite difficult to complete with a heavy backpack. Besides that, your clothing and gear are heavy as well.
This high altitude region trek is comfortable with the help of a porter. Even the most experienced trekkers hire a porter to complete the trek. Thus, hiring a porter will help you complete the trek with ease.
Set a Training Routine
A good training routine before the start of the trek is essential. The harsh trails require immense stamina and strength. Hence, a good training routine will help you significantly during the trek.
The training regime must include cardiovascular activities like hiking, running, jogging, cycling, swimming, and others. These exercises will increase your stamina and also help you tackle altitude sickness.
Comfortable Trekking Shoes
The high altitude trek in the Annapurna Circuit is a long duration trek, and hence you need a pair of comfortable trekking shoes for the trek. These specially designed shoes will keep you safe from blisters, and the sturdy soles will help you complete the trek with ease. They will also protect you from any injuries, including ankle twist, sprain, and others.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Packing List
The packing list for the Annapurna Circuit Trek largely depends upon the itinerary and the time of the trek. However, the basic items required for the trek are more or less the same. Here is the list of items required for the trek:
Clothing
- Trekking boots
- Trekking pants and jackets
- Short-sleeved trekking shirts
- Long-sleeved trekking shirts
- Lightweight Sweaters
- Insulating jackets
- Trekking Gloves
- Fleece-lined jacket
- Woolen cap
- Rain covers/ Umbrella
First Aid
- Band-aids
- Anti-nausea Medicines
- Sanitary pads/ Tampons
- Diamox tablets
- Mosquito repellent spray or ointment
- Oral rehydration salts
Toiletries
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Toilet Paper
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer
Accessories
- Sleeping bag
- Water Bottle
- Cameras
- Extra Batteries
- Sunglasses
- Solar Chargers
- Hot water Thermos
Important Documents
- Passport
- Travel Permits
Some Essential Tips for the Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Start your trek early
- Acclimatize and hydrate regularly during the trek
- Hire a guide and a porter
- Book your accommodation and meal facilities early
- Get the proper training and eat a balanced diet
- Prepare and pack properly for the trek
- Get a proper travel insurance
- Carry snacks like protein bars, granola bars, during the trek
The Final Say
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most loved trekking routes in Nepal. The scenic trek passes through the diverse landscapes including the lush forests, terrace farmed hills, and majestic mountain passes.
The view of the lovely snow-capped mountains will make you fall in love with this beautiful place. The duration or the number of days generally range around 15-20 days. You can customize the trip to shorten the trek by a significant amount.
I hope we answered all your queries on how many days it takes to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Overall, this spectacular trek of the Annapurna Circuit is an adventure of a lifetime in the natural landscapes of the Annapurna region.
Similar articles you may like:
- Annapurna Circuit Trekking Map
- Manasalu Circuit Trek Vs Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Short Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days
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