TREKKING ROUTES IN AND AROUND POKHARA

Pokhara the gateway to some of the world’s most popular trekking destinations. Pokhara is not only the centre from adventure trekking but also a center of foothill trekking in Nepal. As with all trekking routes in the Himalaya, the best weather and views will be experienced October-November and March-May. The winter months are very cold (especially at high altitude) and the views in the Monsoon summer months are plagued by solid could (although low-lovel treks are still possible).

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP):-

In an effort to both care for the environment, and also keep the vibrant tourist industry alive, the ACAP was set up to monitor activities taking place in the Annapurna region. ACAP’s activities are two fold. Firstly they aim to raise awareness of the potential problems being caused to the environment, and also the need to support the local economy. They do this through a variety of mediums including presentations, articles and leaflets. Secondly, they have launched a number of initiatives to combat specific problems potentially threatening the area. These include:

Conservation Permit: A conservation permit was introduced a few years ago, and the  funds gained from this have been used for conservation projects within the Annapurna region. These include litter disposal, footpath/bridge construction and aiding locals in the conservation of new facilities.

Safe water Drinking Stations (SWDS): Positioned at strategic pints along the trekking routes, these stations allow the filling up of water bottles with purified water, for a nominal charge. The aim of this project is to decrease the amount of plastic bottles(which take 1000s of years to degrade) being discarded as waste and has achieved a significant amount over the past few years.

Annapurna Circuit Trek:

Duration: 16-18 days

Max Altitude: 5416m

It is one of the most well known trekking destinations of Nepal. The Annapurna circuit trek lies inside the world famous conservation area called ‘Annapurna Conservation Area Project’ ACAP. It covers on area of 7629 sq.km. between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Apart from the mountains, a trekker will come across the beautiful Himalayan settlements, and natural features like Kali Gandaki ( the deepest gorge in the world). Lake Tilicho ( The highest in the world) and Thorung-la (the highest pass) etc. The trek starts from Besishahar and it takes around six hours from Pokhara to Besishahar by Bus. The trek will also cover Manang and Mustang Valley where one will experience Thakali culture first hand.

Annapurna Sanctuary:

Duration : 10-14 days

Max Altitude: 4095m

IT is a week long popular trekking destination around the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre region. The trek is also known as Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) and Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) One can start this trek through number of routes like from Pokhara-Damphus-Pothana-Chhomrong or Pokharaa-Birethanti-Ghandruk-Chhomrong. Chomrong is the entry point to Annapurna sactuary. As one enters into the sanctuary, you will be overwhelmed by the close-up views of Annapurna I, Annapurna-III, Gangapurma and Machhapuchhre. The village settlements of Ghandruk, Dhampus, Landruk, Pothana and Chomruk with their rich culture, Tradition and the scenic beauty will add more excitement to the trek.

Millennium Trek

Duration: 6 Days

Max Altitude: 2000M

On the first day of New Millennium 2000, a new trek route was initiated to encourage village tourism. The  total trek takes 5 nights/6 days and each day different community has been selected for lunch and stopover. The culture program is organized in every stopover and the foods is organic and locally produced. The visitors are free to join any household activities like cooking, weaving, farming etc. This route is best in the mid hill of Nepal and is the first village to village trekking route in Nepal.

Royal Trek:

Duration: 4 Days

Max Altitude: 1730M

This trek is named so after Prince Charles of the United Kingdom first trekked this route in 1980. It starts from near Bijayapur River 5 km east of Pokhar and ends at Chisapani. It is a four days soft trek suitable for all age groups. The highest point of this trek is Shaklung and this trek is appropriate for scenic view of Himalaya and the surrounding villages.

Machhapuchhre Trek:

Duration:4-7 Days

This is a new model trek, being introduced as part of the Vist Pokahra 2007 year and will open up many new opportunities for avid trekkers. It  amis to allow trekkers to get closer than ever before to the dramatic and unique Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), whilst walking through small cultural programs.