In the midst of the breathtaking Himalayas, where giants like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri rise for the sky, lies a trekking experience that welcomes explorers looking for a short but deeply satisfying journey. The Short Annapurna Circuit, which takes only eight days, delivers a flurry of various landscapes, cultural immersion, and the thrill of climbing the difficult Thorong La Passas the walk begins, hikers are welcomed with the promise of breathtaking natural splendor.
The path unfolds like a captivating tapestry, winding through subtropical woods ornamented with brilliant rhododendrons and terraced farms farmed with unwavering determination by local populations. This shortened journey is a mini of the lengthier Annapurna Circuit, yet it captures the spirit of the Himalayas in an incredibly engaging way.
The region's cultural richness emerges when trekkers pass through traditional communities, where echoes of ancient rituals and varied ethnic cultures reverberate throughout time. Chame and Pisang, two crucial settlements along the journey, serve as portals to a world in which architectural styles reflect harsh nature and hospitality beyond language.
At the core of the expedition is the difficult Thorong La Pass, a physical struggle that rewards with an amazing view. Trekkers stand at 5,416 meters above sea level, surrounded by a 360-degree view of towering peaks, a moment of victory set against the backdrop of the world's most stunning mountain ranges.
The walk drops from the heights of Thorong La to the spiritual sanctuary of Muktinath, where a sacred pilgrimage site merges in with the rugged scenery. Jomsom, a windswept the village with apple fruit trees, and Kagbeni, a historic settlement trapped in time, provide insights into the traditional Himalayan way of life. As the climb winds down, Tatopani's natural hot springs give a well-deserved break, a chance to reflect on the trials overcome and the memories made against the background of the towering hills. The Short Annapurna Circuit is more than simply a walk; it's a transforming experience that combines the beauty of nature with the cultural richness created by the hardy inhabitants that live in this harsh area.
To avoid altitude sickness, ascend gently. Avoiding vigorous exercise, such as skiing or trekking, during the first 24 hours at high altitude, helps to alleviate AMS symptoms. Alcohol and sleeping drugs are respiratory depressants, which impede the acclimatization process and should be avoided. Alcohol also causes dehydration, which exacerbates AMS. Thus, Marvel Adventure strongly advises against consuming alcohol during the first 24-48 hours at a higher altitude .Bharal Adventure guides and porters are well-versed on this issue thanks to their extensive expertise. They are all skilled in basic medical procedures and can undoubtedly assist you.
A representative from Bharal Adventure will pick up the guests at the airport and escort them to their hotel. They will be explained about the program for their journey, however, no activities are planned for the day. Nevertheless, an evening stroll could be arranged if the guests show an interest.
Besisahar to Chame:
Duration:
Advice:
Tips:
Trek from Chame to Pisang:
The Environment:
Trek to Chame
Pisang:
Advice:
Manang:
Guidance:
Another interesting part of the Annapurna Circuit trip is the journey from Manang to Yak Kharka, which passes through breathtaking scenery and higher heights. An outline of this section is as follows:
Distance:
Environment:
Starting your journey from Manang:
Gunsang Village:
Yak Kharka:
Advice:
An important part of the Annapurna Circuit that brings you closer to the high-altitude Thorong La Pass is the hike from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi.
Yak Kharka to Phedi Thorong Distance :
Environment:
Departure from Yak Kharka:
Thorong Phedi Ascent:
Arrive to Thorong Phedi:
Advice:
Distance:
Early Start:
Thorong La Pass Ascent:
Thorong La Pass Summit:
Arrive to Muktinath:
Tips:
Muktinath to Jomsom:
Distance: Approximately 19 kilometers (11.8 miles).
Departure from Muktinath:
Ranipauwa:
Kagbeni:
Marpha:
Jomsom:
Tips:
Jomsom to Pokhara (Flight):
Pokhara to Kathmandu (Drive):
Tips:
A Bharal Adventure representative arrives to accompany the guests to the airport about three hours leading up to their departure after exchanging emails, photographs, and good-natured greetings and serving breakfast.
went to the Annapurna circuit trek with my friends recently, I must say what a wonderful experience I had and probably the best Nepal trek I have done out of the 5 treks I have done before. Everything was handled with care, whether it's the selection of tea houses or providing delicious food at the height of 5000 m which is not all easy to provide, so Kudos to Bharal adventures. Lastly a special mention for Arjun dai for guiding us well throughout the trek, during the pass (Thorong La 5416 M) ascent he motivated us a lot so that we feel less difficult. Thank you Bharal adventures.
Incredible trip in Annapurna Circuit to Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass. Extremely helpful organisation, best value for money I've seen in Nepal. Would 100% recommend.
Bharal adventure were, simply put, the best. I found Deepak's contact details online and from the very first WhatsApp message it was clear I'd come to the right place. They're reliable, punctual, well organized and take care of everything, paying attention to all of the small details For my first trek in Nepal (I did the Annapurna Circuit), everything was perfect. I particularly enjoyed trekking with our guide Deepak who was highly knowledgeable, great fun and super chill. It felt like trekking with another friend, but he was always on the ball when it came to the logistics (ordering food at the teahouses, picking the best place to stay, knowing what to do with symptoms of altitude sickness) I can't recommend them enough and will be using Bharal Adventure each and every time I return to Nepal 👍🏼
I first used Bharal Adventures three years ago when Arjun was my guide for my Everest Base camp trek. Arjun was very geniune, friendly and knowledgeable about the area and I felt very relaxed and in good hands. I adored the holiday and the beauty of the Himalayas so decided to return to Nepal again. This time to trek in the Annapurna region. I of course chose Bharal Adventures to be our tour guide company again. This again has been a fantastic experience. The weather was unusually heavily snowy at times and meant that we had to turn around and change our plans slightly, which Arjun coped with very well. He was very flexible and accommodating and always tried his best to make us feel comfortable and enjoy our trip to the fullest. I would recommend this company and this guide to anyone. He loves his country, its mountains and his job and it shows. A thoroughly great holiday, thank you Arjun and Bharal
My wife and I did the Annapurna Circuit with a friend and Deepak. It was our first guided trek and was a positive experience because Deepak felt more like a friend than just a guide. We played cards and enjoyed a few drinks together most evenings. Deepak knew the route well, and transportation and logistics went smoothly. He was also flexible in accommodating our requests and changing plans as needed. I highly recommend Deepak, particularly for a 20s or 30s aged group who want a relatable guide.
I did the Annapurna circuit trek in the in October 2017 from Chame to Muktinath with Deepak Dhakal. About him I can only say good)) He worked as porter with me and now he is about to be guide I am very happy to hear that. Cheerful, sympathetic, always support and help, with a good sense of humor. Even my bad English did not become an obstacle. I recommend to all. And when in a couple of years I'll get to base camp Everest, first thing I'll call Deepak ))