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Short Annapurna Circuit Trek - 9 Days

based on 7 reviews
Trip Facts
  • Duration 9 Days
  • Trip Grade Strenuous
  • Group Size 2 to 15
  • Max. Elevation 5416m / 17770 ft.
  • Start/End Kathmandu / Pokhara
  • Best Time Sep to Dec & Mar to May

Highlights

  • Compact Adventure: This 9-day trek is a condensed yet potent version of the iconic Annapurna Circuit, designed for those with limited time who still want the full Himalayan experience.
  • Diverse Landscapes: The trail offers a captivating journey through varied ecosystems, from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to arid, high-altitude deserts.
  • Himalayan Panoramas: Throughout the trek, you'll be treated to continuous and breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu mountain ranges.
  • Marshyangdi River Valley: The trek begins by following the beautiful Marshyangdi River, leading you through charming villages and verdant scenery.
  • Manang Valley: You'll spend time in the spectacular Manang Valley, a high-altitude region offering a glimpse into the unique Tibetan-Buddhist culture and lifestyle.
  • Acclimatization Day: A crucial rest day in Manang allows your body to adjust to the altitude. You can use this time for a short acclimatization hike to a nearby viewpoint for even more stunning vistas.
  • Thorong La Pass: The pinnacle of the trek is crossing the adventurous Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m/17,769 ft, one of the world's highest trekking passes. It's a challenging but deeply rewarding experience.
  • Tibetan-Buddhist Culture: The trail is dotted with monasteries, prayer flags, and mani walls, offering a deep immersion into the local spiritual traditions and history.
  • Muktinath Temple: After the pass, you'll descend to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Kaligandaki Valleys: The landscape changes dramatically as you enter the Windy and Apple Valleys in the Kaligandaki region, known for their arid beauty and fruit orchards.
  • Natural Hot Springs: The trek's end is celebrated with a visit to the rejuvenating natural hot springs at Tatopani, a perfect way to soothe tired muscles.
  • Wildlife and Biodiversity: The trek passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, giving you the chance to spot diverse Himalayan wildlife and experience rich biodiversity.
  • Comfortable Teahouses: The route is supported by well-managed teahouses that provide warm hospitality, local food, and comfortable lodging.
  • A Tale of Two Cities: The adventure conveniently starts in the historic city of Kathmandu and concludes in the peaceful lakeside city of Pokhara, offering a seamless travel experience.

Overview of Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

The short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a spectacular 9-day journey that combines breathtaking mountain views, cultural richness, and unique experiences. Trek through stunning landscapes, cross the highest pass, Thorong La (5,416 m), and visit the sacred Muktinath temple. Explore the apple gardens and windy valleys of Jomsom and Marpha, relax in the natural hot springs of Tatopani, and wander through the vibrant orange orchards.

Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak. The trek also offers a fascinating blend of cultures, from the Gurung village, with its rich traditions, to the Tibetan-influenced lifestyle of Manang Valley and the unique customs of the Thakali and Magar communities. This trek is a perfect mix of nature and culture, making it an unforgettable adventure.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking is a 9-days perfect itinerary for your arrival to departure at a regional price. If you have more or fewer days, feel free; we will customize your itinerary according to your days. You will see almost all of the Annapurna region’s lifestyle, culture, mountains, etc.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek can be tailored to your schedule and interests, with both short and extended itineraries available. The 10-day option is a quick but memorable journey, and if you have extra days, you can visit the stunning Tilicho Lake at 4,920 m. This addition makes the trip even more unforgettable.

Thorong La Pass, at 5,416 m, is one of the highest trekking passes, but the trail is manageable and achievable. We recommend spending an extra day in Manang for acclimatization, with an optional excursion to enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas and Gangapurna Lake.

After crossing the high pass, you'll enter Lower Mustang, where Muktinath, Jomsom, and Marpha are known for their apple orchards. The final night is spent in Tatopani, where you can relax in natural hot springs to soothe your muscles after a long trek. From there, you’ll return to Pokhara by vehicle. If you have a few extra days, you can unwind in this beautiful city, enjoying delicious food and the scenic surroundings.

Attraction Villages in Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Besisahar, Chame, and Manang are beautiful villages, and you will see many white snow peaks and Gangapurna Lake, Thorong High Pass for Adventure, Muktinath Holy Place, Jomsom Apple and Windy Valley, Tatopani Natural Hot Spring, Orange Garden, etc.

Lifestyle, Culture, Tradition, Customs, Festivals, and Religion of Locality?

First, till Manang Valley, before Thorong La Pass, the people are mixed, but most are Gurung and Lama. After completing your Adventure High Pass in Mustang or Kaligandaki Valley, people are living in the mix. Lama Bhotea lives in Muktinath, Kagbeni. Thakali people live in Jomsom, Marpha, Tukuche, and Kalopani villages. Magar ethnics live in Ghasa, Dana, Tatopani, and Ghorepani.

We discovered that many ethnicities are present. They have their own lifestyle, culture, tradition, language, dress, festivals, and religion. They are very rich in their own culture and tradition. They speak their own language and dress in their own attire. They celebrate their own festival very nicely, gathering with each other and relatives. Most of the people are Buddhist, and they have many Buddhist monuments such as Monasteries, Mani walls, stupas, prayer flags, tsorten, etc.

How About Lodging & Food on the Annapurna Circuit Short Trek?

Annapurna Circuit Trekking is one of the most famous classical treks that has been open for a long time, and it has been well managed by the camp-to-camp local people. There are well-managed lodges that provide comfortable rooms and neat and clean beds. They grow lots of crops and vegetables and provide hygienic, organic, and varied meals.

Transportation to Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

You need to catch it according to the below-mentioned transportation details.

  • Kathmandu to Besisahar by local shared bus
  • Besisahar to Dharapani by local jeep or private jeep
  • Muktinath to Pokhara by local Bus or Jeep
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist bus or by flight

Cost of Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

The cost for a 9-day Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is $635 per person for top-quality service, with a minimum group size of two. If you’re traveling alone, the price will be slightly higher. This price covers the trek, including meals, accommodation, transportation, permits, and a guide/porter.

Please note, the price only includes 9-day trek services. If you need a hotel in Kathmandu for 2 nights and Pokhara for one night, as well as returning transportation from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus, you should pay an extra $65 per person. We can arrange it. Pokhara to Kathmandu by flight is 30 minutes but costly. 

The Most Attractions—Crystal-Clear Mountains View in Annapurna Circuit Trek

View from Manang Valley Before Thorong La Pass

  • Mt Manaslu 8163m / 26782ft
  • Annapurna II 7937m / 26040ft
  • Annapurna III 7555m / 24787ft
  • Annapurna IV 7545m / 24754ft
  • Gangapurna 7455m / 24459 ft
  • Khangsar Kang 7485m / 24557ft
  • TIlicho Peak 7134m / 23405ft
  • Pisang Peak 6091m / 19984ft
  • Chulu Peak 6419m / 21060ft
  • Thorong Peak 6144m / 20158ft

View from Kaligandaki Valley of Jomsom, Muktinath, and Poon Hill:

  • Mt Dhaulagiri 8167m / 26795ft
  • Mt Annapurna I 8091m / 26545ft
  • Mt Nilgiri 7061m / 23166ft
  • Mt Tukuche Peak 6920m / 22704ft
  • Dhampus Peak 6012m / 19725ft
  • Annapurna South 7219m / 23685ft
  • Hiuchuli 6441m / 21132ft
  • Fishtail (Machhapuchhre) 6993m / 22943ft

Attractive Lakes & Rivers in Annapurna Round Trek

TIlicho Lake (4920 m), Gangapurna Lake (3500 m), Ice Lake (4650 m), the Marshyangdi River in Manang Valley, and the Kaligandaki River in Jomsom Valley

Do we need an entry permit for Annapurna Circuit trekking?

Yes, you need it; you are visiting the Annapurna Conservation Area, and you must issue some of the permits according to the below-mentioned. You should send a passport photocopy and a passport-size photo. There are many checks posted by ACAP and the police. If you don’t carry permits, they will not allow you to visit the Annapurna Conservation Area. Our guide manages it during the trek, and after the end of the trek, he will give it to you.

  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Areas Project) Nrs. 3000.
  • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System), Nrs. 2000.
  • Poon Hill Entrance Fee: NRs. 200.

When is the best time to visit Annapurna Circuit Trekking?

The best time to visit the Annapurna Circuit Trek is during autumn (September to November and late December) and spring (March to May). The weather is clear, temperatures are pleasant, visibility is great, and you'll enjoy stunning, crystal-clear mountain views.

The winter and monsoon seasons are also not bad. In the winter, it is snowing and very freezing cold, and in the monsoon, it is most of the time raining, cloudy, and not clear visibility. If you like to trek in the monsoon or winter, it is possible. We plan your trip to be safe and successful.

  • Autumn Season: September, October, November, and December.
  • Winter Season: Late December, January, and February.
  • Spring Season: March, April, and May.
  • Monsoon Season: June, July, and August.
Trekking Gear of Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is an adventurous journey over the high pass of Thorong La at 5416 m. You need to prepare warm enough clothing and gear. a big jacket, such as a down jacket; warm enough fleece; warm pants and inner; a warm hat; gloves; warm enough socks; warm trousers or trekking pants; some quick-dry trekking t-shirts; a half-pint; a warm enough negative sleeping bag; comfortable trekking boots; a headlight; sandals; a 2-liter water bottle; sun cream; sunglasses; a daypack comfort bag; a camera and two-pin charger; etc. Here are more details on trekking gear. Please click here in the PACKING LIST.

Carry your important medicine

Medicine is very important. If you have any disease, you must carry the medicine with you. In that "prevention is better than cure" mountain region, we can’t find any healthcare, clinics, or hospitals. If there is a clinic, you may not get it according to your problems. So, I humbly request that you prepare if you are continually taking any medicine. Please bring it with you or buy it in Kathmandu. It is very important, but our company will provide something in the first aid kit bag, normally for a headache, fever, etc.

Itinerary

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Short Annapurna Circuit Trek - 9-Day Trek

If you need more or fewer days trekking, please feel free. However, this is a perfect 9-day trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara. 

The bus journey from Kathmandu to Besisahar takes 6–7 hours, then the next transit is a 2.5–3 hour by local jeep to Dharapani.

This scenic route offers nature and riverside views, though it can be lengthy. Overnight accommodation is available in a comfortable lodge. You will sleep very nicely after long drive. 

  • Nice Lodge
  • Long Drive
  • 2160m / 7087ft.

The scenic walk through Bagarchhap and Danaque offers a gradual trail, followed by a couple of hours of ascent before Timang village. This provides great views and a pleasant lunch spot.

After lunch, a 2.5-hour trek leads to Chame, the lovely district headquarters of Manang. Explore the natural hot spring and enjoy an overnight stay at a comfortable lodge.

  • Nice Lodge
  • 6 hrs Drive
  • 2620m / 8595ft

After taking a breakfast trek, head smoothly to Bratang village, where there are nice apple gardens. The product has lots of apples.

Then, the trek continues along a big rock called the Gate of Heaven. Lunch will be at Dukur Pokhari. Pisang has a nice monastery and Mani walls. It is so beautiful. We recommend staying at Upper Pisang because you will see magical mountain views with a lovely stay.

  • Lodge
  • 6/7 hrs Walking
  • 3250m / 10663ft

Here are two trails, short and long (5 hours or 7 hours of walking). We recommend you walk uphill and view the trailer. It takes 7 hours, but you will see many white snow peaks.

If you follow the lower track, you can see good views. If you follow the upper trail ascending to Ghyaru and Ngawal villages, you will view the Annapurna ranges, such as Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

Lunch will be at Ngawal village, then the trek will continue along Braka village and arrive at a nice village in Manang. It is a beautiful village. Here is a nice mountain bakery as well. Stay at a nice lodge.

  • Nice Lodge
  • 5 to 7 hrs Walking
  • 3540m / 11614ft

A special day in a beautiful village at Manang (3450 m) The day excursion will be on a small hillside in front of Manang village. There is one beautiful lake called Gangapurna Lake, Chhongker Viewpoint, which explores old villages and monasteries.

Then, take your free time and enjoy the fresh mountain bakery cafe and stay at a nice lodge.

  • Nice Lodge
  • 2 hrs Hiking
  • 3750m / 12304ft

It is a short walk, but at altitude, you should walk slowly. It is 4/5 hours. Walking. Most of the trail is easy and gradual, and you will arrive at lunchtime.

It is an open viewing trail and moraine. We recommend, after taking lunch, hiking a few hundred meters uphill. It will help with better sleep and acclimatization. Stay at a nice lodge in Yak Kharka or Ledar. It is only an hour difference and not difficult. 

  • Lodge
  • 4/5 hrs Walking
  • 4100m / 13452ft

Trek to Thorong Phedi (4441 m) by walking (3 to 4 hrs.) or Thorong High Camp (4850 m) by walking one more hour.

We take you slowly first in Phedi, take lunch, and if all are fine and there are no symptoms of altitude, it is better to ascend an hour to High Camp. It is a wonderful viewing. It is a tough night, staying at the highest elevation. but easy for the next adventure. 

You will feel light symptoms, but don’t worry, be confident, and keep staying warm. Keep drinking, keep eating, and think positively. Don’t think much. It helps a lot. If anything becomes serious, consult with your guide and ask him, Which room do you sleep in? In case of a problem, you must find him easily at night.

But our professional team caring and you being confident makes it easy. Phedi and high camp have nice lodges. They provide nice meals as well. 

  • Lodge
  • 4 to 6 hrs Walking
  • 4850m / 15912ft

Thorong La Pass: Early in the morning, you need to start; it is a high-adventure pass. Thorong High Camp to top: 3 and a half to 4 hours ascending and 4 hours descending.

It takes a total of 7/8 hours. It is a tough, challenging high pass. Starts early in the morning and arrives in the afternoon. Thorong High Camp is at 4850 m, ascends to 5416 m, and descends to 3800 m.

Muktinath has Hindu and Buddhist temples and monasteries. Lots of pilgrims come to pray here. It is a nice place, and you will find it easy to breathe. Stay overnight at a nice lodge.

  • Nice Lodge
  • 7/8 hrs Walking
  • 5416m / 17770ft

It is wonderful to ride a bus or jeep from Muktinath to Pokhara along the Jomsom-Marpha Valley, also known as the Apple Gardens. It is approximately 8 hours, and you will arrive easily at Pokhara late afternoon. They stop for a lunch break on the way between Muktinath and Pokhara. You will see amazing views of rivers, forests, and mountains and pass many villages. 

For a quick arrival, you can take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. It's an easy way; if you like to take a flight, you should come from Muktinath to Jomsom by local jeep, which is half an hour's drive. And it's a 20-minute flight but a bit costly. 

We arrange any optoin flight vs drive, differnces is amount differnt. 

You can stay at Pokhara in your choice of hotel. How long would you like to stay, in your opinion? Our guide and porter will return the next day to Kathmandu. You can share your happiness as gratitude for tipping. Definitely they make you happy about your trip; you must share your happiness with them. It means respect for each other. 

If you would like our support to book your hotel in Pokhara and Kathmandu and return by tourist bus or private car or flight ticket, please let us know. We do organize everything. 

  • Nice Lodge
  • 6 hrs Driving
  • 1190m / 3905ft

Trip Map

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek - 9 Days map

Cost Details

What's Included

  • All meals during the trek (lunch, dinner, breakfast)
  • Accommodation in comfortable lodges during the trek
  • One English-speaking, government-trained, licensed trekking guide.
  • One porter for two people, but allowed only under 18 kg.
  • All expenses for a guide and porters: meals, accommodation, salary, equipment, insurance, and transportation.
  • Needed transportation as below-mentioned.
  • Kathmandu to Besisahar by local bus.
  • Besisahar to Jagat by local jeep.
  • Muktinath to Pokhara by local bus or jeep.
  • Jomsom to Pokhara by flight or drive, an option?
  • Needed entry permits as mentioned below.
  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project)
  • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System)
  • Government and local area taxes, where applicable.
  • Seasonal fruits such as apples and bananas.
  • First aid kit bag.

What's Excluded

  • Nepal entry visa fee. You can obtain it easily at the airport.
  • Travel insurance, emergency rescue, and medical coverage.
  • Emergency evacuation and medical equipment.
  • Drinks can be hot or cold, soft or alcoholic, such as tea, coffee, mineral water, Coke, Fanta, beer, rum, whiskey, etc.
  • Hot water, a hot shower, a heater charge, a battery charge, phone calls, and laundry service
  • Hire equipment and other personal items (a sleeping bag, a down jacket, hiking boots, and a camera).
  • In the case of natural calamities, i.e., political unrest, cancellation of flights due to weather, landslides, etc., the extra charge will be borne by the customer.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara. If you need us to book it, we can book it.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu, returning by bus or flight?
  • Tips for Guide and Porters Donations, etc.

Good to Know

Packing List for Adventure High Passes Trekking:

It is recommended to use trekking gear for high-altitude adventure trekking. You should prepare it properly to make your trip successful. If you don’t have something, you can buy or rent it in Kathmandu.

Head

  • Headlight with extra batteries
  • Sun hat, insulating hat
  • Warm hat, Scarf-beanie

Face

  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Sunglass with UV protection
  • Face/body wipes

Hands

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Light gloves
  • Warm gloves
  • Windproof gloves

Clothing for Trekking

  • Warm enough Down Jacket
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Trekking T-shirts: Few pairs
  • A couple of trekking pants
  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Polypropylene underwear’s
  • Under long fleece
  • Breathable underwear
  • Thermal layer
  • Gore-Tex Windproof Jacket
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers

Clothing for City

  • You can pack any clothes that you prefer to wear in the city.

Footwear

  • Trekking Boots
  • Sports shoes/Sandals
  • Thin and Thick Woolen socks
  • Trekking socks
  • Gaiters and crampons

Backpack

  • Duffel bag
  • Daypack
  • Rucksack
  • Rain cover

Essential Gear

  • 2-liter water bottle
  • Water purification as tablets, drops or stereo pens
  • Trekking pole
  • Swiss knife
  • Warm enough Sleeping bag around -15
  • Watch or Alarm clock
  • Cellphones and charging cables

Toiletries

  • Quick-dry towel
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Biodegradable Shampoo and soap
  • Deodorants
  • Female hygiene products
  • Moisturizer
  • Dental floss
  • Nail clippers
  • Small mirror
  • Toilet paper

Personal Accessories

  • Money
  • Camera
  • Passport, photocopy
  • PP-size Photos

Extra Items

  • Notebook and pen
  • Ear-plugs
  • Energy/Protein bar
  • First aid kit

Client Reviews

Write a review
  • Hana Z
    Hana ZCzech Republic,April 15, 2024
    TripAdvisor

    Naar Phu Trek

    A great and unforgettable experience. Jay, thank you for everything, especially for your valuable advice, support and apples for dinner ;)

     

  • Frank & Yvonne
    Frank & YvonneCanada,October 31, 2019
    TripAdvisor

    Nar Phu Valley, Tilicho Lake, and Annapurna Circuit Trek

    We had a wonderful 15 days of trekking with Jay, as well as some RnR days in Pokhara and Kathmandu that he organized. He was easy to work with during the planning phase, and everything was well organized at every step of our journey. Jay and Umess, our porter, were great company and shared lots of local information with us during our trek. We would highly recommend the Nar Phu Valley over the Annapurna Circuit -- remote and very few foreigners, with a fantastic opportunity to experience the rhythm of life in isolated Nepali mountain villages. Tilicho Lake is also spectacular, although the route was busier than normal due to the festival season. Thanks, Jay, for making our Nepal trip such a fantastic adventure!

     

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