Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek-20Days

Trip Overview
Itinerary
Includes
Equipment List
Usefull Information
Video

Trip Overview

“Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek” which takes us around the entire Annapurna massif reaching Thorang La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft). Imagine the thrill of walking through the world’s deepest Kaligandaki Gorge with Annapurna summit 8091 meters to the east and Dhaulagiri at 8167 meters to the west! Cross Thorang La, the high pass en route from Manang to Muktinath, savor and explore the spectacular mountain views from the peak of Pun Hill at 3,210 meters (10,531 feet). There are more than ten different culturally rich ethnic groups that reside in different climate zones of The Annapurna Circuit Trek, one of the most popular classic treks in the world, takes us to the top of the world’s tenth highest mountain, the Annapurna.

We will ascend from an altitude of 800 meters to 5 416 meters, passing through diverse geographical and cultural variations. This will enable us to see an amazing range of flora and fauna in between. After about 8 to 9 hours of walking from Kathmandu, the trek starts at Khudi. The early days of the trek consist of walking through paddy fields, forests and friendly villages in the lowlands of the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Sawasdee Nepal’s 21 day Annapurna Circuit Trek is a worthwhile introductory trek for experiencing the Annapurna region. If you prefer a shorter trek along the same route, we recommend Annapurna Circle Trek – 14 Days. Depending on the time we can spend on vacation, we may also find it interesting to try Sawasdee Nepal’s other trek itineraries such as Annapurna Sanctuary Trek – 14 Days or Annapurna Sunrise Trek – 9 Days.

Itinerary

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Day 01 : Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, officially greet and meet you at Airport & transfer you to Hotel . You will have leisure time, followed by an evening welcome dinner at a typical Nepalese Restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu (1350m).
Day 02 : Kathmandu-Besisahar: 7- 8 hour drive

An early start to reach Besisahar (850m), the starting point of the trek. Your adventure begins! Overnight in Besisahar
Day 03 : Besisahar - Bahundanda: 6-7 hours

Your first day`s walk involves crossing a few suspension bridges, waterfalls, several up and down hill sections, across rice paddies and subtropical forest. The villages and people are an interesting mix. Overnight in Bahundanda (1,310m).
Day 04 : Bahundanda - Chamje: 6 hours

Trek through amphitheatre-shaped rice terraces, along a steep vertical cliff, lush forests, and some culturally intriguing villages. Overnight in Chamje (1,410m).
Day 05 : Chamje-Dharapani: 5-6 hours

Today you enter the Manang district after passing fields of corn, barley and potatoes, and then through forests of bamboo and rhododendrons. Overnight in Dharapani (1,960m).
Day 06 : Dharapani-Chame 6-7 hours

Today you will negotiate a few steep forested ridges, along with several landslides on route. Remember to look up though, as you will be treated to some sensational views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). Small hot springs relief your long day trek. Overnight in Chame (2,710m).
Day 07 : Chame- Pisang: 6-7 hours

A steep, narrow path through a very dense forest will bring you to the dramatic curved rock face, rising 1500m from the river. As the trail opens up you will be surrounded by majestic Himalayan Peaks. Overnight in Upper Pisang (3,300m).
Day 08 : Pisang-Manang: 4-5 hours

Enter the upper Manang region, where you will notice a contrast with the landscape and vegetation. The cold, dry climate creates a much harsher environment. Incredible views of the towering Himalayan Peaks. Overnight in Manang (3,500m).
Day 09 : Acclimatization Day

Rest day for acclimatization. Enjoy the fascinating village and immerse yourself in its wonderful culture. There are many opportunities for both easy and strenuous day. Explore with spectacular side trips to Bhojo Gompa or Gangapurna Lake and Glacier. Overnight in Manang (3,500m).
Day 10 : Manage-Yak Kharka: 3-4 hours

Today is a short walk up to Yak Kharka, a small settlement set at 4,110m/13,484ft. Gradual ascent is the key to avoiding altitude problems. Overnight in Yak Karka (4,110m).
Day 11 : Yak Kharka - Throng Phedi: 3-4 hours

Make your way to the foot of the pass, Throng Phedi. A small although busy settlement catering to the needs of trekkers and climbers that use this point as a base camp. Overnight in Throng Phedi (4,600m)
Day 12 : Throng Phedi - Muktinath: 7-8 hours

An early start is important to begin a long day`s trek over the pass. Crossing this famous Throng La pass {5,416m} will be an unforgettable experience. The views from the trail and from the pass itself are outstanding high Himalayan scenes .Overnight in Muktinath (3,800m).
Day 13 : Muktinath-Marpha: 4-5 hours

Muktinath is an important pilgrimage place for both Hindus and Buddhists. Morning visit Vishnu Temple and Gompa. The trail today is quite surreal as you trek along a plateau above the Kali Gandaki world`s deepest gorge. The barren landscape of this area resembles Tibet. Overnight in Marpha (2,670m).
Day 14 : Marpha-Ghsas: 6-7 hours

A day’s trek through Kali Gandaki valley. There is a 360* panorama of peaks: Dhaulagari, Tukuche Peak, the three Nilgiris, Fang and Annapurna I. Continue trek to Ghasa (2,120m) for overnight.
Day 15 : Ghsas-Tatopani: 6-7 hours

Emerge back into subtropical forests, lush with vegetation. You will see more villages in this area; enjoy observing the everyday lives of the local village people. Take an easy day and relax with a bath in the hot spring. Overnight in Hot Spring – Tatopani (1,200m).
Day 16 : Tatopani-Ghorepani: 7-8 hours

After a long, gradual walk up, you will stay at Ghorepani in order to make the climb to Poon Hill early in the morning. From this point you receive spectacular views of the Annapurna & Dhaulagiri massif. Overnight in Ghorepani (2,850m).
Day 17 : Ghorepani- Tadapani: 6-7 hours

Early morning ascend Poon Hill (3,210m. ); from where you will see a spectacular sunrise over the whole Himalayan range and surrounding rice terraces (a photographer`s paradise!). After breakfast you will continue the trek to Tadapani (2,710m) for overnight. From the trail you will see panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range. Also a possibility to see monkeys.
Day 18 : Tadapani-Ghandruk - Pokhara: 5-6 hourse

The trail leads all the way down through the Rhododendron forest to Ghandruk. This is the second-largest Gurung settlement in Nepal. After lunch you will continue your trek to Nayapul to complete the trail. Followed by a ride back to Pokhara, a peaceful lakeside city harboring a unique setting of tropical climate and vegetation with the dramatic backdrop of the Himalayas. Overnight in Pokhara (850m).
Day 19 : Pokhara-Kathmandu: 6 hour

Drive back to kathmandu will host a farewell dinner. Congratulations on the completion of your trek! Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 20 : Departure from Kathmandu

Today the journey comes to an end. There’s nothing to do but trade emails with your new friends, organize all your photos and finally depart from Nepal.

What's Included

Included

Airport pick up/drop and city guided tour in Kathmandu by private tourist vehicles.
Welcome dinner in Kathmandu.
Hotel in Kathmandu on BB plan at stars level
Meals 3 times a day (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trekking for you( You can choose any food from the Menu)
Local seasonal fresh fruits.
Twin sharing comfortable and clean private room during the trek.
Ground transportation by bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar and by car from Pokhara to Kathmandu
An experienced, knowledgeable, helpful, friendly and English-speaking trekking guide and porter to carry your luggage during the trek (2 trekkers:1 porter).
Food, drinks, accommodation, insurance, salary, equipments, transportation, local tax for Guide and porter.
Group medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
Four season sleeping bag, down jackets, Duffle bag( bag pack) and walking stick(which need to be returned after the trek).
Appreciation letter as a souvenir (Sample of the appreciation letter).
All necessary paper works and Acap permits.
Travel & Rescue arrangement
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System).
All our government taxes, vat, tourist service charges.

Excluded

Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate 30 USD cash and two passport photographs )
Meals whilst in Kathmandu allow US$ 10 - US$ 15 per day and Entry fee while sightseeing in Kathmandu (USD 20 per person)
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Travel/medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
Personal expenses such (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, laundry, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, WIFI etc)
Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is expected).
Any others expenses which are not mentioned on 'Price Includes' section.

Equipment List

Travel document: passport, visa, travel insurance, air tickets, voucher, and a passport-sized photo.
Hand Sanitizer
Reading/Writing materials
Binoculars
Travel games, like chess, backgammon, scrabble

First-aid kit (containing lip balm, aspirin/ paracetamol, Band-Aid, bandage for sprains, iodine or water purifier, Moleskin for blisters, antiseptic for cuts, anti-bacterial throat lozenge, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, Norfloxacin or

Ciprofloxacin, antibiotic for
Giardia, Diamox and any extra
prescription drugs you are currently taking)
Protein bars, chocolate, dried fruit, candies, and snack foods
Money-Cash
Swiss Army Knife
Sleeping Bag
Lightweight towel
Swimsuit
Toiletries (quick-drying towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, multipurpose soap, deodorant, nail clipper, face, and body
moisturizer, feminine, hygiene
products, small mirror
Day pack (with waist straps)
Alarm clock and
torch/flashlight/headlamp
Lighter
Insect repellent
Earplugs and eye mask
Small padlock
Refillable water bottle
Sun hat Sunglasses, Scarf
Bag Liner
Sewing kit
Wind and waterproof shell jacket and trousers (preferably breathable fabric)
Running shoes or sandals
Comfortable walking shoes
Socks: thick wool blend and thin cotton to be worn in combination
Lightweight thermal gloves
Underwear and shorts
T-Shirt 2 Or 3
Long sleep shirt
(Special Checklist for summer)
Trekking/Hiking boots with spare laces
Lightweight long trousers (no jeans)

Special Checklist for winter and High Altitude:
34. Layered clothing /Thermals and extra warm clothing during winter (December-March)
1 heavyweight or 2 lightweight wool jumper/sweater/fleece jacket
Fleece wind-stopper jacket (optional)
Down jacket or down vest
Fleece Or wool trousers/pants
Heavyweight gloves or mittens
wool or fleece with a waterproof shell outer
A four-season sleeping bag/sleep
sheet Thick, warm wool hiking socks
Gaiter (optional)
Special Checklist for summer
Lightweight wool
jumper/sweater/fleece
Umbrella/waterproof jacket and
trousers (May—September)
Sunscreen lotion with maximum SPF
Water bottle

Usefull Information

Nepal Country Visa and Entry Procedure

Here are two ways to obtain a Nepalese visa. The first one is via the Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed in your country. As of the second way, you can easily obtain an On-Arrival visa at the entry/exit points stationed across the country. You can fill out an application form and provide the necessary documents to receive an On-Arrival Visa. Travellers can choose different visa types according to the length of their stay in Nepal.
The visa for 15 days costs USD 30, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. Also if your visa is about to expire but you are not yet done exploring the country, you can get your visa extended for USD 3 per day and if your visa has already expired, it costs USD 5 per day. This information regarding updated Visa Fees is available at the official website of the Department of Immigration at
You can also head to the following link for more information regarding Tourist visas in Nepal.

How to reach Nepal?
International flights are only available through the only International airport i.e. the Tribhuvan International Airport. If you are planning on travelling to Nepal by air then TIA is your only option. Flights can be boarded from India, Dubai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur among many other destinations.
Travelling by land you have two options, via India and China. There is also a direct railway line connecting India and Nepal along with several bus facilities for travelling across the border from India.
Travelling by road through India is the most easily accessible. You can travel to Nepal through Sunauli- Bhairahawa, Raxaul – Birgunj, Siliguri- Kakarbhitta, Banbasa – Mahendranagar, or Bahraich- Nepalgunj. Kodari and Kerung are two entry/exit points stationed at the Nepal-Tibet border.

Popular Destinations to Visit
There are numerous travel destinations in Nepal; each with a unique identity and story of its own. Kathmandu is one of such destinations, with dozens of sightseeing to do, eateries to try out, and handicrafts to shop. Next up is Pokhara which enchants its visitors with its serene lakes and the enthralling views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Fishtail ranges. Similarly, Lumbini, Chitwan, Bandipur, and Palpa are a few other destinations which are ripe for tours and leisurely vacations. Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park are two of the most popular destinations for jungle safari and wildlife exploration.
As for adventure sports, Kathmandu and Pokhara offer plenty of choices including rafting, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and paragliding. Likewise, the Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang regions stand out as prominent destinations for treks, peak climbing trips, and expeditions.

Things to do in Nepal
The nation is considered to be a paradise for trekkers and grants an exciting number of choices. On these treks, you will witness the grand views of the Himalayas and the cultural prosperity of the ethnic communities along the trails. Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek are two of the most popular treks in Nepal.
For those who are not satisfied with just gazing up to the mountains, you can go for a mountaineering expedition and peak climbing. While expeditions take you to mountains above the height of 6,500 meters, the destinations of peak climbing trips are low-lying peaks which can be summited even by amateurs. Everest (8848m), Annapurna (8091m), and Ama Dablam (6856m) are popular expedition sites whereas Island Peak (6189m), Mera Peak (6476m), and Pisang Peak (6091m) are the notable peak climbing destinations.
Short tours and sightseeing in Nepal are also quite popular among travellers in Nepal. Likewise, adventure sports like rafting, bungee jumping, paragliding, canyoning, rock climbing, zip-lining, and mountain biking are also among the things that can be done in Nepal.

Trekking Seasons in Nepal
The country lies in the temperate zone and has four distinct climates: spring, summer (with monsoon), autumn, and winter. Normally, the best time to trek in Nepal is in March-May (spring) when the skies are clear, trails are filled with blooming flora, and the temperature is just right.
Another appropriate season is mid-September to November (autumn), during which the temperature is moderate, skies are clear, and mountain views are stunning. The summer season (June – August) is occupied by heavy rainfall increasing the chances of landslides in the hills, while the winter season brings in harsh weather conditions and extreme cold. However, there are treks which can be done during winter and monsoon as well.
Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang regions lie in the rain-shadow area so, they are ideal trek destinations during monsoon. Likewise, easy and low-altitude treks like Ghorepani Poonhill and Tamang Heritage Trek are perfect during the winter season.

Altitude Sickness
While trekking in Nepal is extremely satisfying, altitude sickness might get a better hold of you at times. The air pressure and oxygen concentration decrease the higher you travel.
As such, altitude sickness is an illness that the human body suffers from due to these reasons. The symptoms of the sickness include lack of appetite, nausea, weakness, lightheartedness, sleep disturbance, tiredness, and headache. These symptoms generally appear when moving upwards of the height of 2,400 meters from sea level.
You can adopt different measures to avoid altitude sickness like a walk at a slow and steady pace, avoiding smoking, and stopping at different stations to acclimatize. Before beginning your trek, make sure you have a first aid kit with ibuprofen or paracetamol and Diamox. If anyone falls victim to altitude sickness, it is necessary to inform the trip leader and descend to a lower altitude. In extreme cases, it might also be necessary to perform Heli rescue and emergency evacuations.

Travel Insurance
Accidents can happen anywhere so, it is recommended for all tourists to get travel insurance before visiting Nepal. Depending upon the insurance policy and the company, the insurance will look after tragic like theft, loss or accidental damage of gears and other belongings, baggage, and medical emergencies. Likewise, the insurance should also include helicopter evacuation and any kinds of mishaps that might occur during adventure sporting like bungee jumping, rafting, and zip-lining. No one is capable of foreseeing the accidents, but each individual can buy themselves an insurance policy to lessen the effects of the accident.

Meals and Accommodations
In major cities like Pokhara and Kathmandu, you will get multiple options to choose from, from cheap lodges to extravagant 5 stars hotels. Likewise, you will also get to choose from a wide range of cuisines while in the major cities. However, once you move away from the cities, the options for meals and accommodations in Nepal will become limited. During the treks, the best accommodations available are lodges and teahouses. They provide basic facilities for dining and lodging. These places mostly serve traditional Nepali food “Daal Bhat Tarkari” (rice, pulses, and vegetables). Similarly, there are several other food varieties like Momo, Thukpa, and Thakali food available across Nepal.

Banking, ATMs, and Money in Nepal
Nepalese Rupees are the official currency of Nepal. The banknotes of5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 whereas coins of 1 and 2 are available in Nepal.
While travelling to Nepal, banking and money exchange are not a huge deal in big cities like Pokhara and Kathmandu. When you head to rural areas, the availability of banks, ATMs, and money exchange booths becomes fairly scarce. So, it is best to withdraw enough cash and exchange the currency in major cities. You can also exchange foreign currencies for Nepali Rupees at the Tribhuvan International Airport. You need to be updated about the exchange rates which are available at the official website of Nepal Rastra Bank at .

Internet and Communication
It is quite easy to access the Internet in Nepal. Using Wi-Fi is a widely used way to communicate and use the Internet. Wi-Fi is easily available in major cities and even in some remote destinations. When trekking to remote locations, Wi-Fi might not always be available; so, using cellular data is the best way to communicate over the Internet. You can buy a Sim-card in Nepal at a reasonable price which allows you to make an international call. Also, you can use mobile data while you are in the areas without Wi-Fi. Telephone, Fax, and newspapers are a few other forms of communication in Nepal.
Internal Flight Delays
Due to the geographical diversity and unpredictable climate in the Himalayas, internal flights are often delayed or cancelled. Weather conditions like heavy rainfall, storms, or fog can disrupt flights. So, it is wise to spare an extra day or two as buffer days, in case of flight delays and cancellations. Likewise, it is also necessary to note that the weather conditions are great during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. If you have enough time, you can also choose road transportation in such cases.

Health and Safety Including Traveling alone in Country
The country is very safe for all tourists and travellers. The country is not experiencing any armed conflicts, religious wars, or grave crimes. Travelling alone is also perfectly sage and you will find willing Nepalese to help you with your travel issues. We also advise solo travellers to inform their loved ones and authorities like local police about their travel destination and itinerary to remain on the safe side. However, there are many issues that you need to consider to trek alone. So, you should have ample knowledge and idea before going on a solo trek.
Likewise, there is a Tourist Police department in Nepal which looks after the welfare and safety of the travellers. You can learn more about them at the official website of the Nepal Tourism Board at
In case of medical emergencies during your trek, you can visit the nearest health post which provides basic medical services. If the medical complication persists, you’ll have to head to the hospitals in towns and cities. Similarly, it is also necessary to follow a healthy and hygienic lifestyle when travelling in Nepal to stay fit and healthy.

Useful Nepali Phrases

English Nepali
Thank You Dhanyabad
How are you? Tapaii lai Kasto Chha?
I am fine. Malai Thick Cha
Have you eaten? (used often as an informal greeting) Khanna khan nu bhayo?
What is your name? Tapako Naam ke ho?
Pardon me/ Sorry Maaf garnu-hola
I don’t understand Maile bhujhina
I understand Maile bhujhe
See you again