Trip Overview

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a popular short trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering stunning views and a rich cultural experience in just four days. Unlike the more challenging treks like the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, this trek is accessible to trekkers of all levels, with well-marked trails and comfortable tea houses along the way. It is particularly famous for its sunrise views from Poon Hill, where trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Machapuchare.

The trek begins in Nayapul Village and takes you through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming villages. Along the route, trekkers can admire vibrant rhododendron flowers, the national flower of Nepal, known for their medicinal properties. The trek also offers a chance to experience the culture of the Gurung and Magar communities, who have lived in this region for centuries. Staying in cozy tea houses, trekkers can enjoy local cuisine and learn about the history and traditions of the area.

Historically, Ghorepani was a resting stop for traders on a major trade route. The name "Ghorepani" comes from "Ghoda" (horse) and "Pani" (water), referring to the place where traders' horses would drink water. The first tea shops were set up in the 1970s to cater to the few trekkers visiting the area, and today, the region is a bustling hub for adventurers.

The trek's highlight is the early morning hike to Poon Hill for the sunrise, where trekkers can witness the beauty of the Himalayas bathed in the soft glow of the rising sun. With its combination of stunning natural beauty, cultural immersion, and relatively easy trekking, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an ideal short adventure for those seeking a fulfilling experience in the Himalayas.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. You will stay in Kathmandu for 2 nights in a 3-star hotel to rest and acclimatize. During this time, you have the option to explore the city or enjoy sightseeing in a private car. The package includes breakfast, while other meals in the city will be at your own expense.

• Duration: 30 mins

• Max Altitude: 1400m

• Meals: Breakfast

• Accommodation: Hotel

Day 02: Kathmandu to Pokhara
After breakfast, you will travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus (approximately 6-7hours) . The package covers the land transport. Once in Pokhara, you will stay for one night with breakfast included for the next morning. Pokhara is a peaceful lakeside town surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for relaxation or exploration.

• Max Altitude: 820m

• Meals: Breakfast

• Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel

Day 03: Pokhara to Birethanti, Trek to Ulleri
After breakfast, drive for 2 hours to Birethanti, a small village located at the base of the Annapurna region. From Birethanti, you will start the trek to Ulleri, walking for 4-5 hours through scenic forests and villages. Ulleri is a Magar village famous for its 3,500 stone steps. The village offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including Himchuli and Annapurna South.

• Duration: 2 hrs drive / 4-5 hrs walk

• Max Altitude: 1933m

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Accommodation: Local Teahouse

Day 04: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani
After breakfast, you will continue the trek for 5-6 hours towards Ghorepani, passing through dense forests filled with rhododendron trees. This part of the trek is especially beautiful in the spring when the rhododendrons are in full bloom. Ghorepani is a scenic village with stunning views of the Annapurna range and can be a bit chilly, so remember to bring a warm jacket.

• Max Altitude: 2860m

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Accommodation: Local Teahouse

Day 05: Ghorepani to Poon Hill, Trek to Tadapani
On this day, you will wake up early to hike up to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise view over the Annapurna range. The panoramic views from the top are some of the best in the region. Afterward, trek to Tadapani, with a steep 900-meter climb to the village. Tadapani is surrounded by forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

• Duration: 5-6 hrs walk

• Max Altitude: 3210m

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Accommodation: Local Teahouse

Day 06: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk, Drive to Pokhara
After breakfast, trek for about 3 hours to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village. Ghandruk offers spectacular views of the Annapurna range and is a perfect place to experience local culture. You will have the option to either walk to Nayapul (2-3 hours) or take a jeep ride back to Pokhara (approximately 5 hours).

• Max Altitude: 820m

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Local Teahouse

Day 07: Drive to Kathmandu
After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus (approximately 6-7 hours). Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will return to your hotel for the last night of your trip. Take some time to rest or do last-minute shopping in the bustling city.

• Max Altitude: 1300m

• Meals: Breakfast

• Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel

Day 08: Fly Back Home
On your final day, after breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight home, marking the end of your memorable journey to Nepal.

• Meals: Breakfast

• Accommodation: Local Teahouse

Includes & Excludes

Inclusions:

• Airport pick-up and drop-off by private car.

• Round-trip flight Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu.

• Jeep transportation from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda and back.

• 3-star hotel accommodation (2 nights in Kathmandu, 1 night in Pokhara with breakfast).

• All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

• Fresh fruit after dinner.

• Tea house accommodation during the trek.

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card.

• English-speaking, government-licensed guide.

• Staff wages, food, drinks, accommodations, and insurance.

• One Sherpa helper and one porter (for 2 clients).

• Trekking first aid kit and water purification tablets.

• Helicopter service (covered by travel insurance in case of emergency).

• All government taxes and official expenses.

• Trekking equipment: sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and trekking poles (returnable).

• Oximeter for AMS monitoring.

• Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more.

• Trip certificates.

Exclusions:

• International airfare tickets.

• Nepal entry visa fee (obtained upon arrival).

• Extra accommodation, food, drinks, and laundry in Kathmandu.

• Personal medical and travel insurance.

• Desserts, sweet items, and extra drinks during the trek.

• Excess baggage (10-15 kg limit).

• Charges for hot showers, mobile charging, and Wi-Fi during the trek.

• Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fees ($30 USD per person).

• Tips for guide and porter.

Trip Information

Best Time for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Spring (March to May):

• Ideal time for trekking with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

• Rhododendron trees are in full bloom, showcasing vibrant pink and red flowers.

• Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C.

• Night temperatures drop to 0°C to -5°C at higher altitudes.

Autumn (September to November):

• Drier climate with sunny days and stable weather conditions.

• Comfortable daytime temperatures between 10°C to 20°C.

• At higher altitudes, night temperatures can drop to -5°C to -10°C.

Winter (December to February):

• Bright, clear days but colder mornings and nights.

• Cold temperatures at higher altitudes with possible snow.

• Night temperatures can drop to -10°C or lower at Ghorepani and Poon Hill.

Summer (June to August):

• Avoid this season due to heavy monsoon rains.

• Rainy weather leads to slippery trails, swollen rivers, and leeches.

• Visibility may be reduced due to cloud cover.

Elevation and Distance

• Total Trek Distance: 40-45 km round trip.

• Highest Elevation: 3,210 m at Poon Hill.

• Pokhara to Ghorepani Distance:

  • 37.1 km from Pokhara Airport.

  • 166 km from Kathmandu.

• Trekking Distance per Day:

  • On average, 8-12 km per day.

  • Maximum elevation on Day 4: 3,210 m.

Walking Duration

• Average Daily Walk: 4-6 hours.

• Easiest Day: Day 2, trekking from Birethanti to Ulleri (around 4-5 hours).

• Longest Walking Day: Day 4, trekking from Ghorepani to Poon Hill and onward to Tadapani (around 6-7 hours).

Difficulty and Acclimatization

• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate; suitable for beginners.

• No Mountaineering Skills Required: The paths are well-maintained, with stone steps in steeper sections.

• Acclimatization: Gradual ascent allows for proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.

Can a Beginner Do It?

• Yes, it’s beginner-friendly.

• Road access and shorter trekking days make it accessible for first-time trekkers.

• Modern teahouses provide basic amenities such as Wi-Fi and hot showers.

• Porters are available to carry luggage, reducing the weight you need to carry.

Preparation and Training

• General Fitness Required: Moderate fitness is sufficient for the trek.

• Training: Cardiovascular exercises like walking, running, and basic strength training (e.g., squats and push-ups) are helpful.

Alternate Routes

• The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek has limited alternative routes. However, you can extend the trek to other nearby villages or combine it with the Annapurna Circuit trek.

Altitude Sickness

• Less Likely to Occur: The gradual ascent minimizes the risk of altitude sickness.

• Symptoms like mild fatigue or headaches can occur, especially at higher altitudes. If symptoms persist, it's best to descend to a lower altitude.

Transportation, Accommodation, Meals, and Drinks

• Transportation:

  • Private car pick-up and drop-off from Kathmandu Airport.

  • Bus or private vehicle to Pokhara.

  • Private jeep or local transport to Nayapul to start the trek.

• Accommodation:

  • Comfortable 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

  • Simple and cozy teahouses during the trek.

• Meals:

  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included during the trek.

  • Varied cuisine options, including Nepali, Indian, and international dishes.

Communication, Charging, and Internet

• Mobile Coverage:

  • Ncell mobile network works in most areas along the trek.

  • 4G service is available in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

• Charging:

  • Charging is available at most teahouses (around $2-3 per device).

  • Power banks are recommended, as charging options may be limited at higher altitudes.

• Wi-Fi:

  • Free Wi-Fi is available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

  • Wi-Fi is available at teahouses for a fee (around $3-$4 per hour).

Permits

• Required Permits:

  • TIMS Permit (Trekkers’ Information Management System).

  • ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit).

• Permits will be arranged by the trekking agency.

Thank You