Annapurna Circuit Trek

No technical climbing skills are required. A good level of general fitness and experience with multi-day hiking is enough for most trekkers, though the pass day is demanding regardless of experience.

Spring (Marchu2013May) and autumn (Septemberu2013November) offer the most stable weather and clearest mountain views. Winter is possible but colder, and the pass may occasionally close after heavy snowfall; monsoon season (Juneu2013August) brings rain and leeches at lower elevations.

It's a long day u2014 7 to 9 hours of walking, including a steep, high-altitude ascent u2014 but not technically difficult. The main challenges are the cold, wind and altitude rather than the terrain itself.

Yes, and it's the primary safety concern on the Circuit. The itinerary includes dedicated acclimatization days, your guide monitors symptoms daily, and a pulse oximeter is carried throughout the trek to check oxygen saturation.

Yes. Some trekkers combine sections with a jeep or add the Tilicho Lake side trip; others shorten the trek to 12u201314 days by driving further before starting to walk. We're happy to tailor the itinerary to your time and fitness.

Simple teahouse lodges throughout, with private rooms and shared bathrooms in most villages (attached bathrooms become rarer above Manang). Rooms are basic but generally clean, with extra blankets available.

Yes u2014 insurance covering high-altitude trekking up to 5,500m and emergency helicopter evacuation is required for this trek and strongly recommended for your own safety.

Porters typically carry up to 20kg between two trekkers. Pack a daypack for yourself with water, layers and essentials, and leave the rest for the porter to carry.