Ghandruk: Another name for Gurung culture & beauty (photos)

KATHMANDU: Ghandruk, a picturesque village in Annapurna Rural Municipality, Kaski, stands as a prime destination for both domestic and international tourists.

Renowned for its Gurung culture, this village boasts a rich heritage and stunning landscapes, making it a must-visit location in Nepal.

Unique Cultural and Architectural Identity

The village is adorned with traditional stone-paved paths, stairways, and houses roofed with slate stones, reflecting the authentic Gurung architectural style.

These features not only preserve the village’s cultural essence but also enhance its visual charm.

A Hub of Natural and Cultural Wonders

Ghandruk offers a mix of cultural, geographical, and historical attractions. Key landmarks include Tajibarah, Poznewbarah, Kot Danda, a serene monastery, and the enchanting Ngyowar Lake.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, including Machhapuchhre, Himchuli, and Annapurna, especially during sunrise.

Gateway to Major Trekking Routes

As a significant entry point to popular trekking routes like the Annapurna Circuit, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and Annapurna Base Camp, Ghandruk serves as a haven for trekking enthusiasts. It is also a center for experiencing the pristine beauty of the Himalayas up close.

Tranquility Amidst Nature

The village offers a serene rural setting with fresh mountain air, making it an ideal spot to unwind.

The harmony of chirping birds at dawn and the majestic views of snow-capped peaks create an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Accessibility and Growing Popularity

Located 42 km north of Pokhara, Ghandruk is a rising hub for eco-tourism despite its remote location and challenging terrain. The village’s clean environment, captivating scenery, and vibrant Gurung culture continue to attract a growing number of visitors each year.

Whether for adventure, cultural exploration, or simply escaping the hustle of urban life, Ghandruk promises an enchanting and rejuvenating experience for all.

Ghandruk transformed by culture and tourists

The charm of Ghandruk village is beyond words. The traditional attire, lifestyle, and warm hospitality captivate everyone who visits. Locals have embraced various occupations such as running homestays, hotels, and working as guides.

The hospitality industry has flourished with an increasing influx of tourists, and the locals are now managing numerous hotels. Out of approximately 400 households in Ghandruk, 108 are involved in hotel businesses.

Bikram Gurung, Chairperson of the Tourism Business Committee in Ghandruk, shared that the number of tourists visiting the village has been rising steadily. According to him, since 2018, tourist numbers have doubled, with more than 200,000 visitors arriving annually.

“Both domestic and international tourists contribute to the yearly count of over 200,000 visitors to Ghandruk,” he stated. “Compared to other months, fewer tourists visit during May, June, and July.”

Bikram is not just the committee chairperson but also an experienced hotelier, having been in the hospitality industry for 13 years. Initially, opening a hotel in the village was not easy. Negative societal attitudes discouraged locals from venturing into the business. However, as Ghandruk’s reputation grew, the mindset of its residents evolved.

“Earlier, when someone wanted to open a hotel, villagers often ridiculed them, saying they would end up washing others’ used dishes. This mindset discouraged many,” Bikram explained. “Milan Hotel, established in 1970, was the first hotel in Ghandruk.”

The transformation of Ghandruk has been remarkable, though not without challenges. In the past, visitors were accommodated on verandas, sleeping on straw-filled sacks or mats. Without electricity, oil lamps were used for lighting. Over time, infrastructure and facilities improved, revolutionizing the village.

“Before hotels were established, guests were hosted on the house verandas, using traditional bedding and oil lamps for lighting,” Bikram recounted. “Gradually, development brought significant changes to Ghandruk.”

The number of hotel operators in Ghandruk is growing steadily. John Gurung, a native of Sardi Khola in Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality, is among those running a hotel. He manages Rodhi and Restaurant, which has been a profitable venture. John, who has been in the business for 13 years, started with a small grocery store in Ghandruk, his wife’s hometown.

“On my first visit to Ghandruk, I noticed the lack of grocery stores, so I opened one. With increasing tourist numbers, I expanded into the hotel business,” John shared. “Now, we employ three staff members, and my wife and I also contribute. Our son is studying in the city.”

From humble beginnings, Ghandruk has become a shining example of how cultural and tourism-driven development can transform a community. The villagers’ resilience and adaptability have turned this picturesque destination into a must-visit location, welcoming travelers from around the globe.

A campaign to return to the village, not to go abroad

In recent years, the number of Nepali youths leaving the country has surged. Many villages are now nearly devoid of young people, as they migrate abroad for employment or move to urban centers. However, in Ghandruk, the trend is strikingly different. Instead of leaving, the youth are returning to their village, driven by opportunities in tourism and local development.

Most young individuals in Ghandruk are now investing in tourism-related businesses. Local tourism entrepreneurs believe that engaging directly in community-based tourism fosters sustainable development.

With new job opportunities and a fresh identity for the village, many youths who had left for foreign employment or urban life are coming back. The number of returnees establishing hotel businesses in Ghandruk has significantly increased.

Bikram Gurung, Chairperson of the Ghandruk Tourism Business Committee, confirmed this trend. “The majority of people here are engaged in hotel businesses. As the sector grows, many residents are returning from abroad to work and invest in their village,” he said.

How to Reach Ghandruk

To reach Ghandruk from Kathmandu, you can travel via Muglin, Abukhaireni, and Damauli to Pokhara in Kaski district. After covering approximately 201 kilometers from Kathmandu, you’ll arrive in Pokhara. Here, you can take some time to enjoy the scenic beauty and relax. From Pokhara, head 24 kilometers northwest to reach Ghandruk.

Similarly, if you’re coming from western Nepal, you can travel via Rupandehi, passing through Siddh Baba and Kerabari to Pokhara. From there, it’s a 24-kilometer journey northwest to enter Ghandruk.

Accommodation in Ghandruk

Currently, Ghandruk has around 108 hotels, ranging from small to large establishments. These hotels are beautifully designed and offer modern facilities comparable to city hotels.

They provide a variety of cuisines, from traditional Nepali dishes to international flavors.

Expenses

Ghandruk is a Himalayan region with cold weather throughout the year. Warm clothing is essential when visiting. A 5-day trip to Ghandruk typically costs between Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000.

Staying at a homestay for a day, including dinner, breakfast, and snacks, costs around Rs 800 to Rs 1,500.

-Bishnu Maya Shrestha