Annapurna Circuit Trek is a 136.7 mile moderately trafficked point-to-point trail located near Taghring, Gandaki Pradesh, Nepal that features a lake and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October.
Take a bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar.
Absolutely incredible trek. I did this without a guide or Sherpa, which I really enjoyed. Tea houses every few hours in the villages you pass through offer food and accommodation - I hiked this trail in winter, so had no problem with availability. You’ll pass through mountain side rice fields, dense forests, snow covered mountains, green valleys, and beautiful villages that change as you ascend. The altitude hit me at about 2.5km high, but I took my time and didn’t need to backtrack or take medication. It’s very slow going at the top - start as early as you can for the Thorong La pass. Highly recommend!!
Completed this track in 91' at 8 y.o and thought to leave my mark here (today). The ascent is gradual, the track was less worn in and much raw back then, a bit hairy at some way points due to erosion and changing environment. There were villages spread out along the trail with friendly locals where you could stop for a milk tea or chat. The majestic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, to the eventual himalayan horizon were magnificent. Nearly 30 years on I look back at this adventure with sense of achievement and wonder. We tracked this in 25 days and took a well needed rest at Pokhara. I would recommend decent hiking boots (mine fell apart by the end of the trail) and another lung full of air for those who may experience altitude sickness especially as you reach Thorong Pass.
Absolutely beautiful. I’ve never seen anything like it. I highly recommend everyone to go! I went in November, the weather was perfect. Everyone is super friendly, people from all Over the world! easy to follow, tons of people to meet. Also many Israelis from the IDF go after they graduate. So fun talking to them along the way!
Today’s trek was from Sirung to Jaggat but following the upper trail via the Chipla hill. The footpath to Syange is in fair condition, only a few hundred meters merging into the developing dusty road. Once you hit the Mipra sign there is a side trail which if you follow goes around under Mipra and saves you a few hundred meters and elevation to the small village. Mostly downhill so be prepared. From Syange its a little tricky to find the upper trail or aka White/Blue route because that’s start from behind Ghermu village. My map stated otherwise... this is also a very challenging trail with a lot of ups and downs. Once you climbed up to Tallo Chipla the fun begins. Starts with a massive decline, from the top all you can see is the bottomless valley and the stairs on the opposite wall. Yes, you have to climb down till you hit a swing bridge. Good luck climbing up on those stairs. The elevation is around 300meters if not more. Next is the climb down to the next swing bridge which will lead you to Jaggat. However, of course there will be a final killer stairs with around 200-250 steps. Only attempt this trail if you are in a very good shape. Enjoy
Trail from Besisahar to Sirung via Khudi. There are two ways to reach Sirung. The road in developing state or the trail that cuts through hill, fields, bushes etc.(this one is quicker but more challenging) Some part of the trail has been overgrown by grass and damaged by landslides which makes it extremely difficult and sometimes dangerous. Especially right before the swing bridge and straight after. Also, the trail mark is sometimes hard to find on easy to miss. This trail is extremely rewarding, beautiful scenery but definitely a hard way to start ACT. Only recommend it for experience trekkers who are up for the challenge. Have fun!