Annapurna Region
The Annapurna region is named after the Annapurna Himalayas, which are located northwest of Kathmandu in central Nepal. The Annapurna range of the Nepal Himalayas encompasses several peaks named Annapurna, including the 8,091-metre (26,545ft) Annapurna-1. The Annapurna region, located about 200 kilometres (130mi) northwest from Kathmandu, is easily accessible by road and flight. Most of these flights and treks offer magnificent views of the Himalayan mountains.
Annapurna is a Sanskrit name that literally means “full of food” (feminine form), but is usually translated as the goddess of harvest. In Hinduism, Annapurna is the “universal and timeless kitchen-goddess”, the mother who provides food. She is without hunger, a universal fear; this makes Annapurna a universal goddess. Its unique biodiversity, natural splendor, and multicultural and multi-ethnic diversity make it one of the most popular trekking destinations in the world.
The Annapurna region covers an area of 7,629 square kilometers, ranging from 900 meters to 8,091 meters. The climatic zones in the region range from tropical at low altitudes to glacier-covered alpine climate zones. The variation in climate patterns allows many different plants and animals to inhabit the region. There are many features that make the Annapurna region a unique place in the world. It contains the world’s deepest river gorge – the Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is 3 miles long and 1.5 miles wide, a valley with fossils from the Tethys Ocean dating back 60 million years. The southern part of the Greater Annapurna region is home to the world’s largest forest of rhododendron, which is located in Ghorepani. To the north of the Annapurna range is the world’s highest freshwater lake, Tilicho Lake.
The biological diversity of the Annapurna region is equally competitive with the cultural diversity. The Gurung and Magar are the dominant groups in the south, while the Thakali, Manangi, and Luba are dominant in the north. Each of these groups speaks its own language and has its own distinct culture and traditions. There are also Brahmins, Kshetris and other occupational castes, although in relatively small numbers. Hinduism, Buddhism and pre-Buddhism, as well as a mixture of all these, are common in the region.
Annapurna is the most popular trekking destination, visited by over 60 percent of all trekkers visiting Nepal. Each year, over 100,000 tourists trek and climb on the numerous treks in the region. The Annapurna region offers treks for all fitness and experience levels. There are many short and easy treks to longer treks as well as climbs. It is possible to explore for 2 to 4 days to 30–35 days.
There are several trekking routes, such as the Annapurna Circuit with the Thorong La (pass) crossing, the secluded and remote Nar-Phu Valley trek with another high pass crossing, and the Tilicho Lake and Pass Trek. These treks are on the east side of Thorong La. The traditional Annapurna Circuit trek can continue almost to Pokhara, or you can take a jeep or bus to return to Pokhara, or you can also take a flight from Jomsom to Kathmandu. Once you cross the pass, the culture, people and village/housing style change significantly at higher altitudes, showcasing the interesting diversity that Nepal is famous for trekking. In addition, to the west is the famously off-limits Mustang Trek which leads to the Tibetan border as well as the secluded and difficult trek around Dhaulagiri Trek. Further south are the Ghandruk Ghorepani Circuit Trek and many lower altitude but equally spectacular treks with excellent views of the region’s famous mountains.
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