The Annapurna Circuit is renowned as one of the world’s greatest treks. While most trekkers follow the standard route there are a number of interesting side trips that can be added or alternate shorter treks if one lacks time to complete the entire circuit. Here we give a brief summary of the Annapurna Circuit as well as the possible side trips and alternate routes.

Crossing over Thorong La Pass is both the highlight and the biggest challenge of completing the Annapurna Circuit. Trekking the Annapurna Circuit has changed a lot over the last twenty years as roads have replaced trails along a significant portion of the traditional trek. The stretch of the trek from Manang to Mulktinath over the pass is the last stretch of the circuit that remains completely roadless.

Everest or Annapurna Base Camp. If it’s your first time in Nepal you might be wondering which is the better trek? Having done both I would right out the gate say Everest Base Camp. However, if your worried about acclimatization, scared of flying small planes or don’t like colder temperatures then Annapurna Base Camp might be a better option. Here is a short review of both treks and the pros and cons of doing each. Keep in mind at the end of the day this is a bit subjective and that they both deserve to be included in a list of the world’s greatest treks.