Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek - 7 Days

Good to Know
  • Duration 7 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Starts/Ends pokhara to Pokhara
  • Group Size 1-10
  • Max. Altitude 4100 M
  • Best Season all

Highlights

  • A scenic drive from and to the city of lakes of Nepal, Pokhara.
  • Visit several traditional Gurung and Magar villages of the Annapurna Himalayas, offering an authentic cultural experience, such as Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chomrong, Dovan, Deurali, Bamboo, and Jhinu Danda.
  • An early morning, serene hike to the lofty hill, also known as the ultimate Annapurna viewpoint, Poon Hill (3,210 m).
  • Relish the most stunning mountain views of Hinunchuli, the Annapurna ranges (I, III, and South), Khangsar, Kang, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhare, and neighboring snow-capped peaks.
  • Reach the base of the 10th highest mountain in the world, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC/4,130 m).
  • End your strenuous trek day with a relaxing dip into the natural hot spring at Jhinu Danda, etc.

Trip Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek is one of the best moderately strenuous Himalayan journeys through the heart of the Annapurna Trekking Region within the largest conservation area of Nepal, the Annapurna Conservation Area. Including a face-off with the seventh tallest mountain giant on Earth, Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), and reaching the foot of the 10th highest mountain in the world, Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), hiking here is extremely rewarding.

The Annapurna Base Camp short trekking itinerary, unlike the standard Annapurna Base Camp Trek of 14 days, begins with a joyous drive from Pokhara to Ulleri and a same-day trek to Ghorepani. In just a week, trekkers get to cover all the major highlights of the Annapurna Himalayas, including a morning hike to Poon Hill for a beautiful sunrise view. An intimate encounter with the typical Nepalese day-to-day life away from rapidly engrossing modern civilization is also there.

Traversing the Annapurna Sanctuary, which boasts a diverse landscape, culture, and a wide range of flora and fauna, the short trek to Annapurna Base Camp is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the tranquility of the chain of snow-covered peaks in a week. Charming valleys and villages welcome you with each step. Best suited for seasoned trekkers who are used to high-altitude trekking and climbing conditions, book this now for a memorable short Himalayan holiday experience in Nepal.

At Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks, we are offering early bird booking and group discounts on the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek for the years 2025 and 2026. Contact us now to reserve your seat as soon as possible. Our comprehensive Annapurna Base Camp short trekking cost includes meals, lodging, permits, and transportation for trek days. As professionals with more than two decades of experience, we ensure you a hassle-free journey.

What to expect during the short trek to Annapurna Base Camp?

Typically completed in 7 days, the short hike to Annapurna Base Camp is full of Himalayan adventure, natural beauty, and cultural encounters. Though it is shorter than the classic Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek, and Langtang Valley Trek, reaching the base of Mount Annapurna itself as the highest point requires a good level of physical fitness and mental preparation for the most seamless experience. As it spans a shorter duration, trekkers may need to hike for 6-8 hours a day.

Along the Modi Khola River Valley, slowly giving way to rugged and snowy or icy trails in winter, away from modern chaos, for this short trek to Annapurna Base Camp, proper hydration, pacing, and acclimatization are a must. Through the Gurung and Magar villages, terraced farmlands, and lush rhododendron forests—extra beautiful in the months of spring as the fresh bloom of wildflowers and rhododendron decorates the Annapurna trekking routes—here's what truly makes the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trip special:

Where is Annapurna Base Camp?

Annapurna Base Camp is one of the popular trekking destinations in Nepal. Rivaling the Everest Base Camp, it is located within the largest conservation area of the country, the Annapurna Conservation Area in the Annapurna region. Beneath the 10th-tallest mountain in the world, Annapurna I (8,091 m), to reach here, trekkers pave the way through diverse landscapes that are also home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Rhododendron and bamboo forests add to the serenity.

Several suspension bridges, skirts of glacial moraines, alpine meadows, and rocky trails are common encounters as you ascend from Ulleri to Annapurna Base Camp and retrace the route back. On a lucky day, home to a variety of Himalayan wildlife, you may even get to observe rare red pandas, Himalayan tahr, langur monkeys, Himalayan black bears, and on an extremely fortunate day, the majestic snow leopard. For photography and nature enthusiasts, Annapurna trekking trails, including the Annapurna Base Camp short trekking trail, are a haven.

Why is Ghorepani village a popular cultural stop on the ABC trail?

The short Annapurna Base Camp Trek also includes staying in local teahouses, lodges, and guest houses in between traditional villages along the trekking route. These villages offer you an insider's insight into the Himalayan lifestyle of locals, the majority of whom are Gurung and Magar. Following the footprints of ancestors mixed with Hindu and Buddhist teachings, locals here still practice agriculture, animal husbandry, and weaving as the primary source of livelihood.

Life here is simple yet adequate with happiness, harmony, and connection with nature. There’s a refreshing perspective of life, and if you are wondering where to visit for such an interesting cultural endeavor during the Annapurna Base Camp short hike, Ghorpani village is just the right stop for experiencing rural Himalayan culture. Primarily inhabited by Magars, one of the indigenous ethnic groups of Nepal, the village is a major stopping place.

Characterized by stone-built houses and terraced farms amidst the lush rhododendron forests, to experience the genuine local hospitality, unique customs, and architecture, Ghorepani sure does enhance the ABC cultural trekking experience.

Which part of the Annapurna Base Camp short trek trail offers a 360-degree mountain panorama?

At low altitude, Poon Hill, at an elevation of 3,210 m above sea level, is the primary Annapurna viewpoint. Near Ghorepani village, an early morning hike to see the sunrise over the Annapurna Himalayas is one of the most popular tourist activities. In the heart of the Annapurna mountain range, Poon Hill offers a complete 360-degree view of several snow-capped peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli, including Annapurna South.

Whether you are on a standard Annapurna Base Camp trip or a short hike, Poon Hill is an easily accessible and beginner-friendly landmark to trek from Ghorepani for stunning Himalayan panoramas. While there are several other high-altitude places with refined Annapurna Mountain views, Annapurna Base Camp remains the ultimate best Annapurna viewpoint for those who are ready for some challenges that can be both physically and mentally taxing.

Who chooses the short version of the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Short Hiking of 7 days is designed to cater to trekkers who are tight on holidays but still want to experience the best of the Himalayas or combine trekking with other major tourist attractions of Nepal, such as Pokhara, Chitwan, and Kathmandu Valley. Short trek days mean reduced cost for guide/porter, meals, and lodging, an ideal option for mid-range or quick adventure trip lovers. The entire trip is manageable even for beginners with moderate fitness.

Therefore, if you are a family or group of trekkers who want to experience base camp life without technicality, extensive trekking days, and breaking the bank, the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek is the right pick for you. Especially for those who have already completed major high-altitude treks in Nepal, such as theManaslu Circuit Trek, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, and the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek via Cho La Pass, revisiting for a shorter goal, a short trip to Annapurna Base Camp, is a must-book right now for 2025/26.

When do the baths in natural hot springs get relaxing?

Lying on the main Annapurna Base Camp Trekking route, Jhinu Danda features a natural hot spring with mineral-rich lukewarm water found to be beneficial for curing skin ailments and soothing tired muscles. At an elevation of 1,780 m above sea level, after several days of strenuous high-altitude treks with steep ascents and descents, rugged terrain, and remote conditions, dipping into the hot spring is a therapeutic and peaceful experience.

While the 7-day Annapurna Base Camp Short Trekking itinerary directly drives you to Pokhara, an extra day is recommended at Jhinu Danda so you do not miss the amazing experience of contrasting cold mountain air and warm water. A tranquil environment surrounded by lush greenery, the roars of the river below, and the welcoming nature of the Himalayan locals—what could be a better way to conclude an epic Himalayan voyage? Breathe in the serene air and enjoy warm tea!

The best Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek itinerary of 7 days and the cost for 2025/26

The 7-day Annapurna Base Camp Short Trekking is from Pokhara. It begins with a drive to Ulleri, which then treks through the villages of Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, Dovan, and Deurali, finally to the Annapurna Base Camp on the 5th day. On the way from Ghorepani, you will take a side trip to Poon Hill, meaning that you will not miss out on any of the major highlights of the Annapurna Himalayas. By the 6th day, the descending trail begins and at first stops by Bamboo on the very next day, trekking to Jhinu Danda and driving back to Pokhara on the same day.

For adventurers who are short on time and wish to relish the serene essence of the Annapurna mountain ranges, the adventure of reaching the base of the 10th highest mountain in the world, Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) above sea level, with a short trek to Annapurna Base Camp in 7 days, is an excellent itinerary. The views are as stunning as those during the regular Annapurna Base Camp Hiking of 14 days of chains of Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and other neighboring peaks.

Himalayan wildlife encounters and Himalayan culture are also there; therefore, for those seeking to embark on the Annapurna sanctuary without missing out on the diverse landscapes and charming Himalayan valleys and villages, a short trip to Annapurna Base Camp in 7 days is your Himalayan voyage to book in 2025/26. At Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks, get special group discounts for groups of more than 10 members on the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek cost for 2025/26.

While the exact Annapurna Base Camp short trekking cost, including for the years 2025 and 2026, may vary based on the customization made, such as the combined Annapurna Base Camp Trek with the Chitwan National Park, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Rafting and Chitwan National Park, or the extended Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass Trek, the Upper Mustang Trek, and upgrades on meals and accommodations, on booking with us, we ensure a value to your budget and a hassle-free experience.

Itinerary
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On this day, you will meet your guide and porter early in the morning in the hotel and start driving by jeep to Ulleri, which takes 2–3 hours from Pokhara with a scenic view of the valley, rivers, and mountain villages.

The official trek starts from here onwards to Ghorpani with a remarkable view of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna ranges, and others, with lunch on the way, as decided by the guide.

The trail goes mainly through Rhodondren forest and rivers, followed by a peek at Mt. Annapurna south, Heuchuli, and Mt. Fishtail at some point.

  • AccommodationTea house
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2874 m

Today, you will wake up early in the morning to catch a gleaming sunrise view over the snow-capped Himalayas.

You are sure to be enchanted by the best viewpoint of the Annapurna region with the panoramic mountain views of Annapurna, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, and the surrounding area.

Then, you will hike down to Ghorpani to have breakfast and trek further to Tadapani via beautiful Deurali to see the mountains and landscapes, which is a walk of one and a half hours.

After Deurali, the trails are almost complete downhill to Banthati, where you will stop by to have lunch.

Passing by the rhododendron forest and rivers, you will arrive at the lodging palace of the day, Tadapani. 

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2630 m

From Tadapani, you will move forth to yet another beautiful village of Gurung people named Chomrong when the trail descends steeply into a thicket of rhododendron, oak, and other fauna.

The chirping of various kinds of birds will keep you company all the way to Kimrung Khola, from where you will ascend straight and then walk flatly for 45 minutes, which keeps on repeating for a while till you make it to Chomrong.

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2165 m

The journey to the Annapurna Base Camp continues with a hike from Chomrong to the Himalayas after breakfast at the lodge, traversing along the riverbank, which experiences simultaneous ups and downs.

Then, you will pass Himalaya through the rhododendron woodland and the landslide region very cautiously through the stone-paved trackway till Dovan, where you can see the two rivers joined together.

Although the overall trail of the day is easy to navigate, a few sections passing by the landslide-prone area can be exhausting. However, if you are still left with energy, you will move forward to Deurali for the overnight stay.

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3174 m

Today is the most intense trekking day of the adventurous voyage to the Annapurna Base Camp. You will be rewarded and challenged equally to make it through the sanctuary’s gate to Macchapuchare Base Camp and then to the base camp of Annapurna.

Initially, you will follow the Modi Khola River and then head toward Hinko Cave. From the cave, which provides magnificent surrounding glacier views and mountain vistas, you will gradually rise up to catch the 360-degree, complete view of the Annapurna giants in the base camp at an elevation of 4,130m.

The trail obviously isn’t that steep, but the high altitude is what makes it challenging, which is worth every shot when you are in the mythical presence of Mt. Gangapurna, Annapurna and its ranges, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho, Pisang, Hiunchuli, Pungda Danda, etc

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude4130 m

After leaving memorable footprints at the ABC, you will retrace the way to Bamboo, which is 1,600m below the camp, on a descent from the route that exits both the Modi Khola River Valley and the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Eventually, you will make it to the peaceful Bamboo at 2,350 m (7,700 ft), with outstanding scenery contrasting hugely with the rugged and snow-covered mountains of the Annapurna Base to chill for the day.

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2350 m

You must have felt exhausted from the day before yesterday's trek to the ABC. Therefore, it is time to let yourself rejuvenate in the natural hot spring of Jhinu Danda whom you will meet on your way to a gentle-rolling path with a beautiful backdrop of the valley on descending sharply to the Chomrong Khola, which later on makes an ascent to Chomorong village.

With one more section of descent from Chomrong, you will call it the day at exotic Jhinu Danda to unwind, soothe, and let your muscles loosen up a bit surrounded by lush flora and rhododendron forests.

The drive is picturesque, as is the town of Pokhara at the foot of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. Take a walk around the lake of Phewa in the evening, where one can do rafting, canoeing, boating, and many more tourist activities.

  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch

This itinerary is not suited for you? Plan your own trip.

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What's Included
Includes
  • 6 nights and 7 days of food (Breakfast-Lunch-dinner)  and accommodation during trek (local lodge)
  • Pokhara to trekking departure point, and back to Pokhara by private transport
  • English speaking local expert guide, porters( porter carry 20 to 24 k.g and one porter between two person)
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) fees
  • Annapurna Conservation permit ( ACAP)
  • Equipment & clothing for porter & staffs
  • Equipment (sleeping bag, first aid kit, oximeter etc.)
  • Insurance for all staff & porters.
  • Trekking achievement certificate
  • Adventure Himalayan T-shirt
Excludes
  • Nepal visa - Multiple Entry 30 days - USD 50  (Details in Visa Page)
  • Hotel accommodation in kathmandu and pokhara
  • International flight & all domestic departure tax
  • Insurance for clients (i.e. helicopter evacuation, etc.)
  • Hot Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek
  • Alcoholic drinks, candies, etc.
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of itinerary
  • Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
  • Tips, any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation/road block due to any reason, table drinks, snacks while walking. 
Dates and Prices
Date PriceAvailability 
Start DateStarts: MondayAug 18, 2025End DateEnds: SundayAug 24, 2025PricePriceUS$575StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayAug 25, 2025End DateEnds: SundayAug 31, 2025PricePriceUS$575StatusStatusAvailable
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Useful Info

When is the best time for a short trek to Annapurna Base Camp?

While Annapurna Base Camp trekking, whether short or long, is feasible throughout the year if packed appropriately as per seasonal demands and prepared well in advance, including in winter and summer, spring and autumn are undoubtedly the best times for high-altitude trekking and climbing in the Himalayas, including for short trekking journeys to Annapurna Base Camp. Each season comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Spring and autumn are with stable Himalayan weather, clear skies, and mild temperatures.

Winter and summer, with the right gear and equipment, they offer you a more serene experience when the trekking trail is left mostly to those who are trekking at the moment. However, spanning from December to February, winter is colder below freezing points in high-altitude areas, specifically in and around the Annapurna Base Camp, and summer/monsoon, from June to August, is with heavy rainfall, leading to muddy, slippery, and sometimes leech-filled trails. Pick your season as per your preferences.

Can you get private rooms and Western menus during the Annapurna Base Camp short trip of 7 days?

As one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal, the Annapurna Trekking region boasts well-established trekking routes featuring teahouses, lodges, and guest houses to take care of your necessities. Though the modern amenities like hot showers, wifi, and charging of electronic devices can get limited and privileged with increased altitude, remoteness, and ruggedness, at low altitude, in more popular and larger villages, at your request, we can arrange private rooms and Western meals for you.

Otherwise, teahouses provide you with meals and accommodation. Expect the staple Nepalese dish Dal-Bhat-Tarkari (steamed rice with lentil soup and seasonal vegetables), noodle soup (Thukpa), and a variety of potato dishes, and as for accommodation, traditionally furnished rooms with twin sharing beds and beddings consisting of mattresses, blankets, and pillows. Toilets and bathrooms are usually located outside and are also shared. That is, private rooms with attached bathrooms are a luxury and incur some extra cost.

What is the difficulty level of the Annapurna Base Camp short hike? Who can do it?

The Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek of 7 days is regarded as moderate in difficulty level. Though it does not involve high-altitude mountaineering or technical climbing, unlike during expeditions to Mount Everest and Mount Manaslu, steep ascents and descents on rugged terrain in low levels of oxygen and high chances of seeing symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) are still there, making pacing, gear, guidance, and some preparation essential.

Reaching the highest point of 4,130 m above sea level at the Annapurna Base Camp is doable even by beginners with a good level of physical fitness, those willing to cope with minimal facilities, and those who enjoy long hours of walking. The Annapurna Base Camp as your trekking destination is suitable even for families with active children, solo travelers, and older adults, but a short trip is more convenient for seasoned trekkers. Join us for this scenic Himalayan experience without extreme altitudes.

Is a solo short trek to Annapurna Base Camp feasible in the years 2025 and 2026?

Yes, solo trekking accompanied by a licensed guide is still a thing in Nepal, including for the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek of 7 days. After the banning of free individual trekkers and backpackers in the country from April 1st, 2023, whether you are travelling solo or in a group, or on private tours and trips inside the national park, conservation, and restricted areas, it is necessary that you hire a professional guide. Including the years 2025 and 2026, the Annapurna Base Camp short trekking.

I.e., trekking alone without joining a group is feasible, but hiring a guide is mandatory. High-altitude-trained guides, including those with first aid training from Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks, not only navigate the challenging trails for you but also provide you with immediate assistance in case of emergency. Besides that, guides are there for seamlessly managing trekking logistics like permits, meals, and lodges, so you get to fully invest yourself in enjoying the Himalayan voyage.

Do you need permits for the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek?

Yes, since the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, including short ones like the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, the Khopra Danda Trek, the Mardi Himal Trek, and the 7-day short trek to Annapurna Base Camp, is through the Annapurna Conservation Area, you would need at least two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the standard Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits are issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN).

The procedure of obtaining permits by trekkers and visitors themselves can get hectic, and since the banning of the free individual trekkers (FITs) in Nepal effective from April 1st, 2023, these essential permits are issued only through registered trekking companies like Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks. Book your adventure with us while we manage all the required documents, permits, and trekking logistics. The best of the best service is guaranteed.

Start fromUS$575US$975(Price varies by group size)
We Offer Group Discount Price
  
1 paxUS$675
2 - 3 paxUS$575
4 - 6 paxUS$550
7 - 10 paxUS$525
US$675
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