Named after the mountain representing the Hindu goddess of nourishment and fulfillment, the Annapurna Trekking region lies in north-central Nepal in Gandaki province and is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations for adventurers across the world, be it novices stepping into the Himalayas for the first time or top-notch mountaineers and climbers looking forward to challenging the greater heights and conquering the summit.
The Annapurna region, often known as the "garden of the Himalayas," offers visitors a unique perspective on the vast array of over three dozen of mountain peaks such as Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m/22,910 ft), including the eighth and tenth highest peaks in the world, Mt.Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft) and Mt. Annapurna dominating the skyline.
Further, the entire Annapurna trekking region falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area established in 1986 to conserve the natural and cultural heritage of the encompassment, which hence requires mandatory permits to enter the land, promoting sustainable development and tourism and providing everyone who traverses the region with unbelievable serenity, cultural immersion, and access to watch the diverse array of Himalayan flora and fauna.
Usually, at the beginning of the journey to the Annapurna region, you are likely to encounter mixed ethnic communities, gradually transitioning to Gurungs and Magars in the midway, and lastly, to Sherpa, Managis, and Thakali, offering you an ultimate opportunity to gain valuable insight into the lives of Himalayan locals residing far away from hustling and bustling modern civilization, deeply cherishing their people and nature.
No wonder, the Annapurna region is every backpacker's dreamland, whether you are trekking aspirants, high-hill hikers, mountain climbers, nature extensionists, or simply a mountain lover to venture along the stunning mountain vistas, diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality of its people to keep you inspired as you move forward to the alpine realm, spending nights on several tea houses en route.
The enchanting Annapurna region has it all, from a long Himalayan expedition to a medium-duration odyssey to short treks, and here are our 2024’s top 8 Annapurna trekking packages worth a shot, offering truly unforgettable outdoor adventure that could be just what you are looking for your holiday to relish on:
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the most popular hiking route to the Annapurna region, taking you as close as possible to the tenth tallest mountain giant globally, Mt. Annapurna (8,061 m), without actually having to summit the peak itself at its base camp at an altitude of 4,130 m.
The trekking trail to the Annapurna Base Camp makes its way through several traditional dwellings, sharp slopes, snowy peaks, and green valleys full of interesting culture, traditions, and customs, evoking a once-in-a-lifetime experience amidst the towering peaks of the Annapurna range catering to the bucket list of trekkers and nature enthusiasts alike, where hearts smile with the opening and welcoming nature of the natives of the Himalayas.
- Trek cost: USD 1,035 per person
- Duration: 14 days.
- Trip Grade: Moderate
- Activities: World’s UNESCO heritage sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley; scenic drive to and from Pokhara, popular for its incredible Phewa Lake; delve into the Annapurna Himalayan cuisines and culture in several notable typical mountain villages of Ghorepani and Chomrong; relish the otherworldy sunrise or sunset from Poon Hill; spill-binding Himalayan panorama from the Annapurna Base Camp; relax with a dip in the natural hot spring of Jhinu Danda; and others.
- Places to See: Pashupatinath, Swyambhunath, Bouhnatha, and the ancient tri-cities: Bhakatapur, Basantapur, and Patan, listed in UNESCO’s Heritage Sites; the vibrant cultural and natural haven of the Annapurna Conservation Area; Ghorepani; Poon Hill; Annapurna Base Camp; Jhinu Danda; and the city of Pokhara itself, etc.
- Max. Altitude: 4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp
- Permits: Required
- Accommodation: Traditional Teahouses and Local Lodges
- Foods: Typical Nepali-Tibetan menus with some international cuisines
- Transport: private Jeeps, local buses, flights, cars, etc.
Full details on Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 14 Days.
15 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek
One of the most popular iconic, classic, and best-selling packages of all time is the 15-day Annapurna Circuit (Besisahar to Jomsom) hike, which embarks through some of the most gorgeous landscapes and hidden cultural and natural gems of the Annapurna region along the bank of the shimmering Marsyangdi River valley through the lush woodlands, terraced fields, and typical villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups such as Magars, Gurungs, Tamanags, Managis, Thakalis, and Sherpa in the higher Himalayas.
Typically beginning from the beautiful town of Besishar in the Lamjung District, trekkers will gradually ascend through the Marsyangdi river valley, witnessing the notable diversity of landscapes and villages, to cross the highest point of the journey, Thorong La Pass (5,416 m/17,769 ft), descending into Mustang for an eventual conclusion in the tourist hub of the country, Pokhara, making it a must-do adventure at least once.
- Trek cost:USD 1,150 per person
- Duration: 15 days.
- Trip Grade: Moderate
- Activities: Sightseeing around Kathmandu and Pokhara City; crossing one of the adventurous mountain passes of Nepal; Thorong La Pass; Discover the raw Himalayan beauty of the Annapurna Conservation Area, immerse yourself in an amazing cultural exchange with the locals of the Annapurna Himalayas, such as Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, and Manangis, get to capture yourself in traditional Gurung attire in Ghandruk, view the sky-dominating peaks of Nepal, taste the fresh apples and their delicacies, seek spiritual replenishment in the sacred shrine of Muktinath, and many more.
- Places to See: UNESCO World’s Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanth, Swyambhunath, and the Trilogy of Patan, Bhaktapur, and Basantapur Durbar Squares in Kathmandu; the Annapurna Conservation Area and its wide array of flora and fauna; numerous traditional Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki River Valleys; the adventurers' haven Thorong La Pass; the Muktinath Temple; the apple valley of Jomsom; Kagbeni; and Marpha; and lastly, take a rejuvenating bath at the hot springs of Tatopani.
- Max. Altitude: 5,416m at Thorong La Pass
- Permits: Required
- Accommodation: Traditional Teahouses and Local Lodges
- Foods: local and international cuisines
- Transport: local buses, private Jeeps, airlifts
Full details on 15 Days Annapurna Circuit (Besisahar to Jomsom) Trek.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a relatively short trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural highlights, mesmerizing mountain vistas, and stunning sunrise views from the lofty Poon Hill, which is often part of the Annapurna Base Camp Expedition and does not exceed an extreme height.
It is probably the most happening hiking destination within the Annapurna region, suitable for every age group and experience level to soak yourself in the panoramic sights, serene Himalayan air, and unspoiled Himalayan culture and traditions.
Frequently, the journey to Ghorepani Poon Hill is called the Annapurna Panorama Trek, offering trekkers and travelers almost every major highlight of the Annapurna Himalayan region, specifically the everlasting panoramic Himalayan peaks, and hence stands out as the best short Annapurna Trekking package even for 2024.
- Trek cost: USD 780 per person
- Duration: 10 days.
- Trip Grade: Easy to Moderate
- Activities: UNESCO world heritage sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley, adventurous driveaway to and from Pokhara, catching the stunning glimpse of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre throughout the trek, making way through the dense woodland of oak and rhododendron to Ghorepani and Poon Hill, getting the warming cultural enlightenment of the Himalayan locals and brave Gurkhas at Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk, unparalleled sunrise views from Poon Hill, seeing some of the common to rare Himalayan flora and fauns in the Annapurna Conservation Area, etc.
- Places to See: UNESCO World’s Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath, Boudhnath Swyambhunath, and the amalgamation of three ancient Durbar Squares of the Kathmandu Valley: Basantapur, Bhaktapur, and Patan; the natural paradise of the Annapurna region; the Annapurna Conservation Area; the land of Gurkha with the unique culture and tradition of Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk; the lofty viewpoint of Poon Hill, etc.; and many more.
- Max. Altitude: 3,210m at Poon Hill
- Permits: Required
- Accommodation: Teahouses and Local Lodges
- Foods: Local-Tibetan-International Menus
- Transport: personal cars, local buses, private Jeeps, and others
Full details on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 10 Days.
Ghorepani Poon Hill with Mardi Himal Trek
The Ghorpani Poon Hill with Mardi Himal Trek is one of those low Himalayan trips combining not only one but three of the major destinations of the Annapurna region: Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and Mardi Himal, creating an exhilarating itinerary showcasing the changing landscapes, awe-inspiring mountain views, and cultural richness, guaranteeing a unique trekking experience added by the thrill of making it to one of the peaks of the Annapurna outskirt.
The marvelous scenery, natural attractions, and incredible cultural exchange along with the famous sunrise view from Poon Hill and the serene beauty of the Mardi Himal region in a single trekking adventure make the fused Himalayan odyssey to Ghorpani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal one of the top Annapurna hiking packages to not miss in the year 2024.
- Trek cost: USD 875 per person
- Duration: 11 days
- Trip Grade: Easy to Moderate
- Activities: Adventurous drive to and from Pokhara, unwind yourself in the vibrant lakeside in Pokhara, traverse one of the most beautiful and pleasing trekking trails of the Annapurna region, followed by panoramic sights of Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhare (fishtail), Mardi Himal at last, and others. Venture deep into the dense woods of rhododendrons, oak, and pines; capture the expansive views of more than 20 mountain peaks from Poon Hill; get insider insight into the remote land of the Annapurna region as you make your way through the typical mountain settlements named Tadapani, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk;
- Places to See: The UNESCO World’s Heritage Sites in Kathmandu; the lakeside of Pokhara and other natural and cultural monuments; Mt.Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhare, Mardi Himal, and others from Poon Hill and the top of the Mardi Himal; the Annapurna Conservation Area; the traditional Himalayan villages of Tadapani, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk, etc.
- Max. Altitude: 4,500 m
- Permits: Required
- Accommodation: Local Tea Houses and Lodges
- Foods: Varieties of the menu, including local, national, and international dishes, along with some filling Tibetan meals
- Transport: local buses, private jeeps, cars, and other vehicles
Full Details in Ghorepani Poon Hill with Mardi Himal Trek - 11 Days
Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking
Annapurna Circuit Moutain Biking is a journey to circumnavigate the tenth tallest peak on the planet, Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), that must be added to the best-selling package to the Annapurna trekking region of Nepal, made for extra-adventurous individuals seeking ultimate adventure exploring the majestic peaks ranging from 6,000m to 8,000 m and above in your most treasure mountain bike.
On this high Himalayan trip, similar to the Annapurna Circuit Trek, cyclists follow the classic salt trade route along the river shore of the Marsyangdi River, reaching the maximum altitude of 5,416 m (17,769 ft) at Thorong La, then descend through the traditional towns of Kagbeni and Jomsom, taking a relaxing, rejuvenating bath at the natural hot springs in Tatopani at the end of the circuit, catering to all the adventurous cyclists around the globe.
- Trek cost: $1,875 per person
- Duration: 14 days
- Trip Grade: Moderately Challenging
- Activities: a test drive around the city of temples, Kathmandu, crossing Throng La Pass, riding along the diverse landscapes of the Annapurna region, getting to experience first-hand Manang and Mustang culture, taking a blessing, and unwinding in the serene ambiance of Muktinath temple, etc.
- Places to See: Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara City, Besisahar, Chame, Manang, Mustang, Yak Kharka, Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, Jomsom and Marpha, Tatopani, Ghorepani and Poon Hill, Nayapul, and others.
- Max. Altitude: 5,416m
- Permits: Required
- Accommodation: Cozy Tea Houses and Lodges
- Foods: typical Nepalese and Tibetan menus at some international buffets as well
- Transport: bus, car, jeep, mountain bike
Full details on Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking - 14 Days.
Mohare Danda Trek
Comparatively, a lesser-known trekking route in the Annapurna region is the hiking journey to Mohare Danda, guaranteeing a more tranquil and off-the-beaten experience in comparison with some of the other popular packages that reward trekkers with no lesser natural and cultural highlights.
Located in between the gorges of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, the Mohare Danda Trek is an ideal trekking experience throughout the year, serving as the perfect alternative featuring equivalent key components to the usual tourist influx. Ghorepani Poon Hill offers a true sense of traversing the Himalayas in the countryside, a fantastic alternative to escape the daily hassles of modern civilization.
- Trek cost: USD 755 per person
- Duration: 8 days
- Trip Grade: Easy to Moderate
- Activities: get to enjoy the scenic drive to and from the city of Pokhara, embrace the serenity of rhododendrons, pines, and Mongolian trees; and Warm your heart in the community lodging while viewing the sweeping panorama of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and the Himalayas of Manaslu. Get humbled upon witnessing the sunrise over the gigantic mountains from one of the highest ridges of the Annapurna regions in Nepal, Mohare Danda, etc.
- Places to See: Pokhara, Galeshwor, Takam village, Danda Kharka, Nangi village, Mohare Danda View Point, Ghandruk village, Birethanti, and many more.
- Max. Altitude: 3,300m at Mohare Danda
- Permits: Required
- Accommodation: Teahouses and Local Lodges
- Foods: Popular Nepali Tibetan to some international dishes
- Transport: Local buses, private Jeeps, and cars
Full details on Mohare Danda Trek - 8 Days.
Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour
A mountain bike adventure through the top-notch Annapurna mountain ranges with the locals of the Himalayas is the Upper Mustang Biking Tour, which presents you with the raw Himalayan wilderness leading you to the ancient kingdom of Lo, also called the “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” designated as the highly restricted area of Nepal.
Opened for foreigners only in 1992, allowing only a limited number of visitors per year, the mountain biking journey to the Upper Mustang is arguably the best package in the northwest of the Annapurna region, mostly in the driest parts of the Mustang, promising an adventure that comes once in a while and unveiling the unique culture, history, and natural beauty that has been preserved in secret for centuries.
It is a golden opportunity to embark and get insider insight into a lesser-known corner of Nepal, a physically demanding and extremely rewarding experience amidst the breathtaking Himalayan scenery and cultural gem. At the same time, you push the boundaries of skill and mountaineering skills, hoping further and further to the Upper Mustang.
- Trek cost: USD 2,375 per person
- Duration: 16 days
- Trip Grade: Strenuous
- Activities: Cycle around the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, discover the hidden lost kingdom of Nepal, Lo Manthang, embark on the unique restricted trans-Himalayan land of Upper Mustang, seek blessings in the sacred site for both the Buddhists and Hindus in Muktinath, and others.
- Places to See: Kagbeni, Chhusang, Chele, Ghami, Charang (Tsarang), Lo Manthang, Chhoser, Yara, Luri Gompa, Tange, etc.
- Max. Altitude: 3,840m at Lo Manthang
- Permits: Required
- Accommodation: Typical Tea Houses and Coal Lodges
- Foods: A wide variety of local, national, and international dishes that could be limited to typical Nepalese and menus in the higher Himalayas
- Transport: local buses, private cars and jeeps, mountain bikes
Full details on Upper Mustang Mountain Biking Tour - 16 Days.
Annapurna Circuit Half Mountain Biking
The Annapurna Circuit Half Mountain Biking Tour is a modified version of the classic Annapurna Circuit Mountain Biking Tour, where the cyclists ride through a significant portion of the lower elevation with equally spectacular landscape, vibrant culture, and thrilling trails amidst the sky-towering Annapurna Himalayas, passing through picturesque villages, terraced fields and farms, lush forests, and roaring rivers.
Along the way to the Annapurna Circuit Half Mountain Biking, riders have ample opportunity to interact with the natives of the Himalayas from diverse ethnic groups such as Thakalis, Manangis, and Gurungs while immersing themselves in the rich culture of the region, sampling some of the local specialists, visiting culturally and religiously significant monasteries and temples, and viewing the dynasty mountain peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhare, and others.
- Trek cost: USD 1,575 per person
- Duration: 10 days
- Trip Grade: Moderate
- Activities: a test ride across the city full of ancient temples, Kathmandu, a scenic drive to and from Pokhara, unique aerial views as you fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, discovering the never-before-seen Annapurna Himalayas as you ride through the stunning high alpine scenery, getting spiritually energized in the mystical Muktinath temple, soothing bathing in the natural hot spring of Tatopani, etc.
- Places to see: the bustling city of Kathmandu, Pokhara, Jomsom, Kagbeni, Muktinath, Tatopani, and others.
- Max. Altitude: 3,710 m at Muktinath Temple
- Permits: Required
- Accommodation: comfortable tea houses, local lodges, and a few homestays as well.
- Foods: Typical Nepalese and Tibetan Dishes along with some international cuisines
- Transport: bus, jeep, car, and airlifts
Full details on Annapurna Circuit Half Mountain Biking - 10 Days.
Paradise for trekkers catering to different preferences, fitness levels, durations, and levels of services mentioned above are some of the top trekking packages to the Annapurna region to experience in 2024 for sure, while it is important to choose the one that matches your niche of interest, schedule, budget plan, and the experience you wish to conquer. Additionally, make sure to hire a licensed guide with expertise in the route you are taking for enhanced involvement in the splendor of Annapurna nature.
