Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview (3 Popular Routes)
There are three main Annapurna hiking routes.
Annapurna: "The Ceiling of the World"
If you're looking to go trekking in one of the most beautiful places in the world, the Annapurna region is it! This region is very popular among hikers and mountain climbers alike as it's considered "the ceiling of the world," complete with some totally unmatched views!
Where Is Annapurna?
So where in the world is this beautiful place? The Annapurna region is due west (and slightly north) of the Everest region. Despite Everest's fame, the Annapurna region is actually considerably more popular among trekkers. This is perhaps due to the region's ease of access compared to the Everest region.
The Himalayas offer beautiful sites unmatched anywhere in the world! Here, the rocky, green terrain at Annapurna's base camp is shown.
jneilson23, CC-BY, via Flickr
3 Popular Annapurna Treks
There are a number of popular trails for trekkers who come to see the beautiful views that these mountains offer.
1. Annapurna Circuit Trek
One of the most popular treks in this mountainous region is the Annapurna Circuit trek. Depending on the pathways travelers take on this trek, it can last from two weeks up to three weeks (and in some cases, a month.)
This trek is often considered one of the best treks in the world, but road construction in this region is encroaching on this beautiful hike.
2. Kali Gandaki River Valley Trek
The Kali Gandaki River Valley trek offers trekkers the chance to hike part of the ancient trade route between India and China.
What's awesome about the Gandaki River is that it is older than the Himalayas themselves! As the land around the river was pushed up by tectonic forces, the river cut through the rock, thus forming the Kali Gandaki Gorge. This gorge, also known as Andha Galchi, is actually the deepest gorge in the world.
3. Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
Another popular trail is the Annapurna Sanctuary trek. Those hiking this trail generally meet up in Pokhara, although technically the trail doesn't start until hikers reach the village of Dhampus. This two-week-long trek offers beautiful views of the peaks of the Annapurna. The term "sanctuary" relates to the presence of the Hindu goddesses, Annapurna and Gangapurna, for whom the mountains were named.
Buddhist prayer flag on the Annapurna Circuit trek.
Andrew-Hyde
Mountains in the Circuit
There are a number of different paths that cut through the Annapurna region. Because of this, trekkers see different mountains on their trip depending on the path taken. There is no shortage of peaks in the area, so regardless of the route, trekkers are in for a treat.
The highly popular Annapurna circuit trek is not only famous for beautiful views of some of the highest peaks in the world but also for the stunning surrounding landscape and the mystical feel of the local culture. Below is a chart outlining some of the mountains on this trek.
| Mountain | Height |
|---|---|
Annapurna I | 26,545 feet (8091 m) |
Annapurna II | 26,040 feet (7937 m) |
Annapurna III | 24,786 feet (7555 m) |
Annapurna IV | 24,688 feet (7525 m) |
Annapurna South | 23,684 feet (7219 m) |
Tilicho Peak | 23,406 feet (7134 m) |
Gangapurna | 24,457 feet (7455 m) |
Machapuchare | 22,943 feet (6993 m) |
The Annapurna circuit by bike
Annapurna Trek Routes
| Route | Time | Grade |
|---|---|---|
Panchase | 12-13 Days | Easy |
Ghorepani Poon Hill | 9-10 Days | Easy |
Annapurna Sanctuary | 14-15 Days | Moderate |
Annapurna Circuit | 15-21 Days | Moderate - Difficult |
Mustang | 15 Days | Difficult |
A view of Annapurna (left) and Machapuchare (right) and their reflection in Phewa Lake from Pokhara.
Marina & Enrique
Pokhara, Nepal
If you're going to be hiking Annapurna's famous trails, chances are you'll start out in Pokhara, a beautiful city nestled in the foothills of these great mountains.
Pokhara itself is considered to be one of the top three most beautiful places in the world. Home to nearly 2.5 million inhabitants, the city is located in the Pokhara Valley on Phewa Lake. The lake itself offers a gorgeous reflection of the sacred (and famous) fishtail mountain, Machapuchare.
Cultural Experiences in the Himalayas
The Annapurna region will offer you up four sub-regions (called districts): Lamjung, Mustang, Manang, and Myagdi. Trekkers will be immersed in the varied culture of this region. An example of these cultural differences can be seen in the lowlands of Lamjung and Myagdi, where the people are predominantly Hindu. In Manang (where the Gurung people live) and Mustang, you will meet Tibetan Buddhists.
The Annapurna Circuit takes visitors through a number of tiny villages, many of which are considered sacred. One village, Ranipauwa, is near the holy site of Muktinath. This place is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus. The meaning of Muktinath to the Hindus is "place of salvation."
Along the path, trekkers will see a number of Buddhist prayer flags and even prayer wheels. Those interested in Buddhist culture are in luck as a large percentage of the people in the high mountain areas of Nepal celebrate Buddhism.
The people in the Annapurna region are very friendly. Many offer rooms for travelers to stay overnight at tea houses. These rooms are very inexpensive, but they also offer meals. The money made from meals is where the local people make a bulk of their money. Because rooms come at such a low rate, it is customary for guests to eat both breakfast and dinner where they are staying.
Annapurna Circuit Map
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.
© 2011 Melanie Palen
Comments
onlooker on February 26, 2012:
Insightful! I couldn't help read your article the moment i noticed "Nepal" kudos!!
Tammy from North Carolina on February 25, 2012:
This is a fabulous hub with stunning photos! You make me want to travel the world with your hubs. Well done!
Marcy Goodfleisch from Planet Earth on February 25, 2012:
What magnificent views! I haven't learned much about this area; I'm so glad I came across your hub. Voted across, and SHARED. Thanks for the interesting read.
Simone Haruko Smith from San Francisco on April 01, 2011:
Oh wow melbel - I'm ready to pack my bags this second! Excellent Hub - I hope I may have the chance to hike the Annapurna circuit someday!
