Overview

Short Annapurna Base Camp trek is a hike in the Annapurna region and hikes to two base camp, the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) and the Machhapuchhre Base Camp which is in close proximity of each other. This ABC hike is a few days shorter version of Annapurna Base Camp Trek, but will the same thrills and frills of an adventure of it.

Annapurna region is not only home to the Annapurna range with a number of peaks to its credit, but also home to a number of fabulous trails to be hiked through such as you might find in trekking in Annapurna region such as Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Ghandruk Loop Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek. They link this one are all done in the backdrop of the Annapurna Mountains and their ranges, giving one some of the most tantalizing views of snow-capped peaks and some of the best natural vegetation that the Himalayas have to offer along with various species of animal and birds. Plus the chance to walk over rivers beds, ascend and descent while capturing panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountains to the north. In addition to traversing over glaciers and suspension bridges over roaring fast flowing rivers and streams and sometimes getting to peep into gorges created by them. Besides this, the added wonder is stopping at or passing through the rural hamlet, untouched by roads and that have their own unique cultures, religions and walk of life. So much so, any trek in the Annapurna region, is famed internationally for this reason. Taking a trip like the short Annapurna Base Camp Trek will give you these wonders.

There is much that can be taken away from this Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek. First of all, it is a shorter version of a longer trip of the same nature, allowing one to get the same joy of trekking in the Annapurna region when you might have a limited amount of time on hand to spend on holidays. You get to visit two base camps in a single trekking trip, the ABC and the MBC. Then you have the pleasure of getting superb sights of all the mountain peaks and ranges in the Annapurna region, all covered with snow the year-round. In addition to visiting ABC and MBC, you get to hike through the lush green forest with a variety of flora and fauna of diverse nature and view some rare birds and animals along the way, unique to the Himalayan region. Then there are the different village, unspoiled by the change that roads bring to them. All of them have their own cultures, ethnicities and traditions that set them apart. Plus you get to drop into a village museum which gives you an idea of what a model village in Nepal is really like. Not forgetting the roaring freshwater rivers and the suspension bridges that you cross peeping into the deep gorges while over them. Then there are some of the glaciers that you might get the opportunity of traversing over in your bid to get to ABC and see what it takes at a base camp for one to summit the most difficult of the peaks above the 8,000-meter mark. All this and more in just eight days’ time.

What benefits do I gain from this trek?
The benefits that one gain from such a trek is tremendous. Since it is a trek done untouched by roads, one does it in a pristine non-polluted environment with sights stimulating to the sight with the wonderful views of nature. Plus one gets to learn of the natural environment in which people live and from it evolves their way of life. So much so, when the trek is over, you come out a physically stronger person, and a body that has been rejuvenated by the exercise hiking gives a person. In truth, you are able to perform much better as a human being when you get on with your life. These are eco-friendly hikes in which you gain rather than losing anything.

Outline Trekking Itinerary for Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu to Pokhara (25 min flight) drive to Kyumi (below Ghandruk and hike to Chhomrung
Day 3: Chhomrung to Dovan (2580 m) 5 to 6 hour Hike
Day 4: Dovan to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700 m) 5 to 6 hour Hike
Day 5: MBC to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) (4130m) to Dovan
Day 6: Dovan to Jhinu (1760 m) 5 to 6 hour Hike
Day 7: Jhinu to Nayapul (trek) to Pokhara
Day 8: Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 9: Transfer to airport for your onward destination

Trip Highlights

-Witness majestic views of the world’s highest mountains series onboard flight to Nepal
-Enjoy sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley at various UNESCO World Heritage Sites
-View spectacular panorama of Mt. Annapurna range alongside other adjacent peaks
-Explore Annapurna Base Camp with great view of Mt. Annapurna
-Hike through gushing rivers, green countryside, alpine meadows, valleys, glaciers etc
-Explore Annapurna Conservation Area with varieties of floras and faunas
-Discover the local culture and traditions with ethnic people

Day 1 :

Arrival at Kathmandu

One this day, you arrive in Kathmandu. A representative from the company welcomes you at the International airport and takes you by private vehicle to your three-star hotel lodging. If you have any time in the day you could either use it to rest or stroll the vicinity of your hotel to see what’s new.

Day 2 :

Kathmandu to Pokhara (25 min flight) drive to Kyumi (below Ghandruk and hike to Chhomrung

Today, we catch the first flight to Pokhara from where you will be taken by jeep to Kyumi just below Ghandruk where you will stop for a while to take in the sights of the snow-capped Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre and stop for a visit to the village museum there, and then you will hike up Chhomrung taking you about four hours to reach. On the way you will magnificent views of the Himalayan ranges.

Day 3 :

Chhomrung to Dovan (2580 m) 5 to 6 hour Hike

On this day, you will hike from Chhomrung to Dovan (2580 m) which should take you about 6 hours to reach. Taking the Modi Khola route, we get to the slops up the Himalayas, where we cross suspension bridges and climb to Sinuwa Danda and then a thick rhododendron forest to reach Kuldighar. Pass it onto a stony path of thich bamboo groves and rhododendron, we finally reach Dovan. We stay for the night at a lodge.

Day 4 :

Dovan to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700 m) 5 to 6 hour Hike

Now it is onto Machhapuchhre Base Camp from Dovan which should take us about 6 hours to reach. Passing through dense forest, crossing two streams and some suspension bridges and encountering some wildlife and viewing the ranges of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna and Hiunchuli, we get to MBC. We stay the night at a lodge.

Day 5 :

MBC to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) (4130m) to Dovan

Today from MBC it is the hike to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC – 4130 m) where we halt only for an hour after hiking for about 4 hours there. We see how it is to make summits to the most difficult climbing peak on earth. From there, we trek onto Dovan which should take us and hour, being mostly downhill. We stay the night at the lodge here.

Day 6 :

Dovan to Jhinu (1760 m) 5 to 6 hour Hike

We head for Jhinu (1760 m) from Dovan today which should take us about 6 hours to hike. The path leads uphill on a stony path ahead of reaching Sinuwa and down all the way to Chhomrung. Walking on we reach Jhinu. We stay the night at a lodge in Jhinu.

Day 7 :

Jhinu to Nayapul (trek) to Pokhara

Today we end our hike by getting to Nayapul from where we are driven to Pokhara. At Pokhara, we check-in hotel and relax or free to explore the city if we wish. Stay at hotel for overnight.

Day 8 :

Pokhara to Kathmandu

Today we head back to Kathmandu by tourist bus, taking all the rural sceneries on the way in. Alternatively, we can also fly back to Kathmandu. At Kathmandu you are checked into a three-star hotel and then taken to an authentic Nepali restaurant for dinner with the staff of the company.

Day 9 :

Transfer to airport for your onward destination

As your trip is now over, today a representative of the company will bid you farewell at the airport, three hours ahead of your flight for check-in formalities.
At Breakfree Adventures, we hope that you had a fabulous time on this trek with us where we take your comfort and security with the highest importance.

FAQs

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What’s the difference between Annapurna base camp trek and short Annapurna base camp trek?

The difference between these two treks is that on Short Annapurna Base Camp trek, you will drive to a small village called Kyumi just below Ghandruk and start the trek to Chhomrong . This will save extra trek day and walking is ideal for anyone with a plan to do Annapurna Base Camp trek quickly.

When is the best time to go short Annapurna base camp?

The best time to do short Annapurna base camp trek is from pre-monsoon (February, March, April and May) and post-monsoon (late September, October, November and December). Short Annapurna Base Camp can also be done in January and early September which is winter so the trail will be filled with snow with freezing cold in the mornings and the nights. Monsoon season receives a lot of rain with slipper and muddy trails, and landslide sometimes too.

What is a short Annapurna base camp trek itinerary?

Short Annapurna base camp trek itinerary starts with the drive to Kyumi from Pokhara and start the trek to Chhomrong then following Dovan, Machhapuchhre base camp reach Annapurna Base Camp and eventually trek to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara.

What about Annapurna base camp trek avalanche?

Annapurna base camp trek avalanche occurred on the 3rd week of January 2020 with several trekkers and Nepali guide missing. Annapurna base camp was closed for a month but at present, it is open and trekkers have started to trek into the Annapurna Base Camp.

What is short Annapurna base camp trek grade?

Short Annapurna base camp is a moderately graded trek. Annapurna is a very accessible region and one of the popular trekking destinations of Nepal. Almost anyone can undertake treks in the Annapurna region. Though the trekking trail comprises of long paths that go up and then down. One with weak ankles should take caution. Depending on the season, there can also be snow and ice on the trails.

What is Short Annapurna base camp trek altitude?

Short Annapurna base camp trek altitude is Annapurna Base Camp which is 4130 meters and the highest point of the trek. From Annapurna Base Camp one can witness awesome 360 degrees of a Himalayan panorama of peaks ranging from 3800 meters since the base camp is surrounded by mountains all round. You will see peaks like Dhaulagiri along the Annapurna’s to Machhapuchhre ‘Fishtail’ and on to Manaslu.

What is a short Annapurna base camp trek fitness level?

Short Annapurna base camp trek fitness level requires a good physical condition and ability to walk four to six hours per day over hilly terrain. Though the trek is a moderately graded trek there are some long days and steep inclines. But previous trekking experience or technical experience isn’t required. If you don’t have a previous trek experience or do not exercise regularly, we recommend that you go for a little exercise and daily walking before your trip. During the trek, enough rest days are planned to help you acclimatize safely to the increasing elevation.

Is travel insurance for short Annapurna base camp needed?

Yes! You are recommended to get travel insurance that covers even at higher altitudes i.e. up to 4000m. The insurance policy usually doesn’t cover over 3,000 meters of altitude. So, make sure these things while purchasing travel insurance for short Annapurna base camp and read their policies.

Do I get altitude sickness on short Annapurna base camp trek?

At higher altitudes, anyone might experience altitude sickness regardless of how you fit you are or age-difference. Those who haven’t lived at high altitudes may also suffer from altitude sickness (also called as AMS or altitude motion sickness). The highest point on this trek goes above 4000 meters so altitude sickness can occur. The best thing to do is walk slow and proper hydration altitude sickness on short Annapurna base camp trek can be prevented.

How is short Annapurna base camp trek accommodation?

Family-run lodges often called ‘Teahouses’ are in the Annapurna region. Especially the higher you go accommodation is limited, so the room may differ from a private single/double room to a bed in a dormitory. Short Annapurna base camp trek accommodation is very basic accommodation and usually be shared shower and toilet facilities. All lodges have a communal dining hall. Though basic, these teahouses are clean and welcoming, friendly and warm resting place after a tiring day’s trek.

What will be the food on the short Annapurna base camp trek?

Lodges on the trail offer wide choices for foods and drinks. These contain typical Nepali meals to the continental dishes. Nepali dish ‘Dal Bhat’ with season vegetable and pickle. Or, go for pizza, momo, noodles, macaroni, sizzler, sandwich, burger, etc. Different types of coffee, fruit juice, and alcoholic drinks are also available. If you have booked a package tour then the company handles all costs. But if booked on service only then food on the short Annapurna base camp trek costs to US$25-30 per person per day for lunch/dinner, where breakfast will be included. But on high altitude treks, avoiding alcoholic drinks is a good idea.

Is drinking water available during the trek?

Bottled water can be bought or you can take along a bottle and fill the bottle with tap water with purifying tablets. These can be bought in Pokhara or Kathmandu before the trek. Most brands of purification tablets take just 30 minutes before you can drink. Drinking a minimum of 3 to 4 liters of water per day is recommended.

Is Short Annapurna base camp trek permit required?

Short Annapurna base camp trek permit is required which is an entry permit to ACAP – Annapurna Conservation Area Project which is US$30 per person and TIMS Card which is US$10 per person. All of these permits are taken care by your travel company.

If I get sick during the trek, what will happen?

Sickness depends upon its nature. For mild sickness usually descending to a lower altitude with the help and support of the guide or porter is done. For serious illness, emergency helicopter evacuation service is arranged. Our guide will be in constant contact with us and takes immediate action as per the situation. This is where travel insurance comes covering for a medical evacuation service and other medical expenses. Our guides carry first aid kit with basic medication like simple painkillers, altitude sickness tablets, bandages, balm for muscle aches and medication to treat diarrhea and vomiting. They are experienced trek guides and will take care of you if anything happens to you.

Is short Annapurna base camp trek solo possible?

Short Annapurna base camp trek solo is possible i.e. without taking a guide or joining a group. But trekking in the high altitude isn’t really suggested and can be risky. By trekking alone, trekkers have to overcome all the problems like weather, sickness etc. by himself and at times there might be several unexpected complications.

What are tips for trekking Short Annapurna base camp?

Tipping is not mandatory but let’s not forget that it has become a custom to show gratitude towards your guide and porters who made it all possible for you to finish the trek. You can give them a certain amount as tips for trekking Short Annapurna base camp as per your desire at the end of the trek.

What is Annapurna base camp helicopter tour?

If you wish to quit the trek section or those who are physically unfit to accomplish this long walk, there is an option of Annapurna Base Camp helicopter tour which can be taken from Kathmandu and flying to Pokhara then further to Annapurna Base Camp and back to Kathmandu. Alternatively, Annapurna base camp helicopter tour from Pokhara can also be done.

Are there ATMs on the way to Short Annapurna Base Camp?

ATM facilities aren’t available on Annapurna base camp trek. Exchanging into Nepali rupees before the trek in Kathmandu or whilst in Pokhara is the only option.

Where should I store my luggage in Kathmandu before going to trek?

Your hotel where you stay in Kathmandu will store your luggage that you don’t want to take to trek without any charge. Later on, you can pick up your luggage after the trek. If you are starting trek from Pokhara then you can store it at your hotel in Pokhara.

From where can I call home, my families or friends?

Almost everywhere there is a phone service from where you can call back home. Your mobile phone also works depending upon mobile service providers.

What is the Short Annapurna base camp trek gear list?

Short Annapurna base camp trek packing list depends upon the season you travel. During winter warm clothes are suggested. These include down jacket, thermal longs and top, comfortable trekking trousers, t-shirts, fleece, windproof jacket, hat, scarf, and gloves. In monsoon requires rain gears are suggested and in summer, still requires light warm clothing. At most cases, your company already provide down jacket and sleeping bag. Besides, clothing can be purchased in Kathmandu at Thamel area or Pokhara as well where numerous trekking shops exists with both local and foreign brands.

Trip Information

We will provide you with comprehensive information on the every trek and tour we arrange. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require more information or have any questions, we are more than happy to assist you in anyway.

When to go:
Spring (mid-February, March, April, May) and Autumn (October, November) are the best seasons for Quick Annapurna Base Camp Trekking. Trekking in summer/monsoon (June, July) will be affected by rain but summer trek could be a boon for a keen botanist. Though Himalayan rain shadow areas like Upper Mustang and Kailash can be good during monsoon.

Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is highly recommended and is in fact compulsory should you be going trekking, rafting, paragliding etc. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter rescue, loss of luggage, etc. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please check with your insurance company that adventure activities and trekking above 3000m are covered in your policy, as some companies do not cover such things. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on the holiday; if you cannot provide this at the start of the holiday, you will be required to take out a suitable policy at that time.

Meals and Accommodation:
In Kathmandu, we normally use 3 stars hotel with breakfast but can upgrade upon request. During Quick Annapurna Base Camp Trek, we provide the best available guest house which is called Tea house (lodge). Tea Houses are more like hotels, with hot showers, western food, and private rooms (twin sharing). Some guesthouses are basic with shared washing and toilet facilities. If you are travelling in a group, you will share a room with someone else of the same gender from your group. If you prefer a single room, you may indicate your preference on request and pay a supplement. Keep in mind that there are several places which do not allow single accommodations during peak season, but we will try our best to accommodate your preferences if possible. In this arrangement overnight halts with dinner and breakfast will be in Tea-houses (Lodges) and lunches in local restaurants en-route. Furthermore as you will be staying in locally owned lodges you will be benefiting and interacting with the local community. It will give you a true feel for the Nepalese people and their lives.

We provide quality food in sufficient quantities (breakfast, lunch and dinner) from guesthouses chosen from a menu. While Annapurna Base Camp Trekking, your guide will help with menu selection and ensure that you get the best value meals possible. Although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, you should be aware that the menu is not normally extensive due to the extreme locations. Most teahouses offer a variety of rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. A variety of cereals, bread and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There will also be plenty of snacks available such as biscuits, chocolate and soft drinks and in some areas you will find fresh fruit in season. You can buy bottled mineral water from local lodges and shops en route or you can also ask your guide to fill your water bottle with boiled water and treat with water purification pills.

Fitness and Experience Required:
Our 8 days Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is moderate trek suitable for passionate walkers who have ability to walk at least 4-5 hours a day with a light day pack. Walking in higher altitude is physically demanding than walking in the lower altitudes; however, if you are in excellent health with average physical fitness and have positive attitude, self confidence and strong determination, you can accomplish the 8 days Quick Annapurna Base Camp Trek successfully. Exercising and jogging regularly for some weeks prior of the trip is good idea to enhance your strength and stability. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skill is required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood disease should inform us before booking the trek.

The Trekking Group:
For Quick Annapurna Base Camp Trekking, there will be one Guide, assistant Guide (8 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porters for luggage carrying (2 trekkers: 1 porter). This arrangement ensures that should anybody in the group is sick, the trip can still go ahead as planned. We can run Quick Annapurna Base Camp trek for group of any size, but generally have a maximum of sixteen people, as weve found this to be the optimum size for a successful trip. However, if youd like to make a group booking for more than twelve people together, we can arrange this too.

Trekking Guides and Staff:
The most significant thing that makes your Quick Annapurna Base Camp Trekking successful, enjoyable and memorable is the expert, experienced, courteous and helpful trek and Guide and the crew members who have ability of operating your days in the mountain smoothly. Your trip will be led by the best and most professional Guide. All of our Trekking Guides are carefully selected on the basis of their appropriate experience, Guiding skills and personal aptitude. With an objective of sustaining local communities Breakfree Adventures employs staffs who have plenty of knowledgeable about culture, flora and fauna, geography, and history of Nepal. Trekking Guide of Breakfree Adventures are also trained with following trainings to make them educated on potential medical issues during their trek, biodiversity and environmental issues, English language, etc:

• Intensive Wilderness First Aid – KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Educational Project)
• Trekking Guide Training – Nepal Governments Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation department of Hotel Management and Tourism Training Centre of Nepal
• Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet TAAN (Trekking Agents Association of Nepal)
• English Language – KEEP(Kathmandu environment education project)
• Conservation and Biodiversity TAAN
• Rock, Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (Climbing leaders) Nepal Mountaineering Association

Our Trekking Guides obviously speak English sufficient enough to communicate but please consider this is not our mother language. The guides and porters know the routes and locality like the back of their hand, they practice the local culture themselves and they are extremely passionate about their country and its cultural aspects.

Climate and Weather:
The climate of Nepal is as varied as its geography. The low-lying Terai has a sub-tropical monsoonal climate. The Himalayan foothills, where most of our treks take place, are best in the cool dry season from September to May. The traditional trekking season in Nepal is late September to December, with October and November generally recognized as having the best weather. Spring is also a popular time of year with warmer weather and the advantage of seeing spring flowers and rhododendrons in bloom. The visibility is good and days are pleasantly warm, although nights can be cold, and snow is possible above 3,000 meters.

Himalayan weather can be unpredictable where nights are generally cooler and days warmer. It’s a bit colder during the winter season (Jan to Feb) but days can be quite warm and lovely if the sun is shining. You can expect a bit of snow in the months of January/February and December. Expect the unexpected! The temperature could be as high as 20 deg C to -15 deg C low.

Safety and Security:
Security and safety are a high priority of our company however there are risks associated with adventure travel, that you should consider before booking. Our trip operators constantly monitor their areas of operation and will cancel or re-route a trip if they feel a destination is unsafe. The decision to travel to a particular country or region is a personnel one.

Responsible Travel
Breakfree Adventures is a leading trekking and travel agency with dedicated travel Professionals who are well trained to give you the best of what Nepal has to offer. Our professional team follows a social philosophy that accepts responsibility for the local people and the environment in which we work. We respect the natural environment and the culture of our country, and we help travellers from around the world discover the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Nepal. We know that responsible travel tries to minimize the impact of tourism on the environment and maximize employment and income-generating opportunities for local communities. The whole of Nepal, including those living in remote rural areas that have very few other opportunities for development, benefits from sustainable tourism.

Breakfree Adventures is passionate about preserving the environment. As responsible tour guides in Nepal, we strive to maintain a symbiotic relationship with the local communities through which we travel. While trekking to different destinations, we choose environmentally- friendly lodges that respect the needs of their staff members. We take care of our staff as well as our valued clients. During our treks and other trips, we follow a zero garbage policy (“pack in, pack out”) and leave nothing behind in the campsites. We always welcome your feedback and comments regarding responsible travel, so please send an e-mail to let us know what you think.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

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