Annapurna Circuit Guides And Tips

Whenever the word circuit follows a place for trekking it simply means their trails form a loop. In simple language, circuit trekking start and end at the same place. However, with the increasing demands of the Annapurna Circuit trek, the itineraries have increased. Different travel agencies provide you with a customized itinerary according to your time and needs. 

The maximum altitude of the Annapurna Circuit trek is 5416 m at the Thorang La Pass. Besides the adventurous potion here are some of the most sought-after highlights of the trek:

• Diverse Landscapes include lush rhododendron forests, terraced farms, green meadows, etc.
• Trekking through the Annapurna Conservation Area and getting exposure to its exotic flora and fauna.
• Visiting a glacial ice lake called Kicho Tal situated at an elevation of 4600 m.
• Get to explore the largest monastery in the Manang district, Barge Monastery.
• Explore the lifestyle of the local ethnic groups namely Gurung, Thakali, and Manangba.

Trekking pioneers and guides claim the Annapurna Circuit trek as the perfect trek for beginners. However, there are things to be kept in mind to make the trek completely beginner-friendly and safer for intermediate and experienced trekkers as well. So, here is a guide you need for the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Difficulty of the trek

Before jump-starting the journey one should know how difficult is the Annapurna Circuit trek. Its highest point is at 5416 m therefore, there are fair chances of getting altitude sickness/ mountain sickness like HAPE and HACE. If not avoided in the first place or treated properly afterward altitude sickness can be fatal. You may now think well how to prevent altitude sickness?

Firstly, Acclimatize!!! Yes, acclimatizing well and long enough lets your body adapt to the new environment and helps prevent altitude sickness. Other things to keep in mind are to eat healthy food, stay hydrated at all times, and carry high-energy snacks with you at all times.

Lastly, in case you do suffer from altitude sickness while on trek make sure to take ample rest before continuing on the trail. If the need be end the trek and focus on treating your body. After all, nothing comes before your health.

What are the permits needed for the Annapurna Circuit trek?

There are two mandatory permits needed for the Annapurna Circuit trek namely the Annapurna Conservation Area permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card.

Two governmental bodies issue the ACAP: The National Tourism Board and The National Trust for Nature Conservation NTNC). Tourism Board is situated at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, and Pokhara.

Likewise, NTNC is located at Pradarshani Marga, Kathmandu and Pokhara. One can pick the more accessible location and get their ACAP permit form there. 

Furthermore, You can obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit at different points on the trail like Besi Sahar and Lamjung. Or they can use the Nepal Tourism Board’s official website.

However, a TIMS card can be obtained only through authorized trekking agencies. So, all you need to do is provide your travel agency with all the documents and information needed and they will get the TIMS card for you.

How much does the Permit for the Annapurna Circuit trek cost?

Let us break down the cost of both ACAP and TIMS for you

Note: one does not need any kind of Restricted Area Permit for the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Some Tips to make your Annapurna Circuit trek easier:

• Always carry some Nepali cash with you as permits can not be obtained using Nepali currency. Also, you can not buy Nepali goods at local shops if you do not have Nepali currency.
• Carry a water bottle with you, have high-energy snacks, and have a first aid box with over-the-counter medicines to prevent and cure altitude sickness.
• Make sure to complete the Annapurna Circuit within 90 days of getting the permits as their validity ends after 3 months (90 days).
• Make sure to check weather conditions every morning before starting the trek.
• Last, but not least always listen to your guide as they know the trails better than anyone.