Shortest trek to Annapurna base camp

With the extension of the dirt road further into the valley, it is now possible to do the Annapurna base camp trek in as less as 5 days either from Kathmandu or Pokhara. ABC trek could be customized within a week holiday in Nepal.

This moderately difficult trek is for experienced ones or for those with sound fitness.

Who safe is short ABC trek ?

The 5 day ABC trek is safe as the above itinerary make you stay at attitude between 2,000 - 3,000 m before a night at Annapurna base camp which is 4,200 m. One can also go to ABC just as a day trip from Machhaphuchre basecamp and head down in case they develop symptoms of acute mountain sickness. Both the long and short version of the trek is moderately difficult which is for experienced trekkers with sound fitness.

How difficult is ABC trek ?

Both short and long version of ABC trek are moderately difficult in level. This involves steep uphill and downhill ( about 600 - 700 m ) on rugged path and uneven stone steps. Each day's walking will be about 6 hours. At higher altitude, the snow and avalanches creates obstacles. Depending upon the season, the path may become muddy and slippery with melting snow or you may even have to walk on snow. The thin air, slows you down and make you feel more tired. Regular jogging or workout before coming on a trek is really helpful.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

ABC Trek in just one week holiday

There are plenty of flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara starting as early as 7 in the morning. With the flight and the extended road, we can save so much time and do the most beautiful part of the trek within your one week holiday. We can connect you with Pokhara flight as soon as you arrive at Kathmandu from where you can start driving to the trail head. It is possible to customize short Annapurna base camp trek within the one week in Nepal.

The best short ABC trek itinerary

The best short trek itinerary is designed with stay at highest altitude possible for better acclimatization before arriving at base camp. The itinerary considers travel durations, acclimatization and flexibility in case a trekker develop symptoms of altitude sickness.

Customize Short ABC Trek

Helicopter flight back from Annapurna base camp

Even though the Annapurna base camp trek could be done in 5 - 6 days from Pokhara, the helicopter makes it even shorter and also more convenient. Trekkers can allow more time to climb to base camp and escape the downhill trek on rugged trails and the tedious drive on bumpy roads. It just takes about 20 minutes to fly back from base camp.

How much it costs to fly back ?

For the group size of 2, an Annapurna base camp trek with helicopter flight back costs about USD 990. The helicopter can take 4 - 5 people back at a time and cost will be divided accordingly. During the peak season, helicopter flight back is available on sharing basis.

ABC Trek with helicopter flight back

A helicopter flight back from Annapurna base camp allows trekkers more time to climb and escape the cumbersome downhill which is often stressful on knees. Even though it is just one night and two days to trek down and drive back, the journey is not as interesting anymore as you follow the same trail. Moreover, the aerial view of the Annapurna base camp, the whole Annapurna massif and the Pokhara valley are worth the flight.

ABC Heli Trek

Short Annapurna base camp trek map

Short Annapurna Base camp Trek video