Skip to main content

Annapurna Circuit Trek FAQs: Essential Questions and Answers

22 April 2025

Planning a Trip to Nepal?

Planning a Trip to Nepal?

Invalid Input
Invalid Input
Invalid Input
Invalid Input
Invalid Input
everest base camp trek acclimatization and safety

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most iconic and diverse treks in Nepal—and the world. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure,looping around the massive Annapurna Massif. Over the years, the trek has evolved,with better infrastructure, changing weather patterns, and new trekking regulations.

If you are planning to embark on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, here is a complete FAQs guide answering all the most common (and uncommon) questions—so you are well-prepared for the adventure of a lifetime.

1. What is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a long-distance trekking route in central Nepal that circles the Annapurna mountain range. Traditionally, the route stretched from Besisahar in the east to Nayapul in the west, covering 160–230 km (100–145 miles) depending on the start and end points.

  • It is known for:
    • Diverse landscapes (subtropical forests, alpine zones, high mountains, and arid deserts)
    • Crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,769 ft), the highest point of the trek
    • Incredible views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare, and more
    • Passing through authentic Nepali villages, Tibetan settlements, monasteries, and Himalayan temples

2. How long does the Annapurna Circuit Trek take in 2025?

The duration depends on your itinerary and physical condition. Here is a general breakdown:

    • Standard itinerary: 14–18 days
    • Short version (with jeep rides/skip segments): 10–12 days
    • Extended version (including Tilicho Lake or Annapurna Base Camp Trek): 20+days

    Note: New roads have been built along parts of the trail (especially around Muktinath and Manang), so you can tailor your trek accordingly.

3. When is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

  • Best seasons (2025):
    • Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures, clear skies, rhododendrons in bloom.
    • Autumn (September to November): Stable weather, crystal-clear views, popular among trekkers.
  • Shoulder seasons:
    • Winter (December to February): Fewer trekkers, snow on high passes; Thorong La can be closed.
    • Monsoon (June to August): Rainfall, landslides, leeches in lower areas; avoid unless experienced.

Top Tip: With global weather patterns shifting, late March and early November have become increasingly popular due to more stable weather and fewer crowds.

4. Do I need a guide or porter?

As of April 1, 2023, the Nepal Tourism Board requires a licensed guide for all
trekkers on most Nepal Trekking routes, such as Everest Trek, Langtang Trek also the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

  • Benefits of hiring a guide:
    • Enhanced safety, especially at high altitudes
    • Better cultural insight and communication with locals
    • Navigation through changing trail routes and road segments

    Porters are optional but highly recommended if you are carrying heavy gear.

5. What permits do I need in 2025?

  • You need two main permits:
    1. TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) – NPR 2,000,(around $15–20 USD)
    2. ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) – NPR 3,000 (around $23–25 USD)
    Note: Your guide or trekking agency usually arranges these.

6. Is altitude sickness a real risk?

Yes. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a genuine risk, especially when crossing Thorong La Pass.

  • Symptoms include:
    • Headache
    • Dizziness
    • Nausea
    • Fatigue
    • Loss of appetite
  • Prevention tips:
    • Ascend slowly (max 500m per day after 3,000m)
    • Acclimatize in Manang (rest day recommended)
    • Stay hydrated
    • Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills
    • Consider taking Diamox (acetazolamide) if recommended by your doctor

7. How fit do I need to be?

You do not need to be an athlete, but a moderate to high level of fitness is necessary. Expect to walk 5–8 hours a day on varied terrain.

  • Recommended preparation:
    • Cardio: Running, swimming, cycling
    • Leg strength: Hiking with a loaded backpack
    • Altitude training (if available)
    • Practice multi-day hikes before your trip

8. What gear do I need?

  • Essential gear checklist:
    • Trekking boots (broken in)
    • Layers (base, insulating, outer shell)
    • Down jacket (essential above 3,000m)
    • Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C / 14°F or lower)
    • Trekking poles
    • Headlamp
    • Water purification (tablets, SteriPEN)
    • Quick-dry clothing
    • Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm (UV intense at altitude)
    • First aid kit

    Packing tip: Keep your pack under 12kg if possible. Porters are allowed to carry a max of 20–25kg.

9. Is there Wi-Fi or phone signal on the trail?

  • Yes—but it's sporadic.
    • Wi-Fi is available in most villages (often paid).
    • Mobile signal (mainly Ncell and NTC) is available in lower and mid-altitude areas.
    • No signal zones: High mountain passes and remote areas like between Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi.

    Tip: Buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

10. What are accommodations like?

You will stay in teahouses—local lodges offering basic rooms and meals.

  • Expect:
    • Twin rooms with shared toilets
    • Common dining area with a stove for warmth
    • Hot showers (extra fee)
    • Simple but hearty meals (dal bhat, pasta, fried rice, pancakes, etc.)

    Charging devices: Available in most teahouses (expect to pay ~100–300 NPR per hour)

11. What’s the cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in 2025?

Costs can vary widely depending on comfort level and route, but here’s a general breakdown:

Item Cost(USD)
Permits (TIMS + ACAP) ~$40–50
Guide (per day) $25–35
Porter (per day) $20–25
Accommodation (per night) $3–10
Meals (per day) $20–30
Transport (to/from trailhead) $20–50
Total (14–18 days) $700–1200

Budget travelers can go lower; those seeking more comfort can spend more.

12. How do I get to the start and end points of the trek?

  • Starting points:
    • Besisahar: Traditional starting point (7–8 hrs from Kathmandu by bus/jeep)
    • Jagat/Chame: Many now start here to skip the road section (requires jeep hire)
  • Ending points:
    • Jomsom: Can fly or drive back to Pokhara
    • Tatopani/Nayapul: Trek ends with hot springs or Poon Hill views
    • Pokhara: Most trekkers end their journey here for rest and relaxation

13. Can I customize the route?

  • Absolutely. You can:
  • Ending points:
    • Jomsom: Can fly or drive back to Pokhara
    • Tatopani/Nayapul: Trek ends with hot springs or Poon Hill views
    • Pokhara: Most trekkers end their journey here for rest and relaxation

14. What about environmental impact and ethical travel?

    • Bring a reusable water bottle and purify water
    • Avoid plastic bottles—they’re a major waste issue on the trail
    • Support local lodges and businesses
    • Tip guides and porters appropriately (typically 10–15% of trek cost)

    Help preserve the beauty of the Himalayas by leaving no trace.

15. Will I need crampons for this trek?

In general, crampons are not required for this trek if you are trekking during the season. But if you want to do the trek during mid-winter or monsoon season then crampons may be required. You will really not know what conditions you will encounter on the trekking trail until you get there, so it is better having your crampons and not using it rather than needing it and not having it if required.

16. Is the Annapurna Circuit still worth it in 2025?

Despite the new roads, the Annapurna Circuit remains one of the best long-distance treks in the world. If you plan your route wisely—avoiding busy road sections and embracing the quieter trails—it still delivers unmatched diversity in landscape, culture, and trekking experience.

In addition to Annapurna Circuit Trek, there are many other equally fabulous treks in Annapurna Trek region :

Final Words

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a journey of discovery—of yourself, of the land, and of the people who call the Himalayas home. With the right preparation and a spirit of adventure, this trek can be a life-changing experience.

CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS at 977-9841416722 / 977-9841389464 (available on Whatsapp) or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to make your tour, trekking and expedition bookings for 2025/2026.

Blogs From The Himalayas