Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost

The short Annapurna Circuit Trek is relatively inexpensive compared to other similar treks. The standard package costs USD 920 per person. The 11-day holiday package contains all the essentials, including transportation, accommodation, guide and porter costs, permit fees, meals, etc.

However, the cost can vary on several factors, such as group size and type of services. Trek duration, mode of transportation, and accommodation standards are also the role factors to cost. For larger groups, Nepal Gateway Trekking offers a special discount of USD 60 to 120 per person, depending on the group size.

On the standard package, you’ll stay in mid-range lodges and public and private road transportation during the trek. But you can upgrade the short Annapurna Circuit Trek from a standard package to a luxury one. In this option, we’ll provide a high-end lodging option with ensuite bathrooms and in-room charging facilities. You'll also get high-speed internet, and electric blankets (excluding Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi).

Additionally, you can upgrade the transportation option to commercial flights. Unlike long-distance driving, the flight option is a more comfortable and time-saving way to conclude the trek.

Permits for Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking 

For the Short Annapurna Circuit Trekking, you must acquire two trekking permits. They are the Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP).

Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) 

The TIMS Card is a trekking permit introduced by the Nepal Tourism Board and TAAN to ensure the safety of trekkers. It also introduce to manage their flow, and control illegal trekking operations. It also helps the local authorities know where you’re travelling and what time of the year.

Where can you get the Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS)?

You can get TIMS Card from the offices of the Nepal Tourism Board or TAAN in Kathmandu. The permit costs NPR 2,000 for foreigners and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.

Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP)

The Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP) is a park entry permit required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA). The permit fee contributes to environmental conservation, tourism sustainability, infrastructure improvement, and community development. 

Where can you get the Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP)?

You can obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu. You can also get the permit at the park entry gate at Besisahar. The permit costs NPR 3,000 for foreign trekkers and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.

How Difficult is Trekking to Short Annapurna Circuit?

The 11-day Annapurna Circuit is a challenging, high-altitude trek in the mountain ranges of central Nepal. Although relatively short and non-technical, it includes a few tough sections that test your physical endurance and mental resilience.

It requires walking for 6 to 7 hours with an average daily ascent of over 800 meters on rough terrains, adverse weather, and high altitude. While most initial days include gradual walks, the steep climb from Upper Pisang to Ghyaru is tough to swallow. Not only does it demand decent physical fitness, but the high altitude adds up significantly to the challenge.

In the 11-day Annapurna Circuit itinerary, you’ll spend six successive nights over 3,000 meters. The air pressure and oxygen levels drop tremendously at such elevation, increasing the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS).

The toughest section of the short Annapurna Circuit Trek is crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. It includes a steep 45-minute climb to High Camp before heading to the summit of Thorong La Pass. The other side consists of a steep descent on a narrow, landslide-prone section that puts much pressure on the knee joints.

Moreover, if you plan to do this trek in the winter season, you’ll have extra setbacks. Unlike regular seasons, the weather often gets extreme in the upper regions with excessive cold and snowy trails. Crossing the Thorong La Pass can be difficult with heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, occasional snowstorms, and terrible visibility.

Training for Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

As mentioned, the short Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It demands long-distance walks on steep sections, rugged terrain, high valleys, and across high-altitude mountain passes.

Your fitness level can be a decisive factor in determining the level and intensity of your required training. However, we recommend starting training for the short Annapurna Circuit Trek at least 6 to 8 weeks before the trek.

Combine conditioning hikes, cardio workouts, strength training and stretching help to improve your fitness level. You can do long distance running and swimming too. These help to make your muscles stronger and make the trek more comfortable.

Conditioning Hikes

One of the best ways to train for short Annapurna hike is to mimic the challenges you’re likely to endure during the trek. The challenges are rugged terrain, long-distance hiking, carrying a heavy backpack, or elevation gain.

So, find decent hiking trails around your hometown and go for a conditioning hike at least once a week. These hike helps to build your stamina, fitness, and mental readiness. Start slow with a 5-kilometer hike and gradually increase the distance, intensity, and pack weight as you progress.

If there aren’t decent trail options nearby, you can climb up and down your home stairs with a weighted backpack.

Cardio Training

As the short Annapurna Circuit Trek involves multi-day walking at varying altitudes and terrains, keeping your cardiovascular fitness in check is essential. Engaging in steady-state cardio exercises helps to improve stamina, lung capacity, and heart health.

Recommended Cardio Exercises

• Slow-paced Running
• Brisk Walking or Jogging
• Swimming
• Mountain Biking
• Rowing Workouts
• Jump Roping

Stretching Workouts

• Stretching exercises are quite effective in helping prepare your body to navigate rugged terrain, steep ascents, and descents. They increase the range of flexibility and joint mobility, which prevents injury and maintains balance.
• Moreover, regular stretching helps improve blood circulation, deliver oxygen-rich blood, and aid muscle recovery. Hence, adding 15 to 20 minutes of daily stretching to your fitness regimen is advisable.

Recommended Stretching Exercises Before Trekking

• Shoulder Rolls
• Standing Quad Stretch
• Calf Stretch
• Hamstring Stretch
• Wrist Stretch

Recommended Stretching Exercises After Trekking

• Rag Doll Pose
• Standing Saddle Stretch
• Runner’s Lunge
• Ankle Stretch

Strength Training

• Strength exercises are crucial for the short Annapurna Circuit Trek. They help build core and leg muscles, enhance stability and balance, and prevent injuries. 
• Strong legs help you walk through rough, uneven terrain for an extended period with less fatigue and aches. Likewise, a strong core and upper body help maintain posture and balance the body weight while carrying a heavy backpack.

Recommended Strength Exercises

• Side Plank with Leg Raise 
• Stairmaster
• Glute Bridge & Hamstring Curl 
• Step-Ups 
• Downhill Lunges 
• Jump Squats 
• Kettlebell Deadlifts

Rest and Recovery

• Training is not just about running faster, lifting heavier, and pushing harder. The secret to better results and performance is the effort you put in the gym and the time you spend resting and recovering.
• Rest and recovery are essential for mental and physical well-being. They help boost performance, repair muscles, restore energy, and prevent burnout. Take a full rest day at least once a week to achieve your fitness goal.

Best Time for Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Route

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is one of the most popular seasons for trekking in the Annapurna Circuit. The post-monsoon weather brings moderate and dry temperatures, ideal for long-distance walks. 

During this time of the year, the mountain views are at their absolute best, as the sky remains bright and clear all day. Hence, this is the best time to relish the 360-degree panorama from the summit of Thorong La Pass.

However, the downside of trekking in the Annapurna Circuit during the autumn season is the crowded trails. The entire trekking route and the teahouses en route will be packed with trekkers from all over the world.

Spring (March to May)

Spring adds a different kind of flavor to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Generally, spring mornings are warm and clear, while the afternoons bring cloud cover and occasional showers. Therefore, the mountains are mostly visible in the mornings.

Apart from the pleasant weather and mountain views, this season is the best time to admire the full spectrum of biodiversity in the region. The trail will be surrounded by vibrant hues of rhododendrons, orchids, and other wildflowers.

After autumn, spring is the second most popular time for trekking to the Annapurna Circuit. Hence, the trails will be relatively crowded and busy with trekkers from all over the world.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is not the most popular season for trekking to the Annapurna Circuit. Although the daytime temperatures are usually tolerable, they can drop below 20°C at night. This season brings extreme cold, frequent snowfalls, and even snowstorms in the higher reaches of the trek.

Hence, this season is favorable only for trekkers willing to brave the cold in return for empty trails and stunning mountain views. It is also a perfect time to catch a glimpse of wildlife, such as snow leopards, musk deers, Himalayan Tahr, etc.

However, during the winter season, there’s a higher risk of altitude sickness, hypothermia, and snow blindness. Additionally, crossing Thorong La Pass can be much more challenging, with constant snowfall and occasional snowstorms. In case of excessive snow, Thorong La Pass can close at short notice for the safety of the trekkers.

Monsoon (June to August)

Monsoon is the least favorable time for trekking to the Annapurna Circuit. Only a handful of determined trekkers take the risk of trekking this season to experience vibrant landscapes and cultural encounters.

The monsoon season brings constant downpours, poor visibility, and occasional mudslides in the upper reaches of the trek. 

That being said, the alpine pastures of Manang and Mustang are in full bloom with colorful flowers and greenery. If you schedule your trek at the right time, you can witness the Grand Yartung Festival in Manang and Mustang regions. 

Acclimatization and Safety

The short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a multi-day adventure holiday in the Himalayas of Nepal. During the trek, you’ll spend six successive nights over the elevation of 3,000 meters. Additionally, you’ll walk across one of the highest passes in the world — Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. That’s seriously high!

At such elevation, the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS) is substantial. Almost every trekker will experience mild symptoms such as headache, shortness of breath, or difficulty sleeping, especially in the settlements above Manang Valley.

One way to minimize the potential risk is by letting your body acclimate to the higher elevations.

Things You Should Do to Acclimatize

• Slow and steady is the way to go! Walk at a comfortable pace and let your body adjust to the high altitude naturally.
• Pack light, but pack adequate! You should keep your body warm and protected from the harsh wind and rain, especially at the upper reaches of the trek. So, carry a decent windbreaker, fleece jacket, and poncho raincoat.
• Keep yourself hydrated. Carry your water bottle and drink at least 3 liters of fluid every day. It can come from water, hot drinks, soups, or lentils.
• Once you cross the 3,000-meter threshold, limit your daily altitude gain to 500 meters when possible. On shorter days, you can go for evening hikes to higher altitudes to let your body acclimatize quickly.
• Make the most of the acclimatization day at Manang. While it is a good idea to take short hikes to keep your body active, it is essential to rest and let your body recover.
• Avoid alcohol and other stimulants throughout the Annapurna Circuit Trek. These substances are known to exaggerate dehydration, heart rate, and blood pressure.
• It is common to lose appetite in the higher altitudes. However, you should eat well and maintain enough nutrients and calories to stay active and energized for the trek.
• If you feel any symptoms, even mild, inform your guide immediately so he can assess your condition and take prompt action.

Accommodation

Annapurna Circuit is one of Nepal’s most commercial trekking regions. This popular trail is clustered with many accommodation options, from basic dorms to decent hotels. Unlike other remote treks, there’s rarely a shortage of lodging options in the Annapurna Circuit, even during peak seasons.

In the lower reaches of the trek (from Chame to Manang Valley), you’ll find many lodging options with high-end facilities. However, there will be limited teahouses with basic facilities in the upper sections, i.e., Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi.

The rooms generally include twin beds, foam mattresses, comfortable pillows, warm blankets, and a small table. The local teahouses do not have heating facilities in the rooms. You can ask for an additional blanket or use a sleeping bag to keep you warm during the night. Although most teahouses have shared bathrooms, you can find a few lodges that offer attached rooms in the lower regions.

The teahouses have a common dining area, usually spacious and decorated. Most trekkers use this area for meals and relaxation. On most evenings, fires are routine in the dining area to keep the place cozy and warm.

Meals

Surprisingly, the food menu in the Annapurna Circuit is quite diverse, with a combination of Nepali, Indian, and continental dishes. Granted, it won’t be star-hotel quality food, but this region has a reputation to serve delicious foods compared to other trekking areas.

Local delicacies include Dal Bhat, thukpa, momo, fried rice, chowmein, Tibetan bread, and chapati. Likewise, continental options include pizza, sandwiches, steak, spaghetti, pancakes, macaroni, and spring rolls.

Additionally, there are plenty of cafes and bakeries along the route. The bakeries are often stocked with cookies, breads, muffins, doughnuts, and rolls. A few of them even sell freshly baked apple pies.

The menu in the Annapurna Circuit also includes a variety of beverages, including teas (black, milk, ginger, lemon, masala, etc.), instant coffee, hot chocolate, hot juice, hot lemon, soft drinks, and bottled water. 

A few restaurants in larger villages, such as Chame, Manang, and Muktinath, also serve Mexican food, firewood pizzas, and Espresso coffee.

Note: Your package price includes breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara and full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in the trek.

Drinking Water

Tap, boiled, and bottled water are available in the teahouses of Annapurna Circuit. Although they are often labeled “safe,” we do not recommend you drink them without treatment.

For tap water, we advise you to carry a water bottle with a straw filter. Additionally, chlorine—or iodine-based water purifiers should be used after filtration to make the water contamination-free and safe to drink.

Both boiled and bottled water are safe to drink. However, we recommend using purification tablets or drops to stay safe. The teahouses will charge a nominal fee for boiled water on a per-cup or per-pot basis.

Bottled mineral water is usually expensive, both financially and environmentally. So, we do not recommend buying bottled water during the trek.

Hot Shower

Hot showers are available in almost every teahouse on the short Annapurna Circuit Trek. 

The teahouses in the lower reaches provide gas—or solar-powered hot showers, so you can have quick showers with running hot water. In the lower regions, hot showers cost around USD 2 to 3.

Running hot water is not available in the upper reaches, so you’ll have to adjust to bucket showers. In the upper regions, hot showers cost around USD 5 to 6. 

However, we do not recommend taking showers, hot or cold, anywhere above 4,000 meters.

Mobile Network and Internet Connectivity

Compared to other regions, the mobile network coverage in Annapurna Circuit is quite impressive. Almost all sections of the trek, except a few in the upper parts, have mobile network coverage for both Nepal Telecom (NTC) and Ncell. A few teahouses also provide satellite phone service to help you reach out to your friends and family abroad.

You can expect 3G data service in the lower section of the Annapurna region. However, mobile data coverage can be poor to non-existent as you go higher to the remote villages.

WiFi service is available in almost all teahouses. Most lodges in popular towns like Chame, Manang, and Muktinath include it in the room price, so you won’t have to spend extra money to use it. However, in the other villages, you can use WiFi for a small charge of USD 2 to 5 per device.

Electricity

Except for a few settlements in the upper parts of the trek, the entire Annapurna Circuit route is powered by hydroelectricity. Hence, charging your mobile and electronic devices will not be a problem in this trek.

Most teahouses in the lower region have charging sockets in the rooms. It means you can charge all your devices without any hassle and without having to pay extra. 

In the upper region, however, electricity is powered by solar panels. Due to the limited power, the teahouses include one charging station in the dining area or the reception, where all the devices are charged. In the peak seasons, these stations are likely to be packed with devices. So, it is advisable to charge your devices as soon as you get to the teahouse.  

Moreover, you’ll have to pay a nominal fee to charge your devices in these remote teahouses (the charging fee may vary depending on the device). It is a good idea to carry a high-capacity power bank to charge your phone and camera in these regions of the trek.

ATMs and Money Exchange

It is advisable to carry enough cash for extra expenses for the short Annapurna Circuit Trek. Although some teahouses and local shops accept foreign currencies, most only accept Nepalese rupees (NPR).

If you’re looking to get a reasonable exchange rate, your best bet is to exchange your currency in Kathmandu. Although there are a few exchange centers in Besisahar, they are likely to bargain at the exchange rate.

The same goes for ATMs. If you need to withdraw cash, do so in Kathmandu. There are a few ATMs in Besisahar, Manang, and Muktinath, but they are unreliable.

Travel Insurance

The short Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most challenging, high-altitude treks in the Annapurna region. It involves crossing a mountain pass over 5,000 meters, walking on rugged trails, and sleeping over 3,500 meters for several days.

This challenging trek poses a maximum risk of altitude sickness, physical injuries, and accidents. So, it is mandatory to buy a travel insurance policy to sign up for the short Annapurna Circuit Trek with Nepal Gateway Trekking. 

Having said that, you should carefully consider a few things while buying an insurance policy.

• Since you’ll be crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, your insurance policy must have an altitude coverage of at least 5,500 meters.
• Your policy must cover hospital bills and medical expenses for altitude sickness, physical injuries, accidents, and general illness.
• It is advisable to buy an insurance policy that covers trip cancellation and reimburses flight change fees.
• Considering the trek difficulty, make sure your insurance policy covers the cost of emergency evacuation by helicopter or ambulance.

Guide and Porter Information

Our guides and porters are the cornerstones of successful expeditions and client satisfaction. Hence, our company will provide a local, English-speaking guide with an experienced team of Sherpas and porters to lead your short Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Our guides and porters have over a decade of experience operating high-altitude expeditions in the Annapurna region. Therefore, they can share valuable insights about the geography, local culture, history, and wildlife to enrich your experience.

Moreover, our trekking guides are first-aid certified and trained to handle emergency situations, such as minor injuries and altitude sickness. They’ll also provide guidance on hydration and pacing according to the altitude and terrain to prevent burnout and altitude sickness.

Gratitude to the Trekking Crew

The trekking guide and the rest of the crew work effortlessly to make your Annapurna Circuit Trek successful. Here are a few thoughtful ways to express gratitude and appreciation for their effort and dedication: 

• Although not compulsory, tipping is a common gesture to express gratitude to the trekking crew for their service. You can collect the tipping amount as a group and hand it over to the guide/leader, who will split it equally among all staff.
• You can offer them a thoughtful gift or donation as a token of appreciation. Trekking items such as boots, clothing gear, and accessories are particularly useful for the crew members. You can donate your used gear or buy new ones as a gift.
• If the time permits, you can invite the crew for lunch or dinner, especially on the last day, and celebrate your adventure together.
• If you appreciate the hard work, we recommend you write testimonials and reviews for the members on platforms like Google Reviews or TripAdvisor, which can have long-lasting benefits.