Ghandruk Landruk Short Trek - 4 Days

Max Altitude

2,800m (Deurali)

Duration

4 Days

Group Size

2-12 trekkers

Best Season

March-May, September-December

Difficulty

Easy

Country

Nepal

Overview

The Ghandruk Landruk trek offers an exceptional introduction to Nepal's Annapurna region for travelers with limited time or those seeking a manageable yet rewarding mountain adventure. This compact 4-day journey departing from Pokhara provides remarkable Himalayan vistas, cultural immersion in traditional Gurung villages, and a relaxing hot spring experience along an accessible trail.

This route stands out as one of the finest short treks accessible from Pokhara, delivering breathtaking alpine panoramas while maintaining a relatively gentle difficulty level. The countryside along this path showcases Nepal's rural beauty at its best, allowing hikers to witness authentic village lifestyles that have remained largely unchanged for generations.

The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, followed by an ascent through farmland, forests, and picturesque hill settlements. Your first major destination is Ghandruk, a historic Gurung community renowned for its traditional stone-roofed dwellings and fascinating local museum. This village serves as an excellent base for experiencing indigenous mountain culture while enjoying magnificent views of the surrounding peaks.

The trail continues to Landruk via the renowned Jhinu hot springs, where trekkers can soak tired muscles in natural thermal pools beside the Modi River. The route then winds through rhododendron forests and past scenic viewpoints including Deurali and Pothana before reaching Dhampus, known for its luxury lodges and unobstructed mountain panoramas.

This trek represents an ideal choice for families, first-time trekkers, or anyone seeking a condensed Himalayan experience that delivers impressive mountain scenery, authentic cultural encounters, and natural rejuvenation without demanding weeks of time commitment.

Highlights

  • Explore the authentic Gurung village of Ghandruk with traditional stone architecture
  • Relax in the natural hot springs at Jhinu beside the Modi River
  • Witness panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre
  • Walk through scenic rhododendron and bamboo forests
  • Experience local Nepali village culture and hospitality
  • Visit the mountain museum in Ghandruk showcasing Gurung heritage
  • Enjoy comfortable accommodation in well-maintained teahouses
  • Trek through beautiful terraced farmland and rural settlements
  • Capture stunning photography opportunities at multiple viewpoints
  • Perfect short trek for families and first-time Himalayan trekkers

Your Journey

4 Days

Your adventure begins with a 90-minute scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, covering approximately 45 kilometers. From here, the trekking starts as you descend through a small market area and cross a suspension bridge over the Modi River at Birethanti. The trail follows the riverbank through charming ethnic villages, bamboo groves, and past a hydroelectric project. After crossing the prayer flag-adorned Birethanti iron bridge, continue toward Syaulibazar through peaceful countryside. The path ascends via stone steps through lush terrain, passing waterfalls and local women carrying mountain grass in bamboo baskets. Arrive at Ghandruk by late afternoon, where numerous teahouses await. Evening exploration of this historic Gurung village reveals the impressive Himalayan panorama, a fascinating mountain museum, and traditional stone architecture.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,940m (6,365 ft)

Meals

Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse in Ghandruk

After breakfast, follow signs toward Jhinu Hot Spring, descending through stone stairs with magnificent mountain and natural scenery views. Cross a charming iron bridge over a small stream and continue through mountain terraces, passing traditional zinc-roofed farmhouses where you can stop for refreshments. The trail descends through bamboo forest with impressive views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli before reaching the Modi River. Cross a wooden bridge and climb for about 30 minutes to reach Jhinu village with its numerous teahouses. Order lunch, then descend through forest to the natural hot springs for a rejuvenating one-hour soak. Return for your meal before continuing through rhododendron forest and crossing a new suspension bridge. The trail gradually ascends through varied forest species to reach Landruk for your overnight stay.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,565m (5,135 ft)

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse in Landruk

Start early to enjoy spectacular sunrise views from your lodge in Landruk. After a hearty breakfast, begin the ascent on a wide graveled trail. The three-hour climb leads to Deurali at 2,800 meters, where you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the distant Pokhara valley. Descend gradually through pristine forest to reach Pothana, a peaceful lunch stop surrounded by dense woodland offering extraordinary Himalayan perspectives. After showing your ACAP permit at the checkpoint, continue the descent to Dhampus. This pristine village offers some of the closest and most unobstructed mountain views accessible from Pokhara. The lodges here are notably well-appointed and comfortable compared to higher altitude accommodations.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,650m (5,413 ft)

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Lodge in Dhampus

Enjoy a final morning amidst the mountains before breakfast. Begin the descent along the wide road for about 15 minutes, then ask locals about the shortcut trail to Phedi. While the main road takes longer, a stone staircase path offers a quicker and more scenic descent through peaceful surroundings. The trail provides excellent opportunities for final mountain photography and village glimpses. Upon reaching Phedi, board a taxi or local bus for the 30-minute drive back to Pokhara. Arrive at your hotel with memories of traditional villages, therapeutic hot springs, magnificent Himalayan vistas, and the warm hospitality of Nepal mountain communities.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,130m (3,707 ft)

Meals

Breakfast

Stay

Not included

What's Included

  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Nayapul by microbus
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)
  • Traditional Nepali meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Accommodation at local homestays along the trekking route
  • Experienced English-speaking government registered trekking guide
  • Guide salary, insurance, meals, accommodation, and transportation
  • Transportation from Phedi to Pokhara by microbus

What's Not Included

  • International flights to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
  • Bottled drinking water and beverages
  • Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks
  • Hot shower facilities (available for extra charge)
  • WiFi internet access (available for extra charge)
  • Electronic device charging (available for extra charge)
  • Personal trekking equipment and gear
  • Tips and gratuities for guide
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Any services not specifically mentioned in inclusions

Trusted By

Government of NepalNepal Tourism BoardNepal Mountaineering AssociationTrekking Agencies Association of NepalKEEP NepalTrustpilot