Ghandruk Trek-Itinerary, Cost, Distance, In Nepal

You'll get stunning views of the valley, the Himalayas, and the terraced fields below as you fly into Kathmandu. After clearing customs, a representative will be waiting to help you get settled into your hotel and take you through the culture shock of Kathmandu's small, winding streets. After you've settled down, go see one of Kathmandu's cultural attractions. The tourist hub of Thamel is a good site to eat your first meal in the evening, with a selection of eateries serving both Western and indigenous Nepali cuisine.

Kathmandu has a unique aura in the early morning hours when the city is slowly but steadily waking up. It's a fantastic time to go for a walk and explore the streets, or to relax with a cup of chai while looking out over one of the local courtyards or durbar squares. Given the many magnificent vistas in the Kathmandu Valley, there are a variety of ways to spend the day. Later in the evening, go out to one of the city's famous restaurants for dinner, or have your specialist organize a home-cooked meal with a local family.

You'll be driven to the airport after an early breakfast to catch your flight to Pokhara. When you arrive, a jeep will be waiting to take you to Phedi, where the hike to Pothana begins. The trail ascends through rhododendron, magnolia, oak, sandalwood, and pine forests until you reach Dhampus town. This is an original Gurung village with spectacular views of the Annapurna mountains and famous peaks such as Lamjung Himal.

The trail ascends from Dhampus via a stone-paved path through more woodlands and mossy trees (keep an eye out for orchids). When you get in Pothana, you'll find a variety of trekker amenities such as shops, teahouses, and cafés. Relax and take in the breathtaking mountain views.

Set out for Ghandruk, a major Gurung settlement. The walk begins with a gentle elevation for over an hour till you reach Deurali, passing through thick woods with spectacular views of the Annapurna ranges, Manaslu, and Mardi Himal.

After leaving Deurali, you'll begin a steep descent to Tolkha, a lovely ethnic Gurung settlement. The trail descends more gradually to the next destination, Landruk, another ethnic village, going past terraces and a few towns.

Continue down to the Modi Khola river, which is a harder slope from here. You'll pass an iron bridge before ascending a steep slope to Ghandruk, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas. You'll spend the night at this trekker's mecca, which has a plethora of lodges, cafés, and shops where you can fill up on supplies. Take some time to visit the Gurung museum, a small display housed in an old traditional stone slab home where you may learn about the history and culture of the Gurung people.

Begin the day with an early morning breakfast in Ghandruk, then trek to Nayapul through small towns and lovely rice fields. When you arrive, your private jeep shuttle will be ready to transport you back to Pokhara, where you will board a flight back to Kathmandu.

You have the remainder of the afternoon and evening to yourself. You can shop for souvenirs or walk, bike, or rickshaw around the capital's streets, seeing what you may have missed at the start of your journey. In terms of food, here are some suggestions for your final meal in Nepal, including French, Vietnamese, and Middle Eastern cuisines.

It's time to bid Nepal farewell. Enjoy one more breakfast in a café, a city stroll, and/or souvenir shopping in Kathmandu. A representative will pick you up from your hotel and transport you to the airport for your return trip home. Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight.