For those seeking a spectacular Himalayan journey without dedicating weeks, the Poon Hill and ABC Trekis the perfect solution. This adventure blends two iconic Nepalese trekking experiences: the sunrise magic of Poon Hill and the dramatic amphitheater of the Annapurna Base Camp. Designed for efficiency without sacrificing beauty, this trek is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to immerse themselves in Nepal’s rugged landscapes and vibrant culture.
Introduction to the Route
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek 6 days or the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days are condensed versions of the classic Annapurna trek. By trimming the duration and streamlining the itinerary, trekkers can experience the essence of the Himalayas within a tight schedule. This trek typically begins in Nayapul or Kimche after a scenic drive from Pokhara and proceeds through charming Gurung villages such as Ghandruk and Chhomrong.
While the Poon Hill portion is often tackled as a separate short trek, combining it with the ABC route adds a scenic bonus. Famous for its sweeping panoramic sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, Poon Hill (3,210m) is a highlight worth including, especially for those who appreciate mountain photography and tranquil dawn experiences.
Highlights of the Trek
- Poon Hill Sunrise: Catch breathtaking views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri bathed in golden hues.
- Cultural Exploration: Experience warm hospitality in Gurung villages and learn about their traditions and lifestyles.
- Annapurna Sanctuary: Walk through the natural amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), surrounded by towering peaks.
- Diverse Ecosystems: Traverse through rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, alpine meadows, and glacier moraines.
- Hot Springs: Relax your muscles at Jhinu Danda’s natural hot springs after a challenging day’s trek.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek 6 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Pokhara to Ghandruk (1,940m)
Drive from Pokhara to Kimche and begin your hike to Ghandruk. Explore the beautiful Gurung village with spectacular views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
Day 2: Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2,170m)
Trek through dense forests and small settlements, descending to the Modi Khola before climbing up to Chhomrong.
Day 3: Chhomrong to Himalaya (2,920m)
Enter deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary region, passing through Bamboo and Dovan. Witness increasingly dramatic mountain scenery.
Day 4: Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
Continue your ascent past Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700m), then walk into the glorious sanctuary. Spend the night at ABC under the stars.
Day 5: ABC to Jhinu Danda (1,780m)
Descend back past Bamboo and Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda. Enjoy a dip in the natural hot springs nearby.
Day 6: Jhinu to Pokhara
Final trek to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara.
This six-day itinerary captures all the major highlights, offering a balanced mix of nature, culture, and adventure.
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days Option
For those with even tighter schedules, the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days version skips Ghandruk and Poon Hill and focuses on a faster approach via Jhinu Danda. Although more demanding, it delivers the same stunning arrival at ABC in a shorter timeframe.
Day 1: Drive to Siwai, trek to Chhomrong
Day 2: Chhomrong to Deurali
Day 3: Deurali to ABC
Day 4: ABC to Sinuwa
Day 5: Sinuwa to Siwai, drive to Pokhara
This route is ideal for experienced trekkers or those in good physical shape who want a quick yet rewarding Himalayan trek.
Combining Poon Hill and ABC
Combining Poon Hill and ABC Trek adds an extra day or two but gives trekkers a broader Annapurna experience. Starting from Nayapul, you ascend to Ghorepani and make the early morning hike to Poon Hill before continuing toward ABC. This fusion route provides incredible contrasts: from rolling hills and terraced farms to icy glaciers and high-altitude vistas.
Many trekkers opt to start with the Ghorepani-Poon Hill section to acclimatize gradually before tackling higher elevations. This combination also allows a more immersive experience of the Annapurna Conservation Area’s biodiversity.
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for this trek are:
- Spring (March to May): Rhododendrons bloom, and the skies are generally clear.
- Autumn (September to November): Crisp air, clear views, and festive ambiance in Nepal.
While winter offers quieter trails, snow and cold temperatures can pose challenges. Monsoon season (June to August) is less ideal due to slippery paths and poor visibility.
Preparation and Fitness
Both the Annapurna Base Camp Trek 6 Days and Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days require moderate fitness. Daily hikes range from 5 to 8 hours with altitude gains. No technical climbing is involved, but prior hiking experience helps.
Acclimatization is generally manageable due to the trek’s design, but staying hydrated and taking your time on ascents is essential. Packing layers, sturdy boots, and trekking poles is recommended.
Accommodation and Food
You’ll find comfortable teahouses throughout the route. These lodges offer basic rooms, hearty meals (dal bhat, noodles, pancakes, soups), and a friendly atmosphere. Most stops have Wi-Fi and charging facilities, although services become limited the closer you get to ABC.
Permits Required
- TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
Both can be arranged through a registered trekking agency or obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Conclusion
The Poon Hill and ABC Trek is a remarkable blend of short trekking efficiency and unforgettable Himalayan scenery. Whether you opt for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek 6 days or the condensed Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 5 Days, the experience remains soul-stirring and visually astounding. From the first glimpse of dawn over Poon Hill to the triumphant arrival at Annapurna Base Camp, every step of this journey is steeped in natural wonder and cultural richness. Perfect for adventurers short on time but high on spirit, this trek is a must for your Nepal travel bucket list.
