Annapurna Base Camp trek in 5 days is from Pokhara, the shortest route to explore the mighty Annapurna
Annapurna Base Camp trek 5 days is one of the most popular treks in Nepal. This is the short version of the standard Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, which generally takes 7-12 days. Those who do not have enough time for a standard Annapurna base camp trek can do the 5-day Annapurna base camp trek from Pokhara to Pokhara. The trek offers magnificent views of the sky touching the Annapurna ranges, many waterfalls and vivid landscapes from sub-tropical to alpine. The short trek offers the complete experience of the high Himalayas of Annapurna as it takes you to the base of Mt Annapurna, 8091 Meters. The south Annapurna base camp is the ultimate destination of this 5-day trek, which is located at an altitude of 4130 meters.
Need a more relaxed pace or custom itinerary?
If you have more than 5 days, check out our full range of 10- and 12-day classic routes, group discounts, and private jeep options on our main Annapurna Base Camp Trek package page.
The short Annapurna base camp trek for 5 days is the shortest Annapurna base camp trek itinerary from Pokhara and ends at Pokhara. This one is suitable for those who have a week and still want to explore the beauty of the Annapurna base camp. The ABC Trek 5-day offers the unique experience of the local cultures and people, along with the best Himalayan scenery. The hike starts with the drive to Samrung, from where trekkers start the trek and finish it there. It will be just 5 days and can even be 6 days too if you stay one more night in Jhinu for a Hot spring. If you drive in the evening to Pokhara, it will be just 5 days Annapurna base camp trek. The trek allows trekkers to witness the Himalayan Annapurna Himalayan ranges at a distance of 1km. Namely, you can see the Annapurna 8,091 m mountain range. Annapurna South 7,219 M, Fishtail 6,997 M, Gangapurna 7,445 M, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Tent Peak, Baraha Sikhar and many other peaks.
How is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Possible in Just 5 Days?
If you are wondering how we compress the classic 8-day Annapurna Base Camp trek into just 5 days, the secret is our direct 4WD Jeep logistics and avoid the Poon Hill
In the past, trekkers had to start walking from Nayapul, spending two full days hiking through the lower, hotter foothills just to reach the mountains. Today, those lower trails have been replaced by dirt roads. At Nepal Trek Hub, we bypass the dust and the crowds entirely by driving you directly to the highest possible starting point. Another reason is we also avoid the Ghorepani Poon Hill Sections which is 3 days extra trek via Poon Hill.
Here is exactly how our express route works:
The 4WD Jeep Shortcut (Day 1):
Instead of walking from Nayapul, we take a 3 to 4-hour scenic off-road jeep drive (approx. 55km) straight from your hotel in Pokhara to the trailhead at Samrung (near Jhinu Danda). This cuts out 2 days of unnecessary walking on motorable roads.Instant Altitude:
By starting at Samrung, you are immediately at the edge of the Annapurna Sanctuary. You cross the massive Jhinu suspension bridge and begin trekking up the stone stairs to Chhomrong and Sinuwa on your very first dayRenove the Ghorepani Poon Hill Section:
We also avoid the Ghorepani Poon Hill sections which add the 3 extra days on the hike that makes the Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 days Possible.The Efficient Return (Day 5):
On your final day, after descending from the high mountains to Jhinu Danda (and optionally enjoying the natural hot springs), our jeeps will be waiting at the Siwai/Matque station to drive you comfortably back to Pokhara in just 3 hours.
What this means for you?
You do not miss a single mountain view. You reach the exact same 4,130m Base Camp and experience the exact same Himalayan sunrise as the 10-day trekkers. You simply skip the dusty lower roads, making this the perfect itinerary for fit trekkers with limited vacation time.Annapurna base camp trek 5 days is the shortest trek to reach the Base Camp
The Annapurna base camp trekking for 5 days is the shortest trek and known as Annapurna Base Camp ABC express trek. Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 days is a short version of Annapurna base camp trek which starts from Pokhara and ends at Pokhara. This is suitable for most trekkers but the people who think it might be too hard for them can extend the plan because it is not that easy trek to do in 4-5 days as there are so many stone staircases that go continuously uphills and downhills soon after one after another. You do not find the continuous flatty way here for even 10-20 minutes. Shorr Annapurna base camp trek 5 days is full of uphills and downhills stairs trails so if you think you can do this then you can do the Annapurna base camp trek 5 days. The Short Annapurna base camp trek is harder but offers the same excitement and scenery as the original Annapurna base camp trek.
Detailed 5-Day Annapurna Base Camp Itinerary
Day 01: Drive from Pokhara to Samrung/Kiumi & Trek to Lower Sinuwa 2,100m (6,869ft)
The trek formally begins today with an early morning 3-hour jeep drive from Pokhara to Kiumi/Samrung, passing through Birethanti where ACAP permits are checked. Arriving at Kiumi, you enjoy views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,993m), Annapurna South (7,219m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m). We begin hiking north along the Modi Khola riverbank, crossing the long suspension bridge to reach Jhinu Danda—famous for its natural hot springs. We ascend stone steps to Chhomrong, the largest Gurung village in the sanctuary, before descending to the river and making a final climb to Lower Sinuwa for our overnight stay.
Day 02: Trek from Lower Sinuwa to Deurali 3,200m (10,498ft)
Starting with breakfast at Lower Sinuwa, we climb gently to Upper Sinuwa for clear views of Mt. Fishtail. From here, the trail enters dense bamboo, oak, and rhododendron forests, reaching Bamboo village in about 3 hours. Following the Modi River upstream through lush forests, we pass through Dovan and Himalaya. The vegetation thins out as altitude increases. Passing near the iconic Hinku Cave, we navigate a winding path across small mountain bridges before arriving at Deurali, situated dramatically at the base of Hiunchuli.
Day 03: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) 4,130m (13,550ft)
Leaving Deurali, the trail ascends along stone steps and follows water pipelines past Bagar toward the high sanctuary. As we reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC, 3,700m), breathtaking vistas of Mt. Fishtail, Gangapurna, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli open up completely. The final leg ascends steadily along the glacial moraine, culminating at the high-altitude Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) surrounded by a 360-degree Himalayan sanctuary.
Day 04: ABC Sunrise Exploration & Trek Down to Bamboo 2,400m (7,874ft)
We wake early to witness a golden sunrise casting morning light across Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Tent Peak, and Fishtail. You can observe the massive Annapurna glacier sweeping down the valley floor. After enjoying hot drinks and photo ops, we retrace our steps down through MBC, Deurali, Himalaya, and Dovan, making a long descent back to Bamboo (2,400m) for our overnight stay.
Day 05: Trek to Jhinu Danda Hot Spring & Drive Back to Pokhara 800m (2,625ft)
On our final day, we ascend through the forest from Bamboo up to Upper Sinuwa before descending stone steps to Chhomrong. Passing Chhomrong, we descend to Jhinu Danda where you can enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs by the riverbank. We then hike down to the jeep station at Samrung/Kiumi and take a private jeep drive back to Pokhara, concluding our 5-day Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days Cost & Price Tiers
Annapurna base camp trek 5 days cost/price from $250, $450 and $550 on Budget, Standard and Comfort schemes from Pokhara. The single-person trekking cost will be higher because in 2 people, the cost is shared. The cheapest cost we offer is Guide, porter and permit service, and the silver and gold prices are full board packages. You can read our comprehensive Annapurna Base Camp Trek cost for all cost related informations. If you have just 6-7 days in Nepal and you want to do the Annapurna base camp trek, then you can take the domestic flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu, and you can do the Annapurna base camp trek in 5 days.
Budget Price $250 | Standard Price $450 | Comfort Price $550 |
|---|---|---|
IncludesGuide, Porter, Permits, Transportations and Government service chargeExcludesFood and Accomodations, Drinks, Tea, Coffee, Drinking water, Desert and all others which not in Includes above | IncludesGuide, Porter, TIMS Permits, ACCAP Permits, Transportations by local bus , Food and Accomodations and Government service chargeExcludesAlchoholic Drinks, Tea, Coffee, Drinking water, Desert and all others which not in Includes above | IncludesGuide, Porter, TIMS Permits, ACCAP Permits Transportations, Food and Accomodations, Tea, Coffee, and Government service chargeExcludesAlchoholic Drinks, Drinking water, Desert and all others which not in Includes above |
Quick Inquiry
What’s Included in the Package?
- Meals on full board: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner each day during the trekking days
- Guest house basis trekking accommodation while on trekking days (Sharing in the season)
- Fully escorted trek with fluent English speaking license holder local guide
- Porter to Carry your lugguage
- ACAAP permits
- Seasonal Fruits in the Desert after Dinner
- First Aid Box
- TIMS Permit
- Pokhara to Samrung by Private Jeep
- Samrung to Pokhara return by Private Jeep
- Duffel Bags for carrying your luggage
- Water Purification Tablets
- Food, accommodation and salary of Nepali trekking staff
What’s Excluded?
- Nepal entry visa fee cost US$ 40.
- Lunch and Dinner during the staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara city.
- Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Any kinds of battery charges, laundry service, phone calls and hot shower during the trekking.
- Personal trekking equipment and Clothing.
- Personal nature expenses, any drinks and bar bills.
- Your travel insurance (it is mandatory in case of emergency).
- Any donation and monuments entrance fees.
- Tips for the crew (Note : TIPS is not compulsory but highly expected)
- Any other things which are not mentioned above
5-Day ABC Express Trek Highlights
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek in 5 days is a moderately easy trek with a great, rewarding journey through the stunning Annapurna region of Nepal. Despite the shorter trip, you still enjoy the same level as you do on long adventure journeys. Trekkers will encounter breathtaking landscapes, cultural gems, and natural wonders. Here are the key highlights and things to see on a 5-day ABC trek:
Scenic drive to Samrung:
The scenic drive offers a diverse range of sights, from the majestic Annapurna range to unique wonderful local settlements like Birethanti, Syauli Bazar, Siwai, and Ghandruk. Enjoy panoramic views from Nagdanda and Kande.Flora and Fauna of the Annapurna Conservation Area:
The Annapurna Conservation Area boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna. Dense forests located in the Area of Upper Sinuwa, Bamboo, and Dovan are primarily composed of rhododendrons, hemlock, juniper oaks, and pine, though bamboo dominates much of the trail in this part of the Short ABC trek. Notable fauna include langur monkeys, red Assamese macaques, black bears, deer, barking deer, and various other species inhabiting this national park.Rhododendron Forests:
Witnessing the rhododendron forests in full bloom during spring is a breathtaking and enjoyable experience.Jhinu Danda Hot Springs
Located on the Bank of the Modi River, the Jhinu Danda Hot Spring is a natural hot spring man-made pool renowned for its therapeutic benefits. After a Short Annapurna base camp trekking trek, immerse yourself in the soothing waters and experience the rejuvenating effects of this natural wonder.Chhomrong
Chomrong, the largest Gurung community village on the Annapurna Base Camp trail on the first day of the Short ABC Trek, offers a fascinating cultural experience. Immerse yourself in the local way of life, admire the traditional architecture of the building the houses, and enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna South and HimchuliMachhapuchhre Base Camp
Machhapurche Base Camp is a spot to take a break and enjoy lunch with unparalleled views of the Annapurna range. From here, you can have perfect views of Annapurna South, Himchuli, and Gandarva Chuli.Local people and their culture
Apart from breathtaking scenery, the Short Annapurna Base Camp trek provides invaluable insights into the local culture. Villages like Chomrong, Lower Sinuwa, Bhanuwa, and Upper Sinuwa, home to the Gurung and Magar communities, offer a glimpse into their traditional lifestyles and cultural practices.Waterfalls on the way to ABC
The mighty and tall waterfalls on the way to Your Short Annapurna base camp just evade your fatigue and re-energise you, the waterfalls in front of the Temple near the Himalayas are the waterfalls you should not miss at any costAnnapurna Himalayas ranges
Trekkers can see the marvellous 360-degree views of the Annapurna Himalayas range Annapurna 8091 m (26,545ft) Annapurna South 7219 m (23,684ft), Annapurna III 7,555 metres (24,787 ft), Annapurna IV 7,455 metres (24,459 ft), Mt Fishtail 6,993 m (22,943 ft), Himchuli 6400 m (20,997ft), Annapurna Fang 7,647 m (25,089 ft) and many other snow-capped peaksAnnapurna glacier
You can see the Annapurna glacier from the edge of the Annapurna base camp (viewpoints), which starts beneath the Annapurna South, Annapurna, and Barashikhar Himalayas. The glaciers produce strange sounds because the ice and stone move inside them.
Annapurna Base Camp trek 5 days trek facts
Trek Name | Annapurna Base Camp trek 5 days |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 5 days trek, 2 days in Kathmandu 2 days in Pokhara Total 9 days in Nepal |
| Max. elevation: | 4130 Meter, Annapurna Base Camp Trek |
| Start | Pokhara |
| Ends | Pokhara |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Best Time | Spring and Autumn Season |
| Permits: | TIMS and ACCAP Permits |
| Accommodation | Tea House |
How hard is Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 days?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is moderately difficult Trek. Still, some people find it challenging because of the trail’s continuous accents and descending staircases, but it can be a rewarding experience. Some factors that make the trek challenging are.
Well-maintained trekking trails but with many stone staircases:
The trails to Annapurna Base Camp are well-maintained, and in some areas, there are many stone staircases to make the trek easier for trekkers. Some trekkers find this annoying and challenging, but it is done for their convenience. The stairs are made for the monsoon season easy because in monsoon the trails become muddy and slippery. but overall annapurna base camp trek trails are relatively easy. Overall, walking 6-8 hours a day on mountainous terrain can easily complete the Annapurna Base Camp trek.Low-altitude Trail Trek but still poses the threat of altitude:
Annapurna Base Camp is located at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). This is not a high-altitude base camp, so trekkers should not worry about the AMS which can cause you also altitude sickness and precautions should be taken to avoid Altitude sickness. Due to the short period of fast accents, you may get some headaches, headache, dizziness, vomiting, shortness of breath and tiredness in Annapurna base camp. With some rest, some paracetamol and hot soup it should be ok otherwise you have to go down to Machhapurche Base Camp.Terrain:
The terrain can become challenging as you go further up the trail. The Annapurna Base Camp with Poon Hill route’s trails has many stairs because of the frequent accents and descents downhills.Duration:
The trek can take 5 to 11 days, depending on the route and pace that trekkers take and on this route normally, people do not do acclimatization. That is the reason trekkers can not adapt their body to the altitude and that is why there is always the risk of Altitude mountain sickness.Moderate Grade Trail Trek:
The 5-day Annapurna Base Camp trek is a moderate type of trek. The daily trekking time is 6-8 hours because it is a short hike with a significant amount of distance. Generally, trekkers will not have to climb difficult slopes or walk on icy trails very much. However, it can be more difficult during snowfall, as this makes the trails icy and slippery.It is also the best beginner trek:
Even beginner trekkers can do this trek, the trek is moderate and if you push yourself to your limit then obviously the beginner can do the trek without any problem. We are not telling you it is easy but can be doable.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days Itinerary Route Matrix
| DAYS | ITINERARY | ALTITUDE | TIME |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive Pokhara to Samrung | Trek to Lower Sinuwa | 2,340 m (7,677 ft) | 3 Hrs Drive + 4 Hrs Walk |
| Day 2 | Trek Sinuwa to Deurali via Himalaya & Dovan | 3,230 m (10,597 ft) | 7-8 Hrs |
| Day 3 | Trek Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) via MBC | 4,130 m (13,549 ft) | 5-6 Hrs |
| Day 4 | Sunrise at ABC | Descend to Bamboo / Upper Sinuwa | 4,130 m down to 2,340 m | 6-7 Hrs |
| Day 5 | Trek to Jhinu Danda (Hot Springs) | Drive back to Pokhara | 822 m (Pokhara) | 2 Hrs Walk + 3 Hrs Drive |
Annapurna base camp trek 5 days best time (When to go?)
The time for the trek is an extremely important factor because the experience of the trek depends on the time. Simply time is vital for the best experience. It is also very important that due to the time limit trekkers must know which time is good for them to experience and they can take the decision before they travel. Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (October, November and early December) are the best seasons/time to explore the Annapurna base camp within a 5-day time frame.
1. Autumn Seasons
In general, the autumn season starts at the end of September and last till the second or third week of December. The period in between is the best time to do the 5-day Annapurna base camp hike. Due to the post-monsoon season, the possibility of rain is very low, the sky is clear, and you can see the mountain very clearly. The time is neither hot nor cold so you can have a very good temperature during this period. the countryside as well as you can also see the people are ready to harvest rice at this time. This time is considered the best time of the year to trek.2. Spring Seasons
The last week of February, March, April and May months known as a spring season trek time in Nepal. The visibility and sky are very clean and you can see the best view of the mountains. There is less chance of rainfall and snowfall around the trekking areas. This allows trekkers to enjoy the trek very much. In the trekking trails, the forest gets different types of flowers. You can see the rhododendron forest gets totally colourful because of the flowers this time.3. Monsoon seasons
Trekkers can trek in Annapurna base camp throughout the year but June July is a rainy season, leeches, floods, landslides and a cloudy sky are the problem of this time. You can not enjoy the trek this time plus there are different types of natural obstacles.4. Winter season
December and January are the coldest months, in this month the temperature is very cold, and the weather is mostly cloudy so it means you can not see a good view of the Himalayas. You can choose any month by seeing your time.
Mt Fishtail seen from Annapurna Base Camp
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek photos
Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days FAQ
• Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Matque via private Jeep, then trek to Chhomrong or Sinuwa.
• Day 2: Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali.
• Day 3: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).
• Day 4: Sunrise at ABC, followed by a long descent back down to Bamboo or Sinuwa.
• Day 5: Trek to Jhinu Danda (enjoy the natural hot springs), then take a private Jeep back to Pokhara.
Read Reviews
TripAdvisor Review Google Review
Annapurana Base camp trek experience - One of the best trek I have had.
Shreeram and Nepal Trek Hub provided an exceptional trekking experience that exceeded our expectations. As a group of six avid trekkers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts over 50 years of age, we were impressed by Shriram’s meticulous planning and attention to our needs. He carefully curated the Annapurna Base Camp trek route, accommodations, and logistics to ensure our comfort and safety, despite our advanced age and health considerations.
Throughout the trek, Shriram’s expertise, knowledge, and sense of humor made the journey truly memorable. He was attentive to our pace and provided the necessary support, even carrying backpacks for some of our group members when needed.The accommodations and food were excellent, and Shriram’s responsiveness to any challenges we faced was commendable.
The breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and the overall trekking experience were truly unforgettable. We are grateful to Shriram and the Nepal Trek Hub team for crafting a seamless and enjoyable adventure that catered to our specific needs as a mature group of trekkers. We highly recommend Nepal Trek Hub to anyone seeking a professional and personalized trekking experience in Nepal.
Response from Nepal Trek Hub
Hello Prasad sir and the team
Thank you so much for your appreciation of our service and it was great to serve you people. It was a nice and memorable time with you all and we gave our best to make your trek successful and it was the result of the great teamwork. we keep looking forward to seeing you once again for another adventure
Shreeram and Team
Nepal Trek Hub
A memrable trek to ABC
The trek for ABC for our family was well organized by Mr. shreeram. We had whats-app chat in advance to customize the trip. The cost of the trip was given with breakups. And we have the freedom to cut short the costs in it if possible.
He understood our pace of walk and arranged food and accommodations.
He gave good insight of the mountains and the routes of trek
ABC + poon hill 8 days hike
Shreeram is the best guide, guiding us professionally and explaining the cultures of Nepal and history of Annapurna. He’s also very funny and make the hike less tiring with his humour. He has the best team of porters and is genuine in providing the best for us! The hikes were very well planned and executed so we do not need to hike in harsh or bad weather conditions. All the accommodations were really the best with good views and nice beds with hot water tooo. Awesome Nepal trek hub, will defiantly come back for another hike with Shreeram and team
Super excellent ABC + Poon Hill Trek
Shreeram was an amazing guide throughout the 8 days that we were together. He was very knowledgeable and was helpful in pointing out the mountains and also letting us know when we can see them clearly.
He was also very organized and the entire trip went without any problems. Beyond being a guide, Shreerams humor and easy going personality definitely added to the trip and I enjoyed his company a lot!
I would also like to thank our porters, Suresh and Ram for carrying our belongings and I would recommend Nepal Trek Hub to everyone.
Response from Nepal Trek Hub
Thank you
ABC -7Days trek
When we planned our trek at Nepal, we searched for a local guide and found info about Mr Shreeram. We connected to him through WhatsApp, and discussed our plan.
He guided us with the proper itinerary. From day 1 of our trek to our last day of trek he made sure everything goes well as per plan. The tea houses he chose was more comfortable. The Porters Mr Ram and Mr Suresh were calm nd helpful all the time. If you are planning for a trek in Nepal , I strongly recommend Mr shreeram.
