Responsible and Eco-Friendly Tourism
As a Mountain Eco Trail Pvt. Ltd., we are fully attentive to the environment and the consequences of our actions during the trip. Our approach is to minimize the environmental effects of tourism activities like trekking and tours while promoting the local community. It brings positive energy and impact on both the environment and locals.
Best Time to Trek the Short Annapurna Circuit
Choosing the best time for your Annapurna Circuit trek is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. The Annapurna region can technically be trekked year-round, but spring and autumn are by far the most popular seasons due to their favorable weather. Here’s a breakdown of how each season looks:
Autumn (Sept – Nov): This is generally considered the prime trekking season in Nepal, with October and November being the absolute best months for the Annapurna Circuit. Post-monsoon autumn brings stable weather, crystal-clear skies, and mild temperatures – perfect for mountain views. Daytime temperatures are comfortable (10-20°C in lower altitudes), though nights at high elevations drop below freezing
Spring (Mar – May): Spring is the second most popular season. April and early May offer lovely trekking conditions – stable weather, slightly warmer temperatures than autumn, and the bonus of blooming rhododendron forests along the trail. In lower sections, hillsides come alive with red and pink rhododendron blossoms. Higher up, snow from winter starts melting on the pass (making crossing safer by late spring).
Hiring a Trekking Guide (and Porter) for the Annapurna Circuit
One of the most important decisions for your trek is whether to hire a trekking guide. As of recent regulations, this decision is practically made for you – Nepal has banned solo trekking in its national parks and conservation areas from April 1, 2023, making a licensed guide compulsory on treks like the Annapurna Circuit. This rule was implemented by the Nepal Tourism Board for safety reasons, as there were too many incidents of trekkers getting lost or encountering trouble when trekking alone. For the Annapurna Conservation Area, this means you must trek with a guide. A guide ensures you stay on the right track and adjusts plans if weather or health issues arise. They are trained in first aid and know how to respond to altitude sickness or injuries.
Likewise, Good guides are a wealth of information about the mountains, cultures, and nature. They’ll tell you the names of peaks you see, explain local customs in villages, and perhaps teach you a bit of Nepali. Trekking independently might mean haggling for jeep prices, figuring out bus schedules in Nepali, or calling teahouses ahead for room availability in peak season. A guide will handle all these logistics for you, from arranging transport connections to securing accommodation each night.
When doing a tough trek in a short time, it’s easy to push too hard or misjudge the pace, risking altitude sickness. A guide will help plan a safe itinerary, enforce acclimatization stops (yes, a good guide might insist you rest an extra day if you show symptoms), and set a suitable walking pace each day. Your guide will advise on local etiquette (like asking permission for photographs or dress codes at temples) and ensure that the tourism you bring is welcomed. Hiring local staff also puts money directly into the local economy, supporting families in the region.
Given these advantages and the new rules, we strongly recommend hiring a guide for the Short Annapurna Circuit trek. Solo trekking in this region is no longer, and even if it were, the cost savings are not significant compared to the value and safety a guide provides. The Annapurna Circuit is a challenging high-altitude trek – having an expert by your side can make the difference between a successful adventure and a risky ordeal.
So how much does a trekking guide cost for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
The typical cost for a licensed, English-speaking trekking guide in Nepal is around $25-50 USD per day. This daily wage often includes their meals and accommodation on the trek, but you should clarify this with your trekking agency or the guide directly. For a 10-day trek, you’re looking at roughly $250-$400 in guide fees. Their experience and expertise may vary the price of trekking guides in Nepal.
Likewise, if you’re on a tight budget, you might plan to carry your backpack. However, consider hiring a porter if you feel unsure about carrying a heavy load over high passes. Porters typically charge $20 or so per day and can carry up to 20-25 kg of gear.
(Looking for a guide or group trek? Contact us at Mountain Eco Trail – we offer expert local guides and affordable trek packages for the Short Annapurna Circuit. We’ll ensure you have a safe, memorable journey!)
Required Permits and Fees for the Annapurna Circuit
Trekking in the Annapurna region requires a couple of official permits. Make sure you have these before you start your hike (or at the trailhead entry checkpoint at the very latest). The permits are checked along the route, and trekking without them can land you in legal trouble and fines. For the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek, here are the permits you need:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This is an entry permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area, which covers the entire Annapurna Circuit trail. The ACAP permit costs NRs 3,000 per person for foreign nationals (approximately USD 25) and NRs 1,000 for SAARC country citizens.
Altitude Sickness Prevention on a Short Annapurna Circuit
One of the biggest challenges of the Annapurna Circuit – even the shortened version – is the high altitude. On this trek, you will be going from near sea-level elevations in the beginning to over 5,400 m (17,700 ft) at Thorong La Pass, all within a matter of days. That means your body has to adjust to the thinner air, and if it doesn’t acclimatize well, you risk Altitude Sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Altitude sickness can affect anyone (even strong, experienced hikers) when ascending too quickly. It’s caused by the reduced oxygen pressure at high elevations. Symptoms often start mild and can include headache, loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and disturbed sleep. Here are essential altitude sickness prevention tips for the Annapurna Circuit, especially critical since you’re doing it on a tight schedule:
- Acclimatize properly – don’t rush the ascent: The golden rule is “climb high, sleep low” and don’t ascend more than 300-500 m in sleeping altitude per day once above 3,000 m
- Stay hydrated and eat well: Drink plenty of fluids – about 4-5 liters per day at high altitude is recommended. Dehydration can worsen AMS symptoms. Water, tea, soups – keep sipping throughout the day.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: It’s best to skip alcoholic drinks entirely at altitude. Alcohol dehydrates you and can depress breathing, which is the opposite of what you need in low-oxygen environments.
- Climb high, sleep low (when possible): This is a technique where you might hike to a higher point during the day and then come back down to sleep. For example, from Manang, you could hike up to 4,000 m (to a viewpoint or monastery) and then return to 3,540 m to sleep – this helps your body adjust. On the approach to Thorong La, some people do a short hike up from Thorong Phedi to touch higher ground and come back to Phedi to sleep rather than sleeping at High Camp.
- Recognize symptoms early and don’t push through: Mild AMS symptoms (headache, slight nausea) can be managed by resting, hydrating, and not ascending further until they resolve. Never keep ascending with worsening symptoms.
- Consider preventive medication: Acetazolamide (Diamox) is a medication that can help prevent AMS. Many trekkers start taking Diamox 125 mg twice a day, starting a day before going above 3,000 m. Diamox forces your kidneys to excrete bicarbonate, acidifying the blood a bit, which helps your body breathe faster and acclimate quicker.
- Proper rest and pacing: Overexertion can trigger AMS or make it worse. Avoid strenuous activity for the first day or two at high altitude– that’s why we chill in Manang.
To sum up, Altitude sickness is preventable with proper measures. Follow the itinerary’s acclimatization schedule, listen to your body, and be willing to adjust plans if needed. Many trekkers each year successfully cross Thorong La with no more than a slight headache – you can be one of them if you take altitude seriously. The Short Annapurna Circuit is doable in 10 days, but it doesn’t eliminate the need for smart acclimatization. By being cautious and prepared, you’ll increase your comfort and safety greatly.
Packing List for a Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
Packing wisely is key to enjoying your trek, especially when you aim to travel light on a 10-day itinerary. You want to be prepared for a wide range of conditions – from warm, humid lowlands to freezing high passes – all in one backpack. The good news is that teahouse treks like the Annapurna Circuit don’t require technical climbing gear, and you can refill supplies in villages to some extent. Still, certain essentials are must-haves. Below is a comprehensive packing list for the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek, focusing on what a budget, space-conscious traveler should bring:
Trekking Gear for Annapurna Trek: Trekking Poles, Sleeping Bag, Backpack, and water bottle
Upper Body: Woolen Hat, Layers, Quick-dry T-shirts, Thermals, Feelce Jackets, Down Jacket,
Lower Body: Trekking Pants, Thermal leggings, Hiking Shorts, Woolen Socks, and sturdy boots.
Extra Equipment: First Aid Kit, Toiletries, Camera, Chargers, Extra Battery, Passport, Nepalese currency, etc.
For a more detailed discussion on gear, see our [Common Trekking Gear Checklist for Nepal], which provides a thorough rundown of equipment and clothing recommended for Nepali treks. That list covers all seasons; for the 10-day Annapurna Circuit, focus on the essentials we listed above.
Accommodation: Teahouses & Lodges
Each night on the trek, you’ll stop in a village or settlement that has several teahouses (also called lodges or guesthouses). The rooms are usually simple twin-share rooms with two single beds (or a double bed) with a mattress, a pillow, and a blanket. Don’t expect luxury. The rooms typically have plywood walls (sometimes not reaching the ceiling), a window, and maybe a small table or hooks. That’s why your sleeping bag and warm clothing are vital. Beds have a foam mattress – comfort level varies, but after a long day trekking, most find them adequate. The provided blankets/duvets can add warmth, but as mentioned, bring a sleeping bag for hygiene and warmth.
Many places now have electric lights in the rooms (power permitting), but some might rely on solar or have limited hours of electricity. Teahouse bathrooms: In lower villages, you might find attached bathrooms or en-suite rooms in some newer lodges (for an extra cost). However, for most of the trek, bathrooms are shared. Expect Asian-style squat toilets in most places, though the busier villages (Manang, Muktinath, Jomsom) may have some Western-style flush toilets. At higher stops (Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, High Camp), toilets are very basic – often an outhouse or a simple pit toilet. Carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Hot shower availability decreases as you go higher; some places have a shower room where they’ll provide a bucket of hot water for a fee.
Annapurna Trekking Route Meal Availability
Teahouses offer surprisingly extensive menus, a mix of Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and some Western dishes. Here are the typical foods and what you should know:
Meal items for breakfast in Annapurna: Porridge, Muesli, Boiled Egg, Omelet, Hash browns, Tibetan Bread, Pancake, and Hot drinks.
Meal items for lunch and dinner in Annapurna: Nepali Daal Bhat, Plain Rice, Vegetable Curry, Fried Rice, Pizza, Burger, Potato dishes, Momo, Chow Mein, Noodles, Thukpa, etc.
Eating and sleeping in teahouses is a wonderful experience as you bond with fellow trekkers in the dining hall, share trail stories, and interact with the Nepali owners. You’ll likely learn a few Nepali phrases (like “dhanyabad” for thank you and “jam jam” for let’s go eat). The food, while simple, will start to taste extremely delicious when you’re hungry from trekking. A plate of dal bhat after crossing Thorong La will feel like a king’s feast!
One thing to keep in mind: electricity, Wi-Fi, and charging in teahouses – we cover this next – but it can affect your meal/room experience (e.g., you might eat by dim solar light or candle if power is out). The infrastructure is basic, so patience and flexibility are key.
(And remember, when you trek with Mountain Eco Trail, we ensure you get into the best available teahouses each night, and our guides often help coordinate meals so you get fed well and on time!)
Electricity, Wi-Fi, and Drinking Water on the Trek
Living off the grid for a while is refreshing, but completely losing connectivity can be inconvenient for some. Here’s what to expect in terms of power, internet, and water on the Annapurna Circuit:
Electricity and Charging
Electricity is available in most villages, but the reliability and source vary. In lower areas like Besi Sahar, Chame, and Pisang, there is often hydroelectric or mains power (especially up to Chame and Manang, where the ACAP project and government have installed micro-hydro plants). As you go higher, many teahouses rely on solar power for electricity. Solar panels charge batteries during the day, giving a bit of light at night. In places like Thorong Phedi or High Camp, electricity can be very limited or from a small generator for a couple of hours in the evening.
Therefore, they charge a fee per hour or device. Typical rates: NPR 200-500 (about $2-5) per device charge higher as you go up. Sometimes, it might be a flat fee to plug in for a couple of hours.
Wi-Fi and Mobile Network
Wi-Fi: Many lodges advertise Wi-Fi, especially in the lower parts and popular villages. However, reliability is hit-or-miss. Wi-Fi might be via a slow satellite link or a mobile data router. It’s often not free. Teahouses may sell you a Wi-Fi voucher or password for NPR 200-500 ($2-5) per device or hour. For example, in Manang, they might have “Everest Link” or “Annapurna Wi-Fi” cards to scratch and use.
Our recommendation: Inform family beforehand that you will be largely offline while trekking, except maybe an occasional check-in. No news is good news; don’t make them worry if they don’t hear from you for a couple of days while you’re in the mountains.
Drinking Water in Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail
Staying hydrated is paramount, and fortunately, water is plentiful along the Annapurna Circuit – but you need to treat it to drink it safely. Throughout the trek, you’ll encounter taps (often fed by springs) in villages and sometimes along the trail, as well as rivers and streams. This water is untreated and could contain bacteria or other pathogens. Always purify water from these sources. Instead, you can use Boiled Water from tea houses. As mentioned, this is a very practical solution. Every teahouse will boil water for you (in kettles or big pots) and fill your bottle/thermos. They charge a fee per liter, which increases with altitude (fuel cost/time increases). Also, you can use a water purification tablet for further safety.
Transportation: Getting to the Trail and Back in 10 Days
The Short Annapurna Circuit involves some long overland travel to maximize your trekking time. Here’s a detailed look at how to get to the starting point and how to return at the end, with options depending on budget and time:
Getting to the Annapurna Circuit from Kathmandu typically starts with a bus (6-7 hours) to Besisahar, followed by a jeep to Chame (5-6 hrs, rough road), the preferred starting point for most trekkers. For a faster and more comfortable ride, you can hire a private jeep ($120-150 per jeep, 4-6 pax) straight to Chame. At Mountain Eco Trails, we arrange all transfers seamlessly so you can focus on the adventure, not the logistics!
Difficulty Level and Fitness Requirements
The Annapurna Circuit, even in its shortened form, is often rated as a moderate to challenging trek. There is no technical climbing involved – it’s a long, high-altitude hike on established trails – but the combination of altitude, long daily distances, and steep ascents/descents can make it tough on the body.
On the short itinerary, you will be trekking for about 6-8 days (not counting transport days). Expect to walk on average 5-7 hours per day, covering 10-15 km with significant elevation changes. A couple of days are shorter (like acclimatization day with optional side hikes), and one day – the Thorong La crossing – is very long (potentially 8-10 hours of hiking, including breaks). The trail itself is a mix of gradual sections and steep bits, with some parts of the path being rocky or uneven.
Altitude and Grading: The trek’s highest point is 5,416 m at Thorong La – this high altitude is the main source of challenge. Most trek ratings consider Annapurna Circuit as Grade 4 out of 5 (Strenuous) or “Moderate to Difficult”. For instance, many agencies label it moderate in difficulty, but that is assuming proper acclimatization. In 10 days, it becomes slightly more strenuous because you are compressing the schedule, meaning some days you ascend a lot. However, since we still include an acclimatization day, it remains manageable if you’re fit.
Physical Fitness: You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but a good base level of fitness is required:
You should be comfortable walking 6 hours a day with a backpack on rough terrain. This doesn’t mean you won’t be tired – you will – but you should be able to keep a steady pace. Prior multi-day hiking experience is very helpful.
Cardiovascular endurance is important due to the altitude. The air is thin, and even fit people will be huffing and puffing on uphill sections. Being in good aerobic shape will make this more bearable. Activities like jogging, cycling, and swimming are great training.
Leg strength and endurance: There are long ascents (especially up to Thorong La) and very long descents (down to Muktinath). Strong thigh and knee muscles help. If possible, train by hiking up and down hills/stairs.
Joint care: The downhill can be brutal on knees. Using poles and having strong supporting muscles (quads, glutes) helps. If you have known knee issues, do strengthening exercises in advance and consider a knee brace for the trek, and use trekking poles.
Prior trekking experience: It’s a plus if you’ve done a high-altitude trek or at least a multi-day trek before. If not, it’s still doable as a first big trek, but then you should prepare extra well and maybe not push too hard. The concept of walking day after day with limited comforts can be mentally challenging for newbies, but millions have done it, and you can too with determination.
Training: Ideally, start training 2-3 months before your trek. Go on day hikes during weekends, gradually increasing distance and pack weight. Work on cardio (30-45 minutes of sustained aerobic exercise, 3-4 times a week). Include some leg strengthening exercises (lunges, squats, step-ups). If you don’t have hiking areas, even climbing stairs in a high-rise building with a backpack can simulate uphill.
Age and Trekking: People of a wide age range complete the Annapurna Circuit. We see hardy trekkers in their 50s and 60s doing it, as well as enthusiastic 20-somethings. Age itself isn’t a limit if you’re healthy – it’s more about fitness and attitude. If you’re older or have any medical conditions, consult with a doctor before trekking. Ensure conditions like hypertension or diabetes are well managed.
Mental stamina: Don’t underestimate the mental aspect. Trekking can be uncomfortable – cold nights, basic toilets, fatigue, maybe mild AMS symptoms – and you won’t quit easily if you’re mentally prepared for that. Keep a positive mindset, take it one day at a time, and remind yourself why you’re doing it (those views, that sense of achievement!).
Technical skills: None needed in terms of climbing. You should, however, be sure-footed and able to balance on uneven ground. There are a few narrow sections and scree slopes, but no ropes or special gear needed. If there’s snow on Thorong La (like early spring or late autumn), the trail might be slippery; in such cases, having micro-spikes or at least good trekking boots and poles is enough. Your guide will help break trail if needed or decide if it’s safe.
In short, the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is moderately difficult – doable for a determined trekker with some prior hiking experience and good fitness, even if you’re not a mountaineer. With the help of your guide, the support of the teahouse network, and sensible pacing, you’ll find the challenge very rewarding. Most trekkers rate it as one of the greatest adventures they’ve done, precisely because it tested their limits a bit and they succeeded.
As one trekking company aptly states, “The trek involves long and challenging walking days, where trekkers may have to walk for 6-8 hours a day. It requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. Training by walking or hiking regularly can help prepare your body for the challenge. We couldn’t agree more. Prepare well, and the Annapurna Circuit will be the trip of a lifetime.
While planning your Short Annapurna Circuit, you might be interested in some related resources and alternate treks:
Annapurna Circuit Trek – 17 Days
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 7 Days
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 6 Days
Tips to Know Before Doing the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Start your journey slowly; do not rush right from the beginning.
- Walk slowly and let your body acclimatize properly.
- Eat nutritious meals focusing on vegetarian items.
- Always follow the guidance of your trekking guide and feel free to ask him about the things you want to know about the trek.
- If you feel the symptoms of altitude sickness, then inform your trekking fellow or the guide ASAP.
- The symptoms of sickness can be headache, dizziness, fatigue, and vomiting.
- Do not panic when you get altitude sickness. If the situation gets bad, start to descend to a lower altitude.
Ready to Trek? Book with Mountain Eco Trail!
You’ve read the guide – now leap and experience the Short Annapurna Circuit Trek for yourself! This 10-day adventure is calling your name, and Mountain Eco Trail is here to make it happen smoothly and affordably.
Imagine standing at Thorong La Pass, prayer flags fluttering in the crisp mountain wind, a panorama of snow-capped giants all around. Picture yourself sipping hot tea by a cozy teahouse fire after a rewarding day’s hike. These moments are within reach – and we’ll help you get there.
Contact us today to start planning your Short Annapurna Circuit Trek. Send us an email or reach out via WhatsApp/Viber at +9779849790153 for a quick response. Our experts will answer any queries and help you every step of the way, from packing to touchdown in Kathmandu.
Trip Extension after the completion of the Trek
There are different options in Nepal to explore and encounter several adventurous activities. After completing the trek, if you have enough time, you can do a Chitwan Safari, Rafting, Paragliding, Day tours, etc. You can kindly inform us so that we can arrange these kinds of trips at a reasonable price.
