Running the Annapurna Circuit

I never thought I could complete this project so quickly. Running the Annapurna Circuit was a dream come true.

This year, I aimed to conquer a 100km run in the Himalayas, and now I have done it. The classic circuit covers about 200km from Beshisahar to Ghorepani, but with the motorable road, it has been shortened.

I chose to start from Jagat and finish at Muktinath, making my total distance exactly 117.03km.

sandipan kar

Traveller | Photographer

It was an incredible journey that deeply impacted my body and mind. Travelling from place to place through the stunning high Himalayan terrains felt like I was moving with the wind, experiencing the rich cultures of the Annapurna region.

Starting from Jagat, I mostly ran along trekking trails, occasionally crossing the motorway, which was a bit challenging but I kept pushing forward. I took rest whenever I could and kept going.

Every day, I felt like quitting, like I wanted to stop, but somehow, I woke up ready to run again.

I faced many obstacles along the way—getting lost in the trails, having muscle pain, breathing difficulties, knee pain, and more. After crossing Chame, the trail welcomed me with even more challenging mountain paths, just what I had hoped for.

That day, I traversed high-altitude villages like Upper Pisang, Ghyaru, and Ngawal, which were really tough to cross, but I kept moving forward, one small step at a time.

I truly believe that if you’re determined to reach a goal, you will get there.

Reaching High Camp felt surreal. I couldn’t quite believe it. I stayed at that altitude, gazing at the breathtaking Milky Way, sharing my story with fellow travellers, and waking up early for the final stretch.

When I finally reached Thorong La Pass, I couldn’t hold back my emotions because that was one of the most challenging parts. My run concluded at the market in Muktinath. When I stopped running, my legs felt numb, but the joy I felt for completing my dream project far outweighed any exhaustion.

Yes, it’s finished—the Annapurna Circuit Run is a wrap!

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most breathtaking trails in all of the Himalayas. It’s also Nepal’s oldest trekking route.

Along the way, I saw ancient architecture, enduring customs that have lasted for thousands of years, and met people who are a vital part of Himalayan life.

It’s a massif that has shaped a civilisation, full of soul and history.

Distance: 117.03 km, Elev. gain: 10,362 m, Moving time: 24:26:42 hr, Avg. pace: 12:32 /km, Max. Elevation: 5,407m, Steps: 1,35,672