The idea of doing two of the most iconic trekking trips of the Annapurna region is purely audacity but it is possible. Today’s blog is about the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp. It is the long detour trekking trip that traverses through Manang Valley, Thorong La Pass, Mustang Valley, Ghorepani Poon Hill, and the Annapurna Base Camp. Let’s find out the itinerary, difficulty level, cost and best season to do this audacious trekking trip in the heart of the Annapurna region.
This blogger always tries to provide you with information. The blog published in the regular blog posts about traveling in Nepal. Therefore, we try to come up with the unique titles and ideas which can be helpful for travelers to plan for the trip. Some travelers may be searching for that one trip that comprises almost all the major places of the particular region. Therefore, today’s blog about the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp can be helpful to those travelers.
What type of trek is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Nepal’s oldest trekking trail opened for all back in 1976 AD and the most diverse one is the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It takes trekkers to the beautiful Manang Valley and Mustang Valley along with the world’s longest mountain pass the Thorong La Pass (5416 m). The trail of the Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake traverses through temperate deciduous forests, alpine, grassy meadows, and tundra vegetation. Therefore, it is rich in the natural diversity including the diverse landscape from valleys to the high passes. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is definitely the most amazing commercial trekking route of Nepal that can give back every penny that you spend for the trip.
Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp
Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m) can be the most iconic of all as it is the walking journey to the foothill of the world’s 10th tallest mountain, Mt. Annapurna (8091 m). Travelers who wish to go through the green lush forests and villages of Gurung and Magar People can do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. In addition, you can do this trek in just 4 to 5 days if you start and end the trek from Pokhara. However, the regular itinerary of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal has 12 to 14 days itinerary.
The classical Annapurna Base Camp Trek starts from Phedi and traverses to the Chhomrong Village via Tolka, whereas the contemporary Annapurna Base Camp Trek traverses through the famous Ghorepani Poon Hill region. However, the short route to the Annapurna Base Camp starts from Jhinu Danda. Trekkers on this amazing trekking trail can experience the vast rhododendron forests and the Himalayan range starting from Himalchuli to the Machhapuchhre including the mountains of the Annapurna Himalayan series.
You can get the individual trekking package of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek starting from 500 $ per person depending upon the number of the days and services offered. If you are looking for the luxury Annapurna Base Camp Trek, then you can also do the Annapurna Helicopter Return Trek. In this luxury trekking package, trekkers reach the Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m) and return back to Pokhara by helicopter. It may cost you 2000 $ more on the regular package if you choose the charter flight. However, the shared helicopter flight may cost you 500 $ to 700 $ per person.
Can I do the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp?
Yes, it is possible to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp in one single trip. It may sound audacious but after careful planning and knitting the best trekking itinerary in consultation with the travel planners can actually make it happen. The combination of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Muktinath – Jomsom – Tatopani Tour, and the Ghorepani Poon Hill Annapurna Base Camp Trek itineraries can be so relishing adventure covering almost every sections of the beautiful Annapurna region.
Classical Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp Itinerary
The Classical Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic treks, offering an extraordinary journey through diverse landscapes, cultures, and high-altitude terrains. Starting from the bustling city of Kathmandu, the trek leads you through subtropical forests, terraced fields, and charming Gurung villages. The circuit takes trekkers through the Manang Valley, offering views of the Annapurna range, before crossing the formidable Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
After crossing the pass, trekkers descend to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The trek continues towards the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), located at an altitude of 4,130 meters. ABC provides breathtaking panoramic views of Annapurna I, II, III, and IV, along with the surrounding peaks.
Trek is generally completed within 12-14 days, depending on acclimatization schedules and pace. The itinerary is designed to allow gradual elevation gains, helping trekkers acclimatize to the thinning air and minimizing altitude sickness. The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp combines cultural experiences with the adventure of high-altitude trekking, making it a top choice for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
The trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass is a challenging yet immensely rewarding segment of the Annapurna Circuit. Starting from the village of Chame or Pisang, trekkers move upwards through dense forests and picturesque villages, gradually ascending into the higher altitudes of the Manang Valley. The highlight of this leg of the journey is crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), a crucial point on the Annapurna Circuit and one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
The ascent to the pass is long and tiring, but the sense of achievement upon reaching the top is unparalleled. Trekkers are rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri with stunning Himalayan peaks. The descent towards Muktinath, a sacred destination for both Hindus and Buddhists, offers a dramatic contrast to the ascent, with dry, barren landscapes transitioning into a green valley.
Muktinath is famous for its temple complex, which attracts religious pilgrims year-round. The trek to Muktinath is not only a physical challenge but also an immersion into the spiritual and cultural significance of the region, making it an unforgettable part of the Annapurna Circuit.
Drive to Tatopani
Driving to Tatopani is an essential part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp, often serving as a means of transportation to shorten the trek or to return from Muktinath. It’s located at an altitude of around 1,200 meters, and Tatopani is renowned for its natural hot springs. Which provide a perfect opportunity to relax after a strenuous trek. Tatopani is typically done by jeep or local buses along rough, winding mountain roads.
Starting from Jomsom, trekkers make their way down to Tatopani, passing through scenic villages and terraced farmlands. The drive can be bumpy and challenging, but the reward is well worth it. Upon reaching Tatopani, trekkers can soak in the soothing hot springs. This place is believed to have healing properties, offering much-needed relaxation to aching muscles.
This drive also serves as a way to experience the lower elevation of the Annapurna region, where the landscape changes dramatically from the rugged, high-altitude terrain to subtropical forests and river valleys. The drive to Tatopani can be a welcome break from the physically demanding trek, offering a chance to enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of the region.
Tatopani to Annapurna Base Camp via Ghorepani Poon Hill
The final phase of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp starts from Tatopani. The trek from Tatopani to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) via Ghorepani and Poon Hill offers a shorter, yet equally stunning alternative to the traditional Annapurna Circuit route. Starting in Tatopani, trekkers gradually make their way towards Ghorepani, a beautiful village perched at an altitude of around 2,800 meters. The trek to Ghorepani is marked by dense rhododendron forests and spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
One of the main highlights of this part of the trek is the early-morning hike to Poon Hill, a popular vantage point for sunrise views. From Poon Hill, trekkers are treated to panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas, including Annapurna I, II, III, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri. After Ghorepani, the trail leads towards Tadapani, Chomrong, and ultimately to Annapurna Base Camp, where trekkers can enjoy majestic close-up views of the Annapurna massif. It’s a great option for those with long time and wishing to experience the majesty of the Himalayas especially around the Annapurna Himalayan range.
Best Time to do Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit Trek in One Single Trip
The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp in one single trip generally falls during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for high-altitude trekking.
During spring, the region is covered with blooming rhododendron flowers and which adds a colorful touch to the already stunning landscape. The weather is warm, with daytime temperatures ranging between 10°C to 20°C at lower altitudes, while the nights can be chilly, especially at higher elevations.
Autumn, after the monsoon season, offers crisp air, fewer clouds, and excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks. However, this is also the most popular time for trekking, meaning trails may be busier, especially around popular spots like Poon Hill and ABC.
Winter brings harsh cold, especially at higher elevations, while summer is monsoon season, increasing the risk of landslides and making the trails slippery and muddy. Planning the trek during spring or autumn ensures a more enjoyable and safe experience for trekkers.
How hard is it to trek in Annapurna?
Trekking in Nepal is never easy like a stroll in a park. You need to prepare both physically and mentally for a successful trekking journey. Nepal’s trekking trails are full of steep ascents and descents in the higher elevation zones. Therefore, you must have proper cardiovascular abilities. Besides this, you must also build up the stamina in such a level that you can walk for about 5 to 6 hours in an average every day for weeks. If you are seriously trying to complete this long trekking trip around the Annapurna region, then you have to build up your fitness level by doing exercises like running, walking, swimming, and cycling at least one month prior to the trek. Previous hiking or trekking experiences can be helpful.
Average Cost and Budget for Annapurna Complete Trek in Nepal
Allocate around 1600 $ to 2000 $ according to your preferences of services during the trek for an amazing Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal with the addition of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Note down that you need at least 35 $ to 50 $ every day for meals during the trek and 5 $ to 10 $ every night for lodging. Besides the cost of the meals and accommodation, you also need to allocate budget for miscellaneous services like battery charge, hot showers, hot drinking water, internet, laundry etc. Travel insurance, guide – porter salary, transportation, and permit cost must also be in your travel budget.
One Month in Annapurna: Thorong La, Tilicho Lake, Annapurna Base Camp, Khopra Ridge, and Mardi Himal
Let’s explore the entirety of the Annapurna region in one single trip by spending one month in the Annapurna region of Nepal. While spending one month in Annapurna, you can do the most amazing trekking trips like the Mardi Himal Trek, the Khopra Ridge Trek, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Tilicho Lake Trek, the Mohare Danda Trek, etc. You can definitely knit the trekking tale full of wonders of Mother Nature and the grandeur of multi – ethnic communities’ culture & traditions.
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