Annapurna Circuit Trek Tips for Beginners

Who doesn’t have wish to walk in a trail that traverses through mountain passes, valleys, rivers, glaciers, and high – altitude villages? Yes, everyone has dream of leaving their footprints in the tallest places of the world. And, Nepal’s oldest trekking trail is definitely an ideal destination. Today’s blog is for the beginners. If you are a new trekker, then please go through the blog for motivation and information. The Annapurna Circuit Trek Tips for beginners can really help you plan for the safe and successful journey. Moreover, the blog can be handy for you to plan and know what to expect during the trek.

Explore Nepal’s Oldest Trekking Route: Annapurna Circuit Trek

Walking in the Annapurna Circuit Trek is not an ordinary activity like just a stroll in a park. It is in fact creating memories in Nepal’s oldest trekking route that connects Manang and Mustang Valley. Furthermore, it has the iconic Thorong La Pass (5416 m) which has been the face of high – altitude trekking scenery for years. Additionally, the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal has always been the cornerstone of Nepalese trekking industry. Therefore, trekking in this trail means that you are getting more than what you invest for the trip.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Tips for Beginners

Now, let’s focus our attention towards the Annapurna Circuit Trek Tips for beginners. Well, the blog is meant for beginner trekkers but it is also equally helpful to experienced trekkers. However, an experienced trekker may know how to balance out the physical requirements and mental level. If you have trekked to any Himalayan trails of Nepal, then you can surely do the Annapurna Circuit Trek without any hassles. Make sure that you are well informed about the trail before walking in it. From difficulty level to small details about the trail and from accommodation issues to possible side trips, we will cover all. The blog about the Annapurna Circuit Trek Tips for beginners can really be handy tool for you to make decisions.

Can Beginner do successful Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Yes, it is possible for beginner trekker to successfully complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal. All they have to do is plan it out properly and do the trek with reliable trekking company like the Nepal High Trek. In the later part of this blog, I have prepared the physical preparation plan of a beginner to build their fitness level for successful trekking. Follow the plan diligently and heed the instructions of your trekking guide. If you do so, then you can surely complete the trekking trip.

Is it possible to add Tilicho Lake in the Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary for beginners?

It is possible to add the Tilicho Lake side trip in the Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary but this blogger asks you to think twice. The journey to the Tilicho Lake (highest situated lake of Nepal) is the challenging section especially between Khangsar Village and Tilicho Base Camp. Therefore, as a beginner trekker, you should focus on completing the main trek than adding the side trip option. Moreover, we are giving out the Annapurna Circuit Trek Tips for beginners. So, we can’t be complacent to tell you the truth. In fact, it is possible but it is not really recommended.

How hard is the trek? How can a beginner prepare for Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal?

Thorong La Pass (5416 m) crossing section is the most hardest part in the entire Annapurna Circuit Trek journey. If you do the acclimatization activities in Manang diligently, then you can easily tackle the demands of higher elevation places. There are not many steep uphill sections besides the time you cross the mountain pass. Therefore, you say that it is an ideal trekking route for beginner but they need to do meticulous planning especially while crossing the pass. Overall, you can say that the difficulty level of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal is moderate.

What are the effects of road construction on the Annapurna Circuit Trek route?

The effects of road construction on the Annapurna Circuit Trek route are evident. Originally, the total trekking distance of the classical route is about 230 kilometers but now it is near about 130 kilometers. You can say it is good and bad at the same time. For those with lesser holidays can also do the Annapurna Circuit Trek now but it may not be same as the classical trek experiences. However, as an experienced blogger, I can vouch that the pure essence of the trek has not decreased even if the road construction has curtailed the trekking distance.

Why do I need to do acclimatization rest in Manang during the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Beyond 2500 m above sea level, you must be aware about the threats of the altitude sickness. If not treated properly, it may be fatal. Therefore, acclimatization activities in Manang village are very important. It prepares your body for any kinds of activities beyond 4000 m above sea level. So, don’t skip the acclimatization activity. The normal acclimatization activity during the trek is hike to the Gangapurna Mountain View Point and the Gangapurna Lake. Some trekkers even trek up to Ice Lake which can be tiring but equally rewarding for trekkers. Beginner trekkers are not recommended to hike up to Ice Lake. Instead, they should diligently trek to the viewpoint and explore the Gangapurna Lake.

How much does it cost to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal?

The cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal depends largely upon your own preferences. There are lots of luxury mountain lodges in the trail. Thus, you can do the luxury Annapurna Circuit Trek as well. As for the standard trekking package, you can get it in about 950 $ to 1100 $ that includes all basic services. Perhaps, people seek to get luxury services if they are trekking for the first time. It is understandable. If it is the case, then allocate around 1800 $ to 2600 $ for the trek to enjoy luxury services.

Do I need a trekking guide to trek in commercial trekking routes of Nepal?

Note down that Nepal doesn’t have any strict rule about hiring a trekking guide for trekking in Nepal except in few places. Restricted places and special regions like the Langtang region require you to get a trekking guide mandatory but not in other places. This blogger though advises you to get a guide and leave all the trip logistic management hassles to him or her. Simply enjoy the trek without any hassles. Among all the Annapurna Circuit Trek Tips for beginners, this is probably the most important tip.

What is the classical Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The trek starting from Besisahar Lamjung and ending in Nayapul covering Thorong La Pass, Tatopani, Ghorepani, and Poon Hill, is the classical Annapurna Circuit Trek. Nowadays, you can do the classical trek by opting to take a road trip from Muktinath to Tatopani to restart the trek after crossing Thorong La Pass.

How long does it take to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal? What is the total trekking distance?

The itinerary of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal depends upon your preferences. The trekking is possible in 10 to 17 days depending upon the route that you have taken. Similarly, the total trekking distance is also dependent upon the route you have taken. As mentioned above, the total trekking distance starts from 130 kilometers to 230 kilometers.

What to expect during Thorong La Pass Crossing in Nepal?

Thorong La Pass (5416 m) is one of the longest passes of Nepal alongside the Larke La Pass of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Therefore, expect it to be the longest day of the trek. The trail is rugged and some sections are covered in snow. You may have to use crampons and it is so tiring and exhausting day but equally scenic. Early in the morning before dawn the trek starts normally around 4 am after early morning breakfast.

Which are the major villages and places on the Annapurna Circuit Trek route?

Besisahar, Chame, Pisang, Ngawal, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, Muktinath, and Jomsom are the major villages on the Annapurna Circuit Trek route. If you are doing the classical Annapurna Round Trek, then Ghorepani and Poon Hill are also the significant places on this trekking route.

Is it possible to do cycling tour in the Annapurna Circuit Trek trail?

Offcourse, it is possible to do cycling tour in the Annapurna Circuit Trek route. Recently, lots of adventure lovers are doing the cycling tour including the trip to the Tilicho Lake. However, giving out the Annapurna Circuit Trek Tips for beginners, I don’t recommend you to do cycling tour as a beginner. First, gain some experiences and only try out these adventure sports activities.

Can you suggest the best trekking company to book the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal?

Contact the travel planners or bloggers of the Nepal High Trek. The company is one of the best among agencies based in Nepal. Get the best travel deals and enjoy trekking with the company that has high success rate.