Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

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  • Duration 8 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • CountryNepal
  • Maximum Altitude 4130
  • Group Size 2-6
  • Starts Pokhara
  • Ends Pokhara
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Time March-May, Septmeber-November

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Fast-Track Adventure to the Annapurna Sanctuary

The Fast Track Annapurna Base Camp Trek, also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, is ideal for trekkers with limited time who want to experience the breathtaking views of the Annapurna Himalayan range and its stunning glaciers.

Highlights

  • Fly to Pokhara, offering spectacular mountain vistas

  • Discover the beauty of a leisurely hike in the highlands, breathing in pure mountain air

  • Enjoy the world-class hiking route, brimming with natural features like green hills, valleys, rivers, forests, and mountain views

  • Visit ethnic communities like Birethati, Jhinu Danda, Chhomrung, Sinuwa, and Deurali to observe the local way of life

  • Witness breathtaking sunrises over the Annapurna range and sunsets over Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) Peak

  • See stunning peaks including Fishtail (6993m), Nilgiri (7061m), Gangapurna (7455m), Annapurna I (8091m), and Annapurna II (7647m)

  • Visit the base camps of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna

  • Relax in Jhinu Danda's natural hot springs

  • Spend a day in Pokhara to explore captivating landmarks like Phewa Lake

  • Experience authentic Nepali cuisine, including the nutritious and delicious Dal Bhat

Trek Overview

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventure. This trek takes you through some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in the world, bringing you up close and personal with the awe-inspiring Annapurna range.

 

Detailed Trek Experience

The journey begins with a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. From there, you'll take a private vehicle to Siwai, where the trek officially starts. The route to Chhomrong from Siwai takes you through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, terraced farms, and suspension bridges, offering views of the Machhapuchhre and Annapurna massifs.

Next, you'll trek from Chhomrong to Dovan, passing through more rhododendron and bamboo forests. On the fourth day, the route leads from Dovan to Deurali, passing through Modi Khola, the Himalayas, and Hinku Cave.

The most exciting day is when you visit both Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). From MBC, you'll trek through the Modi Khola Glacier Valley to reach ABC, where you'll be rewarded with stunning views of Hiunchuli, the Annapurna ranges, Khangsar Kang, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre.

The descent begins from Annapurna Base Camp, passing through Sinuwa and then to Jhinu Danda, where you can relax in the local natural hot springs. Finally, you'll trek back to Siwai and return to Pokhara to explore its natural beauty, including Phewa Lake. The trek concludes with a bus ride back to Kathmandu.

 

Preparation for the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Proper preparation is essential for a successful trek. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

  1. Physical Fitness: Engage in regular exercise, focusing on cardio, strength training, and endurance.

  2. Acclimatization: Spend a day in Pokhara before starting the trek to help your body adjust.

  3. Proper Gear: Ensure you have appropriate clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, and essential trekking gear.

  4. Mental Preparation: Be ready for the physical and mental challenges of the trek, and maintain a positive attitude.

  5. Hydration: Stay well-hydrated throughout the trek to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

 

What You Can Expect from Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers the highlights of the Annapurna region in a condensed timeframe:

  • Stunning Mountain Landscapes: Expect to see famous mountains like Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the majestic Annapurna itself.

  • Local Culture: Experience the daily lives, customs, and traditions of the local people in traditional villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong.

  • Interaction with Locals: Meet and interact with local people, and learn about their way of life.

  • Challenging Hike: This trek requires a good level of fitness and preparation, and altitude sickness can be a concern, so take necessary precautions and acclimatize properly.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary

Starts from: Pokhara Ends to: Pokhara
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Top of the World Adventure is the only travel agency located at the Tribhuvan International Airport arrival terminal. After collecting your baggage, you will find our agency inside the international arrival tunnel. Our airport staff will provide a briefing about your trip and hand over the necessary vouchers. You will then be transferred to your hotel directly from the arrival gate. In the evening, our trekking guide will meet you to check your trekking equipment and other essentials.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: 3 Star hotel

Early in the morning, after breakfast, you will drive to Kathmandu airport and fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will directly drive to Jhinudanda by jeep, a journey that takes approximately 5 hours. After spending some time in Jhinudanda, you will proceed with your trek to Chomrong. Overnight stay at Chomrong.

  • Max Altitude: 1780m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After breakfast in Chomrong, you will begin your trek to Deurali. The journey offers amazing views of bamboo and rhododendron forests, making the trek enjoyable and invigorating. Along the way, our guide will share insights about the different places and mountains you encounter. The diverse cultures and welcoming people you meet will make you feel at home. Overnight stay at Deurali.

  • Max Altitude: 3230 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today, you will reach the highlight of your trek: Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters). After spending a few hours at Annapurna Base Camp, soaking in the breathtaking views, you will begin your return journey to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 meters). Machhapuchhre Base Camp will be your station for an overnight stay. Experiencing two base camps on the same trekking route is a unique and rewarding aspect of the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

  • Max Altitude: 3700m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

On this day, you will hike downhill all the way to Jhinu Danda, passing through Deurali, Himalaya, Bamboo, and Chhuny. The trek will take approximately 7-8 hours. Jhinu Danda is known for its natural hot springs. If you wish, you can take an additional 30-minute hike from the Teahouse Lodge to the hot spring, located near the Modi River. Overnight stay at Jhinu Danda.

  • Max Altitude: 1780m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today marks the final day of your 5-day Annapurna Base Camp trek. You will trek back from Jhinu Danda to Nayapool via Syauli Bazar, a journey of approximately 6-7 hours. Upon reaching Nayapool, you will take a taxi back to Pokhara. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can take a shared jeep from Syauli Bazar. Once back in Pokhara in the evening, you can visit the scenic Lakeside area. Overnight stay at a Lakeside hotel.

  • Max Altitude: 820m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

Wake up early in the morning and head to Pokhara Airport. You will take a morning flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can go sightseeing at UNESCO World Heritage monuments in the city. Overnight stay in the tourist hub of Kathmandu, Thamel. If you need to depart on the same day to the international airport, it can be arranged.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

According to your flight schedule, our team will drop you off at the airport for your onward destination.

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Route Map

Short Annapurna base camp trek map route

Altitude Graph

Short Annapurna base camp trek altitude graph

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • Arrival and departure by private vehicle
  • Kathmandu Sightseeing by private car with tour guide
  • Kathmandu and Pokhara hotel with Breakfast
  • Kathmandu-Beshishar by Local bus
  • Beshishar - jagat Sharing Jeep
  • Jomsom-Tatopani-Pokhara by local bus
  • TIMS
  • Annapurna Conservation permit
  • Trekking guide (Food, accommodation, salary, insurance)
  • Teahouse Accommodation in Mountain
  • All meals (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) during trekking
  • First aid tool box

Excludes

  • Bar bills
  • Entrance fee for Kathmandu Sightseeing
  • Visa fee
  • International flight fare
  • Travels insurance
  • Trekking equipment 
  • Tips
  • Lunch and Dinner except trekking time

Add-ons and Options

Upgrade your Annapurna Circuit Trek experience with better accommodations and services. This add-on focuses on making your trek more comfortable and luxurious. 

  • Comfort Lodge Improvement
    Upgrade to better teahouses with attached bathrooms (where possible) and softer bedding for a more restful stay.

  • Individual Porter Support
    Hire a dedicated porter to carry your main bag, allowing you to trek with just a light daypack.

  • Tilicho Lake Photography Stop
    Extend your time at Tilicho Lake to capture sunrise or sunset views with flexible itinerary support.

  • Tatopani Hot Spring Retreat
    Stay longer in Tatopani to relax your legs in natural hot springs before the drive to Pokhara.

  • Pokhara Hotel Enhancement
    Choose from lakeside boutique hotels or luxury stays to unwind after your trek.

  • Jomsom–Pokhara Flight Exchange
    Swap the long drive with a scenic flight for a quicker and smoother return (if not already included).

  • Private Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
    Add a guided day tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO heritage sites before or after your trek.

Additional Info

Annapurna Circuit trek permit

For the Annapurna Circuit trek, you will need to get the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and the TIMS Card. These are two necessary permits, and trekking without them is illegal.

You can get both permits in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Our package includes both permit fees, and we will obtain them on your behalf.

  • TIMS Card: NRP 2000 per person
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost for SAARC nationals: NRP 3000 per person
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost for other countries: NRP 2000 per person
  • Trekkers below age 10 do not need an ACAP permit

Annapurna Circuit trek difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit trek stands as one of the most challenging treks in Nepal. Your fitness, mindset, and previous trek experience overall affect the journey. Following our Annapurna Circuit trek 14 days itinerary, you will cover around 85 kilometers. The terrain is uneven and steep and involves several uphill and downhill trekking.

Therefore, the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the trek. Trekkers should consider three things - 6 hours of daily average walking, offbeat terrain, and high altitude. These are the main challenges of Annapurna Circuit trekking. If you can withstand them, you can complete the trek without any worry.

Note that you must also be fine with limited services and simple tea house accommodation and meals. The trek is not only physically but mentally demanding as well.

Altitude sickness

During the Annapurna Circuit trek, you have to be aware of altitude sickness. It happens if you are not acclimatized and keep gaining high altitude. Trekkers are advised to ascend slowly and maintain their pace. You do not have to rush or meet anyone's speed. Take your time to enjoy the trek.

Likewise, keep yourself hydrated during trekking. Drink at least 2 liters of water daily and combine tea and soups with your meals. It will help you acclimatize. Our Annapurna Circuit trek itinerary includes a rest day in Manang village, which will help you acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.

If you see any symptoms below, inform your guide and take medicine under his guidance. Our guides are trained to provide general medicines during the trek and have many years of expertise.

  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Uneasiness
  • Dziness
  • Insomnia
  • Loss of appetite
  • Difficulty breathing

The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit trek

Spring and autumn have the best weather and climate conditions throughout the Himalayas, including the Annapurna Himalayan range. Therefore, these two seasons are considered the best time of the year to enjoy Annapurna Circuit trekking.

However, this trek is possible throughout the year. Every season has pros and cons. One thing to note is that the journey is challenging whatever season you choose to do the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Likewise, the Himalayan weather is known for its unpredictable nature, so you have to be ready for sudden weather changes. The temperature can range from -10°C to 30°C and above at different elevations.

The climate remains mild in spring and autumn. Winter is the coldest time of the year. Likewise, monsoon/summer is the hottest and wettest time of the year. The humidity is also high in this season. Summer/monsoon and winter seasons see inconsistent weather compared to spring and autumn.

Accommodation

Tea houses are the accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit trek. They are simple mountain accommodations made to accommodate trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit. The rooms are twin-shared, and the washrooms are common.

You have to use squat toilets in some places along the trail. Single rooms cost a few extra bucks. Similarly, services like charging, WiFI, and hot water for showers also cost extra money. Therefore, trekkers are recommended to carry some Nepali cash for these expenses.

The locals are kind, and their hospitality is excellent. You will not feel uncomfortable at all. The rooms are small but cozy. A sleeping bag is highly recommended for this trek. Trekkers should also pack all skincare and toiletries for the journey.

Meals

During the Annapurna Circuit trekking, you will eat simple meals. Dal bhat, thukpa, and momo will be your primary meals. These are available everywhere.

Likewise, fried rice, stew, soups, porridge, rice with curries, pancakes, pies, Tibetan bread, chapati, paratha, and chowmein are also available. Some places also serve burgers, pasta, and pizza. Trekkers have access to boiled drinking water throughout the trek. It costs way less than buying plastic water bottles, which also affects the environment. You only have to carry a reusable water bottle.

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you get breakfast in your hotel. You can have lunch and dinner on your own. Our Annapurna Circuit trek cost does not cover lunch and dinner expenses in the city.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must if you want to join us on the Annapurna Circuit trek. It has to cover medical bills and emergency helicopter evacuation. Without this coverage, your insurance will not be valid. You can combine other coverages like trip cancellation, loss/theft of personal belongings, etc.

Having travel insurance with evacuation coverage will allow you to immediately provide rescue if you get sick while trekking or if any unseen event arises. Without travel insurance, it is a hassle to organize rescue operations.

 

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek FAQs

Altitude sickness is a common concern on any Himalayan trek, but we prioritize your safety with well-trained guides who monitor symptoms closely. We encourage a steady pace and proper acclimatization, including hydration tips and rest days to help your body adjust. Our guides carry first aid kits and know emergency evacuation plans to keep you safe. With our expert support, you can focus on the adventure knowing we have your back.

This trek is rated moderate, making it accessible for trekkers with a good level of fitness and endurance. Regular cardio and strength training before the trip will enhance your experience. The rewarding views of Annapurna’s peaks, like Machhapuchhre and Annapurna I, make every step worthwhile. Remember, the real achievement is pushing your limits while surrounded by breathtaking nature.

One of the true gems of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the chance to immerse yourself in vibrant local culture. You’ll visit traditional villages like Chhomrong, Jhinu Danda, and Deurali, meeting Gurung and Magar communities. Our guides share fascinating insights into their customs, festivals, and lifestyles, turning your trek into a cultural journey as rich as the landscape itself.

Packing right is key to enjoying the trek comfortably. Essential gear includes sturdy trekking boots, layered clothing for varying temperatures, a reliable sleeping bag, water purification tablets, and trekking poles to ease steep climbs and descents. We recommend packing light but prepared—you’ll thank yourself on those stunning mountain trails.

Each day involves trekking between 4 to 8 hours, with elevations ranging from about 1780m in Jhinu Danda to the highest point at Annapurna Base Camp (4130m). These hikes are challenging yet incredibly rewarding, offering panoramic views and a profound sense of accomplishment at every stop. Tackling these distances is a real achievement, and our guides tailor the pace to your comfort.

Absolutely! After the exhilarating hike to Annapurna Base Camp, you can unwind at Jhinu Danda’s famous natural hot springs. Soaking your tired muscles in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by mountain serenity is one of those insider moments that make this trek truly special.

For those looking to elevate their adventure, we offer several upgrades such as comfort lodge improvements with attached bathrooms, hiring a personal porter to lighten your load, and even a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara to skip the long drive. Extending your stay at Tatopani for a hot spring retreat or exploring lakeside boutique hotels in Pokhara are perfect ways to indulge after the trek.

Enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine that fuels your trek, including the nutritious Dal Bhat—rice with lentil soup and vegetables—alongside momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and hearty stews. These dishes are not only delicious but provide essential energy for your daily trekking challenges.

You’ll stay in cozy teahouses nestled in mountain villages—simple, clean, and welcoming. Rooms are typically twin-shared with common washrooms. While facilities are basic, the warm hospitality of local hosts creates a homely atmosphere. For added comfort, consider our accommodation upgrades with better bedding and private bathrooms where available.

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers a thrilling mix of physical challenge and breathtaking natural beauty. Reaching the Annapurna Sanctuary at 4130 meters brings unmatched panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks. Overcoming altitude, rugged terrain, and varying weather conditions not only tests your fitness but leaves you with a profound sense of accomplishment and lifelong memories. Join us to turn this challenge into your greatest adventure.

Price Per Person US$670US$800
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