Ghorepani-Poonhill Trek

Ghorepani-Poonhill TrekBest of Abound
Recommended by 100% of travelers.
GhorepaniPoonhill BoardSunriseGhandrukGhorepani Poonhill TrejGhorepani Poonhill
At a glance
  • Duration7 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate Trip
  • Max Altitude3,210 m
  • Group SizeAny
  • StartsKathmandu
  • EndsKathmandu
Highlights
  • Sightseeing in the beautiful city of Kathmandu 
  • Scenic drive to Pokhara city 
  • Simple and quick trek in the Annapurna region
  • The best Himalayan sunrise view is from Poonhill (3,210 m)
  • The best panoramas of Mt. Fishtail, Mardi Himal, Hiunchuli, Annapurna Massif, and Nilgiri
  • Explore Ulleri, one of the largest Magar villages, and Ghandruk, one of the largest Gurung villages
  • Along the trekking path, spend the night in cozy tea houses

The Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking is one of Nepal's most prominent and enjoyable trekking packages. It offers a satisfying journey through scenic villages soaked in history, nestled in the foothills of marvelous mountains. This trek is curated by its shortness in duration and proximity to the captivating city of Pokhara, ensuring significant time savings while still delivering the complete joy of trekking. It features a circular route along one of Nepal's easy trails and is particularly suitable for families and newbie trekkers. Despite its accessibility, the trek offers mesmerizing vistas of iconic Himalayan peaks, including Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhare, and Manaslu. The highlight of the adventure is reaching the summit of Poon Hill at dawn, where dramatic panoramas of the renowned Annapurna region unfold, fascinating trekkers with their sensational beauty.

ghorepani

The trail passes through rhododendron forests, terraced hills, green paddy fields, and dense vegetation, offering backpackers an exceptional experience. Along the trail, trekkers are warmly greeted by the local Gurung and Magar communities, adding to the charm of the journey. Located within the Annapurna Conservation Area, Ghorepani village sits at approximately 2,874 meters (9,429 feet), making it one of the highest settlements in central Nepal. Covering a distance of around 48 kilometers, this short trek concludes at an elevation of 3,250 meters atop Poon Hill. It is an ideal introduction to trekking in Nepal, showcasing awe-inspiring sights of the country's deep valleys and high peaks. The Poon Hill trek begins with a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara, starting at Nayapul.

This trek to Ghorepani and Poonhil explores the precious settlements of Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk, immersing you in the energetic mountain communities inhabited by welcoming Gurungs and Magars. With every twist and turn along the route, you'll encounter dazzling mountain vistas, each more stunning than the last as you climb higher. Poon Hill, standing at 3210 meters, offers an exceptional vantage point to witness the brilliance of the mountains and the stunning sunrise. The trek is enriched by the dense rhododendron forests alive with the tunes of birds and the scenic valleys that unfold before you.

From Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I to Annapurna South, Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, Barasikhar, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, Hiunchuli, and Manaslu, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. As the sun radiates the snow-capped peaks, including the high Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna (8,091 m), and various other peaks, nature, and landscape fanatics will be delighted by this magical wonder. The duration of the trek can be tailored to personal preferences, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience for all.

Although acclimatization may not be a major concern, it remains vital to remain alert for symptoms of altitude sickness. Please inform your guide or companions immediately if you experience fatigue or headaches during the trek.

Poonhill, a favored viewpoint near Pokhara, sits amid the scenic highlands of Nepal's Kaski district. This trek ranks among Nepal's shorter routes, typically completed within a week. Starting from Pokhara, the journey to Poon Hill heads northward.

Departing from Pokhara, travelers follow the Baglung-Pokhara highway until reaching Nayapul, the trek's starting point. On the way from Ghorepani to Nayapul, you'll encounter multiple villages, such as Birethanti (where you'll find the ACAP check post), Hile, Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Banthanti, and Nagethanti. From Nayapul, the trail twists through the deciduous monsoon forests of the Annapurna region.

When time is limited, this trek offers a tremendous opportunity to experience the Himalayas, whether you're a seasoned hiker or new to trekking. Along this famous route, accommodations are usually of high quality, and the food at local restaurants rarely fails to impress. The mountain views are invariably breathtaking, providing ideal photo opportunities. Join us for this beautiful short trek with us. Let's dive into the Ghorepani Poonhill trek itinerary now. 

Major Highlights of Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking

Poonhill Viewpoint

  • Many regard Poon Hill as one of Nepal's most prominent viewpoints and a key highlight of the Ghorepani Trek. In the early morning, hikers from Ghorepani village climb to Poon Hill to glimpse the sunrise. The panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri are sensational, making the uphill climb through the rhododendron forest via stone stairs well worth the struggle. Poon Hill can become quite crowded, particularly during the peak trekking seasons of Spring and Autumn, as numerous fellow trekkers gather to admire the panorama. At the top, there's even a coffee place offering a selection of hot and cold drinks.

Ghandruk Village

  • Ghandruk village, situated in the Annapurna region, is a cultural hub settled by the Nepalese Gurung community. Well-known as one of the top overnight stops along the trekking route, Ghandruk attracts people from all corners of the country. The village offers fascinating views of the Annapurna Mountain ranges, including Machhapuchre and Himchuli, making it a favored destination for trekkers in Nepal and outside Nepal. As the second Gurung village in the country, Ghandruk is energetically promoting rural tourism by leveraging its natural resources. Visitors are enchanted by the village's pristine culture, classic way of life, mouthwatering local cuisine, warm hospitality, and stunning vistas of the glorious Himalayas.

Difficulty Level of Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

One of the most accessible treks in Nepal's Annapurna region is arguably the Ghorepani Poonhill trekking. Each day, the distance between settlements differs, typically demanding 4 to 6 hours of walking. Success on this trek depends on your physical and mental fitness. The trek spans four days, with the first two days involving uphill ascents through rhododendron forests. The remaining two days consist of downhill walks through forests and villages.

Best season to do the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

The best time to embark on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek mainly falls during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. Spring brings gentle temperatures, and the rhododendron forests lining the trail burst into a riot of colors, enriching the scenic beauty of the landscape. Autumn, recognized as Nepal's prime trekking season, offers steady weather conditions with clear skies and enjoyable daytime temperatures. It's also a festive time in Nepal, marked by cultural celebrations. The harvest season paints the landscapes with golden shades, further enhancing the trekking experience.

Itinerary

  • Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, our representative will be on standby for you in the terminal for a warm welcome. Once greeted, we will escort you to your hotel in a private vehicle and assist you with the check-in procedures. If you're arriving in Kathmandu by road, we will meet you at the specified arrival point.
  • The day of your arrival is free for you to rest or explore the city, perhaps indulging in some shopping for any trek essentials you may need.
  • You will spend the night at your hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Max Altitude:1,400 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Transport:Private vehicle
  • In the early morning, we'll board a tourist bus for our journey to Pokhara, enjoying a scenic drive that spans 7-8 hours. This travel offers sensational views as we wind along the Trishuli River, passing by bustling markets, hillside villages, and terraced fields adorned with seasonal crops.
  • Upon arrival in Pokhara in the evening, you'll have the chance to wander around the Lakeside area and take strolls through the streets.
  • You will spend the night in Pokhara.
  • Max Altitude:822 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Transport:Tourist Bus
  • After having breakfast at our hotel, we venture on a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, a journey lasting less than 2 hours. Upon reaching Nayapul, we initiate our trek, crossing the Modi River and passing through the checkpoint for our entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. The initial stretch of our hike is moderately easy as we follow the Bhurungdi Khola and enter Hile.
  • Continuing onward, we make our way to Tikhedunga, where we travel a suspension bridge and encounter a steep hill with multiple stone steps. While the climb may seem challenging, we push on, knowing that our tea house awaits at the top. Upon reaching the top, we arrive at Ulleri, a village situated on the mountainside, offering us our first glance at a majestic peak and serving as our final destination for the day.
  • Max Altitude:1,480 m
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle
  • In the early morning, you'll have the opportunity to witness the glorious Annapurna Massifs for the first time.
  • Following breakfast, we set out on our trek for the day, exploring a section of the trail overflowing with diverse flora and fauna. The path winds through dense forests, primarily featuring Juniper, Rhododendron, Fir, and Birch trees.
  • Venturing deeper into the jungle, we pass through the small hamlets of Banthanti and Nangethanti. As we navigate through these forests, a flat slope leading up to the Poonhill viewpoint comes into view.
  • Scattered throughout this area are small tea houses, marking our arrival at Ghorepani, where we will spend the night.
  • Max Altitude:2,874 m
  • Accommodation:Tea house
  • Today, we wake up well before sunrise to embark on a hike to Poon Hill, ensuring we reach the top in time to witness the well-known panoramas of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I Main (8,091m), Himalchuli (7,893m), and their surrounding massifs. As the sun rises, shining the peaks, Machupachare washes Dhaulagiri's south face in a warm golden light, creating a sensational scene.
  • Poon Hill is widely recognized as an ideal spot for photography, offering clear views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs. After descending back to Ghorepani, we enjoy breakfast before setting off for Tadapani.
  • Along the way, we pass through Deurali and Benthanti before reaching Tadapani, where we will spend the night, marking the stop of our journey for the day.
  • Max Altitude:2,630 m
  • Accommodation:Tea house
  • Today promises to be a satisfying day of trekking as we depart from Tadapani, accompanied by sensational mountain views that grace our journey through the immaculate farmlands of the valley below.
  • In springtime, the scenery bursts into life as Rhododendrons blossom, decorating the surroundings with various vibrant colors.
  • After around 5 hours of trekking, we arrive at the busy village of Ghandruk, where, weather permitting, we continue to enjoy great mountain vistas.
  • Max Altitude:1,950 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Walking Distance:5 hours
  • The final day of the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek offers a relatively short journey. As you cross the gravel road, expect a few surprises, passing through rice terraces and quaint farming villages. During the monsoon season, the area may become dirty, so it's wise to be prepared. Otherwise, you'll continue your descent through the farming communities until reaching Nayapul, where you originally started your trek.
  • From there, you'll hop into a private vehicle for the return journey to Pokhara. Once again, you have the chance to explore Pokhara further and extend your stay.
  • Just inform us before starting another trek or if you wish to include additional adventures after the Ghorepani and Poon Hill trek.
  • Max Altitude:822 m
  • Transport:Tourist Bus
Cost Details
What's Included
  • Airport pick-up and drop in a private vehicle
  • Three Star accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (including breakfast)
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • A government-certified trekking guide and assistant guide if necessary
  • All ground transportation on a comfortable vehicle as per the itinerary
  • Porter service at a 2:1 ratio
  • All required paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS)
  • All government and local taxes
  • Staff costs which include their accommodation, salary, and insurance
  • First Aid Kit (carried by your trek leader)
What's not Included
  • International flight costs
  • Nepal visa
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Tips for guide, porter, and driver (expected)
  • Rescue and travel insurance
  • Your trekking gear
  • Additional accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara is not provided in the event of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek, for any reason other than what's outlined in the scheduled itinerary.
  • Personal expenses such as charging, internet, extra food and beverages, extra porters, boiled water, shower, etc
Good to Know

Permits

  • You will require a permit to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), which can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and we will handle the permit procedure for you. Further, for this trek, you'll need a TIMS permit. There is also a regional fee of 100 rupees to climb Poon Hill from the base. The local community uses this fee to upkeep the steps and protect the main area.

What to expect?

  • Vehicles will transport you to the trailheads, where your trek commences on either uphill paved roads or off-road paths, swiftly transitioning into farmlands bounded by forests. As you ascend, you'll enter pristine forested areas, enclosed by valleys or trees on all sides.
  • If you seek a more "rural" adventure in Nepal, this trek may not align with your preferences as it is well-established and one of the most popular trails in the country. Therefore, you'll encounter various tourist facilities along the way. While an acquainted guide can assist in avoiding large crowds during peak seasons, it's not always feasible.

Accommodation in Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

  • Because of its popularity, the Ghorepani Trek provides perfect accommodation choices. Whether you prefer budget-friendly teahouses, mid-range guesthouses, or even high-end hotels, it's uncommon for all hotels to be fully booked. We will ensure that your accommodation is arranged in a clean and comfortable place throughout your trek.

Internet in Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

  • Most teahouses have some facilities for paid WiFi. It's not fast and not consistently working but you can check your mail and send selfies to your loved ones.

When to go for the Ghorepani trek?

  • The classic peak months for trekking, with clear weather and mild to average temperatures, are from October to November. While there are no high crossings along the Poon Hill trek, it remains a highly popular route, which may pose challenges for some due to encountering numerous tourists during the high season. Additionally, early December is gaining popularity among trekkers as it offers fewer crowds and still maintains appropriate temperatures. However, as December progresses, the weather cools down, leading to freezing temperatures in January and February.
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