Introduction
Nepal is a country which has long been synonymous with Himalayas and adventure activities and has long been touted as a trekkers paradise. Not just in the country of Nepal, trekking in annapurna region is one of the most sought after adventure activities. Besides the more popular annapurna base camp trek, the annapurna region offer plenty of trails to suit every kind of a hikers from seasoned mountaineers to casual hikers. The region is home to two 8000ers in Annapurna I (8,091 meters) and Dhaulagri (8,167 meters). With a diverse landscape, the region offers one of the most accessible trekking routes with unparalled beauty.
Why the Annapurna Region?
The annapurna region offers a stunning variety of landscapes from alpine meadows, lush green forests, rocky mountains and high altitude deserts making a trek through the region as dramatic as it can be. Located centrally to the north of Nepal, the gateway to the Annapurna region is Pokhara, a charming lake city in its own right.
The Annapurna conservation area is spans 7,629 kilometers and is rich in biodiversity with unique flora and fauna. The region is home to rhododendron forests, Himalayan blue sheep and the elusive snow leopard. Moreover, between the two 8000ers lies the valley of the Kali-Gandaki river, the deepest gorge in the world. Apart from the landscapes, the region is dotted with Gurung, Magar and Thakali villages, making a trek through this region a culturally immersive experience.
Best time to trek in the Annapurna region
Before we dive into the probable trekking routes in the region, lets take a look at the best times to visit. The ideal seasons are Spring and the Autumn season. During these seasons the temperatures are moderate, the weather is stable and with clear skies, the views are stunning as well. If you like trails riddled with snow you can opt for Spring season. The autumn season is also the festive season in Nepal making treks during this time a culturally immersive destinations too.
Avoid trekking to high altitudes in the monsoon and the winter season. The monsoon season brings a lot of rain making the hills prone to landslides. The trails are also slippery and riddled with leeches. Winter season is also not the favored time as the temperatures can drop in too step with a lot of snow.
Top trekking routes in the Annapurna Region
1. Ghorepani Poonhill trek
Duration : 4-5 days
Highest elevation: 3,200 meters (Poonhill)
Difficulty: Easy
Highlight: Sunrise from Poonhill
If you are short on time and want to trek in the Annapurna region then Ghorepani poonhill trek is your answer. The trek starts from Nayapul and takes you to charming villages of Tadapani, Ghorepani and Ghandruk. The major highlight of this trip is the sunrise view from Poonhill which is a hillstation located above Ghorepani. The view of the first rays of sun striking the himalayan range and turning them to gold is truly a sight to behold.
The tea houses on the trail are well-stocked and the gentle gradients of the trail make this a very pleasant trek. However, the fame of poonhill can make it a bit crowded, and if your would rather prefer a peaceful setting then you can consider the nearby mohare danda.
2. Mardi Himal Trek
Duration: 5-7 days
Highest elevation: 4,500 meters (Mardi Himal base camp)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlight: Mardi Himal Base Camp
Opened as recently as 2012, it’s a lesser traveled gem. Starting off from Pokhara, the trail takes you through forests and ridgelines to the high camp with an exceptional view of the Mardi Himal. Furthermore, with the towering views of Machhapuchare and Annapurna South, the trek is as soothing to the eyes as it can be. The base camp offers raw beauty and solitutde, a much welcome difference than the more busier trails. This trek suits to those who wish to reach above 4000 meters, but without extreme difficulty.
3. Annapurna base camp trek
Duration: 7-12 days
Highest elevation: 4,230 meters (Annapurna base camp)
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Highlights: Gurung Villages, Machhapuchre and Annapurna base camp
The annapurna base camp trek also sometimes known as the Annapurna Sanctuary trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. The trail starts off from the lakecity of Pokhara and takes you through quaint gurung villages like Ghandruk, Chomrong before reaching the base camp. The moderate altitude makes it an ideal trek for those who seek to visit the heart of the himalays without putting in too much of a strenuous hike.
Once at the base camp you can see the mighty Annapurna I (8,091 meters) standing tall before your eyes. Additionally you also pass through Machhapuchre base camp. Lastly you also get the option of returning via Jhinu where a natural hot spring is located. You can ease off the tireness by taking a dip into the hot spring at the end of the trip.
4. Annapurna circuit trek: A classic himalayan adventure
Duration: 12-21 days
Highest elevation: 5,416 meters (Thorong La Pass)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Highlights: Thorong la pass, diverse landscapes, Muktinath Temple, Himalayan vista
The annapurna circuit trek has been long known as one the best long-distance trails in the world. The trial rounds off Annapurna massif and takes you through river valleys such as Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki, where the deepest gorge in the world is located. The trek starts from Besisahar and typically ends in Nayapul and offers magnificent views of mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchre among a range of other mountains.
The trail takes you through dense forests, charming gurung villages, himalayan deserts, temples and valleys making the trek a unique experience. The hallmark of the trek is the Thorong La Pass crossing followed by a descent to Muktinath temple which is a significantly sacred temple for Hindus and Buddhists alike. For an added adventure you can also consider a side quest to Tilicho Lake (4,919 meters) which is one of the highest placed lakes in the world.
Essential tips for trekking in Annapurna region
- Permits: You will require Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) which you can get from the Tourism Board in Kathmandu.
- Packing: Bring layers for varieties of climate. Some of the essentials are, sturdy trekking boots, inner thermals, down jacket, raingear, backpack, sunglasses, beanie, gloves, light high dry shirt and trousers and trekking poles.
- Acclimatization: Take it slow in high altitude areas as there will be risks of altitude sickness and there are lack of proper medical facilities in the region.
- Accommodation and food: Comfortable lodges with basic amenities are available in the region. As for food you can also find some western offerings but mostly you can find Nepalese and Tibetan inspired dishes.
Conclusion
The trekking routes of Annapurna region offer the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and physical challenges. With routes ranging from beginner friendly to more seasoned trekkers, Annapurna region has everything you ask for. So, plan your trip, lace your boots and get ready for adventure. Check out the link https://ntb.gov.np/annapurnaregion to know more about trekking in annapurna region. If you want to check out details of treks in annapurna region click https://naatatravels.com/trip-category/annapurna-region/
