As we move toward the Autumn trekking season, Snowcard's very own trekking guru Freddie D thinks back to his EBC trek and looks at how to get started on your first altitude trek
The Annapurna Circuit seems like a good starting point!
Crossing two valleys encircling the Annapurna Massif, the length of the route can vary from 100-150 miles. The highest point is the Thorung La pass at 5416m stretching to the Tibetan plateau. Views along the way include Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Tilcho Peak, Pisang Peak, Paungda Danda and the Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I-IV).
Treks usually begin at Besisahar or Bhulbhule in the Marshyangdi river valley, ending in Kali Gandaki Gorge.
There is a 7 hour drive to reach Besisahar from Kathmandu and whilst the Annapurna Circuit is generally regarded as one of the best long distance treks in the world, it does sit in a rain shadow which means it can be trekked in the monsoon season.
October and November are the busiest trekking months in Nepal, the weather is generally warm and drier although nights can be sub zero. The coldest months are December through to March and the high passes can be blocked with Snow.
April and May are much warmer and are popular trekking months but become more humid towards the monsoon season June to September.
Who to book with:
https://www.exodus.co.uk/trips/nepal-holidays/walking/annapurna-circuit/tnq
https://www.kandooadventures.com/destination-nepal/trip-the-annapurna-sanctuary
https://www.jagged-globe.co.uk/trek/i/annapurna+circuit.html