- Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, separates the major peaks of Dhaulagiri (8167m) on the west and Annapurna (8091m) on the east.
- Annapurna circuit trek provides the opportunities to be part of the local lifestyles & Tibetan culture of the Chame, Pisang, Manang, and Yak Kharka.
- Panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Mount Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri from Thorong La Pass (5416m), the world's highest mountain pass.
- Opportunities to explore the Lete village, Kali Gandaki village, Muktinath, Jomsom, and the most visited tourist destination, Pokhara.
- Close-up views of the Annapurna massifs (Annapurna I-IV) and Nilgiri massifs.
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
Trip Highlights
Detailed Overview
The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you on a thrilling 11-day journey through the heart of the Annapurna region in Nepal — one of the most celebrated trekking destinations in the world. This condensed route captures everything that makes the classic circuit so extraordinary: sweeping mountain panoramas, diverse landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a dramatic high-altitude crossing that very few trekkers in the world ever get to experience. The undisputed highlight of the entire journey is standing atop Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m, where a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu stretches out endlessly before you.
We begin our adventure with a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu to Chame at 2,670 m, heading west through the diverse landscapes of Nepal — rolling hills, river valleys, and the first teasing glimpses of the mountains ahead. From Chame, the trail opens up immediately into one of the most visually rewarding trekking routes in the Himalayas, passing waterfalls, suspension bridges, and dense forests with ever-growing views of Lamjung Himal, Pisang Peak, and Annapurna II.
The route continues upward through Pisang and onto the upper trail toward Manang at 3,540 m, where the landscape shifts dramatically. The lush green forests give way to a dry, arid terrain that feels almost otherworldly — barren ridgelines, ancient mani walls, and the grand Barge Monastery tucked into the mountain slopes. The views of the Annapurna range from this section of the trail are nothing short of extraordinary.
We spend an acclimatization day in Manang, one of the most fascinating villages on the entire route. Here we explore the surrounding area, hike up to the beautiful Gangapurna Lake, and visit the local monastery and mountaineering school — giving our bodies the time they need to adjust before the biggest day of the trek.
From Manang, the trail climbs steadily through meadows dotted with grazing yaks and ancient settlements to Thorong Phedi at 4,450 m — our final stop before the great pass. We rise before dawn the following morning for the most demanding and rewarding day of the journey. The ascent to Thorong La Pass is steep and demanding, but every step is driven forward by the knowledge of what awaits at the top. Standing on the pass, with glaciers gleaming below and the vast Tibetan plateau stretching to the north, is a moment that stays with a trekker for life.
The descent carries us down to Muktinath at 3,760 m, a deeply sacred site revered by both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims for centuries. The transition from the raw, wind-swept pass to this warm spiritual sanctuary is one of the most moving contrasts of the entire trek. From Muktinath, we continue down to the legendary Jomsom, completing our circuit of the Annapurna massif and marking the end of our walking journey.
A short morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara concludes the trekking chapter in style, giving us one final aerial view of the mountains we've been walking among. After a relaxing evening beside Phewa Lake, we drive back to Kathmandu along the scenic Prithvi Highway — carrying home memories of high passes, sacred shrines, and a Himalayan adventure that proves extraordinary things are possible, even in just 11 days.
Expert Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival Day in Kathmandu (TIA)
The first day marks your arrival day in Kathmandu. Clear all the visa requirements and customs clearance, if any, at the arrival section of the airport. As you exit, you will find a representative from World Alpine Treks waiting for you, holding a board with your name. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. The representative will inform you shortly about the plans ahead.
Day 2 Drive from Kathmandu to Chame (2670m/8730ft): 10-12 hours
The drive from Kathmandu to Chame by jeep is a thrilling journey that takes you through the diverse landscapes of Nepal. The trip starts in Kathmandu and heads towards the west, passing through several small towns and villages along the way. The journey is quite long and can take up to 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. However, the scenic views of the Himalayas and the lush green hills make it worth the effort (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Day 3 Chame to Pisang (3540m/11575ft) - 5:30 hours
After breakfast, we continue our journey towards Pisang. With the fantastic views of Lamjung Himal and Pisang Peak, we follow a trail that goes steeply into the dense forests. On the way, we pass a waterfall and cross suspension bridges over the river with amazing views of meadows and mountains in sight. We also get some soaring views of PaungdaDanda rock that begins to appear as we climb up towards Pisang. As you open up to the valley of Pisang, you will be blessed with some close views of Pisang Peak and Mt. Annapurna II. After relishing the fantastic views, we stay at a guesthouse/ lodge in Pisang for the night. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Day 4 Trek from Pisang to Manang (3540m/11575ft) - 5:30 hours
Today, we leave Pisang and head towards the upper part of the Manang district, which is drier. The route offers some astounding views of majestic mountain peaks in the Annapurna range. With these sight views, we take an upper path to Manag that goes through Ghyaru–Ngawal and Munji. As we move up, we can notice the change in climate, landscape, and vegetation. We come to dry places with a harsh environment. Though sharp, the arid landscape looks very compelling, with the close views of mountains in the backdrop. On the way, we come across a large monastery of the region, Barge Monastery. We visit the monastery and continue our walk until we reach our guesthouse/ lodge in Manang. Tonight, at a guesthouse/ lodge in Manang. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Day 5 Acclimatization Day in Manang
We spend an extra day in Manang as a part of our requirement for proper acclimatization. And there are so many places around Manang to explore. Manang, in itself, is a delightful village that offers some fantastic views of mountains and rocky terrain. Today, we explore the villages around and hike up to visit Gangapurna Lake. We can even visit a monastery and mountaineering school on the way. In the evening, we return to our guesthouse/ house in Manang. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Day 6 Trek from Manang to Thorong Phedi (4450m/14551ft) : 7-8 hours
Today, we leave Marshyangdi Valley and head towards Thorong La pass. at first, we cross a stream and climb up steadily to the village of Tenki lies just above Manang. Then we come out of the valley and turn to the north to climb up the valley of the Jarsang River. We follow the pastures and head towards the north, which will take us to the village of Ghunsa. Further, the trail extends through the meadows, where we can see some yaks grazing along with the yak herders busy with their stuff. We then cross a wooden bridge over a river and pass some ancient mani walls before we arrive at the village of Yak Kharka. The town is the summer settlement of the yak herders. Crossing the Yak Kharka and heading towards Thorong La Phedi. Thorong La Phedi is a small settlement in the high-altitude region that caters to the food and accommodation needs of the trekkers visiting the Thorong La pass. It is a stopping point to cross the Thorong La Pass tomorrow. Thorong La Pass is the highest pass in the world. It is challenging to cross the path. Its rocky and slippery terrain with ever-changing weather conditions makes it one of the toughest parts of the journey. Today, we will stop at Thorong La Phedi for an early walk of the pass tomorrow. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Day 7 Cross Thorong La pass (5416m/17710ft ) and trek to Muktinath(3760m/12295ft): 5-7 hours
The pass is prone to sharp and harsh winds in the afternoon. Hence, we wake up early to cross the pass. We walk along the rocky ridges of the past with outstanding views of mountains and glaciers in the Annapurna region. From the pass, we will be able to get 360-degree panoramic views of mountains that extend to the Tibetan plateaus in the north. After crossing the path, we descend to Muktinath, which is a trendy spiritual hub of the Annapurna region. The place holds a high value amongst Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Many Hindu pilgrims visit this place early with high dedication and devotion. Tonight, we are staying at a guesthouse/ lodge in Muktinath. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Day 8 Trek to Jomsom (2720m/8894ft) - 5 hours
Early in the morning, we walk to Muktinath for amazing views of the mountains in the Annapurna range. After appreciating the glories of the mountains, we descend to Jomsom and complete our circuit walk around the Annapurna. Hence, we accomplish our walking journey of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Tonight, enjoy your time in Jomsom with the warm hospitality of the local people. (Inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Day 9 Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (820m/2681ft) -30 Minutes
Today, we take an early flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel. Enjoy your time at the hotel in Pokhara. In the evening, you can walk to the lakeside and enjoy the serenity of the environment. (Inclusive of breakfast).
Day 10 Drive back to Kathmandu (1400m/4578ft)- 6 hours
Concluding our trip, we drive back via the same route along the Prithvi Highway to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Tonight, we are staying at a hotel in Kathmandu. (Inclusive of breakfast and lunch).
Day 11 Departure Day
Before a few hours of your scheduled flight, you will be transferred to the international terminal of Tribhuwan International Airport.
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Cost Breakdown
What's included
All the services mentioned in the cost breakdown are included in 11 days Short Annapurna Circuit Trek price.
- International/ Domestic Airport pick-up/ drop facility by Tourist Car.
- 2-night accommodation in a three-star category hotel in Kathmandu.
- 1-night accommodation in a three-star category hotel in Pokhara.
- Drive from Kathmandu - Chame by Private Jeep.
- Jomsom - Pokhara flight, including the domestic airport tax.
- Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trekking days and Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- 6-night accommodation in Guesthouses/Lodges during the trekking journey.
- Highly Qualified, English-speaking, knowledgeable trekking Guides with their salary, accommodation, food, and airfare.
- 1 helpful porter for 2 trekkers to carry your trekking equipment and personal stuff with their salary, accommodation, and food.
- Seasonally available fresh Fruit during trekking days.
- All necessary Permits: Trekkers Information Management Permit (TIMS), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- World Alpine Treks' Duffel bag, trekking Map, Company T-shirt, and Sleeping Bag( You must return the Sleeping Bag after completing the Trip).
- World Alpine Treks First Aid Kit.
- An oximeter to measure Oxygen & Pulse Levels during the trekking days.
What's not included
- International airfare to/from Nepal.
- Nepal entry visa fee - You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days visas. You need 2 passport-size photos.
- Travel insurance to cover emergency evacuation and medical expenses.
- Hot showers during the trekking days.
- An extra night's hotel in Kathmandu in case of early arrival or late departure.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Personal refreshment expenses - soft drinks, hard drinks, mineral bottled water, cigarettes, chocolates, etc.
- Utility expenses like telephone, electricity for charging, internet (WI-FI), laundry services, etc.
- Tips for support crew members of your trekking team.
Select Departure
Select your preferred date. (Trip privately with your own group)
April 2026
Real Experiences
View All ReviewsExcellent trip to ABC, ACT & EBC with a professional Guide
Fureena
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