Annapurna Trek (Anti-Clockwise)

Located right in the middle of the Nepalese Himalayas, the Annapurna region boasts some of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal. The Annapurna Conservation Area is the country’s largest protected natural territory, offering shorter treks suitable for families and inexperienced hikers, as well as challenging and rewarding routes for the seasoned explorer.

When choosing lower-lying trekking routes, you can spend a few days traversing through quaint villages inhabited by hill peoples such as Gurungs, Magars, Tamangs, Thakalis and Chepangs. On a clear day you’ll get stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range, including the rocky Annapurna II (7937m), the snowy Annapurna III (7555m) and Machapuchare (6993m), otherwise known as Fishtail.

Meanwhile, if you opt for a longer trip, you can spend weeks meandering from agricultural areas at lower altitudes, all the way up to alpine pastures, rocky plateaus and snowy peaks. In the mornings you can watch the sunrise light up towering mountain peaks, and enjoy your morning tea with the sound of yak bells tinkling in the distance.

The Annapurna region may not be home to the highest mountains in this part of the world, but it is more easily accessible than the Everest Base camp trek. Many Annapurna trek starting points are a short drive away from Pokhara, Nepal’s second most populous city.