My First Trek to Annapurna Base Camp via Ghandruk – A Simple and Beautiful Journey

I still remember the day I decided to go on the Trek to Annapurna Base Camp via Ghandruk. I had never done a long trek before, but I was ready to try something new. What I found was more than just walking through the mountains. It was a mix of peace, beauty, culture, and a deep connection with nature. This route is one of the most loved trails in Nepal. According to the Nepal Tourism Board, over 100,000 trekkers visit the Annapurna region each year, and many choose the route through Ghandruk for its beauty and cultural experience (NTB).

Why I Chose the Ghandruk Route

Ghandruk is a charming village in the Kaski District. It lies at an altitude of 2,012 meters and is known for its views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). The village is mostly home to the Gurung people, and I was excited to see their culture up close.

This route is shorter than other trails to the base camp and perfect for beginners like me. It also gives you the chance to slowly adjust to the higher altitude. That means fewer chances of altitude sickness. For me, it felt like the right way to go.

The Journey Begins

My trip started in Pokhara, which is a peaceful lakeside city. From there, I took a jeep to Nayapul. The real walking began from Nayapul to Ghandruk. The path was filled with green hills, small waterfalls, and quiet farms. When I reached Ghandruk, I saw stone houses, colorful flower gardens, and warm smiles from local people. I stayed at a simple teahouse and had warm dal bhat (rice and lentils) for dinner. It felt like home.

The next morning, I woke up to a clear view of snowy peaks. It looked like a painting. I continued walking toward Chhomrong, then to Bamboo, and finally to Deurali. Each stop had cozy teahouses where I met other trekkers and heard amazing stories. Even though I was tired, the views and friendly faces kept me going.

Reaching Annapurna Base Camp

The final stretch from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) was the most exciting. The trail followed the Modi Khola river and passed through narrow valleys and tall cliffs. I felt small next to the mountains. After hours of slow walking, I reached Machhapuchhre Base Camp. From there, it took me about two more hours to get to ABC, which is at 4,130 meters.

When I reached the top, I felt proud and emotional. I stood in the middle of a circle of giant mountains. Annapurna I (8,091 m), the 10th highest peak in the world, looked very close. The sky was blue, the air was cold, and everything was quiet. I had done it!

What Made This Trek Special

One thing I loved about this trek was how simple everything was. The people were kind, the food was warm and filling, and the views were out of this world. I also liked how I could walk at my own pace. There was no rush.

The teahouses were clean and cozy. Most had Wi-Fi and hot showers (for a small fee). Every night, I met people from different countries. We shared food, laughs, and tips. I didn’t feel alone at all.

The trek also helped me feel stronger—both in body and in mind. I learned how to be patient and enjoy the moment. Even when the path was tough, I just kept going, one step at a time.

Quick Facts About the Trek

Total Distance: Around 67 km (one way)

Highest Point: Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters

Best Time to Go: March to May and September to November

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Permit Needed: TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Trek Duration: 7 to 12 days

(Source: Nepal Tourism Board, TAAN )

Tips for First-Time Trekkers

Train a bit before you go – You don’t need to be a pro, but walking 1-2 hours a day before your trek helps a lot.

Pack light – Carry only what you need. Good shoes, warm clothes, and a rain jacket are musts.

Drink plenty of water – It helps you stay strong and fight altitude sickness.

Talk to locals – They are friendly and love to share stories.

Take it slow – Enjoy the journey, not just the destination.

My Final Thoughts

The Trek to Annapurna Base Camp via Ghandruk gave me memories that I will never forget. It was not just a walk in the mountains—it was a journey that opened my heart. I started as a beginner with doubts, but I came back stronger, calmer, and full of love for Nepal and its people.

If you are thinking of doing your first trek, I highly suggest this one. It’s not too hard, it’s very beautiful, and it will change the way you look at life. Take that first step. Trust me, it’s worth it.