Fantastic trekking experience, thank you Santosh!! - We had a fantastic trekking around the Annapurna Circuit arranged by Adventure Bound. Santosh was the best guide we could have wished for; he is very knowledgeable and attentive. He is easy to talk to and has ample experience, making sure you are truly taken care of. But most of all, we had a lot of fun along the way with Santosh and Amrit! We hope to see you again in the future. Special thanks to Laxman, who has assisted us with the planning of the trip and has welcomed us in Kathmandu upon arrival, giving us all information we needed to start our trekking well prepared.

Great ACT experience - Thanks to Guidance Raman, Deputy Guidance Mohan for flexibly adjusting the itinerary, accommodation, careful attention to the staff's physical condition, discussing withdrawal cases and more. Thanks also to the lovely Porters for helping us to carry the weight ahead: Sanu, Krishna, Santosh Push this travel agency~👍

Overwhelming but memorable journey - Through introductions from friends and online comparisons, we found Adventure Bound to arrange our ACT+Tilicho Lake walk. They have hostels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, making arranging luggage and accommodation easy. Our team consists of guide Raman, porter Sanu/Krishna/Santosh, and one of our crew’s additional assistant guides, Mohan. They pointed everything to the size so we could focus on walking and enjoying spectacular mountain views. Through Raman’s introduction, we learned more about the mountains and the traditions of Nepal along the way. This trip we encountered heavy snow in the dry season, fortunately with Raman and our frequent communication and dynamic adjustment, let us not mention a heart. Although we had to give up because of the closure of Tilicho Lake, we all passed the Thorong Pass and successfully reached new heights in life. If I go to Nepal again, I will still look for them, and I recommend those who think of Nepal can find Adventure Bound!

Amazing experience - We did the Annapurna Circuit trek including Tilicho Lake with our guide Sandip, and we couldn’t have asked for a better companion. Sandip was professional, knowledgeable, and deeply caring throughout the journey. His understanding of the local culture, trails, and mountain conditions made the trek both safe and enriching. He was always patient, attentive to everyone’s needs, and added a great sense of humor and positivity to our trek. We wholeheartedly recommend Sandip and also Adventure Bound to anyone looking for a trustworthy and experienced guide/company in the Himalayas!

Best Trekking Experience - Ganesh Ji was an excellent guide. He was very courteous, patient and encouraged us along the way and ensured that we complete the trek particularly crossing Thorang La Pass. Ramesh Ji was an awesome porter. Besides carrying our bags, he also ensured along with Ganesh Ji that we got our meals on time and to our expectation. Every night after dinner he treated us to pomegranates and apples. I will never forget the hospitality from these 2 gentlemen. Lakshman Ji (owner) received us at the airport and ensured that everything went per plan. He provided excellent customer service, understood our needs and booked the right hotels during the entire trek. The scenery along the trek was mind blowing and hard to describe in words particularly the day when we crossed thorang la pass. I highly recommend this company for your successful trekking experience.

Nice backer, Amrit. - The five of us came to ACT and I rented a porter Amrit with two of my friends in advance. The service was great and helped us carry our luggage along the way. And took care of us along the way, helped order food along the way, helped book hotels in advance. The other route questions we asked were answered with great patience.

Stunning - Did the Annapurna circuit trek with guide Santosh, had 13 of the most incredible days. Santosh was a flawless, always kept me informed about the next day, accommodated all my exploration needs and was simply the best company through the trek. The accommodation was comfortable throughout the whole trek and the food at all the tea houses and stops was delicious An experience I will never forget cannot recommend it enough

A great experience! - We did the Annapurna Circuit hike with Mohan and Rabin. We had 13 unforgettable days with the two. They have always taken good care of and informed us well about your upcoming days. In all accommodations we always had a private room and very good food. If we had a request or concern, our guide and/or porter took care of it immediately. We laughed with them a lot and had a great time! We can highly recommend the route as well as Mohan and Rabin as a guide. The hike itself is also not too strict and is also well feasible for less experienced hikers. We are looking forward, hopefully soon, to embarking on another hike with the two.

Absolutely awesome hiking experience! - The Annapurna circuit was amazing! Ganesh was such an awesome guide, showed me around, told me a bunch of stuff, always had answers to my questions. He was by far the best guide I saw around, he’s very smart with hiking, he take his time with you going over plans for the day. he’s also very easy going and very patient. I would highly recommend getting Ganesh as a guide if you choose this company!!

Summarized words: epic, scenic, diverse, challenging, cultural, high-altitude, rewarding, Himalayan, teahouse, iconic - **Annapurna Circuit Trek: A Comprehensive Review (2025)** The **Annapurna Circuit Trek** remains one of Nepal’s most iconic adventures, blending dramatic Himalayan landscapes, cultural immersion, and physical challenge. Here’s an updated review based on 2025 itineraries, challenges, and highlights from recent sources: --- ### **Key Highlights** 1. **Thorong La Pass (5,416m):** The trek’s pinnacle, this high-altitude pass offers panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Gangapurna ranges. Crossing it is both a physical and mental triumph, requiring stamina and acclimatization. 2. Cultural Diversity: Traverse villages like Manang (Tibetan Buddhist culture), Pisang** (traditional stone houses), and Muktinath (sacred Hindu-Buddhist pilgrimage site with 108 holy spouts). 3. Scenic Variety: From subtropical forests and terraced rice fields to alpine meadows and arid high deserts, the trek showcases Nepal’s ecological diversity. The Kali Gandaki Gorge (world’s deepest) and Marsyangdi Valley are standout features. 4. Tilicho Lake (4,919m): A challenging detour leads to this glacial lake, famed for its turquoise waters framed by snow-capped peaks. Best visited May–December to avoid frozen conditions . 5. **Apple Orchards of Marpha:** Post-Thorong La, the Mustang region’s apple brandy and orchards offer a celebratory pitstop. --- Itinerary & Duration - Standard Duration: 10–17 days, depending on route variations and side trips like Tilicho Lake . - Sample Route: - Kathmandu → Besisahar/Chamje (scenic drive). - Manang Valley: Acclimatization days with hikes to Gangapurna Glacier or Ice Lake. - Thorong Phedi → Muktinath: Grueling 7–9-hour ascent/descent via Thorong La. - **Jomsom → Pokhara**: Wind down with hot springs in Tatopani or a flight from Jomsom . --- Challenges 1. Altitude Sickness: Proper acclimatization is critical, especially above 3,500m. Days in **Manang** (3,540m) and Chame (2,710m) help adapt. 2. Terrain & Logistics: - Landslide Zones: Near Tilicho Lake and Khangsar. - Road Construction: Some trails now overlap with jeep roads, but operators reroute to minimize road walking . - **Crowded Tea Houses: Peak seasons (Oct–Nov, Mar–May) require early bookings. 3. Fitness Requirements: Moderate to challenging. Daily hikes of 5–8 hours demand endurance. Pre-trek training (cardio, leg strength) is advised . --- Cost & Inclusions - **Budget Range**: $1,180–$3,299, depending on group size, guides, and comfort level. - Inclusions - Permits (ACAP, TIMS). - Teahouse lodging and meals (dal bhat, noodles). - Guides/porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers). - Exclusions: International flights, travel insurance, tips . --- Best Time to Trek - Spring (March–May): Rhododendron blooms and mild temperatures. - Autumn (Sept–Dec): Clear skies and post-monsoon freshness. - Winter (Dec–Feb): Possible but risky due to snow on Thorong La . --- ### Why Choose Annapurna Over Everest?** - Fewer Crowds: Less commercialized than Everest trails. - Cultural Richness: Diverse ethnic communities (Gurung, Thakali) and ancient monasteries. - Landscape Diversity: From lush lowlands to Tibetan Plateau-like deserts. --- ### **Tips for Success** - **Gear**: Layer clothing for fluctuating temperatures; waterproof boots for muddy trails. - **Guides vs. Solo**: While solo trekking is permitted, guided trips ensure safety and cultural insights . - **Hydration/Nutrition**: Carry electrolytes and calorie-dense snacks for energy. --- ### **Verdict** The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a bucket-list journey for adventurers seeking a mix of natural grandeur, cultural depth, and physical challenge. While road development has altered some routes, the trek’s essence—panoramic passes, serene lakes, and warm Himalayan hospitality—remains unmatched. Prepare well, respect altitude limits, and embrace the journey’s transformative rewards .