Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Poon hill trek
Ghorepani poon hill trekking
Ghorepani trek
Customize Trip
Annapurna Conservation Area
At a Glance
Duration7 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude3210m
Group Size1-25 pax
StartsPokhara
EndsPokhara
Travel StyleTrekking, Walking
Best TimeJan to May, Sept to Dec

Are you looking for a moderate grade trek with spectacular sceneries? Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers panoramic views of the snow covered mountains and the stunning landscapes without the challenges that are faced during the other high altitude treks. Poon Hill Trek has constantly drawn the attention of Nepalese and Foreign travelers for the majestic view of the mountains, lush forests and picturesque landscapes. 

The diverse villages, terraced fields and the well-marked routes along the trail have contributed to make this trek become the most popular choice among the travelers. The trek offers the enchanting views of Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Nilgiri and many other surrounding peaks. During the trek, you can gaze upon the picturesque villages nestled in the midst of hills that appear surreal, just like a painting. Furthermore, you will witness many Gurung and Magar villages along the trail, and get an insight of their culture and lifestyle. Ghorepani is also a junction where all the trekkers going for Annapurna Base Camp stopover for rest. The mesmerizing view of sunrise from the Poon Hill stands out as the major attraction of the trek. 

This remarkable trek fills you with a deep sense of gratitude by providing a chance to soak in the beauty of the majestic mountains. The sight of verdant hills covered with grasses and trees along the trail, blesses your eyes and pleases your soul, standing as an epitome of beauty. The trail is relatively easy and an ideal spot for the beginners and the explorers looking for a vacation where they can immerse themselves in the beautiful local culture of the region

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Major Highlights of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

  • A chance to explore the beautiful Pokhara city. 
  • Enchanting views of Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Machhapuchhre (6993 m), and Annapurna Massifs.
  • Witness beautiful Rice, Maize and Millet fields along the trail. 
  • Traversing across the charming traditional settlements.
  • Majestic Views of sunrise from Poonhill
  • An opportunity to observe the rich culture of the region. 
  • Pass through the lush green forests and diverse vegetation. 
  • Vibrant Rhododendron Forests along the trail. 
  • A chance to explore the beautiful Ghandruk Village.

What Can You Expect on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

Spectacular views

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is known for its spectacular sceneries. The sights of lush forests, beautiful green hills and the enchanting local settlements along the route are unparalleled. The vantage point of Poon Hill rewards you with the panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, enchanting you with its grandeur. The views of Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tukuche, Dhampus and many others are visible from the top of the hill. 
Beautiful Tea Houses and Lodges 
There are a variety of tea houses and lodges along the trail offering delicious food, a place to take short breaks surrounded by the beautiful scenery. Taking short breaks is essential to get refueled and refreshed. The tea houses are beautiful to look at, blending perfectly with the surroundings. Sitting in the outdoor areas, having tea or coffee while surrounded by the stunning scenery will be an experience of a lifetime. 

Similarly, the tea houses along the trail also provide restroom facilities, which is a necessity while walking for such long hours. The hosts will provide you necessary information about the trail conditions and help you to gain better understanding about safety measures to be taken in different sections of trek.

Poon Hill Sunrise

Hiking to Poon Hill to witness the magical sunrise is one of the most interesting parts of the trek. You will hike in the early morning from Ghorepani feeling the serenity of the surroundings. When you eventually make it to Poon Hill, you will be mesmerized by the view and tranquility of this beautiful place. When you finally see the sun rays gradually hitting the mountain, you will feel exhilarated. The magical moment of watching the mountains glow due to sunrise is absolutely breathtaking and inexplicable. You have to experience it in person to witness this majestic sight to fill your heart with wonder. 

Warm Hospitality

The hospitality of the locals has always been appreciated and has left a good impression among the visitors. The locals you encounter along the way will always greet you warmly, communicate with you and inform you about the walking hours.Similarly, the hosts of the tea houses will make sure to look after you and deliver a good service, warming your heart with their genuine kindness. The experiences, the comfort and the attentiveness of the hosts helps in creating lifelong memories and increase your feeling of belongingness.

Who Can Go for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek ?

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is suitable for individuals of all ages. The trek is suitable for the families, who want to trek with their children too, as it is one of the short trekking destinations and is beginner-friendly. Families can make a memorable trip to Poon Hill walking along the beautiful trails witnessing the stunning vistas. The accommodation facilities are great and will ensure comfort throughout your stay. It is an ideal choice for those who are looking for a moderate level trek which offers the enchanting views of the stunning peaks.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

What Makes Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Special?

Cultural Exploration

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is special because you will get a chance to explore the cultural richness of this region. You will pass through many settlements, rice farms giving you insights about the way of life of local people. You will see Gurung and Magar Villages along the trail. Those who enjoy exploring the local lifestyle can get to experience the full local culture of this beautiful region. 

Waterfalls

Along the trail, you will come across the numerous waterfalls falling free creating a refreshing ambience and a serene atmosphere. The gentle flow can be soothing and healing you while you take a rest after walking for hours. The sight of waterfalls splashing the rock floor is mesmerizing and refreshing.

Aesthetic Photographs

The trail of Ghorepani Poon Hill passes through numerous suspension bridges, wooden bridges, lush forests and beautiful hills, inviting you to capture the aesthetic still cuts of these incredible wonders of nature. The picturesque backdrop allows you to click the natural charm of the stunning vistas, which stays as a proof shot of the memorable journey. 

Heartwarming Interactions

Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal because of its relatively easier trails and moderate level difficulty. As the destination is favored by the numerous travelers you will have an opportunity to interact with the fellow trekkers and locals. You will come across many tea houses along the route where you can rest, have tea or coffee, and interact with fellow trekkers and locals. Sharing the experiences, learning about the different cultures of people who have come to trek from the different parts of the world will help you create beautiful memories which you will cherish forever. 

Preparations Required for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Conduct Your Research

Before embarking on any journey, you must conduct your own research to determine if you are a fit to embark on this journey. Make sure to watch the trekking videos, get insights of the routes you will walk, and get information through the websites or the travel agency. Researching helps you to develop better insights of the nature of the trip so that you can make decisions accordingly.

Stay Well Informed about the Weather Conditions of Mountain Region.

The weather conditions of the mountain regions are unpredictable. The weather may change rapidly, so it is highly recommended to be prepared for being flexible with your schedule in case the weather conditions make it difficult to trek on any particular day.
Selecting the ideal season will help you to get the best visibility of the snow clad mountains.

Learn to Navigate

Navigating is a basic skill required for the trekkers. Learning to read maps, being able to visualize the terrains and identify a distance will be beneficial while trekking. It is important for walking in designated routes, it assures you safety and helps you in managing your time properly.
Go for Small Hikes
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is ideal for people of all ages and is considered a relatively easy trek, but you will still need to ascend uphills and descend downhills. So, while not compulsory it is still advisable to go for small hikes, stay fit, do strength and balance exercises to be ready for trekking.  

Make Sure to Pack Essentials

Packing essentials is crucial before starting trekking. There are certain gears and equipment that  you must have before going for a trek. Packing warm clothes, personal hygiene items will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Are You Ready for the Experience?

Trekking to the Himalayas is an amazing opportunity to explore the surrounding and witness the grandeur of nature. Get ready to create lifetime memories by embarking on this incredible journey to behold the beauty of the magnificent landscapes and snow capped peaks.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is beginner- friendly and suitable for all the individuals who love to explore new places and enjoy the local culture, rewarding you with the experience of a lifetime. 

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Why Us?

Expert Guides

You will be accompanied by the expert guides who have in-depth knowledge about the terrains, designated routes and weather. Our guides will facilitate clear communication throughout the journey, taking care of your needs and requirements. Their valuable insights will ensure safety, comfort, and make the trip interesting and engaging.  

Customized itineraries

We customize the itineraries based on your preferences, interests and needs. We will carefully communicate with you to get insights of your desired destination, budget, travel duration and preferred activities to provide you the personalized experience. 

Excellent Service

We provide excellent service by paying attention to every detail promising you of the unique experiences helping you to make the most out of your journey. We recognize  the value for money, and we prioritize your utmost satisfaction. We provide you individualized support and craft the packages as per your requirements.

Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
Day 01
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Day 02
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga
Day 03
Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani
Day 04
Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (Morning hike to Poon Hill)
Day 05
Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk
Day 06
Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara
Day 07
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Tour Plan
Day 01

Kathmandu Elevation:1400 m (4600 ft)
Pokhara Elevation: 830 m (2723 ft)
Elevation Loss : 570 m (1877 ft)

Your journey will start from a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. We will pick you from the Hotel and settle you in a comfortable tourist bus. As you leave Kathmandu city behind, you will be captivated by the enchanting views of green hills and the beautiful rivers flowing at their own pace. The stops at the scenic spots along the way will offer you the much-needed refreshment. 

The highways, the settlements, green trees and the diverse landscapes you witness along the way will make the trip engaging and interesting. It takes almost 7 hours from Kathmandu to reach Pokhara. 

We will drop you in a hotel, where you can get refreshed. You can take an opportunity to explore the lakeside of Pokhara city at night time. The night time in Pokhara is delightful. There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and music events in this beautiful city. You can enjoy your time strolling on the vibrant streets decorated with the beautiful lights which enrich your experience and please your soul.

Day 02

Pokhara Elevation: 830 m (2723 ft)
TikheDhunga Elevation: 1570 m (5150 ft)
Elevation Gain: 740m (2427 ft)

On the second day of your journey you will enjoy the short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. You will catch the sights of the beautiful Machhapuchhre mountain in the scenic drive if the weather is clear. Your arrival in Nayapul will mark the start of your trek. 

You will see a suspension bridge which you should cross to head towards another side of the village. After walking for a while, you will cross another suspension bridge built above the beautiful Modi Khola. You will be crossing numerous suspension bridges and passing through the beautiful waterfalls and rivers along the trail. The beautiful small villages and rice farms will captivate your heart throughout the trek. You will walk for 6 hours on your first day of trekking to reach your destination. The overnight stay at a teahouse or lodge will provide you much needed time to rest and energy to continue your trek the next day.  
 

Day 03

Tikhedhunga Elevation: 1570 m (5150 ft)
Ghorepani Elevation: 2850 m (9350 ft)
Elevation Gain: 1280m (4200 ft)

On the third day, you will trek towards the Ghorepani from the early morning. You are required to cross the suspension bridge and then ascend on several stone stairs up. Along the way you will encounter many little charming waterfalls, the soothing sounds of the waterfall will add an extra touch of serenity during your journey. 

You will walk uphill witnessing many settlements which are surrounded by lush green hills. The enchanting views of Machhapuchhre are visible along the trail. 

It takes around 6 hours to reach Ghorepani. After traversing through the dense forests, crossing the bridges and water streams you will finally reach Ghorepani. You can freshen up, rest and have a hearty food prepared by the host. Overnight stay at a tea house or lodge in Ghorepani.  
 

Day 04

Ghorepani Elevation: 2850 m (9350 ft)
Tadapani Elevation: 2700 m (8858 ft)
Elevation loss: 150 m (492 ft)

On the third day of the trek, you will hike up to Poon Hill in the early morning. The beautiful Poon Hill lies at an altitude of 3210 meters. Poon hill offers the picturesque scenery of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The view of the sunrise glowing, hitting the mountains with its rays making the surrounding turn golden is the major attraction of the trek. 

The sunrise makes the whole surrounding come alive, filling your heart with happiness and wonder. Hiking up to Poon Hill also rewards you with the stunning views of Manaslu and Machhapuchhre. After spending some time in this beautiful place watching the stunning scenery of the surroundings of the hill, you will trek back to Ghorepani. You will have a warm and fulfilling breakfast in Ghorepani and head towards Tadapani

In the beginning of the route you will pass through steep stairs and dense forests. You can capture the aesthetic shots of the beautiful little waterfalls and streams along the way. Walking through the rhododendron forests will make your journey delightfully charming. After trekking uphill, downhill through the dense lush forests you will reach Tadapani after walking for almost 7 hours. Your overnight stay will be in Tadapani. 

Day 05

Tadapani Elevation: 2700 m (8858 ft)
Ghandruk Elevation: 1940m (6364 ft)
Elevation loss : 760 m (2494 ft) 

Day 5 of the journey requires you to descend through the dense forests to reach Ghandruk, which is the most beautiful village offering the mesmerizing views of the beautiful landscapes. You will pass through dense forests, majestic waterfalls, fluttering prayer flags, and wooden bridges along the trail. You will be passing through many water streams along the way. It takes about 3 hours to reach Ghandruk from Tadapani.  

You can witness the beauty of charming traditional Gurung villages by getting insights into their unique culture, tradition and lifestyle. Gurung Museum is visited by many travelers. The museum is beautifully decorated with grain baskets, traditional utensils, ancient weapons giving a glimpse of their history and showcasing their cultural richness. You can taste the local delicacies and feel the warm reception of the locals. Your overnight stay will be in Ghandruk. 
 

Day 06

Ghandruk Elevation: 1940 m (6364 ft)
Pokhara Elevation: 830 m (2723 ft) 
Elevation Loss: 1110 m (3641ft) 

The final day of trekking you will have to descend downhill witnessing the views of beautiful villages and rice farms. You will then cross the beautiful rhododendron forests. The trail is more of a downhill walk. Walking through the Modi river you will see Nayapul and drive to Pokhara. The duration of journey from Ghandruk to Nayapul and a drive to Pokhara will take almost 7 hours. Your overnight stay will be at a hotel in Pokhara. 
 

Day 07

Pokhara Elevation: 830 m (2723 ft)
Kathmandu Elevation: 1400 (4600 ft)
Elevation Gain: 570 m (1877 ft) 

Even though the trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill ended on the sixth day, the final journey will conclude when you finally reach Kathmandu. After having breakfast, you will settle in a bus and head  towards Kathmandu from Pokhara.You will travel through the same road offering you the views of the diverse landscapes, green hills, rivers, local settlements, the differently built houses in the highways. While you are on your way back you will relish all the memories you made throughout the journey. In about 8 hours you will reach Kathmandu.
 

Cost Details
Included
  • Permits: You will need permits such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card for trekking.
  • Guide and Porter: Guided treks often include a guide for navigation and a porter to help carry your luggage.
  • Accommodation: The package usually includes teahouse stays along the trek route.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at teahouses or lodges are typically included.
  • Transportation: Travel arrangements from Kathmandu to Pokhara and to the trailhead are part of the guided package.
Excluded
  • Snacks, beverages, and extra meals
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Optional services 
  • Personal trekking equipment
Additional Info

Permits Required for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

For trekking in Ghorepani Poon Hill you will need to require the following permits. Permits are essential for the conservation of nature and development of tourism while keeping the conservation of socio cultural and natural environment in high priority. The permits are also essential for keeping the track of the trekkers, and ensuring their safety. We will obtain permits for you if you book with us.

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)  For ACAP permit, the trekkers who wish to go independently are required to pay Nrs. 3000
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System) It costs Nrs. 2000 for the solo trekkers  

Note: Both of the permits are single entry permits. 

Guide and Porter

The guides will provide you details about destinations you will be exploring and porters will carry the luggage which will help to lighten your load. Expert Guides and Porters are included in the trekking package to ensure you a comfortable and enjoyable journey. 

Ideal Time for Trekking in Ghorepani Poon Hill 

The ideal time to embark on this journey is Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, November) due to the clear skies and favorable weather. However, people trek to Ghorepani throughout the year. Each season has something unique to offer. There is little to no rainfall in the spring season and weather is very mild making it easy for the trekkers to enjoy the experience to fullest. You will pass through trails full of vibrant rhododendron forests making the entire surrounding pleasant. 

The autumn (September, October and November) is also considered as another ideal time for trekking. The mild temperature and less downpour makes walking on the trails easier ensuring an enjoyable journey. The cloud free skies reward you with crystal clear views of the Himalayan peaks. The crisp air, and golden atmosphere of autumn creates a joyful experience for the travelers. The autumn is also the festive season, providing you an opportunity to witness the biggest festivals of Nepal: Dashain and Tihar. The visibility of the surroundings is excellent in this which makes this peak season an ideal time to embark on this journey. 

People also trek during the monsoon/Summer months (June, July and August), and can see the lush scenery of the vegetation. However, due to the rainfall, the trails may be slippery and muddy which makes the trail challenging. So, it is important to pack the essentials during the monsoon/summer and be prepared for the possible challenges you may face trekking in this season. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots with a good ankle support to maintain the balance if the trail is slippery or muddy during the season. 

The month of July, in particular, gets the highest amount of rainfall. The morning views after the previous night's downpour is enchanting. However, there is a possibility that you may get a leech bite, which is one of the cons of trekking in this season. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots with a good ankle support The trails are quieter which allows you to get immersed in the serenity of the lush landscapes. The melodic sounds of waterfalls and the surroundings adorned with vibrant flora is the unique charm this season can offer. 

Winter season (December, January and February) is the coldest season, with a possibility of the higher regions getting snowfall. There are fewer clouds and when the weather is clear you can get the mesmerizing views of the Annapurna region. The days are usually sunny while nights are chilly during the winter. The trails are quiet which  allows you to feel the tranquility of the surroundings. The sunrise view from Poon hill in the early morning painting the sky golden is breathtaking. If there is snowfall then the trails may get a little slippery, so you need to watch your steps well. 

What Should You Pack for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek? 

Clothes and Footwear: 

  • Down Jackets for keeping yourself warm. 
  • Hiking Boots for stability and feet protection. 
  • Rain Jacket for protection against rainfall 
  • Warm Trekking Socks (At least 4-5 pairs) 
  • Sun Hats
  • Thermal Wear
  • Gloves for keeping your hands warm. 
  • Sweater
  • Scarf
  • Undergarments 

Gears and equipments

  • Trekking Poles
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Headlight
  • Flashlight
  • Backpack

Hygiene Essentials:

  • Towel 
  • Toothbrush
  • Tissues and Wet Wipes
  • Deodorant
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip Balm
  • Soap

Refreshments:

  • Water Bottle (Reusable)
  • Water purification  (Purification Tablets or Filters)  
  • Energy Bars
  • Energy Snacks (Dried Fruits) 

Other essentials: 

Sunglasses 
Cell Phone
Portable Chargers
First Aid Kits (Bandages, Painkillers)   
Passport and necessary Permits

Travel Insurance 

Having Travel Insurance is crucial as trekking involves the possible risks or any unforeseen circumstances. Having travel insurance ensures you of covering the medical expenses, and required assistance when needed. It is extremely important to research and choose a policy which covers all the possible risks like high altitude sickness, any illness, stolen or lost belongings etc. 

Altitude Sickness

Getting altitude sickness while trekking to Ghorepani Poon Hill is less likely as it is a very accessible place and the people of diverse ages trek here. 

However, it is still important to take required precautions as it also depends on how your body is adjusting to the sudden change in the environment. Some travelers may still be at risk of getting the symptoms of altitude sickness. So, it is important to stay hydrated, trek at a slow pace to reduce the risk of getting altitude sickness. 

FAQs

Trekking in Ghorepani Poon Hill is a moderate level of exploration. As there aren’t any significant hurdles along the route and due to relatively low-altitude nature of the route, even beginners can do this trek without any issues.

The Ghorepani  exploration can last about 6 to 7  days, depending on the overall itinerary plans and side detours of popular highlights around the region.

The trek of Ghorepani is famous for  sunrise  & viewpoint  of peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) not only that It's a relatively short and accessible trek, for beginners and families.