History of Annapurna Trekking

History of Annapurna Trekking

The Annapurna Circuit trek, in its entirety, has been rated the best long distance trek in the world allowing trekkers to thoroughly explore the Annapurna region, from its stunning peaks, varied micro-climates and fascinating villages. The massif itself was named after Annapurna, the Goddess of food and nourishment, she was the daughter of Himavat King of the Mountains. 

Trekking in the area was opened to foreign visitors in 1977 following the settlement of a conflict between the CIA and local guerilla groups. The original route took 23 days and followed an anti-clockwise trail that began in Dhumre and ended in Pokhara with trekkers venturing over the Thorong-La Pass and down into the Jomsom Valley. In the 1980s construction began on a highway that connected many of the towns within the area. Little has changed with regards to the route itself, however 

Today, the Annapurna trails are widely regarded as some of the best, and certainly most beautiful treks in the world. It takes trekkers anywhere between 12 and 22 days. Prospective adventurers have a number of different treks to choose from, all at varying lengths making it the perfect place for anyone seeking to experience the Himalaya. Due to the continual rise of tourist numbers, the trails are slightly different to what they were when trekking first opened. The trails themselves are more established and the routes are dotted with tea houses, bakeries and other enterprises set up to serve visitors. The very core of trekking in the Annapurna, however, has not changed. You will be treated to some truly beautiful scenery; from tall, imposing peaks to quaint low lying villages, subtropical forests and verdant paddy fields. The Annapurna is truly special. 

The local economy, which traditionally relied on agriculture, has changed significantly since the Annapurna opened to foreign tourists. An entire industry has developed around serving the needs of visitors, including tea houses and tour companies. In fact, there are now more than 200 lodges along the circuit. and tour companies have started. However, with the inception of the Annapurna Conservation Project in 1986 which was started to address the less positive impacts of tourism, namely environmental degradation, the benefits of tourism on the region have gone beyond the economic. A number of projects have been implemented to help the local community and environment. These include; a scheme to improve access to alternative forms of energy, community development programmes to help address educational, health and sanitation needs and a committee that aims to protect the area's forests. All of which benefit both the Annapurna area and the residents living within it. 

Ultimately, the Annapurna has changed tremendously since it first opened to tourists in 1977. But at its core its main attraction, the landscape, has barely altered and it will continue to entice and amaze tourists for years to come!

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