Annapurna Circuit Short Trekking

  • Duration12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 5416 m.
  • Starts Kathmandu/ Pokhara
  • Ends Pokhara
  • Group Size 1 - 20
  • Best Season March to May & September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$790
2 - 6 paxUS$690
7 - 10 paxUS$645
11 - 15 paxUS$595
16 - 20 paxUS$545
Annapurna Circuit Short Trekking Highlights
  • Exploring one of the 10 best trekking routes in the world
  • Collecting a life-changing experience within a short time
  • Exploring the diversity of biological, geographical, and cultural aspects
  • Crossing the highest pass in the world, Thorong La 5416 meters.
  • Encircle the mighty Annapurna Himalaya Range.

The incomparable Annapurna Conservation Area is the first and largest conservation area in Nepal. While the regular trekking route usually takes 15 to 20 days and the earliest part of the trekking route has been spoiled by bumpy roads, we Nepal Trekking Experts offer a Short Annapurna Circuit Trek for those who have limited holiday time, prefer to avoid the most crowded and bumpy part, and still intend to explore the raw beauty of the dramatic Annapurna Circuit. The Annapurna Circuit Short Trekking comprises a wide range of climatic zones, diverse flora and fauna, cascading waterfalls, unspoiled mixed cultures, the majestic Himalayan range, the world's highest pass, Thorong La 5416 m, and the deepest Kali Gandaki gorge, comparing two 8000-meter-plus mountains like Dhaulagiri 8167m and Annapurna I 8091m.

After driving 10 hours from Kathmandu, we reach Chame for an overnight, from where the actual hiking commences the next morning. The Annapurna Circuit Short Trek follows the Marsyangdi River to the north of the prime Himalayan range and crosses the breathtaking 5416-meter Thorong La from sea level, then rapidly descends into the dramatic desert-like Tibetan-style scenery of the upper Kali Gandaki valley. The hike passes picturesque villages home to Gurungs, Manangis, and Thakalis, appeals to spectacular mountain views of the numerous 7,000-meter-plus Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalaya, and boasts some of the best trekking lodges in Nepal.

Moreover, if you have enough time, you may also add on the highest glacial lake, Tilicho, the isolated forbidden kingdom of Upper Mustang, the Mohare Danda Eco Community Lodge Trek, Helambu Trek, and more. Just drop us a line and let us have the opportunity to organize your holiday for a lifetime experience!

Useful Information

Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permits

When trekking with Nepal Trekking Experts, the permit fees are included in your package. Your experienced guide will obtain all required permits on your behalf with your passport. To enter the Annapurna region, you will require two permits, which can both be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before commencing your trek.

The TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card costs 2000 Nepali rupees, and as per the latest rule, it will be obtained through the trekking agencies only.

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs 3000 Nepali rupees, is available through the Nepal Tourism Board, Bhirkutimandap Kathmandu, or Pokhara.

Accommodation at the short Annapurna Circuit Trek

There are plenty of tea houses to choose from in the famous Annapurna region of Nepal, so there's no need to carry camping or cooking supplies. The Annapurna routes are well-loved and well-traveled, meaning that tea houses ranging in quality have been established to meet the range of needs of travelers. At lower elevations and busier areas, you can choose more fully equipped tea houses with electricity, wifi, and en suite bathrooms with hot showers and western toilets. There are also more rustic, basic tea houses available, especially at higher elevations, that have simple rooms and basic services. Bathrooms might be shared and have a squat-style toilet. At these tea houses, you can pay a small fee for services such as wifi and hot showers. We provide you with a clean, -20°C sleeping bag to keep you cozy and warm.

Meals at the short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Food in the Annapurna Region of Nepal is delicious and plentiful, with a range of options to suit your preferences. The menus at tea houses are usually quite large, especially considering you are trekking into the Himalayas, but it's important to note that most tea houses offer similar food options. You can choose from a variety of local dishes, including Dal Bhat (rice, vegetable curry, and lentil soup with unlimited refills!), fried rice or noodles, Mo Mo (local dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), spring rolls, or western dishes like burgers, pasta, pizza, and potatoes. For breakfast, you can enjoy local chapati bread or Tibetan bread with curry or go for more familiar eggs, porridge, muesli, or pancakes. This trek is vegetarian and vegan-friendly, but if you have any other dietary restrictions, you can let us know, and your guide will communicate with the kitchen staff.

Your package with Nepal Trekking Experts includes dinner in Kathmandu before you leave for your trek and three meals a day (with tea or coffee) every day of the trek, including travel days. If you'd like, you can purchase extra snacks, desserts, or fancy coffees when they're available.

Transportation at the short Annapurna Circuit Trek

All transportation fees and arrangements are included in your trekking package when you book with Nepal Trekking Experts. To start your adventure in the Annapurna region, there are many transport options depending on your interest, time frame, and budget. A common route is to travel via bus or microvan from Kathmandu (Gongabu Bus Park) to Besisahar (6–7 hours) and then continue to your starting point via a local Jeep. Common starting points include Bhulbhule, Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, and Manang. The further you travel via Jeep, the less trekking you'll do by foot. This shortens the length of your trek, which can be a great option if you have less time or are adding other, lesser-traveled regions to your trek, such as Tilicho Lake, Nar Phu Valley, or Nar Phu Thorong La.

Please be aware that the buses in Nepal can be overcrowded (especially if you are traveling during festival time), not particularly tidy, and will stop in villages along the route to pick up and drop off more people. Bus rides can be part of the exciting, immersive experience of being in a foreign country, but they are not for everyone. If you would like a more comfortable alternative, we can arrange a private jeep from Kathmandu to your starting point. Jeeps shorten your travel time considerably, and you can stop for breaks at your leisure. With so many travel options, we'd be happy to talk things through with you to find what suits you best.

Battery Charging

Despite trekking deep into the Himalayas, most of the tea houses have either electricity or solar power. Depending on the tea house, you might be able to charge your devices in your rooms. Otherwise, you can pay a few dollars (paid in local rupees) to charge your battery in the main dining hall. Carrying a power bank is recommended during your trek in the Annapurna region.

Telephone service on the short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Nowadays, most villages have phone service and mobile reception, although it can be quite unpredictable. NCELL and Nepal Telecom are the two major SIM card providers. Nepal Telecom is recommended by NTE for better reception in the Annapurna region. You can purchase a SIM card in Kathmandu when you arrive.

Internet

Many tea houses have wifi to purchase for around 3-5 dollars per hour, which is paid in local Nepali rupees. Please be aware that internet services may not be completely reliable due to weather and other issues.

Porter

Our tailor-made packages do not include a porter, so you can make the decision based on your own needs and preferences. Although not necessary, having a porter can make a massive difference in the enjoyment of your trek. If you are new to trekking at high altitudes, then we would recommend having a porter in the Annapurna region carry your bag across the rugged terrain. One porter carries the bags of two people (around 20kg) so that you can carry a small daypack. If you are undecided, we would be happy to discuss porters in more detail when you book your trek.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking Gear Checklist

  • Raincoat, poncho, or combination jacket and trousers
  • One down jacket or Gore-Tex jacket
  • Windproof trouser
  • Two pairs of hiking pants
  • One pair of shorts
  • Three pairs of T-shirts
  • One fleece jacket
  • One or two pairs of base layers
  • Two to three pairs of hiking socks and a couple of pairs of thicker socks
  • Two pairs of gloves—one light fleece, the other waterproof/windproof
  • Undergarments

Footwear

  • Ankle-supporting, water-resistant trekking boots
  • Flip-flops for leisure time around camp or one pair of sneakers

Other Equipment

  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, a sun hat, a woolen or fleece hat, a first aid kit, a Swiss army knife (optional), a luggage cover, a headlamp, trekking poles, a gaiter (optional), crampons, water purification tablets or steripen, extra batteries, an adapter, a power bank, water bottles/camel bags/thermos, washing powder or multi-purpose soap, shampoo, a small towel, antiseptic hand wash, toiletries, female hygiene products, wet wipes, whistle, mosquito spray (optional), earplugs, reading books, playing cards, or chess
  • Sleeping bag rated to minus 10 to minus 20 degrees Celsius extreme temperature depending on trekking seasons
  • Backpack (50–60 liters)
  • Daypack (20–30 liters)

Travel Insurance

It is one of the most important things you'll need overseas, particularly when trekking in Nepal. A policy that covers loss and theft, medical and hospitalization, evacuation from high altitude, and adventure activity coverage are among the basics you'll need. A wide variety of policies are available, so make sure to shop for the best possible options. You need to have a policy that's specific to the maximum height on your trek, bearing in mind that several companies place restrictions on that score—look closely at the fine print so that you're sure to get the right coverage, especially in the event of an emergency such as altitude sickness—helicopter evacuations are horrendously expensive.

Also note that most medical treatment and facilities in Nepal, such as hospitals, require payment upfront or approval from your insurance company, so it’s wise to choose a policy that pays the bills directly rather than lumping the burden on you and leaving it till later for the insurer to reimburse you.

Nepalese currency and payment

The currency of Nepal is the rupee. The ideal currencies for exchange are those of the USA, Australia, Great Britain, Canada, and Singapore, as well as the Euro, any of which can be readily exchanged in either Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted in major tourist-class hotels, restaurants, airlines, and larger stores in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, Pokhara, etc. A surcharge of 3.5% is typically levied on all purchases or payments.

ATMs are also very common in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with Thamel being a particular area of focus for their use. Some ATMs only allow a daily maximum of Rs 10, 000 to be withdrawn, while others allow for as much as Rs 35, 000. A charge of USD 4 is usually applied per transaction, on top of which your bank may also apply a fee of its own.

Can I get an on-arrival visa in Nepal?

On arrival in Nepal, you can obtain the requisite visa at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, or you can choose the alternative of applying for it at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country before departure. The visa is also available at land-based points of entry such as Birgunj, Kakarbhitta, Bhairawa, Belhiya, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi, and Mahendranagar. The Kodari Pass is the access point from Tibet where the visa can be obtained.

While you can use different modes of payment at the visa fee counter, we advise you to bring cash in the following currencies: US dollars, euros, Swiss francs, pound sterling, Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Singapore dollars, and Japanese yen. Credit card payments are also available nowadays.

As per a recent update, the visa fee costs you the following amounts:

  • Multiple entries for 15 days—USD 30 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 30 days—USD 50 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 90 days—USD 125 or equivalent
  • You should also have a minimum of six months of validity remaining on your passport.
  • Visa extensions are available from the offices of Nepal Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

For more details, please go through the Nepal Immigration website or contact us.

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

Set up a meeting with the guide, final trekking preparation then spend a day the way you prefer.

  • Max. Altitude:2650m/8694ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Pick up from your hotel and transfer to New Bus Park then drive to Chame via Besisahar which might take 10/11 hrs. During the drive, we have to switch to another transport from Besisahar to our final destination Chame. (2700m)

  • Max. Altitude:3300m/10827ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Two routes are available at this point, though the trail to Upper Pisang is easily the most rewarding as it offers some of the best views across the Marsyangdi valley towards the looming Annapurna massif. The village itself is scenically perfect in its setting and provides unique insights into the traditional lives of the valley's inhabitants.

  • Max. Altitude:3520m/11549ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The path leads on again through Gheru and Nagwal, each showcasing contrasting building styles from the upper valley. Further along the trail the old village of Braga offers up a perfectly situated monastery to pause and reflect on, after which the path heads toward Manang.

  • Max. Altitude:3520m/11549ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

On a rest day, the main purpose of which is to allow the body to acclimate to the increase in altitude, several possibilities are available, including hiking in the nearby hills to help with the acclimation process or simply relaxing in the town and taking in the magnificent views. NTE recommends hiking the stunning Ice Lake, which is known as the most beautiful viewpoint and offers undisturbed panoramic views of the Chulu ranges, Annapurna ranges, and Thorong La in the distance.

  • Max. Altitude:4110m/13484ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Leaving behind the pine and fir forests from the lower slopes, the trail leads on through Old Manang into the pure alpine regions of the upper valley. The trek is a shorter one by necessity because of the altitude gain, and the day's hike concludes with a pleasant hike to Yak Kharka (pasture of Yak).

  • Max. Altitude:4450m/14600ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Another short day of hiking through the mountain wilderness thanks to the need to acclimate to the higher altitudes. By midday, the trail leads into Thorong Phedi, the penultimate destination before reaching the trek's apex at Thorong La. Or you may choose staying Thorong High Camp instead of Phedi.

  • Max. Altitude:3762m/12343ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The grand finale of the steady climb through the valley, peaking at one of the Himalaya's highest passes, Thorong La, after a pre-dawn departure from Thorong Phedi. It's a day to celebrate a worthy achievement, not least for the effort taken to make the last final push to the pass and its myriad prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze. From there the trail descends steeply towards Muktinath and its glorious outlook towards Dhaulagiri. Muktinath is held to be sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus, who view the town and its temple as a pilgrimage site to be visited at least once in their lives.

  • Max. Altitude:2743m/8999ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The final leg of the trek via Kagbeni offers fine Himalayan scenery and glimpses of the restricted and highly secluded region of Upper Mustang. Kagbeni itself, situated in peaceful surroundings by the Kali Gandaki River, is also sacred to Hindus. The trail leads on by the river all the way to Jomsom, a sizeable town that serves as the central administrative and transport hub for the region.

  • Max. Altitude:822m/2697ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:2/3 star hotel

Since the drive from Jomsom to Pokhara is lengthy, you may also choose a 20-minute scenic mountain flight. Please discuss with our experts the way you prefer.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.

Your journey to Kathmandu begins at 7.30 am by tourist bus. Once you reach Kathmandu, we wish to have some final drinks and hear about your experience with us.

  • Max. Altitude:N/A
  • Meals:N/A
  • Accommodation:N/A

Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs.

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Note

The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us.

What's Included
Cost Includes
  • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Complimentary welcome dinner
  • Two-night stay in Kathmandu with breakfast included (twin share basis)
  • One-night stay in Pokhara with breakfast included (twin share basis)
  • All necessary trekking permits, such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, the TIMS Card, etc.
  • All accommodations during the trek
  • Three meals a day during the trek
  • A cup of tea or coffee each time with the meal
  • Fresh fruit each day if and when available.
  • Complimentary duffel bag, agency T-shirt, trekking map, and sleeping bag if needed.
  • Government-registered and first-aid-trained professional local guides who speak English
  • First aid kit
  • Return travel by bus between Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Kathmandu to Chame by bus or jeep
  • Jomsom to Pokhara by public bus
  • Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
  • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
  • Agency service charge and government tax, or VAT
  • Certificate of Achievement
Cost Excludes
  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
  • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
  • Sightseeing fees (temples, monasteries, etc.)
  • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
  • Tips to staff
Route MapDownload Map
Annapurna Circuit Short Trekking map
Dates & Availability
Start:MondayApr 01, 2024
End:FridayApr 12, 2024
PriceUS$790
StatusGuaranteed
Start:MondayApr 15, 2024
End:FridayApr 26, 2024
PriceUS$790
StatusGuaranteed
Start:ThursdayApr 25, 20244 people confirmed
End:MondayMay 06, 2024
PriceUS$690
StatusGuaranteed

Note

Are you satisfied with the fixed departure dates? If not, do not worry! We are more than happy to organize private vs. group joining on any dates you prefer. Let's contact the local experts now.

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