Annapurna Region

Trekking in the Annapurna Region

The Annapurna region of Nepal falls on the list of the one of 10 best treks on the planet. The region is named after Annapurna, derived from Sanskrit, which means “full of grains,” and is often associated with the “Goddess of Harvests,” a Hindu goddess of fertility. It’s a perfect place to go for trekking who love challenges and want to create a lifetime experience. Trekking in Annapurna region Nepal gives you the chance to experience breathtaking mountain scenery, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. The more interesting part about this trekking is the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek. This trek goes in a loop which means you won’t see the same scenery twice. Therefore, trekking in the Annapurna region is suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers. In a simple word, we can say the Annapurna region of Nepal is a trekker’s paradise because it offers different options of routes along with getting close to the natural and cultural beauty of Nepal. Trekkers will get the reward along the journey with routes that are dotted with traditional teahouses, ancient Tibetan temples, subtropical lowlands, and towering snowy peaks.

The Annapurna Range in Annapurna Region Trekking

Stretching over 55 kilometers, The Annapurna Range has a series of highest mountains with Mt. Annapurna I, being the tenth-highest summit in the world at 8,091 meters. This range lies at the east of the deep valley cutting through mountains by the Kali Gandaki River, which separates it from the Dhaulagiri Massif. Dhaulagiri I is 34 kilometers west of Annapurna I 8,091 meters (26,545 ft). To protect the environment and promote sustainable tourism, the Government has established the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) which looks after the entire massif. The Annapurna range includes three other significant peaks: Annapurna II (7,937 meters), Annapurna III (7,555 meters), and Annapurna South (7,219 meters). Unlike other giants, Annapurna I barely stands out, as much of it is hidden by other peaks in front of it.

Highlights of The Annapurna Circuit

As we have already mentioned the Annapurna Circuit is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world. This route circles the Annapurna Massif and gives you the chance to explore Himalayan experiences closely. Starting in the warm town of Besisahar at 760 meters, the trek gradually climbs up to the highest point, Thorong La Pass, at 5,416 meters. Furthermore, along the journey, trekkers will get the chance to experience different Annapurna trekking region weathers and climates like green tropical forests and dry, and high-altitude landscapes. The Annapurna Circuit covers a distance of 160 to 230 kilometers and takes between 12 to 22 days to complete according to the path you choose. Trekkers will also get the chance to connect with fellow adventurers or local people (Gurung & Magar) as they have to stay in teahouses, small mountain lodges that provide basic accommodation and meals along the way. This journey covers prominent peaks like Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), 7th highest peak in the world, alongside beautiful mountain villages and green steeped fields.

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek

Another popular trekking route is the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. Surrounded by some of the highest peaks, this trek takes you through a high glacial basin. Usually, it takes ten days to reach the trek’s highest point at Annapurna Base Camp, which is situated at an altitude of 4,130 meters. This ABC trek also gives you the chance to have an intimate experience with the mountains, snow-capped peaks, rhododendron forests, Gurung people, and their culture. This trek follows a straight path, so trekkers can enjoy the stunning view without retracing their steps.

Other Popular Annapurna region trekking trips

Annapurna region treks have more than Annapurna Circuit and ABC trek, it has several other noteworthy trekking routes like:

1. Mardi Himal Trek: Opened to hikers in 2011, this trek is an ideal option for a less crowded and quieter experience. It is a five-day trek where you will get to see mountains like Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna I.
2.  Poon Hill-Ghorepani Trek: It is famous as a short-duration trek of three to five days. You will get to explore ethnic Magar villages, terraced farmland, and a famous pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill for a stunning sunrise view.
3. Lake Tilicho Trek: One of the most popular side hikes of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Most of all Tilicho Lake is the highest lake of its size in the world situated at 4,919 meters. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, its pristine blue-green waters make the whole journey worthwhile.
4.  Lower Mustang: Different from the greenery of other parts of Nepal, towns like Jomsom, Marpha, and Kagbeni give you the chance to understand the cultural and historical places with the option to visit the sacred Muktinath Temple. You can easily book a flight or bus from Pokhara to reach there.
5. Nar Phu Valley: Situated between the Annapurna and Manaslu regions, this less visited valley was closed to visitors until 2003. Going through rugged trails, high peaks, and Tibetan Buddhist culture through a nine-day trek to Nar Phu is unforgettable.

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