Talk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Talk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Ghandruk Village is a gem in the heart of the Annapurna region. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, a trekking gateway, or a peaceful retreat surrounded by Himalayan grandeur, Ghandruk delivers an unforgettable experience. As tourism trends in Nepal shift toward more authentic and sustainable travel, Ghandruk stands out as a model destination for 2025/2026.
Plan your visit, meet the locals, enjoy the mountain air, and create memories in this timeless Gurung village.
Nestled amidst the majestic Annapurna ranges, Ghandruk Village is a serene and picturesque hamlet located in central Nepal. Famed for its breathtaking mountain views, rich Gurung culture, and warm hospitality, Ghandruk is one of the most beloved destinations for trekkers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re starting the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or seeking a short getaway from Pokhara, Ghandruk promises a unique blend of scenic beauty and authentic Nepali heritage.
Ghandruk is located at an elevation of 1,940 meters (6,365 feet) above sea level. It lies to the northwest of Pokhara, nestled on a ridge overlooking the Modi Khola river valley. The coordinates are approximately 28.3796° N, 83.8104° E.
A Ghandruk Village map typically includes:
Trail routes to and from Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill, Chhomrong, and Landruk
Key attractions like the Gurung Cultural Museum, local homestays, viewpoints, and main guesthouses
Connecting jeep tracks from Kimche and Nayapul
You can find updated trekking maps in Pokhara or online through trekking agencies.
Pokhara to Ghandruk Distance: About 50 km
Nayapul to Ghandruk: Roughly 18 km trek (5–6 hours)
Kathmandu to Ghandruk: Approx. 250 km via road and trail
While Ghandruk is small, it offers several attractions worth exploring:
Gurung Cultural Museum
Traditional Gurung Houses
Local Temples and Monasteries
Panoramic Viewpoints of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre
Tea gardens and Rhododendron forests (in spring)
Historically, Ghandruk was a major recruitment center for Gurkha soldiers. The village’s martial past is still evident in its pride, resilience, and the military memorabilia found in local homes. Over the decades, it transformed into a peaceful village promoting eco-tourism, ethnic culture, and trekking hospitality.
Distance: ~50 kilometers
Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours by jeep or local bus
Route: Pokhara – Nayapul – Birethanti – Kimche – Ghandruk
Most travelers hire a private jeep for convenience or take a shared jeep to Kimche and hike the final stretch (1–1.5 hours).
Best Season: March–May & September–November
Altitude Awareness: Ghandruk sits below 2,000 meters, so there’s minimal risk of altitude sickness.
Clothing: Warm layers recommended, especially during early mornings and evenings.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and mobile networks are available but may be slow.
ATMs: Not available in the village. Carry cash from Pokhara.
Local homestays for immersive experiences
Eco-lodges and teahouses with views of Machhapuchhre
Ghandruk is famous for several key highlights:
Panoramic Views of the Himalayas: Towering peaks like Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli dominate the skyline.
Authentic Gurung Culture: As one of the major settlements of the Gurung community, Ghandruk offers immersive cultural experiences through traditional houses, dress, dances, and local museums.
Gateway to Annapurna Base Camp: Many trekkers use Ghandruk as the starting point or a rest stop for the popular Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek.
Eco-Tourism and Homestays: The village has embraced sustainable tourism, offering eco-lodges and welcoming homestays with local families.
Ghandruk Gurung Museum: A must-visit place that showcases traditional tools, weapons, and attire, reflecting the community’s history and lifestyle.
Yes, permits are required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes Ghandruk. The two essential permits are:
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) – US$30, NPR 3,000 for foreigners.
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) – US$20, NPR 2,000 for individual trekkers.
These permits are checked en route and help support conservation and infrastructure in the region. They can be obtained from the Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Ghandruk Village is located in the Kaski District of Gandaki Province, Nepal. It falls within the Annapurna Rural Municipality and lies on the southern slopes of the Annapurna Himalayan range.
The distance from Kathmandu to Ghandruk is approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles). However, due to the hilly terrain and road conditions, the journey can take:
By road: Around 10 to 12 hours to Pokhara (200 km), followed by 3 to 4 hours of driving to Ghandruk (50 km).
By air: 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then a scenic 3–4-hour drive to Ghandruk.
Ghandruk is more than a stopover—it is a living museum of Gurung heritage. Walking through its stone-paved paths, visitors encounter traditional slate-roofed houses, locals in ethnic attire, and community members who proudly share their traditions. Local women’s groups often perform Gurung dances and prepare homemade meals, offering travelers a culturally rich and interactive stay.
For trekkers, Ghandruk is both a starting point and a resting haven, providing well-managed teahouses and spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.
Ghandruk is a strategic point for the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek. Many trekkers prefer to begin the ABC route from Ghandruk rather than Nayapul or Phedi. The trail from Ghandruk leads through Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali, before reaching the Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters.
Starting Point: Ghandruk (1,940 m)
Total Duration: 7–9 days round trip
Best Seasons: March–May and September–November
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Rhododendron forests, waterfalls, Gurung villages, and panoramic Himalayan views.
We, Nepal Himalayas Trekking, highly recommend going to Ghandruk Village via Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, and if possible, also include this Ghandruk Village during your Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek in the Annapurna Region
Add Your Comment
Your Name
Email Address
Comment