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Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days
The short Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 days is a perfect option for those who want to trek the Annapurna Circuit in 10 days. The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most popular long-distance trekking trails in the world. However, after connecting the roads from Kathmandu to Chame, Manang, and Muktinath to Pokhara, it is possible to trek only half of the Annapurna Circuit Trail.
The short Annapurna Circuit Trek of 10 days, which starts from Chame and ends in Jomsom, covers only half of the Annapurna Circuit Trail. It offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and also includes the magnificent Thorong La Pass at an impressive altitude of 5,416 meters.
With the recent construction of the motor road from Besi Sahar to Chame, it has become feasible to complete the Annapurna Circuit trek in less than 10 days, excluding the Kathmandu section. However, including the Kathmandu section extends the duration to 13 days.
This option is ideal for trekkers seeking a shorter trek to the Annapurna Circuit, although they should be prepared for a four-wheel drive from Besi Sahar to Chame (not possible during the monsoon season). The Annapurna Circuit is indeed renowned as one of the premier treks in Nepal, and its reputation as one of the top 10 trails globally for a classic trekking experience is well-deserved.
The trek's highlights include the awe-inspiring Himalayan landscape, the rich cultural diversity, and the unforgettable experience of crossing the renowned Thorong La Pass, considered one of the most stunning high passes in the entire Annapurna region of Nepal.
The shortest version of the Annapurna Circuit Trek starts with a drive from Besi Sahar to Chame, which takes about 4 to 5 hours, while the drive from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar by bus or private vehicle takes about 6 to 7 hours. If you plan to travel from Kathmandu to Chame in a single day, it is recommended to take a private jeep that goes directly to Chame, which is more convenient than changing vehicles in Besi Sahar. Chame village is the headquarters of Manang district in the Gandaki region of northern Nepal.
From Chame you enter the Manang Valley, a beautiful valley that offers spectacular views (at every turn you have a different view of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountains), an amazing variety of landscapes, from subtropical to alpine peaks to arid semi-deserts similar to those of Tibet, picturesque farming villages, river basins, glacial lakes, a great cultural diversity and Buddhist monasteries, as well as the Thorong La Pass (the highest point of the trek at an altitude of 5. 416 meters).
The trek follows the Marsyangdi valley to the north of the main Himalayan range and cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) to descend into the dramatic desert like Tibetan-style scenery of the Upper Kali Gandaki Valley.
The trek offers breathtaking mountain views of the numerous above 7000 meters Annapurna Peaks, some other beautiful mountains including mount Manaslu. After crossing the Thorong La Pass you will reach at Muktinath and visit the Muktinath temple, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists.
After Muktinath, you descend to Kali Gandaki River and follow the trail to Jomsom, on this day see an eyeful landscape view of the Mustang Valley and immense views of Nilgiri Himal, Dhaulagiri and Tukuche peak. Jomsom has daily flights and motorway connections with Pokhara. From Jomsom you will take a bus/jeep (about 8 to 9 hours) or flight (about 25 minutes) to Pokhara and the next day, you will drive about 6 to 7 hours) or fly (about 25 minutes) from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
The construction of the motor roads from Besi Sahar to Chame and from Muktinath to Beni naturally affected those who wanted to hike the entire classic Annapurna circuit. However, it also offered the possibility of completing the trek in a shorter time.
Most trekkers are concerned about suffering altitude sickness when going overland for a long time straight to Chame at 2670 meters in a single day. If you're feeling the same way, we recommend that you drive by jeep to Syange (1,100 meters), Jagat (1,330 meters), or Dharapani (1,960 meters) and start your trek from there, but for trekking need a few extra days.
From Jomsom, if you have the time and interest, it is also possible to extend the trek to a spectacular viewpoint called Poon Hill, situated at an altitude of 3,210 meters. For this option, you can drive from Jomsom to Tatopani (Hot Springs) and from here you start the trek to Poon Hill which has multiple ending points.
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights
- The short trekking to the Annapurna Circuit (trans Himalayan zone) does not take long. The trek begins after a long drive from Kathmandu to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang.
- Possible to extend the 10-day Annapurna Circuit trek to 11 days and 12 days.
- Cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world, offering awe-inspiring vistas.
- Enjoy panoramic views of some of the world's highest peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu.
- Traverse through a variety of landscapes, from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and barren high-altitude deserts.
- Encounter diverse ethnic communities, including Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis, each with its own traditions, customs, and vibrant festivals.
- Visit charming mountain villages like Pisang, and Manang experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals.
- Visit ancient monasteries, stupas, and sacred sites along the trail, gaining insights into the region's rich spiritual and religious heritage.
- Discover a wide range of flora and fauna, from rhododendron forests to blue sheep and Himalayan Tahr, adding to the trek's natural beauty.
- Discover the unique blend of Tibetan culture and breathtaking landscapes.
- Staying in teahouses along the route, enjoy local food, and share experiences with other trekkers.
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost
The cost of the Short Annapurna Circuit trekking package depends on various factors. These include the size of the group (Larger groups might be able to negotiate better rates, while solo trekkers or small groups may pay a premium for personalized services), the level of services included (budget, standard, luxury) and the reputation and standard of the trekking company you choose.
The Alpine Adventure Club announces the cost and some fixed departure dates for the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek for groups joining in 2024 and 2025, the cost includes the standard service. If you wish to participate in a private trek, the cost will be different.
Short Annapurna Circuit Trek 10 Days Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu drive to Besi Sahar (820 m) and Chame (2,670 m) – Not in Monsoon
Day 02: Chame trek to Upper Pisang (3,300 m)
Day 03: Upper Pisang trek to Manang (3,540 m)
Day 04: Acclimatization in Manang (3,540 m)
Day 05: Manang trek to Yak Kharka (4,110 m)
Day 06: Yak Kharka trek to Thorong Phedi (4,420 m)
Day 07: Thorong Phedi trek to Muktinath (3,800 m) Over the Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
Day 08: Muktinath trek to Jomsom (2,713 m) via Lupra or Kagbeni
Day 09: Jomsom Flight to Pokhara (850 m)
Day 10: Pokhara drive to Kathmandu (1,350 m) by tourist bus
