Annapurna Circuit

Yes, most nationalities are required to obtain a tourist visa to enter Nepal. Fortunately, Nepal offers a convenient visa-on-arrival option at major entry points for many countries.

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To ensure you have the latest information and to check your specific visa requirements, visit the official Nepalese Department of Immigration website.

To start the Annapurna Circuit trek, most travellers fly into Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, where you can organise permits and gear. From Kathmandu, you’ll usually take a domestic flight or a scenic, sometimes bumpy, drive to Pokhara — the main gateway to the Annapurna region. From Pokhara, it’s a few hours’ drive to the trek’s starting point, often Besisahar or Dharapani, depending on your chosen route.

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Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages, terraced fields, and stunning mountain scenery as you begin your adventure.

The Annapurna Circuit is a moderately challenging trek suitable for fit and prepared hikers. It involves long days of walking, typically 5 to 8 hours, and crossing high mountain passes, with the highest point at Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft). Altitude, changing weather, and rugged terrain can make it tough, but with proper acclimatisation and pacing, most people complete it successfully. Some previous trekking experience helps, but isn’t essential.

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You might like to learn more by reading Is the Annapurna Circuit hard?

The Annapurna Circuit is a challenging trek, but with the right preparation, it’s generally safe. The biggest risks come from altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and sometimes rough or narrow trails. Proper acclimatisation, taking your time, and listening to your body are key to staying safe.

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It’s also important to trek with an experienced guide like Follow Alice and have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking. While hazards exist, thousands of trekkers complete the circuit safely each year and are rewarded with breathtaking scenery and rich cultural experiences.

Altitude sickness, also called acute mountain sickness (AMS), happens when your body struggles to adjust to lower oxygen levels at high elevations. Common symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, tiredness, and shortness of breath.

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It usually affects trekkers above 3000 metres (9000 feet) but can become serious if ignored. The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and allow time for your body to acclimate. In severe cases, descending to a lower altitude is necessary. Knowing the symptoms and taking them seriously is key to staying safe on any high-altitude trek.

Yes, we highly recommend having travel insurance, and for some trekkers, it’s required. The Annapurna Circuit takes you into remote, high-altitude terrain where things like altitude sickness, injuries, or sudden weather changes can happen.

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Insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation gives you peace of mind so you can enjoy your adventure.

The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.

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• In spring, the weather is warm, the rhododendron forests are in bloom, and the skies are mostly clear.
• In autumn, the air is crisp and dry, offering the best views of the mountains.

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These months offer comfortable temperatures, good trail conditions, and stunning scenery — perfect for trekking. Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) because of heavy rains and slippery paths, and the winter months (December to February) can be very cold, especially at high altitudes.

You’ll need a sturdy backpack, layered clothing for all weather, waterproof trekking boots, and a warm sleeping bag. Trekking poles, sun protection, a water bottle with purification, a headlamp, and a basic first aid kit are also essential. Don’t forget your passport, permits, cash, and snacks.

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For a full list of the clothes and gear to bring, please read the Annapurna Circuit packing list.