SHORT ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

  • DURATION12 Days
  • DIFFICULTY-LEVELStrenuous
  • GROUP SIZE1-14
  • MAX ALTITUDE5416

Highlights

  • A scenic drive from/to Kathmandu
  • Trek through dense forests and remote villages
  • Explore Manang village
  • Cross Thorong La Pass
  • Get blessed in Muktinath
  • Witness stunning Himalayan Mountains

Trip Overview

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is for travel lovers who are seeking an adventurous and challenging trek in the gorgeous Annapurna region in a short time. Enjoy the tranquility of the Himalayas and visit remote villages, centuries-old monasteries, and caves.

No doubt Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the best ways to feel the thrill of trekking in the Himalayas. However, it is a short trek and demands 12 Days to complete, We have longer 20-day itineary for Annapurna Circuit Trek for those have longer holidays. And we are fully aware that some of you want to do this trek in a short time, so here we are presenting a Short Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary to you. The trail goes through verdant forests, fine mountain villages, pastures, and gorges. You will cross lovely streams, suspension bridges, waterfalls, ancient monasteries, and mani walls along the way.

You dwell in the tranquility of the Himalayas and unwind your worries on this short Annapurna circuit trek. Fill up your lungs with fresh air and heart with the chirping of birds. Spend time with locals and get to know their unique lifestyle. As the trail gains elevation, the views get breath-taking. Explore the fine Manang village (3,519 m) and visit centuries-old monasteries & caves. You will ultimately reach the top of the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest pass in Nepal. The trail is steep, slippery, and full of boulders. You have to be extra careful while pushing towards the pass.

Then get your blessing at the sacred and divine Muktinath Temple (3,800 m). It is a significant temple for Hindus and Buddhists. The route winds along the Kali Gandaki gorge, the deepest in the world, and passes by narrow nerve-racking uneven road to Pokhara. Pokhara, the city of lakes. Tourists love the laid-back ambiance of this city. Bustle and peace go hand in hand in this beautiful city. Have a serene time on the Phewa Lake while boating and stroll on the vibrant Lakeside Market.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is an equally rewarding journey. You will get to see stunning views of the western Himalayan Mountains, rich cultural heritage, and diverse flora & fauna. The trek crosses a challenging pass. Therefore, you have to be in good shape to go on this trek. Plus, previous trekking/hiking experience will help you a lot. To know more about this Amazing venture, send us your queries anytime.

Major Attractions of Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

A scenic drive from/to Kathmandu

From Kathmandu, you will drive to the starting point of the trek Dharapani. It's a long and pleasant drive. You get to see rivers, terrace fields, waterfalls, and rolling green hills. Likewise, from Muktinath, you drive to Pokhara, enjoying snow-capped mountain views and tempting landscapes. Another scenic drive from Pokhara takes you back to Kathmandu. If you love long beautiful rides, then you are going to love these drives.

Trek through dense forests and remote villages

The trail from Dharapani onwards goes through dense forests of rhododendron, pine, oak, juniper, etc. You will cross many streams and pastures as well. Likewise, pass by picturesque remote villages like Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, etc. The villages offer a glimpse of the lifestyle of mountain people. You will see diverse cultures and traditions.

Explore Manang village

Situated at 3,519 meters, Manang is a beautiful village known for the breath-taking views. It is like a tourist hub in the middle of the trail. You can find snacks and bars here. Likewise, the village has a theater that plays old movies and documentaries. Visit the museums and monasteries around the village. One of the oldest monasteries comes along the trail to Manang, Braga monastery. Also, there are many hanging caves and short hike options like Gangapurna Lake, etc.

Cross Thorong La Pass

With an elevation of 5,416 meters, Thorong La Pass is the highest pass in the world north of the Annapurna Himal. The pass connects Manang village in the east and Muktinath Temple in the west. The trail that leads to the top of the pass is challenging and demands proper supervision from a professional guide. The route is steep and rugged, with many slippery sections covered with boulders. After a strenuous walk and lots of effort, you will get rewarded with a sensational view from the top of the pass.

Get blessed in Muktinath

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Muktinath temple is sacred to Hindus and Buddhists. Situated at the west foot of Thorong La Pass at 3,800 meters, Muktinath temple is one of the highest temples in the world. Buddhists call Muktinath Chumig Gyatsa, which means "Hundred Waters" in Tibetan. There are many small temples and shrines around the principal temple devoted to other deities. Every year, hundreds and thousands of pilgrims visit this temple to get blessings.

Witness stunning Himalayan Mountains

During the Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking, you will see numerous western Himalayan mountains on the trail like Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m), Mt. Annapurna II (7,937 m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Manaslu (8,156 m), Mt. Fishtail, (6,993 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Pisang Peak (6,091 m), etc. Likewise, the sceneries along the route are also breath-taking.

Itinerary

Open All DaysClose All

Land at the Tribhuvan International Airport and meet with our airport representatives. He will take you to the hotel and shortly brief you about the upcoming day program. This day is leisure. Take your time to get acquainted with the surroundings and have plenty of rest.

  • Hotel
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

The journey begins with a picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. It is going to be a long drive along rushing rivers, lush green hills, waterfalls, and colorful terraced fields. The route passes by many remote villages.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 1960
  • Dharapani

It is your first day on the trek. The trail follows a mule track and ascends through lush forests of fir. Continue walking alongside a lovely river and pass by maple & oak trees. You can see stunning views of the Annapurna range on the way.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 2675
  • Chame

From Chame, the trail ascends to Pisang. Walk on a winding path that goes through a lush forest. The trail offers fantastic views of the Annapurna range and Pisang Peak. You will pass by small settlement areas and ascend through a forested trail.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 3100
  • Pisang

From Pisang, you will trek follow the upper Pisang route, which goes through Ghyaru, Ngawal, and Mungji. It is a very pleasant route and offers breath-taking sceneries. Along the way, witness tempting views of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Gangapurna, and Pisang Peak.

As you will gain altitude, the climate will get cold and dry. Gradually keep ascending and pass by Barga monastery, a century-old monastery.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 3440
  • Manang

It is a rest day in Manang. Visit monasteries and museums around the village. Take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake and spend some time there. Later, observe the daily lifestyle of the locals and mingle with them.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 3440
  • Manang

The trail from Manang continues towards Yak Kharka. The trail passes by streams and brooks, offering gorgeous landscapes. Reach Tenki village, resided by Limbu people and ascends to Marshyangdi Valley. From here, trek northwest to the Jarsang Khola Valley and trek through pastures & juniper hamlets.

The trail takes you to Ghunsa village and further passes by yak grazing sites. Trek along ancient mani walls and cross a wooden bridge before reaching Yak Kharka.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 4350
  • Yak Kharka

Today, the trial move towards the lap of Thorong La Pass, Thorong Phedi. Gradually ascend along a steep and rugged path to Thorong Phedi. Some trekkers prefer to climb up to High Camp, but we will spend the night in Thorong Phedi.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 4420
  • Thorong Phedi

Wake up early in the morning and have breakfast. Continue trekking on a very steep and slippery trail that leads to the top of the Thorong La Pass. The path also involves loose rocks and boulders.

The top is marked with chortens and colorful prayer flags. You will see outstanding views of the snow-capped mountains from the top of the pass. Further, descend following a steep route to one of the significant temples in Nepal, Muktinath Temple. It is a famous pilgrimage site.

  • Lodge
  • B, L, D
  • 5416
  • Muktinath

Visit the temple and explore tit premises before leaving for Pokhara. The drive will be long and offers pleasant views. Upon reaching Pokhara, head to the hotel. Rest and stroll around the hotel in the evening. Go boating on tranquil Phewa Lake, enjoy a gorgeous sunset, and dine as per your craving.

  • Hotel
  • B, L
  • 830
  • Pokhara

From Pokhara, you drive back to Kathmandu in a private tourist car/van. A long but lovely drive. Head to the hotel and freshen up.

It is your last day in Kathmandu, therefore visit places you want and stroll on the bustling streets of Thamel. In the late evening, join a farewell dinner organized by the company.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

Today, you fly back to your home. Our airport representative will help you with check-out and move you to the airport. We look forward to having another great trip with you soon.

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What's Included

  • All the Airport Transfers
  • Two nights hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Nine nights accommodation in lodge during the trek
  • One night hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
  • Meals during the trekking as per the itinerary
  • Conservation entry permits & TIMS permit
  • one night hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
  • Ground transportation from Kathmandu –Dharapani, Muktinath – Pokhara, and Pokhra to Kathmandu by local bus/jeep/tourist bus.
  • A Guide and porter (1 porter for each two people
  • Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation, and Insurance for the guide & porters
  • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service, which will be paid by your Travel insurance company
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets if necessary

What's Excluded

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Your Travel insurance
  • Lunch and Dinner while you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara
  • All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic Drinks
  • Sweet things like chocolate.
  • International airfare
  • Tips for the guide, porter & driver
  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned on including section