Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

“Chasing angels or fleeing demons, go to the mountains.”? Jeffrey Rasley,

 About Trip 

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, also known as the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, is one of Nepal’s most scenic and accessible Himalayan treks. Perfect for trekkers with limited time, this trail takes you through traditional Gurung villages, terraced farmlands, bamboo and rhododendron forests, and gradually rises into the high-altitude Annapurna Sanctuary, offering an ideal mix of natural beauty, culture, and adventure.

The trek provides breathtaking panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Annapurna (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,997m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the Gangapurna range. On clear days, the scenery from the Annapurna Sanctuary is truly spectacular, making it a photographer’s paradise.

The journey begins with an uphill hike to Ghandruk village, known for its stone-built houses and rich Gurung culture. Trekkers can visit the Gurung Cultural Museum and enjoy views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. The trail continues to Chhomrong, the last major settlement before the Sanctuary, then descends into the Madi Khola valley, passing through thick rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and subtropical jungles. As the elevation rises, the landscape transforms from lush greenery to alpine deserts and glacial valleys, creating a dramatic shift in scenery.

Trekking inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, you are surrounded by towering white peaks, open rock expanses, and glaciers. The trek also offers chances to spot rare Himalayan wildlife, including musk deer, Himalayan tahr, mountain goats, and various birds such as pheasants and eagles, making it perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Key highlights of the trek include close-up mountain views, cultural exploration of Ghandruk and Pun villages, trekking through diverse forests, immersive experiences in the Annapurna Sanctuary, and opportunities to enjoy natural hot springs to relax your muscles. You can also witness some of the best sunrise and sunset views from Poon Hill (3,210m) while seeing giants like Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Manaslu (8,163m), and other Himalayan peaks above 6,000m and 7,000m.

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderate-level journey suitable for trekkers with limited days but who still want an authentic Himalayan adventure. It combines spectacular mountain scenery, cultural encounters, and wildlife experiences in just a few days, making it one of the best short treks in Nepal.

This trek offers an unforgettable Himalayan experience with majestic views of the 10th highest mountain on Earth, diverse landscapes from tropical forests to glacial valleys, cultural immersion in Gurung villages, rare wildlife sightings, and stunning sunrise and sunset moments from Poon Hill. It’s ideal for first-time trekkers, photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a short but highly rewarding adventure in the Annapurna region.

 Trip Highlights 

• Awesome Journey towards majestic south base camp of world 10th highest - Mt. Annapurna (8091m)
• Several awesome mountain view-point including Tadapani, MBC, Deurali, ABC
• Mixed trails through tropical forest and arid landscapes
• One of the Annapurna’s Finest Sunrise and Sunset view from Poon Hill (3210m)
• Encounter authentic Pun and Gurung tribal villages
• Recreation visit to natural hot-spring to relax muscles
• Giant eight-thousanders – Dhaulagiri (8167m), Manaslu (8163m) and Mt. Annapurna (8019m) along with twenty others +6000m and +7000m peaks

 Short Annapurna Base Camp Trip Cost 

When organizing any vacation or getaway, one of the first things travelers consider is the overall trip cost. This includes not only the obvious expenses like flights and accommodation, but also hidden costs such as local transportation, meals, entrance fees, travel insurance, and souvenirs micelineos expeses. Budgeting for your trip cost in advance helps avoid financial surprises and allows you to enjoy your journey stress-free. Many travelers find it helpful to compare prices online, take advantage of package deals, and travel during off-peak seasons to lower their overall trip expenses. Remember, a well-planned budget ensures your adventure remains memorable for the right reasons—not because it broke the bank. 

Here, Mountain Mate  Treks offers you the best deal of cheapest short Annapurna base camp trek for matching the cost for budget  or solo travel, full board Short Annapurna base camp trek price for idol or standard service  according to trekkers interest by the proper professional  research on the basis of locals connection in day to day updating basis.

 Full-board Package cost  
This cost is designed by the mountain mate treks for the service oriented trekkers who are looking for comfortable service within the best service providing just below than the recognized branded hotels and tea houses in the trail, Where trekkers can enjoy there trip without worrying there personal managements.

Half Board Package cost
This cost is designed by the mountain mate treks for the budget ,solo travelers and students. Just to overcome the hustle of organizing transportation, permits, flights , accomadation etc. for assisting our Short Annapurna Base camp Treks within the Nepal goverment's laws, social values and norms, national parks's rules and regulation. which helps trekkers avoid risks in the trail, understanding the goverment rules and regulation, supporting wildlife and vegetation and stress free  trip.

 Includes And Excludes In Service 

Price List 

 For the group join in full board please check in Fix Departure 

Also, Mountain Mate Treks  is recognized as best agency for organizing flexible route, itineraries, and cost  by  counsulting with the trekkers individually from Alternative Low budget trip to Luxurious Premium Packages.
So, fill free to  Contact Us  for  customize Trip, for further information and inquries.   (How To Pay)   (Booking FAQS).

 Best season For Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

It's been practise that Short Annapurna base Camp trek is possible to organize in all over the here by figuring out the possible provablity and the  professional preparation within some fluctuation in flight delays.Besides that the best times to trek to Short Annapurna base camp are during the spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) seasons. These periods offer favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and excellent visibility, enhancing your trekking experience.

• Spring Season (March–May)
  • Weather: Mild temperatures with clear skies.
  • Landscape: Rhododendrons and other wildflowers are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season, so trails and teahouses can be busy.
  • Highlights: Ideal for those who appreciate the beauty of nature and don't mind the busier trails..
     
• Autumn Season (September–November)
  • Weather: Post-monsoon weather is typically clear and stable, with fantastic visibility of the mountains.
  • Landscape: The monsoon rains clear the atmosphere, offering some of the best mountain views of the year.
  • Crowds: This is the most popular time for trekking, leading to busier trails and teahouses.
  • Cultural Experience: Coincides with Nepal’s major festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, offering a culturally rich experience..
     
• Winter Season (December–February)
  • Weather: Extremely cold temperatures, with the possibility of heavy snowfall.
  • Landscape: Clear skies provide stunning views of the snow-capped peaks.
  • Considerations: Not recommended for inexperienced trekkers due to harsh weather conditions and potential trail blockages..
     
• Monsoon Season (June–August)
  • Weather: Frequent heavy rainfall, leading to slippery trails and increased risk of landslides.
  • Visibility: Rain clouds can obscure scenery, reducing visibility.
  • Considerations: Not recommended for trekking due to unpredictable and potentially dangerous weather conditions..

 The spring and autumn seasons are ideal for planning your trek to Mardi himal base camp trek These periods not only offer the best weather conditions but also provide opportunities to experience Nepal's rich cultural heritage.

 Essential Gear for Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

Trekking to Short Annapurna Base camp requires careful gear selection due to the high altitude, cold weather, and variable terrain. Here’s a comprehensive list of essential gear for a safe and comfortable journey:

• Clothing - Base Layers:
  • Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (2–3 sets)
     
• Clothing - Insulation Layers:
  • Fleece or down jacket (1)
  • Insulated pants (optional but useful in colder months)
     
• Clothing - Outer Layers:
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Waterproof pants
     
• Clothing - Trekking Clothes:
  • Lightweight trekking pants (2 pairs)
  • Long-sleeve and short-sleeve moisture-wicking shirts (3–4)
  • Warm hat, sun hat, and buff or neck gaiter
  • Gloves: inner liner gloves and insulated outer gloves
  • Underwear and sports bras (quick-dry)
     
•  Footwear
  • Trekking boots (broken-in, waterproof)
  • Camp shoes/sandals (for resting at tea houses)
  • Wool or synthetic trekking socks (4–5 pairs)
  • Gaiters (optional, for snow or mud)

•  Gear and Equipment
  • Trekking backpack (30–40L for day use)
  • Duffel bag (carried by porter, if using one)
  • Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C or lower)
  • Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth and hygiene)
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3 liters capacity)
  • Water purification method (tablets, filter, or UV sterilizer)
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)
  • Dry bags or zip-locks (for waterproofing clothes/electronics)

•  Health and Hygiene
  • Personal first aid kit (include altitude sickness meds like Diamox)
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, small towel, etc.)
  • Toilet paper and sanitary supplies (tea houses often don't provide)
     
•  Documents and Essentials
  • Passport and multiple passport-size photos
  • TIMS card and Everest National Park permit
  • Travel insurance (with high-altitude trekking coverage)
  • Cash (Nepali rupees – no ATMs en route)

For more details check  Best Trekking Tips In Nepal

 Altitude Sickness in Short Annapurna Base CampTrek 
Many people consider trekking to Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it also takes them into high-altitude area where they run the risk of developing Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), also known as Altitude Sickness.
Understanding altitude sickness is essential for your success and safety, regardless of your goal  MM (mountain mate) prepare with the well trained  Local Guides of the region, proper precautin on safety measures with essential medication and safety tools.

For more details check  Altitude Information.

Have an amazing and safe trek to Shorta Annapurna Base Camp Route — it's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

 Short Itinerary 

• Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and transfer to Hotel (830m/2,723ft), Driving Distance: (5-6 hours). 

• Day 02: Drive from Pokhara to Kimche and trek to Ghandruk (2,010m/6,595ft), Walking Distance: 9km, 3hrs drive 5 hrs walk.

• Day 03: Trek from Ghandruk to Sinuwa (2,340m/7677ft), Walking Distance: 13km, (4-5 hours).

• Day 04: Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali (3,200m/10,498ft), via Bamboo and Himalaya, Walking Distance: 10.9km, (5-6hours).

• Day 05: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base camp(4,130m/13,550ft), via Machhapuchhre base camp, Walking Distance: 7.7km, (4-5hours).

• Day 06: Trek from Annapurna Base camp to Bamboo (2,310m), Walking Distance: 16.7km, (5-6 hours). 

• Day 07: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu danda(1,760m/5,774ft) have a natural Hot spring, Walking Distance: 8.5km, (4-5 hours).

• Day 08: Trek from Jhinu Danda to New Bridge(1,440m/4,724ft) and drive to Pokhara, 3-4 hours  walk  2 hrs drive.

• Day 09: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265ft), Driving Distance: 200km,  (5-6 hours).

 Details Itinerary 

• Day 01:Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and transfer to Hotel (823m/2,700ft), 8-10 hrs drive.  Drive to Pokhara by tourist bus early in the morning via the gorgeous Nepalese countryside to reach the Pokhara lakeside and transfer to the hotel. Spend the rest of the day seeing the surrounding lakeside areas and staying overnight at the hotel.

• Day 02: Drive from Pokhara to Kimche and trek to Ghandruk (1990m), 3hrs drive 5 hrs walk. After breakfast at the hotel, our guide will pick you up from your hotel in Pokhara and transport you to Ghandruk for a four-hour journey and a three-hour hike. Ghandruk is a typical Gurung settlement with views of the Annapurna Himalayan range, which includes Mt Fishtail.

• Day 03: Trek from Ghandruk to Sinuwa (2340m), via Chhomrung.We're going to Sinuwa after breakfast at the tea house. Today we are walking through the jungle, farmland, and village, which will take around 6-7 hours. Today, we're taking a step-by-step walk up and down a straight road.

• Day 04: Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali (3140m), via Bamboo and Himalaya 5-6hrs. Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we will go to Deurali via Bamboo, Dovan, and the Himalaya. Today we're going for a jungle trek and sliding up. On Dovan or Himalaya, we're having lunch.

• Day 05: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base camp(4130m), via Machhapuchhre base camp 4-5hrs. We'll go to Deurali today after breakfast at the hotel, via Bamboo, Dovan, and the Himalaya. We're going on a jungle hike and sliding up today. We're having lunch on Dovan or Himalaya.

• Day 06: Trek from Annapurna Base camp to Bamboo (2310m), 5-6 hrs.  In today's We enjoy a sunrise view in the morning in the annapurna I, annapurna II, and annapurna south, and after breakfast, we stroll down to bamboo. Himalaya is where we'll be having lunch today.

• Day 07: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu danda have a natural Hot spring 4-5 hrs. Today's world We start the day with a dawn view of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and Annapurna South, and then hike down to Bamboo for breakfast. We'll be having lunch in Himalaya today.

• Day 08: Jhinudanda to Nayapool and drive to Pokhara 4-5 hrs  walk  2 hrs drive. This is our last day of trekking, so we will descend to Nayapul and then travel to Pokhara. Today we may stroll to Pokhara's lakeside, which will refresh you at the end of the hike.

• Day 09: Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft), 5-6 hrs drive .To get to Kathmandu, take a tourist bus to Pokhara early in the morning through the gorgeous Nepalese countryside. When you arrive in Kathmandu, your guide will drive you to your hotel, where you can relax or explore the nearby areas before spending the night.
• Note: If the above itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences.