The Annapurna Circuit is a well-known long-distance trekking trail encircling the Annapurna range in Gandaki Province of central Nepal. This trek offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and thrilling adventure. The Annapurna Circuit Trek (ATC) distance varies from 160 to 230 kilometers, depending on the starting point and transportation options. Typically, ACT ranges from 12 to 21 days. Travelers can experience multiple climate zones, ranging from subtropical forests at lower altitudes to arctic conditions near the Thorong La pass at 5,416 meters (17,770 feet). The Throng-la intersects the Manang valley and the Kali Gandaki valley.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Companies
Global Eco Trails is widely regarded as one of the best trekking companies in Nepal, especially for organizing Annapurna Circuit treks with secret side trips like Milarepa Cave, Gangapurna Lake, Ice Lake, Braga Monastery, and Tilicho Lake hike. We offer well-structured guided tours, handle all logistics, including permits, accommodations, and transportation, and ensure a safe, enjoyable trekking experience. Client reviews highlight our professionalism, knowledgeable guides, and personalized service. We are proud to be the best trekking company for the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Choosing a reputable company like Global Eco Trails is essential for managing acclimatization days, navigating challenging terrain such as the Ice Lake day hike, Milarepa Cave, and Thorong La Pass, and providing emergency support whenever needed. Our firsthand knowledge of off-the-beaten-path treks, including Narphu Valley and Manaslu Circuit, makes it easy to choose trekkers seeking both classic and less crowded routes in Nepal.
What makes Global Eco Trails the top choice for Annapurna Circuit Treks in Nepal
There are many factors to choose the best company, but here are the key reasons why Global Eco Trails is considered the top choice for Annapurna Circuit Treks
Expert Local Guides: Experienced and knowledgeable guides who ensure safety and cultural insights.
Comprehensive Packages: We offer inclusive packages that include permits, logistics, accommodation, meals, trek gear, and emergency support for a hassle-free trek with trekking insurance.
Eco-Friendly Approach: We focus on sustainable trekking practices that protect the Himalayan biodiversity and support local communities to uplift.
Flexible Itineraries: Global Eco Trails offers tailor-made itineraries to explore the hidden treasures of the Annapurna region.
High Customer Satisfaction: Our previous clients highlight professionalism, personalized service, and memorable trekking experiences by leaving a great review.
Optimal Trekking Seasons: Our Expert team advises the best times to trek in the Annapurna Circuit (September–December, March–June) for stable weather, clear mountain views, and moderate temperatures.
Cultural and Natural Immersion: We aim to trek through diverse ethnic villages, Buddhist monasteries, and off-the-beaten trails where you can encounter flora and fauna.
Safety and Health Focus: We have crafted a proper itinerary, including acclimatization with altitude sickness prevention strategies.
These factors combine to make Global Eco Trails a trusted and highly recommended trekking company for exploring the Annapurna Circuit and surrounding regions.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Duration
Annapurna Circuit Trek duration varies depending on the starting and ending points of the journey. Global Eco Trails offers the standard trek duration.
Standard Annapurna Circuit Trek:
Typically 12 to 14 days, passing Dharapani, Koto, Chame, Pisang, Ngawal, Manang, Ladar, Throng high camp, Muktinath, Lubra/Kagbeni, Tatopani, Pokhara.
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Nar Phu Valley:
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Nar Phu Valley takes about 18 to 21 days due to the additional Tibetan villages, Buddhist Monasteries, chortens, a great canyon, and crossing Kang La Pass (5,300m).
Annapurna Circuit Trek Distance:
Annapurna Circuit trek is a world-class trek that covers approximately 160-230 km, including the hidden valley of Nar Phu. Dharapani is the starting point of the Annapurna Journey, but the ending point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
Annapurna Circuit Thorong La Pass [5,416 m/17,470 ft]
Annpurna Thorongla Pass Trek Nepal
Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters/17,470 feet is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and a major highlight that intersects Manang and Kali Gandaki Valley. Crossing this pass is challenging due to altitude and freezing weather, but it offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Thorong Peak. The trail ascends gradually from Manang to Thorong La top and descends into Muktinath, making the crossing safer and more manageable with the support of your local guide.
Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal
The Annapurna Circuit and Nar Phu Valley treks are best enjoyed during the two main trekking seasons:
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is the most favourable time to trek in Nepal. The weather is generally stable, skies are clear, and the landscapes are especially striking with lush meadows and expansive mountain views.
Spring (March to May): The second most popular trekking season, spring brings warmer temperatures and vibrant natural beauty. Rhododendrons, orchids, and other wildflowers are in full bloom, adding rich color to the trails.
Annapurna Circuit Trek is doable throughout the year but the weather and trail conditions change a lot depending on the season.
Winter (December to February): The higher passes can be snow-covered and challenging, making the trek more demanding. The weather is unpredictable in the mountains due to global warming. Keep in touch with Global Eco Trails for the latest weather and temperature update in the Himalaya.
Monsoon (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rainfall often leads to slippery trails and landslides. However, this off-season offers a unique opportunity to connect with and support local communities when fewer trekkers are around.
Annapurna Circuit Side Trip
Narphu Valley with Kang La Pass: A remote and off-the-beaten-path valley offering pristine landscapes and Tibetan-influenced culture with Bonpo Monastery. Kang La Pass (5,300m) is a tough but rewarding crossing with a spectacular mountain view.
Tilicho Lake Trek:
Tilicho Lake considered the highest lake in the wolrd lies in the Annapurna Trail
Standing at an altitude of 4,919 m, Tilicho Lake is considered one of the highest lakes in the world, known for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic Annapurna surroundings
Milarepa Cave:
A spiritual site related to the Tibetan Buddhist yogi Milarepa, a good place for a day hike from Manang.
Ice Lake:
Annapurna Ice Lake Hike
A high-altitude glacial lake situated at 4600m near Manang, popular for acclimatization, offers excellent surroundings of the Annapurna massif.
Gangapurna Lake:
A glacial lake offering serene views of Mt. Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and breathtaking Manang valley.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Food:
While trekking in Annapurna, Nepal, the local teahouses serve Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodles, and soups. Western cuisines, Indian cuisines are also available throughout the Annapurna trekking route.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Accommodation:
Guesthouse Accommodation in Annapurna Trek
Teahouses provide clean and comfortable lodging, in some places shared rooms with simple beds and blankets. In major villages, private rooms with attached bathrooms, blankets, and hot and cold showers are available.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Toilets and Bathrooms:
Toilets and bathroom facilities in Annapurna Round Trek Nepal provide squat toilets are common, and some teahouses offer attached bathrooms with limited hot water (in winter) with a western toilet facility. Carrying toilet paper and hand sanitizer is advised. You need to bring soap and shampoo, a towel, sandals, toothpaste, and a toothbrush.
Altitude and Altitude Sickness in the Annapurna Circuit Trek
Regardless of fitness, proper acclimatization, hydration and slow ascent are crucial. There are three types of altitude sickness. Remember, these are important tips for everyone.
Annapurna Circuit Trek AMS: Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the mildest form of altitude sickness. The symptoms are: headache, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and dizziness. This type of altitude sickness resolves within a day.
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): This is a severe form of altitude sickness where water builds up in the brain, causing swelling. The symptoms are severe headaches, vomiting, loss of coordination, confusion, and sleepiness. What to do? Immediately, emergency medical treatment is required.
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): Water buildup in the lungs impairs oxygen exchange in the body. How to know? If you are getting shortness of breath, cough, and chest tightness. In such a case, a serious medical emergency is required.
Trek Gear for Annapurna Circuit with Nar Phu Valley
Trekking gear is the most important item for a safe and successful trek in the mountains.
How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit with Narphu Valley?
Good physical fitness, prior trekking experience, and mental preparedness are required to embark on the Annapurna trek. The trek is considered a moderate to difficult journey due to rugged terrain, high altitude, steep ascents of Kang La and Thorong La passes, and variable weather conditions. Daily walking on the trek lasts between 6 and 8 hours.
Transportation service in the Annapurna Circuit Trek
Jeep Facility to Chame Manang
The Annapurna Circuit Trail has shortened parts of the traditional ACT route, and motor transport is now available up to Chame, occasionally reaching Manang. However, alternative trails allow trekkers to avoid roads and preserve the classic experience. It is advisable to hire a local guide to navigate the trails and ensure a safe trek.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers an unparalleled Himalayan adventure, blending natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenge. From lush subtropical forests to the stark high-altitude deserts near Thorong La Pass and the remote Tibetan-influenced Narphu Valley, this trek is a rewarding journey for seasoned trekkers seeking to explore one of Nepal's most iconic regions.
Planning with a reliable trekking company, preparing for altitude, and choosing the best season will ensure a safe and memorable experience in the heart of the Himalayas. Global Eco Trails stands out as a reliable and experienced operator for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, offering comprehensive support and enriching trekking experiences in Nepal
