©
Mark Lehmkuhler
Nepal Travel Guide
©
Mark Lehmkuhler
The Annapurnas are an ideal site for walking, known amongst fans of mountains and trekking. This Himalayan peak is well known because it was the first one over 8000 metres to be scaled (by French people!) It's also the peak which has been scaled the least amount of times and with the highest mortality rate. A mythical mountain then, but which also offers an accessible trek for any walker in shape on a trip to Nepal, the Annapurnas balcony.
The Annapurnas balcony has several advantages for those who want to discover Nepalese landscapes without taking risks or without too much physical exertion. First of all, this trek is quite short, between 4 and 6 days depending on the route, which is perfect for those with less endurance. What's more, the route does not require you to be in Olympic shape!
The altitude is always moderate, reaching a maximum of 3200 metres, thus avoiding the risks of altitude sickness. The difficulties are rare and the majority of the trip actually takes place quite low in the valleys, amongst the beautiful rice fields. Passing through the villages of the Gurung, a local people, also allows you to meet local populations and to discover their culture and way of life.
From the Annapurnas balcony, one of the most beautiful moments will no doubt be from the Poon Hill viewpoint at an altitude of 3193 metres, the peak of your adventure. The view offered here is simply captivating, with breathtaking views over some of the highest peaks of the Himalayas: the Dhaulagiri, the Nilgiri, or even the Machapuchare.
Poon Hill is located between the villages Ghorepani and Tadapani. In each of them you can find lodges and guesthouses ready to welcome you for the night to recuperate as best you can during your trek and to be refreshed by morning.
The trek to the Annapurnas balcony? The perfect compromise to mix and get familiar with the local populations at the same time as you enjoy an impressive natural environment, where you'll feel humble and serene.
