Ghandruk Village Tour: A Major Gurung Settlements in Nepal

Ghandruk Tour Overview

Located in the lap of Mount Annapurna and Machhapuchhre, Ghandruk village is a true gem of Nepal. Famous for its natural and cultural beauty, people around the world visit this beautiful village to admire it. You can enjoy the panoramic view of Mount Annapurna and Machhapuchhre, along with many lush hills surrounding you.

Located about 55 km from Pokhara, Ghandruk sits at an altitude of 2012 m above sea level. Ghandruk village is one of the largest Gurung settlements in Nepal. Accessibility, friendly hospitality, and the chance to fully experience Gurung culture are what make the Ghandruk village tour so unique. Ghandruk’s homestay near Pokhara is very renowned. 

If you are looking for typical cultural experiences surrounded by nature, then this tour is the perfect blend. Ghandruk Village is a place everyone must include in their bucket list.

Highlights: Why Ghandruk Village Tour?

• 2-day scenic tour from Pokhara (55 km)
• Traditional Gurung village at 2,012 m altitude
• Stunning views of Annapurna & Machhapuchhre
• Cultural experiences: Gurung dress, local food, monastery
• Visit Old Gurung Museum and tea gardens
• Warm hospitality and authentic homestays
• Great for photography, meditation, and village walks
• Rich biodiversity: rhododendrons, langurs, birds

Packing Essentials

As the Ghandruk village lies in a short distance from Pokhara village, there is not much to carry with you. However, it’s still recommended to carry the following items with you in your multi-day tour:

• Comfortable Clothes: Lightweight, breathable daytime attire and a cosy jacket for chilly nights
• Footwear: Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes that are appropriate for the uneven village roads
• Sun Protection: To prevent exposure to the sun, wear sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
• Personal hygiene supplies include tissue paper, hand sanitiser, wet wipes, and toiletries.
• Medication: A basic first-aid kit, motion sickness pills for the trip, and any personal medications
• Reusable Water Bottle: Bring your bottle to help cut down on plastic waste.
• Using a camera or smartphone to record the beautiful scenery and the local way of life
• Power Bank: In remote locations where electricity may be scarce, a power bank can be useful.
• Rain Protection: If travelling during the monsoon season, bring a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella.
• Snacks: Light snacks or energy bars for travelling
• Other Essential: Any other essential good you think is important for you.

Best Time to Visit Ghandruk Village

The spring and autumn seasons are the two most ideal times of the year to visit Ghandruk Village. You can also visit during winter, but it's more chilled, while in summer, due to heavy downpours, it’s not recommended for a visit. 

Spring (March to May): 

Spring is one of the most ideal times to visit Ghandruk Village. During this time, the sky is normally clear and the temperature is moderate. Moreover, the forest is lush and filled with Rhododendron (Nepal’s national flower) of multiple colours.

Autumn (September to November): 

Autumn is also considered another best times to visit one of the best viewpoints of Annapurna Region, Ghandruk. Like spring, autumn also offers you a clear sky with a moderate temperature, ideal for a pleasant vacation.

Winter (December to February): 

In winter, as the climate is more chilling, it's not quite as favourable as spring and autumn. However, with proper heating gear, you can make your Ghandruk village enjoyable.

Monsoon (June to August): 

Above all other seasons, summer is not recommended for a Ghandruk visit as the continuous rainfall makes the road slippery and there’s also the risk of a landslide in the hilly part of Nepal.

History of Ghandruk Village, Nepal

The beautiful Ghandruk village has primarily been home to the Gurung community for centuries. One of Nepal's indigenous ethnic groups, this village is known for its rich cultural heritage and brave Gurkha soldiers. Still to this date, a large number of youths from this part of the country provide their service to the Nepali, British, and Indian Army.  

With the growth of tourism in Nepal, this place has been established as one of the key tourist destinations, not only in Nepal but on an international level. Especially, with the prominence of Annarpurna Base Camp Trek and Poon Hill Trek in the 1970s and 1990s, Ghandruk set itself up as the starting point for the trek, enhancing its importance in the tourism sector.

Now, the majority of people from Ghandruk are enrolled in the tourism sector for their livelihood. 

Flora and Fauna in Ghandruk Village, Nepal

Ghandruk Nepal, listed in the Annapurna Conservation Area, is rich in biodiversity. The lush forests around this majestic village are home to several wildfires.

Flora:

• Rhododendrons
• Oak
• Bamboo

Fauna:

• Himalayan langur
• Barking deer
• Various species of birds, including Nepal’s national bird Danphe
• Unique butterflies and insects

Things to Do in Ghandruk Village, Nepal

Ghandruk, Nepal, is a place full of adventure. You will have plenty of activities to engage yourself in this stunning village. Following are some of the major activities you can participate in to spend your time in this heavenly place:

• Enjoy a View of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre

This place serves you with a majestic panoramic view of several snow-capped mountains, including Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Machhapuchhre. The morning view, during the sunrise, is something that you have never witnessed before.

• Gurung Dress

Trying out the traditional Gurung outfit is a major activity, visitor loves to do. A picture of you wearing a traditional Gurung dress with Annapurna and Machhapuchhre in the background is a picture to keep your social media followers in awe. 

• Old Museum

The Old Gurung Museum of Ghandruk is a major attraction of this village, which is still preserving the antique and valuable culture of Gurungs. Photographs, historical artefacts, ancient weapons, traditional jewellery and costumes, musical instruments, common household objects and tools, and displays on the Gurung people's contributions to the Gorkha Army and their way of life are all on display at the museum.

• Village Exploring

You can also spend your time exploring this beautiful village that will remind you of ancient Nepal. The traditional architecture of the Ghandruk Gurung cottages will surprise you.

• Tea Garden

A short walk from the village will lead you to the lush tea garden of Ghandruk. If lucky, you can ever witness locals plunging the tea leaves to produce lea.

• Interaction with Locals

The Ghandruk village is renowned for its hospitality. People living here are always welcoming and friendly. You will fall in love with this village after getting a beautiful smile from every villager.  

• Try out Local Cuisine

If you want a completely new experience from your day-to-day life, then you must consume some of the traditional foods and beverages from this place. Some of the popular cuisines and drinks of this place are the Gurung Bread, Thakali Khana set, Rice wine, etc.

• Yoga and Meditation

If you are searching for inner peace, then you have to meditate in this tranquil environment. With the sound of falling water, songs of birds, fresh blowing air through dense forest, and no city noise, this is the best place to relax your body, soul, and mind.

• Visit Ghandruk Monastery

Learn more about the Gurung culture by visiting the Gurung Monastery of Ghandruk Village. Also, a peaceful place to meditate with a pleasant smell.

Includes

• Pick-up and drop-off by private car
• Experienced guide
• All government taxes
• All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
• All Entrance fees/permits
• Transportation for sightseeing

Excludes

• Alcoholic and bottled beverages (beer, cola, mineral water)
• Donations and Tips
• Personal Expenses
• All that are not in the included list

Guidelines for Ghandruk Visit

Safety always needs to be prioritised, even if you are on vacation. The following are some of the guidelines you need to follow.

• Don’t disturb the privacy of the people.
• Get your trash with you and dispose of it in the proper place.
• Don’t touch anything without permission or anything unknown.
• Don’t disturb the wildlife.
• Stay hydrated by drinking enough water.
• Open shoes while entering the religious sites of locals’ homes.
• Dress modestly, especially in the village area.
• Eat healthy.
• Follow the guide’s instructions.

Why Ghandruk with Us?

Your trip could be made or broken by your choice of travel companion. At Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd., we specialise in designing one-of-a-kind travel experiences that combine scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and personalised attention. Join us as we explore Sikles for the following reasons:

• Well-Selected Itineraries
• Local Expert Guides
• Real Cultural Exchanges
• Prioritising comfort and safety
• Sustainable and Conscientious Travel
• Open Communication and Assistance
• Competitive Prices with No Unexpected Fees

Final Thoughts

The stunning Ghandruk village is one of the liveliest places in Nepal, always worth visiting. The blend of the typical Gurung culture and the majestic landscape view is always a reward to offer yourself. A short tour offering Gurung culture exploration, cosy homestays, and village activities like walks, tea garden visits, and trying local cuisine is a master package. The tranquil, picturesque, and unforgettable Ghandruk tour is perfect for a short getaway.

FAQs

1. What is Ghandruk known for?

Ghandruk village is popular for its authentic Gurung culture and breathtaking view of the mountains.

2. Where is Ghandruk in Nepal?

Ghandruk village is located in the Kaski district of Nepal.

3. What to do in Ghandruk?

You can do plenty of activities in Ghandruk like exploring the village life, learning about traditional equipment in the Old Gurung Museum, eating local foods and drinks, trying on Gurung outfits, and many more.

4. How far is Ghandruk from Kathmandu?

The distance from Kathmandu to Ghandruk is about 260 KM by road.

5. Do I need a permit for the Ghandruk village tour?

Yes, you will require an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which you can get from Pokhara or Kathmandu. 

6. Can I trek to Ghandruk village?

Yes, you can trek to Ghandruk village. It’s an easy route suitable for beginners to professionals. 

7. Can I camp during the Ghandruk Tour?

Yes, you can camp during the Ghandruk tour, but you need to carry all the gear as the homestay or lodges do not provide such facilities.

8. Do I need a permit to visit Sikles?

Yes, you will require a permit of Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).