5-Day Ghandruk Trek from Kathmandu with Gurung Culture and Views

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Experience one of Nepal's best trekking routes
• 02 Enjoy views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal
• 03 Walk through lush green forests, rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and along a gushing Himalayan river
• 04 Explore Gurung culture, traditions, rituals, values, and lifestyles
• 05 Stay in centuries-old houses in Ghandruk

Embark on a memorable adventure on the Ghandruk Trek, a captivating journey through Nepal's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the Annapurna region, Ghandruk is a picturesque village renowned for its stunning vistas, traditional Gurung culture, and warm hospitality. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges while experiencing the beauty and traditions of this remarkable Himalayan setting.

Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges while experiencing the beauty and traditions of this remarkable Himalayan setting.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Ghandruk

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Journey to Pokhara

• Morning:
  • Arrive in Kathmandu from your location. If flying, you will land at Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Transfer to Pokhara according to your preference, either by domestic flight (25-30 minutes) or by road (6-8 hours) from Kathmandu.
• Afternoon:
  • Upon arriving in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or at the hotel.
  • If time allows, take a leisurely walk around Phewa Lake, visit the lakeside area, or enjoy some local shopping.
• Evening:
  • Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or exploring the nearby area.
  • Have dinner at your hotel or at a restaurant in Pokhara.

2

Day 02

Pokhara to Ghandruk Trek

• Morning:
  • Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Pokhara.
  • Travel to Ghandruk by jeep or bus from Pokhara to the trailhead, usually Nayapul or Birethanti. From there, trek to Ghandruk, which takes about 1-2 hours depending on the starting point.
• Afternoon:
  • Arrive in Ghandruk and check in to your lodge or guesthouse.
  • Enjoy lunch at your accommodation or at a local restaurant in Ghandruk.
• Evening:
  • Take a stroll around the village to get acquainted with the local environment and culture.
  • Enjoy dinner at your lodge or a nearby restaurant.
  • Relax and prepare for the next day's activities.

3

Day 03

Ghandruk Village and Himalayan Views

• Morning:
  • Start your day with a traditional breakfast at your lodge.
  • Visit the Gurung Museum to learn about the culture and history of the Gurung people.
• Afternoon:
  • Have lunch at a local restaurant or at your lodge.
  • Hike to a nearby viewpoint for panoramic views of the Annapurna range and the surrounding areas.
• Evening:
  • Find a spot to watch the sunset over the Himalayas.
  • Return to your lodge for dinner and enjoy a tranquil evening in Ghandruk.

4

Day 04

Day Hike to Bhaisi Kharka

• Morning:
  • Enjoy breakfast at your lodge.
  • Begin your day hike to Bhaisi Kharka, an area known for its lush greenery and beautiful scenery.
• Afternoon:
  • Have a packed lunch or eat at a local teahouse in Bhaisi Kharka.
  • Hike back to Ghandruk while enjoying the natural beauty along the way.
• Evening:
  • Spend a relaxing evening at your lodge, enjoy dinner, and reflect on the day's experiences.

5

Day 05

Return to Pokhara and Kathmandu

• Morning:
  • Have a final breakfast in Ghandruk.
  • Trek back to the nearest road point and take a jeep or bus to Pokhara.
• Afternoon:
  • Have lunch in Pokhara upon arrival.
  • Travel back to Kathmandu by flight or by road.
• Evening:
  • Arrive in Kathmandu and check in to your hotel.
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant or at your hotel.
  • Relax and prepare for your departure or further travels.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Lodging in hotels and teahouses during the trek.
• Twin-sharing rooms with attached bathrooms where available.
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
• Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu.
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
• TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.
• Airport transfers.
• Private vehicle transportation to and from the trek starting point.
• Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide.
• Porter service to carry personal belongings (1 porter for 2 trekkers).
• The guide provides a basic first aid kit.
• Sleeping bag and down jacket (to be returned after the trek).
• Trekking map.
• Insurance for guides and porters.

What's Not Included

• International flights.
• Airfare to and from Nepal.
• Nepal visa fees upon arrival at the airport.
• Drinks, snacks, hot showers, and personal shopping.
• Wi-Fi, battery charging, and other electronic device services.
• Personal travel insurance, including emergency evacuation.
• Personal trekking gear such as boots, clothing, and accessories.
• Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara not listed in the itinerary.
• Tips for guides, porters, and drivers (tipping is expected).
• Any additional activities or expenses not mentioned in the inclusions.
• Costs arising from delays due to weather, strikes, or other circumstances beyond our control.

Know before you go

• TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): Required for trekking in the Annapurna region. It can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): Also needed for the Annapurna region and can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• Flights and road travel: If flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara, book your flight in advance. For road travel, be prepared for a long journey with varying road conditions.
• Local transport: Jeep rides or local buses are commonly used to reach Ghandruk. Be prepared for rugged roads and occasional delays.
• Ghandruk is at a moderate altitude, but it is always good to be aware of altitude sickness symptoms. Acclimatization and staying hydrated are key.
• Ensure you have travel insurance that covers trekking and emergency evacuation.
• Check with your healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations before travelling to Nepal.
• Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November): Best times to visit, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.
• Winter (December-February): It can be very cold, especially at higher altitudes.
• Monsoon (June-August): Heavy rains can make trails muddy and slippery.
• Layered clothing: Include warm layers, even in spring and autumn, as temperatures can drop in the evenings.
• Rain gear: A waterproof jacket or poncho is useful, especially if travelling during the monsoon season.
• Comfortable footwear: Trekking shoes with good grip and comfort are essential.
• Lodges and guesthouses: Ghandruk has a range of lodges and guesthouses. Booking in advance is recommended during peak trekking seasons.
• Local cuisine: Nepali food is widely available, including dishes like dal bhat, momo, and noodle soups.
• Water safety: Drink bottled or boiled water. Avoid consuming tap water unless it is treated.
• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals.
• Respect traditions: Follow local customs and traditions, and ask for permission before taking photos, especially in cultural or religious settings.
• Greetings: A traditional

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal

Tour start

Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.