• Last Updated on Jun 8, 2023

Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)

Annapurna Conservation Area is the largest conservation area in Nepal that covers 7,629 sq. km. and is spread across Manang, Mustang, Kaski, Myagdi, and Lamjung districts. In 1986, the Nepal government has declared the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). Being the first conservation area in Nepal, it is also the largest protected area that is home to 100,000 residents from different cultural groups.

The entire region of Annapurna is abundant in flora and fauna. As per recent data, there are 105 mammals, 518 birds, 40 reptiles, 23 amphibians, and 1,226 flowering plants. Apart from its rich biodiversity, Annapurna Conservation Area houses the world's deepest river gorge, Kali Gandaki Gorge (3 miles long and 1.5 miles wide). Along with that here, the very famous and stunning Tilicho Lake and the biggest rhododendron forests are also situated. With that being said the conservation area also includes picturesque villages and rushing streams & rivers.

The Annapurna region equally boasts of cultural diversity. People from several ethnic groups like Magar, Gurung, Manang, Loba, Thakali, Brahmin, Chhetri, and others reside here. All of these communities have distinct cultures, traditions, languages, delicacies, festivals, and practices. Besides all of these diversities, they live in peace and harmony. Hinduism and Buddhism are the two main religions of the Annapurna Region. 

Likewise, the region houses Annapurna Himalayas and offers scenery, unlike any other place. The trekking trail is very beautiful and tempting. Throughout the trail, there are many stupas, monasteries, Chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags that bless the region and the trekkers. Himalayan mountains like Annapurna Range (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri Range (8,167 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m), Mt. Tukuche (6,920 m), Mardi Himal (5,587 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), and many others decorates the trail.

All of the above traits attract hundreds and thousands of travelers every year to this region, making it one of the major trekking and travel destinations in Nepal. Tourism has made it possible for many villages as the main income stream and hugely contributed to the local economy. Numerous lodges, teahouses, tea shops, and guesthouses are built all over the trail to cater to the trekkers.

With the increasing number of travelers, the region has also faced issues like more fuelwood consumption and waste produced by trekkers along with huge pressure on the forest. However, the government and all the private bodies are working together to run more eco-friendly and sustainable trips.

Table of Contents

Most Popular Trekking Packages in Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)

The Annapurna Conservation Area is one of the most popular region for trekking. Find some of the most popular trekking program in Annapurna Conservation Area.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular trekking trails in the Annapurna Conservation Area. You can do the trek from 6 days to 12 days to reach Annapurna Base Camp.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail is the classic trekking route in Annapurna, and it is said to be the best circuit trek in the world.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is short and sweet, and best suited for group family members and novice trekkers.

Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trail is a newly introduced trail in the Annapurna region, and it is becoming more & more popular day by day among trekkers.

Khopra Ridge Trek

Khopra Ridge Trek is another trekking trail in the Annapurna region. It is also the best alternative trek for ABC trek since the ABC is very busy these days.

Upper Mustang Trekking

The upper mustang region is located in controlled areas of Nepal. The nature & culture of the region is unique in the world. Mustang is being more popular among international & domestic travelers these days.

Nar Phu Valley Trek

The Nar Phu Valley is a unique village located in High Himalayas. The valley is located in the northern part of the Manang district of Nepal, and a special trekking permit is required to trek in this region. An itinerary of Narphu Valley with Thorong La Pass is the best for adventure seekers.

Conclusion

There are many other trek routes in Annapurna Conservation, which are Short Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, Poon Hill and many others. So, let us know if you want to make your own itinerary to trek in the area.

Arjun Rijal

Arjun Rijal

Hello, Hi & Namaste from the Himalayas !!!

I am Arjun Rijal, Founder Director of the Outfitter Himalaya Holidays P. Ltd & working as a travel planner/consultant for Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet Travel. I love hiking, trekking, and traveling.

I have been in most of the trekking regions in Nepal, that include Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base camp, Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu, and Langtang. I also have travelled to Bhutan, India & planning further travel to many other countries in the world.

Find my writing on traveling, trekking, tours, travel news, and updates about the tourism activities of Nepal, Tibet & Bhutan.

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