Trekking · Ghandruk
Ghandruk as a Trekking Gateway
How Ghandruk links to the Poon Hill loop and Annapurna Base Camp via Tadapani, Komrong and Chhomrong.
The short answer: Ghandruk is one of the best gateways in the Annapurna region, sitting at the hub of trails that lead to the Ghorepani–Poon Hill loop and onward to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). From the village you can walk a short, scenic circuit or commit to a deeper Himalayan trek — and either way you start among Gurung stone houses with the peaks already in view.
Why start from Ghandruk
Most of the lower Annapurna trails converge near Ghandruk, which is why so many treks pass through or begin here. The village is reached by road to the Kimche trailhead and a short walk up, so you can be on the trail with minimal driving. It also offers comfortable lodges, food and a head-on mountain view to ease you into the walk. Before setting out, read the broader Nepal trekking guide and study the Annapurna region treks.
The Poon Hill loop
The classic short trek links Ghandruk to Tadapani (through rhododendron forest), then on to Ghorepani and the famous Poon Hill sunrise, before descending via Banthanti and Nayapul. Done from Ghandruk it is a gentle three to four day circuit, ideal for first-timers and families wanting big views without high altitude. See the full route in our Ghorepani Poon Hill trek guide.
Toward Annapurna Base Camp
For a bigger adventure, Ghandruk feeds into the ABC route. The trail climbs the ridge of Komrong Danda, drops to the Komrong Khola and rises to Chhomrong, the true gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. From there it threads up the Modi Khola gorge to Machhapuchhre Base Camp and finally Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres. Allow seven or more days return and respect altitude — read up on altitude sickness in Nepal before you go.
Permits and preparation
- Permits: ACAP permit plus TIMS card, arranged in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
- Guides and porters: Optional but recommended, and easily hired in Pokhara.
- Season: Autumn and spring are best; see the best time to visit Ghandruk.
- Fitness: The Poon Hill loop suits most walkers; ABC needs more stamina and acclimatisation.
Plan your trek
Base yourself first in the Gurung stone village, sort logistics with how to get to Ghandruk and where to stay, then browse the top things to do in Ghandruk or start with the Ghandruk travel guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ghandruk on the Poon Hill trek?+
Yes — Ghandruk is a key village on the Ghorepani–Poon Hill loop. Many itineraries start or finish in Ghandruk, linking it to Ghorepani and the Poon Hill sunrise viewpoint via Tadapani over a few days of walking.
Can you reach Annapurna Base Camp from Ghandruk?+
Yes — Ghandruk is a popular gateway to Annapurna Base Camp. From the village the trail heads via Komrong and Chhomrong into the Annapurna Sanctuary, reaching base camp in several days depending on your pace and acclimatisation.
How many days is a trek from Ghandruk?+
A short Ghandruk–Tadapani–Ghorepani–Poon Hill loop takes about three to four days. Annapurna Base Camp from Ghandruk is longer, typically seven or more days return, allowing time to gain and lose altitude safely.
What permits do you need to trek from Ghandruk?+
You need an ACAP permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area and a TIMS card, both arranged in Pokhara or Kathmandu. Carry them at all times, as there are checkpoints along the trails out of Ghandruk.
