Short Annapurna Circuit Trek - 8 days

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.