Essential items include: Lightweight trekking boots Layered clothing for varying temperatures Rain gear Sunglasses and sunscreen Personal medications A sleeping bag (if not provided by teahouses)

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 5 Days

Trip Grade Moderate
The moderate grade includes a one-week to fifteen-day itinerary. It can reach up to 5000 meter altitude range, but the trails will be moderate (neither easy nor tough). High altitude may affect walking speed and distance. You need to have acclimatization over 3000 meters.
Country Nepal
Maximum Altitude 3200
Group Size 1-20
Starts Kathamdnu
Ends Kathamdnu
Best Time OCT -NOV-DEC / MAR-APR-MAY

Overview of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a perfect and short trekking experience in the Annapurna region, offering rewarding Himalayan views, rich and rewarding cultural encounters with breathtaking landscapes within just a few days. The trek is perfect for everyone, especially those who want to enjoy the beauty of the Annapurna region without the trouble of a long, exhausting trek.

Starting in Pokhara, the trek passes through dense rhododendron forests, peaceful Gurung and Magar villages, and terraced fields, to Poon Hill (3,210m)—one of Nepal’s best sunrise viewpoints. At the top, the trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and other peaks.

The trek is moderately difficult, and hence it is ideal for beginners, families, and anyone seeking a short but fulfilling Himalayan experience.

Necessary Permits for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

For a safe and trouble-free trekking experience, you must have permits that contribute to conservation efforts and are checked at various points along the trek.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – Required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card – Helps track trekkers and ensures their safety.

Where Can You Get Permits for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

With a subtle reminder that it is essential to have the permit while trekking, there’s no need to worry about the process on how to obtain them. It will be taken care of from our side!

Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara and Tourism checkpoints in the Annapurna region are the prime locations where your permit is processed and forwarded to you.

It’s recommended to get your permits before starting the trek to avoid any delays at checkpoints.

Required Documents for Trekking Permits

You cannot just buy the permits! You need certain documents to obtain the necessary permits for the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Valid passport with at least six months' validity. (with photocopies):
2-4 Recent Passport-Sized Photographs:
Details including intended trekking route, emergency contact information, and travel insurance details.

The permit cost varies by nationality, so it’s a good idea to check the current fees before your trek.

Key Highlights of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The best view of sunset, Poon hill viewpoint(3,210m) makes the trek worth it.
Ghorepani Village – A traditional Magar settlement with incredible hospitality.
Ghandruk Village – A beautiful Gurung village offering cultural insights and Himalayan vistas.
Dense thickets of rhododendron are especially magical in spring(March to May), when the flowers bloom along the path.
Short yet rewarding trek, experiencing the Himalayas in just 4-5 days.
Mesmerizing views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre – Some of Nepal’s most iconic peaks.

Major Stops in the Ghorepani Poon HIll Trek

Nayapul(1,070 meters)

Nayapul is the starting point of the trek, located near the town of Birethani. The trek starts at a point accessible by a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara. It is here that your journey into the Annapurna Conservation Area will start from this gateway to the Gorepani Ghandhruk Trek. It is the start route of the trek.

Tikhedhunga (Tikhe Dhunga)(1,540 meters)

The initial overnight halt, reached after a scenic walk through quaint villages and peaceful forests, is famous for its colorful landscapes and humble accommodations. The uphill walk through the route gives the excitement, challenge, and yet the peaceful refreshment of the nature that is found here. One can also hire a jeep from Pokhara to Tikhedhunga.

Ulleri(1,960 meters)

Ulleri is famous for its steep stone stairway that has more than 3,000 steps, which can be challenging but offers stunning views of the valley below. The climb is challenging yet rewarding, as you will pass through beautiful forests blooming with rhododendron and traditional gurung villages. Ulleri provides a glimpse into rural Nepalese life and offers basic accommodations for trekkers.

Ghorepani(2,860 meters)

Ghorepani, situated as a base for the Poon Hill hike is a picturesque village. It’s known for its stunning mountain views and comfortable accommodations. The village has a mix of lodges and tea houses, offering a range of options for trekkers. Ghorepani is also a great place to explore local culture and try traditional Nepalese cuisine.

Poon Hill(3,210 meters)

Poon Hill is the highlight of the Trek, the summit, providing stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges at sunrise. It is only a short hike from Ghorepani, typically done early in the morning to catch the sunrise. The view from the Poon Hill is breattaking, with th mountains turning golden as the sun rises. It is truly an unforgettable experience.

Tadapani (2,630 meters)

Descending from Ghorepani, you’ll reach Tadapani, which offers more mountain views and is a peaceful stopover. The village is surrounded by an abundance of stunning mountain scenery and is a peaceful halt. It is a photographic place with lush forests and a serene atmosphere.

Ghandruk (1,940 meters.)

Known for its Gurung culture and traditional architecture, Ghandruk is a charming village with rich history. A place to explore local customs, quaint traditional homes make this village a pretty historic place to live. It provides the perfect setting to absorb the local traditions. Ghandruk offers stunning views of the Annapurna Range and is a popular stop for trekkers looking to immerse themselves in local culture.

Pokhara (822 meters)

The trek ends with a return to Pokhara, a beautiful city nestled within the shades of lakes and towering mountains. It is the perfect retreat to relax after the trek, wth plenty of options for accommodation, dining, and leisure activities. Pokhara offers stunning views of the Annapurna range from its lakeside promenade and is a great place to unwind with a boat ride on Phewa Lake or a visit nearby attractions like the World Peace Pagoda.

Best time to trek Ghorepani Poon Hill

The best time to explore this trekking trail is in Spring and Autumn. During the time of Spring (March to May) the beauty of the trail gets openly expressed, with clear mountain views, lush greenery, rhododendrons in full bloom. And the crisp air of Autumn(September to November) with the stable weather and spectacular visibility makes it better than other seasons.

Which Season to Avoid

During winter (December to February), the trail may be covered in snow, adding an extra challenge. Monsoon (June to August) is the least favorable time due to heavy rain and leeches on the trail.

Why Choose the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Excited Travels?

We possess precise information, guidance, and professionalism which will give you that experience of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek that truly shows you the meaning of hassle-free adventure.

Excited Travels remains with you throughout your entire journey starting from arrival until the trail and up to your departure-- "WE ARE HERE FOR YOU."

Experienced local guides – Ensuring your trek is safe, informative, and enjoyable.
Comfortable accommodations – Best teahouses and lodges along the route.
Customizable itineraries – Tailored to your needs and preferences.
24/7 support and emergency assistance – Safety is our top priority.
Affordable trekking packages – No hidden costs, just an amazing experience.

With Excited Travels, your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek will be hassle-free, fun, and memorable!

Book Your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Today!

If you’re looking for a short yet incredible Himalayan adventure, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the perfect choice. Witness breathtaking sunrise views, immerse yourself in local culture, and enjoy one of the most scenic trails in Nepal.

Itinerary

Ghorepani is a popular trekking destination in Nepal offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It’s known for the Poon Hill sunrise trek making it a favorite spot for trekkers seeking beautiful mountain vistas.

Day 01:Kathmandu to Pokhara

Distance: 200 km (by road) / 25 minutes (by flight)
Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400 meters) → Pokhara (820 meters)
Travel: Drive or fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The drive takes about 6-7 hours, or you can take a 25-minute flight.
Overnight: Stay in Pokhara.

Day 02:Pokhara to Nayapul to Tikhedhunga/Ulleri

Distance: 100 km (by road) from Pokhara to Nayapul + 3-4 hours of trekking
Altitude: Nayapul (1,070 meters) → Tikhedhunga/Ulleri (1,540 meters)
Trek: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (about 1.5 hours), then start your trek to Tikhedhunga or Ulleri. The trek takes around 3-4 hours.
Overnight: Stay in Tikhedhunga or Ulleri.

Day 03:Ulleri to Ghorepani

Distance: 7-8 km
Altitude: Ulleri (1,540 meters) → Ghorepani (2,860 meters)
Trek: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani, which takes about 6-7 hours, with steep climbs through beautiful rhododendron forests.
Overnight: Stay in Ghorepani.

Day 04:Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani

Distance: 5-6 km (Ghorepani to Poon Hill) + 5-6 km (Poon Hill to Tadapani)
Altitude: Ghorepani (2,860 meters) → Poon Hill (3,210 meters) → Tadapani (2,630 meters)
Trek: Early morning hike to Poon Hill for the sunrise (1 hour), then return to Ghorepani for breakfast. Continue trekking to Tadapani (5-6 hours).
Overnight: Stay in Tadapani.

Day 05:Tadapani to Ghandruk to Pokhara

Distance: 6-7 km (Tadapani to Ghandruk) + 1.5-2 hours drive to Pokhara
Altitude: Tadapani (2,630 meters) → Ghandruk (1,940 meters)
Trek: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (3-4 hours), then drive back to Pokhara (about 1.5-2 hours).
Overnight: Stay in Pokhara, or return to Kathmandu if desired.

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Cost Details

What's Included

Permits and Fees:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

Accommodation:

Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek (usually twin-sharing rooms).

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek (typically Nepali, Indian, or continental meals).

Transportation:

Round-trip transportation from Pokhara to the trek starting point (Nayapul) and back.

Guide and Porter Services:

Experienced trekking guide and Porter service (usually 1 porter for 2 trekkers, carrying up to 15–20 kg).

Equipment:

Sleeping bag and down jacket (if required, provided by some agencies).

Miscellaneous:

First-aid kit.
Government taxes and service charges

What's Excluded

International Flights:

Airfare to and from Nepal.

Nepal Visa:

Visa fee for Nepal (approximately 30 for15days, 30 for 15 days,50 for 30 days).

Personal Expenses:

Snacks, beverages, hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging, etc., during the trek.

Travel Insurance:

Insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation.

Tips:

Tips for guides, porters, and staff (recommended)

Route Map

FAQs

Q1 What is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a short yet spectacular trek located in Nepal’s Annapurna Conservation Area. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The trek is famous for its accessibility, allowing trekkers of various fitness levels to enjoy breathtaking panoramas, lush rhododendron forests, and charming villages.

Q2 What is the best time to go?

The optimal times are:

Spring (March–May): Warm weather and blooming rhododendrons.
Autumn (September–November): Clear skies and excellent mountain views

Q3 What is the trail like?

The trail is well-marked and passes through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and dense rhododendron forests. The ascent to Poon Hill offers breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas.

Q4 Is the trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered moderate and is suitable for trekkers with basic fitness levels. No technical climbing skills are required

Q5 What should I pack?

Essential items include:

Lightweight trekking boots
Layered clothing for varying temperatures
Rain gear
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Personal medications
A sleeping bag (if not provided by teahouses)

Q6 How do I get there?

The trek starts from Nayapul, accessible by a 1–1.5 hour drive from Pokhara. From Nayapul, the trail leads to Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, and concludes in Ghandruk. Alternatively, the trek can start in Ghandruk and end in Nayapul.

Q7 Is there internet access along the trek?

Yes, some teahouses along the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offer WIFI but it’s not always reliable or fast. WIFI access is generally available at higher costs . If you need to stay connected, it’s a good idea to inform family and friends that access may be limited, especially once you get higher up on the trail.

28 Apr, 2024

Me 49 years old, mum 78, my son 10 yrs old. Best trip ever!

Living in Bangkok, but having my old mother in France, we chose to try meeting half way in Nepal for April school break. We were recommended to a certain Mr Chintan Silwal, excellent guide who could speak french, for my mother.

Katmandu, we visited ourselves and then we had that first meeting full of funny military expressions like "Arriving there, distribution in rooms, shower,shave, we meet at the reception 10.15 for quick cup of tea then go. Remove shoes now, dry socks and DRINK DRINK DRINK ok? This bottle 1 each must be finished in next hour...".
So we flew Katmandu to Pokara, then Birethanti or Hille depending on your calendar, then Ulleri, sleep at Ghorepani, next morning wake up at 4am walk up to 3200m Pun Hill great sunrise on Annapurna, Annapurna South and the forbidden Machapuchare pic, on of the very best accessible view points for beginners in the Himalayas.
That day we came down for breakfast and left to do 8h of ridge walking superb, down to Tadapani, Ghandruk, then decided to switch from jeep to funny local colored mountain bus to Pokara.
The day of our departure the météo was bad so all flights cancelled, we took the road to Katmandu in a sporty 4x4 SUV but small. Most car are so tiny in Nepal to fit in the streets of some of the oldest cities continuously inhabited in the world.

Average 400m to 600m total vertical climb per day. Starting with 4h strong climb then our guide will evaluate the group and decide itinary and speed
Note that my mother 78 yrs old still dances ballet (pediatrician, not sport professional), but I think if not obese anyone until 65 should be able to do it.
Good to have some squats and push-ups or running or some stairs climbing a few weeks before. We didn't prepare for Trecking at all even bought the shoes, bags, pants on site. Cheap and good quality, Katmandu or Pokara it's plenty of shops. We left suitcases at Katmandu and left with light backpacks.

Luckily we got the founder, ex French Legion, Mr Chintan Silwal who could speak french with my mother). Before COVID he had 20 guides working for him and I can tell everyone knows him like the kid from the mountains who succeeded. From the airport police to small villagers, to medical helicopter teams everybody seem to know him so he had very natural contacts even got invited to dance at a wedding while just passing by ...

Now his business is a little smaller maybe 5 guides but still the same experience and connections in the valley. He is doing charity by giving 10% of profit (he insisted not total operation) so buy school books in his little village. The guy is just great do I wanted to write a big review for him.

I am also entrepreneur, doing jewelry creation in Bangkok and I know how hard it is to start a business so I really want to help him regrow and expand his way if doing tours. Very pro, very friendly, very caring.

Great experience really.