Annapurna Circuit Trek 9 Days
Annapurna Circuit Trek 9 Days
The 9 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek is a very famous trek in Nepal. The Annapurna Circuit Trek trail passes through villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups and offers magnificent mountain scenery from the far northern Himalayas to the Tibetan Plateau. A feature of the Annapurna Round Trek is the Thorong La pass at 5416 meters from the sea level. Throughout the trek, you’ll be trekking in the shadows of Himalayan giants, marveling at the absolutely spectacular scenery. We follow the trail that passes through lowland Brahmin and Chhetri villages to the remote village of Manang and also treks down via the Kali Gandaki Gorge, Which is the deepest gorge in the world.
In addition to the usual trekking route, we will also trek over the Thorong La pass (5,416m) and add another layer of adventure to our Annapurna Round trek. (This trek also Known as "Annapurna Circuit Trek" ) This trek offers a stunning panorama view of snowy Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Mt. Annapurna, II, IV III, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Gangapurna, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and many other Himalayan peaks. Another attraction of the Annapurna Round Trek is the Tibetan village of Manang (3500 m) where we will be able to observe Buddhist monks worshipping at ancient monasteries in the Manang region. Life in the Annapurna region has remained almost unchanged throughout centuries. Additional side trip from Manang, this trek also offers the Glacier Gangapurna Lake and the incredible natural paradise surrounding Gangapurna Glacier.
Then we follow the trail ascends from the Manang village over Thorong La Pass (5416 meters), which one is the highest point on the Annapurna Round Trek. From the top of the Thorong La, trekkers enjoy magnificent views of the Thorong Peak, Mustang peak, the snow-covered giant Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), and the amazing lands of Upper Mustang, a restricted area. After crossing Thorong La Pass (5416 m) the trail descends to the most popular Hindu Temple of Muktinath, a celebrated Hindu pilgrimage with 108 spring water taps and mysterious natural gas fires. The path then descends along the edge of the Kali Gandaki valley to on to the hot springs at Tatopani (1,300m). This is an ideal place to relax those muscles after being on the trail for the last 9 days. Then If you want to extend the hike, we hike up to Poon Hill (3,210m). To get the best views from here it is wise to be on the hill at sunrise or sunset when the colors and mountains are more vividly contrasted in the pure morning and evening light. This is a place for camera enthusiasts. Be sure to have your batteries charged! From Poon Hill, we head down to Nayapul (1,000m) and then drive to Pokhara (850m) and back to Kathmandu.
Trekkers in reasonably good health can do the Annapurna Circuit trek comfortably. Trekkers slowly ascend the trail to allow for full acclimatization and optimum enjoyment of the Annapurna Circuit trek.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrive at Kathmandu (1,400m) and transfer to hotel.
Upon arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a Sherpa Expedition & Trekking representative and taken by private vehicle to your hotel. After checking in at the hotel, you will be briefed on what to expect on your trek and given an itinerary. With time to spare you can wander around the tourist hub of Thamel or take in the sights of Kathmandu Valley. No meals included on this day.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Chame (2,760m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
This morning we head from Kathmandu to Chame via Besisahar. Along the route you will get glimpses of several snow-capped mountains (Annapurna & Manaslu) as we cross rivers and pass through terraced farmland. We will travel by jeep for around 3 to 4 hours from Besisahar to Chame passing through villages such as: Sange, Bhulbhule, Nagdi, Chamche, Tal, Dharapani, Bagarchhap, Dankya, Timang, Thanchowk, and Koto.
Day 3 : Trek from Chame to Pisang (3300m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we head out on the trail following the Marsyangdi River, with our first stop at Bratang and then on to Chemyau Kharka where there is a memorial to Japanese mountain climber Akira Ochiai. Further on we come to Dhukur Pokhari passing through forests along the way until we arrive at lower Pisang from where we will head to Upper Pisang as a means of acclimatizing. We will then return to Lower Pisang for the night.
Day 4 : Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,500m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Pisang is the start of our trek into the upper Manang region. Today we follow the trail to Braga; a Tibetan village with its distinctive architecture and houses constructed one upon the other. One of Manang’s main features is its Gompa (Buddhist temple), being the largest in the Manang region. Manang is also very popular stopping-off point with trekkers who remain here for a day in order to acclimatize before heading to higher elevations. From Manang we have views of Mt. Chulu and Gangapurna.
Day 5 : Trek from Manang to Thorong Phedi (4600m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
This morning we head out on the trail to Yak Kharka, beginning with a climb through snow-covered forests of juniper. The trail is steep until we arrive at Ghustang. The remainder of this trail is relatively easy as we head to Yak Kharka, and along the way enjoy views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho. This morning we head out on a short 1-hour trek to Ledar and then on to Thorong Phedi. Thorong Phedi is at the base of Thorong Himal. We will either spend the night here or move on to High Camp, depending on the weather conditions.
Day 6 : Trek to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorang-la Pass (5,416 m) and drive to Jomsom Duration: 8-9 hours
Today is probably going to be one of the most physically demanding days of the trek, hiking for between 8 and 9 hours. The higher altitude certainly makes it more difficult, and sometimes the strong winds in these upper regions make it harder too. Along the trail, we might pass sheep, yaks, and merchants transporting their goods by Yak or donkey. Once we reach Thorong La Pass we will have some truly amazing views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and the eye-catching peak of Khatungkang (6484m). Crossing the pass we then descend about 1600 meters. Dhaulagiri (Dhavali Giri, meaning “White Mountain”) and the highest mountain that is entirely in Nepal is also visible. The trail is more undulating and quite easy before coming to Muktinath. After we reaching muktinath we will take a sharing Jeep or Bus drive to Jomsom for overnight stay.
Day 7 : Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today we drive to Pokhara by local bus on a 7-8 hour journey, firstly arriving at Tatopani via Beni Bazaar and then on to Pokhara. Pokhara is famous for its lake – Phew Tal, and is popular with travelers. It has all the facilities of a small city. Your hotel will be by “Lakeside”. You may wish to watch the sunset over the lake and the mountains. It is a great way to end the day and relax.
Day 8 : Drive back to Kathmandu (1,350m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head back on a 6 to 7 hour drive to Kathmandu with many warm memories of Nepal and its unique culture, village people and geography. These memories will be with you for a long time - and as you look back on them they will put a smile on your face.
Day 9 : Transfer to the International Airport for your final departure.
Today is your last day in Nepal and Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will take you to the airport at least three hours prior to your scheduled departure time. On your flight home, you can start planning your next adventure in Nepal.
SERVICES
Cost Included In Your Package
- Airport pick up and drop off by private car/Jeep
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- One night standard twin sharing Hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation by Tourist Bus
- Kathmandu - Besisahar transfers on a local bus, Besisahar to Chame by Sharing Jeep Pokhara - Kathmandu transportation on a Local bus
- Muktinath To Pokhara transportation by Bus or sharing jeep.
- Three Meals a day [Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner] during the trek
- Accommodation on beautiful cozy tea houses as per the itinerary
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permits and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) cards
- Experienced English-speaking, government licensed and ministry of tourism trained trekking guide with meals, accommodation, salary and insurance
- Strong experienced Sherpa helpers [porters] with meals, accommodation, salary, and insurance
- Assistant trekking guide for groups over 8 people with meals, accommodation, salary, and insurance
- Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
- Comprehensive first aid medical kit carried by the guide / American medical association approved Oximeter
- Necessary paper works, all government, and local taxes, company service charges
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
Cost Excludes
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu Lunch and Dinner.
- Meals in Pokhara.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Your Travel and medical rescue insurance(recommended).
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses like; Laundry, Battery charging, telephone, and shopping, etc.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- Desserts Sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected).
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Sleeping Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Duffel Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker or windcheater
- Thermal underclothes
- Rain poncho
- Down jacket (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece or wool trousers
- Sun hat or scarf
- Trekking pants (two pairs)
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Hiking socks (several pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts, including t-shirts
- Trekking shoes or boots with spare laces
- Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Swimsuit or swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch
- Sleeping bag (Sherpa Teams can provide this for you)
- Trekking poles (if desired)
- Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters
- Small lock for your backpack
- Reusable water bottles (at least two liters)
- Water purification tablets or filtration device
- Wash towel
- Basic first aid kit
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Manang & Mustang regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
How long is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is approximately 160-230 kilometers long, depending on the route you take.
How many days does it take to complete the trek?
The trek typically takes around 6-20 days to complete. However, if you are short on time, you can opt for a 9-day challenging trek, which covers the most essential parts of the circuit.
Is the 9-day trek challenging?
Yes, the 9-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered challenging due to its shorter duration. You will be covering a significant distance each day, which requires a good level of fitness and endurance.
What is the highest point on the trek?
The highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is Thorong La Pass, which sits at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).
What is the best time to do the trek?
The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer the best weather with clear skies and moderate temperatures.
Do I need a permit for the trek?
Yes, you will need two permits for the Annapurna Circuit Trek: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Are there tea houses along the trail?
Yes, there are plenty of tea houses along the Annapurna Circuit Trek route. These tea houses provide basic accommodation and meals, making it convenient for trekkers.
What should I pack for the trek?
Some essential items to pack for the trek include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing layers, a good quality sleeping bag, a trekking pole, a first aid kit, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat. It's also recommended to carry some snacks and energy bars.
Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
Altitude sickness can be a concern on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, especially when crossing Thorong La Pass. It's important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. If you experience severe symptoms of altitude sickness, it's best to descend to a lower altitude.
Do I need a guide or porter for the trek?
While it is not mandatory to have a guide or porter, it is highly recommended, especially for first-time trekkers or those with limited experience. A guide can assist with navigation, provide valuable insights about the region, and help in case of emergencies. A porter can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek with less weight on your shoulders.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 30 Reviews
Renata Rogaczewska
United States
August 14, 2024
Fantastic Trekking Experience
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking delivered a fantastic Annapurna Circuit trek. Their team’s expertise and friendly approach made the journey enjoyable and memorable. The guides were highly skilled, providing us with safety and insights into the local culture. The porters were hardworking and courteous, taking excellent care of our gear. The trek was well-organized, with comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. Sherpa Expedition’s attention to detail and commitment to quality ensured a smooth and enriching experience. I highly recommend them for anyone seeking a top-notch trekking adventure.
Carolina Araujo
United Kingdom
August 2, 2024
Reliable and Efficient Trekking Company
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking proved to be a reliable and efficient trekking company on our Annapurna Circuit adventure. Their team was well-organized, handling all logistics seamlessly. The guides were knowledgeable and attentive, providing valuable information and ensuring our safety. The porters worked diligently, taking great care of our gear. The accommodations and meals exceeded our expectations, contributing to a comfortable trek. Sherpa Expedition’s dedication to providing a smooth and enjoyable experience made our trek memorable and stress-free. Highly recommend them for anyone planning this incredible journey.
Rashad Yahya
Australia
July 25, 2024
A Seamless Adventure
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking delivered a truly seamless Annapurna Circuit trek. Their organization was impeccable, with everything from transportation to trekking permits handled efficiently. The guides were well-informed and attentive, ensuring our safety and enjoyment throughout the trek. The accommodation and meals provided were excellent, adding to the overall comfort. What set Sherpa Expedition apart was their commitment to personalizing the experience, accommodating our needs, and making us feel like part of their family. Highly recommend them for a hassle-free trekking experience.
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