The 5 Days ABC Short Trek is a thrilling, high-reward trekking experience designed for time-conscious adventurers seeking the majesty of the Himalayas in just under a week. ABC stands for Annapurna Base Camp, located at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 ft), nestled in the heart of Nepal’s stunning Annapurna Sanctuary.
This short but powerful journey is ideal for those who are physically fit and ready to take on challenging terrain, steep ascents, and breathtaking descents—all to reach one of the most iconic base camps in the world.
What is the 5 Days ABC Short Trek?
The 5 Days ABC Short Trek compresses the classic 7–10 day Annapurna Base Camp route into just five action-packed days. This version offers:
- Faster pace with more daily walking hours
- Fewer stopovers to maintain momentum
- A direct route via Jhinu Danda and Bamboo
- Incredible alpine views in a compact timeframe
Despite the shorter duration, it does not compromise on scenic beauty or cultural encounters.
️ Sample Itinerary – 5 Days ABC Short Trek
Day 1: Pokhara → Siwai → Chhomrong (2,170 m)
- Drive from Pokhara to Siwai (3 hours)
- Trek through Gurung villages and terraced fields
- Arrive in Chhomrong, the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary
Trek Time: 4–5 hours
Highlights: Views of Machapuchare, local teahouses, traditional farming villages
Day 2: Chhomrong → Deurali (3,230 m)
- Descend to Chhomrong Khola and ascend through Sinuwa and Bamboo
- Trek through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests
- Overnight in Deurali, a perfect acclimatization point
Trek Time: 7–8 hours
Highlights: Forest canopies, wildlife sightings, gradual altitude gain
Day 3: Deurali → Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)
- Trek past Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC)
- Enter the snow-capped amphitheater of the Annapurna Sanctuary
- Reach ABC by late afternoon for sunset views
Trek Time: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Towering peaks like Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and Glacier Dome
Day 4: ABC → Bamboo (2,310 m)
- Wake early to watch the golden sunrise over the Himalayas
- Retrace your steps down past MBC, Deurali, and Dovan
- Overnight stay in Bamboo, nestled in the jungle
Trek Time: 6–7 hours
Highlights: Downhill trek, peaceful forest environment, cozy teahouses
Day 5: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda → Siwai → Pokhara
- Short climb to Chhomrong, then descend to Jhinu Danda
- Optional visit to natural hot springs near the Modi Khola river
- Trek to Siwai and drive back to Pokhara
Trek Time: 5–6 hours
Drive: 2–3 hours
Highlights: Hot springs, river valley, celebratory return to civilization
️ Trek Highlights
- Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) – Surrounded by giants: Annapurna I, South, Machapuchare, and more
- Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700 m) – Picturesque resting point before final ascent
- Chhomrong & Jhinu Danda – Gateway villages with cultural and natural charm
- Rhododendron and Bamboo Forests – Rich biodiversity and cool trekking trails
- Natural Hot Springs – Perfect post-trek relaxation (optional on Day 5)
What’s Included in a Standard Trek Package?
| Inclusions | Details |
| Permits | ACAP (Annapurna Conservation) + TIMS Card |
| Guide and Porter | Licensed English-speaking guide + porter |
| Accommodation | Teahouses along the route |
| Meals | 3 meals per day (local & international) |
| Ground Transportation | Pokhara–Siwai transfer (round trip) |
Optional Costs: Travel insurance, gear rental, tipping, extra snacks/drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi charges.
Cost Breakdown of the 5 Days ABC Short Trek
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| Permits | $50–55 |
| Guide + Porter | $200–300 (shared) |
| Food & Lodging | $150–200 |
| Transportation | $30–50 |
| Misc. (Tips, Wi-Fi) | $30–60 |
| Total | $450–650 |
For solo or private treks, expect higher costs. Group packages tend to offer better value.
Fitness & Preparation
- Fitness Level: Moderate to high. Prior trekking or long-hike experience is ideal.
- Preparation Tips:
- Cardio training: 3–4 weeks before your trip
- Strengthen legs: squats, hill walks, stair climbs
- Break in boots and gear beforehand
- Altitude Safety: Though the ABC trek is not extremely high by Himalayan standards, ascending to 4,130 m in 3 days demands attention to hydration, nutrition, and pacing.
Packing List Essentials
- Lightweight trekking boots
- Breathable clothing layers
- Down jacket and thermal base layers
- Waterproof outerwear
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C)
- Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses
- First aid kit and personal medication
- Power bank and water purification tablets
Key Takeaways
- Duration: 5 days, ideal for short holidays
- Maximum Altitude: 4,130 m at ABC
- Trail Type: Round trip via Siwai and Jhinu Danda
- Accommodation: Teahouses with basic facilities
- Best Seasons: March–May and September–November
- Ideal For: Fit trekkers looking for a short, scenic, high-altitude adventure
Conclusion
The 5 Days ABC Short Trek is a compact, intense, and incredibly rewarding Himalayan experience. Perfect for those with limited time but a strong desire to witness the glory of the Annapurna Massif up close, it offers everything from soaring peaks and serene valleys to vibrant village life and rejuvenating hot springs.
With smart planning, adequate preparation, and the right mindset, this trek provides a lifetime of memories in just five days. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, couple, or part of a small group, the 5 Days ABC Short Trek is your ticket to the heart of the Himalayas—efficiently, safely, and soulfully