Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek

Welcome to Kathmandu Valley, the colorful capital city of Nepal! Upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Shikhar's representative will welcome you and then transfer you to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure in the nightlife of Thamel, one of the favorite hotspots for tourists.

Cultural and heritage reside all over the roads of this place, with old temples and crowded markets at all the turns. You can look around local shops, taste some Nepali cuisine, or just take a breather from the climb. This day sets the tone for the adventure waiting ahead.

After a hearty breakfast, drive to the picturesque city of Pokhara at 822 meters, which lies northeast of Tansen. It is famous for serene lakes and magnificent mountain views. It is about a 6-7-hour drive with many beautiful views that can be captured on the way.

If you want something else quicker, there is a 25-minute flight to Pokhara at an additional cost of $105 per person—check add-ons for more details. Upon arrival, walk around Phewa Lake and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of Pokhara.

The day starts with a drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Dada (1,780 meters), the official commencement of your trekking. Then from Jhinu Dada, you will begin to trek through the dense forest and cross Modi Khola river via a bridge and climb up to Lower Sinuwa.

Take in the scene with the Annapurna range at view and the beauty of the countryside. Along this section of trail, one gets to see Gurung villages, the traditional way of life. The day ends at Lower Sinuwa (2340 meters), where you will rest for the night.

The day's journey from Lower Sinuwa to Deurali (3,200 m) is along a winding path through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests. As one climbs in altitude, the landscape turns into typically alpine rugged terrain with sparsely vegetated plants.

The path goes up and down through the lovely villages of Bamboo and Dovan. The climb from Deurali is pretty tiring, but one gets great vistas of Machapuchare, also known as Fishtail, and Hiunchuli peaks.

This is, without a doubt, one of the most exciting days of your trek. Early in the morning you will leave Deurali behind and reach an elevation of 4130 meters high at the Annapurna Base Camp. Starting from the top, the trail slowly rises, along with the Modi Khola valley, with scenes that open up of towering peaks and lush, rugged land of the Annapurna region.

The landscape becomes dramatic as one gets closer to ABC. Chiseled glaciers cutting through the sides of mountains and the view of massif Annapurna is overwhelming as it comes into view. Anticipation is developed along the trail as towering peaks of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare Fishtail stand above you, forming a beautiful natural amphitheater.

You will be surrounded by one of the most iconic mountains at Annapurna Base Camp, with one among them being Annapurna I, which is considered to be the 10th highest peak in the world. Take time and soak in the panorama views—it will turn out to be truly humbling with white-topped summits and vertical cliffs. The place's beauty and magnitude make such a lasting impression on one's mind that this will certainly be one of the most memorable days of the whole trek.

Next, after this breathtaking view of sunrise from Annapurna Base Camp, you start the day by facing a downhill and retrace your steps back to Upper Sinuwa at an altitude of 2,360 meters. You can take ample photographs during this downhill trek with landscapes seen from a different perspective.

You will pass by familiar villages and dense forests, slowly leaving the alpine zone to find yourselves again in temperate areas. The day constitutes a mix of relaxation and quiet reflection while closing in very slowly on the end of the adventure trek.

The trek continues from Upper Sinuwa back to Jhinu Dada, where you can unwind in the natural hot springs—a perfect way to soothe your muscles after several days of trekking. The hot springs are a popular spot for trekkers to relax and rejuvenate.

After enjoying the hot springs, you’ll drive back to Pokhara. The lakeside city offers a comfortable retreat, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. Enjoy your evening in Pokhara, taking in the serene beauty of this peaceful city.

You will be driven back to Kathmandu for magnificent views through the Nepali countryside or take a short 25-minute flight for quicker return. Both options offer their own type of experience.

After returning to Kathmandu, there will be time to see any sights that have still to be visited, to shop for souvenirs, or just relax at the hotel. This town, with its rich history and culture, is an excellent backdrop for spending your last evening in Nepal.

On the last day in Nepal, take some time to think over the wonderful experiences of your Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek. We will transfer you to the airport around three hours before your scheduled departure.

Whether you will be returning home or continuing in your travels, you will leave Nepal with a sense of unforgettable adventure. We hope to greet you again for further explorations in the Himalayas. Namaste, and have safe travels!