Annapurna

The Annapurna region in central Nepal has some of the most varied trekking in the world, and unlike Everest it starts close to a road. Pokhara, the lakeside town at its foot, is about six to seven hours by car from Kathmandu, and most treks begin one or two hours' drive from Pokhara. No mountain flight is needed.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 11 Days

11 days Annapurna

The classic route into the Annapurna Sanctuary — Poon Hill at sunrise, then up the Modi Khola gorge to Base Camp at…

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The main treks

Poon Hill (4–5 days): The easiest. Stone steps through rhododendron forest to Ghorepani, and a sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210 m) across Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range. Good for families and first-time trekkers.

Annapurna Base Camp (7–10 days): Into the Annapurna Sanctuary, a ring of high peaks around a glacier basin at 4,130 metres. Steep in places, with good guesthouses.

Annapurna Circuit (12–18 days): The long classic around the whole massif, crossing the Thorong La pass at 5,416 metres. Roads now reach parts of the route, so many people drive the lower sections and walk the best middle part.

Mardi Himal (5–7 days): A quieter ridge walk with close views of Machhapuchhre, the "fishtail" mountain.

Practical tips

You need an Annapurna Conservation Area permit. Licensed guides arrange it as part of the trek.

Spend a night or two in Pokhara before you start. It is the easiest place in Nepal to rest, buy missing gear and enjoy the lake.

Keep a buffer day at the end in case landslides slow the mountain roads, especially early in the season.

Questions people ask

Which Annapurna trek is best for beginners?

Poon Hill. It is short, stays below 3,300 metres and still gives a famous sunrise view of the high Himalaya.

How do we get from Kathmandu to the start of the trek?

By road to Pokhara, about six to seven hours, then a short drive to the trailhead at Nayapul, Kande or Phedi depending on the route. We drive both parts with the same car and driver, and collect you at the end.

Can we combine trekking with the rest of Nepal?

Yes. A common plan is Kathmandu, Pokhara and a short trek, then Chitwan for a jungle safari and Lumbini on the way to the Indian border. See our Nepal tours.