Annapurna Circuit Short Trek 10 Days

The Annapurna Circuit Short 10 Days Trek is a compact yet unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Moreover, this trip begins with arrival in Kathmandu and concludes with a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, combining cultural immersion, stunning landscapes, and the thrill of high-altitude trekking. Nonetheless, it covers the essential highlights of the Annapurna region, including alpine villages, terraced valleys, and the iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).

Arrival in Kathmandu

Your adventure begins in Kathmandu with your arrival and hotel transfer. Here, you will meet your trekking team and prepare for the journey ahead. In the meantime, you can rest and adjust to the Nepalese environment before the drive to Besisahar the following day.

Scenic Drive to Chame

The next morning, a scenic drive takes you to Besisahar, where your permits will be checked and you will rest for the night. The following day, the journey continues to Chame (2,670 m), the welcoming gateway to the Annapurna region. Along the way, you pass terraced fields, rivers, and small hillside villages. From Chame, the trek officially begins, winding gradually through forests, streams, and traditional settlements. As a result, you start to experience the changing landscapes and rural culture of the region.

Trekking Through Diverse Landscapes

Over the next few days, the trail leads through villages such as Lower Pisang, Upper Pisang, and Manang (3,540 m). Meanwhile, the scenery transforms from lush green forests to alpine meadows and high-altitude desert. At the same time, trekkers witness Tibetan-influenced culture, ancient monasteries, and colorful prayer walls. Above it all, towering peaks such as Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak create breathtaking vistas.

Acclimatization in Manang

A vital stop on the trek is Manang, where trekkers spend an extra day to acclimatize. During this time, you can explore nearby viewpoints, visit monasteries, or enjoy the serene alpine lakes. Not only does this help prevent altitude sickness, but it also provides an opportunity to experience the tranquil beauty of the high Himalayas.

Crossing Thorong La Pass

The highlight of the trek is Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). Without a doubt, this is the most challenging section, yet it is also the most rewarding. Early in the morning, you begin the ascent under a starry sky. Step by step, the trail rises through rocky and icy terrain. As a result, the summit offers panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu, a truly unforgettable moment.

Descent to Jomsom

After crossing the pass, the trail descends to Muktinath (3,760 m), a sacred pilgrimage site. Along the way, villages like Jomsom showcase high-altitude desert landscapes and Tibetan-influenced architecture. Finally, you board a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, enjoying aerial views of the peaks and valleys you traversed.

Farewell in Pokhara

Finally, the trek concludes in Pokhara with a chance to celebrate the unforgettable landscapes, culture, and challenges you have experienced. Here, you may relax by Phewa Lake and reflect on your Himalayan adventure.

Seasonal highlights for the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Short Trek:

a. Spring (March–May): Mild weather and blooming rhododendrons.

b. Autumn (September–November): Clear skies and the best mountain visibility.

c. Winter (December–February): Colder climate, less traffic on the trails.

d. Monsoon (June–August): More greenery and less traffic on the trails.

Why Choose the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Short Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Short 10 Days Trek is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the essence of the region. Moreover, it combines breathtaking Himalayan views, cultural encounters, and the thrill of crossing Thorong La Pass. In addition, the trek offers comfort, adventure, and scenery in a compact and unforgettable journey.

Trek Map

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Additional information on 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Short Trek:

Dossier disclaimer:

This trip details here are compiled with due diligence and provided in good faith. However, please be aware that information contained herein is subject to alteration and does not form a contractual agreement between the client and Cordial Trek Pvt. Ltd. The published itinerary is correct at the time of printing. We are always committed to providing you with an enriching and enjoyable trip.

Booking your 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Short Trek:

We offer maximum flexibility for our guests’ convenience to book their trips into the Annapurna region for 2026, 2027, and 2028. You may thus choose a date that best suits your schedule. Regarding your booking, please select one of the two available options. You may either pay USD 100 per person as a deposit amount to confirm your trip or pay the full amount upfront. If you opt for the deposit, the remaining is payable via Online / Card Swipe / Cash. We accept USD, AUD, CAD, EURO, GBP, SGD, etc. when you arrive in Kathmandu.

Booking your International Flight:

For your 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek, you should plan to arrive in Kathmandu on Day 1 and depart on Day 10. However, the Jomsom flights can be canceled due to adverse weather, so you might have to opt for your second option, the jeep drive to Pokhara. It might take 7-8 hours. Therefore having some extra one or two buffer days can prevent any issues with your return tickets.

Checklist for 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Short Trek:

Please click here for a complete checklist of your 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Short Trek. Be sure to read it carefully and pack accordingly as per your personal preferences.

Arrival information:

Once you’ve booked your flight ticket, please share the details with us. If you’re arriving earlier, we can arrange accommodation at the same hotel for an additional cost and provide complimentary airport pickup. Our airport representative will then be waiting for you at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, holding our official name ‘Cordial Trek’ and your nameplate as you exit the airport terminal.

Annapurna Circuit Short Trek starting and ending days:

The actual trekking days are from Day 4 to Day 9. You’ll drive to Besisahar on Day 2 to commence the trip and return to Pokhara on Day 10. Additionally, on Day 10 itself, you can choose to fly back to Kathmandu (with additional costs for flight tickets) or stay at Pokhara for the night (your hotel for the day is excluded in your pay). Moreover, if you opt to fly back to Kathmandu on Day 10, you may even plan to catch your international flight back in the evening.

Expect to spend 8 nights and 9 days completing the Annapurna Circuit Short Trek. You’ll begin your trek from Chame to Muktinath via Thorong La High Pass and drive to Jomsom with overnight stays in villages like Pisang, Manang, Lader, Thorong Phedi and Jomsom. Each day’s trek will begin around 07:30 AM and conclude in the late afternoon, with frequent breaks to catch your breath. You’ll have numerous photo opportunities along the way and enjoy breakfast and dinner at the same place, while lunch is en route.

Additionally, your guide will provide you with regular briefings about timing and stops every morning before the trek begins.

Accommodation in Kathmandu:

In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in 3 Star Hotels with twin/double sharing beds.

Accommodation in the Mountains:

During the trek, your accommodation options are teahouses. Although basic, these teahouses are clean and provide a comfortable place for a good night’s rest.

Food:

In Kathmandu, your package includes breakfast only. They are typically served buffet-style but since you leave early in the morning for your trip on Day 2, you’ll receive a packed breakfast. During the trek, you will be provided with full board meals and may choose from a menu offering local and international cuisines.

Note: It is highly advisable to stick to vegetarian food from your arrival in Kathmandu until the end of your trek, as proper toilet facilities are not available everywhere along the trail.

Baggage and weight limit:

On your flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, the total baggage weight allowance is 15 kgs, combining both checked and carry-on baggage. Ensure you pack approximately 10/11 kilos in your checked bag and 5/4 kilos in your carry-on to stay within the 15-kilo limit. If you have items you don’t need on the trek, you can leave them at the Kathmandu hotel for storage at no cost. Remember to take a photo of your bag-tag and keep it for easy identification in case the original tag is lost.

Drinking water during the trek:

Bottled water is available along the trail, but we encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottles and treat tap water to reduce single-use plastic bottle waste. Be sure to bring water treatment pills and flavorings to enhance the taste. Staying hydrated is essential, so aim to drink more than 4 liters of water every day while trekking.

Electricity, Charging and Wi-Fi:

Please keep in mind that you’re embarking on a trek to Annapurna Circuit and not exploring urban areas. While some facilities like charging and Wi-Fi are available at an extra cost, they are not guaranteed. We also recommend against planning to work or conduct online meetings during the trek, allowing you to fully enjoy the mountain experience.

Cash for extras and tipping:

You should have Nepali rupees for expenses such as tea, coffee, bottled drinks and Wi-Fi. Plan to carry about USD 150 to 200 equivalent Nepali rupees. Additionally, set aside 100-150 USD for tipping your guide and porter. The amount can vary based on the level of service provided by the field staff members.

Availability of Guide & Porter:

Every two travelers will be provided with a single porter and an experienced guide. The baggage however must be divided between 12.5 kgs each as every porter carries a maximum of 25 kgs. Both guide and porter will be insured and well equipped with necessary items and first aid kit.

Highlights of 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Short Trek:

1. Trek via Thorong La High Pass (5,416 m)

2. Visit the very famous temple of Muktinath

3. Take a thrilling return flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

4. Explore the Manang Valley

5. Get spellbound with the spectacular view of the central Himalayas

6. Hike via scenic trails of Lower Mustang

7. Experience a scenic & thrilling drive to Manang