About Annapurna Region Trekking

Trekking in the Annapurna Region…an earthy paradise of exceptional natural beauty…

The diverse terrain and a mix of different cultures of the region north of Pokhara make each day's walk a different experience and has turned this area into the most popular destination in the country and the world. Four favorite treks, each with a minimum of about one week and maximum of three week treks, to Kali-Gandaki basin include Manang region, Annapurna range, Jomsom and the Annapurna Sanctuary make this region a hotspot for superb adventure in the sunshine. Alpine meadows, moraines, glaciers and breathtaking views of the Annapurna range abound in diverse landscapes; The three hundred kilometer Annapurna Circuit combines the first two areas by crossing the high altitude pass of Manang’s Thorung-La at (5360 meters) and takes up to three weeks to complete this wonder trek in this fantastic region.

The Annapurna region is based to the north of Central Nepal & is a region seeped into the bliss that is nature divine with an aura of natural beauty so wildly exposed, leaving viewers stunned…virtually! This area is the most popular and major trekking destination in Nepal. According to a recent survey by Modern Maturity (USA), the Annapurna region has been recognized as one of the best trekking trails in the world. The gateway to the Annapurna trekking region begins in the famous city of Pokhara; popularly known as the ‘City of Lakes’.

Mustang, or Lo Manthang, the desert plateau located in the upper valley of the River Kali Gandaki, and to the north of the main Himalayan range also falls in this region. Tourist access to Mustang is controlled to help preserve its exclusiveness. The highlight of these treks includes a visit to the Mustang Palace, the visit to Lo Manthang and pony rides to the Nepal-Tibet border.

Several ethnic groups are found living and working in this region, from Hindu farmers to Tibetan Lamas. The most prominent ethnic groups of the Annapurna region are the Gurungs, Thakalis and Manangbas. Due to the extremes of elevation the region contains a remarkable diversity of flora; from the sub-tropical lowland forests of oak, bamboo and rhododendron in the south to the high alpine meadows and windswept desert plateaus in the north, bordering Tibet. Animals found here are the pika, blue sheep and Himalayan Tahr.

From the plains of the Pokhara Valley lush with rice cultivation to the base camp of the mighty Annapurna Himal through the colorful villages, green forests, bamboo jungles, rivers and cascades rich with birds and animal life, this region is a literal nature’s galore. The trail brings us to the base of the South face of Mt. Annapurna South (7219m) through the base camp of Mt. Machhapuchhare (6993m). We generally minimize the walking hours for our guests in the base camp areas as it allows ample time to savor the wholesome view of the mighty Annapurna Himal at a pace that’s leisurely and comfortable.

The popular trekking routes of this region are Jomsom, the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp, Sikles, Lamjung, Dhaulagiri, Upper Mustang and all around Pokhara. The best time to visit this region is during spring and autumn. Unlike other parts of Nepal, even the monsoon months are ideal to visit Upper Mustang that falls in the rain shadow area. Most trekking routes in the Annapurna region are well serviced by teahouses… DON’T BE AMAZED IF YOU COME ACROSS A DELICIOUS APPLE PIE FOR DESSERT AFTER SUPPER… even in far-flung remote areas of this region…

This region falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area, a project for environmental and cultural protection, accommodating both native and foreign visitor needs. This region has something for every type of trekker; right from the green horn & for die hard adventurers who wish to see and enjoy the special charm of the high Himalayas and Glaciers closely, including wonder walks through Rhododendron & pine forest with a variety of birds and animals that keep you company all the way.

No matter what trek you embark on, it is most likely that Pokhara would be either the starting or ending point of your trek in the Annapurna region. Join a group at Annapurna Travel & Tours and begin a journey into the natural wilderness of Nepal; its not far from knocking on the doors to a heavenly paradise…you’ll know what we mean when you’re there…