Off the beaten path treks in Annapurna

Follow the trails traced and maintained by shepherds and villagers walking for their daily chores over hundreds of years. Reach the less explored destinations in Annapurna and enjoy the most serene Himalayan views from the location very few have reached. 

Off the beaten trail trekking route in Annapurna avoids the classic trails to Ghorepani and Annapurna base camp and winds through the most pristine villages and forests coming to the more scenic view points than Poon Hill. The community lodges accommodates trekkers and the villagers cater to trekkers needs with their warm hospitality. While you get to walk the less crowded trails, the money supports sustainable tourism and the community. 

'Off the beaten track in Annapurna' highlights

• Unlike many other off the beaten path treks, availability of community lodges and homestay make it cost effective as well as support the local economy.
• With views of two eight thousand meter peaks and many other popular mountains, Annapurna is the second most popular trekking region in the Himalayas.
 
• Off the beaten path trek in Annapurna could be combined with popular destinations like Annapurna base camp, Ghorepani / Poon Hill or Mahaslu trek.

3 off the beaten path treks in Annapurna

1 Khopra Danda Trek

Khopra danda (ridge) at 3,660 m lies at the buttresses of Annapurna South in the north of classic Ghorepani - Ghandruk trail. An off the beaten path trek to Khopra danda - Khair Lake via Mohara danda could be done from one week to two weeks combined with Annapurna base camp and Mardi Himal.
This trekking route is relatively new, having been established only after the introduction of community lodges approximately five years ago. Previously, the trail was primarily utilized by shepherds and annual pilgrims traveling to Khair Lake. This alternative route serves as an excellent option for those seeking shorter treks in the Annapurna foothills, which have largely been supplanted by dirt roads.
The trek offers breathtaking views of prominent peaks, including Mt. Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, II, III, South, Lamjung, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). In spring, trekkers can enjoy the stunning Rhododendron forests and observe local wildlife. Khayar Lake, situated at an elevation of 4,827 meters, is another significant attraction of this trek. Autumn is also an ideal season for travel in Nepal, with the period from September to November showcasing picturesque landscapes of paddy and millet farms. During the summer, monsoon, and autumn months, one can often see yaks grazing in the surrounding hills.

New Off the Beaten trails in Annapurna

2 Kapuche Lake - Kori Danda Trek

A short off the beaten path trek in Annapurna could be organized from 4 days to a week in the Siklish - Kapuche - Kori danda. The trek was earlier popular as a short organized trek. It is possible to do the trek based on basic teahouses and homestay.

A journey from Siklish village to Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda reveals the enchanting beauty of the hillside region situated between the Annapurna and Manaslu Himalayan ranges. This trek, less frequented by tourists, offers trekkers the opportunity to explore the less traveled paths in the foothills of the Annapurnas.
The adventure commences with a scenic drive along the Madi Nadi river in the northern part of Pokhara, eventually ascending from the valley basin to Sikles (1981m). Sikles, a Gurung village, is celebrated for providing an authentic experience of Gurung culture and traditional ways of life. From Sikles, the trek advances to Hugu Goth and continues to the stunning Kapuche Glacier Lake. At an elevation of 2480m, Kapuche Lake is recognized as the world’s lowest glacier lake. The trek continues through lush, unspoiled forests to the next significant destination, Nohtha. A day trip to Kori Danda and Thulek, another viewpoint along the trek, is recommended before returning to Pokhara.

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3 Nar Phu Trek

A trek to Nar Phu is the most unspoiled but rugged and strenuous trek in the Annapurna. Opened only in 2003, Nar Phu is the hidden valley bordering Tibet. Its charming villages with Tibetan Buddhist imblims and pristine landscape accessed by very few tourists make it the best off the beaten path trek in Nepal that could be done based on teahouse or homestay. 

A requirement of a special restricted area permit and sustainable tourism initiatives taken, help to preserve its self-sufficient medieval Tibetan lifestyle and culture. 

Nar Phu Trek could be planned for as short as 9 days from Kathmandu and back and costs about USD 990 / person.

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Trek caution

When embarking on these off-the-beaten-path treks, it's important to be prepared, as facilities and services might be more basic compared to the well-trodden routes. You need to have a good supply of backup batteries for your gadgets and also snacks to nibble on. It's also a good idea to travel with a reputable guide who is familiar with the area and can ensure your safety and provide insights into local culture and customs. Our guides are licensed, insured and specialized on these off the beaten path treks in Annapurna. We have the latest information about the weather, travel advisories and permit requirements.