Ghandruk Trek is one of the most popular and scenic treks of Nepal that takes you through lush green forests, snow-capped mountains, and traditional villages. This trek is considered to be the best trek if one wants to know more about the culture of Nepal and the beauty of nature. As they say “Heaven is a myth, Nepal is real ”, Ghandruk is a perfect example of the charm Nepal has to offer to people around the globe.
This cultural and scenic trek allows you to experience the mesmerizing view of the Annapurna Range and the cold breeze that flows down from the peaks. In addition to that, you will also get to know more about the flora and fauna of the Annapurna region such as pine, oak, bamboo, rhododendron, uttis, and so on.
This trek is beginner-friendly because Ghandruk lies at an altitude of 1940 m which implies that there won’t arise any difficulties due to altitude sickness. The trek starts from Nayapul which lies at an altitude of 1070m and some of the exciting places covered by the route are Birethati, Chimrung, and Syauli Bazar.
Highlights of the Trek
- Interesting culture of Gurung Community
- Enchanting views of Annapurna, Himchuli, and Machhapuchhre
- The museum gives the chance to take pictures in Gurung dresses
- The breathtaking experience of a glorious sunrise
- Stunning rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests
- Charming Villages and Villagers
- Interesting rural life
Daily Itinerary and Description
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu (1400m)
After you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be received by one of our representatives who will drive you to the hotel where you can take a rest and freshen up. You will have the local dinner and then you will spend the night at the hotel.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
The next day, you will have a hot breakfast and get ready to explore Kathmandu. Kathmandu is particularly famous for stunning, intricate, and religious artworks. This city has many stories to share through its monuments, stupas, and temples. You will pay a visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Bouddhanath Stupa.
Day 3: Kathmandu to Pokhara (822 m)
On the third day, after having breakfast, you will travel to Pokhara from Kathmandu. This journey will be scenic and worth remembering as it takes you through the beautiful Trishuli River, green forests, and panoramic views of mountains. After 7-8 hours of ride, you will reach Pokhara where you will spend the night.
Day 4: Drive from Pokhara to Phedi (1130m) and trek towards Tolka (1700)
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and prepare for your trek. You’ll be driven to Phedi, a 45-50 minute drive, where the trek will start. From there, you’ll trek towards Tolka (1700m), a Gurung village that offers a glimpse into the daily life of the locals.
After the 5-6 hour trek to Tolka, you’ll rest for the night and try the local cuisine.
Day 5: Trek to Ghandruk (1940m)
On Day 5 of your trek, you will enjoy a delicious local breakfast while taking in the beautiful sunrise at Tolka. You will then start your 5-6 hour trek towards Ghandruk, passing by the Modi Khola river and getting breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range.
Once you arrive in Ghandruk, you will explore the village which is the second-largest Gurung settlement in Nepal. You will see terraced fields and experience the local culture, including traditional dances like Rodhi and Sorathi. You will also visit the Old Gurung Museum where you can try on Gurung dresses and take photos.
Day 6: Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul (1070m)
On the sixth day of your trek, you will start your day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a 5-hour trek towards Nayapul. Once you reach Nayapul, you’ll take a one-hour ride to get back to Pokhara. After returning to the hotel, you’ll have some dinner and spend the night there.
Day 7: Drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara
After a good breakfast, you will get ready to get back to Kathmandu. After a 7-8 hour drive, you will reach Kathmandu. You can take proper rest. In the evening, you will be provided with a farewell dinner. Then, you will spend your last night in Nepal.
Day 8: Final Departure
On the eighth day, you will be driven to the Tribhuvan International Airport. Our representative will make sure that you are taken to the airport to the best of your comfort.
We hope your trip was enjoyable and wish you a safe return.
For this trek, you will have to get a permit from ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) permit, obtained from Nepal Tourism Board (NTB). However, you won’t have to worry about it as this will be managed by the company itself.
Preparation for the Trek
If you are planning for the Ghandruk trek, you will need to consider the following things:
- Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is the most important thing for the trek. You will be walking up to a higher altitude for which your body needs enough water. Remember to not drink untreated water.
- Respect the culture
During the trek, you will come across different cultures and traditions, and remember to be respectful towards everything you witness. Don’t say or do anything that is offensive to the locals.
- Don’t litter the environment
The environment you will be traveling in is healthy and clean. Don’t throw away the packets of the food that you will be eating.
- Pack rationally
This trek is only for 3-4 days so remember to pack light. Keep a jacket with you because as you move up, it gets windy during the evening. Pack two pairs of trekking pants and T-shirts.
- Eat healthy food throughout the trek
Health comes first before anything else, therefore, don’t go for junk food while on the trek. Eat healthy so that your body doesn’t have to go through any difficulties.
- Hire a Guide
When you hire a guide, you can ask any questions to clear your doubt regarding anything that you come across while on the trek.
Carry a first-aid kit
When you are on the trek, you need to become prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. Carry a first aid kit that includes paracetamol, band-aid, handiplast, medicines for altitude sickness, betadine, and so on.
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