Annapurna Circuit

A trek within the Annapurna mountain range of central Nepal, Annapurna circuit crosses two different river valleys and encircles the Annapurna Massif. The mountain scenery seen at close quarters includes the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, and Paungda Danda. Beginning at Besisahar or Bhulbhule in the Marshyangdi river valley, the trek concludes in the Kali Gandaki Gorge.

Trekking experience at Annapurna Circuit
Annapurna region is the most diverse and popular trekking area in Nepal. From the full three-week Annapurna Circuit, which stretches into the historic Mustang region to short three-day treks, there's a trek suitable for everyone.

With panoramic views of the lush, fertile farmland and undisturbed natural forest, snow covered mountains and experience of meeting a mixture of many ethnic communities, the Annapurna Circuit offers a diverse range of experience that make this area one of the most satisfying trekking destinations in Nepal.

Since Annapurna chain of mountains lie inland, this causes a large are of the land to fall in the rain shadow area. Thus, these parts are considerably drier than the southern slopes of the mountains. This leads to unusually diverse landscapes and the possibility of trekking during the monsoon.

The trek usually takes about 15-20 days, starting from Kathmandu with a stopover in Pokhara before returning to the capital. The trekking trail is moderate to fairly challenging and there are numerous river crossings over steel and wooden suspension bridges. Tea houses and lodges along the circuit are available for meals and accommodations.

Best time to visit
While major regions of the Himalayas cannot be trekked in the rainy season, much of the Annapurna circuit actually sits within a rain shadow. This makes it possible to trek most parts of the circuit all year round, including the monsoon period. Trekking in the wet season is often encouraged as hikers avoid the crowds that plague the summer months. However, the days are often damp and many of the views are hidden by cloud.