Ghandruk Loop Trek

7 Days

Overview

Ghandruk Loop trek is a short three day hike in which you get to walk to the Gurung village of Ghandruk from where you get astonishing views of various Annapurna peaks, Machhapuchhre and other peaks and then head to Pothana and then back home to Pokhara. It is a short trek that is most suitable for family and friends in need of a short eco-friendly trip that could also include children.

Ghandruk is a village atop a hill that is mostly habituated by the Gurung Community. It also houses a village museum depicting the culture and heritage of the community. This village has some of the most tantalizing scenic views of the Himalayan peaks such as south Annapurna, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre. The trek gives you time to take in the view of the various mentioned Himalayan peaks over breakfast and then hike to Pothana, another model village in this short trek. In this part of the trek, you are given a taste of what you would find in other treks in the Annapurna Region with the rivers, suspension bridges, lasting views of mountain peaks and ranges and a glimpse into the culture, religion and rural lifestyles. Plus, it is a short trek to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Though the trek might be short, there is much that you can gain on this trip apart from it being done in such a short span of time. First of all, it is just three days, but in those three days, it is a bridge for what the long treks such as Annapurna Circuit trek, Annapurna Base Camp trek and Poon Hill Hot Spring Trek would look and feel like. This Ghandruk Loop Trek shows you how a model village in Nepal is with the backdrop having the Himalayan with their snow-capped peaks. Then the trails are meant for all class of people walk on, especially those being introduced for the first time into trekking and hiking. So much so, it would build interest in doing the longer ones. Then there is the cultural aspect of this trek where one gets to learn about the social norms in the rural areas of the country. In all, this short trek is an eco-trek as well as a cultural trek with a village museum in one to show you precisely it. Then there are the agricultural practices that one would get to learn of while on the trek from Ghandruk to Pothana and the way it is done while walking through the terraced farmlands. Not forgetting the verdure and wonderful woodlands that you would pass getting to see the flora and fauna and bird species of the country in the mid-Himalayan Range.

Is this an easy trek?
Yes, it is one of the easiest treks among the many that hiking in Nepal has to offer. So much so, that you can take children on this trek. The lodging at both the day’s stops has some of the best that can be found at the village level, with attached toilets and hygiene food to cater to all tummies – plus the local food, made more palatable for westerners. The walking levels are easy with not that many ascends and descends. Those that are there, are not of elevated slops. In all, one can say it is an easy short trek away from some hectic life within the comforts of unpolluted nature.

Outline Trekking Itinerary for Ghandruk Loop Trek
Day 01 : Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 02 : Kathmandu to Pokhara (6 Hour’s drive)
Day 03 : Pokhara to Ghandruk (1540m)
Day 04 : Ghandruk to Pothana (2870m)
Day 05 : Pothana to Pokhara
Day 06 : Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 07 : Transfer to airport for your onward destination

Trip Highlights

  • Enjoy scenic drive from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu
  • Carry out Adventure Trekking in the Annapurna Region
  • View of beautiful Himalayas including Annapurna south, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre Himal
  • Witness exotic landscape and geography
  • Explore local culture and tradition of Gurung community in Ghandruk
  • Visit Gurung Museum in Ghandruk
  • Enjoy fascinating and easy trekking trail

Itinerary

On this day, you will be received by a representative of the company, who will then take you by private vehicle to you three star hotel lodging in Kathmandu. If you have any free time left in the day, you can use it to check around the streets in the vicinity.

Early in the morning, you will leave for Pokhara, the lakeside city in Nepal by tourist bus, on the way you will get you first look of how rural Nepal looks like and the rivers in which will be full of rafters. You might be tempted into taking a rafting trip in the river Trishuli. In Pokhara you will be checked into your hotel and then you are free to look around this tourist hub.

Today, is the actual day where we do a bit of trekking. Early in the morning after breakfast, we drive a short distance to the starting point of the trek at Nayapul (meaning new bridge). From here, we start hike up toward the Village of Ghandruk while on the way, we get great views of Annapurna, Manaslu, and others. At the village, we pay a visit to the museum. Also from the village we get tantalizing sights of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli and Annapurna II. We stay the night at a lodge.

Getting up early in the morning to catch the rays of the sun creeping over the mountains, and a hearty breakfast, we head off to Pothana. Initially, the trail takes us down to Modi Khola, and then we climb to Landruk village. Here, we pass through some paddy fields and get to Deurali. Going on, we reach Pothana which is on a ridge overlooking to the north. We stay the night at a lodge.

Spending some time at Pothana, seeing the Annapurna peaks, Mount Machhapuchhre in the morning over breakfast, we hike off to Pokhara. We trek to Phedi, where a vehicle will be waiting to pick us up and drive us off to Pokhara. We stay the night in a hotel

We take a tourist bus to Kathmandu which is a 6 hour drive along the highway in which we spend our time looking at scenic views of lush green hills, the river Trishuli with rafters on it and Hamlets. In Kathmandu, we check into a hotel. In the evening, you will have a farewell dinner at an authentic Nepali restaurant.

As per the schedule of your flight, a representative of the company will drop and bid your farewell three hours ahead of your flight out for in check formalities.
At Breakfree Adventures, we hope that you had a fabulous time with us, where we take your comfort and security into consideration.

Cost

What is Included

  • Airport pick up/drop by a private vehicle.
  • Two night’s accommodation in Kathmandu including breakfast as per the itinerary.
  • Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu transfers by a tourist bus. (Option: Flight or private vehicle)
  • Two night’s accommodation in Pokhara including breakfast as per the itinerary.
  • Pokhara - Nayapul & Phedi – Pokhara transfers by a private vehicle.
  • All accommodations during the trek at lodges/Teahouse.
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek.
  • Experienced Government licensed English speaking trekking guide and necessary porters (1 Porter for 2 trekkers) on the trek.
  • Trekking staff costs like their transportation, food, accommodation, wages, and insurance.
  • Annapurna Conservation area (ACAP) entrance permit fee.
  • Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card fees. (Please bring 2 passport size photos for TIMS & ACAP Permit)
  • First Aid medical kit (carried by your trek guide).
  • Trek gears like duffle bag, down jacket, sleeping bag and walking pole. (To be returned after the trek)
  • Our souvenir to you - Breakfree Adventures T-shirt, trekking map and trip achievement certificate.
  • Farewell dinner in Authentic Nepali Restaurant after the trek completion.
  • All government and local taxes, VAT.

What is Not Included

  • Lunch or Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Nepal visa fee (bring accurate USD cash, US$30 per person for 15 days, and two passport photos)
  • Extra accommodations in Kathmandu or Pokhara if required.
  • International airfare and travel insurance.
  • Any kinds of drinks or personal expenses (tea/coffee, hot chocolate, boiled water, bottled water, soft drinks, beer, phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, hot shower etc.)
  • Tips for guide and porters.

FAQs

Where is Ghandruk?

Ghandruk is a small beautiful village inhabited by the Gurung community in the Annapurna region. It is located 32 kms north-west to Pokhara city. The village is popular for spectacular Himalayan of mountains like Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre. There’s also an old Gurung museum in the village.

What is Ghandruk Loop trek?

Ghandruk Loop trek is a short and easy trek into the Annapurna region closer to Pokhara. The aim is to reach the village of Ghandruk and witness majestic Himalayan panorama at the same time experience the unique culture and traditions of the people living in high Himalayas.

Which is the best season for Ghandruk loop trekking?

Thought the trek can be done around the best time for Ghandruk loop trekking is March, April, May, October and November when weather will be perfect with best Himalayan views. In winter (Dec-Feb) the trek can be still done but expect colder temperature. In monsoon (Jun-Aug) the trails will be slippery and wet.

How many days is Ghandruk Short Trek?

Ghandruk Short Trek is altogether three days exploring the beautiful Annapurna region and the village of Ghandruk.

Where does the trek starts and ends?

The trek starts and ends in Pokhara where first you drive to Nayapul and start the trek. It eventually ends at Phedi then you will drive back to Pokhara.

Can I make the trek from Kathmandu?

No, you can’t start the trek from Kathmandu but instead first you will need to either drive to fly to Pokhara, stay overnight at Pokhara then start the trek next day.

Is 3-Day Ghandruk Loop Trek from Pokhara an easy trek?

3-Day Ghandruk Loop Trek from Pokhara is an easy graded trekking into the Annapurna region where a normal physical fitness level is required. People of all ages can accomplish the trek but still if you have previous hiking experience then it will be beneficial since you will have to ascent and descent on Himalayan trials.

Is Ghandruk Loop Trek For Families?

Yes, since it’s being an easy graded trek Ghandruk loop trek is fit enough for families. It’s good to go with children or elders as well with normal fitness level who can walk for about 5 hours per day at maximum on mountainous trials.

Do I need travel insurance for 3-Day Loop Trek from Pokhara?

Travel insurance for 3-Day Loop Trek from Pokhara will be useful since the trek goes over 2500 meters elevation, so better to be safe.

How is the accommodation on hiking the Ghandruk Loop?

Accommodation on hiking the Ghandruk Loop is a basic lodge which is known as tea houses run by local families. But such lodges are nice and comfortable with good facilities and a good resting place after a tiring trek high up in the Himalayas.

Can I trek the Ghorepani - Ghandruk Loop solo?

Trek the Ghorepani – Ghandruk Loop solo is possible as the trek is an easy graded one but with a guide it will be more fun plus helpful as the guide shall take care of everything from leading the way to taking care of you if incase in any emergencies.

Is Ghorepani Ghandruk loop trek worth it?

Ghorepani Ghandruk loop trek is definitely worth it if you are looking for a quick and easy trek into the Annapurna region and closer to the Pokhara City. At the same time witnessing some great Himalayan panorama and observing unique cultures and traditions.

What is the walking hours on Annapurna Ghandruk Loop Trekking?

The walking hours on Annapurna Ghandruk Loop Trekking at average is 4-5 hours and on the last day is about 3 hours.

Trip Information

We will provide you with comprehensive information on the every trek and tour we arrange. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require more information or have any questions, we are more than happy to assist you in anyway.

When to go:
Spring (mid-February, March, April, May) and Autumn (October, November) are the best seasons for the Ghandruk Loop Trek. Trekking in summer/monsoon (June, July) will be affected by rain but summer trek could be a boon for a keen botanist.

Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is highly recommended and is in fact compulsory should you be going trekking, rafting, paragliding etc. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter rescue, loss of luggage, etc. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please check with your insurance company that adventure activities and trekking above 3000m are covered in your policy, as some companies do not cover such things. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on the holiday; if you cannot provide this at the start of the holiday, you will be required to take out a suitable policy at that time.

Meals and Accommodation:
In Kathmandu, we normally use 3 stars hotel with breakfast but can upgrade upon request. During the Ghandruk Loop Trek, we provide the best available guest house which is called Tea house (lodge). Tea Houses are more like hotels, with hot showers, western food, and private rooms (twin sharing). Some guesthouses are basic with shared washing and toilet facilities. If you are travelling in a group, you will share a room with someone else of the same gender from your group. If you prefer a single room, you may indicate your preference on request and pay a supplement. Keep in mind that there are several places which do not allow single accommodations during peak season, but we will try our best to accommodate your preferences if possible. In this arrangement overnight halts with dinner and breakfast will be in Tea-houses (Lodges) and lunches in local restaurants en-route. Furthermore as you will be staying in locally owned lodges you will be benefiting and interacting with the local community. It will give you a true feel for the Nepalese people and their lives.

We provide quality food in sufficient quantities (breakfast, lunch and dinner) from guesthouses chosen from a menu. While Ghandruk Loop Trek, your guide will help with menu selection and ensure that you get the best value meals possible. Although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, you should be aware that the menu is not normally extensive due to the extreme locations. Most teahouses offer a variety of rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. A variety of cereals, bread and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There will also be plenty of snacks available such as biscuits, chocolate and soft drinks and in some areas you will find fresh fruit in season. You can buy bottled mineral water from local lodges and shops en route or you can also ask your guide to fill your water bottle with boiled water and treat with water purification pills.

Fitness and Experience Required:
Our 08 days Ghandruk Loop Trek is moderate trek suitable for passionate walkers who have ability to walk at least 4-5 hours a day with a light day pack. Walking in higher altitude is physically demanding than walking in the lower altitudes; however, if you are in excellent health with average physical fitness and have positive attitude, self confidence and strong determination, you can accomplish the 08 days Ghandruk Loop Trek successfully. Exercising and jogging regularly for some weeks prior of the trip is good idea to enhance your strength and stability. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skill is required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood disease should inform us before booking the trek.

The Trekking Group:
For the Ghandruk Loop Trek, there will be one Guide, assistant Guide (8 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porters for luggage carrying (2 trekkers: 1 porter). This arrangement ensures that should anybody in the group is sick, the trip can still go ahead as planned. We can run the Ghandruk Loop Trek for group of any size, but generally have a maximum of sixteen people, as weve found this to be the optimum size for a successful trip. However, if youd like to make a group booking for more than twelve people together, we can arrange this too.

Trekking Guides and Staff:
The most significant thing that makes your Ghandruk Loop Trek successful, enjoyable and memorable is the expert, experienced, courteous and helpful trek and Guide and the crew members who have ability of operating your days in the mountain smoothly. Your trip will be led by the best and most professional Guide. All of our Trekking Guides are carefully selected on the basis of their appropriate experience, Guiding skills and personal aptitude. With an objective of sustaining local communities Breakfree Adventures employs staffs who have plenty of knowledgeable about culture, flora and fauna, geography, and history of Nepal. Trekking Guide of Breakfree Adventures are also trained with following trainings to make them educated on potential medical issues during their trek, biodiversity and environmental issues, English language, etc:

• Intensive Wilderness First Aid – KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Educational Project)
• Trekking Guide Training – Nepal Governments Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation department of Hotel Management and Tourism Training Centre of Nepal
• Eco Trekking Workshop and Adventure Meet TAAN (Trekking Agents Association of Nepal)
• English Language – KEEP(Kathmandu environment education project)
• Conservation and Biodiversity TAAN
• Rock, Ice Climbing and Mountaineering (Climbing leaders) Nepal Mountaineering Association

Our Trekking Guides obviously speak English sufficient enough to communicate but please consider this is not our mother language. The guides and porters know the routes and locality like the back of their hand, they practice the local culture themselves and they are extremely passionate about their country and its cultural aspects.

Climate and Weather:
The climate of Nepal is as varied as its geography. The low-lying Terai has a sub-tropical monsoonal climate. The Himalayan foothills, where most of our treks take place, are best in the cool dry season from September to May. The traditional trekking season in Nepal is late September to December, with October and November generally recognized as having the best weather. Spring is also a popular time of year with warmer weather and the advantage of seeing spring flowers and rhododendrons in bloom. The visibility is good and days are pleasantly warm, although nights can be cold, and snow is possible above 3,000 meters.

Himalayan weather can be unpredictable where nights are generally cooler and days warmer. It’s a bit colder during the winter season (Jan to Feb) but days can be quite warm and lovely if the sun is shining. You can expect a bit of snow in the months of January/February and December. Expect the unexpected! The temperature could be as high as 20 deg C to -15 deg C low.

Safety and Security:
Security and safety are a high priority of our company however there are risks associated with adventure travel, that you should consider before booking. Our trip operators constantly monitor their areas of operation and will cancel or re-route a trip if they feel a destination is unsafe. The decision to travel to a particular country or region is a personnel one.

Responsible Travel:
Breakfree Adventures is a leading trekking and travel agency with dedicated travel Professionals who are well trained to give you the best of what Nepal has to offer. Our professional team follows a social philosophy that accepts responsibility for the local people and the environment in which we work. We respect the natural environment and the culture of our country, and we help travellers from around the world discover the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Nepal. We know that responsible travel tries to minimize the impact of tourism on the environment and maximize employment and income-generating opportunities for local communities. The whole of Nepal, including those living in remote rural areas that have very few other opportunities for development, benefits from sustainable tourism.

Breakfree Adventures is passionate about preserving the environment. As responsible tour guides in Nepal, we strive to maintain a symbiotic relationship with the local communities through which we travel. While trekking to different destinations, we choose environmentally- friendly lodges that respect the needs of their staff members. We take care of our staff as well as our valued clients. During our treks and other trips, we follow a zero garbage policy (“pack in, pack out”) and leave nothing behind in the campsites. We always welcome your feedback and comments regarding responsible travel, so please send an e-mail to let us know what you think.

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Ghandruk Loop Trek

Trip Facts

  • 06 Nights/07 Days
  • All year around
  • Minimum 2 People
  • Private vehicles, Tourist bus as per the Itinerary
  • 2870m
  • Easy
  • Nayapul
  • Phedi
  • Trekking
  • 3 - 5 hours each day
  • Lodge/Teahouse trek
  • Ghandruk Village, Annapurna Conservation Area Project ACAP, Pokhara
  • Hotel/resort in Kathmandu and Pokhara, lodge/teahouse during the trek

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