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Annapurna Base Camp

Nayapul to Ghandruk trek: altitude, time and route

3 min readUpdated 23 Oct 2026By the Base Camp Hikes trek team

The Nayapul to Ghandruk section of the Annapurna Base Camp trek runs from about 1,070 m to about 1,940 m. Typical time is 5 to 6.5 hours on foot, or 1.5 to 2 hours by jeep, rated moderate. That is a net gain of roughly 870 m.

Quick facts

  • Start: Nayapul, about 1,070 m
  • End: Ghandruk, about 1,940 m
  • Change: a net gain of roughly 870 m
  • Typical time: 5 to 6.5 hours on foot, or 1.5 to 2 hours by jeep
  • Difficulty: Moderate

The route

The trail passes Birethanti, follows the Modi Khola, then climbs steeply on stone steps through Syauli Bazaar and Kimche to Ghandruk, a Gurung village. A road runs parallel to much of the route.

Altitude and health

This section stays below about 3,000 m, so altitude sickness is unlikely, though heat, humidity and fatigue still matter. Altitudes vary by a few tens of metres between maps and guidebooks.

Tips

Many trekkers drive part of the way and walk the best sections. See the Ghandruk trek guides.

Common questions

  • Can I take a jeep? Yes, jeeps run to Ghandruk, so the walk is optional.
  • Where is the ACAP checkpost? At Birethanti, near the start.

Reverse direction

Walking Ghandruk to Nayapul is the same trail in reverse. It is usually quicker because it is mostly downhill, but a long descent is hard on the knees, so poles help.

Nearby legs on this route

Plan it

Back to all route information or see the Annapurna Base Camp trek guides.

Tents pitched at a high camp below glaciated peaks

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