Ghandruk Village

Ghandruk Village is a beautiful mountain village in the Annapurna region of Nepal, it’s 32 kilometers northwest of Pokhara. Ghandruk is a 2,012m high village above sea level. 

It is famous for traditional Gurung culture, well-maintained stone architecture, and amazing views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Ghandruk is a popular trekking destination on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, making it one of the most accessible cultural trekking spots in Nepal. 

Ghandruk has great cultural significance as a historical Gurung village, providing trekkers with authentic Himalayan hospitality and a glimpse into Nepal’s indigenous mountain culture.

Quick Summary

• Ghandruk is a beautiful Gurung village situated 32 km from Pokhara at an altitude of 2,012 meters above sea level.
• Ghandruk is known for its traditional stone houses, rich Gurung culture, and asesome views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.
• Ghandruk is a common destination for trekkers on the Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani Poon Hill treks, making it a great destination for beginners and short Himalayan treks.
• Activities at Ghandruk include sunrise views of the mountains, cultural village walks, the Ghandruk Cultural Museum, food tasting, and day hikes.
• The best seasons to visit Ghandruk are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is clear and stable.
• Ghandruk is accessible by jeep, bus, or trek from Pokhara, and trekkers need to purchase ACAP and TIMS permits before entering the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Where is Ghandruk Village Located?

Ghandruk is located in the Kaski District of the Gandaki Province, central Nepal. The village is situated within the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal’s largest conservation area and one of the most popular trekking destinations.

Ghandruk is situated about 32 km (20 miles) from Pokhara and is one of the closest Himalayan villages to the city. It takes about 3-4 hours to reach Ghandruk by jeep, depending on the road conditions.

It is about 260 km (162 miles) from Kathmandu. One can either drive for 6-8 hours to Pokhara or fly for 25 minutes and then transfer to the village by road.

Ghandruk Village on Map 

Ghandruk is one of the most accessible Himalayan villages in Nepal. Ghandruk can be accessed by jeep from Pokhara via Nayapul, Kimche, or Syauli Bazaar, or by a short 1-2-day trek from popular trekking points. There are also local buses that connect Pokhara to nearby entry points. Ghandruk is the most suitable destination for short cultural tours, family outings, and beginner treks due to its road accessibility and relatively low elevation.

Visitors can easily find the exact location of Ghandruk by searching for “Ghandruk Village” on Google Maps to get directions from Pokhara. You can see below in the map.

Ghandruk Village Altitude and Geography 

Ghandruk is a village that is 2,012m above sea level. This is a moderate height, and as such, the village offers beautiful views of the Himalayas without the dangers of trekking to higher altitudes.

Geographically, Ghandruk is located on a hillside overlooking terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and river valleys in theAnnapurna Conservation Area. This provides an attractive setting that combines traditional stone architecture with a mountainous backdrop, making it one of the most beautiful villages in the Annapurna region.

There are several natural vantage points around the village that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains at sunrise and sunset. This makes it one of the most popular destinations for photographers and trekkers.

Mountains Visible from Ghandruk

Ghandruk provides trekkers with clear views of the following mountains:

• Annapurna South (7,219m)
• Machhapuchhre (6,993m)
• Hiunchuli (6,441m)

These mountains tower above the village and are some of the reasons why Ghandruk is one of the most beautiful mountain villages in Nepal.

Ghandruk Trek Routes and Itinerary 

Ghandruk is a trekking route in the Annapurna region that provides a short cultural trek from Pokhara as well as a longer trek towards Annapurna Base Camp. The trekking routes go through the villages of the Gurung community, rice fields, and hill forests in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Although the Pokhara to Ghandruk trek is easy, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is moderate. Let’s see the itinerary below.

Pokhara to Ghandruk Short Trek itinerary

Ghandruk to Annapurna Base Camp

This itinerary allows trekkers to experience both cultural village life and high Himalayan scenery in one journey.

Best Time to Visit Ghandruk Village

The best time to visit Ghandruk is during Spring and Autumn. These two seasons offer the most stable weather and clear views of the Annapurna Mountains.

During Spring, the hills surrounding Ghandruk are filled with rhododendron forests in full bloom, while the temperatures are mild and pleasant. Autumn, on the other hand, brings clear blue skies following the monsoon season, making it the best time to witness the panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.

Both Spring and Autumn seasons receive less rainfall, have clear skies, and moderate daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C. If you are looking for the best time to visit Ghandruk Village, October and April are the best months.

If you are planning your trip, you can see the average seasonal temperatures in Ghandruk in the table below. The village is at an altitude of 2,012 meters, and thus the temperature is moderate.

Accommodation in Ghandruk Village

Ghandruk has comfortable and culturally interesting accommodation options that are inspired by the traditional living style of the Annapurna region. One can stay in teahouses, trekking lodges, small guesthouses, or homestays that are typical of the Gurung community. The accommodation options are mostly simple but cozy, with the focus on warmth and hospitality rather than luxury.

The rooms are clean and twin-sharing, with shared or attached bathrooms, depending on the lodge. The average cost of staying ranges from USD 4 to $13 per night for basic rooms, while rooms with attached bathrooms may cost between USD 15 to $30 per night. Meals are served in common dining halls where people sit around a warm stove in winter. Electricity is available in the entire village, and most of the lodges have WiFi and charging points, although internet speed may be slower compared to Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Traditional Gurung Homestay Experience

Staying at Gurung homestay in Ghandruk is a unique and new experience. The village is mainly populated by Gurungs, who are famous for their rich culture and hospitality. Visitors can experience the local lifestyle, see the traditional stone houses, and learn about the Gurung culture.

The homestays provide homemade food like Dal Bhat, Dhindo, Gundruk, and organic vegetables. It is more than just a place to stay. It is about making connections, exchanging stories with the homestay families, learning about mountain culture, and experiencing the warmth of Himalayan hospitality in a serene environment.

Culture and Lifestyle of Ghandruk Village

Ghandruk is predominantly inhabited by the Gurung community, which is one of the most prominent indigenous groups in Nepal. The Gurung community has a rich cultural heritage associated with agriculture, highland culture, and Gurkha military traditions.

Important Cultural Details:

• Ethnic Group: Gurung (Tamu) community
• Language: Gurung (Tamu Kyi) and Nepali
• Primary Occupation: Agriculture, livestock, and tourism
• Major Festival: Tamu Lhosar (know as a Gurung New Year)
• Traditional Dress: Colorful wrap-around dresses for women, Bhoto and traditional caps for men

The village culture is still very much community based, with stone houses, terraced agriculture, and a distinct cultural identity.

Ghandruk Cultural Museum

The Ghandruk Cultural Museum, which is situated inside the village, provides visitors with insight into Gurung culture. The museum contains traditional household items, agricultural tools, musical instruments, clothing, and old photographs that demonstrate the development of life in the village.

Visitors can view the conserved artifacts, including old utensils, weapons, weaving looms, and ritual objects used in Gurung rituals. The museum is a significant cultural preservation institution that assists tourists in understanding the history and culture of the Gurung people in the Annapurna region.

Ghandruk provides an excellent combination of mountain views, cultural experiences, and short adventure treks in the Annapurna region.

Things to Do in Ghandruk Village

Sunrise Viewpoint

Start your day early to enjoy an amazing sunrise view of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre from your Tea House.

The golden hues of the sunrise shining on the snow capped mountains are one of the most prominent attractions of staying in Ghandruk.

Photography

It is a photographer’s heaven, with stone walled houses, rice fields, and narrow village streets lined with the majestic Himalayas.

Cultural Walk

Take a leisurely walk around the village to experience the Gurung architecture, farming life, and mountain culture.

It is a great way to experience authentic village life.

Museum Visit

Visit the local cultural museum to understand the history, tools, clothes, and cultural artifacts of the Gurung community.

Local Food Tasting

Indulge in authentic Nepali and Gurung cuisine like Dal Bhat, Dhindo, and Gundruk, made from fresh local ingredients.

Day Hikes

Ghandruk is a great base for short treks to surrounding villages and viewpoints. Popular trails lead to Landruk, Chhomrong, and parts of the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

How to Reach Ghandruk from Pokhara

Travellers can reach Ghandruk by using a private jeep, local bus, or trekking, depending on one’s budget and choice. The easiest and quickest way to Ghandruk is by taking a direct jeep from Pokhara via Nayapul. The journey is partly paved and partly rough but provides beautiful views along the way.

If you are a budget traveller, there are local bus options that go from Pokhara to Kimche. From there, it is only a short uphill trek about 1-2 hours to reach Ghandruk village.

Trekking enthusiasts can take the drive to Nayapul and then trek to Ghandruk, which takes about 4-6 hours, passing through fields and small villages like Kimche, Syauli Bazar.

Permits Required for Ghandruk Village Trek

Ghandruk village is way to Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Poon Hill Trek and inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, so trekkers must obtain two permits.

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• Trekkers’ Information Management System (Tims Card)

These two permits can be arranged in Kathmandu or Pokhara through the Registered Trekking Agency or Yourself by visiting Nepal Tourism Board Office before starting the trek.

 Estimated Budget for Ghandruk Village Trip

A short trip to Ghandruk is affordable compared to longer treks. Costs mainly include round transport from Pokhara, accommodation, food, Guide and required permits. Lets see in Detailed below in table.

Packing List for Gahndruk Village Trek

Given the fact that Ghandruk is 2,012 meters above sea level, it is necessary to pack accordingly, without overdoing it.

Clothing:

• Light down jacket or fleece
• Trekking pants
• T-shirts and thermal wear (winter)
• Rain jacket (monsoon season)

Trekking Equipment:

• Hiking shoes
• Day backpack
• Water bottle
• Sunglasses and sunscreen

Documents:

• Passport
• Permit documents (ACAP & TIMS)
• Travel insurance 

Travel Tips and Safety Advice for Ghandruk Village Trip

Ghandruk village is a safe and easy trekking destination, but it is always important to be mindful of mountain travel safety. Drinking plenty of water and maintaining a steady pace can help with altitude acclimatization. Being mindful of local culture, dressing modestly, and seeking permission before taking photos of the locals is good etiquette in the Gurung culture.

There are no ATMs in the village, so it is important to have enough cash with you. Mobile phone signals are available, but internet access is limited.

FAQS

What is Ghandruk known for?

Ghandruk is known for its traditional Gurung culture, stone houses, and beautiful mountain views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

How difficult is the Ghandruk trek?

The Ghandruk trek is easy to moderate, best for beginners, and a family trip with basic fitness levels.

What is the altitude of Ghandruk Village?

Ghandruk is situated at an altitude of 2,012 meters (6,601 feet) above sea level.

Can you drive to Ghandruk?

Yes, you can drive to Ghandruk by jeep from Pokhara in 3-4 hours.

Is Ghandruk suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is one of the best trekking spots for beginners in Nepal.

How many days are needed for the Ghandruk trek?

A short trip to Ghandruk can be done in 2 days, while longer trips may range from 3-4 days.

Do you need a permit for Ghandruk?

Yes. Since Ghandruk is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, ACAP permit and TIMS card are required before entering.