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Annapurna Circuit
Oct departure guaranteed, 29 Oct - 22 Nov 2010.
The famous Annapurna Circuit is long, spectacular, goes over the 5416m Thorung La Pass and is undoubtedly a challenge - but an achievable one (is it being spoilt?). If you think so, consider the 'new' Circuit.
It is reputed to be the best long distance trek in the world - and it has a 5* claim.
This is not just a trip.....it's one of life's great experiences; there is little to compare with setting off on this challenging circuit of the Annapurna range of mountains. This itinerary takes 18 days and includes acclimatisation days and the potential to rest further should an injury or the weather force you to do so. Download the full itinerary and information.
The Annapurna Circuit is changing....you may have heard rumours or seen articles? Check our maps to see exactly what's what and exactly what the changes are all about.
After a short settling in period in Kathmandu, you are out onto the Circuit to experience several vast changes in terrain, culture and altitude. The rate of ascent is nice and slow to Manang, where you need to acclimatise for a day before moving up into the higher and potentially dangerous altitude. The Thorung La is the highest Pass in the world and after reaching it (pre-dawn start) you rapidly descend into Muktinath. This village is special in itself in that it is one of the two prime Hindu/Buddhist shrines in Nepal.
This area of Muktinath, Kagbeni through Jomson and onto Marpha is a strong Buddhist region. It borders Upper Mustang, formerly part of Tibet. This is complete contrast to the Manang area and for some reason, it appears much warmer!
From Jomson, you head south following the Kali Gandaki river and it is predominantly downhill for a few days to Tatopani before ascending once again to Ghorepani (and Poon Hill). The exit at Naya Pul comes too early although by now you will be tired! Look back over your shoulder as you do, you surely will wish that you were back in amongst those hills!
Pokhara is the perfect place to recharge your batteries; it is tranquil and yet full of life. There is plenty to do whether it be microliting, paragliding or just lazing about in the excellent resort. Finally, it's back to Kathmandu, final shopping or browsing around before your flight home.
If you were to choose just one trek - this should be it.
There is no doubt that the Circuit is changing. The arrival of dirt 'road' tracks capable of carrying 4x4's (it is not a tarmac road) on some parts of the Circuit has changed the views of some. How far has it stretched? what effect is it having? and is it spoiling the Circuit?
Download our map of the Circuit, which is split into 4 parts and have a look for yourself. The maps have been annotated to show you the extent of the development.
Map 1 - Besi Sahar (start) to Pisang
Map 2 - Pisang to Muktinath
Map 3 - Muktinath to Tatopnai (the Kali Gandaki valley)
Map 4 - Tatopani to Naya Pul (via Ghorepani and including Poon Hill)
In our opinion, it is still worth doing. The Nepalese trekking fraternity is well aware of the concerns (and have been for years). They are already moving to establish a 'new' Circuit trail that will avoid these dirt tracks.
Mike Young (a Travel and Trek client) trekked the Circuit in Mar/Apr 2010.
Download Mike's well written article entitled 'Is it too late?'.
I term it the 'new' Circuit, but it is hardly new. The Manaslu Circuit has always been there but until now, you could not trek it using tea houses. You can now. The latter part of it covers the beginning of the Annapurna Circuit, which we know is now a dirt track. If you trek the Manaslu route until it peels off towards the Thorong La (through Manang), you will remain off road. Take this as far as Jomson and stop there. This is a cracking route that is as long as the Annapurna Circuit and covers two very high Passes. Call for more details. This route will be on line soon.
