Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek : An Overview
We are all familiar with the popular Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It is the regular ABC Trek, which averages 10-12 days. And yes, often this package is the most favourite choice among trekkers. Every year, this package sells in huge numbers. But there are many other packages designed for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, which are rarely explored among trek lovers. One of such treks happens to be the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This trek is a trek package that consists of 6 days. It starts fully from Pokhara and ends at Pokhara. Although it is a short trek, the Enjoyment of the trek is everlasting and is perfect to give trekkers around the world a memorable trek journey.
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary
The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek Itinerary has been briefly explained below:
- On the first day, we will be driving from Pokhara to Siwai(2,170-2,340m)for about 2-3 hours. And then start our trek journey to Chhomrong.
- Then on the second day, trekking will be continued to Bamboo (2,310m) until we reach Dovan (2,600m).
- On the third day, you can get acclimatized here at Dovan. Enjoy lunch, dancing, and singing on this day. View the mesmerizing rhododendron forests nearby while on trails and finally reaching Deurali.
- The fourth day is the most important day, as on this day we reach one of the most significant places, which is the Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC), standing at 3700m. After hiking for a few hours, we will arrive at our key destination, the Annapurna Base Camp(4,130m). So, standing in this place, what more could a trekker ask for while watching the most amazing and beautiful panoramic view of mountain peaks?
- Then on the fifth day, we go back towards Bamboo after having a light breakfast. Probably staying at Bamboo overnight.
- Then comes the last day, where our trek moves from Chomrong to Jhinu Danda. Trekkers can take some rest and enjoy lunch. And the agency vehicle will drive you towards Pokhara to close this trek.
What are the primary difficulties trekkers face during the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Just as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is difficult, the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is also moderately difficult. This trek can be a bit challenging for new trekkers, but not much for the experienced one. Some of the key points of the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty has been described below:
Higher Altitude
The main problem is the higher altitude. It is common that trekkers often find much difficulty in adjusting to the higher altitude area. As you move to a higher elevation, there will be a shortage of oxygen, and people who are not comfortable with going to high altitudes will face huge problems. This is where the main difficulty arises.
Less Acclimatization Time
One of the major concerns for the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the less amount of time for acclimatization. Since its time period is limited, the corresponding acclimatization time is also shorter. Trekkers have no other choice than to walk around at a faster pace. So, a proper acclimatization just before reaching such an area can be very effective.
Physical Exhausting
If you are a new trekker, then walking for 6-7 hours a day can be roughly challenging and drains your energy much more than you think. In the short Annapurna Base Camp trek, days are shorter, so hiking needs to be completed soon, and trekkers are advised to walk at a faster pace than on the regular Annapurna Base Camp trek.
What are the possible solutions for overcoming the difficulties ?
It's clear that the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is difficult for many trekkers, particularly new and beginner trekkers. However, there are good, proper solutions that can be useful for them. So, let’s discuss these solutions in the points below:
Do pre-workouts in the gym
Trekkers are advised to spend time in the gym and do regular workouts to make their bodies fit. Getting your body flexible before going trekking is the best thing you can do. Regularly walking up and down stairs can also be very effective.
Take a proper diet
To trek for long hours is exhausting, and your body needs a good amount of energy so you can take good supplements of vitamins and calcium. For that, you can take a proper diet that consists of carbohydrates and protein. You can take fruits, vegetables, juices, etc.
Good packing list
Packing list is a very important matter to discuss among trekkers if you are going for a short Annapurna Base Camp trek or any other trek. All the necessary things should be there in your packing list, and make sure that nothing is missed out.
Wrapping Up
As we come to the end of this article, it is clear that the short Annapurna Base Camp trek is seemingly quite harder for trekkers compared to the normal Annapurna Base Camp trek due less available of time period. But it's a good one to try for daring trekkers.Therefore, good preparation should be followed and maintained by trekkers to make sure that the trek journey goes in a smooth manner.
