Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

This is a compact version of the classic Annapurna Sanctuary route, built for people short on time but not short on ambition. Over eight days you go from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then straight up into the hills, ending at Annapurna Base Camp itself with Machhapuchhre towering beside you.

The trail runs through Gurung and Magar villages, bamboo and rhododendron forest, and steadily bigger mountain views, before dropping back down to soak tired legs in the hot springs at Jhinu Danda.

It is guided throughout, with porters on hand, and pitched as a moderately difficult trek for anyone in decent walking condition rather than seasoned mountaineers.

What you'll do

• Reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m with close-up views of Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre
• Walk through Gurung and Magar villages between Phedi and Chhomrong
• Pass Hinku Cave and cross rhododendron and bamboo forest en route to Himalaya
• Boat on Phewa Lake and explore Pokhara before heading into the hills
• Soak in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda on the way back
• Trek within the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to notable biodiversity