Ghandruk Sees Surge in Tourist Arrivals as Concerns Over Preservation Grow

Gandaki. The scenic village of Ghandruk, located in Annapurna Rural Municipality-10 and 11 of Kaski, is currently witnessing a surge in tourist activity. With the onset of the second major tourist season, the influx of both domestic and international visitors has increased significantly.

Bikram Gurung, Chairman of the Ghandruk Tourism Management Committee, stated that between 1,000 and 1,200 tourists visit daily on weekends. "Even on other days, six to seven hundred tourists are arriving," he said, adding, "We expect tourism activities to increase further following the government's decision to implement a two-day weekend holiday."

Local tourism entrepreneurs have been promoting Ghandruk under the motto of 'Tourism in All Seasons.' Known as a confluence of culture and nature, Ghandruk is a key destination on the Annapurna Circuit trekking route. Bhim Prasad Upadhyay, head of the Area Conservation Office under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), noted that Indian tourists make up the majority of those visiting the Annapurna region via Ghandruk. He mentioned that up to 856 foreign tourists have visited the area in a single day this season.

According to Upadhyay, the number of Indian tourists is rising, and domestic tourism is also thriving. The area remains a top choice for travelers due to its popular trekking routes, attractive destinations, and well-managed tourism infrastructure. Improved road access has also contributed to the recent rise in domestic tourist arrivals in Ghandruk.

Gautam Gurung, Ward Chairman of Annapurna Rural Municipality-10, emphasized the need to preserve the village's originality and identity to maintain its market appeal. He expressed concern that the rapid construction of concrete structures is damaging the village's traditional character. Ward Chairman Gurung stated that the rural municipality is planning to introduce a subsidy policy for those who build houses using traditional materials and craftsmanship.

Local resident Shankarman Gurung laid the foundation for tourism in Ghandruk around the year 2026/27 BS. Today, Ghandruk is a well-known destination for both domestic and international travelers. Thousands of tourists visit annually to enjoy its nature and culture. However, community leaders like Gurung are worried that the village might lose its authentic identity despite the rise in tourism.

Ghandruk is no longer what it used to be. Lifestyles and customs are changing, and new structures are disrupting the village's original aesthetic. With the increase in tourist traffic, hotels and resorts worth millions have opened. Modernity is gradually displacing the village's traditional character.

Tourism entrepreneurs themselves are concerned, fearing that if the originality is not preserved, the future of tourism in Ghandruk could be at risk. The primary attractions remain the views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountain ranges, alongside the village's rural atmosphere and culture.

According to the Tourism Management Committee, there are 80 hotels, including resorts, and 35 homestays in Ghandruk. Billions have been invested in the tourism sector, providing employment to hundreds. Visitors arrive from India, China, Europe, and America.

Ghandruk also serves as a resting point for trekkers on routes connecting to the Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill-Ghorepani in Myagdi. It can be reached in a five to six-hour trek from Nayapul on the Pokhara-Baglung highway via Birethanti, Syaulibazar, and Kimche. By vehicle, it takes two hours to reach Ghandruk from Pokhara.