Ghandruk Trekking: 3 Days

ghandruk photograph with guest
Trip Information
  • Duration3 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Max Altitude1,970 m/6,464 ft.
  • ActivityTrekking
  • Group Size1+
  • Trip StartPokhara
  • Trip EndPokhara
  • Best TimeAnytime of the year
Highlights

The perfect trek choice for those seeking a condensed but fulfilling adventure in the amazing Annapurna Region of Nepal. The exciting trek of the 3-day Ghandruk Village Trek! Get ready to embark on a journey filled with amazing landscapes, cultural encounters, and unforgettable experiences.

  • This trek offers you to witness magnificent views of the Annapurna South (7,219 meters / 23,684 feet.),Machapuchare (Fishtail) (6,993 meters / 22,943 feet),Hiunchuli (6,441 meters / 21,131 feet), Annapurna III (7,555 meters / 24,787 feet), and Gangapurna (7,454 meters / 24,455 feet)
  • Ghandruk village is itself the major highlight of the Ghandruk Village trekking. This village is a picturesque Gurung settlement tucked away in the Himalayas.
  • Trek to Ghandruk village provides a glimpse of traditional village life and culture in Nepal. You can visit the Gurung Museum, and engage in pleasant interactions with the locals.
  • Cultural Immersion: The trekking to Ghandruk village helps you to interact with the Gurung people and learn their distinctive customs, traditions, and way of life.
  • Rhododendron Forests: Trekking to Ghandruk Village takes you through lush rhododendron forests, which are especially beautiful when the flowers are in full bloom in the spring. The forested trails add to the natural beauty of the trek.
  • Quick Adventure: This 3-day trek is a quick adventure for people who don't have much time, so a wide range of walkers can do it.

Advantages of booking Ghandruk trek with Holiday Tours Nepal

  • Private vehicles pick up and drop off to clients at all airports.
  • First-aid kit box.
  • Holiday Tours Nepal t-shirts, maps, caps, are provided. Down jackets and sleeping bags are rented if necessary.
  • Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (you should have insurance for emergency evacuation, which will be paid for by your travel insurance company).
  • We use an oximeter to check your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate, every evening to trek and provide oxygen in case needed.
  • Sim cards are provided by our company for travelers, so there won’t be any networking issues.

Introduction: Ghandruk Village Trek

Ghandruk valley, Ghandruk is the most lively and interesting place to go trekking. Ghandruk hiking is part of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, which is in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. It is also called "short trekking in Annapurna Region." Ghandruk town is located 2012 meters/6601 ft. above sea level, and most of the people who live there are from the Gurung and other ethnic groups. It has a great mix of lush vegetation because of its diverse geography, unbelievable landscapes and terrains, a close and spectacular view of the mountains, especially at sunrise and sunset, and stone-built towns with the same people who live there. The Ghandruk Trekking Package gives you the amazing feeling of being so close to nature, which is something that can't be bought.

The Ghandruk trip begins in Pokhara, which is known as the "city of lakes." It takes 30 minutes to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and then 1 hour to get to Nayapul. From there, it takes 30 minutes to walk to Birethanti. After that, it keeps going along the Bhurungdi River and through rhododendron forests, paddy walks, small streams, paddy fields, rough terrain, and traditional towns that are very beautiful. At every step of this path, friendly locals greet you with a smile, which makes your heart feel full of love. The whole trail draws you in with its beautiful scenery and wide views of the mountains. The best parts of the trek are the towns of Poonhill and Ghandruk. Poonhill is known for its close-up views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Annapurna II, Machhapuchhre (fishtail), Gangapurna, Nilgiri, and other scenic peaks. It is 3210m above sea level. Gurung, Tamang, and Chettri all live in the village of Ghandruk. Gurung are more commonly called Gurkhas, which means "great warriors." It's the friendliest village. Overall, Ghandruk Circuit Trekking gives beautiful views of mountains and artistic landscapes, a rich ethnic culture, and heartwarming hospitality. After this walk, you can have a good time relaxing in Pokhara's beautiful nature and popular spots like Phewa Lake, Mahendra Cave, Davis Falls, and so on.

Ghandruk Trekking is a short, easy walk that is mostly made for families who want to make memories with their kids and for newlyweds on their honeymoon. Ghandruk trekking is good for old people, people who don't have much time, and people who have never been walking before. But anyone who really loves the outdoors can do this hike. This walk can be done at any time of the year.

What is the specialty of Ghandruk village?

Ghandruk village is a satisfying and enlightening experience for a number of reasons.

  • From Ghandruk Village, we can see the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) Mountain Range from a wide angle. Especially at sunrise and sunset, these tall peaks make a beautiful background for your hike.
  • Ghandruk is a traditional Gurung town, and the trek is a great way to learn more about the local culture. You can talk to Gurung people, find out about their traditions, go to the Gurung Museum, and see traditional dances and ceremonies.
  • The hike takes you through lush rhododendron woods, terraced fields, and other beautiful natural areas. Depending on the time of year, the trail may have beautiful rhododendron buds that add to its natural beauty.
  • Teahouses are places to stay, and the hotels along the way offer comfortable rooms and real Nepali food. It's a chance to take a break, get to know the locals, and meet other hikers.
  • Ghandruk isn't too hard to get to from Pokhara, which is one of Nepal's most popular tourist cities. This makes it a good choice for people who want a faster journey.
  • Trekking to Ghandruk is a good way for tourists and locals to learn about each other's cultures. Your visit helps the local economy, and talking to the people helps you learn more about the area's history.
  • Most of the time, the walk starts and ends with a beautiful drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and back. These drives give you a chance to see the beautiful landscapes of Nepal.
  • Ghandruk trip usually takes between 3 and 4 days, so it's great for people who don't have much time or who want a shorter trip. You can do it over a long weekend or as a side trip while you are in Nepal.
  • There are many great places to take pictures on the trek, such as mountain views, traditional towns, and colorful landscapes. It's a wildlife and landscape photographer's dream come true.
  • The trip gives you a chance to try new things and get some exercise, but it also gives you time to relax and enjoy nature. It's a chance to get away from the busyness of everyday life and get back in touch with nature.

Overall, trekking to Ghandruk Village combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and a sense of adventure, making it a memorable and satisfying experience for trekkers from different backgrounds and with different interests. Ghandruk Village Trek has something special for everyone, whether you've been trekking before or this is your first time in Nepal.

How to prepare for Ghandruk Village Trek?

Holiday Planner Nepal always suggests certain measures to follow for the preparation of any trek in Nepal. Even for the Ghandruk trek there are certain measures to follow to stay safe and have a good time. Here are some important steps and things to think about to help you get ready:

  • Ghandruk goes through hilly areas, and some parts can be quite steep. Starting a daily fitness routine, including cardio, strength training, and endurance exercises, at least a few months before your trek is crucial for optimal health.
  • Trekkers can even consider going on hikes or walks near your home to prepare for trekking and build your fitness.
  • Always go with the proper hiking gear for trekking, like sturdy and comfortable hiking boots, clothes that wick away wetness, insulated layers, a rain jacket, a good-quality backpack, and a sleeping bag that is right for the time of year you plan to trek.
  • Don't forget things like a sun hat, sunglasses, gloves, a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries, and a hat to protect your face from the heat.
  • Get the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) These are needed to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • Trekkers can get an all-inclusive trip insurance that includes medical evacuation and covers trekking. Make sure your insurance covers you at the altitude you will be hiking.
  • New government rules mandate the use of either a guide or porter for trekking in Nepal, prioritizing safety as a primary measure.
  • Talk to your doctor or a travel center to make sure you have all the shots and medicines you need for Nepal. Talk about how to avoid mountain sickness and other health issues.
  • For your trek to Ghandruk Village, better to take Nepali rupees as there may be limited cash on ATM at Ghandruk.
  • On the trail, the exchange rate may be less so, exchange money in the city before embarking on the trek.
  • Check the weather for the time of year you want to go trekking. Dress in layers and be ready for changing temperatures, especially at higher levels.
  • Learn about the local customs and societal norms and try to follow them. Dress modestly and ask permission before taking pictures of people or their stuff.
  • Follow the Leave No Trace principles to make the least amount of damage to the earth. Throw away trash the right way and don't use single-use plastics.
  • On the trail, you must need to stay hydrated by drinking a lot of water, and keep your energy up by eating healthy foods.

Best Season and time for Ghandruk Trek?

The best seasons to go on Ghandruk Trekking are in the fall and spring. These months the weather offers pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and most nice during the months, making it a great time to go hiking. In Ghandruk, the best times to go hiking are during these two main seasons:

Autumn (September to November).

The autumn season is one of the peak seasons to trek in Nepal. It is always recommended that you take the Ghandruk Trek in autumn. This time of year is great for hiking since the weather is predictable, the skies are clear, and the temperature is moderate. The trek in the cool and pleasant air of fall, the mountains, notably Annapurna and Machapuchre, appear to look their best. The hiking conditions are usually pleasant, and the paths have been well-maintained.

 Season of spring (March-May).

The spring season is also one of the finest seasons to trek in Nepal. The Ghandruk Trek is second-best in the spring. Temperatures are high and gradually decrease as you gain elevation. In the spring, the rhododendron groves that line the path burst into bloom, transforming the surrounding environment into a riot of color. The best time to go bird-watching in the area is at this time of year.

The beautiful skies of spring and autumn make it more probable that you will see the Himalayas in all their glory. While daytime temperatures are ideal for hiking, nights, especially at higher elevations, can be quite frigid. These times of year are also peak trekking and tourist seasons, so you can expect lively conversation in the trailside teahouses and the company of like-minded adventurers.

Although the Ghandruk Trek is at its best in the fall and spring, it can be done at any time of year. However, there are other factors to think about during different seasons:

Winter (December - February) is a good time to go trekking in Ghandruk, though temperatures may be much lower and certain teahouses at higher elevations may be closed. At higher altitudes, trails may also be covered with snow or ice.

During the monsoon season (June–August), the region receives significant precipitation, making hiking more difficult due to muddy pathways, leeches, and poor visibility. Some hiking trails may be closed if landslides occur. Those planning a trek in the Annapurna Region should avoid doing this.

In general, the Ghandruk Trek is most enjoyable and safe during the fall or spring, but you should double-check the weather and trail conditions before setting out on your adventure.

Local culture and tradition around Ghandruk village

Ghandruk Village is a beautiful Gurung settlement in Nepal's Annapurna area. The Gurung people have a long history of culture and tradition that shapes daily life in Ghandruk. Some characteristics of Ghandruk Village's rich cultural heritage include the following:

  • Gurung Traditions: The Gurung people are one of the ethnic groups in Nepal who have their own language, customs, and history. You can learn anything about the Gurung way of life by living there in Ghandruk.
  • Dress in a Classical Mode: Most males in the Gurung community wear the traditional garb known as "Gurung dress," which consists of a robe (kachhad) that ends at the knee and a waistcoat. Beaded necklaces and earrings are just some of the colorful accessories that women wear.
  • Norms of Society: The Gurung culture is deeply rooted in rituals, ceremonies, and the arts. Traditional dances such as the Ghatu (performed at festivals) and the Sorathi (performed at harvest time) may be performed for you to watch.
  • The Gurung Museum: The Gurung Museum may be found in Ghandruk Village, and it offers information about the history, culture, and way of life of the Gurung people. It's a wonderful museum that sheds light on their history.
  • Religion: In Ghandruk, the majority of Gurungs combine Buddhist and animist beliefs. The entire town is decorated with Buddhist stupas, prayer flags, and monasteries. The most well-known is the Ghandruk Monastery, a major place of worship.
  • Events to Celebrate: In addition to Dashain, the most important Hindu festival in Nepal, the Gurung group also celebrates Tihar, a festival honoring animals, and Lhosar, the Tibetan New Year. Traditional rituals, food, and dance are all part of these celebrations.
  • Hospitality: The Gurung people are well-known for their welcoming nature. Travelers to Ghandruk may expect to be showered with warm hospitality, complete with smiles and the traditional presentation of garlands and tika (a red vermillion mark).
  • Conventional Buildings: Traditional Gurung style may be seen throughout Ghandruk's buildings. Stone walls, slate roofs, and ornately carved wooden windows and doors are common.
  • Agriculture as a Means of Support: Agriculture in Ghandruk is the main industry. Crops like rice, millet, maize, and potatoes are grown in the terraced fields that surround the settlement. It's possible that you'll get to help out on a farm or at least watch some of the action unfold.
  • Regional Food: Traditional Gurung food is rich and satisfying. Try some of the local specialties like dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), momo (dumplings), and gundruk (fermented and dried leafy greens) while you're in Ghandruk.

Trekking to Ghandruk Village provides an opportunity to learn about the local culture. One of the best parts of visiting a new place is getting to know the locals and experiencing their culture firsthand. Keep in mind that you should always get permission before photographing traditional customs or taking part in local ceremonies. This conversation with a local enriches your experience at Ghandruk Village.

Accommodation facilities at Ghandruk

Ghandruk is a beautiful Gurung village in Nepal's Annapurna Region, and its lodging options are largely lodges and guesthouses with teahouses. These inns are ideal for hikers, as they provide simple but pleasant facilities. What to expect from Ghandruk's lodging alternatives is as follows:

Teahouses and lodges

Ghandruk's predominant lodging option is teahouse lodges. They are small businesses owned by families who want to help out travelers.These inns have both private rooms and shared sleeping quarters. While dorms often have shared toilets, private rooms may have their own. Each room has a bed, a mattress, a blanket, and a pillow, and is clean and well-maintained. However, a sleeping bag is recommended, especially in the winter months, for increased warmth and comfort.

Power and battery recharge

Ghandruk has access to electricity, however, supply is unpredictable and outages are common. There may be a fee associated with using the charging outlets in some teahouses.

Internet and Cellular Service 

Ghandruk residents have had spotty experiences with both internet and cell service. Don't count on constantly-available Internet facilities while you're here.

Meals

Ghandruk's teahouse hotels have restaurants where trekkers can eat. There will be a wide selection of meals available, from those typically found in Nepal and Tibet to those from throughout the world. Rice and lentil soup, known as dal bhat, is a staple diet food.

The majority of teahouses serve all three meals. The teahouse meal package is popular among trekkers because it includes breakfast and dinner. Lunch and additional snacks can be ordered as needed.

Booking in Advance

Teahouses in Ghandruk, in particular the more famous ones, fill up quickly during peak hiking seasons, thus making a reservation in advance is recommended. Holiday Planner Nepal conforms to hotel booking for your comfort.

Sanitation and Personal Hygiene

Cleanliness in Ghandruk's teahouse lodges is usually rather good. Toilet paper and other bathroom necessities aren't always supplied, so it's smart to bring your own.

Staying in a Ghandruk teahouse is a great way to get a feel for genuine mountain life. A sleeping bag, headlamp, and basic toiletries are all things you should bring with you to every teahouse because conditions might vary widely from one to the next.

Itinerary
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The journey to Phedi, the starting point of the trek, begins today after breakfast. As you make your way along the ridge, the views of the surrounding mountains will only get better, culminating in an incredible view of Fishtail and Annapurna from Dhampus (1750m). The journey continues to Pothana, where you will stop for lunch. The up-and-down hike to the tiny village of Tolka begins after lunch. You should spend the night at the tea house.

    After an early breakfast at the lodge, you'll begin the gradual ascent to Landruk, from whence the trail winds down to Modi Khola.  The path ascends to a Ghandruk settlement after crossing the Modi Khola stream on a suspension bridge overlooking a rocky ledge covered in wild honey bee hives. Ghandruk village is a significant Gurung settlement and the most contemporary town on this trek, home to a number of Buddhist monasteries and a local museum. Stay overnight at the lodge.

      Ghandruk village provides you with a panoramic vista of mountains. You can even explore the beautiful village of Ghandruk for a short while, then continue by foot to Nayapul through Birethanti. The hike concludes in Nayapul; from there, transportation to Pokhara is arranged. 

        Cost Details
        What's Included
        • All airport pick drop by private vehicle.
        • Pokhara to Phedi(Trek starting point) and Nayapul(trek ending point) to Pokhara by private vehicle.
        • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System( TIMS card).
        • A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English-speaking well trained, well-trained Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, Transport, and insurance.
        • 02 guest=01 porter with their Insurance, Salary, Food, accommodation, and equipment.
        • Best Available twin/double shearing accommodation in the mountain during the trekking.
        • Three meals a day; breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking.
        What's not Included
        • Your Nepal Visa fees (should bring small accurate fees in USD and 02 passport-size photos).
        • All the International airfare from and to Kathmandu (no need to pay departure tax for international flights).
        • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
        • Meals during the traveling time.
        • Personal travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation.
        • In case of extra night accommodation, lunch and dinner in the city due to early arrival and late departure as well as early back/return from mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given time period of itinerary.
        • Your Personal expenses such as ( laundry, baggage charge, phone calls, battery recharge, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottle water, hot and cold shower, extra porter.. etc).
        • The tips to the trekking crews and drive.
        • Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather conditions or any event out of our control.
        • Anything not included in the service includes a column.
        Availability
        • The trip departs every day of the year.
        • The trip is fully customizable. We can customize the trip according to the needs and necessities of our clients.
        • The trip is available for solo travelers, group travelers, and private travelers.
        • We organize the trip for a large group and can provide service for a group of 100+ members as well.
        • If the given dates are not appropriate for the travelers and trekkers, the trip can be conducted on the customary date provided by our clients.
        • Holiday tours Nepal advises all our clients to book at least 7 days prior so all the arrangements can be done in time, especially sometimes in the mountains where the accommodations are booked prior, so prior booking helps a lot.
        • Contact us at [email protected], or send us a text at +977-9816710843 or +977-9818178630. We are available 24/7 on WhatsApp, Viber, and WeChat.
        Useful Information

        We also provide unique selected facilities if you choose to customise your trip rather than the entire package.

        • Tailored itineraries for our clients Ghandruk village trek requirements.
        • Guide or porter- only service will be provided for the 3-Day Ghandruk Village Trek.
        • Accommodation-only facilities for the Ghandruk trek is available, if necessary. 
        • Flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara and from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
        • Private transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back.
        • Hotel facilities of the 4-star or 5-star categories, as well as generally economical hostels, are available to accommodate the various requirements of our guests.

        Equipment and Gear List

        GeneralGeneral

        • Four-season (-20 degree) sleeping bag (We provide rental sleeping bags available for an additional USD 35)
        • Puffy down jacket (We provide rental jackets for an additional USD 35)
        • Daypack (25-30 liters recommended) with rain cover

        CatUpper Body

        • Sun hat or cap (We'll provide you with a trekking cap.)
        • warm woolen hat
        • Scarf/Neck Buff (highly recommended to get saved from wind and cold)
        • Headlamp or mobile torch light for nighttime
        • Polarized sunglasses

        TorsoTorso

        • Technical fabric base layer thermals are light for warmer months, heavy for colder months
        • Technical fabric t-shirts and sleeve sweaters or high-necks
        • Waterproof rain jacket
        • windproof jacket for the walk as it gets windy
        • Fleece jacket or down jacket

        LowerLower Body

        • thermals inner
        • Hiking pants at least 3
        • Comfortable pants for teahouses
        • Waterproof, windproof shell
        • Hiking shorts

        glovesHands

        • Woolen gloves for the tea house
        • Hard-shell windproof outer gloves for the walk

        feetFeet

        • Marino Wool or comfortable, warm socks
        • Hiking socks
        • Liner socks
        • Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
        • Crampons (For passes)
        • Casual shoes or sandals that are comfortable for the time in the tea house
        • Gaiters (lightweight for rain and snow)

        undergarmentUndergarments and Inner Wears

        • Technical fabric/quick drying (can be washed during the trek)
        • Sports bras (women)
        • sleeping clothes as per the comfortability

        FirstaidFirst Aid Kits and Medications

        Note: Our guides carry medications, oxygen cans, and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are recommended.) 

        • Sunscreen SPF- 50+
        • Lip balm or Vaseline
        • ointment cream
        • Cough Syrup and strepsils (recommended for Khumbu Cough)
        • Creams and medicines (for any allergies or diseases)

        Optional Other Essentials

        • Passport
        • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
        • Reusable water bottle
        • Toilet paper, small soap, and shampoo
        • Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (if you plan to treat water)
        • water bladder for the day bag
        • small towel for personal use
        • Pillowcase in case of allergies to new pillows
        • High-protein snacks (such as mountain bars or nuts)
        • Waterproof/dry bags for carrying essential documents, stuff, frequently used items, and money
        • Power bank or extra batteries
        • Cameras and mobile phone
        • Cards/book
        • Pee bottle/ pee funnel for women
        • Trekking poles
        • Whistle in case your voice is not loud enough to stop or start
        • Thermos for hot water during the night
        • We give you a free duffel bag, trekking cap, maps, and t-shirt during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffel bag will be used to pack your trekking supplies.
        • For every two participants, we assign one porter. The porter will carry the duffel bag, which should weigh around 10 kg/22 lbs., throughout the walk.
        • Daypack bag for daily used stuff like cash, documents, papers, a water bottle or bladder, a camera, toiletries, sunscreen, a notebook, clothing, etc. (with a waterproof cover).
        • You can store your luggage (on-trekking items) at the hotel in Kathmandu, and we can assist and help.
        • Total luggage for the Kathmandu-Lukla flight is (15 kg (33 lbs.), including duffel (10 Kg/22 lbs.) and backpack (5 kg/11 lbs.)
        • A down jacket with a hood (cap) to be warm in altitudes above 3,000m.
        • We can provide a down jacket for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, you need to pay back the cost of USD 200 per item.
        • We can provide a sleeping bag for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, USD 200 per item must be paid.

        Note: Supplies and gear can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu. Once you are in Nepal, you can buy supplies and gear for hiking if you have spare time. Trekking Planner Nepal representatives will assist you in purchasing the equipment. Thamel a tourist hub, offers a wide range of trekking equipment at affordable prices. Don't wear short clothes inside the monasteries and religious places.

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