Annapurna. Situated in the Gandaki Province of north-central Nepal, Annapurna is probably the biggest mountain you’ve never heard of. The 10th highest mountain in the world (8,091m/26,545ft), it is one of the ‘eight thousanders’. It is also known as one of the most dangerous mountains in the world… Which, of course, makes it simply irresistible to thrill seekers! But while the summit is out of reach for all but the most experienced climbers (and they often struggle), the base camp presents an enjoyable hiking opportunity for the novice.

But if you’re going to embark on any kind of challenge, it’s a good idea to find out as much as you can about your destination before you go. So, here are our favourite facts about Annapurna.

Our Five Favourite Facts About Annapurna

Annapurna came from the ocean

You’d never think it to look at it now, but Annapurna formed at the bottom of a warm ocean. And we know this thanks to its limestone peak. Just like Everest and Dhaulagiri, it was raised from the depths by massive tectonic pressure. And when you’re sitting at its base camp, it’s just incredible to think just how far it has come.

Its name

The literal translation of Annapurna is ‘full of food’. In Hinduism – the primary religion of Nepal – Annapurna is the Goddess of the Harvest. So, most local people believe that the goddess inhabits the mountain. Which is as good a reason as any to treat it with respect, travel with a guide, and ensure that you never leave any litter behind you.

Annapurna is deadly

As the Choose a Challenge trek will only take you to Annapurna’s beautiful base camp, you don’t need to worry about this. But proportionately more people have died trying to reach Annapurna’s summit than any other mountain. At present, Annapurna has a death rate of around 38%. As a comparison, Everest has a death rate of just 6.5%. Making Annapurna as deadly as it is beautiful.

There is more than one Annapurna

Annapurna is part of the Annapurna massif, which includes Annapurna III, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, Singu chuli, Tharpu chuli, Gandharba chuli, Baraha Shikhar, and Machhapuchhre. Together, these mountains form a kind of natural ampitheatre around the Annapurna Base Camp. Providing visitors with breath-taking 360° views. But that’s not all. If you look slightly further afield, you’ll also find Annapurna II, Annapurna I Middle Peak, Annapurna I East, Annapurna Dakshin, and Annapurna IV.

It is part of a huge conservation area

The Annapurna Base Camp sits within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Covering over 7,629 km2, it is the largest protected area in Nepal. And is a haven for biodiversity, providing a home for 1,226 species of flowering plants, 518 birds, 105 mammals, 40 reptiles, and 23 amphibians. It is a place unlike any other. And it is an absolute privilege to visit.  

Annapurna isn’t the most well-known of the world’s climbing and hiking destinations. In fact, unless you’re a serious climber or you’ve visited Nepal, you’d be forgiven for being oblivious of its existence. But once you know that it’s there and you know a little bit about it, it becomes almost irresistible. And you won’t be happy until you have discovered its wonders and beauty for yourself.

Find out more about trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp with Choose a Challenge.