Nepal: In the Foothills of the Annapurnas

The Annapurna Mountains—immediately the name conjures mystery and majesty. That’s an appropriate feeling for the Himalayas, yet the “mystery” part might have a little to do with the fact Everest gets all the press. As undeniably impressive as the world’s tallest mountain is, it’s far from the only game in town when it comes to hiking the Himalayas. Trekking in the foothills of the Annapurnas provides a similar adventure, at a less strenuous pace and without the crowds that flock to Everest base camp.

Especially if you’re considering our Nepal and Bhutan hiking tour of the Himalayan Kingdoms, take a moment to familiarize yourself with all that this incredible region of the world can offer a traveller.

What are the Annapurnas?

 The Annapurna massif is located in Nepal, west of Everest. It comprises four mountains, named Annapurna I through IV. Annapurna I is the world’s 10^th tallest mountain and is known for being extremely challenging to summit, but fortunately for explorers looking for a less gruelling way to take in the sights, the foothills also provide grandiose vistas without having to worry whether the air is getting thin.

Culturally, the massif is named after the goddess of food. That gives some clue to the lushness of the region—the range falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area, protecting its diverse flora and fauna. Within it you’ll find rhododendron forests (particularly stunning in the full flower of spring, from roughly March to May), deep valleys, and friendly villages.

Why should I trek the Annapurnas?

The reasons to go on a Bhutan and Nepal tour could fill a book, but the most immediate answer is the vistas. The accommodations along our tour routes bring new meaning to the phrase “room with a view.” At the end of a day’s hike you’ll often look out your window at full Himalayan splendor, with views of terraced fields and mountains rising above. The days may find you crossing a suspension bridge over a rushing snow-fed river, or keeping your eyes peeled for sub-tropical orchids.

Keep your ears open too and you’ll encounter some incredible stories. For instance, you’ll pass through the home of the so-called “honey hunters,” who scale steep cliffs in search of wild honey. These adventuresome specialists climb bamboo ropes hundreds of feet above the ground to knock down beehives clinging to the rock. If you thought domestic beekeeping was an offbeat profession, the honey hunters are downright awe-inspiring.

How difficult is it to hike the Annapurna mountains?

 We’ve deliberately chosen routes we consider challenging but achievable, and a custom Nepal tour can tailor the tour to your preferred activity level. Expect to spend 3-6 hours hiking per day, but that can be reduced to 3-4 hours of hiking with less elevation change.

Why not go to Everest base camp if I want to explore the Himalayas?

Climbing to Mount Everest base camp may be a bucket list experience for many, but unless that’s a long-held dream for you and your travelling companions, we suggest Ama Dablam base camp as an alternative. The popularity of the Everest makes it difficult to book suitable accommodations along the way, and it’s harder to find moments of quiet contemplation along the very well-travelled route.

Ama Dablam is east of the Annapurnas and very close to Everest, but without the same volume of traffic to contend with. The name translates as “mother’s necklace” because it resembles a protective mother wearing a traditional pendant known as a dablam. This trek offers a magnificent and rewarding ascent to an altitude of around 15,000’, passing through Sherpa villages along the way where the cultural connection to the mountain runs deep.

Ama Dablam is included as an option on our Everest Lodge to Lodge Trek, allowing you to soak up the atmosphere of the world’s tallest peak along moderately strenuous routes apart from the largest tourist concentrations. You might also consider booking a scenic mountain flight, which will take you close to the peaks before you head home.

 Whether its Ama Dablam or the Annapurnas calling your name, we hope this post has whet your appetite to explore—break in those hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable trek.

Learn more about our Nepal tours.

If you’ve enjoyed reading and are inspired to join us or have questions about the adventures featured in this post, please give us a call at 1-800-941-8010 or contact us.