The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a perfect trekking package for those who want to experience the stunning beauty of the Annapurna region in less time. This popular trek takes you through charming villages, lush forests, and up to the breathtaking Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters.
The Annapurna region is one of Nepal’s most beautiful and most visited trekking areas, surrounded by the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Along the way, you’ll enjoy incredible views of the Himalayas and get a chance to experience the local culture of the Gurung and Magar communities.
Perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers, this short ABC trek offers a complete Himalayan adventure without needing a long holiday.
Unlike the rushed 6-7-day ABC trek itinerary, our carefully designed 10-day routes offer the perfect balance of safety, comfort, and experience.
Your safety and overall experience come first — we prioritize steady pacing over rushed schedules.
Here are the major attractions of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek:
On this short Annapurna base camp trekking journey, you will start your trip from Kathmandu by taking a short but scenic flight to Pokhara. Riding in a domestic plane from Tribhuvan International(TIA) airport, you will reach Pokhara International Airport in around 25 minutes. During the flight, you will enjoy aerial views of Kathmandu city, lush hills, villages, rivers, and the snow-capped Himalayas.
During this short Annapurna base camp trek, you will stay in the tea house, where you will experience warm hospitality from the Gurung Communities. Old-style homes, interacting with local people, and understanding their local culture, traditions, and lifestyle are fun.
The route of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you to the Annapurna Sanctuary, which is filled with lush bamboo groves, endangered wildlife, and colourful prayer flags. Also, the panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains and the beautiful landscape make your trek memorable.
In this 10-day Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will reach two base camps, which are the Annapurna Base Camp and the Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Standing at this base camp will give you a sense of pride and achievement. The sunrise and sunset views here are some of the most magical in the Himalayas.
The short Annapurna Base Camp trek will be incomplete without views of towering peaks such as Annapurna I (8091 m) and Machhapuchhre (6997 m). Witnessing this snow-capped peak is jaw-dropping and will remain in your memories forever.
After you complete the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek while returning from Bamboo Village, you will get a chance to experience a natural hot spring. This natural hot spring helps you relax after tiring trekking and supports your body’s natural healing. Additionally, it is believed that taking a bath here can cure skin disease.
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek begins with a flight to Pokhara– the tourist hub of Nepal and the second-largest city in the country. Situated beside the awesome Phewa Lake, the city is a picturesque respite and the starting point for most of the region’s trekking adventures.
Likewise, the reflection of Mount Machhapuchhre gleams magnificently on the surface of the Phewa Lake. Furthermore, the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you to various ethnic Gurung and Magar villages and settlements through the Annapurna Valley.
One of the most renowned overnight stops along the trek is the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk, offering breathtaking views of peaks such as Gangapurna (7,454m) and the Annapurna range.
This trek also includes a stay at Jhinu Danda, a natural hot spring known for its healing properties. After enjoying the trek to the Annapurna Base Camp, you can relax at the hot spring and take in its holistic healing properties, letting go of all your weariness and rewarding your body for undergoing the journey.
The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek captures all of the best features of the region in a short amount of time for you to enjoy. At every step of the trekking trail, you will be blessed with marvellous views of the Himalayas. It is also naturally uplifting and a great way to enjoy a Himalayan acreage incorporated with the ethnic Gurung culture.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Walking duration: 4–6 hours daily
Max altitude: 4,130m
Health Condition: Must be fit and fine.
Age requirements: No age restrictions.
Daily walking hours: Trekkers must be able to walk for 4-5 hours per day.
Passport: Foreign trekkers must have a valid passport( at least six months of validity)
Health and Travel Insurance: Recommended
Note: If you can walk 5–6 hours daily with breaks, you can complete this ABC trek easily.
It is possible to do the short Annapurna Base Camp Trek throughout the year. to its relatively short itinerary and fewer days spent at high altitude, it is accessible to a wide range of trekkers in different seasons. However the weather conditions, visibility, scenery, crowd level and trail experience vary depending on the season you choose for trekking.
Here is a breakdown of each season so you can decide which is best for you.
| Season | Day Temperature | Night Temperature |
| Spring(March – May) | 10°C – 20°C (lower areas) | -5°C to 5°C (higher elevations) |
| Summer / Monsoon(June – August) | 15°C – 25°C | 5°C – 10°C |
| Autumn(September – November) | 10°C – 20°C | -5°C to 5°C (higher elevations) |
| Winter(December – February) | 5°C – 15°C (lower areas) | -10°C to -15°C (near base camp) |
Trekking permits are compulsory for trekking inside the Annapurna region, and for the Annapurna base camp short trek, you will need these permits:
| Permit Name | Cost |
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | – NPR 3,000( for Foreign citizen) – NPR 100( for locals) |
Note: When you book the short Annapurna Base Camp trek(ABC) package with High Route Adventure, we will arrange all permits for you. Also, the ABC trek permits will be included in the trekking package.
High Route Adventure will provide you with the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek package at an affordable cost. All our costs are revealed on the website, and there will be no hidden costs when you book with us. For solo trekkers, it will cost 985 USD, but the more people in your group, the bigger the discount you will get on the trekking package.
| Number of People | Price Per Person (USD) |
| 1 – 1 | $985 |
| 2 – 6 | $730 |
| 7 – 10 | $695 |
Estimated personal expenses: $10–20 per day (WiFi, hot shower, drinks, charging)
Our guides are born and raised in the Annapurna region and hold a government-issued guide licence. They can speak fluent English and Nepali, which helps ensure smooth communication during the trek. Also, they have strong relationships with local communities, which allows you to have meaningful interactions that larger operators can’t guarantee.
The standard ABC trek can take around 12-13 days to complete, but High Route Adventure has compressed the magic into 10-day itineraries without sacrificing highlights. There will be a gradual elevation gain, which reduces the risk of altitude sickness, even on a compressed schedule. Also, you can add a day in Pokhara for a lakeside exploration, a quick cultural tour, or do adventurous activities.
Our trekking guide knows how to handle emergencies during the trek and knows basic first aid. They carry a first aid box for small injuries or sickness, but during the emergency, you will be transferred to an advanced hospital, either in Pokhara or Kathmandu. Our client safety will be our top priority.
During the trek, you will stay at the Women‑led tea house, run by locals from the Annapurna region. Staying in this tea house means your trek supports their livelihoods. A portion of every trek fee funds the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), helping preserve trails and wildlife habitats.
From airport pickup and hotel transfer to permit and Travel insurance guidance, including Post‑trek support, we will care for you from the date of booking to departure.
You can check our short Annapurna Base Camp Trek price revealed on our website. We have also shared in detail what will be included in the trekking package and what you need to manage on your own. We also offer budget trips without compromising quality.
Visit High Route Adventure – Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Package, choose your dates, and let the mountains welcome you.
Driving Duration: 20–30 minutes (airport transfer)
Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by one of our representatives. They will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel in comfort. Since there are no scheduled activities for the day, you’re free to relax and recover from your flight or explore the nearby streets at your own pace. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Flight Duration: 25 minutes
Drive Duration: 1.5 hours
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Distance: ~9–10 km
Early in the morning, you will be taken to the airport for your flight to Pokhara, which takes about 20 minutes. Upon arriving in Pokhara, you will have a short drive to Nayapul along the road. The drive is pleasant and offers a brief glimpse of the region's countryside. From Nayapul, you will then be trekking to Ghandruk- one of the most well-known Gurung villages in the region. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Ghandruk.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Distance: ~10–11 km
Today, you will have a lovely, nature-filled trek to the village of Chhomrong. The village is the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. Likewise, the trek offers wonderful views of the Annapurna Mountains, and the terrain is blessed with peaceful woodlands home to many beautiful birds and wildlife. The trail is mostly up-and-downhill and isn't arduous. Overnight stay at the guesthouse in Chhomrong.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Distance: ~9–10 km
From Chhomrong, you will be entering the Annapurna Sanctuary- a protected area that is home to many endangered species of animals and birds. The trail from Chhomrong descends towards Chhomrong Khola, which you will cross via a suspension bridge, often decorated with colorful prayer flags. Further on, the trail climbs out of the valley and ascends to Khuldi. From here, the path is a descent along the steep, slippery stone staircase that enters thick bamboo groves toward Dovan. Overnight stay at the Himalayan Hotel.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Distance: ~10–12 km
The climb to the Annapurna Base Camp takes a few hours from the location of the Himalayan Hotel. Descending from a ridge above the hotel, the pat branches out towards lush meadows with large pastureland. You will reach the Machhapuchhre Base Camp midway through the trail which offers a grand view of Mt. Machhapuchhre (6997m) itself. Finally, eventually, you will reach the Annapurna South Base Camp, from where majestic panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks magnificently rise around like a naturally formed amphitheater. Overnight stay at the Annapurna Base Camp.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Distance: ~13–14 km
From the base camp, you will follow a small levied path through the valley once again towards the village, creatively named Bamboo. Along the way, rows of beautifully sleek and emerald bamboo groves and rhododendron woods ornament the landscape, as well as the sight of the mountains that serrate the skyline. The path is leveled and has a downward slant for the most part, but it isn't too difficult. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Bamboo.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Distance: ~11–12 km
From Bamboo, you will follow a gradually descending path toward one of the famous settlements of the region- Jhinu Danda. The small village is situated amid high-rising cliffs and harbors a natural hot spring that is located right beside the fast-raging river. The hot spring is said to have natural healing properties, and you can relax in the hot water pool, relieving your muscles and body. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Jhinu Danda.
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Distance: ~8–9 km
Drive Duration: 1.5 hours
From Jhinu, you will follow the same route back toward Nayapul. Trekking through beautiful terrace farms and pastures, you will descend southward through numerous villages. From Nayapul, you will then have a lovely drive back to Pokhara. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Pokhara
Drive Duration: 6–7 hours (Tourist Bus)
(Optional 25-minute flight available)
You can have a drive back to Kathmandu. Upon returning to Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your Hotel. In the evening time let's have a farewell dinner at a Nepali tropical restaurant with a cultural program. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Note: For those who want to avoid road transportation, they can take a flight from Pokhara International Airport at an additional Cost.
Airport Transfer: 20–30 minutes
Approximately three hours before your scheduled flight, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
If you want to add Poon Hill to your Annapurna Base Camp trek, we recommend our 13-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek Package.
For those who love a challenge, our Annapurna Circuit Trek Package offers a more adventurous and diverse experience around the Annapurna region.
If you’ve already completed the Annapurna Base Camp trek, you can explore the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 9 Days for stunning sunrise views from Poon Hill.
You may also consider the scenic Mardi Himal Trek – 10 Days, which takes you closer to the majestic Mardi Himal for a quieter and equally rewarding Himalayan journey.
You can also choose the Luxury Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek for a more comfortable and premium Himalayan experience.
To know about the cost for the luxury upgrade, contact us:
Email: info@highrouteadventure.com
Phone/WhatsApp: +977-9851058664
Choose from our scheduled group trips below, or contact us to plan a private or family adventure tailored to your schedule.
All participants planning to do the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek must obtain a Nepal Tourist Visa. You can either apply for the visa in advance from your home country or get it upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu.
The process in Nepal is quick and convenient, usually taking around 5 minutes after you submit your information and pay the applicable fees.
Tourist Visa Fee:
To book the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you can either book through our website or contact us directly. Before booking, we recommend reading the package details carefully. If you have any inquiries or wish to customize your trip, please let us know during the booking process.
Booking: To book this short Annapurna base camp trek package with us, you need to make an advance payment of 20% of the total cost. The total cost of this package is listed in USD, and you can convert it to your currency to make a payment. Remaining balance payable in Nepal.
Here is our contact details for booking:
Email: info@highrouteadventure.com
Phone/Whatsapp: +977-9851058664
Address: Mitranagar-26, Kathmandu, Nepal
For making a booking we accept different payment option:
Note: We will not be responsible for the bank or transfer charge.
Cancellation: To cancel the trip, you need to inform us immediately, and there will be no refund of the 20% advance payment. However you can use that amount for the further treks in Nepal as a lifetime deposit. To know more about the company policy, check our terms and conditions.
Here are different Short Annapurna Base Camp trek itineraries which you can choose:
Best for: Luxury and time-limited trekkers
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda – Trek to Chhomrong
Day 2: Trek to Deurali
Day 3: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
Day 4: Sunrise at ABC – Helicopter flight back to Pokhara
Day 5: Departure
👉 This option reduces trekking days and is ideal for those with limited time.
Best for: Fit and experienced trekkers
Day 1: Drive to Jhinu Danda – Trek to Chhomrong
Day 2: Trek to Bamboo
Day 3: Trek to Deurali
Day 4: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
Day 5: Trek down to Sinuwa
Day 6: Trek to Jhinu – Drive to Pokhara
👉 This itinerary involves longer walking hours each day.
Most Popular Short Option
Day 1: Drive to Jhinu – Trek to Chhomrong
Day 2: Trek to Bamboo
Day 3: Trek to Deurali
Day 4: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
Day 5: Trek to Bamboo
Day 6: Trek to Jhinu (Hot Spring)
Day 7: Drive to Pokhara
👉 Balanced pacing with proper acclimatization.
Includes sunrise hike to Poon Hill before heading to Annapurna Base Camp.
Day 1: Drive to Nayapul – Trek to Ulleri
Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani
Day 3: Sunrise at Poon Hill – Trek to Tadapani
Day 4: Trek to Chhomrong
Day 5: Trek to Deurali
Day 6: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
Day 7: Trek to Bamboo
Day 8: Trek to Jhinu – Drive to Pokhara
👉 This route offers scenic diversity and gradual altitude gain.
Best for: Beginners who want comfortable walking hours
Day 1: Drive to Nayapul – Trek to Ulleri
Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani
Day 3: Sunrise at Poon Hill – Trek to Tadapani
Day 4: Trek to Chhomrong
Day 5: Trek to Bamboo
Day 6: Trek to Deurali
Day 7: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
Day 8: Trek to Bamboo
Day 9: Trek to Jhinu – Drive to Pokhara
👉 This option provides better acclimatization and less physical pressure.
The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) is generally rated as moderately difficult, meaning many trekkers with good fitness can complete it. Still, there are challenges and things you should be aware of before starting the journey.
Trekkers who want to participate in this short Annapurna Base Camp trek must be able to walk for 5-6 hours. Trekking continuously can be hard for beginners and first-time trekkers.
Pro tip: If participants lack good physical fitness, they can engage in strength-building and cardio exercises to build strong legs, a strong back, and a strong core.
On this Short Annapurna Base Camp trek, the highest point you'll reach is Annapurna Base Camp at about 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). As you go higher, the thinner air means your body gets less oxygen, and some trekkers may feel the effects of altitude sickness. Initial AMS symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and shortness of breath. If altitude sickness becomes worse, you might feel a headache and difficulty walking. When you notice these signs, you need to take rest, stop ascending, and descend to a lower elevation.
Pro tip: Follow preventive measures and altitude sickness prevention to avoid AMS.
The route of the Annapurna base camp trek takes you through the forest, narrow paths, suspension bridges, and rocky trails. Even though it's not so hard to walk in such terrain conditions, it might still be difficult for some trekkers.
Pro tip: Use trekking poles and walk slowly in difficult terrain conditions.
The weather can sometimes become unpredictable, especially at high altitudes in the Annapurna region. A sudden change in the weather can make trekking more difficult.
Pro tip: Check the weather forecast for the trek and carry clothes that help you stay protected in bad weather.
Since the short Annapurna base camp trek is not so difficult, you still need to have some preparation before heading on this wonderful trek in the Annapurna region. Here are things that will help you to prepare to make it successful and more enjoyable.
You don't have to be super fit or need the extreme preparation that mountaineers do. The main thing trekkers need to focus on is building leg and back strength so they can trek for 5-6 hours while carrying a backpack. For this, you can engage this activist or exercise at home:
If you are a beginner trekker, choose the best time for the short Annapurna Base Camp trek: spring and autumn. Trekking in this season helps you avoid unnecessary difficulties and challenges.
Trekking solo is possible, but hiring a guide and porter helps make your journey easier with their experience and guidance. Also, in unexpected situations, they can provide emergency assistance that may not be possible if you trek solo.
The Annapurna region remains very busy during the peak trekking season, and tea houses are often fully packed. It can be difficult to find accommodation at the last moment. So, book the short ABC trek with a registered trekking agency like High Route Adventure to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.
For trekkers who want to combine trekking with Yoga to heal their body and mind, High Route Adventure also offers the Annapurna Base Camp Yoga Trek. On this Yoga trek, we will provide you with a Licensed Yoga Instructor. You will have a Yoga session that lasts around 45–60 minutes. The ABC trek with a yoga instructor will cost USD 1800 per person.
Daily Yoga Structure
Benefits of Doing Yoga during the ABC trek
What to Pack – Yoga Meets Trekking
You might be wondering what food is provided during this short Annapurna Base Camp trek. When you choose High Route Adventure for your trek, we will arrange a three-meal meal for you in the tea house. You will have the option to choose veg or non-veg items. If you have any dietary restrictions, let us know when you book the trek.
Here are the common food items that you can expect on your trek:
Breakfast: Toast with jam or honey, Eggs (boiled, scrambled, or omelette), Tibetan bread or chapati, Porridge or muesli, Pancakes (plain, apple, banana, or chocolate), Tea, coffee, or hot lemon
Lunch & Dinner: Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali lentil soup with rice, vegetables, and pickles – highly recommended for energy), Fried rice or noodles (vegetable, egg, or chicken), Momos (steamed dumplings), Pasta or spaghetti, Sherpa stew or Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), Seasonal vegetables with rice or roti
Drinks: Herbal Tea (ginger, mint, lemon, etc.), Masala tea or milk tea, Hot chocolate, Bottled water, energy drink, and alcoholic beverage.
Note: Drinks and alcoholic beverages will not be included in the trekking package.
There are tea houses on the Annapurna Base Camp trekking routes where you will stay during the trek. High Route Adventure will arrange the best room inside the tea house. Let's see what to expect inside the tea house:
Cosy room: There will be a small room inside the tea house, with a twin bed and amenities such as a warm blanket, a pillow, a bed sheet, and a mattress.
Washroom: There will be a squat washroom in most of the tea houses and water facilities.
Wifi: Trekkers can use wifi in tea houses for an extra buck or two.
Charging: Electric charging facilities are also available at an extra cost, such as $ 1- $ 2 per hour.
Hot shower: A hot shower is also available at the tea house. Trekkers will be provided with hot water, which is also not free. It will cost you 1-2 dollars.
To make your Annapurna Base Camp Trek safe and comfortable, here are some expert tips that you need to follow during trekking hours:
Ascend gradually: Don't rush, walk slowly at high altitude. Allow your body to adjust to high altitude.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, around 2-3 litres per day, to avoid dehydration, which can worsen altitude sickness.
Avoid alcohol and smoking: These can affect your breathing and increase the risk of altitude-related problems.
Eat well: Consume high-energy foods and carry snacks to maintain energy throughout the day.
Sleep low, climb high: Trek higher during the day but sleep at a lower altitude whenever possible to aid adaptation.
Know the symptoms: Be aware of signs of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), like headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. If you catch altitude sickness, head to a lower altitude immediately.
Inform your guide: Monitor your health condition, and if you feel unwell, tell your trekking guide immediately.
Carry medication: You can take altitude sickness medication (such as Diamox) to prevent it. You can easily buy this medicine at a pharmacy in Thamel.
Travel with a guide: Hire experienced trekking guides and follow their safety guidelines.
You don't need to show trekking insurance for the High Route adventure while booking the short Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Even though it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended that you purchase it. Travel and medical insurance are for your own safety and will help you in difficult situations or emergencies.
When purchasing the insurance, make sure your policy includes:
High Route Adventure will arrange your flight ticket for this short Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The flight cost will also be included in the package, and we will arrange transportation to and from the airport. A window seat is available when you book the trip in Advance. Airlines set the maximum weight for checked baggage at 20 kg and for hand luggage at 5 kg.
After the completion of the short Annapurna Base Camp Trek with High Route Adventure, you can also extend your trip if you wish. You can either spend your day in Pokhara for adventurous activities like Paragliding, bungee jumping, rafting, etc. You can also do short hikes like Sarangkot Day Hike, Dhampus Sarangkot Hike 2 Days, Australian Camp Day Hike, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, and Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek.
For the local people who want to participate in this short Annapurna Base Camp trek package, we have a special price for you. For detailed information on costs, itineraries, and trekking-related matters, you can contact us or visit our office directly.
When you book the short Annapurna Base Camp Trek with High Route Adventure, we will provide you:
The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek map provides a clear overview of the trekking region. It helps you navigate the trail, track altitude changes, and plan your journey effectively. Carrying a map ensures a safer and more organized trekking experience.
Packing smart is essential for a safe and comfortable trek to Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Below is a suggested packing list that balances warmth, weather protection, and comfort while keeping your backpack light.
Tip: Try to keep your bag under 10–12 kg if using a porter, and carry only daily essentials in your daypack.
