Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Trip Type

Lodge Trek

Grade

Moderate

Altitude

4130 m.

Transportation

Bus / Jeep

Group Size

1 or more

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Duration

8 Days

Best price guaranteed
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Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

For those short on time but still yearning to experience nature at its most exotic and pristine, this Short Annapurna Base Camp trek is for you. The Annapurna Base Camp (4130m.), also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary, offers a moderate trekking experience. Its combination of easy walking paths and breathtaking scenery makes it one of the most popular treks in Nepal.

During the Short ABC trek, you will enjoy stunning mountain views, walk through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests, and experience a diverse blend of cultures that are unique to this region of the Himalayas.

The Annapurna Base Camp is a high-altitude glacial basin located north of Pokhara. This magnificent natural amphitheater is referred to as a "sanctuary" due to its serene beauty and the divine presence of the Hindu goddesses Annapurna and Gangapurna. This secluded circle of peaks is accessible by a single route — a deep gorge that cuts through the fortress-like mountains between Machhapuchhre and Hiunchuli. Many of these peaks rise above 7000 meters, including the iconic twin-peaked Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I and III, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and the Glacier Dome.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Costs

The cost of an 8-day Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek encompasses various essential components, including trekking permits, guide and porter services, accommodations in hotels and lodges, as well as meals.

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (914m), 7-hour

Food

Breakfast

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

914

Early morning, drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (914m), a scenic 7-hour journey with views of mountains, hills, villages, and rivers.

Pokhara, a tourist haven, offers lakes, caves, monasteries, temples, and breathtaking views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. Stay overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.

Day 2 : Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda and trek to Chhomrong (2170m)

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2170

After an early morning breakfast, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to Jhinu Danda. The route winds through lush hills and valleys, offering glimpses of rural life and the stunning beauty of the Annapurna region. Once you arrive at Jhinu Danda, the real adventure begins with a 2 and half hour trek to Chhomrong (2170m).

The trail takes you through terraced farmlands, dense forests, and traditional villages, all while offering breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan peaks. As you ascend, the crisp mountain air revitalizes you, and the peaceful surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for your journey. Upon reaching Chhomrong, a charming hillside village, unwind and relax at a cozy lodge, where you'll spend the night, preparing for the next leg of your trekking adventure. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Day 3 : Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan (2600m) takes about 5 hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2600

Descend initially to cross a small bridge, followed by a steep ascent to Sinuwa. The trail passes through bamboo, rhododendron, and oak forests, with terraced farms along the way. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Day 4 : Trek from Dovan to Deurali (3200m) – about 5 hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3200

The trail gradually ascends alongside the Modi Khola through bamboo and rhododendron forests, rich in biodiversity. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Day 5 : Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) via Machhapuchhare Base Camp (3700m) – about 4 hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

4130

Enjoy stunning views of Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhare. The trail passes through alpine forests before reaching Annapurna Base Camp, where you’ll be surrounded by a panorama of majestic peaks. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Day 6 : Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2310m) – 6 to 7 hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2310

Descend through bamboo forests, retracing your steps. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Day 7 : Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1780m) – about 5 hours.

Food

Breakfast & Lunch

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

1780

Descend via Sinuwa and Chhomrong, with a steep climb up to Kuldi Ghar, followed by a flat trail to Sinuwa. Descend to Chhomrong Khola, then continue down to Jhinu Danda, where a natural hot spring awaits just 20 minutes away. Same day, drive back to Pokhara. Stay overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.

Day 8 : After breakfast, drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu – a 7 hour journey.

Food

Breakfast

Elevation

1400

Enjoy mountain views, green hills, rice terraces, and glimpses of local life along the way.

What Is Included ?

All airport pick-up and drop-off services via private vehicle
Trekking guide(s) and porter(s) (1 porter for 25kg luggage)
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Accommodation in lodges throughout the trek
Trekking gear: sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags, trekking poles (if needed)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
All land transportation: Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by AC deluxe bus; Pokhara-Ghandruk and Jhinu Danda-Pokhara by 4WD jeep
2-night hotel stay in Pokhara with breakfast
Guide and porter insurance, equipment, and meals
First aid kit
Taxes, VAT, service charge
Rescue assistance in case of emergencies (Note: Adequate travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation and medical treatment is required)
Farewell dinner with cultural performance at an authentic Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu

What Is Excluded?

Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, toiletries, battery charging, hot showers, laundry, beverages)
Travel insurance
Tips for guides and porters
Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu (available upon request, or for early return due to personal or unforeseen reasons)

Note: Various hotel categories are available in Kathmandu, from budget to 5-star. We can arrange your preferred accommodation in advance based on your budget and preferences.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Altitude Profile

FAQs

The Short ABC Trek usually takes 6 to 8 days, depending on your fitness level and the itinerary. A common route starts from Jhinu Danda or Siwai, passing through Bamboo, Deurali, and Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) before reaching Annapurna Base Camp. The return journey follows the same path, with possible variations.

Yes, it is suitable for fit beginners with some hiking experience. Although it’s shorter in duration, the trail involves steep climbs, stone steps, and high altitude, so good physical preparation is important. Since you’ll ascend quickly, proper acclimatization and rest are essential to avoid altitude-related discomfort.

The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp (4130m.). While this is not extremely high by Himalayan standards, some trekkers may experience mild altitude symptoms like headache or fatigue due to the fast ascent. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace, and spending a night at MBC (3700m.) before ascending further helps with acclimatization.

Major highlights include:

Standing at the foot of Annapurna I, one of the world’s highest peaks
Passing through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests
Stunning views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Annapurna South
Overnight stays in cozy tea houses with mountain backdrops

The experience of entering the Annapurna Sanctuary, a natural amphitheater of 7,000m+ peaks

The best seasons are:

Spring (March to May): Warm temperatures, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons.
Autumn (September to November): Cool, dry weather and excellent mountain visibility.

You’ll need:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)

Yes, independent trekking is allowed and common on this trail. The route is well-marked and busy, especially in peak season. However, hiring a licensed guide enhances your experience with local insights, navigation support, and cultural exchange. A porter can also help if you prefer to trek light and enjoy the journey more comfortably.

Yes! Many trekkers stop at Jhinu Danda on the way back to enjoy the natural hot springs located about a 20-minute walk from the village. It's a wonderful way to relax sore muscles after the high-altitude hiking and wrap up your trek on a soothing note.

The Short ABC Trek offers maximum reward in minimal time. In under a week, you’ll reach one of the most iconic base camps in the Himalayas, surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks. It’s more dramatic than shorter options like Poon Hill or Mardi Himal, and still logistically simple—no flights or high passes involved. If you’re looking for a short trek with big mountain payoff, ABC is a perfect choice.

Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition ensures you to provide a well planned itinerary for Short Annapurna base camp trek. An experienced and highly professional climbing guide will be assigned to each climbing member. All necessary logistics will be taken care from our side. However, we expect to maintain good health and physical condition as well as well good mental preparation from your side.

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