Region:	Annapurna	Max-Altitude:	3,210m/10,528ft
Duration:	6 Days	Trek Grade:	Easy
Transportation:	Flight, Bus, Jeep, Van	Best Season:	Oct to Dec, Feb to May
Trekking Style:	Tea House	Group Size:	Min 2 to Max 12Pax

Trek Overview

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a short yet rewarding trekking experience in the Annapurna region of Nepal, ideal for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike. This 6-day trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and panoramic Himalayan views. The highlight of the trek is the sunrise from Poon Hill, where trekkers can witness the majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, including peaks like Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, and Nilgiri.

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, followed by trekking through picturesque villages such as Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk. Along the way, trekkers will experience the hospitality of local teahouses, enjoy traditional Nepali meals, and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the Gurung and Magar communities.

Trekkers need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) Card, which can be arranged by Above & Beyond Trekking. The trek is best undertaken during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is clear, and the views are at their most spectacular.

With its moderate difficulty level, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is suitable for trekkers of all fitness levels. Hiring a professional guide and porter is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. This trek is a must for anyone looking to explore the Himalayan landscapes and create unforgettable memories.

Highlights

Cultural Immersion: Trek through Gurung and Magar villages like Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. Engage with the local communities, learn about their vibrant culture, and enjoy the warmth of the people. Visit traditional stone houses, and explore local monasteries and temples, gaining insights into rural life in Nepal.
Rhododendron Forests in Bloom: The trek takes you through lush rhododendron forests, which burst into color during the spring months. The vibrant reds, pinks, and whites of the rhododendron flowers enhance the natural beauty of the trail, offering a captivating atmosphere, especially for nature lovers.
Moderate Trekking Difficulty: This trek is perfect for trekkers with moderate fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced adventurers. The trek is not too strenuous, offering an accessible yet rewarding Himalayan trekking experience with stunning scenery along the way.
Accessible Adventure: The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is accessible from Pokhara, making it an ideal option for trekkers who want to experience the Himalayas without committing to a long or challenging expedition. It’s a great alternative for families, first-time trekkers, or those with limited time in Nepal.
Teahouses and Comfortable Accommodation: Along the trek, stay in comfortable teahouses that offer a cozy retreat after a day of hiking. Enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine and relax in the warm hospitality of the locals. These teahouses provide a great opportunity to socialize with fellow trekkers while enjoying the Himalayan ambiance.
Photography Opportunities: Capture the breathtaking landscapes, scenic villages, and iconic mountain views that unfold on this trek. From sunrise over Poon Hill to the stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, the trek offers countless opportunities for photography enthusiasts to document their adventure.

Detailed Itinerary

🔹 DAY 1: Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Nayapul, Nayapul to Hille (1,475m / 4,838ft)

Flight Time: 25 min from Kathmandu
Drive Time: 1:30 hours from Pokhara
Walking Time: 3 hours trek
Overnight: Teahouse in Hille

The day starts with a transfer to Nayapul, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara. From there, we take our first steps on the trek. The walking is easy at this stage as we stroll through the Modi Khola and Bhurungdi River Valley. We trek to the small village of Hile, where we’ll spend the night.

🔹 DAY 2: Hile to Ghorepani Deurali (2,800m / 9,184ft)

Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Ghorepani

From Hile, we walk to Tikhedunga, where we cross a stream as a warm-up before ascending the steep stone staircase to the scenic Magar Village at Ulleri. After lunch, we’ll move through glorious rhododendron blooms and imposing oak forests. We’ll continue slightly upwards toward Nangethanti before scaling towards Ghorepani for dinner and a well-deserved rest.

🔹 DAY 3: Ghorepani to Poon Hill and Tadapani (3,210m / 10,528ft, 2,600m / 8,528ft)

Walking Time: 1 hour (Poon Hill), 6 hours (Tadapani)
Overnight: Teahouse in Tadapani

We’ll be up before dawn today for a reason: our day begins with a short excursion to Poon Hill to witness an unforgettable sunrise over three Himalayan peaks—Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna I, and Annapurna South II—bathed in golden light. From here, we’ll also enjoy views of the 6,000m-deep Kali Gandaki Gorge and the visual boundary between Nepal and Tibet. After returning to the lodge for a late breakfast, we’ll descend towards Bathanti for lunch and continue to Tadapani through beautiful forests.

🔹 DAY 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940m / 6,363ft)

Walking Time: 3 hours
Overnight: Teahouse in Ghandruk

Today’s trail is a relatively easy downhill through beautiful rhododendron and magnolia forests to Komrong Danda and onward to the Ghandruk village. Upon arrival, we’ll be greeted with stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Fishtail Mountain. If time permits, we can visit the Gurung Museum, school, and explore the village, interacting with local families.

🔹 DAY 5: Ghandruk to Nayapul, Nayapul to Pokhara (822m / 2,696ft)

Walking Time: 3-4 hours
Drive Time: 1 hour
Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

The walk between Ghandruk and Nayapul is short, leaving us plenty of time for a 1-hour drive back to Pokhara. Upon arrival, we can enjoy a half-day tour of the city, which is home to the tranquil World Peace Pavilion and the International Mountain Museum. Be sure to explore the market, famous for traditional Nepali jewelry, one of the area’s specialty handicrafts.

🔹 DAY 6: Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,592ft)

Drive Time: 6-7 hours
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

We’ll drive for approximately six hours from Pokhara to Kathmandu, retracing our steps from earlier in the trek. After arriving in Kathmandu, we’ll check into a comfortable hotel, and your Ghorepani Poon Hill trek will be officially completed!

What is Included?

Airport Transfers: All domestic airport transfers from arrival to departure.
Private Transportation: Private, round-trip land transportation between Pokhara and Nayapul.
Teahouse Accommodation: Stay in teahouses with three meals a day provided during the trek.
Kathmandu - Pokhara Flight & Tourist Bus: Round-trip flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and a scenic bus ride back.
Deluxe Accommodation in Pokhara: One night of deluxe accommodation with breakfast in Pokhara.
Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits (ACAP Permit, TIMS).
Experienced Trek Guide: An English-speaking, government-licensed trek guide.
Porter Service: Porters to carry personal gear and group equipment (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
Trekking Map: A detailed trekking map for the Annapurna region.
Staff Costs: Staff expenses, including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, transportation, and accommodation.
Taxes: All government and local taxes covered during the trek.

What is Not Included?

Nepal Entry Visa: Visa fees for entering Nepal are not included. (Visa fee: $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days)
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is mandatory for high-altitude trekking and is not included.
International Airfare: International flights and airport taxes are not covered.
Hotels in Kathmandu: Accommodation in Kathmandu is not included. We can help arrange bookings upon request.
Sightseeing Tours: Sightseeing tours in Kathmandu are not included, but we can assist with arranging them based on your preferences.
Trekking Equipment: Trekking gear such as boots, jackets, and sleeping bags is not provided. You can bring your own or rent from local shops.
Tips for Trekking Staff: Tips for guides, porters, and other trekking staff are not included in the package.
Personal Expenses: Personal expenses like hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi, beverages, desserts, laundry, etc., are not covered.
Other Expenses: Any costs not mentioned in the "What is Included" section are not covered.

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Best Time to Go

The best time to trek Ghorepani Poon Hill is determined by weather conditions and visibility. Choosing the right season ensures a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

Spring (March – May)

Best for: Blooming rhododendron forests, moderate temperatures, and clear mountain views.

Temperature: Daytime 15°C – 20°C | Nighttime -5°C

Autumn (September – November)

Best for: Crystal-clear skies, breathtaking Himalayan views, and ideal trekking conditions.

Temperature: Daytime 10°C – 18°C | Nighttime -10°C

Winter (December – February)

Possible but cold: Snow-covered landscapes with fewer crowds, but freezing temperatures.

Temperature: Daytime 5°C – 10°C | Nighttime -15°C

Monsoon (June – August) 🌧

Not recommended: Heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and limited visibility.

Temperature: Daytime 15°C – 22°C | Nighttime 5°C

📌 Tip: For the best trekking experience, plan your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in either Spring or Autumn.

Essential Packing List

Having the right Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek packing list ensures a safe and comfortable journey. Below is a detailed trekking gear checklist with must-have essentials:

Trekking Boots: Waterproof, comfortable, and well-fitted for long hikes.
Warm Clothing: Fleece jackets, thermal layers, gloves, and windproof jackets.
Sleeping Bag: -10°C sleeping bag (can be rented in Kathmandu).
Backpack: 40-50L trekking bag with a rain cover.
Trekking Poles: Helps reduce strain on knees and improve stability.
Sunglasses & Sunscreen: Protection from intense UV rays at high altitude.
Water Purification Tablets: Avoid buying bottled water to reduce plastic waste.

📌 Tip: A well-prepared trekking gear checklist will help you stay warm, hydrated, and comfortable throughout your trek.

FAQs About Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Find answers to common questions about the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, including difficulty, costs, permits, and the best time to visit.

1. How difficult is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a moderate-level trek, suitable for trekkers with basic fitness. It involves daily walks of 5-7 hours, with some steep climbs and beautiful high-altitude terrain.

2. What is the best time to trek Ghorepani Poon Hill?

The best seasons for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are:

Spring (March – May): Best for blooming rhododendrons & stable weather.
Autumn (September – November): Best for clear skies & breathtaking views.
Winter (December – February): Cold but scenic with snow-covered landscapes.
Monsoon (June – August): Not recommended due to heavy rains & slippery trails.

3. Do I need a permit for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

Yes, trekkers need two permits: