Annapurna is the 10th highest mountain in the world and was the first 800 0m peak to be climbed. It was first summited in 1950 by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal. It was not until 1970 that Annapurna was summited again. In the autumn of 1999 there were 120 expedition to Annapurna. 106 climbers reached the summit. 54 climbers never came back.
However, I am assuming you are more interested in trekking the Annapurna region , so most of this information will pertain to trekkers considering this trip.
Getting There:
Everything in Nepal starts from Kathmandu. A section of Kathmandu called Thamel tends to cater more to climbers and trekkers, and I would recommend staying there a couple days as you explore Kathmandu and make arrangements. You can have a tour agency there make arrangements to get you a guide and porters if you want . Frankly, if you are going to be trekking, unless you really travel with a lot of stuff, a guide may be all you need or would want. If you are good with map and compass you may not even need a guide. However, the guides are relatively inexpensive and are helpful plus you will have more opportunities to learn about the region. If you are going to be trekking you can readily book it all once you arrive in Kathmandu. There are numerous agencies there and and they are anxious to compete for your business. If you dont mind roughing it a little, and spending a day booking it all, this way is a lot cheaper than booking a trip in your home country through a more commercial agency. Plus it gives you far greater flexibility.
Gateway to the Annapurna region is the city of Pokhara. You can reach Pokhara by plane or bus from Kathmandu.
When To Climb:
The usual trekking season in Nepal is from October to May. The rest of the year is the monson season and is not desirable for either trekking or expeditions. Besides the cold and rain, leeches are a problem during the monsoons. If you are going to be trekking to Annapurna, October and November are the best months.
Mountain Conditions:
Trekking possibilities are quite varied, but most will start at Pokhara. The circuit trek to the Annapurna Sanctuary will take at least 10 days, but allow 14 to have time to enjoy it and to allow for unforseen events. The route up the narrow Modi Khola river valley is quite wet and slippery and quite steep in a few places. It can be a bit dangerous. The trail up to the Annapurna basecamp is a more serious undertaking.
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