An Adventure Hiking Experience of a Lifetime Begins on the Annapurna Circuit

To the north of Pokhara, the Annapurna Circuit features some of the most dramatic sites and adventure hiking in the world. The 300km trek around the Annapurna mountain range is a circular route that crosses the Thorong La Pass at its highest point of nearly 18,000 ft, and then trundles down the deepest gorge in the world to provide mountain views that take your breath away. The magnificent mountain scenery includes the Annapurna peak, the glacial pyramid of Dhaulagiri peak, both towering over 8000m, and the Machhapuchhare peak, at nearly 7000m, considered one of the most beautiful mountains in the world.

The trek follows ancient paths used as trade routes between Nepal and Tibet which offer a glimpse into the diverse lifestyles, cultures and traditions of the many peoples living in the region. As the path descends, the distinct climactic zones open to a wide range of flora and fauna and varied wildlife viewing. Along the way, you'll come across dense bamboo forests, swaying footbridges over tumultuous gorges, terraced rice paddies, high mountain villages, river valleys and temples and towns. Trekking the entire circuit, you'll pass through 73 villages with over 500 inns and hotels offering comfortable lodgings..Indeed this is no desolate wasteland!

Considered one of the best treks in the world, the challenge of the Annapurna Circuit is due more to the towering heights it reaches rather than the effort required for the trek itself. To be sure, the paths are wide, the terrain easy with hikes more like a collection of day walks rather than strenuous climbs. Unlike most long treks, there is no need to carry food or tents as you stop in villages along the way and lodge in local hotels and inns. None of the necessities associated with self-sufficient hiking are called for, enabling you to concentrate on the essence - the sheer and utter beauty of the surrounding panorama and the splendid peaks looming above.

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most beautiful in the world, ranging in treks lasting between 11-17 days. On the west side of Thorungh La Pass, nestled beneath the grandeur of Mt. Nelgiri, lies Jomson at 2700m. Jomson offers an ideal trek alternative to the length and complexity of the full circuit trek. Tucked in between the two giant mountain ranges of Annapurna and Dhaulgiri, Jomson can be reached by short flights from Pokhara. Located at the bottom of the Kali Gandaki Valley, the world's deepest gorge, you may venture on to leisurely day treks, effortlessly walking on level surface, or explore the region by pony. Accommodations here are among the best in the country's trekking regions and amenities are plentiful.

Be it a trek around the entire circuit or the Jomson alternative, the Annapurna range provides extraordinary family adventure travel in Nepal and an adventure hiking experience in a region that is truly one of the world's best.