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Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 5 Days

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Trip Facts
  • Duration 5 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Group Size 2 to 20 pax
  • Max. Elevation 4130m
  • Start/End Nayapul or Siwi
  • Best Time Sep to Dec and Mar to May

Highlights

  • Complete Short Annapurna Base Camp in 5 Days.
  • Well-managed tea houses facilitate lodges with warm hospitality.
  • Route from Pokhara, Chomrong, Himalaya, Deurali, MBC, ABC, and back the same way. 
  • Explores typical Gurung culture and their traditions.
  • Mesmerizing views of Mt. Annapurna Fishtail and more peaks.
  • You will be near the huge Annapurna glacier.
  • Lush forestry, green views, and its scenic beauties
  • You can see wildlife, animals, and flora and fauna.
  • Crossing the longest and deepest suspension bridges.
  • You must walk for 6 to 7 hours every day.
  • Trailheads, ups and downs, gradual ups, and forestry walks
  • The trek starts and ends in Pokhara. 

Overview of Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Embark on the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, a captivating 5-day adventure that takes you deep into the Annapurna Sanctuary. This trek offers a unique blend of rich cultural experiences, breathtaking natural beauty, and panoramic mountain views, all within a manageable timeframe.

The short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is complete in 5 days and offers a comprehensive trekking experience that combines cultural immersion, natural beauty, and majestic mountain views. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time visitor, this trek provides an accessible yet enriching adventure into the heart of the Himalayas.

Cultural Heritage of the Gurung Community Village

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek provides an immersive cultural experience as you traverse through traditional Gurung villages such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong. The Gurung people, known for their hospitality and vibrant traditions, offer trekkers a glimpse into their unique lifestyle. Their stone-built homes, local museums, and cultural festivals enrich the trekking experience, making it not just a physical journey but also a cultural exploration.

Natural Beauty Along the Trek

As you ascend through the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the landscape transforms dramatically. Starting from the lush subtropical forests, the trail gradually leads you into alpine meadows, offering diverse flora and fauna. The rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and cascading waterfalls create a serene environment, enhancing the trekking experience. The natural beauty of the region is a testament to the pristine wilderness of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Panoramic Mountain Views from Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

One of the highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the unparalleled mountain vistas. The trek offers close-up views of some of the world's most majestic peaks:

  1. Annapurna I (8,091 m)—The 10th highest mountain globally, towering above the base camp.
  2. Annapurna South (7,219 m)—A massive and imposing peak visible from the base camp.
  3. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,993 m)—A sacred mountain known for its unique fishtail shape.
  4. Annapurna II & III—prominent peaks that add to the grandeur of the Annapurna range.
  5. Himchuli (6441 m) is a short but beautiful vista from any angle.
  6. The famous climbing peak of Tent Peak (5663 m) is in front of Base Camp.

These towering peaks provide a dramatic backdrop throughout the trek, making every step a visual delight.

Annapurna Base Camp and Its Glacier

Reaching Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) is the culmination of the trek. Nestled in a natural amphitheater surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the base camp offers an up-close view of the Annapurna Glacier. The glacier's massive icefalls and moraines are a testament to the region's dynamic geological activity. The serene environment, coupled with the towering mountains, creates a surreal atmosphere, making the Annapurna Base Camp Trek a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Why Choose the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is designed for those who wish to experience the grandeur of the Annapurna region without committing to a longer trek. The 5-day itinerary ensures that trekkers can enjoy the highlights of the Annapurna Sanctuary, including cultural encounters, natural beauty, and mountain vistas, all within a short time frame. But, if you have time, make a plan for more than 12 days at Annapurna Base Camp with a visit to the amazing panorama viewpoint along Ghorepani Poon Hill. 

Lodging and Food on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers comfortable and well-managed teahouse lodges along the trail. These lodges serve fresh, organic, and hygienic meals, including Nepali and international dishes. The rooms are clean and cozy with warm bedding. Trekkers can enjoy peaceful nights with local hospitality in every village.

Transportation Options for the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

  1. From Pokhara to near Jhinu by Private taxi or jeep
  2. After the trek from Siwi/Jhinu danda to Pokhara: Return by local jeep or taxi
  3. If you require it, we can also arrange transport to Kathmandu and Pokhara by tourist bus or domestic flight, which is a 30-minute flight vs. a 7/8-hour drive.

Let us know your preference—we’ll organize everything for you.

Required of Trekking Permits

To enter the Annapurna region, you’ll need two permits because you are trekking in the Annapurna Conservation Area.

  1. ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project): NPR 3,000
  2. TIMS Card (Trekking Information Management System): NPR 2,000
  3. We’ll arrange it easily but need a passport copy and passport-size photos.

Cost of Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

A 5-day short Annapurna Base Camp trek costs US$ 365 per person, which is full board, including meals, accommodation, transportation, a guide, and a permit. But you need a minimum of 2 people in a group. If you are a single visitor, the price comes to a bit more.

Well, Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels and transportation are excluded; if you want to book it with us, the cost would be an extra $90 each. We arrange tourist-standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara for 2-2 nights, including deluxe rooms and continental breakfast.

Well, if you want to take a porter, price is $140 for everything included in the price, like lodging, food, accommodation, salary, insurance, etc.

Which services would you prefer? Let us know, and we will customize accordingly. Make a successful and satisfying trip with the best services.

How Difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate-level trek. It reaches a height of 4,130 meters, so you need to walk slowly and stay hydrated. The trails are well-maintained, and people of all ages (including beginners) can complete them with proper preparation. No technical skills are required—just a good level of fitness.

Best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek is possible almost year-round due to its easy accessibility. However, the country experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a different trekking experience, as described below:

Autumn and spring are considered the best times to visit Nepal. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and excellent visibility, making them ideal for trekking across the country.

Monsoon (summer) brings heavy rainfall, which can obscure mountain views and make trails muddy and less enjoyable for trekking.

Winter is cold, with snowfall in higher elevations. Trails can be icy and slippery, and temperatures can drop significantly, especially in mountainous regions.

Trekking Gear Checklist

Here’s a basic gear list for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

  • Warm jacket (down/fleece)
  • Thermal layers, trekking pants, gloves, woolen socks
  • Good hiking boots & sandals
  • Sleeping bag (negative-rated)
  • Water bottles (2 liters), sunglasses, sunscreen, trekking poles
  • Backpack (daypack), flashlight/headlamp, toiletries, towel
  • Camera/charger, personal documents
Any personal medicines

We provide a first aid kit, but bring your essential medications with you.

Itinerary

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Annapurna Base Camp: A Short and Sweet 5-Days Trek Pokhara to Pokhara. If you have more days, we recommend along the Ghorepani Poon Hill for a few extra days. For further information, feel free.

A 2.5-hour jeep ride from Pokhara with breathtaking views delivers you near Jhinu Danda. After crossing a remarkable suspension bridge, a challenging 2-hour uphill trek reaches Chomrong village, a good lunch stop before continuing two hours to Sinuwa, a worthwhile overnight stay for the first day. The trek offers enjoyable ascents, descents, and scenic beauty.

  • Nice Lodge
  • 6/7 hrs. Drive and Walk
  • 2360m / 7743ft

Start your day with breakfast at your lodge. The trek to Deurali, taking approximately 7 hours with a lunch stop at Himalaya (a small settlement with two lodges), winds through forests and past lodges via Sinuwa, Bamboo, and Dovan. The final 2-hour leg from Himalaya to Deurali involves moderate ascents, descents, and gentle terrain, rewarding you with beautiful scenery and comfortable lodging.

  • Nice Lodge
  • 7 hrs. Walking
  • 3200m / 10499ft

It is a touchy day, ascending almost a thousand meters in altitude. But we take you slowly, with enough rest. There is someplace to rest at MBC Machhapuchhre Base Camp; usually, we take a tea break here and then, at lunchtime, get to ABC.

It is not steep uphill. Going roundly as a slope uphill. Our professional team, guide, and helpers assist you; they take good care and make it a success to bring base camp. It is more or less 5 hours of walking.

Annapurna Base Camp is a kind of bowl, surrounded by high mountains and huge glaciers. Base camp is on the bottom, and you will see a splendid view of Mt. Annapurna I, which is the 10th highest in the world. And you will see another mountain called Annapurna South (7219 m), a thrilling view of Mt. Fishtail (Machhapuchhre) (6993 m), and many more peaks. While you see those glorious mountain views, you will forget everything because of your tiredness and altitude sickness. You will be so delightful when you touch base. There is a well-managed tea house, and they serve nice food and have comfortable beds.

  • Nice Lodge
  • 5 to 6 hrs. Walking
  • 4130m / 13550ft

For the best Himalayan views, wake before sunrise to witness the mountains illuminated by the rising sun, just a 5-minute walk away. Capture photos and savor the breathtaking scenery before enjoying a delightful breakfast.

Then, begin your descent, trekking through MBC, Deurali, Himalaya, Dovan, and Bamboo to Sinuwa. Lunch can be taken in Himalaya or Dovan, depending on your speed. After Bamboo, a brief 30-minute ascent precedes the gradual walk to Sinuwa. This 7- to 8-hour trek concludes at a comfortable lodge in Sinuwa.

  • Nice Lodge
  • 7 hrs. Walking
  • 2360m / 7743ft

Your final trekking day begins with breakfast. Retrace your steps: descend for 35 minutes, ascend to Chomrong Top (1.5 hours), then descend to Jhinu Danda (1 hour 20 minutes). After lunch, cross a long suspension bridge and take a 2.5-hour vehicle ride back to Pokhara.

This is your last day with your guide and porters. Consider a celebratory dinner with drinks to show your appreciation with generous tips before they depart for Kathmandu early tomorrow.

We pride ourselves on providing excellent service and memorable trips.

  • Hotel as you wish
  • 6 hrs. walking/ drive
  • 820m / 2690ft

Trip Map

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 5 Days map

Cost Details

What's Included

  • Full board meals during treks, such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner,
  • Accommodations: comfortable lodges during the trek
  • One English-speaking, well-trained trekking guide.
  • Guide all expenses like salary, lodging, food, transportation, insurance, etc.
  • Needed transportation is listed below.
  • Pokhara to Siwi or further by local taxi or jeep.
  • Jhinu to Pokhara, returning by local Jepp or taxi.
  • Needed permits as below-mentioned.
  • ACAP Annapurna Conservation Area Project
  • TIMS Trekking Information Management System
  • Tax and VAT where applicable
  • Seasonal fruits such as apples, bananas, oranges, etc.
  • First-aid kit.

What's Excluded

  • Nepalese entry visa fee, which you can obtain easily at the airport.
  • Travel insurance, It's important if there is any emergency rescue or medical treatment.
  • Soft, hot, and alcoholic drinks (tea, coffee, mineral water, hot water, coke, Fanta, beer, spirits, etc.)
  • Hot water, a hot shower, a heater charge, a battery charge, phone calls, and laundry service
  • Emergency evacuation and medical equipment.
  • Hire equipment and other personal items (sleeping bag, down jacket, hiking boots, camera, toilet rolls, etc.).
  • In the case of natural calamities, i.e., political unrest, cancellation of flights due to weather, landslides, etc., the extra charge will be borne by the travelers themselves.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but if you need any help, we can book any categorized hotels.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus, jeep car, or flight is also possible. If you need my help, I can book it.
  • Tips for Guides and Porters

Client Reviews

Write a review
  • Sandra
    SandraNetherlands,April 29, 2023
    TripAdvisor

    Amazing Experience

    Very good trekking with Jay Gurung! Most and the best services. Knows everything about the mountains and the surroudings. Absolutely fantstic guide. An absolute pleasure and privilege to hike with Jay indeed. I can highly recommend him!

     

  • A
    Ashbel CSingapore,November 30, 2017
    TripAdvisor

    Annapurna Base Camp Trek (highly recommended)

    Jay was such a great guide. He arranged everything for my group, from accommodation to transportation. He constantly provided us information on the mountains and other points of interest and was always approachable with his warm and friendly demeanor, always laughing and smiling. His presence definitely made the trek a wonderful and memorable experience. I would love to return to visit the mountains again with him and our lovely porters, Binod and Yak. Highly recommended!

     

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Price fromUS $365per person
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