Annapurna Circuit Trek 13 Days Itinerary and Cost 2023
One of the most economically pleasing countries to visit is indeed Nepal. Blessed as the kingdom of trekking, Nepal has a number of trekking destinations where you backpack and have a wonderful time around. Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most iconic trekking destinations in Nepal that takes you on a journey through the remote Tibetan Narphu Region where you would be exploring the lush foothills of the Tibetan Buddhist settlements.
The glorious combination of the long array of snow-capped mountain peaks intensified by the iconic reflection of those on the crystal clear lakes and hot springs, Annapurna Circuit Trek is everything you want on a perfectly poised trekking adventure that gives you the true essence of trekking and traveling. From the road to the mountains, Annapurna Circuit Trek has it all to wow you being one of the top ten treks to do in Nepal.
Few place in the world such a splendid variety of natural beauty as the Annapurna region. It is rare combination of long array of snow capped peaks, crystal clear lakes, turbulent rivers with deep gorges, hot springs and picturesque villages inhabited by simple and friendly local people. This three-week trek takes you far way from the road, in to the heart of the high mountains.
It is said that Annapurna Circuit/Round trek is one of the famous trekking routes in the world. The trek around the Annapurna Massif is one of the finest in the Himalayas and is regularly described as one of the top ten treks in the world It is observed that about 64% of the trekkers who come every years Nepal for trekking visit Annapurna regions of Nepal. So it is the most trekked area of Nepal. Annapurna area/region offers a great variety of beautiful landscapes, nature & culture of the central Himalayan area of Nepal with the best & splendid Himalayan panorama of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Fishtail, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Hiun Chuli, Mt. Dhawalagiri, Mt. Gangapurna and several other mid western Himalayan ranges of Nepal . From the heights of the pass we descend to Muktinath and its sacred Buddhist and Hindu Shrines. Further south, the contrasts of the Nepal Himalaya become even more apparent, as high windswept passes are replaced by forests, or mandarin and banana groves. Finally we trek out of the gorges and look back to the peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, before traversing the forest ridges down to Pokhara.
On the way we would have passed through every type of vegetation zone from lush sub-tropical to harsh semi-desert and passed over one of the highest trekking passes in the world (5416m.). We will have entered a world without roads or cars and witnessed the way people have worked, played and survived for hundreds and hundreds of years. We would have essentially walked through a time warp coming out the other side with a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world we live in.
Where is the Annapurna Circuit Trek located?
The Annapurna Circuit is located in the central part of Nepal. The total distance of the Annapurna Circuit varies between 160 and 230 kilometers (100-145 miles), depending on the options one chooses to trek.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Elevation and altitude
The highest point of the Annapurna Circuit trek is Thorong La Pass, also known as Thorung La. It is situated at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level. The pass is a significant highlight of the trek and marks the highest point reached during the journey.
Annapurna Circuit Trek in Autumn (Sept – Nov)
Autumn seasons is one of the best times to do the Annapurna Circuit trek. It brings pleasant and stable weather conditions to the region. Days are usually sunny with clear visibility, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The trails are relatively dry and stable during autumn, as the monsoon season has ended. This makes trekking easier and safer compared to other times of the year. The temperatures during the day are moderate, ranging from 10 to 20 °C (50 to 68 °F) in lower altitudes. However, at higher elevations, especially near Thorong La Pass, temperatures can drop below freezing, so wear proper warm clothes.
Annapurna Circuit Trek in Winter (Dec- Feb)
Trekking to the Annapurna Circuit in winter offers a unique experience with beautiful snowy landscapes and fewer crowds but it requires more caution and preparation due to the presence of snow and icy conditions. The trails can be slippery, especially in shaded areas or during early mornings. Winter trekking in the Annapurna Circuit demands extra caution and preparation. It's essential to be well-equipped with appropriate cold-weather clothing. During the daytime, temperatures in lower altitudes can range from 5 to 10 °C (41 to 50°F). However, at higher elevations and near Thorong La Pass, temperatures can drop well below freezing, often reaching -10 to -15°C (14 to 5°F) or even lower.
Annapurna Circuit Trek in Spring (March- May)
Spring seasons is one of the most preferable seasons to undertake the Annapurna circuit trek. The clear weather in spring offers spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. You can enjoy breathtaking vistas of towering peaks, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, and terraced fields. The hillsides and valleys are beautify with vibrant rhododendron flowers, creating a stunning visual display. In spring, days are generally warm, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 °C (50 to 68°F) in lower altitudes. As you ascend to higher elevations, temperatures during the day can range from 5 to 15 °C (41 to 59°F). Nights are cool but not excessively cold, with temperatures averaging around 5 to 10 °C (41 to 50 °F).
Annapurna Circuit Trek in Monsoon (June to August)
The monsoon season in Nepal brings frequent rainfall, particularly in the afternoons and evenings. The trails can become muddy and slippery, making trekking more challenging. Daytime temperatures in lower altitudes range from 15 to 25 °C (59 to 77°F), but humidity levels can be high. At higher elevations, temperatures can drop to around 5 to 15 °C (41 to 59°F) during the day and lower at night. Because of the heavy rainfall, it impact the trail conditions and there will high chance of landslides and avalanches. Monsoon season is known as the off-season for trekking in the Annapurna region. You can expect fewer trekkers on the trail. It requires careful planning, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace the challenges that come with the weather conditions to trek in Annapurna circuit in monsoon seasons.
Important Notes for 13 days Annapurna Circuit Trek
- While booking, we need the photocopy of your passport and you have to pay us a minimum of 10% payment of the total cost as advance.
- Beverages, snacks, charging electronic devices, hot showers, Wi-Fi are not included in our packages, so you have to pay additional cash.
- It is preferable to pack your bag lightly because porters will only carry your 15-20kg luggage
- You should have comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking activities including medical expenses and emergency evacuation.
- Carry a reusable water bottle and use water purification tablets like iodine, aquatabs tablets.
- If you want to return back to Pokhara from the Annapurna Circuit trek by helicopter, you will be charged with extra costs around 500$.
- Pack your clothes according to the seasonal basis.
- Annapurna Circuit trek is a moderate to challenging trek which requires a certain level of physical fitness so, it is recommended to prepare with cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking.
- You should carry enough cash in Nepalese rupees as ATMs may not be available in remote areas.
- We suggest you not to book your international flights early as there may be sudden change in weather which will make your flights delay or even cancel.
Conclusion
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the top trekking destinations in Nepal. Being a popular trek to try, it receives a high number of trekkers every year. By far one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking regions, Annapurna Region is a must-visit area. Come over to the land of the Himalayas and fall in love with the most exquisite natural beauty and embrace nature’s hug. Welcome Nepal Treks welcomes everyone to the kingdom of trekking where you would not see tall buildings but a place that dwells in the proximity of nature’s purity.
