Overview
Annapurna Circuit Trek takes the crown of ultimate trekking experience that whole of Nepalese Himalaya has to offer and we are not the only ones making this statement, ask any other fortunate soul who has completed the circuit and more than likely, he/she will run out of adjectives to embellish their experience.
This 128- mile route which circles around glorious Annapurna range, is almost a holy grail of trekking and can be done in 19 days. We are sure there are places with more luxurious lodges, places that can surpass in terms of their ruggedness as well as remoteness and areas that house many holier spiritual hubs but still, no other trail can ever take the crown away from Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Annapurna Circuit Trek starts with a short drive from Kathmandu and with newer roads, this trek has been more accessible. But, we suggest you to leave the comfort of vehicle and complete this trek on foot for more authentic and raw experience.
The lodges in this region provide many dining options and are usually full of necessary resources that you might need in various stages of trek. There are many relatively unexplored villages on the way, housed by indigenous Gurung people well known for their warm hospitality, unique culture and honesty.
The influence of Buddhism can be seen in all major aspects of life and the traditional beauty of Gompas and other monasteries adorn the route. From the low lands of Lamjung to the high alpine region of Manang, from otherworldly arid landscape of Mustang to the woodlands of Kaski, the everyday variation in landscape and vegetation will be quite a treat to your eyes.
This is a circular trek and thus it will entail going up from one valley and over the high pass to descend to a different valley. The highlight of this trek includes, tropical lush woodlands, deep valley of Marshyangdi, descending into world’s deepest gorge i.e.Kali Gandaki Gorge, ancient salt trading routes, Throang La pass, windy valley of Jomsom, holy temple of Muktinath, spectacular views of Dhaulagiri (8167m), Manaslu (8163m), Annapurna (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Nilgiri (7041m), Machhapuchhre (6998m) and many more.
In conclusion, Annapurna Circuit Trek is an amalgamation of the best of what Annapurna region has to offer and it will add up to be one of the most complete and wholesome trekking experience for you.
In alternate of Annapurna Circuit Trek for seeking a less crowd, it is recommended to trek to Manaslu Circuit Trek as the ultimate experience of losing yourself in the paradise of Himalayas with ancient human civilization of people from Tibet and also it is contentment to explore preserved gompas and stupas which has the history of hundreds of ages.