Annapurna Circuit Short Trek-10 Days

Trip Introduction: Annapurna Circuit Short Trek 2024/2025

Annapurna Short Circuit Trek allows interested trekkers to enjoy incredible dramatic scenery and excellent views on this unique and beautiful adventure. The Circuit of Annapurna is a dream destination for many trekkers. It offers majestic mountain views, diverse vegetation which includes rhododendrons and alpine forests, spectacular landscape views, and culturally rich communities.

Similarly, Nepal Trekking Planner has designed this wonderful Annapurna short circuit package for those who want to visit the marvelous Annapurna Region of Nepal around the excellent and massive Annapurna Himalayan Range. This adventure allows trekkers to fulfill their mountain dreams in a short duration of time of ten days .

Since last decades, the Annapurna Circuit route where motorable roads have been constructed makes it easier to encounter the whole Annapurna Circuit in 10 days or maybe within a week. During this period visitors can experience the region's beauty facing excellent views throughout the magnificent journey on drives and walks.

The area around Annapurna Circuit is regarded as the world’s Top Ten destination for adventure, long walks, and trekking where views of white snow peaks remain constant, with dramatic variations of temperatures. The majestic mountains like Machhapuchhare, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho Peak, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Hiunchuli, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak and many other peaks can be seen.

From where does The Annapurna Short Circuit start and end?

Annapurna Circuit Short Trek begins with an exciting overland journey towards Bulbul within the low and heavily farmed areas of Lamjung. Then it continues heading higher to more excellent alpine hills at Chame within Manang district.

Chame is the main town and headquarters of the Manang area where our actual walk begins heading into lovely woods of tall rhododendron and pine trees following the raging Marysangdi River right up to its glacial source at Manang Valley.

As the trek progresses with an uphill climb enter into scenic high Manang Valley enclosed with snow-capped peaks of Annapurna Range with Chulu group(Chulu East and Chulu West) and Pisang peak in view.

From Pisang village, the starting point of Manang Valley, the walk leads to short ups and downs until reaching Braga. Upon reaching Braga visit a lovely old interesting monastery enriched with ancient Buddhist treasures of relics and colorful religious paintings. This is also known as Braga Monastery. Braga is a popular destination in the region which contains statues of Buddhist deities, ancient sculptures, and paintings, The monastery is covered with prayer flags giving insight into the Buddhist culture of the region.

After a wonderful time visiting the monastery with spectacular views of Annapurna and Chulu peaks, we reach the main Manang village enclosed by an array of peaks. Manang is a lovely spot for an overnight stop to enjoy and witness the immense local culture.

From Manang village, the adventure takes trekkers to the end of the valley rim with a climb over the highest point of the journey to cross and traverse Thorang-La Pass above 5,416 m and 17,769 ft high. The top of Thorang-La rewards visitors with the spectacular panorama of Dhaulagiri, Mustang, and Damodar Himal with the Chulu and Annapurna range.

Our tough walk of the adventure moves further on a long journey to reach the Mustang area at holy premises in the Muktinath temple area and its lovely villages facing beautiful views of Nilgiri, Tukuche, and Dhaulagiri Mountain range.

Muktinath temple is an important holy pilgrimage spot for Hindus, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the name Muktinath means a place to Liberate or free yourself from your sins by praying and paying homage at the temple.

From Muktinath temple, our walking adventure completes where the drive takes you down Kali-Gandaki River Valley with a drop of nearly 1,200 meter or more to reach the nice town of Jomsom, and then past lovely villages of Marpha, Tukuche to reach the low warm area in Tatopani, a village with refreshing natural hot-spring.

After an enjoyable overnight in Tatopani drive leads to the end of our journey at the beautiful and scenic city of Pokhara, regarded as a leading and renowned tourist of Nepal and around Himalayas for its natural beauty of mountains and lakes.

A great place to conclude our marvelous adventure in Pokhara after an overwhelming experience on the Annapurna Circuit Short 10 Days Trekking with unforgettable moments around both beautiful sides of the massive Annapurna Himalaya.

Why to select Annapurna Circuit Short Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the popular treks among the trekking routes of Nepal. It lies in the western part of Nepal and provides the best experience of the beauty and culture of the Annapurna Region of Nepal. Some of the reasons to go for Trekking In Annapurna region are:

• Magnificent view: The trek offers you the provides breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range, featuring peaks such as Annapurna South 7,219 m, Hiunchuli 6,441 m, Machhapuchhare (also known as "Fishtail") 6,993 m, Dhaulagiri 8,167 m, Nilgiri 7,061 m, Lamjung Himal 6,983 m.
• Cultural Experience: The trek takes you through traditional Nepali villages, where you will have the opportunity to connect with the inhabitants, learn about their customs and traditions, and try their food. You'll also see vital religious sites like Muktinath Temple, sacred to Hindus and Buddhists.
• Challenging But Rewarding: The trek is challenging and needs a decent degree of fitness and endurance, but the spectacular sights and sense of accomplishment make it worthwhile. Trekking across high altitude places such as Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft) can be a physically and mentally taxing journey, but it is a great accomplishment.
• Accessibility: The trek is very easy to reach when compared to other treks in the vicinity. It normally starts from Nayapul, which is about 40 km west from Pokhara. The origin can be reached by roadways or by airways. The Annapurna Circuit Trek trail is well-maintained and equipped with basic amenities such as tea houses and lodges for lodging.

Is Annapurna Short Circuit right for people?

Annapurna Short Circuit is a wonderful option for those who are in good physical condition and have prior hiking expertise.

It is important to remember that the Circuit Trek involves high-altitude trekking route, so individuals planning to embark on this trek should take care to preserve your safety and health. This involves staying hydrated, acclimating correctly, and being mindful of altitude sickness signs.

Before embarking on the Annapurna Circuit Trip or any high-altitude trip, Trekking Planner Nepal recommends to prior check with doctor or health personnel to know about the health conditions. Necessary precaution might be needed to follow before or during the trek. We also facilitate with well-trained guides so that you don’t need to worry much about the trek.

How should you prepare for Annapurna Short Circuit ?

You must be mentally fit and positive in order to prepare for any expedition. Preparing for Annapurna circuit requires both physical and emotional strength. Here are some tips and tricks to follow that might help you for the trip:

• Increase your fitness level: The trekking trail can be physically demanding. So, you must start increasing your fitness level well in advance. You can start with frequent aerobic workouts such as hiking, cycling, or jogging to condition your heart and lungs. To build endurance, gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
• Select the Appropriate Equipment: You should purchase high-quality trekking equipment and gears such as boots, socks, a backpack, and clothing. You must check that your equipment is comfortable, strong, and appropriate for the terrain and weather conditions you'll be encountering. Also, in case you lack the equipment or don't want to carry the heavy stuffs, Trekking Planner Nepal helps you to get all the equipment you may require during the trek and visit the suggested equipment page for all the essential trekking.
• Practice Trekking on Uneven Terrain: Annapurna Circuit treks trails can include steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and small roads; practice trekking on uneven terrain. Trek on rough terrain to improve your balance and stability.
• Acclimate correctly: This is the most important task in the entire trek. As the altitude sickness may be a severe issue on circuit treks, you must acclimate appropriately. You must always take your time and walk in the same pace rather rushing. You also need to stay hydrated, take periodic breaks and drink plenty of water. It is also requested to avoid meat items after reaching to certain heights and alcohol and smoking is totally avoided.
• Mental preparation: Circuit trek can be mentally draining, especially if you're not used to being outside for extended periods of time. Mentally prepare yourself by having reasonable expectations, being happy, and remembering why you're doing the walk in the first place.
• Get Enough Rest and Nutrition: Before embarking on your journey, make sure you're well-rested and well-nourished. Consume a well-balanced diet, get plenty of rest, and stay hydrated.

Best Seasons for Annapurna Circuit 

The Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons are ideal for Nepal's Annapurna Circuit. The weather is usually dry and clear throughout these months, and the skies are often blue, making it easier to observe the breathtaking vistas of the mountains and landscapes. However, it's important to note that weather patterns can be unpredictable, and variations may vary from year to year.

Climate and Weather during Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal has varying temperatures throughout the year. Trekking Planner Nepal shares some of the weather updates for all four seasons:

• Spring (March to May): Temperatures in the lower elevations range from around 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F) during the day and 5°C (41°F) to 10°C (50°F) at night. Temperatures at high altitudes range from 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F) during the day and may drop to -5°C (23°F) to -10°C (14°F) at night.
• Summer (June to August): Temperatures in the lower elevations range from around 12°C (53°F) to 23°C (73°F) during the day and 8°C (46°F) to 15°C (59°F) at night during this season. Temperatures at higher elevations range from 5°C (41°F) to 13°C (55°F) during the day and -5°C (23°F) to 5°C (41°F) at night.
• Autumn (September to November): In the lower elevations, temperatures range from around 8°C (46°F) to 18°C (64°F) during the day and 5°C (41°F) to 10°C (50°F) at night. Temperatures range from roughly 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F) during the day and can plummet to -10°C (14°F) to 4°C (39°F) at night at higher elevations.
• Winter(December to February): During the winter, temperatures in the lower elevations range from around 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F) during the day and can drop to 0°C (32°F) to 5°C (41°F) at night. Temperatures at higher elevations range from -5°C (23°F) to 5°C (41°F) during the day and can plummet to -18°C (0°F) to 0°C (32°F) at night.

Local culture and religion around the trail of Annapurna Circuit

Gurung people are the main natives of Annapurna Himalaya Region, around Nepal Far North and Mid-West as far towards Lamjung Area and further West of the country.

With two main types of Gurung and Ghale the higher Manang valley and around low and mid hills, practice Buddhist Religion as well as ancient Bon Culture of pre-Buddhism respecting and worshiping nature and the spirit of ancestors where five elements are of fundamental importance Sky, Cloud/Water, Thunder/Fire, Vegetation and Earth/Soil.

Gurungs are farmers and cattle herders known as the leading traditional occupation of ancient heritage, where lower Mid Hill Gurung menfolk are also known as famous and brave Gorkha soldiers winning much respect and valor in the British and Indian Army and Singapore Police.

Every house is adorned with Buddhist prayer flags which you can notice on this beautiful walk from Lamjung onward around Tal, Chame, Pisang, and Manang all the way to Pokhara city.

Washing, Toilets, and Accommodation at Annapurna Circuit Trek.

• Washing Facilities: Most teahouses and lodges in the Annapurna Region provide hot shower facilities, but the fee for hot showers varies based on altitude and remoteness. Trekkers may need to take bucket showers and clarify that the showers may not be available all the place and somewhere the hot showers may lack.
• Toilets: Normally, the toilets are mostly squat-style. They are basic, so carrying your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer is advisable. Higher up in the trek, you may have to use outdoor pit toilets, which are less comfortable but are still functional.
• Accommodation: The trek offers a range of accommodation options, including teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses. Teahouses are the most common type of accommodation on the trek and offer basic facilities such as a bed, blanket, and pillow. Lodges and guesthouses offer more amenities such as hot showers, western-style toilets, and Wi-Fi, but they may be more expensive than teahouses. Also, during the high season the lodges may get crowded so, Trekking Planner Nepal facilitates with the pre booking of the lodges, to make you easy during the trek.

Outline Itinerary

• Day 1: From Kathmandu drive to Bulbule 845 m / 2,815 ft and 200 km distance ride of 6-7 hrs.
• Day 2: Drive to Chame 2,710 m/ 8,890 ft on Local Bus 5 to 6 hrs.
• Day 3: Trek to Pisang 3,115 m / 10,200 ft - 05 hrs.
• Day 4: Trek to Manang 3540 m/ 11,300 ft- 04 hrs.
• Day 5: Trek to Ledar 4, 200 m/ 14, 206 ft - 04 hrs.
• Day 6: Trek to High Camp 4,900 m / 15, 091 ft -04 hrs.
• Day 7: Trek to Muktinath 3, 800 m /12467 ft via Thorang la pass 5,416 m /17,769 ft - 07 hrs.
• Day 8: Drive to Tatopani 1,200 m/ 3, 940 ft on local bus – 05 hrs.
• Day 9: Drive to Pokhara 850 m / 2,788 ft -05 hrs.
• Day 10: Drive back to Kathmandu 1,350 m/ 4,450 ft. – 06 hrs.