Annapurna Region is the most scenic trekking region in Nepal Himalayas. Trekking in Annapurna region offers a magnificent scenery of picturesque landscapes, farming lands, river valleys, tropical and subtropical forested hills, alpine grasslands, high himalayan terrains and great Annapurna snow capped mountains views. Annapurna Region is protected by Annapurna Conservation Areas Project ( ACAP), under National Trust for Nature Conservation ( NTNC), which is a non profitable organization formed by Nepal Government to work in the field of nature conservation in Nepal.
Encircling the Annapurna Mountains Range, it is enclosed by the Marshyangdi River on the east, & the Kali Gandaki River on the west and the Pokhara Valley on the south. In the north, Annapurna region borders the Nepal-Tibetan border. Having different landscapes and geographical terrains, Annapurna Region offers a great choice of trekking options in the region. As this region elevation starts from 827m from sea level to the top of Annapurna I- 8091m, it has greater choices of trekking in the region including multi-day treks in lower loops in Annapurnas which suit people of any age and any fitness or peoples who treks with kids and family.
Some of the famous trekking in the region are, Annapurna Circuit Trek known as classical scenic trek in Nepal, Tilicho Lake Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Jomsom Valley Trek, Mustang Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Khopra Danda Trek, Ghandruk Circuit Trek etc. Out of all the treks, Annapurna Circuit Treks including Tilicho Lake & Thorong-la Pass (5416m) circles the great annapurna mountains range, is the most incredible but demanding trekking in this region. Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Mustang Valley & Jomsom Valley Trek, Mardi Himal Trek & Khopra Danda Trek are very scenic and moderate trekking in Annapurna region. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and Ghandruk Circuit Trek consider easy trekking options in Annapurna region.
How to get to Annapurna Region?
Annapurna region is easily accessible from Kathmandu and from Pokhara. Kathmandu to Besisahar takes about 7 hours drive then the trailhead to Annapurna circuit starts. Pokhara is the main center of Annapurna region, and most of the Annapurna region treks start and end in Pokhara.
Trails in Annapurna Region:
Annapurna region treks have great trekking infrastructure, easy and comfortable trails. Managed and maintained by ACAP, this region has proper walking trails, good tea houses and community lodges and trekkers information centers with trail maps in Manang Valley & Jomsom to help travelers to walk safely in this region.
Major Point Points & Attraction in the Region:
Some of the major highlight part of this region treks are, Chame Village, Mannag Valley, Tilicho Lake, Gangapurna Glacier and Lake, Thorong Pass, Muktinath Temple, Mustang valley including Jomsom, Marpha, Kalopani, Tatopani, Ghorepani, Poon Hill view point. Poon Hill (3210m) offers the most panoramic views of the complete Annapurna region landscapes, himalayan terrains and snow capped mountain views of Annapurna and central himalayan range of Nepal.
Himalayan Communities in Annapurna Region:
Annapurna Region is inhabited by different caste peoples and enhnic groups of himalayan peoples. In a caste, it has Bramins, Chhetris & several marginalized communities throughout the region. Gurung, Magar, Thakali & Managi’s are the major enthic peoples lives in this region. Every ethnic group has their own vibrant culture and traditions. While trekking in this region, you will have a great opportunity to gain insight to the local culture, religions, traditions and daily lives.
Best Time to visit Annapurna Region:
Annapurna region treks could easily be trekked throughout the year so this region treks are for all seasons. However the best defined season for trekking in this region is Spring from March to May, and Autumn from September to December. These are the months that have great weather conditions, excellent visibility and pleasant temperature. If you are planning trekking to Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp, you should plan within this best time suggested for the best trek experience. Trekking to Ghorepani- Poon Hill, Jomsom Valley & Mustang Trek could easily be done throughout the year, even in peak winter and in monsoon season too.