Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a legendary journey; it combines some of the best mountain scenery anywhere in Nepal with an insight into the fascinating, deeply Buddhist culture of the region. Travel through a diverse, untouched landscape, laced with fascinating weathered mountain villages on the way. Spend time spinning prayer wheels in the many monasteries as you go. Feel free in a land made fearless by the people who live there. Stand in awe at the mighty mountain panoramas, and then take on the personal challenge of crossing one of the highest mountain passes in the world. This trek can be challenging at times, but the rewards far outweigh any aching muscles.
Before The Trek
We welcome you at Kathmandu Airport upon your arrival and then assist you in checking in at the hotel. You will meet your tour guide, who will go over the itinerary in more detail and answer any questions you may have. He will also help you get acquainted with your surroundings, i.e., good restaurants, money-changing facilities, trekking shops, etc. If you have a late-arriving flight, an extra day in Kathmandu may be needed.
On The Trail
Today you leave bustling Kathmandu behind on a good road to Besi Sahar. It’s a scenic drive through green hills and along fast-flowing rivers. From Besi Sahar, you take a dirt road to Chame, where we overnight and prepare for the following day. The days up to the Throng La are some of the most dramatic and rewarding days you are likely to have in Nepal. Trek through a dense, lush forest and into a dramatic river gorge on your first day. Paungda Danda, a huge wall of rock around 1500 meters high, rises from the river gorge below. It is a compelling highlight on day one.
The trail crosses fast-flowing rivers on bridges festooned with prayer flags, with Ghompas and Chortens keeping you company on the way. Long before we reach the pass, we are treated to a feast of experiences. There are some wonderful views of snow-capped peaks with haunting mist-shrouded valleys below them. We trek through isolated communities and visit remote monasteries on our way to Manang, the district headquarters.
Higher Up The Trail And The Crossing of Thorung La
Crossing over Thorong La Pass (5,416m) is the highlight and the toughest challenge of the whole trek. The process is made easier as the trail between Manang and Thorong La is one of the most beautiful parts of the Annapurna Circuit. As you trek higher, there are some majestic views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Chulu West. Closer to the pass is Khatung Kang, where the stunning peak of Thourungtse (6481m) comes into view. The view from the pass is exceptional; from the top, we have a sweeping vista south out to the Kali Gandaki below, and to the north, the arid and haunting region of the upper Mustang comes into view. It’s a steep descent from the pass down to the pilgrimage town of Muktinath, 3710m, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Mount Dhaulagiri (8176m) looms on the horizon. We overnighted here, with time to spend time at the temple the following day. On our last day on the trail, we descend to Jomsom, stopping at the ancient Mustang settlement of Kagbeni for lunch. The final day to Pokhara can either be a short flight or a long jeep drive.
The things you experience in Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Scenic drive to Besi Sahar along the Trisuli and Marshyangdi rivers
- Beautiful ethnic villages and landscapes, high snow-capped Annapurna,
- The highest pass in the world is Thorung La (5416m).
- Muktinath temple and scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
