Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek

5.00/5 from 480 reviews
Are you ready to explore the beauty of the Himalayas? Join the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek-11 days adventure with the Nepal Hiking Team for an unforgettable journey through vibrant villages, lush forests, and stunning landscapes, offering rich cultural experiences and a rewarding sense of achievement.
At a Glance
  • DestinationNepal
  • Duration11 days
  • Trip DifficultyModerate
  • ActivitiesTrekking
  • AccommodationHotel/Lodges
  • MealsB.L.D
  • Max. Elevation4130m.
  • Group SizeMin. 1 Pax
  • Best TimeMarch - May & Sept - Dec

Trip Overview

We welcome you to the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek. We at the Nepal Hiking Team are excited to guide you on this celebrated trail which is a favorite among trekkers globally. The base camp is situated above 4000 meters, which is an entrance to the majestic Annapurna. It offers an unforgettable experience that captivates everyone who takes on this journey.

The scenic beauty of this trek includes views from Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), and Machapuchhre (6,993 m). Its attractions are the remarkable altitude variation, rich biodiversity, and cultural diversity among ethnic communities along the way.

Covering a distance of 88 to 90 kilometers, the ABC journey starts from Birenthanti through a diverse landscape. It showcases forests of pine and cedar trees, rhododendrons, terraced farmlands, and unparalleled mountain views.

This short ABC trek will give you an insight into the lifestyle of the Gurung, Magars, Thakalis & Lobas Communities. Their village is nestled beautifully on the foothills of the Annapurna region. This path includes serene Buddhist shrines and Gumbas, surrounded by tranquility and breathtaking surroundings.

You can climb up to Poonhill to experience a beautiful sunrise above the mountain ranges. With knowledgeable and experienced guides from the Nepal Hiking Team, this trek becomes a comprehensive journey through this majestic region. 

Recent Review of ABC Short Trek

Nabaraj, our guide, and Suren, our porter, were instrumental in making our Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek an unforgettable experience. Ganga, our company's director, provided excellent service and made planning simple. Their love for the mountains and their attention to detail made the journey smooth and comfortable. I highly recommend this team for anyone seeking a memorable adventure in Nepal's beautiful mountains. Read full review

Trip done from 1st to 11th March 2024.

Furthermore, the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is also a physically challenging journey as well as an exploration of the local lifestyle. This promotes sustainable trekking practices emphasized by the Nepal Hiking Team. With customizable itineraries, this trek is designed to accommodate a range of abilities, offering unique adventures that engage with nature and culture. 

As you proceed, the ridges of Annapurna, Himchuli, and Machhapuchhre extend a snow-covered majestic welcome. We ensure a comprehensive experience that is both captivating and challenging for every trekker around the world.

Major Highlights of the 11-day Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek

  • Get on a flight to Pokhara and see the mountains from your side of the window.
  • Witness the amazing city of Pokhara- The city of Lakes.
  • Hike to Poon Hill A breathtaking sunrise view over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, an unforgettable highlight of the trek
  • Stroll through lush green terrace farms, cascading waterfalls, and flawless forests.
  • Engage with local communities, mainly Gurung, Tamang, and Magar people.
  • Discover the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of the ethnic people.
  • View the mesmerizing sunrise over the mighty Annapurna Range.
  • Enjoy the breathtaking scenes of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre ranges.
  • Cross-through suspension bridges, rhododendrons, and lush green forest.
  • Visit beautiful Buddhist gumbas adorned with vibrant prayer flags.
  • Reach the Annapurna Base Camp and get a sense of achievement.

Route Overview of Short ABC Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Short Trek offers a remarkable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. Your adventure starts upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, where a member of the Nepal Hiking Team (NHT) will greet you and transport you to your hotel. The area around your accommodation buzzes with life, offering fantastic dining, shopping, and exploration opportunities.

The next morning, you’ll take a scenic flight to the beautiful city of Pokhara, renowned for its tranquil lakes and stunning mountain scenery. Ensure you secure a window seat for the flight to catch the panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Upon reaching Pokhara, a jeep will take you to Birethanti, where the actual ABC short trek begins. The first day’s trek leads you through lush forests and past waterfalls, ending in the charming village of Ulleri.

As you leave Ulleri behind, you will cross two clear streams before ascending to Nangethanti. The word "thanti" in Nepali means "rest house," a perfect description of this spot. From there, you continue to climb until you reach Ghorepani, situated at 2,880 meters, where you will spend the night.

The following day, an early hike to Poonhill offers stunning sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After taking in these breathtaking sights, you will return to Ghorepani for breakfast before continuing your trek to Chuile.

On the fifth day, the trek takes you through the Modi Valley to the village of Chomrong, home to the Gurung community. Here, an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) office will check your permits. The trail then descends to the Chomrong Khola river and ascends to your next destination, Sinuwa.

Continuing the ABC short trek, you will walk for about 2-3 hours to Kuldighar. Afterward, the trail leads you through a serene bamboo and rhododendron forest toward Deurali. The trek's highlight begins as you walk up a riverbed through the Annapurna Sanctuary to reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC). After a brief rest, you will proceed to Annapurna Base Camp. The close-up views of the snow-covered peaks here are truly awe-inspiring.

On the eighth day of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will retrace your steps back to Chomrong, descending through Bamboo Village and enjoying the hot springs at Jhinu Danda. You will then cross the Jhinu Danda suspension bridge and drive back to Pokhara, where you can enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere.

The journey concludes with a flight back to Kathmandu, where you can explore more of the city's cultural treasures or relax before heading home. The Nepal Hiking Team will arrange your transfer to the airport for your departure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your Short ABC trek.

For customized trekking plans or expert advice, please contact the Nepal Hiking Team. We are here to provide you with an exceptional trekking experience tailored to your preferences.

Short Itinerary

  • Day 01:Arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, with transfer to your hotel.
  • Day 02:Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (30 mins), Trek to Ulleri, Duration: 5 hours trek, Distance: 9-10 km
  • Day 03:Ascend from Ulleri (1,960) to Ghorepani (2,880m) Duration: 4-5 hours, Distance: 8 km
  • Day 04:Morning Hike to Poon Hill (3,120m), then descend to Chuile Duration: 7-8 hours, Distance: 12-14 km
  • Day 05:Trek from Chuile (2,300m) to Sinuwa (2,360m) Duration: 5 hours, Distance: 6-7 km
  • Day 06:Continue from Sinuwa to Deurali (3,230m) Duration: 6-7 hours, Distance: 13-14 km
  • Day 07:Ascend to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) via MBC (3,700m) Duration: 5-6 hours, Distance: 8 km
  • Day 08:Return from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,317m) Duration: 7 hours trek, Distance: 18 km
  • Day 09:Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda, Drive to Pokhara (2 hrs), Duration: 6 hours trek, Distance: 12 km
  • Day 10:Depart from Pokhara, Travel back to Kathmandu, Duration: 30 minutes
  • Day 11:Farewell and Transfer to Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA)

Cost Includes

  • All ground transportation by private vehicle, including airport transfers
  • Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
  • One nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Pokhara.
  • Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Round trip flight from Kathmandu – Pokhara and Pokhara – Kathmandu as per itinerary including departure taxes
  • Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
  • One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide and porter (Two Trekkers: 1 Porter) including their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, accidental insurance, etc.
  • Nepal Hiking Team duffle bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag during the trek
  • Nepal Hiking Team T-shirt, trekking map, and trip achievement certificate
  • A comprehensive first-aid medical kit
  • All treks require permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Permit, and make sure to bring a photograph. 
  • Government taxes & office service charge

Cost Excludes

  • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
  • Travel Insurance
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Hot showers during the trek
  • All kinds of cold drinks e.g. water, coke, fanta, juice, etc.
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver 

Detail Itinerary

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  1. Max. Elevation:1335m.
  2. Durations:30 minutes drive
  3. Distance:6 km

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative or guide from the Nepal Hiking Team will be waiting for you outside the terminal hall, holding a signboard with "Nepal Hiking Team." 

He will smoothly drive you to the hotel in a private vehicle. We will then conduct a brief meeting to explain the trek at the hotel. There are no scheduled activities afterward; you can rest for the day.

  1. Accommodation:Hotel
  1. Max. Elevation:825m.
  2. Durations:30 mins flight, 5 hrs trek
  3. Distance:9 km

Early today, you’ll get on a flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu Domestic Airport in the morning. You’ll fly above the hills and be amazed by the mountains on the side.

After landing in Pokhara, you will have a drive to Birethanti, passing the village of Lumle and Nayapul, each brimming with local life. The trail then moves through the main street of Birethanti through bamboo forests, large waterfalls, and swimming holes. After the pasture used by caravans, you’ll reach Ramghai where you have your lunch, and ascend gradually to the side of the valley, reaching Tike Dhunga.

From Tikhe Dhunga, the path continues into a suspension bridge over the river. From there, it is time to climb the 3300 stone steps to the renowned Magar village of Ulleri. While the climb may initially seem challenging, the constant flow of caravans and mule carts along the steps provides a lively atmosphere that makes the experience enjoyable and engaging.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse
  1. Max. Elevation:2880m.
  2. Durations:4-5 hours
  3. Distance:8 km

From Ulleri, the trip to Ghorepani begins with a warm breakfast. Crossing a suspension bridge, you will come across steep stone stairs that bring you to Ulleri- a beautiful Magar town. It is a steep climb, so approach the route gently. Taking on the green pastures, you reach the crest of Ulleri Hill, leading you to a campground to take a small but necessary break.

After the break, continue hiking to reach Nangethanti. Thanti is a Nepali word meaning "rest house.”

From Nangethanti, we will climb to Ghorepani at 2880m, from here we can see the spectacular panorama of Dhaulagiri I (8167m), Tukuche Nilgiri (6940m), Annapurna I (8091m), Hiunchuli (6441m) and Tarke Kang (7193m). 

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse
  1. Max. Elevation:3120m.
  2. Durations:7 - 8 hours
  3. Distance:12 - 14 km

Your day starts early in Ghorepani with a morning hike to Poon Hill, which takes about 45 minutes. At the top, you’ll see a beautiful sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. After enjoying the view, you return to Ghorepani for breakfast.

Then, you continue your trek, passing through Tadapani and walking through forests and small villages. After 5-6 hours of trekking, you reach Chuile, a peaceful town where you can rest for the night.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse
  1. Max. Elevation:2360m.
  2. Durations:5 hours
  3. Distance:6 - 7 km

Descending from Chuile offers a beautiful view of the Upper Modi Valley. The trail then takes you above the west bank of the Modi Khola, where you'll pass through the village of Chhomrong, which lies at the base of Himalchuli. Along the way, you might spot birds and monkeys, such as the Gray Langur.

From Chhomrong, you’ll descend steeply to the Chhomrong Khola (river) and then gradually ascend to Sinuwa, where you’ll stay overnight.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse
  1. Max. Elevation:3230m.
  2. Durations:6-7 hours
  3. Distance:13.5 km

After an early breakfast, you proceed to Kuldighar. After walking further on, the forest clears to a steep bank of rocks. After a while it levels out, running through a thicket of bamboo at the bottom of the gorge on the west of the river.

We pass by a pasture and then reach the very neck of the gorge at Pantheon (Pujinim) Barah, where there is a small trail and a shrine. We reach Deurali and spend overnight there.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Overnight Stay at Guesthouse
  1. Max. Elevation:3700m.
  2. Durations:5-6 hours
  3. Distance:8 km

Today, you climb past the Machhapuchhre Base Camp (which isn’t really a base camp since climbing the mountain is not permitted) to the Annapurna Base Camp. This area is called the Annapurna Sanctuary since it is totally surrounded by mountains.

After a short break in MBC, it is a two-hour hike to Annapurna Base Camp, which offers spectacular views. Overnight stay at Annapurna Base Camp.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse
  1. Max. Elevation:2317m.
  2. Durations:7 hours
  3. Distance:18 km

As you bid farewell to Annapurna, you descend towards Bamboo Village. You retrace your steps back through Modi Khola and descend gradually. The small village of Bamboo is surrounded by mountains, where you’ll stay overnight.

  1. Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
  2. Accommodation:Overnight Stay at Guesthouse
  1. Max. Elevation:825m.
  2. Durations:6 hours trek, 2 hours drive
  3. Distance:12 km

You start this day by leaving Bamboo and trekking to Jhinu Danda. The trail winds through the slopes of Chhomrong via Kuldi Ghar. After a while, you’ll reach Jhinu Danda and cross one of the longest and tallest suspension bridges in Kaski district where you take a drive to Pokhara. When you reach Pokhara, you can either rest or take a stroll around the lakeside, enjoying the vibrant city.

  1. Meals:Breakfast and Lunch Included
  2. Accommodation:Guesthouse
  1. Max. Elevation:1335m.
  2. Durations:30 minutes flight

Now that your trek is over, you will return to Kathmandu via domestic flight, which will take about 25 - 30 minutes. You will stay overnight in Kathmandu.

  1. Meals:Breakfast Included
  2. Accommodation:Hotel
  1. Max. Elevation:1335m.
  2. Durations:30 minutes drive
  3. Distance:6 km

After your breakfast, one of our representatives from the Nepal Hiking Team will pick you up. From there you will be dropped off at the airport approximately 3 hours before your departure.

  1. Meals:Breakfast Included

Trip Route Map

Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek Route Map

Elevation Chart

Detailed Elevation and Duration Chart of the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek

Trip FAQS

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BOOKING POLICY

Booking with us is an easy hassle-free process.

To book your trip with NHT, all you have to do is follow three simple steps. 

Step 1: Check out the itinerary on our website or as per email correspondence. We can also further customize the itinerary to suit your preference if you want to change it.

Step 2: If the itinerary suits your preference, contact us to ask about its availability or check our website’s departure dates.

Step 3: We require you to deposit 20% of the total cost and send a photocopy of your passport to confirm your booking. You can pay the rest of the balance after you arrive in Nepal/Kathmandu either by card or cash in US dollar.

In case of any confusion, you can contact us and we’ll reply back with a clear solution.

The cancellation and refund policies are clear and simple. If a situation arises in which you need to cancel your trip, all you have to do is send us a trip cancellation request. And then we will proceed with your cancellation process.  We ensure that the process will be smooth and hassle free.

As for the refunds, we apologize to inform you that the 20% of the deposit that was made to confirm your booking will not be refunded. This amount will be considered a cancellation fee.

We do not encourage our clients to cancel the trip with us. Instead, you can postpone the trip to a later date without losing a penny.

Yes! We offer a free postponement service to all our clients. In case you need to postpone the trip due to travel restrictions or any kind of issue, you can do so by choosing a date that is convenient for you.  

Note: Please be sure to inform us two weeks prior to your trip departure date. This will give us enough time to make all the arrangements and ensure you have a smooth trip.

Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trekking packages. You must get it before you arrive in Nepal. And please make sure that it covers the maximum elevation of your trek with a provision of a helicopter in case of an emergency evacuation. Must provide a copy when you arrive in Kathmandu.

For reference, you can check out the recommended list of the different travel insurance companies based on different continents. If you need further assistance, we’ll always be here to provide more references.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation Arrangements

As you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, you will find our staff waiting for you outside the terminal Hall. He will be holding a “Nepal Hiking Team” display board so that you can easily spot him in the crowds. He will then escort you to your hotel and assist you with check-in.

In case you don’t find him or you face any difficulty, you can call us at our emergency contact numbers, 0977-98510 58678 (Ganga) or 0977-9851058667 (Balaram). We will assist you as quickly as possible and solve the problem immediately.

Note: Please be on the lookout for people approaching you outside the departure area. They may offer to help you with your luggage or transportation. However, it's best to be cautious and wait for our trusted staff to pick you up. Plus, our staff will never ask you for any money in exchange for their services, so you can rest assured that you're in good hands.

Yes, you can certainly obtain a Nepal visa on arrival at the airport. Firstly, you should complete the application form online before arriving at the entry point. You’ll have to provide personal information details, visa information, and passport number and so on. Here is the official website to fill out the visa form.

Important Notes

  • The immigration office at the Kathmandu airport is open 24/7.
  • To apply a Visa in Nepal, you need to have a passport with a validity of at least six months and a blank page in the passport for the visa stamp.
  • Visa fees should be paid in cash or by credit card.
  • Please remember that travelers (citizens), namely from Nigeria, Eswatini, Ghana, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Somalia, Cameroon, Iraq, Syria, Ethiopia, Liberia, and Palestine, must obtain Nepal Visa before arriving in Nepal. They are NOT eligible for an ON-Arrival visa.
  • Indian citizens do not need to apply for visa for their trip to Nepal.

For the local address in Nepal to submit the visa application, visa fee structure, and other information, visit our website: Visa Information.

We've made arrangements for you to stay at a comfortable 3-star hotel in a centrally located area in Kathmandu. It is a bustling neighborhood in Kathmandu with easy access to nearby markets and restaurants. The hotel rooms are clean and comfortable and have an en-suite bathroom for your convenience. And to start your day right, breakfast is included during your stay.

Depending on their availability, we usually use Woodapple Hotel and Spa or other comparable hotels in Kathmandu. This newly built hotel is located on the outskirts of Thamel and offers excellent service.

Moreover, if you're interested in extending your stay in Kathmandu, we're more than happy to help. We’ll arrange the stay and according to the different hotels, the rates may vary.

If you prefer deluxe/luxury hotel option during your stay in Kathmandu, we'll surely help you arrange with an upgrade. There are many 4-5 stat category hotels in Kathmandu that you can choose from.

Let us know if you have any specific hotel preferences in mind, and we'll do our best to accommodate your request. Alternatively, we can provide you with a selection of luxurious hotel options to choose from so that you can pick the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Carrying all the luggage on the trek can be a hassle for you and the porters. Hence, a quick solution to this would be to leave the luggage at the hotel in Kathmandu.

The hotel staffs will store your belongings safely and return it to you upon your arrival at the end of your journey. And it is free service.

PREPARATION/EQUIPMENT

The packing list completely depends on the time of the year of your trek and the regional differences. You should pack according to the different seasons and consider not over-packing for the trek. We have a list of the recommended general checklist for most of the treks.

Notes

  • We provide complimentary duffel bag, down jacket, and a sleeping bag.
  • There are different rental stores for equipment’s, gears and clothes in Kathmandu.

For the footwear along the trek, we recommend you to bring hiking boots and a pair of slippers for your comfort and convenience. Please make sure to break in your hiking boots before your adventure to avoid blisters and for a comfortable hike.

Note: We also recommend you to get a hiking boots which can easily fit the micro spikes and crampons in case you need to hike on snow or on a steep incline/decline. Micro spikes is a must for mountain passes.

A porter can carry up to a maximum 25 kg of weight for two people in the mountains at a time. One porter will be divided amongst two trekkers.

Therefore, please make sure you pack your trekking gear accordingly.

Preparation for a trek is a must! 

  • Include cardio exercises like swimming, running, walking, and jogging.
  • Walk on similar terrains or hills.
  • During weekends, go hiking with your friends.
  • Include a balanced diet.
  • Join the gym and include strength training in your routine.
  • Incorporate exercises targeting thighs and calves.
  • Invest in a good pair of hiking boots.

To get ready for the trek, you can follow these steps so that you can get ready.

SAFETY PROTOCOLS

Our guides will carry a medical first-aid kit bag. The bag will contain basic medications with an oximeter. If you have prescribed medicines, please carry them.

Our guides are highly experienced and well-equipped to handle emergency situations and provide first aid. We prioritize your safety and strive to make your trekking experience as safe and enjoyable as possible. We take the safety of our clients very seriously.

However, if you are unable to continue the trek due to illness or injury, our guides are trained to monitor your health. They will regularly check your blood oxygen levels using an oximeter and carry a first-aid kit with all the necessary medicines. In the event of a serious medical emergency, we will arrange for air ambulance evacuation to a medical facility in Kathmandu. 

All our guides are first-aid trained and licensed by a government organization. NATHM - National Academy for Tourism and Hotel Management.

They are trained professionals who have multiple years of experience in the tourism industry. Being fluent in English, they’ll accompany you throughout the trek and provide you with information about the area, culture, traditions, and much more. 

Yes, you can walk at a slow pace on the trek. The trekking guides will assist you and encourage you to take your time and hike accordingly at your own pace. 

You do not need a prior trekking experience for this trek. You can successfully complete this trek after the proper preparation. 

Please note that the trek requires you to walk for about six to seven hours per day. Hence, we recommend you do strength endurance training, cardio workouts, and go hiking in your local hills before the trek. We also suggest you add nutritious meals to your diet. 

Annapurna Base Camp

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered as a moderate-level trek. During the trek, you’ll be traversing on uphill and downhill terrains. On average, the hike will be 5-6 hours daily.

Likewise, we can also talk about the elevation of the area. The highest elevated ground in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is 4130m. At this altitude level, there is a low risk of acquiring altitude sickness. In addition, throughout the journey, you’ll be assisted by an experienced guide who’ll provide instructions on how to walk at a slow pace and about adapting to the altitude level.

In the 11-day package, the route starts from Tikhe Dhunga- Ghorepani and so on.

Whereas in the 9-day package, the route begins from Ghandruk, Sinuwa, and so on. In this package, we’ll skip Poon Hill. It is most feasible for those who have very limited time for trekking.

Yes, swimming suits are mandatory for the Jhinu Danda Hot Spring. You can carry your swimsuits and change near the hot spring inside the changing rooms. 

Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek Video

Cost and Date

Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.

The Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the 11 days Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek departure dates don’t fit your schedule, we can include alternative dates that better suit your needs.

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