Gandaki Zone (Nepal)

Geography and districts

Gandaki combined lowland valleys, mid-hills and high mountain terrain. Its landscape includes foothills and sections of the Annapurna massif and other Himalayan ranges, producing dramatic elevation changes within short distances. The zone comprised six districts, including:

• Gorkha
• Kaski (Pokhara)
• Lamjung
• Manang
• Syangja
• Tanahu

History and administrative change

Nepal's modern zonal structure was established during administrative reforms in 1962. Gandaki functioned as a mid-level unit for planning and governance until the adoption of the 2015 constitution, which replaced zones with a new federal structure; most of the former zone now lies within Gandaki Province (formerly Province No. 4).

Economy, culture and importance

The zone's economy relied on agriculture, trade and an expanding tourism sector. Pokhara and surrounding areas are famed for trekking routes such as parts of the Annapurna circuit, paragliding, and lakeside tourism. Local communities are ethnically diverse, with groups such as Gurung and Magar alongside Brahmin, Chhetri and other populations, each contributing distinct languages, traditions and festivals.

Notable facts and legacy

Gandaki's varied terrain includes important conservation areas and trekking corridors, including parts of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Though the zonal tier no longer exists administratively, the name and geographic identity endure in common usage and in the designation of Gandaki Province. For administrative history and maps see regional sources and government documents.