About Short Annapurna Circuit Trek - Thorung La Pass Trek 2025

Overview - Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek organized by Himalayan Asia Treks offers an adventurous yet time-efficient journey through one of Nepal's most iconic trekking routes. This trek is designed for those who want to experience the majestic beauty of the Annapurna region without committing to the longer traditional circuit. The itinerary includes stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, traversing through diverse landscapes, from lush subtropical forests to arid high-altitude terrains. Along the way, trekkers will pass through charming Gurung and Thakali villages, providing a glimpse into the local culture and traditions. The trek also includes a visit to the famous Thorong La Pass, which stands as one of the highest trekking passes in the world, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

For those seeking a condensed yet fulfilling trekking experience, the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is an ideal option. This trek is perfect for adventurers with limited time, allowing them to enjoy the highlights of the Annapurna Circuit without the longer duration. With well-organized logistics by Himalayan Asia Treks, trekkers can focus on the breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences. The trek's moderate difficulty level makes it accessible to both seasoned trekkers and enthusiastic beginners.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Short Annapurna Circuit Trek, expertly designed by Himalayan Asia Treks to offer the perfect balance of challenge and breathtaking beauty. This trek is ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience the essence of the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights:

  • Traverse the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Annapurna region, from lush valleys to arid high-altitude terrains.
  • Conquer the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
  • Explore the rich cultural tapestry of the region, including the traditional villages of Manang and Marpha.
  • Witness the striking beauty of Tilicho Lake (optional), one of the highest lakes globally, nestled amidst the towering peaks.
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jomsom and the serene beauty of Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site.

Our Short Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to ensure acclimatization, safety, and an immersive trekking experience. Covering significant portions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek distance, this trek offers an ideal mix of natural beauty and cultural encounters.

Best Time for a Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

The best time for the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons:

  • Spring (March to May): This season offers clear skies, moderate temperatures, and blooming rhododendron forests, making it a picturesque time to trek.
  • Autumn (September to November): Known for its stable weather and crystal-clear mountain views, autumn is the most popular time for trekking in the Annapurna region.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek vs Full Circuit Comparison

  • Duration: The short circuit typically takes 12 days, whereas the full circuit can take 14 days.
  • Route: The short trek usually starts from Manang and ends at Jomsom, covering the Thorong La Pass. The full circuit starts from Besisahar and includes additional sections such as the lower Annapurna region and the Kali Gandaki Gorge.
  • Experience: The short trek focuses on the most dramatic and scenic parts of the circuit, ideal for those with limited time. The full circuit offers a more comprehensive experience, showcasing the entire diversity of the Annapurna region.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Elevation and Altitude Info

Kathmandu: 1,400 meters (4,593 feet)

Besisahar: 760 meters (2,493 feet)

Chame: 2,670 meters (8,759 feet)

Manang: 3,540 meters (11,614 feet)

Thorong La Pass: 5,416 meters (17,769 feet)

Muktinath: 3,800 meters (12,467 feet)

Pokhara: 822 meters (2,697 feet)

World highest pass like Thorung La and pictorial Manang valley alongside Muktinath makes the entire Annapurna Circuit Short Trek genuinely remarkable. The culture and tradition of the Nepalese people would tempt you to stay here and experience the high gratitude, love, and affection that people here known for. However, due to high altitude and bad weather, trekkers prefer to stay back, and the best season to take part in trekking would be in the winter, like Sep to Nov. Those obsessed with adventure sports will find Annapurna circuit Trek a must-go. Short Annapurna Circuit Trek offers 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek. We have made two itineraries about Annapurna Circuit Trek and Short Annapurna Circuit Trek in Annapurna Trekking Packages.

 

Join us at Himalayan Asia Treks for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time explorer, the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek promises an experience filled with unforgettable memories.

Highlights

  • Beautiful terraces with rice fields and farmhouses.
  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule.
  • Hot spring.
  • Eye-catching waterfalls.
  • Explore the beautiful city of Pokhara.
  • Sunset tour at Sarangkot.
  • Hot Spring.
  • Pass over Thorung la Pass.
  • Muktinath Temple.
  • Trekking through Kali Gandaki Valley and the deepest gorge.
  • Marpha has Beautiful views of different Himal like Annapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri.

Day to Day Itinerary

Starts with arrival in Kathmandu for a pleasant time. After your arrival at the airport, Himalayan Asia Treks representative will welcome you and will eventually take you to the allocated hotel. After reaching in hotel, our staff will give short briefing about Short Annapurna Circuit Trek. 
Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel.
  • Location: Kathmandu

After taking breakfast, We start our journey towards Chame via Scorpio Jeep via driving. We will pass Trishuli river a white water rafting river, small greenery mountain, Besisahar, Dharapani and other small towns.
Overnight in Chame. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
  • Location: Chame
  • Altitude: 2710m.

Today begins with Chame to Pisang for about 5 to 6 hours. We will start our trek for Pisang early morning. You will be amazed to see that the mountain disappears as soon as you climb the path that is up the valley.
Overnight in Pisang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
  • Location: Pisang
  • Altitude: 3300m.

Pisnag tomanang would take 6 to 7 hours’ time. You need to start your trekking with the climbs that is generally a steep ridge. The best part is that it will offer some amazing views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak.
Overnight in Manang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
  • Location: Manang.
  • Altitude: 3500m.

Today trekking schedule gets familiar of the climate and condition while you stay at Manang. Moreover, you cannot predict the climatic condition at this place. And you will also get enough time to get use to the climate of the place.
Overnight in Manang.


  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Manang.
  • Altitude: 3500m.

Thereafter, next route would be Manang to Yak Kharka for nearly 3 to 4 hours. On this day you will be able to see the panoramic views all day long. Although, it seems to be the short trekking but then also we will feel somewhat tiring due to the high altitude and less oxygen.
Overnight in Yak Kharka.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Yak Kharka
  • Altitude: 4110m.

Today of this long gruelling trek, yak kharka to thorang phedi would be next place to trek. After a short climb on the mountain you can see that on the right bank, a narrow trail across an unstable spree slope.
Overnight in Thorung Phedi.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Thorung Phedi.
  • Altitude: 4420m.

Trek to Thorong la to Mukinath, and then drive to Jomsom for about 7 to 8 hours trek. The trail is steep immediately after leaving the camp but due to the fact that this trail is used by the local people for more than 100 years, so it has become familiar for them.
 Overnight in Jomsom.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Jomsom.
  • Altitude: 2743m.

On the next day after completing your breakfast you need to be ready for your flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. It won’t take more than twenty five minutes to cover this route. If you want then you can visit places nearby. Overnight in Pokhara.

  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel.
  • Location: Pokhara.
  • Altitude: 1400m.

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu for about 5 to 6 hours. While on the drive you will get some fantastic view of the settlements, terraces, rivers and also the landscapes. And then you need to spend your night at the hotel nearby.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Meals: Breakfast.
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel.
  • Location: Kathmandu.
  • Altitude: 1400m

The final day of the Annapurna Circuit Short Trekget ready for final departure. Himalayan Asia Treks Staff will be transferred to the international airport just before you have your scheduled flight.

    What's Included

    • Accommodation on BB basis in Kathmandu and Pokhara in Three Star hotel.
    • Ground transportation (Airport pick up and drop, sightseeing and Kathmandu-Besisahar- Chame by bus and Jeep, Jomsom-Pokhara-Kathmandu by domestic air ).
    • Three times meals at trekking.
    • Accommodation in Tea house/lodge in trekking .
    • Government licensed English speaking guide.
    • Porter (one porter for two person and carry 20 kg).
    • All necessary paper work like Permit and TIMS card (Trekkers information management system).
    • Travel and rescue arrangement.
    • Twenty four call assistance by our office representative.
    • Farewell dinner in typical Nepali restaurant
    • Sleeping bag and duffel bag will provide by our company have to return after trek.
    • Government taxes and office service charge.
      .
    • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
    • Any type of insurance.
    • Visa.
    • Any type of international flight fare.
    • Personal nature expenses like bar bills, water, tea coffee, shower, laundry, wi fi in trekking route.
    • Tips (Not Mandatory but expcted).
    • Any extra cost which is not mentioned in Cost includes column.
    • Extra day for natural calamities like flood, landslide, flight cancellation.

    Useful Information

    What to Expect on a Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

    The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a condensed version of the classic trek, offering trekkers a chance to experience the highlights of the Annapurna region within a limited timeframe. This trek typically covers the most scenic and culturally rich parts of the circuit, often starting from Manang and concluding at Jomsom. Expect breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, diverse landscapes ranging from lush subtropical forests to arid high-altitude deserts, and encounters with the unique culture and hospitality of the local Gurung and Thakali communities.

    How to Prepare for a Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

    Physical Preparation:

    • Cardiovascular Fitness: Engage in activities like running, cycling, and swimming to build endurance.
    • Strength Training: Focus on leg muscles through squats, lunges, and stair climbing.
    • Hiking Practice: Regular hikes with a loaded backpack can simulate trekking conditions.

    Mental Preparation:

    • Stay positive and mentally prepared for long trekking days and high-altitude conditions.

    Gear and Equipment:

    • Clothing: Layered clothing suitable for varying temperatures, including a down jacket and thermal wear.
    • Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable trekking boots with good ankle support.
    • Accessories: Trekking poles, gloves, hats, sunglasses, and a reliable backpack.

    Acclimatization:

    • Spend extra days at high altitudes to allow your body to adjust.
    • Stay hydrated and follow a slow, steady pace to prevent altitude sickness.

    Permits and Documentation:

    • Obtain necessary permits like the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

    Cost Breakdown of Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

    The cost of a Short Annapurna Circuit Trek typically includes several components: permits, guide and porter fees, accommodation, meals, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses. Permits such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card are mandatory, costing around $50-$60. Guide fees range from $35-$50 per day, while porters charge $25-$35 daily. Accommodation in teahouses usually costs $15-$20 per night, with meals averaging $20-$30 per day. Transportation to and from the trek starting point, usually by bus or sharing jeep, costs around $20-$30 each way. Miscellaneous expenses, including snacks, tips, and personal gear, may add an additional $150-$200,Josom to Pokhara to Kathmandu flight fare making the total cost approximately around USD1200 for 12 day trek. The cost will be depended on the group size and other facilities.

    Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Packing List

    Clothing:

    • Thermal base layers
    • Fleece jacket
    • Down jacket
    • Waterproof jacket and pants
    • Trekking pants and shirts
    • Warm hat, gloves, and scarf

    Footwear:

    • Sturdy trekking boots
    • Trekking socks
    • Camp shoes/sandals

    Gear:

    • Trekking poles
    • Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C)
    • Backpack (30-40 liters)

    Daypack

    Accessories:

    • Sunglasses
    • Sunscreen and lip balm
    • Water bottles and purification tablets
    • First aid kit
    • Headlamp with extra batteries

    Documents:

    • Passport
    • Permits (ACAP, TIMS)
    • Travel insurance details

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