Annapurna
Trekking in Annapurna
The Annapurna Conservation Area is a well known trekking region. There are three major trekking routes in the Annapurna region: the Jomson Trek to Jomsom and Muktinath (increasingly disturbed by a road-building project); the Annapurna Sanctuary route to Annapurna base camp; and the Annapurna Circuit, which circles the Annapurna Himal itself and includes the Jomson route. The town of Pokhara usually serves as a starting point for these treks, and is also a good starting place for other short treks of one to four days, such as routes to Ghorepani or Ghandruk.The Mustang district, a former kingdom bordering Tibet, is also geographically a part of the Annapurna region, but treks to Mustang are subject to special restrictions.
About two-thirds of all trekkers in Nepal visit the Annapurna region. The area is easily accessible, guesthouses in the hills are plentiful, and treks here offer incredibly diverse scenery, with both high mountains and lowland villages. Also, because the entire area is inhabited, trekking in the region offers unique cultural exposure and experience.
Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal
This circuit was once considered one of the best treks in the world. though road construction is threatening its reputation and its future as a classic trek. Yet no one disputes that the scenery is outstanding: 17 to 21 days long, this trek takes you through distinct scenery of rivers, flora, fauna and above all - mountains. The trek goes counter-clockwise and reaches its summit in Thorung La (pass) at the height of 5416m, or 17,769 feet. The route goes past the following mountains: Manaslu (an 8,000-plus meter peak), Langtang Himal, Annapurna II and IV, Annapurna III and Gangapurna, and, of course, Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri -- passing through the world's deepest gorge in between those two 8,000-plus meter peaks.The path is easy to follow and every three hours (max) you will arrive upon a small village with lodges and restaurants. There are many trekkers around so you always end up meeting people and making friends and trekking partners along the path.
If choosing to make the trek independently, go out with adequate clothing for low temperatures and rain. Temperatures vary from oppressive heat in the lowlands, to freezing cold, even snowstorms, closer to the pass.
Tilicho Lake - Side trips from Annapurna Circuit
This is the highest lake in the world at 4920 m. and requires 2-3 days from Manang. Walk through Khangasar. One to two hours after Khangasar you will find Tilicho Peak Hotel where you can have lunch or spend the night. Tilicho Base Camp Hotel is a further three hour walk from there.Annapurna Jomsom Muktinath Trek
Annapurna Jomsom Muktinath trek is situated north of Pokhara. The deep valleys and high mountains encircling the giant Annapurna Himal embrace a wide range of peoples and terrain, from subtropical jungle to a high, dry landscape resembling the Tibetan Plateau. This is one of the most popular trekking regions. It's also among the tamest areas, with excellent lodges lining the main routes. Finding Nepal beneath the flood of trekkers can be difficult, but the scenery and culture are top-notch, and you can avoid the peak-season crush and still get fine weather and views.Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
This is one of the most stunning trekking routes on the planet (and therefore very transited). In particular the last phase, after a snowfall, is something that really makes you say “thank´s life”. Unfortunately, Nepal has become a Mecca for tourists eager of nature, however, this should not try to discourage this and other routes. The culture in the area allows you to see a way of life where things are still transported on shoulders, men and women going up and down hills as part of their daily life. We can still see mud and straw houses, terraces, shrines, spirituality and those Nepal faces that look nice and friendly.Another point in favor of Annapurna Sanctuary trek is that it is “suitable for all audience” because there is no need to carry tents, food and even backpack (the vast majority of people hired porters and even some guides). In fact you can see families that go trekking with small children.
In general, in all the villages are small hostels with showers, bathrooms, table and restaurant. There you can buy food, bring your own kitchen or a combination of both. Nevertheless almost everyone chooses the first option because the local hostel food is rustic, good and cheap (US4-10).
Before you make this trail you must pay a small fee to Nepal Park Government (ask for it in Katmandu).
