Annapurna Base Camp Express Trek

duration 10 days
from usd 568
difficulty Challenging
best season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
max altitude From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 13,550 feet at Annapurna Base Camp

trip overview

Embark on a fantastic Annapurna Himalaya Trek which takes us to the Annapurna Base Camp starting your trek from beautiful Pokhara passing through several hilltop villages along the way.

Our Express Annapurna Base Camp Trek delivers the quintessential Himalayan experience in just 10 days, taking you from Kathmandu to the majestic Annapurna Base Camp at 13,550 feet.

Key Highlights:

Stand in a natural amphitheater surrounded by peaks over 23,000 feet
Witness spectacular sunrise views over the Annapurna range
Soak in natural hot springs at Jhinu
Experience traditional Gurung culture in villages like Ghandruk and Chomrong

Efficient Journey: Experience the same breathtaking views as longer treks in a time-efficient 10-day package

Physical Demands: Moderately challenging with 4-7 hours of daily hiking and significant elevation change

Diverse Landscapes: Trek through lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, alpine meadows, and glacial moraines

Carefully Planned: Strategic overnight locations ensure proper acclimatization while maintaining a sustainable pace

This challenging trek is perfect for physically fit and experienced trekkers who enjoy a more dynamic and demanding adventure. While maintaining a faster pace than our Signature Trek, we never compromise on safety or the essential experiences that make the Annapurna region legendary. Our expert guides will lead you through breathtaking mountain scenery and authentic cultural encounters, culminating in the awe-inspiring panorama at Annapurna Base Camp—a natural cathedral of towering peaks that must be experienced to be believed.

Detailed itinerary

day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)

We will receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from jet lag or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel on your own.

Distance: Airport to hotel transfer (6-10km) | Time: 30-45 minutes drive | Difficulty: Easy
- Accommodation: Tourist standard hotel
day 02
Drive to Pokhara (827m/2,700ft)

After breakfast, board a tourist bus for the scenic journey to Pokhara, Nepal’s beautiful lakeside city. The drive takes you through lush green hills and picturesque landscapes, following the Trishuli River for much of the way. Upon arrival in Pokhara, the evening is free to explore the famous lakeside area with its restaurants and shops.

Distance: 200km by road | Time: 6-7 hours bus ride | Difficulty: Easy
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 03
Drive to Syaulibazar and Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/6,360ft)

After an early breakfast, we’ll drive to Syaulibazar (approximately 1.5 hours from Pokhara), which serves as our trekking starting point. From here, we begin our adventure toward Ghandruk village, following a trail that winds through terraced farmlands and picturesque villages. This traditional Gurung settlement offers spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain). The trek involves moderate uphill climbing through rhododendron forests with several rest stops along the way.

Distance: 35km drive + 8km trek | Time: 1.5 hours drive + 4-5 hours trek | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
- Meal: Breakfast
day 04
Trek to Chomrong (2,170m/7,120ft)

Today features a challenging trek to Chomrong village, the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail offers stunning views of the Himalayan range as you pass through beautiful rhododendron forests and cross several streams. Chomrong is a large Gurung village and the last permanent settlement in the valley.

Distance: 10km/6.2mi | Time: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 05
Trek to Himalaya Hotel (2,920m/9,678ft)

We begin with a steep descent to cross the Chomrong Khola (river), followed by entering the Modi Khola Valley. The trail passes through dense forests of bamboo, rhododendron, and oak trees, and the villages of Bamboo and Dovan. After crossing the Modi Khola River, we make our final ascent to reach the Himalaya Hotel.

Distance: 10km/6.2mi | Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 06
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,550ft)

Today is the highlight of our trek as we make our way to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). The journey begins with an uphill trek through thick forest toward Hinko Cave. From there, we navigate an avalanche-prone trail before reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m/12,139ft). After a short rest, we continue to Annapurna Base Camp, where you’ll be surrounded by mountains over 7,000 meters (23,000 feet), including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. The panoramic 360-degree mountain views and the unique glacial basin setting make this a moment to treasure.

Distance: 7km/4.3mi | Time: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 07
Trek to Bamboo (2,310m/7,695ft)

After enjoying the sunrise over the Annapurna range, we begin our descent from the base camp. We’ll first trek down to Machhapuchhre Base Camp through the moraine route, enjoying continued views of the snowy peaks. Following the Modi Khola river, we descend through forests of rhododendron and fir, passing Deurali and Himalaya before reaching Bamboo.

Distance: 16km/9.9mi | Time: 6-7 hours | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 08
Trek to Jhinu Hot Spring (1,780m/5,840ft) and Drive to Pokhara

We begin our day with a trek to Jhinu Hot Spring, where you can soak your tired muscles in the natural thermal waters. The hot springs are located about 30 minutes downhill from Jhinu Danda, on the banks of the Modi Khola river. After enjoying the therapeutic waters, we’ll cross the suspension bridge over the Modi Khola river to reach the jeep station. From here, we’ll take a direct jeep ride to Pokhara, starting with rough country roads until Birethanti, after which you’ll enjoy a more comfortable drive on paved roads.

Distance: 8km trek + 50-60km ride | Time: 4 hours trek + 4-5 hours drive | Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 09
Drive to Kathmandu by Tourist Bus. Farewell Dinner

We take the same road back through which we had arrived at the beginning of our journey. Look out the window from your bus to see what places you remember. The view of the Himalayas in the distance will surely remind you of your travel there. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can shop around Thamel for some souvenirs. In the evening, we’ll celebrate with a special farewell dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine.

Distance: 200km by road | Time: 6-7 hours bus ride | Difficulty: Easy
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 10
Final Departure

We will see you off at the airport. It will be a happy-sad moment as we know that it is hard to leave this wonderful country but you will be leaving with very rich memories.

Distance: Hotel to airport transfer (6-10km) | Time: 30-45 minutes drive
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast

What's Included

Receive you from and drop you to the airport or hotel in our company vehicle.
Stay at a standard tourist hotel in Kathmandu & Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis. Breakfast is on us.
Stay at guesthouses during the trek on a twin-sharing basis.
Local government-licensed guides.
Porters (one each for a pair of travellers) and local support staff to help you trek.
Fees for entering Annapurna Conservation Area and Trekkers’ Information Management System card
Fully paid round-trip bus tickets for Kathmandu-Pokhara ride and back. Other rides in Jeep included in the itinerary.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
All tourist fees, government charges and other official expenses throughout the trip.

What's Not Included

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
All meals during the trek.
Additional stay before, during or after the set itinerary.
Charges at airports or other areas for excess luggage.
Alcohol, hot or cold drinks, bottled water, and other snacks.
Phone calls, internet, laundry, additional porters, and other personal expenses.
Travel insurance. (It is compulsory and covers emergency rescue and evacuation.)
International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
Visa fees for entering Nepal.
Trekking equipment.

Accommodation during the Trip

In Kathmandu and Pokhara:

Standard hotel accommodation included in package
Breakfast typically included at Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels
Upgrade options available to higher-class hotels (additional charge)
Single accommodation available in Kathmandu and Pokhara (additional charge)

During the Trek:

Basic teahouse/guesthouse accommodation on twin-sharing basis
Simple but functional facilities with shared toilet arrangements
Wooden beds with basic mattresses, pillows, and blankets
Hot shower facilities available at most locations (requires extra payment of $3-7)
Limited availability of private rooms or attached bathrooms (where available, extra charge applies)
Western-style toilets available in lower elevation areas, squat toilets more common at higher elevations
WiFi available at most lower elevation teahouses for a fee ($3-5 per day)
Faster-paced itinerary means one-night stays at most locations
Accommodation options more limited than on the Signature Trek due to the specific route selection

Note: Accommodation facilities become more basic as you ascend to higher altitudes. The Express Trek prioritizes strategic overnight locations that balance proper acclimatization with maintaining an efficient pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose the express version over the standard trek?
Our 10-day Express Annapurna Base Camp Trek is ideal for:
- Time-constrained travelers: Perfect if you have limited vacation days but still want to experience the majesty of the Annapurna region
- Physically fit and experienced trekkers: The challenging pace is well-suited for those with strong fitness levels and previous trekking experience who enjoy a more dynamic and demanding adventure
- Efficiency seekers: Reaches the same spectacular destination (ABC) as the standard trek but in a more time-efficient manner
- Budget-conscious adventurers: Fewer days means lower overall costs while still experiencing all the key highlights
- Repeat visitors: Ideal for those who have already visited Nepal and want to experience ABC without repeating the entire standard itinerary
The express trek maintains all the essential experiences and views of the standard trek while optimizing the route and pace for efficiency, but requires better physical preparation and determination to handle the more challenging pace.
How difficult is the Express Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The trek is rated as challenging, involving up to 7 hours of daily trekking at altitudes up to 4,130m/13,550ft. This express version is more demanding than the standard trek due to:
- Moderate to high altitude (reaching up to 4,130m/13,550ft at Annapurna Base Camp)
- Longer daily hiking hours (5-7 hours on average)
- Faster pace with fewer rest days
- Steeper ascents and descents to maintain the condensed timeline
- Weather variations depending on season
- Varied terrain including challenging mountain passes
Our express 10-day itinerary maintains a significantly faster pace than the standard trek but still includes strategic overnight locations to ensure proper acclimatization. Previous trekking experience is highly recommended for this express version.
How physically fit do I need to be and how should I prepare?
You should be able to hike 5-7 hours daily while carrying a daypack (3-5kg). For this challenging express trek, good fitness is essential as some days involve longer hiking times with steeper elevation changes. Prepare with:
- Cardiovascular training: 4-5 times weekly for 2-3 months (hiking, jogging, swimming)
- Strength training: Focus on leg and core strength with regular workouts
- Practice hikes: Complete several 5-7 hour hikes with elevation gain before your trek
- Stair climbing: Essential preparation for the numerous ascents and descents
- Endurance building: Gradually increase your hiking duration and difficulty
Consistency is crucial in your preparation. While you don't need to be an elite athlete, strong fitness will significantly enhance your enjoyment of this condensed itinerary and help you manage the challenging sections more comfortably.
How do I prevent and manage altitude sickness?
- Follow the proper acclimatization schedule in your itinerary
- Ascend slowly (our express trek is designed with appropriate elevation gains)
- Stay hydrated (3-4 liters of water daily)
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco
- Consider Diamox (Acetazolamide) after consulting your doctor
- Recognize symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite
- Inform your guide immediately if symptoms appear
- Descend if symptoms worsen
Our 10-day express itinerary includes strategic overnight locations to minimize altitude sickness risk while maintaining an efficient pace.
What permits do I need and how are they arranged?
Two permits are required:
1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
2. Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
We handle all permit arrangements as part of our service. You'll just need to provide:
- Your passport details
- Two passport-sized photos
- Your arrival date in Nepal
How long do I have to walk each day?
- Daily walking times on our challenging express trek:
- Most days involve 5-7 hours of actual walking time
- The longest day is Day 6 (trek to Annapurna Base Camp): approximately 6-7 hours of challenging uphill hiking
- The descent from Annapurna Base Camp (Day 7): approximately 6-7 hours of steep downhill trekking
- Day 8 (trek to Jhinu Hot Springs): approximately 4 hours before driving to Pokhara
Walking times are estimates and may vary based on your pace, weather conditions, and group size. Your guide will ensure a sustainable pace with regular but brief breaks for rest, hydration, and photography.
What type of accommodation is provided?
In Kathmandu and Pokhara:
- Standard hotel accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
- Breakfast included
- Private bathroom facilities
During the Trek:
- Guesthouse/teahouse accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
- Simple but clean rooms with beds, pillows, and blankets
- Shared bathroom facilities in most teahouses
- Common dining areas with heating
Accommodation quality varies by location, with better facilities at lower elevations.
And food?
Meals are not included in your package price during the trekking portion. Tea-houses along the route offer:

Breakfast Options:
- Porridge, muesli, or cornflakes
- Pancakes, Tibetan bread, or chapati
- Eggs prepared in various ways
- Tea, coffee, hot chocolate
Lunch and Dinner Options:
- Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentil soup, and vegetables)
- Momo (Tibetan dumplings)
- Noodle soups and pasta dishes
- Fried rice or noodles
- Soups and stews
Vegetarian options are widely available and often recommended as meat storage can be unreliable at higher elevations. Food prices increase with altitude as supplies must be carried by porters.
What happens in case of an emergency?
In case of a medical emergency:
1. Your guide will assess the situation and provide first aid
2. For altitude sickness or serious injuries, descent to lower elevation is the first priority
3. If needed, helicopter evacuation will be arranged to Kathmandu
Helicopter Evacuation:
- Available from most points along the trek (weather permitting)
- Typically takes 1-3 hours to arrange
- Costs approximately $2,500-$5,000 USD (covered by proper travel insurance)
We maintain 24/7 emergency support and have established protocols with helicopter companies and hospitals.
What medical facilities are available along the trek?
Medical facilities are limited but available at key points:
- Ghandruk and Chomrong: Basic health posts with limited supplies
- Pokhara: Full medical facilities with Western-standard hospitals
Your guide carries a first aid kit for basic treatment. For serious medical emergencies, helicopter evacuation to Pokhara is necessary.
What essential gear do I need?
Key items include:
- Moisture-wicking base layers and insulating mid-layers
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell (jacket and pants)
- Warm hat, sun hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
- Waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in)
- Sleeping bag (rated -5°C to 0°C)
- Daypack (25-35L) for carrying daily essentials
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles and purification method
- Sunglasses (100% UV protection) and sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Personal first aid kit and toiletries
We provide a duffel bag for you to use during the trek. Please check our full equipment list for a comprehensive packing guide.
What can I rent in Kathmandu or Pokhara versus what should I bring?
Items you can easily rent in Kathmandu:
- Down jacket
- Sleeping bag
We strongly recommend bringing your own sleeping bag for comfort and hygiene reasons.

Items to bring from home:
- Hiking boots (well broken-in)
- Base layers and underwear
- Personal medications
- Electronics and chargers
Kathmandu and Pokhara have numerous trekking shops in the Thamel area. We can recommend reliable rental shops.
What additional expenses should I budget for?
Beyond your trek package, budget for:

Daily Expenses on the Trail:
- Hot showers: $3-7 per shower
- Wi-Fi: $3-5 per day
- Battery charging: $2-5 per device
- Extra snacks and drinks: $2-8 per item
- Meals during the trek: $25-35 per day
Note: These are approximations and actual expenses depend on your personal spending habits. Drinks, beverages, and specialty food items may cost more, especially at higher altitudes.

Other Expenses:
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fees ($30-$125 depending on duration)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except breakfast)
How much cash should I carry during the trek?
We recommend carrying enough Nepalese Rupees for the entire trek as ATM access is extremely limited:
- ATMs are only available in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Exchange currency in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting your trek
- Carry small denominations as change can be limited in remote areas
- Keep your money secure in a money belt or hidden pouch
What is the tipping etiquette for guides and porters?
Tipping is expected and an important part of the trekking culture in Nepal:
- Porters should be tipped in Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu
- Guides can be tipped in Kathmandu before the farewell
- The recommended amount is 10-15% of your total trip price
What are the payment terms and cancellation policy?
Payment Terms:
- 20% non-refundable deposit required to confirm booking
- Balance payment due upon arrival in Kathmandu
Cancellation Policy:
- Cancellations 20 days or more before departure: 20% of total trip price deducted
- Cancellations less than 20 days before departure: 100% charge, no refund
- Trip rescheduling fee: $200 per person
For complete details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions page on our website.
What communication options are available during the trek?

Mobile Coverage: Available in most villages but can be spotty and unreliable
Wi-Fi: Available at most teahouses for a fee ($3-5 per day)

Internet Speed: Generally slow, suitable for basic messaging but not video calls

Local SIM Cards: NCell and Nepal Telecom SIM cards can be purchased in Kathmandu

Signal Strength: Decreases at higher altitudes and in remote areas
What is the visa process for Nepal?
To enter Nepal, you'll need a tourist visa. Here's how to obtain one:

Visa on Arrival: Available at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu
- 15-day visa: $30 USD
- 30-day visa: $50 USD
- 90-day visa: $125 USD
- Bring cash (USD preferred), a passport-sized photo, and your passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Expect processing time of 30 minutes to 1.5 hours
Online Application: You can also apply online before arrival through Nepal's Department of Immigration website
- Complete the form and print the confirmation
- Pay the visa fee upon arrival
We can provide guidance on the visa process, but obtaining the visa is your responsibility.
What if I want to customize my trek?
We offer flexible customization options for your trek:
- Private Departures: Choose your own start date
- Itinerary Modifications: Add or remove days, change pace, or include side trips
- Extensions: Add on experiences like Mardi Himal, Chitwan National Park or activities like paragliding in Pokhara
- Accommodation Upgrades: Request higher standard lodges where available
- Special Interests: Focus on photography, culture, or wildlife
Simply contact us with your preferences, and we'll create a customized itinerary that meets your needs. We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary.
What is the best time of year for this trek?
The best seasons for the Express Annapurna Base Camp Trek are:
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, excellent mountain views, comfortable temperatures (10-15°C during day, 0-5°C at night at higher elevations), stable weather, and festive atmosphere during Nepal's major holidays
- Spring (March to May): Warm temperatures, blooming rhododendron forests adding vibrant colors to the landscape, good visibility, and fewer crowds than autumn
- Winter (December to February): Colder temperatures but still possible with proper gear, crystal-clear mountain views, significantly fewer trekkers, and lower prices
- Summer/Monsoon (June to August): Not recommended due to heavy rainfall, leeches, slippery trails, and limited mountain views
For the express 10-day itinerary, we especially recommend the autumn and spring seasons when weather conditions are most reliable, minimizing the risk of delays.

Essential Trip Information

Medical consultation is essential before your trek – consult with a doctor regarding any medications you plan to take or bring during the trek, as high altitude can affect how medications work in your body. This is particularly important for the Express Trek due to its more challenging nature and faster ascent profile.
Diamox (Acetazolamide) is commonly used for altitude sickness prevention, but should only be taken after consulting with your doctor about proper dosage and potential side effects. For this Express Trek with its more rapid ascent, proper acclimatization and medication strategies are especially important.
Vaccinations recommended before coming to Nepal include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza. Consult your healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized vaccination advice.
Group discounts: Special rates are available for groups booking together, with larger groups qualifying for greater savings. Contact us for specific pricing based on your party size.
Prior trekking experience is highly recommended for the Express Trek. While not mandatory, previous hiking experience at altitude will significantly enhance your enjoyment of this more challenging itinerary. First-time trekkers should consider our Signature Trek for a more gradual introduction to Himalayan trekking.
Daily schedule is more demanding with the Express Trek featuring longer hiking days (5-7 hours) and fewer rest stops. Morning departures are typically earlier, and the pace is brisker than on our Signature Trek. Be prepared for a more physically demanding but highly rewarding experience.
Limited itinerary flexibility is inherent to the Express Trek design. The condensed timeline means we must maintain our schedule to reach Annapurna Base Camp safely. While our guides always prioritize safety and well-being, this trek offers less opportunity for rest days or itinerary adjustment.

Packing Checklist

These items are considered absolutely critical by our Mountainkick guides. Based on our extensive experience in the Himalayas, we strongly recommend prioritizing these items:

Layered clothing system – Base, mid, and outer layers for adaptability to changing conditions
Comfortable hiking boots – Well broken-in with excellent ankle support and water resistance (especially important for this challenging trek)
Daypack – For carrying daily essentials while trekking
Water bottles/hydration system – For maintaining proper hydration (critical on longer hiking days)
Headlamp with spare batteries – Essential for navigating in dark conditions
Trekking poles – To provide stability and reduce stress on knees, especially on the many stairs
Sleeping bag – Rated for at least -5°C to 0°C

Clothing Layers

Base Layers

Lightweight thermal tops (2-3) – For insulation and moisture management
Lightweight thermal bottoms (1-2) – Base layer insulation for legs
Synthetic/merino wool underwear (4-5 pairs) – Moisture-wicking for comfort
Sports bras (2-3, for women) – For comfort and moisture management

Mid Layers

Trekking shirts (3-4) – Quick-drying, breathable fabrics; mix of short and long sleeve
Fleece jacket or pullover – Mid-layer insulation
Trekking pants (2 pairs) – Durable, comfortable pants for daily trekking
Hiking shorts (1 pair, optional) – For warmer conditions at lower elevations

Outer Layers

Waterproof/windproof jacket – Essential protection against precipitation and wind
Waterproof pants – Outer layer protection against rain
Down jacket/insulated parka – For warmth in cold conditions, especially at higher altitudes

Headwear

Sun hat/baseball cap – For sun protection
Warm beanie/wool hat – To keep your head warm in cold conditions
Buff/neck gaiter/balaclava – For neck and face protection in cold conditions
Sunglasses with 100% UV protection – Critical for protection against intense sun rays

Handwear

Lightweight gloves (wool or fleece) – Base layer for hand warmth
Heavyweight gloves or mittens – For colder conditions at higher altitudes

Footwear

Water-resistant hiking boots – Well broken-in with ankle support (for this Express Trek, ensure your boots are thoroughly tested and comfortable for longer hiking days)
Camp shoes/sandals/lightweight trainers – For relaxing after trekking days
Hiking socks (4-5 pairs) – Breathable, moisture-wicking materials like merino wool
Thermal/heavyweight socks (1-2 pairs) – For colder conditions at higher altitudes
Gaiters (optional) – To keep debris out of boots

Bags and Packs

Duffel bag (70-80L, if using porters) – Water-resistant, durable, and lockable
Daypack (25-35L) – For carrying daily essentials while trekking
Pack rain cover – To protect your pack from precipitation
Stuff sacks/dry bags – For organizing and waterproofing items

Sleeping Gear

Sleeping bag (rated for at least -5°C to 0°C) – Essential for warmth during cold nights
Sleeping bag liner – Adds warmth and cleanliness, especially if renting a sleeping bag
Camping pillow (optional) – For added comfort

Trekking Equipment

Trekking poles – Provide stability, reduce stress on knees, especially helpful for the many stairs on the Annapurna trail
Headlamp with spare batteries – For visibility in dark conditions and early morning starts
Water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration reservoir (2-3L) – For staying hydrated
Water purification – Tablets, drops, or SteriPEN

Personal Items

Quick-dry towel – Lightweight and compact
Toiletry kit – Including biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Sunscreen (SPF 40+) – For UV protection at high altitudes
Lip balm with SPF – Protection against chapped lips in cold, dry weather
Hand sanitizer – For hygiene on the trail
Toilet paper – Not always available in teahouses
Wet wipes/biodegradable wipes – For cleaning when showers aren’t available
Ear plugs – For better sleep in shared accommodations
Small padlock – For securing your belongings

First Aid and Medications

Personal first aid kit – Basic supplies for minor injuries
Pain relievers – Ibuprofen, paracetamol for headaches
Anti-diarrheal medication – Imodium or Pepto-Bismol
Blister treatment – Moleskin, bandages, tape (particularly important for this faster-paced trek)
Throat lozenges – For the dry air
Electrolyte tablets/powder – For hydration and preventing cramps
Personal medications – Bring enough for the entire trip plus extra
Altitude sickness medication – Consult your doctor about Diamox

Note: Please consult your doctor regarding any medications you plan to take or bring during the trek

Electronics

Camera with spare batteries and memory cards – Temperatures can drain batteries faster
Phone in waterproof case – For communication and photos
Portable power bank – For recharging devices
Adapters – For charging in Nepal (Type C, D, and M plugs)
Watch with alarm – For keeping track of time

Optional Items

Trekking snacks – Energy bars, trail mix, chocolate
Pocket knife or multi-tool – For various uses
Binoculars – For wildlife and mountain viewing
Books or entertainment – For downtime
Journal and pen – For documenting your journey
Playing cards – For entertainment in teahouses
Cash in small denominations – For purchases, tips, and emergencies
Passport photos – For permits and visas
TIMS card and ACAP permit – Required documents for the trek

General Packing Tips for Annapurna Base Camp Express Trek:

Layer your clothing – This allows you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day
Break in your boots – Wear your hiking boots extensively before the trek to prevent blisters (especially important for this more challenging trek)
Pack light – Porters will carry your main duffel bag, but there is typically a weight limit of 15kg
Prioritize quality – Invest in good quality gear for critical items like boots, jacket, and sleeping bag
Consider rentals – Many items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu or Pokhara if you don’t want to invest in gear you may not use again
Test your gear – For this Express Trek, ensure all your equipment is tested and reliable to handle the more demanding pace

Remember that this equipment list is comprehensive, and you may need to adjust based on the season of your trek, personal preferences, and specific trek itinerary. At Mountainkick, we provide a detailed briefing before departure and can help you finalize your packing list based on current conditions.

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We give you the power to choose the departure date that suits your group best. A private trip is a perfect solution if you can’t find a published departure date that you and your companions agree on. You can set up a private departure for most of the trips we offer.

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2-3	568
4-9	465

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As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.