| Activities: | Trekking, Sightseeing | Fitness Level: | Moderate to Strenuous |
| Max Elevation: | 5,416m/17,769ft at Throng-La top | Transportation: | Private vehicle/Flight |
| Best Month: | March to May & Sep to Dec | Group Size: | 2+ |
| Arrival on: | Kathmandu | Departure from: | Kathmandu |
| Meal: | Breakfast in Kathmandu and all meals during the trek | ||
| Accommodation: | Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and teahouses/tent during the trek/climb | ||
| Price: | USD:1275 |
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas. It is the perfect blend of adventure, culture and natural beauty tailored for those with limited time but trekking enthusiasts to explore one of the iconic trekking trails.
You will wander in the beautiful valleys, ascending to dizzy heights and immerse in diverse cultures as you bypass the majestic Annapurna circuit. At the same time, in the adventure-packed trek, you are introduced to the vibrant tapestry of communities which guide you to the breathtaking Thorong La pass at an impressive 5416m.
But that's not all â instead of retracing your steps, you will return to Pokhara with a quick flight, which gives you more time in the mountains. Additionally, the trails take you through the dramatic landscapes and canyons with a shift from lowland Hindu communities to Tibetan groups and a change in the landscape to rugged mountains with stunning views of the Annapurna ranges.
But what is so remarkable about Nepal Vision Treks Short Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek starts from the capital city, Kathmandu, where you explore the city for a day and immerse yourself in the cultural and architectural beauty. The next day, you hop on the car and participate in the scenic drive from Kathmandu to Chame.
At the same time, the standout part of this trek is the Upper Pisang to Bagra route, which boasts remarkable architecture and awe-inspiring vistas of Annapurna II and IV. Manang, the largest village in the region, provides picturesque panoramas of Gangapurna and Annapurna III.
After two challenging days of hiking to Thorong Phedi, you'll embark on an exhilarating ascent to Thorong La Pass at 5,416m/17,770ft with an entirely different landscape. You follow the trail and descend to Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. You explore the temples and cherish the shrines of Muktinath.
Later your journey takes you down a steep hillside to Kagbeni. Both Kagbeni and Jomsom are medical villages filled with mud houses and intriguing dark tunnels. Moreover, the 11-day short Annapurna Circuit trek is a wonderful experience with proper acclimatization and demanding fitness.
The itinerary of the Short Annapurna circuit trek is customized to suit your specific requirements and promises an incredible journey through the Annapurna circuit.
Join us on a trek that guarantees unforgettable memories and a profound connection with the stunning Himalayan landscapes.
1st Day: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft).
2nd Day: Drive to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft) 6-7 hrs walk.
3rd Day: Trek to Pisang (3,200m/10,496ft) 5-6 hrs walk.
4th Day: Trek to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft) 4-5 hrs walk.
5th Day: Acclimatization day at Manang (3,500m/11,482ft).
6th Day: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft) 3-4 hours walk.
7th Day: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,400m/14,432) 3-4 hrs walk.
8th Day: Trek to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) via Throng La (5,416m/17,765 ft) 7-8 hrs walk.
9th Day: Drive to Pokhara from Muktinath 7-8 hrs.
10th Day: Drive to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft) 5-6 hrs drive.
11th Day: Departure from Kathmandu.
#@#Day 1: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft).
#@#Your exciting journey begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal. After your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to your designated accommodation.
The initial day serves as an opportunity to acclimate to the city's altitude of 1,300 meters and to get ready for the adventure that lies ahead. Take this time to rest, soak in the atmosphere of Kathmandu, and make any necessary preparations for your upcoming trek.
#@#Day 2: Drive to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft) - 6-7 Hours
#@#Today, your adventure continues as you set out on a scenic drive to Chame. The journey promises awe-inspiring vistas as you navigate winding mountain roads.
As you approach Chame, you'll start to feel the change in elevation, which marks the beginning of your trekking experience. Chame, located at 2,710 meters above sea level, is your first significant stop on this trekking journey through the Annapurna Circuit. It's a day filled with scenic beauty and anticipation for the trekking days ahead.
#@#Day 3: Trek to Pisang (3,200m/10,496ft) - 5-6 Hours
#@#Now marks the beginning of the trekking adventure as you make your way toward Pisang. The trails take you deeper into the natural beauty of the region, with trails leading you to higher altitudes.
The gradual ascent is not only visually rewarding but also aids in acclimatizing your body to the increasing elevation. As you trek through this captivating landscape, you'll start to feel the impressive altitude changes and begin to immerse yourself in the Annapurna Circuit experience.
#@#Day 4: Trek to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft) - 4-5 Hours
#@#You will continue the trek and make your way to Manang. The terrain begins to change, becoming more rugged, and the air grows thinner as you ascend to higher altitudes.
Manang, nestled at 3,500 meters, is a significant milestone on your journey with a glimpse of the unique landscapes and cultures that await you in the Annapurna region.
#@#Day 5: Acclimatization day at Manang (3,500m/11,482ft)
#@#You should know the importance of acclimatization in high-altitude trails as you dedicate this day to staying in Manang.
Additionally, it allows your body to adapt to the lower oxygen levels and reduces the risk of altitude-related issues. It's a crucial pause in your journey that ensures your health and safety as you pass further into the mountains.
#@#Day 6: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft) - 3-4 Hours
#@#As you leave the marvelous village of Mananag behind, trails continue deeper into the heart of the Himalayas. Your destination for the day is Yak Kharka, situated at an elevation of 4,110 meters. The trekking part is relatively shorter in terms of time and spans approximately 3 to 4 hours.
The shorter trek serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it allows you more time for acclimatization, a crucial aspect of high-altitude trekking. Secondly, it brings you closer to the Thorong Phedi pass, a significant milestone in your trekking itinerary.
As you make your way through the breathtaking mountain terrain, you'll not only savor the stunning landscapes but also prepare yourself for the challenges that lie ahead on this remarkable adventure.
#@#Day 7: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,400m/14,432) - 3-4 Hours
#@#On this day, you'll trek to Thorong Phedi, a significant location on your path toward conquering the Thorong La Pass. It is situated at an elevation of 4,400 meters, Thorong Phedi is a critical point in your journey.
The altitude continues to rise, and the air becomes thinner as you ascend further into the high mountains. It's essential to conserve your energy during this shorter trek.
As the following day will present you with the challenging ascent of the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Thorong Phedi serves as a base camp for the challenging ascent ahead and allows you to prepare physically and mentally.
#@#Day 8: Trek to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) via Throng La (5,416m/17,765 ft) - 7-8 Hours
#@#This day is a monumental milestone in your trekking adventure as you set out to conquer the Thorong La pass, standing tall at an impressive 5,416 meters â one of the world's highest trekking passes.
It's a challenging ascent that requires determination and persistence, but the payoff is truly extraordinary. As you cross this high-altitude pass, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
The day's trek will eventually lead you to Muktinath, a place of profound religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists. You have the opportunity to explore temples and revered shrines and add a cultural dimension to your remarkable journey through the Himalayas.
#@#Day 9: Drive to Pokhara from Muktinath - 7-8 Hours
#@#After your journey through the Himalayas and reaching the sacred site of Muktinath, you'll transition to a scenic drive that will take you to the enchanting city of Pokhara.
The road trip allows you to relax, unwind, and reflect on the incredible journey you've undertaken. As you travel, you are treated to mesmerizing views and a chance to soak in the beauty of the Nepalese landscapes.
#@#Day 10: Drive to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft) - 5-6 Hours
#@#From Pokhara, your journey comes full circle as you head back to Kathmandu by road. This return drive provides a final opportunity to savor the diverse and stunning landscapes that Nepal has to offer.
It's a time to reminisce about your epic adventure, sharing stories and memories with fellow travelers. Your circuit through the Annapurna region is nearing its conclusion, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and a deep connection to the Himalayan landscapes you've explored.
#@#Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu
#@#On your final day in Nepal, it's time to bid farewell to this enchanting country that has been the backdrop to your incredible trekking adventure. You'll wake up in Kathmandu, and depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to explore the city or do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
When the time comes, you'll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. As you say goodbye to Nepal, you'll carry with you cherished memories of your trek through the Himalayas, the stunning landscapes, the diverse cultures, and the personal achievements you've experienced during this remarkable journey.
✅ All airport and hotel transportation by private vehicle in Kathmandu as per the itinerary suggested.
✅ Deluxe twin-sharing accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
✅ Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (Alcoholic beverages are excluded)
✅ Kathmandu to Pokhara & Pokhara to Kathmandu travel cost.
✅ Full board meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea & coffee) during the trek
✅ Seasonal fruits during the trek are provided
✅ Comfortable & clean accommodation on teahouse/lodge/tent during the trek
✅ Government Registered Trek guide (English speaking, First Aid and eco trained), Sherpa porter (one porter for two trekkers)
✅ All necessary paper works, Annapurna entry fee, permits & TIMS card
✅ Four seasonal sleeping bags, Nepal Vision Treks duffel bag, and trekking map ( sleeping bag to be returned after trip completion)
✅ First aid exclusive medical kit bag
✅ All government and local taxes
❌ Visa fees (You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu so (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs)) International airfare to and from Kathmandu
❌ Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara except for welcome & fare well dinner (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled plan)
❌ Any extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary plan
❌ Travel and rescue insurance
Clothing & Packing Information
Correct Clothing & Equipmentâs are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. Experienced trekkers will often take only a selection of these items based on what has worked in the past. Please find the equipment list below for your personal use during your travel with us.
We are advised to consider the following equipmentâs as essentials while packing for the Everest Base Camp Trek. Adjustments to the list can be managed according to our requirements, interests, duration of trip, and season of trip. We can find variety of these gears to buy in Kathmandu. Majority of the gears which are in sale in Kathmandu are locally is much cheaper and must be tried on carefully and checked carefully for quality, but on the whole it is OK. We can find very high quality branded gears too in some famous stores in Kathmandu; mostly top notch imported gear, Mountain Hardware, The North Face, Marmot, Black Diamond climbing gear plus head torches and others, and prices are reasonable.
The hotel stores free of cost whatever you don't take trekking, and of course they have a laundry service. You might want to plan with a clean set of clothes for your return from the trek.
Who carries what?
You carry a daypack with your camera, a jacket, water and day snacks. The porters will carry everything else, so pack this in a duffel/kitbag rather than backpack. Since, luggage has weight limitation of approximately 33 pounds or 15 kg.
Important documents
⢠Passport (must be valid for 6 months after trip), 2 extra passport size photos, airline tickets
⢠Photocopy of the information pages of your passport and Insurance
⢠Insurance â this MUST include helicopter rescue, repatriation and medical coverage. Money â US$200 to US$300 personal spending for trek and for Kathmandu depending on souvenir hunting (but donât change money at the airport as you will get a better rate of exchange in the Thamel District of Kathmandu).
⢠Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines.
Packing List
»Running shoes»: 1 pair for casual comfortable support shoes wears on lighter walking days.
»Hiking boots»: 1 pair of sturdy hiking boots. Sole should be flexible but still provide enough support for your feet. Boots should be very water repellent.
»Wool socks»: 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks and 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
» Gaiters»:Only for winter, optional, âlowâ ankle high
»T-Shirts» Polypropylene shirts (2 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves), Light and expedition weight thermal tops
»Jacket» Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover, Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket, Down vest and/or jacket and Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable
»Trekking pants» Non-cotton underwear briefs, 1 pair of Hiking shorts, 1 pair of Hiking trousers, 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal), 1 pair of fleece or woolen trousers and 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric
»Head wears» Bandana or head scarf, useful for dusty conditions also, Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic), Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs, Sunglasses with UV protection
»Hand wears» 1 pair of lightweight poly-liner gloves, 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves, 1 pair of mittens, consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)
»Sleeping Bag»: High quality with hood to at least - 10 Degree Celsius or 14 degrees F (Company provide you sleeping bag for this trek)
»Rucksack and Travel Bags» 1 medium rucksack (60-80 liters/3500-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon), 1 large duffel bag (Company provide you duffle bag for this trek), A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables, should have good shoulder padding, Small padlocks for duffel bags, large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)
»Trekking Poles»: Optional
»Water treatment tablets»: Iodine or Chloride Dioxide tablets. A small bottle or multi pack is sufficient. Taste neutralizer tablets remove iodine taste. Chloride Dioxide formulas will not discolor water
»Water Bottles» 2 Wide mouth bottles with minimum 1 Liter capacity per bottle No water bag or bladder systems; they freeze or are hard to fill.
»Pee Bottle» (Optional) but very useful
»Pee funnel for Women» (Optional) Lightweight urinary director (For minimal undressing for discreet use)
»Sunscreen» SPF 30 or better, 2 small tubes and make sure that the sunscreen is not older than 6 months. Sunscreen older than six months loses half of its SPF rating.
»Hand/foot warmers»: (Optional) recommended if you easily get cold hands and feet 1-3 pairs.
»Lip screen»: SPF 30 or better, at least 2 sticks. Not older than 6 months
»MP3 player» (Optional) Flash memory only players since hard drive players do not work at high altitude (above 13,000ft). Chargers can be used at several lodges along the way.
»Towel» Bring towel for trekking. »Toiletry bag» Include toilet paper, soap, towel, and toothpaste & brush, Wet wipes 1-2 per day and hand sanitizer: Hand moisturizer.
»Extra luggage» Please note you do not need to take all your gear with you while trekking - luggage can be safely stored at the hotel in Kathmandu and collected at the end of your trek.
First aid
»Personal first aid Kit (small and simple)» Aspirin, Moleskin, Adhesive tape and Band-Aids.
»Drugs/medications/prescriptions» Trekker should bring Mupirocin (Bactroban) cream; excellent topical antibiotic for scrapes and cuts.
Cirprofloxin (Cipro) 500mg tablets for travelerâs diarrhea and for urinary tract infections. Loperamide (Lomotil) or Immodium for diarrhea.
Acetazolamide (Diamox) 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 200mg tablets for altitude headaches.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 325mg tablets for stomach sensitivity.
This above list is only a guideline for you. While you are required to bring everything on this list, there are numerous options, brands.
#@#How difficult is Annapurna Circuit?
#@#Annapurna Circuit Trek is a moderate trek. As it is the longest trekking route in the region, it can be harder for a beginner trekker to complete the journey without prior training and preparation.
#@#Is the Annapurna Circuit still worth going to?
#@#Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is very worth going. Despite the vehicle road construction along the way and the difficulties you will face, the trek will be worth going after the beauty you will be blessed with in the trail and destination.
#@#How long does it take to hike the Annapurna Circuit?
#@#The Annapurna Trekking circuit is a long journey. On average, the trek can be climbed in 11-29 days.
#@#What is the Annapurna Circuit trek?
#@#The Annapurna Circuit is a popular trek in Nepal that circumnavigates the Annapurna mountain range. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, varied landscapes, and a glimpse into the unique culture of the Himalayan people.
#@#How long does it take to complete the Annapurna Circuit trek?
#@#The Annapurna Circuit trek usually takes about 20 days to complete, including rest days. However, it can be done in as little as 15 days or as long as 25 days, depending on your pace and itinerary.
#@#What should one pack for the Annapurna Region trek?
#@#It is essential to pack essential trekking gear such as sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a backpack, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a sleeping bag. A good quality trekking pole is also highly recommended.
#@#Is it necessary to have a guide or porter while trekking to the Annapurna region?
#@#While it is not mandatory to have a guide or porter while trekking to the Annapurna region, it is highly recommended. A guide can assist you in navigation, communication with locals, and ensuring that you follow the correct trail, while a porter will carry your bags, easing the load on your back.
#@#What are the risks involved in trekking to Annapurna Region?
#@#The risks involved in trekking to ABC include altitude sickness, physical injuries, and the possibility of natural disasters such as landslides or avalanches. However, with proper preparation and guidance, these risks can be minimized.
#@#What is the best time of year to trek the Annapurna Circuit?
#@#The best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, the skies are clear, and the views are stunning. However, trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to the heavy rainfall.
#@#Do I need a sleeping bag on the trek to Annapurna Circuit?
#@#Yes, you will need a winter sleeping bag to handle the low-freezing temperature during the trek to Annapurna Circuit. This is the most needed thing to stay away from the cold.