The Annapurna mountain range boasts some of the tallest and most striking peaks in all of the Himalayas, including the towering Annapurna I, the 10th highest mountain in the world. Thanks to the region’s scenic beauty and relative accessibility, it should come as no surprise to learn that the Annapurnas represent something of a trekking hotspot here in Nepal. Most treks in these mountains begin from the lakeside hub of Pokhara, which can easily be reached with a short flight or half-day drive from Kathmandu. From there, the only limit is your own ambition. Here are just a few of the best treks in the Annapurnas:
The Annapurna Base Camp Trekis also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, and for good reason: this weeklong hiking itinerary brings travelers into a sacred mountain amphitheater that shuts out the rest of the world. Although this trek in Nepal reaches a maximum altitude of just over 4000 meters in elevation, it’s perfectly suitable for beginners. As long as you’re in good physical condition and have the patience for climbing a lot of stairs, you’ll be well-positioned to enjoy the cozy local teahouses and jaw-dropping mountain scenery the Annapurna Base Camp Trek has to offer.
The Annapurna Circuitis perhaps the region’s best-known trekking route, and it’s the perfect choice for experienced trekkers seeking an extra challenge in the Himalayas of Nepal. You’ll see many of the same sights that you would enjoy on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, including the summits of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri. But on the Annapurna Circuit trek, you’ll also get to climb to the high-altitude mountain pass of Thorong La. Sitting at 5416 meters in elevation, this is one of the very best places in Nepal to savor astonishing mountain views stretching all the way to the horizon.
On the other hand, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the perfect compromise for travelers who want to enjoy fantastic mountain scenery without devoting themselves to weeks of trekking. This hike can usually be completed in just three or four days, bringing travelers through the little villages of Ulleri and Ghorepani to arrive at the lookout of Poon Hill. Situated at just 3210 meters, this vantage point nevertheless offers an unforgettable look at the summits of Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare, the Annapurnas, and more. Trekkers usually time their arrival at Poon Hill to coincide with the sunrise, making for an ethereal panorama of gilded mountaintops just as they’re touched by the sun.
The region’s Mardi Himal Trek is still something of a newcomer on the Annapurna trekking scene, having only been made available to tourists in 2012. With a maximum elevation of just about 4500 meters, this one-week trek represents the perfect middle ground between the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit. It also comes with the benefit of being less traveled, and you’re likely to have much of the trail to yourself.
Of course, we’ve only just scratched the surface of the trekking opportunities available here in the Annapurna mountains. Dedicated trekkers can also explore the Dhaulagiri Circuitor the remote Upper Mustang Trek, while more casual hikers are sure to love a single day’s climb to the viewpoint of Sarangkot. The Annapurna region is packed with stunning routes like these, making it a premier destination for hikers of all levels. Any trek you choose is guaranteed to impress.
