Most Circuit problems are predictable. They come from the same few mistakes repeated by people who did not know better. Here is a list, with fixes.
Rushing to the pass
The most serious mistake is going from Manang to the pass too quickly. Altitude illness is the biggest danger on this trek. Add rest days, follow a safe profile and treat the pass day as a go or no-go decision. See our acclimatisation plan.
Underestimating the cold
Nights at High Camp, Thorong Phedi and Yak Kharka can be well below freezing, and rooms are unheated. Bring a sleeping bag rated to minus 15 degrees Celsius, a down jacket and warm layers. See what to pack for an Annapurna trek.
Packing too much
A porter usually carries a limited weight, and extra items slow everyone down. Leave excess clothing, heavy toiletries and spare gadgets in your hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Ignoring the road
Walking dusty road sections wastes time and energy. Talk to your operator about which sections to ride and which to walk.
Skipping insurance
Your travel insurance must cover trekking to at least 5,500 m and helicopter evacuation. Check the policy wording before you leave, not after.
Drinking too little
Dry, cold air hides how much water you lose. Drink steadily, and avoid alcohol at altitude. See our blog on water purification.
Cash and charging
There are ATMs in some places on the lower route, but not reliably in the high villages. Carry enough cash and a power bank.
Booking with no buffer
Flights in and out of Kathmandu, Pokhara or Jomsom can be delayed by weather. Build a spare day or two into your plans. If you plan to fly from Jomsom, expect morning flights and possible cancellations due to wind.
Starting too late each day
Mornings are calmer, clearer and warmer than afternoons in many sections. Start early, especially in the Kali Gandaki valley and on the pass.
A short pre-trek checklist
- Book flights home with at least two buffer days.
- Confirm that your insurance covers trekking to 5,500 m and helicopter evacuation.
- Break in boots for at least three weeks and carry spare laces.
- Walk with a loaded daypack on hills for a month before you leave.
- Bring a printed copy of your passport, visa, permits and insurance.
- Agree with your guide on a daily check-in about how you feel.
Mistakes in the lodge
First-timers often take the first lodge they see, leave wet clothes on the floor, charge every device overnight and do not tell anyone when they are unwell. A little planning goes a long way: choose lodges with heated dining rooms, hang wet clothes near the stove (not on it), and speak up early about headaches or poor sleep. Hosts and guides can only help if they know.
Mistakes on the pass
The most common pass-day mistakes are starting too late, wearing cotton, carrying too little water and pushing on when exhausted. Another is leaving the group: stay in sight of your guide. A good rule is to be ready, with headlamp on and bag packed, before the lodge wakes up.
Common questions
What is the biggest mistake on the Annapurna Circuit?
Climbing too fast toward Thorong La without enough acclimatisation days.
How cold does it get?
Nights at Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi and High Camp can be well below freezing. A warm sleeping bag and down jacket are essential.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. Make sure it covers trekking to at least 5,500 m and helicopter evacuation.
What our guests say
Excerpts from trekker reviews on our reviews page.
“Good humble guides, good support, good back up at remote areas — travelled with my son.”
