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Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Duration

13 Days

Trip Type

Lodge Trek

Grade

Moderate

Max. Elevation

5416 m.

Transportation

4WD jeep, Tourist bus & Flight

Min. Group Size

2 or more

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Short Annapurna Circuit trek

Short Annapurna Circuit trek is a customized trek program that perfectly aligns with those who want to accomplish the world’s best Annapurna Circuit trek in less than two weeks of time. It is one of the most picturesque and diverse treks in the world, offers an unforgettable adventure, even in a shortened format for those with limited time. This condensed version preserves the heart and soul of the Himalayas, combining awe-inspiring landscapes, rich Nepalese culture, and the exhilarating experience of crossing high mountain passes.

This trek takes you to the journey of a lifetime. You will pass through the breathtaking mountains, lush forest, mesmerizing waterfall, traditional villages, old monasteries and temples, pasturelands and high altitude passes. This region has rich natural landscapes as well as cultural heritages.  One can experience pristine environment and observe century old temples and monasteries during this trek. Since it includes a high altitude region, high value medicinal herbs such as Cordyceps also grow in this region. Sheep and yak farming were used to be a major occupation of this area for hundreds of years. Recently, farmers have started apple farming and breweries to utilize the locally available resources and support the green economy in the village. Due to the popularity of Annapurna Circuit, tourism and hospitality sectors have grown significantly in the region in last 10 years.

You will cross Thorong La Pass of 5416 meters before you conclude your trek. One can see Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Lamjung himala, Manaslu and many other astounding peaks during this trek. Because of the recent development in the region, trekkers can now drive up to Dharapani and begin their trek. Though it is possible to drive directly to Manang, we recommend starting the trek at Dharapani considering the importance of acclimatization during such a high altitude trek. Short Annapurna Circuit trek is a strenuous trekking route that requires participants to be physically fit. Therefore, our short itinerary for Annapurna Circuit trek not only saves time of trekkers but also boost confidence in participants to accomplish the trek. 

Key Highlights of the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Thorong La Pass (5416m.): As the highest point of the trek and one of the highest trekking passes in the world, Thorong La is top attraction of this trek. Crossing it rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Cultural Experience: From the serene Buddhist monasteries in Upper Pisang to the bustling town of Manang, the trek offers deep cultural experiences. Engage with the local Gurung and Thakali communities, as you pass through their charming, traditional villages and witness their way of life.

Diverse Landscapes: The trek unfolds through an incredible range of environments—from lush subtropical forests at lower elevations to the arid, desert-like terrain of the Manang Valley. Each day brings new scenery, making the journey constantly engaging.

Tatopani or Hot Springs: After long days of trekking, a soothing dip in the natural hot springs of Tatopani provides the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate, refreshing both body and mind.

Breathtaking Mountain Views: Throughout the trek, trekkers are treated to spectacular views of towering peaks, including Annapurna I (8091m.), Dhaulagiri (8167m.), Machhapuchhre (6993m.), and several other Himalayan giants

Day to Day Itinerary

Accommodation

Hotel

Max Elevation

1400 m.

On your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met and welcomed by our airport representative. You will be greeted traditionally with flower garlands and then transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, you can take a stroll around and visit shops. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

1960 m.

After an early breakfast, our guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the bus station for the drive to Besisahar, which takes about 4 hours on a well-paved road. Upon reaching Besisahar, you'll switch to a jeep for a 5-hour journey to Dharapani (1,960m). This section of the road is unpaved and bumpy, but along the way, you'll pass through lush green hills, waterfalls, and traditional villages. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

2675 m.

The trail follows the Dudh Khola, originating from the south face of Manaslu, as the Marshyangdi River veers to the left. Soon, Annapurna II comes into view, and you'll arrive at Bagarchhap, a traditional Himalayan village with fluttering prayer flags and a Buddhist monastery. Continue through pine and oak forests, passing through Danaque (2,210m), before reaching Chame, the administrative center of the Manang district. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

3100 m.

As you start the day, Lamjung Himal (6,893m) glows in the morning light. The trail ascends the valley, passing a large apple orchard before leading through fir and pine forests. You'll climb to a high, rocky section where the valley narrows, creating steep cliffs. Continue to Bhratang (2,950m) with views of the east peak of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak (6,091m). The day ends at Pisang village. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

3440 m.

The trail climbs a steep ridge, offering stunning views of the Manang Valley and Tilicho Peak (7,145m). Descending past the airstrip at Hungde (3,320m), you'll enter a wide valley where Annapurna III (7,555m) towers above. The vast plains of the Sabje Khola Valley offer views of Annapurna IV (7,525m). You'll also pass large Chortens and mani walls, with the Himalayas dominating the skyline, including Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna (7,455m), and Tilicho Peak. A short, steep ascent leads you to Manang. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

3440 m.

Explore the town or take optional hikes, such as crossing the river to see the impressive icefall from Annapurna or climbing above the village for panoramic views of the Annapurna Range and the Manang Valley. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

4350 m.

The trail gently ascends, passing through the village of Gunsang (3,960m) with panoramic views along the way. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

4420 m.

The trail climbs gradually to a ridge before descending to the Marshyangdi River. After crossing a covered wooden bridge, ascend a narrow path across a scree slope before descending to Thorong Phedi. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

5416 m.

The trek starts early with a steep climb to Thorong La, reaching the pass in about 4 hours, marked by prayer flags and a chorten. The descent to Muktinath offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri. After crossing the moraines, the path gradually descends into grassy slopes and the scenic Jhong Khola Valley, leading to Muktinath, known for its sacred temple and shrines. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

2713 m.

The trail descends for about 2 hours, followed by a relatively flat walk until you reach Jomsom. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Food/Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

Max Elevation

914 m.

Flights are strictly in the morning, till 10am.  In Pokhara, you can enjoy plenty of activities and leisure time. Stay overnight stay at a hotel in Pokhara.

Food/Meals

Breakfast & Lunch

Accommodation

Hotel

Max Elevation

1400 m.

The scenic drive takes you through Damauli, Dumre, Mugling, and Kurintar, where you can see Nepal's first cable car connecting to the Manakamana Temple. The journey continues through Naubise and up to Thankot, the gateway to Kathmandu. Stay overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Food/Meals

Breakfast

As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will transfer from your hotel to the airport for your final departure. 

Price includes the following services

a) Kathmandu

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off services by private car
  • 2 night hotel accommodation with breakfast 
  • One farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening


b) Trekking

  • Trekking guide/s
  • One porter for every 2 trekking participants (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
  • All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner) during the trekking
  • Accommodation in lodges during the trek
  • Trekking equipment: Sleeping bag, down jacket, duffle bag, and trekking poles if required
  • Entry Permit for Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
  • All land transportation: Kathmandu to Dharapani by private 4WD jeep and Pokhara to Kathmandu by A/C tourist deluxe bus
  • Flight ticket from Jomsom to Pokhara
  • 1-night hotel accommodation with breakfast in Pokhara 
  • Meals, accommodation, insurance, and equipment for all guide
  • First aid kit
  • Tax, VAT, and our service charge
  • Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional Rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment costs.

Service Excludes

  • Personal expenses (telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, or any alcoholic beverages)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guide and porters
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Explore the route

Altitude & route map

Select a preview to open a large, zoomable view.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Altitude Graph

Route Map

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek route map

Frequently Asked Questions for Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Most short Annapurna Circuit itineraries last 8 to 12 days, depending on your fitness and acclimatization. A typical route looks like (Above Itinerary):

  • Drive to Chame or Dharapani
  • Trek through Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, and Thorong Phedi
  • Cross Thorong La Pass
  • Descend to Muktinath and Jomsom
  • Fly or drive back to Pokhara


This allows you to experience the heart of the Annapurna Circuit without committing to the full 3-week trail.

Absolutely. While it skips the lower-altitude southern sections (like Bahundanda and Tal), the short version still includes the most scenic and culturally rich sections, such as Manang, Thorong La, and the Kali Gandaki Valley. You’ll witness massive peaks, Buddhist monasteries, yak pastures, and desert-like Mustang terrain—all in less than two weeks.

The trek is rated moderate to challenging. The main challenge is crossing Thorong La Pass (5416m.), which requires good fitness and acclimatization. While the daily walking isn’t overly technical, the altitude, weather, and long ascent days make it physically demanding. Prior trekking or hiking experience is very helpful.

Some unforgettable highlights include:

  • Crossing the Thorong La Pass, one of the world’s highest trekking passes
  • Exploring Manang, a high-altitude village rich in Tibetan-Buddhist culture
  • Visiting the sacred Muktinath Temple, a pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists
  • Witnessing the contrast between lush valleys and the arid landscapes of Mustang
  • Staying in local teahouses and experiencing mountain hospitality

You’ll need:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)

 

The best seasons are:

  • Autumn (Sept–Nov): Clear skies, dry trails, and stable weather.
  • Spring (Mar–May): Blooming rhododendrons, mild temperatures, and great visibility.

 

The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek offers incredible variety in a compact timeline. You experience high mountain passes, cultural villages, lush valleys, and desert plateaus all in just over a week. It’s more adventurous than the Annapurna Base Camp trek, but less time-consuming than the full circuit. If you want a challenging, diverse, and iconic Himalayan experience, this is one of the best treks you can do in under two weeks.

Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition ensures you to provide a well planned itinerary for Short Annapurna Circuit Trek. An experienced and highly professional climbing guide will be assigned to each climbing member. All necessary logistics will be taken care from our side. However, we expect to maintain good health and physical condition as well as well good mental preparation from your side.

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  • Nepal Mountaineering Association
  • Kathmandu Environmental Education Project
  • Himalayan Rescue Association, Nepal
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