Annapurna Circuit Trek: The Complete 2025 Guide

Essential Information About the Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek is considered one of the most legendary and diverse treks in the world. Located in the heart of Nepal, this iconic route takes you through an incredible variety of landscapes: from lush subtropical rice paddies to traditional villages, from rhododendron forests to alpine deserts, culminating in crossing the Thorong La Pass, one of the world's highest trekking passes at 5,416 meters altitude.

Key Figures of the Annapurna Trek

• Duration: 12 to 18 days on average
• Distance: ~160-230 km depending on start and end points
• Maximum altitude: 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass)
• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (accessible with good physical condition)
• Best period: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November)
• Trek type: Lodge-based (teahouses) or camping
• Guide mandatory: ⚠️ Since 2023, a certified guide is MANDATORY for the Annapurna trek (restricted area)
• Required permits: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) and TIMS Card

This trek offers total immersion in Himalayan culture, with discovery of Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali villages, Buddhist monasteries, and spectacular views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhare peaks.

Detailed Annapurna Circuit Itinerary

The classic Annapurna Circuit itinerary is generally followed counterclockwise, from Besisahar to Jomsom, allowing for better gradual acclimatization to altitude.

Day-by-Day Itinerary Table

Possible Variants and Extensions

Tilicho Lake Detour: Add 2-3 days to visit Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), one of the world's highest altitude lakes. This extension is done from Manang and requires good acclimatization.

Short option: Some trekkers start at Chame or Manang to reduce the trek duration to 7-10 days.

When to Go? Best Season for the Annapurna Trek

Choosing the right period is crucial to fully enjoy your Annapurna trek.

Spring (March - May) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Advantages:

• Pleasant temperatures (10-20°C during the day at low altitude)
• Spectacular rhododendron blooms (April-May)
• Excellent visibility on the peaks
• Friendly atmosphere with many trekkers

Disadvantages:

• More crowded trails
• Slightly higher prices
• Still cold temperatures at altitude (-10 to -15°C at night at Thorong La)

Autumn (October - November) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Advantages:

• Clear skies and exceptional visibility
• Ideal temperatures (15-20°C during the day at low altitude)
• After monsoon, nature is lush
• Most popular and safe period

Disadvantages:

• Lodges quickly fully booked (booking recommended)
• Many trekkers on the circuit
• High season rates

Winter (December - February) ⭐⭐

The trek remains possible but becomes much more demanding:

• Intense cold, especially at altitude (-20 to -25°C at the pass)
• Risk of Thorong La closure in case of snowstorm
• Some high-altitude lodges closed
• Reserved for experienced trekkers

Monsoon (June - September) ⭐

Not recommended for beginners:

• Frequent and intense rains
• Muddy and slippery trails
• Leeches in low areas
• Limited visibility on peaks
• Risk of landslides

Difficulty Level and Physical Preparation

What Does "Moderate to Difficult" Mean?

The Annapurna Circuit trek is classified as moderate to difficult for several reasons:

• Long walking days: 5 to 10 hours per day for 10-18 consecutive days
• Significant elevation gain: Cumulative ascents and descents of several thousand meters
• High altitude: Crossing Thorong La at 5,416 m requires gradual acclimatization
• Variable conditions: Changing weather, extreme temperatures at altitude
• Technical trails: Some passages are rocky and steep

Physical Preparation Program

3 months before departure:

1. Cardiovascular endurance:
   • Running: 3-4 times per week (30-60 minutes)
   • Cycling or swimming: 2 times per week
   • Goal: be able to run 10 km without difficulty
2. Strength training:
   • Squats and lunges for legs
   • Core exercises for back and abs
   • 2-3 sessions per week
3. Training hikes:
   • Start with 4-5h hikes with elevation gain
   • Gradually increase up to 6-8h
   • Wear your backpack loaded (8-10 kg)
   • Favor varied terrain (uphill, downhill, rocks)
4. Acclimatization:
   • If possible, do a high-altitude hike before departure
   • Arrive a few days early in Kathmandu to adjust

Preventing Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

AMS is the main risk of the Annapurna trek. It can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Persistent headaches
• Nausea and loss of appetite
• Dizziness and extreme fatigue
• Sleep disturbances
• Shortness of breath at rest

Effective prevention:

✅ Climb gradually: Follow the "climb high, sleep low" rule - don't gain more than 500 m altitude per night above 3,000 m

✅ Acclimatization day in Manang: NEVER skip this crucial step

✅ Hydration: Drink 3-4 liters of water per day

✅ Walk slowly: "Pole pole" (slowly in Nepali) - conserve your energy

✅ Avoid alcohol and tobacco at altitude

✅ Preventive medication: Diamox can be prescribed by your doctor (take 24h before ascending to altitude)

⚠️ In case of severe symptoms: Descend immediately! Descent is the only effective treatment.

Why a Guide is Mandatory for the Annapurna Trek?

⚠️ Important information: Since April 2023, the Nepalese government has made the presence of a certified guide mandatory for all treks in restricted areas, including the Annapurna circuit. This regulation aims to ensure trekker safety and preserve the environment.

Advantages of an Experienced Guide

Safety and local expertise:

• Perfect knowledge of trails, weather conditions, and risk areas
• Optimal acclimatization management and mountain sickness prevention
• Responsiveness in case of medical emergency or logistical problem
• Communication with rescue services if necessary

Enriched cultural experience:

• Explanations about traditions, history, and Himalayan spirituality
• Authentic exchanges with local communities (Gurung, Manangi, Thakali)
• Discovery of little-known places off the beaten path
• Translation and facilitation of interactions

Comfort and serenity:

• Management of lodge bookings (crucial in high season)
• Organization of meals adapted to your needs
• Obtaining mandatory permits (ACAP, TIMS)
• Simplified transport and logistics

Why Choose a Certified Guide with Zamzam Experience?

Zamzam Experience works exclusively with certified, experienced, and English-speaking Nepalese guides:

✅ Certified guides: Official training from the Nepalese government and first aid certification

✅ High altitude expertise: Specialized support for crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)

✅ English proficiency: Guides speaking fluent English for smooth communication

✅ In-depth knowledge: Years of experience on the Annapurna circuit

✅ Responsible approach: Respect for local communities and environmental commitment

✅ Flexibility: Itinerary adapted to your pace and desires

What's Included with an Organized Trek

By choosing complete organization with Zamzam Experience, you benefit from comprehensive coverage:

• Certified English-speaking guide throughout the trek
• Porter (optional) to lighten your bag
• All mandatory permits (ACAP, TIMS)
• Accommodation in comfortable lodges (teahouses)
• Meals during the trek (full board possible)
• Ground transfers (Kathmandu-Besisahar, Jomsom-Pokhara)
• 24/7 assistance before, during, and after the trek
• Insurance for guide and Nepalese team

💡 Request a personalized quote according to your dates, level, and preferences from Zamzam Experience.

Equipment List: Complete Checklist for the Trek

Good equipment preparation is essential to fully enjoy your trek.

Clothing (3-Layer System)

Layer 1 - Breathable (Contact with skin):

• 3-4 technical short/long sleeve t-shirts
• 2 thermal long underwear sets (top + bottom)
• Spare underwear and socks
• 3-4 pairs of hiking socks (merino wool)

Layer 2 - Insulating:

• 1 light fleece
• 1 compressible down jacket (essential at altitude)
• 1 convertible trekking pants
• 1 shorts or cropped pants

Layer 3 - Protection:

• 1 waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or equivalent)
• 1 waterproof pants
• 1 warm beanie
• 1 cap or hat (sun protection)
• 1 buff or neck warmer
• 1 pair of light gloves + 1 pair of warm gloves
• Gaiters (optional, useful in snow)

Footwear

• 1 pair of high-top hiking boots (waterproof, already broken in!)
• 1 pair of sandals or light shoes for evenings at the lodge
• Quality insoles (comfort over long distance)

Backpack and Sleeping

• 40-50L backpack (if carrying everything) or 25-30L (with porter)
• Rain cover for backpack
• -10/-15°C sleeping bag (comfort at altitude)
• Sleeping bag liner (hygiene in lodges)
• Compression bag for down

Essential Accessories

• Trekking poles (knee relief on descents)
• Headlamp + spare batteries
• 1.5-2L water bottle or hydration bladder
• Water purification tablets or filter (Lifestraw, Katadyn)
• Category 3 or 4 sunglasses (high altitude)
• High protection sunscreen SPF 50+
• SPF lip balm
• Microfiber towel
• Swiss army knife or multi-tool
• Lighter and waterproof matches
• Waterproof plastic bags (protect clothing and electronics)
• Garbage bag (take back your waste)

First Aid Kit

• Personal medications
• Diamox (mountain sickness - prescription required)
• Pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
• Anti-diarrheals
• Broad-spectrum antibiotics
• Bandages and compresses
• Elastic bandage
• Disinfectant
• Scissors and tweezers
• Thermometer
• Eye drops
• Oral rehydration sachets

Electronics and Documents

• Mobile phone + power bank
• Camera + extra memory cards
• Universal adapter
• Passport + 2 photocopies
• Travel and repatriation insurance (MANDATORY)
• ACAP and TIMS permits
• Dollars or euros in cash (ATMs rare)
• Backup credit card

Hygiene and Comfort

• Toilet paper + lighter (to burn used paper)
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush + toothpaste
• Biodegradable soap
• Earplugs (noisy lodges)
• Book or e-reader
• Notebook and pen

Weight advice: Your bag should not exceed 12-15 kg all included. Favor quality and versatility over quantity.

Mandatory Guide: What You Need to Know

⚠️ New 2023 regulation: The Annapurna Circuit trek can NO LONGER be done completely independently. A certified guide is now mandatory to access this restricted area.

Why This Requirement?

The Nepalese government established this measure for several reasons:

1. Trekker safety: Reduction of accidents and acute mountain sickness cases thanks to local expertise
2. Environmental protection: Awareness and respect for protected areas
3. Support for local economy: Direct employment of Nepalese guides and sustainable development
4. Cultural preservation: Knowledge transmission and respect for traditions

Trek With Certified Guide

What an experienced guide brings you:

• ✅ Maximum safety: Knowledge of weather conditions, risk areas, and acclimatization management
• ✅ Authentic cultural immersion: Explanations about customs, history, spirituality, and Himalayan biodiversity
• ✅ Facilitated communication: Translation and authentic exchanges with local communities
• ✅ Complete management: Lodge bookings, meal organization, permit acquisition
• ✅ Flexibility: Itinerary adapted to your pace and abilities
• ✅ Peace of mind: Fully enjoy without worrying about logistics
• ✅ Positive impact: Direct support to local economy and Nepalese families

Porter option: For even more comfort, a porter can carry your main bag (you only keep a small 5-6 kg bag), which facilitates acclimatization and reduces fatigue.

💡 Find the ideal formula: Zamzam Experience offers different options adapted to your needs (guide alone, guide + porter, small group trek, private departure).

Choosing the Right Agency for Your Trek

Why choose a specialized agency like Zamzam Experience?

Zamzam Experience combines the best of both worlds: Nepalese local expertise and personalized English-speaking support.

🏔️ Zamzam Experience advantages:

• Certified English-speaking guides: Smooth communication and detailed explanations throughout the trek
• Experienced Nepalese team: Years of experience on the Annapurna circuit
• 100% customized packages: Complete adaptation according to your dates, level, and desires
• All-inclusive services: Mandatory permits, lodge accommodation, meals, transfers, local insurance
• Complete assistance: Support before departure, during trek, and after your return
• Ethical commitment: Responsible tourism, fair guide compensation, environmental respect
• Total flexibility: Private departure or small group, customizable itinerary
• Priority safety: Guides trained in first aid, emergency evacuation plan

The difference of a specialized agency:

Unlike large international agencies that offer standardized group packages, Zamzam Experience builds your customized trek with particular attention to your expectations and safety.

📞 Request your personalized quote and communicate directly with the team to build THE trek that suits you.

Other Treks in the Annapurna Region

If you have less time or are looking for an alternative, the Annapurna region offers other magnificent treks.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC)

• Duration: 7-10 days
• Max altitude: 4,130 m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Immersion in the heart of the Annapurna sanctuary, 360° view of the peaks

This trek is shorter and more accessible than the Annapurna Circuit, while offering spectacular Himalayan landscapes.

Poon Hill Trek

• Duration: 4-5 days
• Max altitude: 3,210 m
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Legendary sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, ideal for a first trek in Nepal

Perfect for families or beginner trekkers.

💡 Tip: Zamzam Experience also offers these alternative treks and can advise you on the best itinerary according to your level and desires.

Possible Combinations

Some trekkers combine several treks:

• Annapurna Circuit + ABC: 18-22 days
• Poon Hill + ABC: 10-12 days

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is wifi available on the trek?

Yes, most lodges offer wifi, but quality decreases with altitude. Expect 300-500 NPR (~$3-5) per hour or per day. Connection is often slow and unstable. Get local SIM cards (Ncell or NTC) to have data in low and medium altitude areas.

What are the teahouses (lodges) like?

Teahouses are simple but functional accommodations. You'll have a private room with two beds and blankets (still bring your sleeping bag). Toilets and showers are generally shared. Central heating doesn't exist: a common room with a wood stove serves as a gathering place in the evening. The atmosphere is friendly and warm.

Is it a dangerous trek?

The Annapurna Circuit trek is generally safe if you follow basic rules: gradual acclimatization, don't go alone in bad weather, be well equipped. Main risks are:

• Acute mountain sickness (prevention through acclimatization)
• Falls on slippery trails (trekking poles recommended)
• Hypothermia in case of storm (appropriate equipment)
• Avalanches at Thorong La (very rare, but follow local instructions)

Rescue helicopters can intervene in case of emergency (hence the importance of repatriation insurance).

Can I do the trek solo?

⚠️ No, since 2023, completely independent trekking is no longer allowed. Nepalese regulations now require the presence of a certified guide to access the restricted Annapurna area.

However, this doesn't mean you must join a large group! You can:

✅ Private trek with guide: You go alone or with your travel companions, accompanied by a dedicated guide. You keep all the freedom of pace and atmosphere.

✅ Small group: Join a group of maximum 4-6 people to share the experience while benefiting from professional supervision.

For solo female travelers: Nepal remains a very safe destination. With a trusted guide like those from Zamzam Experience, you benefit from enhanced security and respectful accompaniment.

Do I need to book lodges in advance?

In low season (June-September, December-February), it's not necessary. In high season (March-May, October-November), it's recommended to book at least the lodge before Thorong La (Thorong Phedi or High Camp), as places are limited and demand is high. Your guide can handle this, otherwise ask the current lodge to call for you.

What is the most difficult day?

Without a doubt, crossing Thorong La Pass (Day 10). You'll leave around 3-4 am to cross the pass at 5,416 m. Expect 8-10h of walking, including 3-4h of intense climbing in the dark, cold, and altitude. It's physically and mentally challenging, but reaching the pass and the panoramic view of the Himalayas are unforgettable.

Can I rent equipment on site?

Yes, in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you'll find many trekking equipment rental shops (sleeping bag, down jacket, poles, backpack). Quality varies, check equipment condition carefully. Indicative rates: $2-3/day for a sleeping bag, $1-2/day for a down jacket.

Do I need a visa for Nepal?

Yes, French nationals (and most nationalities) need a visa. It's easily obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport (Visa on Arrival):

• 15 days: 30 USD
• 30 days: 50 USD
• 90 days: 125 USD

You can also apply for it online before departure (e-visa). Bring an ID photo.

What is the time difference?

Nepal is at GMT+5h45. From France, that makes:

• +4h45 in winter time
• +3h45 in summer time

When it's 12 pm in Paris, it's 4:45 pm in Kathmandu.

Conclusion: Ready for the Annapurna Circuit Adventure?

The Annapurna Circuit trek is much more than just a hike: it's a human adventure, a personal challenge, and total immersion in one of the world's most beautiful mountain regions. With good physical preparation, appropriate equipment, and respect for acclimatization rules, this trek is accessible to any motivated trekker in good physical condition.

Whether you choose to go independently or accompanied by a guide, in spring or autumn, the spectacle of the Himalayan peaks, the warmth of Nepalese hospitality, and the sense of accomplishment at the top of Thorong La will remain engraved in your memory forever.

Final advice: Take your time, enjoy every moment, respect the mountain and local populations. The Annapurna trek is not a race, it's a journey.

Want to organize your trek?

Discover the Annapurna Circuit trek packages with Zamzam Experience – A specialized agency that combines Nepalese local expertise and English-speaking support for a successful and safe trek.

🏔️ Namaste and happy trekking!

Useful Resources

To Organize Your Trek

• Zamzam Experience - Annapurna Circuit: Specialized agency to organize your trek with English-speaking guides
• Detailed map: Get the Nepa Maps "Annapurna" map (1:125,000)
• GPS app: Maps.me (offline Nepal maps)
• Weather: mountain-forecast.com
• Forums: trekkingpartners.com, lonelyplanet.com (Nepal forums)
• Recommended insurance: World Nomads, Allianz Travel, IMG Global

Emergency numbers in Nepal:

• Police: 100
• Ambulance: 102
• Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA): +977-1-4440292 (Kathmandu)