Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is arguably the most visually rewarding adventure in Nepal. It takes you into the very heart of the Himalayas, offering a unique 360 degrees panorama of colossal peaks.
While the standard route takes 14 days, Walkers Expedition offers a streamlined Annapurna Base Camp Trek 10 Days itinerary that maximizes trekking time and minimizes transit, making this iconic journey perfectly achievable for those with limited vacation time.
This guide provides the essential details on how to conquer the Short ABC Trek route, witness the sunrise over Annapurna I (8,091m), and relax in the natural hot springs on the descent.
The Annapurna Sanctuary: A Natural Amphitheater
Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) sits in the middle of the "Annapurna Sanctuary," a high glacial basin ringed by some of the world's most magnificent mountains.
- The View: At ABC, you are completely surrounded by giants, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,993m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m). The view is like standing in the middle of a colossal mountain stadium.
- Moderate Altitude: At a maximum altitude of 4,130m, the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is significantly lower than on the EBC trek (5,364m). This makes the ABC trek an ideal choice for first-time high-altitude trekkers.
- Cultural Trail: The route passes through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests, over glacier-fed rivers, and into traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Ghandruk, offering a rich blend of natural and cultural immersion.
The Walkers Expedition 10-Day ABC Trek Itinerary
This condensed itinerary is designed for fit travelers, utilizing road transfers to shorten the approach and return journey, focusing primarily on the ascent and descent to the Base Camp itself.
Phase 1: Arrival and Approach (Day 1-3)
| Day | Destination | Max.Altitude | Activity Overview |
| Day 1 | Kathmandu to Pokhara | 822 m | Scenic bus transfer. Rest and preparation in Lakeside, Pokhara. |
| Day 2 | Pokhara to Ghandruk | 1,940 m | Drive to Nayapul, short trek to the beautiful Gurung Village of Ghandruk. |
| Day 3 | Ghandruk to Chhomrong | 2,170 m | Trek through forests to Chhomrong, the final large village and official checkpoint. It offers spectacular views of Machhapuchhre. |
Phase 2: Trek to the Sanctuary (Day 4-6)
| Day | Destination | Max.Altitude (m) | Activity Overview |
| Day 4 | Chhomrong to Dovan | 2,600 m | Trek through Modi Khola, passing Bamboo Village. Trail is mostly downhill/flat followed by uphill to Dovan. |
| Day 5 | Dovan to Machhapuchhre Base Camp | 3,700 m | Slow hike through the "Gateway to the Sanctuary)." The dense forest gets thinner and you will reach Machhapuchhre BC |
| Day 6 | MBC to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) | 4,130 m | Short easy morning trek to ABC. Incredible panaromic mountain views and capture the sunset. |
Phase 3: Descent and Relaxation (Day 7-10)
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| Day | Destination | Max. Altitude (m) | Activity Overview |
| Day 7 | ABC to Bamboo | 2,310 m | Long but descent. Enjoy sunrise at ABC before a major downhill day. |
| Day 8 | Bamboo to Jhinu Danda | 1,780 m | Trek to Jhinu Danda. An afternoon relaxation in the natural hot springs. |
| Day 9 | Jhinu Danda to Pokhara | 822 m | Final short trek to Nayapul for a drive back to Pokhara. Enjoy dinner at Lakeside. |
| Day 10 | Pokhara to Kathmandu | 1,400 m | Morning drive to Kathmandu. |
Essential ABC Trek Facts & Tips
1. Difficulty and Fitness
The ABC Trek 10 Days itinerary is rated Moderate to Challenging. While the altitude is lower than EBC, the shorter duration means longer trekking days (6-8 hours daily) with many steep stone staircases, particularly on the ascent to Chhomrong and the final push to ABC. A good level of cardiovascular fitness is highly recommended.
2. Permits Required
The entire route lies within the conservation area and requires two permits:
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
- TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card
We handle the procurement of these permits, simplifying your logistics.
3. The Teahouse Experience
The ABC trail is one of the most developed teahouse routes. You can expect:
- Accommodation: Clean, basic, twin-share rooms. Attached bathrooms and hot showers are available at lower elevations (sometimes for a small fee), but become basic at MBC and ABC.
- Food: Extensive menus featuring the staple Dal Bhat, noodle dishes, rice, and often pizza or bakery items at lower stops.
4. Don't Miss the Hot Springs!
The natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda are the highlight of the descent. After days of strenuous hiking, the therapeutic sulfurous waters are the perfect way to soothe tired muscles and celebrate your achievement before returning to Pokhara.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek 10 Days is the ultimate mountain experience perfectly tailored for the busy traveler. It delivers unparalleled, life-changing views in a compact, efficient, and highly enjoyable package.
