Annapurna region trekking map
(named for the Annapurna mountain range), to the north of
Pokhara, is the most popular trekking destination in the world.
Approximately 65% of trekkers visiting Nepal trek in the Annapurna
region, 25% trek in the Everest region and the remaining 10%
trek in various areas like Langtang, Dolpo, Mustang, Kanchengjunga,
Helambu, Manaslu. Every trekker marvels over the magnificent
scenery that the Annapurna region offers and its unspoiled
bio-diversity, including Fish Tail (Machhapuchhre) peak, Annapurna,
Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna and Lamjung Himal. The area
is home to over 100 mammals, more than 60 reptiles and amphibians,
in excess of 450 species of birds and 9 types of rhododendrons.
The deep valleys and high mountains encircling the giant Annapurna
Himal embrace a wide range of peoples and terrain, from subtropical
jungle to a high, dry landscape resembling the Tibetan Plateau.
Two main trails follow river valleys in relatively easy ascents:
up the Kali Gandaki to Jomsom and Muktinath (Pilgrims Hindu
Temple), and up the Marsyangdi to Manang. These trails can
be joined by crossing a high pass, the Thorung La, and when
combined they form the classic Annapurna Circuit. As the land
climbs, mud-walled huts are replaced by flat-roofed stone
houses, and the predominant occupation changes from farming
to herding while the principle religion of the people changes
from Hindu to Buddhist.The Annapurna region dramatically reveals
the cultural and geographic frontier running across Nepal.
Mountain views are frequent and spectacular, and the various
trekking routes offer different experiences – the trek
around Annapurna leads you throughout the region, the Annapurna
Sanctuary trek heads toward the heart of the Annapurnas and
the short trip to Poon Hill offers the best panoramic views
in the annapurna region.
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