Annapurna Circuit Short Treks is an ideal venture for those looking to trek on one of the classic trails of Nepal but have limited time. The trek is a fantastic opportunity to witness the grand mountain panoramas of the Annapurna region and traverse adventurous trails.
Our 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Short Treks has a well-planned itinerary that allows you to complete the journey in a short time without missing any adventure. It takes you to the heart of the Annapurna region and also offers a rich cultural experience. You will be trekking on the classic Annapurna trek route. The trekking trail encircles the entire Annapurna massif and crosses one of the world’s highest pass, Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). You will begin the journey by driving from Kathmandu to Besisahar and then Chame. You will start trekking from Chame, passing by traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Pisang, Manang, Ledar, Thorong High Camp, Muktinath, and Jomsom.
The trekking trails of Annapurna Circuit Short Treks lie within the Annapurna Conservation Area. You will go from dense subtropical forests to alpine meadows, semi-arid landscapes, and glaciers. During the trek, you will also visit the ancient Barge Monastery and the sacred Muktinath Temple. The trek also offers spectacular views of Mount Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Lamjung Himal, Pisang Peak, Tukuche Peak, the Chulu Range, and more. The trek is also a window into Gurung, Magar, and Tibetan cultures and lifestyles. During the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Short Treks, you will explore the rugged and diverse trails of the Annapurna region and its unique culture. It is a complete package you do not want to miss!
We will begin our exciting adventure by taking a bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar. The vehicle will drive on the Prithvi Highway alongside the Trishuli River. You will witness picturesque villages, vibrant bazaars, terrace farms, hills, and green forests. As you get closer to Besishar, you will begin driving along the banks of the Marsyangdhi River. You will also get a glimpse of Mount Ganesh and Manaslu. We will stay overnight at Besisahar.
Drive Time:
7 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
175 km (108.7 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
760 m (2,493 m)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Lunch, Dinner (L.D)
Place:
Besisahar
After early breakfast at Besisahar, we will take a local bus to Chame. On this day, we will mostly drive along the Marsyangdi River, passing by luscious forests, small villages, and terrace farms. Similarly, we will pass the beautiful Jagat Bazaar and Dharapani (1,860 m). The tranquil village of Dharapani serves as the entry point for trekking in the Annapurna region. We will continue driving until we reach Chame. The Chame village sits alongside the Marsyangdi River, and you can visit its natural hot springs and busy bazaar. Similarly, you can also witness spectacular views of Mount Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, and more.
Drive Time:
5 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
66.5 km (41.3 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,650 m (8,694 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Chame
Our trek begins from this day onwards, and after breakfast, it starts to ascend uphill. The trail is steep and narrow and gives a sense of adventure. It takes us to a narrow valley that offers a stunning view of the Paungda Danda Rock face. The Paungda Danda is a curved rock 1500 meters high from the river. Similarly, the gorgeous view of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak also accompanies us. After trekking uphill for a while, we will begin our downhill descend towards the Manang Valley floor and reach Pisang. We will stay overnight at a lodge here.
Trek Time:
5 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
13 km (8 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,300 m (10,826 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Upper Pisang
We will continue with our trek after breakfast at Pisang. The trail gradually ascends to a higher elevation, passing by the Geru village. En route, you can get a breathtaking view of Annapurna II, III, IV, Tilicho, Pisang Peak, and Gangapurna. The landscape also changes into a more barren one, and the vegetation becomes sparse. Similarly, we will come across several Tibetan settlements along the way. They provide a glimpse of their unique culture and traditions. After trekking for some time, we will reach Manang. We will stay here overnight, so in our spare time, we can visit the largest monastery of Manang, the Barge Monastery.
Trek Time:
7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
17.2 km (10.7 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,540 m (11,614 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Manang
The trail starts to become challenging from here onwards as we will be climbing to higher elevation areas. First, we will climb to Tanki Manang, an upper Manang Village with stone houses and flat roofs. From here onwards, the landscape slowly turns desert-like without any settlements near. We will continue trekking past the barren trails until we reach the tiny village of Gusang. Then, we will come across a serene, green meadow known as Yak Kharka. The trail becomes gentler from here onwards, and we will slowly trek towards Ledar village.
Trek Time:
4 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
9.1 km (5.7 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
4,250 m (13,943 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Ledar
After breakfast at Ledar, we will continue our demanding uphill ascent. However, it is a relatively short trek to Thorong High Camp. The trek on this day will help us acclimatize for our next day’s high-altitude ascension. The trail will first take us past the Jorsang River (4,310 m). Then, we will pass by Phedi village (4,525 m). It will take us around 5 hours to get to Thorong High Camp, our stop for the day.
Trek Time:
4 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
7 km (4.3 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
4,925 m (16,158 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Thorong High Camp
Today is the most challenging day for us. Finally, we will cross the high mountain pass of Thorong La Pass. It is also one of the world’s highest passes. The trail leading to the pass is rough, rocky, and physically demanding. We will wake up early, before dawn, and start our uphill climb. It helps us to avoid the icy high wind that blows in the afternoon.
The grand mountain panoramas will greet us upon reaching the top of the Thorong La Pass. There is also an indescribable sense of achievement once we get to the top. We can witness the entire Annapurna massif and Himalayan peaks stretching far back to Tibet. After enjoying the view for a while, we will begin our descent. Since the trails are steep, we will climb slowly and start trekking towards Muktinath.
We will visit the Muktinath Temple, a holy pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. Buddhist devotees call the temple “Chumig Gyasta.” The temple contains 108 water sprouts, which are believed to cleanse one’s sins. The icy cold water from the Kali Gandaki River flows from here. Similarly, an eternal flame within the temple is believed to have been burning for more than 2000 years. On this day, we will stay at a lodge in Muktinath.
Trek Time:
7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
15–16 km (9.3–10 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,760 m (12,336 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Muktinath Temple
From Muktinath, we will take public transport and begin past the semi-arid landscapes. We will drive through the bottom of the Kali Gandaki River valley and towards Jomsom. Jomsom is a popular town and district headquarters of Mustang. You can see beautiful traditional houses, picturesque terrace farms, ancient monasteries, and gompas here. The town also has a bustling, vibrant market where you can shop for souvenirs. After a short break at Jomsom, we will take another bus towards Tatopani.
We will continue driving past the world’s deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki, and slowly enter the lowlands. The semi-arid landscape gradually turns into lush subtropical forests. Throughout the trek, we can witness the view of Mount Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Finally, we will reach Tatopani, the name of which translates into hot water. In the evening, you can dip into the natural hot spring and relax your tired muscles.
Drive Time:
7–8 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
90 km (56 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
1,200 m (3,937 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Tatopani
After breakfast, we will take another local transport from Tatopani to Pokhara. We will drive past the beautiful countryside of Pokhara, passing by the bustling Beni Bazaar. We will stop overnight at a hotel in Pokhara. The beautiful city of Pokhara is a tourist hub known as the city of lights. The lakeside area is full of restaurants, bars, and shops. You can stroll around and enjoy Pokhara’s nightlife.
Drive Time:
3 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
95 km (59 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
830 m (2,723 ft)
Accommodations:
Not included
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch (B.L)
Place:
Pokhara
We understand that everyone enjoys Pokhara in their own way; some prefer lakeside luxury, while others love cozy boutique stays. That’s why accommodation in Pokhara is optional on our trek package, allowing you to choose the hotel that feels right for you. But, if you would prefer us to handle the arrangements, we are happy to assist and can include the stay as an add-on upon request. Simply let us know your preference (3-star, 4-star, or 5-star) while booking the trip.
Today is the final day of our trek package. We will have an early breakfast and take a tourist bus back to Kathmandu. The bus will travel on the familiar road, passing by the Marsyangdi and Trishuli Rivers. Similarly, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery one last time by passing the familiar villages, hills, and forests. After reaching Kathmandu and dropping you off at your hotel, our trek package will come to an end.
In the evening, enjoy a warm farewell dinner with our office representatives and your guides at a traditional Nepali restaurant. During this special gathering, we celebrate your journey and give you a chance to share final moments with the team that supported you throughout the trip. The dinner also features cultural performances with dances and songs from various ethnic communities of Nepal. This means you get an authentic and memorable cultural experience before your departure. We hope your journey with us was exciting and memorable. Thank you for choosing us for your dream trek in Nepal.
Drive Time:
7–8 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
200 km (124.2 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
1,400 m (4,593 ft)
Accommodations:
Not Included
Meals:
Farewell Dinner (B.D)
Place:
Kathmandu
To respect the varied accommodation preferences of our guests, the Kathmandu stay has been kept optional, so you can freely choose a hotel that best suits your comfort and budget. However, if you would like us to arrange your accommodation, we would be more than happy to assist. Let us know your preference (3-star, 4-star, or 5-star) at the time of booking, and we will include it as an add-on without any hassle.
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Optional 25-minute flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Skip the long drive and enjoy a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. This optional add-on saves travel time and offers scenic aerial views of hills and valleys.
Dates for 2026
Your short Annapurna Circuit Trek begins with a beautiful drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Besisahar (760 m). The vehicle drives on the winding Prithvi Highway, passing by charming villages, picturesque terrace farms, bustling bazaars, small eateries, hills, and forests. Similarly, you will drive along the Trishuli River to get to Besishar, which sits along the Marsyangdi River.
It will take another whole day’s drive to get from Besisahar to Chame (2,650 m). You will take a local bus and drive along the Marsyangdi River. En route, you will pass by Jagat Bazaar and Dharapani (1,860 m) before reaching Chame. Your actual trek will begin from here onwards. The trekking trail goes through a narrow, steep valley facing the Paungda Danda Rock. After trekking for a while, you will descend to Manang Valley to reach Upper Pisang (3,300 m).
The trail from Upper Pisang continues to go uphill through Geru village. You will come across several Tibetan settlements along the way. After trekking for 5 to 6 hours, you will reach Manang (3,540 m). You can also take a short visit to the Barge Monastery in Manang in your spare time. It begins to get more challenging as you start to climb uphill from Manang. En route, you will cross notable villages like Tanki Manang, Gunsang, and Yak Kharka. Finally, the challenging trail will take you to Ledar (4,250 m).
From Ledar, you will take a short but demanding hike to Thorong High Camp (4,925 m). The trail requires you to cross the Jorsang River and pass by the Phedi village. You will make your most challenging climb to Thorong La High Pass (5,416 m) from here. It is the highest point of the trek, but it also offers a grand view of the surrounding Himalayas. Descending from the pass is equally challenging, as you must climb downhill on rocky and loose gravel terrain. Then, you will arrive at Muktinath (3,760 m).
You will visit the holy Muktinath temple before taking local or private transport to Jomsom (2,740 m) and Tatopani (1,200 m). The vehicle will pass by the Kali Gandaki River valley and the bustling Jomsom marketplace. After reaching Tatopani, you can dip in the natural hot spring water and relax your tired muscles. From Tatopani, you will take another transport that takes you past Beni Bazaar and to the tourist hub of Nepal, Pokhara (830 m). You will return to Kathmandu on a tourist bus, returning to the same Prithvi Highway you came from.
During the Annapurna Circuit Short Treks, you will come across several challenges. It is a moderate-grade journey that covers a distance of 160 to 230 km, depending on the route. Compared to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it is slightly more demanding. Each day, you must trek for 4 to 6 hours on steep uphill and downhill trails on varied terrains. Trekkers must also cross wooden suspension bridges and high mountain passes and traverse narrow trails and open ridges. As a result, trekkers must be physically and mentally fit to undertake the trek.
In addition to the demanding trails, the high-altitude nature of the trek also makes Annapurna Circuit Short Treks difficult. During the trek, you will reach a maximum elevation of 5,000 m. The higher you go, the more difficult it becomes to trek. Lower oxygen levels and increased metabolism can lead to over-exertion. Moreover, it also exposes trekkers to the risk of altitude sickness. It can hinder your entire trek plan.
The weather also becomes unpredictable as you go to higher altitudes. It changes rapidly, causing unforeseen challenges for trekkers. These challenges are not only physically demanding but also mentally stressful. The lack of proper infrastructure and modern facilities can also trigger them. So, trekkers must set real expectations during the journey. They must have strong mental fortitude to overcome them. They must have a positive attitude and motivation throughout the journey.
The Annapurna Conservation Area is the largest protected area in Nepal. Its inhabitants include various flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. To preserve the environment and protect wildlife, obtaining a permit to access the area, known as the Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit (ACAP), is mandatory. The ACAP costs NPR 1000 per person for SAARC residents and NPR 3000 per person for non-SAARC residents.
Spring (March to May)
If you want to witness the blooming rhododendrons and wildflowers adorning trails of the Annapurna Circuit, spring is the perfect time. The weather and climatic conditions of spring are ideal for a comfortable trekking experience. Similarly, the temperature is warm and ranges between 5°C to 20°C. The temperature during nighttime can get a little chilly. During spring, the flora and fauna are most active. Hence, you may spot rare wildlife as you trek through dense forest trails. The rainfall is minimal during springtime, resulting in brilliant visibility. Therefore, trekkers can enjoy the best mountain views and colorful scenery at this time.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is the next best trekking season. The stable weather, crisp sky, and mild temperature make this season a perfect time for Annapurna Circuit Short Treks. The average daytime temperature ranges from 4°C to 20°C. Compared to the day, the temperature at night drops drastically. At higher elevations, it can drop below -5°C. Overall, autumn offers comfortable weather for trekking. The rain from the monsoon cleanses the entire landscape and vegetation. Hence, the surroundings look fresh, clean, and vibrant. By late autumn, the beautiful autumn foliage colors the lush green forests
Altitude sickness is a medical condition that many trekkers experience during high-altitude treks. There is a risk of altitude sickness during the Annapurna Circuit Trek. During the trek, you will reach a maximum elevation of 5,416 m. Meanwhile, the risk of altitude sickness begins at 2,500 m. The oxygen level decreases as you go to higher elevations. Similarly, the air pressure also reduces with altitude. This leads to oxygen deficiency in trekkers’ bodies, causing altitude sickness.
The symptoms of altitude sickness can vary from mild to severe. Based on the symptoms, there are three types of altitude sickness:
It is a mild altitude sickness that over 25% of trekkers who ascend to altitudes above 2,500 m experience. Its symptoms include headache, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and rapid heart rate.
HAPE is more severe and dangerous than AMS. It occurs when the body lacks oxygen, causing fluid to accumulate in the lungs. Trekkers can experience HAPE after crossing 2,500 m. They will start feeling chest pain and cough profusely. Other symptoms include difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue, chest tightness, rapid breathing, disorientation, and cyanosis (lips, skin, or nails turn bluish).
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
HACE is the most dangerous form of altitude sickness, affecting trekkers ascending to an altitude above 3,600 m. It occurs when the lack of oxygen in the human body leads to fluid accumulating in the brain or swelling of the brain. Also known as mountain madness, HACE can be fatal if trekkers do not receive immediate medical attention. Its symptoms include extreme weakness, disorientation, severe headache, loss of coordination, slurred speech, nausea, hallucination, and seizures.
Accommodations in the trek are simple and basic but affordable and cozy. As locals run them, these accommodations reflect local culture, customs, and lifestyle. The majority of the locals belong to the Gurung and Magar ethnic communities. From staple Nepalese cuisines to international dishes, you can find a wide variety. Some of the meal options that you can find include oatmeal, cornflakes, muesli, porridge, soup, salad, eggs, toast, bread, Dal Bhat, curries, roti, momo (dumpling), noodles, chowmein, pasta, spaghetti, stew, French fries, rice puddings, and more.
Carry enough Nepalese Rupees before you leave Kathmandu because ATMs become rare on the trail. Nepali banks have low withdrawal limits of NPR 25,000–35,000 per transaction and charge around NPR 500–700 each time, so take out the maximum amount at once. Always pay in NPR to avoid bad exchange rates, and expect a 3–4% surcharge when using cards in cities. Keep small notes for daily purchases and divide your cash for safety.
Greet people with a friendly “Namaste,” dress modestly in villages, and walk clockwise around mani walls and chortens. Remove your shoes before entering homes or monasteries. Ask before taking photos, and use both hands when giving or receiving anything to show more respect. Avoid giving gifts to children and support the community by buying local items instead.
Walk slowly, follow acclimatization days, and drink 3 to 4 liters of water daily. Avoid alcohol and smoking at high altitudes, and always pay attention to symptoms like headaches or nausea. Eat only boiled or purified water and cooked food to prevent stomach issues. Stay fit, keep good hygiene, and talk to a doctor about medicines like Diamox before the trek.
If you are trekking to Annapurna Circuit, then it is essential for you to do proper packing. We generally recommend you not to carry more than 9 kg. But you may be wondering what to pack and how to limit the essentials. Here is a list that can help you:
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