Gho is a small village at about 2,500 m on the trail between Dharapani or Tilije and Bimthang, on the Annapurna side of the Larkya La. This page is about that trail village only. It is a common first night on the short Bimthang and Ponker Lake trek.
Altitude: about 2,500 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Gho is and why trekkers stop
Gho lies on the walking route from Tilije toward Bimthang, after the jeep ride from Besisahar. Our short trek plan reads: jeep to Dharapani or Tilije, walk to Gho, walk to Bimthang, a day trip to the lake, and the same way back. Gho is where many parties sleep, or stop for lunch, before the steep climb that follows. It also appears on the way down. Keep passport copies and permit papers in a waterproof pouch inside your bag.
What to expect at Gho
Expect a quiet place with a few lodges, stone houses, fields and woods around the trail. The air feels fresher and cooler than on the road. The trail climbs steeply from Gho to Bimthang, so a rested start is useful. Times vary with pace and trail conditions, and the weather can change fast. Our sources give Gho as about 2,500 m to 2,560 m, with small differences between them. A warm drink before bed helps you sleep and keeps you hydrated through the night.
Altitude and how you may feel
Gho is lower than Bimthang by around a thousand metres, so you are unlikely to feel much here. The risk comes from climbing quickly. Our sample plan goes from about 2,500 m at Gho to about 3,600 m at Bimthang in a day, then to about 4,100 m the next day, which is quick.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodges are basic, with twin rooms and dal bhat style meals. Hot water and charging cost extra, and power can be unreliable. Cash is needed, since there are no machines. Bring layers for cold nights, rain protection for the lower forest and good boots for the steep ground. Check with your agency about permit needs on this route before travelling, as rules can change by area and season. Early starts usually mean calmer weather and cooler walking, so aim to leave after breakfast.
Common questions
How high is Gho?
Our guides give Gho as about 2,500 m to 2,560 m, depending on the source. The sample plan uses about 2,500 m. It is much lower than Bimthang, which is around 3,600 m.
Is the climb from Gho to Bimthang hard?
Yes. The trail climbs steeply from Gho to Bimthang, and the gain in one day is large. Strong legs and good lungs help, and you should go slowly.
How do I reach Gho?
Travel from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Besisahar, then take a jeep to Dharapani or Tilije, and walk to Gho. The road part takes most of a day. Details vary by season and group.
