Where trekking in Nepal is concerned, tourists are spoiled for choice. From the mythical Everest Base Camp to the untracked trails of Manaslu and isolated Kanchenjunga Base Camp, every trek promises staggering vistas and unforgettable cultural immersion. And yet, among these giants, one trek appealed to me most the Annapurna Circuit. While the decision was challenging, here’s why I ultimately decided on this vintage trail over all others.
The Perfect Combination of Nature and Culture
The most significant reason why I selected the Annapurna Circuit is that it provides the perfect combination of nature and culture. Unlike some treks that focus on mountain landscapes, the Annapurna Circuit exposes you to various villages in Manang, Chame, Pisang, and Marpha, where you interact with Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced cultures. For me, it was not just about reaching high passes but also about being able to experience traditions, try local foods like Thakali Dal Bhat, and witness centuries-old monasteries during the trek.
Variety of Landscapes within a Single Trek
When researching, I realized most treks are centered around one type of terrain: Everest with glaciers and stone trails, Langtang with forest, and Upper Mustang with desert valleys. Annapurna Circuit felt like a few treks combined.
- Subtropical forests and rice fields at the start
- Alpine grasslands and high-altitude deserts in the middle
- Snowy great peaks at Thorong La Pass
- Apple orchards and the Kali Gandaki Gorge on the descent
This unprocessed diversity meant that I would not just be trekking over mountains, but over worlds in perpetual flux.
Thorong La Pass Challenge
I yearned for a trek that would challenge me, both physically and mentally, and the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) did not disappoint. Crossing one of the highest trekking passes in the world felt like an achievement I could not resist. It was not just about the altitude but about the journey of training, acclimatising, and pushing myself to my limits. The sense of satisfaction in crossing the pass was something that would last an eternity.
Flexibility and Trekking Options
The Everest Base Camp trek is more of one trail up and down, whereas the Annapurna Circuit is flexible. I had a choice to take shorter or longer routes depending on energy and time. Side trips to Tilicho Lake, Muktinath, or even taking a side trip to Annapurna Base Camp were possible. This flexibility of options made the trek more customizable and exciting for me.
Less Commercialized Than Everest
Everest Base Camp is the iconic one, but it’s touristy and busy. I wanted to undertake a trek that was still authentic, where paths weren’t thronged with trekkers on every corner. While the Annapurna Circuit is touristy, it’s well-balanced, it’s populated enough that it is sociable and safe, yet not overly populated by people so that it feels magical.
Accessibility and Affordability
A second utilitarian reason was access. It is easier to start the Annapurna Circuit than to take a flight to Lukla and trek up to Everest Base Camp. I could start at Besisahar and circumnavigate, depending on road conditions and transport. Additionally, the Annapurna Circuit overall, from permits to accommodations, was cheaper than other distant treks like Kanchenjunga or Upper Dolpo.
The Call of the Mountains
Lastly, the Annapurna massif itself was irresistible. Peaks like Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Dhaulagiri rule the heavens, and the way they slowly come into view along the path makes the hike magical. Unlike other treks where the destination is the jewel, in this case, the path itself was the jewel.
Trekking With Adventure Vision Treks
Another factor that made my journey unforgettable was choosing to trek with Adventure Vision Treks. Their guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and deeply connected to the local culture, which made every village visit more meaningful. From handling permits to ensuring safety on the high passes, they took care of all the details, allowing me to simply enjoy the adventure.
If you’re planning the Annapurna Circuit or the Tilicho Lake Trek or the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake Trek combined, I’d highly recommend going with them. You’ll get both professionalism and that personal touch that makes the trek special.
Choosing the Annapurna Circuit over other treks wasn’t about dismissing the rest, they’re all incredible in their own ways. But for me, the combination of cultural immersion, diverse landscapes, physical challenge, and flexibility made Annapurna Circuit the perfect choice. It felt like the best of Nepal in one trail, a journey that tested me, rewarded me, and left me with stories I’ll carry forever.
If you can’t choose among Nepal treks, my suggestion is clear: if you want an experience of everything Nepal has to give, the Annapurna Circuit is the first to consider.
Read More Blogs
What are the Best Places to visit during the Annapurna Circuit trek?
Why the Annapurna Circuit Trek Should Be on Your Bucket List?