Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek
At a Glance
  • Duration7 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 4,130 m/13,550 ft
  • Group Size 2-12
  • Trip Style Trek
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • Trek to the base camp of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna
  • Spend the night at the Annapurna Base Camp
  • A short 7 days trekking program for travelers who are bound by time
  • The trail winds through lush forests and beautiful villages
  • A leisurely, adventurous trek perfect for both beginner and experienced trekkers
  • Witness stunning mountain panoramas and breathtaking landscapes
  • Get to see the unique mountain lifestyle of the locals and their cultures
  • Come across a wide range of flora and fauna along the trail
  • Walk on steep, rocky tracks via moraine at the upper part of the trail

"Join our Annapurna Base Camp short trek 2024/2025 departures at affordable prices. Book now to get a special holiday discount. Embark on a journey that will leave you in awe as you explore the beautiful villages, dense forests, gushing rivers, and towering mountains."

Follow an adventurous trekking route in the famous Annapurna region and hike to the base camp of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft). The trail winds through diverse landscapes and quaint villages, offering stunning mountain views and the rich cultural heritage of the locals.

Our Annapurna Base Camp short trek is for anyone restrained by time to do the standard ABC trek. One thing that makes the Annapurna Base Camp short trekking special is that you do not have to trek for days to feel close to the mountains.

From day one, you will see mountains around you, and within 2-3 days of trekking, you are surrounded by numerous Himalayan peaks and mountains. And unlike the Everest Base Camp trek, you will spend the night at Annapurna Base Camp, making the journey even more exciting.

What to expect during the Annapurna Base Camp trek 7 days?

Like any other trek in the Annapurna region, the 7 days Annapurna Base Camp trek route also passes by Gurungs and Magars villages. Our Annapurna Base Camp short trek starts and ends at Jhinu Danda, so you can enjoy the natural hot springs either time.

You will explore the lush rhododendron, oak, maple, bamboo, and pine forests before ascending above the treeline. The greenery of the trail with cascading waterfalls, rivers, streams, hanging bridges, and small settlements creates mesmerizing sceneries.

The surrounding skyline is usually dominated by snow-capped mountains like Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Annapurna II (7,937 m/ 26,040 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/23,684 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Fishtail (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), etc.

As you leave Hotel Himalaya (2,890 m/9,482 ft) and trek further, you will enter the Annapurna Sanctuary, passing by the Hinku Cave (3,139 m/10,298 ft). It is a large, overhanging glacier. Following a narrow, steep trail, you will navigate via rocks and boulders to reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,712 m/12,178 ft) and further ascend to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/13,550 ft).

Is the Annapurna Base Camp short trek for you?

Whether you do a short Annapurna Base Camp trek or follow the regular 7-day + ABC trek itinerary, you can join this trek regardless of your previous trekking experience and age. Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp is more like a leisure adventure activity. The trail is well-maintained and marked. You will not come across extremely challenging terrain on this trek.

There are difficulties on the Annapurna Base Camp trek 7 days, too, but manageable by all ages of trekkers. The trekking route goes through lush forests, following rugged paths, and gradually ascends to the base camp. If you can only walk 6 hours a day, you can participate in our Annapurna Base Camp short trek. There is nothing much to worry about or consider for this trek.

Perks of doing the Annapurna Base Camp short trek with us

First of all, we have the best Annapurna Base Camp short trek cost that lets you do this quick hike at a very minimal price. Our team will be there for you to make sure you are trekking comfortably and safely. We work with trained and very experienced native mountain guides of the Annapurna region. They will make sure you are enjoying the trek to the fullest and also learning in depth about the locals and the flora and fauna.

Below, we have mentioned some other perks that you get while trekking with us:

  • Trek with friendly and experienced guides and porters
  • Flexible Annapurna Base Camp short trek itinerary that you can customize anytime
  • Top-notch service and heart-touching hospitality
  • The best short Annapurna Base Camp trek cost
  • 24/7 support system
  • Complimentary welcome and farewell dinners and airport transfers as per the itinerary
  • No hidden cost or policy

Itinerary

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Our team members will welcome you and escort you from the Tribhuvan International Airport to the hotel in Thamel. You will rest and prepare for the trek today. Meet your trek guide and do the final packing. Later explore the vibrant streets of Thamel and end the day with a delicious welcome dinner.

  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Null

    Early in the morning, we will fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. From Pokhara, we will drive to Jhinu Danda and start trekking towards Chhomrong village. The trail goes via terraces and includes some steep sections. Trekking through a small village called Nayagaon, we will ascend to Chhomrong for the night stay.

    • Trek distance: 2 km/1.2 miles
    • Duration: 2 hours drive & 3 hours trek
    • Altitude: 2,210 m/7,250 ft
    • Accommodation: Lodge
    • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

      From Chhomrong, the trail descends to Chhomrong Khola. Crossing the river via a bridge, we will ascend through lush forests. The trail goes past Sinuwa and continues to Khuldigar. On the way, we can see stunning views of Machhpuchhre and Annapurna. Further, trekking past Bamboo, we will ascend to the Himalaya Hotel.

      • Trekdistance: 12 km/7.4 miles
      • Duration: 6/7 hours
      • Altitude: 2,920 m/9,580 ft
      • Accommodation: Lodge
      • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

        From the Himalaya Hotel, the trail follows a narrow gorge and goes along the Modi Khola Glacier valley. We will trek via alpine forests and pass by Hinku Cave. It is a big overhanging rock. Soon, we will enter the Annapurna Sanctuary and trek past the Machhapuchhre base camp. Further, following a narrow, steep track, we will trek to the Annapurna Base Camp. The trail presents breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, Manaslu, etc.

        • Trek distance: 12.5 km/7.7 miles
        • Duration: 5 hours
        • Altitude: 4,130 m/13,550 ft
        • Accommodation: Lodge
        • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

          Today, we will leave the Annapurna base camp and trek back to Bamboo. We will follow the same trail as before. Following a rough, steep route, we will trek past the Machhapuchhre Base Camp and further descend through lush forests. The trail goes along the Modi River valley and gradually descends to Bamboo.

          • Trek distance: 14 km/8.6 miles
          • Duration: 6 hours
          • Altitude: 2,310 m/7,578 ft
          • Accommodation: Lodge
          • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

            From Bamboo, we will trek back to Jhinu Danda. The trail descends to Kimrong Khola and continues from here through forests of rhododendrons, bamboo, and oak to Jhinu Danda. Spend some time enjoying the natural hot spring here then drive back to Pokhara. We will take a short flight to Kathmandu as well. The remaining day is free in the city. Rest, explore, and shop. In the late evening, we will meet for a farewell dinner.

            • Trek distance: 8.5 km/5.2 miles
            • Drive distance: 209 km/130 miles
            • Duration: 3/4 hours trek & 9 hours drive
            • Altitude: 1,780 m/6,393 ft
            • Accommodation: Lodge
            • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

              We will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport as per your flight departure time. Get ready and pack all your stuff on time.

              • Meals: Breakfast only
                Cost Details
                Includes
                • All airport pick-up and drop-off services are complimentary.
                • A complimentary welcome dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant.
                • The two nights stay in Kathmandu with breakfast (twin sharing).
                • Domestic flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Kathmandu, Pokhara to Jhinu Dada by bus, and Jhinu Dada to Pokhara by bus.
                • All necessary trekking permits, like the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, the TIMS Card, etc.
                • During the mountain season, three meals per day are consumed: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
                • All accommodations during the mountain.
                • Fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, pomegranates, when and if available.
                • Complimentary duffel bag or agency T-shirt (for your trekking stuff, if needed).
                • Government-approved, first-aid trained (with a medical kit), an English-speaking professional local guide, and of the 2 guests 1 porter
                • First-aid kit.
                • Staff insurance, a well-paid salary, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
                • If necessary, rescue arrangements will be made.
                • Certificate of achievement, if needed.
                • Agency service charge and government tax, or VAT.
                Excludes
                • International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
                • Lunch and dinner in the city, or Kathmandu and Pokhara.
                • Personal insurance, trekking gear, personal expenses, items lost or stolen, and so on.
                • Temple and monastery entrance fees.
                • Personal guide and porter.
                • Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
                • All drinks, chocolate bars, desserts, laundry, hot showers, battery charges, wifi, etc.
                • Tipping to staff.
                • Extra nights on the mountain and city, which are not maintained.

                Useful Information

                Annapurna Base Camp short difficulty

                • Trek distance: The Annapurna base camp short trek covers approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles). The trail between Chhomrong to Himalayan Hotel and Himalaya Hotel to Annapurna Base Camp covers 12 kilometers (7.4 miles). The distance from ABC to Bamboo is 14 kilometers (8.6 miles), and the Bamboo to Jhinu Danda is 8.5 kilometers (5 miles).
                • Difficulty level and terrain: The short Annapurna base camp trek difficulty level is considered moderate. It is like a leisure adventure via lush forests and remote villages. The terrain is forested and rugged, with steep sections. You will trek past some landslide-prone areas and moraines. There are many ascents and descents on this trek, so trekkers must be fit.
                • Altitude sickness: Altitude sickness and acute mountain sickness are the same thing. It happens to trekkers during trekking in the Himalayas because their bodies do not acclimatize as they ascend to high altitudes. Our Annapurna base camp short trek itinerary sees a gradual increase in elevation, so you will get ample time to adjust to altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
                • Preventive measures: You can do a few things, like keep yourself hydrated and maintain your pace to avoid altitude sickness during the ABC short trek. Also, avoid alcohol or smoking. If you see any altitude sickness symptoms (headache, vomiting, nausea, difficulty in breathing, insomnia, etc), inform your guide and take necessary actions to subside it.
                • Previous trekking experience: Previous trekking experience is not needed for Annapurna base camp short trekking. So, whether you are a beginner trekker or an experienced trekker, you can trek to Annapurna base camp.
                • Trek preparation: The Annapurna base camp short trek preparation includes increasing your stamina and core strength. Go on regular long walks (if possible with a backpack weighing 5 kg), exercise, and do cardio activities like swimming, cycling, running, hiking, etc. Similarly, if you go to the gym, focus on increasing the strength of your back and legs and also include cardio at the end of the training.

                The best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp short trek

                • Spring (March, April, May): Trekking to Annapurna base camp in the spring is fantastic. It is widely considered the best time for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The weather is mild and stable, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. The rhododendron forests along the trail are in full bloom, creating a beautiful and colorful landscape. Likewise, the temperature ranges from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F) during the day, with cooler nights and mornings at higher elevations.
                • Autumn (September, October, November): After spring, autumn offers the best weather and climate conditions to do the Annapurna base camp short trekking. The skies are generally clear, providing stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The weather is cool and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). Likewise, your trek may coincide with Nepali festivals.
                • Summer/monsoon (June, July, August): Trekking during the summer monsoon season is not recommended, as heavy rainfall leads to landslides, swollen rivers, and difficult trail conditions. The trails are muddy, slippery, and leech-infested. Likewise, regular cloud cover obscures mountain views. If you choose to trek ABC during this time, be prepared for challenging conditions and potential trail closures.
                • Winter (December, January, February): Winter is the coldest time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The lower elevations may have pleasant daytime temperatures, but the higher elevations experience freezing temperatures and the possibility of snowfall. Many teahouses and lodges at higher elevations may be closed, limiting accommodation options. The good thing is that the less crowded trail makes the journey serene and relaxing.

                Accommodation and Meals

                • Rooms: Accommodation along the ABC trail consists of teahouses and lodges. They offer basic rooms with twin beds, blankets, and pillows. Rooms are often shared with other trekkers, and the availability of single rooms can be limited. As the rooms are not well heated we recommend carrying a sleeping bag.
                • Washroom: Teahouses typically have shared squat or western-style toilets. These toilets may or may not have running water for flushing. You may get a private washroom in some lodges though. We recommend you pack your toilet paper, hand soap, etc.
                • Hot shower: Lodges and teahouses offer hot showers for an additional fee. However, the availability of hot showers can be limited at higher elevations. The cost of a hot shower can vary from place to place, so it's a good idea to ask in advance. Carry body wipes to keep yourself refreshed on the days you may not be able to take a bath.
                • Charging: Charging electronic devices (e.g., phones, cameras) is usually available but comes with an extra cost. Some lodges/teahouses charge per hour for charging, while others may offer it for free if you eat your meals there. Spare batteries and power banks will be very useful.
                • WiFi: WiFi is available in some lodges/tea houses along the trail, but expect to pay for WiFi access. Also, be prepared for frequent connectivity issues because of the remote location. Instead of WiFi, we recommend you buy a Nepali tourist sim and use data for better connectivity.
                • Breakfast: A typical breakfast during the Annapurna Base Camp trek 7 days may include options like eggs (boiled, fried, or omelet), toast, porridge, muesli, thukpa, chapati, and tea or coffee.
                • Lunch and dinner: Lunch and dinner menus often feature a variety of dishes, including Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and Western cuisine. Common choices include dal bhat, momo, sandwiches, noodles, pasta, rice, vegetables, and a selection of meat (chicken, yak, or buffalo).
                • Drinking water and beverages: Trekkers usually refill their water bottles with the boiled water provided by the accommodation providers. You can also use water purification tablets for double safety. Likewise, a variety of hot and cold beverages, including tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soft drinks, are available to purchase.

                Additional information during the Annapurna Base Camp short trek in Nepal

                • Travel insurance: It's highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency air evacuation and medical bills for short Annapurna Base Camp trek. Make sure to double-check the travel insurance policy before buying it and ensure it covers helicopter rescue operations.
                • Passport and visa: Your passport has to be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. You'll also need a visa to enter Nepal, which can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or land border crossings. You can get a Nepali travel visa from the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate Office in your country.
                • Money exchange: The local currency in Nepal is the Nepali Rupee (NPR). You can exchange money in banks or money exchange centers in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Both cities have excellent ATM services. However, there is no ATM along the trekking route. So, withdraw enough cash to use during the trek to buy additional services that are not covered by our ABC short trek cost.
                • Tips: At the end of the trek, you are supposed to tip the guide and porter if you are satisfied with their service. It is to show your appreciation for their hard work. The recommended amount can vary, but a common guideline is to tip around 10% of the total trekking cost.
                • Luggage: Pack lightly for your trek. You can leave unnecessary items at your hotel in Kathmandu and carry only the essentials for the trek. Your duffel bag should not exceed 10 kg. Likewise, the backpack weight limit is 5 kg per person.
                • Personal expense: While most of your expenses are covered by your trekking package (accommodation, meals), be prepared for personal expenses such as additional snacks, hot showers, charging fees, shopping, tips, travel insurance, international flight fares, and any unforeseen expenses.

                FAQs

                • When trekking to Annapurna Base Camp, you have to wear proper trekking clothes that are breathable, insulated, and moisture-wicking. You can buy or rent all the trekking clothes and gear in Thamel, Kathmandu.

                • The shortest trek to Annapurna Base Camp typically takes around 7 to 10 days. This 7-day ACB trek package is a popular and relatively shorter option compared to our longer Annapurna Base Camp treks.

                • The Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered moderately challenging and suitable for trekkers with no or some experience. It involves varied terrain and high altitude. The trek is not extremely difficult for those in decent physical shape.

                • The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek is manageable for beginners with a moderate level of fitness. Prior trekking experience is not needed, but it is better to have some sort of high-altitude experience. For that, you can go on some day hikes before the trek starts.

                • No, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is generally considered less challenging and demanding than the Everest Base Camp trek because of its low altitude.

                • Yes, Annapurna Base Camp is worth it for its stunning mountain views, adventurous trail, welcoming locals, and natural beauty. It is a popular trekking destination in Nepal.

                • No, you cannot trek Annapurna without a guide. Trekking alone is banned in the Annapurna region from April 1st, 2023. If you wish to experience solo trekking, opt for our private trek service.

                • The best months for the Annapurna Base Camp trek are September, October, and November, as well as March, April, and May because of favorable weather and clear mountain views.

                • There's no specific age to start trekking. It depends on your physical fitness and personal preferences. Many people start trekking in their teens or later. You can enjoy trekking at various ages with proper preparation.

                • It's not necessary to take Diamox for the Annapurna Base Camp trek, but you can carry it to help prevent altitude sickness if needed. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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