Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek - 7 Days
Annapurna Base Camp short trek is a moderate trek that takes you through lush rhododendron forests past the pristine white water rivers, terraced farms, hot springs, and stunning ethnic Gurung villages to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m). From the trekking trails, you can see glorious snow peaks - including Annapurna ranges, Machhapuchre, Khangsar, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli.
Highlights of ABC Trek
- A day in tourist hub Pokhara
- Visit to Ghandruk Gurung village, Gurung museum and monasteries
- Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
- Relaxing hot springs at Jhinu Danda
- Hiunchuli, Annapurna South Annapurna I ,Khangsar, Kang, Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhare
Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek Overview
The Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek is a fast-paced, high-altitude adventure designed for trekkers who want to experience the majestic beauty of the Annapurna Sanctuary in just seven days. Rising to 4,130 meters, Annapurna Base Camp offers unparalleled views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South, all towering above the dramatic glacial basin. Unlike longer trekking routes, this itinerary maximizes efficiency, taking trekkers deep into the heart of the Himalayas while maintaining an intense, immersive experience.
This trek moves rapidly through diverse landscapes, beginning in Pokhara and Nayapul, where the trail winds through terraced fields and Gurung villages, offering a glimpse into Nepal’s rural life. The ascent is swift, with trekkers passing through lush rhododendron forests in Ghandruk, the river-carved Modi Khola Valley, and steep ridges leading to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. The climb to Annapurna Base Camp is strikingly direct, minimizing lower-altitude stops, ensuring trekkers reach the heart of the Himalayas as quickly as possible.
Upon reaching Annapurna Base Camp, you will be greeted with snow-covered peaks surrounding the glacial sanctuary, a sight that is both humbling and awe-inspiring. Unlike the longer 11-day trek, which allows for a more gradual progression and additional viewpoints like Poon Hill, this trek focuses on the core ABC experience, skipping side excursions while retaining the essence of Himalayan exploration.
The return journey follows the same route, descending efficiently through Bamboo and Jhinu Danda, where trekkers can relax in natural hot springs before heading back to Pokhara. This compact trek is perfect for those seeking an intense yet rewarding journey, bringing them face-to-face with towering peaks, high-altitude landscapes, and the rich culture of Nepal, all within a limited timeframe.
Note
This short Annapurna Base Camp trek includes a bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara (approx 200 km). For an additional cost, you have the option to take a 20-minute flight to Pokhara or rent a private vehicle.
We recommend you arrive in Kathmandu by 3 p.m. at least a day before your trek departure to ensure enough time for any last-minute arrangements.
Online Trip Briefing
You’ll be invited to an online briefing after booking and submitting the required documents. The session covers everything—from what to bring to what to expect—so you’re fully prepared for your trek. We’ll email you the briefing schedule shortly after booking.
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul-Syauli Bazaar-Kimche (1,784 m). Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m). Drive time: Approx. 3 hrs. Trek time: Approx. 2 hrs.
Trek from Ghandruk to Chomrong (2,170 m) / Sinuwa (2,340 m). Trek time: Approx. 4 hrs.
Trek from Chomrong / Sinuwa to Himalaya (2,890 m) / Deurali ( 3,174 m). Trek time: Approx. 7 hrs.
Trek from Himalaya/Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) via Machhapuchchhre Base Camp (3,720 m). Trek time: Approx. 5 hrs.
Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,350 m). Trek time: Approx. 6 hrs.
Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m) and nearby natural hot springs. Trek time: Approx. 4 hrs.
Trek from Jhinu Danda to Siwa-Ghandruk Phedi (1,150 m) and drive to Pokhara (820 m) via Nayapul (1,050 m). Trek time: Approx. 4 hrs. Drive time: Approx. 3 hrs.
Select the start and end dates for your trek. Keep in mind that your travel arrangements, including arrival and departure, should align with your complete itinerary and schedule.
Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek Video
Day to Day Itinerary
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul-Syauli Bazaar-Kimche (1,784m) Trek to Ghandruk (1940m / 6,364ft )
The trek normally starts from Pokhara. However, Discovery World Trekking provides a complimentary bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The bus ride lasts for about six hours. You can choose to fly to Pokhara for an extra cost.
From Pokhara, we will be driving to Kimche through Nayapul and Syauli Bazaar. The real trekking starts from Kimche and ends at Ghandruk. On the path, you will see incredible mountain terrain, terraced farms, humongous mountains, and subtropical forests.
Ghandruk village contains numerous Buddhist monasteries and is rich in traditional customs and lifestyles. We will not miss our chance to explore Gurung Museum. From Ghandruk, we can see the spectacular views of Fishtail, Annapurna South, and the Hiunchuli mountains.
Trek from Ghandruk (1,940m / 6,364ft ) to Chomrong (2,170m) / Sinuwa (2,340m)
After a cup of tea early morning, we hike from Ghandruk through a steep descent to Kimron River and then ascend to reach Chomrong. From the way, you will see stunning views of Annapurna South, Fishtail mountain that look heavenly early in the morning. Chomrong lies on the lap of the mighty Annapurna massif over a hillside. If we arrive at Chomrong early, we will trek further to Sinuwa to spend the night.
Trek from Chomrong (2,170m) / Sinuwa (2340m) to Himalaya (2,890m) / Deurali ( 3,174m)
Today's trek will differ slightly based on where we stayed last night. If we stayed at Chomrong, then we hike to Himalaya through Sinuwa. Else, we will start the trek from Sinuwa and reach Deurali.
So you may leave Chomrong and pass through the lush forest on a path paved with stones until we cross Chomrong Khola. Then the path ascends, passing through deep bamboo and rhododendron forest until we reach Himalaya. If we trekked from Chomrong, we stop at Himalaya for the night or else at Deurali.
Trek from Himalaya (2,890m) / Deurali (3174m) to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,550ft) via Machhapuchchhre Base Camp (3720m)
If in Himalaya, we leave Himalaya and follow a route that passes through the Modi Khola glacier valley past the Machhapuchhre Base Camp, which ultimately takes us to the Annapurna Base Camp. Otherwise, the trek will start from Deurali. Machhapuchhre Base Camp offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, but we will continue trekking north until we reach Annapurna Base Camp.
Throughout the journey, we will be walking close to the Annapurna glaciers. From Annapurna Base Camp, we get a 360-degree view from Hiunchuli, Annapurna ranges - including Annapurna I (8,097m/26,566ft), Khangsar Kang, Gangapurna,Annapurna III, and Machhapuchhare.
Trek from Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m / 13,550ft) to Bamboo (2,350m / 7,700ft)
After enjoying breakfast along with the views of beautiful sunrise over the Himalayas, we start our trek that will eventually take us out of Annapurna Sanctuary. However, we first retrace our steps out of Modi River Valley to reach Bamboo village - the destination for the day.
Trek from Bamboo (2,350m / 7,700ft) to Jhinu Danda (1,780m / 6,393ft) and nearby natural hot springs
Our trek continues, we head down to Kimrong Khola, and from there, the path ascends and passes through the serene rhododendron, bamboo, and oak forests, ultimately leading to Chomrong village. However, we continue until we reach a small peaceful settlement called Jhinu Danda. This village has nearby riverside hot springs, where we soothe our tired muscles. We will be staying at Jhinu Danda for the night.
Trek from Jhinu Danda (1,780m / 6,393ft) to Siwa/Ghandruk Phedi (1,150m / 3,770ft) drive to Pokhara (820m ) via Nayapul (1050m)
Today will be the last day of the trek. We leave Jhinu Danda and follow the dust road along the right of Mardi Khola. After a leisurely walk for 3 to 4 hrs, we reach Siwa/Ghandruk Phedi. From Ghandruk Phedi, we first drive to Birethanti, then Nayapul until we reach Pokhara. Our trek package completes at Pokhara. We hope, by then, you would have created precious memories of reaching Annapurna Base Camp.
What is included in this trek package?
Transportation
- Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu on a tourist bus
- Both way on a private transport from Pokhara to Syauli Bazaar/Kimche (trek start) and Ghandruk Phedi (trek end) to Pokhara.
- Private transportation to and from Kathmandu Airport and your hotel
Accommodations
- Two nights accommodation with breakfast (room with attached bathroom) at Silver Oaks Inn in Pokhara
- Total six nights. Three nights room with attached bathroom at Ghandruk, Jhinu Danda, and Chomrong. Three nights standard accommodation at Himalayan, Annapurna Base Camp, Bamboo(Generally, twin sharing room)
Food
- Standard full-board meals (7 Lunches, 6 Dinners, and 7 Breakfasts) with one main course per meal during the trek
- Seasonal fresh fruits every day
- Water purification tablets for safe drinking water
Guide and Porter
- Government-licensed English Speaking experienced trek leader/guide and porters to help trekkers luggage. (1 porter for every 2 trekkers. 9 kg per trekker maximum luggage weight limit)
- Guides and porters costs- their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, flight, and other necessary equipment
Trek Permits and Expenses
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee
- All government, local taxes, and official expenses
Medical Assistance
- Rescue operation arrangement in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance)
- Medical kits, including an oximeter to monitor blood oxygen saturation levels in high altitudes
Souvenir
- Souvenir - company's T-shirt & cap
Farewell
- Discovery World Trekking certificate of appreciation after the successful trek
- Farewell dinner at Kathmandu after trek ends
Benefits
- Sleeping bags and down jackets, duffle bag (one for every two trekkers) if you do not have your own
- Free excess luggage storage at the Discovery World Trekking store for the duration of the trek
What is excluded in this trek package?
International Flight
- International flight airfare
Accommodations
- All accommodation in Kathmandu, before and after the journey
- Extra night accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival or late departure, or early return from the trek
Food
- All meals in Kathmandu, before and after the journey
- Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
- Extra night meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival or late departure, or early return from the trek
Guide and Porter
- Tips for guide and porters
Trek Permits and Expenses
- Tips for guide and porters
Visa
- Nepal entry visa fees on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport- (15 days - $25-30, 30 days- $40-50 and 90 days- $100-110)
Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory
Personal Expenses
- Personal expense (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, Alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee), extra porters, etc
- Personal clothing and gear
Other Expenses
- Excess baggage charges (limit is 9kg per trekker)
- Additional costs or delays caused due to circumstances beyond our control, for example, landslide, weather condition, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes, etc
- All costs and expenses not listed in "What is included in Annapurna Base Camp Tour Package?" above
Official Annapurna Base Camp Trek Route Map of Nepal
Annapurna Base Camp Packing List
Depending on the season, you need different equipment and clothing for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. However, here is a list we prepared for your comfort. Please only bring the essentials. You can store your non-essentials for free at the Discovery World Trekking store.
We provide one porter for every two trekkers, and the luggage weight limit per trekker is 9 kg. We recommend you partner with a fellow traveler and pack your things in a duffle bag of over sixty liters capacity. Moreover, we expect you to bring a regular backpack for your valuables and essential documents.
Head
- Sun hat (wide-brimmed)
- Beanie (for warmth)
- Buff or neck gaiter (for sun protection and warmth)
- Lightweight headlamp (with adjustable brightness)
- High SPF sunscreen
- Lip balm with SPF
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Face wipes
Upper Body
- Moisture-wicking t-shirts (short and long sleeves)
- Thermal base layer (for colder conditions)
- Fleece jacket and down jacket **
- Lightweight puffy jacket (for extra warmth)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
- Raincoat
- Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt
- Polypropylene underwear (four)
Hands
- Insulated gloves or mittens (for cold weather)
- Waterproof gloves (for wet conditions)
Lower Body
- Quick-drying pants/trousers (convertible or full-length)
- Insulated pants (for colder conditions)
- Lightweight cotton pants
- Thermal leggings or long underwear (for colder weather)
- Two pairs of thermal/trekking trousers (pants)
Footwear
- Thick Wool or synthetic moisture-wicking socks (4 pairs)
- Waterproof, ankle-supportive broken-in full hiking boots (with good traction)
- Sandals (for camp use or river crossings)
- Gaiters (for protection against mud, water, and debris)
Toiletries
- Biodegradable bar soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Medium-size drying towel
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizers
- Toilet paper (In a Ziplock bag)
- Feminine hygiene products
- Travel-sized shampoo
- Nail clippers
- Small mirror
Backpacks
- Duffle bag (capacity of over 60 liters) for porters** (One duffle bag for two trekkers).
- Backpack or daypack (capacity 20-30 liters) for yourself
Personal accessories
- Adjustable and lightweight poles (preferably collapsible)
- Water bottle or bladder with a capacity of at least 2 liters (insulated for cold weather)
- Water purification system (tablets, filter, or UV purifier)
- Sleeping bag (-10 to -15 degrees is the best) **
Extra items
- Camera/smartphone (extra memory cards and batteries)
- Extra batteries or rechargeable power bank (for charging devices)
- Two-pin charging plug
- Basic first aid supplies (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, Diamox)
- Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
- Few passport-size photos
- Passport photocopies
- Notebook and pen
- Binoculars
- Swiss army knife or multi-tool (with scissors, can opener, etc.)
**We can provide you with a (used, nonwaterproof) duffle bag, (used) down jacket, and (used) sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek Package Information
Arrival, Welcome, and Trek Start
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Discovery World Trekking will greet you, holding a pamphlet with your name. Then, we will escort you to your hotel in a private vehicle, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free entry into Nepal. This service is complimentary for trekkers who have booked their treks/tours with us, ensuring that they feel welcomed right from the start.
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek officially begins in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic drive to Pokhara. As part of your package, transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara is provided via tourist bus. If you prefer, you can opt for a flight or private vehicle at an additional cost. Once in Pokhara, we will drive you to Kimche through Nayapul and Syauli Bazaar. You start trekking from Kimche.
Accommodations
During the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you will spend six nights in lodges/tea houses at different points along the trekking route in twin-sharing rooms and two nights at a comfortable hotel in Pokhara.
The accommodation includes three nights in rooms with attached bathrooms at Ghandruk, Chomrong, and Jhinu Danda, and three nights in standard twin-sharing rooms at Himalaya, Bamboo, and Annapurna Base Camp.
At the Pokhara Hotel, you can enjoy amenities such as a private bathroom, TV, 24-hour hot water, power supply, and laundry services. Although hot showers and Wi-Fi are available along the trekking route, they may incur extra costs.
Please note that hotel stays in Kathmandu before and after the trek are not included in the package. We can recommend hotels upon your request.
Meals
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes you to high altitudes, where you need more energy. We provide you with 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners, focusing on nutritious and healthy food. All meals are on a full-board (main course) basis. The lodges offer a variety of traditional, Asian, and Western dishes, though the menu may get limited as you ascend.
We encourage trekkers to consume fresh vegetables and plenty of liquids, like green tea, ginger tea, or garlic soup to help with acclimatization. While non-vegetarian options are available, we recommend avoiding meat at higher altitudes for hygiene reasons.
Meals in Pokhara and Kathmandu are not included in the package.
Luggage
One porter will carry the luggage of two trekkers in a single duffle bag (over sixty liters capacity), with a combined weight not exceeding 18 kg (9 kg per person). Hence, we suggest you partner with a fellow traveler while packing your things. We advise you to carry a small backpack with essential documents and valuables. Non-essential items can be stored at the Discovery World Trekking office in Kathmandu.
Facilities and Essentials
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Electricity
Lodges along the Annapurna Base Camp route provide electricity to charge your electronic devices but at an additional cost.
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Water
You can purchase bottled mineral water at en-route shops/lodges or bring a water bottle and fill it with boiled water that you can buy in lodges/tea houses. Carrying a water bottle is an eco-friendly option. We advise against drinking untreated water from rivers, wells, or taps. Further, please purify water (use purification pills) before drinking. If you do not have water purification pills, our crew can provide them.
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Communication
Internet is available at the lodges, but it may cost extra. You can buy a local SIM. However, as you reach higher altitudes, mobile connectivity becomes unreliable. Discovery World Trekking office remains in contact with the trek teams through guides, who will provide daily updates.
Travel Essentials
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Visa
All foreign nationals except Indian citizens require a visa to enter Nepal. You can obtain an on-arrival visa at the airport or immigration points along Nepal's borders. To apply for an on-arrival visa, your passport must be valid for at least six months, you need a passport-sized photo, and visa application fees. The current visa fee for 30 days is USD 50.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. It must cover health care costs, as well as emergency helicopter medical evacuation up to 4,000 meters. Call your insurer and ensure that helicopter evacuation is covered.
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Currency Exchange
The local currency in Nepal is the Nepali Rupee (NPR). (1 USD = ~133 NPR). You can exchange foreign currency at banks or legal money exchanges in Kathmandu. You can withdraw Nepali Rupees from ATMs but there are some limitations. We recommend carrying clean, new major currency notes for hassle-free exchange.
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Extra Expenses
You need to bring money to cover expenses, including visa fees, tips for guides and porters, beverages, snacks during the trek, and personal shopping.
Trek Season and Weather Conditions
The Annapurna Base Camp trek can be completed year-round. However, each season offers a distinct experience. Spring and Autumn are the most favorable seasons for trekking, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and breathtaking mountain views. These months provide ideal conditions for comfortable and scenic trekking, making them popular choices. The mean daily temperature at the Annapurna Base Camp is between 10 to 0°C during spring and similar in autumn.
In contrast, Summer (June - August) overlaps with the monsoon, leading to wet and slippery trails, though the valleys are lush and green. The temperatures during summer days range from 10°C to 23°C. The nights are cooler at around 5°C to 10°C Winter (December - February) is colder, with temperatures sometimes dropping to -10°C, but offers quiet trails and stunning snow-covered peaks. This season is ideal for experienced trekkers looking for a serene, challenging adventure.
Typical Day
Your day starts with an early breakfast, followed by a 3-4 hour morning trek. After lunch and an hour's rest, you’ll trek for another 2-3 hours to reach your overnight destination. You will have dinner at around 7 pm. After dinner, the guide will brief you about the next day’s plan. Then, you can spend your time as you like, such as socializing with fellow trekkers, playing board games, and exploring the area.
Trip Conclusion
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Farewell Dinner
At the end of your trek, Discovery World Trekking will host a farewell dinner in Kathmandu, where we will present you with a trek achievement certificate. We value your feedback and encourage you to provide reviews on travel portals.
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Departure
When you depart for your country a Discovery World Trekking representative will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport in a private vehicle, ensuring a smooth and timely transfer. We hope your time in Nepal has been memorable and that you'll return for more adventures in the future.
Trek Bookings
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Private Treks
We organize private treks only and do not add anyone to your trek. Group discounts are available based on group size. We also provide an assistant guide for groups of more than 12.
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Safe trek bookings
Booking with Discovery World Trekking is straightforward. We require a 10% advance deposit to confirm the booking, and you can pay the remaining balance once you arrive in Nepal. We accept payments via bank transfer, credit card, or online. You can pay in cash when you arrive in Kathmandu. We are a government-licensed company and members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Therefore, you can book your trek with us in 100 percent confidence.
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Last-Minute Bookings
Discovery World Trekking ensures safe and reliable bookings. We also accommodate last-minute bookings. However, in case of last-minute bookings, full payment is required 24 hours before the trek begins. We are ready to organize treks at any date. However, in case of last-minute bookings, delays may occur due to circumstances beyond our control, such as weather extremities or lodge unavailability. For more information, contact us at (Call/Viber/WhatsApp) 977- 9840055491 (Paul) or email info@discoveryworldtrekking.com.
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Flexible Schedule
If you need to alter your trek dates, just let us know. We can organize your trek at your convenience.
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Trip Extension
If you have extra days in Nepal after the trek, we can recommend additional activities such as jungle safaris, paragliding, or even another short trek.
DWT Family
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Ecotourism Practices
At Discovery World Trekking, we treat all clients as part of our family. We are also committed to responsible tourism, minimizing the environmental impact, and supporting local communities through sustainable practices.
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Tipping Culture
At Discovery World Trekking, we treat all clients as part of our family. We are also committed to responsible tourism, minimizing the environmental impact, and supporting local communities through sustainable practices. Hence, we partner with the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) to conduct eco-friendly tours.
Now Offering 100% Private Treks
Discover Nepal’s breathtaking trails at your own pace with our exclusive private treks. No strangers, no rushed schedules—just you, your adventure, and complete flexibility.
Annapurna Base Camp Short Trek Reviews
Explorations that last a lifetime.
We made the decision to go on an unforgettable adventure and trek to Annapurna Base Camp with Discovery World Trekking, and it turned out to be an absolutely amazing experience. Right from the start, Paul, the CEO, demonstrated...
We opted to embark on the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Discovery World Trekking based on their exceptional reviews, and they truly lived up to our expectations! Paul, the owner of DWT, promptly responded to all our queries and...
Annapurna Base Camp short trek exceeded all my expectations! Thank you Discovery World Trekking for helping me accomplish my dream trek. How do I even explain it? The scenery is simply mesmerizing, with towering peaks, lush for...
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp was an unforgettable experience! I am really glad I choose Discovery World Trekking for this trek. The short trek offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and the surrounding landscapes. ...
My husband and I had an amazing experience that exceeded our expectations. Throughout the entire trek, we felt well taken care of and attended to. Our guide, Dol, played a crucial role in making the journey enjoyable.
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My girlfriend and I did the 7 day Annapurna Base Camp trek with Discovery World Trekking and we had an absolutely incredible experience! This was our first time trekking and our amazing guide Saroz made our first time in ...
Annapurna base camp is an absolute must. The Himalayas are a wonder in and of themselves but the trek would not have been the same without our group from Discovery World Trekking. The guides were fantastic and the porters kept ...
We did the Annapurna base camp trek, Paul from Discovery World trekking organized everything from being picked up from the airport to being dropped off at the end (even got my jacket back to me when I left it in the car on the ...