The Annapurna Region: Poon Hill, Base Camp and the great Circuit

Why go

The Annapurna Conservation Area covers jungle valleys, terraced hills, rhododendron forests, high passes and, beyond the mountains, the arid landscapes of Manang and Mustang that feel like Tibet. Because trailheads are only a few hours from Pokhara, it is easy to fit a trek into a shorter holiday, and the variety means there is a route for every fitness level.

Popular treks

**Ghorepani and Poon Hill**: usually four or five days from Nayapul or Ulleri, with thousands of stone steps, rhododendron forests and a famous sunrise view over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South. It stays below about 3,200 metres, so altitude is rarely a problem. A good first trek.

**Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)**: around seven to ten days through the Gurung village of **Ghandruk** and **Chhomrong**, up the Modi Khola valley into the Annapurna Sanctuary, a ring of peaks around a glacier basin. Avalanche risk on the upper trail can close sections after heavy snow, so follow local advice.

**Annapurna Circuit**: the classic long trek, now often started by jeep in the Marsyangdi valley and finished in **Jomsom** or **Muktinath**. It crosses the **Thorong La** pass at around 5,400 metres and passes through Manang, a good place for acclimatisation days. Roads now reach many parts of the circuit, but trekkers use alternative trails marked as the New Annapurna Trekking Trails to avoid traffic.

**Mardi Himal**: a quieter four to six day route up a ridge to close views of Machhapuchhre.

**Upper Mustang**: the former kingdom of Lo, with cave dwellings, red cliffs and the walled town of **Lo Manthang**. It needs a special restricted area permit, a licensed guide and at least two travellers.

Permits and guides

All treks need the **Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)**, issued in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Since 2023 foreign trekkers have been required to hire a licensed guide in most conservation areas, and the TIMS card rules have changed. Check current rules with the Nepal Tourism Board before you go.

Altitude and safety

On the Circuit and ABC, ascend slowly, take acclimatisation days and know the signs of altitude sickness. Weather can close Thorong La at any time of year; start the crossing before dawn and turn back in storms. Trekkers have died here in sudden snow, so never cross alone.

Teahouses

Teahouses offer rooms and meals across the region. Thakali dal bhat in Jomsom and Marpha, and apple pies and cider from Marpha's orchards, are highlights. Carry cash, as cards and ATMs are rare beyond the trailheads.

Getting there

All routes start from Pokhara by bus, jeep or taxi. Jomsom has a small airport with morning flights from Pokhara in good weather, useful for finishing the Circuit or reaching Mustang.

Packing

Bring layers for cold nights, a down jacket, a sleeping bag, water purification, a headtorch and sturdy broken in boots. Gear can be rented or bought in Pokhara and Kathmandu. Porters can be hired through agencies to carry heavy bags, which makes the walking much more enjoyable and supports local families.