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6 Days
Daily Tour
10 people
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A Gentle Himalayan Walk into Gurung Culture and Annapurna Views
The Ghandruk Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding short Himalayan journeys—perfect for travelers who want mountain grandeur without extreme altitude or long walking days. In just six days, this trek introduces you to Nepal’s rural heartland: terraced hillsides carved by generations of farmers, shaded rhododendron forests, welcoming Gurung villages, and some of the most iconic peaks in the Annapurna range.
This is not a trek about endurance. It is a trek about connection—to landscapes, traditions, and the quiet rhythm of village life beneath towering Himalayan walls.
Duration: 6 days (round trip from Pokhara)
Maximum Elevation: ~2,012m (Ghandruk village)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best For: First-time trekkers, families, cultural travelers, photographers
Major Highlights: Gurung culture, Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Poon Hill sunrise
Best Seasons:
Spring (March–May): Rhododendron blooms
Autumn (September–November): Clear skies & crisp views
The Ghandruk Trek offers a complete Himalayan experience in miniature. The journey begins from Pokhara’s lakeside calm and quickly transitions into a world of stone villages, forest trails, and mountain horizons. Unlike high-altitude treks, there is no rush for acclimatization and no need for technical gear, making it accessible to travelers of all ages.
The cultural heart of the trek is Ghandruk, a large and beautifully preserved Gurung village. Here, stone-roofed houses cling to the hillside, prayer flags flutter in the wind, and daily life continues much as it has for centuries. Mornings and evenings bring changing light on Annapurna South and the sacred, unclimbed Machapuchare, creating moments that feel both peaceful and profound.
Your journey begins in Pokhara, Nepal’s most scenic city. After arriving from Kathmandu, spend the day relaxing by Phewa Lake, watching paragliders drift overhead and the Annapurna range glow at sunset. This is a perfect place to organize gear, meet your guide, and ease into the pace of the trek ahead.
A short drive takes you from Pokhara to Nayapul, where the trek officially begins. The trail follows the Modi Khola, passing through fertile farmland, small villages, and terraced rice fields. The walk is gentle and scenic, offering a soft introduction to Himalayan trekking. Overnight: Tikhedhunga (1,540m)
Today brings a steady climb, including the famous stone staircases of Ulleri village. As you ascend, the air cools and the surroundings transform into lush rhododendron forests, alive with birds and filtered sunlight. Ghorepani sits on a ridge surrounded by forest, setting the stage for tomorrow’s sunrise. Overnight: Ghorepani (2,860m)
An early start rewards you with a sunrise hike to Poon Hill (3,210m)—one of Nepal’s most celebrated viewpoints. As dawn breaks, the peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare glow in shifting shades of gold and pink. After descending, the trail winds through forest and high ridges via Tadapani, gradually leading you into the open stone terraces of Ghandruk village, with its dramatic mountain backdrop. Overnight: Ghandruk
This day is dedicated to slowing down. Wander through narrow stone lanes, visit the Gurung Museum, and learn about the proud history of Gurkha soldiers and local traditions. Watch women weaving traditional textiles, share conversations over tea, and enjoy unhurried views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare from village viewpoints. Evenings in Ghandruk are quiet and atmospheric—warm meals, mountain silhouettes, and star-filled skies. Overnight: Ghandruk
The final walk descends gently through terraced hillsides and farming villages, offering one last look at rural Himalayan life. From Nayapul, a drive returns you to Pokhara, where hot showers, lakeside cafés, and reflection await.
Perfect balance of nature, culture, and comfort No extreme altitude or technical difficulty Ideal for short holidays and first-time trekkers Stunning Himalayan views without long trekking days Comfortable teahouse accommodation throughout This trek proves that you don’t need weeks or high passes to experience the magic of the Himalayas.
Pack light but include warm layers for evenings
Carry cash in Nepali Rupees, as ATMs are unavailable
Spring offers colorful blooms; autumn offers the clearest skies
A local guide adds cultural depth and ensures smooth navigation
Travel responsibly—use refillable water bottles and follow Leave No Trace principles
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