Snowland Lodge in Ghandruk, Nepal is a heritage property with over 45 years of history, sitting at 2,012m in the heart of a traditional Gurung village. Wake up to stunning views of Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli, the perfect base for your Annapurna trek.
TL;DR
Snowland Lodge is a heritage property in Ghandruk village with over 45 years of history.
The lodge sits in one of Nepal's most beautiful Gurung villages, at around 2,012 meters above sea level.
Guests wake up to some of the best views of Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli in all of Ghandruk.
The lodge blends traditional Gurung and Newari architecture with modern comfortable rooms.
It is a perfect base for the Annapurna Base Camp trek, Poon Hill trek, and short village walks.
The best time to visit is spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November).
Introduction
Picture waking up to crisp mountain air, the sound of roosters, and golden sunlight slowly touching the snow-covered peaks of the Annapurna range. That is how a morning begins at Snowland Lodge in Ghandruk, Nepal.
Most trekkers pass through Ghandruk on their way to Annapurna Base Camp or Poon Hill. But the ones who stop and stay at Snowland Lodge quickly realize they have found something special. This is not just a place to sleep. It is a place where you feel the soul of Nepal, right in the heart of a traditional Gurung village.
Here is what you will find in this blog:
What makes Snowland Lodge different from other lodges in Ghandruk
What to expect from the rooms, food, and views
How to get there, what permits you need, and the best time to visit
Answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking
Snowland Lodge in Ghandruk
Snowland Lodge is a traditional lodge and restaurant located in Ghandruk village, in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It sits in Kaski District, about 32 km northwest of Pokhara, at an altitude of around 2,012 meters (6,601 feet).
The lodge has been welcoming trekkers and travelers for over 45 years. In that time, it has hosted many well-known visitors, including the Duke of Edinburgh and members of the UK royal family. The owner, Amrit ji, is known for his warm, personal hospitality and deep knowledge of the region.
The architecture of the lodge combines traditional Gurung and Newari styles. Stone walls, wooden carvings, and a garden facing the Himalayas give the place a look and feel that is very different from a standard hotel.
Why Snowland Lodge Stands Out
Ghandruk has many places to stay. So why do so many travelers specifically choose Snowland Lodge? Here are the four things guests mention most.
The Views Are Unmatched
Snowland Lodge claims to offer the best Himalayan view in all of Ghandruk from its garden. Every morning, guests gather on the lawn with hot tea or coffee to watch the mountains turn golden at sunrise.
You can see Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli from the garden.
The sunrise view is consistently described as one of the best moments of the entire trip.
The Himalayan-facing lawn is the perfect spot to sit, relax, and simply take it all in.
The Hospitality Feels Genuine
Many guests use the phrase "home away from home" to describe their stay. The team goes out of their way to make every visitor feel welcome and comfortable.
Staff member Aashis is frequently praised for his friendly and attentive service.
The owner Amrit ji is known for his personal warmth and knowledge of the local area.
Guests can dress in traditional Gurung attire, which is a fun and memorable cultural experience.
The Food Is Fresh and Changes Daily
The kitchen at Snowland serves traditional Gurung cuisine along with standard trekking menu items. Guests often say the food is one of the highlights of the stay.
The menu changes daily, so you get something new at every meal.
Hot tea and coffee are always available throughout the day.
The food is described as organic and locally grown by several guests.
The Rooms Are Clean and Comfortable
After a long day of trekking, the last thing you want is a bad night's sleep. Snowland delivers on this.
Deluxe rooms are available from around NPR 5,400 per night.
Beds come with warm, thick blankets that guests consistently praise.
The rooms are peaceful, clean, and give you everything you need to rest well.
About Ghandruk Village
To truly understand why Snowland Lodge is so special, you need to understand the village it sits in. Ghandruk is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich villages in all of Nepal.
Quick Facts About Ghandruk
What You Can See From the Village
Ghandruk sits at just the right elevation to give you clear, close views of some of Nepal's most iconic peaks. On a clear morning, you can see all of these without moving from the village:
Annapurna South at 7,219 meters
Machapuchare (Fishtail) at 6,993 meters
Gangapurna at 7,455 meters
Hiunchuli at 6,411 meters
A Village With Over 200 Years of History
Ghandruk is not just a pretty place to look at. It has a rich history and a living culture that makes it one of the most interesting villages in the Himalayan region.
The village has a history of over 200 years, with roots linked to the Gurung people who are believed to have migrated from Mongolian areas via Tibet.
Ghandruk was once a key stop on ancient trading routes between Nepal and Tibet.
Many Gurung men from the village have served in the British and Indian Gurkha regiments, a tradition that has shaped the community for generations.
Stone-paved paths, traditional houses, small tea shops, and a Gurung Cultural Museum make the village a great place to explore on foot.
Things to Do Around Snowland Lodge
Staying at Snowland Lodge means you are right in the center of the action. Whether you are an active trekker or just want to slow down and soak in the mountains, Ghandruk has something for you.
Watch the Sunrise From the Garden
This is the single most talked-about experience at Snowland Lodge. Set your alarm early, step out onto the Himalayan-facing lawn, and watch the Annapurna peaks slowly turn golden in the morning light. It is simple, free, and something guests say they will never forget.
Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
Ghandruk is one of the most popular starting and stopping points for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The trail takes you through rhododendron forests, small mountain villages, and steadily rising terrain before arriving at base camp at 4,130 meters. It is a multi-day trek, so ask the lodge team for help planning your route and timing.
Walk to Poon Hill
Poon Hill is one of the most famous sunrise viewpoints in Nepal, sitting at 3,210 meters. From the top, you get a wide, open view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges all at once. Ghandruk sits on the trail toward Poon Hill, making it a natural base for this popular hike.
Explore Ghandruk Village
The village itself is worth a full half-day of wandering. Walk the stone-paved paths, visit the Gurung Cultural Museum, try on traditional attire, and watch a local dance performance if one is running during your stay. You can also taste local dishes like dhido, gundruk soup, and sel roti at small family-run spots around the village.
Go for a Short Nature Walk
Not everyone wants to do a full multi-day trek, and that is completely fine. The area around Ghandruk has several easy walking trails through terraced fields and forest paths. These short walks are peaceful, easy on the legs, and give you a real feel for the landscape without any rush.
How to Get to Snowland Lodge in Ghandruk
Getting to Ghandruk is not complicated, but it does take some planning.
From Pokhara by jeep
You can reach Ghandruk from Hari Chowk in Pokhara via the Pokhara-Baglung Highway. The private shared jeep from the jeep station goes through a black-topped road and some off-road. It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Ghandruk. Note that the road can be rough, and some guests mention it is a bumpy ride. Once you reach the parking area in the village, you will need to walk about 45 minutes uphill through the village to reach Snowland Lodge.
From Pokhara by trekking
You can also trek from Naya Pul or Birethanti to Ghandruk. This is a popular route for trekkers who want to start their journey on foot from the very beginning.
From Kathmandu
Take a flight or bus to Pokhara, then follow the directions above. A flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes about 25 to 30 minutes.
Permits You Need to Visit Ghandruk
Since Ghandruk is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, you need at least one permit before entering.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is mandatory for all trekkers entering the Annapurna region. Every trekking route within the Annapurna Conservation Area requires this permit, without exception.
Here is a quick summary of what you need:
ACAP Permit: This is the main permit you must have. It costs NPR 3,000 (about USD 25) for foreign nationals and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals. Children under 10 years old do not need a permit.
TIMS Card: TIMS cards are no longer required for trekking in the Annapurna region. Checkpoints verify ACAP permits only. However, some trekking agencies still recommend getting one for safety tracking.
Village entry fee: When you arrive in Ghandruk, you may need to pay a small village entry fee of around NPR 100 to 300 per person.
You can get your ACAP permit from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or through a registered trekking agency. Bring your passport, two passport-sized photos, and the fee in Nepali rupees.
Best Time to Visit Snowland Lodge and Ghandruk
Ghandruk welcomes visitors most comfortably during autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). These seasons offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and stunning views of the Annapurna mountains. Autumn brings festive celebrations like Dashain and Tihar, while spring covers the hills with colorful rhododendron blooms.
Here is a season-by-season breakdown to help you plan:
Spring (March to May): This is one of the two best times to visit. The hillsides are bright with rhododendron flowers, the skies are mostly clear, and the weather is warm and comfortable for walking.
Autumn (September to November): This is the most popular trekking season in Nepal. The air is crystal clear after the monsoon, and you get sharp, close views of the mountains.
Winter (December to February): It gets cold, and there is occasional snowfall. The trails are quieter, and the snow-covered landscape has its own beauty. Make sure you bring warm clothes.
Monsoon (June to August): The trails can get muddy and slippery. However, the landscape turns lush and green, and there are fewer tourists.
Practical Information at a Glance
Final Thoughts
Snowland Lodge in Ghandruk is more than just a place to sleep on your Annapurna trek. It is a place where you slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and connect with the real Nepal. The views, the food, the culture, and the people all come together to make it an experience you will not forget.
Whether you are planning a multi-day trek to Annapurna Base Camp, a short trip from Pokhara, or just a peaceful escape from city life, Snowland Lodge gives you the perfect starting point.
Book your stay at Snowland Lodge directly through Nepal Homestays, pack your bags, and get ready to wake up to one of the most beautiful views in the world.
FAQ: Snowland Lodge Ghandruk
Is Snowland Lodge good for first-time trekkers?
Yes, absolutely. Ghandruk is a great introduction to trekking in Nepal. The trails around the village are manageable, and the lodge is welcoming to all types of travelers, from beginners to experienced hikers.
Do I need to book in advance?
It is always a good idea to book in advance, especially during the busy spring and autumn seasons. You can book your stay easily through Nepal Homestays or reach the lodge directly by phone at +977 9846839857.
Is hot water available at the lodge?
Yes, the lodge has a geyser for hot water. Some guests mention that cold water in the bathroom can be a challenge in cooler months, so plan accordingly.
Can I experience Gurung culture at the lodge?
Yes. Guests can dress in traditional Gurung attire and learn about local customs from the hosts. The village also has a Gurung Cultural Museum nearby.
How far is Snowland Lodge from the car park?
You will need to walk around 45 minutes uphill from the main parking area to reach the lodge. Bring comfortable walking shoes even if you arrive by jeep.
Can I use it as a base for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
Yes. Ghandruk is a well-known stop on the Annapurna Base Camp trail. You can start your trek directly from here or use the lodge as a rest stop on the way back.
Company Admin
Travel writer sharing authentic stories and experiences from Nepal's beautiful homestays.
