Ghandruk Trek is a short and easy hiking trip to Nepal’s Annapurna Conservation Area. This hike allows you to experience the validity of rural life and the pristine nature of the Annapurna region. The main attraction of this trek is Ghandruk village. Ghandruk Trek in Nepal is the second largest settlement of the Gurung people, one of Nepal’s indigenous groups. Around 270 Gurung families live in this charming group of tile family homes surrounded by neat gardens.

This beautiful hamlet is situated at a height of 1940 meters/6360 feet above sea level and is framed by magnificent mountain viewpoints of Mt. Annapurna South (7219 meters/ 23684 feet), Mount Machhapuchhre/ Fishtail (6993 meters/22943 feet), and Mount Hiunchuli (6441 meters/ 21132 feet).

The Ghandruk is ideal for those looking for a short journey in Nepal with no difficult ascents or descents. This short but delicious trek requires three to four days and takes you into the Himalayan foothills.

What is Ghandruk Trek ?

The Ghandruk Walk is a 3-day trek that brings you to the lovely heritage village of Ghandruk in the slopes of the Annapurna Mountains. In the villages, you can stay with many welcoming residents and visit a Gurung museum to learn about the Gurung way of life.

One of the most stunning areas in the world to go trekking is the Annapurna Region, which offers a variety of treks including the well-known Annapurna Circuit. The Ghandruk Trek in Nepal is a good method to experience the mountains if you don’t have a lot of time because it takes about two weeks to complete.

Highlights of Ghandruk Trek in Nepal 

1. Enjoy a day away from the city’s loud and bustle.

2. Ideal option for families and seniors.

3. Friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced tour guide

4. Perfect for people of all ages and abilities

5. Trek through the lower Annapurna Region’s beautiful rhododendron forests.

6. Ghandruk is a Gurung village with views of Annapurna and Fishtail.

7. This is among Nepal’s best short treks, passing through scenic villages and providing breathtaking Himalayan views.

Trip overview 

1. Trip Duration: 3 Nights 4 days Trek 

2. Altitude: 1940 Meters

3. Start: Pokhara

4. End : Pokhara

5. Transportation: Local Buses / Private bus 

6. Accommodation: Private Accommodation in Tea Houses

7. Difficulty Level : Easy

8. Meals: Included

Best Season to visit

Autumn (from mid-September to mid-December) and spring are the greatest and most popular seasons for the Ghandruk Trek in Nepal (From the beginning of March until mid-May). The days are bright and sunny throughout this season, and there are stunning views. The daytime temperature at this time ranges from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius. Temperatures at night often range from 5 to 0 degrees Celsius.

Ghandruk Loop hiking is also doable in the winter (December, January, and February), however the weather may be unpleasant for most people. While the summer months of June, July, and August may be hampered by rain and monsoons, a discerning botanist may find the summer trek advantageous.

Activities in Ghandruk Trek in Nepal 

The Ghandruk Trek in Nepal  is a fantastic short hiking trip in Nepal’s Annapurna region. By participating in extra activities or side trips, you can make it even more enjoyable. We have included these extra activities as optional tours because people’s interests vary. They are not included in the price of your Ghandruk package. On your demand, we provide. The right column shows the list of optional activities.

Popular activities in Ghandruk include trekking, hiking, mountain sightseeing, and visiting Gurung villages. Similar to this, Ghandruk provides horseback riding services to both domestic and foreign tourists. Ghandruk introduces tourists to Gurung culture by performing a Gurung dance for them and offering to let them don traditional Gurung clothing and jewelry. On the upper slope of Ghandruk, one can enjoy the opportunity of playing in the snow.

Attraction of Ghandruk 

Ghandruk’s big attraction is the great culture of the Gurungs who live there. The Ghandruk entertains tourists with Gurung dances and gives them the opportunity to dress in traditional Gurung attire and ornaments. Tourists are delighted to try on the new Gurung attire and take photographs in the traditional style. The local cuisine is also a big draw, especially for foreign visitors. Ghandruk Trek  also provides tourists with horseback riding opportunities. Tourists can also have fun playing in the snow on Ghandruk’s upper hill.

WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?

Trekkers do not need to bring a large bag to Ghandruk because the trail is short and easy, and there are tea houses along the way. Trekkers should, however, bring the following items with them on their journey:

1. A pair of comfortable hiking boots, a sandal, and socks

2. sunglasses, sunscreen, and sunglasses

3. Toiletry items

4. Coats, Jackets, and T-Shirts

5. Lightweight pants with a winter coat are wind and water resistant.

6. Set breathable thermals

7. Water purifying tablets or Steripen refillable water bottles, neck warmers

8. Hat 

9. Towel

10. sleeping bag (certified for use on a hike at or above -15°C)

11. one set of gloves (Thinner)

12. A second set of clothes

Conclusion 

The Ghandruk Trek in Nepal normally takes 3–4 days to complete. Here, we provide a 4-day schedule that will give you plenty of opportunity to pause, take in the view, interact with people, and take your time seeing the charming villages.

The busy village of Ghandruk, including its largely affluent Gurung population, is the main draw of this three-day hike. Ghandruk Trek  is a beautiful place to stay since it has a welcoming atmosphere and gives breathtaking views of the Himalayan giants Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare (Fishtail).

If you want a quick trip in Nepal without any challenging ascents or descents, the Ghandruk  is the ideal choice. This quick yet enjoyable journey takes three to four days and brings you into the Himalayan foothills.  For More Detail : Contact us 

Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu 

As you fly into Kathmandu, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the valley, the Himalayas, and the terraced fields below. After clearing customs, a representative will be waiting to help you navigate the narrow, winding streets of Kathmandu and get you settled into your hotel. After you’ve settled in, go see one of Kathmandu’s cultural highlights. In the evening, the tourist district of Thamel is a good place to get your first meal, with a variety of restaurants serving both Western and Nepali food culture.

Day 2: Explore Kathmandu 

Kathmandu has a unique atmosphere in the early morning hours, when the city is slowly awakening but not becoming too chaotic. It’s a great time to go for a walk and explore the streets, or to enjoy a chai while looking out over one of the local courtyards or durbar squares. Given the many incredible sights in the Kathmandu Valley, there are numerous ways to spend the day. Later in the evening, go out to one of the city’s great restaurants for dinner, or your specialist can arrange a home-cooked dinner with a local family.

Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara Trek to Pothana

Following an early breakfast, you will be driven to the airport for your flight to Pokhara. When you arrive, a jeep will be waiting to take you to Phedi, where the trek to Pothana begins. The path ascends through rhododendron, magnolia, oak, sandalwood, and pine forests until you reach the village of Dhampus. This is an authentic Gurung village from which you can enjoy magnificent views of the Annapurna ranges as well as notable peaks such as Lamjung Himal. 

The trail ascends from Dhampus along a stone-paved path through more forests and lush trees (keep an eye out for orchids). When you arrive in the small village of Pothana, you’ll find a variety of trekker amenities such as shops, teahouses, and eateries. Relax and take in the breathtaking mountain views.

Day 4: Trek From Pothana to Ghandruk Trek 

Set out for Ghandruk, a larger Gurung village. The first hour of the trek is a gradual ascent until you reach Deurali, which passes through lush forests with spectacular views of the Annapurna ranges, Manaslu, and Mardi Himal.

After leaving Deurali, you’ll begin a sharp descent to Tolkha, a lovely ethnic Gurung village. The trail descends more gradually to the next destination, Landruk, another ethnic village, passing through terraces and a few settlements.

From here, continue down a steeper descent to the Modi Khola river. You’ll cross an iron bridge before beginning a steep ascent to Ghandruk, which offers spectacular views of the Himalayas. You’ll spend the night in this trekker hub, which has many lodges, eateries, and shops where you can stock up on supplies.

Visit the Gurung museum, a tiny exhibit in an old traditional stone slab house where you can learn about the history and local way of life.

Day 5 : Travel from Pokhara to Kathmandu and then trek through Ghandruk to Nayapul.

Breakfast first thing this morning in Ghandruk, then stroll through sleepy towns and lovely rice fields to Nayapul. Your private jeep shuttle will be waiting to drive you back to Pokhara so you can catch a flight back to Kathmandu when you arrive.

You can spend the remaining afternoon and evening as you choose. You can go souvenir shopping or stroll, bike, or rickshaw around the city’s streets to view anything you might have overlooked at the start of your vacation. Here are some suggestions for your final meal in Nepal, spanning French, Vietnamese, and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Day 6: Leaving Kathmandu

It’s time to leave Nepal. Enjoy one more breakfast in a cafe, a stroll through the city, and/or some souvenir shopping to cap off your time in Kathmandu. When you arrive at your hotel, a representative will pick you up and take you to the airport in time for your flight home. It is advisable to arrive at the airport two hours before departure.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the most famous trekking destination for anyone looking to see glaciers and incredible views in the shortest amount of time. The 6 Days Short ABC trip is perfect for you if you’re looking for a quick way to travel to the heart of the Himalayas.

Only those physically fit and mentally prepared to handle 7 to 8 hours of walking most days are advised to go on a  Short Annapurna base camp trek in Nepal.  You will experience breathtaking mountain scenery, glaciers, and the Himalayas’ unique culture throughout the brief journey.

This route is popular not only because it is naturally mesmerizing, but also because of its cultural uniqueness. Walking through numerous villages, you can see how people live in Nepal’s rural villages. In addition, you can see local culture and traditional practices in the villages. The majority of people in Annapurna are Gurungs and Magars. As a result, this trek is more about learning about Gurung culture and traditions. 

Throughout the trip, you have seen Mountain View and an amazing landscape with rice terraces. Walking to Sinuwa, Bambo, Dobhan, and Himalaya has many ups and downs. The local community runs a mini-hydropower station throughout the village, where you can charge your camera battery. After Sinuwa, the valley narrows between the massive mountains Machhapuchhre and Hiuchuli, but you will frequently peer through mountain scenery. So, Lets know the Highlights of  Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Major Highlights of Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek 

1. A Short choice for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

2. Trekking through the Tamang and Gurung Villages

3. Every day, a pleasant walk in the hills with fresh mountain air.

4. Short scenic drive through the hills to/from Nayapul.

5. Journey that is relatively short, easy and energizing.

6. Delightful villages, traditional citizens and Buddhist religious vibrations.

7. Exploring the beautiful lifestyles of Annapurna villages.

8. Flight to Pokhara which is like a mountain flight with mountain views.

9. View of the sunset and sunrise from Annapurna Sanctuary.

Best Time to Travel 

Like many other nations, Nepal has 5 different seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter. However, Spring and Autumn are the finest times of year to travel to the Short Annapurna base camp trek in Nepal . Spring lasts from March to May, and Autumn lasts from September to November. These seasons are ideal because they offer beautiful scenery, consistent weather, and mild temperatures. 

Similar to how the Spring season brings in a variety of flora and vegetation that improve the trail’s beauty with blooming flowers around the mountain, autumn trekking is an incredible opportunity to learn Nepal’s culture and festivals while hiking in the Himalayas.

How hard is the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal ?

The trek to  Short ABC Trek is not difficult, but it does have some challenges. Your trekking journey is influenced by factors such as trip duration and distance, altitude sickness, preparedness, trekking season, and so on. So, before embarking on the journey, you should be aware of the Short ABC Trek difficulty and prevention strategies for dealing with all of those difficulties.

1. Altitude Sickness on  Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Altitude sickness can strike at any time when you are walking in an area with a high altitude. The majority of the Short ABC Trek starts in Kathmandu, which is located at an elevation of 1300 meters (4,265 feet), and ascends as high as 4130 meters (13,549 feet) in a matter of days. It will be quite difficult for your body to adapt to a new environment because the oxygen level is lower at higher elevations.

You could begin to feel uneasy with the unfamiliar surroundings and height as you cross 3,000m/9,842ft. You might get headaches, diarrhea, lightheadedness, nausea, vomit, a shortness of breath, and other symptoms of altitude sickness. Such issues will undoubtedly make your journey a challenging one altogether.

2. Season and Temperature

Weather and temperature are the primary factors that might make the trekking trip difficult because the climate in the mountains is so unpredictable. The amount that the temperature increases and lowers is greatly influenced by the weather, height, and season. Because of the clear seas in the mountains during the autumn, this is the finest time of year to walk to Annapurna Base Camp.

The finest season for trekking in the Annapurna region is spring, which follows autumn. On a sunny day, the temperature at  Annapurna Circuit Trek typically ranges from 15 to 20 degrees centigrade in the fall and spring, while it is between 20 and 25 degrees in the summer.

The most difficult time to complete the Short ABC Trek is during the winter. Heavy snowfall is a possibility in the winter, and nighttime lows of minus 17 degrees Celsius are not uncommon. Under the sun, the temperature is mild during the day.

As a result, you should exercise caution and bring the necessary clothing for the mountain’s rapid weather changes during the  Short Annapurna base camp trek in Nepal.

3. Lack of Training

One of the most dependable treks is the Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Because the path is neither very challenging nor steep. However, because it leads to the base camp of the world’s 10th mountain, this trail can be difficult for a beginner trekker. Therefore, if this is your first time hiking in the mountains, you should prepare in advance.

Basically, trekkers should begin training six weeks earlier to the trek itself to get their bodies strong and healthy. The daily uphill requirements of the Annapurna Base Camp hike are at least 6 to 7 hours. Because you won’t have the necessary stamina and endurance to finish the trek without prior training, you can have trouble catching up to your group or possibly have to give up.

It is beneficial and recommended that you seek professional guidance or enroll in a hill trekking training program. Cardio, stamina, leg strength, and mobility are the main areas of focus in this kind of exercise.

4. Clothing

The climate in the mountainous regions is constantly changing. For most seasons, the mornings are colder while the daytime is a little bit warmer. Therefore, you should dress in layers so that you can remove the outer layer if you start to feel hot and perspire a lot. Underwear and shirts that wash away sweat are essential, as are thick items that protect you from the wind and cold. Your clothing should consist of warm, wind- and chilly clothing, as well as shirts and underwear that wipe waterproof.

The list of clothing items you should bring on your expedition is as follows.

1. Hiking underclothes

2. Hiking clothing

3. Climbing socks

3. Hiking boots

4. Rain pants and a rain jacket

5. Flexible down jackets

6. A pair of boots for hiking

7. One set of gloves

8. A pair of sandals for hiking

9. Umbrella

Other Accessories

1. Walking Sticks

2. Batteries and a headlamp (for night walk)

3. A watch with an alarm

4. Polarized glasses

5. Sleepwear with liner (for extra warmth)

6. batteries and cameras

7. battery power sources

8. Additional Batteries

9. Chocolate bars or protein bars

10. Bottle of Water

First aid kit and several prescription meds (for altitude sickness, Diarrhea, cold, nausea, and many others)

5. Kind of Trekkers 

Having previous experience is crucial for the trek. The Short Annapurna base camp trek in Nepal will be easier for experienced trekkers than for beginners. Those who are willing to travel over difficult terrain for 4–6 hours on highly elevated lands will find it comfortable.

Novice hikers might have an entirely different experience and find it a little difficult to navigate the rough, steep routes. Compared to seasoned hikers, they could take longer to reach the desired location.

If you trek with carriers and guide, the journey is much more relaxed due to the prior planning and workout. Instead of carrying your bags and worrying about the trails, lodgings, and restaurants, you may instead explore, take in, and record the area.

6. Short Annapurna base camp trek trail

The Short Annapurna base camp trek in Nepal is not as challenging as other Himalayan trails. However, there are several turns, ups and downs, rocky stones, and high stone steps, which may increase the difficulty of reaching Annapurna Base Camp. Although no specific degree of fitness is required for this trek, you should at the very least be in good shape and have strong stamina to complete the moderately challenging hiking trail. The trekkers would be tired out after daily long distances and over 3300 stone stairs.

You should always be aware of your physical strength in order to reduce the risks connected with hiking paths. Avoid pushing yourself too hard because doing so will simply make the trip more difficult. We advise you to move slowly and to always have a guide, such as an Annapurna Base Camp guide, on your side who can offer advice on how to walk safely even on a challenging route. You should also always drink enough water, eat a healthy diet, increase your energy, and carry some energy boosters.

7. Budgeting Issues

The Short ABC Trek  is not very expensive. The cost of the trek varies depending on the itinerary, preferred route, number of days, etc. The price of lodging and food is not too exorbitant when you take into account how remote this area is. However, the cost of everything, from bottled water to lodging, more than triples once you reach the higher altitude. So, if you struggle to manage your budget, it could be difficult for you to pay for personal expenses like food, water, and other things.

The need to transport all the supplies on horses, donkeys and even porters accounts for the high cost at higher altitude zones. Except for a few locations, there are no freeways in the Himalayan region. Increased transportation costs result in higher prices for goods and services. Additionally, there are no ATMs or bank services available at the higher altitude area. To create a comfortable travel, you must bring enough cash with you when setting out on your journey.

How can I avoid risk while on the Short ABC Trek ?

1. Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

2. During the walk, avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.

3. Exercise frequently before the expedition to increase your stamina and endurance for the arduous walks over the rocky mountains.

4. Be mindful of water and food hygiene.

5. The key to a successful hike is to properly acclimate while on it.

6. Wear a knee cap if hiking downward causes you trouble.

7. Bring some chocolates or energy bars with you.

8. Carry a box with basic medications for first aid.

Documents that need to be carried at all times

The safest and most secure method to travel anywhere in Nepal is to make sure you always have these documents with you.

1. Passports

2. Permits

3. Enough money (most places do not have ATMs)

Whether you hire a porter or carry your own luggage, it is advised to pack no more than 20 kilograms. Avoid bringing along extraneous stuff like a laptop, an iPad, speakers, and bulky apparel.

Being Responsible

We believe that we are all equally responsible for acting in favor of supporting the local environment and culture. We want to take on the essential role of adhering to the rules.

1. Please respect the locals and their laws, customs, and beliefs.

2. Please always seek permission from your guides before doing anything in the surrounding area.

3. Please help to keep the environment clean wherever you make the journey and dispose of trash.

4. Please assist the local community in promoting the positive aspects of tourism for as long as possible.

Conclusion :

If you have a strong desire to go trekking and explore the beautiful Mountain plants and animals, the beauty of character, lovely adventure, and want to get away from the hustling and bustling crowds and the demanding job of the city, then make the journey trip to  Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek. 

It is doable, as illustrated by the thousands of trekkers who have achieved their goal. Feel the journey of a lifetime as you fill it with a fantastic time of diverse landscapes and the diverse tradition and culture of the people along the trekking route.

Must Read:

For Booking : Annapurna Circuit Trek

FAQ

1. What is the Route of Short ABC Trek ? 

There are numerous routes that lead to Annapurna Base Camp. Even so, the most general 7-day route is as follows:

Pokhara- Nayapul- Ghandruk- Chhomrong – Dovan-Deurali-Annapurna Base Camp -Sinuwa to Jhinu Hill – Nayapul – Pokhara.

If you don’t have enough time to explore the entire Annapurna Base Camp Trek , you can go on a Annapurna circuit trek.

2. Is a Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek for Beginners?

 Yes, it is also suitable for unskilled hikers. The Short Annapurna base camp trek in Nepal route was opened to foreign visitors in 1977 AD. From a starting place of less than 1000 meters, this track climbs to a height of 5,416 meters. It passes through several mountains and a variety of regional scenery, such as rivers, plants, and wildlife.

3. How Difficulty is Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal ?

The circuit can be difficult at times, and trying to cross the Thorong La Pass can be dangerous if you are not prepared due to the Annapurna mountain range’s high elevation and irregular weather.

4. Annapurna Circuit Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek . Which is Tough ?

The Everest Base Camp is more challenging than the Annapurna Circuit trek because it is a much longer journey overall.

5. How Long Does it Take to hike Annapurna Circuit Trek ?

The Annapurna Circuit trek  is a long trekking trail that circles the Annapurna range. Depending on the route, it could take anywhere from 12 to 22 days and contain distances ranging from 160 to 230 km.