Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

Adventure begins with an early morning departure from Kathmandu, heading west on the Prithvi Highway. The drive to Chame covers approximately 230 kilometers and takes 9 to 11 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The first section of the drive to Besisahar (760m) is smooth and paved, passing through vibrant towns, lush river valleys, and terraced farmland. From Besisahar, the road becomes rough and off-road vehicles are required to continue. The journey follows the Marsyangdi River, gradually gaining elevation and offering glimpses of waterfalls, pine forests, and towering cliffs. As you approach Chame, the air becomes crisper, and snowcapped peaks begin to appear in the distance. Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, is a small but lively town with basic lodges, teahouses, and shops. You’ll spend the night here to rest and prepare for your trek.

After breakfast, the trek begins along the narrow Marsyangdi Valley, with towering rocky cliffs and dense pine forests lining the trail. The well-maintained path takes you through the small villages of Telekhu and Bhratang. One of the highlights of today’s trek is Paungda Danda, a massive curved rock face rising 1,500 meters above the river. The trail then crosses a suspension bridge and gradually ascends through pine and fir forests to Dhikur Pokhari, where you can stop for lunch. From here, the path climbs steadily toward Upper Pisang, a picturesque village perched on a ridge with stunning panoramic views of Annapurna II (7,937m) and Annapurna IV (7,525m). The traditional stone houses, prayer flags, and monasteries give Upper Pisang a strong Tibetan Buddhist ambiance. This elevated location is also ideal for acclimatization.

Today’s trek is both scenic and strenuous, lasting 6 to 7 hours as you take the upper route through Ghyaru and Ngawal—a path known for its unmatched mountain views and cultural immersion. From Upper Pisang, the trail climbs steeply toward Ghyaru (3,670m), offering breathtaking views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The stone-built village of Ghyaru is a great place for a tea break and photography. Continuing along the high ridge, you reach Ngawal, another traditional Tibetan-style village with flat-roofed houses and mani walls. After lunch, the trail gradually descends toward the wide, arid valley of Manang, passing through ancient chortens and scattered juniper trees. Before entering Manang, you can visit the 500-year-old Braga Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant religious sites in the region. Manang is a relatively developed trekking village with teahouses, bakeries, small shops, and even an altitude clinic.

Spending an acclimatization day in Manang is essential to adjust to the higher altitudes and reduce the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS). There are several hiking options to aid acclimatization. A popular short trek is to Gangapurna Lake and the Glacier Viewpoint, which offers close-up views of the glacier and the turquoise glacial lake below Gangapurna (7,455m). For those seeking a more challenging climb, a day hike to Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) at over 4,600 meters is an excellent option. This hike takes about 6 to 7 hours round-trip and provides a perfect combination of altitude gain and dramatic scenery. In the afternoon, you can explore Manang village, enjoy fresh pastries at a German bakery, or attend the daily altitude briefing at the Himalayan Rescue Association office, where you can learn about symptoms and prevention of altitude sickness.

After a restful day, the trek continues with a moderate 4 to 5-hour ascent to Churi Ledar. Leaving Manang behind, the trail climbs steadily past the last line of trees and into the alpine desert landscape. You’ll pass through the small settlement of Yak Kharka (4,000m), which is a common spot for lunch and a short break. As you walk along this barren terrain, keep an eye out for Himalayan blue sheep and yaks grazing on the slopes. The altitude gain is noticeable, so it’s important to pace yourself and stay hydrated. Churi Ledar is a small outpost with a few basic teahouses that offer warm meals and cozy sleeping quarters. Nights are colder at this elevation, and the air is thinner, so it’s recommended to rest early and stay warm.

This is a relatively short trekking day, taking about 3 to 4 hours, but it's an important step in acclimatizing before crossing Thorong La. The trail begins with a gradual ascent along the mountainside, followed by a careful crossing of a landslide-prone area. Trekking poles are helpful for stability here. After crossing the Marsyangdi River via a wooden bridge, the trail ascends steadily to Thorong Phedi, the last major stop before the pass. You’ll arrive by midday, allowing plenty of time to rest, rehydrate, and mentally prepare for the next day’s early and demanding climb. Some trekkers choose to ascend further to High Camp (4,880m), but this depends on your physical condition and how well you’ve acclimatized. Overnight at Thorong Phedi.

This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. Wake up around 3:30–4:00 AM and begin the gradual but steep climb to Thorong La Pass, one of the world’s highest trekking passes at 5,416 meters. The trail is well-marked but requires endurance and mental strength. It typically takes 4 to 6 hours to reach the top, depending on your pace and weather conditions. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and the surrounding Himalayan giants, as well as fluttering prayer flags marking the accomplishment. After a brief rest and photo break, begin the long descent toward Muktinath, which takes another 4 to 5 hours. The terrain is rocky, and the descent can be tough on the knees, so trekking poles are highly recommended. Muktinath is a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, home to the Muktinath Temple and 108 sacred water spouts. Spend the night here in one of the many comfortable teahouses.

After breakfast, your journey continues by vehicle as you descend from the high mountains to the lakeside city of Pokhara. You have two main options: take a jeep all the way from Muktinath to Pokhara, which takes around 8 to 10 hours depending on road conditions, or drive a shorter distance to Jomsom and take a scenic flight to Pokhara (weather permitting). The drive passes through Kagbeni, a medieval village with traditional mud houses, and Marpha, known for its apple orchards and local brandy. You’ll also witness the incredible depths of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the deepest in the world. After the long journey, reaching Pokhara feels like arriving in paradise—lush, green, and peaceful. Spend the evening relaxing by Phewa Lake, enjoying a hot shower, delicious meal, and reflecting on your Himalayan adventure.

After a relaxing night in Pokhara, you’ll begin your return journey to Kathmandu by road. The drive covers approximately 200 kilometers and takes 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route follows the Prithvi Highway, tracing the Trishuli River for much of the way and offering beautiful views of river valleys, terraced farmland, and hillside villages. You can choose between a tourist bus, private jeep, or local bus depending on your comfort preference and budget. Along the way, you’ll stop for lunch at one of the many roadside restaurants serving traditional Nepali cuisine. As you get closer to the Kathmandu Valley, you’ll notice the landscape change from rural hills to the bustling cityscape. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can unwind, freshen up, and reflect on your incredible Himalayan journey. In the evening, consider celebrating your successful trek with a farewell dinner in Thamel or a cultural restaurant featuring Nepali music and dance.