Short Annapurna Base Camp
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Trail
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 7 Days

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11 reviews in Google Reviews
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration
7 Days
Maximum Altitude
4,130 meters( 13,550 ft)
Starts
Pokhara
Ends
Pokhara
Best Time
Spring and Autumn seasons

Trip Overview

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a mesmerizing journey through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, quaint villages, and rugged terrain. As hikers ascend toward the base camp, they are treated to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and colorful rhododendron forests, creating a picturesque backdrop for this unforgettable adventure. This trek is designed primarily for hikers with limited hiking experience. It is also the tenth-highest mountain globally, having an altitude of 8,091 meters (26,545 ft). The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), being located within the Annapurna Sanctuary, a protected topography in the glacial basin, is surrounded by towering mountain ranges. Embarking on the Annapurna Base Camp Odyssey offers a great chance to discover the Annapurna Himalaya range of Nepal. 

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is less challenging but still requires strong physical and mental strength for trekking. The Annapurna Base Camp has some of the obstacles in terms of distance, duration, terrain, and altitude. Check all your necessary things before starting the Annapurna Base Camp journey. From the very beginning, you get to see mountain views. You should also cross several suspension wooden bridges. From the Annapurna Base Camp, you can see various mountain peaks such as Machhapuchre and the Nilgiri with Annapurna Himal (mountain). 

On your way to the Base Camp, you can also enjoy the stunning scenery and different streams and waterfalls. You can also witness the Gurung culture and tradition during the trek. The Annapurna Base Camp excursion can be private or in a group of people. Going in a group is better because it reduces your cost during the Base Camp trek and may help you throughout the journey. Those who want to spend their quality time alone with fewer crowds can book this trek to the Base Camp privately, as you will be offered a reasonable rate with a licensed guide, especially someone who can tell you about the geography, history, and culture of Nepal in a more detailed way. One cool thing about trekking privately is that your guide can give you all the attention you need, diving deep into the local culture, and making sure you have plenty of time to chat with them.

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an excellent opportunity for trekkers to experience varied cultures and traditions, along with a chance to witness the lifestyle of the local communities. This Short ABC trek is a perfect chance for you to prepare for more high-altitude treks, helping you get some prior experience.  

Major Highlights of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

  • Get a chance to witness the world’s tenth-tallest Mountain, Annapurna I (8,091 m). 
  • Take a chance to explore Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city, known for its impressive beauty and tourist attractions. 
  • Along the way, you are rewarded with beautiful views of the Annapurna range.
  • Ideal option for trekkers who have limited time, but are eager to witness the beauty of the Annapurna region. 
  • See the impressive Himalayan Glacier views, along with the Annapurna Glacier, making your journey worth the visit. 
  • Combine your Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek with other different routes, such as the Mardi Himal Trek, offering you a great trekking experience. 
  • Try local Nepali cuisines such as Dal Bhat, MoMo, and local breads, providing you with a taste of the traditional dishes in Nepal.
  • Away from crowded tourist areas, the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers you a peaceful atmosphere with the tranquility of the high Himalayas. 
  • Take a relaxing hot spring bath in Jhinu Danda, along with vistas of the beautiful landscape. 
  • The Annapurna Base Camp serves as a remarkable voyage for trekkers, taking you through diverse landscapes. 
  • Perfect trekking spot for beginner trekkers, wanting an easily accessible trekking route in Nepal. 

What can you see during the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

During the Annapurna Base Camp, you can expect different landscape views on the lower altitudes and snow-covered trails at higher elevations. You can see fantastic views of different peaks, including Mount Annapurna, Macchapuchhre, and the Himal Chuli. The Base Camp is a peaceful place surrounded by high peaks, offering a dynamic hiking experience. You can also enjoy a hot spring with Mount Annapurna views.

Who can do the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

As you know, the Short Annapurna Base Camp trek is not as challenging as other mountain treks, but still, it requires proper preparation and gear throughout the journey. The Annapurna Base Camp trail is suitable for beginners as well as for senior citizens and young kids without altitude experience. However, the trekker needs to have a strong determination to do the trek. It requires a good level of stamina as some of the trail ascends and descends gradually.

What are the worth visiting attractions during the Short Annapurna Base Camp?

As you know, the Short Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is a stunning Himalayan destination and also the world’s tenth-highest mountain. The highlight of the trek is reaching the Base Camp for its mesmerizing views and snow-capped peaks. There are many worth visiting attractions during the Short Base Camp trek. Some of them are mentioned below: 

  • Mount Annapurna: Mount Annapurna at an altitude of 8,091 m is the tenth-highest peak in the world. The mountain is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, with snow-covered peaks.  The name Annapurna was derived from a Sanskrit word that means “ the giver of food and nourishment”.
  • Annapurna Base Camp: The Annapurna Base Camp is the final destination for trekkers. It provides panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks with breathtaking mountain scenery, mainly Mount Annapurna.
  • Natural Hot Spring: During the trek, you will stop at Jhinu Danda Hot Spring, as it is one of the pleasant stops to relax after the trek, offering you stunning views of the Annapurna range. Jhinu Danda Hotspring is one of the famous hot springs in the Annapurna Region and the most visited attraction in Nepal.
  • Ghandruk: Ghandruk is a small village of the typical Gurung people in the Kaski District of Nepal. It offers you magnificent views of the Annapurna Range, Macchapuchhre (fishtail) mountain, Gangapurna, and the Hiunchuli mountains. The village is full of small traditional houses of the Gurung people. 

Are you looking for a short adventurous trek at a genuine price rate? Then, High Camp Adventure has an exciting offer for you to join the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek for the 2026/2027 departure. It is the most adventurous trekking destination for beginner trekkers in Nepal. So don’t miss a chance to grab this opportunity, as the booking has already begun for the year 2026/27.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 7 Days Itinerary

Start Point: Pokhara
End Point: Pokhara
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Your journey starts from Kathmandu with a scenic drive through the Prithvi highway. The route passes through beautiful settlement areas where you can enjoy the natural scenery.

Max Altitude: 822 m (2,696 ft)Meals: Bed & BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp officially starts from Pokhara, also known as the city of lakes. From Pokhara, you will travel to Kimche which is a short 2-hour drive. After reaching Kimche you start to hike toward Ghandruk as it is the final stop for the day. Upon reaching Ghandruk you can see traditional Gurung houses, mostly built with stone and carved wooden windows and doors. Enjoy the culture and tradition of the Gurung with their local cuisines.

Max Altitude: 2,012 m (6,601 ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse

After an early morning breakfast, you start the trek toward Sinuwa which is at 2340 m altitude. The starting of the trek is steep uphill. The more you trek the more it becomes challenging. Uphill can be challenging, especially for those who have difficulties in high altitude. If you’re trekking during the time of monsoon it can be more challenging for you as the trail gets more slippery making the trek difficult in every step. During the time of monsoon, the hills get covered by fog so if you are lucky enough then you can see mountains. Upon reaching Sinuwa you get to see beautiful Macchapuchhre also known as Fishtail Mountain, Gandharva Chuli and Himchuli mountains.

Max Altitude: 2,340 m (7,667 ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse

The trek from Sinuwa to Deurali involves steep ascends as the previous day. You will be walking on small rocks along with the small water streams. You will also see the waterfall flowing rapidly which later on gets mixed with Modi Khola. It starts from Mardi Himal so it is called Mardi Khola. A great experience to walk from wooden bridges across the rocky stream making your journey exciting with full of adventure. You also get a chance to visit Ponjem Nyambra temple situated beside a waterfall with 108 cascades. Upon reaching Deurali you can see the mesmerizing views of the Annapurna Mountain Range with the amazing views of sunset.

Max Altitude: 3,200 m (10,499 ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse

The toughest day of the trek as you will be heading towards our final location the Annapurna Base Camp. The trek from Deurali to the Annapurna Base Camp journey is from 3200m to 3700m above sea level. The hike from Deurali to the Annapurna Base Camp is filled with difficulty having rocky and rugged paths. From Sinuwa to Deurali, our route was quite narrow and steep uphill but from Deurali to the Annapurna Base Camp you encounter open spaces offering relief and stunning panoramas. On our way to the Annapurna Base Camp lies Macchapuchhre Base Camp which lies at an altitude of 3700m above sea level. Modi Khola along our way provides breathtaking views and enhances the journey. It takes around 2 hours from Macchapuchhre Base Camp to reach to reach the Annapurna Base Camp. You can also witness the small streams flowing downwards and don’t forget to wear your sunglasses because the snow and sun will burn your eyes. After trekking for a few hours, you will arrive at the final destination the Annapurna Base Camp. Upon reaching the Base Camp, allow time to acclimatize as your body adjusts to the altitude change. You can also experience a stunning sunset view over the mountains.

Max Altitude: 3,700 m (2,139 ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse

Early in the morning, you will witness the breathtaking sunrise views of the Himalayan. Beautiful mountains like Machhapuchhre, Gandarva Chuli, Gangapurna, Bahrashikhar and Himchuli are also seen from the Annapurna Base Camp. Warm rays of the sun slowly spread over the mountains and green hills. Standing at the Annapurna Base Camp on the final day makes you gather all the memories you created during the trek and experience that will last for a lifetime. After the morning breakfast, you will be heading back towards Bamboo which is our next stop location. The trails are descending and are very easy to complete. You will be trekking down through the same route as you used for the Base Camp. You will be passing through Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya and finally Bamboo. You will be staying overnight at a tea house after reaching Bamboo.

Max Altitude: 2,310 m (7,578 ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse

After breakfast at Bamboo, you will be heading towards Jhinu Danda which is a small village in the Annapurna Region that is famous for its natural hot springs. As the way towards Jhinu Danda is downhill trekking it is easy and comfortable. You will be passing through the same trail as you passed earlier during the trek to the Base Camp. After reaching Jhinu Danda you can take take hot spring bath which is more relaxing for your body after a long trek day. You will have your lunch at Jhinu Danda and head towards your next destination Pokhara by bus or a jeep. Upon reaching Pokhara you can explore the city as this place is known as the city of lakes and rest at your guest house.

Max Altitude: 1,780 m (5,839 ft)Meals: Breakfast & LunchAccommodation: Hotel

Cost Details

Includes

  • Pickup and Transfer to and from the International Airport to your hotel in Kathmandu. 
  • Teahouse accommodation throughout the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek. 
  • Standard and Delicious Meals throughout the trek. 
  • Transportation as per the itinerary (Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kimchi and Jhinu Danda - Pokhara). 
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Fees. 
  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Fees. 
  • Government-Licensed Guide and Local Porters for each two individuals. 
  • Trekking Map.
  • Basic First Aid Kit. 
  • Trekking Poles. 
  • Duffle Bag. 
  • Company’s Service Charge. 
  • Government Taxes.  

Excludes

  • International flight ticket to and from Nepal. 
  • Personal Gear for the Trek. 
  • Personal expenses such as phone bills, bar bills, laundry, and other costs. 
  • Fee for a Visa for Nepal. 
  • Costs that are not included in the Included section. 
  • Expenses occurred due to weather delays, trail detours, political events, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Essential Information

Itinerary Disclaimer for Short ABC Trek

As you know, trekking in the Himalayas includes some major challenges that are unpredictable. Therefore, during such situations, there might be some possible changes to the itinerary because of unfavorable weather conditions and uncontrollable events like landslides and avalanches. The change or some delays in the itinerary are provided for trekkers to ensure their safety along with a smooth trek. Other than that, the Guide provided by our team follows the provided itinerary very strictly. Therefore, during such situations, the High Camp Adventure team requests their clients to have proper coordination with mutual understanding with the Guide. 

Accommodations and Meals for Short ABC Trek

Accommodations for the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek include your stay in warm and cozy tea houses, which are mostly run by the locals of the area. Most of the people of the area belong to the Gurung community, as they are well known for providing warm hospitality to trekkers. Teahouses along the way are simple yet comfortable, offering twin-sharing beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms, mainly at higher altitudes. Staying at the teahouses offers a chance to experience the local way of living at higher altitudes. 

Meals during the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The meals provided by them are comfortable and delicious. You can try Nepali cuisine, Dal Bhat, Curries, Eggs, Thukpa, Chowmein, Momo, and many more. You are advised not to consume protein foods like meat because they require a longer duration for digestion, and during the trek, this may affect you. However, eggs can be beneficial for you during the trek. It's better if you don’t drink and smoke throughout the trek.  

Departure Note

High Camp Adventure follows the given itinerary very strictly, as our team is responsible for the safety and security of our fellow hikers. But still, there can be some possible changes in the given itinerary due to the weather and unexpected conditions. If the trek to the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary aligns with your expectations, then feel free to contact us at +977 9851031822 via WhatsApp, Viber, or Cell. For any inquiries or details of the trip, you can contact us via email at highcampadventures@gmail.com 

Permits and Documents 

For the Short Annapurna Base Camp, you must obtain all the required permits before you start your journey from Kathmandu. The permit helps you to make your journey safe and comfortable with the proper implementation of rules and regulations. Below are some of the permits you must obtain; however, trekking with a registered agency can help you acquire all those permits. 

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

For trekkers navigating the Annapurna Base Camp trek, they must obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. This permit helps you to trek through the Conservation Area as a way to navigate through the area. The National Tourism Board of Nepal in Kathmandu is the authority that provides the Annapurna Conservation Area permit. Make sure you trek with this permit, as there are many such checkpoints where you need to show your permit. 

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Fees

  • NRP 3000 For Foreign Nations
  • NRP 1000 For SAARC Nations 

Trekkers Information Management System Card (TIMS)

The Trekkers Information Management System Card is mandatory for trekkers who are heading towards the Annapurna region of Nepal. This permit ensures trekkers trek in those areas with the proper implementation of rules and regulations implemented by the Government authorities. The TIMS Card can be obtained from Kathmandu. This permit monitors all the activities you do during your journey to Annapurna Base Camp. 

Trekkers Information Management System Card Fees   

  • NRP 2000 For Foreign Citizens 
  • NRP 1000 For SAARC Nations 

Note:Trekkers willing to fly their Drone cameras on the trek must have a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) along with the Department of National Park and Wildlife Conservation.  

Altitude Sickness

High altitude may affect some of the trekkers as they ascend to high altitude where the oxygen level decreases, making the trekkers difficulty in breathing. Because the higher you go, the less supply of oxygen will be there as there is low atmospheric pressure. The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is designed for beginner trekkers, so the risk of altitude sickness is generally low. Many people who are prone to altitude-related problems have completed this trek without major problems. Make sure to take adequate breaks and allow your body to adjust to the altitude. 

  • Symptoms: Headache, Vomiting, loss of appetite, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, difficulty in sleeping, fatigue, nausea, swelling of hands and legs, 
  • Preventive measures: give proper rest to your body, keep yourself hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, maintain a balanced diet, avoid meat, and eat nutritious food. 

Best time for the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The best time to trek the Annapurna Base Camp is during the time of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Other months are also suitable for trekking, but have some unfavorable weather and climate, which makes the journey more challenging.

Spring (March to May)

The Annapurna Base Camp trek is best between March and May. During this month, the Rhododendrons bloom all over the paths of the trail. The skies are also clear with comfortable temperatures. This season is good as the weather is predictable and does not fluctuate much, making it a favourable time to trek. 

Autumn ( September to November)

 Autumn is also one of the best months to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp as the temperature during the month ranges from 4 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius, making it a perfect season for trekking. Both seasons are good for trekking to the Base Camp as the skies are clear with moderate temperatures. 

Monsoon (June to August)

Trekking during this time is mostly not recommended, as you need to face more challenges and obstacles. The trail is not well-managed with slippery routes because of frequent rainfall. The chances of landslides also increase because of the heavy rainfall. 

Winter (December to February)

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is not advisable during the month of Winter as there is a sudden temperature drop as you trek higher. The trail is mostly covered with snowfall, although a few trekkers are doing the trek during this time. You can get magnificent views of snow-capped mountains as you elevate, which makes your journey worth the visit. 

Both seasons are good for trekking to the Base Camp as it has a moderate climate and temperature, providing you with clear skies with stunning views of the mountains. The trail is possible all over the season, but during the unfavorable seasons, the trail is slippery due to continuous rainfall. 

Guides and Porters During the Trek

The team of High Camp Adventure will assign the trekkers to licensed English-speaking guides and porters. The Guides will be assisting you throughout the trek, making the trek as comfortable as possible. Trekkers are encouraged to show love and respect towards their guides and porters because without them, the journey would be much more challenging and complicated.

Things to Consider during the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

During the Short Annapurna Trek, make sure to carry all your necessary things based on your needs and preferences for a comfortable stay. Here are some of the things to be considered for a safe and secure journey during the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

  • Charging facility: For the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will be provided with a charging facility at the tea houses. However, High Camp Adventure advises its trekkers to carry a portable power bank with them for a comfortable journey. Most of the tea houses may charge you extra costs to charge your electronic devices.
  • Hot shower facility: You will be provided with a hot shower facility, although you may have to pay an extra cost, as many of the tea houses provide this facility to the trekkers. The hot shower facility is not included in the trek package, so you have to pay extra from your side.
  • Slow ascend: The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek usually lasts around 6 days; therefore, there is nothing to hurry about, as you are mainly recommended for a slow ascend to avoid the problem of altitude sickness. The trekking trail during the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is mostly managed during peak seasons, which can make your journey easy. 

Travel Insurance

During the Short Annapurna Base Camp trek, you need your travel insurance with you as it decreases your medical charges. There are no policies that require you must have travel insurance to trek to the Base Camp, but it's better if you have travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you from unwanted expenses at the time of trekking, like lost baggage and personal belongings, trip cancellation, and many more.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 7 Days FAQs

Annapurna Base Camp also called ABC is evidently one of the high-altitude treks in Nepal. The Base Camp is located inside the Annapurna Conservation Area under the Annapurna Region of Nepal and lies in the Gandaki Zone of the Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,549 feet) above sea level, is a gateway to the heart of Annapurna Massif. The Base Camp is a popular trekking destination due to its breathtaking views and surrounding peaks.

If you enjoy trekking then the Annapurna Base Camp gives you a chance to experience some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the world. Although the trek can be challenging due to weather and altitude conditions it is worth the visit as you’ll be standing at the highest peak in the world surrounded by the natural beauty and serenity of the Himalayas. Moreover, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is popular but not overly crowded providing opportunities for peacefulness and personal space along the route. The trek to the Base Camp immerses you in the tradition of the local Gurung communities. You get a chance to experience the local traditional foods and rich cultural experience.

The Annapurna Base Camp is a moderately challenging trekking trail in Nepal in comparison to the Everest Base Camp. As it reaches an altitude of about 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) there can be a possible risk of altitude sickness. The difficult part about the Base Camp trek includes steep ascents and descending trails. Proper planning and acclimatization can significantly improve the experience and help reduce potential challenges.

The trek is ideal for those who are new to trekking but eager for an adventurous experience. Mountaineering trekking experience is not required for the journey to the Annapurna Base Camp. The route is challenging yet manageable with stunning natural beauty and cultural highlights.

Yes, it is possible to complete the Annapurna Base Camp alone, but it requires careful planning and preparations. However, choosing a trekking agency has several advantages enhancing your safety and security. A reliable trekking agency can benefit you with expert guides, and local porters allowing you to concentrate on the journey to the Annapurna Base Camp.

During the trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, you will see stunning mountains like Annapurna Range, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Gandharva Chuli and many more.

During the Base Camp trek the tea houses have WIFI connectivity. The network is not that stable as 2G and 3G are only offered by Ncell and NTC. For improved network access in the higher region, you can use the NTC sim as there are some signal towers provided. However, in certain areas may be very poor or not available at all.

Tipping is a way of showing appreciation for their hard work and dedication towards the guide and porters, who made your trekking experience safe and enjoyable. It’s advisable to give tips in cash using local currency (Nepalese Rupees) for convenience.

The trek is appropriate for those individuals with good physical health including younger children. However, it is generally not recommended for children under 7 years old due to high altitude.

Natural hazards are likely to occur along the steep path from Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. During the monsoon season, the terrain is at risk of landslides because of intense rain. In the winter, ice and snow buildup on the steep slopes can increase the risk of Avalanches.

While trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp you may have opportunities to see various forms of wildlife and bird species. The Annapurna Base Camp takes you through the Annapurna Conservation Area which is renowned for its diverse ecosystem and biodiversity. There is a slight possibility of witnessing tigers, leopards, Gaurs (wild Ox), and a variety of deer.

The total walking distance for the Annapurna Base Camp is around 110 kilometers, with an average of 12-14 kilometers covered each day. Trekkers typically spend around 5 to 6 hours trekking daily. Trekkers are advised to move at their own pace to fully appreciate the trek.

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