Annapurna Circuit Trek
Starting from
US$1650
US$1650
P/P
The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a compact version of Nepal’s classic Annapurna Circuit. It gives trekkers the best high-altitude highlights of the route in only 8 days. This trek is ideal for travelers who want to cross Thorong La Pass, explore Manang Valley, visit Muktinath Temple, and experience the dramatic Mustang landscape without spending three full weeks on the trail.
The full Annapurna Circuit traditionally takes around 17 to 21 days. The short version uses road access by jeep to skip some of the lower walking sections and start closer to the high mountain region. This saves time while still keeping the most famous parts of the trek.
This trek is perfect for time-limited travelers, moderately fit hikers, and first-time Himalayan trekkers who want a real mountain adventure with proper acclimatization.
| Trip Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 8 Days |
| Maximum Altitude | 5,416 m at Thorong La Pass |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Challenging |
| Best Season | March to May and September to November |
| Starting Point | Kathmandu |
| Trek Starting Point | Chame |
| Ending Point | Kathmandu |
| Trek Ending Point | Muktinath |
| Accommodation | Hotel and teahouse |
| Meals | Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara, full meals during trek |
| Trek Style | Guided teahouse trek |
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli River before reaching Besisahar (760 m). From here, the road becomes rough and adventurous as you continue by 4WD jeep along the Marsyangdi River.
Drive through Dharapani (1,960 m), where the Annapurna and Manaslu trekking routes meet, and continue past Timang, offering your first close views of Manaslu (8,163 m) and Lamjung Himal. After a long but rewarding drive through waterfalls, cliffs, and alpine forests, arrive in Chame (2,650 m), the administrative center of Manang district.
Start trekking through dense pine and fir forests, following the Marsyangdi River upstream. Pass through Bhratang (2,850 m), known for its apple orchards and bakery.
The trail gradually climbs through a narrow valley before opening up with dramatic views of Annapurna II (7,937 m). Cross suspension bridges and continue to Lower Pisang, then take a short but steep climb to Upper Pisang (3,300 m), offering stunning panoramic mountain views and traditional Tibetan-style villages
Today follows the famous upper trail via Ghyaru (3,670 m) and Ngawal (3,660 m), considered one of the most scenic sections of the Annapurna Circuit.
The climb to Ghyaru is steep but rewarding, with breathtaking views of Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Pisang Peak. Continue through traditional villages and descend gradually to Braga, where you can visit the ancient monastery.
Arrive in Manang (3,540 m), a culturally rich Himalayan village surrounded by towering peaks and glacial landscapes.
A crucial day for altitude adaptation. You can take short hikes to improve acclimatization:
Gangapurna Lake (3,600 m) – 1.5 hrs round trip
Ice Lake (4,600 m) – 5–6 hrs (challenging option)
Chongkor Viewpoint (3,800 m) – great panoramic views
Manang is also a great place to explore local culture, visit bakeries, and learn about high-altitude living. Proper acclimatization significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness before heading higher.
Leave Manang and ascend gradually through Tenki village, entering alpine terrain above the tree line. The trail follows a steady climb with wide-open views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Chulu peaks.
Pass small settlements like Gunsang (3,900 m) before reaching Yak Kharka (4,050–4,080 m), a quiet grazing area surrounded by rugged Himalayan landscapes.
Continue your ascent toward Thorong Phedi (4,450 m), crossing a suspension bridge over the Jarsang Khola. The trail becomes steeper and more rugged.
After a short rest at Phedi, climb to High Camp (4,880–4,925 m). The climb is challenging due to altitude, but the reward is spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Rest early and prepare for the early morning crossing of Thorong La Pass.
Start early in the morning around 3–4 AM to cross the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The ascent from High Camp usually takes around 3–4 hours depending on weather and physical condition.
From the summit, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna Himalaya, Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri, and the dramatic landscapes of the Mustang region.
After spending a short time at the pass, begin a careful descent toward Muktinath Temple (3,800 m), an important spiritual destination for both Hindus and Buddhists. Explore the temple complex, including the sacred 108 water spouts and peaceful surroundings.
Take an early morning scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, flying between the massive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges — one of the most dramatic mountain flights in Nepal.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel and relax. You can explore Phewa Lake, Lakeside, or enjoy a peaceful evening with Himalayan views.
Service Types
Compare the available package types and choose the service level that matches your comfort, budget, and support needs.
Standard Package Cost
US$ 1495 per person
Budget Package Cost
US$ 985 per person
The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a shorter version of the classic Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. It usually takes 8 to 12 days and covers the most beautiful parts of the trail, including villages, mountains, and the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416m). It is a good choice for trekkers who want a full Himalayan experience in less time.
The trek takes around 8 to 12 days. Most trekkers complete it in 10 days. The route usually starts from Besisahar or Chame and ends in Jomsom or Muktinath after crossing Thorong La Pass.
The best time is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons have clear weather, good mountain views, and safe trekking conditions. Monsoon season is not recommended because of rain and landslides.
The trek is moderate to challenging. You need to walk 5 to 8 hours a day. The hardest part is crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters due to high altitude and cold weather.
No, trekking experience is not required. Beginners can do this trek if they are physically fit and well-prepared.
A guide is not required but is highly recommended for safety and support. A porter is optional and helps carry your bag so you can trek more comfortably.
You need only one permit:
You can get it in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Guided packages usually include guide, porter, food, accommodation, and permits.
Thorong La Pass is the highest point of the trek at 5,416 meters. It takes 3-5 hours to climb and 2-3 hours to descend. It is difficult but safe with proper preparation.
Altitude sickness happens when your body cannot adjust to high altitude. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and dizziness. To avoid it, walk slowly, drink water, and take rest days.
You will stay in teahouses along the trail. Rooms are simple but comfortable. Some places have Wi-Fi and hot showers at lower elevations.
You can get Dal Bhat, noodles, fried rice, pasta, soup, momos, eggs, and porridge. Dal Bhat is the most popular because it gives long-lasting energy.
Bring warm clothes, trekking boots, a jacket, sleeping bag, trekking poles, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water purification tablets.
Yes, it is strongly recommended. Insurance should cover high-altitude trekking and helicopter rescue.
Yes, but it is safer to trek with a guide because of altitude and remote areas.
Yes. It is one of the best trekking routes in Nepal, offering mountains, culture, and high passes in a short time.
We request you to tip the guide and other support staff l as they are part of making your trip a success, we recommend tipping both your guide and support staff.
However, it is up to you to decide how much, you can make this decision based on your experience and the service you receive from our staff.
Mountain Eco Treks is a licensed local Nepal trekking company based in Kathmandu, founded by Ram Bahadur Tamang, a mountain leader with more than 15 years of trekking and expedition experience across Nepal and Tibet. Registered with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and TAAN, we provide reliable trekking services with a strong focus on safety, local expertise, and responsible tourism.
Licensed & Reliable
We operate as a fully registered trekking company in Nepal with transparent services and recognized tourism affiliations.
Experienced Local Guides
Our NTB-certified guides are first-aid trained and have extensive experience leading trekkers on Nepal’s most popular Himalayan routes.
Safety as a Priority
Daily acclimatization monitoring, proper trip planning, and emergency preparedness are part of every trek we organize.
Complete Trek Support
From permits and transportation to accommodation, meals, and porters, we manage the logistics so you can focus on the journey.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden charges and flexible options for private or group treks to suit different travel styles and budgets.
Responsible Travel Approach
We support eco-friendly trekking practices, local communities, and initiatives that benefit villages and preserve the mountain environment.
Foreign nationals can obtain a Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or at designated land border entry points from India and Tibet. Travelers can also apply for an online visa in advance through the official immigration system.
To apply for a Nepal visa, travelers need:
Visa fees and rules may change as per Nepal Immigration regulations.
Tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.
Advice to Travelers
Trekkers visiting national parks, conservation areas, and restricted regions such as the Everest Region, Annapurna Region, and Manaslu Region require trekking permits. Some restricted areas also require special permits issued through a registered trekking agency in Nepal.
Plan Your Nepal Adventure with Mountain Eco Treks
Mountain Eco Treks is a trusted local trekking and tour company based in Nepal, offering professional trekking, tour, climbing, and adventure travel services across the Himalayas.
We organize:
Our team provides complete travel support including permits, transportation, accommodation, and guided trekking experiences across Nepal.
Contact Mountain Eco Treks
For official Nepal visa information, visit: https://immigration.gov.np/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Mountain Eco Treks & Expeditions (P) Ltd is a Nepal Government-registered trekking company based in Kathmandu, operating tours and expeditions across Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. Please read these terms before booking.
We accept Visa, Mastercard, and bank wire transfer. Additional bank charges may apply.
All cancellations must be made in writing.
| Notice Period | Charge |
|---|---|
| 50+ days | Deposit retained |
| 30 days | 50% of total |
| 2 weeks | 75% of total |
| 1 week or less | 100% - no refund |
A 20% non-refundable deposit applies in all cancellation cases. No refund is issued for incomplete trips or early departures from the itinerary.
If we cancel due to weather, natural disaster, or unrest, we offer an alternative trip or full refund. Any personal expenses (flights, visas) remain your responsibility.
Himalayan travel involves unpredictable weather, road conditions, and remote flight routes. We minimize disruptions where possible, but extra costs during delays are the client's responsibility. No refunds for itinerary changes beyond our control.
By booking with us, you agree to all terms above.
Mountain Eco Treks & Expeditions (P) Ltd 🌐 www.mountainecotreks.com
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| T-Shirts | 3–4 moisture-wicking shirts |
| Fleece Jacket | Warm mid-layer for cold mornings |
| Down Jacket | Essential above 3,000 m |
| Waterproof Jacket | Wind and rain protection |
| Trekking Trousers | Quick-dry lightweight pants |
| Wool Socks | 3-4 warm trekking pairs |
| Gloves & Hat | Cold-weather protection |
| Buff / Scarf | Dust and wind protection |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Trekking Boots | Waterproof with ankle support |
| Sandals / Slippers | Comfortable for evenings |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Daypack | 10-15L daily backpack |
| Trekking Poles | Reduces knee strain |
| Water Bottle | Refillable 2-liter bottle |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid 6+ months |
| Nepal Visa | Required for entry |
| Travel Insurance | Includes evacuation coverage |
| Passport Photos | For permits and documents |
| Cash & Card | Local cash recommended |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Painkillers | Headache and muscle relief |
| Anti-Diarrheal | For stomach issues |
| Bandages | Basic injury care |
| Sunscreen SPF 50+ | High-altitude UV protection |
| Lip Balm | Prevents dry lips |
| Prescription Medicine | Personal medical supply |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Headlamp | With spare batteries |
| Sleeping Bag | Suitable for cold temperatures |
| Sunglasses | UV400 protection |
| Water Purification | Tablets or filter |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile Phone | Offline maps recommended |
| Camera | Extra batteries advised |
| Power Bank | High-capacity backup |
| Travel Adapter | Nepal 2-pin plug |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy Bars | Quick trail snacks |
| Electrolyte Drinks | Hydration support |
You need two main permits for this trek.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit allows trekkers to enter and trek inside the Annapurna protected region.
The Trekkers’ Information Management System Card helps record trekker details for safety and tracking.
Permits are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara through the Nepal Tourism Board office and authorized agencies.
Mountain Eco Treks arranges both permits for clients. You only need to provide a passport copy and passport-size photos before the trek.
The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is rated moderate to challenging. It is shorter than the full circuit, but it reaches high altitude quickly. The hardest section is the Thorong La Pass crossing at 5,416 meters.
Most trekking days require 5 to 8 hours of walking. Day 7 is the longest and toughest day.
• High altitude
• Long walking days
• Cold weather near the pass
• Steep ascent and descent
• Basic teahouse facilities
• Bumpy jeep roads
• Early morning start for Thorong La Pass
Altitude sickness is one of the main concerns on this trek. Symptoms include headache, nausea, poor sleep, dizziness, loss of appetite, and tiredness.
Mountain Eco Treks uses a safer 10-day itinerary because it includes an acclimatization day in Manang. This makes the route safer than rushed 6 to 7 day versions.
Before departure, you should train with:
• Cardio workouts
• Hill walking
• Stair climbing
• Leg strength exercises
• Core training
• Long weekend hikes
• Walking with a loaded backpack
You do not need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours on mountain terrain.
The best times are spring and autumn.
Spring offers warmer weather, clear mornings, and blooming rhododendrons in lower areas. This is a strong season for photography and comfortable trekking.
Autumn is the most popular season. Skies are clearer, mountain views are sharp, and weather is more stable. Trekkers should book early during October and November.
Winter brings cold temperatures and possible snow on Thorong La Pass. The trail is quieter, but trekkers need warmer gear and flexible planning.
Monsoon is not recommended for this itinerary. Rain can cause landslides on jeep roads, poor visibility, and transport delays.
| Month | Weather | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| January | Very cold, snow risk | Fair |
| February | Cold, improving views | Fair |
| March | Clear and warmer | Good |
| April | Stable and scenic | Excellent |
| May | Warm, some haze | Good |
| June | Rain begins | Poor |
| July | Monsoon rain | Poor |
| August | Wet and unstable roads | Poor |
| September | Clearer after monsoon | Good |
| October | Best weather | Excellent |
| November | Clear and cold | Excellent |
| December | Cold, fewer trekkers | Fair |
| Feature | Short Annapurna Circuit Trek | Full Annapurna Circuit Trek |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 8 days | 14 to16 days |
| Distance | Shorter | Longer |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging | Moderate to challenging with longer endurance |
| Acclimatization | Good with Manang rest day | More gradual |
| Best For | Time-limited trekkers | Classic route lovers |
| Route Coverage | Main high-altitude highlights | Complete circuit experience |
| Cultural Depth | Good | Deeper |
• Lower Marsyangdi Valley villages
• Jagat, Tal, and Dharapani walking sections
• Some subtropical forest landscapes
• More gradual cultural transition
• Extra days in lower hill country
• Thorong La Pass
• Manang Valley
• Muktinath Temple
• Mustang landscape
• Annapurna mountain views
• High-altitude trekking experience
• Teahouse culture
Choose the short trek if your time is limited.
Choose the full circuit if you want the complete classic Annapurna journey.
Accommodation is in teahouses during the trek. Teahouses are local mountain lodges with basic rooms, shared dining areas, and simple facilities.
Rooms are usually twin-sharing. Toilets can be western-style or squat-style depending on the village. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and phone charging are often available for an extra fee.
Common food options include:
• Dal bhat
• Fried rice
• Noodles
• Pasta
• Momos
• Soup
• Porridge
• Eggs
• Pancakes
• Tea and coffee
• Bakery items in Manang
• Apple products in the Mustang region
Dal bhat is the most reliable trekking meal. It provides rice, lentil soup, vegetables, pickles, and sometimes extra refills.
Trekkers should drink purified water instead of buying plastic bottles. This reduces waste and supports eco-friendly trekking.
Mountain Eco Treks is a Nepal-based trekking company focused on safe, responsible, and personal trekking experiences.
• Licensed and government-registered company
• Experienced local trekking guides
• High-altitude route knowledge
• Small group sizes
• Flexible itinerary options
• Transparent pricing
• Permit and logistics support
• Custom departure dates
• Responsible trekking practices
• Porter support available
• Safety-focused planning
Eco-responsible trekking means respecting local communities, reducing plastic waste, supporting local teahouses, managing trail impact, and encouraging responsible behavior in the mountains.
Mountain Eco Treks helps you experience the Annapurna region with care, safety, and local expertise.
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Experience the best of Nepal with expert local guides, carefully planned itineraries, and personalized support from enquiry to departure. Tell us what you want to explore and we will help you build the right trip.
Call us: +9779803926665
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Pungunkis
Australia
Best adventure trek
17 Jun 2018
Dev Lama what can I say about this guy.He is an abaolute legend.I had the chance to do the Annapurna circuit trek in March 2018.He was the best guide ever.He was well known over the trek and he knows the best routes to talk to view the best scenary.I needed to complete my trek sooner than thanks expected as I had other plans.He adjusted his pace accordingly and made sure I was safe the whole time.He is quite knowledgeable also.He can tell you alot about Nepal and the Himalayan people.He showed me around other places in Pokhra after the trek.Not only ia he a great guide but really good company.Met as a guide left as a friend.I definetly recommend trekking with him.Cheers brother!!!
Date of experience: March 2018
Source :Trip Advisor
Address: Melbourne,
Review By: Juicy_89
Austria
Lovely companionship in Jomsom
20 Mar 2018
Dev and I met in Jomsom in Kali Gandaki valley, when I was on my solo-trek there. We came to sit in a tiny restaurant/bar as it started to rain heavily outside. So we started chatting and enjoyed tea after tea. Dev is a really experienced guide and kind person. In the evening we met again for dinner together with his trekking group. It was such a funny, lovely evening together and the girls and guys kept on raving about how lucky they were with Dev as a guide, he couldn't have made any better choice :) I really enjoyed the sympathetic companionship that evening and valued the talk with Dev a lot who explained me about Nepal, its mountains and culture.
Source: TripAdvisor
Address: Vienna
Tim B
Germany
Peaceful Trekking
12 May 2018
Just go with the flow. Trekking together with Ram (Owner of Mountain Eco Treks) you will leave Nepal as a friend. It is not only safe it's furthermore fun, full of joy, and an authentic Nepal experience. Hiking side by side along some of the remotest paths towards or in the Himalayas region can literally bring you back to peace and its ceasing of your mind when you enjoy a spectacular view at 4800m or even higher altitude, sharing local Dhal Bat (don't dare to taste the real Nepali version) incl. an Everest Beer and have some nice conversation about the past and the very present is an experience what I enjoying since more than 5 years now bc. of Ram. His more than 13 years of lasting guiding experience will lead you to many better places even on the beaten tracks due to the many connections he has with almost everyone in that area plus he with his company takes care of his country through sponsoring an orphanage in Kathmandu too.
Source: Trip Advisor
Reviewed May 12, 2018, via mobile
Date of experience: May 2018
Address: Germany Berlin
Chris
Germany
Thorong La Pass in winter
10 Dec 2018
We, a group of three, did the Annapurna Circuit (+Poon Hill) in December 2018/January 2019 with Ram as our guide. We had an amazing experience and I would highly recommend doing the trek in winter instead of during the main season. If you can take the cold, you will be rewarded with clear skies and only very few other trekkers sharing the path with you.
Having an experienced guide like Ram with us gave us the peace of mind we needed to do the AC off-season. It also made our experience at the lodges a lot easier and more fun. We especially appreciated his being flexible and knowledgeable enough to change plans on the spot.
I would highly recommend Ram as a guide for any trek in Nepal! He is a very good company and a fun guy who will make your trip more enjoyable and memorable.
Source: Trip Advisor
KiwisHorst
France
Anna Purna trail, amazing Nepal!
7 Nov 2017
Completed the Annapurna circuit, an awesome trek in the beautiful mountains of Nepal. The trek takes you up to Throng La pass (5400+mtr) and passes lovely small towns with friendly people.
It's not a tough trek and can be done by anyone who has moderate fitness. But, high mountains can be dangerous, so prepare yourself! Eating and sleeping were done in several lodges along the trek. Picking the right one was done by our guide and saved us a lot of time and possible wrong choices.
We were guided by Ram Bahadur Tamang, a guy who knows all about the area and Nepal. He took care of us and arranged the whole trip, we only had to enjoy it! Thanks, Ram, well done!
Source: Trip Advisor