History of Annapurna Circuit Trek

The journey to the Annapurna Circuit was a whole different adventure. It took 23 days, starting from a remote village called Dhumre and ending in Pokhara, a bustling town by the Phewa Lake. Back then, there were no fancy lodges or teahouses lining the trail. Trekkers would camp under the stars, relying on the hospitality of local villagers for food and shelter. The pace was slower, and the connection with nature was deeper.

The construction of roads in Nepal during the 1980s, like the Besisahar-Manang Highway, began to change the landscape – literally and figuratively. The trek became more accessible, allowing people who weren’t hardcore mountaineers to experience the beauty of the Annapurna region. This opened the doors for a wider range of trekkers, boosting the local economy and transforming the trekking experience.

Also Read: Lower Mustang trek: Itinerary, History, Highlights

Despite these changes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek retains its magic. The core experience, big mountains, the diverse landscapes, and the warm hospitality of the Nepalese people – remains unchanged. Today, trekkers can still choose between a more traditional camping experience or opt for the comfort of teahouses. The route may be shorter, but the sense of accomplishment in reaching Thorong La Pass, the highest point on the trek, is just as rewarding

Image by AjayKumarShrestha

High Altitude Trekking in Nepal – What to Expect

High-altitude trekking is a thrilling yet demanding adventure. Trekking in Nepal, especially on routes like the Annapurna Circuit trek, means you’ll be reaching elevations over 17,000 feet! Here’s what to expect and how to prepare:

Physical Challenges: The higher you go, the thinner the air becomes, which can make breathing difficult. It’s important to pace yourself and allow time for acclimatization.

Weather Conditions: Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Days can be sunny and warm, but temperatures can drop significantly at night. Always be prepared with the right gear.

Mental Preparation: High-altitude trekking is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Keep a positive mindset, stay motivated, and enjoy the journey.

Also Read: Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Complete Guide for 9 days trek

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Timing is everything when it comes to the Annapurna Circuit. The best times to embark on this adventure are during the pre-monsoon months of March to May and the post-monsoon months of late September to November. Here’s why:

Spring (March to May): The weather is warm, and the trails are bursting with blooming flowers, especially the national flower of Nepal i.e. Rhododendron. Plus, the air is clear, offering spectacular mountain views.

Autumn (Late September to November): This is the most popular time to trek as the skies are generally clear and the views are breathtaking. The weather is also favorable, with mild temperatures perfect for trekking.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit is considered moderately challenging, which means it’s accessible to those with a good level of fitness but still offers plenty of adventure for more experienced trekkers. Here are the factors that contribute to its difficulty:

Distance: Covering approximately 160 to 230 kilometers, depending on your chosen route, requires stamina and physical fitness.

Altitude: Crossing high passes, especially Thorong La Pass at 17,769 feet, is physically taxing and requires careful acclimatization.

Terrain: The trails can be steep and rocky, requiring good trekking shoes and careful foot placement.

Key Highlights Along the Trek

1. Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters / 17,769 feet)

Crossing Thorong La Pass is the highest and most challenging point of the trek. The pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other Himalayan ranges. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top is immense.

2. Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210 meters / 10,531 feet)

Poon Hill is famous for its stunning sunrise views over the Himalayas. Trekkers wake up early to hike up to the viewpoint and witness the first light hitting the peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare, creating a spectacular golden panorama.

Also Read: The best trekking guide in Nepal: Hstnpl, Your safe passage to the Mountains

3. Manang Village (3,540 meters / 11,614 feet)

Manang is a beautiful Tibetan-style village that offers trekkers a chance to acclimatize and explore. It is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, including Gangapurna Lake and the Ice Lake, which are popular day-hike destinations.

4. Muktinath Temple (3,800 meters / 12,467 feet)

Muktinath is a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple complex includes a Vishnu temple and a Buddhist monastery. The 108 water spouts and eternal flame are significant religious attractions. The spiritual ambiance of the place is profound.

5. Ghorepani Village (2,874 meters / 9,429 feet)

Ghorepani is a charming village located in the heart of the Annapurna region. It serves as the base for the early morning hike to Poon Hill. The village is surrounded by lush rhododendron forests, which are especially beautiful in spring when the flowers bloom.

6. Tatopani Hot Springs (1,190 meters / 3,904 feet)

Tatopani is famous for its natural hot springs, where trekkers can relax and soothe their tired muscles. The hot springs provide a perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy the tranquil environment after days of trekking.

7. Kali Gandaki Gorge

The trek passes through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. The gorge separates the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, providing dramatic landscapes and views. The trail through the gorge is a unique and awe-inspiring part of the trek.

8. Gurung Village of Ghandruk (1,940 meters / 6,364 feet)

Ghandruk is a picturesque Gurung village known for its traditional culture and hospitality. The village offers stunning views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. Trekkers can experience local customs, visit the Gurung Museum, and enjoy cultural performances.

9. Lush Rhododendron Forests

The trek passes through extensive rhododendron forests, particularly around Ghorepani and Tadapani. During the spring season, these forests are in full bloom, creating vibrant and colorful landscapes that enhance the trekking experience.

10. Scenic Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

The flight from Jomsom to Pokhara offers incredible aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The short flight provides a different perspective of the mountains and the terrain trekkers have covered, making for a memorable and scenic conclusion to the trek.

These highlights showcase the diverse experiences and stunning landscapes that the Annapurna Circuit Trek offers, making it one of the most rewarding trekking routes in the world