Reality check: trekking in the Annapurna region is a humbling experience. When compared to other popular treks in Nepal, this region cannot compete in terms of quality accommodation or food.
Why is it still considered one of the best treks the country has to offer, then?
While Annapurna boasts several peaks soaring over 7,000 meters, it still offers treks of various difficulty levels. From leisurely walks through beautiful terraces and foothills to challenging high-altitude circuits--there's an Annapurna trek for everyone.
This is, quite possibly, the top Annapurna appeal when compared to the well-trodden paths of the Everest region. Better yet? The Annapurna region is relatively easy to reach and highlights fascinating centuries-old traditions.
The town of Pokhara, for example, serves as a fantastic base due to its access to many of the region's trails. It is the perfect place to recharge and drift away--all while observing life in the Himalayas.
It can be overwhelming to plan your first trip after taking a look at the Annapurna trekking map, though. For this reason, we have featured the top three treks, including their duration, difficulty, travel costs, and other helpful planning tips.
Trekking Annapurna: Top 3 Circuits
The Annapurna Circuit
Duration: 15 to 20 Days
Remote? No
Pricing: Cheap
Difficulty: Medium
Permits required? No
Maximum elevation: Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
Accommodation available: Tea houses, lodges
Best time to visit: October to November; March to May
Advantages:
• Gorgeous views throughout the journey
• Visit the world's highest mountain pass - Thorung La
• Well-maintained trails; excellent accommodation options
Disadvantages:
• A road has been built close to specific sections of the trail.
It comes as a surprise to many, but the Annapurna Circuit won't put a smile on your face from the get-go. It takes time, demanding that you pull through some climbing before its real beauty unfolds before you.
The journey begins with a banana tree jungle teeming with monkeys. Next, you'll be greeted by soaring pine trees and beautiful rice fields, carved into the mountainside. And that's it for day one.
The majestic Himalayas won't come into view until after day two or three. Finally, then, the alluring vistas that have made the region so famous will brighten your eyes.
The Annapurna Circuit encircles the entire Massif and takes between 15 and 20 days to cover. Most visitors explore the trek in a counterclockwise fashion, as the terrain is more forgiving in this direction, including the crossing of Thorung La Pass.
Most importantly, trekking the Annapurna Circuit counterclockwise allows you to better acclimatize to the altitude. It also helps to know that this circuit boasts some of the very best scenery Nepal has to offer. Its views of some of the highest mountains in the world will sweep you off your feet.
Notable peaks you'll see while trekking the Annapurna Circuit include the Tilicho, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, and Annapurna Massif.
Furthermore, the higher regions of the trek are home to Tibetan cultures that still lead their ancient way of life-time and technology pause here, transporting you to eras when life was simple yet beautiful.
Worried about services? You'll encounter many basic tea houses, as well as a few luxury lodges scattered in between. Local food is also plentiful and delicious throughout the famous Circuit, with many travelers calling it a highlight in its own right.
While it is possible to explore the Annapurna Circuit throughout the year, the Thorung La Pass is best avoided during the months of January and February. During those months, the uncomfortably snowy conditions may adversely affect your trekking trip.
Annapurna Base Camp
Duration: 10 to 12 days
Remote? No
Pricing: Cheap
Difficulty: Moderate
Permits required? No
Maximum elevation: Annapurna Base Camp (4,320 m)
Accommodation available: Basic tea houses, lodges
Best time to visit: September to December; February to May
Advantage:
• More authentic trekking experience
Disadvantage:
• Physically tolling, as the trail requires you to climb many stairs
This trek is certainly not for the faint of heart: it is challenging. The journey entails trekking up the steep canyon of the Modi River for several days, culminating in the Annapurna Base Camp and offering beautiful views of Poon Hill.
The Annapurna Camp is popular due to its epic views of Annapurna I, the 10th-highest peak on the planet, as well as Machhapuchhre, often referred to as the Matterhorn of Asia.
The trek doesn't take as much time as the Annapurna Circuit, making it more popular among backpackers with limited time. In just 10 to 12 days, you get to see many peaks soaring over 7,000 meters.
Have a few more days, but not enough to trek the Annapurna Circuit? Add the Poon Hill trek to your itinerary. As you will see below, the sunrise views are worth it!
Poon Hill Trek
Duration: 5 to 7 Days
Remote? No
Pricing: Cheap
Difficulty: Easy
Permits required? No
Maximum elevation: Poon Hill (3,210 m)
Accommodation available: Tea houses, lodges
Best time to visit: October to November; March to May
Advantages:
• Fantastic sunrise views from Poon Hill
• Visit many culturally rich villages
• Easy, short trek boasting some of the highest peaks on the planet
Disadvantages:
• Physically tolling, as the trail requires you to climb many stairs
The Poon Hill Trek is unique, as it doesn't immediately take you into the mountains. Instead, you will be graced by incredible views of the lush countryside, passing by remote villages. Keep in mind that, although altitude is usually not an issue here, it is still advisable to wear warm clothing.
In addition to its varied topography, this trek offers numerous wide, well-maintained trails and luxury lodges. These make Poon Hill perfect for those seeking to splurge a bit or surprise a special someone.
As far as logistics go, most visitors decide to start at Birethanti and cover Poon Hill as a loop from Pokhara. This journey takes you through stunning rhododendron forests and by the beautiful Ulleri village.
As you gain elevation, the magnificent Himalayas start to peek out, preparing you for the magnificence that lies ahead. The actual highlight of Poon Hill, though? The sunrise views!
You may grumble as you wake up at 5 a.m. and start the trek to the peak in darkness. It will be easy to see why thousands of visitors do it each year once you make it to the top:
The vast sight of grandiose mountains unfolding their beauty, basking under the first rays of the morning sun.
_______
This story is brought to you in partnership with Bookmundi.
