Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Watch the sunrise paint Dhaulagiri and Annapurna gold from Poon Hill, then walk through rhododendron forests and Gurung and Magar villages on one of Nepal’s most rewarding short treks.

Ghorepani Poonhill is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,210 meters (10,532 feet). It is a popular trekking destination in the Annapurna region. It is named after the small Ghorepani village and poon hill nearby view point location. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a short and scenic route with cultural walks where the route takes through various small hill villages decorated with old Nepalese heritage culture and traditions, which make the trek more worthy.

The trek Ghorepani Poon Hill usually takes 9-10 days and it is considered as an easy moderate trek. This trek is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It offers a stunning view of various snow capped mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Machapuchhre, Annapurna, and many other peaks which are near the Annapurna Mountain range. The trek usually starts from Nayapul, Small village located in the Kaski District of Nepal. It is a famous starting point trek for Annapurna region, including the famous Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This is a gateway trekking route of Ghorepani poon hill, which is majorly connected nearby to Pokhara, also a banks of Modi Khola river.

Nayapul village provides facilities that make trekkers convenient and comfortable. Usually all months of the year except the wet monsoon times from June to mid-September, in this time the route is dangerous in comparison to other weather. March to May and September to November are the best seasons for trekking to Ghorepani Poon Hill. This season the weather is warm as well as a stable and pleasant walk with the beautiful nature. You will start walking gradually through the scenic views of villages, crossing over suspension bridges, picturesque villages to reach Tirkhedhunga, a small village situated at an altitude of approximately 1,570 meters. It is a resting point and accommodation stop for trekkers.

The village is surrounded by lush green hills, terraced fields. This village is inhabited by Gurung and Magar communities, which are known for their culture, traditions and their warm hospitality. You can find basic accommodation and facilities. From there you can gradually ascend and descend from various ups and downs including narrow paths, rugged paths in some routes, and then you will reach the small village Ulleri, which is famous for its thousands of stone steps that climb up the hill side. From there you will continue your trek through rhododendron and oak forests towards along with the beautiful turquoise waterfalls, then finally you reached Ghorepani village.

It is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,850 meters. The trail takes through climbing stairs, passing through terraced fields and various small unknown villages. This trail can be a little bit challenging but the scenic views of natural beauty makes treks more worthy. It is a famous stopover before the nearby Poon Hill viewpoint reach. In there, you will see the various tea houses, guest houses, and a basic accommodation shops where you can rest and buy a basic needy things.

You may need two permits for Ghorepani Poonhill trek. They are TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System) and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit). These two permits are necessary to enter this region and for your safety as well as welfare. You must carry these permits during this trek. The trail ascends through a climb higher ups towards to reach viewpoint. In there, early in the morning around dawn, to catch the stunning sunrise view over the mountains, including 360 degree panorama views of snow capped peaks, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhepuchhre and Dhaulagiri.

This is the best place to create adventurous memories with the beautiful natural peaks, mountains and many more. While it is the less physically challenging trek in other trek comparisons, trekkers must be fit and fine, trekkers with a short holiday relax with the beautiful nature, and create unforgettable memories during this trek. While the Ghorepani Poonhill trek ends you can also trek to Ghandruk , which is the large village populated by Gurung, the hill people of Annapurna region. While in Ghandruk with overnight stop on high hills of Annapurna with explore local Gurung culture and visit nice small museum with information on history and heritage life of Gurung people.

The experience of this trek is truly awe-inspiring and amazing. During this trek, you can carry a bags with necessary things. Such as, warm clothes, shoes, socks, basic medical kit, power banks, cash, torch lights and many more. It is advisable for you to carry the basic necessary things in your bags on the trek for your comfort and for an easy walk.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu via various airlines and transfer to hotel.

Day 02: In Kathmandu sightseeing tour and trek preparation.

Day 03: Drive to Pokhara 860 m and transfer to hotel – 07 hrs journey.

Day 04: Drive to Tikhedhunga 1,445 and trek to Ghorepani 2880 m -6 hours

Day 05: Hike to Poon Hill 3,210 m and trek to Tadapani 2,630m -06 hrs.

Day 06: Trek to Ghandruk (1,930 m) and transfer to lodge – 4 hrs.

Day 07: Trek to road-head and drive to Pokhara – 4 hrs.

Day 08: Drive back to Kathmandu and transfer to a hotel.

Day 09: Departure to respective countries.

Why Choose Ghorepani Poonhill Trek?

• Short and rewarding: You get Himalayan views in 4 to 5 days, with no long time off needed.
• Poon Hill sunrise: The panorama includes Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Nilgiri.
• Rhododendron forests: Nepal’s national flower blooms on these slopes in spring, and the trail is at its most colourful then.
• Cultural villages: You pass through Gurung and Magar settlements such as Ulleri, Ghorepani and Tadapani and see local village life.
• Beginner-friendly: Teahouses along the route mean no camping is needed, and the trail is well marked.
• Easy access: Pokhara is the starting point, with a short drive to Nayapul.
• Flexible itinerary: You can extend the trek to Ghandruk, Tadapani or Annapurna Base Camp.

Difficulty In Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Easy to Moderate.

• Trekking for 5 to 7 hours a day on stone steps and forest trails.
• The Ulleri staircase (about 3,000+ steps) is the toughest section.
• No technical climbing is involved.
• A basic level of fitness is enough, and no previous trekking experience is needed.
• The trail suits families and first-time trekkers.

Altitude Info Of Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

• Highest point: Poon Hill, 3,210 m (10,531 ft).
• Ghorepani: about 2,874 m (9,429 ft).
• Start point (Nayapul): about 1,070 m.
• The altitude is moderate, and the risk of altitude sickness is low but not zero. Walk at a steady pace and drink plenty of water.

Best Time For Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

• Spring (March to May): Rhododendrons in bloom, warm days and clear mornings.
• Autumn (September to November): Crisp air, stable weather and the best mountain views.
• Winter (December to February): Cold, but clear skies. Snow is possible near Ghorepani.
• Monsoon (June to August): Not recommended because of rain, leeches and cloudy views.

Permits Required For Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Two permits are required:

1. ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
2. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

Carry your passport and passport-size photos. We arrange both permits for you. Permit fees change from time to time, so confirm the current rates with us when you book.

Accommodation In Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

• In Pokhara: a tourist-standard hotel before and after the trek.
• On the trek: simple teahouses and lodges with twin-sharing rooms, blankets and shared bathrooms.
• Rooms in Ghorepani can be basic and busy in peak season, so booking ahead helps.
• Hot showers and device charging are usually available for an extra fee.
• A sleeping bag is useful in colder months.

Meals In Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner at teahouses along the trail.
• Menus include dal bhat (rice, lentils and vegetables), noodles, momo, fried rice, pasta, soups, eggs and porridge.
• Dal bhat is the best choice for energy on the trail.
• Vegetarian options are widely available.
• Drink boiled or filtered water, and avoid buying plastic bottles.

Transportation Facilities In Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

• Pokhara to Nayapul by private vehicle or local bus, about 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Return from Ghandruk or Nayapul to Pokhara by jeep or vehicle.
• Kathmandu to Pokhara: a tourist bus or a short domestic flight of about 25 minutes. Ask us to arrange it.
• Airport and hotel transfers can be included in your package.

Safety Information

• Walk at a comfortable pace and take regular rests.
• Learn the early signs of altitude sickness: headache, nausea, dizziness and unusual tiredness. Descend if symptoms get worse.
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol at higher altitude.
• Take care on wet or icy steps, especially in the dark on the way to Poon Hill.
• Our guides carry a first-aid kit and know the nearest medical posts.
• We recommend travel insurance that covers trekking up to 4,000 m, including emergency evacuation.
• Check weather conditions before each day’s trek.

Responsible Tourism

• Carry out all non-biodegradable waste, and avoid single-use plastic.
• Stay on marked trails to protect the forest and wildlife.
• Respect local customs, dress modestly in villages, and ask before taking photos of people.
• Support local businesses by eating, sleeping and buying at community-run teahouses.
• Hire local guides and porters and treat them fairly.
• Save water and electricity in the mountains.

Book / Enquire

Ready to watch the sunrise over the Annapurnas?
Book your Ghorepani Poonhill Trek with us for a safe, well-organised and unforgettable Himalayan experience. Our local guides take care of permits, transport, accommodation and every detail.

👉 Book Now | Send an Enquiry | Get a Free Custom Itinerary

Need a different duration or want to add Ghandruk or Annapurna Base Camp? Contact us and we will build the trip around you.