Overview of Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is widely regarded as one of the finest trekking trails in the world. While you can see lush forests, terraced fields and densely populated settlements in the lower Annapurna region, the upper trans-Himalayan region is arid and barren, and sparsely populated. The lower region is mostly inhabited by Hindus, while most of the upper region is home to people following Buddhism.

This round Annapurna trek offers trekkers with lifetime experiences as they can witness great cultural, religious and ecological diversity of the Annapurna Region. The walk is pleasing as you can listen to birds chirping above the thick forest canopy and meet ever-smiling locals saying Namaste with their palms joined together. The Annapurna Circuit trail crosses numerous rivers and rivulets and you can see waterfalls cascading through lush forests into deep pools or fast-flowing rivers.

The vegetation in the Annapurna Circuit route ranges from sub-tropical and temperate forests in lower areas to sub-alpine and alpine forests in higher areas. These forests are home to rare medicinal herbs like the caterpillar fungus locally known as Yarsagumba which is believed to have aphrodisiac value, and endangered species like red panda, musk deer and the elusive snow leopard.

Mountain Views During 15-Days Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trail lies between Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Annapurna (8091m) — the 7th and 10th highest peak in the world, respectively. The trek offers spectacular views of mountains peaks like Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, Pisang Peak, Chulu East, Chulu West, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peaks and the omnipresent Machhapuchhre or the Fishtail.

You will also be walking through Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world between Annapurna and Nilgiri mountains at Andhagalchhi (2,520m). The gorge lies more than 5,000 meters below the summit of Mt. Annapurna, making hiking the Annapurna Circuit a lifetime experience for many.

Annapurna Circuit Route Info

This 15-day Annapurna Circuit trek begins with a scenic drive to Chamje from Kathmandu. The trail then traverses the Marshyangdi River valley passing through scenic sections to the villages of Dharapani, Chame and Pisang before climbing to the village of Manang. You will see chhortens, mani walls and colorful prayer flags as you gain altitude, hinting that you are entering the Buddhist countryside. Continuing further, the trail climbs gradually to Thorong La Pass (5,416) and enters the Kaligandaki River Valley.

Crossing the Thorong La Pass, the trail is mostly downhill and passes through the beautiful Muktinath Temple and beautiful Thakali villages known for the hospitable people and their mouth-watering delicacies. This section of the Annapurna Trail is also famous for organic apple orchards.

From Tatopani, the trail crosses the Kali Gandaki River and climbs to the village of Shikha before reaching the famed Ghorepani Poon Hill region. After enjoying sunrise and mountain views from Poon Hill, we will then descend to Ulleri and then to Tikhedhunga from where we will take a jeep and drive to Pokhara.

This 15-Days Annapurna circuit trekking itinerary is a well crafted itinerary for trekkers who are looking for thrilling and adventurous journey in Nepal Himalaya. Besides that, Peregrine Treks and Expedition offers many other exciting Nepal trekking packages in Annapurna region such as 14-Days Annapurna Circuit Trek, 18-Days Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake, 13-Days Mardi Himal Trek, 20-Days Nar Phu Valley Trek, 10-Days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and so on.