Ghandruk

Ghandruk is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich villages in the Annapurna region. Inhabited by the Gurung people, the village is striking for its characteristic slate-roofed stone houses and neatly paved paths. It gives some of the closest and most impressive views of Machhapuchhre (Fischtail) and Annapurna South. Ghandruk is a major hub for trekkers on their way to Annapurna Base Camp or Poon Hill. Visitors can explore the Gurung Museum to learn about the customs, costumes, and history of this brave mountain ethnic group, from which many famous Gurkha soldiers hail. The hospitality in local teahouses is legendary, and dishes like Dhindo and local chicken curry are must-tries. The village is surrounded by terraced fields and rhododendron forests. Ghandruk is reachable from Pokhara through a combination of a jeep ride and a short hike. The best times to visit are autumn for clear skies and spring when the rhododendrons are in full bloom.

Nearby cities

Baglung

Baglung is the headquarters of Baglung District in Gandaki Province.

Waling

Waling is a municipality in Syangja District, located on the banks of the Aandhikhola river.

Ghorepani (Poon Hill)

A famous trekking stop renowned for the magical sunrise over the Himalayas from Poon Hill.

Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, a sparkling turquoise gem in the heart of the Annapurna massif.

Jomsom

The gateway to Lower Mustang, located in the windy Kali Gandaki valley, famous for its apples and rugged beauty.

Begnas Lake

Begnas Lake is a serene alternative to Pokhara's Phewa Lake, ideal for relaxation and fishing amidst lush green hills.

History & landmarks

Lo Manthang

Lo Manthang is the walled capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang, known for its well-preserved Tibetan culture and centuries-old Buddhi…

Bandipur

A living museum of Newari culture set in a charming, vehicle-free hilltop village.

Nature

Tilicho Lake

One of the highest lakes in the world, located in the Annapurna massif.

Phewa Lake

A picturesque freshwater lake in Pokhara that reflects the peaks of the Annapurna range.

Kali Gandaki River

A mighty Himalayan river known for carving the deepest gorge in the world.

More places

Muktinath Temple

A sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, situated at a high altitude in the Mustang district.

Mustang Apple Orchards

In the dry, windswept region of Mustang, particularly in Marpha, farmers grow juicy apples at high altitudes, famous for their unique, cr…

Annapurna Conservation Area

Nepal's largest protected area, encompassing the entire Annapurna mountain range.

Pokhara Industrial Estate

An industrial area focused on light industry and local crafts in one of Nepal's most important tourist cities.

Dhaulagiri

A massive mountain range and the seventh highest mountain on Earth.

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

As Nepal's only hunting reserve, the population of blue sheep and Himalayan tahr is strictly monitored and regulated here to maintain the…

Gorkha Durbar

An ancient palace and temple complex on a hilltop, the ancestral home of the Shah dynasty.

Manaslu Conservation Area

Around the eighth highest mountain in the world lies a protected region inhabited by the endangered musk deer and blue sheep herds at ext…