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The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most famous trekking routes, offering an unforgettable combination of high-altitude adventure, rich cultural experiences, and awe-inspiring landscapes. This trek covers some of the most diverse geographical regions in the world, ranging from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts. It offers trekkers a panoramic view of some of Nepal’s most iconic mountains, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. Spanning over 128 miles (206 kilometers), this shorter version of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is ideal for those with limited time but a strong desire for exploration.
The journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, followed by a scenic trek through the Himalayan heartland, crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and concluding with a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
This trek also provides an opportunity to explore the deep cultural and spiritual heritage of the region, characterized by the Tibetan-Buddhist culture that dominates the lives of the people in Manang and Mustang. Ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and sacred pilgrimage sites like Muktinath offer a glimpse into the region’s spiritual life, making this trek more than just an adventure, but also a cultural odyssey.
Major Trek Highlights of the 12-Day Short Annapurna Circuit Trek:
Thorong La Pass (5,416m): Challenge yourself by crossing one of the highest trekking passes in the world, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan giants.
Muktinath Temple: A sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its eternal flame and 108 sacred water spouts used for purification rituals.
Traditional Tibetan Villages: Immerse yourself in the unique culture, architecture, and spirituality of the villages of Manang, Pisang, and Kagbeni. Explore their monasteries, Mani walls, and Chortens.
Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Views: Be amazed by constant views of towering peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) as you journey through diverse landscapes.
Marsyangdi River: Follow the pristine Marsyangdi River as it carves through deep gorges and lush valleys, providing a peaceful soundtrack to your trek.
Pisang Monastery: Visit the ancient Pisang Monastery, perched in the heart of Pisang village, where Tibetan-Buddhist monks offer blessings to trekkers and travelers.
Pine Forests: Trek through beautiful, dense pine forests that offer cool shade and fresh mountain air while you gradually ascend toward the higher altitudes.
Gangapurna Lake: Visit the serene Gangapurna Lake, located near Manang, reflecting the nearby peaks and providing an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.
Braka Monastery: Explore this 500-year-old monastery in the village of Braka, a spiritual center adorned with ancient Buddhist scriptures and stunning frescoes.
Windy Valley of Jomsom: Experience the windswept valleys of Jomsom, where the powerful winds funnel through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.
Kali Gandaki River: Follow the course of the Kali Gandaki River, an ancient trade route, and witness its significance in the lives of the locals as it weaves through the majestic Himalayan landscapes.
Ice Lake: For those seeking an extra adventure, a visit to Ice Lake near Manang offers a pristine, glacial-fed alpine lake surrounded by soaring snow-capped peaks.
Milarepa Cave: Discover the famous Milarepa Cave, a revered site where the legendary Tibetan yogi Milarepa meditated and achieved spiritual enlightenment.
This trek is a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual exploration, making it one of the most enriching trekking experiences in Nepal.
Cost Details for the 12-Day Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
The cost of the trek varies based on the number of participants, with the following pricing structure:
This detailed 12-Day Short Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a perfect blend of adventure, spiritual exploration, and cultural immersion, catering to trekkers with limited time yet a deep passion for high-altitude trekking and discovering the rich heritage of Nepal.
Welcome to the Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. After some time to rest and refresh, you’ll be transferred in the evening for a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant in the heart of Kathmandu. During the dinner, there will be a briefing about your upcoming trek. Overnight at the hotel.
Drive Duration: 8-9 hours (230km)
Overview:
The journey from Kathmandu to Chame is a scenic, yet long, drive through the heart of Nepal's hill country. Leaving the Kathmandu Valley, you’ll head towards Besishahar, passing through various towns like Khudi and Jagat, each offering unique insights into Nepalese rural life. Following the Marsyangdi River, the road winds through terraced fields, lush green hills, and small settlements. While the ride can be bumpy at times, the stunning landscapes more than compensate for the rough terrain. Chame, a beautiful town nestled at 2,710m, serves as the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit and the first significant stop of your trek.
Cultural Experience:
As you travel through these towns, you'll witness Nepal's rural charm, influenced by Gurung and Tibetan communities. Their traditions, prayer flags, and stone houses reflect the fusion of cultures.
Mountain Views:
Though this portion of the trek remains at a lower elevation, you can catch glimpses of distant peaks. The full grandeur of the Annapurna range awaits in the coming days. The first look at Annapurna II near Chame will surely boost your excitement for the trek ahead.
Overview:
The trek from Chame to Pisang takes you through diverse landscapes, beginning with lush pine forests and apple orchards that line the trail. The path offers a mix of river crossings via suspension bridges and peaceful treks through small, traditional hamlets. One of the most remarkable sights along the way is Paungda Danda, a massive, smooth rock face that rises nearly 1,500 meters from the valley floor. This natural marvel provides a dramatic backdrop and is one of the day’s key highlights.
As you ascend, the air becomes crisper and the landscape more rugged, signaling the higher elevation. Upon reaching Pisang, trekkers have the option to stay in either Upper or Lower Pisang. While Lower Pisang offers standard accommodation, Upper Pisang, perched higher on the hillside, provides a more traditional Tibetan cultural experience and boasts stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Cultural Experience:
Upper Pisang is especially rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture, with ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and houses built in the traditional Tibetan style. The quiet, spiritual atmosphere of Upper Pisang contrasts with the more modern facilities of Lower Pisang, making it a unique cultural stop along the Annapurna Circuit.
Mountain Views:
Today's trek offers breathtaking views of Annapurna II (7,937m) and Pisang Peak (6,091m). Additionally, the dramatic Paungda Danda rock face adds to the striking scenery, making this part of the trek particularly memorable. The views from Upper Pisang are especially spectacular, with unobstructed vistas of the Annapurna range.
Overview:
On this day, the trail splits into two routes—Upper Pisang and Lower Pisang. The Upper Pisang route is more challenging but offers unparalleled mountain views, including panoramic vistas of Annapurna III (7,555m) and Gangapurna (7,455m). This scenic route is well worth the effort for trekkers seeking breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. The Lower Pisang route, while easier, is less scenic and often chosen by trekkers looking for a quicker path to Manang.
As you trek through the Marsyangdi Valley, you will pass several small settlements, but the highlight of the day is the village of Braga, an ancient Tibetan village with a rich cultural heritage. Here, you can visit the Braga Monastery, one of the oldest and largest in the region. The monastery, perched on a cliff, offers spiritual and historical insights into the Tibetan Buddhist influence in the area.
Finally, you arrive in Manang, a key stop for acclimatization on the Annapurna Circuit. Manang is a lively town with excellent lodges, restaurants, and facilities for trekkers. This is also where most trekkers take an acclimatization day to adjust to the altitude.
Cultural Experience:
In addition to the Braga Monastery, Manang is rich in Tibetan culture, with its traditional stone houses, prayer flags, and a long history of trade and agriculture. It serves as a cultural and logistical hub for trekkers preparing for the higher altitudes ahead.
Mountain Views:
The day’s trek offers stunning views of Annapurna III, Tilicho Peak (7,134m), and Gangapurna, creating a dramatic mountain backdrop as you approach Manang. The Upper Pisang route provides the best views of these towering peaks.
Overview:
This day is dedicated to acclimatizing to the higher altitude in Manang, allowing your body to adjust before continuing to even higher elevations. While it's a rest day, staying active is crucial for proper acclimatization. You can take short hikes to nearby landmarks, such as Gangapurna Lake or the Ice Lake. These hikes offer panoramic views of the Annapurna range, including Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Tilicho Peak, giving you an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
One of the day’s highlights is a visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association in Manang, where you can attend an informative talk on altitude sickness. This is an excellent chance to learn about the symptoms, prevention, and treatment of altitude-related illnesses, ensuring you're well-prepared for the higher sections of the trek.
Cultural Experience:
Manang is home to a yak herding community, and you can take time to explore their traditional Tibetan lifestyle. Wander through the village to observe the stone houses, prayer flags, and daily routines of the local people. The town’s Tibetan Buddhist culture is evident in its architecture and monasteries, providing a deep cultural immersion.
Mountain Views:
From Manang, you’ll enjoy impressive views of some of the Annapurna region’s iconic peaks, including Gangapurna (7,455m), Annapurna III (7,555m), and Tilicho Peak (7,134m). Whether you take a short hike or simply relax in the village, these towering giants will form a stunning backdrop to your acclimatization day, reminding you of the adventure that lies ahead.
Overview:
Today’s trek takes you higher into the Annapurna region as you leave Manang and head toward Yak Kharka. The landscape shifts dramatically as the lush forests give way to alpine meadows and more rugged, barren terrain. The air thins as you gain altitude, and while the distance is relatively short, the trek becomes more challenging due to the elevation.
Yak Kharka is an open grazing area where you’ll likely encounter herds of yaks, which thrive in this high-altitude environment. The sight of these hardy animals grazing in the vast meadows adds to the remote and wild atmosphere of the day. The area is named after these yaks, which are a vital part of the local culture and economy.
Although Yak Kharka is a small settlement, the basic teahouses offer a welcoming place to rest. This stop also provides an essential opportunity for acclimatization as you prepare for the even higher elevations ahead.
Cultural Experience:
Yak herding is an important part of life in this region, and the simplicity of the teahouses in Yak Kharka reflects the lifestyle of the people who live and work at these high altitudes. You’ll get a closer glimpse into the daily routines of the yak herders, whose resilience mirrors the harsh, beautiful environment they inhabit.
Mountain Views:
As you ascend, the mountain views continue to impress. Annapurna III (7,555m), Gangapurna (7,455m), and the Chulu Peaks dominate the skyline, providing stunning backdrops to the trek. These towering giants serve as a constant reminder of the grandeur of the Himalayas as you make your way to Yak Kharka.
Overview:
Today’s trek leads to Thorong Phedi, the base camp for crossing the renowned Thorong La Pass. Though the distance is relatively short, the trail becomes steeper and more demanding as you ascend, with the thinning air adding to the challenge. The rugged terrain of rocky paths and barren landscapes marks your arrival in the higher altitudes. Despite the difficulties, the views are nothing short of spectacular, with towering peaks surrounding you and adding to the sense of adventure.
Thorong Phedi, a small settlement primarily serving trekkers, is a critical stop for those preparing to cross the Thorong La Pass. It offers basic facilities, including simple teahouses where trekkers can rest and fuel up for the following day’s challenging ascent. This is the final overnight stop before tackling the highest point of the trek, and the excitement and anticipation are palpable among fellow adventurers.
Cultural Experience:
At this elevation, the lifestyle becomes increasingly minimalistic. Thorong Phedi is a simple outpost with little more than teahouses, but it offers a unique insight into life in such remote and harsh conditions. The focus here is on providing trekkers with the necessary resources to rest and prepare for the next day’s crossing of the Thorong La Pass.
Mountain Views:
The views along this section of the trek are breathtaking, with the Annapurna range and the Chulu Peaks (6,584m) dominating the landscape. As you make your way to Thorong Phedi, these mountains form a dramatic backdrop, adding to the awe-inspiring experience of trekking in the Himalayas.
Overview:
This is the most demanding and exhilarating day of the Annapurna Circuit trek, as you cross the famous Thorong La Pass, the highest point at 5,416m (17,769ft). The day starts early to avoid the strong winds that typically develop at the pass later in the morning. The climb is long and steep, with thin air making each step a challenge. However, the sense of accomplishment and the panoramic views from the pass are unmatched. From the top, you are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Thorong Peak.
After taking in the stunning surroundings at the pass, you begin the long descent to Muktinath. The descent is equally challenging due to the steep and rocky terrain, but the landscape gradually transitions from barren alpine scenery to a more arid, desert-like environment as you approach Muktinath.
Cultural Experience:
Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is home to the famous Muktinath Temple, where the eternal flame burns naturally from the ground. The site holds deep spiritual significance, and you’ll see pilgrims from both faiths visiting the temple and its surrounding shrines. This unique blend of religious importance and natural beauty makes Muktinath a culturally enriching stop on your trek.
Mountain Views:
The Thorong La Pass offers spectacular views of some of the Himalayas’ most iconic peaks, including the Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna ranges. Thorong Peak (6,144m) is also visible, creating a majestic backdrop for the day’s challenging trek. The views from the pass are among the most memorable on the entire circuit.
Overview:
Today's trek descends through the stunning Kali Gandaki Valley, following one of the deepest gorges in the world, with towering peaks such as Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Nilgiri (7,061m) flanking the valley. The trail starts from the sacred site of Muktinath, heading downhill to Kagbeni, a picturesque village known for its ancient, medieval atmosphere and strategic location on the old salt trade route between Nepal and Tibet.
Kagbeni is a treasure trove of cultural and historical significance. The village’s narrow, winding alleys, stone houses, and ancient monasteries transport you back in time. Here, you can witness a blend of Tibetan and Nepali influences, with Tibetan Buddhist culture being prominent through the prayer flags, mani walls, and traditional architecture. Kagbeni is a great place to pause, soak in the rich heritage, and appreciate the views of the surrounding arid landscape.
From Kagbeni, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki River. The trek through the valley is relatively easy compared to the days leading up to this, with a gentle descent along wide trails. The wind can pick up in the afternoon, particularly in the Kali Gandaki Valley, making the final stretch to Jomsom windy and dusty. As you approach Jomsom, the landscape shifts from arid highlands to more cultivated fields, signaling your arrival at one of the larger towns in the region.
Cultural Experience:
Jomsom, the administrative center of the Mustang District, is a lively town with a mix of modern conveniences and traditional culture. As a significant trading and trekking hub, it offers more amenities than previous stops, including shops, bakeries, and even an airport. The town marks the end of your trekking days, with many trekkers flying out from here. Kagbeni, earlier in the day, offers a deep dive into Tibetan culture, with its ancient monasteries and well-preserved traditions.
Mountain Views:
While descending, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri, which dominate the skyline. The towering presence of these peaks alongside the Kali Gandaki River makes for an awe-inspiring backdrop as you complete your trek to Jomsom, rounding out the final leg of your Annapurna adventure.
Overview:
Today marks a transition from the rugged trails of the Annapurna Circuit to the lush, serene beauty of Pokhara. You will take a short yet scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, which is not only a practical way to cover the distance but also an opportunity to enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan landscape.
The flight from Jomsom to Pokhara is renowned for its stunning views. As you ascend, look out the window to see the towering peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The early morning flight is particularly advantageous for clear views, as it offers a bird’s-eye perspective of the dramatic terrain you’ve just trekked through. The sight of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and the winding Kali Gandaki River provides a stunning conclusion to your high-altitude adventure.
Pokhara, a picturesque city nestled beside Phewa Lake, is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a more temperate climate, lush greenery, and the tranquil waters of the lake, offering a stark but welcome contrast to the rugged mountain environment you’ve been experiencing
Overview:
Today’s journey takes you back from the scenic beauty of Pokhara to the bustling capital city of Kathmandu. The drive, which typically takes 6 to 8 hours, covers approximately 200 kilometers through varied landscapes. As you travel, you’ll witness a dramatic shift from the lush greenery and serene lakes of Pokhara to the vibrant, urban environment of Kathmandu.
The route follows the Trishuli River and winds through picturesque valleys, terraced fields, and charming villages. The journey offers a glimpse into rural Nepalese life, with opportunities to observe traditional farming practices and local communities. The road can be bumpy and winding, particularly in hilly sections, so it’s advisable to come prepared for a long ride.
Cultural Experience:
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll re-enter the lively and culturally rich atmosphere of Nepal’s capital. Kathmandu is renowned for its historical landmarks, vibrant markets, and diverse food options, providing a fitting end to your trek. The contrast between the peaceful Pokhara and the bustling city life of Kathmandu offers a unique perspective on Nepal’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
As your incredible journey with Holiday Planner Treks comes to an end, we want to express our deepest thanks for being a part of this adventure. It has been our pleasure to guide you through the majestic landscapes of Nepal and share in the experiences that make this trek truly unforgettable.
We hope that the memories of the Annapurna Circuit—the awe-inspiring peaks, the vibrant local cultures, and the moments of camaraderie—will stay with you long after you’ve left. Your spirit of adventure and enthusiasm have been truly inspiring, and we are grateful for the opportunity to have shared this journey with you.
As you prepare for your departure, we wish you safe travels and endless joy in all your future adventures. May your experiences in Nepal continue to bring you inspiration and fond memories.
Thank you for choosing Holiday Planner Treks. We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you back for another remarkable journey. Until then, farewell, and may your path ahead be filled with wonderful discoveries and happiness.
