Annapurna Circuit Altitude: A Comprehensive Guide
The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world. It attracts adventurers from all over. Located in Nepal’s Annapurna region, the trek takes you through different landscapes like green valleys, terraced fields, dry high-altitude deserts, and rugged mountains. But it’s not just the scenery that makes it special. You also get to experience the rich culture of the villages and old monasteries along the way.
One important thing to know is how Annapurna circuit altitude affects your trek. As you climb higher, like up to Thorong La Pass, your body needs to adjust to the thinner air. Understanding altitude is important for both enjoying the trek and staying safe. If you’re not careful, you could get altitude sickness. In this guide, we’ll explain the different altitudes you’ll face on the Annapurna Circuit trek and share tips to help you stay safe and have a great time.
The Annapurna Circuit: A Quick Look
The Annapurna Circuit is a journey around the Annapurna mountain range in the Himalayas. Most trekkers start at a place called Besisahar, which is at 760 meters (2,493 feet), and end at Jomsom or Pokhara. The trek can be between 160 to 230 kilometers long, depending on the side trips you choose. Along the way, you’ll see amazing natural beauty and experience local culture.
Some key highlights include:
- Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters / 17,769 feet): The highest point of the trek, and also one of the hardest parts. It’s a challenge, but the view at the top is worth it.
- Manang Valley (3,500 meters / 11,482 feet): A beautiful valley with traditional Tibetan-style villages and stunning mountain views.
- Tilicho Lake (4,919 meters / 16,138 feet): One of the highest lakes in the world. It’s a peaceful spot with breathtaking scenery.
- Lower Mustang: A dry, high-altitude desert area that feels totally different from the green forests and rice fields you see earlier in the trek.
Challenges of the Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is rewarding, but it’s also tough. The biggest challenge is the changing altitude. As you go higher, you’ll need to pace yourself and take time to get used to the thin air. Crossing Thorong La Pass is especially difficult because of the thin air and unpredictable weather. You’ll also face cold temperatures and tricky terrain, like rocky paths and steep climbs. But if you prepare well, the trek will be an amazing adventure full of natural beauty, rich culture, and personal growth.
Altitude Changes on Annapurna Circuit Trek
Altitude is a big part of the Annapurna Circuit trek. It affects the weather and how hard the trek feels. The trek takes you through a wide range of altitudes, from tropical areas to high-altitude deserts. In this section, we’ll explain the different altitude levels so you know what to expect.
Lower Altitude Areas
The beginning of the trek takes you through lower-altitude areas where the scenery is lush and green. The air is still thick with oxygen, making it easier to breathe.
- Syange (1,100 meters / 3,609 feet): One of the first stops on the trek, surrounded by rice terraces and forests.
- Dharapani (1,960 meters / 6,430 feet): As you climb higher, the landscape starts to change and looks more like an alpine area.
- Chame (2,710 meters / 8,891 feet): The gateway to the Annapurna region, offering amazing views of Lamjung Himal and other tall peaks.
- Manang (3,519 meters / 11,545 feet): A great place to rest and acclimatize before heading to higher altitudes. Many trekkers spend an extra day or two here to get used to the thinner air.
Manang is where you’ll start to feel the altitude more. It’s a good spot to learn about altitude sickness and adjust your pace for the harder days ahead.
Thorong La Pass
Thorong La Pass is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit trek at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). It’s tough because the air is so thin, and the weather can change quickly. Most trekkers start the climb early in the morning from either Thorong Phedi (4,450 meters / 14,600 feet) or High Camp (4,800 meters / 15,748 feet). Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After that, you’ll need to descend quickly to Muktinath (3,800 meters / 12,467 feet) to avoid getting sick from the altitude.
Upper Mustang
On the other side of Thorong La Pass is Upper Mustang. The altitude here ranges between 3,500 and 4,200 meters (11,482 to 13,780 feet). Upper Mustang looks like a desert and has a strong Tibetan influence. The red cliffs and open valleys make this area feel very different from the lower sections of the trek.
Higher Altitude Sections
The higher parts of the Annapurna Circuit are some of the most challenging but also the most rewarding. In these areas, the air gets thinner, it gets much colder, and the paths become rougher.
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)
Even though it’s not part of the main Annapurna Circuit, many trekkers like to add a trip to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). ABC is at a height of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) and is surrounded by some of the tallest mountains in the world, including Annapurna I, which stands at 8,091 meters (26,545 feet). It’s the 10th highest mountain on the planet!
Getting to ABC is tough. The trail is steep, and there’s often snow and ice, so it can be slippery. The high altitude also makes it harder to breathe, so taking your time to adjust is important. But when you finally stand at the base of the huge Annapurna mountains, the hard work feels completely worth it. It’s a humbling and amazing sight.
Tilicho Lake
Another great side trek is to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919 meters (16,138 feet). The lake’s deep blue water, reflecting the snowy mountains around it, is a peaceful and stunning sight. The trek to Tilicho is difficult, though. The path is rocky and narrow, so you need to be careful. But for those who make it, the beauty and quiet of the lake make the tough climb worth it.
Because of its high altitude, the weather can change quickly at Tilicho Lake. Strong winds and cold temperatures are common, but the view, with mountains like Nilgiri and Tilicho framing the lake, is unforgettable.
Other High-Altitude Spots
Aside from the major highlights, there are other high-altitude spots on the Annapurna Circuit:
- High Camp (4,800 meters / 15,748 feet): The last stop before you cross the Thorong La Pass.
- Khangsar (4,000 meters / 13,123 feet): A village on the way to Tilicho Lake.
- Yak Kharka (4,110 meters / 13,484 feet): A place to stop and adjust to the high altitude before Thorong La.
These high places can be tough because the air is thin, and the climbs are steep. But they add to the sense of adventure and achievement, making the Annapurna Circuit such a special journey.
This breakdown of the high-altitude sections of the trek should help you get ready for the challenges ahead, so you’re well-prepared for both the easier and harder parts of the journey.
Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness at Annapurna Circuit
When you’re trekking at high altitudes, acclimatization is super important to keep you safe and healthy. On the Annapurna Circuit, you go up to very high places quickly, so your body needs time to adjust. This helps prevent altitude sickness, which can be dangerous.
Why Acclimatization Is Important
Acclimatization is how your body slowly gets used to having less oxygen as you climb higher. The higher you go, the thinner the air gets, meaning there’s less oxygen for your body to use. If you don’t let your body adjust, you can get acute mountain sickness (AMS) or other serious problems.
On the Annapurna Circuit, certain parts of the trek are made for acclimatization. For example, many trekkers stay in Manang for a couple of extra days to give their bodies time to adjust before going to higher places like Thorong La Pass.
A helpful rule to follow is “climb high, sleep low.” This means you can go to higher places during the day, but it’s good to sleep at a lower altitude. This gives your body time to get used to the change in oxygen levels.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness and How to Prevent It
Altitude sickness (AMS) can happen if you go up too fast, especially above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). Anyone can get it, no matter how fit or experienced they are. It’s important to spot the symptoms early so you can prevent serious conditions like high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), which can be life-threatening.
Common Symptoms of Altitude Sickness:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Feeling sick or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
- Tiredness
- Trouble sleeping
How to Prevent Altitude Sickness:
- Go slowly: Follow the recommended trek plan, and don’t climb more than 500 meters (1,640 feet) a day after reaching 3,000 meters (9,842 feet).
- Take rest days: Add rest days to your trek, especially in places like Manang and Yak Kharka.
- Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water. Dehydration can make altitude sickness worse.
- Eat well: Foods rich in carbohydrates give your body energy to handle the high altitudes.
- Avoid alcohol: Alcohol and tobacco can make altitude sickness worse.
- Consider medication: Some trekkers take Diamox (acetazolamide) to help with acclimatization. Ask your doctor if it’s right for you.
Tips for Handling Altitude Sickness
If you or someone in your group shows signs of altitude sickness, it’s important to take it seriously. Ignoring the symptoms or pushing forward can make things much worse.
Managing Altitude Sickness:
- Rest and drink water: If you feel sick, take a break, drink water, and eat something light.
- Go down: If symptoms don’t go away or get worse, go down to a lower altitude right away. Even going down 500 meters can help.
- Use oxygen: In serious cases, some people use portable oxygen cans, but this is usually only needed in emergencies.
- Listen to your body: Don’t push through altitude sickness. Your health is more important than reaching your destination.
By following these tips and paying attention to how your body feels, you can lower your chances of getting altitude sickness and enjoy the high-altitude parts of the Annapurna Circuit safely.
Altitude-Related Tips for Trekking Annapurna Circuit
When trekking at high altitudes like the Annapurna Circuit, the thin air can affect more than just how you feel—it also changes how you need to drink, eat, and what gear to bring. Planning ahead can make your trek easier and safer.
Staying Fit for the Trek
You don’t have to be a super athlete to trek the Annapurna Circuit, but being in good shape really helps, especially as you go higher. The trek involves walking uphill for long hours in places where there’s less oxygen, which makes it tougher to breathe and walk.
How to Get Ready:
- Cardio exercise: Running, cycling, and swimming can help improve your endurance for long hikes.
- Strength training: Focus on building strong legs and core muscles to help carry your backpack and walk uphill.
- Practice hikes: If possible, try hiking at higher altitudes before the trek to see how your body reacts.
Drinking Enough Water and Eating Right
Drinking and eating properly are very important at high altitudes. As you climb higher, your body loses water faster because you breathe more. So, staying hydrated is key.
Hydration Tips:
- Drink at least 3-4 liters of water every day.
- Bring oral rehydration salts to help prevent dehydration.
- Drink warm liquids like tea or soup to stay hydrated in the cold.
Nutrition Tips:
- Eat a high-calorie, high-carb diet to give your body the energy it needs for trekking.
- Snack on energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits to keep your energy up between meals.
- Avoid greasy or heavy foods that can be hard to digest at high altitudes.
Medicine and Health Checkups
Before starting your trek, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. They can give you advice about medicines for altitude sickness, like Diamox, and help with any personal health concerns you may have.
Medication Tips:
- Diamox (Acetazolamide): Some people take this to help prevent altitude sickness. Start taking it 1-2 days before going to high places.
- Pain relievers: Bring ibuprofen or paracetamol for headaches or small aches.
- First-aid kit: Pack bandages, antiseptic cream, blister treatments, and medicines for upset stomachs.
Packing the Right Gear
When trekking at high altitudes, having the right gear is really important. It keeps you warm, safe, and comfortable.
What to Pack for High Altitudes:
- Down jacket: It gets super cold at night in high places, so a warm down jacket is a must.
- Trekking poles: These are helpful when climbing steep hills or going downhill.
- Water purification: Bring a water filter or purification tablets, as clean water gets harder to find as you go higher.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun is much stronger at high altitudes, so protect your skin and eyes.
- Sleeping bag: You’ll need a sleeping bag made for freezing temperatures, especially at places like Thorong La or near Tilicho Lake.
By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared for the challenges of trekking at high altitudes and can enjoy the journey without too much trouble!
Annapurna Circuit Altitude Map and Profile
An altitude map of the Annapurna Circuit shows you how high or low different parts of the trek are. It helps trekkers see when they’ll be climbing or going downhill, so they can plan for rest stops and acclimatizing to the altitude.
Altitude Profile Chart
The altitude profile chart is a picture that shows the changes in height throughout the trek. It shows you how steep the climb is before Thorong La Pass and how the path gradually goes downhill after that. This chart makes it easier to understand which parts of the trek will be more challenging.
Here’s an example of what the altitude profile might look like in a table:
- Day 1: Start low and gradually go up.
- Mid-Trek: The climb gets steeper as you approach Thorong La Pass.
- After the Pass: The path slowly goes downhill, making the trek a bit easier.
Having this chart helps you prepare for the tougher sections and know when to take breaks to let your body adjust to the changing heights.
| Location | Altitude (meters) | Altitude (feet) |
| Besisahar (Starting Point) | 760 m | 2,493 ft |
| Syange | 1,100 m | 3,608 ft |
| Chame | 2,670 m | 8,760 ft |
| Pisang | 3,200 m | 10,498 ft |
| Manang | 3,540 m | 11,614 ft |
| Yak Kharka | 4,050 m | 13,287 ft |
| Thorong Phedi | 4,450 m | 14,600 ft |
| Thorong La Pass (Highest Point) | 5,416 m | 17,769 ft |
| Muktinath | 3,760 m | 12,336 ft |
| Jomsom (Ending Point) | 2,720 m | 8,924 ft |
| Tilicho Lake (Optional Detour) | 4,919 m | 16,138 ft |
This above table represents the major altitude points trekkers will experience during the Annapurna Circuit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit?
The highest point is Thorong La Pass, which is 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level.
How high is Annapurna Base Camp?
Annapurna Base Camp is at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet).
What altitude should I expect on the Annapurna Circuit?
The Annapurna Circuit has a wide range of altitudes. It starts at about 760 meters (2,493 feet) in Besisahar and goes up to 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) at Thorong La Pass.
How can I prevent altitude sickness on the trek?
To avoid altitude sickness, climb slowly, drink plenty of water, eat well, and take rest days to acclimatize. Always listen to your body and go down if you feel sick.
What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?
Common symptoms are headache, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, tiredness, and trouble sleeping. If you feel these, it’s important to take action early.
How can I acclimatize properly on the Annapurna Circuit?
Acclimatize by following the “climb high, sleep low” rule, taking rest days, and stopping at places like Manang to give your body time to adjust.
Is it safe to trek the Annapurna Circuit without high-altitude experience?
Yes, many people complete the trek without prior high-altitude experience. Just make sure you’re fit and take time to acclimatize.
Should I see a doctor before the trek?
Yes, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor about altitude sickness, medicines, and your personal health before starting the trek.
What should I pack for high-altitude trekking?
Pack important items like a down jacket, trekking poles, a warm sleeping bag, water filters, and sunscreen.
Are there evacuation services available on the trek?
Yes, there are rescue services, but it’s important to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuations.
