The Best Annapurna Treks

May
26
2024

The Best Annapurna Treks offer an unparalleled adventure through one of Nepal’s most scenic and culturally rich regions. Located in the majestic Himalayas, the Annapurna range enchants adventurers with its varied terrains, majestic summits, and charming local communities. Whether you’re an experienced trekker seeking a challenging journey or a novice looking for a more leisurely exploration, the Annapurna region offers a variety of trekking options that are suitable for all levels of experience and interest.

Annapurna trekking region is part of Nepal’s Annapurna Conservation Area Project (“ACAP”). ACAP is 7,629km square in size and covers a significant portion of Nepal’s Himalayan range. If you enjoy stunning treks, you cannot pass up the chance to experience the world-famous Annapurna region. The area covered by ACAP is 7,629 km2, which is a big part of the Himalayan range in Nepal. This area is centered on the 8,091m-high Mount Annapurna and the group of mountains called the Annapurna massif. There are a lot of trails in the Annapurnas, and they connect to make many different treks.

“Mountains are the beginning and the end of all natural scenery.”

By John Ruskin

Trekking in Annapurna Region
Poon Hill Trek
Poon Hill Trekking Highlights
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trekking Highlights
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Circuit Trekking Highlights
Tilicho Lake Trek
Tilicho Lake Trekking Highlights
Nar Phu Valley Trek
Nar Phu Valley Trekking Highlights
Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek
Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trekking Highlights
Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trekking Highlights
Jomsom Muktinath Trek
Jomsom Muktinath Trekking Highlights

Trekking in Annapurna Region

The Annapurna region lies in Nepal’s western region. One of the most popular trekking locations in Nepal, it offers lush scenery, rivers, greenery, the deepest gorge in the world, snowy mountains, an old monastery, terraced fields, a charming forest with blooming rhododendron flowers, and breathtaking views of mountains like Mt. Dhaulagiri, Himchuli, Fishtail, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, and many others. Also, the walk includes a variety of settlements along the way with various ethnicities and cultural landmarks, such as holy mountains and the highest lake in the world. The Annapurna trekking region is full of culture and diversity, with the Gurung and Magar ethnic groups making up the majority of the local population.

Annapurna region offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, among others. Every season, a sizable number of tourists from all over the world are drawn to the Annapurna journey. The prominent trekking routes are Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani Poon hill trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Narphu valley walk, Jomsom Muktinath Trek, and many more. The Annapurna trekking area offers a number of hiking routes from a short trip to a long trip. Adventure sports including bungee jumping, kayaking, zip lining, paragliding, and white water rafting are also quite popular in Annapurna.

1. Poon Hill Trek

If you don’t have much time, this is one of the best treks in the entire Himalaya for a great experience and great views of awesome peaks. The trek can be done in as few as three days, but it’s better to take four. The trek starts in Nayapul, which is about an hour’s drive from Pokhara. Poon Hill (3,200 m) is the highest point of the trek. From there, you can see three of the 10 tallest mountains in the world, including Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), which is the seventh highest, Annapurna I (8,091 m), which is the tenth highest, and Manaslu (8,156 m), which is the eighth highest. Even from Ghorepani, where people usually stay the night before going to Poon Hill, the views are great, and if you’re in a hurry, you’ll probably appreciate the small cafes in this mountain village that have internet.

Poon Hill Trek Highlights

Poon Hill is famous for its stunning sunrise views. In the early morning, one can behold a breathtaking sight as the first rays of the sun illuminate the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, painting them with a magnificent golden hue. This creates a truly awe-inspiring panorama.

The trek offers breathtaking views of numerous snow-capped peaks, such as Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. These mountain vistas are uninterrupted and truly spectacular. The photo opportunities are exceptional.

During the trek, you will have the opportunity to engage with the local Gurung and Magar communities, allowing for meaningful cultural encounters. One can have the opportunity to explore traditional villages, observe their customs, and gain valuable insight into the way of life of the local community.

The trek will lead you through charming villages such as Ghandruk, Tadapani, and Ghorepani, each offering picturesque scenery. The settlements are situated on lush terraced fields, offering a glimpse into the traditional hillside life of the Nepalese people.

The trek takes you through stunning rhododendron forests, lush with vibrant colors. During the spring season, these forests come alive with a vibrant display of colors as the rhododendron flowers bloom, creating a breathtaking natural backdrop.

The Poon Hill trek is conveniently located near Pokhara, making it easily accessible. Additionally, the trek itself is relatively short in duration. This trek is ideal for individuals with limited time or less experience in trekking, making it an excellent opportunity to explore the Himalayas.

During your trek, you will have the opportunity to stay in cozy tea houses and lodges that provide essential amenities, meals, and a welcoming environment for rest and relaxation. This feature allows for easier access to the trek and reduces the need to carry camping equipment.

The Poon Hill trek is a well-known route, which means you’ll have the opportunity to meet other trekkers from different parts of the world. This can foster a sense of camaraderie and provide a platform for sharing travel experiences.

This trek will lead you through a range of terrains, including rhododendron forests and alpine meadows. As you journey, you will encounter a diverse and constantly evolving landscape.

The trek is designed to be short and flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your schedule. The usual timeframe for completion is 4-7 days, but feel free to customize the itinerary based on your preferences and the time you have available.

2. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

This trek takes you right to the base of the peaks, where you can get great views of Annapurna I, which is the 10th highest peak in the world, and Machhapuchhre, also called “Fish Tail” or “Matterhorn of Asia.” The trek is a shorter option than the full circuit, and it is very popular because you can get close to the tall peaks in the Annapurna Sanctuary, most of which are over 7,000 meters high. It usually takes 10 days and includes a stop at Poon Hill (Next Section) on the way up or back. The trek goes along the steep-walled canyon of the Modi River, which starts at the Annapurna Sanctuary and flows into the Modi River. After taking in the view from Poon Hill, it takes about 4 days to get to the Annapurna Base Camp from Tadapani by going up the canyon.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights

At Annapurna Base Camp, the trek reaches its pinnacle, offering breathtaking panoramic mountain views. You will find yourself surrounded by a 360-degree panorama of the world’s highest peaks, such as Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.

The base camp of Annapurna Sanctuary is located in a glacial basin, surrounded by majestic peaks, which creates a serene and sanctuary-like atmosphere amidst the mountains.

The trek to the natural hot springs begins or ends at Jhinu Danda, offering a wonderful opportunity to relax in the soothing waters. Taking a soothing soak is an ideal way to relax and unwind after your trek.

This route will lead you through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, offering you the chance to engage with the locals, immerse yourself in their culture, and witness their unique lifestyles.

The trek takes you through stunning rhododendron forests. During the spring season, these forests come alive with vibrant blooms, transforming the surroundings into a picturesque and aromatic setting.

During your journey along the trail, you will have the opportunity to stay in comfortable tea houses and lodges. These accommodations provide basic amenities, delicious meals, and a cozy environment where you can rest and rejuvenate. This feature enhances the accessibility of the trek and reduces the need for extensive camping equipment.

The ABC trek is classified as a moderate trek, which means it is suitable for trekkers with different levels of experience and fitness. Striking the right balance, it should be challenging enough to give a sense of accomplishment without being excessively strenuous.

The trek takes you through a range of terrains, including terraced fields, bamboo forests, and alpine meadows. This provides a constantly shifting landscape throughout your journey.

The Annapurna region boasts a rich biodiversity, with a wide variety of plant and animal species calling it home. During the trek, you may have the opportunity to observe a variety of bird species, deer, and other wildlife.

When reaching the base camp of Annapurna South, trekkers have the opportunity to ascend to a rocky outcrop called Annapurna South Base Camp. This allows them to get even closer to the magnificent peaks.

The base camp and nearby vantage points provide stunning views of the sunrise and sunset over the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges.

The ABC trek is a great starting point for those who want to explore more extensive treks in the Annapurna region, like the Annapurna Circuit.

3. Annapurna Circuit Trek

The classic trekking route around the whole Annapurna Massif is called the Annapurna Circuit. The trek usually takes 15 to 20 days and is between 160 and 230 km long, depending on where you start and where you end up. Most trekkers go in a counterclockwise direction, which makes the ascent to Thorung La Pass, which is the highest point on the trek at 5416m, a bit more gradual. Some of the world’s tallest mountains, like Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I–IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak, can be seen up close. Manang and Mustang, which are in the higher elevations of the trek, are mostly Tibetan, while Lamjung and Myagdi, which are in the lower elevations of the trek, are usually Hindu. The trek goes through a wide range of landscapes, from rich farming valleys to the stark high altitude desert region of Mustang. Along the whole trek, there are tea houses and lodges that offer comfortable places to stay and delicious local food. The trek can be done most of the year, but heavy snowfall in January and February can sometimes block the Thorung La Pass.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights

This is a classic trek around the Annapurna massif in Nepal, from which you can see an 8,000-meter mountain.

The Thorung La high pass, which is 5,416m above sea level, made for a hard day. From the pass, the views are beautiful. We go down to Muktinath, which is in the Mustang area.

By using Natural Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT), you can stay away from roads and jeep tracks.

Before we cross the Thorung La, we go on walks to look around and get used to the high altitude. From Manang, you can go on many great walks, such as to the Ice Lake above Braga.

Stay at one of the Annapurna region’s comfortable tea house lodges. Manang village even has bakeries and coffee shops!

4. Tilicho Lake Trek

When you’re constantly surrounded by truly amazing mountain ranges, it’s easy to forget that Annapurna has a few other beautiful natural features up its sleeve. One of these is the beautiful, icy Tilicho Lake, which is said to be the highest lake in the world. And, you guessed it, you can walk there.

Basically, the Annapurna Circuit starts at the same place and goes until the town of Manang, where the route splits. If you go north, you’ll be on the Circuit. If you go west instead, you’ll be on the difficult but fun trek to Tilicho Lake. The whole trip from Manang to the lake and back should take between 6 and 8 days. Along the way, you might run into a herd of yaks, see an old monastery, and be blown away by the Annapurna region scenery. Climb up to the 4,919-meter-high lake and get ready to be amazed by this beautiful stretch of turquoise water surrounded by snow-covered mountains. Even if it looks tempting, you should probably resist the urge to take a quick swim at this point. Just being there should be enough to make you feel good.

Tilicho Lake Trek Highlights

Tilicho Lake is the highlight of the trek, a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Annapurna and Gangapurna ranges. The serene and pristine beauty of it is truly awe-inspiring.

This trek offers a chance to experience high-altitude trekking without the intense physical demands of reaching Annapurna Base Camp. You will journey to significant altitudes, providing a unique opportunity for an exhilarating experience.

The trek provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, showcasing majestic peaks such as Tilicho Peak and Nilgiri. The trail offers a unique viewpoint of the breathtaking mountains.

The trail offers a variety of landscapes, including vibrant rhododendron and pine forests, rugged terrain, and picturesque alpine meadows. The diverse terrain adds to the trek’s overall interest.

The Tilicho Lake Trek is frequently considered as an extension of the Annapurna Circuit, providing an opportunity to further explore the captivating Annapurna region. This is a great opportunity to enhance your trekking experience by adding another layer.

During your journey, you will have the opportunity to visit traditional villages that are home to Gurung and Thakali communities, providing you with unique cultural encounters. This offers valuable insights into their culture, lifestyle, and distinctive traditions.

The trail offers a serene and intimate trekking experience, as it is less crowded compared to more popular treks. You will have the opportunity to engage with fellow trekkers who share similar interests from various parts of the world.

The trek to Mesokanto La Pass offers an opportunity to visit this stunning location, situated at an altitude of 5,100 meters. From here, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges.

Located at a high altitude, Tilicho Lake offers the perfect vantage point to witness awe-inspiring sunrise views over the majestic surrounding peaks, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

The Gateway to Annapurna Circuit is a trek that provides the chance to connect with the Annapurna Circuit. It also offers the option to venture towards the Thorong La Pass, which stands at an impressive altitude of 5,416 meters. This provides a more challenging and thrilling high-altitude adventure for those seeking an extra level of excitement.

5. Nar-Phu Valley Trek

The trek through the Nar-Phu Valley adds something different to the Annapurna Circuit and takes about 7 days more. It is in a restricted area, so you must plan ahead to get a trekking permit and a guide. The area doesn’t get many visitors, so it would be best to plan a camping trip there. The trek takes you over one of the highest passes in the area and through steep-walled canyons and old villages. It is a very remote and lonely part of Nepal, which is a big difference from the Annapurna Circuit. The trek starts at Koto, which is just before Chame on the Annapurna Circuit. The way out is through Ngawal and over the 5300m Kang La pass.

Nar-Phu Valley Trek Highlights

Nar and Phu are remote valleys that have recently become accessible to trekkers, making them less-visited destinations. The trek offers a chance to discover lesser-known and unexplored areas within the Annapurna Conservation Area.

During the trek, you will have the opportunity to engage with the indigenous communities of Nar and Phu. This will provide you with valuable insights into their distinctive culture, traditions, and way of life, which have been influenced by Tibetan practices.

As you journey, you will have the opportunity to visit enchanting traditional villages. These villages are characterized by their picturesque stone houses, the presence of prayer wheels, and the sight of ancient monasteries. Phu Village stands out for its fortress-like design, making it a notable highlight.

The trek encompasses various high mountain passes, including the Kang La Pass (5,320 meters) and Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters). These passes provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges.

This trek offers a journey through a variety of landscapes, including vibrant forests, picturesque terraced fields, and desolate, arid regions. As you progress, you will be treated to constantly shifting scenery and terrain.

The trek offers a paradise for photographers with its stark, high-altitude landscapes, unique villages, and the opportunity to capture the traditional lifestyles of the people.

Thorang Peak, standing at an impressive altitude of 5,416 meters, provides an exceptional opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. It serves as an extraordinary vantage point, allowing visitors to take in the awe-inspiring peaks in all their glory.

The Tibetan-style villages of Nar and Phu offer a truly unique cultural experience with their traditional dress, monasteries, and ancient practices.

The Annapurna Conservation Area is renowned for its rich variety of plant and animal species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Be sure to watch for blue sheep, snow leopards, and a variety of bird species during your journey.

The Nar-Phu Valley Trek offers a serene and calm experience, as it is not as crowded as other popular treks in the Annapurna region. This allows for a more peaceful and intimate journey.

An extension to Manang is possible during the trek, which would provide an opportunity to further explore the Annapurna region and potentially connect with the Annapurna Circuit if desired.

6. Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek

Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek, also called Khayar Lake Trek or Khopra Ridge (Danda) Trek, is a good choice for trekkers in the Annapurna region who want to go somewhere new. Annapurna Dhaulagiri trek offers so many different kinds of beautiful scenery, peace and solitude, and Himalayan culture to experience. The best thing about this area is the beautiful Khayar Lake (4,510m) and the sunrise view of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, etc. The trail is a recently opened trekking trail in the Annapurna area that takes you to places where Gurung and Magar people will show you their warm hospitality. On the Annapurna-Dhaulagiri trekking route, we stay at lodges that are run by the local community and whose profits go to help local schools and people who live in this area. Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek has many interesting traditional villages, beautiful forests, and high alpine pastures where you can see the beautiful Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek Highlights

Annapurna Dhaulagiri is one of the best places in Nepal to see the Himalayas. You can see the 8,167m-high Mount Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Fang, and Nilgiri.

If you are in good shape and used to being at high altitudes, you can hike from Khopra Ridge to Kaire Lake, which is 4,665m above sea level.

The lodges at Annapurna Dhaulagiri trek, Bayeli Kharka, and Upper Chistibung are run by people from the area. The money from the sales goes to schools like the one in Swanta village.

The second night of the trek is spent in the beautiful village of Ghandruk.

Walk around and look at the traditional Gurung homes. You can see the Himalayas in a beautiful way.

7. Mardi Himal Trek

This trek is a great way to get to know the mountains of Nepal, especially if you don’t have much time. It takes just over a week. It is a stunningly beautiful trek that takes you up through ancient rhododendron forests to what feels like the face of the mountains as you get close to Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, Annapurna I, and Mardi Himal.

The Mardi Himal trek is a hidden gem that is just east of the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Few trekkers make it to Mardi Himal’s Base Camp, which is a beautiful place at the base of Mardi Himal and the beautiful and tall Machhapuchhre or Fishtail. The trail winds through old rhododendron forests on small paths until you reach an elevation of about 3,300m. Here, the landscape changes quickly, and you can see amazing views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. From High Camp (3,580m), you can climb to Mardi Himal Base Camp in about 3–4 hours. From there, you can see the whole Annapurna Range from close up in a spectacular way. About 2 hours from High Camp, there is also an amazing view.

Mardi Himal Trek Highlights

Incredible views of Annapurna Sanctuary from high up the Mardi Himal ridge.

Trekking above High Camp you follow the grassy trail along the ridge to Mardi Himal. You can walk to the Upper Viewpoint and further along if you have time.

Mardi Himal is a circuit trek where you only retrace the same path from High Camp to Low Camp. From there you take a different route down to Siding village for the drive to Pokhara.

This is a short trek of only 6 days. This would be a good choice if you have limited time for your Himalayan walking holiday in Nepal.

With Mardi Himal trek you get the elements of classic trekking in the Himalayas. Along the way, you see forests, high alpine zone, mountains, and villages.

8. Jomsom Muktinath Trek

The trek from Jomsom to Muktinath in Nepal’s lower Mustang region is an amazing way to see this ancient and spiritual area. Jomsom has been a place to go trekking in Nepal for many years, and it’s a good place to start if you want to see more of the lower Mustang area and the holy site at Muktinath. The trek from Jomsom to Muktinath is part of the longer and better-known Annapurna Circuit. This option gives you a taste of what the area has to offer in a shorter amount of time. This is a great choice for people who don’t have much time or who don’t want to do the whole circuit.

The dry, desert-like landscape of the Tibetan plateau was very different from the greener hills near Pokhara. You can also get a great view of Mount Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and other Himalayan peaks from the Tibetan plateau. This is a great choice for people who don’t have much time or who don’t want to do the whole circuit.

Jomsom Muktinath Trek Highlights

This trek provides awe-inspiring vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, showcasing some of the highest peaks in the world. Throughout the journey, you will have the opportunity to witness the stunning beauty of the Himalayas.

The trek offers a journey through a variety of unique landscapes, ranging from vibrant subtropical forests to stark high-altitude deserts. The trek stands out for its striking contrast in scenery.

Jomsom serves as the starting point for the trek and is a charming town adorned with apple orchards and traditional Thakali houses. The area is also renowned for its powerful afternoon winds, providing visitors with a truly memorable experience.

The Muktinath Temple holds great significance as a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is renowned for its 108 water spouts and eternal flames. The temple and its surrounding area hold great cultural and spiritual significance.

Kagbeni is a charming village located along the trek route, providing visitors with a captivating glimpse into traditional Tibetan culture. You have the opportunity to explore the narrow alleys, visit the monastery, and immerse yourself in the local way of life.

The Kaligandaki Gorge is the deepest gorge in the world, surrounded by two majestic mountain ranges. During your trek, you will have the opportunity to explore this awe-inspiring natural wonder. The gorge is renowned for its distinctive geological characteristics and the powerful winds that sweep through it.

During the trek, weary trekkers can find solace in the natural hot springs at Tatopani, offering a much-needed respite. Using this method is an excellent way to relax your muscles and de-stress.

During your visit, you will have the opportunity to engage with the warm and welcoming local residents, specifically the Thakali and Gurung communities. You have the opportunity to immerse yourself in their distinctive culture, savor traditional cuisine, and observe their everyday way of life.

The region is renowned for its apple orchards. During the trek, you have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of apple products, including apple pie, cider, and dried apples.

The adventure includes crossing suspension bridges, trekking through narrow valleys, and navigating challenging terrain. For those who are looking for a blend of culture and nature, this is an excellent adventure.

The trek is located within the Annapurna Conservation Area, a region known for its rich variety of plant and animal life. During your journey, you might have the opportunity to come across a diverse range of wildlife, such as rare bird species and elusive snow leopards.