Annapurna Heli Tour

The trip to the Annapurna region has 2 major routes. One starts from Pokhara and the other from Besisahar which completely depends upon the trekking package you choose. Treks like Annapurna Circuit Trek, Tilicho Lake Trek, and Thorung La Pass Trek starts from Besisahar. The route passes Chame and Pisang to reach Manang and then to the Thorung La pass (5416m). Afterward, the trail will go towards the holy temple of Muktinath and then to Jomsom, and finally heads back toward Pokhara.

Similarly, treks like Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, Khopra Ridge Trek, Upper Mustang and Mardi Himal Trek begin from Pokhara. All these treks have different trekking routes. Upper mustang trek starts from Pokhara and goes through Jomsom and then long drive or trek to Lo-Manthang.

Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons are considered the most favorable time for going on Annapurna Region Trek. The skies are much clearer giving you the best possible views of Annapurna, Nilgiri, Lamjung Himal, and Dhaulagiri ranges. Also, during spring, one gets the opportunity to witness the beautiful view of hills that are being covered with beautiful wildflowers like Rhododendron. Due to these reasons, the trails can be pretty much crowded during this time of the year.

However, the climate and weather conditions can be very much unpredictable at high altitude, so it is better to be prepared for any kind of situation.

There is always a risk factor since you will be hiking above 3000m. Different people will react differently to altitude changes, regardless of the fitness level or experience in the mountains. Due to this, learning and understanding about Altitude Sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and its symptoms beforehand is a must. For low altitude treks like the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, the chances of suffering from AMS is quite low.

However, further moving up towards higher altitude like Thorung La Pass (5416 meters), the chances of suffering from it becomes extreme.

Majority of the guest houses and teahouses offer you free Wi-Fi and charging ports for free or for a small charge. However, in remote high altitude areas, Wi-Fi service might not always be available. In such cases, you can also use the different data packages provided by the Mobile Network Service Providers (NTC and Ncell). Therefore, getting a local Sim-card is a must for the trip.

Yes, you require an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit to trek in the Annapurna Region Treks. The cost of the ACAP permit fee is NRs. 2000 (approx. USD 20)for foreigners and NRs. 200 (approx. USD 2) for SAARC nationals. Along with that, you will need Trekker's Information Management System Card (TIMS) which will cost NRs 1000 (approx. USD 10) per individual. Both of these permits can be taken from Nepal Tourism Board located at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. For more information head to the official website of Nepal Tourism Board at https://www.welcomenepal.com/plan-your-trip/tims-card.html

The Annapurna region is one of the most diverse and popular trekking areas in Nepal. The region is famously known for the warm hospitality of Gurung people and the magnificent views of Annapurna massifs and other mountains like Dhaulagiri (8167m), Nilgiri (7061m), Lamjung Himal (6983m), and Machhapuchhre (6997m). Also, cultural diversity and local cuisine make this destination unique. Other than this the Annapurna region is basically known for its diversity in flora and fauna. Regarded as one of the best trek trails in Nepal Annapurna region is a must-visit destination if you are a trekking enthusiast.