Ghandruk Cultural Trek

Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Pokhara (827 m)

Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Kathmandu as you drive toward the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara, located at an altitude of 827 meters. The scenic drive takes around 7 hours, following the winding Prithvi Highway alongside the Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers. Along the way, you will pass through traditional villages, terraced farmlands, lush hillsides, and small market towns that showcase Nepal’s diverse landscape.

After checking into your hotel, you will have time to freshen up and explore Lakeside, where you can enjoy a walk along Phewa Lake, try local cafe, or simply relax and take in the beautiful Himalayan backdrop featuring Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South on clear days.

This overnight stay in Pokhara allows you to rest before beginning your trek the next morning.

Accomodation: Hotel Duration: 6-7 hours drive Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Distance: Around 200 km

Drive from Pokhara (827 m) to Nayapul (1,030 m) & Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m)

Today you begin your trek with a short drive of about 1.5 hours from Pokhara to Nayapul (1,030 m), the starting point of your trail. From here, the trek gradually ascends through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming Gurung villages. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the surrounding hills, traditional stone houses, and streams flowing through the valley.

The trail passes through small villages like Birethanti and Tikhedhunga, where you can rest briefly and interact with locals. As you approach Ghandruk (1,940 m), the village opens up to panoramic views of the Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks. Ghandruk is one of the most picturesque villages in the Annapurna region and a center of Gurung culture.

You will spend the night at a local lodge, enjoying traditional food and warm hospitality, preparing for the next day of trekking.

Accomodation: Lodge Duration: 1.5 hour drive & 3-4 hours trek Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Ascent: +1,100 m Distance: Around 12 km

Trek from Ghandruk (1,940 m) to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m)

After breakfast at Ghandruk, you begin your trek toward Jhinu Danda (1,780 m). The trail descends gently through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming villages, offering several viewpoints of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges. Along the way, you pass through small Gurung villages where you can experience local life and interact with the friendly residents.

Jhinu Danda is famous for its natural hot springs, where trekkers can relax and rejuvenate after the day’s walk. Bathing in the hot spring is a unique experience, helping to soothe tired muscles and relieve any stiffness from trekking. You will spend the night at a local lodge, enjoying traditional meals and the warm hospitality of the local community.

Accomodation: Lodge Duration: 4-6 hours walk Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Ascent: +220 m Descent: -360 m Distance: Around 12 km

Trek from Jhinu Danda (1,780 m) to Tolka (1,700 m) via Landruk

After breakfast at Jhinu Danda, you begin trekking toward Tolka (1,700 m). The trail first ascends slightly as you pass through the village of Landruk, a picturesque Gurung settlement with traditional stone houses and terraced farmlands. From Landruk, the path gradually descends through forests and small streams, offering beautiful views of the Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks.

Tolka is a quiet Gurung village where trekkers can enjoy the peaceful environment and scenic vistas. Overnight stay is at a local lodge, where you can relax and enjoy traditional meals after a rewarding day of trekking.

This section of the trek provides a gentle and culturally immersive experience, combining mountain views with village life, before continuing toward Dhampus and eventually returning to Pokhara.

Accomodation: Lodge Duration: 4-5 hours walk Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Ascent: +270 m Descent: -330 m Distance: Around 11 km

Trek from Tolka (1,700 m) to Dhampus (1,650 m) via Pitam Deurali (2,100 m) & Pothana

After breakfast at Tolka, you start your trek toward Dhampus (1,650 m), passing through Pothana and ascending to Pitam Deurali (2,100 m). This section includes a steep but rewarding climb to Pitam Deurali, which offers panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, the trail gradually descends to Dhampus.

Dhampus is a charming Gurung village, often referred to as the gateway to the Annapurna region, with spectacular mountain views and traditional stone-roofed houses. You will stay overnight at a local lodge, enjoying warm meals and resting for the drive back to Pokhara the next day.

This day combines moderate trekking with cultural experiences, showcasing the hill villages and panoramic Himalayan vistas.

Accomodation: Lodge Duration: 4 hours walk Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Ascent: +450 m Descent: -450 m Distance: Around 10 km

Trek from Dhampus (1,650 m) to Phedi (1,100 m) & Drive to Pokhara (827 m)

After breakfast at Dhampus, you begin your final day of trekking, descending gently through scenic trails lined with terraced fields, small villages, and lush forests toward Phedi (1,100 m). The trail offers panoramic views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and surrounding hills, making your last trekking day visually rewarding.

Once you reach Phedi, a short 1-hour drive brings you back to Pokhara (827 m), where you check into a hotel for an overnight stay. The evening is free to explore Lakeside Pokhara, enjoy a relaxing walk along Phewa Lake, or try local restaurants.

This final day concludes the Ghandruk Cultural Trek, combining cultural immersion, natural beauty, and a gentle trek suitable for beginners and families.

Accomodation: Lodge Duration: 4 hours walk & 1 hour drive Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Descent: -550 m Distance: Around 10 km trekking & 18 km drive to Pokhara

Drive from Pokhara (827 m) to Kathmandu (1,350 m)

After breakfast at your hotel in Pokhara, you begin a scenic drive back to Kathmandu (1,350 m). The journey takes around 7 hours via the Prithvi Highway, offering views of terraced hills, rivers, and traditional villages along the way. You will pass through towns such as Damauli, Mugling, and Naubise, with opportunities for short breaks and refreshments.

The rest of the day is free for relaxation, souvenir shopping, or exploring the city, concluding your memorable Ghandruk Cultural Trek and Nepal adventure.

Duration: 7-8 hours drive Meal: Breakfast Distance: Around 200 km