Annapurna Circuit Trek

5 May 2025 to 13 May 2025 (9 Days)

Trekking the Annapurna Circuit is one of the most iconic and diverse trekking experiences in Nepal and the world. It offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenge, all in a route that circumnavigates the Annapurna Massif.

More than just scenery, the Annapurna Circuit immerses you in Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan cultures, peaceful monasteries, spinning prayer wheels, and age-old hospitality. You feel like you’ve walked through multiple countries in one journey.

Highlights

Manang (3,540 m): Acclimatisation hub with amazing mountain views
Thorong La Pass (5,416 m): The high point of the trek and a true challenge—expect an early start and a long day
Muktinath: A sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists
Tatopani: Natural hot springs—perfect after days of trekking
Ghorepani & Poon Hill (optional): Stunning sunrise view over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges

Altitude & Acclimatisation

Just like with EBC, altitude is a concern. Most trekkers spend at least 2 nights in Manang to acclimatise before tackling the Thorong La Pass. Go slow, hydrate, and listen to your body.

ACT Packing List

SOME POINTERS:

2 Things To Leave Behind

Your EGO - Ego will tempt you to compete with other trekkers along the trail. But you have no idea where they’ve come from or what they’ve been through. Ask yourself, what are you really trying to prove? This is not a race.
Your WILLPOWER - Willpower can be deceptive. Your mind may say, “I can do this,” but your body might quietly be breaking down. And by the time you realise it, it could be too late. So when your body starts to speak, listen. If it’s telling you to stop, don’t push through blindly. Turn back. Rest. Recharge. Live to trek another day.

Trek counter-clockwise

This helps with acclimatisation and makes the Thorong La Pass ascent more gradual.

This Is Not a Fitness Challenge

This isn’t the place to show off your fitness or treat it like a gym session. You shouldn’t be panting, and your muscles shouldn’t be aching. Trekking at altitude is about endurance, not intensity.

Breathe and Move Mindfully

Focus on your breathing and practice the rest step technique. Go slowly—deliberately—and allow yourself to settle into a calm, almost meditative rhythm.

Trust Your Guide

If your guide tells you to bring a thick down jacket, gloves, or hand warmers, bring them. You will need them. Don’t be stubborn; their experience is your best protection.

Breathlessness When Sleeping

At higher altitude especially 4,500m and above, it’s common to feel breathless when sleeping, like you’re gasping for air. Don’t panic. Just take deep, slow breaths and try to sleep through it.

Avoid Daytime Naps

You will reach the lodge early, around 3pm. Resist the urge to nap during the day. Save your sleep for nighttime to help your body adjust better to the altitude.

Pack Light

A lighter pack means less stress on your knees, back, and shoulders, especially during long ascents or descents. You’ll move more efficiently and reduce the risk of injury. Packing light also encourages thoughtful preparation. You learn to prioritise essentials and cut out unnecessary extras, which is a useful skill for future treks and even travel in general.

Removing Gel Nails

Oximeters work by shining light through your fingertip to measure oxygen saturation. Gel polish, especially dark colors or thick layers, can block or distort the light signal. This can lead to inaccurate readings or no reading at all, which is a concern at high altitudes where monitoring oxygen levels is important for detecting altitude sickness.