Of all the questions travellers are asking after the August 2026 floods, this may be the easiest to answer definitively. The Annapurna region is open, unaffected, and running exactly as it would in any other autumn season. Here's the detail behind that answer, plus the one logistics note worth knowing before you book your transport.
Nepal's Trekking Agencies' Association (TAAN) has confirmed the Annapurna region received zero impact from the August 26 flood. Trails, teahouses, bridges, and permit checkpoints are functioning exactly as they would in a normal year, with no reported closures, damage, or rerouting anywhere on the Annapurna network.
The flood originated from a glacier collapse near Langtang Lirung in Rasuwa district and travelled down the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers. Annapurna's trekking routes drain into an entirely different watershed - the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki rivers - which never intersected with the flood's path. This geographic separation is the same reason Everest, Manaslu, and Mustang were also unaffected, and it's why TAAN's regional assessments have consistently listed Annapurna among the confirmed-safe areas since the earliest post-flood reports.
Annapurna Circuit: the full route, including the high Thorong La pass, is running as booked, with teahouses open along the entire trail.
Annapurna Base Camp: unaffected, with clear autumn mountain views into the Annapurna Sanctuary continuing as usual.
Poon Hill: Nepal's most popular short trek for sunrise views over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna is running normally, ideal for travellers with limited time. See our Poon Hill trek guide.
Mardi Himal: also unaffected and a good quieter alternative for trekkers wanting fewer crowds. See our full Annapurna region trekking guide for route options.
The one genuine logistics note: most Annapurna trailheads are reached via Pokhara, and the Prithvi Highway connecting Kathmandu to Pokhara currently has a landslide closure at Krishnabhir, caused by the same flood-swollen river system. Authorities are building a bypass and running traffic on alternative routes, but road journey times can be longer or less predictable right now. Kathmandu-Pokhara flights are running normally and are the more reliable way to reach Pokhara before continuing to your Annapurna trailhead by local transport.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permits (ACAP) and TIMS cards are being issued and checked as normal, with no flood-related changes to the permit process. Book teahouse-heavy routes a few months ahead if you're travelling in peak October, and ask your operator to confirm whether they're routing your Kathmandu-Pokhara transfer by air or road for your specific dates.
Is the Annapurna region open for trekking after the 2026 floods?
Yes. The Annapurna region drains into the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki rivers, entirely separate from the Rasuwa flood zone, and had zero reported impact. The Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill, and Mardi Himal routes are all running as booked.
Can I still get to the Annapurna trailheads from Kathmandu or Pokhara?
The trails themselves are unaffected, but the Prithvi Highway between Kathmandu and Pokhara has a separate flood-related landslide closure at Krishnabhir. Authorities are running alternative road routes and a bypass track, and Kathmandu-Pokhara flights are unaffected, making flying the more predictable option currently.
Getaway Nepal Adventure runs the Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill, and Mardi Himal treks, all confirmed open and running normally this season. Tell us your dates and preferred route, and we'll reply within 24 hours with a tailored itinerary and the best current route to Pokhara. Visit www.getawaynepal.com to get started.
Getaway Nepal Adventure (P.) Ltd.
Thamel Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel: +977 98510 38 908
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