Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. This trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks and will allow you to experience the off-the-beaten treks in Nepal. Previously, this trek was among the most natural and remote terrains; however, it has gone through road construction over the years. In this trek, we will discuss the before and after situation of the Annapurna Circuit Trek after road construction.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek takes travellers above 5000m at the top of Thorong La Pass. This trek is popular for the stunning scenic beauty of mountains, vibrant ridges, rocky mountains, snowy glaciers, cultural diversity, and also rugged, challenging terrain. Annapurna Circuit Trek was even tougher when the routes and roads were natural; however, it has become slightly easier for trekkers to access the trek after the road construction.
The Annapurna Circuit Before the Road Construction
The Annapurna Circuit Trek Before the road construction was a completely different experience for the trekkers. The trekkers used to pass through naturally carved trails, roads, and remote villages when the roads and transportation infrastructure reached there. It was a journey into the world of pure, unexploited, off-beaten paths.
Historical Trekking Experience
In the past, the trek to Annapurna Circuit Trek was extremely challenging. Since there was no road and transportation options were expensive, the trek took about 20 to 25 days to complete. Furthermore, the trekkers had to pass through remote villages and sometimes camp in the open meadows, even during winter, as fewer hotels, teahouses, and lodges existed. Previously, the modernization of the society was still in its infancy, which is why trekkers enjoyed local traditions, culture, foods, drinks, and rituals.
Iconic Challenge of Trek
Before the road construction, The most iconic challenge was crossing the majestic Throrong La Pass, which is at an elevation of about 5416m. At the time, trekkers had to trek for about three weeks with limited resources, nutrients, and drinking water. The risk of altitude sickness and remedy was quite limited, so reaching the summit of Thorong La Pass was one of the biggest achievements of the trekkers.
Sense of Adventure in Isolation
Before the road construction, the Annapurna Circuit Trek was a true example of an isolation trek. The trekkers would go several days, even weeks, without seeing other trekkers or trekking groups. They would have been accompanied by the howls of the wind, the chirping of the birds, and the occasional sound of the cattle grazing. Hence, this was the condition of Annapurna Circuit Trek before road construction.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek After Road Construction: What Has Changed?
The Annapurna Circuit Trek Road construction began in the early 1980s, which changed the prospect of trekking in the remote region of Annapurna. Due to the road conditions, many trekkers were primarily experiencing the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, especially those who were only beginners and needed some sort of experience for the trek. The road construction began early in Dhumre and Pokhara before extending towards the Marshangdi River and Muktinath on the Kaligandaki side.
This road construction allowed accessibility of the trek quite easy, and transportation opened shortly, which reduced the 23-day trek to significantly less time. Many often debate whether road construction has impacted their traditional trekking routes. The trek through the Annapurna Massif began transportation, which made the walking trekkers cover more distance as they could travel by bus, car, or jeep.
Furthermore, due to the emergence of transportation, settlement started in remote areas, which started the construction of hotels, lodges, and teahouses. While the trek has become comprehensively simpler, there are still stunning views; however, many trekkers argue that the pureness and tranquillity of the trek have diminished. Despite the changes in the Annapurna Circuit Trek for trekkers, the road construction has made life easier for the local people and the trekkers themselves. The trek’s itinerary can be booked via a reliable trekking agency, which makes navigation easier and enhances the security of the trek.
Access to villages and settlements has become quicker, benefiting trade and commerce and resulting in a better economy for the local families. Access to local hospitals and medical centres has helped families, children, and trekkers trekking in remote conditions. Hence, there is no doubt that road construction has affected the pureness of the trek, but it has also improved the overall lifestyle of the trekkers and the local people. The road construction of the Annapurna circuit brought tons of positives to the Annapurna region. So, let’s get into some of the positive aspects of the road construction.
Economic Opportunities for Locals
The road constructions provide increased job and employment opportunities for the locals. They also facilitate easier trade and commerce from one village to another, which naturally increases the economy of the place. Furthermore, due to road construction, access to trekking destinations is easier, increasing tourism and, in return, increasing the trekking destination’s economy. The accessibility also helps the local people have easier access to goods and services, dropping their costs and increasing the economic condition of the local families.
Boost to Infrastructure and Accessibility
Apart from increasing the economic condition of the local family or society, road construction also helps the country’s economic state due to a boost in infrastructure and accessibility of the region. Well-maintained roads due to the road construction also increased the improved emergency response times. This is helpful for those particular trekkers and tourists who are lost in the trekking destination.
Change in Trekking Style
Due to road construction, the trekkers have changed their trekking style. The trekkers can use private or shared jeep mode to cover some distance of the trek and then begin trekking from the remote area, which was not possible during the previous times.
Challenges and Concerns with Annapurna Circuit Trek After Road Construction
Although road construction may be positive for trekkers worldwide and the local community, there are some challenges and concerns regarding several factors, such as trekking experience, environmental damage, and cultural and social experiences.
Impact on Authentic Trekking Experience
Road construction in previously remote regions significantly threatens the authentic trekking experience. As roads replace traditional foot trails, trekkers lose the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquillity of the mountains. The convenience of vehicular access often leads to increased crowding, noise pollution, and a diminished sense of solitude that was once a hallmark of trekking in these areas.
Environmental Consequences
Road construction, especially in the mountainous or hilly regions like Annapurna or Manaslu Circuit area, is more concerning. For road construction, the local authorities must clear forests, which increases deforestation and, in return, will impact the environment. Moreover, deforestation during road construction can lead to natural disasters like landslides, soil erosions, etc. The construction process in the mountainous area can lead to disaster itself. It can also lead to an impact on the local wildlife populations and their natural behaviours. This often leads to wild animals strolling around the place for humans, which can be highly dangerous.
Social Changes
The road construction can bring two villages together, which will bring social changes to the community. While road construction improves transportation and brings prosperity to society, it can also bring together modern and traditional lifestyles that can eventually clash. The continuous arrival of tourists can modernize the local settlements and erode the beliefs of the people who follow their local customs, traditions, and rituals.
Is Annapurna Circuit Trek still worth trying after Road Constructions?
Yes, Annapurna Circuit Trek is still worth it after the road construction. There are many reasons for this, so let’s get into it.
The Never-Changing Beauty :
The Annapurna Circuit Trek still offers some of the best views of the Annapurna region. The majestic mountain views of the pristine mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, and Nilgiri mountain ranges. No matter when you visit the Annapurna region, the ever-changing beauty is still the reason to visit the region.
Pristine Nature and Scenery :
Some of the trails follow roads, but many natural areas remain untouched. You can take side trips to the region to explore and discover some of the best-hidden spots, such as beautiful Tilicho lakes, waterfalls, and valleys like Tsum and Nar Phu Valley.
Yartung Festival :
Another reason to trek the Annapurna Circuit is the chance to experience the Yartung Festival, one of the biggest celebrations in the Mustang region of Nepal. Upper Mustang, the northern part of the Mustang District, covers 66% of this area and includes rural municipalities like Lo Manthang, Salome, and Baragung Muktichhetra. Until 1992, the Upper Mustang was restricted, making it a highly protected place. Most of the people living there speak traditional Tibetan languages.
Larjung Flora and Fauna :
Another reason to explore the Annapurna Circuit Trek is to reach one of the most beautiful places in the Annapurna region in Larjung. During the exploration, you can see some of the diverse floras and fauna of the area. Some of the floras you will find in Larjung are alpine flowers, rhododendrons, Bamboo, Pine, and Fir, and some of the faunas are Snow Leopard and Himalayan Thar, which can be found in that area.
Scared Pilgrimage Site :
Another reason Annapurna Circuit Trek is worth it for the people is the chance to explore sacred pilgrimage sites like Muktinath, Kagbeni, etc. Muktinath is one of the most popular religious sites in the world. It lies at an elevation of 3,710 meters and is significant for Hindus and Buddhists.
Ancient Caves And Petroglyphs :
During the exploration of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will visit several ancient caves and petroglyphs and can find the places where ancient Tibetan monks used to meditate. They migrated or fled from Tibet after the Civil War and began to spread their culture and traditions in the Mustang area.
Natural Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT)
The Natural Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT) has been developing since 2010 with support from the Government of Nepal and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. These trails offer trekkers alternative routes away from road construction. NATT uses local paths that residents have walked for generations.
This repurposing allows trekkers to enjoy beautiful, peaceful trails on the Annapurna Circuit. The NATT also addresses the damage caused to the Annapurna Circuit Trek by road building. Trekkers can recognize these trails by the red/white and blue/white markers. These markers help trekkers bypass dusty roads and enjoy a peaceful trekking experience.
New Trekking Routes of Annapurna Circuit Trek
Due to natural alternative trekking trails, many new routes in the Annapurna Circuit have been opened to the public. These alternative routes will give trekkers access to unforeseen trekking areas that were previously impossible to visit, making the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek more exciting and adventurous.
Some of the options for the new trekking routes of the Annapurna Circuit Trek include:
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp is one of the common treks in Nepal. In this expedition, trekkers can experience both treks in the Annapurna region in one go. This is a rewarding and challenging experience for the trekkers as they pass through remote villages like Bamboo and even reach the Thorong La Pass. Just like ACT, Annapurna Base Camp’s road construction experience has also been easy for trekkers due to the easier accessibility of roads and public vehicles.
Ghorepani – Poonhill or Ghandruk from Tatopani (descend to Pokhara):
Another trekking route for the ACT can be either from Ghorepani, Ghandruk to the ACT route, or when you descend back to Ghandruk from Tatopani and then reach Ghorepani, then back to Pokhara. You can include popular hill stations like Annapurna Circuit Trek via Poonhill, Ghorepani and Ghandruk providing different excitement and challenges for the trekkers.
Panchase Trek to Nayapul
Before starting your Annapurna Circuit Trek from Nayapul, the trekkers can begin early and reach Panchase from Kathmandu. From there, their trek can begin towards Nayapul, which means Panchase to Nayapul is a separate additional trek from the standard Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Alternative Trails for Pedestrians
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is among the best trekking destinations in Nepal. Suppose any trekkers want to experience challenging the beaten experience, with stunning views and majestic experience. However, you might wonder why you should consider an alternative route. While the Annapurna Circuit (ACT) is an exciting adventure, some factors could make it less appealing.
First, the trail is often crowded due to its popularity. This high volume of tourists has led to commercialization along the route. This is where an alternative route comes into place, as it can provide a more personal experience, allowing you to explore the beauty of nature. Other reasons to look for alternatives include limited trekking time, the required fitness level, or personal preferences. We have compiled a list of options if you are looking for a different trek that suits your needs.
Here are some of the ideal alternative treks of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Annapurna Sanctuary
If you love to trek through the Annapurna Massiff but don’t want to experience the ACT, then the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek is the one to choose. In the Annapurna Sanctuary trek, you will begin your trek from Nayapul to Tikedhunga until you reach Annapurna Base Camp.
Mardi Himal
Another alternative trek to choose from instead of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the Mardi Himal Trek. The Mardi Himal trek is ideal for beginners and experienced trekkers aged 15 to under 70. It offers fun and challenges, showcasing the beauty of Nepal’s diverse landscapes, including villages, temples, forests, and snowy mountains. Photography enthusiasts will love the stunning views, with the sights of Fishtail, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri becoming even more breathtaking as you near the summit. This trek is comparatively more straightforward than the ACT and can be completed in less time.
Upper Mustang
Another alternative to the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the majestic Upper Mustang Trek. This trek takes you to an altitude of over 5000m, where you can experience ancient Tibetan villages in Lo-Manthang. It is considered slightly difficult and is located in a restricted area, so trekkers must be physically fit, and issue restricted area permits.
Khopra Danda Trek
Like other treks above, the Khopra Danda trek is also one of the most beautiful and can fall under an alternative to the ACT. This trek takes you to Khopra Danda, where you can see beautiful mountains and villages. The Khopra Danda Trek is easier than the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which is ideal for beginners.
You will start your trip with a bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then to Ghandruk village. From Ghandruk, you will hike to Tadapani and spend the night there. You will leave Tadapani the next day and walk to Bayli Kharka, which has cosy lodges. On the third day, you will reach Khopra Danda, from where you will see amazing views of the mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, etc.
Conclusion
Hence, Building roads along the Annapurna Circuit has changed how people hike there. Some miss how quiet and remote it used to be, while others like it’s easier to reach now. The changes after the road construction have created different opinions among trekkers and the local communities. However, hikers and local communities must accept and understand that road construction is meant to improve the quality of life, increase the local people’s economic condition, and make arduous treks like the ACT easily accessible.
The new road’s beauty is the opportunity to experience different ACT expeditions. From overland tours to jeep treks, trekkers can enjoy other aspects of the Annapurna region, including the stunning beauty of the mountains and other landscapes. The development of society has given people from different parts of the world the opportunity to experience the various cultures, traditions, and rituals of the local people living in the trekking area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the entire Annapurna Circuit now accessible by road?
Can trekkers still experience the entire Annapurna Circuit without using the road?
What are the environmental concerns surrounding the road construction of Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Are there alternative trekking routes in Annapurna?
How can trekkers support the local economy while trekking after the road construction?
