Imagine you are standing on top of Thorong La Pass, tired but super happy because you just finished one of the best trekking routes in the world, the Annapurna Circuit. But what if you could see even more? You can add another amazing adventure by hiking to Annapurna Base Camp too!
Combining the Annapurna Circuit trek with Annapurna Base Camp lets you see everything: green forests with rhododendron flowers, high snowy mountains, peaceful villages, and the huge Annapurna I mountain up close.
But is this big plan possible? Which way should you go? How many days do you need? How much money and energy will it take?
This easy guide will answer all your questions. You’ll find the best routes, how long it takes, how much it costs, and smart tips to make your trek safe and fun.
If you want to see the best of Nepal’s Himalayas in one trip, this is the guide to help you plan it right, so you don’t miss any special places or get any surprises along the way.
Why Combine Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp?
Combining the Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp is like getting two adventures in one amazing trip. Many trekkers dream of this because it lets you see so much more than doing just one trek alone.
When you walk the Annapurna Circuit, you go through changing landscapes: green rice fields, rhododendron forests full of flowers, villages with friendly locals, dry valleys like Manang, and finally the famous Thorong La Pass. Then, when you add Annapurna Base Camp, you get to see the giant Annapurna I up close, stay in warm tea houses surrounded by snowy peaks, and enjoy a peaceful feeling in the mountain basin.
Benefits of Doing Both Treks Together
- You get more value for your time and money. You’re already in the region, so why not see it all?
- You experience more cultures — from Gurung villages to Tibetan-influenced settlements.
- You’ll enjoy different types of terrain — forests, alpine meadows, high passes, river valleys, and the base camp glacier bowl.
- You can feel extra proud — not many trekkers do both in one go!
Is It Really Possible?
So, can you really combine the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp in one trip?
Yes, it’s 100% possible! But you do need to know how the trails connect, how fit you should be, and which permits you’ll need before you set off.
Route Feasibility: Updated Trails, Bridges & Connections
The good news is that the trails are well-connected and hundreds of trekkers do this combination every year. Most people finish the Annapurna Circuit around Jomsom or Tatopani, then travel by local bus or jeep to Ghorepani or Nayapul to start the Annapurna Base Camp part.
From Tatopani, you can hike up to Ghorepani, famous for the Poon Hill sunrise viewpoint, and then continue towards Chhomrong, which is the main gateway to ABC. Local paths, bridges, and small trails link these villages. Most are well-marked, with plenty of cozy teahouses to stay in along the way.
If you plan well, you won’t get lost, especially if you have a good map or a trusted local guide who knows all the shortcuts.
Physical Fitness and Time Requirements
Combining both treks is not just a walk in the park, you’ll need good stamina and a love for long hiking days. The Annapurna Circuit alone takes about 12–18 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization stops. Adding Annapurna Base Camp adds 5–7 more days.
So, you’ll need about 20–25 days in total to do it comfortably. This means you should be ready to walk 5–8 hours a day, sometimes on steep trails or high passes like Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
It’s not super-technical, but altitude and long distances can be tiring. Training your legs, walking with a daypack, and taking a few long hikes before your trip will help a lot.
Permits You’ll Need for Both Sections
You can’t trek these famous trails without the right permits, but getting them is simple!
For both the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp, you now only need the ACAP, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. The TIMS card is no longer required for most treks in the Annapurna region, as long as you have a licensed guide or are trekking under local regulations.
Where to get it:
You can easily get the ACAP in Kathmandu or Pokhara at the Nepal Tourism Board offices or through a trusted trekking company. Always keep your permit with you, you’ll show it at multiple checkpoints along the trail.
Best Routes to Combine Annapurna Circuit and ABC
So, what’s the best way to link the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)?
The good news is that you have a few clear options to choose from. Many trekkers use local transport for short sections to save time and energy. Here’s how it works:
Popular Route Options
Option 1: Finish at Jomsom, Then Connect via Tatopani and Ghorepani
Most trekkers finish the Annapurna Circuit at Jomsom, which is a common exit point after crossing the Thorong La Pass. From Jomsom, you can take a local bus or jeep to Tatopani, famous for its relaxing hot springs.
From Tatopani, you trek up to Ghorepani, home of the beautiful Poon Hill viewpoint, which is perfect for sunrise mountain views. After Ghorepani, follow the trail through Tadapani and Chhomrong, which is the main starting point for Annapurna Base Camp.
This route is great if you want a smooth connection with amazing scenery along the way.
Option 2: End at Nayapul and Start ABC from There
Another option is to finish the Annapurna Circuit lower down, closer to Nayapul. From Nayapul, you can start the Annapurna Base Camp trek by heading towards Ghandruk or Chhomrong.
This route is good if you want to spend less time on bumpy roads and start walking sooner. Local buses and jeeps are easy to find in these areas, and there are plenty of teahouses along the way.
Suggested Itinerary for a 20–25-Day Plan
Here’s a simple example to show how you can do both treks together:
Days 1–14:
Start the Annapurna Circuit from Besisahar, walk through Manang, cross Thorong La Pass, and finish near Jomsom.
Days 15–16:
Take local transport to Tatopani, enjoy the hot springs, and rest your legs!
Days 17–18:
Trek from Tatopani up to Ghorepani, and wake up early for the Poon Hill sunrise.
Days 19–21:
Walk through Tadapani and Chhomrong, then follow the trail to Himalaya or Deurali.
Days 22–23:
Reach Annapurna Base Camp, stay overnight to enjoy sunrise surrounded by snowy peaks.
Days 24–25:
Trek back down to Jhinu Danda (famous for its hot springs!) or Nayapul, then drive back to Pokhara.
This flexible plan gives you time to acclimatize, rest, and enjoy the highlights.
When to Go: Best Seasons for a Combined Trek
The best time to combine the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November).
During these months:
- The skies are clear for amazing mountain views.
- The weather is stable — no heavy rain or snowstorms.
- Teahouses are open and fully stocked with warm meals.
- The trails are busy but not overcrowded, so you’ll meet other trekkers along the way.
Try to avoid the monsoon season (June–August) when trails can be muddy and landslides are possible. Winter (December–February) can bring deep snow, especially at Thorong La Pass.
Challenges of a Combined Annapurna Circuit & ABC Trek
Combining the Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp is an incredible adventure, but it’s not always easy. Knowing the main challenges helps you prepare well and enjoy the journey safely.
Altitude & Acclimatization Tips
This trek goes to some very high places. Thorong La Pass is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit at 5,416 meters (17,769 ft), that’s higher than many small airplanes fly! Annapurna Base Camp sits at about 4,130 meters (13,550 ft), surrounded by giant snowy peaks.
At these heights, altitude sickness can happen if you don’t take care of your body.
Here are some simple tips to stay safe:
- Walk slowly — don’t rush up the hills.
- Drink lots of water — staying hydrated helps your body adjust.
- Follow the rule: “Climb high, sleep low” — walk up during the day but sleep at lower elevations if possible.
- Add extra rest days, especially in places like Manang or Chhomrong, so your body has time to adjust.
Listen to your body, if you feel dizzy or have a bad headache, tell your guide and don’t ignore the signs.
Extra Costs to Consider
A longer trek means more money than a single route. It’s smart to plan for the real costs so there are no surprises.
You’ll spend more on:
- Extra meals and teahouse stay — about $25–$40 per day, depending on where you stay and what you eat.
- Local transport — buses or jeeps between places like Jomsom, Tatopani, or Nayapul.
- Guides and porters — highly recommended for safety and support, especially if it’s your first time.
- Permits and gear — make sure you get the right permits (ACAP) and pack warm clothes.
Carry enough cash because ATMs are rare on the trail.
Logistical Issues: Transport & Teahouse Availability
When you combine both treks, you might need local buses or jeeps to link sections like Jomsom to Tatopani or Nayapul. These rides can be bumpy and take longer than you think, so keep an open mind and a flexible schedule.
Also, popular villages like Ghorepani and Chhomrong can get busy in peak trekking season (spring and autumn). It’s smart to:
- Book your teahouse early each day when you arrive in a village.
- If possible, have your guide call ahead to reserve a room.
- Carry extra snacks and warm clothes in case you need to stay in a smaller village when teahouses are full.
Expert Tips to Make It Safe and Memorable
Combining the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp is a big adventure, but a few simple tips can make it much safer, easier, and way more fun!
How to Pace Your Trek & Stay Healthy
One of the biggest mistakes new trekkers make is going too fast. The best way to stay healthy at high altitude is to walk slowly and listen to your body.
Easy tips:
- Take your time on uphill climbs — there’s no race!
- Rest often. If you feel tired, stop and enjoy the view.
- Drink plenty of water every day to stay hydrated.
- Eat warm, filling meals to keep your energy up.
- Always pay attention to signs of altitude sickness — don’t ignore headaches, dizziness, or trouble sleeping.
Going slow helps your body adjust and makes the trek so much more enjoyable.
Recommended Guides and Local Support
While it’s possible to trek solo, hiring a licensed local guide or porter is highly recommended, especially when combining two big routes like this.
Why a guide helps:
- They know the trails well and can find the best paths if weather or landslides change the route.
- They help you with permits, teahouse bookings, and local tips.
- They make the trek safer — if you feel sick, they know what to do.
- Porters can carry your heavy bags, so you can walk more comfortably.
- Plus, hiring local guides supports families in the mountain villages!
Conclusion
Combining the Annapurna Circuit with Annapurna Base Camp is the ultimate Himalayan adventure for trekkers who want to see it all, stunning landscapes, local villages, and breathtaking mountain views.
While it takes time, good planning, and some extra effort, the rewards are unforgettable. If you’re ready for a big challenge, take it slow, stay safe, and trust local guides to help you enjoy every step. The Annapurna region is waiting, and this combined trek will give you memories that last a lifetime.
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