Want a short Himalayan trek that gives you mountain views, peaceful villages, and a fun walking experience without being too exhausting? The Ghorepani-Ghandruk Trek is one of Nepal's most popular trekking routes, especially for travelers looking for a balanced blend of nature and culture.
Located in the Annapurna region, this trek follows a scenic loop style (circuit) trail which allows trekkers to experience different landscapes and villages instead of returning the same way. The route passes through forest trails, stone staircases, and traditional hillside settlements where life moves at a calm and simple pace, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy trekking in Nepal without advanced experience or long vacation time.
This well known Annapurna short trek is famous for the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3210 m), a viewpoint known for wide Himalayan Panoramas. From here, trekkers can see major peaks like Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli stretching across the skyline.
The trail also connects cultural highlights such as Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages, where trekkers can observe traditional Gurung and Magar lifestyles, local farming practices, and welcoming village hospitality. These cultural encounters make the journey feel more meaningful while giving insight into mountain community life.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek is often listed among the best easy to moderate treks in Nepal because of its accessible trails, comfortable teahouse accommodations, and manageable walking distances. The route features changing scenery including terraced farmland, rhododendron forests, and opne viewpoints facing the Annapurna Mountain Range.
Its short duration, loop trail design, and combination of nature and culture make this trek a favorite choice for beginners, families, and travelers searching for a classic and rewarding Himalayan trekking experience.
Ghorepani Ghandruk Trekking Overview
The Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal, located in the well known Annapurna trekking region. This trek is perfect for travelers looking for a beginner friendly Himalayan trek that offers mountain views, local culture, and peaceful nature trails.
The journey usually begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, Ulleri, or Kimche, followed by a scenic trekking route through Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. Because the trail forms a loop, trekkers get to explore different villages and landscapes instead of returning along the same path.
A major highlight of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is the early morning hike to Poon Hill viewpoint, which is widely known for its extra ordinary views of the Annapurna mountain range and Dhaulagiri range. From this viewpoint, trekkers can see peaks such as Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.
The trail goes through beautiful rhododendron forests, traditional hillside villages, and farmlands, making it one of the most scenic teahouse trekking routes in Nepal. Villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk provide opportunities to experience Gurung and Magar culture, local food, and mountain village hospitality.
This trek is rated as an easy to moderate trekking route in Nepal. The trail is well maintained, and trekkers can stay in comfortable teahouse lodges with basic facilities and meals. With manageable walking distances, diverse landscapes, and strong cultural experiences, the Ghorepani Ghandruk trek is often recommended as one of the best short Annapurna treks for anyone wanting a rewarding Himalayan trekking experience without high altitude changes.
The trek in this region gives a real taste of Annapurna region without the need for long or difficult trekking, leaving you with memories of mountains and local life that last long after the journey ends.
Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek Highlights
- Traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk with local culture and hospitality.
- Sunrise at Poon Hill (3210 m) with panoramic views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli
- Easy and comfortable trekking trails
- Lush oak and rhododendron forests covered by colorful flowers in spring
- Gurung Museum of Ghandruk preserves traditional tools, lifestyle, culture, and tradition of the Gurung community
- Plenty of photography opportunities with mountains, forests, and village scenery
Ghorepani Ghandruk trek route via Poon Hill
Ghorepani Ghandruk trek begain from Kathmandu or Pokhara. You can fly or drive to Pokhara along the Prithvi Highway built on the banks of two major rivers. The blacktopped road continuously runs through the Trishuli River and the Marsyangdi River banks. The roadway travel gives you an alluring view of the snow-clad peaks of the Manaslu (8,163 m) region and the Ganesh Himal Range. Ghorepani Poon Hill sunrise trek offers stunning sunrise view from Poon Hill.
While staying in Pokhara, you will visit the important landmarks which are must-visit places once in a lifetime. You can go boating on the Phewa Lake or try some adventurous sports activities in this surreal city. Paragliding, hot air ballooning, bungee jumping, zip liner and occasionally skydiving are world-famous things to do here.
8 Days Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek Map
The Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek Map covers the Ghorepani Ghandruk Circuit Trek route. The route begins from Nayapul, Pokhara, and moves further through the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).
The Ghandruk Trek route moves the Gurung and Magar villages of the Annapurna Region and ends in Nayapul. Before reaching Ghandruk, you spend a night in each of the villages like Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, and Tadapani. On the final day, you trek down up to Nayapul across Syauli Bazar and take a roadway trip to reach Pokhara.
Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek Map can also be designed to start from Ghandruk Village to move to the other villages. You can consult with the local tour operator to decide on the Ghorepani Ghandruk Trekking route.
Ghorepani Ghandruk Circuit Trek
This trek is also known as Ghorepani Ghandruk Circuit Trek because it roams around Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages.Trekking through the safe and clean trails leads you to a few remarkable ethnic villages of Magar and Gurung communities. Ulleri is one of the largest Magar villages recognized for its 3,000 stone staircases.
Ghorepani Ghandruk Circuit Trek takes you along the Gurung villages such as Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. These villages are famous for the Brave Gurkhas who fearlessly fought in the World Wars. Ghandruk Village Trek Nepal is an unforgettable journey encountering the ethnic communities.
The Gurung Museum of Ghandruk shows you all about the lifestyle, culture, tradition, and traditional tools used by these friendly people for ages. Ghorepani Ghandruk trekking trails are easy and comfortable, even the children and senior citizens can do it without difficulty. You can further extend this Ghorepani Ghandruk Circuit Trek to the Annapurna Base Camp trek or the Mardi Himal trek.
Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek Cost for 8 Days Itinerary
To calculate Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek cost, we need to discuss some economic factors associated with it. This is completely a tea house trekking in the Annapurna Region, which is famous for its varieties of cuisines. The tea houses of this region are well facilitated providing you with normal, deluxe, and attached bathroom services. However, the cost of food and accommodation is not as high as in Manaslu Circuit Trek or Everest Base Camp Trek.
4-days Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Pokhara to Ulleri (2,070 meters, 55 km)
- Day 2: Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,874 meters, 11 km)
- Day 3: Ghorepani to Ghandruk (2,012 meters, 19 km)
- Day 4: Ghandruk to Pokhara (800 meters, 57 km)
6-days Ghorepani Ghandruk Circuit Trek outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Pokhara to Ulleri (2,070 meters, 55 km)
- Day 2: Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,874 meters, 11 km)
- Day 3: Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,630 meters, 13.6 km)
- Day 4: Tadapani to Jhinu Danda (1,780 meters, 13 km)
- Day 5: Jhinu Danda to Landruk (1,565 meters, 4 km)
- Day 6: Landruk to Pokhara (800 m, 25-55 km)
Ghorepani Ghandruk trek cost from Kathmandu
Next, if traveling by plane to Pokhara from Kathmandu, the cost of the Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek Package might be higher than traveling by bus. If you like, you can do this trek as a solo traveler in Nepal. You don’t need to pay for a porter or Nepal trekking guide either.You don’t have to worry about altitude sickness and emergency evacuation in this trek as well. Similarly, you needn’t spend much in affording trekking gear during this trek.
However, we recommend you book this trek via a local tour operator that provides you with a professional trekking guide. Ghorepani Trek Cost is less important than your safety after all. Nepal Trekking Routes offering exceptional services for this trek and it is best trekking agency for exceptional services. The Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek best budget option offered by our agency is $690.
8 Days Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek for beginners
Trekking for 8 Days through Ghorepani Ghandruk is ideal for beginners who want a relaxed pace and more time to enjoy the mountains and villages. The trek starts with Kathmandu and a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, then gradually climbs through Tikhedhunga or Ulleri to reach Ghorepani. The highlight is the sunrise at Poon Hill (3210 meters), which can be enjoyed without rushing. The trail continues through tadapani and Ghandruk villages, giving time to see local culture, terraced fields, and forests. The last days are easy downhill walks back to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara. This extended schedule keeps daily walking moderate, making it perfect for first time trekkers who want a comfortable and enjoyable Himalayan experience.
Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek Package
A Ghorepani Ghandruk trek package gives you everything you need for a smooth and worry free trek. Packages usually last 4-6 days, but can be adjusted if you want a shorter or longer trip. Most packages include transport from Pokhara to the trailhead, required permits, teahouse accommodation, and meals along the way.
You can trek with a guide and porter or walk independently with advice or support. The trekking package also helps with route planning, local tips, and safety guidance, so you can enjoy the trek without stress. It's a simple way to experience the mountains, villages, and forests of the Annapurna region comfortably.
Is the Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek customizable?
Yes, the Ghorepani Ghandruk trek offers flexible day options to suit different schedules and preferences. The 4-day version is ideal for travelers who are short on time. It covers the main highlights, starting from Nayapul or Birethanti, trekking through Ghorepani and Poon Hill, visiting Ghandruk, and returning to Pokhara. This option is slightly more intensive, with longer trekking hours each day.
The 5-day itinerary is considered the classic version of the trek. It allows a more comfortable pace, with stops at Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. This schedule gives trekkers time to enjoy the local villages, interact with Gurung and Magar communities, and take in scenic viewpoints without rushing.
For those who prefer a slower pace trek, the 6-day trek option is the most relaxed. It provides extra time for rest, village exploration, and photography along the trail. This makes it perfect for beginners, families, and anyone wanting to take their time while experiencing the Annapurna region's landscapes, culture, and natural beauty.
We can also customize the trek according to your needs, whether you want to shorten it, extend it, or focus more on viewpoints, villages, or a relaxed pace. This makes the trek suitable for every traveler with any schedule or interest.
What can travelers expect from the Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek?
On the Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek, trekkers will enjoy quiet trails through forests, farmland, and small villages, with mostly easy to moderate walking and only a few steep sections like the climb to Ghorepani.
Travelers can expect to witness sunrise at Poon Hill, with peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre up close. Along the route, villages like Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk offer a chance to experience local culture, traditional homes, and warm teahouse meals.
Travelers can also expect a friendly and relaxed trekking experience, with a balance of mountain views, village life, and peaceful forest walks. It's ideal for beginners, families, and anyone wanting a short but memorable trek in Nepal.
Why choose the Nepal Trekking Routes team for your Ghandruk Circuit trek?
If you choose Nepal Trekking Routes for your Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek, you're in good hands. We make the trek easy and stress free, taking care of your permits, accommodation, and meals, so you focus on enjoying the mountains, villages, and forests.
We know the trail well and can help you with local insights, tips, and guidance, whether you are trekking with a guide or independently. Staying in teahouses, walking at a comfortable pace, and visiting villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk becomes much more enjoyable with our support.
With us, you get flexibility, safety, and a friendly team to help whenever you need it. We make sure your trek is not just about reaching Poon Hill, but also about experiencing the beauty, culture, and simplicity of the Annapurna region in the best way possible.
