Annapurna short circuit - 9 Days

Annapurna Semi Circuit Trekking - 17 Days
Trip Information
  • Duration9 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max Altitude5,416 m/17,769 ft
  • ActivityTrekking, Historical, and Cultural Excursion
  • Group Size1+
  • Trip StartKathmandu
  • Trip EndPokhara
  • Best TimeMarch-June and Sept-Dec

One of the prominent trekking destinations in Nepal is the Semi Circuit Trekking of Annapurna Region. The travel around the valley of Annapurna region generally symbolizes the Annapurna semi circuit trekking in Manang region which was opened in 1970 for the trekkers around the world. This zone is very m rich in natural flora and fauna incorporated with one of kind high altitude greenery and vegetations and cross-cultural diverse society of ethnic Himalayan Buddhist community.

We can witness the colorful trees with full of flowers with the delightful fragrance that originate from the various types of blooms which germinate amid the season. We can see the encompassing perspectives of Manang town following well-established trials and be passing traditional villages, along with woodlands as we move higher which is the main course of magnificent landscape enchantments of Annapurna semi circuit trekking.

Even though considered as remarkable for fascinating and exciting views of the Annapurna range, this trek equally challenging at the same time full of hardships. In, Annapurna Semi Circuit trekking as we reach the region of Thorong La pass at 5,416m.(17,700ft) due to high altitude, snow and unfavorable natural condition which make it sometimes frosty when it snows.

But endeavors are subtle when it comes to the views of 3 fabulous peaks of the world known as Mount Annapurna (8091m), Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Mount Manaslu(8163). This is one of the classic and rewarding treks in Nepal and probably on this planet offering radiant views of these three High Himalayas. Annapurna Himalayan range is the one of the finest in the Himalayas around the world which have its own charm that’s why tourists around the world are always thrilled for this fascinating trip of lifetime always known an Annapurna semi Circuit trek that takes you right around the significant Annapurna Himalayas.

The mainstream of Annapurna Semi Circuit trekking is incorporated with Besi-Sahar which starts after the Valley of Marsyandi River elevating upwards the high Himalaya pass known as Thorong La Pass from the submerged Manang and slide towards the Valley of Kaligandaki River.

This place is assorted with magnificent mountain ranges and vistas of the Himalayas. There are changes of view at the breaking points like Thorong La pass, Valley of Kali Gandaki River and the consecrated territory of Muktinath which are amazingly intriguing. So, Be ready to reward yourself with this trek and be ready to be enraptured by the beauty and thrilled with the adventure of this trekking area.

Annapurna Short Circuit - 9 Days Altitude and Distance Coverage

Day

Activity

Altitude (m/ft)

Distance (km/miles)

Duration (hours)

Elevation Gain/Loss

01

Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square and attend a welcome dinner.

1,350 m / 4,430 ft

~10 km / 6.2 miles (drive to Square)

~2 hrs sightseeing

02

Drive to Chame via Besi Sahar

2,660 m / 8,730 ft

~240 km / 149 miles (drive)

~8-9 hrs drive

+1,900 m / +6,233 ft (drive)

03

Trek to Pisang

3,185 m / 10,450 ft

~14 km / 8.7 miles

~4-5 hrs walk

+525 m / +1,722 ft

04

Trek to Manang

3,480 m / 11,420 ft

~16 km / 9.9 miles

~4-5 hrs walk

+295 m / +968 ft

05

Acclimatization and exploration day in Manang

3,480 m / 11,420 ft

~5-7 km / 3-4 miles (hike)

~2-3 hrs walk

~+200 m / +656 ft (optional hikes)

06

Trek to Yak Kharka

4,180 m / 13,714 ft

~10 km / 6.2 miles

~4-5 hrs walk

+700 m / +2,296 ft

07

Trek to Thorong Phedi (or Thorong High Camp)

4,447 m / 14,600 ft
4,910 m / 16,109 ft

~8 km / 5 miles

~3-5 hrs walk

+267 m / +876 ft (Phedi)
+730 m / +2,395 ft (High Camp)

08

Cross Thorong-La Pass and trek to Muktinath, then drive to Jomsom

5,416 m / 17,770 ft
3,700 m / 12,140 ft

~15 km / 9.3 miles

~6-7 hrs walk
~1 hr drive

+506 m / +1,660 ft (pass)
-1,716 m / -5,630 ft (to Muktinath)
-985 m / -3,230 ft (to Jomsom)

09

Drive or fly back to Pokhara

820 m / 2,690 ft

~150 km / 93 miles (drive)
~30 min (flight)

~6-7 hrs (drive)
~25 min (flight)

-1,895 m / -6,217 ft

 

Itinerary
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Up on arrival in the international airport you will meet our office representative, transfer to the hotel. After refreshment in the hotel you will be picked up by our tour guide for couple hrs sightseeing tours to Kathmandu Durbar Square. Back to hotel and be ready for welcome dinner and briefing in the evening. Stay overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

    Today after an early morning breakfast your guide will receive you from your hotel and transfer to the bus station for day scenic countryside drive to Khudi. On the way we can see more of countryside of Nepal that offers greenery, rivers, settlement, farms and beautiful mountain. After Mugling, we head along the road toward Pokhara. We leave the highway to Pokhara at Dumre and head north to Besisahar. About 30min drive from Besisahar takes us to Khudi, the starting Point of our Adventure. Stay overnight in Khudi.

      Cross-Marshyangdi River and continue trek through a beautiful pine and spruce forest. Finally your trek arrives to Brathang village amidst beautiful apple garden. Further trek brings you to next bridge to cross Marshyangdi again. From on here begins Manang. Gentle climbing begins through pine forest and fantastic view of Mt. Annapurna. Finally you are at Pisang village 3185m. There is two Pisang, lower Pisang and upper Pisang, upper Pisang has better view of valley and the mountain. Stay overnight at the tea house.

        Well, there are two route to Manang, Upper route and lower route. Upper route have better view than lower route but both has nicer and different view. Lower route goes through the pine forest with magnificent view of Annapurnas from different angles and beautiful landscape takes you to Humde village and further trek to Braga village where you can visit a 600 years old monastery and Tibetan style houses. After 40 minutes trek from Braga, you are in Manang village. Stay overnight at the tea house.

          You should spend the day in Manang village and the vicinity to acclimatize to the higher elevation you will encounter towards Thorung La. There are many opportunities both easy and strenuous day excursions from Manang. It is possible to climb the ridge to the north of the village for view of the Annapurna IV, Annapurna II and many more Mountains or to descend from the village to the glacier lake at the foot of the huge icefall that drops from the northern sloopes of Gangapurna.  And in the afternoon explore Manang village, from the flat roofed houses of Manange have excellent views of the Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Gangapurna Lake. Stay overnight at the tea house.

            After wonderful time in Manang Village, trek start an ascent of almost 2000m to the Throung La. from  Manang the trail crosses a stream and mane stone before the Tenki Manang. The trek continues through small village of Gunsang where you can take short break for tea/coffee. Today you will stop Yak Kharka, also known as Koche, from where it will take another 01 hrs to Churilattar. Stay overnight at the tea house.

              After breakfast in teahouse, the trek starts with few slowly up and downs until crosses the stream on a wooden bridge at 4310 meters. After making a short ascent on a good trail to a teashop, the route then follows a narrow path across a high, unstable slope before heading to Thorong Phedi (foot of the hill). If you feel fine today you can make all the way to Thorang High Camp, if you do it today it will be easier for tomorrow. Stay overnight at the tea house.

                Today an early morning you will star to walk with torch light, slowly ascend, nice view of the Annapurna Mountain and Chulu west, finally reach to the pass. The Throng-La pass with traditional Chorten, prayer flags is at an elevation of 5416m which is the highest point of your trip from where you will have outstanding high Himalayan scenery. The trail descends all the way to Muktinath. Muktinath is a beautiful, calm and quiet, great and mysterious for pilgrims, decorated with god and goddess. Stay overnight at the tea house.

                  Today an early morning breakfast guide will take you to the airport for short but scenic flight to the lakeside city of Pokhara also second biggest city after Kathmandu for tourism. After refreshment you will have guided sightseeing tours in the valley. Stay overnight at the hotel.

                    Route Map

                    Annapurna short circuit - 9 Days map
                    Cost Details
                    What's Included
                    • All airport Pick up drop by private vehicle
                    • 01 night twin/double sharing deluxe accommodation on BB in Kathmandu
                    • 01 night twin/double sharing deluxe accommodation on BB in Pokhara
                    • Kathmandu to Besisahar by bus (if you want private vehicle or flight to pokhara from Kathmandu its available on additional cost)
                    • Besisahar to Chame by sharing jeep and Jomsom to Pokhara via sharing vechile.
                    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System( TIMS card)
                    • A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly , English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, Transport and insurance.
                    • 02 guest=01 porter with their Insurance, Salary, Food, accommodation and equipment
                    • Accommodation in the mountain during the trekking
                    • Three meals a day; breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking.
                    • Safe drinking water
                    • All applicable government and local taxes per the itinerary
                    What's not Included
                    • Your Nepal Visa fees (should bring small accurate fees in USD and 02 passport size photos)
                    • All the International air fare from and to Kathmandu (no need to pay departure tax for international flight)
                    • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
                    • Personal travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation
                    • In case of extra more night accommodation, lunch and dinner in city due to early arrival and late departure as well as early back/return from mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given time period of itinerary
                    • Your Personal expenses such as ( laundry, baggage charge, phone calls, battery recharge, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottle water, hot and cold shower, extra porter.. etc)
                    • The Tips to the trekking crews and drive
                    • Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather condition or any event out of our control
                    • Anything not included in service includes column
                    Availability
                    • The trip departs everyday day of the year
                    • The trip and trek are fully customizable we can customize the trip according to the need and necessity of our clients
                    • The trip is available for solo travellers group travelers and private travelers
                    • We organize the trip for a large group and can provide service for a group of 100+ members as well
                    • If the given date are not appropriate for the travellers and trekkers, the trip can be conducted on the customary date provided by our clients
                    • Holiday tours Nepal advises all our clients to book at least 7 days prior so all the arrangements can be done in time, especially sometimes in the mountains where the accommodation are booked prior so prior booking helps a lot
                    • Contact us at [email protected] or send us a text at +977-9816710843 or +977-9818178630 We are available 24/7 on WhatsApp, Viber, and WeChat for additional information.
                    Useful Information

                    Tips for trekkers who are trekking in the Himalayas

                    • Build stamina, practice hiking and do some hikes that involves altitude to know how your body would react in high altitude.

                    • Let the loved ones know that you’re traveling to your family or loved ones and let them know about the agency that you’re traveling with.
                    • Stay connected, share your itinerary, respect local customs and be honest with the guide and let them know if you’re not feeling well
                    • Stay hydrated and nourished in the mountains and remember food is fuel if you stop consuming food remember your going to fall sick or lose energy so don’t stop eating.
                    • Be patient stay positive and trust your instincts and remember in altitude sometimes you feel angry and can have secondary thoughts.
                    • Check the weather forecast or ask the guide about the weather and what to wear.
                    • Respect local traditions, leave no trace, use eco friendly products and keep the trails clean.
                    • Keep the money, document and important documents safe
                    • Keep the power bank, cameras and electronics safe and at night try to cover the electronics with clothes so they stay warm and don’t drain the battery.

                    Tips for female travelers during periods in the mountains

                    • Know your cycle and pack accordingly sanitary pads, period underwear’s, menstrual cups and tampons.

                    • Pack sanitary pads in case sometimes the dates can be up and down and even someone might need in trek in case you don’t use it.

                    • Bring pain relivers like ibuprofen, heat patches, to ease cramps stay hydrated and eat good nutrition food.

                    • Wear comfortable and food layered clothing’s rest when needed and mind your mood.

                    Equipment and Gear List

                    GeneralGeneral

                    • Four-season (-20 degree) sleeping bag (We provide rental sleeping bags available for an additional USD 35)
                    • Puffy down jacket (We provide rental jackets for an additional USD 35)
                    • Daypack (25-30 liters recommended) with rain cover

                    CatUpper Body

                    • Sun hat or cap (We'll provide you with a trekking cap.)
                    • Warm woolen hat
                    • Scarf/Neck Buff (highly recommended to get saved from wind and cold)
                    • Headlamp or mobile torch light for nighttime
                    • Polarized sunglasses

                    TorsoTorso

                    • Technical fabric base layer thermals are light for warmer months, heavy for colder months
                    • Technical fabric t-shirts and sleeve sweaters or high-necks
                    • Waterproof rain jacket
                    • Windproof jacket for the walk as it gets windy
                    • Fleece jacket or down jacket

                    LowerLower Body

                    • Thermals inner
                    • Hiking pants at least 3
                    • Comfortable pants for teahouses
                    • Waterproof, windproof shell
                    • Hiking shorts

                    glovesHands

                    • Woolen gloves for the tea house
                    • Hard-shell windproof outer gloves for the walk

                    feetFeet

                    • Marino Wool or comfortable, warm socks
                    • Hiking socks
                    • Liner socks
                    • Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
                    • Crampons (For passes)
                    • Casual shoes or sandals that are comfortable for the time in the tea house
                    • Gaiters (lightweight for rain and snow)

                    undergarmentUndergarments and Inner Wears

                    • Technical fabric/quick drying (can be washed during the trek)
                    • Sports bras (women)
                    • Sleeping clothes as per the comfortability

                    FirstaidFirst Aid Kits and Medications

                    Note: Our guides carry medications, oxygen cans, and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are recommended.) 

                    • Sunscreen SPF- 50+
                    • Lip balm or Vaseline
                    • ointment cream
                    • Cough Syrup and strepsils (recommended for Khumbu Cough)
                    • Creams and medicines (for any allergies or diseases)

                    Optional Other Essentials

                    • Passport
                    • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
                    • Reusable water bottle
                    • Toilet paper, small soap, and shampoo
                    • Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (if you plan to treat water)
                    • Water bladder for the day bag
                    • Small towel for personal use
                    • Pillowcase in case of allergies to new pillows
                    • High-protein snacks (such as mountain bars or nuts)
                    • Waterproof/dry bags for carrying essential documents, stuff, frequently used items, and money
                    • Power bank or extra batteries
                    • Cameras and mobile phone
                    • Cards/book
                    • Pee bottle/ pee funnel for women
                    • Trekking poles
                    • Whistle in case your voice is not loud enough to stop or start
                    • Thermos for hot water during the nighttime
                    • We give you a free duffel bag, trekking cap, maps, and t-shirt during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffel bag will be used to pack your trekking supplies.
                    • For every two participants, we assign one porter. The porter will carry the duffel bag, which should weigh around 10 kg/22 lbs., throughout the walk.
                    • Daypack bag for daily used stuff like cash, documents, papers, a water bottle or bladder, a camera, toiletries, sunscreen, a notebook, clothing, etc. (with a waterproof cover).
                    • You can store your luggage (on-trekking items) at the hotel in Kathmandu, and we can assist and help.
                    • Total luggage for the Kathmandu-Lukla flight is (15 kg/33 lbs.), including duffel (10 Kg/22 lbs.) and backpack (5 kg/11 lbs.)
                    • A down jacket with a hood(cap) to be warm in altitudes above 3,000m.
                    • We can provide a down jacket for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, you need to pay back the cost of USD 200 per item.
                    • We can provide a sleeping bag for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, USD 200 per item must be paid.

                    What to pack for nepal trekking?

                    Note: Supplies and gear can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu. Once you are in Nepal, you can buy supplies and gear for hiking if you have spare time. Trekking Planner Nepal representatives will assist you in purchasing the equipment. Thamel a tourist hub, offers a wide range of trekking equipment at affordable prices. Don't wear short clothes inside the monasteries and religious places.

                    Step by step process to get the Visa after landing in Nepal and what is the cost for visa in 2025?

                    • Follow the signs or the instructions of the persons and proceed to the arrival hall first.
                    • Fill out the arrival card that is provided at the immigration area or use the kiosk machine.
                    • Staffs and there are signs that will guide you to fill the form, paying the fees and getting visa.
                    • After filling the form procced to the dedicated counter to pay the visa fee.
                    • Visa fees can be paid in dollars, euro, pound and Nepali rupees is also accepted.
                    • For 2025 there is a on arrival visa, and the cost for a visa is USD 30 for 15 days. For 30 days the visa cost is USD 50; for 90 days, the visa cost is USD 125.
                    • After paying the fees present your passport, visa application, arrival card and payment receipt at the immigration counter.
                    • After all this process the immigration officer will issue the visa.
                    • After getting the visa you can come out of the airport and meet our representatives who will be waiting with a name plate outside the airport.
                    • As you walk out of the airport and cross the road you will meet our airport representative who will take you to the hotel and after that we will meet and talk in detail about the trip.

                    Why doesn’t Holiday Planner Nepal encourage joining groups or traveling with other travelers?

                    What we believe in is when you book the trek solo or with the group you know the solo traveler or the group book it solo because you don’t want to join a group and want to enjoy the trek by yourself and the cost is the same so why to join a group and ruin the experience.

                    Everyone has different mentality according to which the chemistry may not match up when joining a group which may lead to bad experience.

                    What is the difference between joining a group, going solo or with group you know?

                    Aspect

                    Trekking solo

                    Group you know

                    Group of strangers

                    Flexibility

                    Set you own pace and schedule your trip freely

                    Decisions are made by collaboration

                    A preplanned itinerary should be followed.

                    Comfort level

                    Sometimes can be felt lonely when the guides and porters are not there

                    Familiar companions who offer physical and emotional support

                    Requires getting adapted to new personalities and characters can be frustrating sometimes

                    Safety

                    Immediate help if guides and porters are around but in case of night time can be a problem.

                    Trusted companion with you in the twin room can provide support

                    Group leaders and members will provide safety.

                    Cost

                    Maybe higher compared to group

                    Shared cost reduces a bit of expenses

                    Economical as group discounts are provided in big groups

                    Social interaction

                    Limited unless meeting new people

                    Familiar environment with the person and travelers we know

                    Opportunity to make new friend but sometimes characters may cause problems

                    Planning

                    Fully flexible and the plan can be changed anytime

                    Group planning and then a final decision

                    Pre arrange itineraries by the organizer

                    Adaptability

                    Full freedom for changing plans

                    Adjustments can be made with a member or the team

                    Must stick to the group plans and schedule.

                    Experience rated and provided till date

                    Peaceful, freedom and flexibility

                    Quality time well spent with the persons we know

                    Unknown peoples and characters outcome can be both good or bad.

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