Picture taken at Ghyaru during Annapurna round.Picture taken at Ghyaru during Annapurna round.

Annapurna Round trip

Quick Facts
  • Trip Duration18 Days
  • Destination Nepal
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Maximum Altitude 5,416 m/17,769 ft
  • Activity Trekking
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu-kathmandu
  • Group Size 1-16
  • Transportation Drive
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
Why You'll Love This Trip

Explore the enchanting Annapurna region with the view of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchre, Gangapurna, and many more. Thus, it is often called the best long-distance trek in the world.

  • Trek through the lush greenery of valleys, dense rhododendron forests, traditional settlements, and high-altitude landscapes of the Annapurna region.
  • Witness the snow-capped majestic mountain peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Thorang Peak, Lamjung Himal, Chulu East, Chulu West, and many more.
  • Relive the beauty of Manang village, also known as the crown jewel of the Annapurna circuit trek.
  • Explore the prosperous town with rich culture, resources, traditions, and spectacular views of the Annapurna ranges.
  • Trek up to the highest point of the journey, Thorang La Pass (5,416 m/17,769 ft), also the highest pass in the world.
  • Witness the blend of Hinduism and Buddhism in the region with a visit to Muktinath, known for the 108 stone faucets, two kundas, and eternal flame.
  • Visit the Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in the Manag district, to get insights into Buddhist cultural practices in and around the area.

Introduction: Annapurna Round Trip

The Annapurna round-trip package is a well-planned and exciting trekking package. This Annapurna Circuit trek takes trekkers to the Annapurna region, located at the lap of the Himalayan region of Nepal. The Annapurna round trip offers an exclusive view of majestic peaks in the Annapurna region. The mountains include Machhapuchhare, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Hiunchuli, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, and Tukuche Peak.

The Annapurna Round Trip route involves walking through the rhododendron, oak, and alpine forests. Similarly, trekkers can pass through remote settlements, explore the landscapes, and get insights into the cultural way of life of the people living in these regions.

The area around Annapurna Circuit provides a similar experience as trekking to Everest Base Camp. It is an easier and more comfortable trek than traveling in the Everest region; hence, it is regarded as one of the world's top ten destinations for climbing, visiting, and trekking. The snow-capped mountains provide a sense of relaxation, excitement, completeness, and adrenaline while rejuvenating visitors embarking on the Annapurna circuit trek.

The trails are rugged, including steep and narrow paths. Trekkers encounter the Nepalese uphill, flat, and steep descent, challenging every fitness group. The world's deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki gorge, is also a major highlight on this Annapurna trekking map.

How is a typical day of Annapurna round-trip trekking?

Generally, trekkers begin the Annapurna trek from the capital city, Kathmandu, while waking most of the morning at around 7-8 A.M. However, on certain days, trekkers may have to wake up at about 3–4 a.m, depending upon the destination or purpose of the day.

Embarking with Nature Excursion, we prioritize good food as it is a crucial part of the trek. So, every morning starts with a fulfilling breakfast that will energize trekkers until they reach the lunch stop. The guides ensure that belongings, gear, and types of equipment are not left behind so that no item is lost. However, it is the responsibility of the trekkers to thoroughly check their goods before leaving the accommodation place.

Likewise, porters usually walk ahead of us to carry all your heavy goods. As porters walk ahead, it enables them to reach the next destination early and prepare for resting, including booking the accommodation place, exploring the dinner options, and checking the amenities of the rest spot.

As porters carry most of the goods, this gives us the idea to carry only the most essential items for a particular section of the Annapurna route. This plan will help make your journey in the Annapurna region reliable and relaxing. Also, the lunch spots for a typical day will be predetermined, while accommodation places might have a minimal chance to change in peak season or depending upon the amenities.

As the round Annapurna trip begins from Kathmandu, the trek passes through various settlements and ends with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Trekkers will have the opportunity to pass through notable locations like Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Manag, Yak Kharka, Thorang Phedii, Annapurna High Camp, Thorang La Pass, Marpha, Lete, Tatopani, Ghorepani, Hile, and finally Pokhara. Each of these locations is in the order of the trekking destinations.

Do you need a guide for the Annapurna Round trip? Can I trek alone?

Trekkers who want to trek to the Annapurna Circuit can do it alone without a guide. However, nature excursions and the team recommend embarking on the trek with an experienced guide. Having a guide on the journey will make the trip safer, more enjoyable, and more meaningful.

First, a guide knows the region, including the trails, people, name of the mountain, and structures. Guides know precisely which part of the section is difficult and when we can reach the destination while calculating your pace. Guides, especially those from Nature Excursions, can easily navigate the routes and trails. Guides tend to keep valuable information about the region's weather conditions, potential hazards, and safety measures, which all help in a hassle-free, safe trekking experience.

Similarly, our guides are from the region, enabling them to bond with the locals. Thus, they become a bridge between visitors and locals through communication, which ultimately helps trekkers learn more about the Himalayan region's local culture, tradition, and way of life.

On the other hand, guides can also assist in handling logistics at the check-post or hotels along the Annapurna route.  They can arrange accommodation, obtain necessary permits, manage transportation, and navigate challenging situations while preparing for emergencies.

Is the Annapurna round-trip trip difficult? And what are the chances of altitude sickness?

The Annapurna round trek is moderately to difficult trekking for beginners and experienced trekkers. Regarding physical fitness, it is the right choice for beginners who do not have prior trekking experience but are in good physical condition.

However, the Annapurna round-trip map has some problematic sections, which can be challenging yet fun. Some sections are manageable with flat terrain, but others are more rugged with steep ascents and descents. As the Annapurna region is in the Himalayan region of Nepal, trekkers reach a maximum altitude of 5,416 m (17,769 ft). Frequent weather conditions like sudden temperature changes, heavy snowfall, high-velocity wind, storms, and fog highly influence this high-altitude region.

So, due to these environmental factors, the Annapurna region needs proper planning, and application is required.

Similarly, as mentioned previously, the Annapurna trek lies in the Himalayan region. So, in this 18-day Annapurna round trip, the elevation gradually increases daily. This increase in altitude corresponds with a decrease in oxygen level, resulting in altitude sickness.

Trekkers will gain a maximum of 2,216 m (7,270 ft) during the overall trek, where they can be prone to acute mountain sickness (AMS) or altitude sickness. Staying hydrated and acclimating appropriately to the decreased oxygen level is advised to avoid altitude sickness. Our guides will constantly remind you to drink water and will navigate the whole journey while properly giving time for acclimatization. Similarly, any unusual response from the body must be shared with the guide.

What are the symptoms of Acute Mountain sickness?

The following are some of the early symptoms of altitude sickness: It is advised to study and understand these symptoms and recognize them before any complications:

  • Headache
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Difficulty in sleeping
  • Fatigue and Weakness

In severe forms, AMS can result in High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). If severe symptoms are experienced, it is essential to descend quickly to a lower altitude and seek medical attention.

18-Day Annapurna round-trip trek preparation

The Annapurna round-trek is only possible if proper preparation is done. Individuals willing to embark on this journey must have at least one month of prior experience. In 30 days, it is advised to go on a few hikes and do regular long walks. Avoid the use of lifts and always take stairs.

Similarly, cardio training like swimming, cycling, running, and jogging can help increase trek endurance. Weight training of at least 20–25 kg can also help, as the trekkers may need to carry bags if porters are not hired.

Despite physical fitness, one must also have mental strength. Your mentality is what primarily determines the success of the trip. We suggest fellow trekkers research the area, the type of trails, its present condition, the locals of the region, their culture and tradition, climate and rainfall patterns, types of food options, and available accommodation facilities. This will give you an overview of what to expect while on the trip, thus allowing you to be prepared for any unexpected changes.

What is the Annapurna Trek elevation and altitude profile?

The Annapurna trek begins at Kathmandu, which is at 1400 meters. The starting point of the trek is Jagat (1,920 m/4,232 ft). After Jagat, we moved towards Dharapani; after Dharapani, over six days, we moved towards Yark Kharka. The following day, we will reach the trek's highest point, Thorang Phedi, or High Camp. After Thorang Phedi, the journey moves towards the holy temple of Muktinath. This section is ultimately known to be the successful completion of the Thorang La pass. After Muktinath, we will continue the journey toward Marpha, followed by Lete. After Lete, we rejuvenated at Tatopani (Hot Spring), located at 1,200 m/3,940 ft. Similarly, the follow-back journey continues towards Poon Hill while finally reaching Pokhara to depart for Kathmandu. This marks the end of the trip.

Annapurna region trekking all-inclusive package for 2024/25 spring and autumn

There are several options to choose from in the Annapurna region, depending on personal interest or a customized itinerary. The Annapurna region package for the year 2024/25 during the spring and autumn are: Short Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek-14 days, Annapurna Circuit Budget Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek 7 Days, and Annapurna Base Camp with Helicopter Return 9 Days.

Similarly, the Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek 4 Days, Annapurna Base Camp Hike 9 Days, Khopra Dadha Trek 12 Days, Poon Hill Short Trek 13 Days and Mardi Himal Trek 9 Days are some other choices of interest for the on season.

What is the alternative Annapurna round-trip trek packages and other adventurous treks in Nepal?

The alternative to the Annapurna round-trip package can be the Everest Base Camp trek. Nature Excursion Pvt. Ltd. can recommend various travel packages that provide a similar trekking experience as the Annapurna round trip. Various trekking routes under various trekking regions are well-known to visitors, including the Everest View Trek 9 days, the 13 Day Gokyo Lake Trek, the Three High Pass Trek 19 days), the Gokyo Chola Pass Trek, and many more.

In the Manaslu and Mustang regions, the alternative trekking options can be the Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek 19 days or the Upper Mustang trek. Similarly, the trekking package in the Langtang region can be 15 Days Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu Trek, Tamang Heritage Trek 8 Days and Gosaikunda Lake Trekking 8 Days.

All in all, these packages portray the mountain range of the Himalayan region of Nepal with vibrant landscapes. Some of the prominent structures and settlements offer a chance to immerse yourself in the Nepalese way of life, which is a blend of culture, customs, traditions, and religion. Selecting any of the packages is an excellent choice for trekking, which will guarantee a safe, comfortable, and informative experience.

What are the benefits of Annapurna round-trip trekking with Nature Excursion?

  • Complimentary airport transportation according to the schedule.
  • Obtain hiking equipment for the trip, such as a duffel bag and down jacket, which should be returned after the expedition.
  • Using a first-aid kit and an oxygen meter when hiking.
  • Local porters and guides for mountains
  • Spick and span with well-prepared meals.
  • Trek certificate and t-shirt from Nature Excursion.
  • During the walk in the remote areas, use the satellite phone to communicate with the office staff.
  • In Kathmandu, extra luggage storage is free.
  • In an emergency, we will offer you rapid helicopter rescue and medical support (at your travel insurance company's expense).
  • Farewell dinner at the end of the hike.
Annapurna Round trip pictures and video
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT | TILICHO LAKE | POON HILL | TREK IN NEPAL

Itinerary

Day1

When you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, a Nature Excursion representative will pick you up in the arrival section. He or she will transfer you to your hotel in a private vehicle. After you arrive at the hotel, our team will help you with the check-in. Then, you will rest and meet up later in the evening for a short briefing about the trip.

As the meeting concludes, you will have dinner and rest at your accommodation. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day2

After breakfast, you will head for your trek in a private or shared vehicle towards Jagat via Besisashar. You will leave Kathmandu's urban city and enter Nepal's hilly, remote area. The drive will take you along the rivers and waterfalls. The hilly landscapes and traditional villages welcome you throughout the trip. Lunch will be served along the route in place of interest.

After six to seven hours of driving, you will arrive at Besisahar. Besisahar is a big village located in the Lamjung district of Nepal. Visitors here can see terraced paddy fields; however, it is mainly famous for its orange and spice orchard.

Day3

Go towards Dharapani after breakfast. Reaching Dharapani will take about 5 hours. We crossed a bridge to reach Tal village after departing from Jagat village. Several waterfalls adjoin the rivers with sandy beaches. The trek continues towards various rice and wheat fields to reach Kodo. Kodo is one of the biggest towns in Manang Valley. Kodo is also a suitable lunch spot where you can savor authentic cuisine in the Annapurna region. After lunch, move towards Dharapani by crossing a suspension bridge at Sun Khani. As you reach Dharapani, explore the area. This location is also the end point of the Manaslu region.

Settle in an accommodation place. Order some delicious cuisine for dinner and have a good night's rest. Stay overnight at Dharapani.

Day4

We will head towards Chame today, so take a fulfilling breakfast. After breakfast, we go through lush forests to reach Chame. Amazing views of the mountain peaks will surround you and you will be in the company of pine, maple, fir, and oak trees. The peaks include Annapurna IV, Lamjungpurna IV, Lamjung Himal, and many more. We pass through significant settlements in this section of the Annapurna round trek: Bagarchap, Danakyu, Timang, Thanchok, and Koto, to finally reach Chame. The walk is easy, and we will get good accommodation facilities. The dinner dishes are local at the accommodation place where we will spend the night.

Day5

We will leave Chame after a fulfilling breakfast and head to the Annapurna trail. Today we will pass through Teleku and cross a suspension bridge after departing from Chame village. You can see the views of Annapurna and Pisang Peak while you cross this bridge above the Marshyangdi River. After we reach the next side, we will have to climb uphill into the pine forests to reach Pisang. Pisang Village is well known for ancient Buddhist monasteries like Ghyaru Gompa and Barge Monasteries.

Similarly, the upper region of Pisang provides a beautiful view of Pisang and Chulu peaks. We will visit the upper region and move towards our accommodation place. We will then have dinner and rest overnight in Pisang village.

Day6

As the memorable day in Pisang ends and the next morning follows, we will continue the walk up to Manang today. After breakfast, we headed towards the upper Manang region of Annapurna. After passing Pisang, we will continue along the trails to reach Braga, a Tibetan village. Braga has its own unique characteristics, as there are houses constructed with remarkable architecture. We will cross other settlements, like Ghyaru and Ngawal, before reaching Braga, the last village before Manang. The walk is around 20km, which takes about 8–9 hours at an average pace.

Some people might stay at Braga, but the walk continues to Manang in this Annapurna round-trip itinerary. Upon reaching Manang, we are blessed with the views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho, Chulu West, and Chulu East. Most of the trek is steep, so proper rest is required after reaching Manang to prepare for the next day. You will spend the night in Manang.

Day7

Today is marked as the day of acclimatization in the Annapurna itinerary. This is an extra day to help adjust in the high-altitude region with low oxygen levels. However, acclimatization in Manang does allow for excursions in and around the area. We will arrange short-distance hikes toward Ice Lake. The locals in the area also call this lake Kicho Tal.

As Manang is at an altitude of 3540m, this hike will allow you to ascend to 4600m. Other activities that can be done while staying in Manang include visiting the Manang clinic to learn more about altitude sickness and the provisions to counter it. We can also see Tilicho Lake, Nepal's highest-altitude lake. Tilicho Lake alone is a popular trekking destination in the Annapurna area. Similarly, we can spend the day in the Tilicho hotel and savor some of the finest dishes available in the Annapurna region.

After reaching and exploring the lake, we will return to Manang, marking the acclimatization day's end. We will spend the night having a delicious meal and enjoying the cozy night at Manang.

Day8

This day is considered one of the shortest walking days in the Annapurna circuit trek. The roadways finally end, marking the start of the non-polluted zone. After having breakfast, we depart from Mananga and head into the lush juniper forests.

The mountain views, mules, and mountain yak welcome the visitors here. The elevation gain is around 400 meters, so a steady walk is recommended. The most prominent stop in this section of the route is Ghunsung.

After Ghunsung, the walk continues with spectacular views of snow-capped mountains. The path is gradual up and down, marked as an accessible route that lasts to Yak Kharka. In between the sections, we will cross various suspension bridges located at different heights.

Once we reach Yak Kharka, we will settle in a lodge or guesthouse where dinner is good. After dinner, we will rest and spend the night.

Day9

The day begins with breakfast. Today, we will walk to Thorang Phedi (4450 m) or High Camp (4880 m), depending upon the choice of walking hour. This is due to the drastic increase in elevation. The distance between Thorang Phedi and High Camp is only one and a half hours, but the elevation gain is more than 400 meters.

The decision to stay or continue the walk is a team choice, while a trekker's capability is considered. Similarly, Thorang Phedi is the last village before Thorang La Pass, with few settlements. In addition to previous mountains, we can view Khatungkang (6484m) from here. On the other hand, once we decide to move towards High Camp, the trail is challenging with steep and slippery rocks. However, the high camp can provide favorable acclimatization before conquering Thorang La Pass.

Day10

This is the tenth day of the Annapurna round trip and the most significant one. Today, we conquer the Thorang La Pass and move towards Muktinath. After breakfast, we will leave Thorang Phedi, or High Camp, and head towards Thorang La Pass. The trail is entirely covered in snow and can be slippery. The walk slowly moves higher, noticing the prayer flag over a hill that marks the Thorang La pass.

Upon reaching the top of the pass, click photos at the Thorong La pass signboard and watch marvelous views of Gangapurna, Annapurna, and Khatungkang. After crossing the pass, we descend to view Dhaulagiri. Now, the walk becomes relatively more straightforward until we reach Muktinath, where we spend the night.

Day11

After visiting the holy site of Muktinath, we descend back towards Ekle Bhatti. The walk continues for another two hours to finally reach Jomsom. Jomsom is another beautiful village located in the Annapurna Mountain region of Nepal, which is also the capital of the Mustang district.

Similarly, as we continue to walk past Jomsom for two hours, we reach Marpha. Upon reaching Marpha, we will stay in a comfortable teahouse or lodge where we will have a delicious dinner. After dinner, we rested and spent the night in Marpha.

Day12

We will leave Marpha today and head towards Lete after breakfast. We will walk along the banks of the Kali Gandaki River and head down towards Tukuche village. This descend shows portraits of the fantastic views of Tukuche Peak and Dhaulagiri. As we pass along the Tukuche village, we reach Larjung village after 1 hour. We will march into the pine and rhododendron forests and cross a suspension bridge over the Kali Gandaki River to finally reach Lete village. Observe Nilgiri, Annapurna I, and Dhaulagiri from Lete, where we will spend the night.

Day13

After breakfast, we continued our descent from the Annapurna map into the rugged, arid region. Starting off, we pass through pine or conifer forests surrounded by valleys and Annapurna ranges. Following the previous trekking trail, we reached Ghasa village. The Thakali people and the prevailing Thakali culture inhabit this village.

After Ghasa, we can see the agricultural terrain and farmlands while reaching Tatopani (a hot spring). We will then have a short break for rejuvenation and relaxation to comprehend the difficulty of the Annapurna round-trip trek. After a quality time in Tatopni, we visit the Rupsi waterfall and spend the night in Tatopani.

Day14

After breakfast, the return journey continues towards Ghorepani. The elevation, however, ascends from 1190m to 2750m. Ascending to Ghorepani, we walk through the rhododendron forests, which offer a mesmerizing view and lusty aroma during the spring season. The mountain views incorporated with rhododendron forest are a sight to see.

Similarly, as we reach Ghorepani, we can observe the Annapurna and Machhapuchre ranges. Macchapucchre, which means fishtail, is a holy peak that resembles the Hindu god Lord Shiva. Thus, climbing this mountain is forbidden in Nepal. We will spend the night and have dinner in Ghorepani.

Day15

Today we will have an early morning trek. So, we have our breakfast or carry a packed one. Once all that is done, we move towards Poon Hill to watch the sunrise. The duration of the walk can range from 4-5 hours, depending on the speed. We climb the uphills of Poon Hill just in time to witness the golden sunrise. This is by far the best place to view the sunrise in Nepal. As the sun comes up the horizon, the golden color shades the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, as well as many other snow-capped peaks.

This brings a sense of peace and serenity to every individual. After watching the sunrise and spending quality time on Poon Hill, we continue the journey towards Hile. The photographs showcase the unforgettable experience as we head towards Hile to spend the night.

Day16

Today, we leave Hile and follow the downward trail towards Nayapul. The trek is relatively easy and faster. As we return, we follow the same trail through the forests. We revisited the same traditional village and passed several waterfalls. Upon reaching Nayapul, we find the nearest bus station or hire a private vehicle to head towards Pokhara.

Upon reaching Pokhara, we have a night stroll around the lakeside. We will try out various delicious cuisines and settle into an accommodation to spend the night in Pokhara.

Day17

Today, we head back to Kathmandu, a 6-7 hour's drive from Pokhara. We can also take a domestic flight to Pokhara. After reaching Kathmandu, you can have quality time in the evening. Buy souvenirs, revisit Kathmandu, and have a farewell dinner. This marks the end of the Annapurna Round Trip in Nepal. You will spend your final night in Kathmandu.

Day18

Nature Excursion, and the team will prepare to transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure to the respective country. Nature Excursion wishes you the best of luck in your future endeavors, with the hope of meeting again.

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Cost Details
Includes
  • Free airport pick-up and drop-off services during the arrival and departure dates
  • Transportation costs from Kathmandu to Jagat via besisahar on a local bus (trek start point), Nayapul to Pokhara on a private transport, and to Kathmandu on a tourist deluxe bus (Pokhara to Kathmandu flight option with an additional cost).
  • 2-night hotel in Kathmandu with complimentary breakfast (3 stars or similar)
  • 1 night hotel in Pokhara with complimentary breakfast
  • All mountain-based standard twin sharing rooms during the Annapurna Round Trek
  • Full-board meals 3 times (14 breakfasts, 15 lunches, and 14 dinners—the main course from the menu) during the trek
  • Government-licensed, English-speaking 'Nature Excursions experienced native guide with his meal, salary, transportation, insurance, and other necessary equipment (you will get an assistant trek guide group of 6 or more trekkers)
  • Sherpa/Porter to help your luggage (1 porter for two trekkers, luggage weight limit is 10 kg per trekker)
  • Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card fees
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees
  • Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruit every evening as per the availability during the Annapurna Round Trek
  • Water purification tablets for safe drinking water
  • The guide is carrying a basic medical kit box.
  • An Oximeter to measure your pulse and oxygen level
  • All government, local taxes, and official expenses
  • Down jacket, sleeping bag, and duffle bag as per your request (has to return after the trek completion)
  • Free company t-shirt and certificate
  • Emergency rescue plans (with associated costs that your travel insurance should pay for)
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at Nepali Cultural Restaurant after the trek completion (complimentary)
Excludes
  • International flight costs
  • Nepal entry visa fee at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) (15 days USD 25–30, 30 days USD 40–50, and 90 days USD 100–110)
  • All meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara except farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a Nepali cultural restaurant
  • Extra-night hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara except farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses, such as shopping, hot and cold drinks (tea-coffee, coke/Fanta/sprite/juice), hard drinks (beer/wine/vodka), hot shower, laundry, massage, Wi-Fi, battery recharge, an extra porter, etc.
  • Personal clothing and gear
  • Travel insurance, which has to cover high-altitude emergency rescue and evacuation
  • Additional costs due to delays caused by circumstances beyond our control, like landslides, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, weather conditions, illness, changes in government policies, and strikes
  • All the costs and expenses which are not listed in the include section
  • Tips for guide and porter (expected)

Clients Reviews

  • Thrilling Adventure with Nature Excursion in Nepal!

    I recently embarked on an adventure tour with Nature Excursion in Nepal, and it surpassed all expectations! The professional guides were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience throughout.

    Nature Excursion offers a diverse range of activities that cater to all skill levels. From mountain treks to relaxing dips in hot water springs, every moment was filled with excitement and adrenaline. Their attention to detail in logistics, including accommodations and meals, was commendable.

    What sets Nature Excursion apart is their commitment to environmental conservation. They promote responsible tourism and encourage participants to minimize their impact on the natural beauty of Nepal. I highly recommend Nature Excursion for an unforgettable adventure. Can't wait to join them again in the future!

    Omar Al Zeidi
    Omar Al ZeidiOmanJul 08, 2023
    TripAdvisor
  • Life-changing experience in Nepal with Karan

    Karan was an amazing guide, helping me overcome my fear of heights along the Annapurna Circuit, and making sure I arrived safely whatever it took. He was caring, expert, knowledgable, and most of all - fun! I would recommend Karan to anyone wanting a life-changing trekking experience in Nepal.

    Simon S
    Simon SAustraliaJun 13, 2023
    TripAdvisor
Useful Information

What is the best time to trek to Annapurna on a round trip?

Annapurna Round Trip's best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is stable, and the climate is mild, enabling a comfortable walk. These are considered the peak seasons for trekking in the Annapurna region. The lush alpine and rhododendron forests come in full bloom, adding extra beauty to the trekking experience. The skies become clear with majestic views of snowcapped mountains, which will be the significant highlight of the season.

Similarly, the Annapurna Round trip in winter is also possible. However, this season is considered problematic for trekking in Nepal and is not recommended. Trekking during the winter season requires detailed logistical preparation. The weather in this season is rather extreme, with day temperatures ranging from 5 to 10 degrees Celsius and night temperatures as low as 20 degrees Celsius. Surviving in this low temperature can be a challenge yet exciting. Nature Excursion recommends traveling during spring and autumn to have the best trekking experience; however, traveling in winter is difficult but can be arranged upon prior request.

What meals and food options are available on the Annapurna round trip?

There are pretty decent food options at Annapurna Circuit. The options range from Western varieties to Nepali, Indian, and Tibetan dishes. The typical and renowned Nepali dish, Dal Bhat, can always be a go-to lunch option. Dal Bhat (rice and lentil soup) is a trekker meal.

The breakfast option can be higher than the lunch option in Annapurna. The breakfast menu includes cheese, honey, Tibetan bread or chapati, oatmeal, cornflakes, eggs, pancakes, muesli, and French toast with jam.

Dinner and lunch options are similar, including dishes like Mo: Mo, roti, soups, Thukpa, Chowmein, and many more.

Travel Visa and Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits

Obtaining a Nepali visa is quite an easy and quick process, except for peak tourist season. You can get an "on arrival" visa from immigration offices under the Department of Immigration. To avoid the peak season hassle, you can also consider getting a visa for Nepal from Nepalese diplomatic missions stationed abroad.

This on-arrival visa, also known as a tourist visa, requires you to enter Nepal within six months from the issue date. Similarly, the duration of a visa can range from 15 to 90 days, and your total stay in Nepal is counted from the day you enter Nepal.

You will need to fill out the application form and provide a copy of your passport with a passport-size photo for the visa application. Along with that, you will need to submit a certain amount of money in US dollars or any other convertible currency. The cost of an application can be different for different nationals as well as based on length of stay.

Note: An on-arrival visa is not granted to citizens of some nations, such as Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Iraq, Ethiopia, and Afghanistan. Therefore, before leaving your country, be sure to check the status of your visa.

Along with the tourist visa, you will also need a TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit to enter the Annapurna region or trek on the Annapurna round trip. The team from Nature Excursion can handle all the logistics regarding the permits for the Annapurna trek. Similarly, no cost is added for these permits as the permit service is included in our Annapurna round trip.

For a better understanding, the cost of permits for the round trip to Annapurna is summarized below:

Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit Cost:

Nepali rupees 3,000 per person for foreign nationals

Nepali rupees 1,000 per person for SAARC nationals

Nepali Rupees 100 for Nepali citizens

TIMS card cost:

Nepali Rupees 1,000 per person for foreign nationals
Nepali rupees 300 per person for SAARC nationals
No TIMS card is needed for Nepali citizens

What is the procedure for last-minute booking? Is last-minute booking available?

Sometimes, there can be last-minute bookings for Annapurna round trips due to some inconvenience, which is natural. Therefore, we at Nature Excursion can also handle last-minute bookings for any Annapurna trekking package. To follow the last-minute booking, send us the booking request and make full payment from our website. However, if you are already in Kathmandu, Nepal, you can contact us by email or phone or pay us a visit at our office. This enables us to understand the nature of the trip and clear up any doubts.

Similarly, visitors must know that a last-minute booking demands full payment, and canceling it will not make you liable for any refund.

Things to Know Before joining the Annapurna Round Trip in Nepal

Airport pickup/drop: A representative from Nature Excursion will be at the airport before your arrival. The representative will hold the arrival card (name-plate) with your details for meeting convenience. They will carry your luggage and transfer you to your predetermined hotel in a private vehicle.

Similarly, on the day of departure, Nature Excursion will handle all the logistics, including flight booking, luggage handling, and shopping directories. They will help you transfer from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport on the date of departure. This service is free of charge as per our Annapurna round-trip itinerary.

Charging: Solar or electric charging facilities are found all along the Annapurna route. In the lower region, this service can sometimes be free (mostly paid); however, in the higher-altitude region, you have to pay for electricity compulsorily. Electricity in the Annapurna round trip is costly and may need to be done in the hotel or teahouse lobby.

Due to this struggle, it is advised to carry power banks, spare batteries, and solar batteries to charge your devices if you want to lower your Annapurna round-trip cost.

Communication and Internet: The Annapurna round trek is a remarkable journey in the remote area of Nepal. While the Annapurna area seems fascinating, it is still located in a remote, high-altitude region. Due to this, the Annapurna round trip might be a struggle for communication and the Internet. There are internet and communication possibilities in significant sections of the Annapurna route; however, in high altitudes and certain areas, it can become a problem.

Likewise, you can access the Internet in hotels and lodges with Wi-Fi facilities. However, this service comes with a cost. You may need to pay around USD 2 to USD 5, depending upon the location of your stay.

Note that you can use a Nepali tourist SIM card, which offers data packs for the Internet. This can be useful if you aim for low-budget Annapurna trekking, but the network may not always be stable. Similarly, some sections on the Annapurna map may not have any connections.

Luggage: The maximum trekker limit for the Annapurna region, including the Annapurna round trip, Annapurna Circuit trip, and Annapurna Base Camp trip, is 10 kg/22 pounds. So, we recommend packing only the necessary or most essential items. Be sure to carry heavy clothes to protect you from the winter and duffle bags. Other essentials can be held in a daypack.

Tip: Tipping is a part of Nepali culture. Our porters and experienced guides who assist you in this exciting adventure can't rely on their salary only. The amount of risk and management they bear is not comparable to any money's worth. However, tipping them can help them sustain themselves financially in this business field. We recommend tipping the guides during or after the Annapurna trip for their service.

Is the Annapurna round-trip trip safe?

We at Nature Excursion are very strict in terms of safety. This is our top priority, and our guides and porters are well-trained to handle unforeseen circumstances. The condition of the trail encounter with a wild animal, the necessity of proper equipment, and all other safety factors are considered while on an Annapurna trek with Nature Excursion. Annapurna is not a dangerous trek. However, proper preparation is necessary for any high-altitude trek.

Annapurna round trip vs. Everest Base Camp Trekking

Comparing the Annapurna round trip and Everest Base Camp, they both involve high-altitude trekking. Annapurna round trip has the highest altitude of 5,416 at Thorang-La Pass, and the elevation level of the Everest Base Camp trek is 5,644 m. Annapurna Trek and Everest Trek are considered moderately difficult treks. But they each have their own challenges. The highest point in the Everest region trek is Kalapatthar.

Visitors can witness the majestic eight thousanders like Lhotse and Mount Everest in the Khumbu region. Likewise, individuals are welcomed by the Annapurna range, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Dhaulagiri, and Himchuli Himal. Trekkers highly favor both of these trekking options, and one can be a substitute for the other. This is because they both provide equal trekking experiences and are as mesmerizing as one another.

Group or private booking for Annapurna Round Trek

At Nature Excursion, we are well experienced in handling groups or private individuals. There is no bias for a group of up to 30 people or a single individual. We are devoted to providing services to every one of them equally. The safety procedure, the information, the experience, and the memories are distributed equally among them.

However, there are some advantages to booking in groups, like the division of costs, which aids in budget reduction, and the easy availability of accommodation, as the owners of teahouses and lodges may favor groups rather than a single individual in peak season.

That being said, our company manages everything to give you comfortable and hassle-free trekking for private and group bookings.

Equipments

HEAD

  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Winter hat, insulating hat or wide-brimmed hat
  • Headlight with extra battery

FACE

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglass with UV protection
  • Face and body wipes

HANDS

  • Lightweight gloves
  • Lightweight winter gloves

BODY

  • Hiking shirt
  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Hooded rain jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Lightweight cotton pants
  • T-shirt (bring lightweight wool)
  • Polypropylene underwear
  • Down jacket (available for rent in Kathmandu)
  • Sweater
  • Waterproof jacket and pants

FOOTWEAR

  • Hiking boots
  • Thick wool socks (take an extra pair of thick wool socks)

ESSENTIAL GEARS

  • Backpack or day back (size depends on whether you take a porter or not.)
  • Thermal bottle
  • Water purification
  • Trekking pole
  • Sleeping bag (a sleeping bag is best in high-altitude trekking)

TOILETRIES

  • Medium-size drying towel
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Biodegradable bar soap
  • Nail clippers

PERSONAL ACCESSORIES

  • Money
  • Watch
  • Cell phone
  • Camera

EXTRA ITEMS

  • First aid kit
  • Extra password photos and photocopies of password
  • Notebook and pen
  • Binoculars
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