Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days

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Trip Overview
  • Duration: 5 Days
  • Trip Grade: Moderate
  • Trip Start and End: Pokhara and Pokhara
  • Trip Area: Annpurna Base Camp
  • Trip Style: Active Adventure
  • Age Group: 6 or Above
  • Trip Type: Private and Group
  • Trip Method: Guided
  • Booking Type: Instant Confirmation
  • Max. Altitude: 4130m
  • Best Season: March - May and Sep - Dec
  • Foot Print:Carbon Neutralleaf

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek (5 Days) is a brief but adventurous journey through the spotlights of the Annapurna region. The euphoric experience it offers at a short duration has made it a favorable trekking plan, with its popularity growing each season.

The trails take you along river banks, beautifully carved settlements, colorful rhododendrons blooms, bamboo forests, terraces, and pastures. You will trek through the resting ground of the tall and most magnificent mountains such as Annapurna I, III, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.

The short duration it takes for the trek and well-maintained hiking routes have made it accessible for all. Whether you are on a trip to Nepal or want to add another memorable highlight to your short holiday bucket list, the Annapurna Base Camp (5 Days) Trek is the right fit.

The short 5-day Annapurna trekking itinerary starts with a drive from Pokhara to Jhinu. Stone-paved trails lead you to Chhomrong. After a gradual descent, you'll reach Lower Sinuwa to spend the night. The trekking trail on the second day cuts through green fields and terraces to Deurali, a dreamy place with magnificent cliffs.

On the third day, you'll embark on a gradual climb to Machhapuchhre Base Camp and then to Annapurna Base Camp. You'll spend the night at the base camp itself. This allows you to witness the majestic morning views from the base camp the next day. After an eventful morning at base camp, you will tread the return journey from base camp to Bamboo.

You’ll conclude the trek with a dip into the natural hot springs in Jhinu. By the end of it all, you will leave with vivid memories of the mountains and the endearing hospitality from the brave Gurkha warriors of the Gurung communities.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Prayers Flag at ABC

5 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek Highlights

  • Magnificent glimpses of Mt. Annapurna I, III, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and more.
  • Awe-striking landscapes of Annapurna Conservation Area spanning from lower farmlands at Pokhara and Nayapul to the rugged yet aesthetic terrain of Annapurna Base Camp.
  • The Annapurna Sanctuary is home to 27 different plant species and more than 100 mammal species.
  • Mesmerizing sunrise view and sunset view over the towering massifs in the Annapurna region.
  • Celebrate the unique culture and hospitality of the Gurung, Thakali, and Magar communities.

Why Choose Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

When compared with the standard 12 Days ABC Trek, there are a few reasons that make this short itinerary favorable:

Perfect for Travelers on a Short Holiday

Everybody would love an extended stay in the Annapurna region. Each new day here offers a unique experience to those willing to observe.

However, many travelers to Nepal have a tight schedule and must make brief plans. If you also want to get the most out of everything, the 5-day itinerary will serve you best.

We've carefully planned the itinerary for a meaningful trekking experience without making you feel like something is amiss. You will first trek through the spectacular villages of Jhinu, Deurali, and Sinuwa. You will then reach Annapurna Base Camp on the third day through the Machhapuchhre Base Camp, making it the quickest trekking plan to Annapurna Base Camp.

Avoid Walking on Motor Road

Short ABC Trek
Special Management Zone

Most sections of the lower Annapurna region have been connected with motor roads. This has made transporting goods easier. On the other side, it causes some trekking plans to include hiking through these roads alongside motor vehicles.

However, the short Annapurna Base Camp Trek for 5 days features a direct drive to Jhinu. By doing this, you’ll avoid having to walk on motor roads. The trail after Jhinu is purely natural with no vehicle interference.

Convenient Access to the Annapurna Region

This is a fairly easy journey that welcomes trekking beginners and enthusiasts. Experienced trekkers choose this trip as a warmup trek or just for the thrill of visiting a new place.

On top of it, ACAP maintains the route for a pleasant experience for everyone. Stone slabs pave more than 60% of the trail as steps. While it does provide the challenge that you wish for, the route is completely safe throughout.

Additionally, you'll get plenty of resting places and running water taps to refill and get hydrated. When not climbing the trail, you can take a breath and interact with the locals.

Elegant Mountain Views

Annapurna base camp trek 5 days
Lodges at ABC and Mount Fishtail

As you trek to Annapurna Base Camp, glorious views of Mt. Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Fishtail, Annapurna I, Singu Chuli, and more beautify the trail.

You'll get an undisturbed view of more than 10 peaks from the viewpoint at Annapurna Base Camp. In Autumn and Spring, you can see Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, and Gangapurna. They are popular mountains with elevations ranging from 6,441 meters to 8,091 meters.

Throughout the route, you will get majestic views of Mt. Khangsar Kang, Tare Kang Glacier Dome, Singu Chuli, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal.

Inspiring Landscapes

shortest Annapurna base camp trek
View of Upper and Lower Sinuwa

This journey takes you through one of the most diverse and inspiring landscapes of western Nepal. The best part is that you'll trek through these diverse landscapes in under 5 days.

You'll drive to Jhinu via Nayapul and Ghandruk where you'll get to see the most of terrace farming. You'll witness paddy farming in Autumn and wheat/potato farming in Spring. The fertile terrace farmlands of Chhomrong also show similar traits alongside mesmerizing glimpses of waterfalls and streams.

After crossing Bamboo and Dovan, you'll notice a decrease in the tree line and the landscape becomes more rugged and bare. Past Deurali, you'll witness herds of sheep grazing near the Machpuchhre Base Camp. In Autumn, the tall grasses here turn yellow, garnishing the terrain golden with the scintillating Annapurna massifs on the backgrounds.

After Machhapuchhre Base Camp, past 3,700 meters altitude, there is no vegetation. Winter freezes the high-altitude terrain here and covers it in snow.

Sophisticated Tea House Services

Being one of the most commercial trekking destinations in Nepal, this trek offers you comfortable accommodation services. Tea houses offer clean beds, warm blankets, electricity, internet, hot showers, and meals of your choice.

After a long day of hiking, a warm shower in the evening is perfect for refreshing the body and mind. Routinely washed bed sheets, clean blankets, and pillowcases ensure you get a good night's sleep.

Furthermore, you'll also get locally generated electricity and internet services throughout the tea houses.

tea house on short ABC trek

Route Map and Altitude Profile

Since this is a five-day trip, you'll have a short itinerary that starts from Pokhara followed by a drive to Jhinu from where the actual hike begins.

The first stop, Pokhara, sits at 822 m (2,697 ft). The second destination, Jhinu, sits at 1780 m (5,840 ft). Jhinu is a beautiful village in Ghandruk Municipality with the famed natural hot spring that trekkers visit after the trek.

Chhomrong, at 2,170 meters (7,119 ft), is a beautiful Gurung settlement in the Annapurna region that comes after Jhinu. Lower Sinuwa, our first overnight tea house, sits over 2,200 meters. Upper Sinuwa sits at 2,360 meters, Bamboo Village at 2,310 meters and Dovan at 2,600 meters.

Similarly, Himalaya sits at 2,900 meters, and our second overnight place, Deurali, sits at 3,230 meters.

The next morning hike for two hours from Deurali takes us to Machhapuchhre Base Camp, commonly known as MBC at 3,700 meters. Another two-hour hike from MBC takes us to our final destination, Annapurna Base Camp, at 4,130 meters.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Map
Itinerary Map for Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek altitude profile
Short Annapurna Trek Altitude Profile

Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days Cost

The cost for Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek (5 Days) starts from 380 USD per individual. This includes the cost of food and accommodation, guide and porters, permit fees, and transport, among other things.

Note that the cost per individual goes down if you come with a bigger group. The price for an individual trekker is 490 USD. If you come with a trekking partner, you can only pay 450 USD per trekker. Meanwhile, if you come in a group of three, the cost per individual goes down to 430 USD, and so on.

Refer to the following table for a detailed cost breakdown.

5 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek Cost Table

Group Size
Itinerary Duration
Cost
1 pax
5 Days
490 USD
2 pax
5 Days
450 USD
3-5 pax
5 Days
430 USD
5-10 pax
5 Days
400 USD
10 and more
5 Days
380 USD

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days Itinerary

  • Day 1:Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu and trek to lower SinuwaAltitude: 2,300 meters, Duration: 5 hours
  • Day 2:Trek to Deurali from Lower SinuwaAltitude: 3200 meters, Duration: 6 hours
  • Day 3:Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp Via Machhapuchhre Base CampAltitude: 4,130 meters, Duration: 4 hours
  • Day 4:Sightseeing at Annapurna Base Camp and trek to BambooAltitude: 2400 meters, Duration: 6 hours
  • Day 5:Trek to Jhinu from Bamboo and Drive to Pokhara (hot spring stop)Altitude: 822 meter, Duration: 6 Hours

Day 1:Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu and trek to lower Sinuwa

Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu and trek to lower Sinuwa
  • Max Altitude2,300 meters
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsLunch, Dinner

The first day starts with an early morning drive from Pokhara to Jhinu. The drive to Jhinu takes you through a scenic highway with elegant Machhapuchhre in the backdrop. First, you'll reach Nayapul within an hour from Pokhara and then the drive continues further to Jhinu.

Note that we may have to change vehicles midway if needed. If we cannot arrange a direct ride to Jhinu, we will either shuttle you from a taxi to a shared Jeep or make some other arrangement. Please stay flexible on this.

You'll cross the second-longest bridge in Jhinu and continue the gradual hike on stone-paved trails to Chhomrong at 2,140 meters. The stone-built houses, stone-paved trails, and lively terrace farming of Chhomrong leave you in awe. We'll have our lunch and rest at Chhomrong before hiking further to Sinuwa.

The route from Chhomrong descends till you cross a suspension bridge and make a gradual climb to Lower Sinuwa at 2,300 meters. We'll stay at a modest tea house in Lower Sinuwa for overnight accommodation and meals.

Day 2:Trek to Deurali from Lower Sinuwa

Trek to Deurali from Lower Sinuwa
  • Max Altitude3200 meters
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We'll start the hike in the early morning from Lower Sinuwa to Deurali. The first one and half hour hike from Lower Sinuwa takes us to Bamboo.

The hiking route to Bamboo is a gradual descent on stone-paved trails. You’ll encounter mesmerizing glimpses of Mt. Machhapuchhre till Bamboo.

After a hydration break at Bamboo, you’ll resume hiking to Dovan and “Himalaya” for the next two hours. We'll have our lunch at a tea house in “Himalaya”.

Amazing waterfalls, Buddhist prayer flags, caves, and beautiful landscapes keep the hike entertaining. Crossing small wooden bridges over streams will keep you attentive and thrilled all day.

The two-hour hike from the Himalayas takes us to Deurali where we'll stay overnight. Tea houses in Deurali offer hot water showers, electricity, and fast internet.

Day 3:Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp Via Machhapuchhre Base Camp

Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp Via Machhapuchhre Base Camp
  • Max Altitude4,130 meters
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You’ll reach the final destination, Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters on Day 3 of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary. After breakfast at Deurali, we'll leave for the base camp.

The route takes some time until we reach a river shore and hike on the flat terrain for another half hour. We'll then gradually climb to Machhapuchhre Base Camp at 3,700 meters.

The true face of the Machhapuchhre and Annapurna range unfolds as we hike higher to 3,800 meters. Towering mountains like Annapurna II, III, Hiunchuli, Fishtail, and numerous small peaks surround the entire landscape.

The hike to Annapurna Base Camp from Machhapuchhre Base Camp is comfortable but the increasing altitude is demanding. Another half hour of slow-paced hike finally takes you to ABC.

Before reaching the tea houses, we'll stop for photographs in front of the classic board that says "Namaste. Welcome to Annapurna Base Camp".

We'll have our lunch, dinner, and overnight accommodation at a tea house in the base camp. Sunset over Machhapuchhre in the evening is worth watching as the mountains get illuminated in yellow, golden, and red.

Day 4:Sightseeing at Annapurna Base Camp and trek to Bamboo

Sightseeing at Annapurna Base Camp and trek to Bamboo
  • Max Altitude2400 meters
  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The true colors of Annapurna massifs appear with the first golden rays of sunlight. As we wake up at 5:30, we'll hike to the viewpoint at base camp for the best views of the Annapurna range. Hundreds of trekkers gather at the viewpoint for sightseeing before sitting for breakfast.

After breakfast at the tea house in ABC, we'll start our return to Bamboo via MBC, Deurali, Himalaya, and Dovan. We'll hike on the same trail we hiked up to the base camp.

Today we'll follow a decent hike to Bamboo crossing several mini bridges, streams, and inspiring landscapes. We'll leave Annapurna and Machhapuchhre behind as we hike to Deurali past Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

We'll get lunch at Dovan and hike another two hours to Bamboo where we'll spend the night.

Day 5:Trek to Jhinu from Bamboo and Drive to Pokhara (hot spring stop)

Trek to Jhinu from Bamboo and Drive to Pokhara (hot spring stop)
  • Max Altitude822 meter
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch

Today's the final day of our successful Annapurna Base Camp short trek. We'll start our hike in the early morning after breakfast at a tea house in Bamboo.

For the first hour, we'll ascend on the stone paved stairs to Upper Sinuwa at 2,360 meters. The hike becomes scenic as we again get magnificent glimpses of Machhapuchhre till Upper Sinuwa.

We'll then descend for another one and a half hours to the river below Chhomrong via Lower Sinuwa. From the river, we'll hike the most tiring section of the trek route, the stairs of the entire Chhomrong.

We'll stop for rest and a water break at some sections of the final climb of Chhomrong before stopping for lunch.

After lunch, we'll descend gradually to Jhinu, cross the suspension bridge, and take a jeep ride to Pokhara via Nayapul. The jeep will drop us at the hotel we'll be staying in Pokhara. It marks the end of our 5 days shortest trek from Pokhara with a new itinerary.

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Cost Includes / Excludes

Cost Includes

  • 4 Breakfasts 5 Lunches, 4 Dinners
  • Tea house accommodation along the way for 4 Nights
  • Transport from Pokhara to Jhinu and return to Pokhara
  • One guide and assistant guide above 6 people, 1 porter for two people (A porter can carry up to 20 kg)
  • Annapurna conservation area permit and tims card fees.
  • Necessary paperwork with the government of Nepal and the Tax department
  • All the necessary insurance for the guides and porters
  • First Aid service in case of minor injuries

Cost Excludes

  • Rescue & travel insurance, trip cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, evacuation, loss, theft, or damage to baggage and personal effects (We strongly advise you to take out personal travel insurance.)
  • Trekking Gears
  • Extra night accommodation in Pokhara due to any reason
  • accommodations in Pokhara and Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, cold drinks, bottled or boiled water, hot shower, etc.)
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including mineral water
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Tipping for the Sublime crew

Accommodation

Annapurna base camp trek accomodation

Annapurna base camp - Lodges

Annapurna base Camp Trek accommodation

Tea House Room - Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days 2023-2024 Booking Dates

Select Month and Year
Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
Start DateStart: FridaySep 29, 2023End DateEnd: TuesdayOct 03, 2023PricePriceUS$450StatusStatusGuaranteed

Trip Essential Information

Baggage and weight limit for porters

One porter is assigned for every two trekkers during the trip. A porter can carry around 25 kgs of trekkers’ baggage. Hence, pack no more than 12-13 kgs of baggage other than the backpack you’ll carry yourself.

Nonetheless, if you must carry more personal items, you can hire an additional porter by paying extra fees.

However, the trekking itinerary is only five days long, and you don't need to pack heavily for the trip.

However, before the trek starts, you don't need to worry about the weight limits. Once you land at Kathmandu airport, you can take a taxi to Pokhara (or have us arrange the transportation) before starting the trek. If you wish to take a domestic flight, you can carry around 15kg - 10 kg of luggage and 5 kg on hand carry.

Essential Permits

You’ll need the Trekkers Information Management Systems (TIMS) card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit for the Short Annapurna Base Camp trek (5 days). If you trek with Sublime Trails, we will arrange all permits required for the trip on your behalf.

TIMS Card is a crucial permit that carries your detailed information. The authorities use the TIMS card for information and security.

Making a TIMS card in Nepal costs NPR 1000 for SAARC nationals and NPR 2000 for trekkers from other countries.

Meanwhile, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit lets you trek for any number of days in the Annapurna Conservation Area. This trek permit costs around USD 25.

Accommodation Options in Short ABC Trek

Tea houses on the trek route are one of the best and most commercial than other trekking routes in Nepal. Due to this, accommodation on your short five-day trek will be decent.

There are more than ten tea houses at every stop on the ABC trek route. Whether on the base camp or at Chhomrong, you'll get beds with soft mattresses, warm blankets, and routinely washed pillowcases and bed sheets at every tea house.

A typical teahouse on the trail is a combination of guest house, eatery, and social hangout. The canteen area has heating arrangements and is a good place for travelers to hang out and share their experiences.

The rooms will be on a twin-sharing basis: a double bed and a single bed. You can also recharge your mobile phones and batteries at the dining hall or in your room at the tea house. But you may have to pay additional costs for battery recharge and hot showers.

Meals During the Trek

The Chhomrong Tourism Management Committee regulates and approves the meal menu on the entire trekking route. Food options are plenty, with a nutritious and delicious variety of local Nepali, Himalayan, and Western cuisines.

Breakfast: Breakfast includes cereals, oats porridge, muesli, fruits, cornflakes, and more. You can also alternate between toast (with jam, peanut butter, and honey), pancakes, or Tibetan bread. Hot beverages include milk tea, coffee, hot lemon, ginger tea, and more.

Lunch: Dal Bhat is the staple food for locals of the Annapurna region. We encourage you to also relish the delicacy, as it provides the caloric base to conquer your trek. Other available menu items are momo dumplings, macaroni w/o cheese, spaghetti, Thukpa, and noodles.

Various cuisines of rice and potatoes are plenty, and they can be an introduction to the rich culinary cultures of Nepal. 

Dinner: The dinner menu closely resembles the lunch menu. Do not hesitate to try the varieties of hot soup or Sherpa stew - nothing feels better after a day-long hike. After dinner, your trekking guide will serve fruits and salads.

Drinks: Staying hydrated and energized with hot beverages is very important on the trek. Teahouses happily serve milk tea, ginger tea, lemon tea, green tea, lemon with honey, and more.

You’ll have your standard coffee serving, although there won’t be too many varieties. Some also feature hot chocolate, hot orange, and pineapple juice on the menu.

Food on Short Annapurna base camp trek
Dining during ABC Trek

Drinking Water on the Trekking Trail

Throughout the trek, you won't have any challenges getting drinking water. There are several ways with which you can refill your water bottles en route.

First, tea houses are the best places to refill your water bottles or hydration bladder. You can get both hot and cold water at tea houses. Cold water is free but hot water comes at a small fee.

You can also refill your bottle at water taps throughout the route. You'll encounter many fixtures and water sources on the route. While generally safe to drink, we recommend using water-purifying tablets and electrolytes.

Remember that trekkers cannot use disposable mineral water bottles in the Annapurna region, past Chhomrong till the base camp region. Hence, remember to carry a thermos, hydration bladder, or reusable water bottles.

Weather, Temperature, and Best Time

Autumn and Spring are the favorable seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp 5 Days Trek. Clear visibility, pleasant weather, stable temperature, and rain-free days aid your Annapurna Trekking experience.

Spring and Autumn

The vibrant autumn colors with Mt. Machhapuchhre on the backdrop, cascading rivers, and towering boulders on a sunny day are heart-stealers. Meanwhile, in spring, terrace farming, rhododendron blossoms, lively landscapes, verdant forests, and water streams all add to the region’s aesthetics.

The temperature in the Annapurna region averages around 5-10 degrees in spring and autumn. The nighttime temperature averages around freezing.

Summer and Winter

Summer, especially from June to August is not the best time for trekking. Landslides and avalanches often block the routes. Thus, trekkers don't hike to Annapurna Base Camp in summer to avoid the risk. Days in summer are warmer with temperatures averaging around 16 degrees.

In winter, the thick snowfall blankets the entire trekking route past Deurali. Thus, the risk of avalanches and extreme cold can be harsh on trekkers. Winter days remain freezing even during the day at the base camp region and the temperature drops to -10 degrees at night.

Flora and fauna

The naturally gifted Annapurna region hosts nearly 22 varieties of forests in different climatic zones. More than 1226 plant species are in the region, 55 of which are only found in Nepal. Meanwhile, 100 species of mammals are found in the region.

The ABC region is the only place in Nepal where you can find all six varieties of Pheasants. Endangered species like Snow Leopard and Red Pandas live on the foothills of Annapurna.

Exotic Animal Species

  • Himalayan Tahr
  • Snow Leopard
  • Musk Deer
  • Langur Monkeys
  • Red Panda
  • Himalayan Black Bear
  • Pika
  • Blue Sheep
  • Tibetan Wolf

Exotic Bird Species

  • Himalayan Monal
  • Snow Partridge
  • Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture)
  • Golden Eagle
  • Himalayan Griffon
  • Koklass Pheasant
  • Colored Impheyan Pheasant
  • Blood Pheasant

Hence, this five-day trip is not just trekking but also wildlife spotting and birdwatching.

flora and fauna at short abc trek

International Travel Insurance

Be careful when choosing travel insurance because not all insurance companies have a wide coverage reach. Only choose reputable brands that can coordinate with hospitals all over the world.

This is what we recommend to our guests from around the world. We do not have any affiliation with any of the companies. We have based this list on years of experience with travel insurance policies.

Travel insurance recommendations for travelers of

USA: UnitedHealthcare Global

Europe: Global Allianz, Europe Assist

Australia: Cover-More Travel Insurance

Asia Pacific: World Nomads Travel Insurance

No two travel insurance policies are the same. Here are the fundamental things to consider while purchasing travel insurance:

1) Emergency Medical Evacuation

Having operated hundreds of treks to the challenging Himalayan regions of Nepal (Everest region, Annapurna region), perhaps we're a bit biased when I keep this at the top of my list.

Nothing is saddening to us as a travel operator than having a client require emergency medical evacuation (altitude sickness, sudden depletion in health) from the mountains, where helicopter rescue is the only medium, and then realizing that their insurance plan doesn't cover the cost of helicopter rescue.

Always make sure that the insurance plan covers the cost of available emergency medical evacuation.

2) 24-hour Support

Your insurance policy should have the right infrastructure to let you choose a travel destination all over the world. If the insurance company is based in the US, it should possess the infrastructure for 24-hour support and assistance.

By their nature, emergencies occur in unexpected and unfortunate circumstances. Your insurance company should be able to respond during emergencies for communication.

Altitude sickness and prevention

If your body doesn't adapt to high altitude while trekking, you may experience altitude sickness.

Unlike the Everest Base Camp trek, the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek from Pokhara is far safer from altitude sickness. Very few trekkers get this problem for various reasons.

Our new itinerary involves walking for 4-5 hours every day. Afterward, you can spend the remaining time at the tea house to rest and get used to the surroundings.

What to do if you get altitude sickness on this trek?

First, inform the trek guide about how you're feeling. Tell your guide if you have a headache, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Your trek guide will give you medicines that help soothe these symptoms.

You can also contribute from your side to avoid altitude sickness. Drinking plenty of water, slow-paced hikes, breathing via the nose, eating adequate meals every day, 8-10 hours of sleep at the tea house, and anti-altitude sickness medicines are general practices to lower the risk of high altitude sickness. Acetazolamide tablets can be very helpful at high altitudes if you consider consuming them.

If the symptoms worsen, we will either carry you down to lower altitudes or evacuate you on a helicopter to Pokhara.

Packing List for Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

You need proper trekking gear for a better trek experience and comfortable hikes. You don't need to carry heavy backpacks for this trek, but you must carry essential gear.

Here’s the packing list that we recommend:

Clothing

  • Moisture-wicking base layers
  • Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down jacket)
  • Waterproof/windproof outer jacket
  • Trekking pants (convertible or regular)
  • Thermal underwear
  • Trekking socks
  • Warm gloves/mittens
  • Hats (warm and sun)
  • Buff/neck gaiter
  • Sturdy trekking boots
  • Slippers

Gear

  • 40-50L backpack
  • Cold-rated sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad/mat
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp with batteries
  • Hydration system/water bottles
  • Energy snacks
  • First aid kit and meds
  • Altitude sickness meds
  • Sunscreen/lip balm
  • Sunglasses
  • Towel
  • Camera/binoculars (optional)

Toiletries

  • Toilet paper
  • Hand sanitizer/wet wipes
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, soap, etc.)

Documents

  • Passport, permits (ACAP, TIMS)
  • Local currency (NPR $90 in cash for extra personal expenses)
  • Travel insurance details

Miscellaneous

  • Power bank
  • Electrical adapter/converter
  • Plastic bags (wet/dirty clothes)

FAQs

  • You can commence your trip from anywhere in Nepal. While the itinerary starting point is Pokhara, you can have us arrange for your transportation if you’re in any other city. For example, we can arrange for your flight or drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

  • Yes, all teahouses on the Annapurna trekking trail offer internet, charging, and hot shower facilities. Most also support American-type charging ports. You may have to pay extra fees for these facilities.

  • Considering safety and convenience, the 5-day itinerary is the shortest trek to Annapurna Base Camp.

  • The 5-day itinerary is a comfortable plan to base camp and back. While completing this trek certainly requires a certain level of physical fitness, it also welcomes complete beginners and novice trekkers.

  • Although a short trek, you will trek at altitudes higher than 4,000 meters. If you feel like you’ll experience some sort of altitude-related hindrances, you can carry Diamox to stay safe.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days Reviews

5.0based on 6 reviews
  • Leylla
    LeyllaJune 17, 2022
    TripAdvisor

    The foothills of Annapurna immersed into my soul

    Thank you to Mr. Ram, tour manager from Sublime Trails for being a true professional on this trip. Also, I want to thank Mr. Shiva, my guide for being a wonderful guide and companion throughout this trip.
    I literally enjoyed every bit of this trip. The Annapurna Base Camp was quite covered with clouds, but I also enjoyed being in nature. It was a wonderful two weeks long stay in Nepal. Such a beautiful country. If I had time, I was planning for other trips in the monsoon. But, I'm saving for a future trip to Nepal. Stay blessed.

  • Xenin L
    Xenin LJune 13, 2022
    TripAdvisor

    Wholesome Annapurna Trip with Sublime Trails and my guide Mr. Ajit

    I want to express my gratitude to Mr. Ram Khadka from Sublime Trails for his effort in making this trip the best of my life. I was worried about altitude sickness, but the guide took care of me all the time. He was a very good person and a guide.

    The food was good. Also, the ethnic foods were tasty at Ghandruk. The sunset and sunrise were also at their best. The trip was good and also Mr. Ram gave me a complementary Kathmandu tour. The best company. Thanks for being my tour partner. Can’t wait to be in Nepal anytime soon.

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