Trekking In Nepal Himalayas | Top Trekking And Hiking Trails
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal that allows you to explore the Himalayas up close. It also offers you a very rich and exhilarating experience of crossing high mountain passes. The unequaled views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu ranges are the essentials of this outstanding trek.
While trekking in the north, we acclimatize at Manang (3,440 m), a beautiful village, before crossing the Thorong La (5,416 m). Manang is one of the biggest settlements in the region, and it is well known to be a good place to stop on the Annapurna Circuit trek route to adjust to the altitude. From here, we can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the mountains.
Trekking in Nepal is a sociable and fun journey. On the route you’d be offered amazing food and accommodation service at a decent price. It’s a circular trek, going up from one valley and over the high pass to descend into a different one. The Annapurna Circuit trek lets you experience a variety of climatic conditions. Most of the walk is on established paths.
Soon, you reach the pass, after snow line ridges stretch before you, while far below lies the sub-tropical Kali Gandaki Gorge. Kali Gandaki Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world. The journey takes you to some of the really high altitude places in the world, one of which is Dana. Kali Gandaki Gorge also lies at a close proximity from the Dhaulagiri trekking route.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary
Annapurna Circuit trek is a 22 days long journey, and during this time, you cover places such as Chame, Pisang, Yak Kharka, and so many others. The journey starts from Besisahar and ends at Nayapul. One of the best things about the trek are the villages that you cover on the route, as every village is known for one or the other attractions.
On the trek, you visit Tatopani, which is known for its hot water springs. The water in these springs are said to have natural healing properties. Similarly, the village of Marpha is known for its beautiful Apple Orchards. The journey is a unique blend of cultural and natural spectacles. It is definitely a must try journey for a curious trekker.
Annapurna Circuit Trek Features
Thorong La is the highest point of the trek. Due to the difficulties one experiences while crossing the pass, the circuit is usually walked upon in a counter-clockwise direction. From Thorong La, we take a steep descent about sixteen hundred meters to Muktinath. It is a sacred place where both Hindu and Buddhist shrines are well preserved..
Further south, the Himalayas become less visible as we go deep into Kali Gandaki, following the river that goes by the same name. You will pass through many villages that house different cultures and ethnics groups of people. You will also come across diverse vegetation. Above the elevation of 1500 m, pine and rhododendron forests can be noticed widely.
Finally, we trek out of the gorges and look back at the peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, before traversing the forest ridges down to Pokhara. We also do explore the peaceful lake city of Pokhara on our way back to Kathmandu
Generally, the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is the Spring and Autumn. Although a shortened itinerary can prove to be a great option during the monsoon. But keep in mind that journey short can refrain you from exploring quite a few attractions. You may not be able to trek during winter as Thorung La if often closed due to snow. For more informations:- Himalayan trails Trekking is best choice for unlimited fun.
