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7 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Overview Itinerary Trip Info

Overview

For those looking for a short but thrilling adventure in the Himalayas, the Annapurna Base Camp short trek is a perfect choice. The trek is not just a journey but also a rich cultural, and rewarding experience. The Annapurna Base Camp, which lies within the Annapurna Sanctuary, is one of the classic trails in Nepal. In fact, it is Nepal’s second-most popular trek destination. The trek starts from Pokhara, the popular tourist hub and gateway to the Annapurna region. Its trekking trails go through diverse landscapes within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Therefore, the trek allows you to experience the raw wilderness of Nepal. If you are lucky, you may catch sight of some rare wildlife along the way.

The ABC short trek takes you from dense subtropical forests of rhododendrons, oaks, and firs to alpine meadows and arid landscapes. En route to the Annapurna Base Camp at 4130 meters, we will cross the Machhapuchhre Base Camp at 3700 meters. You will also cross diverse landscapes, traditional villages, terrace farms, and ancient monasteries. The trek offers breathtaking views of Mount Annapurna, Machhapuchre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, and more. Gurungs and Magars mostly reside in the region. Hence, you can witness their unique culture and experience their warm hospitality. The Annapurna Base Camp short trek is a complete package for a memorable time in Nepal. Experience the adventurous trails of the Himalayas, along with the spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and the warm hospitality of the locals.

Trekking Trips Activity
Easy Grade
  • Trek on one of the classic trails of the Annapurna region.
  • Visit the popular tourist hub of Nepal, the serene Pokhara city.
  • Traverse dense verdants of rhododendrons, oaks, firs, and bamboos to forests of conifers.
  • Visit popular villages like Ghandruk, Chomrong, Himalaya, Bamboo, Jhinu Danda, and more.
  • Hike past rivers, streams, waterfalls, gorges, valleys, and glaciers.
  • Ascend to the Annapurna Base Camp at 4130 meters via Machhapuchre Base Camp at 3700 meters.
  • Enjoy gorgeous panoramas of Annapurna, Gangapurna, Machhapuchre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Khangsar Kang, and many others.
  • Enjoy a gorgeous sunrise view from Annapurna Base Camp.
  • Visit ancient monasteries, gompas, and temples.
  • Relax your body in the natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda.
  • Stay at cozy teahouses and experience rural and warm Nepalese hospitality.
  • Immerse in the unique and rich culture and traditions of the Gurung and Magar people.

Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek Itinerary

Day 1 | Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul-Syauli Bazaar-Kimche (1,784 m). Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m).

The trek begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Kimche. We will pass through Nayapul and Syauli Bazaar before reaching the starting point. The trail from Kimche goes through subtropical forests, small settlements, and terrace farms. The mountain panoramas also gradually come into view as we reach Ghandruk. It is a relatively short trek, and we will stay overnight in Ghandruk. The picturesque Ghandruk is a Gurung village famous for its rich culture and traditions. It also offers gorgeous views of Mount Annapurna South, Machhapuchre, and Hiunchuli.

Flight Time:

2 hrs

Distance:

52 km/ 32 miles

Altitude:

1,940 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

: B/L/D

Place:

Ghandruk

Day 2 | Trek from Ghandruk to Chomrong (2,170 m) / Sinuwa (2,340 m).

We will wake up with the gorgeous view of the mountain panoramas at Ghandruk. After breakfast, we will resume our trek and start the steep descent towards the Kimrong River. The trail begins to ascend, and we will pass several small settlements and terrace farms. Similarly, we must also climb up narrow pathways to get to the Chomrong village. The beautiful Chomrong village lies on top of a hill and in the lap of the Annapurna massif. It is a Gurung village that offers spectacular views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchre. We will stay overnight at a lodge in Chomrong.

Flight Time:

4 hours

Distance:

99 km/ 55.5 miles

Altitude:

2170 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Chomrong

Day 3 | Trek from Chomrong / Sinuwa to Himalaya (2,890 m) / Deurali ( 3,174 m)

After breakfast, we will continue our journey to Annapurna Base Camp. We will start by ascending on the stone-paved staircases and head towards Chomrong Khola. Climbing the stone staircases will require some stamina as we will climb over 1000 stairs. The trail also goes through dense forests of rhododendrons, bamboo, britches, and firs. We will first reach Sinuwa village, from where we will again enter dense verdants. From here, we will trek alongside the Modi River and through little canyons. After ascending on a varied terrain for some time, we will finally reach the Himalaya village. We will stay overnight at a lodge in the Himalaya.

Flight Time:

6/ 7 hrs

Distance:

12 km/ 7.4 miles

Altitude:

2890 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Deurali

Day 4 | Trek from Himalaya/Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) via Machhapuchchhre Base Camp (3,720 m)

Today is the most exciting day of our trek. We will finally ascend to the Annapurna Base Camp. We will leave the Himalayas, following the trail through the Modi Khola Glacier. First, we will reach Deurali village. The trail starts to get trickier from here. Similarly, the mountain views also begin to get closer. After trekking for a while, we will come across Machhapuchre Base Camp. It sits right below the towering Mount Machhapuchre. We will begin trekking to the north and close to the Annapurna Glaciers. After hiking on rocky and icy fields for a while, we will reach Annapurna Base Camp. The up close and breathtaking view of Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Machhapuchre, Gangapurna, and other surrounding peaks will greet you.

Flight Time:

5 hrs

Distance:

12.5 km/ 7.77 miles

Altitude:

4130 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Annapurna Base Camp

Day 5 | Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,350 m)

We will enjoy a grand sunrise view from the Annapurna Base Camp, with snow-capped peaks in the background. After breakfast, we will start descending from the Annapurna Sanctuary. It is mostly a downhill climb as we retrace our steps back to Bamboo Village. The village sits amidst dense green bamboo forests. We will rest our tired bodies here for the day.

Flight Time:

6 hours

Distance:

14 km/ 8.6 miles

Altitude:

4130 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Bamboo

Day 6 | Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m) and nearby natural hot springs.

We will continue climbing downhill as we leave the serene Bamboo Village. The trail enters dense forests of rhododendrons and oaks. We will retrace our steps to Chomrong village and then take the trail towards Jhinu Danda. The picturesque village of Jhinu Danda is famous for its natural hot springs. We will stay overnight at a lodge at Jhinu, so you can take this opportunity to dip in the hot spring in the evening. The water from these hot springs is believed to have healing properties. It will help soothe our tired muscles and help us relax.

Flight Time:

3/ 4 hours

Distance:

8.5 km/ 5.2 miles

Altitude:

2350 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Jhinu Danda

Day 7 | Trek from Jhinu Danda to Siwa-Ghandruk Phedi (1,150 m) and drive to Pokhara (820 m) via Nayapul (1,050 m)

Today is the final day of our trek. We will enjoy breakfast at Jhinu Danda and begin climbing downhill to Siwa or Ghandruk Phedi. The trail goes alongside the Mardi Khola. After reaching Ghandruk Phedi, we will get on a jeep and drive to Pokhara via Birethanti and Nayapul. Our trek package will come to an end after reaching Pokhara. We hope you had an adventurous and memorable time with us.

Flight Time:

3/ 4 hours

Distance:

4 km/ 2.4 miles

Altitude:

1780 m

Accommodations:

Lodge

Meals:

B/L/D

Place:

Pokhara

Short ABC Trek Route

Our Annapurna Base Camp short trek begins with a short and scenic drive from Pokhara to Kimche (1784 m). We will reach Kimche by driving through Nayapul and Syauli Bazaar. It is a two-and-a-half-hour drive. After arriving at Kimche, we will begin our trek. We will pass by small villages, terrace farms, and subtropical forests to reach Ghandruk (1940 m). The first day of our trek takes only around two hours.

For our second day’s trek, we will leave Ghandruk early in the morning. The trail first descends towards the Kimron River and then starts ascending. We will trek mostly through dense subtropical forests, passing small streams and rivers. We will continue our journey until we reach Chomrong (2170 m).

The following day, we will leave Chomrong and enter the forest trail. We will climb up and down varied terrains, including stone-paved pathways. Similarly, we will cross Chomrong Khola and trek through deep bamboo. En route, we pass notable villages like Sinuwa (2340 m) and Deurali (3174 m). Finally, after ascending for a while, we will reach the Himalayas (2890 m).

On the fourth day, we will leave the Himalayas and begin our exciting climb to Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m). The trail passes throughthe  Modi Khola Glacier Valley. First, we will reach the Machhapuchre Base Camp (3700 m) and start trekking north. We will trek close to the Annapurna glaciers while enjoying the stunning views of the Annapurna ranges. Then, we will reach the Annapurna Base Camp (4130 meters).
The next day, we will enjoy a stunning sunrise over the towering Annapurna range and other surrounding Himalayas. Then, our downhill descent began. We will trek back on the same trail and head to Bamboo Village (2350 m). We will mostly climb downhill through dense bamboo forests to reach the village.

The sixth day of our Annapurna trek begins with a downhill descent to Kimrong Khola. We will also have to climb uphill through dense subtropical forests. We will follow the trekking trail that takes us to Chomrong Village and then to Jhinu Danda.
On the final day of our trek, we will leave Jhinu Danda and follow the trail along the Mardi Khola. It is a short trek that passes by small settlements and paddy fields. We will then trek to Siwa or Ghandruk Phedi, where we will get on a jeep to return to Pokhara. Along the way, we will pass the villages of Birethanti and Nayapul.

Best Time for Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Spring (March to May)

If you want to see the entire forest trail in bloom, spring is the perfect time. The season has one of the best weather conditions, with clear blue skies and sunny days. Similarly, the days are longer, and the temperature is moderate. The temperature can be slightly chilly in early spring but soon gets warmer. The average temperature of the Annapurna Base Camp is between 8 and 12°C. Meanwhile, the nighttime temperature drops below 2°C.

Due to the warm weather, the flora and fauna also become active. Therefore, the rhododendron-adorned trails bloom in red, pink, and white shades. Other colorful wildflowers also bloom, coloring the entire landscape. During the trek, you can also catch sight of some rare wildlife. The visibility is also brilliant during spring, so you can witness a clear view of the mountain panoramas without obstruction. As spring is one of the best trekking seasons, many trekkers are on ABC trails.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is not ideal for trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp. The monsoon season coincides with summer, which brings heavy rainfall across the country. As a result, the forest trails in the lower region are muddy and slippery. There is also the risk of landslides and mudslides. But there are very few trekkers on the trail.

The average daytime temperature is between 10 and 23°C during summer. Hence, it is also hot and humid, and trekking in such hot weather is uncomfortable. The nighttime temperature is around 5 to 10°C. The heavy rain and rain clouds obstruct the views. It also causes flight delays and cancellations. Therefore, it is best to avoid summer for ABC Trek.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the best and peak season for trekking. It has the most stable and favorable weather conditions. The monsoon exits the country by mid-September, and the weather becomes drier. The rain from the monsoon cleanses the surrounding landscapes and vegetation. Similarly, the days are warm, but the nights are a little colder. The air is crisp, and the skies are clear. It makes trekking in autumn enjoyable and comfortable.

The daytime temperature at Annapurna Base Camp is 5 to 15°C, while the nighttime temperature can drop to 5 to 8°C. Autumn is also one of the best times to enjoy crystal-clear views of the mountain panoramas and vibrant landscapes. The autumn foliage enhances the scenery, and the clear weather offers unobstructed views. However, autumn is peak trekking season, so the trails are crowded and busy.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the off-season for trekking to Annapurna Base Camp. However, it is the best time to enjoy the tranquil trail to yourself, as there are only a few trekkers on the trails. It snows in higher regions, covering the landscapes with a white snow blanket. As a result, the white landscapes give them a snowy wonderland look. The days are often warm, and the trails are dry. However, the temperature starts to drop significantly.

The average daytime temperature at Annapurna Base Camp is 8 to 12°C. Similarly, the nighttime temperature drops below freezing. Due to the extreme weather conditions, trekking in winter becomes more challenging. The trails of higher altitude regions are icy and covered with snow. Moreover, the high mountain passes can be blocked. Trekking in winter is more adventurous and more suitable for seasoned trekkers. It is the best time to enjoy the snow-covered mountain vistas and breathtaking scenery.

Food and Accommodation

Teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses are the common types of accommodation available along the Annapurna Base Camp trekking route. They are affordable stays that locals run. Due to the remoteness of the trekking route, these accommodations only offer basic facilities and limited amenities. There are no luxurious hotels or resorts available along the trek route. You can find a few standard hotels in the lower regions of the trekking route.

These accommodations usually have dormitory-style rooms or sharing rooms. They will provide you with beds, blankets, and pillows. However, the rooms are poorly insulated, so it is best to carry a sleeping bag to keep yourself warm at night. The bathrooms are usually communal and located at the end of the hall. Similarly, the dining halls are also communal. The higher you go, the more basic the facilities become.

For the meal option, you will have a variety of Nepalese cuisines as well as international dishes. The staple Nepalese Dal Bhat, which consists of rice, lentil soup, veggies, pickles, and salad, is found everywhere. Other than that, you can find food menus like Tibetan bread, cornflakes, oatmeals, toast, eggs, jam, butter, momo (dumplings), chow mein, thukpa, stew, soup, salad, noodles, spaghetti, pasta, sandwiches, hamburgers, etc. You will also find drink options such as tea (black/ milk/ green), coffee, soft drinks, juices, and alcoholic beverages.

Annapurna Base Camp trekking permit

TIMS Card

The TIMS card is mandatory for trekking in most trek destinations in Nepal. Trekkers must provide their personal details, including their trek itinerary and emergency contact information when applying for the TIMS card. The card tracks the whereabouts of trekkers and regulates tourism. It is especially crucial for tracking the whereabouts of trekkers during natural disasters and emergencies. The costs of a TIMS Card are as follows:

Nationality Cost (Per person)
SAARC National (Individual) NPR 600
SAARC National (Group) NPR 300
Non-SAARC National (Individual) NPR 2000
Non-SAARC National (Group) NPR 1000

ACAP

The trekking trails of Annapurna Base Camp lie within the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is the largest conservation area inhabited by rare and endangered wildlife species. Many ancient heritage also lie within the area. Hence, trekkers must obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit or ACAP. The costs of ACAP are as follows:

Nationality Cost (per person)
SAARC National NPR 1000
Non-SAARC National NPR 3000

FAQs For Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek

How difficult is the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp short trek is a moderate journey suitable for healthy and physically fit trekkers of all levels, including beginners. However, it is not an easy venture. To reach the base camp, trekkers must conquer high altitude, rough terrain, and unpredictable weather. Successful completion of the trek requires both physical and mental fitness.

During the 7 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you must climb uphill and downhill on steep and narrow trails. The terrains are rough and rocky. Similarly, you must climb up and down over 3000 stone staircases. The average trekking hours per day is 4 to 6, depending on the day’s destination. Hence, it is a physically demanding journey. Climbing to high altitudes while trekking on rough terrains is not an easy feat.

The high altitude also exposes trekkers to altitude-related sickness. The higher you go, the lower the oxygen level becomes. As a result, trekkers may experience various symptoms, such as headache, nausea, fatigue, insomnia, and shortness of breath. Trekkers must take adequate acclimatization to minimize the risk. Likewise, the weather also starts to become unpredictable as you move higher. It can make trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp more challenging. The trek is moderately difficult and requires proper preparation.

Why Book With Us

HCTreks, a trusted name in Nepal’s tourism, offers unforgettable Himalayan adventures with expert guidance and 24/7 support. From Everest treks to hidden trails like Upper Dolpo, we ensure your journey is seamless and memorable.

Expert Travel Guides

Himalayan Challenge Treks believes no journey will be safe and smooth without a good travel team. Thus, we are proud of our expert travel guides, who make our clients' expeditions remarkable. Likewise, our guides are highly experienced, government-licensed, and trained in first aid and emergency responses.  Trekking with HC's guide is like walking with a companion who ensures your safety and makes a journey memorable and extraordinary.

Safety First

The Himalayan Challenge trek ensures that your safety is our top priority. When you made a booking with us, you became our family member. And we won't let our family be in any trouble. Thus, from the beginning of the trek to the time you fly to your home country, we'll take care of every detail and get in touch with you. Similarly, our well-planned itinerary, acclimatization strategies, and emergency support ensure a smooth and safe trekking experience.

Customizable Trips

Himalayan Challenge Trek knows that even one coin's two sides are not the same, so how can two different clients be the same? Considering the fact that everyone is different and has unique preferences, we offer customizable trekking packages. This personalized option allows trekkers to tailor their itinerary to suit their preferences, fitness level, and time availability.

Eco-Friendly Tourism

Sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices set us apart from other trekking agencies. We don't just make you explore the Himalayas but also train you to protect nature for future generations. We take different steps to ensure that your journey in the mountains has a positive impact. For suitable and eco-friendly tourism, we follow a zero-waste approach to support local and organic products.

Competitive Price

HC Treks's top-notch service at a competitive price ensures that even tight-budget trekkers get the best value for their money. Likewise, we maintain 100% transparency with no hidden costs. We arrange itineraries that maximize the trekking experience without unnecessary expenses, as everything required is included in the package. Further, we offer group discounts and assist trekkers with rental gear to help them reduce costs. 

Route Updates

We believe that staying updated on the weather and providing updates to trekkers are crucial for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Thus, we provide daily weather forecasts and route updates, ensuring trekkers are prepared ahead. For weather updates, our guide monitors official meteorological sources and local reports, ensuring a safe journey and no interruption due to changes in weather during the trek.