Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days

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Activities: Trekking & Sightseeing Fitness Level: Fairly Challenging
Max Elevation: 5,416m Thorang La Pass Transportation: Tourist bus/private vehicle
Best Month: Mar to May & Sep to Dec Group Size: 2 - 10 Persons
Arrival on: Kathmandu Departure from: Kathmandu
Meal: Full board Meals on Trek/Breakfast in the City
Accommodation: Hotel/ Mt. Lodge & Guest Houses
Price: USD:1830
https://www.nepalvisiontreks.com

Trip Introduction

Annapurna Circuit Trek has gradually become one of the most loved trekking trails in the world. The magical trails of the 21-day trek around the Annapurna massif will take you through the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge (2,520 m/8,270 ft) to one of the most challenging passes at the Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft).

Annapurna Circuit Trek Trip Introduction:

The trek offers you ample diversity apart from the trek. The trek starts from an altitude of 800m and extends high to an altitude of 5,416m. You can take a great opportunity to explore the diverse flora, fauna, rivers, waterfalls, cultures, traditions, and lifestyles. The welcoming villagers and the majestic mountain peaks remain constant throughout the trek.

It gives you the chance to enjoy views of these mountains from different angles and elevations which is the major attraction for taking the trip. The mountain peaks like Mt. Hiunchuli(6,441m), Mt. Manaslu(8,163m), Mt. Annapurna I(8,091m), Mt. Annapurna II(7,937m), and Mt. Annapurna III(7,555m), Mt. Machhapuchhre(6,998m), Mt. Nilgiri(7,219m), Mt. Lamjung Himal(6,986m), and Mt. Tukuche Peak(6,920m) can be seen throughout the trek. 

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary Outline:

1st Day: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)
2nd Day: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)
3rd Day: Drive to Beshishahar (830m/2,723ft) 6-7 hrs drive
4th Day: Trek to Bahundanda (1,310m/4,298ft) 5-6 hrs walk
5th Day: Trek to Chamje (1,410m/4,626ft) 5-6 hrs walk
6th Day: Trek to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft) 5-6 hrs walk
7th Day: Trek to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft) 6-7 hrs walk
8th Day: Trek to Pisang (3,200m/10,496ft) 5-6 hrs walk
9th Day: Trek to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft) 4-5 hrs walk
10th Day: Acclimatization day at Manang (3,500m/11,482ft)
11th Day: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft) 3-4 hours walk
12th Day: Trek to Throng Phedi (4,400m/14,432) 3-4 hrs walk
13th Day: Trek to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) via Throng La (5,416m/17,765 ft) 7-8 hrs walk
14th Day: Trek to Marpha (2,670m/8,760ft) 6-7 hrs walk
15th Day: Trek to Ghasa (2,120m/6,955ft) 6-7 hrs walk
16th Day: Trek to Tatopani (1,200m/3,937ft) 4-5 hrs walk
17th Day: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft) 5-6 hrs walk
18th Day: Short hike to PoonHill and trek to Tadapani (2,710m/8,891ft) 5-6 hrs walk
19th Day: Trek to Pokhara (823m/2,700ft) 5-6 hrs walk & 1 hrs drive
20th Day: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft) 5-6 hrs drive
21st Day: Departure from Kathmandu

Day to Day Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary: 

#@#Day 01: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)
#@#Welcome to the Himalayan country, Nepal. While you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, one of our representatives will be waiting to welcome you and assists to transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. After getting a short time to refresh yourself, we will meet again in the evening for a welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurants in the heart of Kathmandu. You will get a short briefing about your trip and overnight at the Hotel.

#@#Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)
#@#After breakfast, we will start the guided trip to cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley, which includes a trip to the pilgrimage sites of the Hindu temple, Pashupatinath, the world's biggest stupa, Bouddhanath Stupa, and Swoyambhunath Stupa, also known as the monkey temple. After exploring the surrounding areas, we will visit the historical Kathmandu Durbar Square and explore its temples, unique architecture, and Kumari (living goddess). In the evening, we will take a pre-trip discussion and introduction with our fellow trekking staff for a further adventurous trip.

#@#Day 03: Drive to Beshishahar (830m/2,723ft) 6-7 hrs drive
#@#We will leave Kathmandu for our long trek to Annapurna in the early morning. We take the drive by private transfer to Beshishahar going through the beautiful Nepalese countryside. Beshishahar is a big town that district headquarters in the Lamjung District. We will explore the surrounding area in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.

#@#Day 04: Trek to Bahundanda (1,310m/4,298ft) 5-6 hrs walk
#@#We will begin our trek from Beshishahar with a fine view of Hiunchuli and Peak 29 (Ngadi Chuli), crossing some suspension bridges that will reach Bhulbhule eventually. The walk continues to Ngadi village where we will be stopping for the lunch.  We pass through multiple waterfalls through the riverbank before we reach Bahundanda for the overnight stay. 

#@#Day 05: Trek to Chamje (1,410m/4,626ft) 5-6 hrs walk
#@#After breakfast, the trek will descend to Syange village, where we cross fields and local villages. A short downhill walk brings us to the Syange village after crossing a long suspension bridge. Our trek continues gradually uphill from the river. We take the last steep climb to get to Jagat for a lunch stop. We choose an hour further walk on a rocky path & long scenic waterfall across the river to reach finally the Chamje for an overnight stop.

#@#Day 06: Trek to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft) 5-6 hrs walk
#@#We will begin our short walk from Chamje which further brings us to a suspension bridge over the raging Marshyangdi river. After crossing the bridge, we will take another steep climb for another 2-3 hours till we reach the village named Tal which is a village situated on the gorge valley by the side of the river Marshyangdi. The place is decorated with a beautiful waterfall & sandy spread river. The further trek follows the upstream up to the Dharapani, which is through the rocky trails and crossing a few suspension bridges. We get to stop at small teashops bringing us to the large village at Dharapani for the overnight at the hotel.

#@#Day 07: Trek to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft) 6-7 hrs walk
#@#We will continue our trek further to Chame. We will experience the changing vegetation, people, and landscape. The air gets cooler, and the trail climbs through pine forests to Bagarchhap going further. We then reach the first village on the trek with typical Tibetan architecture. After a pleasant walk to Bagarchhap, the altitude will gain slowly as we come to Danaque. The alpine region passing through farms, orchards, and beautiful pine forests with views of the towering peaks of Lamjung and Annapurna II are the major attraction on the day. The trail follows the river Marshyangdi upstream passing by the Tamang villages that brings us to the Chame after a half-hour walk. Overnight at the hotel. 

#@#Day 08: Trek to Pisang (3,200m/10,496ft) 5-6 hrs walk
#@#The trail leads from the other side of the river on the northern bank passing through pine woods and small villages with few ups and downs till we reach the orchard village of Bhartang for the apple garden. We will continue on the gradual path up to a bridge. From the bridge, it's a short steep climb through the pine forest that will eventually bring you to the top of the ridge of Dhukur Pokhari for the lunch. After walking out of the tree line, we will get a great view of Pisang peak on the north and Chulu peak below the village. We will then head towards our shelter for the day at the windswept village of Pisang overnight. In the evening, we visit upper Pisang Village and monastery with a panoramic view of the Annapurna range and valley.

#@#Day 09: Trek to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft) 4-5 hrs walk
#@#The trek starts with a pleasant walk through the pine forest and the scenic view. The walk climbs gently up for half an hour till we reach the top. We stop at a ridge to get our first view of the Manang valley. This grand spot offers spectacular views of the Humde village with its short airstrip and the great peaks of Gangapurna, Annapurna II & III, Tilicho, and Chulu. The walk pleasant continues from Humde and we finally reach the Braga village. We can observe the traditionally built Tibetan style of houses and monasteries in the Braga village. The famous monastery has an outstanding display of statues, Thanka paintings, and religious manuscripts that can be visited if we have enough time.  We ascend another hour's walk to Manang for the overnight.

#@#Day 10: Acclimatization day at Manang (3,500m/11,482ft)
#@#We will take a full day to acclimatize and explore Manang. Manang is a village of about 500 flat-roofed houses with a picturesque set amongst some spectacular scenery -Annapurna II, Annapurna III (7,555 meters), Gangapurna (7,454 meters) to the South - Tilicho (7,132 meters), and the Grand Barrier to the West - Chulu West (6,583 meters) and Chulu East (6,059 meters) to the North. After exploring and relaxing for a day completely at Manang, we will visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in the evening.

#@#Day 11: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft) 3-4 hours walk
#@#We will start the trail from Manang which thoroughly leads us to a slow climb up for an hour. We will then reach Tenki Manang which opens up to a very enclosed view of the Annapurna, Gangapurna, and Tilicho peak. The track will gently wind up offering inspiring views and through terrains with juniper bushes as the only surviving vegetation around this region. We reach Yak-Kharka for the overnight stay.

#@#Day 12: Trek to Throng Phedi (4,400m/14,432) 3-4 hrs walk
#@#We will start our trek at a slow and own pace to get to Phedi. After walking for an hour, we will reach Ledar, from where we continue to climb along the east bank of the Jordan Khola. The walk will then descends and crosses the stream on a suspension bridge where we stop to get a tea break at a small teashop. The wonderful view we intake during our tea break is then followed by a narrow path across a high, unstable slope before we head to Thorong Phedi for the overnight stay. Phedi is a common Nepali name for any settlement at the bottom of a long climb which also means “foot of the hill”.

#@#Day 13: Trek to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) via Throng La (5,416m/17,765 ft) 7-8 hrs walk
#@#This day can be one of the longest and hardest days of the whole trip, so, be prepared beforehand. We will start our walk early in the morning taking away a packed lunch with us. The trail starts with a certain steep initially till we reach the high camp. We will continue our walk which must be at our own pace as the walk goes a long way.  We will move further to view the beautiful sunrise and glimpse of the majestic mountains. Our walk will continue to the top which might take us about 3-4 hrs or even more. We will reach the top of Throng which will certainly provide us with a great feeling of victory. You can take a short break for picturesque scenery. We then continue the walk down to the Mustang and the Kaligandaki Valley located far below the West. Finally, after a 7-8 hours long walk, we make it to Muktinath where we stay for the overnight at the lodge.

#@#Day 14: Trek to Marpha (2,670m/8,760ft) 6-7 hrs walk
#@#We will visit the holy temple, Muktinath in the morning and continue our journey descending to the Kaligandaki river valley floor. We will take a brief stop at Ekle Bhatti which is also famously known as “A lonely teahouse”. From here, the valley gets a very windy path, and the walk follows the gentle trail for another two hours till we get to the large town of Jomsom. Jomsom is the headquarter of the Mustang region that also has a small airstrip just above the Kaligandaki River. After lunch at Jomsom, we will take two hours of further easy walk towards south east that brings us to Marpha. Marpha is a little gem in the place that is present with whitewashed houses, paved streets, and numerous well-kept lodges. You will have time to celebrate with the local apple products like cider, brandy, and juice, and dinner with apple pie. We stay for the night at Marpha.

#@#Day 15: Trek to Ghasa (2,120m/6,955ft) 6-7 hrs walk
#@#The walk is very enjoyable on this day as it follows the Kaligandaki river. The walk takes us to another charming village at Tukuche. The Tukuche village is close to the Tukuche Peak and Dhaulagiri Peak with spectacular views of Mt. Nilgiri.  After a couple of hour walk from Tukuche, we continue the trek down to Kalolpani village for lunch. Kalolpani is another lovely village with more than 30 houses that also consists of excellent tea houses and lodges providing a grandeur view of Mt. Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri above the beautiful pine forest. After two hours of easy downhill walk, we reach a long-settled Thakali village for an overnight stay at one of the lodges.

#@#Day 16: Trek to Tatopani (1,200m/3,937ft) 4-5 hrs walk
#@#Continuing the trek, the route dramatically changes the vegetation, from a dry, arid desert to pine and conifer forests, as we pass between two giant peaks of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna. You might also notice a change in the architectural style going from Ghasa the southern end of the area to the settlement of Thakali people at Tatopani. The ornately carved woodwork is evidence of the change in the architecture. This pleasant walk amidst the beautiful surrounding continues back to the terraced paddy fields. Going into the warm sub-tropical climate to the village of Tatopani, we will also pass through the beautiful waterfalls of Rupse waterfall. We will come down through the Dana village (also known as the deepest gorge in the world). After lunch, we will walk for a couple of hours to get to Tatopani. We can take a natural hot spring bath in the place. You can explore the local place before our overnight stay at the hotel.

#@#Day 17: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft) 5-6 hrs walk
#@#We will start the trek after a stay at Tatopani. The trek begins after we cross a suspension bridge over the Kaligandaki River. The path will then lead by the river for a while till we arrive at the junction of the two trails. The other wide path follows the river to Beni. We divert from here taking the left uphill climb. Initially, the climb is quite steep to the top, which will continue till we reach the farms and village. We will experience a gradual climb that leads us most of the day. Leaving behind the terraced fields and walking through the dense rhododendron forests, we will reach the beautifully scenic valley, Ghorepani for the overnight stay at one of the teahouses in the place.

#@#Day 18: Short hike to PoonHill and trek to Tadapani (2,710m/8,891ft) 5-6 hrs walk
#@#We will start an early hike in the early morning. The hike will go for about 40-minute leading us to Poon Hill (3,210m/10,530ft). The route will offer a glimpse of the pleasant rhododendron forest. The place consists of a brilliant viewpoint that provides us with an unobstructed sunrise over the high Himalayas and the wide range of panoramic scenery from the far western Himalayas of Dolpo, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna including Mt. Machhapuchre (Fish Tail) and to Manasalu. After having a great time, we will return to Ghorepani for breakfast and continue the trek to Tadapani overnight.

#@#Day 19: Trek to Pokhara (823m/2,700ft) 5 hrs walk & 1 hrs drive
#@#As this day is the last day trek of the trek, you can immerse yourself to finish quickly. The trek will lead with a steep descent through scenic landscapes and local villages. We will stop by the Ghandruk village for the lunch. Ghandruk is a heavily settled and modern Gurung village in Nepal. We follow an easy path that takes us to Birethanthi, which is the confluence of the Modi and Bhurungdi Rivers. We will reach Nayapul after half an hour flat walk. Our long trek will end here.  We drive back to Pokhara lakeside for the Overnight stop. You can explore the remaining time roaming around the surrounding lake side area or simply relax at the heart of Lake Town.

#@#Day 20: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft) 5-6 hrs drive
#@#We will take an early morning drive back to Kathmandu by private vehicle enjoying the beautiful Nepalese countryside. We will check in at the hotel once we arrive in Kathmandu. We can enjoy the rest of the time relaxing or exploring the surrounding areas.  Overnight at the hotel.

#@#Day 21: Departure from Kathmandu
#@#On the last day of the trip, you can go for any last-minute shopping for souvenirs or gifts for your family, friends, or relatives for you until your departure flight/drive. You can also commence any extra trips or activities you may have booked with us. If you are good to go, you'll be transferred to the International Airport for your departure flight.

We wish you a wonderful Himalayan adventure with us!

Trip Includes

Trip Cost Includes:

All airport and hotel transportation by private vehicle in Kathmandu as per the itinerary suggested.
Deluxe twin-sharing accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
✅ Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (Alcoholic beverages are excluded)
Kathmandu to Besishahar & Pokhara to Kathmandu travel cost.
Full board meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) during the trek
Seasonal fruits during the trek are provided
Comfortable & clean accommodation on teahouse/lodge/tent during the trek
Government Registered Trek guide (English speaking, First Aid and eco trained), Sherpa porter (one porter for two trekkers)
All necessary paper works, Annapurna entry fee, permits & TIMS card
✅ Four seasonal sleeping bags, Nepal Vision Treks duffel bag, and trekking map (sleeping bag to be returned after trip completion)
First aid exclusive medical kit bag
All government and local taxes

Trip Excludes

Trip Cost Excludes:

Visa fees (You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu so (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs)) International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara except for welcome & fare well dinner (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled plan)
Any extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary plan
Travel and rescue insurance
 

Equipments

More Details:

Clothing & Packing Information
Correct Clothing & Equipment’s are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. Experienced trekkers will often take only a selection of these items based on what has worked in the past. Please find the equipment list below for your personal use during your travel with us.

We are advised to consider the following equipment’s as essentials while packing for the Everest Base Camp Trek. Adjustments to the list can be managed according to our requirements, interests, duration of trip, and season of trip.  We can find variety of these gears to buy in Kathmandu. Majority of the gears which are in sale in Kathmandu are locally is much cheaper and must be tried on carefully and checked carefully for quality, but on the whole it is OK. We can find very high quality branded gears too in some famous stores in Kathmandu; mostly top notch imported gear, Mountain Hardware, The North Face, Marmot, Black Diamond climbing gear plus head torches and others, and prices are reasonable.

The hotel stores free of cost whatever you don't take trekking, and of course they have a laundry service. You might want to plan with a clean set of clothes for your return from the trek.

Who carries what?
You carry a daypack with your camera, a jacket, water and day snacks. The porters will carry everything else, so pack this in a duffel/kitbag rather than backpack. Since, luggage has weight limitation of approximately 33 pounds or 15 kg.

 

Physical Condition and requirement

Useful info

Useful Information for the package:

Passport and Visa Requirements
All foreigners require a visa for entry into Nepal (except Indian nationals). It is your responsibility to obtain an entry visa. You can get it from a Nepalese embassy overseas or on arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal. Most people will obtain their visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. You will need two passport photos and the following fees in US Dollar cash (this is payable in any major currency but NOT traveler's cheque) dependent upon the duration of the multiple entry visas:

  1. Multiple entries 15 days US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency
  2. Multiple entries 30 days US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency
  3. Multiple entries 90 days US$ 125 or equivalent convertible currency

Travel Insurance: 
Travel Insurance is mandatory for booking any of Himalayas Nepal Vision’s Adventure packages. Trekking in the Himalayas is full of fun and adventure but you have to be prepared for risk management. While you are in High Altitude region, there are higher risks of difficulties. You may suffer from various health problems, injuries, and illnesses. Even High altitude sickness can tear up your perfect itinerary. And that’s where travel insurance can save you from distress or at least from some of the costs, depending on the policy you buy. For your adventure, Travel insurance is a safety net if things go wrong. At times, even a helicopter may be needed along with a rescue team, for ground evacuation, so, every traveler must have rescue insurance covered against personal accidents, medical expenses, emergency air ambulance/helicopter rescue service accidents, and personal liability. Start your trip with all the necessary health & traveling insurance for your safety.

Having good travel insurance will not only guarantee you peace of mind while you travel with us but also provide you with complete cover for anything things that may go wrong.

Trip Meal Plan 
Eating is a big part of traveling. With Nepal Vision, you will experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available in the Mountains. Nepal Vision will provide Traveling Mountains meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) that crews require on the trail. On this trip, you can enjoy both traditional Nepalese three-time served as Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), as well as a variety of different food items, such as vegetables, noodles, potatoes cuisine served and soup along with some, Nepali versions of western food such as pizza, pasta, and French fries. Breakfast and dinner will be served from the teahouse or lodge menu where we will spend the night. Lunch will be eaten at one of the trailside restaurants. A welcome dinner, a farewell dinner, and breakfasts will be served during our stay in Kathmandu.

When an individual is allergic to some food products, requires a special diet, or has specific religious food needs, we will arrange it as per your requirements on request. Also, the crew will carry fresh, fruit supplies at a time along the trail. Our guides will carefully be checked for the quality and quantity of the food in every teahouse. Explicit cooking directions are indicated on each food for your convenience.

Trip Accommodation 
During this trip, we will spend three nights in Kathmandu at four-star standard hotels. We will spend the nights at standard mountain teahouses. A Tea House is a combination of a guesthouse, restaurant, and social hang-out. Private rooms are available in most tea houses. The lodges are fairly basic. The rooms are spare with twin beds and very little additional furniture. Blankets are generally provided. Most bathrooms are shared and toilets are the Western version. Most of the Teahouses have running water facilities while some of them may also have hot water available for bathing at an additional cost. It is advisable to carry wet wipes as an alternative.

There is a large dining room more like the lounge, warmed by an iron cylinder, fitted with a chimney duct, in which a log fire is lit. Most teahouses now also have electricity for charging small appliances, mobile phones, and cameras. Some might charge a small amount for this.

Best time to visit Nepal 
Nepal is for all seasons! But because of the huge range in altitude and landscape, the climate of Nepal differs significantly throughout the country. The most recommended seasons for trekking are autumn (Sept, Oct, Nov) and spring (March, April, and May). In these seasons you will be rewarded with good weather, sunny and warm with clear skies and outstanding views. During monsoons (June, July, Aug) although there will be no problem with trekking, the issue could be less visibility and rain. For the student of botanicals, a monsoon is a blessing as the higher valleys, mountains, and meadows blossom with flowers and abundant vegetation. You can also trek in winter (Dec, Jan, and Feb). Only, the issue will be cold weather with snowfall at higher elevations.

The trekking routes are filled with trekkers during spring and autumn but during monsoon and winter the routes are not packed and you could enjoy rather the best of nature. However, because of the effects of global warming, the climate is changing worldwide and there could always be the possibility of exceptions in these weather patterns. There could be a hoax of bad weather and sometimes even in adverse months during the best seasons too. 

Leader(s) & Staff 
The Trek Leader of your group has a role to ensure all aspects of the trip run smoothly. Our guides are intimately familiar with all local castes and customs along the trails and will share with you many cultural insights that are not covered in any guidebook. You will have a good chance to learn Nepali phrases, cultural things, and more on your trekking. Nepal Vision trained its guide/trekking staff on the following course:

  • Intensive Wilderness First Aid
  • Trekking Guide Training
  • Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet
  • English Language
  • Conservation and Biodiversity
  • Rock Climbing, Ice Climbing, and Mountaineering (For expedition leaders)

Altitude Information
What is Altitude? 
Altitude is known as elevation, and it is often used to refer to the height above sea level. Altitude is related to air pressure. Trekkers and mountaineers can measure their altitude by measuring the air pressure around them. As the altitude rises, air pressure drops. In other words, if the indicated altitude is high, the air pressure becomes low. The human body reacts to high altitudes. Decreased air pressure means that less oxygen is available for breathing. One normal effect of altitude is shortness of breath since the lungs have to work harder to deliver oxygen to the bloodstream. It can take days and even weeks for a body to adjust to high altitude and low air pressure. To prevent severe altitude sickness, mountaineers bring supplemental (extra) supplies of oxygen and limit their time in the 'high elevation'.

Acclimatization 
We are experts at operating adventure trips at high-altitude destinations. Every trip we run has a realistic acclimatization program. Our treks are designed to allow gradual height gain, spread over several days. There is no way of predicting who will suffer from altitude but, for the vast majority of people, a slow ascent to height will produce minimal effects. Acclimatizing takes time and there are no safe shortcuts. All trips to altitudes over 3,000 meters carry medicines essential to the treatment of altitude illness, and our leaders are trained to administer them and to know the symptoms.

Symptoms & signs of Acute Mountain Sickness

  • Headache (typically throbbing, often worse for bending over or lying down), Additionally one or more of the following symptoms might be seen:
  • Tiredness, weakness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Loss of appetite, nausea (or vomiting)
  • Insomnia, disturbed sleep
  • Dizziness, fatigue, lethargy, heavy legs

Treatment 
The only cure for mountain sickness is either acclimatization or descent to a lower altitude as soon as possible. In the presence of these symptoms, medical attention must be sought immediately in conjunction with a descent to the lowest possible height.

  • Rest (avoid even the slightest exertion if this is possible) at the same (or lower) altitude until the symptoms clear (up to 4 days)
  • Drink enough to keep your urine pale and plentiful
  • Use ibuprofen or paracetamol for headache
  • Consider Diamox™ (125 to 250 mg 12-hourly) for 3 days, or for the rest of the time at altitude if symptoms return
  • Consider Stemeti™l (or other anti-vomiting medication) for persistent nausea/vomiting
  • If AMS symptoms are severe, give oxygen (1 to 2 L/min) OR use a pressure bag until symptoms clear
  • Check the victim regularly for signs of HAPE and HACE, especially during the night
  • Descend far enough to clear symptoms (at least 500m/1640ft) if symptoms of AMS do not improve or get worse

What do we do if we are affected by Altitude Sickness? 
Sometimes trekkers might suffer from ailments like altitude sickness, heart problems, dysentery, or fracture while trekking in the Himalayas. While there are clinics at some places for minor ailments, major hospitals are days away from most of the trekking trails. So, a client’s life could be at risk if he/she is not rescued immediately. If you find yourself ill or injured in the mountains, Nepal Vision Treks will arrange rescue and evacuation services for our clients.

Helicopter rescue services will rarely come to your aid without you either making a cash deposit or a promise in Kathmandu. While you are traveling with us, we can become the guarantor for the helicopter operators, make the initial payments, and send a helicopter for your rescue. We claim the amount later from you or your insurance. Please make sure you have travel insurance that covers emergency helicopter services for rescue to avail of this service.

Our expert and trained guides are very experienced in dealing with the effects of higher altitudes. They are equipped with necessary first-aid medical supplies and will assist with basic first-aid treatment. The safety of our clients is taken very seriously and conducted the operation swiftly and didn’t panic for a second to come up with a proper operation.  

Vaccination: 
Vaccination is the most important thing to consider while traveling to prevent possible diseases. For traveling to Nepal, we recommend you take vaccines against Polio, Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, etc. However, it is not a must to have but it is recommended. You should check up with your doctor before the departure of your trip. Your doctor will have access to the most up-to-date information on the required vaccinations for the country you will be visiting.

Extra Expenses Information
You are responsible for your expenses, a cold beverage, mineral water, extra meals, and drinks (more than 3 meals a day), and other services which are not mentioned in our service Includes column. So you should be planning to bring at least US$20 to US$30 per day for these expenses. It is not necessary to obtain local money before departure. Nepal has modern banking facilities so you can use ATMS in Kathmandu where you can easily use your credit card, Debit card, Master card, Visa card, etc. to withdraw local currency.

COVID Precautions
Fully vaccinated travelers don't require a pre-departure PCR test for COVID-19 to enter Nepal. You must bring the vaccination certificate completed at least 14 days prior to arrival at the Airport. In case you are not fully vaccinated or have not completed a full dose of vaccination at least 14 days prior to your arrival in Nepal, you have to bring a COVID-19 test report which can be either RT-PCR, Gene Experr, True NAAT, or WHO accredited test that shows the negative result done within the last 72 hours of boarding from the first airport. In case you are entering through the land border, you will need to do the test within 72 hours before entry. The provision will not be accepted for children below 5 years.

Things to Consider
There are a few important things you need to know before traveling to Nepal so that you can have a smooth journey to Nepal.

  • Be prepared for major emergencies. Nepal experiences natural calamities like Earthquakes, Landslides, floods, and several others. Carrying an emergency kit with necessary first aid supplies and bottled water will be a great help. 
  • Take care while you photograph as it's illegal to photograph army barracks, checkpoints, many temples, and many other areas. 
  • Don't use any illegal drugs. The government of Nepal might take this as a severe charge and also might ask for a sum of penalties for drug offenses.
  • Check with your intended tour provider despite Nepal issuing trekking and mountaineering permits. 
  • Exchange foreign currencies for NPR which will be available at banks or any exchange bureaus. Those can be found in major centers. Most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards but it's better to carry some fleece cash. Make sure you carry enough cash to cover your needs because not all areas have ATMs. 
  • Use the registered taxis. Some taxi drivers may take ask for higher amounts by fooling novice travelers, so make sure you consider checking for prices. 

FAQ

Frequently asked questions:

#@#How long is the trek to Annapurna Circuit Trek?
#@# For a beginner trekker, the trek takes about 22 days. Some can climb within 12-16 days to their physical health. Hence, it takes nearly 21 days on average.

#@#Do I need a sleeping bag on the trek to Annapurna Circuit?
#@#Yes, you will need a winter sleeping bag to handle the low-freezing temperature during the trek to Annapurna Circuit. This is the most needed thing to stay away from the cold.

#@#Is the Annapurna Circuit worth going to?
#@#Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is very worth going. Despite the vehicle road construction along the way and the difficulties you will face, the trek will be worth going after the beauty you will be blessed with in the trail and destination.

#@#How much does it cost for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
#@#The cost ranges from 1650 USD to 1850 USD per person for the Annapurna Circuit Trek for 21 days. The cost differs on the number of days taken for the climb.

#@#Is a guide needed for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
#@#Unlike other trekking regions, the Annapurna Circuit Trek can be guided without guides too. You must be more prepared and ready to trek alone as you will be walking for many days in the Himalayan region with the extreme weather.

#@#How cold is Annapurna Circuit?
#@#During Autumn, the temperature at the Annapurna Base Camp is 5-10 degrees Celsius on average. With the increase in height, the temperature may range to minus 20 degrees Celsius also.

#@#What is the time to trek to the Annapurna Circuit?
#@#The best time for you to trek will be in September, October, and November. You can start at the very end of September, during the autumn, which will be the most favorable time to trek the Annapurna Circuit.

#@#What is the Annapurna Circuit trek? 
#@#The Annapurna Circuit is a popular trek in Nepal that circumnavigates the Annapurna mountain range. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, varied landscapes, and a glimpse into the unique culture of the Himalayan people.

#@#How long does it take to complete the Annapurna Circuit trek? 
#@#The Annapurna Circuit trek usually takes about 20 days to complete, including rest days. However, it can be done in as little as 15 days or as long as 25 days, depending on your pace and itinerary.

#@#What should one pack for the Annapurna Region trek?
#@# It is essential to pack essential trekking gear such as sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a backpack, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a sleeping bag. A good quality trekking pole is also highly recommended.

#@#Is it necessary to have a guide or porter while trekking to the Annapurna region? 
#@#While it is not mandatory to have a guide or porter while trekking to the Annapurna region, it is highly recommended. A guide can assist you in navigation, communication with locals, and ensuring that you follow the correct trail, while a porter will carry your bags, easing the load on your back.

#@#What are the risks involved in trekking to Annapurna Region? 
The risks involved in trekking to ABC include altitude sickness, physical injuries, and the possibility of natural disasters such as landslides or avalanches. However, with proper preparation and guidance, these risks can be minimized.

#@#What is the best time of year to trek the Annapurna Circuit? 
#@#The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, the skies are clear, and the views are stunning. However, trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to the heavy rainfall.

#@#Do I need a sleeping bag on the trek to Annapurna Circuit?
#@#Yes, you will need a winter sleeping bag to handle the low-freezing temperature during the trek to Annapurna Circuit. This is the most needed thing to stay away from the cold.
 


Source:https://www.nepalvisiontreks.com