Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek
Mountain Hawk Trek
Annapurna RegionModerate

Annapurna Base CampShort Trek

Reach the Annapurna Sanctuary at 4,130m in just 10 days via the direct Chhomrong route. Same base camp experience as the 13-day trek on a tighter schedule. Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I, Gurung villages. From USD 950.

View Itinerary
10
DaysTotal trek duration
4130m
Max AltitudeHighest point reached
Mar–Jun · Sep–Dec
Best SeasonIdeal trekking window
$950
FromPer person (twin sharing)
Trip Highlights

The moments that matter most

This is the fastest route to the Annapurna Sanctuary without compromising the destination. You reach the same 4,130m base camp, see the same ring of peaks, and wake to the same sunrise as trekkers on the 13-day itinerary. The difference is pace: longer walking days and fewer rest stops in the lower villages.

The bamboo forest between Sinuwa and Deurali is a highlight regardless of pace. Dense canopy, hanging moss, and the sound of the Modi Khola below. In spring (March to May), rhododendrons add color to the understory.

At USD 950 this is the most affordable guided route into the Annapurna Sanctuary, making it the go-to option for trekkers with limited time and budget who still want the full base camp experience.

Trip Overview

A closer look

The Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek covers the same trail to the Annapurna Sanctuary in 10 days instead of 13. The itinerary trims the Kathmandu-Pokhara transit days and moves at a slightly faster pace through the lower villages, reaching Chhomrong by day 3 and base camp by day 6. You get the same sunrise at 4,130m inside the amphitheatre of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.

The route follows the Modi Khola from Nayapul through Ghandruk (1,940m) and Chhomrong (2,170m), then climbs through bamboo forest to Deurali (3,230m) and into the Annapurna Sanctuary. Walking days are slightly longer at 6 to 7 hours to compress the schedule. The acclimatization profile is adequate but less conservative than the 13-day version.

Permits required: ACAP (NPR 3,000) and TIMS card, both included. Licensed guide mandatory for all foreign trekkers in the Annapurna Conservation Area.

If 10 days feels rushed, the standard Annapurna Base Camp Trek adds 3 days for a more relaxed pace at USD 1,275. For a lower-altitude alternative, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek reaches 3,210m in 8 days. The Mardi Himal Trek offers a quieter 11-day route to 3,900m with similar Machhapuchhre views.

Route & Elevation

The trail, mapped

Elevation ProfileDay-by-day altitude
TrailPeak
4,130m3,434m2,738m2,041m1,345mKathmanduGhandrukChomrongHimalayaAnnapurna Base CampBambooJhinu Danda Or Hot SpringKathmandu4,130m
Gallery

Moments from the trail

Itinerary

Day by day, on the trail

10 days from Kathmandu arrival to departure. Hover any day for full details.

Day01

Arrival in Kathmandu

Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu airport (1,345 m). Overnight at hotel.

1,345mHotel
Day02

Drive to Ghandruk

Ghandruk

Drive to Ghandruk (1,720 m), approximately 6 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

1,720m6h trekTeahouse375m
Day03

Trek to Chomrong

Chomrong

Trek to Chomrong (2,117 m), approximately 7 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

2,117m7h trekTeahouse397m
Day04

Trek to Himalaya

Himalaya

Trek to Himalaya (2,800 m), approximately 6 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

2,800m6h trekTeahouse683m
Day05

Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Annapurna Base Camp

Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m), approximately 6 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

4,130m6h trekTeahouse1,330m
Day06

Trek Back to Bamboo

Bamboo

Trek back to Bamboo (2,400 m), approximately 5 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

2,400m5h trekTeahouse1,730m
Day07

Trek to Jhinu Danda

Jhinu Danda

Trek to Jhinu Danda or the hot spring (1,780 m), approximately 6 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

1,780m6h trekTeahouse620m
Day08

Trek to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara

Pokhara

Trek to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara, approximately 1 hour. Overnight at hotel.

865mHotel915m
Day09

Drive Back to Kathmandu

Kathmandu

Drive back to Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel.

1,345mHotel480m
Day10

Departure

Kathmandu

Transfer to the international airport for your final flight departure.

1,345mTransfer
Good to Know

Before you commit

Trek Cost

TierPrice
1 Pax to 10 Pax
USD 950per person

Cancellation & Date Change Policy

  • Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 30 days or more before the start date of the trek: 80% refund of the total trek cost. Cancellations made between 15 and 29 days before the start date: 50% refund of the total trek cost. Cancellations made less than 15 days before the start date: no refund will be provided.
  • Date Change PolicyDate changes requested 30 days or more before the start date of the trek: no additional fee, subject to availability. Date changes requested between 15 and 29 days before the start date: a fee of USD 50 per person will apply, subject to availability. Date changes requested less than 15 days before the start date: not permitted.
  • Please NoteAll cancellation and date-change requests must be communicated to Mountain Hawk Trek via email or phone. Refunds, if applicable, will be processed within 7 to 30 business days from the date of cancellation confirmation. Mountain Hawk Trek reserves the right to cancel or modify the trek itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters, political unrest, or safety concerns. In such cases, alternative arrangements will be offered, and participants will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.
Package Details

What's in, what's out

What's Included

9

Airport to hotel to airport pickup and drop-off by private car, van, or bus.

Standard twin-sharing accommodation in a two or three-star hotel: 2 nights in Kathmandu and 1 night in Pokhara, breakfast included.

Standard meals (lunch, dinner, and breakfast) and teahouse accommodation during the trek.

A government-licensed English-speaking guide for the trek, the required number of porters, and their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and a general first aid kit.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and all other necessary permits.

Surface transfer from Kathmandu.

Down jacket, duffel or kit bag, and sleeping bag (to be returned after the trek).

All applicable government taxes.

Tourist service charge and VAT.

Not Included

9

Lunch and dinner while in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Travel insurance (compulsory).

International airfare and airport departure tax.

Nepal entry visa fee.

Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and laundry.

Personal trekking equipment.

Tips for trekking staff and driver.

Sightseeing and monument entrance fees.

Any other expenses not mentioned in the Price Includes section.

Add-on

Extra Nights in Kathmandu

Single Room$60per night · breakfast included
Twin Sharing$35per person / night · breakfast included

We kindly offer the option of a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back at an additional cost of US$200 per person (US$100 for one way). Additionally, should you require extra accommodation in Kathmandu, including breakfast, the rates are US$60 per person per night for a single room and US$35 per person per night for a double (twin sharing) room.

The Reward

Why you'll love it

Three reasons this trek stays with you long after the plane home.

Scenery

Same destination, three fewer days. You stand at Annapurna Base Camp inside the sanctuary amphitheatre without taking two weeks off work.

Thrill

At USD 950 this is the cheapest guided route to any major base camp in Nepal. Full board, guide, porter, permits all included.

Connection

Machhapuchhre sunrise from 3,700m is stunning whether you arrive in 6 days or 8. The mountain does not care about your itinerary length.

Honest Check

Is this trek for you?

A few things worth knowing before you commit. No sugar-coating, no surprises on day one.

Expectations

Before you book

5

You have 10 days or fewer and want to reach a major Himalayan base camp. This is the fastest option in the Annapurna region.

You can walk 6 to 7 hours a day on steep terrain. The pace is noticeably faster than the 13-day version.

You are comfortable with a slightly compressed acclimatization schedule. The highest sleep is 4,130m with one night at 3,700m beforehand.

You want the Annapurna Sanctuary experience at the lowest guided price available.

Prior trekking experience is helpful. The faster pace leaves less margin for adjustment.

Gear Up

What to pack

The full kit that's built from years on the trail. Skip it at your own risk, bring it and you'll never think about it again.

Equipment

Packing checklist

35 items

Clothing:

Moisture-wicking base layers (long-sleeve tops and pants)

Insulating mid-layers (fleece jackets or down jackets)

Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket

Waterproof and breathable trekking pants

Thermal underwear (for colder seasons)

Trekking shorts or convertible pants (for warmer days)

Quick-drying hiking socks (wool or synthetic blend)

Warm hat or beanie

Lightweight gloves or mittens

Sun hat or cap for sun protection

Footwear:

Sturdy and broken-in hiking boots with ankle support

Comfortable trekking sandals or shoes for camp or rest days

Gaiters (optional) for added protection from snow, mud, and debris

Accessories:

Daypack (20-30 liters) for carrying essentials during the day

Trekking poles for stability and reducing strain on knees

Sunglasses with UV protection

Buff or neck gaiter for sun and wind protection

Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries

Personal first aid kit with medications, blister treatments, and bandages

Lip balm with SPF protection

Sunscreen with high SPF rating

Insect repellent (especially during summer months)

Portable water purification system or water purification tablets

Gear:

Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures (rated to at least -10°C/14°F)

Sleeping pad or inflatable mattress for insulation and comfort

Lightweight and quick-drying towel

Multi-purpose knife or tool.

Portable power bank for charging electronic devices

Optional Items:

Camera or smartphone for capturing memories

Binoculars for wildlife and scenic viewing

Good to Know

Frequently asked questions

Still have questions? Tap through the answers below or reach out directly. We reply within the hour.

FAQs

The most asked

8
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