General trip description

Trek route: Kathmandu, Besi Sahar, Manang, Thorung La, Jomson, Tatopani, Ghorepani, Ghandrung, Pokhara, Kathmandu

[ Note: this trek has been created in a way that everybody with a general health is able to finish the Annapurna Circuit. A slow and very good acclimatization schedule allows anybody to adapt to the high altitude and to reach daily trekking goals easily. ]

In this trip you start with a bus ride to Besi Sahar, the starting point of this trip. During the entire circuit you will trek across very good trails, though little mountain villages with all kind of tourist facilities, deep, green valley’s, across suspension bridges and wild rivers up to cold alpine area’s. The warm and green Marshyangdi valley leads up to the colder alpine regions of Manang and the high pass Thorung La. The climb to the Thorung La may be long and tiring, but is without difficulties. Depending on the season, the Thorung La may be covered with deep snow, making the ascent and descent long and slippery.

Team composition

This trek is organized in classic expedition style only or in combination with lodge style. Classic expedition style means that camps will be established (at camp sites) along the trails. Guesthouses may be available and used, too.

Within our full trekking service - package, the trek is led by an experienced Nepalese trekking leader, supported by a team of Sherpa’s, cooks and porters or yaks. The trekking leader has managed many treks & expeditions and knows the route very well. The trekking leader and the Sherpa’s lead the way and establish al camps. A strong team of porters or yaks carries all equipment & food. Check the different, available service packages to see what is included and not included.

Well developed and proven trekking and acclimatization schedules with sufficient rest & acclimatization days guarantee the safety and the highest chance to reach the different goals in this trek. The strategy and all options will be discussed on the way.

Minimum / maximum group size:
- Private treks: no limit
- Fixed departure treks: minimum 3 members / maximum:12 members

Experience & skills

This trek does not require specific experience or skills, although you should feel comfortable walking on steep, rocky, slippery and unstable terrain for at least some parts of the trek.

This trek is open for anybody who is fit. View the trip’s difficulty for more details. However, as you’re part of a group during demanding activities, you must prepare yourself for working and living in and with a group of people who share the same, common goal! An easy going, flexible attitude is a must.

Equipment list

After booking all members will receive a final equipment list detailing all necessary clothing and (climbing) equipment to be individually provided. You may download an example list on this page (right top).

Best season, climate, temperatures

Indication of best seasons to make this trip (stable weather and clear views):
- Spring: March, April, May
- Autumn: October, November

Indication of temperatures: (depending on weather conditions)
- Below 5000m varying from: Day time: +10ºC / +30ºC. Night time: -5ºC / +15ºC
- Above 5000m varying from: Day time: -5ºC / +10ºC. Night time: -8ºC / -15ºC

Rain may be expected in the lower areas from Besi Sahar to Thorung La. Mountain storms are unpredictable and can arise quickly, changing trekking conditions dramatically. Rain, snow and strong winds are always possible.