Annapurna Circuit with Poon Hill Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a travel package to the mountain ranges of central Nepal in Gandaki Pradesh. Widely known as one of the best long-distance treks in the world, ACT takes you around unique villages, forest areas, hills, and snow-capped mountains.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is between 160 and 230 kilometers long. The route begins in the low hills of Bhulbhule in the Marshyangdi River Valley at an elevation of 923 meters, continues to the alpine mountains at an elevation of 5416 meters, and ends in Pokhara.

First, we drive to Besisahar in the Lamjung District. The distance between Besisahar and Kathmandu is 177 km, which will take us around 6-7 hours in a private vehicle depending on the traffic along the roads.

From Besisahar, we walk to Thorang la Pass (5,416m). Then, from Thorong La Pass, we hike to Muktinath (3800 meters), which is at a distance of 16km. Finally, we descend along the Annapurna route to Nayapul and end our trek there.

The time duration to complete the trek is 10–14 days for the shorter version and 18–21 days for the full route.

What is the starting and ending point of the trek?

The starting point is Besisahar/Syange/Jagat/Chame/Bulbhule/Manang, whereas the ending point is Muktinath/Jomsom/Tatopani/Hile/Nayapul, depending upon the Annapurna circuit package you choose. However, the trip organized by Heaven Himalaya will start at Besisahar in the Marshyangdi River Valley and end at Nayapul.

The best time to go on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is during spring (March, April, and May) or autumn (September, October, and November).

More often, the trekkers choose March, April, October, and November as their months. So, while hiking during these trekking months, you are likely to meet many fellow travelers along the route.

Fall Season

Autumn (sometimes called "fall") is everyone's favorite time of the year. It is a smooth transition from summer to winter. The days are cooler than spring and cozier than winter. You see trees changing their colors and animals preparing to hibernate.

Foremost, the daylight becomes shorter, and the temperature remains moderate. So, fall is the season for everyone. So, the feel of cool weather, the sound of the crunching of brown leaves underfoot, the smell of ripped grains, and the Annapurna circuit trails will have different vibes.

Some also find it nicer because you can have fewer clothes on your body, which will be a lot easier while hiking. Also, you can pack fewer items while packing your bag for trekking in Nepal.

Nepal experiences many great festivals like Dashain and Tihar during autumn. As the festive season flows, the villages around the track lighten up in red and white, and we find children singing melodies as the schools are mostly closed. Therefore, if you travel during this time, you will experience jolly villages.

Besides, during this time of the year, your trekking shoes find a grip. The Annapurna round trails, which were slippery and full of leeches in the summer, will turn normal again. As the rains stop, the temperature drops from 17°C to 4°C. But, Thorong La Pass, the highest reach of the trip, has a daytime temperature of near-4°C as it's always covered in snow.

In spring (the season of rhododendron in Nepal)

Spring is the season of flowers. The trails smell differently during this time, as they are filled with wildflowers that blossom in the winter. Spring is the king of all seasons because it rejuvenates nature.

In Nepal, spring is also called the season of the rhododendron. While on an Annapurna Circuit Journey, you walk along with the rhododendron forests that blanket the hills.

Wintry days move away and are replaced by warm and bright days with average daylight temperatures of 15 °C–20 °C. The mornings and nights are colder as you climb to higher altitudes. Muktinath and the Manang area receive very little rainfall. Thus, the locations are colder in the evenings. Make yourself warm and enjoy the clear, unobstructed views of the hills and majestic peaks.

There is less humidity in the air, and you will be immensely pleased to wander around the high Himalayas. Villages and tourist hubs like Pokhara and Jomsom are bustling with the celebrations of the Nepali New Year Falls in the spring.

Everywhere, the surroundings become livelier: flowers start blooming, trees start growing new delicate leaves, the sky becomes clear and blue, rivers and streams murmur mildly, etc.

You will have the wind blowing through your hair. The remaining fragments of cloud point you to the best views. Indeed, spring is one of the best seasons for trekking in the Annapurna Circuit.

Besides, February to May is also better for trekking. The days are longer and the weather is warm. Thus, you can also consider trekking ACT during these months.

To some extent, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a long journey at high altitudes. Some trails along the routes are slippery, contain rocks, and have lots of stairways that make you feel the difficulty while trekking.

In the initial days, you hike with a slow increase in altitude. After crossing Manang, you will find a narrow path leading through a slope that directly looks down to the Marshyangdi River.

Thus, trekkers must be careful with their steps. You will feel the next challenge while trekking through Thorong La Pass. It is a long journey on a sloppy road if you are not prepared. As it's the highest point of the trip, you might feel some signs of altitude sickness. Therefore, trekkers should know their health before traveling.

The weather is also unpredictable, which may cause difficulties during your trek. Once you pass through Thorang La, you descend 1600 meters to the holy and tourist area of Muktinath. Although it invites some challenges, it's a completely doable trek with rewarding views.

Training

As the days of trekking approach, almost everyone has the thought, "Can I do the Annapurna Round Trek"?

Yes, even first-time trekkers in Nepal who have experience in hiking can attempt to do the trek. But, to overcome thoughts like the above, prepare yourself for trekking.

Any physical pieces of training that involve increasing your stamina and endurance capacity are okay.

No, standard gym training is required. But, you can use your treadmill to run and walk. Make your knees, hips, and ankles have the habit of walking. Using the long stairs in case of lifts will also help you walk uphill here on the Annapurna Circuit. Don't forget cardio and strength training, too. The fitter you are, the more it's easier to cope with, and the less oxygen you breathe in the high hills.

We highly recommend trying a long-distance hike with a backpack and your choice of hiking boots and clothes. By trying this, you will know if the backpacks and your other choice of gear are comfortable for you or not. If you feel uncomfortable wearing them, change them and try hiking with new ones. Try carrying a bag with a similar weight to what you will carry on the trails.

To get an actual idea of the weight, pack all your belongings and gear in a bag and carry it while hiking. A carrying bag will increase your shoulder strength. Also, use your hydration pack while practicing hiking.

Doing as recommended above for a few weeks will train you and make you ready to accept the challenges on the route.

One of the hardest parts of trekking on the Annapurna Circuit is altitude sickness. You will walk above 4000 m in most places, so keep yourself prepared for the high altitude.

Some training, such as running, biking, and swimming, will improve your VO2 max. It's the maximum volume of oxygen that your body can use. Also, while walking, the higher you climb, the more you slow down, even on simple paths. This way, you will adapt your body to a high-altitude environment.

Yes, there's a minor risk of altitude sickness depending on the person's health and fitness. There is a risk of altitude sickness at altitudes greater than 3000 m. Different people react differently when they move to a higher altitude, so it's better to prepare yourself before moving to a higher altitude.

Mostly, people feel nausea, dizziness, insomnia, increased heart rate, headache, vomiting, exhaustion, and fuzzy vision. Also, the lips, nails, and tongue may turn blue.

If you experience any symptoms or feel uneasy, you can easily communicate this to your guide. He is well-trained and is fit to handle such situations. He will provide you with some medicine or help you reduce your uneasiness. If you feel comfortable, then continue your journey; otherwise, have some rest at your current elevation or move down to a lower elevation.

The following are some precautions you can take to avoid altitude sickness:

Climb slowly: Travel only 1,000 feet each day, and plan a rest day for every 3,000 feet you go higher.

Eat carbs: When you are at a high altitude, you need more calories, so carry plenty of carb-containing food with you.

Avoid alcohol, smoking, or taking sleeping pills during your trip to a higher altitude.

Keep yourself hydrated. Drink water to prevent altitude sickness.

The total cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek depends on your period and how you travel and spend. For a 10-to-18-day trip, the cost per person can range from USD 1200 to USD 1600 (excluding international flights). And our total price is 1380 USD per person, which is very reasonable.

Other costs for you include international flight tickets, visas, extra food, insurance, hot showers, etc.

The first cost is the visa for Nepal. Your visa cost will depend on your duration of stay.

USD 30 per day for 15 days

USD 50 for 30 days

USD 125 per month for 90 days

Transportation Cost

You can either take a flight or go by land, via bus, a private jeep, or a taxi. If you choose to take a flight, the cost can vary seasonally. Flight tickets are costlier during the peak trekking months, which are Feb–May and Sept–Nov.

Round-trip flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara: approximately USD 215

A local bus from Pokhara to Besisahar (trailhead) costs approximately USD 3.

Local bus from Nayapul to Pokhara (return): approx. USD 3.

And if you are traveling in a group, you can choose to hire a private vehicle in which you can share the cost amongst the group members.

The cost of a local bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar is approximately USD 6–7 (one way).

Private Jeep from Kathmandu to Besisahar: approx. USD 120 to 150 (one way).

Heaven Himalaya handles all your transportation costs when you book the trip with us.

Food and accommodation both cost

On average, you will spend USD 30 to 50 per day on (basic) accommodation, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The cost of food starts at USD 5 at a low altitude and rises as you go up.

Bottled water costs between $1 and $5.

Tea costs between 0.5 and 2 USD.

Hot water: USD 0.5 to 2 per cup.

Heaven Himalaya will book your accommodations and food.

Travel insurance costs

The average cost for Annapurna Circuit Trekking insurance is $500.

Porter's Cost or Guide Cost

1. If you want to take a guide, it will cost you around US $22–$30 per day. If you are hiring a guide, then check his valid license issued by the government of Nepal. Check his background and the reviews from past clients. An experienced guide will charge USD 30 per day. A potter charges USD18–20 per day.

Heaven Himalaya handles all the costs of porters and guides.

The Cost of Trekking Equipment

The cost of equipment is difficult to estimate, as it varies from one individual to another. It also depends on how much equipment you already own and how much you will buy or rent. A rough estimate is somewhere around USD 200–500.

Yes, trekking to the Annapurna Circuit requires two permits. One is TIMS and the other is an ACAP permit. Both permits are available either in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

TIMS is a basic permit implemented jointly by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) to ensure the safety and security of every trekker.

ACAP is for the Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit.

Heaven Himalaya will arrange both permits on your behalf; you will only have to provide him with details and passport photos. It is always better to take a photo of your ACAP and TIMS cards and keep them on your phone.

The cost for TIMS per person is:

SAARC nationals: NPR 600, about $6.

All the other nationals: NPR 2000, about $200.

Fees for ACAP permits:

SAARC nationals: NPR 200, about $2.

ALL OTHER COUNTRIES: NPR 2000, about $200 (excluding 13% VAT).

Trekkers under 10 years of age don't require this permit.

During the trek, you will find different accommodation and food facilities. You will find tourist-friendly lodges, guest houses, and teahouses. The lodges are comfortable for your initial stage, but they may vary as you go to higher altitudes.

Accommodations are always sociable places where you can meet many other trekkers. The tea house contains a large dining area with a wood-burning stove. Hikers sit in the dining area to socialize and keep themselves warm by the fire. All guesthouses have blankets. Almost all have hot showers available, which are mostly gas-heated. The rooms are very basic. Usually, they have two single beds, blankets, and sometimes a table and a chair.

Lower lodges have clean, western-style flush toilets, but as you go higher, long-drop normal toilets, which are holes in the ground, become more common. It is better to have some toilet paper on you at all times. You can use any of the other lodges or shops along the way if you need to use the loo.

There is both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food available. Local foods are available, such as dal baht. Most of the lodges also provide western food. You can also have one hot drink for each meal, but if you want to order more, then the average price is 150 Rs per cup of tea, coffee, hot lemon, etc., or 1500 is for a flask. A can of beer is between 600 and 800 Rs. Also, at a high altitude, pay for boiling water.

Likewise, water bottles cost you some other dollars. So, it is better to bring water purification tablets. They are cost-effective and easier to use compared to buying bottled drinking water. Water purification tablets are also better for the environment. You can fill up your bottle from the many water sources you find along the way and use the purification tablets for drinking. We also recommend carrying your water bottles as it reduces waste.

Yes, you can add or customize days on your own, including the locations of your visit. Tilicho Lake can also be visited while on the Annapurna Circuit. But, inform us earlier to customize your Annapurna Circuit itinerary. Kindly note that the costs and trekking days will change when you customize the original itinerary.

Also, check out our Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek; it might be the one you are looking for.

It's always a good idea to visit Tilicho Lake. It is one of the highest-altitude lakes at a height of 4,919 m. During your visit to the lake, you can find eye-catching views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, as well as other white Himalayas above 5,415 m. The lake collects the glacial melt from the entire northern slopes of Annapurna and Thorang Peak. It is also a holy spot mentioned in the Ramayan, a holy book of the Hindus.

Some of the popular mountains you will see while exploring the Annapurna Circuit are:

Annapurna I-Central (8,041 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), Annapurna IV (7,525 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m)

Annapurna (7,455 m), Gangapurna (7,647 m)

Khangsar Kang (7,485 m), Tarke Kang (7,202 m)

Lachenal Peak (7,140 m), Tilicho Peak (7,135 m)

North Nilgiri Himal (7,061 m), Central Nilgiri Himal (6,940 m), and South Nilgiri Himal (6,839 m) are the three highest mountains in India.

Machhapuchchhre, a.k.a. Fish Tail Mountain (6,993 m),

Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Gandharba Chuli (6,248 m)

Which is the highest point on the trek?

The highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is Thorang La Pass (5416m/17769 ft), reaching the edge of the Tibetan plateau. It is the point where you can have the best views of the mountains. It is a mountain pass in the north of the Annapurna Himal in central Nepal. Khatung Kang and Yakawa Kang are the mountains that form Thorong La.

The local climate on the western side of the mountain pass is much drier than on the eastern side. There is practically no vegetation on the western side, except where irrigated.

Yes, you can find Wi-Fi at some tea houses at the lower base while trekking to the Annapurna circuit. But as you go up to Thorang and Shree Kharka, you can't find Wi-Fi. But, there's always the option of using mobile networks. You can access the internet on the Annapurna Circuit via a Nepalese SIM card. NCELL and NTC are the two SIM card companies that are popular as the best SIM cards for trekking. Subscribe to the internet package to use the internet via NTC SIM. For a 1GB data package, pay NRS500 ($5), which is valid for 30 days. You can subscribe to less or more data depending on your requirements.

Please remember to buy a Nepalese SIM card for yourself while you are checking out of the airport terminal.

Is this trip worth it to you?

This Thorang La, or the Annapurna Circuit trek, is worth it. This is one of the longest trips in the world where you can experience the unique culture, traditions, mountains, rivers, and forests all at once. The journey takes you to some outstanding destinations like Muktinath, Lower Pisang, Jomsom, etc.

Similarly, trekkers will cross the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in Nepal. The trek then weaves through a dramatic landscape and gives stunning views of mountains like Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, and surrounding peaks.

Every day is a beautiful opportunity to learn new things, embrace beauty, and admire stunning views. Explore Gurung and Thakali villages, whose warm hospitality is one of a kind. They are friendly and beautiful people. From Kalopani to Ghasa, there is a superb, remote (but longer) trail on the east side of the valley.

Well, it's not compulsory to hire guides and porters for Annapurna Circuit Trekking, but if you trek with a guide, it will be helpful to you. The guide will have more options for the places to visit. The guide is familiar with the terrain and local weather and is aware of the danger zone. A guide can take you to places that you would never know about. They will point out the things that you would never notice.

A guide can create your itinerary, arrange your accommodations and transportation, and even probably save you money. Guides handle the safety of groups and provide first aid or handle emergencies. The guide will keep you safe when undertaking adventure activities such as safari trips, mountain climbing, trekking, and rafting.

With us, you will have an experienced mountain guide and a porter.

Yes, you need insurance while traveling. It is the major part of traveling. Make insurance that will cover 5,416 meters, as it is the highest spot during the Annapurna Circuit hike. If you buy an insurance package, please include emergency rescue too.

You’ll enjoy your adventure more with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have the right insurance coverage in place. Besides, insurance helps with everything from lost or stolen luggage to a full helicopter rescue from a mountain.

Nepalese porters are the most energy-efficient load carriers in the world. The standard weight for a porter on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is 25 kg. You will have one porter for two people. So, pack your bag accordingly.

There are two types of porters:

The tourist porter: they carry the backpacks or luggage of tourists, which is limited to a maximum of 25kg–30kg.

The freight porter: they carry all kinds of stuff (building materials, food) up to the teahouses. He carries a load of 70–140 kg.

Some of the popular routes are:

• Ghorepani-Poon hill trek
• Trekking to the Mardi Himal
• Khopra trek,
• Trekking to Muktinath, Jomsom
• Upper Mustang Trek

The alternative routes for trekking are:

Drive straight to Chame, then trek to Jomsom for a 10-day trek.

The classic route is a 19-day trek that begins in Besisahar and ends in Nayapul.

A 16-day trek begins in Bahundanda and ends in Ulleri.

Begin in Besisahar and end in Tatopani on this 15-day trek.

The 13-day trek begins in Besisahar and ends in Jomsom.

Begin from Jagat and end at Tatopani-Twelve Day Trek.

If you have your idea of trails, please email us with a note. We will be happy to customize the Annapurna Circuit Trip to you.