Best Trekking routes from Pokhara – Annapurna Treks
Pokhara, or the city of Lakes, nestled in the laps of the Himalayas is the perfect gate way and the main point to many famous trekking routes around the Annapurna region. From short hiking trails to a month full of adventure, the city caters to all trekking enthusiasts serving as the perfect starting point for adventurers eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness of this region.
In this blog, we will briefly go through all the renowned hiking trails and best trekking routes from Pokhara. We will delve into the challenges and highlights of some of the mainstream trekking routes like Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, Ghorepani Trek, and Annapurna Circuit which offers an unparalleled view of towering peaks and picturesque valleys. Join us on a virtual adventure through the wonders of trekking in the Annapurna region while we also offer practical tips for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
Top Best Trekking Routes from Pokhara
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
One of the most loved trekking routes, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek often referred to as ABC trek is an adventurous journey through towering peaks, lush rhododendron forest, and rugged terrains into the heart of the Annapurna sanctuary offering a stunning view.
Trekking Highlights
ABC Trek Duration from Pokhara: 7 to 12 Days
ABC Trek Difficulty: Moderate
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Maximum Elevation: (4,130 M) 13,550 ft
Best Season for ABC Trek: Spring from March to May and autumn season from September to November.
Along the route, you get to explore and experience the beauty of terraced fields, charming villages, and their culture, the lush green forest, and breathtaking landscapes. Another major highlight of this trek is the Macchapuchhre Base Camp or MBC which offers a breathtaking view of Machhapuchhre and its surrounding peaks creating a surreal experience. As you ascend the trails, you experience the majestic panoramic vistas of the Annapurna range including peaks like Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna I.
Trekkers of all levels can easily conquer this journey with proper guidance. The best season for ABC trek are spring and autumn. In spring, rhododendrons in full bloom add a fairytale-like serenity, while autumn offers clear days with a chilly breeze at night. If you’re lucky, you can experience the first snowfall of the year in late autumn.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned trekker, the ABC route offers an unforgettable experience and adventure with unparalleled views through the majestic peaks of the Annapurna region.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Another popular trekking choice from Pokhara is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek which is much shorter than the Annapurna region. Poon Hill is mainly popular for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset and its panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Trekking Highlights
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Duration from Pokhara: 3 to 5 days
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Difficulty: Easy
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Maximum Elevation: (3,210 M) 10,532 ft
Best Season for Ghorepani Poonhill Trek: Spring from March to May and autumn season from September to November.
The Ghorepani trek offers more than just scenic beauty. It offers opportunities to immerse in local culture and traditions, especially from Gurung and Magar communities. Starting from Phedi or Nayapul, the trail leads you through eye-pleasing landscapes, traditional villages, terraced fields, and the iconic rhododendron forest.
In spring, the mountain is covered with rhododendron flowers painting the whole trail in pink, red, and magenta hues. As trekkers ascend through this dense forest, they are engulfed in a sea of colorful blooms and sweet fragrances creating an unforgettable experience. The blooming season enhances the beauty of Poon Hill.
Nonetheless, trekkers can witness a mesmerizing sunrise view with stunningly illuminated snow-capped peaks. As the sun’s rays hit the peaks, the Himalayas are bathed in golden rays creating a magical and unforgettable picture-perfect spectacle to cherish forever. Trekkers are advised to arrive at the viewpoint before sunrise, dress warmly, and fully enjoy this experience.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is another legendary adventure quite popular for its cultural richness and breathtaking landscapes spanning over 160 to 230 kilometers. This trek offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty from lush forests to high-altitude deserts, along with a challenging adventure for trekking enthusiasts worldwide.
Trekking Highlights
Annapurna Circuit Trek Duration from Pokhara: 10 to 12 days
Annapurna Circuit Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Annapurna Circuit Trek Maximum Elevation: Thorung La pass (5416m/17769 ft)
Best Season for Annapurna Circuit Trek: Spring from April to May and autumn season from October to November.
One of the main highlights of this trek is the formidable Thorong La Pass nestled at 5,416 meters above sea level in Damodar Himal offering panoramic views of the stunning peaks. Another key highlight is the awe-inspiring Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the world’s deepest valleys separating the two major peaks, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Crossing the Thorong La Pass from Manang to Muktinath leads to the sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, the Muktinath Temple. Devotees believe that sins are washed away by bathing in the 108 water springs and two ponds.
An important thing to remember before proceeding for Annapurna circuit trek is to obtain the necessary permits which include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. Trekkers are advised to climb with proper guidance and accommodation to prevent altitude sickness.
Mardi Himal Trek
A hidden gem nestled in the Annapurna region, the Mardi Himal trek offers an enchanting experience, exclusivity, and tranquility. This lesser-known trekking route offers a captivating off-beaten-path adventure through the lush green forest, alpine meadows, and alluring villages.
Trekking Highlights
Mardi Himal Trek Duration from Pokhara: 3–6 days
Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty: Moderately – Easy
Mardi Himal Trek Maximum Elevation: (4,500 M) 14,764 ft
Best Season for Mardi Himal Trek: March to May and mid-September to mid-December.
One of the main highlights of this trek is the majestic Fish Tail or Machhapuchhre and Annapurna ranges. Trekkers get an opportunity to explore the enchanting remote village life and interact with the locals who call this rugged terrain home. Being less developed than EBC and ABC, the Mardi Himal trek provides a chance to fully connect with nature, immerse in serenity, and enjoy an authentic trekking experience.
Although moderately challenging, the route is more accessible to a wider range of trekkers including the first-timers. This route is a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, manageable difficulty, and solitude for a memorable adventure in the Himalayas.
Annapurna Region Trekking Preparation And Tips
Trekking requires very careful preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, especially in the Annapurna region. As the routes are challenging and uphill, trekkers are advised to wear high-quality trekking boots with good ankle support. A few other tips on what to carry while preparing for the trek are listed down below:
- Lightweight and moisture-absorbing clothing including thermal wear
- Windproof and waterproof layers/jackets
- Glovers, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- First aid kit with altitude sickness and water purification medications
- Trekking poles for support and stability
- Flashlights or headlamps with extra batteries and power banks for phones
- Navigation tools, maps, and proper guidebooks
- Personal hygiene items and toiletries
- Cash for permits and accommodations
- Protein bars and high-energy snacks like bars and nuts
Besides this, trekkers should also be aware of their physical state and fitness. If you’re a first-timer planning to go on the ABC trek, physician fitness training is advised since trekking involves long hours of walking over varied terrain. Cardio exercises like hiking, cycling, running, and strength training exercises targeting the core, legs, and upper body can help improve endurance.
Likewise, to prevent altitude sickness, one is advised to ascend at a slow pace allowing your body to adjust to the higher elevation. Staying hydrated is another crucial point to keep in mind, however, drinking alcohol and caffeine may cause dehydration. Learn about the symptoms of altitude sickness like headache, dizziness, fatigue, and nausea beforehand. Keep the phone charged at all times for emergencies and follow safety guidelines and local regulations by staying on designated trails.
Hiring Guides And Porters During Annapurna Region Trekking
If you’re unsure of carrying your baggage uphill every day during the trek then hiring an experienced porter is a great idea. This ensures a safe, enjoyable, and culturally enriching experience. Here are a few important reasons for hiring experienced guides and porters:
- Enhances your safety from potential hazards and unexpected weather conditions as they are familiar with the terrain from the inside out.
- They help trekkers stay on a designated course and avoid getting lost in remote or challenging areas through their valuable navigation.
- Guides offer cultural interpretation and insights further enhancing the trekking experience with their stories of local customs and traditions.
- Porters ease the burden of carrying heavy loads allowing trekkers to focus on fully enjoying the journey.
- Guides and porters’ familiarity with the local language and customs smooth the communication with villagers fostering meaningful cultural exchange.
- Local guides and porters contribute to the local economy, supporting livelihoods in rural areas and sustainable tourism development.
Nonetheless, while selecting a trustworthy trekking agency in Pokhara, visitors are advised to look for companies with a proven track record of safety, customer satisfaction, and professionalism. Also, you can seek recommendations from fellow trekkers, online reviews, or travel enthusiasts for agencies with reliable service and experienced guides. You should also verify that the agency is officially registered and adheres to industry standards and regulations.
Responsible Trekking Practices
When you’re exploring a new place, it is crucial to be responsible and preserve the natural beauty, ecology, and cultural heritage of the destinations. Hence, while trekking in regions like Annapurna, Mardi, and Ghorepani we should be responsible and minimize our negative impacts on the wildlife, environment, and local communities. Trekkers can contribute to responsible trekking practices by respecting the local customs, traditions, wildlife, and its biodiversity. It also helps promote sustainable development by supporting local economies.
Visitors should adhere to Leave No Trace Principles and dispose of waste properly to minimize pollution and preserve the natural vegetation and wildlife. One should choose local guides, agencies, and porters that prioritize sustainable tourism practices with fair wages and ethical treatment of employees. To support the local community members, purchase handicrafts and locally sourced goods like meals and accommodations.
Trekkers can also contribute by participating in community-based tourism initiatives such as homestays and volunteer projects to engage with locals and contribute to their well-being. When trekkers follow responsible trekking principles, they minimize their environmental footprint, ensure the long-term sustainability of these destinations, and support local communities.
End note
The Annapurna region is a treasure trove of trekking adventures each offering unforgettable experiences with breathtaking landscapes. From the off-the-beaten-path trails like Mardi Himal to the iconic Annapurna Circuit, there’s an adventure awaiting anyone seeking a blend of cultural immersion, physical challenge, and natural beauty.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, take the leap of faith and embark on the adventurous journey to the Annapurna region. The awe-inspiring moments and sense of accomplishment await you along with truly unparalleled natural beauty, vibrant culture and tradition, lush green forests, and majestic peaks. And after a thrilling adventure, what better way to unwind and revitalize than by booking your stay at Dorje’s Resort And Spa? Cuddled amidst the scenic beauty of Pokhara and the Phewa Lake, Dorje’s Resort and Spa offers a perfect blend of comfort, tranquility, and hospitality with an ideal sanctuary to relax and review your trekking adventure. Let Dorje’s Resort and Spa be your oasis of relaxation and comfort as you contemplate the journey and look forward to your next adventure.
