Annapurna Circuit Trek - 16 Days

Tilicho Lake and Thorong La over 5400 m
based on 15 reviews
Annapurna Circuit Trek
trekking Annapurna Circuit
Annapurna circuit Tilicho Lake trek
Trip Photos
At a Glance
Duration16 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
i
Maximum Altitude5416 m
Best TimeSept - May

Trip Overview

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a legendary journey that includes reaching two of the iconic high-altitude landmarks: Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), the two most iconic high-altitude landmarks known to mankind. These are among the highest mountain passes and lakes in the world that define adventure in itself. The 16 days Annapurna Circuit Trekking Itinerary winds through the heart of the Annapurna Himalayas and offers you a mesmerizing blend of mountains, culture of various ethnic communities, and landscapes ranging from vivid green valleys and terraced farms to rugged high-altitude deserts crowned by snow-draped peaks. On this Himalayan adventure surrounding Mount Annapurna (8,091 m), the tenth highest mountain on this planet, trekkers shall expect a cultural cauldron, wherein ethnic diversities satisfy the Spirit of Culture living within the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal.

The trekking is through the Annapurna Region of Nepal that has been in the limelight since its opening in 1977, featuring incredible short to long treks catering to a wide range of adventurers. From beginner-friendly Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Khopra Danda Trek, and Mohare Danda Trek to moderate altitude Annapurna Base Camp Hike and high altitude Annapurna Circuit Trek, spread over six districts, it has it all. Where the Annapurna Circuit Trip is that one Himalayan Voyage, which makes its way to the best cultural and natural highlights of the region, walking from lush subtropical forests of rhododendron to interestingly rugged landscapes where ancient Tibetan fortresses cling dramatically to rocky cliffs, and the enigmatic Bonpo religion thrives alongside other traditions, creating an experience as rich in history as it is in natural splendor.

At Mountain Monarch, as one of the leading and well-reputed trekking companies in Nepal with decades of experience in organizing safe, successful, and immersive Himalayan holidays, we are offering group discounts on the Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost for 2025 and 2026, making it a must-not-miss opportunity. Booking with us means you are all set for an epic holiday experience in the lap of majestic Himalayan ranges, as we provide you with essential preparation tips and manage all the trekking logistics on your behalf while our guides and porters with extra oxygen cylinders and first aid kits are always ready to assist you in emergencies immediately. Capture breathtaking Himalayan vistas, get a closer insight into unspoiled Himalayan culture, and relish the genuine hospitality of simple and welcoming locals with this Annapurna Circuit Hiking in Nepal!

What makes Hiking Around Annapurna with Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass special?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek 16 days itinerary offers you everlasting views of gorgeous peaks right from the trek starting point to the end of the journey that are particularly panoramic from the high-altitude Thorong La Pass and Tilicho Lake, also serving as some of the best Annapurna viewpoints. Both are adventure masterpieces blending less-traveled trails with unparalleled Himalayan beauty. If you are someone seeking an authentic high-altitude trekking experience in Nepal, Annapurna Circuit Hiking is your answer.

Covering a large area, this classic Annapurna Circuit Trek through the Kali Gandaki River and Budhi Gandaki River is just a fantastic alpine ramble to witness the ancient temples and stupas come alive with history and energy. So you know what 2025 and 2026 are? It's time to set out for an epic Himalayan trek and craft unforgettable memories amidst the fascinating cultures, sky-high Himalayan views, and landscapes that are contrasting yet beautiful like never before.

How does the landscape change during the Annapurna Circuit Trek from start to end?

This 16 days Annapurna Circuit Hike starts from Dharapani, which welcomes you with lush green forests, terraced fields, and roaring rivers. Due to the warm and humid climate, you can find dense vegetation and villages surrounded by rice paddies. As you ascend, the landscape along the Annapurna Circuit hiking route changes to alpine meadows with sparse vegetation and human settlements, also introducing you to arid landscapes, followed by rugged terrain and dramatic cliffs around Manang and Khangsar. The trek concluding point of Thorong La Pass and Tilicho Lake features a barren and desert-like landscape dominated by snow-capped peaks. The vegetation is minimal, and so are the human dwellings, a perfect natural escape from the chaos of the modern world that is challenging and rewarding both, a visual delight as you pave the way on each turn!

Is the Annapurna Circuit Trek the right journey for cultural immersion and wildlife encounters?

The simple answer is yes. The high-altitude trek in Nepal that takes a round trip around the 10th tallest mountain on Earth, Mount Annapurna (8,091 m), entering deep into the country’s largest conservation area called Annapurna Conservation Area, is an unrivaled Himalayan voyage for cultural experience and wildlife observation. Spread over an area of 7,629 square kilometers covering parts of Kaski, Lamjung, Myagdi, Mustang, and Manang districts, regardless of the route you chose to pursue, trekkers are offered an insider insight into the unique culture and traditions of Himalayan locals, specifically those of the Gurung, Magar, Thakali, Managi, and Loba.

As you embark on this Himalayan route, Annapurna Circuit Trekking with Mountain Monarch, our professional guides, locals of the Himalayas who know the place inside and out, introduce you to spots with a higher chance of seeing a wide range of flora and fauna, including rare species like the Himalayan Thar, red pandas, and musk deer. Spotting a snow leopard is also there, but only if you are immensely lucky. Regardless, the Annapurna Circuit Hike is a paradise for both cultural and wildlife enthusiasts. The temples and ghats in the initial days, and thereafter Mani walls, Buddhist monasteries, and Gompas, all adorned with prayer flags, add much to the cultural and spiritual depth of the journey, along with a visit to spiritual sites like Muktinath Temple.

Nestled in the heart of the serene Annapurna Himalayas at an altitude of 3,800 m above sea level, it serves as both the cultural and spiritual center of the Annapurna Trekking Region. Revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, the world is known as Mukti Kshtera, or place of liberation, as mentioned in Hindu scriptures and Buddhist texts as well; it is just the right place for meditation, mindfulness, and self-reflection.

Thorong La Pass to embrace Mount Annapurna up close 

The Thorong La Pass, towering at 5,410 m above sea level, is the most challenging and rewarding part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Renowned for its panoramic views and close embrace of some of the top of the world, Mount Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), and other snow-clad mountain ranges. The views are simply marvelous as you also get to catch a glimpse of wind-sculpted Mustang Valley to the northwest that was once the Forbidden Kingdom. So are the challenging, steep ascents and descents in high-altitude areas where Himalayan weather can change in any minute; it is physically demanding, requiring at least a good level of physical fitness, and acclimatization is best attempted by experienced individuals who possess prior knowledge of high-altitude climbing, trekking, and hiking.

Located between Manang and Mustang districts, Thorong La Pass is a beautiful experience when done with proper preparation, packing, and the right trek partner like Mountain Monarch. With us, you will begin walking to reach the pass in the morning so you can avoid strong afternoon winds, while our itinerary makes sure you are well acclimatized to the arduous mountain surroundings with a comparatively low level of oxygen.

Why is Tilicho Lake worth a side trek during the Annapurna Circuit Hiking?

Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) above sea level is the hidden jewel of the Annapurna Himalayas of Nepal, a must-visit place set like a natural amphitheater giving you access to timeless traditions, lifestyles, and mountain views guarded by snow-capped peaks that seem to touch the heavens. The sense of adventure and discovery as you step into the realm of turquoise beauty is surreal as you make your way through landscapes ranging from rugged cliffs to glacial valleys, watched over by Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Tilicho Peak, peaking into the sky. Further, as this route, even during the peak trekking seasons of Nepal, spring and autumn from March to May and September to November, receives a smaller number of visitors, it is an off-the-beaten-path trek through the tranquil villages of Bagra up to the awe-inspiring Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes.

Unveiling the unparalleled natural beauty and high-altitude adventure in one single trip, Tilicho Lake hence stands out as one of the most iconic trekking destinations in Nepal, worth a side trek during the Annapurna Circuit Trekking.

Choose Annapurna Circuit Trek for adventure with comfort and accessibility

Unlike most of Nepal’s popular hiking routes that have been recognized as some of the best trekking destinations in the world, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Everest Three Passes Hike, and the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail is easily accessible and generally includes a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and now directly to Dharapani. While demanding, the trekking route features well-established teahouses, lodges, and guest houses to take care of your necessities that go side by side with a profound sense of accomplishment and true connection with the mythical Himalayas in the remote.

The high-altitude challenges are balanced by out-of-this-world natural and cultural beauty as you interact with smiling and friendly local people and see exceptionally stunning nature’s grandeur each day. If you are wondering what extraordinary things to do in 2025 and 2026. Let us help you set out on an amazing Himalayan odyssey to the Annapurna Circuit Trek that is not only humbling and stunning but also transformative, often leading to deep appreciation for what you have.

Annapurna Circuit Trek 16 Days Itinerary and cost for 2025 and 2026

Also called the Annapurna Tilicho Trekking for visiting both Thorong La Pass and Tilicho Lake, the 16 Days Annapurna Circuit Hiking begins as soon as you land in the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, Nepal. After acclimatizing for a day in Kathmandu, the journey to encircle Mount Annapurna officially commences on the third day with a drive to Dharapani passing via Besisahar and then Bulbul. Expect the roads to get bumpier as you move closer and closer to Dharapani. From Dhaparapani is a walk that passes by Chame, Upper Pisang, Ngawal, Manang, and Khagsar to reach Tilicho Base Camp and lake. The trek thereafter is to reach Thorong La Pass, which involves making your way through Ledar and High Camp.

Regardless, based on the Annapurna Circuit Trek 19-day itinerary, you would have already made it through Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the entire journey, by the 13th day and descended into Muktinath premises, while by the 15th you would have made it back to Kathmandu after a full exploration of Pokhara, the second largest tourist hub of Nepal after Kathmandu. This itinerary allows peaceful hiking followed by immense cultural and natural exploration without missing any of the key highlights that the Annapurna Trekking region has to offer; hence, it is also taken as the best Annapurna Trekking route, including for the years 2025 and 2026.

Additionally, though the total package cost may vary depending upon trekkers' preferences on service (basic, standard, or premium), chosen route, and customization made, Mountain Monarch is known for the best competitive prices without any compromise on safety, quality, and experience. Our Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost takes care of all essential trekking logistics like food, accommodation, permits, guides, and their salaries, insurance, followed by trekking gear and equipment, where we are also providing early booking and special group discounts for 2025 and 2026.

Join Annapurna Circuit Trekking in the Spring or Autumn of 2025/26

Let the adventure of a lifetime begin. Embark on the iconic Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail, ensuring you an ultimate trekking experience in Nepal, every step of which opens new discoveries and mind-blowing vistas that you will remember for a lifetime. Mountain Monarch has designated fixed spring and autumn departure dates for 2025 and 2026. Solo, group, family, or private, we make it all happen for you at a reasonable and affordable price. You will definitely love tailor-made journeys that fit your schedule and fitness level.

We specialize in customizing the Himalayan Odyssey and ensure you a more personalized and seamless experience. Adventure awaits; you can make it yours!

Trip Gallery

Thorong La Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trekkingjpg
Tilicho Lake Hiking 1
Annapurna Thorangla Tilicho Lake
Tilicho Lake Trek Annapurna
Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trekking
Tilicho Lake Annapurna

Annapurna Circuit Trek - 16 Days Itinerary

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Day 01
  • Accommodation: Three-Star Hotel 
  • Meals: Welcome-Dinner 
  • Max altitude: 1,330m

An office representative from Mountain Monarch welcomes you on your arrival in Kathmandu and transfers you to your hotel, where a pre-trek briefing will be held in the evening over dinner. Your group leader is happy to help you in any way possible, including with what to pack and not, followed by arrangements and distribution of your kit bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag.

Day 02
  • Accommodation: Three-Star Hotel 
  • Meals: Breakfast 
  • Max altitude: 1,330m

Beside being the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is a cultural melting pot, home to at least seven of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Boudhnatha Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple in the morning and later on Swayambhunath and the trilogy of ancient Durbar Squares called Basantapur, Bhaktapur, and Patan in the evening, a perfect introduction to the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal.

Day 03
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House 
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner 
  • Max altitude: 1,860m

The journey for Annapurna Circuit Trekking officially begins this day with an early morning drive to Besisahar from Kathmandu, marked by the finest views of tumbling whitewater rivers, scenic terraced farms, and traditional Nepali villages with glimpses into the rural life. You will stop at Bhulbhule for lunch and then change the vehicle into a jeep until you arrive at your destination of the day, Dharapani, along the rugged, gurgling road with some bumps.

Day 04
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 2,685m 

Now begins the footwalking from Dharapani to reach Chame, one of the typical mountain dwellings along the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trails featuring typical Tibetan architecture dotted in between the forests of fir and pine. In a short time frame, you will notice the transition in landscape from lower wet valleys to the arid area of the Manang Valley, passing through beautiful waterfalls, thrilling wooden suspension bridges, and stunning first glimpses of Mount Annapurna and Lamjung Himal to check in at Koto before you finally stop at Chame for the night.

Day 05
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 3,475m  

Now, you will leave Chame behind and head to yet another mountain village called Upper Pisang that still retains ancient culture, traditions, and ways of life. The trail is through fields of barley, buckwheat, and apple orchards at Brathang (2,840 m), a former Khampa (Tibetan rebel settlements) for lunch. Thereafter, you will cross the river, entering into thick forests of fir that clear out the way to huge rock slabs of Paungda Danda. Continuing from here, by afternoon, you would have already made it to the flat stone house of Pisang village, watched over by the towering peaks of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak itself.

Day 06
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 3,650m   

Like usual, the hike begins early in the morning after a serene breakfast amidst the stunning natural and unspoiled cultural beauty of the Annapurna region. The path is a gradual ascent, slowly moving through typical mountain settlements dotted with mani walls and gompas adorned with colorful flags, which is more vivid in the charming village of Ngawal. The cultural immersion is immense, and so are the mountain views. 

Day 07
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 3,650m   

The hike from Ngawal to Manang spans a relatively short amount of time, leaving you with ample afternoon and evening time to explore the area. On the way, you may encounter goats and yaks grazing on hillsides, while the visit to Braga Monastery perched high on the valley cliffs adds much to the cultural experience, often inviting a spiritually rejuvenating ambiance in serenity to soak in before you call it a day at Manang, which is only a short walk from here.

Day 08
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 3,756m 

Are you ready to enter deeper into the high-altitude landscapes where the sky horizon is dominated by striking views of snow-capped mountain giants like Annapurna II and Gangapurna? Expect the trail to get rugged as you approach Khangsar, giving you a taste of the upcoming trail to reach Tilicho Base Camp and the turquoise beauty of Tilicho Lake water, which, despite being an alpine freshwater lake, has not recorded any aquatic living beings. The sense of remoteness surrounded by mountain scenery is addicting.

Day 09
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 4,150m 

Instead of directly ascending to Tilicho Lake, you will stop by Tilicho Lake Base Camp from Khangsar so you are well acclimatized to mountainous surroundings and you do not see any health complications like acute mountain sickness (AMS) due to high altitude. The crisp air, raw wilderness, and dramatic landscape with towering cliffs, each step is with an interesting twist to keep you excited until you reach the base of Tilicho Lake.

Day 10
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 4,919m

It is one of the special days when you finally get to admire the grandeur of the shimmering beauty of Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, that the French Expedition Team even gave the title of The Great Ice Lake, the epitome of unparalleled serenity amidst Tilicho Himal, the Annapurna range, and Nilgiri Himal, along with other neighboring snow-clad peaks. After relishing one of the best moments of your life, worth every step, you will retrace the path back to Shree Kharka before the afternoon to avoid strong winds.

Day 11
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 4,200m 

A good morning breakfast, and the ascending trail continues and takes a short break at Tengi, where the route branches away from Marsyangdi Valley and follows Jarsang Khola that goes back and forth through scrub juniper and grasses, replacing sparse fire and pine. If luck favors you, you may encounter elusive blue sheep or even majestic snow leopards on the way to Yak Kharka, from where Ledar is only a few hours of walking, including hiking across ancient Mani walls.

Day 12
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 4,800m  

You know what time it is; it is to reach the base of Thorong La Pass. Leaving Ledar, the ascent is along a rugged and narrow trail before finally descending to Thorong Phedi for the night. Physically demanding and rewarding, a surreal visual feast to spend the night witnessing snow-washed mountain peaks making their way to starry stars up in the sky.

Day 13
  • Accommodation: Local-Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 5,416m

The day you have been impatiently waiting for is finally here, when you will pave your way through one of the highest mountain passes in the world with the closest embrace of Mount Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, which includes passing through several prayer flags tied there to manifest good luck in rugged and steep terrain. Be extra cautious about loose boulders, landslide-prone areas, and icy trails, eventually making your way to the spiritual center of the Annapurna Trekking Region, Muktinath Temple premises.

Day 14
  • Accommodation: Standard Hotel 
  • Meals: Breakfast-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 3,800m 

With a recent direct road connection from Pokhara to Muktinath and vice versa, on this day, you will ride a jeep back to Pokhara, also called Nepal’s city of lakes, a serene valley, and a popular tourist hub after Kathmandu. Beginning early in the morning, by lunchtime, if everything goes as planned, you will have made it to Pokhara by lunchtime. For the rest of the day, you can engage in outdoor activities like paragliding, boating, kayaking, or simply strolling around peaceful Phewa Lake.

Day 15
  • Accommodation: Standard Hotel 
  • Meals: Breakfast-Dinner
  • Max altitude: 1,330m 

You are almost at the end of your 16 days Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary as you return to Kathmandu from Pokhara via one of the most beautiful highways along the bank of roaring rivers. You can choose to fly for over 20-30 minutes as well, but it is at an extra cost. Regardless, you will have ample time to rest and explore the vibrant streets of Thamel one more time and shop for souvenirs to take home.

Day 16
  • Meals: Breakfast

The Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek concludes this day with your flight back home or your next travel destination. Reminiscing all the exhilarating experiences of the Himalayan trip in Nepal, it is the day when you will bid farewell to magnificent hills and mountains. Three hours before your flight, our airport representative will drop you off at TIA. Wishing you a safe journey ahead!

Route Map

trek map of Annapurna circuit and Tilicho lakes

Altitude Chart

Annapurna circuit and Tilicho lakes route Elevation

Cost Details

Included

  • Customize airport arrival and departure transfers.
  • Standard hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a twin share with breakfast
  • Welcome dinner with cultural program as listed in the itinerary.
  • Half-day guided city tour as listed in the itinerary.
  • Jomsom Pokhara flight with airport tax as listed in the itinerary.
  • Kathmandu to Besishare and Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation
  • Full board meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner on a hike.
  • Accommodation is in a comfortable lodge during the whole hike.
  • A professional local trekking group leader who is well-trained in Wilderness First Aid.
  • Trek porter and crew with required gear and proper insurance.
  • Supplementary Oxygen Cylinder with First Aid Kit.
  • Complimentary trek Duffle bag, T-shirts, and trek map.
  • Annapurna region trek permit and conservation entry fees.

Excluded

  • Nepal Visa fees and International airfare
  • Your Travel Insurance
  • Drinks and main meals in cities.
  • Beverage drinks on the trek
  • Tips and Items of a personal nature like hot water, internet, and snacks.

Dates & Availability

Select a Departure Month
Sep 2025
Oct 2025
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Dec 2025
Mar 2026
Apr 2026
May 2026
Sep 2026
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Nov 2026
Dec 2026
Start DateSeptember 28, 2025
End DateOctober 13, 2025
StatusAvailable
PriceUS$1775
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Additional Info

How is the Annapurna Circuit Trip in Winter? Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Yes, winter in Nepal from December to February is one of the best times to visit the Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail for those seeking a more serene experience in isolation when the landscapes are completely covered with snow in the upper Himalayas, resulting in a unique wonderland. The skies are also often clear, offering excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks, an ideal time for experienced hikers who do not wish to break the bank and are keen to have a solitary experience, but only after preparation according to the season.

Around Thorong La Pass, the temperature can drop below freezing point, snowfall may obstruct the trail, and visibility may be followed by icy trails requiring extra caution and use of crampons. It is why spring and autumn in Nepal, from March to May and September to November, are regarded as the optimal time for high-altitude trekking, including for the Annapurna Circuit. These months of the year offer clear skies, stable weather, and mild temperatures, where spring brings blooming rhododendron forests in lower altitudes while autumn coincides with two of the biggest Nepalese festivals called Dashain and Tihar, an ideal time to delve into the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal!

Who provides food and accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit Trek? 

Teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses operated by local communities along the trekking routes are the ones who provide trekkers daily meals and places to rest in most of the trekking regions of Nepal, including during the Annapurna Circuit Trek in the Annapurna Himalayas. They may not be the best from what you are used to, but they are comfortable and hearty meals to keep you geared up throughout the journey. You generally find traditionally furnished, twin-sharing beds with simple beddings, mattresses, pillows, and so on, most of the time with toilets and bathrooms shared outside. In addition, private rooms can be available with more comfortable accommodations, attached bathrooms, and hot showers at a small fee in larger and more popular villages like Manang and Muktinath.

Otherwise, the teahouses feature simple rooms and various menus from local to international dishes. However, the option may be limited to simple Nepalese and Tibetan dishes like Dal-Bhat-Tarakari (a heap of rice with lentil soup followed by organic vegetables), Thukpa (noodle soup), noodles, varieties of potato, and Tibetan bread with the increased altitude. Regardless, teahouses and guesthouses ensure you have a home-away-from-home environment and a place to rest, refuel, and support throughout your trip to the Annapurna Circuit.

Do you need a special permit for an Annapurna Circuit round trek?

No, though the Annapurna Circuit Round Trip that includes crossing one of the highest mountain passes in the world, Thorong La (5,416 m), and reaching Tilicho Lake following the ancient Nepal-Tibet trade route lets you steal glimpses of Tibetan plateaus and alike landscapes, trekkers do not have to get special restricted area permits for Annapurna Circuit trekking. The mandatory permits for trekking the Annapurna Circuit are the TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which are generally issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) through government-licensed trekking companies like Mountain Monarch as part of a comprehensive trekking package.

On booking our service, we would have managed essential trekking permits and other logistics on your behalf so you get to save time and energy and invest them fully in high-altitude trekking, hiking, and walking, explore the area, and create memories for a lifetime. Further, you can at least hire a licensed guide capable of making all trekking arrangements. If you are wondering where to hire from, Mountain Monarch facilities, extraordinary guides with years of experience in organizing safe, sound, and memorable Himalayan voyages to cherish for a lifetime.

What makes hiking to the Annapurna Circuit difficult? Who can do this trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Hiking a mountain trail in Nepal is considered a moderate to challenging trek that is yet achievable for anyone with a good level of physical fitness and preparation if determined. The primary concern is high altitude, which, if ascended too quickly, can cause acute mountain sickness (AMS) or altitude sickness once you begin traversing through trails above 3,000 m. Long trekking days on the terrain characterized by steep ascents, descents, and rugged nature at some sections get physically demanding, especially due to unpredictable Himalayan weather. It is why trekkers embarking on the Annapurna Circuit Hike are advised to begin exercises to strengthen their core and muscles, including hiking practices on local trails that resemble high-altitude trekking conditions, a month prior, best starting three months prior.

If prepared well with correct packing, physical and mental conditioning, followed by proper acclimatisation, the journey to Annapurna Circuit is happening for both novice and seasoned trekkers, much beneficial for those with experience of high altitude trekking, climbing, and hiking. However, if you are someone with lung, heart, and knee issues, it is best to consult with your doctors at first.

Can you go for a solo trek to Thorong La Pass and Tilicho Lake?

Yes, but only if you are acquainted with one of the licensed guides from a government-authorized trekking agency like Mountain Monarch. With the banning of free individual trekkers (FITS) in Nepal from April 1st, 2023, it is a must that you at least hire local guides before you officially embark on any trekking trails in the remote Himalayas under conservation, national parks, and restricted areas. That is why whether you are going for a solo, group, private, or family Himalayan trip, hiring guides is a must. A well-experienced guide, local to the Himalayan regions of Nepal, not only provides you effective navigation on difficult terrain possessing potential risks for you due to unfamiliarity but also assists you immediately in an emergency, helps you with meals and accommodations, and also arranges permits.

Side by side, they are the cultural ambassadors for you who will keep you aware of local norms and values so you have an insider insight into the Himalayan lifestyle, leave a positive impression, and establish a genuine connection to people, culture, nature, and mountains as they introduce you to the most known and hidden gems of the area you are venturing into, including during the Annapurna Circuit Trekking crossing the Thorong La Pass and visiting Tilicho Lake. Hire us now and rest assured for a safer and smoother trekking experience in Nepal. We provide the best guides and porters, the backbone of the immersive Himalayan odysseys, where porters carry your heavy loads so you get to conserve energy and soak up completely on the trail.