Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a condensed yet enriching adventure through the Annapurna region, perfect for those seeking a Moderate Annapurna Circuit Trek. Over 11 days, trekkers will experience the highlights of the circuit with manageable difficulty and comfortable accommodations. Enjoy breathtaking views, cultural experiences, and a smooth trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass, all within a shorter timeframe.

Trip Fact

DestinationNepal
Durations11 days
Trip DifficultyModerate
ActivitiesTrekking
AccommodationHotel/Resort in City and Guest House during Trek
MealsBreakfast Lunch & Dinner
Mx.altitude5416m.
VehicleDrive
Group SizeMin. 1 Pax

Overview

Highlights

Adventure hiking in the Annapurna mountain.
Cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu.
Crossing Thorong La Pass(5,416m).
The satisfaction of completing a circle around the traditional Annapurna circuit.
Culture and lifestyle in Manang and Lower Mustang valleys.
Incredible Himalayan views and high-altitude walking experience.

The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a condensed version of the classic Annapurna Circuit trek, designed for trekkers with limited time. This moderate Annapurna Circuit trek takes you through the Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. The trek begins at Jagat and follows the Marsyangdi River to the highest pass in the world, Thorong La (5,416m). The easy Annapurna Circuit trek option allows you to complete the trek in just 11 days.

This trek is perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of high-altitude trekking without committing to a long and challenging journey. The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek offers stunning mountain vistas, picturesque villages, and diverse cultural experiences. You'll have the opportunity to explore the ancient village of Manang, visit the sacred Muktinath temple, and marvel at the majestic Annapurna range.

Throughout the trek, our experienced guides will ensure your safety and provide insights into the local culture, history, and geography. With comfortable accommodations and delicious meals, this trek is an ideal choice for adventurers seeking a moderate challenge.

Key Highlights of the Trek:

Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Jagat
Trek through diverse landscapes including lush valleys, traditional villages, and high-altitude terrains
Acclimatization day at Manang Village for optimal preparation
Crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of the trek
Stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
Explore the ancient village of Manang and its rich cultural heritage
Hike through the scenic valleys and villages of the Annapurna region
Visit the sacred Muktinath temple, a revered pilgrimage site
Comfortable lodgings and moderate trekking difficulty for a rewarding experience

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-December) are the perfect time to undertake this Annapurna Circuit trek. Generally, weather above 5000m altitude is unpredictable but during these seasons weather attains a certain level of stability compared to winter and monsoon. The mild temperature these days favors trekkers by providing trails with less snow. Even you may click the best photographs with mountains framing the backdrop of clean and blue sky. Thus, this Annapurna Circuit Trek must be undertaken by considering the weather factors and proper season to experience undisrupted trekking experiences.

Proper Guidance for Annapurna Circuit Trek

Since 2023, Nepal has enforced a rigorous Permit and Guide regulation for trekking. This is why solo travel is prohibited in Nepal. This is due to the high number of deaths that occurred throughout the expedition. Thus, choosing a guide is one of the most important measures for tourists looking to leave their imprint on the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. Consider hiring a guide from a reputable trekking organization, such as Shepherd Holidays, rather than a freelancer. This is to guarantee that you are guided by a professional who is government-licensed and has had high-altitude training.

In addition, permission is a significant consideration. For trekking in the Annapurna area, two permits are required. One is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). This will cost you NRS 3000 per person. Similarly, your trekking information must be entered into the Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS). Registering your trekking data here will cost you Rs. 2000 per participant. Thus, your Annapurna Circuit Permit will cost NRS. 5000 per person.

Cost Breakdown for Annapurna Circuit Trek

A trip to Annapurna Circuit Trek package typically costs $750-1000 per person. However, the cost will vary based on your accommodations, meals, and equipment, among other factors. Similarly, the mode of transportation you pick will affect the price. More than that, you will fall in love with the mountains in ways you never imagined. On this occasion, we discovered a few trekkers spending extra time in the mountains. In this manner, your cost may differ.

The daily cost of the Annapurna Circuit Trek will be between $90-100 per person. This is why we have been able to create a full cost breakdown for the Annapurna Round Trek below:

Lodging and Fooding Cost Breakdown for Annapurna Circuit Trek

If you go on your own, the hotels and food on the Annapurna Circuit Trek are more expensive than on any other trek along the route. However, having a local advisor on your side will get you the greatest deal.

The cost of meals and lodging in Nepal's highlands is greater due to their remote location and limited transportation options. Food prices in the Annapurna Region can range from $15 to $25 for a single dinner. This price typically includes a single meal and a drink.

Similarly, lodgings in the highlands must be shared with other travelers. There is not much luxury in the Annapurna Region until you get off the route. So, depending on the quality of the accommodation, the motels along this route charge between $15 and $30. These characteristics are often decided by whether you select a room with or without an attached bathroom. Please bear in mind that the linked bathroom rooms may not be available in all locations. Some locales are also limited to shades.

You can also contact us via WhatsApp (Shepherd Holidays: +977-9851226742).

What to Expect From the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The 10-day Annapurna Circuit Trek route takes you through the lovely towns of Manang and Mustang. These communities are also known as "places behind the mountains". We normally begin our walk in a place named Jagat. Until Jagat, you can choose between a private and a public car. You will be the best hiker you have ever been from the beginning of your journey to Muktinath. Beautiful mountains to visit include Annapurna, Machhapuchhe, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho Peak, and many more.

This is one of Nepal's most famous treks. Thorong travels 5416 meters, where your foot impression will be printed. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is the greatest option for two-week excursions.

The walk begins at Jagat and takes you up the Marshyangdi Valley. As you progress up the trail, you will come across valleys covered with tundra. However, the lifestyle and people there will not leave you feeling drained, and you will appreciate nature and everything. Moving higher will bring you to the trek's destination, the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters/17,769 feet). From there, you climb downhill until Muktinath, one of the most well-known Hindu temples.

Muktinath in the lower Mustang settlement begins earlier than Muktinath and is the most well-known global pilgrimage destination for both Buddhists and Hindus alike. This sanctuary zone, surrounded by white-painted boundaries, was used for both religious sanctuaries. In addition, you may observe a typical gas burner and 108 taps with gushing holy water. People around Kagbeni and Muktinath are known as Gurung, however, they are originally from ancient Tibet.

Following that, you will go immediately to Pokhara and end your journey in Kathmandu, or you may participate in additional tours such as the Chitwan National Park Safari.

Shepherd Holidays invites you to join us for an exciting trip and lasting memories. Our team and guides are extremely experienced and will serve you with all of their wisdom.

Join a set-date group trip or private departure

The Annapurna Circuit Trekking is available on both a fixed departure and a private basis. If you are looking for a group to join, please check our fixed departure dates and ask for availability. If you want to travel independently or with your friends, family, and colleagues, you are welcome to select any date at your convenience for any number of people.

Requirements for Booking

Please provide us with your complete credentials or a copy of your passport. Please provide your weight so that your group's travels may be planned with suitable weight distribution. When booking, you may pay a 20-30% deposit of the whole package cost. You may pay the remaining balance before the trip. You may also pay us using a credit card, bank transfer, or online. For payment information, please click here.

Policy for Cancellation

If you are unable to make your trip, please notify us in advance. We will repay you based on our booking terms and conditions and available period. Flights may be delayed or canceled for a variety of reasons, including weather. In such instances, we will do our utmost to change your reservations and rearrange the timetable.

For Further Help!

Please feel free to contact us. We will get back to you within 1-2 business days. Or just call us now

Cell: +977-9851226742 (WhatsApp)

Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

NOTE: It is advised that you arrive in Kathmandu a day before you begin your trip. If you have arranged a Kathmandu day trip, you should arrive two days before the trek. If you can come a day earlier, it will be beneficial to you since you will have more time to recover, learn about the trekking route, and purchase trekking equipment if required. Adding some extra days in addition to the real trekking days will allow you to fully enjoy your vacation to Nepal without worrying about preparations, travel delays, or missed international flights.

Detail Itinerary

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1Day 01

Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat

Early in the morning, we will head ahead towards Jagat through Pokhara along the route of Trishuli valley observing the splendid mountain outlooks of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu. With natural scenery, we will cross many small and large rivers along the thrilling route. After 7-8 hours of stunning ride, succeeding in the different beautiful paths we finally arrive at Jagat. Overnight stay in the guest house.

2Day 02

Trek from Jagat to Dharapani

Next morning, the trail will be continued towards Dharapani. After overpassing a suspension bridge the way goes uphill through the Oak forest. Continuing the walk for a while the trail emerges into a valley and we reach the village of Tal which is situated on the foot of a mountain range waterfall. After crossing the river again the path goes up to the village of Dharapani. Overnight stay in the guest house.

3Day 03

Trek from Dharapani to Chame

From Dharapani, we will continue our climb to the village of Bagarchap (2164m) after breakfast. Ongoing the trek through the forest we will reach Dhanagyu. With the beauty of nature, we will climb to Temang where we will rest for a while to have lunch. Temang offers the attractive sights of Manaslu along with many other snowcapped mountain ranges. From here the way goes downhill through fir and pine forests to Koto and then to Chame, which is also the administrative capital of the Manang district. Tonight we are staying in Chame.

4Day 04

Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang

Firstly, the trail follows the river closely through a deep canyon, making our way through several waterfalls we will arrive at Brathang(2919m). From here the trail goes through a steep narrow valley winding through a deep forest witnessing the magnificent view of Annapurna II. Crossing the river where the extraordinarily curved rock face of Paungda Danda rises abruptly nearly 1500m from the riverbank, the trail climbs to the village of Upper Pisang.

5Day 05

Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang Village

Today, you can have a high route to Manang via the villages of Gyaru and Ngawal or a shorter main trail to Manang which goes through a low pass into the valley below Pisang Peak. Both options offer an attractive and splendid Mountain View which introduces us to different Himalayan lifestyles and sets up a strong foundation for the hidden geographical variation of the country. The longer walk will take 8-9 hours whereas the shorter takes 5 - 6 hours.

6Day 06

Rest and Acclimatization Day at Manang

Today we will take a rest in Manang village and get adapted to the risen altitude and explore the surreal beauty of our surroundings. Most of the visitors ascend to a hill situated behind Manang which offers the astonishing view of Annapurna massif and the huge icefall that run into and rumbles down from Gangapurna. Diagonally to the valley the huge mass of Gangapurna and Annapurna tower just above us. The view of sunrise and sunset is seen from here is one of the most beautiful sights seen in the whole country.

7Day 07

Trek from Manang to Leddar

From Manang, we will create our mode towards the base of Thorong La pass. Hiking out of Marshyangdi valley, we turn northwest to the valley of Jarsang Khola. Twisting directly above the forest we pass through arid, alpine land, with scrub juniper and patches of birch to Yak Kharka. We will reach Leddar by afternoon. There are beautiful views of the couloir of weathered and pointy mountains from Yak Kharka. The highest of all the tops is Syagang (6026 m), which leads the secret “trip from the other side of the Thorong High Camp, and during the remaining time, we can explore the neighborhood.

8Day 08

Trek from Leddar to Thorang Phedi/High Camp

The Trail from Leddar rises only slowly through Thorong Khola Valley up to the base camp in Thorong Phedi (4538m). Around Annapurna’s this one belongs to the shortest ones. In Thorong Phedi, where every day early in the morning tourists set off to conquer Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek, there is plenty of time to have a rest or an acclimatization trip up to High Camp. We start after the breakfast trek to Thorong Phedi about claiming 5000mtr. The path is easy but we have to be careful it is above Attitude more than 4000 mete. On the way sometimes we can see blue sheep also.

9Day 09

Trek from Thorang Phedi to Muktinath via Thorang la Pass

We will start early in the morning to climb the pass. The first phase of the ascent is very steep, but as we approach the peak it becomes completely disordered, but the altitude still makes the walk a thrilling one. After making our way through a few false summits, we finally make it to the top of the pass (5416m). The top offers the unexplainable 360-degree panorama of snowcapped peaks extending northwards into Tibet. Upon looking back, we can view several peaks of Annapurna, and in front of us is the deep gorge of Kali Gandaki. After the pass, the trail descends gradually but becomes steeper, finally making to a grassy slope, just before easing off to a gradual downhill walk to Muktinath.

10Day 10

Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara

After visiting the trial's highest point Muktinath, we make our way through the arid landscape with the snow-clad Himalayas in the backdrop. The trail goes down the valley offering an array of beautiful colors to Kali Gandaki Valley at Ekalabatti. The scenery of the way ranges from the forest of bright Rhododendrons to rocky cliffs.

On this day we will travel back to Pokhara on a shared vehicle early in the morning. The drive will be around 7-8 hours long. However, you can also take a flight back to Pokhara which will only take around 25 mins. Once you reach Pokhara, you can refurbish on the lakeside. This night we will spend in a guesthouse.

Note: If you want to fly back to Pokhara from Jomsom, flight costs will be separately added.

11Day 11

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.

Customize my Trip

Cost Details

Cost Includes

One night's stay with breakfast at a 3-star hotel in Pokhara.
Surface transport to and from Kathmandu.
Three meals every day along the hike.
The best available twin-sharing lodge-to-lodge accommodation during the expedition.
One Government-Licensed, experienced, courteous, and personable guide.
Porters (1 porter per 2 persons) and their food, lodging, wages, and equipment.
Accident insurance for all employees.
Trekking map, Company cap, and trip success certificate.
At higher elevations, include a first-aid kit and an oximeter to evaluate pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation levels.
ACAP Permit and TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System (Please bring two passport-sized pictures for the permit).
Worst case scenario, assist with all rescue and evacuation plans.
Government taxes and office service charges.

Cost Excludes

Individual insurance for travel
International airfare and Nepal entry visa fees
Personal trekking equipment and expenditures
Tips and gratuities for trekking guides and drivers

Good to Know

Everything at Shepherd Holidays revolves around your safety. Because our missions involve traveling in remote mountainous terrain, we are always at the mercy of nature. During the journey, weather, natural catastrophes, and a variety of other variables beyond our control may cause modifications to the schedule.

Although we give you a guided and conventional schedule, please keep in mind that your team leader has the option to change or even cancel any portion of the planned itinerary if required due to safety concerns. The leader makes all alterations to the normal schedule while considering the best interests of the entire group. We make every attempt to adhere to the above-mentioned itinerary; nevertheless, if an unexpected occurrence occurs that is beyond our control, you must be flexible and follow the directions as told by your leader.

Note: Please keep in mind that the firm is not liable for any consequences resulting from itinerary changes or delays caused by unforeseen events.

Accommodations and Hotels

Trekking to the Himalayas is a popular location for travelers and adventurers all over the world. Although the Himalayan area of Nepal is the world's most popular trekking destination, there are many things that people are unaware of. While walking into the high mountains, you will not come across the hotels and amenities that you see in cities. Hotels and motels near the high Himalayas have fewer services and amenities. The hot shower may only be a bucket of lukewarm water, and the restroom may be a latrine behind the hotel.

We will give you 2 to 3-star accommodation while you are in Kathmandu. During your Annapurna Circuit Trekking, we offer simple lodges and tea houses for your stay. The rooms in these lodges and tea houses are less fancy, with only a bed, a pillow, and a blanket. We made every attempt to make your journey as comfortable as possible. However, you must remain adaptable in various situations. We will host the groups at the local lodge, which is open every day. We send porters ahead of us to pre-book the hotel for the next day.

In addition to 2 and 3-star hotels, Kathmandu has some 4 and 5-star luxury accommodations. If you want to upgrade your accommodation plan to luxury, please let us know so that we can organize and reserve the hotel for your Kathmandu stay.

Foods and Beverages

The Annapurna Circuit Trekking package includes all meals and beverages, which are provided by the firm. Food is supplied at tea shops or lodges along the trek. We will eat breakfast and dinner at the lodge where we will be staying overnight. On the daily trip, our guide will choose a suitable location and halt for lunch. We strongly advise you to bring water purification pills to filter the water and consume it throughout the walk. During the journey, you may buy both bottled and boiling water.

Transportation

Shepherd Holidays provides all required transportation services for your vacation. We offer private automobiles for airport pickup and tourist trips in Kathmandu. Similarly, we may arrange tourist bus transportation for your vacation. However, you have the option of traveling in private vehicles such as cars or vans.

Transportation is not included in our package and must be purchased separately. You can contact us for the most up-to-date pricing information on private transportation and aircraft tickets.

Backpack and Luggage

Your primary luggage will be carried by your porters during the hike. We highly recommend that you bring a compact purse with water bottles, cameras, sunscreen, and other items that you may need regularly throughout your vacation. Making the bag smaller and lighter would undoubtedly help you to enjoy the trip to the fullest. You should just bring what is necessary for your outing, and the rest of your clothing and belongings may be left at the hotel's locker room/safe shop. The hotels feature complimentary locker rooms and safe deposits. So, don't be afraid to remove items that are no longer needed. When packing your bag or luggage for your vacation, be sure it weighs no more than 15 kg. The weight allowance on Nepal's domestic aircraft is 15 kg, including your baggage. Excess weight is charged at a rate of USD 1.5 or higher, which will be added to our trip costs.

Porters and Guides

We will supply you with a well-trained and experienced guide and porter for your walk. Our guide will help you in any way possible to make your vacation unforgettable. In terms of porters, we give one for every two hikers. The porters carry a total of 20 Kg of stuff (10 Kg for each trekker). We give one guide for smaller parties, and if the party size exceeds ten people, we will supply an extra guide for your tour.

Personal Expenses

Your spending habits heavily determine personnel expenses. We supply all of the essential food and lodging amenities as part of your Annapurna Circuit Trekking package. So all you need is money to pay for your drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and food while strolling along the route. There will be many tiny stores along the path where you may purchase beverages and food. Similarly, you may spend the money on trip souvenirs, ticket prices, hot baths, gratuities, and other expenses. It should be noted that tips and gratuities are optional, although they are appreciated. If you believe your service was outstanding, you can tip the workers personally. Of course, you are not required to tip if you are dissatisfied with the service you receive. As a proposal, we recommend allocating 5 - 10% of the overall package price for tips. The amount you offer is determined by your budget and how much you like their service.

Evacuations and rescue

In some circumstances, the wonderful experience in the mountains comes with a major risk. The most exhilarating and delightful excursion may backfire on us, leaving us as a victim of nature. Not only that, but while trekking in high altitude harsh terrain, you may sustain injuries such as a sprained ankle or broken leg, appendix ruptures, hypothermia, skin infection, and respiratory infection. If you experience any of these misfortunes, you must seek treatment as soon as possible. If left untreated, you may lose your life. If any of the mentioned conditions occur during your trip, we at Shepherd Holidays will do everything possible to get you to the nearest hospital as soon as possible. All costs incurred in rescuing and evacuating you are solely our responsibility. So, before you leave for your trip, make sure that your travel insurance business has a policy that will cover all expenses in the event of a catastrophe during your trip so that you can fully enjoy it. If not, be prepared to pay for yourself when you get to Kathmandu. Please see the Nepal Travel Guide's Travel Insurance page for additional information.