- 1 - 1 pax USD$780
- 2 - 2 pax USD$720
Overview
A Fast-Paced Himalayan Adventure for Experienced Trekkers
The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek – Fly Kathmandu to Pokhara & Back is designed for travelers who dream of standing at the foot of the mighty Annapurna massif but have limited time in Nepal. This condensed 5-day itinerary takes you through rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung villages, and alpine landscapes before reaching the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130 meters.
As local trekking professionals at Everest Hikes Pvt. Ltd, we’ve guided hundreds of trekkers through these trails. This Short ABC Trek demands excellent physical fitness, prior high-altitude trekking experience, and the ability to walk 6–9 hours daily with significant elevation gains.
Who Should Consider This Trek?
This accelerated route is not suitable for everyone. We recommend it specifically for:
- Trail runners and experienced hikers comfortable with long trekking days
- Trekkers with previous high-altitude experience (above 3,000m)
- Physically fit individuals who can handle 7–9 hours of continuous walking
- Those with limited vacation time but strong determination
Not recommended for:
- First-time trekkers or beginners
- Senior trekkers or those with pre-existing health conditions
- Anyone without recent hiking experience
- Travelers prone to altitude sickness
The compressed schedule leaves minimal time for acclimatization, which increases the risk of altitude-related issues.
How Difficult is the Short ABC Trek?
Difficulty Level: Challenging to Strenuous
This trek is considerably more demanding than the standard 7–10 day ABC routes. Here’s why:
- Long trekking days: 6–9 hours of walking with minimal rest days
- Rapid altitude gain: Ascending from 1,000m to 4,130m in just three days
- Limited acclimatization: Increased risk of altitude sickness
- Steep ascents and descents: Requires strong knees and cardiovascular fitness
- Basic teahouse facilities: Simple accommodations at higher altitudes
Only attempt this trek if you can comfortably walk uphill and downhill for extended periods while carrying a daypack.
Read More: A comprehensive guide to the difficulty level of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Best Season for Short ABC Trek
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) offer the best conditions:
- Clear mountain views
- Stable weather patterns
- Comfortable temperatures
- Blooming rhododendrons (spring)
Monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain, leeches, and obscured views. Winter (December–February) is extremely cold at base camp with heavy snow, making the trail dangerous.
Note: If a 5-day plan is too short, you can choose the 7-day ABC Trek for a quick mountain and village experience, or the 14-day ABC Trek for a more relaxed journey with full Himalayan scenery and culture.
Outline Itinerary
| Day | Route / Activity | Altitude & Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | Kathmandu → Pokhara (Flight), Drive to Jhinu Pul, Trek to Chhomrong / Lower Sinuwa | Kathmandu 1,350m → Chhomrong 2,170m / Lower Sinuwa 2,340m Flight 25 min + Drive 2 hrs + Trek 3–4 hrs |
| 02 | Chhomrong to Himalaya Hotel | 2,170m → 2,920m Trek 6–7 hrs |
| 03 | Himalaya Hotel to Annapurna Base Camp | 2,920m → 4,130m Trek 7–8 hrs |
| 04 | Annapurna Base Camp to Upper Sinuwa | 4,130m → 2,360m Trek 7–8 hrs |
| 05 | Upper Sinuwa → Jhinu Pul, Drive to Pokhara, Fly to Kathmandu | 2,340m → 1,760m → 822m → 1,350m Trek 5–6 hrs + Drive + Flight 25 min |
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek – Fly Kathmandu to Pokhara & Back Itinerary
Kathmandu to Pokhara Flight, Drive to Jhinu Pul, Trek to Chhomrong or Lower Sinuwa
Your Himalayan journey begins with a scenic 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, offering stunning aerial views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. From Pokhara, a private vehicle takes you to Jhinu Pul, the trek's starting point.
The trail climbs steadily through terraced farmlands and stone-carved staircases, passing through traditional villages. You'll ascend to Chhomrong, a large Gurung settlement with spectacular mountain views, or continue to Lower Sinuwa depending on your pace.
Chhomrong to Himalaya Hotel
After descending to the Chhomrong Khola, the trail follows the roaring Modi Khola (river) upstream. You'll enter dense bamboo and rhododendron forests as the valley narrows dramatically.
The path becomes steeper as you approach Dovan and continue to Himalaya Hotel, situated in the heart of the forest. The temperature drops noticeably, and you'll begin to feel the altitude.
Himalaya Hotel to Annapurna Base Camp
This is the most challenging and rewarding day. The trail climbs through Hinku Cave and Deurali before entering the Annapurna Sanctuary—a natural amphitheater surrounded by towering peaks.
As you ascend above the tree line, the landscape transforms into alpine terrain. Prayer flags flutter in the wind, and massive glaciers come into view. Finally, you reach Annapurna Base Camp, where you're surrounded 360 degrees by snow-capped giants including Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (6,993m), and Hiunchuli.
The sunset and sunrise views here are absolutely breathtaking—a true reward for your efforts.
Annapurna Base Camp to Upper Sinuwa
Begin your descent early morning after capturing sunrise photographs. The long downhill trek retraces your steps through Deurali and Himalaya Hotel before reaching Upper Sinuwa.
Descending this much in one day helps reduce altitude exposure but can be tough on the knees. Trekking poles are highly recommended.
Upper Sinuwa to Jhinu Pul, Drive to Pokhara, Fly to Kathmandu
The final trekking day takes you downhill through lush forests back to Jhinu Pul. If time permits, you can soak in the natural hot springs near Jhinu—a perfect way to relax tired muscles.
From Jhinu Pul, drive back to Pokhara and catch an evening flight to Kathmandu, concluding your rapid Himalayan adventure.
Inclusions
What's included
- International & Domestics Airport pick up and drop
- Standard Hotel accommodation in Pokhara (with breakfast included)
- An Experience English speaking guide
- All Meals and Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu Domestic flights (Round Trip)
- Pokhara - Jhinu Pul - Pokhara by Private Jeep
- All required trekking permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Fee and TIMS Card)
- Guide and porter insurance with food and accommodation
- Basic Medical kits
- Duffel bag, down jacket, trekking poles (should be returned after the trek
- Farewell dinner
- All required paper works and government taxes
- Everest Hikes T-shirt
What's not included
- International Flight
- Nepal Travel Visa Fee
- Personal Medical and Travel insurance (Should cover helicopter evacuation)
- A porter (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, carry upto 25 kgs) - Cost USD $125
- Guide, Porter and Driver tips
- Personal Gears (equipment)
- Personal bill
- Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- All other personal expense of beverages (hard and soft drinks)
- All other things not mentioned in the inclusion
Preparing for Altitude Sickness on the Short ABC Trek
Altitude sickness is a serious concern on this accelerated itinerary. Here’s how to minimize risks:
Before the Trek:
- Train regularly: Build cardiovascular endurance through running, cycling, or stair climbing
- Previous altitude experience: Trek at 3,000m+ beforehand if possible
- Medical consultation: Discuss Diamox (acetazolamide) with your doctor
During the Trek:
- Ascend gradually: Follow the itinerary pace; don’t rush ahead
- Stay well-hydrated: Drink 3–4 liters of water daily
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: Both worsen altitude symptoms
- Eat regularly: Maintain energy levels with carbohydrate-rich meals
- Listen to your body: Headache, nausea, dizziness are warning signs
Critical Rule:
If you develop severe altitude sickness symptoms—descend immediately. No summit is worth risking your health. Our guides are trained in altitude sickness recognition and emergency response.
Is Travel Insurance Necessary?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trek.
Your policy must cover:
- High-altitude trekking (up to 4,500m minimum)
- Emergency helicopter evacuation from remote mountain areas
- Medical treatment costs in Nepal
- Trip cancellation or interruption
Mountain weather can change rapidly, and medical emergencies require expensive helicopter rescues. Don’t trek without proper insurance coverage.
We recommend policies from World Nomads, Global Rescue, or similar providers experienced with Himalayan trekking.
Route Map
Altitude Chart
Packing list for Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek – Fly Kathmandu to Pokhara & Back
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops/bottoms
- Insulating: Fleece jacket, down jacket, warm sweaters
- Outer Shell: Waterproof/windproof jacket and pants
- Trekking Clothes: Quick-dry pants, UV-protection shirts
- Accessories: Sun hat, warm beanie, trekking gloves, moisture-wicking socks
Equipment:
- Backpack: 40-50L with rain cover
- Sleeping Bag: 4-season rated (-10°C to -20°C)
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable and lightweight
- Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in), camp sandals
- Navigation & Safety: Headlamp, sunglasses (Cat 3-4), first aid kit
- Personal Items: Sunscreen (high SPF), lip balm, toiletries, water purification
Gear Rental:
Sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking poles are available for rent in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. However, when you book this package with us, these essential trekking gears are provided complimentary - no need to rent separately.
