Five Best Treks in Annapurna Region

The Annapurna region in Nepal is world-famous for its stunning mountains and amazing trekking trails. Whether you are a first-time trekker or an experienced hiker, you’ll find the perfect trail here.

The five best treks in Annapurna Region are:

• Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Annapurna Base Camp Trek
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
• Mardi Himal Trek
• Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake 

Each trek offers unforgettable mountain views, rich cultural experiences, and beautiful forests and villages. 

At Nepal Gateway Trekking, we have safely guided thousands of trekkers and can help you pick the right trek based on your experience, permits, and the best season. Start your dream journey today and explore the wonders of Annapurna with us!

Why Trek in the Annapurna Region?

The Annapurna region offers a perfect mix of stunning views, cultural experiences, easy access, and exciting trekking great for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike.

• See Stunning Mountains: You’ll wake up to views of huge mountains like Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (fish-tail shaped), and Dhaulagiri. These peaks are breathtaking.
• Meet Friendly Locals: The region is home to warm Gurung, Magar, and Tibetan people. They welcome you to their villages, share stories, and offer delicious milk tea.
• Easy to Get There: You can start your trek easily from Pokhara or Nayapul by bus or car. These places are easy to reach compared to many trekking regions.
• Explore Nature: You’ve to walk through colorful rhododendron forests in spring, spot birds, monkeys, and may witness rare Himalayan animals like the Thar.
• Adventure and Culture: You’ll cross high mountain passes, visit ancient temples, and enjoy a mix of thrilling adventure and rich local traditions.

Each route offers its own level of challenge, from short treks in Annapurna for beginners to strenuous adventures for seasoned trekkers. At Nepal Gateway Trekking, our local experts guide you safely across all Annapurna trekking routes, adjusting to your comfort, fitness, and pace.

Top 5 Treks in the Annapurna Region

Here are the five best treks in the Annapurna region, picked for their beauty and variety. Each one includes Annapurna trekking highlights to match your skill level and time.

1. Annapurna Circuit Trek (18 Days)

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic 18-day trek that takes you through many types of landscapes, from green valleys to high mountain passes. The highest point is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. Along the way, you’ll visit places like Manang Valley and the Muktinath Temple, combining beautiful nature with local culture. This trek is moderate in difficulty and is best done in March to May or September to November, making it perfect for anyone wanting an Annapurna Circuit adventure.

Highlights:

• High Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), a thrilling experience with amazing views.
• The Sacred Muktinath Temple is important to both Hindus and Buddhists.
• Trek through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge.
• Experience changing landscapes from forests to alpine deserts.
• Explore traditional Tibetan villages like Pisang, Manang, and Braga.
• See stunning mountains including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and more.
• Enjoy magical sunrises at Poon Hill.
• Complete a full circuit with unique views throughout.

Best time to trek: Spring (March - May) and Autumn(September- November)

Ready for This Epic Journey? If you want a short itinerary with all the insider tips, explore our Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Package and let's start planning your adventure!

2. Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek (13 Days)

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a 13-day adventure that leads to the base of Annapurna, with a max altitude of 4,130m and stunning sunrise views at Machhapuchhre Base Camp. This moderate trek highlights the Annapurna Sanctuary and close Himalayan encounters, perfect for Annapurna Base Camp Trek enthusiasts. It's best in spring and autumn, offering clear skies and wildflowers.

Highlights:

• Sunrise at Poon Hill
• Wildlife in Annapurna Conservation Area
• Traditional Gurung and Magar villages
• Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
• Close-up views of the Annapurna massif, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri

Best time to trek: Spring (March - May) and Autumn(September- November)

Experience the magic with our Annapurna Base Camp Trek package. Inquire today for personalized support, as spots fill up fast for the best time to trek Annapurna.

3. Mardi Himal Trek (11 Days)

The Mardi Himal Trek is an 11-day off-the-beaten-path journey to a max altitude of 4,500m, featuring Mardi Himal Base Camp and amazing Machhapuchhre views. As one of the five best treks in Annapurna region, it offers serene trails and untouched beauty, with moderate difficulty. The best season is autumn and spring, making it great for Annapurna trekking beginners or those wanting quiet paths.

Highlights:

• Enjoy beautiful views of Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South.
• Watch an amazing sunrise at Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint with mountains all around.
• Walk through forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak and enjoy nature’s beauty.
• Explore the lively streets of Pokhara and relax by the clear Phewa Lake.
• Stay overnight in Lwang Village homestays to experience real Gurung culture.
• This is a moderate trek, good for all ages and experience levels.

Best time to trek: Spring (March - May) and Autumn(September- December)

Join our Mardi Himal Trek package for a hassle-free trip. Sign up now and let our experienced guides handle the details, ensuring a safe and memorable Mardi Himal Trek.

4. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (4–6 Days)

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a short 4–6 day option with a max altitude of 3,210m, perfect for easy Annapurna trekking. Highlights include sunrise at Poon Hill, colorful rhododendron forests, and visits to Gurung villages, making it ideal for families or newcomers. This easy trek is best in spring and autumn, with spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Highlights:

• Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli from Poon Hill View Tower.
• See the stunning Mount Fishtail from Phewa Lake.
• Watch a magical sunrise from the top of Poon Hill, with golden light shining over snow-covered peaks.
• Walk through dense rhododendron forests, colorful in spring with red, pink, and white blooms.
• Explore the streets of Pokhara and relax by Phewa Lake's shore.
• Visit the Gurung Museum in Ghandruk to learn about local culture and traditions.
• This is a short, easy trek suitable for all ages and experience levels.

Best time to trek: Spring (March - May) and Autumn(September- December)

For a quick getaway, check out our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek package. Reserve your place today and discover why it's a favorite for short treks in Annapurna.

5. Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake (20 Days)

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a 20-day strenuous adventure, reaching 5,416m at Thorong La Pass and 4,919m at Tilicho Lake, the world's highest lake. As part of the five best treks in Annapurna region, it combines diverse landscapes, Tilicho Lake's crystal waters, and cultural sites, ideal for Tilicho Lake Trek fans. The best season is March–May or September–November for stable weather.

Highlights:

• Explore Tibetan-influenced villages in Manang and Mustang
• Cross the high Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
• Visit Tilicho Lake, the highest lake at 4,919 m
• See 600-year-old Braga Gompa and other cultural landmarks
• Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and more
• Acclimatize with a hike to Gangapurna Lake
• Bathe at the sacred Muktinath Temple’s 108 waterspouts
• Drive through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge
• Watch a breathtaking sunrise from Poon Hill
• Experience Gurung culture at the Ghandruk Museum
• Relax by Phewa Lake in Pokhara

Best time to trek: Spring (March - May) and Autumn(September- November)

Elevate your journey with our all-inclusive package for Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake. Act now to book with Nepal Gateway Trekking and tackle this challenge with trusted experts.

Comparison Table – Quick Trek Overview

Here’s a quick Annapurna trek guide comparing duration, altitude, and difficulty levels of the top five best treks in Annapurna Region, so you can choose the one that fits you best.

Planning Your Next Annapurna Trek

Planning your trek well is key to a safe and enjoyable journey. From getting Annapurna permits to choosing the best time to trek Annapurna, preparation ensures comfort and safety. Our certified guides and travel planners help simplify every step.

How to Choose the Right Trek?

If you're new to trekking or want something easy and short, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is perfect. You'll get amazing mountain views without pushing yourself too hard. It's like tasting the Himalayas for the first time, and you'll definitely want more!

But if you exercise regularly and want a good challenge, try the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Mardi Himal Trek. These give you the full mountain experience: higher altitudes, longer days, and more dramatic scenery without being too extreme.

As for experienced trekkers who want to push their limits, the Annapurna Circuit or the circuit with Tilicho Lake will test your strength and reward you with experiences that few people in the world get to have.

Annapurna Trekking Permits

Trekking Permits are a must if you’re travelling to any of these five best treks in the Annapurna Region. You’ll need :

• ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): This is like your ticket to enter the Annapurna region. It costs around 3,000 Nepali Rupees for foreigners. The money helps protect the mountains and support local communities.
• TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): This keeps you safe! It's a registration system so that authorities know you're trekking and can help if needed.

You can get these Annapurna permits in either Kathmandu or Pokhara. Most trekking agencies like Nepal Gateway Trekking will handle this for you, making your life much easier!

Pro Tip: Don't forget to carry passport-size photos and photocopies of your passport. Having everything ready speeds up the process!

Need help arranging your Annapurna permits? Our team handles all paperwork so you can focus on your trek stress-free.

Best Time to Trek in the Annapurna Region

The best time to trek in the Annapurna Region is Spring(March to May) and Autumn(September to November). Each season reveals a different side of the Himalayas.

Spring (March to May) – Nature's Festival

This is when the mountains celebrate! Rhododendron forests burst into bloom with red, pink, and white flowers. The weather is getting warmer, skies are mostly clear, and the trails are full of trekkers from around the world sharing their excitement.

Autumn (September to November) – Perfect Weather

This is considered the absolute best time to trek Annapurna. After the monsoon rains, the air is crystal clear, giving you the sharpest mountain views possible. Temperatures are comfortable not too hot, not too cold. Many festivals happen during this time, adding cultural excitement to your trek.

Winter (December to February) – Peaceful Solitude

If you don't mind the cold and want the trails mostly to yourself, winter can be magical. You'll need warm gear, and higher passes might be snowy, but the mountain views are incredibly clear. Tea houses are less crowded, and you'll feel like you have the mountains to yourself.

Monsoon (June to August) – Not Recommended

Heavy rains make trails slippery and dangerous. Clouds hide the mountain views (which is the main reason you came!), and there's risk of landslides. Save your Annapurna trek for better seasons.

Ready to Begin Your Annapurna Adventure? Choose your trek with expert local guides, flexible dates, and trusted Annapurna trek agency.

Essential Trekking Tips

Based on our years of experience as a trusted Annapurna trek guide team, here are the most practical tips to keep your trek safe and enjoyable.

Stay Hydrated and Go Slow

Your body needs time to adjust to high altitudes where there's less oxygen. Drink lots of water (3-4 liters per day), take it easy, and don't rush. Altitude sickness is serious, so listen to your body. If you feel dizzy or have a bad headache, tell your guide immediately and descend if needed.

Dress in Layers

Mountain weather is moody! It can be warm in the sun and freezing in the shade. Wear layers that you can add or remove easily: thermal underwear, fleece jacket, waterproof outer layer. Don't forget a good hat, gloves, and sunglasses.

Hire Local Guides and Porters

This might be the best decision you make! Local guides know the trails and weather patterns, and can handle emergencies. Porters carry your heavy bags (leaving you with just a daypack), and both guides and porters share fascinating stories about the mountains and local culture. Plus, hiring them supports local families and communities. An experienced Annapurna trek guide can truly transform your journey from good to unforgettable.

Respect Local Culture and Nature

You're visiting someone else's home. Dress modestly when entering villages and temples. Always ask before taking photos of people. Don't litter – carry out everything you carry in. The mountains are sacred to local people, so treat them with respect.

Pack Smart

You don't need everything! Pack light but include essentials: good hiking boots (broken in before your trek!), warm sleeping bag, water purification tablets, basic first aid kit, headlamp, and sun protection. Your agency will give you a detailed packing list.

Get Travel Insurance

This is super important! Make sure your insurance covers trekking up to the altitude you'll reach and includes helicopter rescue. Mountain emergencies can happen, and helicopter evacuation is expensive without insurance.

Final Thoughts

The Annapurna region is a dream for many trekkers of all kinds. Whether you want the classic Annapurna Circuit, the stunning Annapurna Base Camp, the peaceful Mardi Himal, the easy Ghorepani Poon Hill, or the tough Tilicho Lake trek, you’ll find a perfect adventure here.

Knowing how hard each trek is, getting permits early, and picking the best time to go will make your trip safer and more fun. The best part about trekking in Annapurna isn’t just the mountains, it’s the friendly smiles you meet, the warm tea house welcomes, and the amazing experiences you have along the way.

If you’re new to the region or unsure, hiring a guide and booking with a trusted company like Nepal Gateway Trekking can make your journey easier and better. We handle all the details while you enjoy every special moment.

The mountains are calling. Are you ready?

Start your Annapurna adventure today! Contact Nepal Gateway Trekking for expert guidance, custom plans, and an unforgettable trip. 

Don’t wait. Book your 2026 trek now and join thousands of happy hikers exploring Nepal’s Himalayas!

FAQs About Annapurna Treks

Which is the easiest trek in the Annapurna region? 

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the easiest and most beginner-friendly trek in the Annapurna region. At just 4-6 days with a maximum altitude of 3,210 meters, it gives you stunning mountain views without requiring serious mountaineering experience. It is perfect for families, older trekkers, and anyone new to hiking.

How long is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek takes 18 days to complete. However, you can find shorter versions (12-15 days) if you're pressed for time, or extend it to 20 days if you add Tilicho Lake. The standard 18-day itinerary gives you proper time for acclimatization and enjoying the experience.

What permits are needed for the Annapurna trekking?

You'll need two main permits for the Annapurna trekking:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) 
• TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)

Both can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and most trekking agencies will arrange these for you as part of their service.

Is a guide necessary for ABC or Mardi Himal?

While it's not legally required, hiring a guide is highly recommended. Guides know the trails, can handle emergencies, help with language barriers, share cultural insights, and ensure your safety. For treks like ABC and Mardi Himal, a good guide can make your experience much richer and safer.

What is the best season to trek in Annapurna?

The best season to trek in Annapurna is Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These periods offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, while Autumn provides the clearest skies of the year.

Can beginners trek in the Annapurna region?

Yes, beginners can trek in the Annapurna region. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is specifically great for beginners. You can start with easier treks to build confidence and experience before attempting the more challenging routes.

How high is Tilicho Lake?

Tilicho Lake is at 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) above sea level, making it one of the world's highest lakes. The lake is spectacularly beautiful, with turquoise water surrounded by towering cliffs and glaciers.

Which trek is best for sunrise views?

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is best for its sunrise views. The sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m) showcases over a dozen Himalayan peaks including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre glowing in golden morning light. 

Are Annapurna treks safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Annapurna treks are safe for solo travelers. However, it's strongly advisable to hire a guide for safety, navigation, and cultural insights. The trails are well-established and tea houses are frequent, but having professional support makes the experience safer and more enjoyable.

How much time should I allocate for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

You should allocate 4 to 6 days depending on your starting point and pace. A typical itinerary is 5 days, which gives you enough time to enjoy the experience without rushing.