Ten days is a more comfortable short Annapurna Circuit than nine. The extra day goes where it helps most, on the walk to Manang, and the whole trip still ends with a flight from Jomsom. Altitudes are approximate.
Day by day
Altitudes and walking times on this page are approximate and differ a little between maps, GPS devices and lodges. Treat them as planning figures, not survey data.
- Kathmandu to Besisahar and Dharapani (about 1,860 m). Long drive.
- Dharapani to Chame (about 2,670 m). Walk or jeep.
- Chame to Upper Pisang (about 3,300 m). The upper route has better views.
- Upper Pisang to Manang (about 3,540 m) via Ghyaru and Ngawal. A scenic high-line day, 6 to 8 hours.
- Manang rest day. A gentle acclimatisation hike.
- Manang to Yak Kharka (about 4,018 m).
- Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (about 4,450 m).
- Thorong La (about 5,416 m) to Muktinath (about 3,710 m).
- Muktinath to Jomsom (about 2,720 m) by jeep, or walk via Kagbeni.
- Fly to Pokhara and transfer, weather permitting.
What the extra day buys
A walk via Ghyaru and Ngawal instead of the valley road adds interest and altitude exposure at a gentle rate. If you prefer a shorter day, take the valley route and gain half a day.
Pass day choice
Many trekkers prefer High Camp (about 4,880 m) to Phedi because the pass day is shorter. It is also higher for the night. See Phedi vs High Camp in our Thorong La guides.
What you skip
The lower valley from Besisahar to Dharapani is mostly road now. You also skip the Tilicho Lake loop and the Nar Phu side trip. See Tilicho Lake and Nar Phu Valley.
Costs and package
For a longer, more relaxed version see our 18-day Annapurna Circuit.
Choosing the Manang approach
The valley route is quicker and flatter. The upper route via Ghyaru and Ngawal is higher and more scenic, with views of Annapurna II and III. It adds effort but gives a gentle altitude gain. Your guide will adjust to your health on the day.
Rest-day ideas in Manang
- Walk to Gangapurna Lake.
- Visit the Himalayan Rescue Association post for its talk, if open.
- Climb to a viewpoint above Braga and return.
See our Manang guides.
Common questions
Is 10 days enough for the Annapurna Circuit?
With jeeps and the Jomsom flight, yes, if you keep the Manang rest day and are in good health.
Which route to Manang?
The upper route via Ghyaru and Ngawal, or the valley route. Both work.
Do I fly from Jomsom?
Usually, in the morning. Otherwise take a jeep to Pokhara.
What our guests say
Excerpts from trekker reviews on our reviews page.
“Our guide, Mr. Garba Rai, was incredibly helpful, fun, and supportive throughout the journey.”
