Annapurna Region Treks: Complete Guide (2026)

The Annapurna Region is Nepal’s most diverse trekking destination. From short 3-day hill walks to 21-day high-desert expeditions, it offers something for every trekker. This is the complete hub — every section links to a detailed guide on this site.

Why trek in the Annapurna Region?

The Annapurna Conservation Area covers 7,629 square kilometres of terrain ranging from subtropical valleys at 800 m to the Thorong La pass at 5,416 m. It is less crowded than Everest, more affordable, and offers greater ecological diversity — rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, high desert, and pilgrim sites. The tea-house network is the best-developed in Nepal.

1. Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek

The ABC trek reaches 4,130 m at the base of the south face of Annapurna I. It is a 7-10 day return trek from Pokhara through Gurung villages, hot springs, and the dramatic Annapurna Sanctuary — a natural amphitheatre surrounded by 7,000-8,000 m peaks. Ideal for first-time high-altitude trekkers.

2. Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit is a 12-18 day trek crossing the Thorong La pass (5,416 m), traversing from subtropical valleys to the rain-shadow desert of Mustang. It is widely considered the best long-distance trek in Nepal. The classic route is 18 days; road construction has shortened it to 12-14 days for most trekkers.

3. Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal trek is a 5-7 day ridge walk reaching 4,500 m, with close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). It is quieter than ABC and ideal for those who want mountain views without the crowds.

4. Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang is a 10-14 day trek into the restricted former Kingdom of Lo, a Tibetan-Buddhist high desert that sees almost no rain. Requires a special restricted-area permit (USD 500 per person for 10 days). Culturally unique — cliff caves, ancient monasteries, walled city of Lo Manthang.

5. Muktinath Pilgrimage

Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site at 3,800 m on the Annapurna Circuit, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. It features 108 water spouts and eternal flames. Can be reached by road from Pokhara or as part of the Circuit trek.

6. Choosing the right Annapurna trek

Not sure which one? Compare Annapurna vs Everest in Annapurna vs Everest Base Camp. For a broader comparison including Manaslu, see Manaslu vs Everest vs Annapurna.

7. Permits

You need the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) — NPR 3,000 for foreigners — plus a TIMS Card. Upper Mustang requires an additional restricted-area permit. Full details in the Nepal Trekking Permits Guide.

8. Best season

March-May and September-November. Upper Mustang is an exception — it is a rain-shadow area and can be trekked during the monsoon (June-August) when other routes are washed out. See Best Time to Visit Nepal for month-by-month details.

9. Pokhara: gateway to Annapurna

All Annapurna treks start from Pokhara, a 30-minute flight or 6-hour bus from Kathmandu. Read the Pokhara guide for accommodation, Lakeside restaurants, and pre-trek preparation.

Quick FAQ

Which Annapurna trek is best for beginners?

Mardi Himal (5-7 days, max 4,500 m) or ABC (7-10 days, max 4,130 m). Both are well-served by tea houses and require no technical skills.

Is the Annapurna Circuit harder than Everest Base Camp?

The Circuit is longer (12-18 days vs 12) and crosses a higher point (Thorong La 5,416 m vs Kala Patthar 5,545 m), but is generally considered slightly easier because of better acclimatisation profiles and lower overall altitude sleeping points.

Can I combine ABC and Circuit?

Yes. The combined route takes 16-20 days. Start from Besisahar (Circuit start), cross Thorong La, then detour to ABC via Tatopani and Ghorepani.