Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
Explore the Annapurnas in a Short Trek Through the Annapurna Circuit
Trip Facts
– Duration: 8 days
– Difficulty: Difficult
– Highest Point: 5416m
– Average Group Size: 8-12
– Start/End Point: Kathmandu
– Accommodation: Local Lodges
– Meals: As mentioned
– Transportation: Private basis
Trip Highlights:
– Trek the popular Annapurna region’s trail.
– Ideal for hikers short on time but eager to explore.
– Cross the Thorong La Pass and reach Muktinath in Mustang district.
– Experience the hospitality of local villages.
– Visit vintage monasteries and remote villages.
– Enjoy stunning views of mountains, waterfalls, and rural life.
Trip Overview:
The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a condensed version of the classic Annapurna trek, ideal for those who have limited time but want to experience the majestic Annapurna region. This trek is not for beginners, as it involves physically demanding terrain, but rewards hikers with breathtaking mountain views and cultural experiences. You’ll pass through traditional villages, see rural life in its simplest form, and encounter historical monasteries along the way.
Starting from Chame village and ending in Jomsom, this trek covers 80 kilometers in 6 days, with a mix of trekking and rest days to acclimatize. Crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and visiting the sacred Muktinath Temple are highlights of the trek.
Key Attractions:
– Thorong La Pass (5,416m) – The highest point of the trek with panoramic views.
– Muktinath Temple – A holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
– Ice Lake – A high-altitude frozen lake near Manang.
– Manang Village – A popular stop for acclimatization and a base for exploring Ice Lake and Tilicho Lake.
Difficulty:
This trek is physically and mentally demanding due to the high altitude and rapid progression. Trekkers should be experienced and fit, as the trek is completed in just 8 days, including one rest day for acclimatization.
Best Time to Visit:
– Autumn (September-November): Clear skies and moderate temperatures.
– Spring (March-May): Rhododendrons in bloom and pleasant trekking conditions.
Permits:
– ACAP Permit: Required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.
– TIMS Card: Trekker’s Information Management System card to track hikers for safety purposes.
Final Thoughts:
The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a rewarding, though challenging, adventure through one of the most iconic regions in Nepal. It’s a journey that pushes your limits, rewards with magnificent views, and provides insight into the local culture and history. After the trek, enjoy a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and relax in the vibrant streets of Kathmandu.
Here’s a detailed daily itinerary for the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)
Your trek begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, where you will be welcomed by your trekking team. You will be transferred to your hotel for rest and preparations for the trek. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Kathmandu’s vibrant culture, bustling streets, and landmarks such as Thamel. You will meet your trekking guide and group for a briefing about the trek, equipment, permits, and travel essentials. The overnight stay will be in a comfortable hotel.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Chame (2,670m)
After an early breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Chame, the starting point of the trek. The drive will take around 6-8 hours, depending on road conditions, passing through picturesque hills, rivers, and the rural countryside. Chame is a beautiful village that sits in the Annapurna Conservation Area, and it’s the starting point for the trek. You’ll have the opportunity to take in stunning views of snow-capped peaks like Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Overnight in Chame at a local lodge.
Day 3: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,200m)
This is the first trekking day, where you will hike from Chame to Pisang. The trail follows a winding route through pine forests and picturesque villages. You’ll pass the dense forests and walk through the charming villages of Bhartang and Danaque, where the lifestyle of the locals will offer you a glimpse into the traditional mountain life. The trek continues uphill with panoramic views of the peaks surrounding the valley. Pisang is a quiet village with scenic views of the surrounding mountains and will be your overnight stop.
Day 4: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,500m)
On the fourth day, you’ll trek from Pisang to Manang, a crucial stop for acclimatization to the higher altitude. The trek takes you through alpine meadows and a mix of pine and juniper forests, as you gradually climb higher towards Manang. This village is known for its Tibetan Buddhist culture and offers excellent views of the surrounding peaks, including the Annapurna range and Gangapurna. You’ll have some free time in the afternoon to rest and acclimatize, which is essential for avoiding altitude sickness. You can visit the local monastery or take a short side trip to explore the surroundings. Overnight in Manang.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Manang (Side Trip to Ice Lake)
To acclimatize to the altitude and prepare for the higher elevations, you will spend an extra day in Manang. You can choose to take a side trip to Ice Lake (Kicho Tal), a stunning high-altitude frozen lake located about 4,620 meters above sea level. The hike to the lake takes about 7-10 hours and offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. If you prefer a more relaxed day, you can stay in Manang, explore the village, visit the monastery, or take it easy to prepare for the next phase of the trek. This day of rest is essential for your body to adjust to the altitude.
Day 6: Trek from Manang to Thorong Phedi (4,450m)
This day is dedicated to trekking towards Thorong Phedi, the base camp of Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit. The trek from Manang to Thorong Phedi is a steady climb, passing through rocky paths and the scenic grazing meadows of the locals. As you ascend, you will start to feel the higher altitude, and you’ll notice the landscape becoming more barren and alpine. Thorong Phedi is a small settlement located just below the Thorong La Pass and serves as the final rest stop before the challenging crossing of the pass. Overnight stay at Thorong Phedi.
Day 7: Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
This is the most challenging day of the trek, as you will cross the Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,416 meters. The climb to the top of the pass is steep, and you’ll begin early in the morning to make the most of the daylight hours. Reaching the top of Thorong La Pass will be a rewarding experience as you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other surrounding peaks. After crossing the pass, you will descend to the holy town of Muktinath. Muktinath is a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists and is famous for its temple and 108 sacred water taps. The views and spiritual significance of the area make this a memorable day. Overnight in Muktinath.
Day 8: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700m)
On the final day of the trek, you will descend from Muktinath to Jomsom, a popular village in the Mustang district. The trail is downhill, and you will pass through picturesque villages, apple orchards, and scenic valleys. Jomsom is a bustling village with a small airport, and it marks the end of your trekking journey. Once in Jomsom, you’ll have time to relax and reflect on your incredible journey. Afterward, you’ll take a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, where you can unwind and relax, or explore the lakeside town of Pokhara. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Day 9: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will return to Kathmandu, completing your adventure. You can either take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu or opt for a 6-7 hour drive, enjoying the views of the landscape along the way. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can explore more of the city, do some last-minute shopping, or simply relax. Your trek officially ends upon reaching Kathmandu, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you can enjoy a farewell dinner with your trek group to celebrate the successful completion of the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Day 10: Departure from Kathmandu
On your final day, you will have some free time to explore Kathmandu or do some last-minute shopping before your departure. Your guide will assist you with the transfer to the airport, and you’ll depart with memories of an unforgettable trek in the Annapurna region.
This itinerary offers a quick but intense trekking experience that showcases the beauty of the Annapurna Circuit in a condensed timeframe.