Annapurna Circuit Trek Nepal Travel Guide
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in The capital of nepal is Nepal's only international airport. All international flights to Nepal land here. Numerous international airlines serve Kathmandu, including Nepal Airlines, Qatar Airways, The National flag carrier airline of turkey, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Air India, IndiGo, China Southern, and many others.
Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) offers basic facilities. Manage your expectations if you are accustomed to large, modern international airports. Upon Arrival: You will find ATMs, currency exchange counters, and stalls for local SIM card vendors (Ncell and NTC) just outside the arrivals hall.
Expect at least one layover from most global regions.
Secure better prices during peak season by booking early.
Choose from lodging transport, taxis, or ride-sharing apps.
International land crossings are possible from India at Sunauli/Belhiya, Kakarbhitta, and Birgunj. Visa on arrival is available at these borders, similar to the airport process.
Nepal currently has no train services relevant for reaching the Annapurna Circuit or for inter-city travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara. Train travel forms no part of the Annapurna Circuit itinerary.
Roads in Nepal, notably those leading to mountain trailheads, present challenges. Traffic is chaotic, and driving standards often differ from Western countries. Choose reputable transport companies for your journey.
Long-distance buses present the most common and economical way to reach the Annapurna Circuit trailhead.
After completing the circuit, notably from Jomsom or Muktinath, buses and shared jeeps are available to take return you to Pokhara. This journey can take a full one day on rough roads.
Self-driving a car or motorcycle in Nepal is Not advised for most tourists. Road conditions are challenging, traffic is chaotic and unpredictable, and road signage often lacks clarity.
Nepal is a landlocked country. Therefore, sea or river arrivals are Not applicable for reaching Nepal.
Buses are the main form of public transport in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, and for inter-city travel across Nepal. Buses range from large, older models to newer, more comfortable tourist buses. They are usually crowded and operate on extensive routes.
For buses, fares go directly to the conductor (helper). For shared jeeps, fares are typically fixed per person for a given route. You settle the driver or a designated collector. City buses operate from early morning until late evening.
Thamel in The capital of nepal and Lakeside in Pokhara are best explored on foot. The Annapurna Circuit is in itself a walking route.
Bicycle limited infrastructure. Cycling on main roads can be hazardous. The main trekking trails are not suitable for cycling.
Taxis are abundant in cities. Pathao and InDrive are popular ride-sharing apps, offering fixed prices and GPS tracking.
Tempo, a three-wheeled vehicle similar to a tuk-tuk, is common for traveling short distances in cities. They are cheaper than taxis but less comfortable. Shared Jeeps: These are important for the Annapurna Circuit. They function as collective taxis, taking passengers to various points along the road that parallels parts of the trekking trail (e.g., Besisahar to Syange/Chame, or Muktinath/Jomsom to Beni/Pokhara). They are usually crowded but are the most common way for locals and trekkers to cover road sections.
Nepal generally offers very limited accessibility infrastructure for all forms of transportation and on the trekking trails. Travelers with mobility challenges will face significant difficulties. Dedicated bicycle infrastructure is limited in Nepal.
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu is Nepal's only international airport.
The most common and economical way to reach the Annapurna Circuit trailhead.
Pathao and InDrive are popular apps in Kathmandu and Pokhara for convenient travel.
While Nepal offers various transport options, the Annapurna Circuit Trek itself focuses on walking. Embrace this core experience.
