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Annapurna Region Trekking in Nepal

Snow-covered peaks and glacier landscapes in Nepal’s Annapurna region.

The Annapurna Region is home to the Annapurna Sanctuary and the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal’s largest protected area — Gurung and Magar villages, subtropical foothills that climb into high alpine terrain, and routes that range from a short 5-day introduction to a demanding 15-day circuit crossing the highest trekking pass in Nepal. Whether this is your first Himalayan trek or you’re after serious altitude, there’s a route here built for it.

Trails pass through Gurung and Magar communities, terraced hillsides, and landscapes that shift from rice paddies to glacial valleys within days of walking. Some routes — like Annapurna Base Camp — are among the most walked trails in the country. Others, like the Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Community Trek, cover the same region with a fraction of the crowds.

Annapurna Region treks range from 5 to 15 days, starting and ending in Kathmandu, with most routes trekked from a Pokhara base. Every trip below is privately guided, with permits and logistics handled from arrival to departure.

How to Choose Your Annapurna Trek

Not sure which route fits? Annapurna Region treks generally fall into three categories, based on time, fitness, and how much altitude you want to take on.

Short Introduction Treks (5–7 days)

Lower altitude, shorter time commitment, good for a first Himalayan trip or a limited schedule. Poon Hill Ghorepani Trek (5 days) and Mardi Himal Trek (7 days) both reach genuine Annapurna panoramas without the longer commitment of Base Camp or the Circuit.

Classic Treks (10–13 days)

Annapurna Base Camp Trek (10 days) is the region’s most recognisable route, reaching the Annapurna Sanctuary itself. Dhaulagiri–Annapurna Community Trek (13 days) covers similar mountain scenery through a quieter, village-based route on the Dhaulagiri side.

High-Altitude Circuit Treks (13–15 days)

For experienced trekkers wanting more altitude and a longer route. Annapurna Circuit Trek (15 days) crosses Thorong La at 5,416m, the highest pass on any Annapurna Region route. A shorter 13-day variant, Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake, adds Tilicho Lake at 4,919m.

Annapurna Region Trekking FAQs

What is the best trek in the Annapurna Region?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the most popular option, while Poon Hill Ghorepani and Mardi Himal offer shorter, less demanding alternatives, and the Annapurna Circuit suits trekkers wanting a longer, higher-altitude route. Your best choice depends on your time, fitness level, and experience.

How difficult are Annapurna Region treks?

Difficulty varies by route. Poon Hill Ghorepani (5 days) is easy to moderate. Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal are both moderate, reaching 4,130m and 4,500m. The Annapurna Circuit is the most demanding, crossing Thorong La at 5,416m.

What permits are needed for Annapurna Region trekking?

Two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card. ACAP is required for every Annapurna Region trek. Mountain Hike Nepal arranges both permits, including the TIMS card, in the package price for every client.

Do I need a guide for the Annapurna Region?

Yes. Unlike the Everest region, Nepal’s mandatory-guide rule applies across the Annapurna Conservation Area. Mountain Hike Nepal includes a licensed local guide as standard on every departure.

What is the highest point in the Annapurna Region treks?

Thorong La, on the Annapurna Circuit, sits at 5,416m and is the highest point most trekkers cross in the region. Annapurna Base Camp itself sits lower, at 4,130m.

What is the best time to trek in the Annapurna Region?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the most stable weather and the clearest mountain views.