⇀ Starts: 

Pokhara (7:00 AM – Pick-up from your hotel)

↼ Ends: 

Pokhara (Approximately 2:00 PM – Drop-off at your hotel)

Transportation Overview

Your trekking journey begins and ends in the scenic city of Pokhara. Here's how you’ll get to and from the starting point of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

• From Pokhara, we will pick you up at your hotel around 7:00 AM and drive you to Nayapul in a private car. From there, your first day’s hike toward Ghandruk begins.
• After completing the trek, you will be transported back to Pokhara from Kyumi via a shared jeep, which is included in the package.

If You're Starting from Kathmandu

• If you are in Kathmandu, let us know in advance. You can take a short morning flight to Pokhara.
• Upon arrival in Pokhara, our team will pick you up and transfer you by shared jeep to Ghandruk.
• Please note: Kathmandu to Pokhara flight and transfers are not included in the standard package and require an additional cost. (See Optional Add-ons for more details.)

Pre-Trip Briefing

A mandatory pre-trek briefing will be held the day before your departure. During this short session, you will meet your trekking guide, receive final instructions, and get answers to any last-minute questions.

Kindly share your hotel name and location in Pokhara (or Kathmandu if starting there) so we can coordinate your pick-up and the briefing session efficiently.

Food on the Trek

Meals in Pokhara

Meals in Pokhara are not included in the package, giving you the freedom to explore the wide variety of cafés and restaurants around Lakeside. After your trek, our representative will treat you to a farewell dinner, where you can celebrate your accomplishment and share your trekking stories.

Meals During the Trek

Your package includes a daily breakfast during the trek. Lunch and dinner are not included, allowing you to choose your meals according to your preferences at the teahouses along the route. This flexibility also supports local businesses and gives you a chance to taste different Himalayan dishes.

Breakfast Options

• Toast with jam, honey, or butter
• Tibetan bread or chapati
• Pancakes or porridge
• Eggs (boiled, scrambled, or omelet)
• Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate

Lunch & Dinner Options

• Dal Bhat – A nutritious local meal of rice, lentils, vegetables, and pickles
• Noodles, pasta, or spaghetti
• Momos (Nepali dumplings)
• Fried rice or chow mein
• Vegetable soups
• Pizza (available at select teahouses)

Snacks & Drinks

• Seasonal fruits, popcorn, or biscuits
• Energy bars (recommended to bring your own)
• Ginger tea, lemon tea, black tea
• Boiled or purified drinking water (available for purchase)

Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets to reduce plastic waste and ensure safe hydration throughout the trek.

Vegetarian meals are widely available, and we recommend avoiding meat at higher altitudes due to limited refrigeration. Please inform your guide of any dietary preferences or restrictions in advance, so arrangements can be made accordingly.

Accommodation on the Trek

During the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you’ll stay in local teahouses, which are basic yet cozy guesthouses operated by local families. Each stop offers a genuine cultural experience, along with the comforts needed after a long day of trekking.

• Ghandruk & Kyumi: Twin-sharing rooms with attached bathrooms are available at these popular lower-altitude villages, offering added comfort.
• Sinuwa, Deurali, Bamboo & Annapurna Base Camp: Teahouses provide shared bathrooms, as facilities become more limited at higher elevations.

Each teahouse typically features:

• Clean beds with warm blankets
• A communal dining hall with a wood stove
• Traditional Nepali décor and hospitality
• Hot showers and Wi-Fi (available for an extra charge)

Note: Rooms are on a twin-sharing basis. Single rooms can be arranged at an additional cost, depending on availability.

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered moderately challenging, making it suitable for both beginners with a good fitness level and experienced trekkers looking for a shorter Himalayan adventure. The trek involves daily hikes of 5 to 7 hours, with gradual ascents through terraced farmlands, dense forests, and high alpine landscapes. The highest point reached is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,549 feet), where altitude may cause mild symptoms of AMS for some trekkers. However, the itinerary is carefully designed with steady elevation gain and proper acclimatization, including overnight stops in villages like Ghandruk, Sinuwa, and Deurali. No prior trekking experience is necessary, but being in good physical condition and comfortable with multi-day hiking will greatly enhance your experience. Our expert guides and porters will be there to support you every step of the way.

Weather plays a significant role in shaping your trekking experience to Annapurna Base Camp. Since this trek reaches elevations over 4,000 meters, you can expect diverse weather conditions that vary with altitude and season.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the best times for this trek. The weather is generally clear, stable, and warm during the day, with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 20°C at lower altitudes. Higher up at the base camp, it can dip close to freezing at night. Rhododendrons bloom across the forests, adding vibrant color to the landscape. Expect great mountain views and comfortable trekking conditions.

Autumn (September to November)

Another ideal season, autumn offers crisp air, clear skies, and stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Daytime temperatures are mild and pleasant, while nights can get cold—especially above 3,000 meters. With little rainfall and minimal cloud cover, this is the most popular time for trekking in Nepal.

Winter (December to February)

Winter brings cold temperatures and the possibility of snow, especially around Deurali and Annapurna Base Camp. Daytime temperatures can be manageable with proper gear, but nights are freezing—sometimes dropping below -10°C at higher elevations. The trails are quieter and more peaceful, but trekkers should be prepared for cold weather and occasional weather delays.

Monsoon/Summer (June to August)

The monsoon season brings frequent rain, slippery trails, and limited mountain visibility. Leeches and muddy paths can make trekking less pleasant. However, the landscape is lush and green, and the lower regions remain warm. Trekkers attempting the trail during this season should be well-prepared for wet conditions and be flexible with their plans.

Pro Tip: Always check the latest local forecast and pack accordingly. Layers, waterproof gear, and sun protection are essential year-round.

How to Get Fit for the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Though the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is achievable for most people with decent health, it still demands good physical fitness and mental preparation. You'll be hiking for 6–7 hours a day over 7 consecutive days, covering varied terrain and ascending to an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,549 feet). Proper fitness not only makes the trek more enjoyable but also reduces the risk of altitude sickness and injury.

Start Training Early

Begin your fitness routine at least 4–6 weeks before the trek. Focus on building endurance, leg strength, and cardiovascular fitness.

• Cardio workouts like jogging, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking (4–5 times a week) help build stamina.
• Practice long-distance walking or hiking with a backpack to mimic real trekking conditions.
• Incorporate stair climbing or hill training to prepare for the constant ascents and descents of the trail.

Strength & Core Training

Strong legs and a stable core are essential for carrying yourself and your backpack over rugged trails.

• Do squats, lunges, planks, and step-ups 3–4 times a week.
• Add resistance training or light weightlifting for overall muscle balance and injury prevention.

Flexibility & Recovery

Include stretching, yoga, or foam rolling in your routine to improve flexibility and reduce muscle fatigue.

• Stretch before and after workouts to prevent stiffness.
• Yoga helps with breathing, posture, and mental focus—important during high-altitude treks.

Hike with Gear

If possible, do some training hikes wearing the same boots, backpack, and clothing you plan to use on the trek. This helps you break in your gear and get used to carrying weight over time.

Stay Hydrated & Eat Right

Fuel your training with balanced meals, plenty of hydration, and adequate sleep. Avoid alcohol and smoking as your trek approaches.

Pro Tip: Trekking at altitude is more about endurance than speed. Train your body to keep a steady pace over long periods—slow and steady wins the Himalayan race!

Essential Equipment List for the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Packing the right gear is key to a safe and comfortable trekking experience in the Himalayas. While the teahouse trek means you don’t need camping gear, you’ll still be walking through varied terrain and weather conditions—so proper preparation is essential.

Here’s a complete list of what you’ll need:

Clothing

Base Layers (Innerwear):

• Moisture-wicking thermal tops & bottoms (2 pairs)
• Sports bras (for women)

Mid Layers:

• Fleece or lightweight down jacket
• Insulating jacket (synthetic or down)

Outer Layers:

• Waterproof & windproof jacket (with hood)
• Waterproof trekking pants or rain trousers

Trekking Clothes:

• Quick-dry t-shirts (2–3)
• Trekking pants (2 pairs)
• Long-sleeve shirt for sun protection
• Lightweight gloves (inner layer)
• Insulated gloves or mittens (outer layer)
• Warm hat/beanie
• Sun hat or cap with neck protection
• Buff or neck gaiter (for dust and wind)

Footwear

• Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in)
• Lightweight sneakers or sandals (for evenings)
• Warm woolen socks (2–3 pairs)
• Thin liner socks (2–3 pairs)
• Gaiters (optional, useful during snow or muddy conditions)

Bags

• 35–45L daypack (with rain cover)
• Duffel bag or rucksack (carried by porter – max 10–12kg)(it is provided by Places Nepal after you book your Trek)
• Dry bags or plastic zip-locks (for organizing and protecting items)

Personal Hygiene & Toiletries

• Biodegradable soap & travel towel
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Toilet paper (carry your own)
• Small quick-dry towel

Health & Safety

• Personal first-aid kit (include any medications you need)
• Blister plasters or moleskin
• Water purification tablets or filter bottle
• Diamox (consult with your doctor for altitude sickness prevention)
• Rehydration salts or electrolytes
• Insect repellent

Accessories & Extras

• Headlamp (with spare batteries)
• Trekking poles (highly recommended)
• Sunglasses (UV-protected)
• Sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C; can also be rented in Pokhara)
• Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder (2 liters total capacity)
• Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate)
• Camera or smartphone with power bank
• Lightweight book or journal
• Passport copy, permits, cash (ATMs are not available during the trek)

Note: Most of the gear can be rented or bought in Kathmandu or Pokhara. But bring personal essentials and well-fitting boots from home.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 7 Days

The Short Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is a thrilling and immersive 7-day adventure that brings you face-to-face with some of the most iconic peaks in the Himalayas. Perfect for trekkers with limited time, this condensed version of the classic ABC route offers the essence of the Annapurna region: breathtaking mountain views, traditional village life, lush forests, and a true taste of Nepali culture. Starting from the scenic lakeside city of Pokhara, the trail winds through charming Gurung villages like Ghandruk, traverses rhododendron-covered hills, and ascends steadily into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary—a natural amphitheater of towering Himalayan giants.

The trek reaches a high point at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m / 13,549ft), surrounded by dramatic 360° views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Annapurna South (7,219m), and the sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,993m). Along the way, trekkers also pass notable waypoints such as Chhomrong, Sinuwa, Deurali, and Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m). Each location offers a unique perspective of the Himalayas and a deeper look into the lives of the local Gurung communities who have thrived in this region for generations.

One of the biggest highlights of this trek is reaching Annapurna Base Camp itself—an experience that feels like stepping into another world. Here, trekkers can witness the golden light of sunrise hit the snow-clad summits, enjoy a peaceful sense of isolation at high altitude, and reflect in awe within the sacred Annapurna Sanctuary. The base camp lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is home to rare flora and fauna, and steeped in spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus.

Trekkers can expect a moderately challenging journey. While no prior mountaineering experience is needed, you should be prepared for daily hikes of 5–7 hours across varied terrain and increasing altitudes. The trail includes a mix of stone steps, forested paths, suspension bridges, and river crossings. Accommodations are in traditional teahouses, offering cozy hospitality and home-cooked meals. The route passes through remote and peaceful areas, giving you the chance to unplug, slow down, and truly connect with nature.

Before starting the trek, there are a few important things you need to know. You’ll require two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card—both of which are arranged by your trekking agency. The best seasons for this trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when skies are clear, temperatures are moderate, and mountain views are most spectacular. The weather in the Annapurna region can change quickly, so packing proper layers and waterproof gear is crucial. The culture in this region is predominantly Gurung, and you’ll find deep-rooted traditions, Buddhist influences, and warm hospitality at every stop.

In summary, the 7-day Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is ideal for trekkers who want a high-altitude Himalayan experience in a compact timeframe without compromising on natural beauty or cultural depth. From dramatic mountain vistas and diverse landscapes to welcoming villages and sacred landmarks, this trek delivers unforgettable memories at every turn. Whether you're a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer, ABC will capture your heart and challenge your spirit.