Do you want to trek on the world’s most beautiful trekking trail but have a busy schedule? We have good news for those who can’t make time for the typical 20 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek. You can now complete the Annapurna Circuit trek in just 10 days. The 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary is a perfect plan if you’re already in Kathmandu as the trip begins in Kathmandu and ends in Pokhara, which again gives you the opportunity to explore Pokhara after the trek ends.
The shortened itinerary of the 10 days Annapurna Circuit Trek is made possible by the construction of roadways to the remote villages along the trail, which were untouched a few years ago. Even though it’s a short trek, you won't miss anything major except for a sunrise hike to Poonhill from Ghorepani. We take the standard path, getting on a bus from kathmandu to Dharapani and passing through Chame, Pisang, Manang, Thorong La, and Muktinath before finishing the trek in Jomsom. Instead of hiking back to Pokhara, we take a direct bus from Jomsom to Pokhara, which significantly reduces the hiking days.
The 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Itinerary is one of Nepal's most rewarding high-altitude hikes. They say, “If you can only go on one hike in your life, make it this one.” You'll get more from this one trip than from many others. The circuit trek is recognized as the best long-distance trek in the world since it crosses several climatic zones, exhibits a breathtaking variety in topography, and, most importantly, comes into contact with a wide variety of ethnic communities. The alpine landscapes you'll encounter when hiking through the Annapurna range appear to be from a dream. This is another factor that contributes to the Annapurna Circuit being a worldwide aspiration for trekkers. Imagine completing this long trekking journey in just half the time! Isn't it amazing?
The Annapurna region is blessed with lovely greenery as well as remarkable natural beauty, which serves as a home to unusual flora and wildlife. Additionally, you will get joy from the warm interaction with local inhabitants of all ethnic backgrounds coexisting peacefully. You can discover the rich Hindu and Buddhist cultures that have been maintained for many years by these communities.
Everything you need to successfully complete your 10 days Circuit Trip in the Annapurna region has been assembled by our Outfitter Nepal experts. From transportation to accommodation to meals, everything is organized by us so you can trek worry-free. Moreover, our professional guides and experienced potters will make your journey informative and enjoyable.
Now let's look at the highlights, itinerary, and additional details about the trek package, that will help you in choosing the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek. Follow along to virtually travel the Annapurna Circuit before even getting to Nepal. Feel free to contact us by email or WhatsApp if you have any questions. You can count on us at all times.
Best features of the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary
- Enjoy the scenic bus journey from Kathmandu to Dharapani
- Traversing the Marshyangdi River Valley on foot
- Hiking through the remote village settings of Chame, Pisang, and Manang
- Viewing the captivating Gangapurna Glacier and Lake while acclimatizing at Manang
- Passing across the challenging Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters
- Praying for blessings at the revered Muktinath Temple
- Observing the rich culture and traditions of various ethnic groups
What to expect from the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary?
For a number of reasons, the Annapurna circuit trip is regarded as more than merely a trek. It is admirable how diverse the cultures are in areas that are naturally lovely from start to finish. The entire Himalayan journey is an adventure where you may visit some of the most stunning mountains on the planet and learn about and appreciate the intriguing culture and unique way of life of the mountain people.
During the 10 days Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will traverse the highest trekking pass in Nepal, Thorong La Pass. Similar to this, you get to spend the night in the two most stunning towns in the Annapurna Region (Manang and Muktinath), which is a great way to get to know the people who live there. We hike every day across the most remote region of the country. You can take this tour to see the gorgeous Himalayas and learn about the way of life in small, rural towns.
The Annapurna Circuit Trekking 10 Days begins in Kathmandu with a bus journey to Dharapani. The two main river valleys that the path follows are those of the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki rivers. The trail follows the Marsyangdi River Valley for the first part of its journey until arriving in Thorong Phedi. After negotiating the challenging Thorong La Pass, you continue your trip along the Kali Gandaki River Valley.
Is the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek right for me?
Let’s be honest! If you’re a slow traveler, who prefers to take time to leisurely enjoy the places and deeply understand the culture of the region, the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek is not for you. This 12 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek is a short version of the 20 days Annapurna Circuit Trek designed with time-constrained hikers in mind who can't take a long holiday but still want to feel the rush of circumnavigating the Annapurna range on foot. So, if you are short on time and want to quickly trek the Annapurna Circuit, this trip is right for you.
Since you’ll be trekking in the rough terrain of remote Himalayas and crossing high-altitude mountain passes (Thorong La at 5416 meters) in short duration, you must be in good physical shape and sound mental health in order to prevent health hazards during the trek. So, if you’re physically and mentally fit to withstand the tough terrain, high altitude, and unstable weather, the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek is right for you too.
What is so unique about trekking in the Annapurna Circuit 10 Days Itinerary?
The Annapurna Circuit differs from other hikes due to its constantly shifting climatic zone, vegetation, and weather pattern. You may hear the distant sound of a river rushing as the Annapurna Circuit hiking expedition begins in a lush subtropical area. You pass a number of terraced farms and fields in the pleasant, warm weather. Along the trip, one can view a great deal of Himalayan villages that have been charmingly built in the traditional style. Then, while passing through cooler deciduous woodlands, you ascend the Marsyangdi River Valley. The majority of the woodlands you pass through are covered in dense subtropical vegetation like rhododendron, birch, oak, and juniper trees. The Annapurna National Park offers the opportunity to witness several animals.
After a few days, you'll be able to clearly view the Annapurna ranges, which include the highest peak in the region and the tenth-highest peak in the world, Annapurna I (8,091 m). Once you have climbed above the tree line, you will discover desolate ravines and arid hills surrounded by snow-capped summits. The Manangis inhabit a desert-like area of the Himalayas where the wind is frequently fierce and the air is thin. The Thorong La mountain pass, where the Khatung Kang and Yakawa Kang mountains merge, is where the Annapurna Trek's highest point is located. It is situated at a height of 5,416 meters above sea level.
From Thorung La Pass, you can see the breathtaking, arid-like Himalayan hills with their peculiar purplish color. The remainder of the trek primarily descends. You'll descend the alpine setting and travel through abundant subtropical vegetation once more before reaching Pokhara's lovely Valley of Lakes.
Major Attractions of the 10 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek Itinerary
Breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and surrounding mountains
It goes without saying that you will see the Annapurna range's mountains during the 10 days Annapurna Circuit trip. This 55-kilometer-long massif is home to many peaks, including Annapurna (8091 m), Machhapuchhre (6993 m), Gangapurna (7455 m), Nilgiri Himal (7061 m), Tilicho Peak (7135 m), and others. You'll also get to see Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Mt. Manaslu (8163 m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6986 m), and other mountains in the distance. In fact, there will be snow-covered mountains all around you.
Rest day in lovely Manang village
Manang is known for its majesty and magnificence. Trekkers frequently spend a few days in this charming village hidden by the Marsyangdi River, listening to the river's lyrical sound as it flows. Manang provides a variety of activities for your day of acclimatization, including thrilling mountain biking and short treks to nearby picturesque villages. On your free day in Manang, you can also explore the historic sites of Braga Bhojo Gompa and Milarepa's Cave.
Villages rich in cultural heritage
The hike provides a fascinating look into local cultures, traditions, and rituals in addition to a spectacular view of the highest mountain peaks. While on the 10-day Annapurna Circuit Trek, you will get a chance to observe the genuine cultures of the Gurungs, Brahmins, Manangis, Thakalis, and Magars. This trip will provide you the opportunity to hear from the hospitable locals about the region's traditions, values, and long-standing customs. The region's cultural and religious richness is evident in the abundance of stupas, gumbas, and chortens along the way.
Thorong La Pass, the highest trekking pass
Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek, sits at a height of 5416 meters between the peaks of Khatung Kang and Yakwa. As you must go up a rocky, steep trail to reach the pass's summit, it is regarded as the hardest hike in the area. You'll feel as though your dedication and work were justly rewarded when you finally reach the top and see the breathtaking panorama of the neighboring mountains. It is impossible to put into words the sense of accomplishment you get after taking in the beautiful vista from the pass. You'll have to see it for yourself.
Glory of the Holy Muktinath Temple
At the foot of Thorong La Pass, Muktinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites, is situated. The Mukti Kshetra (location of freedom) title is given to the highest temple in the world (3,800 m). The Muktinath Temple is said to be the place where you can be purified of all your sins and receive good fortune. The temple receives thousands of pilgrims from all over India and Nepal who come to bathe in the nearby pond and taps to wash away their sins. You get a chance to explore and seek blessings personally in the temple during the trek.