ABC Trek – 5 days
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Trip Information
The 5-Day Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is a fast-paced and rewarding adventure into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, designed for trekkers with limited time but strong physical fitness and determination. This condensed version of the classic ABC trek takes you deep into the Himalayas, offering up-close views of iconic peaks like Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South within a short span. Despite the brisk pace, the route traverses beautiful villages, bamboo forests, and alpine meadows that lead to the spectacular amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters.
This trek is perfect for experienced hikers or those who want a high-altitude Himalayan experience without a long itinerary. Each day is packed with natural beauty, rich Gurung culture, and ever-changing mountain views. Though shorter, the trail covers all essential highlights of the full trek and offers a direct route through Jhinu Danda, Chhomrong, Dovan, and Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC). Whether you’re short on time or looking for a quick escape into the mountains, the 5-day ABC trek delivers a powerful Himalayan experience in a compact package.
Itinerary
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Drive Duration: 2.5–3 hours
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Trek Duration: 2–3 hours
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Meals: Lunch & Dinner
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Highest Altitude: 2,170 m / 7,119 ft
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Accommodation: Teahouse
Your journey begins with an early morning drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda, a riverside village known for its natural hot springs. The road winds through lush hills, terraced farmland, and traditional settlements, offering a scenic introduction to the region. From Jhinu, your trek kicks off with a steep ascent to Chhomrong, the largest Gurung village in the Annapurna region.
Chhomrong offers panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare (Fishtail). It's a strategic resting point before entering the deeper parts of the sanctuary. You’ll experience the warm hospitality of the Gurung people, enjoy your first mountain sunset, and acclimatize in this vibrant village perched on the mountainside.
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Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Highest Altitude: 2,920 m / 9,580 ft
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Accommodation: Teahouse
From Chhomrong, the trail descends to a suspension bridge and then climbs through Sinuwa, entering dense forests of bamboo and rhododendron. The path becomes cooler and quieter as you pass through the small settlements of Bamboo and Dovan. These serene jungle paths offer a completely different feel from the open village landscapes of earlier.
Today’s trek gradually gains elevation, preparing your body for the high altitudes ahead. You’ll pass cascading waterfalls, moss-covered trees, and occasional glimpses of distant peaks through the foliage. Reaching Himalaya, a peaceful stop nestled in the forest, you'll feel the change in climate and terrain as you edge closer to the alpine zone.
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Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Highest Altitude: 4,130 m / 13,550 ft
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Accommodation: Teahouse
This is the most awaited and rewarding day of the trek. You begin by heading to Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC), where the tree line disappears, and you enter the stunning Annapurna Sanctuary – a natural amphitheater of towering peaks. The trail ascends gently through alpine meadows, past glacial streams and boulders, with the mighty Machapuchare watching over.
From MBC, the trail to ABC is awe-inspiring. Surrounded by 360-degree views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Fishtail, you’ll arrive at Annapurna Base Camp a place of spiritual and natural power. The sunset views from ABC are surreal, with golden hues painting the snow-covered peaks. A night here under the stars is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Highest Altitude: 4,130 m / 13,550 ft
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Accommodation: Teahouse
After enjoying a mesmerizing sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp, begin your descent along the same route. As you walk away from the snowfields, the perspective changes, offering new angles of the valleys, cliffs, and peaks you passed on the way up. You’ll retrace your steps past MBC, Deurali, and through the thick bamboo forests.
Though it’s mostly downhill, the long descent can be challenging on the knees. However, the increase in oxygen and greenery is energizing. Bamboo offers a quiet forest setting to rest and reflect on your incredible journey to the base of one of the world’s highest mountains.
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Trek Duration: 5 hours
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Drive Duration: 2.5–3 hours
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Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
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Highest Altitude: 2,170 m / 7,119 ft
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Accommodation: N/A (Hotel in Pokhara)
The final day of trekking takes you through familiar trails as you ascend briefly to Chhomrong and then descend steeply to Jhinu Danda. This small village offers a unique treat – natural hot springs located 20 minutes downhill beside the river, where you can soak your tired legs in warm, healing waters.
After lunch, a jeep will pick you up for the drive back to Pokhara, completing your 5-day Himalayan journey. As you return to the lakeside city, the contrast between rugged mountains and the comforts of Pokhara feels refreshing and rewarding. You’ll carry memories of majestic peaks, cultural encounters, and personal achievement.
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Price Inclusion
- All ground transportation from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda and back from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara is included.
- Accommodation in standard teahouses on a twin-sharing basis during the trek is provided.
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included throughout the trek.
- A licensed English-speaking trekking guide and porter (1 porter for every 2 trekkers) will accompany you.
- All necessary trekking permits such as Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card are covered.
- Guide and porter expenses including salary, insurance, food, and accommodation are included.
- A basic first aid kit and trekking equipment such as a sleeping bag (if needed) are provided.
Price Exclusion
- Personal travel insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation is not included.
- International and domestic flights, as well as Nepal visa fees, are excluded.
- Additional accommodation and meals in Pokhara or Kathmandu before or after the trek are not covered.
- Snacks, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and personal drinks during the trek are at your own expense.
- Personal expenses such as Wi-Fi, hot showers, laundry, and device charging are excluded.
- Optional activities or sightseeing tours in Pokhara are not included.
- Tips for guides and porters are not included but are customary and appreciated.