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.

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

There are no mandatory vaccinations for travel to Nepal. For thorough answers to all such practical travel matters, please read Your Nepal travel questions answered.

The only international airport in Nepal is in Kathmandu, in the east of the country. The Annapurna region is in the west of the country, so you need to drive there from Kathmandu, which takes about two days.

If you opt to do the Annapurna Circuit trek with Follow Alice, we organise your transport to and from the Annapurna region.

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.

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

The Annapurna Circuit is a safe exercise provided you travel with an experienced and properly trained trek guide.

The Annapurna Circuit route takes you high into the remote Himalayas. You're far from hospitals if something goes wrong. You're also entering a very cold and harsh climate, and the weather can change quickly and become deadly. So you need someone who (1) knows the route and its dangers and how to avoid them, (2) keeps a close eye on the weather forecast, and (3) can detect the early signs of altitude sickness and respond appropriately.

At Follow Alice, all of our high-altitude treks are led by qualified and experienced English-speaking guides who know how to keep you safe.

In 10 tips for trekking the Annapurna Circuit, we discuss how to protect yourself from things like altitude sickness and exposure. We also consider the importance of items like trekking poles and good, sturdy boots. Please take the time to read this post and prepare yourself properly for the rigours and elements of this high-altitude trek. While our trek guides' top priority is your safety, it's also important for you to come prepared and do your part.

The higher you climb, the fewer oxygen molecules you breathe in per breath. Your body finds it hard to function properly with less oxygen, and so needs to be given adequate time to adapt to each new jump in elevation.

Altitude sickness is the body reacting badly to being made to go too high, too quickly. Symptoms of altitude sickness include nausea, vertigo, headaches and sleeplessness. Severe altitude sickness can be fatal. This is why we take it so seriously, and so should you.

Anything above 3,000 m can lead to altitude sickness. We climb well above 5,000 m on the Annapurna Circuit, so altitude sickness is a risk that comes with the climb.

You can learn more about it and how to prepare for it in Is the Annapurna Circuit hard? and 10 tips for trekking the Annapurna Circuit.

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.

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.

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.

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