region
Annapurna Region
The amphitheatre of peaks at the foot of Annapurna I — a 360° wall of 7–8000 m summits — is the headline. Around it sit the Annapurna Circuit, Mardi Himal, Poon Hill and a half-dozen quieter side rout
Good to know
Common questions about the Annapurna Region
Direct guidance from our lead guides in Kathmandu based on decades of on-trail experience.
What permits do I need for trekking in the Annapurna region?
Every trekker in this area requires the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card. If you plan to extend your route into the restricted northern sector of Mustang, a special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) issued through a registered agency is mandatory. We process all required permits for our guests ahead of departure from Kathmandu.
What is the altitude range of the Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp treks?
Altitudes in this region vary widely, starting from about 800 metres at the trailhead in Besisahar or Nayapul. The highest points on the standard routes are Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres on the Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres. Our itineraries include structured acclimatization days to help your body adapt safely to these elevations.
When is the best time of year to visit the Annapurna region?
The primary trekking seasons are the spring months of March to May and the autumn window from September to November. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and stable daytime weather, while autumn offers clear blue skies and crisp mountain views after the monsoon rains. Winter and deep summer months bring heavy snow on the high passes or continuous rainfall in the lower valleys.
How difficult is the main Annapurna Circuit trek?
The full Annapurna Circuit is a strenuous 160 to 230-kilometre journey, depending on where your transport begins and ends. The physical challenge stems from consecutive days of walking uphill and the demanding crossing of Thorong La Pass at high altitude. We recommend a solid base of cardiovascular fitness and prior multi-day hiking experience before joining this expedition.
Are teahouses and lodges available along the trail?
The Annapurna region features a well-established network of family-run teahouses and lodges along all major routes. These lodges provide twin-share rooms with basic mattresses, blankets, and communal dining areas serving standard dal bhat, noodles, and western dishes. While rooms have become increasingly comfortable, hot showers and device charging usually incur a small extra fee.
How many days do I need for a trek in the Annapurna region?
A classic Annapurna Base Camp trek takes between 10 and 14 days from Pokhara, while the full Annapurna Circuit typically requires 15 to 21 days to complete safely. Shorter alternatives, such as the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, can be comfortably finished in 4 to 5 days. We advise adding at least two contingency days to your international flights to account for mountain weather delays.
Overview
About Annapurna Region
The amphitheatre of peaks at the foot of Annapurna I — a 360° wall of 7–8000 m summits — is the headline. Around it sit the Annapurna Circuit, Mardi Himal, Poon Hill and a half-dozen quieter side routes through Gurung villages.
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