Nepal

The Annapurna Circuit is the ideal place to wander, planning each day as it comes based on weather, time, altitude factors, trail conditions, and fatigue. We hiked the circuit in the Spring of 2018, starting in Chamje and ending in Birethanti.

How far should I plan to walk each day? Here is our 155 mile route, mapped in Google Earth.

Should I carry my own food? Food is readily available. Here’s a sample menu to show typical food options and prices on the Annapurna Circuit.

What should I pack? Our packs weighed 22 pounds (10 kg) each. Here’s our suggested packing list.

It is essential that you bring all the Nepalese rupees that you will need for your entire time on the trail. How much is enough? Here’s our actual spending.

This is the starting point of a multi-post series detailing our Annapurna Circuit trek day-by-day in the Spring of 2018, with trail descriptions, photos, duration and elevation statistics.

No sane person traveling to Nepal should spend five weeks in Kathmandu. Things happen when you travel long term and sometimes you just have to make the best of unplanned situations.

Things that make you go “hmmmmm….”

In Dhulikhel, Nepal, the beverages flow, guys boogie in the fields, and karaoke reverberates across the hills. We were there for the hiking trails… and a Buddhist lesson in selfless sacrifice.

Feeling oppressed by the smog of Kathmandu? Fresh air, quiet, and a peaceful lake are just a day-trek away in Chitlang and Markhu. There’s even a cable car to avoid the tough climb to the top of Chandragiri Mountain, if you choose (and if it’s working).

Bhaktapur is the showcase of Newar architecture, culture, and exquisite woodwork. It’s just a two-hour bus ride from Kathmandu and makes a nice over-night trip.