Food on a Guided Trek in the Annapurna Region
We often get asked about the food available while trekking in the Annapurna region, and with good reason. Nutrition is a key part of any trekking adventure, and enjoying hearty meals after a long day in the mountains is one of the true highlights of the experience.
You’ll be burning a significant amount of calories each day, so fuelling your body properly is essential, not just for energy, but also for your overall enjoyment and recovery. The food in the Annapurna region is simple and filling. Think dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), thukpa (noodle soup), momos (dumplings), Tibetan bread, chapatis, and curry-style dishes, all cooked using local ingredients, often cooked over a wood-fired stove. It is also worth bringing some of your own (non-perishable foods) from home, trail mix, energy bars, dried fruit, sweet and salty snacks as these won’t be available on the trail. The water isn’t drinkable so a filtration system will be essential. For a small fee you can purchase boiled water, buying bottled water isn’t advisable for environmental reasons as they have no easy way of getting the plastic down from the mountains.
What’s Included on the Guided Trek
On the Annapurna guided trek breakfast is provided each morning, lunch at a teahouse en-route and a two-course evening meal is included on all nights except your first and last night. Please refer to your specific trek itinerary for full details.
Breakfast
Breakfasts are usually served at your teahouse or lodge and vary depending on location. In more basic lodges, you can expect porridge, Tibetan bread or toast, jam, and eggs. In better-equipped places, you might find pancakes and muesli. Tea and coffee are generally included.
Lunch
Lunch is also included in your trek price. We will stop at a teahouse on the trail and you will be able to choose from a basic menu, rice, noodles, soup and of course dal bhat! Always carry extra snacks like trail mix, dried fruit, or energy bars to supplement the ‘carb rich’ Nepalese diet.
Afternoon tea
Afternoon tea and biscuits are provided on arrival.
Evening Meal
Dinner is included each evening while on the trek and generally consists of two courses. A typical evening meal might begin with soup or momos, followed by a main dish such as dal bhat or vegetable curry with rice. Meals are filling, warm, and well-suited to the demands of trekking.
Hydration & Nutrition Tips
Proper nutrition and hydration are as important as fitness on the trail. Poor fuelling can lead to fatigue, altitude sickness, or dehydration. Start each day well-hydrated, and always carry enough water with you, 2 to 3 litres is ideal. It is essential to carry a filtration system as mentioned above.
If you’re not used to eating on the go, try out different snacks and hydration routines during your training hikes before your trip.
Drinks
Drinks are not included with your evening meals. You’ll need to pay directly at each teahouse for anything additional, such as soft drinks, tea, or beer. We ask that you pay for drinks as you buy, to avoid any extra charges after your trek.