Annapurna

Annapurna Region is one of the most popular trekking regions in Nepal with several trekking routes including short easy treks to hard high passes trek. Situated amidst the central Himalayas of Nepal, the Annapurna region occupies around 80 km of land between the Marsyangdi River in the east and the Kali Gandaki to its west. The mysterious land of Mustang, the forbidden kingdom, lies to the north sharing land border with Tibet.

The world’s 10th highest peak, Mt. Annapurna I (8091 m), lies in this region surrounded by another high snow-capped and rocky mountain. In Sanskrit, Annapurna means “Goddess of fertility”. Some of the known peaks of the Annapurna Region are Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Annapurna South, Mt. Fishtail, Mt. Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, and many more. The first ascent of Annapurna I was accomplished in 1950 by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal, from the North Annapurna Glacier. This ascent was an incredible accomplishment in the golden history of Nepalese Himalayan Mountaineering. Just at the base of the Annapurna lies the popular and beautiful lake city of Pokhara. This amazing lake city has always been a favorite place for all the local and international trekkers/tourists. Whether you are starting your trek or ending it, this is the best city to chill and relax with the good vibes and beautiful lakeside.

Annapurna Region is protected and conserved by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) which is managed by the National Trust for Nature Conservation. ACAP was established in 1985 and then later gazette in 1992. Annapurna Conservation Area is the largest protected area of Nepal covering 7629 km2 in the Annapurna Himalayan ranges. It includes the lowest elevation from 790 m to 8091 m, the summit of Annapurna I, stretching in the districts of Manang, Mustang, Kaski, Myagdi, and Lamjung.

Almost about 2/3 of the total trekkers in Nepal, visit the Annapurna region for multiple short and long treks. The region is easily accessible through motor-road and also well facilitated with plenty of hotels and teahouses. Every trek of the Annapurna region offers magnificent views of the Annapurna Himalayas through different angles and perspectives depending on which trek you choose. Annapurna Base Camp, also known as Annapurna Sanctuary trek, is one of the most popular treks of this region followed by the Annapurna Circuit Trek via Poonhill. The highest glacier lake, Tilicho, also lies in this area. Some other popular treks are Mardi Himal, Khopra, Mohare Dada, Muktinath. To the north lies Mustang, the forbidden kingdom, and to the north-east lies NarPhu valley which is enlisted as a restricted area due to its land border with Tibet and requires special permit from the government.