The Annapurna region lies toward the north of Central Nepal. The region is well known for the most dramatic natural scenery, deep valleys, gorge, high mountain passes, and sub-tropical to alpine vegetation, Buddhist monasteries, Muktinath Temple, villages, ethnic people, their culture, and lifestyle. The region consists of Annapurna peaks, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurnas I, II, III & IV, Kali Gandaki River, and several climbing peaks.
The most prominent ethnic groups of people are Gurung, Thakali, and Managhis. Animals found here are Pika, blue sheep, and Himalayan Thar and vegetation ranges from tropical species to temperate forests of oak, beech, and rhododendron. Mustang or Lo Manthang, the desert plateau located in the upper valley of the river Kali Gandaki, and to the north of the main Himalayan range also falls in this region. The popular trekking routes of this region are Jomsom, Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna foothills, Siklis, Lamjung, Dhaulagiri, Upper Mustang, and around Pokhara. The best time to visit this region for trekking and mountaineering is during spring and autumn.
