Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the best trekking spots in Nepal. This particular circuit trek in the Annapurna area takes you through the remote wildness, where you can explore the majestic beauty of the mountains and indulge in cultural activities. In the case of Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty, several factors determine it. One of them is the experience. So, in this blog, we will discuss the factors that raise the difficulty and how to mitigate those factors.
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the commercial treks, as are the Annapurna and Everest Base Camp treks. The Circuit Trek was first opened to foreign trekkers in 1977. Ever since the trekkers have enjoyed this trekking every single day, the Annapurna region is home to over 100,000 different ethnic groups like Thakali, Manangba, and Gurung. To complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you have to trek 160-230km, which will take around 10-14 days. One of the trek’s difficulties is covering the distance daily; a few more factors determine the trek’s difficulty. So let’s get into it.
Table of Contents
Factors Influencing Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty
High Altitude
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in the Himalayas that takes you to a high altitude above 5000m. You will reach Chame at 2700m as you trek through the region. From Chame, you will continue trekking towards other small settlements like Pisang(3200) and Manang(3540m), where you will stay another day for acclimatization.
The next highlight of your trek is the majestic Thorong La Pass, the highest elevation at 5416m. Trek difficulty is at its highest in these altitudes due to dynamic weather, a harsh cold atmosphere, and less oxygen in the surroundings and the body. After spending time in the Thorong La Pass, you will head down and reach the critical sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists in Muktinath at 3800m. This depth of the Annapurna Circuit proves you will spend most of your time at an altitude above 3000m. Hence, the risk of altitude sickness is the first significant difficulty of the trek.
Altitude Sickness in Annapurna Circuit Trek
Altitude, or acute mountain sickness, is the major challenge for trekkers during their Annapurna Circuit Trek. From the few days of your trek, you will spend time at an altitude over 3000m, where the risk of sickness starts. Generally, AMS occurs when your body is at a high altitude and cannot adjust to the lower oxygen levels due to high altitude. The body starts falling weak, and several symptoms are visible, from headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, bone pain, etc. Often, AMS shows mild symptoms, but two additional variations are more severe and can be fatal. HACE and HAPE are altitude sicknesses that affect the brain and lungs of the victims.
One of the best ways to prevent altitude sickness is proper acclimatization. Proper acclimatization is how your body gets used to the surrounding oxygen levels. To adjust, you must hike at a higher altitude and return to a lower altitude for sleep. The gradual ascent and descent of the mountains is the best way to combat altitude sickness, whereas rushing quickly is an invitation to danger. Other than proper acclimatization, you must always hydrate to avoid altitude sickness. Avoid taking coffee and alcohol as they are also significant causes of dehydration, which leads to altitude sickness.
It is also essential to keep focusing on your body and figuring out when it needs rest, as forcing your body to trek against your will can result in getting ill. If you discover the symptoms of altitude sickness in your body, take the necessary medication immediately and lower your altitude until you feel relief.
Length of the Trek
The trek typically takes 10-15 days to complete, depending on your pace and the length of your stops. Here is an outline breakdown of the length of the trek for the itinerary provided by Glorious Himalaya and what to expect:
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Syange via Besisahar
After enjoying a few sightseeing days in Kathmandu, you’ll drive about an 8/9 hour to Syange.
Average Driving Time: 8/9 hrs
Day 2: Trek from Syange to Dharapani –
Average Walking Time: 6/7 hrs
Day 3: Trek from Dharapani to Chame
Average Walking Time: 7-8 hrs
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Trek from Chame to Pisang
Average Walking Time: 6 hrs
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 5: Trek from Pisang to Manang
Average Walking Time: 6-7 hrs
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Manang
Day 7: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
Average Walking Time: 3-4 hrs
Difficulty: Easier than previous days.
Day 8: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Average Walking Time: 3-4 hrs
Difficulty: Easier than previous days.
There are more steep ascents these days, and the altitude affects the trekker’s body. It’s important to take it slow and stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness.
Day 9: Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
Walking Time: 8 hrs
Difficulty: Very Difficult
This is the most challenging trek day, as you’ll be crossing the highest point of the trek, the Thorong La Pass, at an elevation of 5,416 meters. The trail is steep and rocky, and the altitude makes it even more strenuous. However, the sense of accomplishment and the stunning views make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Day 10: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom via Kagbeni
Walking Time: 6-7 hrs
Difficulty: Easy
These days involve descent from the high-altitude desert to the lush valleys and forests, offering a refreshing change of scenery. The trails are less steep, making walking easier.
Day 11: Fly or drive from Jomsom to Pokhara
Driving Time: 10 hrs
Fly time: 25 minutes
Day 12: Drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Weather in the Annapurna Region
The Annapurna Circuit Trek has different weather depending on the time of year. The best times for the trek are September to November and March to May. The weather is dry and stable, and the views are clear during these times. The days are usually warm and sunny, with cool nights.
However, it can get freezing during the winter (December to February), and there is a high chance of snowfall, making the trek challenging. The temperature can drop below freezing, making the trails slippery and hazardous.
During the monsoon season (June to August), it rains heavily, causing landslides and making the trails muddy and difficult to navigate. Clouds and mist may also obscure the views, making the trek less enjoyable.
Additionally, it is essential to check the weather forecast regularly and be flexible with your itinerary if necessary to ensure your safety.
Physical Demands of the Trek
Annapurna Circuit Trek is a physically demanding trek requiring good fitness and endurance. The trek involves long, steep ascents and descents, crossing high-altitude mountain passes, and walking on rocky and uneven terrain. Some specific examples of physical demands of the trek are:
Uphill and downhill trekking: The trek involves steep uphill and downhill trekking, especially during the first few days and while crossing the Thorong La Pass. Trekking for long hours on steep inclines can be physically challenging, especially for those not used to it.
Long hours of walking: The trek involves 6-8 hours a day, covering a 10-20 km distance. Walking for such long hours can be tiring and deplete your stamina.
Rocky and uneven terrain: The trails on the Annapurna Circuit Trek are often rocky and bumpy, which requires extra effort to maintain balance and avoid injuries.
Weather conditions: The weather during the trek can also add to the physical demands. Rain, snow, and extreme cold can make trekking more challenging.
Engaging in regular physical activity and cardio exercises such as running, hiking, and cycling is essential. Building strength in your legs and core muscles will also help you cope with the demands of the trek. Additionally, it’s necessary to acclimatize appropriately, stay hydrated, and rest well to complete the trek comfortably and safely.
Conclusion
Annapurna Circuit Trek is easy to moderately difficult based on your experience, time for the trek, and general know-how regarding acclimatization. If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, this trek offers fun, challenges, excitement, and, most importantly, stunning mountain views. The trek difficulty is based on common factors like altitude, long distance and duration, dynamic weather, remote settlements, and rugged terrains.
However, trekking in the ideal seasons can mitigate these difficulty factors. Before trekking, pay attention to your physical endurance level, exercise, hire guides and porters, and mainly acclimatize when you climb the altitude. Even if you are a beginner, you can complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek, so leave your fear behind and book your trek today.
