Are permits and licensed guides mandatory for the Annapurna Circuit Short Trek (10-Day Express)?

Yes. Under Nepal Tourism Board regulations enacted April 1, 2023, every international trekker in the Annapurna Conservation Area must be accompanied by a licensed mountain guide. ACAP permits and group TIMS are 100% handled and included by ABC Trek in Nepal.

What is the physical difficulty and training required for the Annapurna Circuit Short Trek (10-Day Express)?

This trek requires moderate cardiovascular fitness with daily walking legs of 4 to 6 hours on stone staircases and mountain trails. We recommend 4 to 6 weeks of stair climbing, brisk hill walking, and cardio training prior to departure.

Annapurna Circuit Short Trek | ABC Trek in Nepal

Annapurna Circuit Short Trek

A fast-paced, high-altitude sprint over Thorong La Pass for experienced trekkers.

Duration

10-11 Days

Max Elevation

5,416m (17,769 ft)

Difficulty

Challenging

Starting Point

Pokhara Hub

Expedition Architecture

Annapurna Circuit Short Trek – Overview

The Annapurna Circuit Short Trek is tailored for seasoned hikers who want the legendary challenge of Thorong La Pass (5,416m) in 10 to 11 days.

By utilizing 4WD transport to Upper Pisang and domestic flights from Jomsom to Pokhara, this trek strips out lower-elevation walking while preserving essential safety days in Manang.

Prefer a More Relaxed Pace with Full Acclimatization & Poon Hill?

If you have two weeks available and prefer gradual altitude adaptation plus the classic rhododendron trail to Ghorepani and Poon Hill, see our flagship: 14 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek: Full Itinerary, Cost & Map →

Time-Efficient Thorong La

Conquer the world's most famous trekking pass in 10 days.

Manang & Tibetan Enclaves

Rich Buddhist culture and dry alpine landscapes.

Flight from Jomsom

Breathtaking mountain flight down the Kali Gandaki gorge.

Private 4WD Logistics

Fast trailhead transfers minimize transit fatigue.

Field Schedule

Day-by-Day Expedition Itinerary

Paced for optimal safety, terrain enjoyment, and cultural immersion.

Long 4WD drive up into high Manang district.

Trek through the pine-scented Manang basin with Annapurna views.

Hike to Gangapurna Glacier for altitude adaptation.

Trek past juniper trees to the alpine hamlet of Yak Kharka.

Climb steeply to high camp below the pass.

Early morning pass crossing, epic panoramic photography, descent to Muktinath.

Short morning drive to Jomsom airport, scenic mountain flight to Pokhara.

Price Integrity

Transparent Inclusions & Exclusions

Included in $990 USD

All Permits: ACAP and government park entry permits.
Licensed Mountain Guide: English-fluent, certified in Wilderness First Aid.
Insured Porters (IPPG): 1 porter per 2 trekkers, 20kg maximum load cap.
Teahouse Lodging: Hand-vetted mountain lodges throughout the route.
All Meals on Trail: 3 daily meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) plus hot tea.
Ground Transportation: Private transport to and from trailheads.

Exclusions

International Flights & Visa: Nepal entry tourist visa ($30/$50).
Emergency Travel Insurance: Mandatory policy covering high altitude and rescue.
Teahouse Incidentals: Hot showers, Wi-Fi cards, and device charging fees.
Personal Gear & Tipping: Discretionary gratuity for guide and porters.

Practical Intelligence

Frequently Answered Questions

No, the Short Circuit is recommended only for experienced hikers who acclimatize quickly and have prior high-altitude experience.