About Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek also known as Round Annapurna Trek is a classic trek known for its dramatic landscapes and magnificent cultural experiences. The trek encircles the Annapurna Range while passing through the mighty Thorong La, one of the world's highest passes at 5,416 meters.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek has everything to offer to an avid trekker - splendid mountain sceneries, vibrant villages, soothing rivers and waterfalls, terraced fields, enchanting pine and rhododendron forests, high-altitude lakes, ever-changing landscapes, centuries-old monasteries, and many more. The trek goes from the sub-tropical lowland to the alpine regions and treeless barren, desert-like landscapes surrounded by high mountains.
While on the trek, the sheer beauty of the Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges can captivate anyone. Some of the notable peaks seen during the trek are Annapurna II (7937 M), Annapurna IV (7525 M), Annapurna III (7555 M), Gangapurna (7455 M), Nilgiri, Annapurna South (7219 M), Machhapuchre (6993 M), Dhaulagiri (8167 M), etc. You will often cross paths with Yaks and Mules along the trails. Likewise, Blue Sheep can be spotted in the higher regions.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is no wonder famous for its diverse landscapes. And so it is for its cultural diversity as well. The trek is an opportunity to immerse yourself and experience the local lifestyle, festivals, religious beliefs, and spirituality. The trek passes through the beautiful villages of various ethnic communities, mainly the Gurungs, Nyesyang Thakalis, Magars, and Lopa, who practice Bon, Buddhism, Animism, and Nature Worshipping.
The trek is famous for its historical, cultural, and religious sites like Jharkot, Braga Gumba, Muktinath Temple, Marpha, Tatopani, and Thini Gaun. Among them, the Muktinath Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus displaying a perfect example of religious harmony. Moreover, unique festivals like Yartung, Badhe, and Archery Festival add authenticity to this trek.