Annapurna Circuit Short Trek

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Are you ready for the iconic trekking excursion of your life, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural insights? This short trek to the Annapurna region captures the essence of the full b offering the breathtaking views of Himalayan vistas, diverse landscapes and rich culture of Tibetan Buddhist locals. Starting from the drive to Dharapani, this 11-day jaunt to the Annapurna Region will take you through the lush rhododendron, oak, pine forests, picturesque villages, terraced farmlands to the rugged terrain with the incredible views of the Himalayan Giants. 

Duration
11 Days
Trip Grade
Strenous
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
Thorong La Pass (5,416 m/17,769 ft)
Group Size
1 to 14
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
Spring (March-May), Autumn (September-November)

Annapurna Circuit Short Trek Highlights:

  • Memorable trekking experience at the Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Beauty of Marshyangdi River, Kali Gandaki River and travel through the deepest gorge in the world, the Kaligandaki Gorge
  • Incredible journey through the lush sub-tropical forest, waterfalls, terraced farmlands to arid, high-altitude terrain
  • Crossing the “happiest pass in Nepal”, Thorong La Pass which is also the highest point of the trek offering a panoramic view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges
  • Experience the unique culture and warm hospitality of the Gurung, Sherpa, and other Tiben-influenced communities
  • Breathtaking views of snowcapped mountains like Mt. Annapurna, Thorong Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West, and Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV and many more
  • Visiting the holy Muktinath Temple, pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhist devotees
  • Natural hot springs (Tatopani) and way of living in the Himalayan Areas
  • Visiting the largest Monastery in Manang, Barge Monastery, and the beautiful headquarters of Mustang - Jomsom

11 Day Annapurna Short Circuit Trek Overview

The 11-day Annapurna Circuit Short Trek allows you to explore the vicinity of the inner Mustang that takes you from the altitude of 830m/2,723ft to 5,416m/17,769ft through the deep valleys and high mountains encircling the giant Annapurna Himal. The Annapurna region is one of the finest and most happening enticement trekking trails with a length of about 300 km in the Annapurna Mountain ranges in the Nepal Himalayas. The world's 10th tallest mountain, Annapurna, is surrounded by many Himalayan ranges which including the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre - the famous fish-tail mountain that dominates the skyline above Pokhara. In addition, this area possesses the Kali Gandaki, the world's deepest gorge.

This Annapurna Circuit Trek odyssey starts from Dharapani, which is about an 8 to 9 hours drive from Kathmandu along the Trishuli River to the Marsyangdi River. It is a rough scenic drive with the later view of mountains along the way. The next day, you will start your walk from Dharapani to the picturesque villages of Chame, Upper Pisang, and Manang. You will spend one more day in the beautiful village of Manang as a process of acclimatization. Moving forward, you will come across the alpine pastures, rugged terrain leading to the small villages like Ledar and Thorong Phedi. The very next day, your voyage ascends to the iconic Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m, which is also the highest point of the trek, rewarding you with the awe-inspiring view of the Annapurna ranges, Dhaulagiri ranges, and other surrounding peaks. 

The route then descends to the sacred Temple for Hindu and Buddhist devotees, ’Muktinath’ (place of salvation), from Manang Valley. From Muktinath, you will drive to Pokhara. On the way, there will be a stop at Jomsom for sightseeing. Jomsom is a beautiful town situated at the bank of Kali Gandaki River of Mustang. You will then drive to reach the natural charming city of Pokhara where the trek officially concludes. Next day, you will return to Kathmandu. 

The Annapurna Circuit Short Trek is perfect for those seeking adventure, high-altitude challenges, and  Himalayan grandeur in a manageable timeframe. Contact Walk Mountain for unforgettable memories at the lap of the Himalayas!
 

Trip Gallery
Mountain View From Chame
Manang Village
Mountain View From Muktinath
Muktinath Gumba
Muktinath Temple
Muktinath
Annapurna Circuit Short Trek Day-to-day Itinerary
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani
  • Max Altitude: 1,860 m /6,102 ft (Dharapani)
  • Distance: 234 km (drive)
  • Duration: 8 to 9 hours (drive)
Day 02: Trek from Dharapani to Chame
  • Max Altitude: 2,610 m /8,562 ft (Chame)
  • Distance: 15.5 km
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 03: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang
  • Max Altitude: 3,300 m/10,826 ft (Upper Pisang)
  • Distance: 13.5 km
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Day 04: Trek to Manang from Upper Pisang
  • Max Altitude: 3,540 m/ 11,614 ft (Manang)
  • Distance: 17.2 km
  • Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Day 05: Acclimatization day at Manang
  • Max Altitude: 3,540 m/ 11,614 ft (Manang)
Day 06: Manang to Ledar
  • Max Altitude: 4,250 m/ 13,943 ft (Ledar)
  • Distance: 9.1 km
  • Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Day 07: Ledar to Thorong Phedi
  • Max Altitude: 4,600 m/ 15,091 ft (Thorong Phedi)
  • Distance: 7.3 km
  • Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Day 08: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
  • Max Altitude: 5,416 m/ 17,769 ft (Thorong La Pass), 3,760 m/ 12,335 ft (Muktinath)
  • Distance: 15.6 km
  • Duration: 9 hours
Day 09: Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara
  • Max Altitude: 850 m/ 2,788 ft (Pokhara)
  • Distance: 165 km (drive)
  • Duration: 7 to 8 hours (drive)
Day 10: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
  • Max Altitude: 1,310 m/4,297 ft (Kathmandu)
  • Distance: 205 km (drive)
  • Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Detailed Itinerary
Kathmandu to KathmanduExpand all

Your trek to the Annapurna Circuit Short trek starts from a drive to Dharapani from Kathmandu. You will start your day with an early morning breakfast at the hotel. You can either choose to go on a private jeep or through a local bus. The road is sturdy, bumpy and dusty but it will lead you to the beautiful village of Dharapani.  Overnight at Dharapani.

Max Altitude: 1,860 m /6,102 ft (Dharapani) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House/ LodgeDuration: 8 to 9 hours (drive)Distance: 234 km (drive)
Elevation Gain:550 m/ 1,804 ft

After the early morning breakfast, you will start rooting down the trail from Dharapani. You will start up from a gradual uphill route to Bagarchap followed by another beautiful settlement of Danagyu. Moving further on the trail, you will climb through the amazing woodland trail to the village of Timing for lunch. After having lunch, you will once again kick off with a gradual sidewalk and drop all the way to Thanchok. Crossing through the fir, rhododendron forest, you will reach the pleasing settlement of Chame, the administrative headquarters of Manang district.

Max Altitude: 2,610 m /8,562 ft (Chame) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 15.5 km
Elevation Gain:750 m/ 2,460 ft

Leaving Chame, you will firstly cross the suspension bridge and a gradual trail passing through the apple, peach orchards.  It will lead you to the village of Talekhu. You will start noticing that the valleys are opening up and you will walk towards the broader version of the trail to Brathang. It is said that it used to be the settlement for Khampas (the Tibetan warriors). Soon you will walk to the forested trail of pine and fir to Dhukure Pokhari (holy pond) for lunch. The next hour and a half of beautiful trails lead to Pisang and call it a day.

Max Altitude: 3,300 m/10,826 ft (Upper Pisang) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 13.5 km
Elevation Gain:690 m/ 2,263 ft

Today, after breakfast, you will walk towards one of the beautiful and major villages in Manang district; Manang. There are specifically two ways to reach Manang, the first is the upper trail, and the second is the easier trail. You should take the upper trail as it offers the best view of the mountains. You will get to see Annapurna massive to the south and the mysterious Mustang to the north from the trail. You will get a look at the Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in Manang District. The environment will become colder and drier as we climb upwards, so you should hike faster as it will take around 5 hours to reach Manang where you will disburse overnight.
 

Max Altitude: 3,540 m/ 11,614 ft (Manang) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 to 8 hoursDistance: 17.2 km
Elevation Gain:240 m/ 787 ft

As you ascend to higher altitude, acclimatization is really necessary so that your body can adjust to the alpine climate. Altitude gain leads to dryer wind and lower oxygen level that might bring trouble in breathing. So, you will rest one more day exploring the beautiful village of Manang. 

In the morning, you will take a trip to Gangapurna Lake. Gangapurna Lake was formed by glaciers from Mt. Gangapurna, Annapurna IV, Khangsar Kang and Glacier Dom. The lake color changes according to the season. In spring and autumn, the color is pristine blue, during summer it’s white, and the lake is frozen in winter. If you want to explore more, you can ascend towards Kichu Tal (Ice Lake). The lake offers views of the Manaslu range, Annapurna, Gangapurna, and Tilicho. 
 

Max Altitude: 3,540 m/ 11,614 ft (Manang) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

The walk from Manang to Ledar is not very long. But as you are at a higher altitude, you will walk for 4 to 5 hours only to avoid altitude sickness. So, you can begin the hike late and not rush to reach Ledar. You will start your hike by going through the stone walls and exit Manang. Soon the valley opens up and the views of the mountains get bigger and broader. Depending on the season of the trek, you can get to see yak herding in the field and also explore the rare yaks of the mountain regions. You will also stop at Yak Kharka to enjoy watching the Yak grazing in vast fields over tea or just for a break. We will walk further for about an hour and call it a day in Ledar and will spend the night in Ledar.

Max Altitude: 4,250 m/ 13,943 ft (Ledar) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 4 to 5 hoursDistance: 9.1 km
Elevation Gain:710 m/ 2,329 ft

After the early morning breakfast, you will continue towards the Thorong Phedi on a gradual trail. You will cross a footbridge, a short steep climb to the ridge, and then take a short break for tea at a local Tea shop. Then for the other 45 min, you will walk through the technical landslides trail that will lead you to Thorong Phedi. Overnight at Thorong Phedi. 

Max Altitude: 4,600 m/ 15,091 ft (Thorong Phedi) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 4 to 5 hoursDistance: 7.3 km
Elevation Gain:350 m/ 1,148 ft

The early morning trek is required to assault the Thorong La Pass, as it is the toughest leg of the trail. The trail goes steeply upwards to High Camp with brief stops in between the passes. You will get to see the best sunrise view today while ascending Thorong La Pass. With a brief stop in between, you will reach the top of Thorong La Pass, which is the highest point of the trek. You will get the best view of the Annapurna Ranges and Dhaulagiri Ranges from the top. Click some pictures, enjoy your moment and start descending the other way towards the Muktinath.
 

Max Altitude: 5,416 m/ 17,769 ft (Thorong La Pass), 3,760 m/ 12,335 ft (Muktinath) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 9 hoursDistance: 15.6 km
Elevation Gain:816 m/ 2,677 ft
Elevation Loss:1,656 m/ 5,433 ft

After breakfast, we will drive to Pokhara by local jeep. It will be a long journey by jeep as it takes almost 7 hours to reach the beautiful city Pokhara where you will call the night. 

Max Altitude: 850 m/ 2,788 ft (Pokhara) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 to 8 hours (drive)Distance: 165 km (drive)
Elevation Loss:2,910 m/ 9,547 ft

You will start the drive to Kathmandu early in the morning in a cozy tourist bus by following the same Prithivi Highway. You will get to see a river on the left while high hills on the right side. In the evening you will have a farewell dinner with our office team leader where you can share your experience about the Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

Max Altitude: 1,310 m/4,297 ft (Kathmandu) Meals: Breakfast and DinnerAccommodation: HotelDuration: 6 to 7 hoursDistance: 205 km (drive)
Elevation Gain:460 m/ 1,509 ft
Cost Details
Includes
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Machhakhola, Dharapani - Kathmandu by bus
  • Accommodation at Lodges/Tea Houses during the Trek (Twin- Sharing)
  • Meals on Full Board during the Trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • Experienced & Licensed Local Trekking Guide 
  • Required Permits (MCAP, ACAP, RAP and others)
  • Medical Kit for safety of the trekkers. 
  • Porter for trekker luggage (if required), one porter for 2 people, maximum weight up to 16 kg for porter.
  • Farewell Dinner at Kathmandu
  • Certificate of Completion (if required)
Excludes
  • International Airfare, Nepal Visa Fee
  • Private jeep/ Vehicle
  • Travel & Health Insurance (Helicopter Rescue ride in case of emergency) or any kind of insurance-related things
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Personal Expenses (shopping, snacks, water bottle, soft drinks, souvenir, electricity and others)
  • Other extra costs caused by various uncertainties like landslides, weather conditions, illness, change in governmental policy, etc.
  • Tips for Guide and Potter (expected)
Route Map
Annapurna Short Circuit Trek Map
Altitude Chart
Annapurna Short Circuit Trek Altitude Chart
Essential Information

Why Choose Annapurna Circuit Short Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Short Trek is the condensed version of the Annapurna Full Circuit Trek, offering Nepal’s diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and stunning mountain views within just 11 days. This trek is perfect for those adventure seekers who are willing to experience this world-famous Annapurna Circuit in a shorter time frame. The route takes you through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, deep gorges, and high-altitude terrain, all while offering breathtaking panoramas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri mountains. 

What is the elevation of Annapurna Circuit Short Trek?

The lowest altitude of the Annapurna Circuit trek is 850 m (Pokhara) and the highest is 5416 m (Thorong La Pass). The trek starts from the altitude of 1860 m at Dharapani, after 6 days of hiking along the route; you will reach the highest point at 5416 m gaining a total altitude of 3,556 m in 6 days. 

Services/ Facilities during the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Accommodation Facilities

Annapurna Circuit Trek lies at the Himalayan Annapurna Region of Nepal. So, during the trek, you will be staying at the Tea House/Lodge with the twin bed. Some places have attached bathroom, whereas some places don’t so you have to prepare yourself accordingly. You will be staying at a standard hotel at Pokhara.

Meals

For meals we provide three meals per day (i.e. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner per day) from the selected menu as available in the lodge and tea house. Food during the trek is not so well decorated as in Kathmandu and Pokhara however; most of the food is prepared by the local people in their fields. We highly recommend you to try Dal Bhat during the trek. The food is organic, delicious, and quite healthy. We also Farewell dinner with our agency team leader after the completion of trek in Kathmandu.

Amenities

The tea house/lodge on the trek has a hot water facility but they will take extra charge. You might also have to pay extra for charging devices, Wi-Fi or internet access. 

Permits Required for Annapurna Circuit Trek

For the Annapurna Circuit Trek permit, you will require two permits listed as below

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): - This permit is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, one of the protected regions of Nepal. The funds collected from the permit help to support conservation efforts and the local communities of the region.

Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card: - The TIMS card is essential for tracking trekkers for their safety. It helps authorities monitor trekking activities and provide necessary assistance in case of emergencies.

What is the Best Season for Annapurna Circuit Short Trek?

Autumn (September, October and November) and Spring (March, April and May) are the best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Short Trek. The weather is sunny and warm with outstanding views. If you wish to avoid crowds and enjoy some alone time with nature, then taking this trip during winter (December, January, and February) could also be an option. However, the temperature during winter could be harsh for most trekkers. Trekking in the Summer or Monsoon seasons (June, July and August) will be affected by rain but the summer trek could be a boon for a keen botanist.

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Short Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Short Trek can be a little challenging. The total trek requires 11 days to complete and an average daily walk of 7 to 8 hours. The trekking trail varies from lush tropical forest to rocky alpine rigid lands with uncertain weather. The most technical and difficult part of Annapurna Circuit Trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass (5416 m) where you will need to face steep ascents, thin air, risk of altitude sickness. 

How to Prepare

  • Cardio training (running, cycling, stair climbing) to build endurance. 
  • Strength training for legs and core to handle steep ascents and descents. 
  • Practice hikes with a loaded backpack (8-12kg) on uneven terrain. 
  • Mental preparation for basic accommodations and unpredictable weather. Stay hydrated, acclimatize properly, and follow the ‘hike high, sleep low’ principle to prevent altitude sickness.
Annapurna Circuit Short Trek Equipment Lists
Head
  • Sun Hat or Cap
  • Scarf
  • Light balaclava
  • Warm fleece hat
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
Upper Body
  • T-shirts (Long sleeve/Short sleeve)
  • Thermal Base Layer (for cold regions)
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Waterproof, windproof shell jacket
  • Down vest and/or jacket
Hands
  • Soft Lightweight gloves
  • Hard Shell outer gloves (for harsh conditions)
Lower Body
  • Lightweight cotton long pants
  • Insulated pants (for colder conditions)
  • Thermal trousers/leggings
  • Hiking shorts/ pants (convertible)
  • Fleece or wool pants (seasonal)
  • Waterproof/ Quick drying pants
Feet
  • Thin, lightweight inner socks
  • Thick, warm technical hiking socks
  • Hiking boots with spare laces
  • Gaiters
Toiletries and Personal Items
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Lip Balm with High SPF
  • Toilet Paper/ Wet wipes
  • 1 medium sized quick drying towel
  • Tooth brush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
  • Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
  • Deodorants
  • Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Small mirror
General Gears and Equipment
  • Sleeping bag rated to 0o F (provided by company)
  • Headlamp with spare bulbs and batteries
  • Trekking Bag/Duffel bag
  • Large plastic bags for keeping items dry inside trek bag
  • Trekking Poles
  • Water bottles (insulated for cold weather)
Medications and Personal Necessities
  • Basic First Aid Kit (provided by company)
  • Diamox (for Altitude Sickness)
  • Water Purification Pills
Snacks and Other Extra Items
  • Energy bars, chocolates and nuts
  • Camera (extra memory card and batteries)/ Smart phone
  • Power bank (essential for charging devices, solar powered options are great)
  • Pocket knife or multi tool
  • Few passport size photos and photocopy of passport (in case necessary)
Annapurna Circuit Short Trek FAQs

The Annapurna Circuit Short Trek is an 11-day adventure through the Annapurna Conservation Area, crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and exploring diverse landscapes, deep gorges, waterfalls, and Himalayan villages. It offers stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre, along with cultural experiences in Gurung, Sherpa, and Tibetan-influenced communities.

The trek is moderately difficult due to high altitudes and the crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). With proper acclimatization and preparation, it’s manageable for most trekkers.

The highest point is Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest and most challenging point of the trek.

While prior experience helps, it is not mandatory. Regular physical activity and a basic fitness level are sufficient.

Teahouses along the route provide basic rooms, often with shared bathrooms, and serve meals ranging from local dal bhat to international options.
 

Yes! The trek reaches 5,416m, so proper acclimatization is essential.

Acclimatize properly by spending time in Manang, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and ascend gradually.

You need the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System).

There is no other hidden cost in our inclusive packages, but you might have to pay extra for:

  • WiFi & charging fees ($2-$5 per hour)
  • Hot showers ($5 per use)
  • Drinking water ($1-$3 per liter)

The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for stable weather and clear mountain views.

There are no strict age restrictions, but participants should be in good health and physically fit.

Yes, but it’s recommended to hire a guide or porter for navigation, safety, and local insights.

Wi-Fi is available at some teahouses for an additional cost, but connectivity can be inconsistent.

This shorter version of the circuit trek takes 11 days, including travel to and from Kathmandu.
 

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