Annapurna Region

The Annapurna region is a dream for independent trekkers. The legendary Annapurna region is the most diverse and popular trekking area in Nepal. The Annapurna Range consists of the massive Annapurna I, II, III, IV and the Annapurna south peak.

The range also includes the famous Machhapuchhre, the “Fishtail” Mountain –the mascot of Pokhara. The name Annapurna comes from Sanskrit word Anna and Purna which basically means “full of food”, and is often viewed as a goddess who always feeds.

The whole massif sits between two of the major river system in Nepal; Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki. Apart from the tenth highest mountain in the world, Annapurna massif has 13 peaks over 7000 meters and 16 peaks over 6000 meters high.

Between these two mountains lies the valley of the Kali-Gandaki River, the deepest gorge in the world. Trekkers encounter the interesting Thakali people in this region. They are known for being good in business ventures and their home cooking is relished by both tourists and the Nepali people in general.

The Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal is one of the most spectacular and varied treks in the world. Our adventurous itinerary includes additional side walks off the main trail to high mountain lakes and caves.

Annapurna region immensity and variation in topography is something tourists have been amazed by. Its rich biodiversity, unique landforms, and wildlife have over and again left them awe-struck.

Much like the people over here and their conviviality that has tourists filled with wonder. They find it impossible to decide whether to plump for the beauty of the region or the generosity.

Annapurna Region Flora and Fauna

A total of 101 mammal species has been recorded in the Conservation Area so far. Annapurna Conservation Area is rich in biodiversity and harbors 1,352 species of plants, 128 species of wild mammals, 518 species of birds. 40 species of reptiles, 23 species of amphibians, and 348 species of butterflies.

Annapurna Permits & Regulations

If you’re trekking in the Annapurna region, you’ll need to purchase a TIMS card ($20) and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) ($30 USD) before you go. There will be multiple checkpoints along the way where you’ll need to show these. If you’re hiking with an organized tour group, your guides will likely manage these for you. If you’re hiking by yourself, you’ll need to organize these at either the Nepal Tourism office based in Kathmandu or the Pokhara tourist office before you begin the trek.

Make sure you bring a minimum of 4 passport photos for the trekking permit too!

Things to Do in Annapurna Region

Annapurna Trekking

Annapurna, one of the largest mountains in the world is most famous for its trek. The treks here go beyond the nature sight-seeing and take into account the Nepalese culture, diverse ethnicities, and rustic mountain life in general. The Annapurna circuit is within the range of central Nepal. The total length is from 160-230 km, which makes it a moderate-difficult trek.

Religious Tour

Religious tourism focuses on visiting important religious sites. The main motivation for travel is to meet the spiritual, and religious needs of people involved in this kind of tourist travel. But the motivation for travel may be exploring the culture of other nations, or other religions, exploring sacred objects, etc.

Honey Hunting Tour

The most popular honey hunting destinations are located in Bhujung, Nai Chi, Pasgaon, Naya Gaun, Ludhi and Dare. The honey hunters, who hang from the cliffs to earn a living and marvel at the ancient techniques that are still in use today. The honey hunting site in Ghanpokhara-8 can be reached after a trek of two and a half hours from the nearest motorable road near Ghimrang. There are many honey hunting sites in and around this Gurung village. Honey hunting has been one of the important sources of livelihood for the people of Ghalegaun and Ghanpokhara.

Annapurna Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is the fastest growing sport in Nepal, with great single track and multi-day adventures throughout the Himalaya.

Accommodation choices for Annapurna Region

You’ll find enough tea houses, hotels and lodges on virtually every stop along the trail. Annapurna Region is one of the most facilitated trekking routes in Nepal. On an average, the accommodation cost is comparatively cheaper than the Everest region but might considerably increase as you go higher to remote villages.

Annapurna Region Weather Forecasts

Annapurna Region considerably receives less rainfall because it is situated in what is called a ‘rain-shadow’ area which actually makes the trekking possible throughout the year. What makes the ‘rain-shadow’ area are the large mountain that stands tall throughout the Annapurna region preventing the wind and rain to pass through.

To put it straight best among the best time to trek the Himalayan range is October-November. This is the period right after the monsoon. Days are normally warm (~15 degrees) and nights are relatively cold (~3 degrees) with shining bright stars.

The clear and fresh view of the mountains with green pastures and leafy pines make the sight more luring. As you move higher above 4000m the temperature drops drastically and you need good warm layers to keep up with the chilling weather.

Annapurna Region Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for any journey, but is particularly important when undertaking potentially hazardous activities such as trekking in remote regions where medical facilities or assistance may not be close at hand. You’ll enjoy your adventure better with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have the right insurance cover in place should a mishap occur. This can be anything from lost or stolen luggage to a full helicopter rescue off a mountain.

For trekking you need to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for altitude. Most standard policies provide cover for walking up to a maximum of 2,500 metres.