How to Plan Your 3-Day Trek to Ghandruk from Pokhara

Are you looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and charming villages with experiencing traditional Nepalese culture? Then a 3-day trek to Ghandruk might be just the thing for you! Led by experienced guides, you’ll explore picturesque towns, hike through terraced fields and rhododendron forests, and stay in cozy tea houses. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to plan your trek to Ghandruk from Pokhara so you can have an unforgettable experience.

Overview of the Trek

The trek to Ghandruk is a moderate difficulty trek that takes you through stunning scenery and traditional villages. Here are some details about the trek:

Experience

– Discover the unique culture and traditions of the Gurung people – Admire stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range at sunrise – Stay in cozy traditional tea houses for a true Nepalese experience

Itinerary

Day 1: – Meet your guide in Pokhara and drive to Nayapul – Begin the trek to Ghandruk passing through rice paddies, forests, and waterfalls – Explore the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk Day 2: – Trek to Tadapani passing through the dense rhododendron forest – Stop for lunch at a local tea house – Enjoy the panoramic views of towering peaks Day 3: – Trek to Ghorepani and hike up to Poon Hill for a stunning sunrise view – Trek down to Nayapul and take a scenic drive back to your hotel in Pokhara

When to Go

The best time to trek to Ghandruk is during the dry season from October to May. During these months, the skies are clear, and the views of the mountains are spectacular. June to September is the monsoon season, and trekking can be difficult during this time due to slippery and muddy trails.

Permits and Fees

To trek to Ghandruk, you need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. You can get them in the Nepal Tourism Board office in Pokhara or your trekking agency can arrange them for you. The cost of the ACAP is NPR 3000 (approximately $25) for foreigners and NPR 200 (approximately $2) for Nepali nationals. The cost of the TIMS card is NPR 2000 (approximately $17) per person.

What to Pack

Here are some essential items to bring on your trek to Ghandruk: – Good quality trekking shoes – Warm clothes such as fleece jackets, thermal underwear, and down jackets for cold nights – Sleeping bag – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat – Water bottle, water purification tablets/storage bag – Snacks and energy bars – Personal medication and first aid kit

Booking the Trek

You can book the 3-day trek to Ghandruk from Pokhara with GetYourGuide, a trusted third-party booking platform. The package includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Pokhara, transportation to and from Nayapul, trekking guide and porter, accommodation in tea houses, and all meals during the trek. The cost of the package is around $200 per person. Book the tour here: book here.

Book Your Tour Now

Trekking to Ghandruk is an unforgettable adventure. With our guide, we hope you now have a better idea of what to expect during the trek and how to plan your journey. Remember to pack smart, follow the instructions of your guide, and enjoy the stunning views and cultural experience that this trek has to offer.

FAQs on the City of Pokhara

Pokhara, popularly known as ‘The Lake City’, is one of the most beautiful cities of Nepal, situated at an altitude of 1400 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by the lush green hills, snow-capped mountains, and crystal clear lakes. Pokhara is also the gateway to the Annapurna region, one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. Here are some frequently asked questions about the city:

1. What is the best time to visit Pokhara?

The best time to visit Pokhara is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is mild, with clear skies and great visibility of mountains. The temperature ranges from 20-30 °C during the day and around 15 °C at night.

2. What are the popular tourist attractions in Pokhara?

Some of the popular tourist attractions in Pokhara include:

i. Phewa Lake

Phewa Lake is the second-largest lake in Nepal and a popular boating spot. The reflections of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak, the Annapurna Range, and other mountains on the lake are stunning.

ii. Sarangkot Hill

Sarangkot Hill is situated at an altitude of 1592 meters and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. It is also a popular spot for paragliding.

iii. World Peace Pagoda

The World Peace Pagoda, also known as Shanti Stupa, is a Buddhist pagoda-style monument situated on the top of a hill. It was built to promote world peace and harmony and offers panoramic views of the Pokhara valley and the Himalayas.

iv. Bindabasini Temple

The Bindabasini Temple is one of the oldest temples in Pokhara and a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site. It is dedicated to the goddess Durga and attracts a large number of visitors during the festivals of Dashain and Tihar.

3. What are the popular adventure activities in Pokhara?

Pokhara offers a wide range of adventure activities such as:

i. Trekking

Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region and offers some of the best trekking trails in the world. The Annapurna Circuit Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are some of the popular trekking routes.

ii. Paragliding

Paragliding is a popular adventure activity in Pokhara because of its stunning landscapes and scenery. The Sarangkot Hill is a popular spot for paragliding, and you can enjoy gliding over the city and Phewa Lake from the sky.

iii. Bungee Jumping

Bungee Jumping is a thrilling adventure activity offered by The Last Resort, situated around 3 hours away from Pokhara. It is a 160 meters high free fall and one of the highest bungee jumps in the world.

4. What is the local cuisine of Pokhara?

Pokhara offers a range of delicious local cuisine such as:

i. Dal Bhat Tarkari

Dal Bhat Tarkari is the staple food of Nepal and a popular dish in Pokhara. It comprises of steamed rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry.

ii. Momos

Momos are dumplings filled with minced meat or vegetables and served with dipping sauce. They are a popular snack in Nepal and a must-try in Pokhara.

iii. Sel Roti

Sel Roti is a local Nepali bread made of rice flour and deep-fried until crispy. It is a popular snack or breakfast item in Pokhara.

5. What is the local mode of transportation in Pokhara?

The local mode of transportation in Pokhara is primarily taxis, motorbikes, and bicycles. You can also rent a scooter or a motorcycle to get around the city. Microbuses and local buses are the most affordable mode of transportation and connect Pokhara to other major cities in Nepal.

6. What are the accommodation options in Pokhara?

Pokhara offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Some of the popular options include:

i. Backpacker Hostels

Backpacker hostels are the most affordable accommodation option in Pokhara and offer dorms or private rooms for travelers.

ii. Guesthouses

Guesthouses offer a more comfortable stay than hostels and are a popular option for budget travelers. They offer private rooms with basic amenities such as hot water and Wi-Fi.

iii. Hotels

Hotels in Pokhara range from budget to luxury and offer a more comfortable and convenient stay. They offer amenities such as swimming pool, spa, and restaurant.

7. What are the safety precautions to take while traveling to Pokhara?

Like any other city, there are some safety precautions you should take while traveling to Pokhara:

i. Be cautious of pickpocketing and theft

Be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas, and do not carry expensive items.

ii. Book your adventures with a reputable agency

Make sure to research and book your adventure activities with reputable agencies to ensure your safety.

iii. Be careful while trekking

Trekking can be dangerous if you are not prepared, so make sure to hire a guide and carry essential gear.

Book Your Tour Now

Pokhara is a beautiful city abundant in natural beauty and adventure activities. It offers a range of tourist attractions, local cuisine, and accommodation options. With the right safety precautions, you can explore the city and have a memorable vacation in Nepal.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Pokhara

Pokhara is one of the most scenic and enchanting tourist destinations in Nepal. Located in the central part of Nepal, Pokhara is surrounded by beautiful mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes. It is also home to some of the best adventure activities in Nepal, including paragliding, trekking, and rafting. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Pokhara.

1. Visit Phewa Lake

Phewa Lake is the main attraction of Pokhara. This stunning lake is situated in the center of the city and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. You can take a boat ride on the lake or simply relax on the shores and watch the sunset. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants around the lake where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious meal.

2. Take a Walk along the Lakeside

Lakeside is the main tourist hub in Pokhara with numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes. The Lakeside road is a beautiful stretch of road lined with trees and adorned with colorful prayer flags. You can take a leisurely walk along this road and enjoy the beautiful views of Phewa Lake and the surrounding mountains.

3. Trekking in the Annapurna Region

The Annapurna region is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal. There are several trekking routes in the region that offer breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and waterfalls. The trekking routes vary in difficulty and duration, so you can choose one that suits your level of fitness and the amount of time you have.

4. Paragliding

Paragliding is one of the most popular adventure activities in Pokhara. You can soar through the sky and enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, Phewa Lake, and the Pokhara valley. There are several paragliding companies in Pokhara that offer tandem flights with experienced pilots.

5. Visit World Peace Pagoda

The World Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa located on a hilltop overlooking Pokhara valley. This iconic structure was built to promote world peace and is adorned with beautiful Buddhist carvings and statues. You can take a short hike to the pagoda and enjoy the stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.

6. Rafting in the Seti River

Rafting in the Seti River is a thrilling adventure activity that you can enjoy in Pokhara. The river offers class 2 to 3 rapids, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. You can choose from a half-day or a full-day rafting trip, depending on your preference.

7. Visit Davis Falls

Davis Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Pokhara. It is named after a Swiss tourist who fell into the waterfall and drowned. The waterfall has a unique shape and is surrounded by lush green vegetation. There is also a cave behind the waterfall that you can explore.

8. Explore the Old Bazaar

The Old Bazaar is the historic center of Pokhara. It is a vibrant marketplace that offers a wide range of local products, including handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. You can also find several traditional Nepali restaurants and cafes in the area.

9. Take a Flight to see the Himalayas

Taking a mountain flight in Pokhara is one of the best ways to see the Himalayan mountains up close. The flights operate early in the morning, and you can see the majestic mountains, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, from the comfort of the aircraft.

10. Soak in the Hot Springs

Pokhara is home to several natural hot springs that are believed to have healing properties. You can take a dip in the hot springs and relax in the warm water. Tatopani is a popular hot spring located near Pokhara, and you can reach there by a short trek. In conclusion, Pokhara is a charming tourist destination that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, there are plenty of things to do and see in Pokhara. So, plan your trip to Pokhara today and experience the magic of this enchanting city.