Annapurna Circuit Trek – 11 days

The Annapurna Circuit is one of Nepal’s most iconic and popular treks. Indeed, it is one of the world’s premier treks, traversing one of the highest trekking passes. The circuit circumscribes the Annapurna mountain range, taking in some of the most spectacular mountain views available in Nepal, including the world’s 7th and 10th highest mountains, Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m).

Throughout the trek, the mighty peaks of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV are on display. You will also see other incredible peaks, including the iconic picture-perfect Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

The Annapurna Circuit official begins in Lamjung, climbing up to Manang, crossing the trek’s highest point at the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) before descending back down to the  Pokhara valley.

The Annapurna Circuit is a complete cultural emersion. You will walk through Manang and many other Tibetan-like Buddhist villages and pass by many monasteries. You will also visit Muktinath, one of the holiest sites in Hinduism.

While in recent years the construction of roads has put off some trekkers from trekking in the region, there are many alternatives and variations that avoid roads. These include the ‘New Annapurna Trekking Trails’, which take in new villages that are much less touched by the historical trekking industry.

You can take many different variations on the circuit. Depending on your budget and timeframe you can take as little as 5 days to complete the circuit or as many as 17—it’s completely up to you!

The trek is perfect for people who are in good health with average physical fitness. You do not need to have previous trekking experience.

On average you will be walking for 7 hours per day, which allows for steady altitude gain and proper acclimatization.

The circuit begins in the district of Lamjung, which is reached by road from Kathmandu. There are a number of different starting points, depending on how long you wish your itinerary to be, and whether you want to avoid walking on a jeep track.

Bold Adventures recommends commencing the trek from Danaque, which is around a 10 to 11-hour drive from Kathmandu.

The trek finishes in Jomsom from where it is a short 30-minute flight to Pokhara. Alternatively, you may choose to take a jeep to Pokhara, which is around an 8 to 9-hour drive.

It is also possible to link the Annapurna Circuit Trek with other treks in the Annapurna Conservation Area, such as the Annapurna Basecamp Trek.

It is possible to trek the circuit all year round. However, passes may be closed during the winter months. Spring and autumn will generally have the most favorable weather for trekking.

The post-monsoon period of October, November, and early December is Nepal’s peak trekking season and the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit.

While  February, March, and April, coming at the end of the dry season is also fantastic time to go trekking.

In mid-December, January, and February, the skies are crystal clear, however, it gets cold. Moreover, as the winter progresses, there is a greater likelihood that the Thorong La Pass will be closed due to snowfall.

The pre-monsoon months of May and June can be very warm. At this time trees start to blossom and the flowers start to bloom.

The monsoon in June, July, August, and September is the least popular months to trek in Nepal. However, it is still possible to trek the circuit. The trail will be lush, and full of greenery and many flowers will be in bloom. As it is off-season, there will be fewer tourists on the trail. However, the haze will cover the mountains from view.