solo but Full of Soul: My Life-Changing Trek Across the Annapurna Circuit

April 2024 was the month I finally ticked off one of my biggest dreams—trekking the Annapurna Circuit solo.
My wife stayed back, and while I missed her, this journey gave me something deeply personal: silence, strength, and soul-searching.

❓️How It All Started:

I landed in Kathmandu, buzzing with nerves and excitement. The chaos of Thamel, the prayer flags swaying in the breeze—I was already falling for Nepal.

From there, I took a shared jeep to Besisahar, the starting point. Roads were rough, but the anticipation kept me going.

Kathmandu to Besisahar (Jeep): NPR 2500 / USD $19

Trekking Permits:

TIMS: $20

ACAP: $30

The Trail That Changed Me:

Total Duration: 13 days

Distance Covered: ~160 km

Highest Point: Thorong La Pass (5416m)

Each day brought something new—apple orchards in Marpha, yaks grazing in Yak Kharka, and the golden glow of sunrise on snow-capped peaks in Manang.

But nothing prepared me for the climb to Thorong La Pass. It was brutal. I left at 4 AM in the freezing cold, and with every step, I had to dig deeper. When I finally reached the top—I cried. Not from pain, but from the overwhelming beauty and pride.

🛌 Where I Slept & Ate:

Every night, I stayed in simple teahouses run by the kindest locals.

Accommodation: Mostly free or $15–$25 per night (as long as you ate dinner there)

Meals: Dal Bhat, momos, garlic soup—$5–$10 per meal

Total Daily Budget: Around $25–$30

Total Cost for 13 Days:

Permits: $50

Accommodation & Food: ~$350

Transport & Extras: ~$70

Total: ~$470 USD
(Insane value for what felt like a once-in-a-lifetime journey)

⁉️Why It Was So Special (Even Alone):

The silence of the mountains helped me reconnect with myself

Met fellow trekkers from all over the world who felt like instant friends

Every sunrise reminded me why I chase adventure

🌐 Tips for Solo Trekkers:

Acclimatize properly—stay two nights in Manang

Start early—especially for Thorong La Pass day

Don’t carry too much—a 10kg backpack is perfect

Listen to your body—go slow and steady.

❓️Would I Do It Again?

1000% yes.
It wasn’t just a trek—it was therapy.
I left a piece of myself in those mountains… and somehow came back more whole.

#aprilblooms #travel #naturalwonders #aprilblooms