Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghandruk Village- 10 days

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghandruk Village is a classic Himalayan trek that combines dramatic mountain scenery, authentic village culture, and a well-paced route.

Overview

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Overview
Highlight
Outline
Itinerary
Cost Includes/Excludes
FAQs

Duration

10 Days

Max Alitiude

4,130 meters at Annapurna Base Camp

Transportation

Tourist Bus & Shared Jeep

Trip Grade

Moderate

Activity

Trekking

Start/End Point

Killu / Jhinu

Best Season

Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)

Meals

Full board during trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Accommodation

Hotels (Kathmandu & Pokhara), Teahouses during trek

Trip Overview

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghandruk Village is a classic Himalayan trek that combines dramatic mountain scenery, authentic village culture, and a well-paced route into a single 10-day adventure. This itinerary is carefully designed to offer a complete experience of the Annapurna region without requiring extreme trekking experience or technical skills.

Your trip starts in Kathmandu and, with a scenic drive, will take you to Pokhara, a peaceful lakeside city known as the gateway to the Himalayas. But the actual trek officially begins after a short drive to the trailhead near Killu.

From the very first walking day, the route gradually introduces you to the beauty of the Himalayas, passing through terraced fields, traditional settlements, and forested hillsides. One of the most culturally rich highlights is Ghandruk Village. In this well-preserved mountain village, you can experience local Gurung culture, stone-built architecture, and wide panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. Also, you will get to wear the traditional dress of the Gurung community and feel very real.

The terrain changes dramatically as the walk goes on. You pass through scenic hiking villages like Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali. You will shift from verdant woods and river valleys into more isolated alpine territory.

The ultimate destination of the trek is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. You will be standing at base camp, witnessing a rare 360-degree view of the mountains that is both powerful and unforgettable. This spectacular natural amphitheater is surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Machapuchare / Fishtail (6,993m, Gangapurna (7,455m), and Singu Chuli (6,501m).

This trek is ideal for first-time trekkers, couples, solo travelers, and small groups seeking a well-organized Himalayan experience that blends nature, culture, and adventure. It is moderately challenging but highly rewarding, making it one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal.

Overall, this trip is among the greatest short trekking experiences in the Himalayas since it provides the ideal blend of visual beauty, cultural immersion, and attainable adventure.

Trip Highlights

Witness sunrise and 360° Himalayan views from Annapurna Base Camp
Explore the cultural beauty of Ghandruk Village, home of the Gurung community
Trek through lush forests filled with rhododendrons and bamboo
Relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
Enjoy spectacular views of peaks like Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli
Experience authentic teahouse trekking in Nepal
Scenic drive between Kathmandu and Pokhara

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport and transfer to the hotel.
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara by tourist bus.
Day 03: Drive to Killu by private car and trek to Ghandruk village.
Day 04: Trek to Chhomrong.
Day 05: Trek to the Himalaya.
Day 06: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp.
Day 07: Trek Back to Bamboo.
Day 08: Trek to Jhinu and drive to Pokhara by sharing a jeep
Day 09: Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus
Day 10: Departure

Trip Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport and transfer to the hotel.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu.

After check-in, you will have time to rest or explore the surrounding area, depending on your arrival schedule.

You will be informed of route details, safety guidelines, and preparation tips in the evening. Also, make sure you pack everything for the trek, and if you forgot anything, don’t worry, you can buy it in Pokhara too.

Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Max. Altitude: 1,400m (4,600 feet)
- Accommodation: Standard Hotel
- Meals: Dinner
Day 02 Drive to Pokhara by tourist bus.
After breakfast, you will take a scenic bus ride to Pokhara. The journey follows river valleys, passing through rural settlements, terraced fields, and picturesque landscapes.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the lakeside area. Also, you can buy trek essentials if you forgot to pack.

Overnight in Pokhara.
- Max. Altitude: 822m (2,697 feet)
- Accommodation: Standard Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Drive duration: 6-7 hours’ drive
Day 03 Drive to Killu by private car and trek to Ghandruk village.
Today, you will drive to Killu (approx. 2 hours), the starting point of your trek. From here, you begin to ascend through terraced farmland and local villages.

As you go, the walk alternates between steep trails and stone stairs, passing through little towns where you can see the way of life of the local farmers. As the path progressively rises in elevation, you can see Annapurna South and Machapuchare on clear days.

After 3–4 hours of trekking, you will reach Ghandruk Village, a well-known Gurung settlement offering panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. You will find the stone houses around and love the culture they hold. You can explore the village and visit the local museum in the evening.

Overnight in Ghandruk.
- Max. Altitude: 2,012m (6,601 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Drive duration: 2 hours’ drive
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours trek
Day 04 Trek to Chhomrong.
You will have an early breakfast and start trekking towards Chhomrong. You will descend towards the Kimrong Khola. As you leave the Ghandruk, you will step down through a forested area filled with rhododendron and oak trees.

Continuing downhill, you will hear the sound of the river before reaching the Kimrong Khola. You will cross a suspension bridge from where you will start ascending.

The trail is through dense forest, with a mix of stone steps and natural trails. The ascent is gradual but continuous, allowing you to maintain a comfortable pace. Along the way, you will get to witness the distant mountain peaks.

Before reaching Chhomrong, you will walk through a series of stone steps. This last walk can feel a bit challenging, but it’s worth it for the astonishing landscape view.

Chhomrong is a beautiful hillside settlement, with traditional houses spread across the slope and impressive views of Machapuchare. It serves as the main gateway into the Annapurna Sanctuary and is one of the most important stops along the route.

Overnight in Chhomrong.
- Max. Altitude: 2,170m (7,119 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours trek
Day 05 Trek to the Himalaya.
You begin the day with a descent down a long stone staircase to the Chhomrong Khola. After crossing a suspension bridge, the trail climbs steadily uphill toward Sinuwa.

After passing Sinuwa, the trail enters a thick bamboo and rhododendron forest. The path becomes more shaded and follows a narrow valley alongside a river. Along the way, you pass small stops like Bamboo and Dovan, where you can take a break or stop for lunch.

As you continue, the trail gradually ascends through forest and rocky terrain until you reach the Himalaya. This part of the trek feels quieter and more remote, with fewer settlements and more natural surroundings.

Overnight in the Himalaya.
- Max. Altitude: 2,920m (9,580 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours trek
Day 06 Trek to Annapurna Base Camp.
Today is the most important day of the trek, as we will reach the destination. From Himalaya, the trail ascends above the tree line. The forest slowly disappears, and the surroundings become more open and rockier.

You will first reach Deurali, walking along a narrow valley beside the river. This area passes through steep slopes and areas where avalanches can occur in winter and early spring, so the route is crossed carefully and without stopping.

After Deurali, the trail continues to ascend gradually, bringing you closer to the Machapuchare Base Camp. The valley widens slightly as you approach MBC.

At MBC, you can take a short rest. From here, you get clear and close views of Machapuchare and surrounding peaks, giving you a strong sense of being deep inside the mountains.

From MBC, the trail climbs gently on alpine terrain toward Annapurna Base Camp. When you arrive at Annapurna Base Camp, the entire valley opens up into a wide mountain basin surrounded by high snow-covered peaks on all sides. The view feels complete and enclosed, with mountains rising in every direction.

From the ABC, you will witness the massive Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Machapuchare / Fishtail (6,993m, Gangapurna (7,455m), and Singu Chuli (6,501m).

Overnight in Annapurna Base Camp.
- Max. Altitude: 4130m (13,550 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Day 07 Trek Back to Bamboo.
Early in the morning, you can enjoy sunrise views from Annapurna Base Camp, when the first light slowly touches the surrounding peaks and changes the color of the entire mountain basin.

After breakfast, you will descend to Machapuchare Base Camp, and then continue through Deurali, where the landscape gradually shifts from open alpine terrain back into narrower valleys.

As you descend further, you pass through the Himalaya and re-enter forested areas filled with bamboo and rhododendron. The trail continues steadily downhill until you reach Bamboo, a quiet forest settlement surrounded by greenery.

Overnight in Bamboo.
- Max. Altitude: 2,310 meters (7,579 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours trek
Day 08 Trek to Jhinu and drive to Pokhara by sharing a jeep
From Bamboo, you begin your trek by walking through forested trails as you gradually make your way back toward Sinuwa and then Chhomrong. After crossing Sinuwa, you have to ascend the stone steps, then descend again to Chhomrong.

After reaching Chhomrong, you continue the descent toward Jhinu. The trail becomes steeper in parts, with long stone staircases leading down through terraced slopes and small settlements until you reach the river valley.

You have time to explore the natural hot springs at Jhinu, which are a short stroll beside the river. This is the famous spot among trekkers after such a long trek at a higher altitude.

Later in the day, you will drive back to Pokhara by shared jeep. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can enjoy a comfortable evening, rest, and celebrate the completion of the unforgettable trek.

Overnight in Pokhara.
- Max. Altitude: 2,310 meters (7,579 feet)
- Accommodation: Standard Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Drive duration: 3-4 hours’ drive
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Day 09 Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus
After breakfast, you will begin your return journey to Kathmandu by tourist bus. The scenic drive follows running alongside rivers, hillside settlements, and terraced landscapes. There are short stops for refreshments and rest breaks during the journey.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation, last-minute shopping, or a farewell dinner in the city.

Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Accommodation: Standard Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Drive duration: 6-7 hours’ drive
Day 10 Departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. Our representative will assist you with the transfer and ensure a smooth end to your journey.

This marks the conclusion of your Annapurna Base Camp Trek, leaving you with lasting memories of the Himalayas, mountain villages, and the journey through the Annapurna Sanctuary.
- Meals: Breakfast (Lunch depending on the schedule)

Trip notes

The ABC trek involves daily walking on stone steps and uphill trails, so a steady pace is important. Weather can change quickly at higher elevations, so carry warm layers and a rain jacket at all times.

As you go higher, accommodation becomes more basic with simple rooms and limited facilities. Stay hydrated and take it slow to adjust to altitude, especially near MBC and ABC.

Wi-Fi and charging are available in many teahouses, but may be slow or cost extra. Carry enough Nepali cash, as there are no ATMs on the route. Starting early each day helps avoid bad weather and gives clearer mountain views.

Cost Includes

Airport picks up and drops off.
All necessary trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS, or equivalent).
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (standard tourist category, twin sharing)
Teahouse/Lodge accommodation during the trek.
Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
Professional trekking guide and porter (1 porter for two trekkers).
Guide and porter insurance, salary, food, and lodging.
All government and local taxes.

Cost Excludes

International airfares.
Nepal entry visa fees.
All personal expenses, including alcohol & other beverages, trekking equipment, travel insurance, and more.
Extra expenses during the trek, like hot shower charge, battery charging, Wi-Fi, and any others.
Tips for the trekking guides and porters.
Additional hotel stays in Kathmandu if not on the planned itinerary.
Any expenses not mentioned in the “Includes” section.

When to visit

Average time to visit
Best time to visit
Good time to visit

FAQs for this trip

What is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghandruk Village?

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghandruk Village is one of the most popular trekking adventures in Nepal.

The trail takes you through beautiful Gurung villages, green forests, waterfalls, terraced fields, and stunning Himalayan landscapes before reaching Annapurna Base Camp.
What makes Ghandruk Village special on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Ghandruk is one of the most beautiful Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. The village is known for its traditional stone houses, local culture, mountain views, and friendly people.

You will enjoy staying in Ghandruk because it offers a mix of culture and scenery before heading deeper into the mountains.
How do you reach the starting point of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghandruk Village?

You will reach the starting point of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghandruk Village. First, travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by bus, private vehicle, or flight. From Pokhara, you will continue by road to Nayapul, Ghandruk, Kimche, or Killu, depending on the route and road conditions.

Many other trekkers now drive directly to Ghandruk, Kimche, or Killu to shorten the trek, while some still start from Nayapul for a longer walking route through villages and farmland.
Is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghandruk Village suitable for beginners?

Yes, the trek is suitable for beginners who are prepared for several days of mountain walking. The trail has good teahouse facilities and is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal.
What wildlife can be seen during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghandruk Village?

You may see a variety of birds, monkeys, mountain goats, and other wildlife along the trail. The Annapurna Conservation Area is also home to rare animals, such as the Himalayan thar and the snow leopard, though sightings are uncommon.