The Gurung village of Ghandruk beneath Annapurna South

Ghandruk Village Trek

One easy night in the Annapurnas' grandest village.

Ghandruk is the most striking village in the Annapurna foothills: tiers of stone houses on a hillside facing Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare. A short drive and a half day's walk get you there, with a night in the village to watch the light come and go on the range.

It is the gentlest way to sleep among the big mountains, easy enough for families and first-timers.

Highlights
  • Annapurna South and Machapuchare above the village
  • Stone Gurung houses and the village museum
  • An easy first overnight trek
A typical 2-day shape

One of several ways to do it. We tailor the days, pace, and stops to you, nothing here is fixed.

  1. Day 1By road + On foot

    Drive in, walk up to Ghandruk

    A two-hour drive to the trailhead, then a climb up stone steps to Ghandruk for the afternoon light on the range.

    Time
    3–4 hours
    Distance
    6 km
    Elevation
    2,012 m / +600 m
    Stay
    Teahouse, Ghandruk
  2. Day 2On foot + By road

    Ghandruk to Pokhara

    Sunrise on Annapurna South, time in the village and its Gurung museum, then back down to the road and the drive to Pokhara.

    Time
    2–3 hours
    Distance
    6 km
    Elevation
    -600 m to the road
    Stay
    Back in Pokhara
Getting there

We drive you from Pokhara to the trailhead at Kimche or Nayapul, walk up to Ghandruk, and collect you the next day, with a guide.

What is included

  • ✓ Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
  • ✓ Private transport from Pokhara to the trailhead and back
  • ✓ Tea-house (lodge) accommodation on the trail
  • ✓ ACAP permit and trekkers' information card
  • ✓ Government taxes and service charges

Not included

  • – Meals on the trail
  • – Travel insurance
  • – Personal trekking gear
  • – Porter (available on request)
  • – Tips for guide and porter
Gallery
Machapuchare, the fishtail peak
Annapurna South and Machapuchare from Dhampus
Panorama of the Annapurna massif
Good to know
Is it good for children?+

Yes. The walking days are short and there is no altitude to speak of, which makes it one of the best treks for families.

Can it be a day trip?+

It can be rushed in a long day, but the overnight is the point, with sunset and sunrise on the range from the village.

More the hills