Guide and Porter Hiring for Annapurna Circuit Trek: Overview

When it comes to top Trekking destinations in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit trek stands out as one of the most iconic and rewarding experiences.

If you’re planning to trek the Annapurna Circuit and need to hire a guide and porter, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hiring guides and porters, including costs.

Being graded as a moderate to strenuous trek, the Annapurna Circuit is challenging but manageable with proper preparation. With altitude sickness, unstable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the most important part Crossing the Thorong La Pass which is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit at 5416m is not an easy task. 

Therefore hiring the expert Guide and porter for the Annapurna Circuit is not only a crucial step to take but also a smart move. Another main thing that every trekker needs to understand is after the new rule effective from April 2023, you cannot do the solo trek. 

Hiring the Guide is not only for your safety but also for government rule while heading for the Annapurna circuit trek and other classic trekking destinations like the Everest base camp trek and the Annapurna base camp trek.

Let’s continue reading more to know more in detail;

Check also: Latest Trekking Rules For Nepal – 2024/2025

Why Hire a Guide and porter for the Annapurna Circuit trek?

One of the important reasons to hire the Guide and porter for the Annapurna Circuit trek is Trekker’s safety. Also seeing the safety of the trekkers the government of Nepal banned solo trekking in Nepal.

You need to obtain a TIMS Card for trekking inside Nepal and to obtain the TIMS Card all the trekkers must have a licensed Guide with them. Also, you cannot obtain a TIMS Card on your own, you need to go through the registered trekking agencies in Nepal like us (ECO NEPAL TREKKERS).

Let’s see the importance of Hiring Guide and Porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Guides and porters keep you safe by knowing the route and handling emergencies.
• They help you find the way, so you don’t get lost.
• Guides share interesting facts about the local culture and history.
• They translate for you, making communication easier.
• Porters carry your heavy bags, so you can trek comfortably.
• They know how to help if something goes wrong.
• Guides and porters cheer you on when the going gets tough.
• They teach you how to protect nature while trekking.

Cost of Hiring Guide for Annapurna Circuit Trek

The cost of hiring a guide for the Annapurna Circuit trek can vary depending on factors such as the duration of the trek, the level of experience and qualifications of the guide, and whether additional services like accommodation and meals are included. 

On average, hiring a guide for the entire trek can range from $30 to $40 per day. However, it’s essential to clarify the details of what is included in the cost with the trekking agency or guide before finalizing the arrangement.

Worth reading: Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost

Cost of Hiring Porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

For every pair of trekkers, one porter is designated, with a maximum weight limit of 20 kg per porter. Any baggage exceeding this limit may incur additional charges.

• Guide: The standard salary for guide hiring is $30 (USD) per day.
• Porter: The standard salary for guide hiring is $25 (USD) per day.

Worth reading: Nepal Trekking Packing List 

Types of Guide And Porter We Provide For Annapurna Circuit Camp Trek

Local Guide:

Yes, with the assistance of the Eco Nepal trekkers you can enjoy the Annapurna Circuit Trek with the help of the local guide. Our local guides are from the local area of the Annapurna Region which means they are born in this region. They know very well about the geography of the Annapurna region as they are grown in this area. Also, they know well about the local people living in this region, cultural insight, history of famous landmarks, and more.

They have strong connections with the local people so you can easily communicate with the help of a guide with local people. Also, another benefit of hiring a local guide is they know the hidden gem of Annapurna region which other guides cannot show you during the trek. If you are thinking of hiring a local guide then we can provide you for the Annapurna Circuit trek. Local

Licensed Holder Guide:

Another type of guide that we will provide you for the Annapurna Circuit trek is a licensed holder guide. They have a license from the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM). Licensed are so much in professional due to they have gone in training several times.

They are trained regularly by professional trainers and hold various types of certificates like first aid and safety. They know what to do in an emergency situation and how to take the trekkers safely during the journey.

They know about the trail conditions and can forecast the weather conditions in the high altitude of the Annapurna region. They will not take you on the trip if the weather is suitable for trekking conditions. They know how to prepare in advance for the unexpected situation and how to use the proper gear and clothing.

English Speaking Guide:

Another type of guide you can get from Eco Nepal Trekkers is one who is fluent in English. They can communicate effectively in English. If you only speak the English language or can communicate in English then hiring an English-speaking guide will be the best option for you.

They are also trained like the licensed guide and hold the license but they can be either from the local region or from different parts of the country. Even though can be from different parts they are experienced and know well about the Annapurna region.

Porter:

For a smooth and easier journey for the Annapurna Circuit trek, it is important to hire a porter with you. So, we Eco Nepal trekkers also provides the facilty of porter service to our customer. Porter is like a backbone of the trekking industry and they can carry the heavy luggage in the difficult terrain also.

You can either hire the sherpa porter or a porter from the Annapurna region who has gone trekking multiple times. Our porter will carry a weight of around 12 kg and if your luggage weighs more than that you need to pay extra bucks for that.

Porter Cum Guide:

Porter Cum guide means they play the role of both guide and porter. They don’t hold any license for trekking but they have done the trekking multiple times. They don’t know much English but can communicate well with you.

Hiring the poter cum guide is best for those who want to reduce the cost of hiring a guide and porter for the Annapurna circuit trek. As they can do the role of both and also it is much cheaper than hiring both guide and porter. If you are a solo trekker then hiring a porter cum guide will be the best option for you. But if you are in a large group then we suggest you hire both a guide and a porter.

Let’s see how much it costs you to hire a guide and poter with Eco Nepal Trekkers;

• Guide: 30$ per person per day
• Porter: 20$ per person per day
• Porter cum guide: 25$ per person per day

Annapurna Circuit trek booking with Guide and Porter: A Complete Package

We Eco Nepal Trekkers provide you with a complete package and inside the package you will get an expert licensed guide and porter. You don’t have to worry about the cost of hiring a guide and porter and the cost of the guide and the porter will be included in the package.

Plus, our trekking packages cover everything, including the food, lodging, wages, and insurance for our experienced guides and porters. They have been in the field for years and know it like the back of their hand, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the journey. With them by your side, you can just focus on enjoying the stunning scenery of the Annapurna Circuit.

Also read: Annapurna Circuit Trek Transportation

Annapurna Circuit Trek Map:

Related article: Annapurna circuit trek map

Considerations When Hiring Guide & Porter for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Experience and Expertise:

Hire trekking Guides who are very familiar with the area; its trails, weather, and customs especially concerning tea houses. Porters should be physically fit such that they can handle the trekking equipment needed.

Certification and Licensing:

Ensure that the guide you are hiring has valid licenses and certifications from credible associations in this sector in Nepal. This way, they have to stick to safe practices as well as the correct ethical conduct.

References and Reviews:

For more recommendations on who to hire as your guide or porter go to people who have trekked before or browse the internet for reviews.

Communication Skills:

Although trekkers originating from different parts of the world speak different languages, basic conversations in English or as per the preference of the locals are desirable while on the trek to grasp voluminous details of the route, necessary precautions or measures to be taken, and get a sneak-peek into the cultures of the places passed.

Cost and Inclusions:

Specify how the expenses like the charges for the tour guide and the porters if any, permits, food, and accommodation will be split. one of the recommendations is to pay attention to costs without any sneak preview costs to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Health and Safety Measures:

Explain what one must do when an emergency arises and if there is a provision of first aid during the trek. Your guide should also be knowledgeable in case there is any form of altitude sickness or other regular challenges that prevail in the trekking activities.

Respect for Local Culture:

Select the guides and porters you hire to be considerate of the local people’s culture and to show concern for the environment. It has implications on positive effects for communities together with natural environments.

Some Useful Information about Annapurna Circuit Trek

Best Time to Trek Annapurna Circuit:

The best time to engage in the Annapurna Circuit Trek is during the autumn/ September to November/ and spring/ March to May/ since the weather is stable, the mountain views are clear and the temperatures are favorable.

Continue reading: BEST TIME FOR ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulties, Challenges, and Risks:

Some of the difficulties in this circuit come with the high altitudes at 5,416 meters at the Thorong La Pass, thus requiring one to be fit for treks, well acclimatized for altitude problems, and ready for changeable weather conditions.

Further Reading: Altitude Sickness During Annapurna Circuit 

Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit:

Trekkers need to obtain a permit before embarking on this beautiful Annapurna Circuit Trek. let’s see the types of permits required for this trek

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP)
2. Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card

Continuing reading about permit: ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK PERMIT

Food and Accommodation:

Food and shelter are easily available in the tea houses along the trail which serve local Nepali meals such as Dal Bhat, Pizza and burgers, tea, and even coffee and the accommodation ranges from simple tea houses with dormitory style to small hotels in large villages.

Wifi, Electricity, and Communication:

Wifi and electricity are available in some major villages like Manang and Jomsom, but reliability can vary. Trekkers may opt for local SIM cards for mobile communication, though coverage can be limited.

Travel Insurance:

Trekking Insurance is a must for the Annapurna Circuit Trek and your insurance must cover high-altitude trekking, helicopter education, emergency medical evacuation, and trip cancellation to ensure peace of mind in remote areas.

How to Prepare:

Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and the provision of necessities such as trekking boots, warm outfits, first aid items, and mental preparation to endure the joyous task of trekking should be made before the hiking.

Currency Used:

The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is widely used along the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It’s advisable to exchange currency in Kathmandu or Pokhara before beginning the trek, as ATM availability is limited along the route.

Frequently Asked Questions for Annapurna Circuit Trek(FAQs)

What happens if you trek without a guide in the Annapurna Circuit?

If you are caught trekking in the Annapurna region without having the guide or TIMS card then legal action will be taken including a hefty fine of NPR. 12000 ( around 100$)

How to hire a Guide and porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Eco Nepal Trekkers will provide you with a guide and porter while booking the package with us. Also, the cost of hiring a guide and porter will be included in the package.

What is the cost of hiring a guide and porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Hiring the Guide will cost you 30$ per day and for the porter, it will cost you 25$ per person.

Can beginners do the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Yes, many new beginners had completed this trek. The main thing to consider before trekking is physical fitness and strong determination of trekking.

Worth Reading: Annapurna Circuit Trek For Beginners

How to prepare for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Being graded as a moderate to strenuous trek, trekkers must prepare in advance for the Annapurna circuit trek. It’s essential to start preparing well in advance, ideally 8 to 12 weeks before your trek.  Trekkers can engage themself in regular cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and practice hikes to improve endurance, build muscle strength, and simulate trekking conditions.

How to book the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

You can fill out the form on our website or WhatsApp us at 📞 +977-9813322433.

How hard is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

It depends on your fitness level and experience. For beginners, it can be hard, but with proper planning and preparation, it becomes more manageable.

When is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Trekking during the month of spring and the autumn season is considered as best month as you can expect stable weather conditions and moderate temperatures. Also, the scenery during this time is perfect, and the incredible panoramic mountain view with beautiful landscape makes trekking more adventurous and enjoyable.

Further Reading: Best Time For Annapurna Circuit Trek

What are the permits required for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

1. Trekkers Information Management System(TIMS Card)
2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP)

Read more: Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit Information

How long does it take to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The exact duration of the Annapurna circuit depends upon how much you want to stay in the mountain region of Annapurna. You can find the Annapurna Circuit Trek package of 12 -22 days. If you want to create your itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit trek, Eco Nepal Trekkers will assist you with our expert team

Food and Accommodation during the Annapurna circuit trek?

For every trekker, they might wonder how is the food and accommodation during the Annapurna circuit trek. If you are among them then you should know that during the Annapurna Circuit trek, you will be staying in the tea house with basic facilities of lodging and meals like dal bhat and momos. The rooms are twin bases and toilets are often shared among the travelers.

 It’s advisable to book in advance during peak seasons, and carrying snacks and water purification tablets is recommended. Despite basic facilities, the trek offers a chance to experience local hospitality and culture.

Outline Itinerary:

Below here is the outline itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You can even customize the itinerary as per your interest. You can even shorten Annapurna Circuit Trek or add a side trip.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft)

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,300 m/4,265 ft), 10 hrs

Day 03: Trekking from Jagat to Dharapani (1,860 m/6,102 ft), 7 hrs

Day 04: Trekking from Dharapani to Chame (2,610 m/8,563 ft), 6 hrs

Day 05: Trekking from Chame to Pisang (3,300 m/10,827 ft), 5 hrs

Day 06: Trekking from Pisang to Manang (3,540 m/11,614 ft), 6 hrs

Day 07: Acclimatization day at Manang (3,540 m/11,614 ft)

Day 08: Trekking from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050 m/13,287 ft), 4 hrs

Day 09: Trekking from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,525 m/14,846 ft), 3 hrs

Day 10: Trekking from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath Temple (3,760 m/12,336 ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416 m/17,769 ft), 9 hrs

Day 11: Trekking from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,750 m/9,022 ft), 6 hrs

Day 12: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (827 m/2,713 ft), 30 min

Day 13: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft), 6-7 hrs

Day 14: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Day 15: Final Departure

Final Say

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the famous trekking destinations renowned worldwide for its stunning natural beauty. Beautiful landscapes, lush forests, rushing rivers, traditional villages, waterfalls, and towering mountain peaks will amaze you. 

From the beginning of the trail to the end, it offers endless entertainment and excitement. If you are planning and want to book this trek? Don’t be late. Join Eco Nepal Trekkers on this beautiful adventure to make your journey hassle-free, enjoyable, and even more adventurous. Contact us now or mail us for booking or more information.