Annapurna Circuit Trek with Thorong Pass - 11 Days

(5.0)6 reviews
Know before you go
  • Duration 11 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Best Season March - May and Oct - Dec
  • Trip Area Annapurna Region
  • Maximum Altitude 5416m.| 17769ft.

Highlights

  • A short version of the world-famous Annapurna Circuit trek with an equally rewarding venture
  • Adventurous trek to the Thorong La pass
  • Trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to hundreds of flora & fauna
  • Explore the beautiful villages resided by people from different communities
  • Visit ancient monasteries and temples along the way, including the holy Muktinath temple
  • Witness breathtaking landscapes and stunning mountain panorama
  • Experience steep and rough trek in the Annapurna region

​​Join the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek 11 Days and explore the Annapurna Conservation Area. Cross the high pass and visit the ancient temple. Enjoy an adventurous trek in the western Himalayas.

We have designed one of the most famous long trekking routes in the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Circuit trek, into a short 11 days trip. Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is for trekkers looking for an alternative to the long trek. This trek is an excellent introduction to Nepal's rich cultural heritage and adventurous Himalayan trekking routes.

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek 11 Days crosses the challenging Thorong La pass (5,416m.|7,769ft.) and takes you to the holy Muktinath Temple (3,800m.|12,467ft.). The trail ascends through lush forests and gradually reaches the alpine meadows. You pass by lovely remote villages and waterfalls along the way. The route goes along the Kali Gandaki River gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. 

Likewise, the trail passes by apple orchards and narrow alleyways to Jomsom (2,743m.|8,999ft.). There are several steep and rough parts too. While trekking, you get to witness stunning landscapes and visit ancient monasteries. As you spend nights in a different village, you get to interact with the friendly villagers and observe their lifestyle. 

Views during the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek 11 Days

Annapurna circuit short trek presents you with the spectacular beauty of the western Himalayas. You can see breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains like Annapurna (8,091m.|26,545ft.), Dhaulagiri (8,167m.|26,794ft.), Manaslu (8,163m.|26,781ft.), Nilgiri (7,061m.|23,166ft.), Hiunchuli (6,441m.|21,231ft.), Tilicho Peak (7,134m.|23,406ft.), Gangapurna (7,455m.|24,459ft.), Pisang Peak (6,091m.|19,984ft.), etc while trekking. Likewise, the top of Thorong La pass also offers a fantastic mountain panorama. 

Why trek with us?

Our no hidden charge, attention to detail, and a reasonable price with high-quality service make us the best trekking partner in Nepal. We are very flexible in organizing tailor-made trips that let you customize your itinerary. Likewise, during the trek, our best guides accompany you. 

We also make sure our treks in the Himalayas are eco-friendly and do not harm nature in any way. Please contact us at any time for more information on the short Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

If you are looking for other short treks, then check out these packages- Mardi Himal TrekLangtang Valley Trek, Gosaikunda Lake Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, etc.

Itinerary

Day to Day Details

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Today, we will arrive in Kathmandu at TIA. Our NNT representative will welcome you at the airport and drop you at your hotel or hostel. We will meet you at our office in the evening.

  • Standard Hotel
  • Welcome Dinner
  • 1400m.|4428ft.

Duration: 9 - 10 hours drive

Our trek begins today. We will drive in a jeep to Chame. The beautiful scenarios of the hills, terrain fields, and landscapes are seen from the jeep while traveling to Chame.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2660m.|8725ft.

Duration: 5 - 6 hours

Leaving the trail of Chame following the trails through Telekhu, we reach Brathang. With the pathway along the bank of Marsyangdi River and ascent over a pine-forested, moving from the upper part of Manang valley to we get to Pisang. On the way, we can see the stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna ranges.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3300m.|10824ft.

Duration: 7-8 hour

Today we are at the starting point of the upper region of the Manang district, Pisang. We begin our trek to Braga, where the major attraction is the Gompa. After a while, we reach our destination for the day, Manang.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3540m.|11613ft.

Manang is a stunning village on the lap of Mt. Gangapurna and Mt. Annapurna III. We need to acclimatize to adapt to the changing altitude and avoid the risk of altitude sickness. We will hike up to Ice Lake and return to Manang.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4600m.|15091ft.

Duration: 4-5 hour

As we move forward, we reach fields where horses and several yaks are grazing. The serenity of Yak Kharka is the ideal spot for us to stay overnight.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4050m.|13286ft.

Duration: 4-5 hour

The trek to Letdar allows us to acclimate to the rising altitude as we ascend along the east bank of the Jarang Khola. We eventually arrive at the Thorung Phedi, a meadow surrounded by vertical cliffs. Blue sheep and snow leopards are spotted in the area, but Lammergeyers and griffons are more common. We're staying here for the night.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4525m.|14845ft.

Duration: 9-10 hours

It is the most challenging day of the trek. You will be crossing the Thorong La Pass, where there is a strong wind along the way. You will view the eye-catching views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, Khatungkang, Dhaulagiri, and many more. After crossing the Thorong La Pass, you will reach Muktinath through the easy path, and after having lunch over there, drive to Jomsom.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 5,416m/17,769ft)

Duration: 25 minutes flight

We will take a morning flight of 25 minutes to Pokhara. Spend the time strolling around Pokhara city.

  • Standard Hotel
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 800m.|2625ft.

Duration: 7 hours drive

We drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara, enjoying the greenery of the hills.

 

  • Standard Hotel
  • Breakfast, and Dinner
  • 1400m.|4593ft.

We will drop you at the airport and bid you a final goodbye.

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    Route Map

    Annapurna Circuit Trek with Thorong Pass - 11 Days map

    What's Included

    • Airport transfer services arrival/departure and local flight schedules
    • Kathmandu and Pokhara Standard hotel, including breakfasts.
    • Best available accommodations during the trek.
    • Standard 3 meals and a cup of tea or coffee
    • English speaking, government licensed, trekking guide 15 years of experience and one porter shared between two trekkers
    • Guide and porter salaries, food, equipment, and insurances
    • All applicable ACAP, TIMS, and Local permits
    • Flight tickets Jomsom to Pokhara and needed transport tourist bus jeep, car, taxi
    • Sleeping bags and down jackets can be use from the Company (If needed)
    • Nepal Nirvana Trails Duffel Bag, T-shirt, Trekking map, and Water purifications tablets
    • Farewell dinner in a fine restaurant.
    • Official expenses and government taxes and VAT. 

    What's Excluded

    • International flight tickets
    • Nepal entry visa
    • Travel and health insurance to cover emergency rescues and evacuations.
    • Day tour and Pokhara to Kathmandu flight tickets
    • Additional snacks, drinks, bottled water, Wi-Fi, etc., during the trek.
    • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except the farewell dinner)
    • Tips for guides, porters, and drivers (it is expected)

    Upcoming Departures

        
    Start DateSaturdayDecember 09, 2023End DateTuesdayDecember 19, 2023PriceAvailableUS $999
    Start DateSundayDecember 17, 2023End DateWednesdayDecember 27, 2023PriceAvailableUS $999

    Useful Info

    ​​Short Annapurna Circuit Trek difficulty

    Just because we have made the trek short doesn't mean the journey will get any easier. Yes, you'll be spending less time walking, but the terrain and the difficulty are the same. You'll be walking 6 to 7 hours a day in a remote area. The trail is rugged and steep. You get limited modern facilities while trekking. Everything is basic and simple. 

    Similarly, the Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking crosses the Thorong La pass. It is one of the most challenging passes in the Himalayas. The route follows the steep, rocky track. 

    You may also have to walk on snow depending upon the season. This trek is for experienced trekkers who are aware of the hurdles the Himalayas possess and can endure. 

    Altitude Sickness

    During the Annapurna circuit short trek, the risk of altitude sickness is quite low. On the eighth day of your arrival in Kathmandu, you'll be at the top of Thorong La pass, which stands at 5,416 meters. 

    Even though you'll be gaining a constant elevation every day before touching the trek's highest point, the change is still huge. Therefore, you have to look out for altitude sickness and make sure you do not see any symptoms. 

    Some of the symptoms are bad headache, difficulty in breathing, loss of appetite, nausea, and insomnia. Take rest days and drink a lot of water to avoid altitude sickness while trekking. 

    Training for the Annapurna Circuit

    To train yourself for the Annapurna circuit trek, we advise you to work on your stamina and walking. The trek demands long walks, so build up long walking hours. Go on a few hikes to do so. Likewise, you can do activities like swimming, cycling, and running to increase your stamina. 

    No advance training is needed for this trek. Only make sure your body, and especially your legs are fit & ready for the trail. If you go to the gym, add cardio to your routine. 

    Annapurna Circuit Trek Permit

    You have to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and TIMS card for the Annapurna circuit short trek. Our Short Annapurna Circuit Trek cost covers the cost of these permits. We also get the permits on behalf of you to make your time hassle-free in Kathmandu.

    Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost:

    NPR 200 per person for SAARC nationals

    NPR 3,000 per person for other nationals

    Kids below 10 years old do not need an ACAP permit

    TIMS Card permit cost:

    NPR 2,000 per person

    Short Annapurna Circuit Trek best time

    Spring (March to April) and Autumn (October to November) is the best time to go on Annapurna Circuit Trek 11 Days. The weather is mostly stable and pleasant during these seasons, which is very important for a successful & safe venture. Likewise, the trail also gets extremely beautiful with a range of flora and vegetation. 

    Low chances of precipitation. The views are clear and stunning. Likewise, the chill breeze and fresh air make the walk fantastic. The temperature fluctuates between 18 to 5 degrees Celsius.

    Accommodation & Meals

    In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you stay overnight in a tourist standard hotel. The hotels are equipped with all modern amenities and services. While on the trail, the teahouse will be the accommodation for your night's stay. The teahouse in this part of Nepal is pretty basic and offers minimal services due to the isolation of the region. The rooms are generally small with a shared or attached washroom. 

    In cities, you will be served breakfast only and a complimentary farewell & welcome dinner. During the trek, three meals a day are given. The meals are served as per the menu of the teahouse. You will get a wide range of dishes to have. However, the taste might be a little different from usual due to species. You are advised to carry snacks and bars with you.

    Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is needed to join Annapurna Short Trek. This is for your safety. Even with all of our efforts, we can not predict the unseen situation in the remote Himalayas. Therefore having well-covered travel insurance will let you explore freely. Your travel insurance must include medical bills, air evacuation, flight cancellation, and loss or theft of personal property.

    Travel Tips (electricity, internet, ATM, luggage, tipping, personal expenses)

    • Annapurna Circuit has no ATM to withdraw money while trekking. Your last chance to withdraw money is in Kathmandu.
    • Electricity is available in the teahouses. You can use the charging stations to charge your devices, paying a few extra bucks. Carrying extra batteries is recommended.
    • Most of the trekking route receives a cellular network. So, you can use the internet. You may get wifi service in some villages at lower elevations.
    • The main luggage during the trek is duffle bags. You have to carry a light day pack that might include your essentials, water bottle, etc. Also, have a lockable suitcase with you so that you can leave extra clothing in the hotel's locker room free of charge.
    • Personal expenses like drinks, snacks, souvenirs, etc, are not added to the package cost. If you do not drink alcohol, then USD 12 to USD 15 per day per person is enough on the trail for a hot shower, drinks, snacks, etc.
    • You are always recommended to give tips to tour guides, drivers, trekking guides, and porters. Again it is a matter of your choice. If you like the service, then tipping will be appreciated. The tip is not included in the package cost.

    FAQs

    • It usually takes 18 to 21 days to do the classic Annapurna Circuit. However, we also have a short 11 days Annapurna Circuit trek for travelers with a short time.

    • Annapurna Circuit Trek is a challenging trek. The high altitude, rough terrain, and isolation of the region from the rest of the country make the trek difficult. 

    • Yes, Annapurna Circuit is worth a journey. The views are fantastic as well, and the trekking experience is once in a lifetime. Even though there is some road construction, new trails are also outlined to offer the trekker an even more adventurous trip.

    • Yes, you can hike to Annapurna Circuit on your own. This trek is also safe for solo female trekkers. The locals along the trails are friendly, and you'll come across many trekkers as well while trekking. We recommend trekking with a travel company because they make the journey hassle-free. You do not have to carry heavy luggage as the porter will accompany you and the guide will tell you a lot about the region. 

      The journey becomes more managed and smooth if you are trekking with us. We also organize private treks if you wish to trek solo. 

       

    • No, you cannot see Everest from Annapurna Circuit because Mt. Everest is located in the eastern part of Nepal. Annapurna Circuit explores the western part of Nepal.

    • No, you do not need crampons for Annapurna Circuit trekking. There may be a snow walk, but no crampons are needed.

    • The distance you cover during the Annapurna Circuit trek is 160 km to 230 km. It can differ as per your itinerary.

    • Yes, the Annapurna Circuit trek is open. You can now trek in the area freely. Contact us to book your Annapurna Circuit and get the best price.

    Client Reviews

    tptripadvisor
    • S
      SimonItalyNovember 15, 2023

      Annapurna Circuit Trek + Poon Hill

      Fantastic trekking trip from start to the end. KP and family were outstanding, changing a plan at the last minute due to late arrival of our luggage. Our guide Resham and Porter Ras where great, ensuring we stayed safe and their local knowledge through out was first class. Highly recommend Nirvana Trails, this is the second time I have used KP for Himalaya trekking and he never disappoints. Fantastic service from a lovely family business.

      Dear Simon, Namaste! 
      Thank you for taking the time to leave a review about your experience at the Annapurna Circuit with Poonhill Trek under the guidance of Mr. Resham and Porter Raj. We are glad to hear that you were satisfied with our guide and porter and the logistics handled by the company. I look forward to providing services again.
      Best regards, 
      Kp Dhital and Nepal Nirvana Trails Team. 
      WhatsApp: +977 9841380469

    • M
      MichelleUnited KingdomNovember 15, 2023

      Completed the Anna Purna circuit in. 11 days

      Fantastic! Each day was different. Excellent personal service from KP having amended our itinerary after our baggage had not arrived. Great company from our guide Risham and Sherpa Raz ensuring got the most out of each day! Our second trip with Nirvana trails. Would definitely recommend as the team constantly strive to give 100% towards customer service.

      Dear Michelle, Namaste! 
      Thank you so much for reviewing our service via TripAdvisor. We are glad to hear about your experience at the Annapurna Circuit with Poonhill Trek under the guidance of Mr. Resham and Porter Raj. Thank you for recommending our services. I look forward to providing services again.
      Best regards, 
      Kp Dhital and Nepal Nirvana Trails Team. 
      WhatsApp: +977 9841380469

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