Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

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  • Duration 8 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • CountryNepal
  • Maximum Altitude 3210
  • Group Size 2-6
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Time March-May, Septmeber-November

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: A Majestic Journey through the Annapurna Region

Discover one of the best short treks in the Nepalese Himalayas with the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. This enchanting journey offers breathtaking views, cultural experiences, and an unforgettable adventure in the Annapurna region.

Highlights

  • Enjoy one of the greatest short hikes in the Nepalese Himalayas

  • Explore charming landscapes, rhododendron forests, and small settlements of the Gurung people

  • Admire the breathtaking view of majestic Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)

  • Stay in cozy teahouses along the trekking path

  • Spend time at Phewa Lake in Pokhara

  • Witness magnificent sunrises across the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains from Poon Hill

  • Marvel at the stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and Mardi

  • Be enchanted by the villages of Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk

  • Enjoy excellent hospitality from the locals, easing any walking fatigue

Trek Overview

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, also known by other names such as Poon Hill Trek, Ghorepani Trek, Annapurna Sunrise Trek, Annapurna Panorama Trek, and Family Trek, is one of the easiest and most accessible routes in the Annapurna region. Suitable for trekkers of all age groups and families, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek can be completed in 2 to 6 days, depending on your preferred itinerary.

Detailed Trek Experience

Begin your journey with a drive from Pokhara to Birethanti. As you hike to Ghorepani, you'll pass through beautiful villages, forests, streams, and riverbanks. Trekking in March or April, you'll see blooming rhododendron forests. The main highlight of the trek is the sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210 meters), where you can see over 32 different snow-capped mountain peaks. The itinerary includes a visit to Jhinu Danda for a natural hot spring bath.

The journey continues from Birethanti to Ulleri, then to Ghorepani, and onward to Tadapani and Ghandruk. The trek concludes with a drive back to Pokhara via Birethanti, where you can enjoy time at Phewa Lake and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the local Gurung and Magar people.

Preparation for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Proper preparation is essential to fully enjoy the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:

  • Physical Fitness: Engage in regular exercise, focusing on cardio, strength training, and endurance.

  • Acclimatization: Spend time at lower altitudes to help your body adjust.

  • Proper Gear: Ensure you have the right gear, including sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, quality backpack, sleeping bag, and first aid kit.

  • Mental Preparation: Be ready for the physical and mental challenges of the trek.

  • Hydration: Maintain proper hydration throughout the trek.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Distances, Durations, and Elevations

Trekking RouteDistance (Kilometers)Duration (Hours)Altitude (Meters)
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara2058 to 9822
Drive from Pokhara to Birethanti41.71 to 21263
Trek from Birethanti to Ulleri8.85 to 61960
Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani10.34 to 52880
Trek from Ghorepani to Poon Hill then Tadapani115 to 63210
Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk6.53 to 41940
Drive from Ghandruk to Pokhara423 to 4822
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu2058 to 91400

Additional Information

Engage in cozy teahouse stays along the trekking path and indulge in authentic Nepali cuisine, including the nutritious and delicious Dal Bhat. Enjoy a leisurely time at the picturesque Phewa Lake in Pokhara, and marvel at the stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri and Mardi.

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Itinerary

Starts from: Kathmandu Ends to: Kathmandu
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Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, the Top of the World Adventure team will be there to greet you. After collecting your baggage, you'll find our agency inside the international arrival tunnel. Our friendly airport staff will brief you on your trip and provide you with all necessary vouchers. You will then be comfortably transferred to your hotel. In the evening, meet your dedicated trekking guide who will assist with final checks of your trekking equipment.

  • Max Altitude: 1350m
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

Start your day early with a scenic drive to Pokhara on a luxurious, sofa-seated tourist bus. Departing at 7:00 am from Sorakhutte, Kathmandu, your journey will take you along the picturesque Prithvi Highway, winding by the banks of the Trishuli River. After a 6-7 hour drive, you'll reach the enchanting city of Pokhara. Take the evening to explore the vibrant Lakeside area.

  • Max Altitude: 822m
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

Begin your trekking adventure with a drive to Nayapul. Upon arrival, your trekking permits will be checked at the permit counter. From here, you'll trek through the scenic riverside path, passing through Hile and Tikhedhunga. The journey involves an ascent to Ulleri, where you'll spend the night at a teahouse lodge.

  • Max Altitude: 2050 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Embark on a captivating journey through lush rhododendron forests as you trek to Ghorepani. The trail takes you through charming villages like Banthati and Nanghethati. After a 5-6 hour hike, you will reach Ghorepani, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

  • Max Altitude: 2880m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

Today you will wake up around 4:30 am. You must rise early for a magical sunrise view from Poonhill, known as the Balcony of the Annapurna Trek. Witness the breathtaking panorama of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna I, III, IV, Machhapuchhre, and more. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then trek towards Tadapani, passing through Deurali and Banthati.

  • Max Altitude: 2630m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse

After breakfast, begin your downhill trek towards Ghandruk Village, a picturesque Gurung village offering stunning views of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, and Mt. Himchuli. After lunch and some exploration in Ghandruk, you will drive back to Pokhara by jeep, a journey that takes 4-5 hours.

  • Max Altitude: 822
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

Wake up early and head to the Pokhara Tourist Bus Station to catch your bus back to Kathmandu. The scenic drive will take around 6-7 hours. Once in Kathmandu, you can indulge in some last-minute shopping in the bustling Thamel area. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at your hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Max Altitude: 1350 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: 3 star hotel

As your remarkable journey comes to an end, our team will ensure a seamless transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule.

Still Confuse?

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Route Map

Ghorepani Poonhill trek map route

Altitude Graph

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Altitude Graph

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • Arrival and departure by private vehicle
  • Kathmandu and Pokhara hotel with Breakfast
  • Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by Tourist bus
  • Pokhara-Nayapul by private car
  • TIMS
  • Annapurna Conservation permit
  • Trekking guide (Food, accommodation, salary, insurance)
  • Teahouse Accomodation in Mountain
  • All meals (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) during trekking
  • First aid tool box

Excludes

  • Bar bills
  • Visa fee
  • International flight fare
  • Travels insurance
  • Trekking equipment 
  • Tips
  • Lunch and Dinner except trekking time

Add-ons and Options

Upgrade your Annapurna Circuit Trek experience with better accommodations and services. This add-on focuses on making your trek more comfortable and luxurious. 

  • Comfort Lodge Improvement
    Upgrade to better teahouses with attached bathrooms (where possible) and softer bedding for a more restful stay.

  • Individual Porter Support
    Hire a dedicated porter to carry your main bag, allowing you to trek with just a light daypack.

  • Tilicho Lake Photography Stop
    Extend your time at Tilicho Lake to capture sunrise or sunset views with flexible itinerary support.

  • Tatopani Hot Spring Retreat
    Stay longer in Tatopani to relax your legs in natural hot springs before the drive to Pokhara.

  • Pokhara Hotel Enhancement
    Choose from lakeside boutique hotels or luxury stays to unwind after your trek.

Additional Info

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Permits
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek requires the following permits:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) Permit:
    required to access the Annapurna Conservation Area, which encompasses the entire trekking path.
    Cost: NPR 3,000 for foreigners (plus 13% VAT), NPR 1,000 for SAARC citizens.

  • The Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card:
    essential for keeping track of trekking records and guaranteeing everyone's safety while trekking in the Annapurna region.
    Cost: NPR 2,000 per person if trekking alone; NPR 1,000 per person if trekking with an agency.

The required permit fees are included with the package.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek's difficulty
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is suitable for hikers of all ages, families, and beginners as it is an easy to moderate trek. The clearly marked trail winds through forests, villages, and ridges and doesn't require technical climbing skills.

  • The trek could take four to seven days, depending on the itinerary chosen.

  • Walking for four to six hours every day on average.

  • The highest point on Poon Hill is 3,210 meters.

  • Terrain: Stone staircases, forest paths, and village trails.

Trekkers must prepare for:

  • Many ascents and descents, especially the stone steps of Ulleri.

  • Basic teahouse accommodations with minimal amenities.

  • Packing a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear.

Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is typically not a major concern on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek because the highest point (Poon Hill) is 3,210 meters below the typical threshold where serious symptoms occur. However, some hikers may experience mild symptoms like fatigue, headache, or lightheadedness, especially if they are climbing quickly.

To lessen the risk:

  • Take it slow and go up slowly.

  • To stay hydrated, drink a lot of water.

  • Avoid alcohol and cigarettes.

  • Recognize early symptoms and, if required, take a break.

  • If you begin to experience the symptoms of altitude sickness, lower your altitude and take a break. Because of its moderate elevation and gradual ascent, the trek is generally safe, but awareness and caution are still essential.

Symptoms of altitude sickness may include:

  • A headache

  • I feel nauseous.

  • Dizziness

  • Fatigue

  • Lack of breath

  • Loss of appetite

  • Having a hard time falling asleep

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek FAQs

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is rated as moderate and is one of the easiest and most accessible treks in the Annapurna region. It's suitable for most fitness levels, including families and beginners, but you should still prepare physically with cardio and endurance training to fully enjoy the experience.

The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 3,210 meters at Poon Hill. While altitude sickness is less common at this height, proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, and listening to your body are essential. Taking it slow, especially on the day of the Poon Hill sunrise hike, will help you enjoy the views without discomfort.

You'll enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine, including the staple Dal Bhat — a nutritious and filling lentil and rice dish. Teahouses also offer simple but tasty meals like noodles, soups, and momos, perfect to recharge after a day of trekking.

The best seasons are March to May and September to November, when the weather is generally clear and pleasant. You'll enjoy blooming rhododendrons in spring and crisp, colorful autumn skies, perfect for those stunning mountain views and sunrises.

Absolutely! The moderate grade and well-established teahouse route make it accessible for families and older travelers who are reasonably fit. Just make sure to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and consult a doctor if you have health concerns before the trek.

Pack sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing layers (including a waterproof jacket), a quality backpack, a sleeping bag, and essentials like a first aid kit, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Trekking poles can help with steep sections, especially at Ulleri’s famous stone stair climb.

Daily trekking ranges from 3 to 6 hours, with some steep ascents like the climb from Ulleri to Ghorepani. The trek offers manageable distances, but some days involve steady uphill walking, so a moderate level of fitness and stamina is recommended.

You'll visit charming Gurung and Magar villages such as Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk, where you can interact with locals, learn about their traditions, and witness their warm hospitality. These cultural encounters enrich the trek beyond just the stunning natural scenery.

Yes! Besides the highlight sunrise at Poon Hill, you’ll have a chance to relax in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda and enjoy a peaceful boat ride or stroll around Phewa Lake in Pokhara, offering a refreshing break before and after your trekking days.

Price Per Person US$499US$549
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