Annapurna Region

Annapurna region | Popular trekking area in Nepal

Annapurna region is the most diverse and popular trekking area in Nepal. From the full three-week Annapurna Circuit, which stretches into the historic Mustang region to short treks like, Mardi himal, Poon hill trek suitable for everyone here, are all located in this region.

Annapurna Base Camp is one of the outstanding moderate nature trekking trails. This trail has been attracting anyone’s attention through its geographic diversity including breathtaking landscape, panoramic view of snow-capped peaks of the great Himalayas such as Annapurna-I (8091 m), Annapurna-II (7937 m), Annapurna-III (7555 m), Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Machhapuchhre (6998 m) and Gangapurna. The name suggests, the centerpiece of this part of Nepal is the range of mountains that includes Annapurna I, the first of the 8,000 m peaks to be climbed. Also included in this region is yet another 8,000 m giant, Dhaulagiri, which is located west of Annapurna I.  Between these two mountains lies the valley of the Kali-Gandaki  River, the Deepest gorge in the world.

Trekkers encounter the interesting Thakali people in this region. They are known for being good in business ventures and their home cooking is relished by both tourists. Scenic river banks, picturesque forest valley, Hindu and Buddhist temples, culturally rich traditional villages of ethnic communities of Magar, Gurung, Ghale, Thakali, and their hospitality are some of the highlights of this trekking route. Lush view, fertile farmland and undisturbed natural forest, snow-capped mountains, and encounters with a mixture of many ethnic communities, all add up to a diverse range of experiences that make the Annapurna trek one of the most satisfying treks in Nepal. 

The Annapurna Conservation Area (7,629 km²) is a well-known trekking region. There are three major trekking routes in the Annapurna region: the Jomson Trek to Jomsom and Muktinath  Annapurna Sanctuary route to Annapurna base camp; and the Annapurna Circuit, which circles the Annapurna Himal itself and includes the Jomsom route. The town of Pokhara usually serves as a starting point for these treks and is also a good starting place for other short treks of one to four days, such as routes to Ghorepani or Ghandruk.

The Mustang district, a former kingdom bordering Tibet, is also geographically a part of the Annapurna region, but treks to upper Mustang are subject to special restrictions. Mustang is also increasingly becoming popular for mountain biking because of the construction of roads undertaken by the Nepali government in the region.

About two-thirds of all trekkers in Nepal visit the Annapurna region. The area is easily accessible, guest houses in the hills are plentiful, and treks here offer incredibly diverse scenery, with both high mountains and lowland villages. Also, because the entire area is inhabited, trekking in the region offers unique cultural exposure and experience. Trekkers are required to purchase a special permit for trekking from the Nepal Immigration Office, with the permit generally being valid for ten days.

We offer following hiking and trekking experience in Annapurna region.