The Annapurna Circuit trekking is one of the world’s most popular trekking circuits, offering a unique blend of contrasts. It is solely a Nepalese trek, varying geographically both in culture and terrain. There are flat lands with deep gorges, historical passes and sharply winding trails above rivers, suddenly opening into panoramic forests of subtropical and arctic climates, just to give way to cold deserts. The flora and fauna also change with the terrain, where a vast variety of species and agrarian sights become noticeable. The Annapurna Circuit trek is conspicuous for its Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries. One gets a spectacular view of Himalayan peaks of heights ranging from 6000 to 8000 metres and above, such as Manaslu, Langtang Himal, Annapurna, Gangapurna, and Dhaulagiri. This is why Annapurna treks are in demand. You get to hike at different levels of human endurance, being ameliorated by what you see in the spirit of adventure.

The Annapurna Circuit trekking starts from Besisahar to Jomsom

The trek begins from Besi sahar to Bahudana, where one may get glimpses of the remains of the fortress of Lamjung Durbar. The mule train may be your companion along the way. From here it is onto Chamje, where you cross log bridges and hike along trails above rivers. The villages passed have a medieval touch to them, not forgetting the hot springs. It is onto Bagarchhap next. The sights are of hanging rock trails, underground waterfalls, and large open plateaus. One gets to view the Lamjung Himal and Annapurna peaks. Then it is onto Chame, where after having passed through virgin forests and orchards of apples and peaches, we hit Pisang, where the sight of huge buckwheat fields, forests and orchards comes to our notice, not forgetting the astonishing Paungda Danda rock face. The hike to Manang, which is next, gives you the sight of a gompa and its huge prayer wheels and Milarepa cave. In Manang, you acclimatize and have the chance to view Annapurna and Gangapurna peaks, hear the ice-falls and see hanging glaciers. Then it is onto Letdar and Thorong Phedi along an east-bound river. From here, you hit Muktinath via the Thorung La Pass (4100m). Finally, you wind down a river to Jomsom for a flight back to Pokhara.

1. Day One – Arrival at Kathmandu (1400m)

You will be met at Tribhuwan International Airport by a representative of Green Lotus Trekking holding a welcome placard and taken for your overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu and to freshen up. Prior to dinner, a briefing will be held. You could spend the rest of the day resting or wandering around the city of Kathmandu, sightseeing.

2. Day Two – Besi sahar by Bus (823m) – (7 hour ride)

Our trek starts from Besishar and it is a seven-hour bus ride along with your guide that goes via Pokhara, a tourist hub of Nepal. You will get your first taste of the winding rivers and the green forest of the mid-range of the Himalayan Mountains. O/N stay at the lodge.

3. Day Three – To Bahudanda (1311m) – (Approx 7 hour trek)

A rough rock staircase down to the Puwa Khola (river)and over a rock bed, we trek past Chanaute and over rock hopping and several ups and downs through sub-tropical forest and rice terraces brings us to the Annapurna Conversation Area. We cross a sagging suspension bridge at Khudi Khola (river), past a collection of government buildings. We head to Bhulbule (848m) and then cross the Marsyangdi Khola. Heading up the river, we pass a majestic waterfall, go through a forest of screw pine and then a trail through a few villages. Finally, the trail leads up through a scrub forest, some landslides, and a short, steep climb to Bahundanda. O/N stay at a lodge.

4. Day Four – To Chamje (1433m) – (Approx  6 hour trek)

In the first leg of today’s hike, we head to Lili Bhir, descending a slippery, steep path through an amphitheatre shaped rice terrace and then following high above the stream below, safe guarded by railings. Passing the village of Gherum, opposite a huge waterfall, the trail descends to cross the Marsyangdi River over a long suspension bridge. Moving past Syange, the valley becomes narrower and steeper until we reach Sheer Chaur. A climb over a nearly vertical cliff with a view of rhododendron, pine, stinging nettle and marijuana forest, it is a short descent to Jagat (1330m) – a medieval-style village. The trail descends and crosses landslides, forest, and waterfalls to reach Chanje. O/N stay at a lodge.

5. Day Five – To Bagarchap (2164m) – (Approx 7 hour trek)

Crossing the east bank of the River Marsyandi and following the embankment under overhanging cliffs, rocky trails and stone staircases, we get to Sattale (1480m). The next leg is through bamboo groves and rhododendron forests, above steep river banks and descends, making it to Tal Besi. After which, we climb steep trails above Marsyandi, where underground waterfalls are hidden beneath boulders – Manang district becomes apparent. Finally, after hopping and crossing a number of suspension bridges, ascending and descending trails, and eventually crossing a suspension bridge over Marsyandi, we arrive at our overnight destination of Barachap. O/N stay at a lodge.

6. Day Six – To Chame (2713m) – (Approx 6 hour trek)

First we hit Danaque (2210) over the bank of a river and a forest. Traversing a rock ledge, a virgin forest of walnut, we reach Lattermarang. Further through forested ridges, apple orchards and more ridges, we enter Kotho via a chorten. Getting clearance from the police check post, we are in the Nur-Phu valley.  We finally get to Chame from after a 30 minute easy walk. Throughout the day, we are surprised by the hid and seek views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II and Annapurna IV. O/N stay at a lodge.

7. Day Seven – To Pisang (3173m) – (Approx 5 hour trek)

We start the day’s trek to Telekhu (2840m) after passing buckwheat fields and mani walls. Then it is mostly a level walk through a few landslide hit areas and huge apple orchards to Bhratang. Following a new rock-blasted trail, we stay on the side of the river, getting the dramatic view of Paungda Danda, plus others. Crossing the river and a gentle ridge, we get to Dhurure Pokhari (3200m). We enter Pisang after a mostly level trek across Manang Valley and across a wooden bridge. O/N stay at a lodge.

8. Day Eight – To Manang (3540m) – (Approx 5 hour trek)

We first trekked to Ghyaru, via Marsyandi, passing mani walls, a memorial, and a long climb over a forested ridge, getting excellent views of Tilicho Peak (7133m) and domesticated sheep, goats, horses, and yaks. Then we trek to Honge (3420m), passing a long line of mani walls and brass prayer wheels. We cross the river to the northern bank at Mungji (3500m). Past buckwheat fields and barley and a ridge, we reach Bryaga (3500m). Finally, the trek to Manang passes through long stretches of very arid land and weird cliffs eroded into dramatic pillars of natural formation. O/N stay at a lodge.

9. Day Nine – Acclimatization at Manang

Today we get to rest and acclimatize to the altitude we are at, not without sightseeing and experiencing the rural lifestyle of the Manang folks, plus getting the chance to contemplate and take in the scintillating view of the distant Annapurna range.

10. Day Ten  – To Letdar (4250m) – (Approx 4 hour trek)

We first get to Tengi, crossing a stream via a trail and continuing up Marsyandi valley, passing a few Goths with forested growth on the valley floor. We get to the village of Gunsang. The trek passes sparse forests of juniper, rose, and barberry; a few meadows with grazing horses; all the while getting the Buddhist influence of mani wall and prayer wheels. Beyond Yak Kharka (4110m), the hike passes large herds of yaks and horses grazing, and we finally get to Letdar. Stay at the lodge.

11. Day Eleven – To Thorung Pedi (4420m) – Approx 3 hour trek)

Trekking along a trail on the east bank of Jarsang Khola (stream), we descend and cross a wooden bridge to the other side. Climbing a short ascent over a good trail and a narrow one, we descend to Thorung Phedi. O/N stay at the lodge.

12. Day Twelve – To Muktinath (3800m) via Thorang La Pass – (Approx 8 hour trek)

We reach the pass, ascending and switching back and forth up moraines and low ridges. Then the trail climbs continuously in and out of canyons, by moraines, till we finally pass Thorung La Pass (5416m). The view is outstanding of the Himalayan region at its best. Then we finally descend through a series of moraines downhill to level out before we touch Muktinath. O/N stay at the lodge.

13. Day Thirteen – To Jomsom (2760m) – (Approx 4 hour trek)

We head toward Jomsom, which is an easy walk downhill, and we get to our destination by mid-afternoon. The rest of the day we get to rest or see the last remnants of the Annapurna region. O/N stay at the lodge.

14. Day Fourteen – Flight to Pokhara (1400m)

We get to Pokhara by flight and spend the rest of the day sightseeing the different places of interest in the lakeside city. O/N stay at the lodge.

15. Day Fifteen – Flight to Kathmandu (900m)

We get to Kathmandu by flight and spend the rest of the either sightseeing and buying souvenirs or resting as pleased.

16. Day Sixteen – Farewell from Kathmandu

The trip concludes—our airport representative will drop you off at Kathmandu’s Tribhuwan International Airport for your flight departure from Nepal.

Click to View Altitude Graph

What is the best time of year to trek?
You can find good places to trek somewhere in the Himalayas at anytime of the year. However for most regions the best time is from October to May, with Oct-Nov having best weather for trekking. During the autumn nights are cold in the high Himalaya, but the bright sun makes for pleasant daytime temperature (20 degree centigrade to 5 centigrade in the night). Above 3500m temperature range goes down to -10 degree centigrade, and in winter (Dec-Jan) it is about 10 degrees colder.

How fit do I have to be to do a trek?
Whilst you do not need to be super-fit, you need to be fit enough to comfortably walk for 5-6 hours per day in the mountains on reasonable trails. Most of our customers have an interest in walking in the hills or countryside of their homeland and are used to similar daily trips.

What is a typical group size? Will I fit in?
We pride ourselves in our small group approach to Adventure Travel. Small groups allow you to share great company without crowding your experience. Our typical groups range in size from 2 up to 8. One of the attractions of such a trip is the chance to meet people with different backgrounds and personalities

What if the dates for the group treks don’t fit my itinerary?
If this is the case, we can organize a personalized trek for you. Additionally if you want to spend more time in Kathmandu before or after a trek we can organize the hotels and quote you a price.

Are your tours guaranteed to run?
If you are group of two and more the trip is guaranteed to run.

Do I need to buy special equipment?
Usually our clients simply bring their existing clothing and equipment and if necessary supplement this with some extra items purchased cheaply in Kathmandu.

What gear to bring?
Passport (with photocopies)
Photos for Nepal visa on arrival
Travel insurance (with photocopies)
Airline tickets (with photocopies)
Day pack for daily personal items

For Trekking:
Walking boots
Light sandals or plimsolls to wear in the lodges
2 pairs of underwear
2 pairs of walking socks
2 warm shirts/ thin fleece
1 pair of thin thermal under trousers.
Long trousers for walking (or long skirt for women)
T shirt
Shorts
Gloves (it’s cold on the Thorung La, Laurebina Pass and Cho La)
Warm hat which covers your ears (for the Kali Gandaki and Thorung La – it’s windy)
Base ball cap or broad brim hat to keep the sun off (Australian Barmah recommended)
Sunglasses (vital)
Sun cream
Soap and soap dish
Small towel
Toothbrush and toothpaste.
Wet wipes / Moist towelettes
Hand sanitizing lotion
Head torch
Moisturizer, Lip balm
Tampons – hard to buy in rural areas
Ear plugs for light sleepers
Toiletries
Sheet of plastic (Use as a poncho if it rains)
1 roll of toilet paper. You can buy more on the way.
2 large plastic bag. One for smelly clothes, one for things which must be kept dry.
Small good quality padlock
Waterbottle
Iodine tablets for water purification
Protein bars, chocolate, dried fruits, candies and snack foods.

Notes. All of the trekking items are available in Kathmandu at nominal prices. However we suggest you bring hiking boots from your home country if you decided to purchase these items in Kathmandu .

Can I store stuff that I do not use on trek?
Yes, all hotels provide storage facility for free.

Do I need travel insurance?
Personal travel insurance is not included in the tour price. It is a condition of booking a tour with Green Lotus Trekking, and your responsibility to ensure for type of tours you are undertaking; the policy must include satisfactory cover for repatriation, high altitudes, trekking and climbing, and helicopter rescue. Please forward your insurance details (e.g. policy number, 24-hour emergency telephone number, name of insurance company) to Green Lotus Trekking when available.

Do I need a visa to visit Nepal?
Yes. You can apply in your home country thorough Nepalese Embassy or Consulate or obtain it at the airport on arrival by paying fee as below:

Multiple entry 15 days: US $25
Multiple entry 30 days: US $40
Multiple entry 90 days: US $100

Notes. We suggest you to bring the exact change. You also need bring 2 passport size photo.

Tourist Visa Extension
Visa extension fee for 15 days or less is US $ 30 or equivalent convertible currency and visa extension fee for more than 15 days is US$ 2 per day

Tourist visa can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a single visa year (January – December).

Gratis (Free) Visa
Gratis visa for 30 days available only for tourists of SAARC countries.
Indian nationals do not require visa to enter into Nepal.

I am a single trekker. How does this work?
Normally single trekkers have no problems fitting in with a group. Normally single trekkers share rooms or lodges with other trekkers of the same sex, but if we have an odd-number we ensure that a room or lodge is organised accordingly.

How will my booking be processed?
To confirm your booking we will require deposit of $250 for treks and $300 for a peak climbing which can be made by bank transfer or online through paypal.com (leading transaction site). The balance is payable on arrival in Kathmandu with cash or traveler cheque. Alternatively balance can be paid by bank transfer or PayPal shortly before arriving in Kathmandu.

Beside deposit payment what information do I need to forward?
Following details is needed to process your trekking permit, national park permit, flight booking etc.

Gender:
First Name:
Last Name:
Passport number:
Expiry date:
Place of issue:
Nationality:
Date of birth:
Occupation:
Your arrival details (time, date, flight no., airlines):

All above info can be sent electronically via email.

How far do I trek each day?
You will typically walk 4-9 miles (5-8 hours) each day. Some days may be rest days for impromptu exploration. In high and steep areas, you may move more slowly. Most people begin to feel the effects of high altitude over about 2000 meters and your trekking pace is always adjusted to permit safe acclimatization. Our treks follow established trails used by local people. You will probably carry only a light day pack.

How flexible is the trekking day?
You can hike at your own pace, stopping when you wish. There is ample time to cover the necessary hiking distance each day with lots of stops. If you are on a private trek, you may wish to take more or fewer days to cover a given distance, or add in rest days. If you like to hike fast, your guide will be concerned that you acclimatize to high altitude effectively. You may wish to reach camp at a measured pace, but take a side hike after camp arrival. Your guide is always interested to learn about your personal interests and to accommodate those interests as the trip permits.

What is altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness, often known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a particularly important medical consideration while trekking in Nepal. Altitude sickness means the effect of altitude on those who ascend too rapidly to elevations above 3000 meters. The initial symptoms of AMS are as follows:

Nausea, vomiting
Loss of appetite
Insomnia/ sleeplessness
Persistent headaches
Dizziness, light headaches, confusion
Disorientation, drunken gait
Weakness, fatigue, lassitude, heavy legs, slight swelling of hands and face
Breathlessness and breathing irregularly
Reduced urine output

These symptoms are to be taken very seriously. In case of the appearance of any of the above symptoms, any further ascent should be reconsidered; otherwise more serious problems can occur which can cause death, sometimes within a few hours. The only cure for the Altitude Sickness is to descend to lower elevations immediately. Acclimatization by ascending to no more than 300 to 500 meters per day above 3000 meters and the proper amount of rest are the best methods for prevention of AMS.

Will I be able to deal with the high altitude?
Our itineraries are designed so that our clients ascend at a sensible and safe rate. The effects of altitude are felt by everyone, even the Sherpas, but most people find that gentle acclimatisation allows them to reach their high point without any problems.

What is teahouse and camping treks?
Tea House accommodation: There are a number of lodges along the popular trekking routes in Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang regions. These lodges are called Tea House Lodges and managed by local people. These lodges have basic requirements for over night accommodation like private rooms, dormitories, toilets, shower room with hot and cold water, and one attached restaurant. The quality of food offered might vary from lodge to lodge but most serve simple and hygienic meals. The teahouse trekking provides you an opportunity to feel the warm hospitality of friendly Nepali hosts. The money you spend goes to the local community.

Camping Trekking
In a typical camping trekking, each pair of trekkers will sleep in a spacious mountain tent with a durable rain, fly, and full insect netting. The tent is fitted with foam mattresses. When your campsite is near villages or lodges you may be invited to sleep in the lodges or homes of local people.

What are the typical foods on the treks?
Breakfast options includes  Oatmeal,French toast,Chapatti, Tibetan bread, eggs,, pancakes,, muesli and for Lunch or dinner you can have sandwich, soups momo (dumpling), macaroni dishes, pizzas, noodles, steak, dal bhat (rice, lenthal, veg platter) pasta etc.

What is your guide like?
Our trekking guides are carefully selected for their ability and are generally from Sherpa, Tamang, Gurung, Magar, and other communities from remote mountain villages. Each guide is trained and has abilities in eco-friendly trekking methods and safety. They help to maintain your health and your happiness as well as his crew members. Our guides are committed to making sure that all our trekkers have an enjoyable trek, come back safe and are overwhelmed by their experience. Your guide will be a friend and companion, who takes pleasure in showing you his country’s specialties and, perhaps, meet his home and family too.

What about the Porters?
Services of porters and pack-animals to carry your luggage and equipment are hired at the beginning of a trek to make sure that most of the costs our clients pay go directly into the local community where you trek.

How much should I tip the guides and porters?
Tipping is at your discretion but always appreciated. A good rule of thumb is anywhere from $2- 5 dollars per day for the guide and $1.5 to 3 dollars per day per porter.  The total amount can then be divided among the group.

What is your Kathmandu contact address in case if my family needs to contact me in case of emergency?
Please have them contact at any of the following numbers:
Cell : ++977-98510-32108+977-98510-32108 or 9841-250248.  Landline (office hour) 977-1-400-5037977-1-400-5037 or 444-5475.  We check email frequently throughout the days so you could also write to our email: info@green-lotus-trekking.com if it’s not urgent.