Introduction to Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is a practical option for trekkers who want to experience the high mountain section of the Annapurna Circuit without completing the longer route. Our 15-day itinerary starts from Jagat, follows the Marsyangdi Valley to Manang, crosses Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), and continues through Muktinath and Lower Mustang to Jomsom.
The journey from Kathmandu to Jagat can be arranged by private jeep directly to the trailhead or by bus to Besisahar followed by a local jeep. From Jagat, we follow the Marsyangdi Valley through Dharapani, Chame, Upper Pisang, and Manang. The lower section includes some road-sharing, while the route above Chame provides more opportunities to walk through mountain villages and the upper Marsyangdi Valley.
We spend an acclimatization day in Manang (3,540 m) before moving toward the higher elevations. You can explore the village and take a suitable hike to Praken Gompa or Gangapurna Lake. A longer hike to Ice Lake can also be arranged with your guide, depending on your fitness, weather, and trail conditions.
Beyond Manang, the route gradually enters alpine terrain as we pass through Tengi, Gunsang, and Yak Kharka before reaching Thorong Phedi. The surroundings become increasingly open as we approach Thorong La Pass, where an early start is required for the crossing. After reaching the pass, we descend to Muktinath (3,800 m) and enter the drier landscape of Mustang.
From Muktinath, we take a less-traveled trail toward Lupra Village, a traditional settlement associated with the Bon tradition. The route then joins the Kali Gandaki Valley and continues to Jomsom (2,713 m), marking the end of the trekking section.
From Jomsom, we travel to Pokhara by domestic flight or road. The flight is subject to weather conditions, while the road provides an alternative when flights are not operating.
This route brings together several distinct environments within a relatively short itinerary. The journey begins among green hills and river valleys, reaches the high mountain terrain around Thorong La, and finishes among the dry valleys and settlements of Lower Mustang. Along the way, you encounter different local communities, traditional villages, Buddhist and Bon cultural sites, and changing mountain landscapes.
The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is well suited to travelers with limited time who want to cross Thorong La Pass and reach the Mustang region without continuing along the longer Annapurna Circuit toward Tatopani, Ghorepani, and Pokhara.
Highlights of the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest point of the trek
- Explore the mountain villages and landscapes around Manang
- Spend an acclimatization day in Manang (3,540 m)
- Visit Muktinath (3,800 m), a sacred site for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims
- Trek through the dry landscapes of Lower Mustang
- Visit Lupra Village and experience its distinctive local culture
- Follow the Kali Gandaki Valley toward Jomsom
- Experience changing landscapes from the Marsyangdi Valley to Mustang
- Enjoy views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
- Finish the trekking section at Jomsom (2,713 m)
- Travel from Jomsom to Pokhara by flight or road
