Kathmandu: 12-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek – How to Plan Your Trek in Ghandruk

Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp is an amazing experience that offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range. The trek takes you to the base of the world’s tenth-tallest peak, Annapurna, and offers extraordinary scenery, including snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and rhododendron forests. If you are planning to go on the Kathmandu 12-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek, here are some tips to help you plan your trip.

Experience

The Kathmandu 12-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderately-difficult trek that offers an unforgettable experience. Some of the highlights of the trek include:

• Ascending to the Poon Hill viewpoint at 3210 meters
• Enjoying the excellent scenery of Annapurna Base Camp at 4130 meters
• Taking in the Himalayan views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri chain
• Basking in the wonderful countryside scenery of rhododendron forests

Itinerary

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp starts from Nayapul and takes around 12 days to complete. The recommended itinerary goes via Ghorepani Poon Hill and joins the base camp trail from Chhomrong. Here’s a day by day breakdown of the trek:

Day 1

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (827m)

Day 2

Drive to Nayapul (1070m) and trek to Tikhedhunga (1540m)

Day 3

Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2840m)

Day 4

Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3210m) and trek to Tadapani (2610m)

Day 5

Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong (2170m)

Day 6

Trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo (2335m)

Day 7

Trek from Bamboo to Deurali (3140m)

Day 8

Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m)

Day 9

Excursion to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) and return to Deurali (3140m)

Day 10

Trek from Deurali to Jhinu Danda (1780m)

Day 11

Trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul (1070m) and drive back to Pokhara

Day 12

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Things to Consider Before Going on the Trek

Permits

Before going on the trek, you need to acquire two permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card. These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Weather

The best time to go on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is from September to November and March to May. During these months, the weather is clear, and the skies are blue. However, during the winter months of December to February, the temperatures drop, and there is a possibility of snow. During the monsoon season (June to August), it can be wet and slippery.

Physical Preparation

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a moderately difficult trek that involves trekking for several hours a day, sometimes on steep terrain. It is recommended that you engage in regular physical activity for at least a month before embarking on the trek. This will help you build your stamina and prepare your body for the trek.

Equipment

The following are some of the essential items that you need to carry with you on the trek:

• Trekking boots
• Warm clothes
• Backpack
• Sleeping bag
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Water bottle and water purification tablets
• Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries

Booking Your Trek

If you are interested in going on the Kathmandu 12-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you can book the tour here: book the tour here. The tour is organized by a third-party company, and they will take care of all the arrangements, including transportation, accommodation, and meals.

Book Your Tour Now

Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp is an incredible adventure that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. By planning ahead and preparing yourself physically, you can have a safe and enjoyable trek. Book your tour today and get ready for a journey of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ghandruk

If you’re planning to visit the beautiful village of Ghandruk, you probably have many questions about it. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of the most frequently asked questions tourists have about Ghandruk, Nepal.

1. What is Ghandruk?

Ghandruk is a beautiful village located in the Kaski District of Nepal. It is situated at an elevation of 1,940 meters (6,364 feet) above sea level, making it a popular trekking destination in the country. The village is surrounded by lush green forests and tall mountains, providing breathtaking views to visitors.

2. What is the best time to visit Ghandruk?

The best time to visit Ghandruk is from October to December and from March to May. During these months, the weather is relatively mild, and the skies are clearer, providing the best views of the mountains. The monsoon season from June to August is not recommended as the village and trails can be extremely muddy and even dangerous. The winter months from December to February can be cold, and the views may be obstructed by fog.

3. How do I get to Ghandruk?

To get to Ghandruk, you need to first travel to the city of Pokhara. Pokhara is easily accessible by air or road from Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. To reach Ghandruk, you need to take a bus or taxi from Pokhara to Nayapul, which is a small town near the village. From Nayapul, you can either trek for about 6 to 7 hours or take a jeep ride for an hour to reach Ghandruk.

4. What are some popular activities to do in Ghandruk?

Ghandruk is famous for its stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor activities that you can do here, including:

• Trekking: Ghandruk is located near the famous Annapurna Circuit Trek, one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal.
• Hiking: There are many hiking trails in and around Ghandruk that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and villages.
• Cultural tours: You can take a guided tour of the village to learn about the local culture, visit museums, and historic sites.
• Photography: Ghandruk offers some of the best views of the Annapurna mountain range and is a paradise for photographers.

5. What should I pack for my trip to Ghandruk?

Packing for Ghandruk can be a bit challenging due to its changing weather conditions. Here’s a list of items that you should consider packing:

• Lightweight clothing for trekking/hiking
• Warm jackets, especially for the winter months
• Rain gear or waterproof jackets and pants
• A sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
• A reusable water bottle or hydration system
• Snacks and energy bars for the trek

6. What is the altitude sickness, and how can I prevent it while in Ghandruk?

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a common condition that can occur at high elevations. The symptoms of AMS include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To prevent AMS, you should follow these tips:

• Acclimatize yourself to the high altitude gradually by taking rest days while trekking.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Eat light but nutritious meals
• If you are experiencing symptoms of AMS, descend to a lower elevation immediately and seek medical attention.

7. What is the local cuisine of Ghandruk?

Ghandruk offers a wide range of Nepali and international cuisines to the visitors. The local cuisine of Ghandruk includes dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), momo (dumplings filled with vegetables or meat), chow mein (stir-fried noodles), and thukpa (noodle soup). The food here is generally healthy and cooked with fresh ingredients.

8. What are some useful Nepali phrases to know before visiting Ghandruk?

Learning some basic Nepali phrases can be useful during your trip to Ghandruk. Here are a few to get you started:

• Namaste – Hello
• Dhanyabad – Thank you
• Kasto Cha – How are you?
• Maafi Chai – Excuse me
• Khana Milega? – Can I get food?
• Bhanne? – What did you say?

9. Are there any accommodations in Ghandruk?

Yes, Ghandruk offers a range of accommodations to suit the needs of all travelers. From basic lodges and guesthouses to luxury resorts, you can find a place to stay that fits your budget and preferences. The lodges and guesthouses here offer basic amenities like hot showers, clean rooms, and simple meals. Some of the popular accommodations in Ghandruk are Hotel Mountain View, Hotel Gurung Cottage, and Deurali Guest House.

10. Are there any local customs that I should be aware of while visiting Ghandruk?

Yes, Ghandruk follows some traditional customs and etiquettes that visitors should be aware of. Here are a few:

• Respect the local culture and traditions.
• Remove your shoes before entering homes or temples.
• Ask for permission before taking photos of people or objects.
• Avoid showing public displays of affection.
• Do not litter the environment.

Book Your Tour Now

Ghandruk is a beautiful and popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers. With its breathtaking views, rich culture, and warm hospitality, this village offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors. By following these tips and guidelines, you can make the most of your trip to Ghandruk and create memories that last a lifetime.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Ghandruk?

Ghandruk is a beautiful village nestled in the lap of the Annapurna mountain range of Nepal. It is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, culture, and adventure. In this article, we will discuss how to spend your time as a tourist in Ghandruk.

1. Hike to Ghandruk

The most popular way of reaching Ghandruk is by hiking. The village is located at an altitude of 6600 feet, and there are several trails that you can take to reach there. The trek to Ghandruk is a moderate one and can be done in around 6 hours. Along the way, you will get to enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, rice terraces, and traditional villages.

Things to remember while hiking to Ghandruk:

• Carry enough water and snacks during the hike.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
• Carry a first-aid kit and your trekking permit.
• Keep yourself hydrated by drinking enough water.

2. Explore the Village

Ghandruk is a traditional Gurung village with narrow alleys, stone houses, and terraced fields. The village is well known for its rich culture and traditions, which can be seen in its architecture, dress, and lifestyle. Some of the must-visit places in the village are the Gurung Museum, Buddhist Monastery, and traditional houses.

Things to remember while exploring the village:

• Respect the local culture and traditions while exploring the village.
• Ask for permission before taking photographs of the locals.
• Dress appropriately while visiting the Buddhist Monastery.
• Talk to the locals to understand their way of life.

3. Enjoy Local Food

Ghandruk is well known for its delicious local food. Some of the must-try dishes in the village are Dal Bhat, Momos, Thukpa, and Churpi. You can enjoy these dishes in local restaurants or in the homestays run by the villagers.

Things to remember while enjoying local food:

• Try the local food in trusted restaurants or homestays.
• Respect the local food culture and try to understand the preparation process.
• Avoid drinking tap water and try to drink boiled or bottled water.

4. Experience Local Festivals

Ghandruk is well known for its colorful festivals, which are celebrated throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals in the village are Dashain, Tihar, and Ghode Jatra. These festivals are a great way to experience the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle.

Things to remember while experiencing local festivals:

• Respect the local culture and traditions while participating in the festivals.
• Dress appropriately while participating in the festivals.
• Avoid disturbing the locals during the festivals.
• Participate in the local customs and rituals to get a better understanding of the festivals.

5. Trek to Poonhill

Poonhill is a popular trekking destination near Ghandruk. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna South. The trek to Poonhill is a moderate one and can be done in around 4-5 hours.

Things to remember while trekking to Poonhill:

• Carry enough water and snacks during the trek.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
• Carry a first-aid kit and your trekking permit.
• Keep yourself hydrated by drinking enough water.

Book Your Tour Now

Ghandruk is an amazing destination that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. To make the most of your time in the village, you can follow the tips mentioned in this article. Whether you like hiking, exploring traditional villages, trying local food, experiencing local festivals, or trekking to the nearby destinations, there is something for everyone in Ghandruk. Just remember to respect the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle while enjoying your time in the village.