Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular and accessible trekking routes in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is renowned for its breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences. This trek is perfect for those seeking a short yet fulfilling adventure. The trail takes us a maximum height of up to 3,210 meters, a viewpoint, Poon Hill. The viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges. It is stunning, especially at sunrise.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the trekking starting point. The trek leads through diverse landscapes, including lush rhododendron and oak forests, terraced farmlands, and charming villages inhabited by the Gurung and Magar communities. Trekkers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and observe the traditional practices and hospitality of these indigenous groups.
The well-maintained trail includes numerous tea houses that provide comfortable accommodations and meals. Thanks to initiatives by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, these lodges maintain high standards of hygiene and sustainability. Modern amenities like Wi-Fi and 4G network services are available in several locations, ensuring trekkers can stay connected.
Ideal for trekkers of all ages and experience levels, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Its manageable altitude and well-trodden paths make it an excellent choice for those with limited time who want to experience the magic of the Himalayas without the strain of a prolonged high-altitude trek.
Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, our staff member will collect valued trekkers and transfer them to a hotel.
After checking into a hotel, and having refreshments, we will go to the Go Trekking Nepal office for official paperwork. If we have time, we go to explore the bustling touristy market Thamel.
In the evening you will be invited to attend a welcome dinner, organized by Go Trekking Nepal, in a restaurant. You will meet the trek leader and other fellow trekkers, who are going to Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with you.
Earl morning, at 7 AM, we will board a bus and head to Pokhara. The road, from Kathmandu to Pokhara, is 200 kilometers, and it takes 7 to 8 hours long drive.
The bus journey will be scenic. The bus ride goes through Prithvi highway, the busiest road in Nepal, as it connects most of the other cities with Kathmandu.
From the bus window, you’ll be treated to a picturesque view of rural landscapes, terraced farms, charming villages, and bustling roadside shops and restaurants.
After having a couple of hours’ drive the road goes through the bank of the mighty Trisuli River. We stop for breakfast and continue to travel towards Pokhara.
Depending on road conditions, the bus arrives in Pokhara after 7 hours of drive. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we check into a hotel and go to hang out in the bustling touristy zone, Lakeside.
Overnight stay in Pokahra.
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we set off in a car or jeep, depending on the group size, for a scenic one-and-a-half-hour drive to Nayapul, the starting point of our trek.
From Nayapul, we cross Birethati a checking point for permits and other required documents. The trail goes through lush forests, typical Nepalese villages, farmlands, etc.
Upon reaching Tikhedhunga, we check into a cozy teahouse lodge. After refreshing ourselves, we gather in the dining hall to read books, use the internet, play chess or other indoor games, and enjoy engaging conversations.
We will have a hearty dinner in the lodge and go to bed to relax from the day-long journey.
Overnight Stay in Tikhedhung
The trail from Tikhedhunga ascends the steep, stone-paved steps to the village of Ulleri. On this challenging uphill path, careful footing is essential, and trekkers are advised to use a trekking pole for added stability and support.
To the north, beautiful mountain views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) come into sight, while to the south, exhilarating views of valleys and the Himalayan foothills unfold.
After crossing Ulleri Village, the trail goes through the forest of rhododendrons, oak, and a mix of types of trees. We will reach a small settlement, Banthati, where we stop for lunch.
We reach Ghorepani after 7 to 8 hours of journey and check into a lodge. Trekkers will enjoy and relax in the room. If they are interested in exploring Ghorepani village our guide takes us to explore it.
Overnight Stay in Ghorepani
Early morning, around dawn, we hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for a sunrise view and a panoramic vista of the mountain range.
Poon Hill is a famous viewpoint where many travelers come to catch a view of the sunrise and its reflection over the mountain peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Almost at 360 degrees, the view of the mountain range and peaks of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapurchre are spotted.
Having a wonderful time in Poon Hill, we come back to the lodge and take breakfast then begin trek toward Tadhapani.
The trail gently ascends to Gurung Hill, another viewpoint comes across the trail, which is popular for jump-shot photography.
The trail descends through the Rhododendron Forest, crossing a small settlement Deurali.
After 5 to 6 hours of effort, we reach Tadhapani and check into a tea house. Tadhapani is a small Gurung settlement, from where the exhilarating view of Annapurna south, Gagpurna, and Machhapuchre mountain peaks appear in pretty close distance.
Overnight stay in Tadhapani
After having breakfast, we begin our trek to Ghandruk.The trail descends gently, passing through a dense forest of rhododendrons, oaks, bamboo, and other trees.
Upon arrival in Ghandruk, we will check into a lodge, freshen up, and set out to explore the village. Ghandruk is one of the largest settlements of the Gurung people, who are indigenous and traditionally known for animal husbandry and farming. Nowadays, they are involved in various businesses and services. The village itself is a typical Gurung village, with quaint houses featuring stone roofs, two-story buildings, and numerous huts for animals. Several Nepalese motion pictures have been shot here.
Our trek guide will take us on a tour of this beautiful village, allowing us to engage in short conversations with the locals and immerse ourselves in their culture. We will visit the Gurung Museum, where we can observe traditional tools and other artifacts used in earlier times. At the museum, we can also hire traditional Gurung dresses and take memorable photos by wearing them.
From Ghandruk, we will enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre. The lowlands showcase beautiful Himalayan foothills with terrace farming. After exploring the village, we will return to the lodge and may have the opportunity to attend a traditional Gurung dance show, which is occasionally organized in the village.
Overnight Stay in Ghandruk
After breakfast, we start our trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul. The trail descends gradually, passing through terraced fields and small villages, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
The trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul takes approximately 4-5 hours. Upon reaching Nayapul, we will meet our vehicle and drive to Pokhara. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, offering a relaxing journey with scenic views of the hills and valleys.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, we will check into our hotel. The rest of the day can be spent relaxing by the lakeside, exploring the city, or enjoying some of the activities Pokhara has to offer, such as boating on Phewa Lake or visiting the World Peace Pagoda.
In the evening, you can enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many lakeside restaurants, reflecting on the incredible trek and the beautiful memories made along the way.
Depending on your schedule, spend more time exploring Pokhara or head back to Kathmandu or your next destination.
The trek typically takes between 4 to 6 days. It also depends on the route and pace of the trekker.
The best times to trek Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally clear, offering the best views of the mountains.
The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill, which stands at 3,210 meters.
Yes, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking routes comes inside Annapurna Conservation Area, you need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered an easy-level trek, suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness.
Teahouses and lodges are available along the trekking route. These offer basic but comfortable accommodation and meals. The managers of the Tea house and lodges are well-trained by ACAP.
Essential items include good quality trekking shoes, warm clothing, rain gear, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a daypack, water purification tablets or a water filter, and personal medication.
While it is possible to trek solo as the trails are well-marked, hiring a guide can enhance your experience by providing local knowledge and ensuring safety. Solo trekkers should be confident in their navigation and trekking abilities.
Key highlights include the sunrise view from Poon Hill, the cultural experiences in Gurung and Magar villages, trekking through rhododendron forests, and the scenic terraced fields.
The trek typically starts from Nayapul, which is a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara. Pokhara is 200 km from Kathmandu. You can take a bus, take 7-8 hours’ drive, or fly 30 minutes.