Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

11 Days
Guest: 2+

Overview

The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a quick yet fulfilling journey around the stunning Annapurna range, allowing trekkers to experience the major highlights of the circuit in just 11 days. This condensed itinerary is ideal for those seeking to explore the beauty of Manang, cross the iconic Thorong La pass, and visit the sacred site of Muktinath in a more efficient timeframe.

With the construction of proper roads, some sections of the circuit can now be covered by land transport, enabling trekkers to reach Chame by vehicle and begin the trek from there. From Chame, the trek progresses towards Manang, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes and abundant flora and fauna along the way.

The highlight of the trek is crossing the high pass of Thorong La, a challenging yet rewarding experience that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna range. From there, the journey continues to the sacred Muktinath temple in Mustang, where trekkers can immerse themselves in the rich culture and traditions of the region.

After exploring Muktinath, the trip concludes with a long drive back to Pokhara and a flight to Kathmandu, allowing trekkers to return to the bustling capital city with memories of an unforgettable adventure in the Annapurna region.

While this 11-day trek may not include detours to Tilicho Lake or Annapurna Base Camp like longer itineraries, it offers a straightforward route that allows trekkers to experience the best that the Annapurna region has to offer in a shorter timeframe.

Package Highlights:

Experience the beauty of the Annapurna region, including Manang and Mustang, within 11 days
Cross one of the highest passes in the world, Thorong La Pass at 5,416m
Traverse in the beautiful Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki River valley rich in unique biodiversity
Enjoy up-close views of the eight-thousander mountain ranges like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri
Immerse in the rich Tibetan Buddhist cultures in Manang and Mustang
Visit the holy Hindu and Buddhist temple of Muktinath, one of the highest temples in the world at 3,800m

Tour Itinerary:

Day 1

Arrive at Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and Trek Preparation

Day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Chame (2,670m/8,758ft) via Besisahar - 10 to 11 hours drive

Day 3

Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,824ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

Day 4

Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m/11,613ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

Day 5

Acclimatization Day hike to Ice Lake (4,600m/15,088ft) and return Manang - 7 to 8 hours trek

Day 6

Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,050m/13.286ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

Day 7

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,525m/14,845ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

Day 8

Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,765ft) and trek to Muktinath (3,760m/12,335ft) - 9 to 10 hours trek

Day 9

Visit Muktinath Temple and drive to Pokhara (800m/2,624ft) via Jomsom - 8 to 9 hours drive

Day 10

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - 25 Minutes flight

Day 11

Final Departure from Nepal

Package Includes:

Airport pickup and drop off in private vehicle
Hotel with included breakfast in Kathmandu
Private transportation and government-licensed guide while sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
Entrance fees for attractions (UNESCO World Heritage sites, museums, etc.) during sightseeing in Kathmandu
Daily meals the written at tour programs.

Package Excludes:

Lunch and dinner while in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Personal insurance or cost of air rescue in the event of emergency
Air ticket to and from Nepal from your point of origin
Visa fee for entry into Nepal
Personal expenses (souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, hygiene items, staff tips, etc.)
Tip for driver. Guides, and other staff.