Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek
Annapurna Trekking

Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek

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Trip Facts

  • Max Altitude 820m - 5416m
  • Duration 14 Days
  • Group Size 1 - 15

Overview

The Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek has been proved as a highly praised and spectacular trekking route in the Annapurna region since it opened to foreign trekkers in 1977. This two weeks trek starts right from Besishahar and goes along the Marshyangdi River, with a great view of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east.

This magnificent trek leads you to the fine village inhabited by a wide diversity of people from different ethnic groups, offering spectacular and majestic views of the white Himalayas. As it continues to the north of the main Himalayan range onto the high and dry Tibetan Plateau, the scenery is equally breathtaking.

The highest point of the trek is Thorungla pass at the top of the valley at 5416m high. Due to the difficulties of crossing the pass, the circuit is usually walked in a counter-clockwise direction. Traveling clockwise the longer ascent and shorter descent from west to east is too much for many peoples to manage in one day.

To top it all, the crossing of the Thorong La pass (5,416m) is a challenging ascent, surrounded by some of the most magnificent. The Nar and Phu valleys are newly opened, spectacular regions of ethnically Tibetan inhabitants for those of you who think that you trekked all. This is a trek that combines high peaks and passes, glaciers, remote villages, narrow canyons, lovely forests, amazing rock formations, yaks, gompas, and unique Himalayan cultures.

Trekking to the standard Annapurna circuit, the bridge leading over the Maryland River to the steep portals of the Nar/Phu valley system is easily missed, but although the entrances are narrow and forested, the valley system above opens up to a huge expanse of high snow-peaks, ancient villages, and high altitude grazing settlements.

Highlights Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Ascending the Marshyangdi valley
  • Passing Manaslu and Hinchuli
  • Visit the old Buddhist monastery in Braga
  • Explore beautiful Manag village
  • Crossing the Thorung-La(5416m)
  • The Pilgrimage town of Muktinath
  • Beautiful city Pokhara

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu airport (1345meters). Hotel

There you will be met by our Airport Representative and transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle. Overnight at hotel on BB plan.

Day 02

Drive to Besisahar by bus (830meters). 6 hours.

Trekking staff will arrive at your Hotel at 7.00 am in morning to pick you up. We have 7 hours of driving to Besisahar. It is about 185km from Kathmandu. On arrival at Besisahar, you will witness stunning snow caped mountain scenery. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 03

Drive to Chyamje and trek to Dharapani (1810m). 5:30 hours

Drive to Chyamje by local transport either by bus or Jeep then trek to Dharapani (1810m) Driving 2:30 hours and Walking 5:30 hours, O/N at the guest house

Day 04

Dharapani to Chame(2725m). 6 hours.

The trail climbs to Tyanja at 2360 meters, then continues through the forest, but near the river, to Kopar at 2590meters. As we reach the Chame, the headquarters of the Manang district, we are rewarded by the fine views of Annapurna II as you approach Chame & two small hot springs by the town. Along this route we are introduced to a local community said to have migrated from Tibet a long time past, noticeable by their different features. With them, they have bought local Tibetan house designs and maintained their ways. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 05

Chame to Pisang (3190m). 5:30 hours.

The day starts through a deep forest in a steep and narrow valley and crosses a river on a long bridge at 2910meters. We then cross another bridge at 3040meters, from there the view of the soaring Paungda Danda rock face really begins to appear.

From there the trail joins to climb to Pisang, which sprawls between 3200m & 3300meters. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 06

Pisang to Manang(3500m) 5 hours.

Today we continue through the drier upper part of the Manang district, cut off from the full effect of the monsoon by the Annapurna Range. People of this region herd the yaks & raise crops for part of the year.

They also continue to enjoy special trading rights gained way back in 1784. Leaving Pisang, we have alternate trails north and south of the Marsyangdi River which meets up again at Mungji.

The southern route by Hongde, with its airstrip, at 3325 meters involves less climbing than the northern route via Ghyaru, though there are better views on the trail that follows the northern bank of the river. From Mungji, the trail continues past the picturesque but partially hidden village of Bryanga at 3475 meters to nearby Manang at 3540 meters. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 07

Acclimatization day at Manang village.

Today we spend a day acclimatizing in Manang. The whole day we spend doing some fine day walks and overviewing the magnificent views around the village & the day time is best to gain altitude. At the end of the day, we return back to our accommodation & have a night rest. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 08

Manang to Yak Kharka (4090m). 5 hours

Today we leave Manang, & the trail makes an ascent of nearly 500meters to the Yak Kharka. We make the climb steadily through Tenki Manang, leaving the Marsyangi Valley. Continuing along the Jarsang Khola Valley, we reach Yak Kharka at 4000 meters, there we see the many yaks and vegetations steadily more sparse. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 09

Yak kharka to Throung Phedi (4441m) 6 hours.

 After ascending for two hours the trail descends to cross the river at 4310meters we then climb up to Thorong Phedi at 4450meters where we have recently found some good Guesthouses built. Our overnight stay will be there. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 10

Thorung Phedi to Muktinath via Thoroung-la passes (5416m/17769ft). Walking 8:30,

Today is a long trek starting before sunrise at 4 am to reach the pass by 9-10 am otherwise weather conditions will greatly affect the journey. We cross over at an altitude of 5416 meters we can be exposed to strong winds if crossing too late.

We start to climb steeply that is regularly used and easy to follow. However, the problem may arise due to the altitude and snow. It often causes terrible problems to cross the pass if it is covered by heavy snow. About four hours climb up to the pass marked by the Chortens & prayer flags.

As you reach the top, you are rewarded by the magnificent view from the top with another 4 hours trek will take to the holy town of Muktinath. Muktinath means the place of Nirvana and is home to the Muktinath temple as well as several monasteries. It is said that all sorrows you feel are relieved when visiting the Temple, which is a sacred pilgrimage site to both Hindus and Buddhists. The main pilgrimage normally takes place in September.

The Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has 108 waterspouts around it from which Holy water pours. Another attraction nearby is the Jwala Mai Temple which contains a spring and an eternal flame fed by natural underground gas. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 11

Trek to Jomsom, Walking 4:30

Trek to Jomsom, Walking 4:30, O/N at guest house,

Day 12

Flight to Pokhara

Flight to Pokhara then transfer to the hotel.  O/N at 3 stars level, inclusive breakfast. Flying time 25 minutes and diving 5:30 hours. O/N at hotel.

Day 13

Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus then transfer to the hotel at 3 stars level.

Depending upon road conditions where morning last day walk leads for short while and then reaching the road head for the drive to Pokhara, where the journey leads the following winding uphill road to Kande past farm villages and fields to reach Pokhara from here on the main highway to reach Kathmandu.

After a marvelous and exciting time with a fabulous and scenic drive back into hustle and bustle of the city life of Kathmandu, and then transfer to your respective hotels after a great wonderful journey and adventure on Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek

(Flying options of 35 minutes to Kathmandu with Scenic Mountain views by air)

Day 14

Depart Kathmandu for international departure homeward bound.

Last day in the country of fascinating colorful culture and mountain panorama, as per your international or connecting flight transfer to Kathmandu international airport for the journey back home with timeless memories and great adventure on Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Group Pricing

The trip cost will vary depending on the group size, please find Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek rates below.

Group Size
(PAX)
1 2-3 4-5 6-7 8-9 10 +
Price (USD)
per person
1475 1225 1175 1125 1075 1025

WANT TO KNOW LATEST DEALS ?
For latest offers & pricing for group & individual, please contact us.

Service Includes and Excludes

Service Included in this Trip

  • All the ground transportation as per itinerary.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast at 3 stars level.
  • Meals 3 times a day (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trekking and Pokhara for you. (Sample of Trekking Menu)
  • Seasonal local fresh fruits as available.
  • Filtered water in trekking using (Katadyn Pocket Water Filter)
  • Twin sharing comfortable private room in trekking.
  • Domestic flight tickets with tax.
  • Annapurna trekking Map.
  • First aid medical kit, Ox meter to check pulse, heart rate and oxygen saturation at higher altitude.
  • Token of trip achievement award certificate as a Souvenir. (Sample of Certificate)
  • An experienced, knowledgeable, helpful and friendly English-speaking Government license holder trekking guide & strong Mountain porter.
  • Food, drinks, accommodation, insurance, salary, equipment’s, transportation, local tax for Guide & porter.
  • Four season sleeping bag and down jackets to use for trekking, if necessary.
  • All necessary officially paper works and Annapurna conservation entry permits.
  • Travel & Rescue arrangement which will be paid by your insurance company.
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System).
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • All our government taxes, vat, local tax, tourist service charges.

Service Excluded in this Trip

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (Expect farewell dinner in Kathmandu)
  • All kinds of drinks in the mountain (hot, cold and alcoholic).
  • Your Personal equipment.
  • Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Extra personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, laundry, shower, excess baggage charges)
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is expected).
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on ‘Price Includes’ section.

Fixed Departure

Please, kindly note that following starting date will be your arrival date in Nepal and ending date will be your return date from Nepal after the trip completion.

Year
  • 2023
  • 2024
Start Date End Date Availability Booking
27 Sep, 2023 10 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
04 Oct, 2023 17 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
11 Oct, 2023 24 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
18 Oct, 2023 31 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
25 Oct, 2023 07 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
01 Nov, 2023 14 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
08 Nov, 2023 21 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
15 Nov, 2023 28 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
22 Nov, 2023 05 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
29 Nov, 2023 12 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
05 Dec, 2023 18 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
12 Dec, 2023 25 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
19 Dec, 2023 01 Jan, 2024 OPEN Book Now
26 Dec, 2023 08 Jan, 2024 OPEN Book Now

Does our itinerary plan do not go with your holiday dates? Does fixed departure dates are not suitable for you? Do you want to extend or shorten your trip duration? No worries, we can create your own custom tailor-made holidays with flexible duration and dates.
Click here to share your plan with us.

Trip Info

The Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek starts with one’s arrival in Kathmandu. There they will be visiting the world heritage sites of the valley. Similarly, from Kathmandu drive to BesiSahar. From BesiSahar drive to Chame by local transport either by bus or Jeep then trek to Dharapani and from Dharapani to Chame and from Chame to Pisang.

Likewise, the trek continues from Pisang to Manang, and at Manag, there will be acclimatization for the whole day. This process is very important for the further journey. Then the trek continues from Manang to Yak Kharka. After, Yak Kharka to Throung Phedi and from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath via Thoroung-la passes. Similarly, after that trek to Jomsom.

Similarly, after Flight to Pokhara then transfer to the hotel. After, drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus. After breakfast, our Airport Representative will drop you at the Kathmandu international airport for your final flight departure from Nepal.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Trekking in the Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek is available all year round. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn seasons. During this period the weather is fine and you can travel in fine weather. You will also have a perfect view of the area and its landscape during this period. All visitors need to understand that choosing the best time to visit is just as important as choosing the right destination. So keep that in mind before you go on a trip.

How difficult is Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek?

What is the weather and climate in Mini Annapurna Trek?

How to prepare me for the Mini Annapurna Circuit trek?

Is Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek open?

How fit should I be for the Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Can you do the Mini Annapurna Circuit trek on your Own?

Do I need a sleeping bag on my Mini Annapurna Circuit trek?

What is the age limit for the Mini Annapurna Circuit trek?

How do I get to Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek?

What is the max altitude of the Mini Annapurna Circuit trek?

What are the transportation facilities on the Mini Annapurna Circuit trek?

Are there any age limits for Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Can you have altitude sickness on the Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek?

What is the food price at Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Grade A: Easy *

Trekking is essentially day hiking and doesn’t require any special training. However, good physical condition, a love of walking, and a desire to enjoying the spectacular views of the mountains and encounter village life are essential. We offer a diverse range of easy treks. Categorizing a trek as easy means that no difficult climbing or ascents to high altitudes is involved. They take usually no more than a week and are suitable for anyone. Be assured that a loss of altitude in no way means a loss of interesting things to see and experience. While our more challenging treks get you closer to a small number of mountain ranges, lower altitude treks often provide better viewpoints from which to enjoy the colorful horizons of a whole series of ranges. The duration of a trek can be from 4 to 9 days with an average of 4 to 5 hours walking per day. The elevation of the trail will be between 800m/2624ft and 2800m/ 9240ft above sea level.

Grade B: Moderate **

These treks are suitable for any walker looking for something a little more challenging and energetic. They are a combination of some longer and shorter walks and hill-walking experience is desirable. The duration is usually from 10 to 15 days. Following the up and down terrain of Nepal and walking to higher elevations contrasts these treks to those in the easy classification. However, you will be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular close-up views of glaciers and of the high Himalayas. Although the terrain is not difficult, some vigorous hiking experience is useful. There may be up to 6 hours a day on the trail and the elevation rises and falls from 800m/ 2624ft to 4000m/13210ft above sea level.

Grade C: Fairly Strenuous ***

Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should except to trek above 5416m/17872ft.

Grade D: Strenuous ****

These real adventure treks are both technical and highly strenuous. Excellent physical condition is essential and mountaineering experience is preferable. Following rough terrain, they involve steep ascents to high altitudes with the possibility of some rope climbing. Stamina is needed to complete one of these treks, as it can take from 20 to 28 days to reach the heart of the wildernesses that they transverse. Participants should except to trek above 5600m/18480ft

EQUIPMENTS & GEARS

EQUIPMENTS, GEARS AND GUIDES

Nepal is one of the best places in the world for river rafting. Numerous fine rivers offer excellent opportunities for rafting, canoeing and simply immersing oneself in the magnificent landscape. Nepal’s thundering waters, coming from the glaciers of the mighty Himalayan, provide unmatched thrills.

Clothing

Down Or Fiber Filled Waterproof Jacket And Trousers 1
Fleece Jacket Or Pullover 1
Warm Cotton Trousers 2 Pairs
Shirts And T-Shirts 4 Pieces
Lightweight Cotton Long Pants 3 Pairs
Long Under Wear 2 Pieces
Short Under Wear 4 Pieces
Sun Hat Or Scarf 1
Woolen Hat 1
Sunglasses 1
Lightweight Gloves 1
Rain Coat 1
Heavyweight Gloves Or Mittens With A Waterproof 1

Footwear

Trekking Boot 1 Pair
Thick Socks 4 Pairs
Light Socks 3 Pairs
Camp Shoes 1 Pair
Sandals 1 Pair

Other Equipments

Sleeping Bag(4seasons) 1
Down Jacket 1
Daypack 1
Water Bottle 1
Sun Cream, Sunglasses
Flashlight With Spare Bulbs, Batteries, Lip Salve, Gaiters.

Optional

Insect Repellent Toilet Articles Note Book & Pen Toilet Roll
Laundry Soap Pocket Knife Towel Sewing Kit
Plasters Binoculars Camera Film
Cards And Personal Medical Kit

Travel insurance is compulsory for all Clients undertaking any tour. It should provide adequate protection for the full duration of the tour to cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter evacuation, loss of luggage, etc.

For your kind information, we would like to give a list of the insurance companies, please go through the links below:

For Canadians And Americans

  1. http://www.travelguard.com
  2. http://www.worldnomads.com
  3. http://www.mondial-assistance.ca
  4. http://www.travelassistnetwork.com
  5. http://www.travelex-insurance.com
  6. http://www.travelite.com
  7. http://www.travelunderwriters.com
  8. http://www.hccmis.com/atlas-travel-insurance

For Australians And New Zealanders

  1. http://www.covermore.com.au
  2. http://www.allianz.com.au
  3. http://www.worldnomads.com.au
  4. http://www.bupa.com.au
  5. http://www.itrektravelinsurance.com.au
  6. http://www.1cover.com.au

For British

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.uk
  2. http://www.worldnomads.co.uk
  3. http://www.thebmc.co.uk
  4. http://www.direct-travel.co.uk
  5. http://www.essentialtravel.co.uk

For Europe And Slovenia

  1. http://www.coris.si
  2. http://www.europaeische.at

For South-Africa

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.za
  2. http://www.tic.co.za

For Indians

  1. http://www.internationalsos.com/en/asia-pacific_india.htm

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is common at high altitudes sickness. In general may occur when people ascend too quickly normally in altitudes of over 3000 m. The symptoms of altitude sickness are due to lower air pressure at high altitudes, which results in lower oxygen levels as you breathe the air in. The air is under less pressure and this makes it harder for your body to get the oxygen out of the air and into the circulation. It’s this extra strain on the body that causes altitude sickness.

Symptoms tend to be worse at night and include headache, dizziness, and lethargy, loss of appetite, nausea, breathlessness and irritability. Difficulty sleeping is another common symptom.

MAJOR SYMPTOMS OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

INITIAL SYMPTOMS

  1. Periods of sleeplessness
  2. Runny nose.
  3. Extra tiredness
  4. Occasional loss of appetite
  5. Feeling laziness
  6. Wish to vomiting
  7. Periodic breathing

Above are normal symptoms which may occur into your body that you should not be worried. Every trekker will experience some or all of these, no matter how slowly they ascend.

ADVANCE SYMPTOMS

  1. Headache and vomiting
  2. Dizziness
  3. Racing heartbeat
  4. Exhaustion
  5. Nausea
  6. Diarrhoea
  7. Loss of apatite
  8. Weakness
  9. Hard to breath
  10. Extra tired
  11. Dry Raspy cough
  12. Sleeplessness

When above symptoms will occur into your body, these symptoms usually resolve by spending one or two extra nights at the same altitude or using medicine. Even you are resting at the same altitude or using medicine, if symptoms are becoming worse, then it is necessary to descend.

SERIOUS SYMPTOMS

  1. Worsening headache and vomiting
  2. Swelling of hands and face
  3. Reduced urine output
  4. Walking with a staggering gait
  5. Confusion
  6. Increased tiredness
  7. Breathing irregularity
  8. Visual hallucinations (seeing things that are not real)
  9. Changes in the ability to think
  10. Changes in normal behavior

If above serious symptoms will occur into your body, these extremely dangerous symptoms are called High Altitude Cerebral Edema (or HACE). They can lead to unconsciousness and death within 12 hours. Increasing shortness of breath, cough and tiredness may also be signs of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema or HAPE. HAPE can also be rapidly fatal if ignored.

TO PREVENT ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

  1. If possible, don’t fly or drive to high altitude. Start below 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) and walk up.
  2. If you do fly or drive, do not overexert yourself or move higher for the first 24 hours.
  3. If you go above 3,000 metres (10,000 feet), only increase your altitude by 350 to 500 metres (1,000 feet) per day
  4. Climb high and sleep low! You can climb more than 300 to 500 metres in a day as long as you come back down and sleep at a lower altitude.
  5. If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude sickness, don’t go higher until symptoms decrease.
  6. Drink plenty of water, tea or juice etc (at least three to 4 liters per day). Urine output should be copious and clear to pale yellow.
  7. Eat high-carbohydrate foods (rice, pasta, cereal) for more energy.
  8. Take it easy and don’t overexert yourself when you first get up to altitude. But, light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating the symptoms.
  9. Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of dehydration, and don’t smoke.
  10. Don’t push yourself when climbing up to passes, rather take plenty of breaks.
  11. Avoid taking sleeping pills.
  12. Avoid active movements and try to relax in the first one or two days upon arrival at the high altitude areas.
  13. Bring adequate medicine.
  14. If nothing else works, return to the areas with the lower elevation.
  15. Allow sufficient time for acclimatization (After 3000 meters).
  16. Don’t make rapid Ascent. Don’t go too far too fast.
  17. Do not trek/travel alone, take guide/porter.
  18. Follow the advice from your guide, hotel, local, guide book.
  19. Descent if mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
  20. Never leave or descent sick person along.
  21. Avoid getting cold.
  22. Take an easy and comfortable trekking route even if its longer

MEDICINE

Following is a list of items you should consider including in your medical kit – consult your pharmacist for brands available in your country.

  1. Aspirin or paracetamol – for pain or fever
  2. Antihistamine – for allergies, eg hay fever; to ease the itch from insect bites or stings; and to prevent motion sickness.
  3. Antibiotics consider including these if you’re traveling well off the beaten track’ see your doctor, as they must be prescribed, and carry the prescription with you.
  4. Loperamides or Diphenoxylate ‘blockers’ for diarrhea’ Prochlorperazine or metaclopramide for nausea and vomiting.
  5. Rehydration mixture to prevent dehydration, eg due to severe diarrhea; particularly important when traveling with children.
  6. Insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm and eye drops.
  7. Calamine lotion, sting relief spray or aloe vera-to ease irritation from sunburn and insect bites or stings.
  8. Antifungal cream or powder – for fungal skin infections and thrush.
  9. Antiseptic, such as povidone-iodine for cuts and grazes.
  10. Bandages, band-aids or plasters and other would dressings.
  11. Scissors, tweezers and a thermometer (note that mercury thermometers are prohibited by airlines)
  12. Cold and Flu tablets, throat lozenges and nasal decongestant.
  13. Multivitamines – consider for long trips, when dietary vitamin intake may be inadequate.