Short ABC Trek

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek: 7-Day ABC Itinerary

This Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara takes you deep into the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary. Here, a dramatic natural amphitheater rises steeply on all sides, formed by some of the highest peaks in the world. Locally known as the ABC Trek Nepal, this journey is one of the most complete Himalayan trekking experiences you can do in seven days.

Often referred to as the ABC Trek or the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, this journey combines breathtaking mountain scenery, traditional villages, and diverse landscapes. Along the way, you will walk through rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and picturesque Gurung and Magar villages before finally reaching Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m).

This Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is ideal for travelers who want a true Himalayan trekking experience within a limited time. Along the way, the trail passes through beautiful settlements like Ghandruk, Chomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali. As a result, trekkers get to experience authentic local culture and warm mountain hospitality.

At the end of the journey, you will stand at Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by magnificent peaks including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). Overall, for anyone looking for a scenic adventure, the ABC Trek Nepal offers one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in the Himalayas.

The Annapurna Sanctuary gets its name from the wall of peaks that encircles the base camp. In local Gurung tradition, this high glacial basin is considered a sacred and protected space. As a result, the sanctuary offers not just mountain views, but a genuine sense of stepping into a natural fortress carved by ice and rock.

If you have time before or after the trek, you may also enjoy exploring some of the best things to do in Pokhara, a vibrant lakeside city known for adventure activities and beautiful Himalayan views.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Information

Trip Duration
6 Nights / 7 Days

Maximum Altitude
4,130 meters – Annapurna Base Camp

Start / End Point
Pokhara

Difficulty Level
Moderate – suitable for fit beginners and experienced trekkers

Transportation
Comfortable private vehicle

Accommodation
Local tea houses and mountain lodges

Group Size
Private trips for individuals, couples, friends, or families

Meals
Main course with tea or coffee

Best Time to Visit
September – December and March – May

Highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara offers a perfect combination of mountain scenery, culture, and adventure.

• Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) in the heart of the Himalayas
• Experience the famous ABC Trek Nepal surrounded by spectacular peaks
• Enjoy panoramic mountain views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre
• Walk through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests
• Visit the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk
• Explore the famous Annapurna Sanctuary Trek route
• Stop at Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m)
• Relax at the natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route Overview

The trek begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kilyu before starting uphill toward the beautiful village of Ghandruk. The trail continues through Chomrong and into dense bamboo forests before reaching Bamboo and Deurali.

As you climb higher into the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, the landscape becomes more dramatic with breathtaking mountain views. Along the way, trekkers pass through Machhapuchhre Base Camp before finally reaching Annapurna Base Camp, the highlight of the ABC Trek Nepal. This is the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, where the mountains rise steeply on all sides.

After enjoying sunrise views over the Himalayan giants, the trail descends through the same valley toward Sinuwa and Jhinu Danda before returning comfortably to Pokhara.

Short ABC Trek Nepal – Price

Price per person (with food): USD 750
Price per person (without food): USD 605

We recommend the “Without Food” option for most guests. This way, you can choose your own meals and manage your own budget. Plus, you get to eat what you actually feel like along the trail, rather than being locked into a fixed food package.

Private treks, shared savings

All our treks are private — designed for individuals, friends, and families rather than large fixed groups. However, if you know other travellers who’d like to join the same trek on the same dates, we’re happy to take you all together. As a result, the per-person cost comes down for everyone. Likewise, if we come across other travellers interested in the same trek and dates, we’ll be glad to suggest the option to you as well. Meanwhile, if you’re already travelling as a group of more than one person, just let us know. In turn, we’ll provide you the exact price per person based on your group size.

What’s Included

• Trekking Permit (ACAP)
• Experienced trekking guide
• All Meals (Main Course + Tea/Coffee). It doesn’t include starters or desserts.
• Tea house accommodation
• Private transport (hotel pick-up and drop-off)
• Hot shower access
• Mineral water & purification tablets
• Toilet paper
• Basic first aid kit (excluding medication). We recommend that you bring your own personal medicines.
• An oximeter for monitoring altitude-related safety.

What’s Not Included

• Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
• Wi-Fi and phone charging
• Hot drinking water
• Your personal snacks and desserts.
• Porter service (available on request)
• Sleeping bag (we rent them for an additional fee).
• Travel insurance (Mandatory)

NOTE: We encourage guests to bring their own trekking equipment whenever possible, as personal gear provides the highest level of comfort and familiarity during the journey. However, for those who may be missing certain items, we offer a small selection of trekking equipment at no additional cost. Please let us know which items you require, and we will confirm their availability.

Ready to trek to Annapurna Base Camp? Contact us today to check your preferred dates. From here, our team will handle the permits, planning, and every other detail for you.

Your Journey, Your Pace, Your Way

All our Annapurna Base Camp treks are private and fully customizable. While this 7-day ABC itinerary is designed for an average fitness level, we understand that every traveler has different needs.

Tailored for You: We are happy to adjust the daily walking hours, the route, or the pace to match your experience. Whether you prefer a more relaxed mountain experience or a challenging high-altitude adventure, we will adapt the plan for you.

Get in Touch: Please Contact Us to plan an ABC trek that is perfectly tailored to you.

ABC Trekking Map

Short ABC Trek Elevation Profile

Detailed Itinerary for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Day 1: Pokhara to Kilyu, Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m)

Drive: 2–3 hours
Trek: 2–3 hours

Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kilyu. From here, you start trekking uphill through forest trails toward the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk.

Ghandruk is one of the most beautiful villages on this trek. Here, you can enjoy stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. You may also visit the Gurung Museum before staying overnight in a cozy mountain lodge.

Day 2: Ghandruk to Chomrong (2,170 m)

Trek: 5–6 hours

Today the ABC Trek continues through terraced farmland and rhododendron forests. After that, the trail gradually climbs to Chomrong.

Chomrong is a picturesque village located on the ridge and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains along the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek route.

Day 3: Chomrong to Bamboo (2,310 m)

Trek: 4–5 hours

The trail descends to Chomrong Khola before climbing again, and then passes through dense bamboo forests. This peaceful section of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful nature.

You will spend the night in the small settlement of Bamboo, surrounded by lush forest.

Day 4: Bamboo to Deurali (3,230 m)

Trek: 4–5 hours

Today the trail gradually climbs through bamboo and oak forests, while passing several waterfalls along the trail.

As you approach Deurali, the valley becomes narrower and the scenery becomes more alpine, offering dramatic mountain landscapes typical of the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek.

Day 5: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)

Trek: 5–6 hours

This is the most exciting day of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Next, the trail passes through Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m) before continuing toward Annapurna Base Camp.

Once you reach ABC, you will be surrounded by a breathtaking amphitheater of Himalayan peaks. Among them are Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Spending a night at Annapurna Base Camp is one of the most unforgettable experiences of the ABC Trek Nepal. This overnight stay marks the highlight of your Short ABC Trek Nepal, as it’s the farthest point you’ll reach on the ABC Trek Nepal journey.

Day 6: Annapurna Base Camp to Sinuwa (2,360 m)

Trek: 6–7 hours

After enjoying sunrise views at Annapurna Base Camp, the descent begins through the same valley.

Along the descent, you will pass through Deurali and Bamboo before reaching Sinuwa for the night.

Day 7: Sinuwa – Jhinu Danda – Return to Pokhara

Trek: 5–7 hours
Drive: 3 hours

On the final day, the trail leads downhill to Jhinu Danda, where you can relax in the natural hot springs beside the river. Finally, a comfortable private vehicle will transfer you back to Pokhara.

Available Trekking Equipment

NOTE: We encourage guests to bring their own trekking equipment whenever possible, as personal gear provides the highest level of comfort and familiarity during the journey. However, for those who may be missing certain items, we offer a small selection of trekking equipment at no additional cost. Please let us know which items you require, and we will confirm their availability.

Available Trekking Equipments:

• Sturdy Trekking Poles
• Headlight
• Detailed Trekking Map
• Gloves & Sun hats
• Hot water bottles
• Trekking duffel bag
• Raincoat

Pro-Tip: Free luggage storage is provided during your trek

Packing List: Preparing for your short ABC Trek

Packing the right gear makes a real difference on this trek. Since the trail climbs to 4,130 meters, you’ll want equipment that handles both cold mornings and long walking days. Below, we’ve listed everything you need to stay comfortable and safe along the way.

Essential Clothing:

• Down Jacket: Essential for the freezing mornings at ABC.
• Hiking Boots: Waterproof, sturdy, and well broken-in.
• Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms.
• Trekking Trousers: Lightweight, quick-dry, and comfortable for long walks.
• Outer Shell: A high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket.

Accessories:

• Personal Sleeping Bag: (Although you can rent one, many guests prefer their own)
• Daypack (25-35L): To carry your water, snacks, camera, and rain gear.
• Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, and UV-protection sunglasses.

Health & Hygiene:

• Personal Medication: Any specific medicine you take regularly.
• Quick-Dry Towel: Compact and easy to pack.
• Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes: For staying fresh between tea houses.
• Blister Plasters: Crucial for the steep descents and stone steps.

Essential Short ABC Trek & Annapurna Base Camp FAQ

How difficult is the Short ABC Trek Nepal for beginners?

The Short ABC Trek is considered moderate. While no technical skills are needed, trekkers should be prepared for 5–7 hours of walking daily. Beginners with good physical fitness can comfortably complete this Annapurna Base Camp Trek 7 Days route with proper preparation.

When is the best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp?

This trek is available all year, but the best times are spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November). In spring, you can enjoy clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and pleasant temperatures. In autumn, the weather is stable, the mountain views are excellent, and trekking is comfortable. Trekking is also possible in winter, though it will be colder. During the monsoon season (June – August), heavy rainfall can make trekking more difficult.

Do I need a permit for the Short ABC Trek?

Yes, a permit is required for this trek. You will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit to enter the region. As part of our private trekking service, we handle all permit logistics and documentation for you. That way, your Trek stays completely hassle-free.

What is the maximum ABC Trek altitude and elevation?

The maximum ABC Trek altitude is 4,130 meters (13,550 ft) at the Base Camp. Short ABC Trek itinerary. is specifically designed to manage this elevation gain safely to prevent altitude sickness.

Is altitude sickness a concern on a 7-day itinerary?

Since the trek exceeds 4,000m, altitude is a factor. Our Short ABC Trek guides monitor for symptoms like headaches or dizziness. We prioritize a steady pace to ensure you handle the ABC Trek difficulty and altitude safely.

What is the accommodation like on an Annapurna Region Tea House Trek?

During your Annapurna Region Tea House Trek, you will stay in local mountain lodges. These offer simple twin-sharing rooms and warm meals, providing a cozy atmosphere after a long day of trekking.

Is Wi-Fi or mobile network available on the trail?

Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi for a small fee, but the connection can be slow or unreliable at higher altitudes. Mobile network coverage is available in some villages and at places where you stay overnight, but not everywhere along the trail.

Why Choose the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most rewarding trekking adventures in Nepal. In fact, it’s one of the few routes where you can reach a 4,130-metre base camp surrounded by giants like Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre — all within just seven days from Pokhara.

If you have extra time before or after the trek, Pokhara has much to offer — from Tibetan cultural tours and paragliding to visiting authentic Tibetan settlements in the city.

Learn More

👉 Read more about the Annapurna Conservation Area from the official Nepal Tourism Board.

Read What Our Guests Are Saying

See why trekkers choose Tibetan Encounter for their Annapurna adventures. Read our guest reviews on Google, and discover why guests trust us for safe, well-guided treks across Nepal.

 
 
 
 
  EXCELLENT  
  
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 Daniel Orchard 
 
 
 
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We joined the full day Tibetan Cultural Tour after a recommendation from a fellow traveller. We had a brilliant time and it was genuinely so eye opening for us and such a valuable learning experience! Thupten is a fantastic guide and educator and we learnt so much about Tibetan history, culture, food and practices. It was like a full deep dive and course in a day with practical learnings from the monasteries, medical centre and refugee communities. Would highly recommend to anyone and such a different experience one will likely never have again!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Sushi Golden 
 
 
 
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當天只有我一個人，還是得到很完整的導覽！ 導遊先生學識淵博，一整天的知識把腦袋都塞滿了，除了歷史人文，也接觸大量的佛教思想和達賴喇嘛的理念，遇見的每個人都是心胸開放的分享這一切，靈魂也充實了，把我照顧的很好，這是很值得的一趟導覽。我來自台灣，很推薦來博卡拉的大家可以空下一整天參加～
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Brian Ransdell 
 
 
 
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Fantastic! I feel like I took an entire college class on Buddhism and Tibetan culture in one day! Mr. Thupten, the guide, LOVES what he does and it shows. He is a walking encyclopedia of so, so much in so many fields of Buddhism, Tibet, the Dalai Lama and Nepal. You learn so much about history, food, geopolitics, environmental factors, Buddhist teachings, and the life of a monk. The highlight was definitely sitting down and speaking with a young monk 1:1 for 30-45 minutes about his life history, way of life, belief systems and thought journey in life. A delicious lunch is served; one also gets to try butter tea (I liked it) and Tibetian bread and grains. You visit two different refugee encampment areas with their own monasteries and temples with a deep understanding of the histories behind them. This is definitely a must do while in Pokhara. It is certainly a multi-faceted deep dive that you will not regret presented by a fantastic guide.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Marco Rontini 
 
 
 
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One of the best experiences I’ve had in Nepal. The Tibetan Encounter is much more than a simple guided tour: it is a real immersion into Tibetan culture and the life of the Tibetan refugee community in Nepal. The guide has an incredible depth of knowledge and explains everything with genuine passion: Tibetan philosophy, religion, lifestyle, social organization, history, and the experience of Tibetan refugees in Nepal. You don’t just visit places — you really start to understand the culture and the people. At times, it almost feels like taking a small journey into Tibet. One of the most special parts of the experience was having the opportunity to meet and talk with a young monk who lives in the monastery, learning directly from him about monastic life and his daily routine. You also get to try traditional Tibetan butter tea and experience aspects of Tibetan culture that you would probably never discover on your own. What impressed me most was the quality and depth of the whole experience. Every question is answered, nothing feels rushed or scripted, and everything is explained with knowledge, passion and authenticity. I highly recommend The Tibetan Encounter to anyone who wants to truly understand Tibetan culture rather than simply visit a few monasteries. Definitely one of the highlights of my trip to Nepal.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Da Zhang 
 
 
 
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The staff here is the best I've met in Nepal. They are so helpful, responsive and professional. It's hard for first time tourist to navigate the inDrive bargain here but with their help everything just became much easier and quite transparent without surprises!! I would highly recommend anyone coming to Pokhara to book your tours, transportation and bus tickets here.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Luca Zanoli 
 
 
 
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We did the Full-Day Tibetan Cultural Tour with Thupten: it's a highly recommended experience, a must for anyone passing through Pokhara. Thupten gave us so much information and answered our thousand questions with passion and patience, even suggesting how to deepen our knowledge of Tibetan culture through books and culinary ideas we could look for even back in our own hometowns. He took us to the Tibetan settlements and told us the history of his people since the time of the diaspora. We learned how the Tibetan communities live here in Pokhara, and how the settlements are organized. We visited a Tibetan medicine doctor and were able to ask him a lot about the natural remedies he uses. We tasted typical dishes from Tibetan culinary tradition and also saw how carpets are made. What we enjoyed most out of all these experiences was delving into Buddhist philosophy, talking with the monks about their life in the monastery, and witnessing their prayers. Thupten was a passionate and knowledgeable guide, always ready to explain everything and a very good storyteller. He has a deep knowledge of Tibetan culture and Buddhist philosophy: to truly understand this culture, these mountains and this spirituality, spending the day with him was truly essential. Thank you so much!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Sara 
 
 
 
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I really enjoyed this tour and would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about the Tibetan community in Nepal. It was a very well-organized experience that offered a deeper understanding of Tibetan history, culture and daily life. Visiting the monasteries, talking to a young monk, learning about Buddhism, seeing a live sand mandala, trying traditional Tibetan food and hearing the stories behind the community made the day both interesting and meaningful. Thupten was very knowledgeable, friendly and happy to answer all my questions, which made the experience even more enjoyable. If you’re looking for something beyond the typical tourist attractions and want to better understand an important part of Nepal’s cultural diversity, this tour is a wonderful choice. Thank you for such an insightful and memorable day. Tashi Delek! 🥰🙏🏼
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Jeroen Verdonk 
 
 
 
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I got lots of information about Tibet, Boudism ,culture, food, habbits, buttertea, way of living, rituals, Tibitan cure and much much more. Thupten knows a lot and he has answers to all of your question. He takes good care during the tour and makes sure you will enjoy it at the maximum.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 bosko rankovic 
 
 
 
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Mr.Thupten was amazing. He brought us closer to Tibetan culture through a series of nice explanations and demonstrations. It was really interesting to see how Tibetian tea is made,and then we got to taste it too. The guide is very educated , highly recommended
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Kathryn Bond 
 
 
 
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An amazing, informative and well worthwhile morning with Thupten. Highly recommended.
  
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
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Likewise, explore our 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor and see why travellers trust Tibetan Encounter for unforgettable experiences across Nepal.

First-time trekker or seasoned hiker — either way, our expert guides are ready to help you complete this Annapurna Sanctuary Trek. Simply reach out today, and let’s get your Short ABC Trek booked.

Discover More Adventures

Click the Links Below for Trekking, Pokhara Tibetan Cultural Tours, Sightseeing, Day Hikes & Things to do in Pokhara

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• Pokhara Tibetan Cultural Tours
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• Pokhara Sightseeing Tours
• Best things to do in Pokhara
• Top Outdoor Activities in Pokhara
• Khayer Lake Trek
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Contact us today to check availability and start planning your trek.