Activity
Hiking/ Trekking
Duration
8 Days
Difficulty
Easy/Moderate
Arrival City
Kathmandu
Departure City
Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1940 M
Meals
8 Breakfast, 5 Lunch, 6 Dinner
Accommodation
3 star hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara; and Tea House/ Lodge during trek
Best Season
January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November, December
Walk through the scenic trail filled with rhododendron trees
Stunning mountain views, including Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m)
Witness the diverse flora and fauna of Annapurna Conservation Area
Explore the unique culture and tradition of Gurung people
Enjoy an mesmerizing sunrise and sunset view over the mountains of the Annapurna range
Immerse yourself in the authentic and local way of living
The Ghandruk Trek is one of the short and best treks in nepal for beginners that offers you a bit of everything–picturesque villages, local culture, mountain views, and natural beauty. Close to the city of lakes, Pokhara, this rewarding trek takes you to the foothills of the lower Annapurna region. Moreover, the Ghandruk Trek is an excellent blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. So, if you have limited time and want to escape to the Himalayas, where you can explore a unique culture, then this Ghandruk Loop Trek is ideal for you.
Your Ghandruk Tour begins with a scenic one-hour road drive from Pokhara to Phedi. Once you reach Phedi, you will finally walk on the trails that pass through terraced farmlands, vibrant rhododendron forests, and steep stone staircases. The charming villages during this trek will give you insights into the rural and local way of living.
Ghandruk village is a picturesque village where panoramic snow-capped mountains provide a beautiful backdrop to the slate-roofed houses, alongside paddy fields. This culturally rich village is inhabited by Gurung people. Hence, the Ghandruk Trek is an excellent opportunity to interact with locals and learn more about their rich cultural heritage.
Ghandruk itself is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and stunning vistas. It's a highlight of any Ghandruk tour package in nepal, thanks to its accessibility and the incredible Himalayan backdrop.
On top of that, many other treks of the Annapurna region like Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and Annapurna Circuit Trek go through Ghandruk village. Therefore, whether you’re enjoying a short getaway or a more extended one, the region’s tranquil beauty and cultural richness will leave a lasting impression.
Our representatives will greet you and take you to the hotel when you arrive at the International Airport in Kathmandu.
You may wish to buy some trekking gear such as hats, t-shirts, walking sticks, trekking bags etc. which are easily found near your hotel.
In the evening, we will gather for a warm welcome dinner, graciously hosted by our company, where we will indulge in delightful conversation and exquisite flavors.
Dinner Included
02 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu inclusive of breakfast on a twin shared basis
02 nights’ accommodation in Pokhara inclusive of breakfast on a twin shared basis
03 nights’ accommodation during Trek in best available Tea House on a twin shared basis
All meals during trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Airport – Hotel – Airport Transfers (Arrival & Departure)
English speaking Trek leader/Guide
Porters to carry your bags (1 porter for 2 guests)
Sleeping bags
Duffel bag and T shirt (Yours to keep)
Food, Accommodation, Salary, Insurance and equipments for all staffs
All necessary permits required for the trek
Welcome and Farewell dinner
All ground transfers on comfortable private vehicle
Government, hotel and all applicable taxes
International Airfare and taxes
Travel Insurance
Nepal Entry visa (Visa is obtained in Nepal Airport immigration on arrival. USD 25 per visa for 15 days, USD 40 per visa for 30 days and USD 100 per visa for 90 days. All the visas are multiple entry visas. Please carry 02 passport sized photographs
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
All items of personal nature like telephone calls, laundry, drink etc.
Items such as hot water for shower/drinking; Mobile phone and camera charging etc will be extra during trek which can be paid to the tea house/lodge owner directly.
Tipping to guide, porter and driver
Any other item that is not mentioned in the Cost Includes list.
Ghandruk Trek is one of the easiest yet rewarding treks in Nepal. You can find well-marked trails, cozy accommodations, and an elevation of around 2000 m, so this trek is suitable for anyone looking for adventure in the Himalayas.
This trek can be completed in a few days. So, if you are someone who has limited time but wants to take a break from your work and hectic lifestyle, this trek is made for you.
Moreover, this trek does not require any strenuous walking or technical climbing. So, if you are planning your trek with families, senior citizens, and children, this trek is feasible for you. Furthermore, the low elevation will minimize the risk of altitude sickness, making the trek safe.
However, if you have any joint issues, heart, or medical issues, it is recommended to consult your doctor before embarking on this journey.
Spring (March to May) and Autumn(September to November) are the best times for the Ghandruk Trek. The mild temperature, along with clear skies, offers you stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains.
Moreover, spring makes the lower Annapurna glow with rhododendron bloom. The striking contrast of different shades of rhododendrons against the green hills attracts the attention of the trekkers. Furthermore, the pleasant environment created by wildflowers blooming on the trails makes the Ghandruk Trek one of the best spring treks in Nepal.
Likewise, the festive vibe is spread all over Nepal during the autumn season. Most of the people who leave villages for work come back home, making the villages more vibrant. Furthermore, the dry trails during autumn make your trek somewhat easier. Hence, trekking in Nepal during autumn is full of lively trails and a vibrant atmosphere.
Ghandruk Trek is considered an easy-grade trek. The trails are well-maintained and easily accessible to teahouses and lodges. Likewise, gentle trails with mild ascents and descents make the trek an easy one. The minimal rugged terrain with daily walking distances ranging from 4 to 6 hours and a maximum elevation of 2000 m makes the Ghandruk Trek less demanding. Moreover, the trails are easily accessible from Pokhara city, so it makes your trek more convenient and smooth.
Absolutely Yes! This is one of the best treks for beginners in Nepal. With well-paved routes, a relatively low elevation, and short daily walking hours, it's ideal for trekkers with little to no trekking experience. Similarly, the path does not require technical climbing skills and is suitable for anyone with basic fitness.
The Ghandruk Trek cost can range between $350 – $800. However, the cost can differ due to various factors like itinerary, inclusion of services, highlights to explore, duration, group size, etc. If you choose a short trek of 3 days with basic services, then your Ghandruk trek price can be approximately $350. Similarly, if you choose a long 7-8 days with more highlights exploration, then your Ghandruk Trek cost can be approximately $700 per person.
Generally, trekkers start their Ghandruk Trek from Phedi after taking an hour-long ride from Pokhara. However, many people also start their trek from Nayapul, passing Birethanti, Chimrung, Syauli Bazar, Kimche, and Chane. When people include the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek with Ghandruk, they start their trek from Tikhedhunga.
Most of the trekkers end their trek from Phedi or Nayapul and take a ride to Pokhara. The ending and beginning points of the trek may differ from the Ghandruk Trek package and the itinerary you choose.
The trek to Ghandruk can last for 3 to 8 days. The length of the trek depends on your schedule, package, pace, fitness level, and other things. You would have to walk for 4 to 6 hours every day to complete 7 to 12 km on this adventure.
The total distance for the Ghandruk Loop Trek is approximately 40km(25 miles). However, the distance can increase or decrease as per the Ghandruk Trek route you choose. Likewise, the trek to Ghandruk will elevate to a maximum altitude of 2000m at Ghandruk.
If you have basic physical fitness and mental endurance, then you are good to go. However, if you are a novice trekker who has never gone on hikes and does not enjoy walking, then you should be physically prepared for the trek. Since this trek requires walking for about 4 to 6 hours daily on the trails, you have to prepare your body for long hours of walking. So, you can try walking for about an hour daily for a few weeks before the trek.
Moreover, you will be walking in an unknown and remote area, so you need to stay motivated throughout the trek. Sometimes, you will have to take steep stone staircases and ascents, which may be tiring for beginners. So, you should have a general overview of the trek through blogs or videos to be mentally prepared. Lastly, make sure you keep realistic expectations about the trek.
There are numerous hotels and teahouses alongside the trail for accommodation in Ghandruk Loop Trek. You will be provided with a well-equipped room on a twin-sharing basis. Some teahouses may have attached bathrooms, while some may have shared bathrooms within the vicinity.
Likewise, homestays are also a popular choice of accommodation in the Ghandruk Trek. Many locals have started the homestay service in the Ghandruk area. This modest luxury will give you warmth like your own home. The homestay experience will allow you to experience the local lifestyle, savor the local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the unique culture and tradition.
Teahouses and hotels may have extensive menus including local food, other Nepali food, and some foreign cuisines. However, homestays may offer you local and authentic Nepali food.
For breakfast, you may expect bread, paratha, porridge, congee, oats, sel roti, puri tarkari, fruits, etc. While at dinner and lunch, you may expect Daal Bhaat Tarkari, momo, chowmin, momo, thukpa, Gundruk dhindo, and many more.
Not only for food but for drinks too, you may expect a good variety like tea, coffee, soft drinks, milkshakes, hard drinks like raksi, tongba, etc.
Since the trek to Ghandruk will take you to a maximum altitude of 2000 m, there is very little probability of suffering from altitude sickness. However, it is always better to take precautions. So, you can try to walk at your own pace, eat and rest well, and stay hydrated throughout the journey.
If you are going to Ghandruk from Pokhara by bus or jeep, then it will take approximately 3 to 4 hours. However, if you are planning to reach Ghandruk from Pokhara by trekking, it can take you about 3 to 8 days. These days can change as per the route, itinerary, and highlights you choose for the trek.
Mountain Adventure Trekking ensures a safe, smooth, and fascinating time in the Himalayas with local guides who know what they're doing. Every aspect is taken care of, from well-planned itineraries and reliable teahouse lodgings to responsible travel practices and customized help. So, contact us today to start planning your perfect Ghandruk adventure.
