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Trek the Annapurna Circuit

High-altitude trails, epic scenery and the highest navigable pass on the planet – this is bucket list stuff in the making

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Trip Ref #9924

Trek the Annapurna Circuit

High-altitude trails, epic scenery and the highest navigable pass on the planet – this is bucket list stuff in the making

DURATION

16 nights

LOCATION

Nepal

ANNUAL LEAVE

2.5 weeks off work

SEASON

Sep—May

GROUP SIZE

Up to 14 people

MEETING POINT

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

ACCOMMODATION

Classic

Hotel · Guesthouse · Teahouse

OVERALL RATING

4.9

Based on 46 reviews
DIFFICULTY

Challenging

Altitude, rough terrain, weather, distance, elevation – make no mistake, this one will test you

Explore one of the most incredible trekking routes in the Himalayas – 145km of devastatingly beautiful mountains

Cross through the thrilling Thorong La Pass (5416m), the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Enter Kali Gandaki, the deepest gorge in the world – a whopping three times deeper than the Grand Canyon

Day 1

Kathmandu awaits

Check into your guesthouse in Thamel – heart of the sensory overload that is Kathmandu. Join a pre-departure meeting with your guides to run through the plans for the Annapurna Circuit Trek and then finish the day with a group dinner alongside the rest of your team.

Day 2

The road to Tal

Driving

9-10hrs

This morning you'll start the long journey to Besisahar, driving through lush river valleys, stunning Himalayan scenery and terraced farmland. Stop for lunch, then swap to a local jeep and continue on to the remote village of Tal, the starting point of your trek. Cross beautiful, rugged terrain with steep ravines, streams, waterfalls and a bunch of tea houses, then check into a local guesthouse and rest ahead of the epic adventure starting tomorrow.

Day 3

First steps on the circuit

Hiking

5hrs · 13km · 1205m up · 450m down

Follow a rough track out of town and along the Marshyangdi River. Walk through the narrow valley, following the jeep track which passes through the village of Dharapani, where your permits will be checked. Continue hiking through the forest, gaining altitude gradually, then cross into the insanely beautiful Bagarchap Valley and spend the night in your first traditional Himalayan teahouse at 2160m.

Day 4

Bagarchap to Chame

Hiking

6hrs · 14km · 1225m up · 425m down

Hike past a small waterfall and follow a steep uphill trail through a beautiful mixed forest of rhododendron and oak, gaining more than 400m elevation in a single stretch. On reaching Timang village, enjoy a well-deserved lunch and sip hot tea or coffee, while admiring the mesmerising views of Manaslu Peak from a panoramic terrace. Hit the trail again and ascend gently, passing the beautiful villages of Thanchok and Koto and finally reach Chame (2670m), your base for tonight.

Day 5

Chame to Upper Pisang

Hiking

6hrs · 18km · 976 up · 296 down

Things get serious today, as you'll climb above 3000m. Cross the Marshyangdi River and walk past a chorten (shrine), then hike an undulating forest trail to Bhratang. A beautiful waterfall appears on the other side of the mountain as you change direction. Cross the river once again, and ascend to Dhikur Pokhari for lunch. To your right stands Swargadwari, a huge bare rock formation which is believed to be the path to Swarga (heaven). As you trek on, the valley becomes wide and vegetation sparse. End the day in the small village of Pisang at 3300m.

Day 6

Upper Pisang to Manang

Hiking

7hrs · 18km · 975m up · 755m down

Set off hiking through a lush zone of yak pastures and crop fields, stopping for photos at a remote Tibetan monastery. Ascend on a winding path to the remote village of Ghyaru. From here onwards, the trail rolls through arid landscapes all the way to Ngawal. Stop for lunch, then continue on to Manang (3540m), one of the largest villages on the circuit. Be sure to listen out for the local Manangi language, unwritten and dangerously close to extinction.

Day 7

Acclimatisation day

Spend the day acclimatising to the altitude. Enjoy a cup of smoky chai in Manangi town and take a leisurely walk through the old alleys, exploring the traditional stone-thatched houses with intricate wooden windows and prayer flags flapping in the air. If you are feeling energetic, take an optional walk to Gangapurna Lake, or visit the Himalayan Rescue Association post to see how they're saving lives across some of the most challenging terrain in the world.

Day 8

Manang to Sri Kharka

Hiking

5hrs · 8km · 440m up · 143m down

Today you'll hike along a rarely used and completely idyllic stretch of trail as you climb to Sri Kharka. Start off hiking through barley and buckwheat fields and across Thorang Khola River via a suspension bridge. Continue with a gentle ascent on a wide trail through juniper forest and meadows to Khangsar, the last village in the area. You will notice the effect of the low oxygen level in your body while climbing, but a slow gradual ascent will make the going manageable. Reach Sri Kharka (3880m), tuck into a well-deserved hot meal and enjoy the serenity of the mountains as you prepare to see one of the great wonders of the world tomorrow.

Day 9

Tilicho Base Camp

Hiking

5hrs · 6km · 400m up · 140m down

Follow trail alongside the stunning views of Annapurna II and Gangapurna, crossing a couple of streams en route using high suspension bridges that will pump up the adrenaline. Tackle an exposed rocky slope to reach Tilicho Base Camp at 4150m. Rest up for the afternoon, then enjoy a high-altitude night sky chock full of stars. Please note, it's possible that the trail to base camp may be closed or disrupted during winter (January to March), and sometimes even in the peak season. Your guide will decide whether to continue or skip this section, based on the local weather conditions.

Day 10

Tilicho Lake

Hiking

7hrs · 15km · 980m up · 1240m down

Wake up early today and get your head torch on, to start hiking along a trail that gently climbs up the hillside. Tackle a steep ascent to reach the pass, from where the trail levels up all the way Tilicho Lake (4919m). Take time to explore one of the highest and most beautiful lakes in the world. Hike back to Base Camp for breakfast, and when you're ready, hike back down to Siri Kharka (3880m) to relax in your teahouse – you’ve earned it.

Day 11

The trail to Yak Kharka

Hiking

6-7hrs · 12km · 760m up · 520m down

Ascend gently to Old Khangsar, overlooking the new Khangsar village. See the ruins of the abandoned settlement with a stunning backdrop of towering peaks and the Manang Valley. Climb up gently past pastures and herds, eyes peeled for mighty yaks. As the trail reaches the ridgeline, descend to the Thorang Khola River and join the Annapurna Circuit route again, following the trail as it winds through some truly awesome scenery on the way to tonight's destination, the village of Yak Kharka (4050m).

Day 12

Prelude to the big one

Hiking

4-5hrs · 7km · 587m up · 84m down

The trail to Thorang Phedi is similar to the one you've walked a few days back – however, due to the altitude, you may notice the pace is slower and the air much thinner. Ascend gently, passing by Ledar village along a narrow and dry path, then cross the Thorang Khola River to reach Thorang Phedi Base Camp (4450m) early afternoon. Rest up for a big day tomorrow – you’ll need it.

Day 13

To Muktinath via the Thorong La pass

Hiking

10-12hrs · 17km · 980m up · 1648m down

The big one! Start the day around 04:00 am and navigate a steep uphill stretch to Thorong High Camp, the last settlement before the highest point of this trek. Cross the Thorang Khola River one final time and continue with a gradual but steady ascent all the way to Thorong La (5416m), the highest navigable pass in the world. Take a moment to celebrate your epic achievement as you soak in some of the best views of the whole circuit, including the high desert mountains along the Kaligandaki Valley – a perfect opportunity for some amazing photos. Begin your descent to Muktinath (3750m) and experience the serene Vishnu temple, holy to both Hindus and Buddhists and the perfect place to enjoy the tranquillity of the mountains.

Day 14

Descend to Jomsom

Hiking

9-10hrs · 18km · 267m up · 1296m down

Set off on a downhill path to Kagbeni, and follow the banks of the Kali Gandaki River as it crosses through the deepest canyon on earth. Take in the magnificent views of Mount Annapurna and Dhaulagiri and then spend the night at a teahouse in Jomsom, gateway to an ancient trade route that once spanned the Himalayas.

Day 15

Fly to Pokhara

Fly over the Himalayas to the lakeside town of Pokhara and check into your hotel near the lake. (Please note, flights from Jomsom don't operate over winter – so if you're travelling between mid-November and mid-February you'll drive instead, which takes approximately 7-8 hours). Time permitting, head out to explore the picturesque lakeside promenade. Celebrate the end of the epic Annapurna Circuit trek with your group in one of the cosy waterfront bars or restaurants – you've earned it!

Day 16

Return to Kathmandu

Driving

7-8hrs

Rise early and take a bus through the mountains and back to Kathmandu (approximately 7-8 hours, depending on traffic). Spend some time exploring the city and enjoy a farewell dinner with your team.

Day 17

Your final day in Nepal

Enjoy a lie in, then explore the city some more. Visit a holy Hindu temple or one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, before heading for the airport and back to reality.

Included

Internal flights

Flights between Jomson and Pokhara

Guides

Local, expert, English-speaking guides

Accommodation

4 nights in hotels or guesthouses; 12 nights in teahouses

Meals

3 breakfasts are included, plus welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu

Transfers

Transfers from Kathmandu to Besisahar, and from Pokhara back to Kathmandu

Porterage

Porters will carry your luggage on the trail

Permits

All permits and entrance fees will be sorted for you

Not Included

Flights to and from the meeting point

Travel insurance

Personal expenses

Tips for your guides

Visas where required

Day 1

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 2

Guesthouse · Twin or triple share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 3 – Day 13

Teahouse · Twin or triple share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 14

Teahouse · Twin or triple share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 15

Hotel · Twin or triple share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 16

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Day 17

Departure day

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

What is the food like?

Breakfast is usually either hot porridge, muesli or Tibetan bread served with an omelette or boiled eggs. The menus in the teahouses are very similar at every stop and there will usually be a choice of traditional Nepalese dhal bhat (a mixed plate of lentils, rice, vegetables and pickles – delicious and healthy!), momos (Nepalese dumplings), mixed noodles, pasta and even pizza. Although meat is available at some teahouses, we suggest you ask your guide for their advice, as it tends to depend on how far it has travelled as to whether it is a safe option.

Dairy-free, vegan or vegetarian diets can be catered for while trekking although meals may get a bit repetitive – dhal bhat will likely be your go-to staple. Gluten-free/coeliac diets are tricky to cater for on teahouse treks (beware that powdered soups and seasonings used often contain gluten, and cooking oil is commonly reused and may cause cross-contamination). Please explain your dietary requirements to your guide so that they can assist when ordering, and bringing along some extra food/snacks is advisable.

What is the accommodation like?

Kathmandu

On your first and last nights, you’ll stay in a centrally located tourist hotel in Kathmandu's Thamel area on a twin-share basis, with en-suite bathrooms, air-con and WiFi. The hotel is located in the heart of Thamel, close to the main shopping area and the heritage sites.

Annapurna Circuit

During the trek you'll stay in traditional teahouses – these are mountain lodges that tend to have a communal dining area and basic toilets. Rooms are usually sorted by gender and many offer hot showers or phone charging for a small fee. There’s no heating, so your warm sleeping bag is needed.

Pokhara

On your night in Pokhara you'll stay in a hotel near the lake, close enough to all the action but still in a quiet spot.

Upgrades

For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. This is only applicable to the nights spent in hotels and is subject to availability. Please request this at the time of booking.

The Area

map

Logistics

Starts

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

Arrive by 16:00 on Day 1

Ends

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

Any time on Day 17

Transfers

Airport arrival and departure transfers are included no matter when you arrive and depart (even if you book extra nights before or after the trip), provided you have completed your passenger information form and have supplied your flight details in advance. On Day 1, your tour leader will arrange a group briefing before a welcome dinner, so we strongly encourage you to book a flight landing by 16:00 in order to be able to join this on time.

Travel options

There are regular flights to Kathmandu from major airports across the UK and Europe.

Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear

In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.

What do I need to bring?

  • Day pack with rain cover (30 litre +)
  • Duffle bag (for the porters to carry your overnight kit)
Clothes
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Lightweight down jacket
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Lightweight trekking trousers
  • Hiking shorts (if trekking in the summer)
  • Thermals (top and bottom, merino ideal)
  • 2-3 trekking t-shirts/shirts
  • Fleece or warm mid-layer
  • Waterproof thick gloves
  • Glove liners
  • Hiking socks and lighter walking socks
  • Wool hat
  • Sun hat
  • Spare underwear
  • Buff or similar
Shoes
  • Worn in waterproof hiking boots
  • Lightweight trainers (for the evenings)
  • Flip-flops or sandals
Sleeping
  • 4-season sleeping bag
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Pillow case (optional)
Other
  • Trekking poles
  • Travel towel
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses)
  • 2 water bottles (1 litre each)
  • Metal SIGG bottle (useful to fill with hot water to use as a hot water bottle at bedtime)
  • Headtorch
  • First aid kit and/or personal medication
  • Water purification tablets/system
  • Hand gel
  • Biodegradable wet wipes
  • Small biodegradable bags to take toilet tissue off the mountain
  • Toilet paper/tissues
  • 1 x passport photo for trek permit
  • Powerbank
  • Universal plug adaptor
  • Book/kindle/cards for downtime
Winter departures only (end Nov until Mar)
  • Gaiters
  • Microspikes
  • Extra warm layers (add an extra warm item to all key items above)
  • Extra set of thermals (pair to walk in, pair to sleep in)
  • Merino trekking socks
  • Merino glove liners

This winter kit can sometimes be necessary even in the high season, depending on weather conditions. Your local host will contact you a week prior departure to let you know if any extra items are necessary. If you are unable to get them on time, you can also buy these items locally (see below).

What's available to hire?

The below can be rented in Kathmandu:

  • Down jacket: costs approx. $1.5/day with a deposit of $50
  • Sleeping bag (3-season only available): costs approx. $2/day with a deposit of $80
  • Spikes (for winter departures only) costs approx. $1.5/day.

(Please ask your host if this is needed so they can assist you with how to arrange the hire.)

What can you buy in Kathmandu?

Kathmandu has many outdoor gear shops - some sell real kit that is the same price you will find it at home, and some are filled with cheaper imitation gear that may not be of the same quality. You will, however, find a soft duffel bag easily that the porters can carry.

Please remove all unnecessary packing before you leave home and ensure you take all plastic off the mountain to be disposed of in Kathmandu.

Optional Private Room Upgrade

Payable Before Departure

Optional Private Room Upgrade

Per Person

Extra night in Pokhara (Single Room)

Payable Before Departure

Extra night in Pokhara (Single Room)

Extra night in Pokhara (Twin/Double Room)

Payable Before Departure

Extra night in Pokhara (Twin/Double Room)

Pre/post-trip accommodation in Kathmandu (Single)

Payable Before Departure

Pre/post-trip accommodation in Kathmandu (Single)

Pre/post-trip accommodation in Kathmandu (Twin/Double)

Payable Before Departure

Pre/post-trip accommodation in Kathmandu (Twin/Double)

- Marianne(April 2023)

A fantastic trip, well worth the time and money. Despite snow for several days, reaching the pass to a sudden clearing in the sky was a sure highlight of the 16 days. Nurbu (lead guide) and his team were always attentive, helpful, willing to listen and tell us more about Nepal and the culture. They always had a Plan B and didn’t let us feel any stress of changing plans due to weather. Thank you to Nurbu, the team and the entire group for a brilliant and unforgettable experience!

- Ben(April 2023)

A trip I will not soon forget, let me list the ways: Trekking amidst the in- your-face magnificence of the Himalayas with a great bunch of guys and gals; pushing my limits as a hiker (the altitude, and those darn suspension bridges!); the truly caring and responsible and cool and just plain fun guides and porters; getting a taste of local village culture; trekkers and guides and porters all dancing like fools at one of the last teahouses; the great variety and quality of the food. Kudos to MuchBetter and Sunil, Podum, "Skyrunner," and the rest. As we say here in Canada: "Jam-Jam!"

- Sophie(April 2023)

Had a great time on the Annapurna circuit with a very fun group. We were unlucky with some bad snow on a few days that meant we couldn’t go to Tilicho lake, but agreed that safety wise this was the best decision overall! Great intro for anyone going to the Himalayas for the first time, I am very excited to go again in the future and explore some more of Nepal.

- Manuela(April 2023)

The trip was fantastic! I would change nothing of it! The sherpa, assistance guides and the porters were always so helpful and professional!!! Nurbu, Asman, Padhom and Cevica were the best guides I could get! So full of knowledge and always ready to share the Nepali culture and very supportive along the entire trip! Couldn’t recommend the Annapurna trek and the staff that was with us more! And now… Slowly Giam Giam!

- Amy(April 2023)

I had the most brilliant time doing the Annapurna circuit. Nurbu, Padam and Ashman were absolutely fantastic and I wouldn’t change anything they did. The porters were also so amazing and friendly. The group worked incredibly well and the scenery was stunning. Would recommend 10/10!

- Stan(April 2023)

The trip overall was super. The weather was a bit mixed, however, that is obviously out of your control. I thought in particular the itinerary was exceptional and just what I wanted. We didn’t walk an excessive amount each day and took lots of stops. The highlight probably was crossing the pass when the sun came out at the top when we got above the clouds. Quite special. The guides and porters were exemplary and managed every situation very professionally. Nerbu and particularly Padam were personable and professional and always keen to inform us about the landscape and Nepalese culture. The kit list was very useful and I didn’t feel I brought too much or too little. Health and safety were clearly at the front of the guides' minds and I was at ease and felt safe the whole time. They didn’t take risks even if it meant missing Tilicho Lake because of snow and I did appreciate that. The group dynamic was fine. I was the youngest by a few years so I didn’t always feel like I fitted in but overall everyone was very friendly and sociable and I got on with everyone. We were just at different stages of life so didn’t necessarily have a huge amount in common. I also loved Pokhara by the way and was very glad to extend a night there I think it is a great addition to the itinerary. A great place to relax after the trek. The trip felt fairly sustainable. I mean we did fly from Jomsom, but not to Kathmandu so that was good. We did all use water purification tablets instead of buying bottled water. But I suppose at the end of the day we all did fly halfway around the world to get there. However, it's not like we could take the train! I think the only comment I would make is with regard to Kathmandu. The hotels we stayed in were fine but nothing amazing. After our trip ended I stayed in the Kathmandu Guest House for a very reasonable rate, less than the Hotel in Pokhara and it was quite a lot nicer. I think maybe just choose the Hotel in Kathmandu a bit more carefully. Not that the other hotels weren’t nice. They were clean and comfy. Just not nearly as nice as where I stayed after. Overall I had the best time though!

- Luiz(April 2023)

The trekking around Annarpuna delivers what it promises, spectacular landscapes, living with the local culture and difficulty along the way. The unity of the group achieved by the guide Nurbo was essential for the circuit to be completed by all with safety and satisfaction with the feat. In my particular case, due to my difficulty keeping up with the pace of the group, the guide Nurbu put the assistant Asman to accompany me, which was essential for me to complete the circuit. Asman proved to be a spectacular person who helped me all the time, encouraging me but without neglecting my safety. I recommend, without a doubt, the trek organized by Much Better Adventure and the team led by guide Nurbu.

- Emma(April 2023)

Absolutely loved the trip from start to finish. It was really well organised and run by Nerbu and his team. I couldn’t recommend this trip highly enough for someone looking for a challenging but achievable trek with a good group of people. We were well looked after the whole time and it was great value for money!! Thanks to MBA and Freedom adventures for a brilliant time.

- Amy(April 2023)

The Annapurna circuit trek was absolutely fantastic and I would recommend it to anyone who loves hiking. Nurbu, Padam and Ashman (as well as all of the porters) were absolutely fantastic - I could not have dreamt of having a nicer, kinder, more fun or more helpful team. We were also very lucky with the group and everyone got on really well. 10/10 from me! Thank you to everyone at muchbetteradventures for making it all so easy and smooth!

- Stuart(April 2023)

I had a great time on the Annapurna Circuit; great hiking, beautiful scenery, brilliant and knowledge guides and really good group. I really recommend this trip to explore Nepal

We've crunched the numbers to work out the total carbon footprint of this trip, and plant enough trees to suck 2x as much back out the atmosphere.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 570kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal for 2023 to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. For every person booked with us since 2016 we’re planting enough trees to suck at least 2x more carbon out the atmosphere than is emitted by their trips. All native trees, as part of amazing projects that are re-foresting degraded land, tackling the biodiversity crisis and supporting local communities at the same time. We go further than that too, also funding re-wilding projects worldwide to help protect important keystone species from extinction. See the reforestation and re-wilding schemes we support. See our carbon action plan.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

Much of this trek is within the capabilities of people with good fitness who are keen trekkers. Still, it is important to note that trekking at altitudes above 3000m/10,000ft is more demanding on the body than walking at low elevations.

Some training beforehand will help and we advise doing at least one weekend of back to back days walking. The guide will set the pace and as with all altitude treks, the theme is ‘slowly slowly’ to help you adjust to the altitude.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

We do not include meals on the trek as from experience, we know that altitude and physical exercise can mean appetites vary hugely. The cost of food rises as you ascend as it is all carried in by porters and yaks – as you get higher up, very little food can be grown. How much you spend per day will vary according to your choice of meal but generally, people spend between $25-$35 per person per day on meals and hot drinks. Below is an approx. breakdown of some items:

  • Dal Baht: $4 to $7
  • Chow Mein: $2 to $4
  • Eggs: $2 to $4
  • Toast: $1.50 to $3
  • Tea/Hot Chocolate: $1.00 to $3.00
  • Chocolate Bars: $2 to $4

Teahouses will provide cold water free of charge, however it needs to be treated to enable you to drink it. Please read the water FAQ regarding our advice here.

Other optional extra costs to be considered that are available in some teahouses, but not all:

  • Shower: $2-$4
  • WiFi: $2-5
  • Electricity: $2-5

It is customary in Nepal to tip guides and porters. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. You can give any tips to your lead guide at the end of your trip. This will then be shared amongst the whole team. For full transparency, the lead guide will distribute the tips to the guides and porters in your presence. It is customary for the guides to receive a higher share than the porters as they are more highly qualified. A good rule of thumb is around $165pp as a tip, although the amount you give is entirely your choice. 

If you would like to give an additional tip to a member of the team who has supported you personally please do so directly and discretely.

The preferred currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Whilst ATMs are available in the main cities, please do not rely on them as they are often out of order and most have a maximum withdrawal limit equivalent to about GBP300.

It's best to bring the bulk of your money with you in cash, then exchange it at a bank or at one of the many money changers in Nepal – your guide can help you with this. Most major currencies are accepted, including GBP (Sterling), Euros and US Dollars, however Scottish or Irish currency cannot be changed. Keep your exchange receipts in case you want to change any unused Rupees back into hard currency when you leave Nepal (it is illegal to export Nepalese Rupees, as it is a closed currency).

You will need to carry a fairly large amount of cash while trekking for the meals. We advise that you keep this in a waterproof bag and in your day bag along with your passport.

We work with some of the best leaders in the industry. Every single one of them is government licensed and very experienced. In order to ensure guides’ high standard of performance, the host provides them with top-notch in-house training that covers Leave No Trace (LNT) principles, advanced wilderness first aid, hyperbaric chambers, oxygen systems, mountain rescue and incident management.

When you trek in the mountains, there's always the risk of getting altitude sickness, regardless of how old, young, fit or unfit you are. We would expect most trekkers to feel some mild symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, sleeplessness, heavy breathing) when over 3000m. Our guides are trained to identify the symptoms of altitude sickness so if any more serious symptoms are noted, there is a strict procedure regarding extra care or a rapid descent or evacuation if needed. All of our trips have been designed with altitude best practice in mind so acclimatisation days have been built in and our experienced guides follow advice to ‘walk high and sleep low’. On this trip, medical oxygen is available to treat altitude sickness should it be needed.

There are 3 different seasons for trekking in Nepal:

Winter (Dec-Feb): Despite being seen as ‘off-season’ this is often the best time to trek in Nepal. The nights can be very cold (down to -20ºC) but the trails are quieter and the mountain views are often at their best due to the clear sunny skies.

Pre-Monsoon/Spring (Mar-May): Temperatures rise significantly in spring and flowers are in full bloom in the lower areas. Although it can still drop below freezing at night, the daytime temperatures tend to sit between 10-15ºC.

Post-Monsoon/Autumn (Sep-Nov): This is the most popular time to trek in Nepal with generally sunny and mild days. It can get cold and windy at higher altitudes, however the skies are usually clear.

Of course, mountain weather is notoriously hard to predict and snow can be expected on any trip so come prepared.

As the Annapurna Circuit has wide trails, and much of it sits in a rain shadow, the summer months of June-August are still good for trekking. These months are a great time to have the trails almost entirely to yourself.

Although we schedule departure dates outside of the main monsoon season, weather conditions in any mountain region can be unpredictable and sometimes your host will need to revert to 'Plan B'. No two trekking seasons are the same but occasional landslides after Yak Kharka or heavy snowfall at Thorong Phedi or on the Thorong La are known to lead to trail closures on this route.

If the trail is closed or deemed unsafe, your host will organise an alternative trek – usually an extended version of the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek (also visiting Australian Camp). However, if after you’ve set off on the Annapurna Circuit Trek an issue subsequently arises and you cannot cross the Thorong La, you’ll have to retrace your steps back to Taal.

At the end of the trek, a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara is included – if this is cancelled you will drive to Pokhara instead.

You can leave any luggage not needed during the trek at your hotel in Kathmandu.

This trip includes one porter for every two trekkers. They will carry up to 20-25kg of kit so your overnight bags and spare clothes will be transported for you (maximum 12kg per person). You will only need to carry a daypack with essentials in (extra layer, snacks, water, suncream, camera etc).

We’ve sourced some great optional activities for you to do in and around Kathmandu should you wish to explore that little bit further. Please discuss these directly with your host who will be able to book them for you.

Cook Like a Local: This short cooking workshop (approx. 3 hours) teaches you how to cook popular Nepali dishes like momos and dal bhat. You’ll meet your teacher and accompany them shopping, then head to the kitchen and learn to cook alongside them. Price: Pay what you think the workshop is worth!

Shop Local: A 2-3 hour guided exploration of the markets of Kathmandu. Prepare to learn about the vendors that line the crowded narrow alleyways and witness everything you could ever imagine being sold, haggled and bargained for. A great experience to learn about the melting pot of cultures that exist in Kathmandu. Price: $9-$50pp, depending on the group size

Master of the Arts: Patan Durbar Square is popular for its Fine Arts and this trip will explore the local factories where handicrafts are made. You'll visit 2-3 factories to learn about traditional processes and see art being produced. Price: $14-$59pp, depending on the group size.

Introduction to Shamanism: Shamanism, which is believed to heal many diseases, is not practiced widely these days however this trip enables you to meet a practising Guru and learn all about this age-old tradition. You'll visit a small house to have an introduction, followed by lunch and a drumming session where you'll learn the importance of rhythm pattern to healing. Price: $90-$150, depending on group size.

Lakeside Pokhara, with its laidback vibe, is a popular spot to relax after a trek. Although the tour starts and ends in Kathmandu, your host can arrange extra nights for you in Pokhara after your trek. They will simply shift your included bus transfer from Pokhara to Kathmandu and your final night's hotel reservation in Kathmandu to a later date for you, so you'll only need to pay for the additional accommodation in Pokhara.

Although most teahouses have the option to buy bottled water, we advise against it to reduce the use of plastic in the mountains (this ends up being burnt or dumped into landfill out of sight).

You will instead be provided with cold water that needs treating. There is a wide range of products available these days which are more effective than traditional purification tablets – some trekkers like to use handheld UV devices such as a Steripen but other options are available (just check their performance in freezing conditions).

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

We recommend checking out the country specific information here and also talking to a travel nurse.

For current advice about travelling in Nepal, have a read of the UK Foreign Office pages here.

This trip includes a domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Nepal's mountainous terrain and weather make for challenging flying conditions and sadly more incidents (including fatalities) occur here than in other countries. Since 2013 the EU has banned all Nepalese domestic airlines from flying within EU airspace in order to raise awareness of the poor safety record (although no Nepalese airlines were operating routes within the EU prior to the ban). You should be aware that flying in Nepal is an identified risk: please consider this carefully before booking. Additional information can be found on the Aviation Safety Network entry for Nepal as well as the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office travel advice for Nepal.

Domestic airlines in Nepal are generally not accredited by any internationally recognised safety audit systems and the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of Western nations.

What does Much Better Adventures do about this?
Much Better Adventures collaborates with other UK travel companies to arrange for independent air-safety auditors to visit Nepal annually to assess the local airlines. Much Better Adventures then only uses the carriers that were approved as part of the most recent audit. If any concerns are subsequently raised about an approved airline between audits, we put them on hold until the auditors are satisfied that safety standards are being met.

Owing to the nature of this trip, it is essential that your personal travel insurance policy provides cover to the maximum altitude visited on this trip (5416m) as well as for emergency medical evacuation by helicopter.

Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.

Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.

We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.

You're in good company. Our adventures are typically made up of a mix of solo travellers and small groups of two or three friends who simply love adventure, pushing themselves and meeting awesome like-minded people. See here for more info about our lovely bunch of Much Better Adventurers.

Want to book a private trip? Just tap ‘Private Group’ in the dates and prices tab.

Your trip is led by carefully curated local hosts and expert guides. See here for more info about the guides we work with.

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