Trek Highlights
- Suitable for all kinds of tourists and the trial is short and easy.
- Panoramic and closed views of Annapurna Massif.
- Unobstructed sunrise and sunset view with picturesque villages.
- A deep insight into Gurung culture and lifestyle.
- Roaming around the intact forest of rhododendron with the roaring sound of rivers.
About This Trip
Dhampus-Ghandruk Trek is a short and classic trek located in the Kaski district of Nepal. Dhampus- Ghandruk trek also offers the spectacular scenery of Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) with an excellent view of sunrise and sunset. Dhampus-Ghandruk is also known as the gateway of Annapurna Conservation Area and rich with diverse vegetation. Dhampus and, Ghandruk is inhabited by Gurung and Magar peoples. Walking through the sparse villages, farm terraces, and into the woods will make this trek memorable.
Overview
If you only have few days but are eager to enjoy the mountain wilderness, then Dhampus and Ghandruk Trek is the perfect mini-adventure for you. Dhampus-Ghandruk Trek is one of the shortest treks around Pokhara valley that takes you through three popular viewpoints: Dhampus, Landruk, and Ghandruk. This trek combines stunning Himalayan vistas with magnificent cultural diversity at its best. Considering the beautiful landscape, you will be walking through spectacular views, and you will surely agree that not all treks have to belong for the great experience.
Revel the serene ambiance of the lower part of this Annapurna region. The trail passes through amazing viewpoints, including Dhampus, Sarankot and Australian camp. Here you will get to admire the outstanding views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and iconic Mt.Fishtail (6,991m), commonly known as Machhapuchhre.
You will walk through sparse villages, farm terraces, and the short stretch of woods, considering the beautiful landscape. A close view of the panoramic view of Annapurna Range and other mountains greets us on reaching Dhampus. Trekking to Dhampus is both combinations of trekking the culture and nature. To experience real Gurung village life, you will get a chance to walk through real village life, terrace field with the taste of local organic food.
Dhampus-Ghandruk Trek Route
Dhampus Trek starts with your entry into lakeside Pokhara. From that point, you take a short drive to kande and begin the trek. DhampusGhandruk trekking trail goes through hatched roofed settlements and lush rhododendron forest. We stay overnight at the local teahouse, allowing us to interact with locals and delve into their lifestyle firsthand. We encounter many ethnic tribes along the route, mainly Gurung and Magar, known for their bravery in the British Gurkha Regiment.
Dhampus and Ghandruk trekking route not only commands superb mountain views but also offers the close-up experience of the ethnic Gurung community. Likewise, the village of Landruk is popularly known for the honey hunting festival, where honey harvesters climb via bamboo ladders and hang precariously over the cliff to gather honeycomb from high cliffs.
A hike to Ghandruk from Landruk takes 4 hours via some flats and gentle and steep ups and downs. Ghandruk village offers a homey ambiance and provides immense relief from the hustle and bustle of city life. This village is also known as Stone village and called Konda village in the local dialects. A visit to a local museum offers a fascinating local architecture culture. Apart from cultural insights, you will get a superb view of (iconic fishtail peak) Machhapuchhre, Annapurna south, hiunchuli.
Weave your way through terraces fields, reflecting the awe-inspiring beauty you had saw over the past several days. The trial will end in the beautiful city of Pokhara, where you can enjoy the sightseeing or drive further to Kathmandu.
Dhampus-Ghandruk Trek Difficulty
Dhampus- Ghandruk route is located at the lower part of the Annapurna Region, so Dhampus-Ghandruk Trek is classed as an easy trail. This trek both starts and ends at relatively low altitude, and you do not need too many physical requirements. In the case of returning from Dhampus-Ghandruk be prepared to walk down as your knee may feel some strength. You will need to walk about 4-5 hours a day in a row and make sure that you are fine with slight ups and downs.
Moreover, Dhampus- Ghandruk trekking trials demand an average fitness with great highlands passion. Trekkers must be daily active, follow a healthy lifestyle, and train your body to build stamina and high endurance. You can also do some cardio like cycling, jogging or climbing the staircase to make yourself fit.
Trip to Dhampus- Ghandruk trials passes through easy route with the view of awe-inspiring mountains, terrain, rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and typical Gurung villages. Dhampus- Ghandruk Trekking is one of the economical, time-friendly, and one of the easy trekking in the Annapurna Region. You will forget all your tiredness and pain when you get to immerse into the local lifestyle, hospitality, and the perfect glimpse of the sparkling mountains and pristine scenery.
Best Weather for Dhampus-Ghandruk Trek
Weather is an important factor when you are trekking to a high altitude like Dhampus- Ghandruk People trek throughout the year but then are ups and downs in every season. Although trekking can be done throughout the year, each season has several attractions and adventures. Below is the total information about the climatic situation of Dhampus- Ghandruk every quarter of months.
Dhampus-Ghandruk Trek during Autumn Season (September-November)
The autumn season in Dhampus- Ghandruk will be the best trekking season in Nepal. You can experience the better visibility of tantalizing mountains, decorated green hills, and amazing weather. Weather is generally clear with mild during the days and cold at night. This trekking season is safe as there will be less chance of natural disaster. You will also get an opportunity to experience the biggest Hindu festivals called Dashain and Tihar.
Dhampus-Ghandruk Trek during Wither Season (December-February)
During the winter in Dhampus-Ghandruk, the region will freeze over and the snowfalls. Trekking will be more challenging in every step as you reach higher. The trial will be covered with snow when you reach over 3500 above. The temperature will reach up to -10 degrees Celsius. So, if you are willing to trek Dhampus and Ghandruk, then be prepared with proper gear and strong willpower.
Dhampus-Ghandruk Trek during Spring Season (March-May)
Spring season in Dhampus Ghandruk trek is another best time to trek. You will be welcomed with the blooming flower, lush greenery, and the dazzling White Mountains, which make your trek memorable. Weather is this season will be mild at lower elevation but slightly cold at the highest elevation. Generally, you will witness the best view of mountains in the morning, but there may be clouds in the afternoon.
Dhampus-Ghandruk Trek during Summer Season (June-August)
During the summer in Dhampus- Ghandruk, you will experience the cloudy morning with rain in the afternoons and evenings. Trekking will be uncomfortable as there will be a slippery and muddy trail. There will be a high risk of landslides and floods in hilly reason because of the rainy season. If you are willing to trek, then do not forget to carry the insect repellants. The temperature will reach from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius depending upon the region. This is not such a good time to trek if you are fond of botanists. It will also be best for those who want to do research in forests and higher altitude; this will be the best time for you.