Short Treks in Annapurna Region

The Long and Short Treks have in common that the gorgeous display of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains always accompany you. Likewise, you’ll always get to interact with the local people residing in its wilderness. Now let’s shed some light on the most explored short Annapurna Treks that can be conducted in the wild Annapurna.

View from Poon Hill

The Annapurna Region is classified by many as the most diverse and sought-after Trekking trail in the world. Trekking in the intricate Annapurna Region combines some of the jaw-dropping mountains like the Machhapuchhre (6997m) and Annapurna (8091m) along with the Tibetan culture. Various landscapes in the Annapurna region take travelers to the heavenly abode carved by the roaring Kali Gandaki River.

Another significant attribute that attracts tourists to these marvelous lands is its easy accessibility and well-maintained trails. This region attracts trekkers and hikers from across the globe. Many teahouses and stopping points are here, so taking it slow can be a good option. You can arrange trips spanning as long as three weeks to ones as short as three days, focusing on the Annapurna Region. There are several options, from long Treks like Upper Mustang Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek to Short Treks like Mardi Himal Trek and Ghorepani Poonhill Trek.

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Ghorepani Poonhill Short Trek

The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is one of the famous Treks in the Annapurna Region. The Trek starts from Nayapul and heads north with views of Annapurna South (719m) and Hiunchuli (6441m). As you walk in the dense rhododendron forests, Ghorepani village welcomes you with open arms. The following day, you climb the magnificent vantage point at Poon Hill (3210 meters), from which you'll feast on the sight of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Lamjung Himal ranges. Slowly descend to Ghandruk, where the delicious Gurung cuisine will astonish you. Learn culture and tradition at the Gurung museum, then navigate back to Nayapul and head to Pokhara, where this trip will end. This budget Trek can be completed in 10 days at USD 630.

Dhampus Sarangkot in Annapurna

The Dhampus Sarangkot Trek aims to take you on a spiritual and natural journey that connects the hill stations of Dhampus and Sarangkot. Your journey takes you on a cruise down the Prithivi Highway, and after relaxing in Pokhara, you'll hit the road to Phedi. Make your way through cultivated fields and Gurung settlements. The trail gives way to the fantastic display of Manaslu and Annapurna. Walk for 5 hours to reach Naudanda and climb steep stairs to arrive at the vantage point of Sarangkot. This is the best place near Pokhara to marvel at the glory of snow-laded peaks like Annapurna (8091m) and Machhapuchhre (6997m). This short yet adventurous journey spans eight days and can be done at the cost of USD 510.

Mardi Himal Short Trek

Sunset on Fishtail

Mardi Himal Trek is for travelers willing to encapsulate the entirety of the Annapurna Region. The picturesque trail takes you initially through Pokhara, and then the road traverses from Phedi towards the low camp. The course is dreamy because it is filled with blooming rhododendrons. There aren't human settlements along the tracks filled with mesmerizing rhododendron forests. As we move past High Camp, we find ourselves at the highest elevation point at 4250 meters. The view of the mountains, including Barha Shikhar, Tent Peak, and Macchapucchre, is stunning. To conquer this trail, you must have solid physical conditions, such as walking for at least 5 hours daily. This trekking experience comes with a price tag of USD 899 and can be done in 12 days.

Jomsom Muktinath - Short Trek Behind the Mountains

For travelers that need something desolate and ethereal, the Jomsom Muktinath Trek fulfills their craving. Set in the rain shadow area of the Annapurna Region, this Trek commences from Tikhedhunga and takes you through the many small Gurung, Magar, and Thakali villages. You'll need to walk for at least 5 hours a day, and as you move forward, the landscape transforms from green to an arid desert-like landscape. Trek along the Kali Gandaki River and reach Marpha before heading towards Jomsom. As you battle the winds, you arrive at the holiest temple in this region, 'Muktinath.' You can see a large number of devotees here praying to Lord Vishnu. Admire the sight of Annapurna Massif and fly back to Pokhara. This trip comes with a price tag of USD 1099 and can be completed in 14 days.

Khopra Danda

Khopra Danda

The Khopra Danda Trek is a recently nurtured trail that takes you away from the marked Annapurna trails and deep into the untouched terrain of Khopra. The course offers surreal views of the residing peaks of the Annapurna Region, which include Annapurna (8091m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), and Machhapuchhre (6997m). The road takes you along the Gurung settlement of Ghandruk, where you'll observe the past of the Gurung people. The major highlight of this Trek is the Khopra ridge, from where you can see the Annapurna South (7219m) and tour the holy Khayer Lake—exploring the forested trails and learning the culture of Gurung inhabitants on the Khopra Danda Trek. The trek commands you to walk 5 hours daily and lasts 14 days for USD 899.

Mohare Danda

The Mohare Danda Trek takes you to the tranquil off-beaten paths in the foothills of Annapurna. This Trekking trail is recently discovered, and there is much more to it. The course takes you on a whirlwind of a journey through Pokhara and along the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. As you move ahead, you can catch immense views of the Annapurna Massif. On average, the trail commands you to walk for 5 hours a day. Finally, we arrive at the summit of the Mohare Danda at 3300 meters. Also, it is a great vantage point to witness the panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. We go back through the Gurung village Ghandruk and, after crossing several small settlements, reach Nayapul. This 11-day Trek costs USD 820.

Adventure Annapurna Trek:

In Conclusion

Trekking in the Annapurna Region has never been more popular. As such, there are various choices for treks in this region based on duration and difficulty. The availability of excellent trails and teahouses has made it even more popular. If you are in search of a quick getaway or are willing to experience the glamour of nature, then you should choose to scout the Annapurna Region.