Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek - 14 Days

One of the most adventurous treks, Annapurna trek ventures into rarely visited valleys within the Annapurna Region. Opened to foreign trekkers in 1997, the Annapurna Circuit is the most spectacular trekking route. And Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek is the short form of the Annapurna Circuit.

The trail is a full high alpine zone of lush green valley, fascinating villages with impressive snow-capped Himalayas. As, the trek starts from 1000 m to the mind blowing altitude of 5,416 meters, you will explore the true wilderness.

Walking through untouched primary forest is a rare joy anyways, but the foothills of the Annapurna Circuit is of more exhilaration.

Annapurna Circuit trek if done in slow pace could take up 22 to 23 days. But, the Mini Annapurna Circuit trek is its short version that completes the whole journey less than 2 weeks. Thus, it is for the trekkers with limited time.

This 14-day trek is a full package of fun, adventure, and the phase where your imagination changes into a fascinating reality. It includes the tour of flight, scenic drive through narrow paths, walk through descending gorges, remote valley with unique lifestyle, etc.

The fine villages, you witness, are full of diversified ethnic communities. The lower lands inhabits the Hindu communities of Brahmin and Chhetris, whereas, the highland at Manang are full of Buddhists people including Gurung, Magar, and Thakalis. Their typical culture, tradition, and lifestyle is sure to cherish you. It is a truly captivating experience where you closely unfold the real rural life of Nepal.

From the highest point, you get to witness the panoramic views of full Annapurna massifs including Manaslu, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Lamjung.

Moreover, you also get to see the rare but extremely beautiful species like snow leopard, blue sheep in Yak Kharka on the way.

Though the best season to trek is spring and autumn, you can trek Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek all over the year.

We start from Pokhara heading north towards the holy Fishtail region. Our trek officially starts from Syange which goes along the Marshyangdi river. With the magnificent views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges, you will climb through oak, rhododendron, and bamboo forests. Also, we will cross through many rivers and rivulets like Modi Khola. You get to see the rare side of the high Himalayas here.

You will also encounter the barren Tibet influenced village of the Kali Gandaki- the world’s deepest gorge. The scenery of the northern high and dry Tibetan Plateau is equally breathtaking. We will even hit hot spring which soothes your body pain and exhaustion.

In the trek, there are many teahouses and home-stays that serve local dishes and warm beds in the trail routes. If you love camping, there are some unique spots along the route.

Highlights of the Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Full day sightseeing in UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
  • Exciting drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara along with a country side view
  • Circle around the Annapurna Circuit in 2 weeks
  • The best view of Annapurna I (8,091)- the 10th highest mountain in the world
  • Ascending to the Marshyangdi River valley
  • Proper acquaintance with the mountain people in the heart of Himalayas
  • Alluring sights of the world’s highest mountains: Mt. Dhaulagiri I (7th), Mt. Manaslu (8th), and Mt. Annapurna I (10th)
  • Passing the Thorong La Pass at the altitude of 5,416 meters, the vantage point in the Annapurna region
  • Close insight of different ethnic Gurung, Thakali, and Magar settlements and traditional villages like Jomsom, Pisang, Manang, and many other scarcely populated settlements.
  • Visit the famous pilgrimage spot: Muktinath and other pilgrimage destinations that signifies both Hinduism and Buddhism.
  • Chance of walking through the world’s deepest gorge and the Kali Gandaki valley
  • Experience the natural hot springs at Tatopani
DaysItineraryTrek Time
Day 01Kathmandu Arrival (1338m)-
Day 02Kathmandu Sightseeing-
Day 03Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar to Syange (1100m)7-8 hours of drive
Day 04Trek from Syange to Dharapani (1960m)7-8 hours
Day 05Trek to Chame (2710m)5-6 hours
Day 06Chame to Pisang (3,300m)5-6 hours
Day 07Pisang to Manang (3,500m)6-7 hours
Day 08Acclimatization day at Manang-
Day 09Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m03-4 hours
Day 10Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4.420m)3-4 hours
Day 11Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass (5416m)7-8 hours
Day 12Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2743m0 2 hours
Day 13Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (2,651m)25 minutes of flight
Day 14 Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu and farewell dinner in the evening 6-7 hours drive
Day 15Final Departure-
Day 1
Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival

On this day of your arrival, our representative will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Then, we will transfer you to one of the finest hotels in town.

The very day we will clearly brief you about our whole plans and itinerary for the trip. You will also meet your trek leader/guide this day.

You will also get you travel permit and TIMS card. Make sure you have all the necessary documents like passports, copies of passport-size photos, and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy.

Day 2
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing

There will be a private vehicle and your tour guide. Today, you will explore this famous ‘city of temples.’ As Kathmandu has the 7 UNESCO listed world heritages, you will surely explore new places along with their unique practices.

You will visit the world class heritages like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square, etc.

After the whole day of town travel, if you will have some free time, you can do some last-minute shopping in Thamel area for trekking and miscellaneous essentials.

Overnight stay at the same hotel.

Day 3
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar to Syange

Altitude: 1100m/3608ft, Syange

Travelling duration: Approx. 7-8 hours

Distance Travelled: 207 km

Accomodation: Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

On this day, we will take an early morning drive to Besisahar from Kathmandu. This 4-5 hours scenic drive will allow you to enjoy the stunning settlements on the banks of Marshyangdi river.

From Besisahar you can take a private jeep to reach to Syangje valley.

From the headquarter of Lamjung district, Besisahar you will encounter terraced rice fields. This is on the way to Syange, a beautiful landscape full of rivers and waterfalls.

Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 4
Day 04: Trek from Syange to Dharapani

Altitude: 1960m/6430ft

Trek duration: 7-8 hours

Accomodation: Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Tighten up your shoelaces as the trek to the circuit begins officially this day. We will walk gradually through the side trails following the calm Marsyangdi River.

With frequent ascends and descends, we will come across the beautiful waterfalls, forested ridges, traditional villages, and rugged landscapes. Also, we will witness Annapurna II and Pisang peaks.

You experience the perfect scenic combination of mountains, waterfalls, and countryside life this day.

We will rest at Dharapani in any guest house or lodge.

Day 5
Day 05: Trek to Chame

Altitude: 2710m/8891ft

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

Accomodation: Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Continuing the path of waterfalls and green terrains, we will leave behind Dharapani.

After passing the village, you will see a valley coming in the east along which the Dudh Khola flows. This is where the Manaslu Circuit Trek route joins the Marsyangdi river, coming from the Larka La. The magnificent Manaslu and soaring Annapurna now appears closer than ever.

The path rejoins the main trails, and encounter small Gompa adorned with brightly colored paints. The valley then opens out and it is a short walk to Chame.

Also, it is a good place to do last-minute shopping for higher altitudes. From the teahouse, you will have the excellent views of Lamjung Himal.

Day 6
Day 06: Chame to Pisang

Altitude: 3300m/10824ft

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

Accomodation: Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

After breakfast, we continue our trek to Upper Pisang. On the way, the path goes through the dense forest, and the beautiful panoramic views of meadows and mountains. During this walk, you will first face the giant Paungda Dada rock face, a curved bowl-like shaped massive stone.

You will pass a few mani walls, you will walk through overshadowed way of huge rocks. You pass through a small hamlet by chortens at every end.

Eventually after about 6 hours of walk, we will get to our destination of the day. Pisang peak(6091m/19983ft) will be in front of you. Pisang valley is the woodland full of juniper, pine, and fir. Pisang has two i.e. upper and lower villages. It is well-worth climbing up to the upper village too, which is more traditional and has full decorated gompas and chaityas.

From the Upper Pisang, you will get clearer and majestic view of Annapurna II standing firmly on the south.

Day 7
Day 07: Pisang to Manang

Altitude: 3500m/11482ft

Trek duration: 6-7 hours

Accomodation: Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Trek from Pisang to Manang is another adventurous day of the trek. This day, after the beautiful sunrise view, we will continue the trail witnessing multiple flora and fauna, beautiful gorges, and more close & clear mountainous views.

Also, before reaching Manang we will walk through the biog hills, jungle, and wetlands. There are also some stupas, ancient monasteries, and lama schools. After 6 hours of tiring walk, we will reach Manang, the happening place of the trek.

There are many interesting species of flora and faunas. We will witness plants like higher birch, blue pine, juniper trees, silver fir, sprunce, etc and animals like yaks, buffaloes, Indian muntjac (barking deer), the thar (wild goat), and blue sheep. Even we can view birds like white-cappedriver chat, the plumbeous redstart, forktails, dippers, and kingfishers.

Before reaching the Manang valley, you will reach a ridge. From where the deserted view of Manang valley is simply breathtaking.

Day 8
Day 08: Acclimatization day at Manang

As this is a long trek with its ultimate vantage point at the altitude more than 5,000m, you will need a day of acclimatization. It will re-energize and excite you more about other days of trek. Plus,you could avoid altitude sickness if you acclimatize timely and properly.

But not to worry, this day is full of exploration!

Manang is a large valley situated on a rise immediately across the huge Gangapurna glacier lake. It is a beautiful emerald like landscape.

This day, we will have plenty of good walks in the area specially above the village. Also, the walk up the valley towards Tilicho lake to the Khangsar is also possible. The Manang Gompa, Himalayan Rescue Association ( Altitude discussion and info center), is worthy too. Moreover, the small cultural shops around will let you explore other souvenirs.

There are also splendid views of the peaks from Manang. Thus, we will spend a day acclimatizing in Manang by walking and sightseeing around the village.

Later, we will return to our booked teahouse for night-stay.

Day 9
Day 09: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka

Altitude: 4110m/13484 ft

Trek duration: 3-4 hours

Accomodation: Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a day long break at Manang, you will head towards Yak Kharka which ascends by 500m. This day is relatively shorter. To reach there, you will steadily climb through Tenki Manang, leaving the Mardyangsi Valley. Along the Jarsang Khola Valley, you reach Yak Kharka at 4,000m. Even if you venture a short way, you will see the large flock of local blue sheep.

The vegetation, local people, and settlement tend to thin out. But the ultimate picturesque views is too unique and out of imagination.

Overnight at guesthouse!

Day 10
Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi

Altitude: 4420m/14501 ft

Trek duration: 3-4 hours

Accomodation: Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Again, this is yet another short day of the trek as proper acclimatisation is essential.

After about two hours of ascend, the trail starts to descend. After there are some rivers to cross by. The dramatic flow of river at the 4,310m looks pretty interesting. Then, after climbing up for certain time, you will reach Thorong Phedi at 4,450m. Be ready you may encounter blue sheep and snow leopard here!

There are decent guest houses since past few years. You will stay at one.

Day 11
Day 11: Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass

Altitude: Thorong La (5416m/17764 ft) and Muktinath (3800m/12467 ft)

Trek duration: 7-8 hours of trek, 1 hour drive

Accomodation: Teahouse

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 11 is a long day trek starting before sunrise at 4am. Our target is to reach the ultimate point of the trek, Thorong La Pass by 9-10 am. If this doesn’t happen, strong weather conditions will greatly affect the journey.

As there are several false summits, the ascent will be on the top notch. But the spectacular views around you will perfectly soothe you.

To reach the highest point, we climb steeply on a regular route which will be influenced by altitude and snow. Sometimes the heavy snowfall causes terrible problems to cross the pass.

After four hours of climbing, you will see the pass full of chortens and prayer flags. The stunning view from the top will entice you.

Then we will return and after another 4 hours of walking, we will reach the holy temple of nirvana:Muktinath. This place also has several monasteries to visit for. This sacred pilgrimage site thus, symbolizes both Hindus and Buddhists. Especially dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the 108 watersprouts surrounds the Muktinath temple.

Another attraction is the Jwala Mai Temple. With a gorgeous natural spring, it also has an ever-glowing flame fueled by natural gas.

Day 12
Day 12: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom

Altitude: 2743m

Trek duration: 2 hours

This is the last day of your trekking on foot. After breakfast in the morning, you will trek back to Jomsom village all the way from Muktinath. This is a short trek of around 2 hours where you will explore the dry and desert-looking land.

You will descend along several Buddhist monasteries and Gompas with the Tibet-influenced Buddhist cultures.

On this trail, the view of Annapurna I and the surrounding landscapes is extremely beautiful. You will also have view of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Dhampus peak, Nilgiri, Tilicho, and many others.

The village called Bonpo and many famous monasteries lies nearby. Following the normal route for an hour we reach Jomsom- a large settlement with a STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) airstrip, police station, and bank.

The Kali Gandaki here is called the Thak Khola, named from the ethnic group, the Thakalis.

Also, on the way we will encounter the world’s deepest gorge, Kopchpani. Also, nearby is tatopani, a famous spot for its hot springs.

When you are in the village, you can explore around for the rest of the day.

Day 13
Day 13: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

Altitude: 910m

Trek duration: 5-6 hours

Accomodation: Hotel

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

On this day, we take the sensational flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, passing between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs.

If you get some leisure time in Pokhara, there are a lot of places based on your taste. The heart-soothing lakeside and different rock bars & clubs will fully entertain you. Moreover, there are also places like Bindabasini temple, Davis Fall, World Peace Pagoda, Gupteshwor Cave, etc.

Also, you can do short adventures like kayaking, boating, and many others. You will have a true chillax time here.

Day 14
Day 14: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu and Farewell Dinner in the Evening

This day is the final day at Pokhara where we leave after taking our breakfast. After half an hour of flight, we will reach the capital. As this day there are no further plans, you are free to create one. There are options for shopping, or even rock climbing or archery if you wish.

At the evening, we will welcome you for the farewell dinner. In this meetup, you will get relaxation while sharing and listening to the trek experiences.

Day 15
Day 15: Final Departure

Our trip finally concludes this day. Our representatives will drive you back to the International Airport in Kathmandu for your flight departure from Nepal. We look forward for your positive response even in the days to come.

This itinerary is strictly for the one who wish to visit the Annapurna Circuit area. If you want a long trek, we can redesign the itinerary including Ghorepani Poon Hill trek or other possible treks you wish for.

We will be more than happy to help you by every means. Also, if you have any type of query regarding this or any other trekking routes, just feel free to contact us.

Cost Included

  • Airport pick up and drop off service by a private tourists vehicle
  • 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Accommodation in tea houses during the days in a trek
  • All Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu half day sightseeing
  • Tour-guides for sightseeing
  • Airfare from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu
  • Annapurna Conservation Area permits and TIMS card fee
  • A professional English speaking guide
  • All government taxes, VAT, and service charges
  • First aid kit box

Cost Excluded

  • Nepal Entry Visa Fee
  • International Airfare
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Personal gear for trekking
  • Extra baggage charges
  • Personal Expenses (Soft and alcoholic drinks, snacks, laundry, telephone bills, battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Gratitudes to the guide and porter

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You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek

Trip Facts

  • Annapurna Region
  • 5416m, Thorong La Pass
  • 14 Days
  • 8 Days
  • Min 2 to Max 14 persons
  • Moderate to Strenuous
  • 5-6 hours
  • Spring (February-April) and Autumn (October-December)
  • Kathmandu
  • Syange/Jomsom

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