Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 10 Days

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal, offering stunning Himalayan views, cultural villages, and the Annapurna Sanctuary experience in just a few days of trekking.

This trek covers approximately 65–70 km (40–43 miles) in total, with daily walking distances ranging from 4.5 km on shorter sections to 13–14 km on longer descent days. The total elevation gain from the lowest point to Annapurna Base Camp is approximately 2,780 m.

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. The route takes you through beautiful landscapes and leads you to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m) and the iconic Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). One of the best moments is seeing the sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp, when golden light hits the snowy mountains and creates a beautiful, unforgettable view.

This trek also offers a variety of memorable experiences, including crossing the famous Jhinu Suspension Bridge (287 m / 942 ft), walking through lush forest and bamboo trails, crossing rivers and streams, and enjoying meals in traditional teahouses with incredible mountain scenery. You will also have the opportunity to meet locals and experience authentic Himalayan life.

This short ABC trek is a perfect choice and can be achieved even if you have never done a trek before. It welcomes both beginners and experienced trekkers to enjoy the beauty of the Annapurna Region without needing a long holiday.

What To Expect On this 10 Days Short ABC Trek

Annapurna Base Camp short 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 area incorporated with the ethnic Gurung culture.

Why Short ABC Trek ?

➡️The standard ABC trek itinerary normally takes 12-14 days to complete, but this shorter itinerary allows you to finish in just 10 days from Kathmandu.

➡️By choosing this shorter option, you save time and reduce the extra costs associated with staying in teahouses during a longer itinerary.

➡️You’ll reach Annapurna Base Camp, the main highlight of the trek, in just a few days.

➡️At the end of your journey, you’ll also have the opportunity to soak in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, helping you recover from your tired legs.

Why Choose HRA For Your Short ABC Trek

• Local Expert Licensed Guide: We provide you local licensed guide who can speak fluent English for smooth communication during the trip. They are trained for safety, holds government license and holds knowledge of ABC trekking routes, local insight and culture.
• Safety First: Our package includes experienced guides and porter services, comprehensive first aid support, and coordination with your travel insurance in case of emergencies.
• Hassle‑Free Logistics: All the essentials things like getting permit, transportation, meals, accommodation we manage to make your journey hassle free.
• Transparent Pricing: You can find our prices on our website. There will be no any surprise fee when you book the trek with us.
• Rave Reviews & Industry Recognition: With more than 15 years of trekking experience, we have proudly served clients from around the globe, earning numerous positive reviews and recognition for our outstanding service.
• Complimentary Trek Completion Certificate: Celebrate your successful ABC Trek with a personalized certificate awarded at the end of the trek.
• Special Souvenir Gift: Enjoy a complimentary High Route Adventure cap and t-shirt as a memorable keepsake from your Himalayan adventure.

Note: Are you interested in volunteering during your trek? We partner with Creative Youth Awareness Forum Nepal (CAF Nepal), a non-profit organization committed to supporting education, community development, and social welfare initiatives in rural Nepal. If you’d like to contribute to local communities during or after your trek, we would be happy to help arrange a meaningful volunteering experience.

Major Attractions of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Here are the major attractions of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

Scenic Flight From Kathmandu to Pokhara

On this short Annapurna base camp trekking journey, you will start your trip from Kathmandu by taking a short but a 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.

Traditional Villages and Cultural Encounters

During this Annapurna Base Camp short trek, you will stay in teahouses, 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.

Experience Trekking in Annapurna Sanctuary

The route of the 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.

Reach Annapurna Base Camp & Machhapuchhre Base Camp

In this ABC short 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.

Panorama of the Himalayan Peaks

The Annapurna Base Camp trek will be incomplete without views of towering peaks such as Annapurna I (8091 m) and Machhapuchhre (6993 m). Witnessing these snow-capped peaks is jaw-dropping and will remain in your memories forever.

Natural Hot Springs for Relaxation

After you reach the MBC and ABC 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 diseases.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost For 2026 And 2027

Our Annapurna Base Camp Trek 10 Days package starts from USD 695 per person. Our cost is affordable and is clearly displayed on the website, with no hidden costs when you book with us. The more people you have in your group, the greater the discount you will receive on the trekking package.

Note: For groups of more than 10 people, please contact us for a customized quote.

Estimated personal expenses: $10–20 per day (WiFi, hot shower, drinks, charging)

You May Like to Know:

Nepal Visa

All participants planning to do the 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:

• For 15 Days cost: USD 30 
• For 30 Days cost: USD 50
• For 90 Days cost: USD 120

Recommend reading: Nepal Country Information

How To Book Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

To book the Annapurna Base Camp short trek, you can do online booking through our website. If you have any inquiries regarding the booking, trip or wish to customize your trip, you can contact our tour operator directly.

Booking: To confirm the booking, our customer needs to make an advance payment of 20% of the total trip cost. You can check the price in the package with a group discount. The rest of the amount can be paid after you land here 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 options:

• Cards: Visa, Mastercard
• Online Transfer
• QR Payment
• Money Transfer
• Cash( If you are in Kathmandu).

Note: We will not be responsible for the bank or transfer charges.

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 further treks in Nepal as a lifetime deposit. To know more about the company policy and Terms & Conditions.

Other Itinerary Option for Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Here are different Short Annapurna Base Camp trek itineraries which you can choose:

Annapurna Base Camp Trek From Pokhara (Helicopter Return) - 4 Days 

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda(1,780 m) and trek to Sinuwa(2,360m)

Day 2: Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali(3,230 m)

Day 3: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)

Day 4: Sunrise at ABC – Helicopter flight back to Pokhara(822 m)

👉 This option reduces trekking days and is ideal for those with limited time. Best for: Luxury and time-limited trekkers

Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara - 5 Days

Day 1: Drive to Jhinu Danda and trek to Sinuwa (2,340m)

Day 2: Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali (3,230m)

Day 3: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)

Day 4: Trek from ABC to Bamboo (2,310m)

Day 5: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda and drive to Pokhara (822m)

👉 This itinerary involves longer walking hours each day. Best for: Fit and experienced trekkers

Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara - 6 Days

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul to Kilu and trek to Ghandruk (1,950m)

Day 2: Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m).

Day 3: Trek to Hotel Himalaya ( 2,900 m)

Day 4: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)

Day 5: Trek to Bamboo(2,310m)

Day 6: Trek to Jhinu Danda and drive back to Pokhara(822m).

👉 Balanced pacing with proper acclimatization.

Notes

How Difficult is the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC) 10 Days is generally rated as moderately difficult, meaning all kind of trekkers with good fitness can complete it. Still, there are challenges and things you should be aware of before starting the journey.

• Trekking Duration: Trekkers who want to participate in this short ABC trek must be able to walk for 6-7 hours. Trekking continuously for long duration can be hard for beginners and first-time trekkers. 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.
• Altitude: On this 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. Follow preventive measures and altitude sickness prevention to avoid AMS such as taking Diamox, walking at your own pace and drinking enough water.
• Terrain: 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. Use trekking poles and walk slowly in difficult terrain conditions.
• Weather Conditions: The weather can sometimes become unpredictable, especially at high altitudes in the Annapurna region. Even if the early morning is clear, you may experience sudden rainfall or snowfall in the afternoon or evening. So make sure to pack a raincoat and cold-weather clothing, including crampons for walking in snow. Check the weather forecast, but still prepare for unexpected weather conditions.

How to prepare?

Since the Annapurna Base Camp short 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.

• Physical Fitness Preparation: You don't have to be super fit or need the extreme preparation like mountaineers do to participate in this Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The main thing trekkers need to focus on is building leg and back strength so they can walk on stairs continuously for 5-7 hours while carrying a backpack. For this, you can engage in these activities or exercises at home, such as  Running, Cycling, Trail walking, Short hikes, joining a gym or doing yoga.
• Choosing the Right Season: For a comfortable trekking experience and to enjoy the best views of the mountains, choose a date for trekking in either spring or autumn. Trekking during these seasons helps you avoid unnecessary difficulties and challenges.
• Book a trek in Advance: The Annapurna region becomes very busy during the peak trekking season, and tea houses often reach full capacity. Finding accommodation at the last minute can be challenging. Therefore, if you plan to trek during the peak season, it's advisable to book your package at least 1-2 months in advance.
• Essential Gear and Clothing: Mountain weather can change quickly, even in peak season. Therefore, it's essential to bring clothing and gear suitable for all weather conditions, and pack according to the season you plan to travel.

Best Time For Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

It is possible to do the Annapurna Base Camp short trek throughout the year. Due 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, weather conditions, visibility, scenery, crowd levels, and trail experiences 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.

Spring (March to May): Best Season

• Clear skies and stable weather still there will be chances of rainfall and snow at high altitudes.
• Blooming rhododendron forests add vibrant colours to the trek.
• Comfortable temperatures for trekking.
• The crowd level in spring is moderate to high due to the popular trekking season.

Autumn (September to November): Popular Season

• Crystal-clear mountain views after the monsoon rains.
• Dry and stable weather, perfect for trekking.
• Comfortable daytime temperatures.
• The crowd level is High, as this is the peak trekking season and the most loved season for the ABC short trek.

Winter (December to February): Snowy and chilly but peaceful

• Fewer crowds, offering a more peaceful trekking experience.
• Stunning snow-covered landscapes.
• Cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.
• You can expect heavy snowfall in high-altitude areas.
• Morning fog and mist in the lower valleys add a peaceful, mysterious feel, though they can sometimes reduce visibility.

Monsoon/Summer (June to August): Off season

• Heavy rainfall in the lower region can make trails slippery and increase the risk of landslides.
• The formation of dark clouds can sometimes obstruct distant mountain views and scenery.
• Lush green landscapes and fewer crowds.
• Fluctuation in temperature and unstable weather conditions.

Annapurna Region Weather and Temperature

Note: Check the weather forecast before and during the trek to have a smooth and safe journey.

Require Permits For the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trekking permits are compulsory for trekking inside the Annapurna region, and for the Annapurna base camp short trek, you will need these permits:

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area legally. Your ACAP permits will be checked and registered at Birethanti and Chhomrong. Therefore, you need to carry this permit with you at all times.
2. TIMS Card: TIMS Card: To keep track of trekkers and to provide emergency assistance whenever needed.

Note: High Route Adventure will arrange this permits for you once you summit this documents - scanned passport copy and passport size photograph.

Annapurna Base Camp Yoga Trek

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

1. Centring & Breathwork (5‑7 min) – Grounding breath, setting intention.
2. Warm‑up (10 min) – Joint rotations, cat‑cow, gentle Sun Salutations.
3. Main Asana Flow (20‑25 min) – Tailored to that day’s terrain (e.g., hip‑openers after steep descents, balance poses after a day of traversing ridgelines).
4. Cool‑Down & Stretch (8‑10 min) – Forward folds, supine twists, legs‑up‑the‑wall on a mat or a sturdy low wall.
5. Meditation / Yoga Nidra (5‑10 min) – Short guided meditation focusing on the mountain vista, or a relaxation that aids recovery.

Benefits of Doing Yoga during the ABC trek

• Improves flexibility and joint stability
• Your body begins to increase red blood cell production.
• Reduces stress, anxiety, and the “wanderlust fatigue.”
• Encourages mindfulness, turning a regular trek into a moving meditation.
• lowers stress hormones
• The body begins to normalise.
• What to Pack for Yoga Trek
• Yoga Clothing 
• Travel yoga mat (3 mm, lightweight)
• Small strap
• Foldable bolster (optional)

Food and Drinks: What To Expect

You might be wondering what food is provided during this Annapurna Base Camp short 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. 

Accommodation: What To Expect

There are teahouses 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 teahouse, 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 teahouses with running water facilities.
• Wifi: Almost all the teahouse provides Wifi facilites but you need to pay certain fees.
• 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.

Altitude and Acclimatization Tips

• To make your Annapurna Base Camp short 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.

Travel and Medical Insurance

• 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:
• Covers hospitalization, doctor visits, and medication in case of illness or injury.
• Ensure your policy covers trekking up to at least 4,130 meters (the height of Annapurna Base Camp).
• Includes emergency helicopter rescue in case of altitude sickness or serious injury.
• Protects your investment if your short ABC trek is delayed or cancelled due to unforeseen reasons.
• Covers your belongings in case they are lost, stolen, or damaged.
• Covers the cost of returning home in case of a serious medical emergency.

Kathmandu To Pokhara Flight Information

High Route Adventure will arrange your flight ticket to Pokhara and provide transportation to and from the airport. The flight duration from Kathmandu to Pokhara is approximately 25 minutes. Please note that airlines impose a maximum weight limit of 20 kg for checked baggage and 5 kg for hand luggage. We recommend that you carry only essential items with you. If you have extra luggage, you can store it at your hotel in Kathmandu or at our office.

Trip Extension

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 Dhampus Sarangkot hike, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, and Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. 

Our Team For the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

When you book the short ABC Trek with High Route Adventure, we will provide you:

• Trekking Guide: Our trek leader will lead the ABC trek starting from Kathmandu. Our trekking guide knows the ABC trek route, has insight into the Annapurna region and has a strong connection with local people.'
• Assistance guide: If you are in a group of more than 10, we will assign an assistance group so that each of our clients receives equal care, guidance, and support during the trek. This helps to enhance overall communication, trekking efficiency, and the overall experience, while upholding our commitment to safety and service excellence.
• Porter service: One porter will be assigned to every two trekkers, and our porter carries a maximum luggage weight of 20kg during the ABC trek. Make sure your luggage does not exceed 10 kg. Carry only what you need for the trek, and put your main luggage in the hotels where you are staying or at our office.

Horse Riding for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

For those who have difficulty walking during the ABC trek, they can hire a horse from Jhinu Danda. Horse riding on the ABC route will not take you to Machhapuchhre Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp. Instead, it will take you up to Upper Dovan. From there, you need to walk on your own. For horse riding, you can check with the tea house owner. Riding the horse from Jhinu to Dovan will cost you around NPR 15,000 per person. Horse riding is generally safe, but you still need to be careful while riding.

Short ABC Trek vs standard Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Map

Equipment

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.

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking base layers (2–3 sets)
• Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
• Waterproof and windproof outer shell (jacket and pants)
• Fleece or warm mid-layer
• Trekking pants (lightweight and quick-drying)
• Thermal underwear for cold nights
• T-shirts (preferably quick-dry)
• Lightweight gloves and insulated gloves
• Warm hat and sun cap
• Buff or neck gaiter
• Comfortable underwear and sports bras
• Warm socks (3–4 pairs)

Footwear

• Well-broken-in trekking boots (water-resistant)
• Lightweight shoes or sandals (for evenings)
• Warm socks (wool blend recommended)

Backpack & Gear

• Medium-sized backpack (30–40L) with rain cover
• Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or lower)
• Trekking poles (collapsible)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Water bottles or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
• Sunglasses (UV protection)
• Quick-dry towel
• Small daypack (optional for side hikes or porters)

Personal Items & Toiletries

• Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 30+)
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
• Toilet paper and biodegradable soap
• Basic first aid kit (include altitude sickness medicine if prescribed)
• Water purification tablets or filter

Documents & Essentials

• Passport and photocopies
• Travel insurance details (with trekking coverage)
• Trekking permits (TIMS and ACAP)
• Local currency (small denominations)
• Travel adapter and charging cable
• Snacks (energy bars, dry fruits, etc.)

Optional Items

• Lightweight crampons (during winter months)
• Gaiters (for snow or muddy trails)
• Journal or book
• Power bank
• Camera or action cam

Tip: Try to keep your bag under 10–12 kg if using a porter, and carry only daily essentials in your daypack.

Worth reading: Packing list for trekking in Nepal