Short Annapurna Circuit Trek – 15 Days

The short Annapurna Circuit trek 15 days are carefully designed for those trekkers who desire to explore the Annapurna circuit and encounter the most popular Thorong la pass within a limited time.

15 days short Annapurna circuit trek starts by driving from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule. Starting trek moves towards high altitude villages such as Tal, Chame, Pisang, Manang, and high camp to step Muktinath by crossing Thorong La pass at 5,416 m. Continuous walk towards Jomsom and flight to Pokhara to Kathmandu end your trip. 360° vista throughout magnificent towering Mountains including Annapurna and Manaslu and many more from high elevation is stunning. Major highlights of this trek include the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhare, Manaslu, Nilgiri, and Tilicho along with many other rocketing mountains with the popular Thorong La pass at high elevation and the famous Muktinath temple. 

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m)

Day 2: Drive to Bhulbhule (840 m)

Day 3: Trek to Ghermu Phant (1,117 m)

Day 4: Trek to Tal (1,700 m)

Day 5: Trek to Danakyu (2,300 m)

Day 6: Trek to Chame (2,670 m)

Day 7: Trek to Pisang (3,060 m)

Day 8: Trek to Manang (3,440 m)

Day 9: Manang – (Acclimatization day)

Day 10: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050 m)

Day 11: Trek to High camp (4,833 m)

Day 12: Trek to Muktinath (3,760 m) via Thorong La pass (5,416 m)

Day 13: Trek to Jomsom (2,720 m)

Day 14: Fly to Pokhara and Kathmandu

Day 15: Departure day


Cost Includes:

  • Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
  • Tourist hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • All ground transportation on a local vehicle as per the itinerary
  • An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trek leader
  • Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
  • Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation
  • Domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara to Kathmandu
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag  (with extra charge and to be returned after trip completion)
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • All government and local taxes

Cost Excludes:

  • Nepalese visa fee 
  • Excess baggage charge(s)
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain due to any reason other than the scheduled itinerary
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu
  • International flights
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s)

* This tour can be fully customized as per your requirement.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m)
Following your arrival time at Tribhuwan International Airport, our company representatives will be there for your warm welcome and to shift you towards a luxury tourist standard hotel. Therefore, we plan on gathering at our office to discuss the upcoming trek.

Day 2: Drive to Bhulbhule (840 m)
After attending morning breakfast, you will be shifted to the bus station by our private vehicle to catch a tourist standard bus towards Bhulbhule. Leaving Kathmandu behind, the bus heads towards the west of the valley following the Prithvi highway to reach Pokhara. Finally, after steeping Pokhara, a bus will further continue its journey catching another secondary road until we step Bhulbhule. This night will be spent at a lodge in Bhulbhule. 

Day 3: Trek to Ghermu Phant (1,117 m)
On this day before developing our trek forward, we complete some necessary considerations and formalities at the office of ACAP there. Walking through an easy trail passing numerous green forests, fields, and settlements takes to Ngadi along further continue walk following the trail offers Hydro project to inspect. After that long steep climb along the terraced farms take to Bahundandha and from there walk down through stone steps passing green fields and waterfalls finally Ghermu is steeped.

Day 4: Trek to Tal (1,700 m)
 Soon after leaving Ghermu, the trail descends towards a suspension bridge to cross over the Marsyangdi River and continue walking through the George takes to Jagat. After that, bypassing a few crests and overhanging rocks, Chamje is offered. Crossing the bridge and walking through the bamboo forest by following the steep stone trail from Chamje a wide valley with a few houses, Tal is steeped for staying overnight.

Day 5: Trek to Danakyu (2,300 m)
Triggering our trek forward, we enter through alpine grassland and pine forest area. Therefore, crossing the bridge across the Marsyangdi River and passing many settlements viewing traditional stone houses, and sharing a road with the caravan of donkeys transporting goods on the way takes to Danakyu. Evening hours can be utilized by exploring throughout and the night will be spent at the lodge in Danakyu.

Day 6: Trek to Chame (2,670 m)
Today, we continue our walk by catching an upward steep stone case to reach beautiful Tamang village (the vantage point of Annapurna Circuit) above Danakyu to sight a 360° view of towering snow-capped mountains including Annapurna and Manaslu. After passing several pine and rhododendron forests, bridges, and settlements including Koto, we reach Chame. This night will be spent at a lodge in Chame.

Day 7: Trek to Pisang (3,060 m)
After enjoying breakfast, our beginning trail is fairly easy till Bhartang thereafter we continue up the steep into the dense oak forest to step Dhikur Pokhari for inspecting the spectacular view of Pisang peak and Annapurna. Leaving Dhikur  Pokhari behind, we head forward passing lower Pisang towards upper Pisang. We can explore the nearby monastery after the steeping destination of the day and the night will be spent at the lodge in Pisang.

Day 8: Trek to Manang (3,440 m)
Early morning-developed trek enters the drier part of the Manang district by catching the easy route via Humde. During the walk through the wide and dusty trail, you will be accompanied by stunning mini walls and a magnificent view of Pisang Peak and Annapurna till we reach Manang. Finally, after steeping Manang, you can explore a large Tibetan village with the best sunset view in the evening time. The night will be spent at a lodge in Manang.

Day 9: Acclimatization day
As we are already above the height of 3,400 m above sea level so acclimatization is very essential before adding more elevations. On this day we don’t develop our trek forward but we stay active and we also plan to hang out on different options like exploring settlements, inspecting ancient monasteries, or climbing the Chhongar viewpoint to enjoy views of towering mountains throughout. This night will also be spent at the same lodge in Manang.

Day 10: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050 m)
After a full day of acclimatization leaving Manang behind, we join a steep climb through alpine and juniper forests leaving Marsyangdi River and crossing numerous pleasing settlements with a giant view of high mountains including Annapurna and Tilicho peak taking us to Yak Kharka. More chances to enjoy the drive of blue sheep and herds of yak on the way, which makes you amazing. This night will be spent at the lodge in Yak Kharka. 

Day 11: Trek to High camp (4,833 m)
Quickly after enjoying morning breakfast, we move forward by following the wide and steep trail leading towards Ledar bypassing the trail to Chulu Peak. Continuing to ascend the trail; we also cross bridges and slope along walk up to Thorung Phedi to step high camp for sighting panoramic view of Annapurna peaks throughout. This night will be spent at the lodge in high camp.

Day 12: Trek to Muktinath (3,760 m) via Thorong La pass (5,416 m)
Early morning, we move forward to cross the most-awaited and challenging day. Developing walkthrough thin steep trail takes you to the base of Thorong La pass and after crossing a difficult way to reach the top of the pass offers praying flags with a pleasing view of Kali Gandaki valley along with numerous high peaks around. Therefore passing a long descent walk with a great view of stunning mountains takes you to Muktinath for a stay overnight.

Day 13: Trek to Jomsom (2,720 m)
Our day begins with exploring Muktinath and descending towards Jharkot for inspecting the original palace of the king of Mustang. After that, we walk continue downward to reach Kagbeni and continuously follow the old trading route of Mustang and Tibet Caravan takes to Jomsom. The remaining, evening hours can be spent by exploring Jomsom, and night will be arranged at the lodge there.

Day 14: Fly to Pokhara and Kathmandu
Early morning hour, we move to Jomsom Airport to catch a (25 to 30 min) scenic flight towards Pokhara. According to your wish, we plan to explore the attractions of Pokhara then a flight will be scheduled in the evening time otherwise we directly board a flight to Kathmandu. Finally, after landing in Kathmandu, our private vehicle will pick you up and escort you to a fine tourist inn to spend your night. For the evening hour, we arrange for a farewell dinner in a popular Nepalese restaurant enjoying ethnic dance and music with Nepalese food items.

Day 15: Departure day
Managing your time, you can go out shopping to collect gifts for your loved ones. We help you with your arrangements and our private vehicle will be there to transfer you to the airport focusing on departure time. Well-wishers and representatives will be there to wish you a safe journey at the airport.

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Where is Annapurna?

Annapurna is a region in northern Nepal, renowned for its awe-inspiring mountain vistas and breathtaking trekking trails. The Annapurna region is home to the Annapurna Massif, a spectacular range of mountains that includes Annapurna I, the world's tenth-highest peak. The region is also home to the Annapurna Conservation Area, a vast protected area encompassing diverse landscapes, from lush valleys and terraced fields to high-altitude passes and snow-capped peaks.

What are the required permits for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

To embark on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you must obtain the following permits:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP Permit): This permit is required for entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, which covers the entire trekking route.
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System): This card is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal and is used to track the movement of trekkers and ensure their safety.
  • Local Area Permit (LAP): This permit is required if you are trekking through the Manang or Mustang districts, which are located within the Annapurna Conservation Area.

What are the highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences:

  • Breathtaking scenery: Panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and Annapurna South, as well as other majestic mountains of the Annapurna Massif.
  • Cultural encounters: Interactions with the warm and hospitable Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali communities, immersing yourself in their rich traditions and lifestyles.
  • Remote landscapes: Exploration of unspoiled valleys, terraced fields, high-altitude passes, and diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to arid plateaus.
  • Diverse flora and fauna: Encounter with unique plants and animals, including the endangered blue sheep, snow leopard, and Himalayan tahr.
  • Sense of accomplishment: Personal satisfaction from completing a challenging trek, conquering high altitudes, and experiencing the beauty and cultural richness of the Annapurna region.

When is the best time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The best time for the Annapurna Circuit trek is during the autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May) seasons. These seasons offer favorable weather conditions with clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall. During the monsoon season (June-August), the trails can become muddy and slippery due to heavy rains, and the high-altitude passes may be covered in snow. During the winter (December-February), the trek is extremely challenging due to extreme cold and snowy conditions.

How to prepare for the Annapurna Circuit Trek:

Thorough preparation is essential for an enjoyable and successful Annapurna Circuit Trek. Here's a comprehensive guide to get you ready:

  • Physical Fitness: Train consistently for several months, focusing on cardiovascular endurance and strength training. The trek involves long ascents, high altitudes, and varied terrain.
  • Altitude Acclimatization: Gradually acclimatize yourself to high altitudes before starting the trek. Spend a few days in Kathmandu (1,400 meters) before ascending to higher elevations.
  • Permits and Insurance: Obtain the necessary permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS Card, Local Area Permit if applicable) and purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and high-altitude evacuation.
  • Gear and Clothing: Pack appropriate gear for high-altitude trekking, including warm clothing, waterproof layers, hiking boots, a backpack, trekking poles, a headlamp, and a first-aid kit.

How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered a challenging trek, requiring a good level of fitness and experience. It involves strenuous ascents, high altitudes (up to 5,416 meters/17,769 feet at Thorong La Pass), and varied terrain. The trek demands physical endurance, mental fortitude, and adaptability to diverse conditions.

How fit do you need to be for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

To tackle the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you should be in good physical condition. Regular aerobic exercise, such as running, swimming, or cycling, will help develop the stamina required for long, uphill treks. Additionally, strength training will prepare your muscles for the demands of the trek.

What should you pack for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Here's a basic packing list for the Annapurna Circuit Trek:

  • Warm clothing: Down jacket, fleece layers, woolen socks, beanie, gloves
  • Waterproof layers: Rain jacket, rain pants, gaiters
  • Hiking boots: Sturdy, supportive boots with good ankle support
  • Backpack: Comfortable backpack with adequate capacity for your gear
  • Trekking poles: Poles for balance and support on uneven terrain
  • Headlamp: Headlamp for nighttime trekking and navigating lodges
  • First-aid kit: Basic first-aid supplies for common ailments and injuries
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Finished an amazing Annapurna Circuit trek

I recently finished the Annapurna Circuit Trek, which was organized by the Great Everest Trek. Angbabu, my amazing guide, was there to help me. He made certain that I was safe. We had a lot of fun and intriguing adventures. The rest of the team consisted of our two strong potters, who carried our baggage the entire journey. I would strongly advise anyone considering this trek to go with the Great Everest expedition.

Tarben Sebastiana
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15day trek of the Annapurna circuit

Great Everest Trek staff exceeded my expectations throughout the entire process of deciding on the trekking area and details for me and my travel partner, scheduling, and doing this whole trek. Sujata was particularly attentive to our trip's objectives and scheduling concerns. I appreciated her suggestions for our itinerary. Our tour guide made certain that all of the trip's specifics were taken care of. From airport transfer to Kathmandu hotel to food and lodging throughout the trek to overall progress in completing our 15-day trek of the Annapurna circuit.

Vivi Lo
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From

US$ 1320 per person

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Activities
Trekking and Sight Seeing
Meals
Full board in trek and breakfast in Kathmandu
Destination
Nepal
Duration
15 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Room
Hotels/Mountain Lodges
Max Elevation
5,416 m
Transport
Flight, Private vehicles or tourist bus
Group Size
2+
Best Season
Spring (April and May), Summer (June, July and August) and Autumn (September, October and November)
Trip Start
Kathmandu
Trip End
Kathmandu
longest way home

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