The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is a great option to consider if you are looking for an epic mountain experience in Nepal, especially if your time to get up close and intimate with these giants is limited. They say Gods can move mountains and with the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek, they have. With new roads being built in the Annapurna region, it is now possible to savor Annapurna Base Camp without spoiling anything of the ultimate experience. This Short Annapurna Base Camp Trekking itinerary cuts at least a day off the trek and three days for people intending to take in Poon Hill on the way. A good level of fitness helps as trekking days are slightly longer compared to the more familiar Annapurna Base Camp itineraries.
A huge ice-clad amphitheater situated at an altitude of 4130 m. Just imagine wrapped tight from the thin biting air, feeling alive from the last few days on the trail, and just glad to be here within an almost magical surreal setting. Where the mountains rule, supreme and fearless towering vertically above you. Absolutely stunning views of Annapurna I (8091 m), Annapurna III (7937m), Annapurna IV (7 525m), Gangapurna (7455m), and Machhapuchhre (6993m) magic. With never enough time, unfortunately, time moves on and we need to retrace our steps for two days on our way back to more familiar settings. The bonus is it's down most of the way with still so much to enjoy as Nepal is hardly mundane.
Pokhara:
The day before we commence our journey to the Annapurna Base Camp we spend a night in Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside town with perhaps the most spectacular mountain backdrop anywhere in the world. Pokhara is well-known as the starting point for numerous trekking trails and expeditions in the Annapurna Region. The town has developed into an adventure tourism destination over the last decade, offering everything from Paragliding, and skydiving ultra-light flights to zip lining and bungee jumping. Brightly painted wooden boats bobbing up and down on Lake Phewa (Tal) add vibrant colors to the verdant green foothills that surround the town.
Hot Springs:
Our last night is spent at Jhinu Danda where we relax in a series of hot spring-fed pools set deep in the Modi Khola. The Short Annapurna Base Camp trekking won't be completed without stopping at the Jhinu Hot Springs. The next day is an easy one just a short 15-20 minute hike down to the bottom of the Modi Khola River and on to Sewai where we take our transport back to our hotel in Pokhara.
Perhaps it is only when you are back relaxing in Pokhara, you can take in the full impact of the Annapurna Base Camp Short Trekking and just what it has meant for you.