Annapurna Circuit Trek for Beginners

The Annapurna Circuit is a famous hiking trail in Nepal. It is walked by people from all around the world. It shows big mountains, deep valleys, small villages, and forests. You may be standing above the clouds one day and at waterfalls the next. The Thorong La Pass reaches almost 5,400 meters high, the highest point on the trail. You are on top of the world.

This trek is for very strong and experienced hikers, this is what many people believe. That’s not true. If you are healthy, there is some walking that you can do, and take it slow, you can do it. You’re not a super athlete. So really, it’s about common sense and planning well enough and making smart choices.

This trail is considered very easy by some people. Others think it’s very hard. In reality, it is somewhat in the middle. It’s not easy, that is, but it’s not climbing Mount Everest. There is an easy part and a hard part. Good advice, and you’ll enjoy it and stay safe.

The only thing was that the Annapurna Circuit was different from years past. But now, some lead into the mountains. Some of the villages have Wi-Fi and coffee shops. The hike isn’t exactly easy, and as a result, getting around is easier. Every year, some get sick from having reached too high an altitude. Others simply give up because they get tired. That doesn’t have to be you.

The answer is yes, and if you ask yourself, Can I really hike the Annapurna Circuit as a beginner? You can. But you need to be smart. You will have to listen to your body, take it easy, and don’t try to rush.

What to Do on the Annapurna Circuit (Especially for Beginners)

If you’re new to trekking, then doing the right things like walking at a suitable pace and taking health care measures properly will make you hike farther safely and more easily. Before and during your trip, you need to do the most important ones:

Do Proper Research Before you Trek

Just before you go, get as much information as you can regarding the trail. Know what the length of this thing is, how long it will take, where it starts and ends, and what weather to expect. The weather on the mountain changes very quickly. You get the full range of warm one day, freezing the next. And learn a bit about the places where you will be visiting, and the people who dwell there. Knowing local customs will help you not to do something rude without being aware of it.

Increase your Fitness Level

Although you don’t have to be an athlete, the hike is long and most of it is uphill. Start walking more at home. Otherwise, try taking short hikes, climbing stairs, or going for a cardio like jogging, swimming or biking. Walking an hour a day will even build your stamina. The more fit you are, the more you will enjoy the trek.

Acclimatize Properly

The air becomes thinner as you ascend. Such situations can be tiring and make you dizzy or feel sick. This is known as altitude sickness and is serious. The only way to avoid it is to move slowly. Rest days are important on the trail when it gets high. Do not rush to get to the next place. Give the body time to adjust to the new height. Sleep, eat well,and  drink water.

Pack Smart and Light

Bring only what you need. As I said, the heavy bag will make the trip harder for you. Bring enough warm clothes (not too many). You will need good shoes, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Long days are better with a light backpack. That said, you won’t need to carry everything you might need, as there are small shops and tea houses along the way for food and basic supplies.

Stay Hydrated

Drink water often; the higher up you go, the more often. Although you may not feel thirsty, your body requires water. When you become dehydrated, you will feel exhausted. Bring a refillable water bottle and increase the amount of time you spend filling it up at the safe water stations, or ready yourself with water purification tablets.

Respect Local’s

However, the way of life of the people living in the mountains is different. Be kind and polite. Do not enter the house or temple of another with your shoes on. Never point your feet at people or towards a religious object. Learn some of the local words, ‘Namaste’ (hello) and ‘Dhanyabad’ (thank you). To show a little respect goes a long way.

Don’t Hike Alone

Walk a friend or with a group if you can. It’s safer and more fun. If you get tired or unsure of the path, you can help each other. Hire a guide if you are going alone. Otherwise, they, too, know the way and will help in emergencies.

Choose the Right Season

When it comes to hiking the Annapurna Circuit, it is best to do so in the spring (March–May) or in the fall (September–November). It’s not too cold out, the views are great, and it’s clear weather. It is best to avoid the rainy season and deep winter when the trail can be dangerous.

These simple things are things that will help you enjoy the Annapurna Circuit and stay safe on the trail.

What Should  Not  Do on the Annapurna Circuit

Knowing what not to do is just as important if you want to have a safe and fun hike on the Annapurna Circuit. A lot of us gather as beginners, and a lot of mistakes are made, which will turn a great trip into a hard trip or even a dangerous trip. If you avoid these things, you will enjoy the trail more and you will be less likely to get into trouble.

Don’t Rush Your Trek

Slow down. This is not a race. The trail goes uphill for hours, and the further you go, the thinner the air becomes. Walking too fast will make you exhausted quickly or get you altitude sickness. Stop for breaks. Don’t rush it. Enjoy the views. Slowing down also allows your body to adapt to the higher altitudes.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness Should not be Ignored

Altitude sickness is for real, and it can afflict anyone, including the young and fit. If you get a bad headache, feel dizzy, sick to your stomach, or have trouble sleeping, you need to take it seriously. Don’t push through. If its symptoms stick around, go down to a lower time, drink some water, and rest. ‘Toughing it out’ doesn’t help.

Don’t Over pack

No need to pack the whole closet! Bring only what you need. A backpack can make walking harder and can hurt your back or shoulders. Bring a few outfits, a warm jacket, a raincoat, basic toiletries, and a small first aid kit. If you aren’t sure that something is needed, you likely cannot afford it.

Neglecting the Weather Conditions

Mountain weather can change fast. You are one moment sunny, next snowing or raining. Before every day’s hike, always check the weather. Although it looks nice in the morning, bring clothes for all types of weather. If you aren’t ready, a sudden storm can catch you off guard, and a cold wind will surprise you.

Don’t Take the Altitude Lightly

While the Annapurna Circuit is easy enough for a beginner, it’s still not easy. There are some steep, rocky, or slippery parts. You may walk 6–8 hours a day. Respect the trail. Be sure to wear good hiking shoes and have a proper walk. Just because others do it, don’t think it will be simple – it still takes effort.

Don’t Leave Trash Behind

Keep the trail clean. Take a small bag in which you will put your trash and dispose of it when you get to the village. The trail should not be left with food wrappers, plastic bottles, or tissue. All too often, however, the mountains turn out beautiful, and we have to keep them that way. Even though everything is not always so pristine, follow the “Leave No Trace” rule; take everything you brought with you back out.

Summary

Hiking the Annapurna Circuit is a lot, but with a few key things, it can be manageable. Plan well, go slow, respect the mountains, and enjoy the journey. Listen to your body, don’t rush, and be safe. The trail is by no means a walk, but it has breathtaking views and will give you great memories. First timer and feel unsure? No worries. If you need assistance, trek with us. Every step of the way, we will work with you to ensure you enjoy the trek with confidence and peace of mind.

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