The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of the most popular and beautiful treks in Nepal. A common and rewarding route starts from the traditional village of Ghandruk, giving trekkers a rich cultural experience along with stunning mountain views. Many people are curious about the Ghandruk to Annapurna Base Camp distance, which is roughly 37 to 40 kilometers, depending on the trail you follow. Spread over several days, the walk is manageable and full of natural and cultural highlights.
Starting the Trek: From Pokhara to Ghandruk
Most trekkers begin the journey in Pokhara, a peaceful lakeside city. From there, it’s about a 2–3 hour drive to Ghandruk, a large Gurung village surrounded by green hills and snowy peaks. Ghandruk is not just a starting point—it’s also a beautiful place to explore, with traditional houses, friendly locals, and excellent views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain).
Walking Toward the Base Camp
From Ghandruk, the trail heads toward Chhomrong, a key village on the way to ABC. After Chhomrong, you’ll descend to the Chhomrong Khola (river) and then climb up to places like Sinuwa, Bamboo, and Deurali. These small settlements offer simple lodges and meals for trekkers.
Eventually, you’ll reach Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC) and then Annapurna Base Camp, which sits at an altitude of 4,130 meters. The journey usually takes 5 to 7 days from Ghandruk to ABC, depending on your pace and rest days.
Highlights of the Trek
Annapurna Sanctuary: The base camp sits in a natural amphitheater surrounded by towering peaks like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli. It’s a breathtaking sight, especially at sunrise.
Gurung Culture: Ghandruk and Chhomrong are traditional Gurung villages. Along the trail, you can see their customs, homes, and daily life.
Hot Springs: Some trekkers choose to stop at Jhinu Danda on the return journey to enjoy natural hot springs and relax after days of trekking.
Rich Nature: The trail passes through rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and alpine landscapes. In spring, the flowers make the trail especially colorful.
How Difficult Is the Trek?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghandruk is considered moderate. You’ll walk about 5 to 7 hours a day, with both steep climbs and descents. While you don’t need to be an expert trekker, basic fitness and proper pacing are important. The altitude is lower than Everest Base Camp, but acclimatization is still key—especially as you go above 3,000 meters.
Best Time to Go
The best seasons for this trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer the clearest skies, comfortable temperatures, and dry trails. Winter is also possible, but snow may make the higher parts more difficult.
A Classic Trek with Comfort and Culture
Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp via Ghandruk offers a perfect balance of scenery, culture, and adventure. The Ghandruk to Annapurna Base Camp distance is covered gradually over several days, allowing you to enjoy the views, connect with local communities, and rest along the way.
Whether you're a first-time trekker or someone looking for a scenic Himalayan journey without going too extreme, this route delivers a memorable experience. With every step, you move closer to the heart of the Annapurna mountains—and return with stories to last a lifetime.