Can I add more activities to my Annapurna Short Trek itinerary?
Yes. If you do have some additional days, it is sufficient to visit Nepal to enhance your trip even more. Culture to spine-tingling adventure and something for every palate, there is. You spend more time and experience the wealth of Nepal's culture, stunning landscapes, and adrenaline-fueled adventure that lies beyond the Annapurna Short Treks. Some of the activities are:
Complimentary airport transfers
We Happyland Treks offer complimentary airport pick and drop to make your Annapurna Short Treks tour perfect. You will be greeted by our representative holding a personal board upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. He will guide you through the airport to get your luggage and drop you at your hotel in a private taxi. We organize our pick-up timings with your flight timings in order to offer you a stress-free and relaxing start of your trip.
We will give you a full briefing by our staff on arrival, and gear checking and packing. This is one of our optional services that can be taken to acclimatize you and get you ready for a better experience of your trek. To bring you back home, we are arranging an on-time airport pickup, so your return is as easy as your arrival. We shall organize it for you as you take in the breathtaking scenery of the Annapurna landscape.
Can I store my luggage/Suitcase in Kathmandu?
If you are opting for a Short Trek in Nepal in the Annapurna region, then definitely you must be deciding where to place your non-trekking materials when you go out and have some fun. Don't worry, as you can leave unwanted material at your Kathmandu hotel or with us. Your equipment is hence safe and locked until your return.
You need lighter backpacks in your short trek so that your trek is not heavy and can be enjoyed more. In the Annapurna regions, or trekking for sightseeing, back-packing light is comfortable so you can have the bliss to enjoy the view. After you complete your trek and return to Kathmandu, your luggage will be available for pickup. Our best effort is that your Annapurna Short Trek should be as seamless and trouble-free as possible so that you get the best of Nepalese nature.
Differences between solo trek, private trek, and group trek
Solo Trek
The solo trek is the ideal choice to view the mountains on your terms. It is a journey on your own as an independent trekker, but you get to decide on your style, pace, and time. You can hire the services of a guide or a porter or both to join you, so you get all the help you need but are still on your own. With your porter and guide, you don't have to worry about logistics at all, as they will organize everything from navigation to carrying your bag. The biggest plus of a solo trek is that it is so flexible you can take as many days as you want to do the trek, even dividing a 12-day itinerary into 14 days or more.
Private Trek
The private trek is best for those who want to travel/trek in the mountains with their group of office colleagues, family members or friends. You have more flexibility in terms of dates, itinerary and pace than what you can expect on a fixed-departure group trek. You are also at liberty to choose your starting date and have us design the trek keeping in mind your groups’ preferences as well as fitness levels. There’s no minimum requisite number of people required to form your own group, and you’ll be assured of privacy throughout the trek journey with just your people mingling among each other.
Group Trek
If you would like to join the company of like-minded adventurers from around the world, a group trek is for you. You will be part of a small group (usually 2-10 people) with a fixed itinerary and departure date. It especially suits travelers or persons who like to mingle and share experiences with others. You can make good friends, learn about other cultures, and make memories of life as a team.
Since there are some rules & timing to abide by, the fun, camaraderie & similar experience make group hikes highly rewarding.
Family Trek
A family trek is specially customized to suit the requirements of family groups who are traveling on a tour and, in particular, where there are old members in the family or small kids. It’s a safe, secure environment, and the team has a very good experience of looking after this kind of participant. If one part of the group has problems related to health, or they aren’t able to walk too much distance, then our team will make sure that all their arrangements regarding comfort and security are provided well. It can be built up as per your family’s pace and interest, so your journey becomes hassle-free and memorable for your whole life.
Drinking Water on Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal
There is boiled and filtered water at most of the guesthouses en route. Best practice to follow, however, is to use your purification kit just in case you are supplementing with tap or mountain stream water. Water purification tablets that can be bought in Kathmandu or Pokhara are as straightforward as it gets—simply drop one tablet into your bottle and wait the requisite amount of time.
The other option is a SteriPen, which uses a UV light to quickly kill viruses and bacteria in a two-minute cycle. Simply place the SteriPen in your water, stir, and wait for the indicator light to inform you that it is safe to drink. Refrain from buying plastic bottled water to help decrease waste and keep your Annapurna short trek more sustainable.
What To Expect?
Annapurna Short Treks are exclusively designed for the travelers who are interested in getting a taste of the Himalayas within short spans of time. Treks encompass easy hiking within magical landscapes varied from terraced agricultural lands and stunning rhododendron forests to snow-covered peak studded high-altitude landscapes.
During trekking, you would pass through rustic villages of ethnically rich cultural populations, i.e., Gurung, Magar and Thakali villagers, who receive you with large smiles and true hospitality. The trails are wide and used by other trekkers; hence, any individual with physical and age capability can take Annapurna short treks.
Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal: Are they safe for solo or female travelers?
Solo trekkers and solo female trekkers can do Annapurna short treks, but safety measures are always to be taken. The region is relatively more crowded, and solo trekkers are in abundance. Still, no one can predict unforeseen circumstances, and therefore, a local guide is highly recommended. An experienced guide provides safety, effective route finding, and local culture interaction support.
Trekking with a reliable agency, like Happland Treks, also has the added benefit of knowing that we have been successful in organizing treks for solo travelers, even women, in the Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang areas. Past client reviews, and personal experience also speaks of the feasibility and safety of solo trekking. With proper planning, professional guidance, and necessary precautions, Annapurna short treks are an ideal option for solo trekkers. As a solo female trekker, you need not fear for your safety and precious experience of the trek as you will be given proper assistance.
Typical day on Annapurna Short Trek in Nepal
This trek starts with a drive from Pokhara to Kilu and then hiking to Ghandruk. Every day we have a combination of adventuring walking and relaxing walking in order to enjoy our holiday as much as possible.
We wake up at 7:00 am, and then breakfast will be served. Pre-ordering the meal side the previous night helps the kitchen staff prepare, which helps for the timely departures every morning at around 7:45 am. We will typically walk about an average of 5-7 hours each day through Gurung village, terraced fields and rhododendron forest mingling with the beauty of culture and nature.
We stop for tea and lunch at picturesque spots during the hike so that the journey is more fun and comfortable. After reaching our guesthouse or teahouse for the night we relax with a hot dinner at 7:00 pm. You can either spend your evening talking to fellow trekkers or reading books or take a short walk up to Ghandruk village. Meeting the locals will help you in better understanding the Nepalese culture.
Accommodations on Annapurna Short Trek in Nepal
The accommodation of this trek is simple, triple-sharing or twin-sharing dormitories and in some instances a maximum of four beds to a room. Single accommodation can be arranged with advance notice but cannot be assured. The hostels en route are also very simple in nature and are designed to provide the trekkers with a Spartan comfortable overnight accommodation. Bath and shower facilities on a sharing basis are most likely to be outside the room.
Though there is a facility of hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging, it is provided at an extra cost. The tea houses provide the actual experience of living in the hills, where the trekkers can unwind in the serene environment and interact with the locals. Though in remote locations, the guesthouses are neat and provide the trekkers with a warm haven. Accommodation may not be luxury, but a peaceful environment everywhere and warm welcome by the hospitable people compensate for the travel for every visitor.
Physical Readiness for Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal
Annapurna short treks don't require training, but it will come in handy if you train. If you can walk or trek a little for a couple of weeks before the trek, then you will be okay. You don't require any rigorous training, and if you are a seasoned trekker, then that will prove to be a bonus. Even without training, you will have no major issues trekking. You may, if you wish, take a short trek seven days before you actually trek because it can acclimatize your body to perform in harmony with your body.
Preventing Altitude Sickness on Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal
Though Annapurna's smaller treks are not up to very high altitudes, mountain sickness does not fail when you're above or at 3,000 meters. Among the first few symptoms, headaches, dizziness, and nausea are to be found. In case the same is overlooked, HAPE and HACE illnesses become life-taking. These must be noticed on time, and steps have to be undertaken in order to successfully complete the trek.
Effective Measures to Avoid Altitude Sickness
Even on short treks proper acclimatization is a must. Be wise in planning your rest days, try and have an extra day before you get to the high altitude to allow your body time to acclimatize. Drink plenty of fluids, it helps when walking at altitude regularly drink water but not alcohol or caffeine and do not smoke.
Eating good quality healthy food that’s high in carbohydrates to keep up your energy levels while walking slowly allows your body to adjust gradually rather than over-exerting it. If you have received a prescription for Diamox from a physician, continue taking it as advised and bring some along as prevention is always better than cure. Learn how to identify symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) and move down immediately if symptoms persist or become worse.
Food During the Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during day treks in the Annapurna region are had in teahouses along the route. There is a different menu in all teahouses with a choice of breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu is not as big as in city restaurants, but there is a mix of international and Nepalese cuisine.
The healthiest meal to eat is Dal Bhat, the Nepali national dish consisting of rice served with lentil soup and a combination of fresh vegetables available according to the season. It is renowned all over the world to be extremely healthy and has the potential to provide you with a normal level of energy that will sustain you hours of walking in trekking routes.
Though the food is hygienic and well prepared, the taste would be quite low in relation to the taste in your hometown or while staying in Kathmandu, Pokhara, etc.
Besides Dal Bhat, pasta, soups, fried rice, and eggs are also served to you. Since the food is carried from lower heights, their availability is based on your location. Nevertheless, teahouses ensure that fresh healthy and complete food is provided to the trekkers. Nutrition is required in short treks, and locally consumed food makes you healthy and energetic during your trekking tour.
Best Season for Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal
Short treks in the Annapurna region that can be done at any time of the year, but weather and climate change by the minute. Although there are a few good months with favourable weather and panoramic views, there are a few other months which are rainy, snowy, or cold. March to May or September to November are the best times for trekkers with fine weather.
Spring (March to May): Spring is the ideal time for short treks in the Annapurna region. It is pleasant with fine weather. The paths are blanketed with rhododendrons, which are in bloom and create a great spectacle. The views of the mountains are still not hindered, and trekking conditions are excellent.
Monsoon (June-August): It is not the time to trek since rains come in abundance. Treks become slippery, and landslides occur frequently.
Autumn (September-November): This is time for short treks. Peaceful weather prevails, there is blue in the skies, and the views are superb. Scenes are dry and pleasant but as being season-time, routes and teahouses remain chocked-full with visitors.
Winter (December to February): One can trek during winter as well, though it becomes cold at high elevations. There is snow over some of the trails, making the trek all the more challenging. The weather is clear sky-wise, however, and one gets to see the mountains in their prime. For a more comfortable experience, hike during spring or fall when the weather conditions are more conducive.
Packing List for Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal
A daypack of 30-40 liters will suffice for day trekking in the Annapurna region and will be capable of carrying essentials. Ankle-braced walking boots are mandatory. Layering is essential, a light warmer base layer, warm fleece jacket, and rain jacket. A lightweight sleeping bag may be needed at high elevation. Trekking poles will be the support on icy terrain. Sunglasses, gloves, cap, and miniature first aid kit are the absolute essentials. A headlamp would come in useful for a dawn or dusk walk. Good gear will make the walk easy. For tips on what to bring along, read our blog.
Toilets and Showers in the Lodges – Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal
All toilets in the teahouses along the Annapurna circuit short treks are western, but certain teahouses have squat toilets. Toilet paper is not offered, so best to bring your own.
When it comes to showers, the hot water in most of the lodges comes from gas geysers or hot bucket showers. But for a hot shower, it would be an additional $3 to $5 per person. Cold showers can also be utilized, but as there has been a decrease in temperature at the mountains, it’s best to avoid it.
For extra comfort and sanitation, it's best to bring your own personal hygiene items like toilet paper, shampoo, and soap. They will make your travel experience more comfortable and convenient.
Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal – Charging & WiFi Information
Charging
Room charging points are not available in teahouse rooms while trekking in the Annapurna area. There is a charge at a shared point, which is $3 per charge–$5. Due to limited power supply, equipment would take hours to get charged and there may be some duration when the light won't be working. Portable power banks or backup batteries carrying along for convenience is logical.
WiFi
Annapurna short treks' tea houses also provide WiFi, which may be weak and unreliable, especially at higher elevations. WiFi is $3–$5 per session. Because of constant interferences, local SIM card with a data package is a better choice for daily internet coverage and for emergency call coverage. For the sake of uninterrupted connectivity and power supply, it's better to bring some backup charging sources along with a good mobile data plan.
Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal – Highest Altitude
The highest elevation reached in Annapurna Short Treks is Ghandruk, 1,940 meters (6,365 feet). Beautiful Gurung village is a feast for weary eyes and gives a fine view of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. The trek is largely forest and rural countryside villages, so the best short trek for nature enthusiasts and culture enthusiasts.
Money Exchange in Kathmandu
You will need to exchange money in Kathmandu when you are booking Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal. You can exchange at any of the hotels, but the best place to exchange is in Thamel, where you have a choice of exchange shops and banks to exchange with. ATMs are also widely available, with over 1,000 machines. They will exchange it for cash. Your trekking operator will also exchange money.
Nepalese rupees can be changed to a limited extent in Pokhara but nowhere near as widely as in Kathmandu. Money carried up in the hills will be useless. There must be a large supply of Nepalese rupees because teahouses and restaurants en route take no plastic or credit cards. Small denominations are best for purchasing food, water, and other supplies on the trail.
Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal – Difficulty Level
Annapurna Short Trek is of moderate difficulty in nature. The trek takes you to 1,940 meters elevation with a 4-6 hour daily walk. Rocky slopes, rock staircases, and rugged paths are traversed on the trails. Good physical condition enables acclimatization to steady build-up of altitude but not necessary since prior experience of trekking is unnecessary. Trekkers have to acclimatize to a change in climate, particularly at higher altitudes.
Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal: Weather, Temperature, and Climate
Weather in this region changes distinctly with each passing month. The best months for trekking are from April to October as the temperature is consistent and it is mostly clear skies. But every month, you will experience different weather, so read below which month suits your weather preference.
January
Winter in the Annapurna region is bitterly cold, with temperatures dropping down to -10°C at higher elevations. There is regular snowfall, and trails can be icy, making trekking difficult.
February
Still cold but not as harsh as January. The temperature ranges from -8°C to 5°C. The sky is clear and less crowded.
March
Spring starts, and the temperature rises to around 10 °C in low valleys. Rhododendrons bloom, and the hills and mountain sides turn spectacularly colorful.
April
One of the best months to go for trekking, temperatures ranging from 12°C to -4°C in higher elevations. Skies remain crystal clear with mild winds.
May
Temperatures reach up to 15°C, and the lower altitudes can feel summery. Pre-monsoon showers are starting to become more frequent.
June
The onset of the monsoon brings rain, and trails become muddy. Lack of sun causes humidity to rise by up to 80% or more while temperature falls between 18°C to 5°C.
July
It is the Wettest month, with heavy rains on trails and slippery roads. There is Poor visibility, with temperatures between 20°C to 8°C.
August
As July, monsoon continues, but with diminishing rain towards the end of the month, the temperature remains warm in lower altitudes.
September
Since monsoons are ending, a clear sky dominates. Temperature varies from 18°C to 6°C, and the view of the landscape becomes breathtaking with serene green meadows.
October
One of the busiest trekking months, with perfect temperatures (15°C to -2°C). Many tourists can be found on the trails.
November
It is a dry month, and the temperatures are decreasing slowly. The days are pleasant, but the nights are chilly.
December
December marks the start of winter. It is chilly during this time, and the temperature drops to a low of -5°C at high elevations. Snowfall starts, and this makes travel difficult.
Travel and Trekking Insurance
Annapurna trek insurance is a must for all who take on the Annapurna short treks. The terrain might not be as challenging as the long treks, but there are chances of accidents, sudden illnesses or altitude sicknesses. Medical evacuation is expensive and insurance will cover if things do not go according to plan.
Policy should have medical coverage, helicopter evacuation, loss of luggage and trip cancellation. Unpredictable mountain weather may cause delays and thus insurance is a very wise precautionary measure. Ensure that your insurance policy covers you for high-altitude trekking insurance in Nepal. Don’t end up with unexpected expenses while trekking in Nepal; discover the reasons why you need travel insurance when travelling with us.
Annapurna Short Treks in Nepal: Trail Conditions
Stone steps, forest paths, and dirt trails comprise the Annapurna Short Treks trails. The trek begins with a vehicle drive to Kilu followed by a walk to Ghandruk at 1,940m. It's a beautiful Gurung village, though there's some uphill climbing, wooden bridges, and on occasion, stone patches.
Steep downhill roads with gradual walk down to Jhinu Danda (1,780m) for relaxing natural hot springs. The final day, the trail leads down to Pokhara. Tiered fields and snow-covered mountains enclose the trail as green valley’s roll past. You pass through the Gurung people on the way, who are known for their rich Buddhist and Hindu heritage.
Tipping Advice
You must tip your porter and guide at the end of your tour. You don't have to adhere to any figure as the amount totally depends upon you. Tipping is done to express gratitude to them on the basis of hard work and assistance while trekking.
Trekking Feedback
After you return from the trek, we will arrange a farewell dinner in Kathmandu where you can tell your experience of the trek and give your feedback. Your feedback helps us to deliver better services. You can also write a review on Google, TripAdvisor, or any other travel review site to help others make their decision. Your feedback is always welcome.
