Ghandruk Acclimatisation Trek

9 Days
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Ghandruk
  • Trip Grade Easy
  • CountryNepal

Ghandruk Acclimatisation Trek is a relatively short yet scenic trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region which is designed to help trekkers acclimatise to the altitude before tackling higher elevations. It offers trekkers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and stunning natural beauty which is situated at an altitude of around 2000 meters, Ghandruk serves as an ideal base for acclimatisation before venturing higher into the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trek typically starts from Nayapul, a short drive from Pokhara, and takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach Ghandruk, passing through lush forests, terraced field, and traditional Gurung villages. Along the way, trekkers are treated to panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhare peak.

The route to Ghandruk is not overly strenuous, making it suitable for both novice trekkers and those who are looking for a gentle acclimatisation hike. The village itself is known for its charming stone houses, vibrant local culture, and warm hospitality. Ghandruk is predominantly inhabited by the Gurung people, and visitors can explore the local culture, taste traditional dishes, and even visit the Ghandruk Museum to learn about the area’s history and the Gurung people’s way of life. The trek provides an excellent opportunity to interact with a local which offers a unique experience of Nepalese mountain like. The trekkers can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the mountains while observing local life in the villages along the way.

Ghandruk is also a gateway to the Annapurna circuit and other longer trekking routes in the Annapurna region which make it an ideal stopover for trekkers who plan to continue to higher altitudes. The trek offers a gradual ascent, minimising the risks of altitude sickness and allowing trekkers to acclimatise properly before tackling more challenging sections of the Annapurna region. The combination of scenic landscapes, cultural experiences, and manageable altitude makes the Ghandruk acclimatisation trek a memorable and valuable part of any trek in the Annapurna area.

Highlights

  • designed to help trekkers acclimatise to the altitude before tackling higher elevations
  • situated at an altitude of around 2000 meters
  • visitors can explore the local culture, taste traditional dishes, and even visit the Ghandruk Museum
  • earn about the area’s history and the Gurung people’s way of life
  • trekkers are treated to panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhare peak
Itinerary

The Ghandruk Acclimatization Trek typically starts from Nayapul, a short drive from Pokhara, and takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach Ghandruk, passing through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung villages

Trip Plan
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Once you land at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by our company representative, who will then guide you to the hotel for check-in, where you'll spend the night in Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Accommodation: Hotel

We will begin our day by attending the morning Aarati at Pashupatinath Temple. After experiencing the Aarati, we will visit Jal Narayan and Guheswari Temples. Following our visit to Guheswari, we will have lunch before heading to the UNESCO World Heritage Site. After exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, we will return to the hotel and spend the night in Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Hotel

In the early morning, the guide will meet you in the hotel lobby, where you will be picked up and driven to the tourist bus for a scenic journey towards Pokhara. Along the way, we will pass through small towns of Nepal, offering mesmerizing views. While driving, you'll have the opportunity to glimpse the Manakamana Temple. The drive from Kathmandu takes about 7 to 8 hours, and once we arrive in Pokhara, you'll spend the night there.

  • Max Altitude: 822m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

We will leave Pokhara and take a short drive to Nayapul, which is about an hour and a half drive. Once we reach Nayapul, we'll prepare for the trek towards Ghandruk. On the way to Ghandruk, we'll pass through several villages, including Landruk, Birethanti, and Syauli Bazaar, before finally arriving in Ghandruk. In the evening, we'll explore the village and spend the night there.

  • Max Altitude: 2000m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

We will start our day with a sunrise view over Machhapuchhre and Annapurna from the hotel balcony. After enjoying the stunning sunrise over the mountains, we will explore the beautiful village of Ghandruk. In Ghandruk, there is a Gurung Museum, where you can learn about the area's history and the Gurung people's way of life. After spending the day exploring the village, we will return to the hotel and spend the night in Ghandruk.

  • Max Altitude: 2000m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Before heading towards Pokhara, we will have our breakfast. The drive to Pokhara takes about 2 to 3 hours, offering scenic views along the bank of the Modi River, passing through small villages with magnificent views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre, before finally arriving in Pokhara. Once we reach Pokhara, you'll be guided to the hotel to complete the check-in formalities and have some time to rest. In the evening, you can stroll around Phewa Tal, enjoy the sunset over the Annapurna Mountain Range, and then return to the hotel to spend the night.

  • Max Altitude: 822m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Today, we will be in Pokhara and explore the city. First, we will visit Tal Barahi Temple. After visiting Tal Barahi, we will explore other attractions, including Mahendra Gufa, Gupteshwor Mahadev, Davis Falls, and the World Peace Pagoda. We will also visit the International Mountain Museum, which showcases the history of Nepal's mountaineering achievements. After a full day of sightseeing, we will return to the hotel and spend the night.

  • Max Altitude: 822m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

After completing the Ghandruk Acclimatization Trek, on the 8th day, we will return to Kathmandu. We will follow the same route we took to get to Pokhara. After a 7 to 8-hour drive from Pokhara, we will arrive in Kathmandu. Once we reach Kathmandu, you will be guided to the hotel to check in and rest. If you wish, you can explore the valley and spend the night.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel

According to your flight schedule, our representatives will drop you off at Kathmandu Airport for your onward journey.

  • Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Airport pick up and drops by private car
  • Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus
  • Permits and TIMs
  • Accommodation and 3 time meals during the trip
Excludes
  • Lunch and dinner at Kathmandu
  • Bottle and bar drinks bills
  • Insurance, medical expenses, personal equipment
  • Tipping
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