Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

US$650

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Name: Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
Brand: Outfitter Himalaya
Price: 650 USD
Availability: InStock

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Recommended by 99% of travelers

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a 9 Days hiking holidays and probably, this is the shortest Itinerary to complete the Annapurna Circuit with Thorong La pass Trek without compromising for Acclimatization during the trekking. Short Annapurna Circuit Trek goes through subtropical forests, and you'll slowly ascend to alpine pastures and Thorong La pass (highest trekking pass in Nepal) before descending to Muktinath (3,800 m).

Short Annapurna circuit trekking lets you enjoy varied landscapes, including the trans-Himalayan and drive past Kali Gandaki gorge to Pokhara once you drop down from the Thorong La and the Kali Gandaki Gorge is the deepest in the world.

Trip Facts

Duration

9 Days

Trip Grade

Strenuous

Country

Nepal

Maximum Altitude

5416 M

Group Size

1-12

Starts

Kathmandu

Ends

Pokhara

Activities

Hiking and Walking

Best Time

Autumn and Spring

Overview

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Overview

Annapurna circuit is a 9 Day trekking holidays in high Annapurna Himalaya in Nepal and the 9-day journey in Nepal Himalayas takes you close to the stunning western Himalayan Mountains and the tenth highest mountain in the world. 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 Trekking is your answer. Established in 1977 AD, Short AC trek route has carved a special place in the hearts of adventure enthusiasts and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge.

Annapurna Circuit is a classic trek that starts below 2,000 meters and takes you to the country's highest pass, the Thorong La, at 5,416 meters (17,769 ft) and Short Annapurna Circuit Journey explores Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), the tenth-highest mountain in the world.

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 journey is designed to maximize your experience while ensuring your safety and comfort.

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 during the short Annapurna circuit trek in Nepal and come across stunning waterfalls and cold streams.

Prepare to be immersed in a tapestry of cultural diversity as you traverse the Annapurna circuit trail. From Tibetan-like Buddhist villages with white-washed houses to narrow gullies and spectacular mountains, each step reveals a new facet of this enchanting region.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights

Scenic drive to Dharapani from Kathmandu
Overnight stays in beautiful villages like Chame, Pisang, Manang
Trek through the wilderness of the Annapurna Conservation Area
Go on a hike to Gangapurna Lake or Cave Gompa while acclimatizing in the Manang village
Enjoy the heart-warming hospitality of the locals and get to see their daily lifestyle
Cross the Thorong La pass and learn about one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Nepal, Muktinath
Drive along Kali Gandaki gorge and beautiful villages to Pokhara
Witness stunning mountain panorama and distinct landscapes throughout

Main Features of the Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Scenic drive to Dharapani

The drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani is very long. Also, it leads to the starting point of the short Annapurna circuit Trekking trek.

You will follow the valleys of the Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers. The road winds alongside verdant hills and terraced fields. On the way, you will witness beautiful waterfalls and occasional settlement areas. The later part of the drive includes snow-capped mountain views, which makes the ride very therapeutic.

Overnight stays in beautiful villages

A low key one of the best things about the short Annapurna circuit trip is the villages the trail passes by. You'll not believe how beautiful these villages are and the scenery you see from each town. Chame, Pisang, Manang, and Yak Kharka are villages where you will stay overnights.

Trek through the wilderness of the Annapurna Conservation Area

Annapurna Conservation Area is home to hundreds of flora and fauna. It protects the locals and all the natural elements inside the park.

The short Annapurna circuit trekking venture starts inside this park and later joins the lower Mustang area (from Muktinath onwards). The trail has waterfalls, meadows, pastures, streams, and rivers.

Side day hike in Manang village

On day 5 of our Short Annapurna circuit trek program, you have an acclimatization day in Manang village, which is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.

You take this opportunity to hike to either Gangapurna Lake (3,525 m) or Cave Gompa (4,000 m). Both hiking options have impressive routes dotted with striking mountain views.

Welcoming mountain community and cultural heritage

Unlike other parts of the Himalayas, the Annapurna region is home to people from different communities. On your way, you'll meet Chhetris, Brahmins, Magars, Gurungs, Thakalis, and many other ethnic groups.

These people have distinct languages, cultural practices, norms, and values, which make your holiday a unique cultural experience. You can visit ancient temples and monasteries, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Cross the Thorong La pass

Thorong La Pass is 5,416 meters (17,769 ft) above sea level and is located in the Damodar Himal, north of the Annapurna Himal. The pass connects Manang village (Manang district) in the east to Muktinath and Ranipauwa village (Mustang district) in the west, completing the Annapurna circuit.

Visit Muktinath Temple: A most significant pilgrimage site in Nepal

Muktinath is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is a famous and influential pilgrimage site and is very important to Buddhists. The Muktinath temple is 3800 meters above sea level and has centuries-old legends and beliefs. Hundreds of pilgrims visit the site every year.

Drive along Kali Gandaki gorge and beautiful villages to Pokhara

Short Annapurna circuit trekking Odyssey ends at Muktinath. From here, we drive to Pokhara. The route goes along the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge, and passes by beautiful villages, such as Marpha and Kagbeni.

The ride offers a breathtaking mountain panorama and ends in Pokhara. You'll have the evening free to relax and enjoy the tranquillity of Phewa Lake.

Witness stunning mountain panorama and distinct landscapes

These are the list of some of the mountains you get to see on this adventurous Short Annapurna Circuit Trek- Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Annapurna IV (7,525 m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Mt. Fishtail (6,993 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Pisang Peak (3,250 m), Chulu Peak (6,059 m), Gundang (5,312 m), and Khatungkang (6,484 m). These stunning views will leave you in awe and inspire you to keep trekking.

Then comes the never ending landscapes that motivate you to keep walking and rejuvenate your soul.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary Outline

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani
Day 02: Trek from Dharapani to Chame
Day 03: Trek from Chame to Pisang
Day 04: Trek from Pisang to Manang
Day 05: Rest day at Manang for acclimatization
Day 06: Trek from Manang to Yak kharka
Day 07: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Day 08: Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath visa Thorong la pass
Day 09: Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara

Route Map

Altitude Chart

Gallery

Media Gallery

Water Fall In Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Roadmap

Itinerary

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek PlanExpand all

Day 01:

Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani

Today, we have a long journey to the starting point of the Trek. After a warm breakfast, we leave Kathmandu and drive following green hills, rivers, and terraces. The drive will be smooth for the most part. Passing by Besisahar, we'll continue the drive to Dharapani, enjoying the view peaks.

Max Altitude: 1,960m / 6,430 ftMeals: Lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guest houseDuration: 9-10 hoursDistance: 180km / 111 milesTravel Mode: Local Bus/Jeep

Day 02:

Trek from Dharapani to Chame

We'll begin trekking today. The trail climbs and descends to the west towards Bagarchhap village. From here, we ascend through pine and fir forests. After crossing a few bridges, we walk high through oak and maple trees. The waterfalls along the way are enchanting, too.

We will reach Chame, the headquarters of the Manang district, and you will see views of Mt. Annapurna IV, Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna II.

Max Altitude: 2,675m / 8,776 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guest houseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 18km / 11 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Day 03:

Trek from Chame to Pisang

The trail from Chame ascends through dense forests. On the way, a 1,500-m-tall rock rises from a river. From this point, the vegetation gets thin. Trekking across a river, we cross several suspension bridges and enter a U-shaped valley, Manang. Enjoying snow-capped mountain views, we'll ascend to Pisang village.

Max Altitude: 3,100m / 10,170 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guest houseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 15km / 9 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Day 04:

Trek from Pisang to Manang

We have two routes to reach Manang. Taking the upper trail, which is much more scenic, we pass by Ghyaru village. The view is phenomenal in the western Himalayan Mountains, such as Pisang Himal, Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Gangapurna.

We'll walk past Ngawal village and gradually ascend to Manang.

Max Altitude: 3,540m / 11,614 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guest houseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 19km / 11 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Day 05:

Rest day at Manang for acclimatization

We will spend a rest day in Manang village, acclimatizing and exploring. Manang village has a lot to offer. We will hike to Gangapurna Lake (3,525 m) or Cave Gompa (4,000 m) in the morning. The views of mountains like Chulu Peak, Thorong Peak, Pisang Peak, Annapurna, Tilicho Peak, etc., are stunning on both hiking routes.

Max Altitude: 3,540m / 11,614 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guest houseDuration: 3-4 hoursDistance: 4km / 2 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Day 06:

Trek from Manang to Yak kharka

The trail advances towards Yak Kharka. We have left the tree line behind and most walk in meadows. You will walk across a stream, and the route ascends to Tenki village. From here, we walk out of Marsyangdi Valley and Trek northwest to Jarsang Khola Valley.

Trekking via scrub of juniper trees, we pass by a small village of Ghunsa. From here on, there are meadows and wooden bridges to Yak Kharka.

Max Altitude: 4,050m / 13,287 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guest houseDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 9km / 5 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Day 07:

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi

The route from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi is challenging. We ascend north and cross a suspension bridge. The trail goes to Ledar village and continues to Thorong Phedi, following a steep, rough trail. Along the way, the views of Mt. Annapurna III, Syagang, Gundang, and Khatungkang are stunning. Thorong Phedi is the last settlement before Thorong La pass.

Max Altitude: 4,450m / 14,599 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guest houseDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 9km / 5 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Day 08:

Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath visa Thorong la pass

Today is the most challenging day of the Short Annapurna circuit trek. Early in the morning, we will leave Thorong Phedi and follow an abrupt trail. The trail gradually ascends toward the top of Thorong La Pass. It is steep and rocky, with some loose boulder sections.

From the top of the pass, the views of the mountains are excellent. Later, the trail descends to Muktinath temple for the night stay.

Max Altitude: 5,416m / 17,769 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guest houseDuration: 9-10 hoursDistance: 17km / 10 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Day 09:

Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara

Before leaving Muktinath, we will visit the temple and receive blessings. We will explore the premises since non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple. After breakfast, we hop on the jeep/bus and begin our bumpy, scenic ride to Pokhara. We will drive along the Kalli Gandaki gorge and numerous villages, enjoying the views of snowy mountains and green hills. The trip ends today in Pokhara.

Max Altitude: 830m / 2,723 ftMeals: Breakfast and LunchDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 160km / 99 milesTravel Mode: Local Bus/Jeep

Cost Details

Service Details

What's Included

Eight nights Guest house/tea house accommodation on twin sharing basis
Meals during the trekking as per the itinerary
Conservation entry permits and TIMS permit
Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Dharapani, and Muktinath to Pokhara by local bus/jeep
Trained local trekking guide
Salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transportation, and insurance for the guide and staff
Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service (Paid by Travel insurance company)
Sleeping bag, down jackets if necessary, and return after the Trek
Seasonal fruits after dinner while on the Trek
T-shirt and trekking map
First Aid and oximeter
Official expenses and service charge

What's not Included

Nepal Entry visa fee
Travel insurance (compulsory)
Trekking Porter (available on Add-on)
Your personnel expenses/shopping
All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
Sweet things like chocolate bars and bar bills
Hot shower, internet, telephone, and laundry
International airfare
Tips for the guide and staff
Anything not mentioned in the included section

Add-ons & Options

Hire a Trekking porter

We suggest you to hire a porter to carry your bag pack while on trek, trekking with a light day pack is much easier and you enjoy your trekking holidays to the fullest. A trekking porter carries about 20-22 Kg (about 10-11 Kg from each of you), and we suggest to hire a porter in between of two trekkers and A porter cost US $200.00 for Short Annapurna Circuit Trek 9 Days.

Upgrade Transport on Day 1 to Dharapani

There are options to upgrade the transportation from Kathmandu to Dharapani to a private jeep instead of a local bus and about six people can drive in one jeep and A Jeep Cost US 290.00 for a Jeep.

Must-Know

Essential Information

Possibility of Altitude sickness on Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness) is inevitable during the Short Annapurna Circuit trek. Travelling at a high altitude (over 2,500 meters) carries the risk of altitude sickness. To avoid this, we have acclimatization days in Manang village and have carefully planned the itinerary to ensure that you ascend no more than 500 meters daily.

Likewise, the Short Annapurna circuit trek itinerary balances the climb-high and sleep-low aspects, further ensuring your safety during the Trek from altitude sickness. Our crew will be with you trekking, help you if you feel discomfort while walking, and monitor your health.

The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Preparation

To prepare for a Short Annapurna circuit trek, you can do day hikes and long walks wearing a backpack weighing 5 kg. If not, you can do other activities like swimming, cycling, and running. All these activities will help you build stamina and endurance. You can also do weight training and cardio. The main thing is to focus on building your core strength, stamina, and walking habits.

Guide and Crew for Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking

We provide a local expert trekking guide for the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek. There will be another assistance guide for groups of more than eight people. We have not included a porter in the package cost, and you can add a porter if you need one while making a booking, as it is optional.

Pre-trip meeting and arrival suggestion

We will have a pre trip meeting at the hotel or our office around 5:00 p.m. the day before the Trek starts. Please have a copy of your travel insurance and two passport-size photographs. We need these documents to obtain trekking permits and other paperwork. We suggest you arrive a day earlier, as arriving late at night and starting the Trek the next morning with a long drive to Dharapani is challenging. We can also book hotels when you require them at a reasonable cost.

Permits for Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

To do the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek, you need some trekking permits. The permits are the Annapurna conservation entry and TIMS. Once you book the Trek, we will apply and get all these permits.

Best time for Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

The autumn (Sep to Nov) offers clear skies, plus the rains have washed away the bugs and dust. So, autumn season is the best time for the Short Annapurna circuit trek. Spring (Feb Mid end of May) offers warmer temperatures, longer days, and rhododendrons bloom.

Forests are colourful, and spring is another good time for the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek. However, it is possible to do the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek most of the year.

Fitness for Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

You must be physically fit and have moderate fitness to complete the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek, which involves daily walking/trekking between 4 and 9 hours on a mountain path. You reach an altitude of 5416m above sea level at Thorong La Pass. So, you had better have previous trekking experience and have good health, strong desire, and stamina.

Accommodation on Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Eight nights' accommodations are included in the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Package Cost, and we provide simple lodge/teahouse accommodation on the trail. The rooms are basic; usually, there is just a bed with a pillow and blankets at the trekking lodge. A few have electric lights, and all have a spacious dining room lounge. Some are very basic, and a sense of adventure is necessary.

Meals and Drinks on Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Twenty eight meals (eight breakfast, nine lunch, and eight dinners) are provided in the Short Annapurna circuit trek, and the meals are taken in lodges. You will have breakfast/dinner at the lodge, where we stay overnights, and lunch at the lodge available along the trail.

A wide variety of Nepali and Western meals and drinks, such as coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks, and beer, are also available. Note that drinks are not included in the cost. We suggest bringing water purification pills or medicine while coming for the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek. You get normal water for free, so you can use the medicine and drink or buy bottled/boiled/safe-to-drink water.

Insurance for Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

You need travel insurance while coming for the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek, and there is always some risk while doing the high-mountain Trek. We transfer you to the nearest hospital in case of sickness or injury. You will be entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in the evacuation/rescue. So, please make sure that your insurance policy covers these expenses.

Useful Information for the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Useful information for Nepal Travel

Our FAQs

FAQs

Q1 How long does it take to hike Annapurna Circuit?

We can complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek in 9 to 18 Days, depending on how much area you want to cover on your itinerary.

Q2 How difficult is the Short Annapurna Circuit trek?

Short Annapurna circuit is a strenuous trek suitable for experienced trekkers. If you know the Himalayan trail and have been trekking before. In that case, you can level up your game by joining the Short Annapurna circuit trek with Outfitter Himalaya. Crossing the Thorong La pass (5,416 m) is no joke. It demands high physical fitness, patience, and trial knowledge. And for eight days, you'll walk on steep, rugged mountain terrain.

You begin walking early in the morning every day for 6 to 7 hours. The trail crosses landslide areas, slippery passages, and snowy paths. Then, there are the limited facilities that test your endurance and willpower. The short Annapurna circuit trek is an incredible venture. However, it has many setbacks, making it one of the most adventurous and challenging treks in the Himalayas.

Q3 Can you hike the Annapurna Circuit on your own?

Annapurna Circuit is safe, and many trekkers do it on their own. However, the trails are in high mountain terrain, so there is always a risk of acute mountain sickness or other accidents. We at Outfitter Himalaya recommend a guided Trek in the high Himalayas in Nepal.

Q4 Can you see Everest on the Annapurna Circuit?

No, we cannot see Everest from the Short Annapurna Circuit Trail as they are located in different locations. The Annapurna Circuit is in the western Himalayas, and Everest is in the eastern Himalayas.

Q5 Do you need crampons for Annapurna Circuit?

Normally, we do not need crampons for the Short Annapurna Circuit trek in peak seasons such as autumn and spring. However, if you are trekking in winter, such as January and February, we recommend you have one to be safe.

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Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

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