Have you ever dreamed of walking through deep valleys, over high mountain passes, and across swinging bridges in the Himalayas? I did. That’s why I took on the adventure of a lifetime: the Annapurna Circuit Trek. I wasn’t alone, I had help from an Annapurna Circuit Trek guide, and it made all the difference. This trek was long, sometimes hard, but always beautiful. In this article, I’ll share my story. I’ll tell you what the trek was like, how a guide helped, and why you might want to try it too.
Why I Chose the Annapurna Circuit Trek
I wanted a trek that had everything. I didn’t just want to see mountains—I wanted to walk through them, around them, and even over them. I read that the Annapurna Circuit offers views of the Himalayas, walks through forests and villages, and a chance to cross one of the world’s highest trekking passes. It sounded perfect. And it was.
What the Trek Is Like
The trek started in Besisahar, a small town. From there, the trail led through green rice fields, forests, and rivers. Every day, the land changed. One day, it felt like summer. A few days later, we were in snow-covered mountains. We passed through villages like Chame, Manang, Yak Kharka, and Muktinath. Each village had warm tea houses where we ate simple, delicious food and rested our tired legs.The people were kind. They said “Namaste” with big smiles. The children waved at us as we walked by.
The Hardest Day – Thorong La Pass
The toughest and most exciting day was crossing Thorong La Pass. It’s the highest point of the trek—5,416 meters (17,769 feet). We woke up before sunrise. It was cold and dark. My fingers were numb. But we kept walking, slowly, step by step. When we reached the top, prayer flags danced in the wind. The mountains were all around us. I felt tired, proud, and full of joy. It was a moment I’ll never forget.
Trek Statistics You Should Know
If you're thinking about doing this trek, here are some quick facts:
- Total Distance: About 160–230 km (depending on the route and transport)
- Average Duration: 14 to 18 days
- Highest Point: Thorong La Pass – 5,416 m (17,769 ft)
- Best Seasons: March–May and September–November
How My Guide Helped Me
I went with a local Annapurna Circuit Trek guide named Ramesh. He had done this trek over 40 times! He knew every trail, tea house, and mountain name. When I got altitude sickness in Manang, he helped me rest, drink garlic soup, and recover safely. He also told stories about the villages, helped with food, and even carried part of my backpack when I felt weak. Without him, I might have turned back. A guide doesn’t just show the way—they take care of you, teach you, and become your friend.
My Favorite Moments
- Hot tea in cold weather – Nothing felt better than sipping warm ginger tea after a long day of hiking.
- The changing views – From forests to rocky cliffs to snowy passes, no two days looked the same.
- Meeting locals – I learned about Nepali culture, tried new foods, and even danced at a local festival.
- Walking over hanging bridges – It was scary the first time, but soon it became fun.
Things I Learned on the Trek
- Take it slow – The air gets thinner as you go up. Rushing can make you sick.
- Drink lots of water – Staying hydrated helped me feel stronger.
- Trust your guide – They know when to rest, when to push, and when to turn around.
- Pack light but smart – Warm clothes, good shoes, and a headlamp made a big difference.
Would I Do It Again?
Yes, without a doubt. The Annapurna Circuit Trek was one of the best things I’ve ever done. It was hard sometimes. My legs were tired, and I missed hot showers. But every step brought me closer to something amazing. If you love nature, adventure, and culture, this trek is for you. Just don’t go alone. Hire an experienced Annapurna Circuit Trek guide. They’ll make your journey safer, richer, and more fun.
Final Thoughts
The Annapurna Circuit isn’t just a walk, it’s a journey through beauty, challenge, and discovery. With a good guide by your side, you’ll see places you never imagined and learn things you’ll carry forever. So, if you're dreaming of Nepal, don’t wait. Put on your boots, take a deep breath, and start walking. The mountains are calling.