Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek, where the mountains call and the spirit soars.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek, often referred to as the Around Annapurna Trek or Round Annapurna Trek, is a prolific and a challenging trek in central Nepal Himalayas. Spanning between twelve and seventeen days, this trek encircles the majestic Annapurna mountains, covering a distance of 160 km to 230 km, depending on your chosen starting and ending points.

Traversing around the Annapurna mountains reveals breathtaking landscapes from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts. This trek is more than just a physical challenge; it’s also an opportunity for profound cultural interactions with indigenous communities settled along the trek route.

Thorong La Pass (5416 m), perched on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau, is the highest point on this trek, and it offers unparalleled views that will leave you in awe. As you navigate around the Annapurna range, you’ll cross two significant river valleys: the Marsangdi River Valley and the Kaligandaki Gorge.

If you’re seeking an intensely beautiful trek in Nepal that combines adventure with cultural immersion, then this is the trek for you. The Annapurna Circuit trek is not just a simple hike; it’s a trekking trail that combines scenery and culture moulded into one long trek that will change your perspective on nature and humanity alike.

Highlights of the trek

Some highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal include:

• Diverse landscapes: The round Annapurna trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, from lush subtropical forests to barren, high-altitude terrain.
• Stunning mountain views: You will have the opportunity to see some of the world’s highest peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare, and Manaslu.
• Thorong La Pass: At an elevation of 5,416 meters, Thorong La Pass is the highest point on the circuit and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Unique cultural experiences: The trekking route around the Annapurna mountain passes through a number of traditional villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups, such as the Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi people. You’ll have the chance to experience their customs, traditions, and hospitality.
• Natural hot springs: After a long day of trekking, you can relax in natural hot springs at places like Tatopani and Jhinu Danda.
• Muktinath Temple: A sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, Muktinath is a highlight of the around annapurna trek known for its temple and 108 water spouts.
• Annapurna Conservation Area: The trek takes you through the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including rare species like the snow leopard and blue sheep.

Overall, the Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge, making it a bucket-list adventure for many trekkers.

Thorungla Pass

Thorong La Pass, also known as Thorung La, is a high mountain pass that you need to cross on the round Annapurna Trek before reaching Muktinath. It is one of the highest trekking passes in the world, reaching an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level. Thorong La Pass is a key highlight of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, as trekkers must cross the pass to complete this circuit trek.

Crossing the Thorong La Pass is considered one of the most challenging parts of the Annapurna Circuit Trek due to its high altitude and steep ascent. Trekkers typically start the trek from Thorung Phedi early in the morning to reach the pass before potential weather changes in the afternoon. The ascent to the pass can be physically demanding, especially for those who are not acclimatized to the high altitude.

Once trekkers reach the top of Thorong La Pass, they are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. The pass is marked by prayer flags and is a traditional rest spot where trekkers take a moment to celebrate their achievement before descending to Muktinath.

Crossing Thorong La Pass is a memorable and challenging experience for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit, offering incredible views and a sense of accomplishment as they continue their journey through the trek.

A Trek to Upper Pisang

While en route from Chame to Manang, it is recommended that trekkers take the high route to Upper Pisang, Ghyaru and then to Manang, as the mountain views are spectacular on this part of the trek.

Moreover, the three villages of Upper Pisang, Ghyaru and Ngawal are well-preserved samples of Tibetan-style villages still in their original state. Staying overnight in one of these villages also helps with acclimatization since these villages are located higher than Manang.

Starting & Ending Points of the Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal typically starts from Besisahar in the Marshyandi River valley, and ends in the village of Nayapul or alternatively in Pokhara. The trek covers a total distance of about 160-230 km, depending on the route taken, and usually takes around 15-20 days to complete.

But with the advent of the vehicular road, most trekkers drive to Jagat or Chame and start the trek from there. Ofcourse, there are a number of options to start and finish this trek, and it totally depends on your choice.

Most hikers end the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Jomsom and fly out, or drive back to Pokhara.

How to reach Besisahar?

Besisahar is a popular starting point for the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal. Here are are couple of ways to reach Besisahar:

• By Road: The most common way to reach Besisahar is by road. You can take a bus or hire a private vehicle from Kathmandu, Pokhara, or other major cities in Nepal. The drive to Besisahar from Kathmandu takes about 6-7 hours, while from Pokhara it takes around 4-5 hours.
• By Local Bus: You can also take a local bus from nearby towns or cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Besishar itself. Local buses are affordable but can be crowded and may take longer due to frequent stops.
• By Taxi or Private Car: Another option to reach Besisahar is to hire a taxi or a private car to reach Besisahar. This is a more comfortable and faster option but can be more expensive compared to public transportation.

How much does it cost to drive to Besisahar?

The cost of driving to Besisahar from major cities like Kathmandu or Pokhara will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose and the current market rates. Here are some approximate cost estimates for different modes of transportation to Besisahar:

1. Public Bus: Taking a public bus from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Besisahar can cost anywhere between Nepal Rupee. 500-150 per person, depending on the type of bus and the season.
2. Local Taxi/Shared Jeep: Sharing a local jeep taxi with other passengers can be a more convenient but slightly more expensive option, and the cost range from Nepali Rupee.100-300 per person.
3. Private Car/Taxi: Renting a private car or taxi for the journey to Besisahar will be more expensive and can cost around US$190, but offers greater comfort and flexibility.
4. Tourist Bus: If you prefer a more comfortable and direct option, you can also consider taking a tourist bus from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Besisahar. The cost for a tourist bus is US$15 per person, depending on the bus operator and amenities provided.

Cost from Jomsom to Pokhara

Jomsom to Pokhara is 146.1 km and takes around 8-9 hours, but will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose.

1. Local Bus: The cheapest way to reach Pokhara from Jomsom is by taking a local bus but can be crowded and may take around 9 hours to reach Pokhara. It will cost around US$14 to US$17 per person.
2. Shared Jeep: Sharing a jeep with other passengers is a common mode of transportation between Jomsom and Pokhara. The cost for a seat in a shared jeep can range from US$14 to US$20 depending on your negitiating skills.
3. Flight: Another option is to take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, and will cost US$158 per person.

These are approximate cost estimates, and actual prices may vary based on factors like the type of vehicle, fuel prices, road conditions, and availability of transportation.

Side Trek to Tilicho Lake

Trekking to Tilicho Lake is a popular side trek for hikers trekking around the Annapurna. Situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) in the Annapurna region of Nepal, Tilicho Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world. It is a stunning turquoise colored lake surrounded by snow-capped Annapurna Range, making it a must-see destination for adventurous trekkers.

The side trek to Tilicho Lake usually involves adding three extra days to the Annapurna Circuit itinerary. Trekkers typically branch off the main circuit at Manang and ascend to Tilicho Base Camp before reaching the lake itself. The trek to Tilicho Lake is challenging due to the high altitude and steep terrain, but the breathtaking views and the unique experience of visiting one of the highest lakes in the world make it a rewarding Himalayan trekking adventure.

It is recommended to acclimatize properly before attempting the side trek to Tilicho Lake and to be prepared for high altitude conditions. Overall, the trek to Tilicho Lake is a fantastic addition to the Annapurna Circuit, offering a unique and memorable experience for trekkers.

Trek Grade

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is generally considered to be a moderately challenging trek. The trek involves hiking long distances and ascending to high altitudes, which can be physically demanding. The highest point of the trek is Thorong La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).

While the trek does not require any technical climbing skills, trekkers need to have a good level of fitness and be prepared for long days of trekking on varied terrain. The trek also passes through some remote and isolated areas, where facilities and services may be limited.

Overall, the round Annapurna trek is suitable for trekkers with some previous trekking experience and a good level of physical fitness. It is important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body to avoid altitude sickness.

Best Season

The best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal are the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and less chance of rainfall or snowfall.

Spring is a popular time for trekking in the Annapurna mountains as the rhododendrons are in full bloom, adding color to the landscapes. Autumn is also a great time to trek around the Annapurna as the skies are clear, providing unobstructed views of the mountains.

Both these seasons offer comfortable trekking conditions, making it easier to trek around the Annapurna region and enjoy the stunning mountain views. But remember these are peak trekking seasons and the trek route can be crowded.

December to March is the coldest season, and there will be plenty of snow at the higher altitude. Moreover, Thorung la Pass can get blocked too. However, the best part of trekking around the Annapurna mountains at this time of the year is that there will be fewer people on the trail.

Accommodation, WIFI and Connectivity

The Annapurna Circuit Trek route in Nepal offers a wide range of accommodation options, from basic teahouses to comfortable lodges, depending on the location and altitude.

Besisahar, Chame, and Jomsom are well-developed with upmarket guesthouses offering comfortable twin share rooms with private bathrooms, heated beds, and better food options. Electricity, WiFi, and hot showers are also easily available in these places. More expensive but suitable for those looking for comfort. Besides, these places also has tea houses and lodges offering budget accommodation, usually simple rooms with twin beds, blankets, and a shared bathroom for budget travellers.

Prices also vary based on altitude and season but are generally budget-friendly. These lodges and tea houses have common areas with wood-burning stoves for warmth. Basic meals such as dal bhat, noodles, soups, and tea are available in all these tea houses and lodges throughout the trek route.

From Manang to Thorong La Pass, there are basic teahouses with limited facilities. Hot showers and WiFi may be expensive or unavailable. Heating is typically only available in dining areas.

But as you descend down from Muktinath to Jomsom, you will find a mix of basic and comfortable lodges with modern amenities, like WiFi, hot showers, with attached bathrooms, and more variety in food options.

Meals are usually provided in the teahouses where you stay, with a requirement to eat there in exchange for lower room costs. Cold water is free but hot showers cost extra (around $2 – $5). WiFi is available in most places for a fee ($1 – $5 per hour). Electricity Charging often costs extra, especially at higher altitudes.

Tips to help you on the trek

• Carry a sleeping bag for higher altitudes, as blankets may not be enough.
• Bring cash, as ATMs are scarce on the trail.
• Respect local customs and avoid wasting resources like food and water.
• Be prepared for limited privacy in shared accommodations.

Travel Insurance:

1. Travel insurance is strongly recommended while trekking and hiking in Nepal, especially for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, as it is a high-altitude, strenuous  and long-distance trek. Your travel insurance plan should cover all medical and travel issues. Accidents may occur on the trekking trail. In such cases, you may take advantage of the facilities of air ambulance, evacuation by helicopter, helicopter rescue, clinical attention, etc. In short, every hiker will need travel insurance for adventure travel or hiking in Nepal.
2. You will need to ask your insurance company for a policy that will cover high-altitude sickness, accidents, and sickness on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The insurance policy should cover the evacuation by helicopter in case of an emergency.
3. Your insurance policy should also cover general issues like delays or even cancellations of all flights due to bad weather conditions or natural disasters. In such cases, sometimes you will need to take a chartered helicopter flight out, and these charter flights are not cheap. Therefore, your insurance policy should cover all these aspects.

The Best Insurance Company for Hiking and Trekking in Nepal:

• Alpha Global Solutions

For Indian citizens, given below are the recommended insurance companies from India that have a good record for policy claims in Nepal:

• Bharati Axa Travel Insurance
• ICICI Lombard
• HDFC Ergo Travel Insurance
• Reliance Travel Insurance
• Bajaj Allianz Travel Insurance

TRIP FACTS:

• Trek Grade: Moderate to Strenuous
• Duration: 12 Nights and 13 Days
• Maximum Sleeping Altitude: 4450 m/14,500 ft (Thorung Phedi )
• Maximum Hiking Altitude: 5416 m/17,769 ft (Thorung La Pass )
• Best Season: Mar-June and Oct-Nov.
• Trek availability: Only Private Treks.
• A customized private trek with a side trek to Tilicho Lake can also be arranged for a minimum of two people on request on a date of your choice

ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK ITINERARY

Day 1: Drive Pokhara to Besisahar (820 m/4 hours). Drive further on to Jagat. Lodge.
Day 2: Trek Jagat to Dharapani (1860 m/16 km/5 hours). Lodge.

• Jagat to Chamche (1385 m/3 km/2 hours)
• Chamchee to Tal (1700 m/5 Km/4 hours)
• Tal to Dharapani (1900 m/6 Km/2 hours)

The first day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek from Jagat to Dharapani takes approximately five hours of moderate trekking and a 530 m gain in altitude. Watch out for a beautiful waterfall just outside Jagat. Trek through Chamche, a small village and stop by the beautiful riverside town of Tal for lunch before stopping for the night halt at Dharapani, deep in the valley with beautiful views of the river and the mountains around.

Day 3: Trek Dharapani to Chame (2610 m/16 km/6 hours). Lodge.

• Dharapani to Bagarchap (2160 m/2 km/1 hour)
• Bagarchap to Danaqyu (2200 m/2 km/1 hour)
• Danaqyu to Timang (2700 m/4 km/2 h).
• Timang to Thanchowk (2750/3 km/1.30 hours)
• Thanchowk to Koto (2640 m/3 km/1 hour)
• Koto to Chame (2610 m/2 km/1 hour)

Hiking from Dharapani to Chame starts with a relatively easy walk on a rough Jeep track with a few ups and downs till Danaqyu, a long village with some lodges. From here onwards, it is a steep, strenuous two-hour and 500-meter climb to Timang on slippery surfaces and steep stone stairs. Timang to Thanchowk, a small, pretty village with a few lodges, is a steady descent of 100m as the trail goes through green fields filled with livestock, and the trail is pretty easy. This section of the track from Thanchowk to Koto is a bit rough, but the beautiful village with a few wooden houses set against the backdrop of the green forest compensates for it. From Koto, it is an extremely easy walk of 30 minutes to Chame. Chame is the district headquarters of Manang and is therefore replete with a bank and police headquarters.

Day 4: Trek Chame to Upper Pisang (3310 m/15 km/4-5 hours). Lodge.

• Chame-Bhratang (2850 m/7 km/2 hours)
• Bharatng to Dhukur Pokhari (3240 m/6 km/2 hours)
• Dhukur Pokhari to Upper Pisang (3310 m/1.5 km/2 hours)

One can skip the trek to Upper Pisang and hike directly to Lower Pisang, where the trek is relatively easier and can be done in a day. This way, you can cut down the Annapurna Circuit Trek by two days.

The trek from Chame to Upper Pisang is an extremely scenic six-hour trek around the Annapurna Mountains. A gain of 600m with the most amazing scenery. Bhartang is famous for apples, and one can try out the apple pie while passing through. The trail from Bhartang to Dhukur Pokhari follows the Marsanygdi River, and the snow-capped mountains of the Annapurna Range present a perfect backdrop to one of the best hiking trails in the world. After Dhukur Pokhari, the Round Annapurna Trek route climbs steadily up a mountainside for 100m until Upper Pisang.

Day 5: Trek from Upper Pisang to Ngawal (3680 m/10 km/6 hours). Lodge.

• Upper Pisang to Ghyaru ( m/5 km/3 hours)
• Ghyaru to Ngawal (3680 m/5 km/3 hours)

The trail from Upper Pisang to Ghyaru starts gently passing by a green lake in the middle of nowhere until we reach the infamous hill, where the path zigzags thirty times on an extremely steep hillside, and it takes about an hour to cross this trail. Ghyaru is a beautiful village and presents the most picturesque views of Annapurna II, III and IV while trekking around Annapurna Himal. The first 3 km of the trail from Ghyaru to Ngawal ascends up to 500m and then drops down to the bustling village of Ngawal.

Day 6: Ngawal to Manang (3540 m/10 km/5 hours).

• Ngawal to Humde (3330 m/2 km/1.30 h)
• Humde to Braka (3450m/6Km/3Hrs)
• Braka to Manang (3540 m/2 km/30 minutes)

Ngwal to Humde is a steep, downhill path right up to the valley floor, surrounded by forests and a whole lot of plant life that Upper Pisang misses. From Humde, the trail is gentle through large fields, passing through Braka, a small village almost carved into a rock face, and then on to Manang. The trail from Braga to Manang is an easy trail on the Jeep track.

Day 7: Rest/Acclimatization Day at Manang. Lodge.

Hike to View Point above for a beautiful view of Manang town below, or take a one-hour side trek to Gangapurna Lake, a stunning glacial lake near by. Which derives it’s name from the Mighty Gangapurna Mountain standing tall just beside it. Witnessing the Gangapurna Icefall can be a beautiful moment of your life here on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. In the afternoon, you can attend a talk on high altitude in Manang organized by the Himalayan Rescue Association, which provides lessons on altitude sickness-related topics. This is an excellent way to fill up your acclimatization day in Manang and prepare for the long trek to Thorungla Pass to Muktinath.

Day 8: Trek Manang to Yak Kharka (4020 m/10 km/5 hours). Lodge.

• Manang to Gunsang (3900 m/3 km/2 hours)
• Gunsang to Yak Kharka ( m/7 km/3 hours)

The Jeep track ends here, and only a thin trekking trail starts. There are two trails from Manang, one going to Tilicho Lake and the other to Thorung La Pass. You will need an additional two days to trek to Tilicho Lake (4920m), considered to be the biggest glacial lake of it’s kind in the world.  It is being said that the Annapurna Circuit Trek without a side trek to Tilicho Lake is incomplete.

The trek from Manang to Yak Kharka, with a distance of 10 km, can be done in 5 hours. The trail starts with a slight uphill path to Tanki Manang, or the old village where the inhabitants of Manang actually live. The upper village is made up of stone buildings and flat roofs, and the trail wanders through the pathways between the buildings. The 3 km trek to Gunsang may be short but is not easy as the elevation gain is 300m with a steep uphill at the end of Tanki Manang. You can get amazing views of Manang down below. Gunsang is a small village with two lodges. The trail from Gunsang to Yak Kharka is above the tree line, with yaks and horses grazing on the hillside. This part of the trek on the Annapurna Circuit Trek is comparatively easy, with an altitude gain of just 150 m, and the views of Chulu West Peak are incredible. Do not miss the sunset views on the Annapurna Range from Yak Kharka; it’s simply beautiful.

Day 9: Trek Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (4450 m/6 km/4 hours). Lodge.

• Yak Kharka to Churi Letdar (4200 m/1 km/30 minutes)
• Churi Ledar to Thorung Phedi (4450 m/5 km/4 hours)

Thorung Phedi is the base camp for crossing the Thorungla Pass, but some also make High Camp their base camp. The trail on this day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek starts with a gentle 1 km uphill to Churi Ledar, with amazing views of the Annapurna Range. After a short distance out of Churi Ledar, the trail drops down to the valley below. A steep downhill on a rocky path. From the valley floor, the trail climbs a steep path up to a ridge. From here, the trail is on a path cut out on the side of a mountain. Be extra careful about the slide on this stretch about 30 minutes before Thorung Phedi.

Day 10: Thorung Phedi-Thorung La pass (5416m) to Muktinath (3800 m/16 km). Lodge.

• Thorung Phedi to Thorongla High Camp (4830 m/1 km/1 h)
• High Camp to Thorongla Pass (5416 m/5 km/4 hours)
• Thorongla Pass to Charabu (4230 m/6 km/6 hours)
• Charabu to Muktinath (3800 m/km/3 hours)

Day 10 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the longest, most strenuous and most epic day of trekking around Annapurna. The pinnacle of this trek is crossing the Thorung La Pass, the highest point of this trek. The sixteen-kilometer trek to Muktinath takes more than twelve hours of trekking.

The day’s trek starts early in the morning (2 a.m.) in order to reach Thorung La Pass to catch the splendid views of the Annapurna Mountains during sunrise. The first 1 km to Thorungla High Camp and a little further on is an extremely steep 2 hours of climbing, but the steep climb gets compensated by views that are out of this world, a gift to appreciate the journey that you have undertaken.

After the ridge above High Camp, the trail is comparatively easy until Thorungla Pass. From Thorungla Pass to Charabu, it is a steep downhill on a rocky path, and one needs to be extra careful not to hurt your knees. From Charabu to Muktinath, it is an easy downhill trek through large fields and bushes.

Day 11: Trek Muktinath to Kagbeni (2800 m/9.5 km). Lodge.

The trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni is on the road and passes through the beautiful village of Jharkot, with a monastery on a hill. Kagbeni is a beautiful village by the riverside and worth exploring with its old buildings and alleyways. It is also the gateway to the Upper Mustang Area and needs a special permit and an extra fee of US$500 for ten days to visit Upper Mustang.

Day 12: Trek Kagbeni to Jomsom (2743 m/10 km/3 hours). Lodge.

From Kagbeni, we follow the Ekle Bhatti Trail to reach Jomsom, with views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri Mountains showing up constantly. Most of the trail is gradual downhill and easy, and it takes about 3 hours to hike, depending on the trekker.

Day 13: Fly out of Jomsom or take a bus ride or a shared taxi to Pokhara. End of the Round Annapurna Trek.

NOTE : You can also continue the Annaapurna Circuit Trek by trekking to Ghorepani and Poon hill for another fantastic view of the mountains that you had just circled

• Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost: US$1100 per person
• Cost for Indian Nationals : Please request quote in Indian Rupee

ANNAPURNA TREK COST INCLUDES:

• Transport by tourist bus (Kathmandu to Pokhara).
• Basic accommodation at local lodges is on a twin-sharing basis.
• Services of an experienced English-speaking local trekking guide.
• Porters to carry luggage while on trek (1 porter for 2 persons).
• Insurance for trekking staff, guides, porters, etc.,
• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) fees.
• National Park entrance fees.
• TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) registration fees.

COST EXCLUDES:

• All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) for the duration of the trek.
• Departure Tax, where applicable (domestic or international flights).
• Domestic Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu airfare (if requested by clients).
• Transport from Pokhara to Kathmandu at the end of the trek.
• Travel/Trekking/Medical insurance.
• Rescue operations by helicopter.
• Excess baggage charges.
• Nepal visa fees.
• Any services in Kathmandu (hotels, transport, etc.).
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu.
• Hotel accommodation in Pokhara at the end of the trek.

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• Nepal visa are readily available on arrival at the International Airport
• in Kathmandu and all other entry points to Nepal.
• Two passport photos will be required.
• Single-entry visa: US$30 per visa (valid for 60 days).
• Multiple entry visa: US$80 per visa (valid for 150 days).
• Nepal visas are also available at all Nepalese embassies and consulates.
• Indian Nationals do not need a visa to travel inside Nepal

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Note: The above-given itinerary is a sample intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors, such as weather, road conditions, the physical abilities of the participants, etc., may dictate itinerary changes either before departure or while on the trail. We reserve the right to change this schedule in the interest of trip participant’s safety, comfort and general well-being.

Recommendations: The Annapurna Circuit Trek is very strenuous and demands top physical form. A physical fitness check-up is a must. Even the experienced trekker should prepare for 2–3 months prior to the trek.

(All relevant terms and conditions apply.).