Annapurna trek question

My friend and I will be doing the annapurna trek in a few weeks. I have been looking through all the threads related to annapurna, but can't seem to find an answer to my question.

Are guided tours mandatory on this circuit? I sure hope not, but I saw that someone had written that since october of 06 it became law that you have to have a guide to be able to do this trek.

They are NOT mandatory, I can assure it. I have a friend that has just returned from the Annapurnas (3-4 days ago), he did the trekking solo. I did the Everest Base Camp solo as well, only three weeks ago.

In many places you will be told that guides are compulsory, this is only to force you to get one. Do not believe it, it is not true in any circuit in Nepal!

Anyway, if you want to have a good guide, I can recommend you one.

Have a nice trekking and enjoy Nepal! (I really did it)!

Thanks so much for your reply....its good to know that we have options!

And thanks....There is no doubt the trek will be a memorable experience.

There used to be a rule called TRC which made guide (or just porter) mandatory. This was in effect for only a few months in the end of 06.

Guides and arranged treks are mandatory for most of Nepal, actually. The only exeption are the most popular areas Annapurna, Khumbu (Everest) and Langtang-Helambu. For everything else you do need an arranged trek, permits, even liason officer. So do not belive everything #1 writes...

I would recommend that you do go with a well informed guide around Annapurna. It only enhanced my experience and when I go back i'll go with the same guide as before.

they should ban the guides from the trekking routes becasue they are too crowded. the guides don't do anything but sit around and say oh there a bird! oh there's a mountain look! oh now go to sleep now get up! now give me money!

I did the circuit last year - no guide or porter needed.
Expect heavy rain and the odd leech on the lower trail, but they stop after the first 3 or 4 days.
Have a great time.

No need for a guide! You'll prolly get some hassle in the first day of the trek - guides trying to sell their service, insisting you must take a guide. Just walk, pay no attention. Prices for accomodation pretty much have leveled to the same allover. You can make a deal by buying food and have a room for free.

Have a great trek!