Everything you need to know before trekking to Annapurna Region.

Everything you need to know before trekking to Annapurna Region.
Everything you need to know before trekking to Annapurna Region.

The Annapurna Region has become one of the prime destinations for trekking enthusiasts around the world.  Annapurna is trekkers' paradise and known for majestic mountains, green valleys, unique culture, breathtaking views, and stunningly beautiful nature. Annapurna Base Camp lies 40KM north of Pokhara, Nepal, and over 4,100 meters above sea level. Annapurna region covers Nepal's iconic mountains including Fishtail and Annapurna Massif itself. Charming Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi villages are the main cultural highlights of this region. Also known as the popular natural habitat of thousands of amazing animals, birds, and varieties of flora and fauna, Nepal has declared it as one of the conservation areas. The best part of trekking in the Annapurna Region is even the remote villages in this trail offer lodges and guest houses eagerly waiting to serve the tourists with enormous hospitality.  The lifestyle and traditions of the inhabitants here are fascinating.

 The major highlights of Annapurna Trekking include the beautiful mid-western salt-route, local lifestyle, and culture of Manang, Thorong-La pass, famous Muktinath temple, the deepest gorge of the world Kaligandaki, and Upper Mustang of Lomanthang. Here's a detailed guide regarding the most happening and rewarding treks in Annapurna Region. For detailed information and a day-to-day itinerary, you can also go through our website.

Some tips before you sign up for any of the treks.

⦁          Plan your trip according to ability and conditions and inform your people about the route you've selected.

⦁          be prepared for bad weather, even in the short treks.

⦁          Bring all the necessary items so you can help yourself and others if needed.

⦁          always choose safe routes

⦁          Use a map and a compass to know where you are.

⦁          Follow the instruction of guides and locals

Best Months to trek in Annapurna Region.

Best Months to trek in Annapurna Region.

Best Months to trek in Annapurna Region

Normally you can trek between Sep-Dec and Mar-May but depending upon altitude and difficulty level of the trek, it might be different. Some treks are not safe at all when there is snow. During October-December month, the landscapes turn green and lush because of monsoon rains and natural views are crystal clear. Similarly, during the Mar-May month's weather is warm and clear. You'll see a clear view of spectacular snow-covered peaks. Trekking in the Annapurna Region means you need to be prepared for all sorts of weather conditions as it can change relatively quickly.

What are the necessary things to bring in a Backpack?

You always need to make separate spaces for extra layers of clothing. There are a few more things to add such as energy drinks, amusement, power bank, basic first aid kit, headlamp, eco-friendly sunscreen, reusable water bottle, snacks, and of course basic trekking equipment.

What to wear?

In the inner layer, we recommend you to wear woolen clothes which transports the humidity out of the body and will keep you warm even though it gets wet. In the middle layer, use wool or fleece, and an outer layer, use a waterproof windshield as it will keep you safe from the cold outside. 

Prepare for 4 seasons in one trek

In the early days, you'll probably be asking yourself why did I bring all these warm clothes for. These treks cover all from tropical to alpine climatic zones where you'll be hiking in shorts in the first few days and as the trek goes up to high altitude, you'll be wearing all of your clothes as the brutally cold wind starts to hit you hard.

How fit do I need to be to trek on Annapurna Region?

It depends on the trekking destination you're going for. If you're going to Khayer Lake, Annapurna Base Camp, Manaslu Trek, you need to have previous trekking experience. You don't need to have prior trekking experience for Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, etc.

How long do we have to walk during the trek in Annapurna Region?

On Average, you have to walk around 6-8 hours every day. But sometimes, it can be 4-6 hours also. It depends on the trail you're walking and the destination you're going for.

Foods and Lodges in Annapurna Region

You'll find nice and clean lodges with the facility of a private room in almost all places. Varieties of food options will be provided for you prepared by locally trained cooks.

How many trekking options are there in the Annapurna region?

There are several but the most popular are Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Poon Hill Ghorepani Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek, Jomsom Muktinath. Mohare Danda Trek and Khopra Danda Trek are newly opened and less crowded treks.

Top 7 trekking destinations in the Annapurna Region.

1. Annapurna circuit trekking 

 

Trek Facts

Duration: 5-14 days

Maximum Elevation:4,130m

Best Season: Mar-May Sep-Nov

Trek starts from Nayapul

Trip ends: Nayapul

Difficulty: Demanding

Accommodation: Tea Houses

 

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is undoubtedly one of the best treks in the Annapurna region. Enjoy vibrant local culture, panoramic views of snow-clad mountains that are more than 6000m high including Fishtail, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, etc. Discover the rich culture and tradition of Gurung, Magar, and Brahmin locals and visit picturesque landscapes and terrain. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate trek providing close-up Himalayan views and diverse trekking trail. The local teahouses in the Annapurna Trekking Region are well equipped with extensive menus ranging from the famous Nepali dal Bhat (rice with lentils) to pizza and Noodles. Exploring diverse flora and fauna, witnessing Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m, relaxing natural hot-spring at Jhinu Dada, Amazing Himalayan panoramas, pretty villages, and farmland at Ghandruk, and unique Nepali lifestyle are the main highlights of this trek.

 

2. Poon Hill Trek

Trek Facts

Duration: 5-9 Days

Maximum Elevation: 3,210m

Best Season:  Mar-May and Sep-Dec

Trek starts from Nayapul

Trip ends: Nayapul

Difficulty: Easy

Accommodation: Tea Houses

 

The trek that should be on everyone's Nepal trekking list is Poon Hill Trek. It is much more of a beginners-friendly trek offering majestic sunrise and sunset view over towering mountains, making it a great trek for a newbie or any adventure seeker. There are a few steep ascents, for the most part, it is a relatively easy and beautiful hike. Reaching the top, you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramas that are well worth the effort. You'll see many trekkers enjoying nature and snapping photos, please make sure you give the chance to everyone because this kind of amazing scene should be enjoyed by everyone, so click your photos and make the way for everyone out there. The trail is well-maintained and consists mostly of rolling hills. The best thing about this trek is you will get to explore the cultural insights of Gurung people and their lifestyle. If you're looking for a trek to go along with friends and family, Poon Hill Trek is the best option out there.

3. Jomsom Muktinath Trek

Trek Facts

Duration: 5-13 Days

Maximum Elevation: 3,670m

Best Season: Mar-May and Oct-Nov

Trek starts from Nayapul

Trip ends: Nayapul

Difficulty: Moderate

Accommodation: Lodge

 

Best opportunity to discover Buddhist and Hindu culture, history, and traditions is going on Jomsom Muktinath Trek. Situated north of Pokhara, the trek includes hiking through the deepest gorge in the world, Kaligandaki Gorge, exploring the soaring Himalayas, famous pilgrimage site Muktinath, and diverse landscapes. Annapurna region alone attracts more than 35% of tourists in Nepal. Jomsom Muktinath area is among the most comfortable, religious, historical, and spiritual sites. The trek starts from Pokhara and the final destination will be the Muktinath temple which is the famous pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. During your Jomsom stay, you can also taste local apples and apple made products. Mustang is not so far from here and this is the best chance to visit Mustang as well. If you have time and hunger inside to enjoy the adventure, then go for it, you won't regret it.

4. Mardi Himal Trek

Trek Facts

Duration: 5-11 Days

Maximum Elevation: 4,100m

Best Season: Mar-May and Sep-Dec

Trek starts from Phedi

Trip ends: Deurali

Difficulty: Moderate

Accommodation: Tea Houses

 

Mardi Himal trek is a combination of picturesque villages, dense forest of rhododendron, oak juniper, various species of birds and wild animals, ancient culture, and stunning snow-capped mountains. In Mardi Himal Trek, some parts of the trail are wet and steep but otherwise, there are not many technical difficulties. It is one of the less-visited trekking destinations in the Annapurna region. Even though it is off the beaten trail, it is not challenging like other treks. The trek allows you to witness the closest views of Annapurna Ranges and surrounding peaks including Annapurna, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, etc. It is a short and attractive trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal where we can try local delicacies, witness, and appreciate the green hills and mountain landscapes and enjoy the pristine views of gigantic mountains. Apart from trekking adventure, you will get to experience the lifestyle of rural life, taste unique cuisines, walkthrough interesting suspension bridges, and warm hospitality from locals.

5. Manaslu Circuit Trek

Trek Facts

Duration: 15-20 days

Maximum Elevation: 5,112m

Best Season: Sep-Dec and Feb-May

Trek starts from Kathmandu

Trip ends: Kathmandu

Difficulty: Difficult

Accommodation: Tea Houses

 

After climbing 4,000m above sea level, you can expect staggering Himalayan views making this demanding trek totally worth it. Trek to Manaslu is the most scenic route as you walk through several villages and ridges and get the best view along the trail.  Crossing the highest pass along the trail that is Larkya La Pass at 5,106m will give you the best feeling throughout the trek. Trekking experts around the world consider Manaslu Circuit Trek as one of the best trekking destinations in the world. It is a less-crowded trek than well-known treks like ABC Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, etc. The trek is off the beaten path, yet you'll find good teahouses and homestays, so trekkers no need to worry about food and accommodation. Some days on your trek will involve more than 8 hours of walk a day at high altitude so you've to be prepared for that. Solo trekkers are not allowed here so a minimum of 2 trekkers is required to attempt this trek.

6. Khayer Lake Trek

Trek Facts

Duration: 7-12 days

Maximum Elevation: 4,620m

Best Season: Sep-Dec and Jan-May

Trek starts from Kathmandu

Trip ends: Pokhara

Difficulty: Moderate

Accommodation: Tea Houses

 

Situated between beautiful Annapurna Base Camp and Jomsom Trekking trail, Khayer Lake Trek is a newly discovered trek that offers exceptional Himalayan views including Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, etc from the top of Khopra Ridge. Exploring high mountains, visiting sacred Khayer Lake, enjoying natural hot spring, and witnessing the best sunrise/sunset from Poon Hill are the main highlights of Khayer Lake Trek. The best part of this trek is you'll walk through stunning Nepali villages that expose classic Nepali culture and lifestyle. Do you know that feeling waking up every day and witnessing the spectacular Himalayas with a beautiful sunrise over it? You'll get this feeling every single day.  It is a moderate trek that will introduce you to dense mixed vegetation forest, terraced farmland, tranquil lakes, famous Poon Hill and Muldhai Viewpoint, etc. During the trek, you can also participate in numerous nature-based adventurous activities all year round that is both rugged and fragile.

7. Nar Phu Valley Trek

Trek Facts

Duration: 12-18 days

Maximum Elevation: 5,320m

Best Season: Feb-June and Sep-Dec

Trek starts from Kathmandu

Trip ends: Kathmandu

Difficulty: Demanding

Accommodation: Tea Houses

 

Untouched and spectacular, Nar Phu Valley will provide you the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and ancient Tibetan culture that is still practiced by locals. The land is diverse with astonishing rock formations, dense forests, snow-capped mountains, narrow canyons, amazing glaciers, etc. During the trek, you will find several places to stop for lunch or snacks, but don't forget to bring enough water, snacks, food, and energy drink to keep your energy level up during the whole trek. In Nar Phu valley, you can set up a tent and sleep under the stars and wake up to the most stunning sunrise of your life. You'll also get an opportunity to witness Tibetan culture with colorful prayer stones and thousand-year-old monasteries. Are you ready to cross one of the region's highest passes Kang La at 5,300m and Mesokanto-La at 5,200? Get ready to explore one of the absolute best valleys in Annapurna Region.

 

For more details about the treks listed above such as itineraries, packages, costs, best seasons, and related queries, feel free to contact us via email, social networks, or phone directly. We will be happy to assist you 24/7.

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