Annapurna Circuit vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek

• Cover the 3 most popular walking trails in the Annapurna Region – Annapurna Circuit, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and Annapurna Base Camp
• Cross Thorung La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft) one of the highest mountain passes in the world
• Walk along the Kali Gandaki River gorge, the deepest gorge in the world
• Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan panorama from Poon Hill
• Stand close to Annapurna I, the 10th highest mountain in the world
• Stay at ethnic villages of Manages, Thakalis, Gurungs, and Magars and learn more about their culture
• Close up views of 8000 and 7000-meter peaks
• Hike past diverse climatic zones and landscapes – tropical, alpine, high-altitude desert
• Explore the beautiful Pokhara Fewa Lake

Annapurna Circuit vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 20 Days, Overview

Annapurna Circuit vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek – An 20-day trek that takes you through three major trekking destinations in the Annapurna region. Trek the Annapurna Circuit, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trail, and reach Annapurna Base Camp.

The trek across the classic Annapurna Circuit Trail includes crossing one of the world’s highest mountain passes, Thorung La Pass (5416 meters). Cross the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki River, before heading to Ghorepani. The trek up Poon Hill lets you experience an incredible Himalayan sunrise. Visit the Sanctuary of the Gods at Annapurna Base Camp. Surrounded by Annapurna I (the world’s 10th highest mountain), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna, the Annapurna Sanctuary is also known as the abode of the local gods.

Experience diverse ethnic cultures and landscapes. The high and dry hill villages of Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Braga and Manang are inhabited by the inhabited, who practice Tibetan Buddhism. The valley of the Kali Gandaki River is inhabited by the Thakalis, while the Gurungs and Magars live in the middle hills. From alpine forests to dry and deep gorges, from dusty valleys to green forests and terraced fields, you will walk through it all, and be experience.

Trip Itinerary Overview

Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp Trek – 20 days offers the best trekking experience in the Himalayas. This trek traverses the ancient Annapurna Circuit route and leads to the popular Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, covered in lush green rhododendrons forests. The stunning Annapurna Base Camp is the final destination of this epic trekking adventure. Along the way, you will cross countless towering peaks, the highest mountain pass Thorung La Pass and the world’s deepest river gorge, the Kali Gandaki River.

You begin your adventure with a drive from Kathmandu via Besisahar to Jagat. From Jagat, you will begin your trek and pass through alpine scenery filled with coniferous trees, rivers and wooden bridges. The villages along the way are adorned with Buddhist temples and prayer flags. You will pass through Upper Pisang, Ngawal, Braga and Manang. The inhabitants of these villages, known as Mange, follow Tibetan Buddhism and culture. They have a dialect, which is very different from Nepali. You will spend an extra day acclimatizing in Manang village. And on a rest day, the tough trek to Ice Lake serves as the perfect acclimatization trek.

An early morning trek to Thorung La ensures that you cross the beautiful but treacherous pass long before the afternoon clouds arrive. After spending precious moments celebrating your achievement, you descend to the pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Known as the place of attaining salvation or ‘moksha’, Hindus and Buddhists flack to this holy place from all over the world.

A dry landscape filled with high valleys and barren hills covers the next part of your trek. From Jomsom, you will walk along the dry and dusty banks of the Kali Gandaki River as you head to the medieval Thakali town of Marpha. Trekkers call Marpha ‘Apple Pie city’ because of its apple orchards and delicious apple pies. And Kalopani is the last Thakali settlement on your itinerary.

Next, you will visit the hot spring of Tatopani before heading to Ghorepani. From Ghorepani, you trek to Poon Hill (3210m), which is another highlight of your trek. The Himalayan sunrise from Poon Hill is something that will become fond memories. The bright sun illuminating the snow-capped Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri and other mountains will remain in your heart and mind forever.

The trek passes through one of the largest rhododendrons forests in the world. In spring, the trek is filled with white, pink and red rhododendrons flowers. Brightly feathered birds and butterflies fly along the trees and bushes, making your trek enjoyable.

You walk and stay through Gurung and Magar villages, and the tea houses in these villages are extensions of the large local houses. The trek to Annapurna Base Camp is a difficult one, which is the final highlight of your trek. The trek through Machhapuchhre Base Camp is filled with incredible views of the Annapurna Mountains.

The area around Annapurna Base Camp, known as the Annapurna Sanctuary, which is sacred ground. The locals believe that their gods reside in the glacial basin. Surrounded by the towering peaks of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna and Hiunchuli, the Annapurna Sanctuary looks majestic in the first rays of morning light. Sunrise from the Annapurna Sanctuary is a fitting end to this unforgettable adventure. You will end your trek by trekking through scenic trails dotted with terraced fields and traditional farms. Your Annapurna adventure ultimately ends with a drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

You will get to enjoy views of Himalayan peaks at 8000, 7000 and 6000 meters throughout your journey. Although no technical climbing is required, you will need to have a high level of physical fitness to complete this adventure. The trek involves walking at altitudes above 5000 meters. The highest point you will reach will be the Thorung La Pass at 5416 meters.

Why choose this trek?

1. Unique combination: This trek combines the remote beauty of Annapurna Base Camp with the spiritual allure of the iconic Annapurna Circuit.
2. Challenging adventure: Crossing high-altitude one of the highest Thorong La Pass in the world makes this trek a true test of endurance.
3. Cultural richness: Experience the diverse cultures of the Annapurna regions, including Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism.
4. Stunning views: From lush green valleys to snow-capped peaks, this trek offers unparalleled natural beauty.

Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp today for an unforgettable adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenge. This trek is a true testament to the grandeur of the Himalayas and the spirit of exploration.

Best time for Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp trekking

The best time for Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp trekking is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months have stable weather, clear skies, and optimal trekking conditions.

Preparation and Tips

Physical Fitness: This trek is tough and requires good physical fitness. Regular cardio and strength training is recommended.
Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is important to avoid altitude sickness. Follow the itinerary and stay hydrated.
Packing Essentials: Pack warm clothes, sturdy trekking boots, a good quality sleeping bag, and altitude medicine.

AVAILABILITY

DO YOU HAVE A BIG GROUP? We’re here to help! Contact us to discuss availability and group pricing options.