Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Duration: 5 Days5/5(8 reviews)
At a Glance
  • Duration 5 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End Pok/Pok
  • Group Size 1-12
  • Max. Altitude 4130

Highlights

  • A short five-day trekking itinerary to Annapurna base camp
  • An affordable ABC trek package from Pokhara
  • Explore the lush rhododendron and pine forests along with a wide range of flora and fauna along the trail
  • Cross thrilling suspension bridges over rushing rivers and lovely streams
  • Come across many narrow waterfalls and steep, rugged tracks
  • Spend nights in beautiful villages on the way and get to see the daily lifestyle of mountain communities
  • Witness stunning mountain panoramas and diverse landscapes
  • Enjoy numerous gorgeous sunrises and sunsets during the trek
  • Explore the lap of the tenth-highest mountain in the world and spend a night there
  • Disconnect from the internet and your busy life and unwind and rejuvenate your soul

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days

Short Annapurna base camp trek is a five-day program that starts and ends in Pokhara. It is one of the shortest hikes in Nepal if we compare it with the EBC Trek or the ABC Trek.

Even though we used the word most accessible, there will be many challenges given the Himalayan region on Annapurna Base camp Short Trek. You will walk through diverse landscapes and come across rich Nepalese cultural heritage on this trekking program.

*Note: You can start and end this trek from Kathmandu. That will add two more days to the itinerary, making it seven days long. Additional cost applies; let us know if you want to start the trek from Kathmandu.

The Annapurna region is one of the famous parts of the Himalayas, and our short Annapurna base camp Trek lets you explore its beauty in a very short time. You will be trekking inside a protected area called Annapurna Conservation Area, home to numerous flora and fauna. The Short ABC trail passes through lush pine, rhododendron, and fir, oak, and maple forests.

You will also encounter various vegetation, wildlife (if lucky), and birds on this trail, if you are lucky.

This Annapurna Base Camp Short package is perfect for travelers bound by time. In five days, you will witness incredible mountain vistas and jaw-dropping landscapes. You Spend nights in picturesque villages and meet with locals from different communities. Along with the adventure, the short Annapurna base camp Hike lets you immerse yourself in the simple mountain lifestyle and have a glimpse of native traditions.

The interactions with the locals will win your heart, and their hospitality will leave you in awe. You can do the short Annapurna base camp trek with your kids. Likewise, trekkers of any age, including 60+ years, can join us on this trek if they are healthy and can walk 5 to 6 hours a day.

The Himalayas' crisp air and the mountains' energy will fuel you to move ahead and reach your destination. The view changes every day, and you will come across a new set of challenges. Every day carries a surprise for you on this short Annapurna base camp trek.

Our usual Annapurna base camp trek is 14 days long, and we also have a special package that combines the Annapurna circuit trek with ABC. Please get in touch with us to change the itinerary or customize the package.

Attractions of Short Annapurna base camp trek

Reach the Annapurna base camp and return to Pokhara in 5 days.

This 5-day package is one of the shortest Annapurna base camp treks. Following this itinerary, you will be at the base camp of the tenth-highest mountain in the world by day three. If you have extra days, you can extend the itinerary to Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages. These two are very famous and beautiful villages in the Annapurna region.

Enjoy trekking in the western Himalayas of Nepal within the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Mount Annapurna is in Nepal's western Himalayan range. The short Annapurna base camp trek route is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. This protected area spans 7,600 square kilometers and encompasses some of the world's most spectacular landscapes, including high mountain peaks, deep valleys, and lush forests.

The flora of the Annapurna Conservation Area is incredibly diverse, with a range of vegetation zones due to the dramatic elevation differences within the region. The trail ascends to alpine meadows filled with wildflowers and coniferous pine, fir, and hemlock forests. A variety of species of animals and birds reside in this protective area.

The Short Annapurna Base Camp trekking route

The short Annapurna base camp trek route is very adventurous. You will trek through dense forests and rugged hills. The trail ascends and descends continuously. You will cross many suspension bridges over rushing rivers and lovely streams.

Likewise, you will come across many narrow waterfalls and steep, rugged tracks. You have to be careful throughout the trek, as the terrain drastically changes as you progress.

You will have night stops in beautiful villages resided by multiple ethnic groups. During the five-day Annapurna base camp trek, you will spend nights in beautiful villages on the way. We have night stops in Chhomrong, Himalaya, Annapurna Base Camp, and Sinuwa.

Apart from these, you will also trek past many other villages. You will get to meet with communities like Chhetris, Brahmins, Gurungs, Magars, etc, along the way. The locals are very welcoming and kind. The trek allows you to experience their daily lifestyle and culture.

The little interactions with the villagers along the short Annapurna base camp trekking route will make the journey more memorable.

Witness breathtaking mountain panorama and a wide range of landscapes.

The stunning mountain panoramas are the major highlight of the short Annapurna base camp trek. On this trekking route, you will come across many outstanding views of the majestic snow-capped Himalayan mountains, such as Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/23,684 ft), Annapurna III (7,555 m/24,787 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), etc.

The landscapes also change as the elevation rises. From lush green hills and rivers, you will see barren hills and narrow streams. At base camp, you will be surrounded by towering mountains and blankets of snow. Likewise, you will have numerous opportunities to witness gorgeous sunrises and sunsets.

Spend a night at the Annapurna base camp.

Usually, you only get to spend the night at the base camp of any other mountain in Nepal if you are not climbing that mountain.

However, the Short Annapurna base camp trek lets you spend the night here because a few lodges are nearby. ABC Short Adventure Trek is a lifetime experience. You will witness the gorgeous night sky of stars with towering mountains around you. Similarly, the glorious morning with a sip of delicious coffee or tea and the view of nothing but mountains is phenomenal.

Escape and unwind, relishing the tranquillity and fresh air of the Himalayas.

If you are looking to unwind and have a digital detox, our short Annapurna base camp trek is the quickest gateway in Nepal. You will spend just the right amount of time in the wilderness and the serenity of the mountains.

The fresh air and cold environment will rejuvenate your soul. Likewise, the region's remoteness will disconnect you from the internet for good and let you enjoy nature.

You'll Experience

Annapurna Base Camp

Itinerary

The short Annapurna base camp trek starts with a short drive from Pokhara to Siwai.

From Siwai, we will begin trekking through lush rhododendron forests and small villages to Chhomrong (2,170 m/7,120 ft). The trail then descends to Chhomrong Khola and crosses it.

From here, follow a series of staircases and trek through settlements like Bamboo (2,310 m/7,579 ft) and Dovan (2,600 m/8,530 ft) to Himalaya (2,890 m/9,481 ft).

The trail then gradually ascends and enters Annapurna Sanctuary. You will trek past Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m/12,139 ft) and follow a steep, rugged trail via a moraine to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/13,551 ft).

You will spend a night at Base Camp and follow the same trail back to Siwai, where the trek ends. A short two-hour jeep ride will take you back to Pokhara to end the trek.

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Our short Annapurna base camp trek begins from Pokhara. We will leave the city early in the morning and drive to Siwai.

You will drive about a two-hour ride past small towns and villages like Birethanti. From Siwau, the trek begins, crossing a few suspension bridges over Marsyangdi Khola.

The trail gradually ascends to Chhomrong through lush rhododendrons and pine forests. On the way, you will encounter waterfalls and streams. On this day, the views of mountains like Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli are superb. Chhomrong is a lovely Gurung village.

Trekking from Siwai to Chhomrong

Trekking from Siwai to Chhomrong

  • Walking hours: 7-8 hours (2 hour drive and 5-6 hours walk)
  • Meals: Lunch and dinner
  • Altitude: 2170M
  • Distance: (46Km Drive and 9KM walk)

    From Chhomrong, our next stop is a small settlement called Himalaya. After an hour following a series of stone staircases, we will descend to Chhomrong Khola.

    We will cross the river using a suspension bridge and continue trekking. For a couple of hours, we will follow another series of stone stairs. Soon, we will reach Sinuwa and take a short lunch break.

    From here, the trail goes through the dense forest of rhododendrons, oak, and Bamboo.

    We will ascend via a forested path and pass small settlements like Bamboo and Dovan before reaching the Himalayas for the night. On the way, we will see stunning landscapes and surreal mountain views.

    Trekking from Chhomring to Himalaya

    Trekking from Chhomring to Himalaya

    • Walking hours: 7-8 hours
    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
    • Altitude: 2920 M
    • Distance: 15KM

      On the third day, we will reach the Annapurna Base Camp. After having a delicious breakfast, we leave the Himalayas and trek, following an uphill route that gradually ascends out of the forest.

      In two hours of trekking, we will enter the Annapurna Sanctuary and follow a steep, rugged terrain to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

      From here, we get to see outstanding views of snow-capped mountains like Gangapurna, Mt. Annapurna, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and many others.

      After a short break here, we will continue trekking along a moraine for two hours and reach the Annapurna base camp.

      The Annapurna base camp will welcome you with its powerful energy and jaw-dropping views. We will spend the night at the base camp in one of the lodges.

      The views of Mt. Annapurna III, Annapurna South, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mt. Gangapurna, and Annapurna I, and numerous others are breathtaking.

      Trekking from Himalaya to ABC

      Trekking from Himalaya to ABC

      • Walking hours: 7-8 hours
      • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
      • Altitude: 4130M
      • Distance: 10KM

        From today onwards, we will begin trekking back to Siwai, where the trek started.

        After a warm breakfast with an excellent view, we will descend from Annapurna base camp following the same trail back. Trekking through the moraine, we will pass by Machhapuchhre Base Camp and steeply descend to the Himalayas.

        Further, we will trek past Dovan and Bamboo settlements. The trail goes through lush rhododendron forests, offering excellent mountain vistas of Sinuwa, where you will spend the night today.

        Trekking from ABC to Sinuwa

        Trekking from ABC to Sinuwa

        • Walking hours: 7-8 hours
        • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
        • Altitude: 2170
        • Distance: 20KM

          We will wake up early, leave Sinuwa, and trek back to Siwai. We will be retracing our steps, enjoying beautiful landscapes and mountain views.

          Today is also the last day of the trek, so enjoy it as much as you can. Leavin Sinuwa, we will descend using stone stairs for two hours to Chhomrong Khola.

          Crossing the Khola, using a suspension bridge, we will ascend along another series of stone stairs.

          The trail will take us to the Himalayas. From here, we will continue trekking, relishing views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, etc. The trail crosses several suspension bridges and leads us to Siwai, where the trek ends. From Siwai, we will drive back to Pokhara. The drive is two hours, and we will pass small villages and rough hillsides.

          Upon reaching Pokhara, the guide will drop you at the hotel. The remaining day is free in the city.

          Trekking from Sinuwa to Siwai

          Trekking from Sinuwa to Siwai

          • Walking hours: 7-8 hours
          • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
          • Altitude: 830M
          • Distance: 115KM
          • MealsB, L

          Is the offered itinerary not suitable for you?

          Looking for a customized itinerary? Reach out to our experts.

          Map & Altitude Graph

          Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek map

          Inclusions

          • Private transfers from Pokhara to Suwai and return
          • Four nights of guest house accommodation on the trek
          • Annapurna conservation and TIMS permits
          • An Experienced trekking A guide
          • Meals (4 breakfasts, five lunches, and four dinners)
          • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service (paid by travel insurance company)
          • Sleeping bag, down jackets if necessary, and return after the trek
          • Tax, VAT and service charges

          Exclusions

          • Your personnel expenses, water, hot and cold drinks & bar bills
          • Laundry, telephone, hot shower & internet charge
          • Tips for the guide
          • Anything not mentioned in the included section

          Add-Ons & Options

          Reaching Pokhara

          The Best way to reach Pokhara is by taking a short flight from Kathmandu or there are options to go by a tourist bus or hire a private vehicle.

          Please find add-on options if you want to book a flight to Pokhara or return and consult if you want to go by a tourist bus or private vehicle, we can also book these transports for you.

          Add a Porter

          A trekking porter carry about 22-22 Kg and we suggest to hire a porter for each 2 trekkers which cost US $100.00 for the trek.

          Essential Info

          Short Annapurna base camp trek difficulty

          The short Annapurna base camp trek is a moderate Trek. This trek doesn't demand extreme physical fitness or previous trekking experience. Any healthy individual can do a short Annapurna base camp trekking with us, Outfitter Himalaya.

          Our team guides you through all the difficulties and makes the journey hassle-free. The trek involves constant ascents and descents.

          You will trek through lush forests and moraines. The later part of the trail gets steep and rugged.

          Altitude sickness on the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

          Our five-day Annapurna base camp Journey itinerary does not include acclimatization days. Still, the steady rise in elevation will provide you ample time to acclimatize to the altitude.

          There are risks of altitude sickness during Annapurna Short Trek; however, you can avoid it by adopting a few simple preventive measures.

          Drink plenty of water during trekking, and avoid smoking or alcoholic drinks. Take it slowly and maintain your pace; you do not have to rush. Similarly, take proper rest during hiking and get adequate sleep.

          If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, loss of appetite, etc, inform your guide.

          Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek preparation

          Go on daily long walks to prepare for the short Annapurna base camp trek. You can run, jog, swim, or cycle if you wish. It will help you build stamina and endurance.

          Likewise, if you prefer going to the gym, build your leg muscles and core strength. You do not need a strict exercise routine to prepare for this trek. Light but regular body movements will be enough.

          If you already have an old pair of trekking boots, then no worries. However, if you buy new trekking boots, buy them early and use them to avoid blisters during the trek.

          Other than that, you can buy or rent all trekking clothes and gear in Kathmandu, Nepal. So, you do not have to bring everything from your home.

          Accommodation on the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

          During the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you'll be accommodated in comfortable guest houses or trekking lodges. The majority of the accommodation is in twin shared rooms and dormitories.

          In peak season, you may share a room with other trekkers due to the limited number of lodges and rooms in certain villages. Rest assured, your comfort is our priority.

          Foods on Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

          Our Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Package Cost includes most meals: 13 (4 breakfasts, five lunches, and four dinners).

          On the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you'll be treated to a variety of delicious and nutritious meals. The trail offers a range of food options, ensuring you'll always find something to suit your taste.

          We take pride in providing fresh, hygienic, and nourishing food throughout your trekking journey, ensuring you're well-fed and energized for the adventure ahead.

          Best Time for the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

          The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is for all seasons and is available for any month of the year.

          The spring (from March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons to do the trek and offer crystal clear weather. However, other months, such as December, January, February, and June, also provide good weather.

          Moonson is a rainy season in Nepal and the Annapurna region. July and August are not recommended; however, if you can walk in the rain, the trail offers greenery, and you can still enjoy the trek.

          Availability & Last Minute Booking

          We at Outfitter Himalaya have opened the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek booking, which is available on any date of the year.

          You can look at the right bar of the page, select your date, and book on any date. However, we suggest you contact us first if your trek date is less than seven days from your booking date.

          Guide and porter

          Outfitter Himalaya always advises a guided trek in Nepal. Most of the trekking routes in Nepal are in the high Himalayas, and there is always a risk on the trail.

          Our guides are trained, know the trail well, and have been on the routes multiple times. A local trekking guide is included in the package, and the porter is not included in the price; however, you can add a porter if you need it when you book.

          Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek packing list

          The right equipment is not just a part of the trek; it's a key to a successful and comfortable journey. Here's a comprehensive list of things to pack for the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This is a guideline, but it's crucial to consider the length of the Trek and the months you are doing the short ABC Trek.

          Equipment list:

          • A Large backpack or bag or Duffle to keep your luggage.
          • A day pack (about 30-40 liters)
          • A pair of good Hiking shoes/ boots
          • Warm sleeping bag with a comfort temperature of minus -15 ° C. ( depending on which season you are trekking)
          • Walking shoes/Sandal for the camp
          • A Down jacket
          • Warm fleece jacket.
          • Trekking Pants.
          • T Shorts
          • Thermal underwear. Two sets. Wool and polypro
          • Underwear
          • Trekking socks. Wool with a mix of synthetic
          • Warm hat
          • Sun hat or cap.
          • Gloves.
          • Turtleneck or light scarf.
          • Good sunglasses that fit closely to the eyes so that no light enters from the side.
          • Water bottle
          • Headlamp
          • Sunscreen with high protection.
          • Lip balm with sun protection.
          • Hand sanitizer
          • Wet wipes
          • Toiletries
          • Small towel
          • Personal first aid kit with painkillers, band-aids, disinfectant, etc.
          • Camera and battery charger, spare battery. Large memory card
          • Paperback book.
          • Diary/notebook
          • Passport, money, and travel documents.
          • Passport-size photos (trekking permits, TIM card)
          • Rain cost if you are trekking in monsoon
          • Trekking poles (optional)

          FAQs

          • Q1. Where do I start the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

            Most Annapurna treks start and end in Pokhara. The Short Annapurna Trek also starts in Kathmandu; you drive from Pokhara to Nayapul or to Birethathi or Siwai and start the short trek to Annapurna Base Camp.

          • Yes, there are charging facilities in most of the villages on the short Annapurna Base Camp trail, and hot showers or buckets of hot water are available in all villages. There is internet available in most places; however, the internet is not reliable sometimes, depending on weather conditions, etc…

          • It depends on your walking pace. We suggest taking the 5-day ABC itinerary, which is the shortest itinerary.

          • Yes, the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is suitable for beginner trekkers. However, some of the trails go up and down. You have to be physically fit, have strong stamina, and be determined to complete the trek successfully.

          • The Cost of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek depends on many factors, such as the number of trekkers, services, etc. Contact us with your requirements for up-to-date costs.

          • It is not a compulsion, but we always advise you to have a travel insurance policy that covers emergency evacuation, loss of baggage, accidents, etc., so you can always travel with peace of mind.

          Client Reviews

          • 5/5

            Beautiful Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Outfitter Himalaya!

            What an amazing introduction to Nepal. The guys from Outfitter Himalayan Holidays went above and beyond to make sure our experience was memorable. Great tour guides, drivers, connections and support. I would most certainly call Arjun from Outfitter Himalaya to arrange my next trip to Nepal.

            G
            Geoff HFrom: Australia,Nov 22, 2024
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          • 5/5

            A successful trip to ABC

            I was one of the 12 lucky people to be on this trip with Suraj, Indra and the team. I went on this trip with my son, while he was up front with Suraj, I was in the middle of the group admiring the view and taking lots of pictures.

            The first thing that I would like to say is a huge thank you to the team and my travel mates for making this a memorable time.

            We were looked after well and Suraj set a pace that we could all match and get to the base camp.

            As with any trip you get a cross section of people, for me this was a good experience as everyone got one together and had lots of laughs.

            I would highly recommend Outfitter Himalaya for the organisation and running of a successful trip.

            G
            Graeme WFrom: Australia,Nov 20, 2024
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