The 4-day itinerary begins in Pokhara, a city of lakes in the west that upholds its reputation as a tourist hub and offers ample options for people with varied preferences and backgrounds. A warm, welcoming, and tranquil place that has so much to see and show. Additionally, it serves as a gateway to the legendary Annapurna Circuit and the Annapurna base camp trekking route. Pokhara does it like no other city.
The trek starts after leaving behind the unparalleled beauty of the lakeside city; youâll take a 20-minute morning taxi ride to Harichowk. From there, you'll take a jeep ride to Ghandruk. Along the way, youâll be immersed in a quintessential Nepali landscape. The journey unfolds through terraced fields and passes by numerous waterfalls, both named and unnamed. Throughout the trip, you'll be accompanied by breathtaking views of the Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna peaks, as well as the flowing Modi Khola river. The specific section of the journey from Nayapul to Ghandruk covers approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) along a local, uneven, and bumpy road, taking about 3 to 4 hours. Once you arrive in Ghandruk, you'll have a one-hour break to enjoy lunch.
Situated at an elevation of 2,010 meters (6,600 feet) above sea level, Ghandruk is an entry point to the Annapurna region. Ghandruk is a small traditional Gurung village in the Kaski district of Nepal, located near the Modi Khola (river), a tributary of the Kali Gandaki river. This two-century-old village, with stone-paved streets and traditional slate-roofed houses, offers a snapshot of the traditional Gurung lifestyle and culture, rewarding interaction with people who have been living there for generations.
Iconic peaks like Machapuchare and a few of the Annapurna ranges are clearly visible from Ghandruk and become the highlight of the trek. Ghandruk alone can be taken as a destination to visit as it is the largest Gurung Village in the Annapurna region, where everything is preserved as it is.
After a well-deserved lunch in Ghandruk, you'll embark on a 3-hour trek to Tadapani. The trail features several ascents and descents, leading you through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine. Along the way, you'll pass through small, picturesque villages, offering a glimpse into the local lifestyle. The journey is enriched by stunning views of the surrounding hills and distant mountains, making this trek a rewarding blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Overnight in Tadapani.