On the short Annapurna circuit trek, you can explore the beautiful Annapurna region and cross the challenging Thorong La pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft) in just 9 days. The first day of the itinerary includes a ride from Kathmandu to Chame, from where the trek begins. So, you have to be in the city at least one day before the trek commences. This is a fantastic alternative to the usual 16 to 18 days long Annapurna circuit trekking package.
Our short Annapurna circuit trek itinerary does not include arrival or departure from Kathmandu, but you are free to extend the itinerary at an additional cost.
This trekking package takes you to the western Himalayan section of Nepal, where you will come across the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. You will start trekking from a beautiful mountain village and follow a rugged trail via rhododendron forests and picturesque villages. Marsyangdi river flows along the initial part of the trail. The short Annapurna circuit trekking route is full of suspension bridges, stupas, and waterfalls.
With adventure, the Annapurna circuit short trek also offers a cultural experience. On this trek, you will get to meet with many different Nepali communities, including Chhetri, Brahmin, Gurungs, Magars, etc. While spending nights in the villages, you will have a glimpse of their daily lifestyle and culture. The warm gesture and welcoming nature of the locals will win your heart. The small interactions with them make the journey more incredible.
You will see breathtaking landscapes and spectacular views of the Annapurna range (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Pisang Peak (6,091 m/19,984 ft), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m/23,406 ft), Manaslu (8,163 m/ 26,781 ft), Tukuche (6,920 m/22,703 ft), and many others during the short Annapurna circuit trek.
Short Annapurna circuit trek itinerary summary
From Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,600 ft), drive to Chame (2,650 m/8,694 ft) via Besisahar (760 m/2,493 ft). While trekking to Pisang (3,115 m/10,200 ft) from Chame, you will come across a huge rock rising 1,500 meters from the Marsyangdi river- Paungda Danda Rock. It is quite intriguing. After the final descent to the Manang valley floor, you will ascend to reach the upper part of the Pisang village. From here, the trail continues along the upper trail via Geru to Manang village (3,540 m/11,300 ft).
This route is extremely stunning. Green hills and snow-capped mountains decorate the entire route. On the way, you will visit the ancient Barga monastery. In Manang village, we have an acclimatization day, so you will spend two nights here. Acclimatization is a crucial part of trekking at a high altitude. These rest days will help you adjust to the elevation as you trek and give you a break to relax and recover.
For an acclimatization hike, you will visit the stunning Gangapurna lake. From Manang, the trail ascends to Ledar (4,200 m/13,779 ft) via Yak Kharka (4,050 m/14,275 ft). In this part of the trail, you will leave Marshyangdi valley and enter Karsang Khola valley. The region beyond Manang changes to juniper forests and pastures. You will cross a small wooden bridge along the way and gradually ascend, following a rugged path to Ledar.
High Camp (4,600 m/15,092 ft) is the last place we will spend the night before reaching the Thorong La pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft). Ledar to High Camp is a short trekking route and mostly involves walking steep, rocky tracks. On the 7th day of the trek, you will cross the famous Thorong La pass. To cross the pass, you will wake before the dawn breaks and follow the lead of your guide to the top of the pass. This place offers spectacular mountain views and further descends to Muktinath temple (3,760 m/12,623 ft).
Muktinath is a pilgrimage site and carries great importance for Hindus and Buddhists. The short Annapurna circuit trek of 9 days ends in Muktinath. From here, you will take an adventurous and scenic jeep ride back to Pokhara (822 m/2,697 ft). The following day, drive back to Kathmandu. The ride will be comfortable and offer beautiful scenery. In Kathmandu, you will have the last day free. Explore local markets and later do window shopping in Thamel. We will meet in the late evening for a farewell dinner and end the trip.
Short Annapurna circuit trek cost
Our short Annapurna circuit trek cost starts at USD 1,200 per person. Trekking in a group will allow you to get an additional discount as well. Along with the package cost, you also have to budget for personal expenses, international flights, trekking clothes, travel insurance, shopping, etc. Kindly check out the cost include section for more information.
Join the short Annapurna circuit trek with Nature Excursion
We have the best short Annapurna circuit trek cost in Nepal. This guided trek with our expert mountain leaders will make the journey a lifetime venture. Join us on our short Annapurna circuit trek 2024/2025 departures, or contact us to craft a private trek as per your wish.
With many years of trekking experience, our team will provide you a perfect consultation to help you choose the best trek in Nepal, including the short Annapurna circuit trek. Our short Annapurna circuit trek guide is a native of the region, so you will be getting to know the locals and region closely while supporting the local community.
This trek is a harmonious blend of nature's splendor and cultural immersion, catering to those who crave both adventure and religious experience. Whether you're a brave explorer, a nature enthusiast, or someone seeking a deeper connection with nature, our short Annapurna circuit trek has something extraordinary to offer.
Don't miss your chance to be part of this transformative expedition. Contact us today to embark on a journey that will not only challenge your limits but also leave you with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the stunning landscapes and diverse cultures of the Annapurna region.
Benefits of doing short Annapurna circuit trekking with us and add-ons
Experience the short Annapurna circuit trek in Nepal like never before with our all-inclusive trekking package, carefully designed to provide you with the best value. When you choose to trek with us in Nepal, you can explore with peace of mind, knowing that every detail of your journey has been meticulously taken care of by our dedicated team.
We believe in transparency, which is why our pricing is straightforward, and you won't encounter any hidden costs or surprises along the way. We are committed to making your trek hassle-free, so you can focus solely on soaking in the breathtaking landscapes and cultural wonders of the Annapurna region.
Below are some of the benefits you will get by trekking with Nature Excursion:
- Free farewell dinner
- Free airport pickup and drop off
- Flexible itinerary
- Budget-friendly trekking packages
- Duffel bag and company t-shirt (you have to return the duffel bag at the end of the trek and keep the t-shirt with yourself)
- Fix departure
- 24/7 support
- No hidden costs
- Native guides & porters
These are some of our add-ons that you can combine with your package:
- Extend the itinerary to other nearby trails such as Tilicho Lake, Annapurna base camp, Nar Phu valley, Dolpo region, etc.
- Add day activities in Kathmandu like helicopter tour to EBC, Everest experience flight, cooking class, local market tour, etc.
- Add day activities in Pokhara, like paragliding, bungee jumping, ultra-light mountain flight, etc.