Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek – 4 Days

5.0 from 1 review of this trip Most popular Run by brothers Raju and Karan Gurung

Price per person

US$499

Book this trip
Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek Quick Facts
  • Duration4 Days
  • Destination Nepal
  • Difficulty Easy
  • Maximum altitude 3,210 m/10,531 ft (Poon Hill)
  • Activity Trek
  • Starts and ends Pokhara
  • Group size 1 - 16
  • Transport Drive Pokhara-Nayapul
  • Best season Spring & Autumn

What US$499 covers

Our all-inclusive price covers everything you need for a comfortable and worry-free trek, including:

  • Experienced trekking guides and porters
  • All required trekking permits
  • Accommodation and meals during trekking days
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off services
  • Transportation to and from the trailhead (by road or domestic flight, depending on the trek)
  • Emergency evacuation, rescue assistance, and coordination with your insurance company on your behalf in case of unforeseen situations, serious health conditions, or lack of internet access.
  • Evening snacks and seasonal fresh fruits during the trek

Not covered

  • International flight fare
  • Nepal entry visa fees at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), 15 days: $ 25
  • All hotels and meals in Kathmandu except farewell dinner
  • Hotel in pokhara due to late departure or early return from the trek than schedule itinerary

And 6 more, in the full cost details

See the full cost details

Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek Overview

Are you looking for a quick trek in the Annapurna region? Then our Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek is the perfect package for you. It is a 4-day program that starts and ends in Pokhara. Joining the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trekking, you will explore the lower part of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail goes through lush rhododendron forests and beautiful villages.

Ghorepani and Ghandruk are two famous villages in the Annapurna region. Gurungs and Magars are major communities residing in these two villages. However, the trek lets you meet with many other ethnic groups. Away from the bustle and hustle of Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will learn about the lifestyle and culture of authentic mountain Nepali communities on the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek 4 days.

The highest point of the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek is the Poon Hill viewpoint. Located at 3,210 meters (10,531 feet), Poon Hill is famous for its gorgeous sunrise along with a jaw-dropping backdrop of the Himalayan range. The mountain landscapes from Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages are also phenomenal. In fact, you will get to witness stunning scenery throughout the trek. 

During the trek, mountains like Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/23,684 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Tukuche (6,920 m/22,703 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), and many others are visible from different parts of the trail. Likewise, the tranquility of the trail and refreshing Himalayan air will rejuvenate your heart and soul.

Why join the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek in Nepal?

  • The Ghorepani Ghandruk trek provides some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges without going on a long and challenging trek.
  • For those with limited time, this trek is an excellent choice. It can be completed in 4 days, making it accessible to travelers with busy schedules.
  • The well-maintained trails and gradual ascents make it achievable for most fitness levels. You do not need to have previous trekking experience to join the Ghorepani Ghandruk trek 4 days.
  • Interact with the friendly locals, experience their traditions, and taste authentic Nepali cuisine while trekking through beautiful villages.
  • The diverse landscapes, colorful flora, and scenic vistas make every step of the journey a visual delight.
  • Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can spot various species of birds and, if extremely lucky, even glimpse rare wildlife like the red panda and snow leopard.
  • The Ghorepani Ghandruk trek offers countless opportunities for photography. Whether it's capturing the sunrise over the mountains, the vibrant colors of local cultures, or the beauty of the natural surroundings, you'll get countless opportunities to capture nature.
  • Trekking in the serene Himalayan environment offers moments of solitude and reflection. It's a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature and your inner self.

Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek Highlights

  • A quick 4-day trek in the beautiful Annapurna region
  • The trek start and ends in Pokhara; however, you can customize the itinerary as per your wish
  • The trail goes through lush rhododendron, pine, oak, and bamboo forests, offering a close insight into the flora and fauna of the Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Cross many suspension bridges along the way and come across beautiful waterfalls
  • Spend nights in picturesque villages, including Ghorepani and Ghandruk
  • Get to see the lifestyle of the local communities like Gurung and Magar
  • Witness breathtaking mountain panoramas throughout the trail
  • Catch a gorgeous sunrise from Poon Hill, along with stretching 270-degrees views of western Himalayan mountain
  • beginner-friendly trek package that you can do with your friends and family

Quiet guardians of the trails

We see ourselves as quiet guardians of the trails, and we invite every guest to become one too. Along our journey, we have helped explore and promote new hiking routes near Kathmandu, bringing guests to paths that are often overlooked while supporting the small local economies that depend on them. In the Everest region, we joined hands with conservation initiatives such as Sagarmatha Next and began a meaningful tradition: asking every trekker to carry at least one kilogram of waste from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. Each year, a portion of what we earn flows back into the villages our guides call home, supporting education, healthcare, and community needs.

Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek Itinerary

Day1
  • Max. Altitude:1,570 m/5,151 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:2 hours drive and 5 hours trek

After a delicious breakfast, we will leave Pokhara and drive to Nayapul. It is a 1 to 2 hour lovely ride along the countryside of Pokhara. From Nayapul, we will begin our Ghorepani Ghandruk short hike. The trail gradually ascends via millet, rice, and maize fields. 

We will trek along the cliffside and through lush forests, passing by villages like Birethanti and Sudami. On the way, we will get to see streams, rivers, and waterfalls. The trail is mostly forests of rhododendron, pine, maple, etc.

 

Day2
  • Max. Altitude:2,860 m/9,383 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:6 hours

Our morning begins with a delicious breakfast and the soothing surroundings of the hills and mountains. Leaving Tikhedhunga, we will begin trekking following uphill stone staircases. There are around 3,000 stone staircases that we have to climb to reach Ulleri. From here, the trail continues through rhododendron and oak forests to Nangethanti. 

The final part of the trail involves a gentle ascend via the rhododendron forest to Ghorepani village. It is a beautiful Gurung village. From here, we will get to witness a stunning panorama of snow-capped mountains like Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Annapurna, Tukuche Peak, Gangapurna, etc.

 

Day3
  • Max. Altitude:3,210 m/10,531 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:8-9 hours

Today, we will hike to Poon Hill early in the morning. Poon Hill is also the highest point of this hiking adventure. From Ghorepani, we will follow a well-marked trail via rhododendron trees and gradually ascend. The trail is steep in some sections. Once we reach Poon Hill, we will wait for the sun to rise and witness a heavenly view. 

The red and golden color of the sky, with the soft rays of the sun and the spectacular white Himalayan range in the background make a perfect landscape. Mountains like Annpurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, Tukuche Peak, and many others are visible from here. 

The fresh air and hint of the cold make our time at Poon Hill quite refreshing and rejuvenating. After enjoying the view, we will follow the same trail back to Ghorepani and have breakfast. Today, we will also hike to Ghandruk village. The trail descends via lush forests and small settlements to Tadapani. 

We will keep trekking through forests to Ghandruk village. It is a popular village with beautiful mountain views and locals. Most of the world-famous Gurkhas are from Ghandruk village. Our time in Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages will let us see the lifestyle and practices of the locals. 

 

Day4
  • Max. Altitude:822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Duration:3-4 hours

From Ghandruk, we will descend to Nayapul. The trail descends through lush forests of rhododendron and pine. We will cross suspension bridges on rivers and streams along the way. Likewise, we will also trek past many small villages, witnessing the locals doing their daily chores. From Nayapul, drive back to Pokhara. 

You are free for the rest of the day. Unpack and rest. Explore the Lakeside Market and spend time unwinding at the shore of Phewa Lake. In the late evening, we will get together for a farewell dinner and end this short yet memorable hike.

 

Download the itinerary (PDF)

Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek Cost Details

What's Included in Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek?

  • Free airport pickup and drop-off services during the arrival and departure dates
  • Transportation costs from Pokhara to Nayapul to Pokhara
  • All meals during the trek in Himalaya (3 breakfast, 4 lunch, 4 dinner, including farewell dinner at kathmandu), main course from the menu
  • Tea houses and lodges during the trek
  • Hotel in Pokhara 1 night after trek completion
  • Government-licensed, English-speaking, experienced Nature Excursions native guide with his meals, salary, transportation, insurance and all necessary equipment. An assistant guide group of 6 or more trekker
  • Strong sherpa or porter to help your luggage; 1 porter for two trekker (luggage weight limit is 10 kg per trekker)
  • Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) fees
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees
  • All government, local taxes and official expenses
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag as per your request (has to return after the trek completion)
  • Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruit every day
  • The first-aid kit box carried by the guide
  • Company t-shirt
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at cultural restaurant (complementary)

What's not Included in Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek?

  • International flight fare
  • Nepal entry visa fees at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), 15 days: $ 25
  • All hotels and meals in Kathmandu except farewell dinner
  • Hotel in pokhara due to late departure or early return from the trek than schedule itinerary
  • Personal expenses, such as- tea/coffee, hard and soft drinks, shopping, boiled water, hot bag, internet, hot shower, laundry, extra porter, etc.
  • Personal clothing and gear
  • All the costs and expenses which are not listed in the included section
  • Travel insurance, which has to cover emergencies involving high-altitude rescue and evacuation
  • Additional costs due to delays caused by circumstances beyond our control, like- landslide, itinerary modifications due to safety concern, weather conditions, illness, changes of government policies and strikes
  • Tips for guide and porters

Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek – 4 Days pictures and video

Ghorepani Poon Hill | Annapurna Base Camp | Mardi Himal

Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek Reviews from Our Trekkers

Most popular One of the trips our guests choose most often. 5.0 1review
Write a review

Traveled with us, on this trek or another? Tell the next guest how it went.

  • 5.0

    Very good trekking

    Me and my friend did Ghorepani Poon hill trek with Raju. It was an amazing one week short trekking experience in the high mountain. Very highly recommended trekking company, Nature Excursion Pvt. Ltd in Nepal. Raju is a very expertise guide, he knows everyone and all the places. He’s Also such a nice guy. We really enjoyed it.

    Viggy B
    Viggy B from Spain Written
    Verified byTripadvisor

Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek cost

The Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek is one of the most affordable treks in the Annapurna region. This 4-day program ranges from USD 550 to USD 850 per person. Trekking in a group makes the per-head cost low. The bigger the group, the lower the cost. Please check our cost include and exclude section to learn what things are covered in our Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek cost.

Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek difficulty

The short Ghorepani Ghandruk trek is an easy to moderate trek. This trek is perfect to do with your family, including kids and elders. Anyone with good health can join Ghorepani Ghandruk short trekking. The trail goes through lush forests, clifftops, and small villages. The terrain will be rugged and uneven. Trekking from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri is a bit difficult because it involves climbing more than 3,000 stone staircases. 

Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek distance

On the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek, you will cover approximately 48 kilometers (30 miles) in 4 days. Every day, you will trek 9 to 14 kilometers on average. The daily minimum walking hours are six. 

Altitude Sickness

The altitude sickness is very low during the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trekking. It is not a high-altitude trek. The highest point you will reach on this trek is 3,210 meters (10,531 feet), which is comparatively lower than other famous treks in the Annapurna region. With a few preventive measures, you can completely avoid altitude sickness. Keep yourself hydrated and maintain your pace. Drink 2 liters of water on a daily basis and get ample rest. 

Accommodation & meals during the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek

The accommodation during the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek 4 days is a hotel in Pokhara and lodges along the trail. In Pokhara, we will book a nice tourist standard hotel with a private washroom and all modern amenities. During the trek, you will spend nights in beautiful villages. Lodges will be our primary accommodation. 

The rooms will be small and twin-shared. Likewise, washrooms are common in some places, whereas some places have attached bathrooms too. The rooms will be cozy, and you will get clean and fresh bedding to spend the night. In Pokhara, we have two breakfasts and one farewell dinner. 

During trekking, you will get breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a day. You can buy additional snacks and drinks on your own. The meals will be cooked and served by the lodge owners. The menu will be similar in all villages, with a few dishes up and down. Dal bhat, thukpa, momo, and noodles will be common in every place. 

Other dishes like pasta, sandwiches, burgers, mashed potatoes, french fries, steak, chilies, eggs, oatmeal, toast, paratha, chapati, curries, etc, are also available. In beverages, there are different kinds of tea and coffee. You will also find a range of energy drinks and other beverages along the trail. 

The best time to do Ghorepani Ghandruk short trekking

The best time to do a short Ghorepani Ghandruk trek is March, April, May, September, October, and November. These moths have ideal weather and climate for trekking in the Annapurna region. The daily temperature ranges from 5°C to 18°C. The mornings and nights are colder than the daytime. Likewise, the sky is clear, offering great visibility and jaw-dropping mountain panoramas. 

Other months like June, July, August, December, January, and February do not have ideal weather conditions for trekking, so these months are considered an off time for Ghorepani Ghandruk short trekking. The trail is also not in good condition, especially from June to August, because of the monsoon. On the other hand, you can do the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek in winter (December to February) if you are well prepared. 

Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek tips

  • Travel Insurance: Trekking to Ghorepani and Ghandruk village takes you to a remote area that is not connected to the road or has any other medium for quick transportation other than a helicopter flight. If we see any injury or medical emergency during the trek (rare cases), we need air evacuation. Travel insurance with emergency air evacuation and medical bills allows you to get quick service. So, in the worst case, travel insurance can save your life. 
  • Passport & Visa: To book the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek, you have to provide us with your passport with six months of validity from the day you enter Nepal. We will need your passport details to obtain permits. Likewise, to enter Nepal, you will also need a Nepali travel visa that you can obtain from the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate Office in your home country or upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport. Make sure to check the Nepali travel visa status for your country. 
  • Luggage: Duffel bags and backpacks are used during trekking in Nepal. The duffel bag weight limit is 10 kg per trekker, and it is carried by our porters. Whereas you can pack up to 5 kg in your backpack. It is carried by you. You have to stay under this weight limit, or an extra charge will be applied. The hotel where you will stay in Kathmandu will let you store your extra luggage in their locker room free of cost during the trekking period. 
  • Charging & Internet: The network connections will be fine along the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trail. You can buy paid WiFi in the lodges or get a Nepali tourist sim to use data while trekking. Likewise, charging services may cost you a few bucks because of limited electricity resources. As it is a short trek, you will be good with a few extra batteries and power banks. 
  • Tips: Tip your guides, porters, and drivers. Tipping is customary in the travel industry in Nepal. You can tip them as much as you wish. If you are trekking in a group, tip as a group by collecting small amounts from each member. Our Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek cost does not include tips for our on-field team. 
  • Personal Expenses: Budget money for your international flights, travel insurance, shopping, extra food and drinks, tips, and other miscellaneous things that our Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek package cost does not cover.

Benefits of doing Ghorepani Ghandruk short trekking with us

Experience the ultimate Ghorepani Ghandruk short trekking adventure with our comprehensive package, tailored to provide you with the best value for your journey. When you trek with us in Nepal, you can traverse the stunning landscapes freely, knowing that every aspect of your trek has been meticulously arranged by our dedicated team.

We pride ourselves on transparency, ensuring that you won't encounter any hidden costs or policies along the way. With us, what you see is what you get, allowing you to plan and enjoy your trek with complete peace of mind. Our team is not only reliable but also boasts extensive experience in the Himalayan terrain. With us by your side, you can embark on your trekking venture with the utmost confidence.

Below are some of the benefits you will get by trekking with Nature Excursion:

  • free farewell dinner
  • free airport pickup and drop-off
  • flexible itinerary
  • budget-friendly trekking packages
  • duffel bag and company t-shirt (you have to return the duffel bag at the end of the trek and keep the t-shirt with yourself)
  • fix departure
  • 24/7 support
  • no hidden costs
  • native guides & porters

Last-minute Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek booking

We have many fixed departures during the peak trekking seasons for the Ghorepani Ghandruk short trek. If you happen to book the trip at the last minute, provide your general information and passport details, and clear the full package cost. Once we receive all these things, our team will process the booking confirmation and send you the trip confirmation email. Note that you will not get any refund for canceling the last-minute booking.  

Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek Packing List

HEAD

  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Winter hat, insulating hat or wide-brimmed hat
  • Headlight with extra battery

FACE

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglass with UV protection
  • Face and body wipes

HANDS

  • Lightweight gloves
  • Lightweight winter gloves

BODY

  • Hiking shirt
  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Hooded rain jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Lightweight cotton pants
  • T-shirt (bring lightweight wool)
  • Polypropylene underwear
  • Down jacket (available for rent in Kathmandu)
  • Sweater
  • Waterproof jacket and pants

FOOTWEAR

  • Hiking boots
  • Thick wool socks (take an extra pair of thick wool socks)

ESSENTIAL GEARS

  • Backpack or daypack (size depends on whether you take a porter or not.)
  • Thermal bottle
  • Water purification
  • Trekking pole
  • Sleeping bag (a sleeping bag is best in high-altitude trekking)

TOILETRIES

  • Medium-size drying towel
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Biodegradable bar soap
  • Nail clippers

PERSONAL ACCESSORIES

  • Money
  • Watch
  • Cell phone
  • Camera

EXTRA ITEMS

  • First aid kit
  • Extra password photos and photocopies of password
  • Notebook and pen
  • Binoculars

FAQs for Ghorepani Ghandruk Short Trek

  • From Ghorepani, Ghandruk is located around 14.4 kilometers (9 miles). It takes around 6 to 7 hours to reach Ghandruk by trekking.

  • The distance between Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani is approximately 12.9 kilometers (8 miles). You have to trek for around 6 hours via lush forests and villages. The trail also involves more than 3,000 stone staircases on the way.

  • The best time to visit Ghandruk is in March, April, May, September, October, and November. These months have stable weather and a lovely climate to trek.

  • Trekking to Ghandruk village is not hard. It is more like a hiking adventure via forests and small villages. From Pkhara, you can trek to Ghandruk and return to the city in three days.

  • Yes, you have to get two permits to go to Ghandruk. The first one is a TIMS card, and the second one is an ACAP(Annapurna Conservation Area Project) entry permit.

  • From Ghandruk village, you can see mountains like Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, etc. The village also provides a scenic view of the surrounding hills and terraces.

  • No, you cannot drive to Ghandruk from Pokhara. You have the option to drive up to Kimche or Tolka, and from these two places, hike to Ghandruk village. It will take 4 to 5 hours of walking.

  • No, you cannot do the Ghorepani Ghandruk trek alone because trekking alone is banned in the Annapurna region. If you prefer to travel alone, go for our private trek service. This will allow you to trek one-on-one with a guide and porter.

  • No, you cannot drive to Poon Hill. You can drive to Nayapul or other starting points and hike to Poon Hill via Ghorepani village. It is a three-day trip.

  • Yes, but charging drops by 40% on cloudy afternoons. Most homestays rely on small 12V rooftop solar panels, so bring a cold-resistant 20,000mAh power bank to keep batteries alive through freezing high-altitude nights.

Price per person US$499 What the price covers
Book this trip
Have questions about this trek? Ask about dates, difficulty, group size, or a custom plan. Chat on WhatsApp
“Very good trekking”
Viggy B from Spain, August 2023
You may also like

More trips in the Annapurna Region

See all 24 trips
Plan your adventure

Annapurna guides and travel tips

See all posts