Annapurna circuit trek is the trekking route within the Annapurna mountain range of central Nepal. The Annapurna area was opened to foreign trekkers in 1977 AD before that there was a restriction by the government of Nepal. The total length of the routes varies between (160-230km), depending upon the motor transportation is used where the track ends. This trek way crosses two different river valleys and encircles the Annapurna massif. This path reaches the highest point at Thorung La pass touching the edge of the Tibetan Plateau. All the trekkers goes through anti-clockwise as traveling this way the daily attitude gain comes slower and slower and crossing the high Thorung La pass will also be easier and safer.
On the trekking journey, trekkers can see the close Mountain sceneries Annapurna massif (Annapurna 1-4), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhare, Manaslu, Tilicho peak, Ganagapurna, Pisang peak, and Paungda Dada. Numerous other peaks rise (6,000m to 8,000m) from Annapurna massif. Annapurna 1 to 4 can also be seen from this trekking route on which Annapurna 1 is above 8,000m height and others are also above than 7,000m height. These Mountains are considered as the dangerous mountains among the other mountains. Well, this is one of the best among the views seen while enjoying the trekking journey.
Table of Contents
Main Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Trek through the beautiful two rivers valley of Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki connected by the Thorong La Mountain Pass
- Get a stunning and uplifting view of Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre Peak, Nilgiri Himal, Lamjung Peak, Pisang Peak, Dhaulagiri Range etc.
- Get the chance to reach the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek and soak in the mesmerizing views of the pristine rivers and mountain peaks at the Thorong La Mountain Pass
- Also get the chance to visit the sacred and holy temple Muktinath which is visited by many pilgrims
- Visit the famous village Jomsom and try their authentic thakali cuisine
- Get the chance to taste the renowned Apples of Marpha
The Classic Itinerary For Annapurna Circuit Trek
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu.
Day 02: Sightseeing | Meal: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar Drive: 6/7 hrs | Meal: BLD
Day 04: Jeep drive to Chame (Stopover for acclimatization) – Altitude: 2670 m/8810 ft. | Drive: 4/5 hrs | Meal: BLD
Day 05: Trek Chame to Pisang – Altitude: 3200 m/10524 ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs | Meal: BLD
Day 06: Trek Pisang to Manang, Overnight at the local lodge – Altitude: 3400 m/11152 ft. | Trek: 5 to 6 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 07: Rest day at Manang for acclimatization – Altitude: 3400 m/11152 ft. | Meal: BLD
Day 08: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka – Altitude:4,050m/13,287ft | Trek: 4-5 hour | Meal: BLD
Day 09: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi – Altitude:4,833m/15,856ft | Trek: 5 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 10: Trek from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath – Altitude:3,760m/12,335ft via Thorung La Pass – Altitude: 5,416m | Trek: 8 hours. | Meal: BLD
Day 11: Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni – Altitude: 2,804 m/9,199 ft | 4-5 hour. | Meal: BLD
Day 12: Trek from Kagbeni to Jomsom – Altitude: 2810 m) 3-4 hour. | Meal: BLD
Day 13: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara and transfer to hotel. | Meal: BLD
Day 14: Drive back to Kathmandu – Altitude: 1350/4428 ft. | Meal: B
Day 15: Departure transfer | Meal: Breakfast
Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek
Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit Trek, two weeks of a walking journey along the horseshoe-shaped fascinating trail that encircles amazing Annapurna is the world’s most popular trek beyond doubt. It is the most frequented trek in Nepal as well. The trek highlights exceedingly beautiful valleys like Marshayngdi & Kali Gandaki. The cultural encounters in numerous ethnically inhabited villages are the wonders of Nepal’s cultural diversity seen during the trek. The floral and faunal biodiversity of Annapurna Conservation Area Project is great sights. The rawness of nature that includes pure cascading waterfalls, the Rocky Mountains, and deep gorges are mesmerizing. The most important highlights of the trek are the Himalayan vistas from the top of Thorung La Pass. The incredibly adventurous walk to the top of Thorung La Pass and down to Muktinath is beautifully challenging. The shifting views of Annapurna and its neighboring peaks are always the prime highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek. Last but not the least Jomsom the last stopover point of the trek is simply icing on the cake.
The standard itinerary for this trek is given below.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport, transfer to Hotel – Altitude: 1350/4428 ft.
Day 02: Drive to Besisahar – Altitude: 760 m/ 2510 ft. | Drive: 8-9 hrs. – bus/ 6 hrs. – Jeep | Meal: BLD
Day 03: Jeep drive to Chame (Stopover for acclimatization) – Altitude: 2670 m/8810 ft. | Drive: 7/8 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 04: Trek Chame to Pisang – Altitude: 3200 m/10524 ft. | Trek: 5- 6 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 05: Trek Pisang to Manang, Overnight at the local lodge – Altitude: 3400 m/11152 ft. | Trek: 5 to 6 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 06: Rest day at Manang for acclimatization – Altitude: 3400 m/11152 ft. | Meal: BLD
Day 07: Short Trek to Khansar Village – Altitude: 3734 m/12322 ft. Treks: 2 to 3 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 08: Excursion to Tilicho Lake, back to Tilicho Base Camp/Khangsar village – Altitude: 5200m/17056ft | Trek: 6 to 7 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 09: Trek Khansar Village to Yak Kharka – Altitude: 4010m/13153ft, | Trek: 4-5 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 10: Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi – Altitude: 4,600m/15,092ft. | Trek: 5-6 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 11: Trek to Muktinath via ThorungLa pass – Altitude: Thorung-la Pass: 5416 m/ 17873 ft. | Muktinath: 3800 m/12540 ft. | Trek: 7-8 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 12: Trek Muktinath to Jomsom – Altitude: 2720 m/ 8976 ft. | Trek: 5-6 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 13: Fly to Pokhara, transfer to Hotel – Altitude: 820 m/2705 ft. | Flight: 20 minutes | Meal: Breakfast
Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu – Altitude: 1350/4428 ft. | Meal: B
Day 15: Depart Kathmandu – Altitude: 1350/4428 ft. | Meal: Breakfast
What is the Minimum and Maximum Time frame of the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Well this generally depends upon the trekker preference if the trekkers are physically fit and can manage a 7-9 hours trek daily up the mountains then he/she can normally complete the trek in 10 days. But this journey is very strenuous as it takes a 12 days trek(Max) and compacts it for a shorter trek which eventually hikes up the trekking hours per day. So, if you are someone who hasn’t had much experience of trekking and want to trek enjoying each and every moment at the region then a 15 days time frame would be appropriate as it gives you the proper time to acclimatize and enjoy the scenic beauties of the trek.
How much Budget Is Required For Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Well, the budget estimation depends on what kind of trek one is embarking on and how much of a spender one is. But generally the cost ranges from anywhere around US $1000 to US $2000. It depends on how much one would like to splurge oneself with various extra luxuries as well.
What are the Necessary Prerequisites to consider For Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Necessary Permits Required?
The necessary permits required for trekking to Annapurna Region are:
- TIMS card
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP)
Why do You Need Permits?
The trekking permits for Annapurna Region Trek have their own significance.
The permit helps to maintain the safety and security of the trekkers by keeping the trekker’s record inside the National Park. In case of any emergencies such as earthquakes, landslides, etc. the information can then gathered to help the authorities help you. Rules and Regulations is also maintained with the help of this permits.
Once you enter the region the Local Area Permit helps to keep a record of the trekkers. This permit, allows to enter the region but must follow the local rules and regulations. The amount gathered from the permit are then used by the local authority for the maintenance of the trails, rest stops and information centers for the travelers.
Necessary Documents for Permit?
You just need your passport details, two photos, and you also need to fill up a short form to obtain the permit. All these fees are payable in local currency only.
Important documents and items:
- Valid passport, 2extra passport size photos, airline tickets
- Separate photocopies of passport, visa form( easily obtained at Kathmandu airport), proof of insurance
- Dollars, pounds or Euros in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and to purchase your own drinks and gifts
- Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines(bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler’s checks, etc.
Necessity of Insurance:
While traveling to Nepal, you are requested to have travel insurance that should cover any comprehensive expenses possible to acquire due to medical issues or accidents. Especially, your travel insurance must protect air ambulance, treatment charges, rescue and evacuation, product cancellation and refundable charges, flight delays, and cancellations.
Insurance Policy:
Traveling in the Himalayas is full of adventurous; hence it is wise to choose a proper insurance policy. While choosing your insurance policy, make sure that it will protect all such unforeseen expenses. You must ensure that the policy you do take provides an adequate level of protection, well familiar with your itinerary and covers you for the activities involved. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on holiday or send us a scanned copy and it must be issued from your homeland.
How much do you tip Guides and Porter?
In Nepal tipping is not mandatory but it is expected as major earning or saving funds is the tips for the guide/porter. Tipping is based on the experience you had with your trekking team. It totally depends upon how you felt about the services and overall hospitality that was provided to you so if you are satisfied you can tip them accordingly. Generally, 12-15% of the trip cost is considered ideal for tipping. You can divide the cost amongst the guide and porter as per your level of satisfaction.
Is Annapurna Circuit Trek Dangerous?
Yes, a bit. There are lots of crevices, precipitous drops and narrow paths that sometimes may feel like crumbling. But with proper precaution and safety measures the trek is mostly successful most of the times.
What Is The Difference Between Annapurna Base Camp And Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The first major differences between the two are the routes :
Annapurna Circuit Trek takes the route through Mannag and has trails that go to Thorong Phedi. Acclimatization is done at Manang to prepare for the Thorang La Mountain Pass.
As for Annapurna Base Camp Trek trekkers usually start the trip from Pokhara. The trekking trail of the base camp trek is to reach the base camp itself, which is reached after going through famous ethnic Sherpa and Gurung villages like Ghorepani, Dovan, and Deurali.
Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you to high mountain passes and revered places like Muktinath.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you through high alpine settlements and to the vantage point of Poon Hill.
The next major difference between the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek is the elevation:
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you to an elevation of around 13780 feet
Whereas the Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you to over 17770 feet
Another major differences between the two trek are the physical capability:
Annapurna Circuit Trek requires more physical soundness of the body to complete
Whereas Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be completed by anyone as it is easier
Can You See Everest From Annapurna Circuit?
No, one cannot see Everest from Annapurna Circuit but one can witness the amazing views of Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre Peak, Nilgiri Himal, Lamjung Peak, Pisang Peak, Dhaulagiri Range etc.
How Is Annapurna Circuit Temperature on October and November?
This is the most popular trek month to visit any region in Nepal. This month is filled with blue skies and freshly vitalized natural vegetation, clear sky and less haze. During this month the average temperature during the day is 15 Degree Celsius and during the night it’s slightly colder as the temperature drops to 7-8 Degree Celsius.
How Is Annapurna Circuit Temperature From March to May?
The month ranging from March to May are the spring months in Nepal and is another most popular time of the year for undertaking trekking in any regions. The month is full of beautiful wildflowers and splendid views of the snow capped mountains. The average temperature is around 18-22 Degree Celsius during these months at day time and the temperature can drop to chilling levels.
How Is Annapurna Circuit Temperature From June to August?
These months are known for the tenacious monsoon season in Nepal. During this month due to heavy rainfalls there are many landslides and flight cancellations. On a clear day it’s quite warm during the daytime and makes trekking more easy and during the night time it can get quite chilly.
How Is Annapurna Circuit Temperature on December and January?
These two month signifies the winter month in Nepal and are the coldest months. During the daytime, normally the temperature ranges from 7-12 Degree Celsius on the lower regions. But for the mid regions of 2000-4000m the temperatures are slightly lower. During the daytime the temperature normally is 2-8 Degrees Celsius. The nights are much colder than the daytime so warm clothing is a must during these months.
How Is Annapurna Circuit Temperature on September and February?
These two months are a bit different from other months as during these months one can experience two seasons in a single month.
During September, one can see the last traces of monsoon with short bursts of rain for the first two weeks. As the Mid-September kicks in the monsoon also ends and one can enjoy the autumn season. The temperature during this month ranges from 18-22 degrees celsius in the day as it’s quite warm. And at the high passes such as Thorong La one can experience the temperature of -4degrees celsius.
The early month of February is still a bit chilly and has a hint of winter in it. But by the mid of the month the spring makes it way and the arrival of clear days. One can see the beautiful hillsides immersed with blossoms various rare flowers. The temperatures during daytime is 7-12 degrees celsius and night time the temperature can drop below zero degrees.
Is The Wifi And Battery Charging Available During The Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Yes, most of the villages have a reliable hydro plant which generates electricity for the whole village. So, one can easily get access to electricity and charge ones electrical devices. Though some may not charge you for the service but in some places they may charge you money for charging devices.
And wifi is also available during most part of the trek but one shouldn’t expect the connection to be as fluid as in the city areas as the elevation also plays a vital role in the network connection.
What Is The Total Distance Of Annapurna Circuit Trek?
While beginning trek from Pokhara, distance is 181 kilometers/ 112.46 miles till Annapurna circuit end point. Eventually, the gross distance is 362 kilometers/ 224.93 miles for both ways.
Where Do You Get The Permits For The Trek?
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP) can be issued from Nepal Tourism Board located in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu City. And TIMS card can be issued from Bhrikutimandap or Thamel.
Is Thorong La Pass Hard?
Yes, Thorong La Pass is a bit strenuous as it is one of the highest passes in Nepal at an elevation of 5416m. As the Thorong La Pass is usually snowbound and the trail also gets harder to find due to snow it is very necessary to take precautions while trekking.
Is Annapurna Circuit Trek Hard?
Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered moderately strenuous as one has to trek through high altitude passes so it is very necessary to acclimatize properly as altitude plays a vital role during this trek.
Can You Do Annapurna Circuit Without A Guide?
It is possible to do the Annapurna Circuit without a guide but we advise you to take a guide as it is considered a strenuous trek and has lots of high altitude passes one being the Thorong La Pass. So, it would be wise to take a guide with you for the trek.
Where Does The Annapurna Circuit Start From?
Majority of the trekkers start on the Besisahar side and the more experienced and adventure seeking walk from Besisahar to Chamje (2 days) along the dirt road. This route is beautiful as it curves up the Marsyangdi River valley with the big mountains lurking behind—but trekkers compete with a stream of jeeps and busses. On the other side, the road starts around Jomsom and the walk from Jomsom to Pokhara takes 4–6 days.
Some Other Treks In The Annapurna Region?
1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna base camp trek is an amazing walk through diverse landscape and culture complete with rich mountain vistas, terraced fields, quaint Gurung villages and a wide variety of flora and fauna. Mt. Annapurna (8091m) of Nepal is the 10th highest mountain in the world and the journey to its base camp, which is at 4130m/13549ft height, is one of the most popular walks on earth. Moreover, we reach our destination via Mt. Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) which is revered by the Nepalese for its unique beauty. Furthermore, thanks to the well groomed itinerary of the Annapurna Base Camp trekking package, it is a popular choice among diverse outdoor enthusiasts, from a solo female traveler to hikers travelling in groups to Nepal. It is regarded probably one the best legendary and classical treks in the world which offers majestic mountain View, give opportunity to experience the typical Nepali village, local people and their way of living traditional life in Himalaya of Nepal. The Annapurna Base Camp route goes passing through spectacular and tranquil landscapes, charming Gurung and Magar villages, lush green Rhododendron, bamboo and alpine forests to the trip’s last and final destination, Annapurna Base Camp at the height of 4130m (13546ft. the trek offers a beauty of mother nature at its real best.
Here is the standard itinerary for Annapurna region.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport, transfer to hotel (Altitude: 1350/4428 ft.)
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara, transfer to Hotel (Altitude: 823 m/2710 ft. Drive: 5/6 hrs. Meal: Breakfast)
Day 03: Drive to Nayapul, Tirkedhunga (Altitude: 1,577m/5205 ft.; Drive: 1 hrs. Trek: 3/4 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 04: Trek to Ghorepani (Altitude: 2,800m/9,186ft Trek: 5-6 hrs. Meals: BLD)
Day 05: Early Morning Excursion to Poon Hill for sunrise view and trek to Tadapani (Altitude: At Poonhill: 3210 m/10531 ft. Tadapani: 2,600m/8528 ft. Trek: 7-8 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 06: Trek to Chhomrong (Altitude: 2170 m/7095 ft. Trek: 5-6 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 07: Trek to Dovan or Himalaya (Altitude: 2,600m/8580 ft. Trek: 5-6 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 08: Trek to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (Altitude: 3,700m/12210 ft. Trek: 3/4 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 09: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp and back to Deurali (Altitude: 4,130m/13,545ft. 3,231m /12210 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 10: Trek to Bamboo (Altitude: 2,300m/7,544 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 11: Trek to Jhinu Danda (Altitude: 1,780m/5,859 ft. Trek: 5-6 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 12: Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara (Altitude: 823m/2,700ft Trek: 6-7 hrs. Drive: 2 hrs. Meal: BL)
Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu; evening Farewell Dinner (Altitude: 1350/4428 ft. Drive: 5-6 hrs. Meal: B)
Day 14: Departure transfer (Altitude: 1350/4428 ft. Meal: Breakfast)
2. Ghorepani/Poonhill Trek
Poon hill trekking is also known as the Annapurna sunrise trekking or Annapurna Panorama trekking. This trekking is comparatively easy and most popular to the tourists among the treks. The viewpoint of Poon hill (3210m) that marks the destination of the beautiful trek. Trekkers can enjoy the treks with incredible Himalayan attraction. There are different packages for Poon hill Trekking. The journey of trek starts from the flight of Kathmandu valley towards beautiful Pokhara city. After landing on the Pokhara city, after one and a half hour drive they can reach Nayapul. After that according to the package they start for a trek. If trekker goes for the 3 days trekking than it starts through Nayapul trek to Ulleri being Ghorepani Poon hill and back to Hile and from Hile again drive back to Pokhara. Now for the 4 days trekking it starts through Nayapul trek to Ulleri being Ghorepani Poon hill and then another route to Nayapul through Tadapani and Ghandruk village. Again in the same way, for 5 days trekking it starts through Nayapul trek to Ulleri being Ghorepani Poon hill and then another route to Nayapul through Tdapani, Ghandruk village, Tolka and then Dhampus village. For this route of trekking overall the trekker should walk 6 to 7 hours per day. The price of the trekking also differs according to the packages of trekking. On the way trekkers can enjoy more small villages and mountain sceneries too. Trekkers especially can feel the whistle of the Rhododendron forest full of birds and amazing valleys also the snow capped mountains.
Here’s the standard itinerary for Ghorepani Poonhill Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu – Altitude:1,400 m | Meal: Breakfast
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara in a Tourist Bus | Trek: 6/7 hours | Meal: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive to Nayapul – Altitude:1,010 m and Trek to Tikhedunga – Altitude:1,570 m | Trek: 4 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 04: Trek to Ghorepani – Altitude:2,840 m | Trek: 5 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 05: Hike up to Poon Hill – Altitude:3,210 m and Trek to Tadapani – Altitude:2,610 m | Trek: 7 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 06: Trek to Ghandruk – Altitude:1,940 m | Trek: 4 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 07: Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara – 5 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 08: Drive Back to Kathmandu | Trek: 7 hrs | Meal: BD
Day 09: Spare Day | Meal: Breakfast
Day 10: Transfer to the International Airport for Your Final Departure. | Meal: Breakfast
3. Mardi Himal Trek
Iconic Mardi Himal trek is the short and recently developed trekking destination situated at the lap of Mardi Himal and the impressive Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) in Annapurna Region. In fact, this destination is identified as one of the hidden gems among untold of Annapurna likewise walking trial is considered as the unbeatable path. It is perfect to encounter the brilliance of solitary ever snow capped tops and the colossal chance of excellent cultural experience and wonder of Machhapuchhre Base Camp. The colorful and interesting trail meanders through rich valleys, alpine meadows, lichen-loaded forest, various streams and waterfalls with the captivating mountain views reflexive upon the nearby skyline. The way is so less utilized and non-touristy that you feel like embarking upon a discovery campaign. The trip covers attractive glacial valleys and the landscapes of Annapurna along most of the walking paths are harsh and slippery to march ahead. Seriously, without any doubt, this amazing trekking destination is the alternative performance to glimpse the hidden territory and attraction of Annapurna region. But on present context, this destination is being rapidly pursued by multiple trekkers day by day because due to the splendid scene perspective of Annapurna encompassed by numerous other miniscule and towering peaks.
Here’s the standard itinerary for Mardi Himal Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and trek preparation. | Meal: B
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara – Altitude: 850m | Drive: 6/7hrs | Meal: B
Day 04: Pokhara to Phedi drive and Trek to Pothana – Altitude: 1970m | Drive: 40min | Trek: 5 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 05: Pothana to Forest Camp – Altitude: 2550m | Trek: 7 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 06: Forest Camp to High Camp – Altitude: 3580 m | Trek: 6 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 07: High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and back to High Camp – Altitude:4500 m | Trek: 6/7hrs | Meal: BLD
Day 08: High Camp to Siding Village – Altitude: 1850m | Trek: 7 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 09: Siding Village to Pokhara – Altitude: 850m | Trek: 2.5 hours | Drive:1 hour | Meal: BL
Day 10: Sightseeing and relaxing Pokhara. | Meal: B
Day 11: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. | Meal: B
Day 12: Departure day | Meal: B
Hope this Information regarding the Annapurna Circuit Trek gives you useful insights on how to prepare oneself for the trek to the beautiful, magnificent and aspiring region i.e. The Annapurna. So, if the above mentioned things are taken into proper consideration than you will have a wonderful time trekking in the most spectacular region. Carry all the necessary permits as mentioned above take all the precautions and there’s no way you are not going to have a wonderful time.
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