Introduction to Short Annapurna Circuit 9 Days: Short Trek, Big Experience
The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek – 9 Days is proof that you don't need a month-long expedition to have a life-changing Himalayan experience. This condensed version of the legendary Annapurna Circuit brings you face-to-face with soaring peaks, Tibetan-style villages, and Nepal's most iconic pass, Thorong La (5,416m), all in just over a week. In this trek, you will explore the hidden corners of the Annapurna Region within the Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal.
If you're seeking an unparalleled Himalayan experience, the short Annapurna Circuit Trek is your answer. Established in 1977, the Short AC trek route has carved a special place in the hearts of adventure enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge.
What makes this trek so rewarding? It is its incredible geographic and cultural diversity. In only 9 days, you'll pass from dense pine forests and riverside valleys to alpine deserts and sacred pilgrimage sites while crossing suspension bridges, yak pastures, and windswept ridgelines along the way. The trail takes you through traditional Gurung and Thakali settlements, offering a deep cultural immersion in the heart of the Annapurna region, where you can experience the true Himalayan culture of Nepal.
Annapurna Circuit Trail is renowned for its length, often spanning 18 days or more. However, for those with time constraints, we've crafted a shorter itinerary that still captures the essence of this iconic trek. Our 9-day Annapurna Circuit trek voyage is designed to maximize your experience while ensuring your safety and comfort.
Designed for fit trekkers with limited time, this short trek skips the longer, road-heavy sections of the classic circuit and dives straight into the mountains. With proper acclimatization, expert guidance, and smart pacing, it delivers the essence of the full Annapurna Circuit in a streamlined adventure. Walking past lush rhododendrons, oak, pine, fir, and bamboo forests, you will enjoy the most dramatic mountain panorama. Trekking from one valley to another, you will spend eight nights in some of the most picturesque villages and come across stunning waterfalls and cold streams.
Highlights of Short Annapurna Circuit Trek: 9 Days
- Visit two distinct Himalayan regions: Manang and Mustang.
- Cross Legendary Thorong La Pass at (5,416m), one of the highest and most iconic trekking passes on earth.
- Drive along the World's deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge.
- Magical views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West, and Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV
- Witness Blue sheep at Yak Kharka.
- Muktinath, one of Nepal's most significant pilgrimage sites, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists- 108 water spouts and an eternal flame
- Explore local Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and prayer flag-covered ridges.
- Explore Jomsam's busy market.
- Experience overnight stays in beautiful villages like Chame, Pisang, and Manang, each offering unique charisma.
- Trek through the wilderness of the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to diverse flora and fauna and ever-changing landscapes.
- Acclimatize in Manang with side hikes to Gangapurna Lake or the serene Cave Gompa.
- Enjoy the locals' heart-warming hospitality and see their daily lifestyle.
- Trek through stunning lakes, glaciers, diverse landscapes, and waterfalls from green forests to arid highlands over the trail.
Why should you do the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek in 2025 and 2026
Annapurna Circuit's short trek might be quick, but it's big on adventure! It has stood globally as one of the iconic adventures, offering a combination of challenging terrains, breathtaking landscapes, cultural richness, and an authentic Himalayan experience. You can expect to encounter some of the most beautiful and memorable places and scenes on this trek. Check out some of the must-see moments along the way.
Scenic drive to Dharapani: Your Journey Begins
The journey begins with a long yet breathtaking drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani, tracing the winding courses of the Trishuli and Marshyangdi River gorges as they slice through the emerald-green slopes and cultivated fields.
Along the way, you'll encounter cascading waterfalls, roadside towns, layered rice terraces, and views of local life tucked into the hillside. As you climb higher, the view shifts, and the lush green hills give way to snow-covered mountains shimmering on the horizon, adding a touch of magic to the ride. It's the kind of scenic route that's soothing, adding an element of charm and mystery to the drive and setting the tone for the rest of your adventure with a mix of natural beauty and local charm.
Diverse Terrain
The trek spans a wide range of altitudes, from lush forests in the lower regions to high-altitude landscapes, making each day on the Trail unique due to its geographical diversity. You'll pass through suspension bridges, climb steep inclines, and walk through serene valleys surrounded by towering mountains. You will have the opportunity to experience two distinct Himalayan regions: Manang and Mustang.
High Altitude and Challenging Terrain
You'll trek through dramatic elevation changes from Chame at 2600m to 5,416m at Thorong La Pass. You will walk through rocky trails, steep climbs, and also occasional snow or ice at higher altitudes. From 5 to 7 hours of walking, it also involves 8 to 10 hours on days of the Thorong La Pass, making this trek physically demanding.
Rich Culture and Scenic Variety
You'll pass through Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced villages. You will have the opportunity to experience Gurung's rich tradition of music, dance, and folklore. As you go higher, Tibetan culture will win your heart as you encounter prayer wheels, fluttering prayer flags, chortens, and the chants of "Om Mani Padme Hum" in Buddhist monasteries, all while hiking through forests, cliffs, valleys, and high deserts.
Overnight stays in beautiful Himalayan villages
One of the best-kept secrets of the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek? The incredible mountain villages you pass through along the way.
Every stop looks heavenly: gorgeous views, calm vibes, and friendly locals. From the quaint villages of Chame to the alpine charm of Pisang, the cultural wealth of Manang, and the high-altitude serenity of Yak Kharka, every overnight stay offers not only rest but a shift in scenery and atmosphere - it's magic. These cozy, culturally immersive teahouses with panoramic views will be in your memory forever.
Trek through the wilderness of the Annapurna Conservation Area
The Trail goes through Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal's largest protected region. Annapurna Conservation Area is home to hundreds of species of vegetation and wildlife. So, expect a rich variety of flora, fauna, rivers, pasturelands, and waterfalls on your way. It protects both the indigenous people and the park's natural resources. From a rhododendron forest to high-altitude wildlife, such as the Himalayan blue sheep, this place has it all.
The short Annapurna Circuit trek starts inside this park. After Yak Kharka, you begin to enter the lower Mustang area (from Muktinath onward), where the landscape becomes drier, wind-carved, and more Tibetan in character.
Side hike in Manang village
Day 5 of the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is dedicated to acclimatization, and there is no better place for this than the village of Manang(3,540m), nestled under soaring peaks. Spending time acclimatizing here is essential to being safe and comfortable at higher elevations. The stone-built houses, yak pastures, and ancient monasteries illustrate the harmonious blend of practicality and spirituality in daily life.
To make the most of your rest day, take a beautiful side hike to the tranquil and stunning Gangapurana Lake (3,525 m) or the spiritually inspiring Cave Gompa (4,000 m). These short hikes not only help your body acclimate to the thin air but also reward you with dramatic glacier views, stunning mountain scenery, and a sense of calm isolation under towering cliffs, making it hard to remember any tiredness along the way.
Visit the ancient monasteries
The Annapurna Circuit takes you through ancient monasteries, offering a spiritual reprieve amidst the rugged trek. You will explore centuries-old Braga Monastery near Manang, perched on a hill with magical views of the Annapurna range. Additionally, the Kagbeni Monastery in Mustang features a Tibetan-style design, showcasing the true Tibetan culture.
Explore hillside mani walls carved with sacred mantras, and colorful prayer flags fluttering on suspension bridges. These sacred symbols create a spiritual rhythm to the trek that goes beyond the physical Trail.
Welcoming mountain community and cultural heritage
One of the many things that makes the Annapurna region so special is the amazing mix of cultures you'll experience along the Trail. Unlike other Himalayan regions, this area is home to many diverse groups, including the Chhetris, Brahmins, Magars, Gurungs, Thakalis, and others, each with its language, customs, and way of life, which adds depth to your trek.
As you walk, you'll also have the opportunity to visit ancient temples and serene monasteries, and learn about the rich culture and profound spiritual heritage of the Himalayas. You'll have the chance to learn about their lifestyle and participate in their traditions or festivals.
Thrill of the Thorong La Pass
For thrill seekers, crossing Thorong La Pass is a crown jewel of the trek. Thorong La Pass, at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit as well as one of the highest passes in the world. The climb is tough but steady, and the reward is great: 360 views of the Himalayas, whipping prayer flags, and a triumphant sense of achievement.
The pass is located in the Damodar Himal range, just north of the Annapurna Mountains. The pass connects Manang village east of the Annapurna Circuit with Muktinath and Ranipauwa to the west (in the Mustang district), marking a significant milestone in completing the full Annapurna Circuit trek.
Visit Muktinath Temple: A significant pilgrimage site in Nepal.
Muktinath is a sacred temple situated at an elevation of 3,800 meters in the mountains, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, a popular deity in Hinduism. The site is a prominent pilgrimage destination for Hindus, but it also holds spiritual significance for Buddhists. Pilgrims across South Asia travel here to bathe in 108 water spouts and offer prayers at the eternal flame shrine.
The temple is surrounded by rich stories from centuries past, along with stunning views of the mountains, which contribute to its popularity. The spiritual energy of this temple, set against arid cliffs and mountain backdrops, adds deep meaning to your trek.
Spot Yak Caravans and Himalayan Wildlife
Above Yak Kharka, you are bound to notice actual yak caravans hauling merchandise over the wild passes in the high Himalayas, a classic glimpse of life in the wild Himalayas. If you are fortunate, blue sheep may appear, or Himalaya griffons, or even a lammergeyer (bearded vulture) in the air.
Mountain Silence and Mindfulness
North of Manang, the landscape is vast and serene, offering opportunities to experience genuine silence, interrupted only by the wind or the crunch of snow beneath one's feet. It is where most trekkers report having a form of mental reset. It is not only picturesque but also very contemplative.
Taste Himalayan Salt Tea and Local Food
In addition to dal bhat, you will have the opportunity to taste local delights such as Thakali thali, yak cheese, buckwheat pancakes, and butter tea (a salted milk tea that typically comes with ghee). The cuisines of these regions reflect centuries of survival, culinary adaptations to high altitudes, and a rich tradition of hospitality.
Ride through the Kali Gandaki Gorge and charming villages to Pokhara
Your trip concludes with a scenic drive along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, considered the world's deepest gorge, through the picturesque villages of Marpha and Kagbeni in Mustang. If you are in the right season, along the way, you will witness a beautiful apple orchard in Marpha (the city of apples).
You will eventually drop down in the green loping lakeside city of Pokhara, where you get to relax and contemplate your crossing of the Himalayas, finally. The drive will treat you to pleasant mountain views before you join the relaxed town of Pokhara. You'll have the evening free to relax and enjoy the tranquility of Phewa Lake.
Witness stunning mountain panoramas and distinct landscapes
Get ready to witness majestic peaks from day one in the short Annapurna Circuit Trek. Throughout the trek, you will see incredible sights of some of the marvels of the world, namely Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna II, III & IV, Annapurna South, Mt. Nilgiri, Fishtail (Machapuchare), Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, to name a few.
The landscapes change daily from green valleys to rocky deserts to snowy highlands, keeping every step visually and emotionally stimulating. The changing environments, from lush forests to alpine deserts, leave you energized, positive, and lucid about every part of the Trail.
Other spectacular peaks you will see include Pisang Peak, Chulu Peak, Hiunchuli, Khatungkang, and Ghundang. These beautiful mountains take your breath away and inspire every footfall you take.
If you have been waiting for the right time to trek Nepal's Himalayas, 2025 and 2026 could be the perfect time. Why? Because the Trail, conditions, scenery, and timing are all lining up in your favour.
- Infrastructure is better than ever: In recent years, there have been high standards of local teahouses, roads, and trekking paths. The logistics will be easier, the accommodation more comfortable, the access to the trails more intelligent, and this particular 9-day tour streamlined, in 2025/2026.
- Clear Seasons, Sparse Crowds: Trekking patterns have stabilized after the enormous post-COVID surge in global travel. This implies that it will be less crowded, particularly in the shoulder months, such as late March or early December, which will leave you with quieter trails and easier access to the teahouses.
- Ideal for Fast Adventures: According to modern travelers, they desire to experience big adventures in a short period, and this trek aligns perfectly with this mindset. Comng year (2025) and the year after (2026), even more individuals will be interested in an efficient and meaningful traveling experience, and this trek promises both.
- Climate Awareness, Don't wait too much: The Himalayas are already under the effects of climate change. As we all know, there is the melting of glaciers, migration of snowline, and less predictable weather patterns. Trekking now means viewing Thorong La and Manang in their most realistic form - before any additional changes occur.
Cultural Insight of Short Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal
The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is not just a physical challenge, but also a journey through Nepal's diverse and multicultural landscape. Trekking between Chame and Manang, and then down to Muktinath, you will encounter ethnically diverse villages where Gurung, Tibetan-influenced, and Thakali communities reside. You will experience their warm hospitality and rich traditions in music, dance, and folklore.
And in Manang, prayer wheels spin in stone-walled lanes alongside centuries-old Buddhist monasteries. Further on, yak herders, Tibetan merchants, and monks continue to live by ancient customs, following age-old tradition with chortens, mani walls, and colorful prayer flags. As you ascend higher, Tibetan culture becomes more prominent, where you will see the beautiful architecture of houses, fluttering prayer flags, and the chants of "Om Mani Padme Hum" resonating deeply within the spiritual ambiance.
Muktinath, a holy pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, offers an exceptional experience of harmonious coexistence among religions. Each of the villages, dinner, and welcome contributes to a more insightful understanding of mountain life in Nepal, which makes this trek not only a very picturesque but also a powerful experience in both spiritual and cultural terms.
A Typical Day on the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
A typical day on the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek begins early, typically between 6:30 and 7:00 am, with a warm breakfast of porridge, Tibetan bread, or scrambled eggs in a cozy teahouse dining room.
Packing up, you will be on the trail at 8:00 am and going through stunning scenery: pine forest, glacier valley, yak folds, or ridge in the high alpine zone. Every day, you will walk for 5-7 hours, taking short rests during which you can enjoy tea and snacks, as well as fantastic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, or Tilicho Peak. On the way, a teahouse is frequented where lunch is usually taken, nearing noon. By the afternoon, you will arrive at the next village, like Manang or Yak Kharka, and you will rest in your room. Evenings are casual: enjoy a hot dinner, write in your journal, play cards, or engage in cultural conversations with your guide. At 7 pm, prepare to sleep and get rest. Lights out by 8 pm, prepared to have another memorable day in the Himalayas.
Is the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek still worth doing?
Yes, the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is absolutely worth doing, especially if you’re seeking a high-altitude adventure that can be done in a short time. The short Annapurna circuit trek shouldn’t be missed. This trek provides a full adventure of Himalayan life combined with the culture and nature of Nepal just within a short period (9days).
Although this 9-day version of the classic circuit has been shortened by road access, the best elements remain: dramatic mountain views, adventures into the culture, and the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). This does not mean that you will lose the varied landscape, Tibetan-flavored settlements, and the coziness of the Himalayas; after all, the commitments in terms of time are also abandoned. The Short Annapurna Circuit features smart routing and local guide support, offering a more compact and efficient experience that captures the essence of the original route.
Is the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek can also be suitable for beginners who are physically and mentally fit and determined. Although it is a high-altitude trek and we will be walking for many long days, the trek is non-technical, with no need for climbing skills, except for the crossing of the Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
Inadequately trained beginners are advised to be in good physical condition, walk 5-8 hours per day, train in advance, and use a guided itinerary that includes sufficient acclimatization. By adopting a calm attitude and taking steadfast steps with an experienced leader from Outfitter Himalaya, even novice hikers can successfully conquer this iconic route.
Alternative Itineraries for Annapurna Circuit Trek
We have curetted few itineraries to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek and some of them are:
What is the Difference between the short 9-day Short Annapurna Circuit and the Full Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Both the short Annapurna Circuit trek and the Full Annapurna Circuit Trek offer an epic Himalayan experience; however, they differ in duration, route, and trekking style. Our Full Annapurna Circuit Trek is a 15-day program that includes your arrival and departure days to and from Kathmandu, A day tour in Kathmandu, and a trek to Poon Hill. It is more gradual but longer in days.
On the other hand, the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek starts in Kathmandu and ends in Pokhara. Kathmandu sightseeing is not included, and both of these itineraries follow the same route.
Short Annapurna Circuit or Full Annapurna Circuit Trek: Which One Is Better?
It depends on your needs, goals, time, and trekking style. Both the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek (9 Days) and the Full Annapurna Circuit Trek (15 Days) offer stunning mountain views and rich cultural encounters, but they deliver the experience in different ways.
The short Annapurna Circuit Trek is preferable when you need a high-altitude but fast-paced experience that covers the ultimate part of the route, the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), but you do not want to spend 2-3 weeks doing so. It is perfect, especially for trekkers, those with limited time, and those who want the most impact within the least time.
The full Annapurna Circuit Trek is suitable for those who want to organize everything from arrival to departure, and you can travel with peace of mind. The full Annapurna Circuit Trek is preferable when you have more time and want to experience the full Himalayan life, including hills, jungles, terraced mountains, high deserts, and holy villages. There will be a wider range in the landscapes and cultures, lower rates of altitude gain, and fewer acclimatization days.
Solo Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
The short Annapurna Circuit trek is the perfect choice for those traveling alone and seeking to exercise a little self-reliance. Whereas solo trekking was once the norm, Nepal has enacted a law requiring every foreign trekker to hire an authorized guide, regardless of whether the trek is solitary. This regulation is applicable in the Annapurna Conservation Area because Nepal aims to enhance safety and operational efficiency in rescue operations.
As a solo trekker, you will still have all the independence that your pace allows, with the ease of changing your itinerary and returning to your own space, but with the added advantage of a professional local guide who takes care of navigation, arranging accommodations, planning teahouses, and other details. Outfitter Himalaya specializes in guiding solo trekkers who want to be left on their own but at the same time receive support on this peak-altitude trek.
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek with Family and Kids
The short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a rewarding adventure for active families seeking shared challenges, adventure, and unforgettable scenery. Although it is a high-altitude trek with long walking days, it's suitable for families with teenagers or fit children (10+) who are prepared for mountain conditions. Anyone between 12 and 60 years old can join this trek and have a fantastic experience in the mountains, learning about the Himalayan lifestyle. Slow climbing, gradual pacing, an acclimation day in Manang, and expert guide support make it possible to safely cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and experience Himalayan culture together.
Outfitter Himalaya will help you customize your trekking plan according to your family's needs. We offer fully guided, flexible itineraries tailored to family needs, with porter support, private room where available, and child-friendly meals at teahouses. It will be more than a trek; this exciting adventure is the perfect opportunity to bond, grow, and create lifelong memories with your family.
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Altitude and Route Map
You will start the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek at Dharapani at an altitude of 1860 meters above sea level and gradually gain altitude daily and reach the highest point of the trek, Thorong La Pass, 5416 meters. Find the attached Short Annapurna Trekking route map with daily altitude gain, on this page.
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost for 2025 and 2026
Are you planning to trek with friends or a group and are curious about the cost of the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek? Find the cost detail as per the number of people you are booking. If you are planning some adventure, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to offer customized pricing and special discounts for larger trekking teams. We have opened bookings for the Annapurna Circuit Trek for 2025 and 2026.
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost
| Number of trekkers |
Cost in USD, Per Person |
| 1 Pax |
850.00 |
| 2 to 5 Pax |
750.00 |
| 6 to 8 pax |
700.00 |
| 9 to 12 Pax |
650.00 |
| 13 and above Pax |
Inquiry |
Why Do the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek With Outfitter Himalaya
The selection of the right trekking agency is very crucial for the Himalayan experience, and you can't find one better than Outfitter Himalaya, as we are a professionally managed team fully equipped to get you to the top. We are a local licensed company with decades of experience and expertise in designing safe, well-paced, and very personalized treks anywhere in Nepal.
Our guides are very familiar with the Annapurna region, like their own backyard, and will ensure you are on the right track together, avoiding overcrowded routes, staying at the best teahouses, and crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) confidently. No hidden charges, focus on detail, and fair prices with good-quality service make us the top trekking partner in Nepal. We are quite accommodating, where we arrange tailor-made tours and allow you to customize your tour. Similarly, the best guides are always with you on the trek.
We are also mindful that our treks along the Himalayas are environmentally friendly and do not harm the natural environment in any way. We handle all the arrangements, including permits, transportation, and accommodation, and can provide emergency support, so you don't have to worry about logistics and can focus on the trail. Whether you are trekking alone/ with friends, or as a family, we customize each of our experiences to suit your pace, interests, and level of comfort.
Hike with us, and discover the difference true local expertise makes. If you have further questions or would like to learn more about the short Annapurna Circuit Trek, please don't hesitate to contact us at your convenience. If you are looking for other short treks, check out our other packages, such as the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, and Poon Hill Trek, among others.
