The Annapurna region is a trekker’s paradise, featuring some of Nepal’s iconic mountains - Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and the massive Annapurna range itself.

While heading to Everest Base Camp may be the most popular trek, the Annapurna region is the most popular trekking area in Nepal. Gifted with exceptional natural features, the region has different grades of trekking destinations suitable for every outdoor enthusiast. All you need to do is choose your trek and make the necessary preparations.

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is one of the popular trekking choices in this region as it takes you right to the foot of Annapurna, experiencing authentic Nepali culture and lifestyle on the way. You can also trek to two base camps at once - Machhapuchhre and Annapurna. The ABC trek is suitable for both novice and experienced travelers.

Another option is the Annapurna Circuit, which is a trek within the Annapurna mountain ranges. One of the harder treks, it stretches between 160-230 kilometers with Thorang La Pass (5416m) as its highest point. Other trekking options in this region include Upper Mustang Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Ghorepani Trek, Tilicho Lake, etc.

The circuit trek offers awe-inspiring views of the Annapurna Conservation Area including scenic views of the lowlands along with spectacular mountains.

The charming villages of this region are another plus point. Along your journey, you visit the settlements of Ghandruk, Ghorepani, Chhomrong, Tangbe, and more. These villages showcase different ethnicities, so you get to learn about the Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali traditions. Moreover, the locals are welcoming and provide you with the best services possible.

But it’s not all about mountains. After a strenuous trek to ABC you get a chance to relax and recharge your batteries in the natural hot sprints at Jhinu Danda. The therapeutic water is an ideal tonic for your tired body towards the end of the trek.

Annapurna Region Map

Popular Trek Routes

  • Annapurna Circuit Trek
  • Manaslu Circuit Trek

The map is an artist Impression and not an actual map.

ANNAPURNA REGION

The Annapurna Circuit is renowned as one of the world’s greatest treks. While most trekkers follow the standard route there are a number of interesting side trips that can be added or alternate shorter treks if one lacks time to complete the entire circuit. Here we give a brief summary of the Annapurna Circuit as well as the possible side trips and alternate routes.

20 days
Difficult
Hotel, lodges & tented camp

Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Trek Highlights

    • Spectacular view of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Chule peak, and Tukuche peak.
    • Visit the pristine lake of Tilicho at the stunning height of 4949 meters.
    • Cross the widest mountain pass in Nepal, the Thorong La Pass (5416 m.
    • Visit the revered Muktinath temple and witness pilgrims taking a bath in the 108 stone sprouts.
    • Witness hundreds of yaks grazing on the high pastureland. Relish the delightful sunrise over the Himalayas from the vantage point, Poon Hill.
14 days
Moderate
Lodges

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek Highlights

    • Visit the UNESCO heritage sites in Kathmandu valley.
    • Spectacular view of mountains like Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal, Gangapurna, and many other peaks.
    • Stand at the base of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Annapurna Base Camp.
    • Trek through the deep and tranquil forests of the Annapurna sanctuary.
    • Enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise over the Himalayas from Poon Hill.
    • Acquaint with the lifestyle and culture of the Gurung people.
9 days
Moderate
hotel, lodge, camping

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Highlights

    • Trek to Poon Hill to see the beautiful panorama of the Himalayas
    • Discover the unique cultures of the ethnic community of Gurungs, Magars, and Tamangs
    • Explore the historic city of Kathmandu
13 days
Moderate
Hotel, Local Lodge

Mardi Himal Trek Highlights

    • Scenic flight to Pokhara and Kathmandu
    • Walk through beautiful rhododendron & pine forest observing rare wild animals & birds
    • Explore lush valleys with the spectacular view of the Annapurna Himalayas
    • Experience highland gurung people’s lifestyle and their unique cultural hospitality
    • Amazing view of Annapurna Range; Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre and Hiuchuli