Anyone who visits Nepal knows of the beloved Annapurna region. One of the go-to treks in this area is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. There are two ways to get there: via Ghorepani and via Ghandruk. This package takes you through the streamlined route, through Ghandruk. Within about a week from leaving Pokhara, make it to the base of one of the world’s massive massifs, Annapurna I (8,091 meters/26,545 feet).
The magical hike to Annapurna Base Campstarts with a short drive from Pokhara. Before the trek begins, spend a day exploring the natural beauty that exists in Pokhara. It’s a huge breath of fresh air from the dustiness and seemingly never-ending noise of Kathmandu.
The first bit of the trail leads through mixed, subtropical forests. In the springtime, the fiery red and pink rhododendrons are a sight to behold. The trail climbs higher, above the tree line to the rocky alpine landscape, emblematic of the Annapurna region. Soon enough, after Machhapuchhre Base Camp, we reach Annapurna Base Camp. Here, we are enveloped by Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Barahi Shikhar, Annapurna I, Tharpu Chuli, Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhre. The Himalayan panorama is breath-taking!
In addition to reaching Annapurna Base Camp, staying in Ghandruk for a couple of nights is a notable time during our journey. Ghandruk is the second largest Gurung settlement in Nepal (after Siklis). Enclosed by beautiful terraced agriculture fields, Ghandruk (at about 1,940 meters) is open to incredible views of the Himalayas. Become entranced by the sight of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and a few other rugged mountaintops.
Wander around the twisting stone roads and narrow alleyways of Ghandruk. There are plenty of nice guest houses and good restaurants in the village, and we’ll show you the best of the best. There are two Gurung museums in the village, both worth a visit. First, is the Gurung Traditional Museum, which boasts a shield make from elephant skin along with many other treasures. Also, spend some time perusing the Old Gurung Museum.
To conclude our trek, we head down through Jhinu Danda, a hot spring that lies about 15 minutes from the downhill from the main village. It’s a perfect end to the trek and a pleasant relaxation time for the body and mind.
The Annapurna Base Camp (via Ghandruk) Trek is an awesome adventure for nature lovers of all ages. From young to old, no previous trekking experience is required. Besides that, the highest elevation we reach is 4,130 meters. By then, we have had several days to acclimatize to the thin air. Whether it’s your first trek or 100th, you are sure to enjoy your time with us on this trek!
You can take the Annapurna Base Camp (via Ghandruk) Trek all throughout the year. The best times to take the journey, though, are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. They provide the best weather and clearest skies, not to mention that during the springtime, rhododendron and other flowers are in bloom. Third Eye Adventure Pvt. Ltd. handles the trek with complete management. If you have any questions about the trek, do ask!
