The short version: three of the most asked questions, answered in a line each. The rest of the page goes into detail.
- Is a single rest day in Manang enough on a 10-day plan? The 10-day plan has one rest day, with a gentle acclimatisation hike.
- Which symptoms mean I should not go up to Thorong La? A headache that is getting worse, vomiting, confusion, unsteady walking or breathlessness at rest are reasons to stop and descend.
- What should I do if I feel unwell the night before the pass? Tell your guide straight away and do not push on to hide it.
How fast does the 10-day Circuit gain altitude on the way to Manang?
Gradually at first. You sleep at about 1,860 m at Dharapani, 2,670 m at Chame, 3,300 m at Upper Pisang and 3,540 m at Manang. Those nights are approximate, so treat them as planning figures and tell your guide early about any headache or poor sleep.
Is a single rest day in Manang enough on a 10-day plan?
The 10-day plan has one rest day, with a gentle acclimatisation hike. That works for many healthy trekkers, but it leaves less slack than the 18-day plan, which can add a second rest day. Keep the hike easy and listen to how you feel.
Which symptoms mean I should not go up to Thorong La?
A headache that is getting worse, vomiting, confusion, unsteady walking or breathlessness at rest are reasons to stop and descend. Thorong La is about 5,416 m. Tell your guide at the first sign of trouble rather than hoping it passes.
What should I do if I feel unwell the night before the pass?
Tell your guide straight away and do not push on to hide it. A spare day before the pass exists for exactly this. Resting, or going down to a lower lodge, is better than attempting a long day at about 5,416 m while ill.
What if snow is forecast for the pass while I am in Manang?
Wait. Check the forecast from Manang, and if snow is expected at the pass, take the spare day there. A day of waiting in Manang is much better than a hard turnaround from High Camp. Your guide will decide whether to cross.
What insurance should I carry for the Annapurna Circuit?
Choose a policy that covers trekking to at least 5,500 m, because Thorong La is about 5,416 m, and that includes helicopter evacuation. Read the fine print on altitude limits and check any exclusions before you buy.
Should I cross Thorong La with a guide?
A guide is strongly worth having here. The pass can close after heavy snow or in high wind, and a guide will not push through unsafe conditions. Accept that call even if it costs you a day, because the pass is no place to argue.
What our guests say
Excerpts from trekker reviews on our reviews page.
“Our guide, Mr. Garba Rai, was incredibly helpful, fun, and supportive throughout the journey.”
Planning the full loop? See our 18-day Annapurna Circuit trek.
