Annapurna Circuit Short Trek via Thorong La
- 12 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov)
We traverse the Annapurna region in 12 days, climbing over Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres with our experienced local guides.
At a glance
Trip overview
The Annapurna Circuit Short Trek is a structured 12-day journey covering roughly 110 to 120 km of mountain trail across the Annapurna Conservation Area. We designed this itinerary for hikers who want to experience the dramatic transition from lush river valleys to high-altitude desert without committing to a three-week expedition. Our route follows the Marshyangdi River upward, passing through Gurung and Tibetan-influenced settlements before tackling the high mountain crossing.
We begin our walking days in Dharapani at 1,860 m, ascending through pine forests, terraced barley fields, and ancient stone villages such as Chame and Pisang. A dedicated acclimatisation stop in Manang at 3,519 m allows our bodies to adjust to the thin air before we push toward the base of Thorong La. The landscape shifts from green subtropical hillsides to barren, windswept slopes dominated by glaciers and snow peaks.
The physical crux of our trek is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m, where we encounter strenuous conditions, cold winds, and high altitude. We require participants to maintain a solid level of physical fitness and be comfortable walking five to seven hours each day on rough, uneven terrain. Following the descent into Mustang, we visit the pilgrimage site of Muktinath before driving out toward Jomsom and Pokhara.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Thorong La Pass
We cross the high point of the circuit at 5,416 meters, marked by fluttering prayer flags and panoramic views.
Marshyangdi Valley Views
We watch early morning light strike the rock faces of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and Mt. Manaslu.
Muktinath Temple
We explore this sacred site where Buddhist monks and Hindu pilgrims share holy waters and ancient shrines.
Manang Acclimatisation
We spend a rest day exploring Gangapurna Lake and Milarepa Cave to help our bodies adjust to altitude.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Meals: B
Our representative meets our team at Tribhuvan International Airport upon arrival and transfers us to our hotel in the city. We spend the remainder of the day resting, checking gear, and preparing for the departure.
Day 2
Kathmandu to Dharapani
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Kathmandu to Dharapani
Meals: B / L / D
We depart early from Kathmandu, driving along highway routes past Mugling before joining the bumpy dirt road tracking the Marshyangdi River. Pine forests and waterfalls line the route as we reach Dharapani at 1,860 meters by evening.
Day 3
Dharapani to Chame
Meals: B / L / D
Day 3
Dharapani to Chame
Meals: B / L / D
Our walking begins as we follow a wide track through dense fir and pine woods, accompanied by the sound of pack animals and the rushing river. We pass through Bagarchhap before climbing into Chame at 2,710 meters.
Day 4
Chame to Pisang
Meals: B / L / D
Day 4
Chame to Pisang
Meals: B / L / D
We leave Chame and cross a suspension bridge, catching views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II before stopping at Bhratang village. Continuing through a U-shaped valley, we reach Pisang to spend the night.
Day 5
Pisang to Manang
Meals: B / L / D
Day 5
Pisang to Manang
Meals: B / L / D
We climb through dry upper trails with views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna, entering the wide Manang valley. We arrive in Manang village at 3,519 meters by afternoon.
Day 6
Manang Acclimatisation Day
Meals: B / L / D
Day 6
Manang Acclimatisation Day
Meals: B / L / D
We take a scheduled rest day in Manang to support proper acclimatisation to the thin mountain air. Our team takes a short hike toward Gangapurna Lake or visits the local monastery.
Day 7
Manang to Yak Kharka
Meals: B / L / D
Day 7
Manang to Yak Kharka
Meals: B / L / D
We leave Manang and ascend gradually through alpine pastures where yaks graze on sparse vegetation. The trees thin out as we reach Yak Kharka at 4,050 meters.
Day 8
Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Meals: B / L / D
Day 8
Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Meals: B / L / D
We walk along narrow trails beneath towering rock walls, crossing a suspension bridge before climbing steeply to Thorong Phedi at 4,450 meters, our staging camp for the pass.
Day 9
Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
Meals: B / L / D
Day 9
Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
Meals: B / L / D
We start before dawn for our longest day, climbing steadily in freezing temperatures to reach Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. After a brief pause at the pass, we descend thousands of stone steps down to Muktinath.
Day 10
Muktinath to Jomsom
Meals: B / L / D
Day 10
Muktinath to Jomsom
Meals: B / L / D
We visit the Muktinath temple complex in the morning before starting our walk or drive down the windy Kali Gandaki river valley through Kagbeni to reach Jomsom.
Day 11
Jomsom to Pokhara
Meals: B / L / D
Day 11
Jomsom to Pokhara
Meals: B / L / D
We board an early morning mountain flight or drive out of the Kali Gandaki gorge to the lakeside city of Pokhara. The afternoon is free to rest beside Phewa Lake.
Day 12
Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals: B
Day 12
Pokhara to Kathmandu
Meals: B
We complete our journey with a return drive or flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, where we check into our hotel and conclude our services.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off in private vehicle
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS card registration
- Twin-share teahouse accommodation on trek
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- Experienced English-speaking local guide and porters
Not included
- International airfare and Nepal entry visa
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude emergency rescue
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Tips for guides and porters
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging at teahouses
Before you go
Good to know
Altitude & acclimatisation
Our itinerary includes a dedicated acclimatisation day in Manang at 3,519 meters to help prevent acute mountain sickness. We monitor our group closely as we climb toward Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.
Fitness expectations
This is a moderate to strenuous trek requiring participants to walk 5 to 7 hours daily over steep, rocky terrain. Previous multi-day hiking experience at high elevations is strongly recommended.
Accommodation & meals
We stay in local teahouses and guesthouses along the route, offering twin-share rooms with basic facilities. Our meals consist of freshly prepared local and continental dishes, with dal bhat serving as a primary source of energy.
Weather conditions
Mountain weather can change rapidly, with clear mornings often giving way to afternoon winds or clouds. We carry appropriate gear and remain flexible with our daily schedules if conditions require adjustments.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Sturdy trekking bootsEssential
Footwear
Ankle support and broken-in fit are necessary for rocky paths.
Down jacketEssential
Clothing
Required for cold mornings and evenings above 3,000 meters.
Thermal base layersEssential
Clothing
Moisture-wicking tops and bottoms for cold weather.
Trekking polesEssential
Camping
Helpful for knee protection on long descents from Thorong La.
Water purification tablets or filterEssential
Safety
Essential for treating drinking water along the teahouse route.
UV-protection sunglassesEssential
Safety
Necessary for glare protection on snow near the pass.
Sleeping bag rated to -15°CEssential
Camping
Teahouse blankets may not be sufficient at higher elevations.
Valid passport and insurance documentsEssential
Documents
Must cover emergency helicopter evacuation up to 5,500 meters.
Paperwork
Permits & paperwork
We arrange
Handled in Kathmandu — nothing for you to do.Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
PermitRequired for entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area.
TIMS Card
PermitTrekkers' Information Management System card for tracking and safety.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum altitude reached on this trek?
Our highest point is Thorong La Pass, which sits at 5,416 meters above sea level.
Are permits included in the package cost?
Yes, we arrange the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card as part of our service.
How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Short Trek?
We rate this trek as moderate to strenuous, requiring good cardiovascular fitness and the ability to walk up to 7 hours a day on rough paths.
Where do we stay during the trek?
We accommodate our team in local teahouses and guesthouses offering twin-share rooms along the trail.
When is the best time of year to go?
We recommend trekking during the spring months of March to May and the autumn months from September to November.
Will our guide carry our heavy bags?
Our porters carry the main duffel bags, while we carry only a daypack with water, layers, and personal items.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 12 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
Ready to book Annapurna Circuit Short Trek via Thorong La?
Talk to a Himalaya Treks planner about departure dates, group discounts, or a customised private departure.