Ghandruk Ghorepani trek
Ghandruk Ghorepani trek
Annapurna Region
Trip Facts
Duration : 3 Days
Max-Altitude : 3210
Program Type : tea house
Best Season : April- May, Jun- Jul Sep-Oct-Nov
Per Day Walking : 6/7
Trek Grade :
Grade 3:
Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should expect to trek above 5416m/17872ft.
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Overview
The Ghandruk Ghorepani Trek offers enchanting views
The Ghandruk Ghorepani trek, a 3-day journey via an anticlockwise route nestled in the heart of Nepal’s majestic Annapurna region, promises awe-inspiring natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a profound sense of spiritual rejuvenation. Spanning approximately 46 kilometers, this trek offers a harmonious blend of scenic landscapes, traditional villages, and panoramic mountain vistas, rendering it a beloved choice among trekkers worldwide.
Commencing with a picturesque drive to Ghandruk village via private jeep, the trek immerses you in stunning landscapes from the outset. As the journey unfolds, you traverse picturesque trails to Tadapani, where each step unveils new vistas and cultural encounters along the way.
A highlight of the Ghandruk Ghorepani trek is the breathtaking views from Tadapani, offering glimpses of prominent mountains in the Annapurna region. Annapurna South and Machapuchare (Fishtail) stand out prominently, alongside peaks like Hiunchuli and Gangapurna, enhancing the awe-inspiring panorama that envelops Tadapani.
Continuing onwards, the trail ascends gradually towards Ghorepani, a quaint village perched atop a ridge at an altitude of 2,874 meters. En route, trekkers are treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including the iconic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, dominating the horizon with their sheer magnificence.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of the trek is the pre-dawn ascent to Poon Hill, renowned for its spectacular sunrise vistas in the Himalayas. As the first light of dawn illuminates the peaks in a symphony of colors, trekkers are spellbound by the beauty and grandeur of their surroundings.
After witnessing the sunrise spectacle, trekkers descend to Ghorepani for a hearty breakfast before journeying towards Hille. The trail winds through dense forests alive with the melodies of exotic birds and occasional wildlife sightings, offering a serene ambiance for introspection and reflection.
The trek from Ghorepani to Nangetanti and Bandanti trails through rhododendrons and oak forests provides a peaceful oasis for trekkers to unwind amidst nature’s embrace. Here, one can savor the tranquility of the mountains, indulge in leisurely walks, or simply marvel at the surrounding beauty.
Descending from Ulleri towards Hille, the trail completes the circuit, bidding farewell to majestic mountains and charming villages. Trekkers carry with them memories that will last a lifetime, along with a renewed appreciation for nature’s wonders and human connections.
In conclusion, the Ghandruk Ghorepani trek is not merely a physical journey through the Himalayas but a spiritual odyssey that touches the hearts and souls of all who undertake it. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, this trek offers an unforgettable experience leaving a lasting impression on all who dare to venture into its embrace.
In addition, we offer a fantastic 3-day Poon Hill trek, which follows a clockwise route through breathtaking landscapes. This condensed adventure is perfect for those with limited time but still seeking the awe-inspiring views and cultural experiences that the Poon Hill region has to offer.
Moreover, for those desiring a more immersive journey, we offer the classic 5-day Poon Hill trek itinerary too. This longer expedition allows for a deeper exploration of the surrounding villages, diverse flora, and fauna, and the opportunity to fully absorb the tranquility of the Himalayan foothills.
The Ghandruk Ghorepani Trek highlighted
Location: The trek is situated in the western part of Nepal, in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Duration: Typically, the trek takes around 4 to 5 days to complete, depending on your pace and starting point.
Poon Hill: One of the main highlights of the trek, offering stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Ghandruk Village: A picturesque Gurung village with traditional houses, terraced fields, and breathtaking mountain views.
Cultural Immersion: Encounter the rich culture and hospitality of the Gurung and Magar ethnic communities along the way.
Difficulty: The trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty, suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. However, it involves some uphill climbs and steps.
Altitude: While the maximum altitude reached during the trek is around 3,210 meters (Poon Hill), the starting point at Nayapul is at a much lower elevation, around 1,070 meters, ensuring gradual acclimatization.
Best Time to Trek: The best time to undertake the Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is clear, and the views are spectacular.
Note: All published dates are guaranteed departures. If the dates don’t match with your travel plans, we are more than happy to create your desired date. Let us know what kind of trip you are looking for and we will help in your dream destination.
Detail Itinerary
Day 1: Pick up from your hotel and drive to Ghandruk village by Jeep for 2.30 hours. Start trekking from Ghandruk village to Tadapani. 3-4 hours, Ghandruk Village - A picturesque Gurung village with traditional stone houses and stunning mountain views. Elevation of Ghandruk: Around 1,940 meters (6,365 feet) Elevation of Tadapani: Approximately 2,630 meters (8,630 feet)
Day 2: Trek from Tadapani to Ghorepani. Hiking Hours: Approximately 5-6 hours, Ghorepani - A charming village known for its rhododendron forests and as a gateway to Poon Hill. Elevation of Ghorepani 2,860 meters (9,380 feet)
Day 3: Early morning visit to Poon Hill for sunrise views. 45 to 50-minute hike, Poon Hill - A popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Hike down to Hille Drive back to Pokhara and drop off at your hotel.
Cost Included
- Private jeep from Pokhara to Ghandruk village and from Hille to Pokhara.
- Delightful meals from a diverse selection including Italian, Chinese, Nepali, Indian, and various European cuisines served three times daily (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner chosen from the menu).
- Accommodations in clean and excellent lodges with attached bathrooms along the trekking route.
- Provision of microspikes from December to February.
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide licensed by the government, familiar with the area.
- One porter for every two to three participants. (Note: An additional cost applies for solo clients requiring a porter.)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permits and Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card.
- Guides/Porters are provided with food, accommodation, bus transportation, salary, insurance, and equipment.
- Kitbag provided for storing belongings during the trek.
- Sleeping bag provided for comfortable nights even in temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius.
- Handling of all necessary paperwork and payment of government and local taxes.
- Certificate of appreciation from Nepal Wilderness Trekking upon completing the trek.
Cost Excluded
- Airfare for international flights.
- Entry visa fees upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, Nepal. Fees vary by duration (15 days: $25-30, 30 days: $40-50, 90 days: $100).
- Accommodations and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara before and after the trekking journey.
- Personal equipment is suitable for high altitudes and cold temperatures.
- Emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation are covered by travel insurance.
- All beverages including soft drinks, caffeinated beverages such as coke, beer, drinking water/mineral water, and dessert. Hot showers and laundry services are also included.
- Tips for guides and porters.
- Exclusions are all costs and expenses not listed under "cost includes".
- Inclusion of costs or delays beyond the control of the management, such as landslides, weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, etc.
