Originally published on: October 27, 2020
Last updated on: December 31, 2025
The Gurung town of Ghandruk, including the eponymous Ghandruk Trek, is a fixture on many Annapurna-region treks. It is first essential to travel or take a private vehicle/bus to Pokhara (the tourism capital of Nepal).
Then travel from Kathmandu (the capital of Nepal), then take a private vehicle and trek the rest of the way. This would take at least a few days, since it is not possible to get all the way to Ghandruk in a single day from Kathmandu.
First Half of Trip from Kathmandu to Ghandruk: Kathmandu to Pokhara
The first half of the tour to Ghandruk from Kathmandu requires travellers to reach Pokhara first. Visitors can reach Pokhara by road or by air.
By Road (time took: 8-9 hours)
The most pleasant and easiest way of making the overland trip is to hire a private driver, as foreigners are not permitted to rent cars in Nepal for self-driving. This option offers the advantage of full control over your schedule, allowing you to stop, explore, and engage with the surroundings at your own pace. It provides a personalized and flexible travel experience, perfect for those who appreciate independence on their journey.
However, for travelers interested in experiencing the camaraderie of shared experiences, taking the bus could be a fulfilling adventure. While it demands adherence to a set schedule, it fosters a sense of community as you share stories and encounters with fellow travelers along the way. Choosing between hiring a private driver and taking the bus thus becomes a reflection of whether you prioritize control or community during your travel experience.
Ariel views Pokhara
Hiring a car and driver means you can make a stop at any time of day (tourist buses typically depart early in the morning) when and where you want, and continue your trip. Each bend hides a teahouse tale, inviting you to pause and delve into the stories woven into the landscape.
If you're on a budget and not short on time, taking the bus is a scenic alternative and worthwhile. You can follow the Prithvi Highway, which connects Pokhara with Kathmandu .
For the first half of your journey, it pass almost parallel to the Trisuli River. In the second half, the mighty Himalayas come closer into view. It can, however, be slow and physically tiring due to road and traffic conditions.
An overland journey can take as little as six hours without road delays, though this is quite rare. Sometimes, it can take as many as nine. Tourist buses are cheaper and reasonably comfortable. They are more expensive but much safer than local transport. Local drivers, familiar with the mountain roads' unique challenges, are highly skilled and prioritize passenger safety. Many travelers find reassurance in the expertise of these drivers, knowing they can navigate the terrain with caution and care.
Most tourist buses depart at about 7:15 AM from near Gausala and arrive at the Pokhara tourist bus park, not far from Pokhara's Lakeside. Approximately, you will be reaching Pokhara around 3:15 PM. During busy times, pre-book tickets or if you're travelling in a large group. Note that during festival weeks, such as Dashain or Tihar, buses tend to sell out quickly, making an early reservation essential.
The luxury Greenline Bus is the most spacious, with a buffet lunch and higher-calibre comfort stops. Local buses are inexpensive but usually uncomfortable and unsafe — you can expect them to be overcrowded and to speed.
If you're on a minimal budget or need the freedom to leave Kathmandu later in the day, they're just an alternative.
By Plane (time taken: 30 minutes)
Flying is the shortest, fastest, and most convenient way to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Flights to Pokhara depart from the domestic terminal at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) several times during the day. Opting for a flight not only saves time but also offers the delightful opportunity to enjoy an extra lakeside sunset in Pokhara, a picturesque reward that can enhance your journey. Around mid-afternoon, the last flight leaves, so it's safer to try to be on the first flight of the day, and if delays arise, re-bookings are made in the order of the first flight. 
Sky's Limit: Journey Awaits Above
If an afternoon flight is scheduled and all morning flights are cancelled, the knock-on effect ensures that you do not end up flying until the next day.
Flights take about 30 minutes, but due to weather conditions, they are almost always delayed. For the best mountain views, consider sitting on the right-hand side of the aircraft.
The tiny Pokhara Airport in Pokhara is only a couple of miles from Lakeside. Having a taxi in town is convenient, or you can arrange for a hotel pickup.
Second Half of the Trip from Kathmandu to Ghandruk: Pokhara to Ghandruk
Suppose you travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara early in the morning, and everything runs on time. In that case, you can reach Pothana on the first day from Kathmandu, then proceed to Ghandruk on the second day.
However, a more leisurely itinerary that involves at least one night in Pokhara is preferred unless you're in a real hurry. In Pokhara, there's plenty to enjoy, and this is a less tiring choice than others.
By Private Vehicle and then on Foot (time taken: two days)
There's more than one way to reach Ghandruk from Pokhara, and you won't be required to always follow the most direct path, depending on your trekking itinerary. Consider taking the 'Heritage Detour,' a less-traveled scenic route that offers a unique and personalized trekking experience. This path leads through traditional villages rich in cultural heritage and stunning landscapes that truly set this journey apart.
Take a private means of transport west along the Pokhara-Baglung Rajmarg Road from Pokhara. Many trekkers follow this well-developed path, setting out for treks into the Annapurna Himalayan Range.
Beautiful Gurung Village
You can also ride a local bus, but it's not very convenient (or safe) and takes much longer than a private car. For around an hour, travel along this road until you hit the turn-off for Dhampus. Here you'll leave the road behind.
Continue hiking from Dhampus to the Australian Camp on foot, reaching the small Gurung village of Pothana in about 4 hours. The path goes through some woods and cultivated land, and parts of it are uphill. Overnight stay in Pothana.
Continue trekking toward Ghandruk on day two. You'll travel through Deurali, Tolkha, and Landruk towns. After Landruk, the trail ascends and descends, is steep in sections, and is more incremental.
What is the Kathmandu to Ghandruk Bus Ticket Price?
Traveling from Kathmandu to Ghandruk typically involves a bus journey to Pokhara, followed by a drive to Ghandruk. Here's a breakdown of the costs and options:
1. Kathmandu to Pokhara:
- Tourist Bus: These buses depart around 7 a.m. from near Thamel (Kantipath) and arrive at Pokhara's tourist bus park, close to Lakeside. The journey can take between six and nine hours, depending on road conditions. Prices range from NPR 1,200 to NPR 1,600, depending on the level of comfort and amenities.
- Greenline Bus: A more luxurious option, it offers enhanced comfort, including a buffet lunch and higher-quality rest stops. The fare is USD 25 for foreigners and INR 1,250 for Indian nationals.
2. Pokhara to Ghandruk:
- Private Jeep: Hiring a private jeep from Pokhara to Ghandruk costs approximately NPR 10,000 to NPR 11,000 for the entire vehicle. This option provides flexibility and comfort, especially for groups.
- Shared Transport: Shared jeeps or buses may be available at lower per-person rates, but schedules and availability can vary.
Direct Kathmandu to Ghandruk Transport:
Direct public buses from Kathmandu to Ghandruk are uncommon. Most travelers prefer the Kathmandu-Pokhara-Ghandruk route for better connectivity and comfort.
Tour Packages:
Some tour operators offer packages that include transportation and accommodation. For instance, a 3-night/4-day tour might cost around NPR 7,200 by bus or NPR 9,200 by private vehicle.
Additional Considerations
- Booking: It's advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and preferred seating.
- Travel Time: Be prepared for variations in travel time due to road conditions and traffic.
- Currency: Ensure you have sufficient Nepalese Rupees (NPR) for payments, as not all services may accept foreign currency or cards.
By planning and choosing the transportation option that best fits your budget and comfort, you can enjoy a smooth journey from Kathmandu to Ghandruk. Choose time, comfort, or cost, and Ghandruk will reward you either way.
