The Annapurna Region is one
of the most popular trekking regions in Nepal, with trekking options of a few
days to a few weeks. There are three main routes in the Annapurna Region, which
intersect and combine in places, but trekkers can opt to do a portion or a
variation on the routes. The Annapurna Circuit around Annapurna Mountain takes
about 21 days to complete and is incredibly popular with people who have enough
time. This route is sometimes called the "Apple Pie Circuit," in
reference to the fact that most of the teahouses along the route serve their
own version of fried apple pie. The Annapurna Sanctuary nestles between the
peaks of Annapurna and takes five days to reach. Muktinath is on the way to
Annapurna but has since become a destination in its own right. The Muktinath
route runs in the Kali Gandaki Valley on the east flank of Annapurna and takes
seven days. North of Muktinath is Mustang, a small region that was only opened
up to tourists in 1992. This area is unspoilt and has its own fascinating culture.
In many regards, the
Annapurna Region, north of Pokhara, is an ideal walking area. The dramatic
contrasts of the Nepalese countryside are especially visible, from the
subtropical vegetation of the Pokhara Valley to the dry rain shadow area, with features
of the Tibetan plateau. The people and cultures are also very different: facial
characteristics, houses, lifestyles, customs, and religion. The Annapurna
region was declared a protected area in 1986. The region has a good
infrastructure to support the many trekkers that come through this area. The
paths are well maintained, and food and lodging are guaranteed.
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