Ghandruk Trekking & Safari
Overview:
The trek is a wonderful route in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. This trekking route leads through charming Gurung villages, dense rhododendron forests, and over picturesque suspension bridges. The combination with a safari in Chitwan National Park allows travelers to experience Nepal’s diverse wildlife after their trekking adventure.
Highlights
- Ghandruk:
- A picturesque Gurung village (1,940 m) with stunning views and a cultural museum.
- Tadapani:
- A village (2,630 m) with magnificent views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare.
- Chhomrong:
- The gateway to Annapurna Base Camp (2,170 m) with spectacular views and cozy teahouses.
- Chitwan National Park:
- A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring jeep safaris, elephant rides, and sightings of rhinos and tigers.
- Landscapes and Flora:
- Dense rhododendron forests and subtropical valleys, particularly impressive in spring.
- Cultural Experiences:
- Insights into the lives of the local Gurung communities.
Travel Itinerary
Departure to Kathmandu
You can obtain a visa for Nepal directly upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport for a payment of US$ 30 for 30 days. Transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel Tibet (or similar).
In the morning, you will visit the Bodnath Stupa, known as Little Tibet of Nepal – the most important structure for Buddhists. The stupa is located on the outskirts of Kathmandu, and the incessant sound of numerous prayer wheels and the meditative atmosphere make it clear – you are in a different world. In the afternoon, you will visit the Swayambhunath Stupa, the oldest and most significant Buddhist shrine with the all-seeing eyes of Buddha. Overnight stay at Hotel Tibet (or similar).
You will continue towards the Indian border to Chitwan National Park. Your constant companion is the mighty Trisuli River. After checking into your lodge, you will start an initial exploration of the national park on foot along the Rapti River. On the way back, you will visit an elephant breeding center and see baby elephants. Overnight stay at Green Mansions Jungle Resort (or similar).
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Chitwan National Park offers the opportunity to observe seemingly sluggish rhinoceroses. You have excellent chances of spotting shy animals such as Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, or monkeys up close. Another highlight is a canoe safari on the Rapti River, where you can see crocodiles, gharials, and various birds. A walk through the villages will give you insights into the lifestyle of the Tharu ethnic group, who live in harmony with nature. In the evening, we will enjoy a Tharu cultural dance at the resort. Dinner and overnight stay at Green Mansions Jungle Resort (or similar).
Today, you will drive along the Narayani and Seti rivers to Pokhara. Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the picturesque Phewa Lake and visit the local market. Overnight stay at Hotel Crown Himalaya (or similar).
After breakfast, you will drive for about 1 hour to Kande, the starting point of the trek, where the accompanying team will be waiting for you. From here, your trekking tour towards Landruk begins, lasting approximately 6 hours. You will pass by several teahouses, traverse a dense forest, and reach the village of Tolka after about 2 hours, followed by another hour to reach your destination, Landruk. Overnight stay in a lodge.
After breakfast, you will ascend from Landruk along the left bank of the rushing Modi Khola River towards the so-called New Bridge. Here begins a strenuous ascent towards Chhomrong. However, you will be rewarded with an unobstructed view of the Annapurna range and the upper valley. After another climb up steep stairs, you will reach the village of Chhomrong after about 5 hours. Overnight stay in a lodge.
In the morning, you will set off for a approximately 3-hour hike to the suspension bridge over the Jhinu Khola, followed by another 3-hour steep ascent through rice terraces and enchanting rhododendron forests covered in lichens and moss to Tadapani. From here, you will again have a fantastic view of the Annapurna range. Overnight stay in a lodge.
After a leisurely breakfast, you will slowly descend through rhododendron forests towards Bhaisikharka. From here, you will walk for about 3 hours to your overnight destination, Ghandruk. You can enjoy wonderful views of the Annapurna mountains from here. In the afternoon, take a short walk through the village of Ghandruk. Overnight stay in a lodge.
Your first stage of the day will take you to Kimche. Then, follow the wide road to Nayapul, where the bus will be waiting for you. From here, you will drive for about 2 hours to Pokhara. Overnight stay at Hotel Crown Himalaya (or similar).
The day is at your leisure. A stroll along the lake is very pleasant. Enjoy the view of the lake from one of the cafés by the shore. Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, we will begin our drive along the Seti, Marsyangdi, and Trisuli rivers towards Kathmandu. This river flows from Tibet and will accompany us for several hours along the way. Overnight stay at Hotel Tibet (or similar).
Return Flight to Germany
Notes
- Best Travel Time:
March to May and September to November. - Duration and Difficulty Level:
6 to 7 days, moderate. - Equipment:
Comfortable hiking shoes, weatherproof clothing, warm sleeping bag, backpack, and trekking poles. - Permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. - Local Guides and Porters:
Recommended for support and local insights. - Health Precautions:
Travel insurance for high altitudes, basic medications, and first aid kit. - Food and Accommodation:
Teahouses and lodges along the route, reservations recommended during peak season.
Conclusion
The trek through Ghandruk, Tadapani, and Chhomrong combined with a safari in Chitwan National Park offers a comprehensive Nepal experience that delights both nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The relatively short and accessible route makes this trek ideal for those who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without undertaking an extremely strenuous hike. The subsequent safari perfectly rounds off the adventure, providing insights into Nepal’s impressive wildlife.
