

| Day & Place | Distance (Km / Miles) | Altitude (m / ft) | Oxygen Level |
| Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu | - | 1,400 m / 4,593 ft | ~85% |
| Day 2: Kathmandu (Preparation Day) | - | 1,400 m / 4,593 ft | ~85% |
| Day 3: Drive to Besishar | 185 km / 115 mi | 760 m / 2,493 ft | ~90% |
| Day 4: Drive to Chame | 66 km / 41 mi | 2,710 m / 8,891 ft | ~72% |
| Day 5: Trek to Upper Pisang | 15 km / 9.3 mi | 3,300 m / 10,827 ft | ~66% |
| Day 6: Trek to Manang | 18 km / 11.2 mi | 3,540 m / 11,614 ft | ~64% |
| Day 7: Acclimatisation in Manang | Optional Hike | 3,540 m / 11,614 ft | ~64% |
| Day 8: Trek to Yak Kharka | 10 km / 6.2 mi | 4,050 m / 13,287 ft | ~60% |
| Day 9: Trek to Thorong Phedi | 4 km / 2.5 mi | 4,540 m / 14,895 ft | ~58% |
| Day 10: Thorong La top | 16 km / 10 mi | 5,416 m / 17,769 ft (Pass) | ~50% |
| Muktinath | 16km/ 10 miles | 3,760 m / 12,335 ft (Muktinath) | ~66% |
| Day 11: Drive or Trek to Jomsom | 20 km / 12.4 mi | 2,720 m / 8,923 ft | ~73% |
| Day 12: Fly to Pokhara | 20 min (Flight) | 822 m / 2,697 ft | ~92% |
| Day 13: Fly to Kathmandu | 25 min (Flight) | 1,400 m / 4,593 ft | ~85% |
The total trekking distance of the Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trek typically ranges between 160 to 230 kilometres (99 to 143 miles), depending on the starting and ending points, detours, and mode of transportation used between segments (such as drives or optional flights). Starting from Chame or Dharapani and ending at Jomsom or Muktinath, the route winds through a variety of terrains—lush forests, alpine meadows, deep gorges, and high-altitude mountain passes. With daily hikes averaging 10–20 km (6–12 miles), trekkers enjoy a well-paced journey through stunning Himalayan landscapes while resting in luxurious accommodations each night. The option to drive certain sections or use flights can reduce the physical trekking distance while preserving all scenic highlights.
Key Distance Highlights:
The Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trek covers a wide range of altitudes, starting from the lower valleys around 800 meters (2,625 ft) and climbing up to the high mountain pass of Thorong La at 5,416 meters (17,769 ft). As the elevation increases, the oxygen levels decrease, making it essential to acclimatise properly. At sea level, oxygen saturation is 100%, but it can drop to nearly 50% at the highest points of the trek. Luxury trekking ensures gradual ascents, strategic rest days, and experienced guides to manage altitude-related risks. Most trekkers acclimate well with slow pacing, proper hydration, and rest. Understanding oxygen levels at various points helps trekkers prepare mentally and physically for this unforgettable high-altitude adventure.
Altitude and Oxygen Levels – Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trek:
| Day & Place | Altitude (m/ft) | Oxygen Level (%) |
| Day 1: Besisahar | 760 m / 2,493 ft | ~92% |
| Day 2: Chame | 2,650 m / 8,694 ft | ~73% |
| Day 3: Upper Pisang | 3,300 m / 10,827 ft | ~66% |
| Day 4: Manang | 3,540 m / 11,614 ft | ~64% |
| Day 5: Acclimatisation Day | 3,540 m / 11,614 ft | ~64% |
| Day 6: Yak Kharka / Phedi | 4,000 m / 13,123 ft | ~60% |
| Day 7: Thorong High Camp | 4,925 m / 16,158 ft | ~52% |
| Day 8: Thorong La Pass | 5,416 m / 17,769 ft | ~50% |
| Day 8: Muktinath | 3,800 m / 12,467 ft | ~65% |
| Day 9: Jomsom | 2,720 m / 8,924 ft | ~73% |
| Day 10: Pokhara | 822 m / 2,697 ft | ~92% |
Altitude and Oxygen Levels on the Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trek:
What to Expect on the Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trekking Experience
The Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you through some of Nepal’s most scenic and culturally rich mountain villages. Each settlement offers stunning views, warm hospitality, and unique local traditions. From charming stone-built villages to sacred pilgrimage sites, trekkers experience a diverse landscape of nature and culture. Popular viewpoints offer jaw-dropping panoramas of snowcapped giants like Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho Peak. These highlights make the journey unforgettable.
Highlights in Points:
Table: Popular Villages, Viewpoints & Attractions:
| Popular Village | Viewpoints | Attraction |
| Chame | Annapurna II View | Hot springs, Buddhist stupa |
| Upper Pisang | Ghyaru Ridge | Panoramic views, traditional stone houses |
| Manang | Gangapurna Glacier | Monastery, acclimatisation hikes |
| Yak Kharka | High Meadow Views | Alpine pastures, yak herding |
| Thorong Phedi | Mountain Base Views | Base camp for Thorong La Pass |
| Muktinath | Sacred Temple Area | Hindu-Buddhist pilgrimage site |
| Jomsom | Dhaulagiri Range | Kali Gandaki River, Thakali culture |
The cost of the Annapurna Round Luxury Trek typically ranges from $1,800 to $3,500+ per person, depending on various factors. This price includes permits, transportation, guides, porters, meals, and luxury accommodations. Costs vary primarily due to the level of service, group size, season, and accommodation standards. Luxury treks include premium hotels, hot showers, attached bathrooms, and better meals. International and domestic flights, travel insurance, and personal expenses are usually extra. Booking through a reputable company ensures safety, comfort, and reliability.
Reasons for Price Variation:
The Annapurna Round Luxury Trek is a premier Himalayan adventure combining breathtaking natural beauty with exceptional comfort. Trekkers experience diverse landscapes—from lush forests and terraced valleys to alpine meadows and arid high mountain deserts—while enjoying panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho peaks. The trek crosses the iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416m), offering a thrilling challenge with stunning rewards. Luxury accommodations along the route provide warm hospitality, hot showers, and gourmet meals, elevating the trekking experience. Cultural immersion in traditional Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan villages enriches the journey with authentic local traditions and spiritual sites like Muktinath Temple. With well-organised itineraries, private transfers, and eco-friendly practices, this trek perfectly blends adventure, culture, and comfort, making it a must-do for discerning travellers in Nepal.
Why the Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trek is a Must-Do in Nepal Quick Guide
Top Benefits of Booking the Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trek with Experts:
Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trek with Asiana Treks and Tours offers a rare opportunity to experience the rich biodiversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area, one of the most ecologically diverse regions in Nepal. This region spans various altitudinal zones, from lush subtropical forests at lower elevations to alpine meadows and barren high mountain landscapes. As trekkers ascend, the vegetation and wildlife change dramatically, offering a vivid portrayal of nature’s adaptability. The lower regions are dense with rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests, especially vibrant during the spring when the rhododendrons bloom in shades of red, pink, and white. Higher up, conifers and juniper shrubs dominate, eventually giving way to stark, windswept terrain above the tree line.
This region is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The Annapurna Conservation Area is home to over 100 species of mammals, 478 species of birds, and more than 1,200 species of flowering plants. Lucky trekkers might spot elusive species like the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, or blue sheep in the higher altitudes. Bird watchers will be delighted by sightings of the colourful Himalayan monal (Nepal’s national bird), blood pheasants, and lammergeiers soaring overhead. Guided by the knowledgeable team from Asiana Treks and Tours, trekkers can better understand the interconnectedness of these species with the local ecosystem. Moreover, luxury trekking ensures minimal environmental impact through sustainable practices while offering educational insights into conservation efforts supported by local communities. For nature lovers, every step through the Annapurna trail becomes a lesson in biodiversity and ecological harmony.
The Luxury Annapurna Circuit Trekking route isn’t just about mountains and landscapes—it's also a deep dive into the cultural richness of the Himalayan communities. With Asiana Treks and Tours, travellers have the privilege of engaging directly with the diverse ethnic groups that inhabit the region, including Gurung, Thakali, Manangi, and Tibetan-descended communities. These groups have preserved their unique customs, rituals, and lifestyles for generations, making the Annapurna region a living cultural mosaic. Trekking through picturesque villages such as Manang, Pisang, Marpha, and Kagbeni provides a firsthand look at traditional stone houses, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and intricately carved monasteries. Luxurious lodges and curated cultural experiences provided by Asiana ensure travellers enjoy both comfort and authenticity.
Festivals play a central role in the social and spiritual life of the people in the Annapurna region. Depending on the season, trekkers might witness grand celebrations like the Yartung Festival in Muktinath, where locals engage in horse racing, dancing, and communal feasts to mark the end of the summer harvest. Another key event is Lhosar, the Tibetan New Year, celebrated with vibrant dances, music, and religious rituals in Buddhist communities. These events are not just spectacles—they are windows into the spiritual beliefs and communal ties that sustain mountain life. Asiana Treks and Tours takes special care to align treks with local festivals when possible, enhancing the cultural immersion for guests. Whether it's sharing a cup of butter tea in a Thakali home or observing monks chant in a high-altitude monastery, trekkers leave with a profound appreciation for the cultural soul of the Himalayas.
| Months | Sunrise | Sunset |
| January | 6:45 AM | 5:30 PM |
| February | 6:35 AM | 5:55 PM |
| March | 6:15 AM | 6:10 PM |
| April | 5:45 AM | 6:25 PM |
| May | 5:25 AM | 6:40 PM |
| June | 5:15 AM | 6:50 PM |
| July | 5:25 AM | 6:50 PM |
| August | 5:30 AM | 6:35 PM |
| September | 5:45 AM | 6:10 PM |
| October | 6:00 AM | 5:45 PM |
| November | 6:20 AM | 5:15 PM |
| December | 6:40 AM | 5:10 PM |
Trip itineraries are customizable according to your timetable and budget. Simply, Contact Us.
When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you'll be picked up and greeted by your guide and transferred to a luxurious hotel in the heart of the city. After check-in, take time to relax and refresh from your long journey. If you arrive before afternoon, you can explore the vibrant surroundings of Thamel, known for its charming cafés, traditional craft shops, and lively culture. In the evening, have a welcome dinner at a fine Nepali restaurant where your trekking team will brief you on the upcoming adventure. The luxury accommodations provide a perfect blend of comfort and local hospitality, setting the tone for your extraordinary Himalayan journey. Overnight at a premium hotel in Kathmandu, preparing for the next day's journey to the mountains.
Today is trek preparations and cultural immersion in Kathmandu. After breakfast at your luxury hotel, your guide will assist with any necessary gear checks, permits, or last-minute shopping for the trek. Once preparations are complete, embark on a guided cultural tour to explore Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the sacred Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple), the ancient Kathmandu Durbar Square, and the revered Pashupatinath Temple. Enjoy lunch at a fine rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the valley. In the afternoon, return to your hotel for some rest. Later, attend a detailed trek briefing with your guide, followed by a gourmet welcome dinner in a traditional setting. Overnight at a luxury hotel in Kathmandu.
After an early breakfast at your luxury hotel in Kathmandu, start your scenic drive to Besishar, the gateway to the Annapurna region. The Bus trip takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, passing through picturesque countryside, terraced fields, and traditional villages along the Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers. Along the way, enjoy short breaks to stretch, photograph beautiful landscapes, and savour lunch at a quality riverside restaurant. Upon arriving in Besishar, check into a comfortable hotel or resort set in a peaceful location surrounded by scenic hills and traditional villages. The serene environment offers the perfect atmosphere to unwind after your journey. Spend the evening relaxing, meeting your support team, and going over the detailed trekking plan for the days ahead. This transition day allows you to rest and acclimatise before beginning your adventure through the stunning Himalayan foothills. Overnight stay at a deluxe lodge in Besishar.
Today's drive from Besishar to Chame marks your accurate entry into the heart of the Annapurna region. The 5 to 6-hour scenic drive follows a rugged mountain road beside the Marshyangdi River, gradually ascending through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages. As the altitude constantly rises, the landscape transitions to alpine terrain, and snowcapped peaks begin to appear in the distance. Lunch is enjoyed en route at a serene mountain lodge with stunning views. Upon arrival in Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, settle into a luxurious lodge offering comfort and warmth in a high-altitude setting. You can take a short walk around the village, visit local monasteries, or enjoy a relaxing evening by the fireplace. Overnight in a deluxe mountain lodge in Chame.
Begin your first day of trekking with a hearty breakfast and set out along the Marshyangdi River, passing through dense pine forests, swinging suspension bridges, and traditional stone villages. The trail gradually climbs as the scenery shifts to dramatic rock faces and sweeping views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. Take a break for lunch at a lovely riverside spot with panoramic views of the valley. As you reach Upper Pisang, a beautiful village perched above the river, you'll notice a culture and tradition influenced by Tibetan traditions. Stay in a premium lodge that offers comfort, warm hospitality, and stunning mountain vistas. In the afternoon, you may explore the local monastery or take in the golden glow of the setting sun over the Himalayan peaks. Overnight in a luxury mountain.
Today's trek offers one of the most scenic stretches of the Annapurna Circuit. After breakfast, follow the high route through Ghyaru and Ngawal, traditional Tibetan-style villages providing awe-inspiring views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The trail winds through alpine meadows, centuries-old mani walls, and dry, windswept terrain. As you gradually ascend, the air becomes thinner, and the landscape more arid. Enjoy lunch at a scenic Guest house along the way. By afternoon, you'll arrive in Manang, a beautiful high-altitude village nestled beneath towering peaks. Your luxury lodge provides warm hospitality, private rooms, and modern comforts even at this elevation. Explore the Mountain village, monastery, or relax in the lodge with views of Gangapurna Glacier. Overnight in Manang.
Today is a scheduled acclimatisation day in Manang to help your body adjust to the increasing altitude and ensure a safe journey ahead. After a relaxing stay at your luxury lodge, you have the option to join a short guided hike to Gangapurna Lake or the Chongkor Viewpoint, both offering spectacular views of the Annapurna range, glaciers, and the Manang Valley below. These light hikes promote better acclimatisation while rewarding you with stunning panoramas. Return to the lodge for a nourishing lunch and enjoy free time in the afternoon—visit the Himalayan Rescue Association's altitude clinic, explore Manang's traditional alleys, or simply relax with herbal tea and mountain views. This rest day is crucial for altitude adaptation, and the high-end amenities of your lodge make it a truly comfortable experience. Overnight in Manang.
After a nourishing breakfast in Manang, begin your gradual ascent toward Yak Kharka. Today's shorter trek helps with acclimatisation as you climb steadily through alpine landscapes. The trail winds past juniper shrubs, yaks grazing on open pastures, and small stone huts. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of Chulu peaks, Pisang Peak and the rugged terrain up to the Thorong La Pass. Stop for a warm lunch at a scenic teahouse before continuing your journey. By early afternoon, you'll reach Yak Kharka, a peaceful high-altitude outpost surrounded by barren hills and icy ridges. Settle into your cosy luxury lodge, designed for comfort even in the remote Himalayas. Enjoy some rest or a short exploration nearby before a warm dinner. Overnight in a deluxe mountain lodge at Yak Kharka.
Today is the most challenging yet rewarding day of your journey as you cross the legendary Thorong La Pass, one of the world's highest trekking passes. Begin your trek before dawn with headlamps and a warm breakfast. The climb is steep and steady through snow-covered trails and high alpine terrain. As you reach the top of Thorong La (5,416m), you will be greeted by a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Celebrate your achievement with photos and light refreshments before starting your descent to Muktinath. The trail winds down sharply into a drier, Mustang-like landscape. Once there, pay a visit to the famed Muktinath temple complex, which is a place of worship for both Buddhists and Hindus. After this fantastic day, take a well-earned nap at a posh lodge in Muktinath.
After enjoying breakfast at your lodge in Muktinath, begin your journey descending toward Jomsom, Jharkotagbeni, and Eklibhatti. You can either trek along the trail or take a scenic drive. The route follows the dramatic Kali Gandaki River, known as the world's deepest gorge, surrounded by towering cliffs and rugged landscapes.
The trek is easy and pleasant, passing through arid terrain, sparse vegetation, and charming villages that showcase the unique culture of the Mustang region. If you choose to drive, enjoy breathtaking views along the winding mountain road.
On reaching Jomsom, the administrative hub of Mustang, check into a comfortable hotel or lodge with modern amenities and panoramic valley views. In the afternoon, stroll through the town's lively market, visit local cafés, or simply relax and reflect on the incredible Himalayan journey you've experienced.
After breakfast, board a short scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, offering spectacular aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, deep gorges, and rivers. Upon arrival in Pokhara, Nepal's picturesque lakeside city, you'll be transferred to a luxury lakeside resort or boutique hotel. Spend the day relaxing and rejuvenating in this serene environment, with options for boating on Phewa Lake, visiting the World Peace Pagoda, or exploring local markets and cafés. Enjoy a gourmet dinner at one of Pokhara's fine dining establishments while watching the sunset behind the Himalayan peaks. This restful day allows your body to recover from high-altitude trekking and prepares you for your return to Kathmandu. Overnight at a premium hotel in Pokhara with modern amenities and breathtaking views.
After a relaxed breakfast at your lakeside hotel in Pokhara, take a short flight back to Kathmandu. During the flight, enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan peaks and lush green valleys—a final treat of Nepal's stunning landscapes.
Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your luxury five-star hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on your unforgettable trekking experience. The afternoon is free for last-minute shopping, exploring nearby cultural sites, or indulging in a spa treatment to relax after your adventure.
In the evening, join a special farewell dinner with your trekking team to celebrate the successful completion of your Annapurna Circuit journey. Savour authentic Nepali cuisine in an elegant setting while sharing stories and memories from the trail.
Stay overnight at a premium Kathmandu hotel, concluding your luxurious Himalayan adventure on a perfect note.
In our luxury package, you’ll stay in premium lodges and boutique tea houses with en‑suite bathrooms, hot showers, comfortable beds, quality meals, and attentive service wherever possible. We aim to avoid the most basic mountain lodges (though in very remote stretches, shared facilities may still occur). You’ll travel with guides, porters, and support staff, enjoy curated menus (including vegetarian and special diets), have access to filtered water, and receive top-level logistical support—from transportation to gear handling.
Yes, provided you are in good physical health, have some prior fitness training, and are willing to listen to your body. The itinerary includes adequate acclimatization (e.g. a rest day in Manang), and daily trekking distances are moderate. However, reaching high altitude (Thorong La Pass ~5,416 m) is physically demanding. A first-time trekker should train (e.g. cardio, hiking with weighted backpack) beforehand. Asiana’s experienced guides will monitor everyone’s condition closely and adjust pace or rest as needed.
The best seasons are autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May). During these periods, skies are clearer, weather more stable, and mountain views spectacular. Summer/monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain, landslides, and leeches. Winter (December–February) is cold and many high passes are snowed in. For comfort and safety, we strongly recommend booking during spring or autumn windows.
You’ll need two main permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These are handled by Asiana Treks & Tours on your behalf. You’ll provide copies of your passport, passport‑size photos, and personal details in advance. Additionally, travel/trekking insurance that covers high-altitude medical evacuation is mandatory. Be sure to carry your original passport and permit documentation throughout the trek.
Yes, we’ve tailored the luxury version to your 12-day plan: arrival, cultural exploration, drives, trekking from Chame → Upper Pisang → Manang → Thorong La → Muktinath → Jomsom, then flights to Pokhara and Kathmandu. We ensure comfortable transfers by jeep or vehicle where possible, and flights for Jomsom → Pokhara and Pokhara → Kathmandu. In more remote segments, trekking is necessary. The route crosses Thorong La Pass at ~5,416 m, which is the highest and most challenging part of the trek.
On trekking days, you’ll cover between 12–20 km depending on the segment, with walking times typically ranging 5–9 hours. The most strenuous day is crossing Thorong La Pass and descent to Muktinath, which can take 9–10 hours. Driving days reduce walking. Acclimatization days have lighter activity (short walks, village visits). The itinerary balances length and altitude gain to minimize shock to the body. Your guide will adjust pace to match the group.
Altitude is a serious concern. To reduce risks, we build in an acclimatization day in Manang (3,540 m). We follow “climb high, sleep low” rules—ascending gradually and ensuring rest nights before big gains. Our guides are trained to detect symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness) and will slow you, rest, or descend if needed. We also carry emergency oxygen and evacuation protocols. If symptoms worsen, we will evacuate you to safer altitudes. Itineraries may be modified for safety.
Yes. You will be accompanied by a licensed, government-certified guide and experienced porters. Since April 2023, a certified guide is mandatory for the Annapurna Circuit. Our guides are English-speaking, trained in high-altitude safety, first aid, and local culture. Porters carry your main luggage (up to a reasonable weight limit, generally ~15–20 kg per person). You only need to carry a daypack with essentials. Staff are insured and well‑compensated.
Included: Kathmandu & Pokhara hotels, meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner) on trek days, accommodations on trek in luxury lodges, guided service, porters, transportation (drives, internal flights), permits, and support. Not included: personal expenses (snacks, soft drinks), Wi-Fi/charging fees (especially in remote lodges), tips for staff, travel insurance, international airfare, and optional side trips. Some remote lodges may charge small extra fees for showers or electricity; these are your responsibility.
Wherever possible, you’ll stay in upgraded lodges with private/ensuite bathrooms, clean bedding, hot showers, comfortable common rooms, and panoramic views. In extremely remote spans, facilities may revert to shared or squat toilets, but we aim to minimize those nights. We pre-vet all properties and prioritize those that meet luxury or boutique standards. Your comfort is a priority, though the remoteness will naturally impose some limits.
Most luxury and higher-end lodges provide electricity (via national grid, solar, or generators) and charging points in rooms or common areas. In more remote lodges, power may be intermittent or come at a small fee (e.g. NPR 200–500). We recommend bringing a universal adapter, a power bank, and portable solar charger as back-up. Also bring a memory card and plenty of spare batteries. Wi-Fi, when available, may also come at extra cost.
Filtered or boiled water is available at most lodges and refill stations along the route. In many luxury lodges, safe water is included. However, in remote stretches, purification (tablets or UV filters) is necessary. We recommend you bring your own reusable bottle or bladder, plus water purification tablets or a reliable filter as backup. This helps reduce plastic waste and ensures safety. Your guide will direct you to safe refill sources daily.
Meals on the trek are a curated mix of Nepali, Tibetan, and international cuisine—soups, dal baat, pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, meats, desserts, and warm drinks. Because this is a luxury trek, we can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary requests if informed in advance. Lodges use locally sourced ingredients where possible. Breakfasts often include eggs, breads, porridge, fruit; dinners are multi-course with variety. On high-altitude nights, meals may be simpler but still balanced.
Essentials include: sturdy waterproof hiking boots, thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece/down jacket), shell (wind/rainproof) jacket and pants, gloves, hat, buff, sunglasses, sunscreen, trekking poles, headlamp, sleeping bag (rated to –10°C), daypack (20–30 L), toiletries, personal medications, first aid kit, water purification, power bank/solar charger, extra batteries, camera, personal ID/permits, and extra socks. We’ll provide a detailed packing list in advance. Pack light: porters carry the bulk of luggage.
Mountain weather is unpredictable. If a pass is blocked by snow, landslide, or avalanche risk, we may alter the route or delay crossing. Guides monitor conditions and make safe decisions. In extreme cases, we may bypass segments via vehicle or helicopter evacuation. Our itinerary has some buffer days to allow for delays. Your safety is paramount; the luxury offering does not include forcing risky passages.
Yes, Asiana Treks & Tours strives to customize. You may request extra rest or acclimatization days, side excursions (monastery visits, side treks), or alternative transport options (helicopter, extra flights). However, remote segments have limited flexibility. We recommend making changes well ahead of time during planning. Some modifications may incur extra cost, especially if they require special transport or permits. We will discuss possibilities during planning.
Tipping is discretionary but always appreciated. For luxury treks, we suggest budgeting around USD 10–20 per day total per traveler for guides, porters, cooks, and support staff. At the end of the trek, you may present tips individually or as a group. If you feel service was exceptional, a bit more is also fine. Always tip in cash (Nepali rupees). Your guide can advise appropriate amounts based on crew size and service.
Our guides carry first-aid kits, oxygen, and communication (satellite phone or radio). If someone develops severe altitude sickness or any serious medical issue, priority is to descend to a safer altitude or evacuate by helicopter. In major emergencies, we coordinate rescue via local agencies (e.g. HRA—Himalayan Rescue Association). Your travel insurance must cover helicopter evacuation and medical treatment. We provide you with emergency contacts and support from our home office in Kathmandu throughout.
You should begin training 2–3 months in advance. Focus on cardio (running, cycling, stair climbing), strength training (legs, core), and hiking with a loaded backpack (10–15 kg). Try to simulate altitude or inclines. Also practice walking 5–6 hours continuously. If possible, do a shorter Himalayan trek beforehand. Let your guide know your fitness level so pacing and rest days can be adjusted. The fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy the experience.
Group sizes vary but often range 4–12 trekkers to maintain a personalized luxury experience. You may also request a private trek (just you plus guide and staff). However, you cannot trek solo (without a certified guide), per Nepal’s trekking regulations on the Annapurna Circuit. The presence of other trekkers is also beneficial for safety, morale, and support in high-altitude areas.
Cancellation and refund policies depend on when you cancel relative to departure date. Typically, full refund (minus admin fees) applies up to ~45–60 days before trek start; 30–45 days may incur 50% charge; within 30 days, non-refundable. If cancellations happen due to weather or route closure, we may offer rescheduling or credit. We strongly recommend taking trip cancellation insurance that covers unforeseen events (illness, natural disasters). We will provide you the full policy in writing.
Comprehensive travel and trekking insurance is mandatory. It must cover medical costs, evacuation (including helicopter), repatriation, trip cancellation, and loss/theft. You must submit proof of insurance before the trek begins. Without acceptable insurance, you will not be allowed to join. Check that your policy explicitly covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation to remote hospitals.
