Annapurna Region

Annapurna Region has Nepal's largest conservation area covering 7,629 square kilometer (2,946 sq mi) in the Annapurna range of the Himalayas in mid western Nepal. It ranges in elevation from 790 m (2,590 ft) to the peak of Annapurna I at 8,091 m (26,545 ft). The area stretches across Manang, Mustang, Kaski, Myagdi, and Lamjung Districts. For thousand of years, many people from diverse ethnic backgrounds have established a lifestyle on its steep terraces and barren plateaus. Gurung and Magar community are the leading groups in the south, whereas Thakali, Manange and Loba community are leading in the north. Each of these groups speak with their own dialect, and have unique cultures and traditions. There are also Brahmin, Chhetri and other occupational castes although in comparatively smaller numbers. Buddhist, Bon Po and Hindu religions along with a mixture of all these are prevalent across the region.

The mountain scenery, seen in a confined space includes the Annapurna Massif (Annapurna I-IV), Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, Nilgiri, Lamjung Himal,  Manaslu and numerous other peaks immerse on the north of Annapurna range. Excellent habitats for a wide variety of plants and animals reflect the land's biological diversity. There are approximately 1226 species of plants, 38 species of Orchids, 9 species of Rhododendrons, 101 species of mammals, 478 species of Birds, 39 species of reptiles and 22 species of amphibians  found in the Annapurna Region. The valley of Marshyangdi river follow eastern side from north where the famous Manang Valley along with popular Tilicho Lake are situated. On the western side of the Annapurna range, the famous Kaligandi river flows. The Muktinath , known as 'the lord of liberation', is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists whom they worship as an abode of Hindu deity Vishnu and Buddhist deity Avaloketeshvara respectively. The Valley of Kaligandaki follows ancient Nepal Tibet trade route, which has facilitated the flow of culture and religions. Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism, Hinduism and the Old  Bon - Po religion still co-exist and interpenetrate one another. The world famous Thorong La pass (5416m/17769ft) plays a role to connect this two valley with high pass trekking.