Off The Beaten Path Treks in Annapurna Region Nepal

Nepal is a dream destination for trekkers worldwide. Its iconic status, larger population, and greater connection to the outside world brings in more trekkers overcrowding the major trails such as the Everest region and Annapurna region.

Annapurna region is the perfect blend of culture and nature with varying landscapes. Considered one of the easy trails in Nepal, it is famous among trekkers for its up-close breathtaking views of Annapurna mastiffs and relatively easy altitude sickness-free routes. While the Annapurna region itself is very well known of the trails in this region are now becoming somewhat crowded and busier.

So if you are tired of seeing the same old Annapurna Base Camp itinerary, then here we present you fresh insight into some of the untrodden paths in the Annapurna region of Nepal with off-the-beaten treks in the Annapurna region. 

1. Khopra Dada Trek - 14 days

If you are looking for off the beaten trek with fewer tourists in the Annapurna region, then this community trek is the best alternative focusing on intimate villages and people, wildlife, and wide range of landscapes from forest to high alpine and panoramic view of mountains including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Fang, and Nilgiri.

The short and rewarding Khopra Ridge community trek is the newly promoted community-based Eco-trail situated in the Annapurna region at an altitude of 3600m. This trek is also known as the Myagdi Parbat Eco-trek, which was developed by the local communities to improve their economic condition and build a school to provide better opportunities to their children. 

A short while from Khopra Ridge, this journey also goes to the holy lake known as "Kaire Lake." Yak farms may be found around Khopra Ridge, which is near the Annapurna area. Beginning in Pokhara, this region is home to the Gurung and Magar ethnic populations. It travels through numerous villages, notably Ghandruk, which is the largest Gurung village.

Community trek is an amazing way to get familiar with Nepal's remote and cultural villages. Grasp this chance to explore the untrodden trails in the famous Annapurna region with Khopra ridge trek!

2. Panchase Trek - 7 days

Panchase Village, a sacred religious site is a perfect blend of culture and biodiversity. This village is the epitome of beautiful scenery and fascinating culture, and like-minded people. Although this Panchase village trek is considered relatively easy and non-touristic, the village boasts a wide variety of flora and fauna.

This scenic trek begins in Pokhara, the "City of Lakes," and includes a brief boat ride on Phewa Lake before continuing on to the World Peace Pagoda. Along the way, you'll pass a number of villages where you can get a close-up look at the daily lives of some ethnically diverse people, including Brahmin, Magar, and Gurung.

While on this hike, altitude is less of an issue. As a result, one should not be concerned about potential altitude sickness while on the hike. This project is also shorter in duration and less demanding. Anyone who is physically healthy and has a limited amount of time can participate, regardless of age.

Relatively easy and forlorn, this trek is just the right choice for those seeking nature, along with the closure to local people. \

3. The Royal Trek - 9 days

This trip path, known as the Royal trek since Prince Charles hiked it in the 1980s, rises up to 1700 m with little chance of experiencing any altitude sickness. As you hike along the path, the stunning sight of Mt. Annapurna covered in white snow welcomes you up close.

One of the shortest hikes is the Royal Trek, which is located north of the Pokhara valley and follows the foothills of Annapurna. For those who enjoy being in the mountains but lack the time for lengthy and taxing walks, this trip is a good option because it is less busy than the other routes in the Annapurna region.

This four-day trek starts from the north of Pokhara valley and passes through several Gurung villages, providing opportunities for meaningful cultural experiences with a diverse mix of people and cultures in this region. 

Throughout the trek, one can enjoy stunning views of the eloquently built hillside rice terraces, the magnificent Annapurna range, Machapuchhre [fishtail] and the Langtang Mountain views. The Royal trekking trip is also ideal for family travelling within a limited time frame. 

4. Nar Phu Valley Trek - 19 days

Nar Phu Valley Trek is suitable for trekkers seeking serenity and escapes from day-to-day busy life. This particularly unfamous trek in the Annapurna region takes you along the deepest gorge in the world -Kaligandaki, to one of the highest passes in Nepal- Thorung La Pass, observing the serenity of the Nar Phu Valley, along with the charm of the Annapurna circuit. 

The Nar Phu Valley journey begins from Pokhara, sometimes referred to as the "City of Seven Lakes," and travels via roaring waterfalls, charming towns, terraced farms, thick rhododendron woods, and breathtaking mountain panoramas before circling the towering Annapurna.

Experience the cultural as well as the natural richness of unexplored Nepal with Nar Phu valley trek!

5. Mohare Danda Trek- 11 days

Mohare Dada Trek within the Annapurna region is peaceful off the beaten path to Annapurna foothills. A ‘high road’ alternative route to Ghorepani Trek, Mohare danda also known as ‘Eco-Community Lodge trek’ focuses on creating sustainable economic stability by promoting tourism potentialities and possibilities in this area. 

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Exploring the unexplored region, trekkers with limited time and unlimited desire to explore culture and beauty of can enjoy the authentic culture, friendly people, wonderful nature, and a stunning view of one of the longest chains of mountains as Mohare Danda (3300m) is the closest point to view the massive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Glorious sunrises and sunsets, mesmerizing mountain views, unique Magar culture, and friendly people are sure to make your trip to Mohare danda an incredible experience.

6. Sikles trek- 7 days

One of the recently opened trails in the Annapurna region, Sikles trek is a socio-cultural journey into the traditional Gurung villages of this particular region. Untrodden and unknown of, the trails leading to this trek passes through rough and wild forests side by side to the fascinating views of Annapurna ranges and Fishtail mountain.

Annapurna Region

This trek short trek packed with scenery, culture, adventure, and history starts from Hemja village traversing through the rough terrains of the Annapurna region into the traditional villages of Sikles, Tang Ting and Bhujung at the end. 

Sikles trek is a camping adventure starting from the Southern Annapurna region of rural Nepal. This is an easy trek elevating up to the height of 2500m. Altitude sickness is less of the problem in this trek. Anyone physically fit irrespective of the age can be a part of this incredible experience. Spend a night out on nature, enjoying local delicacies and experiencing the authentic taste of rural Nepal with Skiles trek!

7. Karbakeli Eco trek

The freshly discovered Annapurna trekking trails close to the famous viewpoint Poonhill, Karbakeli Eco trek is a complete blend of undisturbed nature and rich Pun culture. 

Perfect for trekkers preferring exotic and unspoiled environment, wildlife and support conservation efforts. Karbakeli Eco trek is an alternative to overcrowded Poonhill trek. 

Combining nature with indigenous culture, the major highlight of this trek is the Karbakeli Thaan (Temple) of Karbakeli baba (major deity of the indigenous community, Pun Magar). Magar community prays to Karbakeli Baba, the golden statue in the temple of Karbakeli Baba located at Kaphal Danda. Kaphal danda is also known as “Ramchan Kulchan Danda”. 

Besides, it also flaunts spectacular view of South Annapurna (7219 m), Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Nilgiri(7061 m), Tukuche Peak (6920 m) and others while walking through the rhododendron (national flower of Nepal) forest. 

Grasp this opportunity to explore this infamous nexus of biological diversity, flora and fauna, art and culture and rural lifestyle before anyone else with Karbakheli Eco trek. 

Did you know any of these treks? Have you been to any? Let us know about your experiences in the comment section below.