Ghandruk

Ghandruk is a picturesque Gurung village at 2,012 m in the Annapurna region, one of the most popular and scenic stops on the Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani–Ghandruk treks. The village is known for its well-preserved stone houses, terraced fields, stunning views of the Annapurna South, Himchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre peaks, and as a window into Gurung culture.

The best times to visit are March–May and September–November. The village is car-free and connected by well-maintained stone pathways.

By Plane

Pokhara Airport (PKR) is the gateway. From Pokhara, a taxi to Naya Pul (1 hour, Rs 3000) followed by a 4–5 hour trek uphill to Ghandruk.

By Train

No train service.

By Car / Road

A rough road from Pokhara reaches Ghandruk, but most visitors arrive on foot from Naya Pul or Kimche.

On foot. The village has paved walking paths.

• Annapurna Panorama – Stunning views of Annapurna South (7,219 m), Himchuli (6,441 m), and Machhapuchhre (6,993 m).

• Gurung Museum – A small museum showcasing Gurung culture, costumes, and household items.

• Ghandruk Monastery – A Buddhist gompa in the upper part of the village.

• Traditional Stone Houses – The village architecture is beautifully preserved.

• Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 4–5 days from Ghandruk to ABC and back.

• Poon Hill Trek – 3–4 days via Ghorepani.

• Cultural walks – Explore the Gurung village.

• Photography – The mountain sunrise is spectacular.

Lodges serve dal bhat, noodles, momos, and Western dishes like pizza and pasta.

Tea, ginger tea, and coffee. Purified water available.

• Budget: Basic lodges (Rs 500–1000).
• Mid-range: Standard lodges (Rs 1000–2500) – Clean rooms with mountain views.

Gurung handicrafts, woven textiles, and local honey.

• Ghorepani (4–5 hours trek) – Poon Hill viewpoint.
• Annapurna Base Camp (2–3 days trek) – At the foot of Annapurna.
• Landruk (2 hours) – Another beautiful Gurung village.
• Naya Pul (4–5 hours trek down) – Road access to Pokhara.
• Pokhara (1 hour drive from Naya Pul).