Short Annapurna Circuit Trek – 12 Days

Tour Overview

People Interested

0

Location

Annapurna

Durations

12 Days

Trip Grade

Challenging

Max group size

12

Best Time

Spring and Autumn


Tour Description

The Short Annapurna Circuit 12-day package offers a modified trek that takes you through the remote trans-Himalayan region, allowing you to witness stunning snow peaks like Annapurna, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.

This trek covers the main highlights of the Annapurna Circuit and is less intense. You will start your trek from Bhulbhule (845m), hike through the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), and reach Jomsom (2,720m), where you will take a flight back to Pokhara. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna I, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Annapurna II, Mt. Annapurna III, Mt. Annapurna IV, Mt. Annapurna South, Mt. Nilgiri, and Tilicho peak. You will also get to experience the traditional ethnic Nepali settlements and Tibetan-style villages and might even spot rare wildlife like blue sheep and snow leopards.

The trek starts with a drive along the Prithvi Highway and progresses to Dumre, Besishar, and then to Bhulbhule. You will spend a night at Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, and Manang, where you will acclimatize for a day.

After acclimatization, you will head to Yak Kharka and then Thorong Phedi, where you will stay for a night. From there, you will cross Thorang La Pass early in the morning, witness the stunning views of Khatungkang, Gangapurna, and Annapurna ranges, and descend to Muktinath. The next morning, you will take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and explore the tourist capital of Nepal for one day. Your trip ends with a tourist bus ride back to Kathmandu.

 

Ideal Season for Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Before heading on a trekking journey you must be aware of the ideal time for Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking. Hiking Bees advises you to reserve this excursion for the spring and autumn seasons.

Through splitting these seasons further, spring lasts from March to May. These are pleasant hiking months because of the milder weather. During this season, the flowers are in full bloom, and the pathway is lined with petals and leaves. Autumn, which lasts from September to November, is the second-optimal season. These months are characterized by vibrant clouds and a refreshing atmosphere.

Normally, we advise avoiding trekking to Annapurna Circuit in the summer. However, Hiking Bees would be pleased to plan a suitable Himalayan trip to the Annapurna region if your timetable for visiting Nepal is scheduled during the summer.

 

Suggested Preparation for Short Annapurna Circuit: 

To undertake the Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking, you should have a good level of physical fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 1-2 months before the trek. Some of the suggested preparations include:

  • Physical Preparation

 Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a physically demanding trek that requires a good level of fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 1-2 months in advance. You will be walking 10-15 km on average every day so you need to be in good shape. Some of the physical preparation you can do include:

 Regular exercise: Start doing cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to improve your endurance and stamina.

Strength training: Incorporate strength training exercises such as squats, lunges, and leg presses to build leg muscles and increase your overall strength.

Altitude training: You can train your body for high altitude by doing stair climbing, hiking, or trekking on nearby hills or mountains.

 

  • Mental preparation

 Mental preparation is equally important as physical preparation. You should be mentally prepared for the challenges of the trek and be positive and determined throughout the journey.

Research: Research about the trek, its challenges, and the culture and customs of the region. This will help you to have realistic expectations and avoid culture shock.

Meditation: Meditation helps to calm your mind and improve your mental strength. You can start with short meditation sessions and gradually increase the duration and frequency.

Positive Attitude: Having a positive attitude helps you to overcome challenges and enjoy the journey. You should focus on the beautiful scenery and the experience rather than the difficulties.

 

How challenging is Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking?

The Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking is a popular and demanding hiking destination as you will be passing through the highest pass (Thorong La, 5416m). Experienced trekkers won't struggle on this walk, but newcomers may encounter some challenges. This is a high-altitude trek with unpaved roads, so normal people can have difficulty breaking and walking. 

Along with the high altitude and risky trail, you also reach a higher altitude in a short interval, which doesn't allow you to get time for acclimatization and may result in altitude sickness.

However, there is always a workaround. Beginners may get ready for this hike by adding these practices to their daily routine: Remaining hydrated, Meditation and Yoga, Remaining hydrated, Nutritional diets, Jogging, Going to the Gym, and so on.

You should plan your trip with warm clothes and comfortable boots for a pleasant hike along with raincoats or umbrellas as the weather in the Himalayan region is mostly drizzly. When on the journey, we are here to ease your hike with the availability of guides, who will give you directions and porters, who will carry your luggage and oxygen cylinders.

So if you are an enthusiast and an adventure-loving person, now is the chance to explore the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek-12 days with Hiking Bees.

 

Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking by Hiking Bees

Hiking Bees is a registered Nepalese trekking company with a team of professional guides, who efficiently run a variety of treks and vacations. Locals from the region where you will be hiking serve as our guides and carriers. They are knowledgeable in hike routes and schedules and have received extensive training.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking is unquestionably a fantastic, ideal location for trekkers who want to complete the Annapurna Circuit in 12 Days.

We also suggest other lengthy alternatives such as the short Annapurna Base Camp Trekking, Annapurna Circuit with Tillicho Lake, or the Annapurna Circuit with Thorong Peak Climbing, you can also check out our 20- days Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary if you're searching for longer variations of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking.

 

Benefits of Booking Annapurna Circuit Short Trek with Hikingbees

  • Airport Pick and drop to/from the hotel by private vehicle.
  • Trip briefing before and after arrival in Kathmandu. 
  • We provide an oximeter along with necessary first aid for the trek and necessary checkups such as blood pressure, sugar levels, etc, before heading for the trek 
  • Hassle-free booking and easy reservations.
  • Easy Payment
  • Flexible and highly customizable trek itinerary
  •  Easy Communication (Email, WhatsApp, Facebook, Zoom, Viber, Phone Calls)
  • Necessary Equipment arrangement if you don't have your own.
  • Luggage storage facility in Hiking Bees office.

 

Tour Highlights

  • Experience the thrill of crossing the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest altitude passes in Nepal.
  • Explore the lush dense forests that gradually give way to trans-Himalayan deserts, glacial lakes, waterfalls, and pristine blue rivers.
  • Immerse yourself in the unique cultures of typical ethnic Tamang, Ghale, Gurung, and Thakali villages along the way.
  • Visit the world's deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge which lies in Dana between Annapurna 1 and Dhaulagiri.
  • Visit the Muktinath Temple, a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Observe the grazing yaks in their natural habitat.
  • The largest monastery in Manang, Braga (Braka) monastery.
  • Take in the stunning views of the mountains such as Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West and Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV
  • Experience the thrill of a mountain flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
  • Tatopani (Hot Springs)

Tour Includes

  • Airport Pick and drop to/from the hotel by private vehicle.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar, Jomsom to Pokhara, and Pokhara to Kathmandu (public/shared Vehicle). If you prefer private transportation and flight from Jomsom to Pokhara package can be customized accordingly with an additional cost.
  • 1-night lodging plus breakfast at a 3-starred tourist standard Kathmandu and Pokhara hotel.
  • The finest possible lodge-to-lodge accommodation throughout the hike,
  • Breakfast, day meal, and supper are all included in the full board hike package
  • One incredibly skilled and kind guide and all of the staff's meals, lodging, and so on.
  • Trek guide and Porter insurance.
  • Administrative fees and governmental taxes.
  • Seasonable fruits as a dessert after dinner.
  • Hot bag for a good night's sleep.
  • Emergency Rescue Arrangement service which will be funded by your travel insurance.
  • First-aid supplies include an oxygen meter to check pulse rate.
  • Energy Supplements (Cookies, chocolate bar, etc.) once a day.
  • Farewell dinner in a typical Nepali kitchen.

Tour Excludes

  • Your entrance visa and international travel costs.
  • Porter
  • Meals not listed in the "Daily food Inclusions".
  • Personalized hiking kit.
  • Traveling insurance.
  • Drinks, snacks, water as well as other individual needs and expenses.
  • Tips for Guide and Porter.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 : Landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

Meals : Welcome Drinks

At the Kathmandu airport's arrival zone, staff from our service will be waiting for you with your nameplate. Once you arrive, the staff will greet you and take you to your accommodation in Kathmandu. A description of our arrangements will be provided to you by the hotel when you check-in.

Highest Altitude : 1,860m/6,102ft
Trek Duration : 8-9 Hrs drive
Meals : B,L,D

After having breakfast, we will drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. The road passes through scenic villages, lush green forests, and beautiful landscapes. We will also cross the Trishuli River, which is a famous spot for white-water rafting in Nepal. After a long drive, we will reach Dharapani, a beautiful village located in the Manang district.

Overnight stay in Dharapani.

Trek Distance : 15.5 km / 9.6 miles
Highest Altitude : 2,670m/8,760ft
Trek Duration : 5-6 Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

Today, we will drive to Chame, the district headquarters of the Manang district. The drive will take us through the narrow and winding roads along the Marsyangdi River. We will pass through picturesque villages like Bagarchhap, Danaque, and Timang before reaching Chame. Chame is a beautiful village that offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges.

Overnight stay in Chame.

Trek Distance : 13.2km / 8.2miles
Highest Altitude : 3,115m / 10,200ft
Trek Duration : 5-6Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

From Chame, the trek proceeds through an open area and a narrow valley until you reach a massive rock called Paungda Danda Rock, which is considered sacred by the locals. The rock rises 1,500m from the Marshyandi river and offers stunning views of Annapurna II in the south and Pisang Peak in the northeast. Just before reaching Pisang, the path descends to the Manang Valley floor.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Pisang.

Trek Distance : 17km / 10.6miles
Highest Altitude : 3,540m / 11,300ft
Trek Duration : 6-7Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

The trek starts on upper trails that pass through Upper Pisang and Geru before reaching Barge village, known for the Barge Monastery - the largest in Manang. You'll encounter several Buddhist shrines and monasteries en route to Manang, a tourist town that offers fantastic views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, and Tilicho.

Meals : B,L,D

After a couple of days of ascending to higher altitudes, it is important for us to take a break and acclimatize to the high altitude Manang is a perfect place for acclimatization as it offers a stunning view of the Annapurna range and is located at an altitude of 3,540 meters. We will spend the day exploring the beautiful town of Manang, visiting the local monastery, and experiencing the unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures.In the afternoon, we will take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, which is located at an altitude of 3,800 meters. In the evening, we will return to our teahouse in Manang for a warm meal and a good night's sleep.

Trek Distance : 9.4km / 5.8miles
Highest Altitude : 4,050m / 14,275ft
Trek Duration : 3-4Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

After acclimatizing, the trek continues toward Yak Kharka. You'll notice the tall trees along the path give way to alpine grass and junipers, and there's a chance you might see horses or yaks grazing on the meadows. The trail passes through a small village called Gunsan, known for its flat mud roofs. When you cross a small river on a wooden bridge, you'll know that Yak Kharka - a peaceful meadow - is nearby.

Overnight stay in Yak Kharka.

Trek Distance : 8.5km / 5.2miles
Highest Altitude : 4,525m / 14,525ft
Trek Duration : 4-5Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

Today, you will leave the Marsyangdi Valley and make your way towards Thorong Phedi, which is located at an altitude of 4,525m. The trek follows the Jharsang Khola and you will leave the pine and fir forests behind to enter the high Himalayas, which look completely different from the lush lowlands you passed during the initial days of the trek. With some luck, you might catch views of blue sheep and snow leopards while trekking. Thorong Phedi is ideally located for travelers to spend the night before attempting to cross the Thorong La High Pass. You will spend the night at a hotel in Thorong.

Trek Distance : 15.6km / 9.6miles
Highest Altitude : 5,416m / 17,756ft
Trek Duration : 9 Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

Today will be the most challenging trekking day as you ascend the Thorong La High Pass, one of the highest passes in the world, before descending to Muktinath. To avoid the afternoon wind, you will start the trek early in the morning, battling icy air and high altitude but still enjoying the views. From the top of the pass, you will see fantastic views of the Khatungkang, Gangapurna, and Annapurna ranges. As you descend, you will be greeted with majestic views of Dhaulagiri. The descent continues until you reach Muktinath, a holy temple for both Hindus and Buddhists. This temple is known for its 108 water sprouts and an eternal flame that has been burning here for centuries. If time permits, you will drive to Jomsom for the night, or else, you will spend the night at Muktinath.

You will stay overnight at a hotel in Muktinath.

Trek Distance : 18.8km / 11.7miles
Highest Altitude : 3,760m / 12,623ft
Trek Duration : 6-7Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

After visiting the holy temple of Muktinath, we will return to our lodge for breakfast before starting the trek down the Kali Gandaki Gorge. The initial part of the trek takes us through arid terrain that is similar in geography and climate to that of Tibet. As we continue our descent, we will pass through the villages of Jharkot and Khingar, which are known for their typical Tibetan architecture. From there, we will follow a steep path down to Kagbeni, a primitive village that is also famous for its Tibetan architecture. We will stop in Kagbeni for lunch before trekking on to Jomsom, where we will spend the night.

Highest Altitude : 1,350m / 4,450ft
Meals : B, L

Today marks the last day for the Annapurna circuit 12-day trek package. After having an early morning breakfast at Jomsom, you will take an 8-hour drive from Jomsom to Pokhara. You will explore around Pokhara by yourself in the evening and prepare for tomorrow's drive to Kathmandu.

You also have the option to take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara at an additional cost of $125.

Meals : B

On this day you will catch a morning tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu, upon reaching Kathmandu our trip ends. Later we will have a farewell dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant summarizing the trek.

You can also take a 30-minute flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu with an additional $106,  and explore Kathmandu with the saved time.

If you require a Kathmandu Hotel Booked by Hiking Bees for the final day in Kathmandu then it's also possible although it is not included in the package.

FAQs Section

The short Annapurna Circuit Trek starts from Chame where you can reach by a jeep and ends in Jomsom from where you'll catch a flight to Pokhara.

The shortest time to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek is 6 days however, we don't recommend this to everybody because of the hectic itinerary and the high chance of altitude sickness.

The easiest trek in the Annapurna Region is the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek an typically takes 4-6 days to complete.

The Annapurna circuit trek is not typically recommended for absolute beginners as it is considered a moderately hard trek. However, if you have a good level of fitness and determination it's not entirely impossible.

 Yes, it's technically possible to complete the Annapurna Circuit in 7 days, but it's not recommended to most people due to the risk of altitude sickness and its physically demanding nature.

Trek Map

Additional Info

 

Annapurna Circuit Short Trek - 6 Days

Due to the expanded roads in the Annapurna Circuit Trail, the trek can be completed within a period as short as 6 days. If you have a time of about a week and really want to complete the Annapurna Circuit as quickly as possible then This is the itinerary you should consider.

This short itinerary starts from Kathmandu and ends in Kathmandu or Pokhara depending upon the traveller's interest. Here's the shortest Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary that can be completed in 6 days.

 

6 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu to Chame

  • Begin the day with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar (5-6 hours).
  • From Besi Sahar, catch a jeep for a 5-hour journey to Chame.

Day 2: Chame to Pisang

  • Trek from Chame to Pisang, taking around 4-5 hours.
  • Traverse through diverse landscapes and enjoy the beauty of the Annapurna region.

Day 3: Pisang to Manang

  • Continue the trek from Pisang to Manang, a journey of 5-6 hours.
  • Immerse yourself in the unique culture of the region and witness the majestic Himalayas.

Day 4: Manang to Thorong Phedi

  • Trek from Manang to Thorong Phedi, a challenging yet rewarding 6-7 hour hike.
  • Witness the changing terrain as you ascend toward the base of the Thorong La Pass.

Day 5: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass and head to Jomsom

  • You'll conquer the Thorong La Pass in a full-day trek to Muktinath (7-8 hours).
  • Afterward, a 2-hour drive will take you to Jomsom, where you can soak in the unique charm of the Annapurna region.

Day 6: Jomsom to Kathmandu/Pokhara

  • Take a 30-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara 
  • You can explore Pokhara or proceed with a flight to Kathmandu, concluding your Annapurna Circuit adventure.

 

Although the trek can be completed in a short interval of time, this may be a hectic schedule for beginners along with having a high chance of AMS(Acute Mountain Sickness) and Hiking Bees don't recommend this 6-day itinerary unless you really have a limited time and want to complete the Annapurna Circuit.

Reviews (2 reviews)

Amazing Trekking experience!
25 Aug 2023

Thank you for the amazing experience! Me and my friends did a 10-day tour around Nepal with the best tour guide Prem. We started from Kathmandu and we ended up doing the Annapurna circuit trek. He also helped us find the most original souvenirs to bring home and gave us the opportunity to try the best local food!

- William F.
Fantastic trek around Annapurna
08 Feb 2024

We had a fantastic trek around the Annapurna Circuit with Hiking Bees. Our guide, Resham, was incredibly accommodating and flexible, which made the journey enjoyable for everyone. The company's ability to cater to our needs added a great deal of comfort to the experience. I highly recommend them for a well-organized trek with excellent guides.

- Daniel Casado Serra

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