Trip Highlights
- Spectacular sunrise from Poon Hill
- Panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Hiunchuli
- Walk through colorful rhododendron forests
- Experience Gurung and Magar culture
- Comfortable tea house accommodation
- Perfect trek for beginners and families
Overview
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal’s most scenic and rewarding short treks, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Annapurna region. Ideal for beginners, families, and experienced hikers alike, this trek combines spectacular Himalayan scenery, charming mountain villages, lush rhododendron forests, and rich Gurung and Magar cultural experiences.
The highlight of the trek is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m / 10,531 ft), one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. As the sun rises, the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna I (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Nilgiri glow with golden light, creating one of the most breathtaking mountain panoramas in the Himalayas.
Place You will Visit
1. Pokhara (822 m)
The gateway to the Annapurna region, Pokhara is a beautiful lakeside city where your adventure begins. Enjoy views of the Annapurna range, explore the vibrant Lakeside area, and prepare for your trek.
2. Nayapul (1,070 m)
A small riverside town and the traditional starting point of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. From here, the trail follows scenic villages, terraced farmlands, and lush forests.
3. Ulleri (2,050 m)
Known for its famous stone staircase of over 3,000 steps, Ulleri is a traditional Magar village offering stunning mountain views and warm local hospitality.
4. Ghorepani (2,874 m)
A picturesque mountain village surrounded by rhododendron forests. Ghorepani is the main overnight stop before the early morning hike to Poon Hill.
5. Poon Hill (3,210 m)
The highest point of the trek and one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, creating unforgettable panoramic Himalayan views.
6. Tadapani (2,630 m)
Nestled within dense forests, Tadapani is a peaceful stop offering beautiful scenery and close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.
7. Ghandruk (1,940 m)
A charming Gurung village rich in culture and tradition. Visit the local museum, experience authentic village life, and enjoy spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre before returning to Pokhara.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 5 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Pokhara – Nayapul – Tikhedhunga/Ulleri
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the gateway to the Annapurna region. From Nayapul, trek through charming villages, terraced farmlands, and lush forests alongside the Modi Khola River. Depending on your pace, you will stay overnight at Tikhedhunga or continue to Ulleri, a traditional Magar village known for its famous stone staircase.
Drive Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Overnight: Tikhedhunga (1,540 m) or Ulleri (2,050 m)
Day 2: Ulleri – Ghorepani
After breakfast, continue your trek through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests. Pass small settlements like Banthanti and Nangethanti before reaching the picturesque village of Ghorepani. Surrounded by magnificent Himalayan scenery, Ghorepani is the perfect place to rest before the sunrise hike.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Ghorepani (2,874 m)
Day 3: Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Tadapani
Wake up early for a short hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m), one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. After enjoying the spectacular views and taking photographs, return to Ghorepani for breakfast before trekking through forests to Tadapani.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Highest Altitude: Poon Hill (3,210 m)
Overnight: Tadapani (2,630 m)
Day 4: Tadapani – Ghandruk
Today’s trail descends through peaceful rhododendron and oak forests with stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Arrive at Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village where you can explore local culture, traditional houses, and the Gurung Museum.
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Ghandruk (1,940 m)
Day 5: Ghandruk – Nayapul – Pokhara
Essential Information
Place You will Visit
Inclusinons And Exclusion
- Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle.
- Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu transportation.
- Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide.
- Porter service (generally 1 porter for 2 trekkers).
- Guide and porter accommodation, meals, salary, insurance, and equipment.
- Accommodation in comfortable tea houses/lodges during the trek.
- Breakfast during the trek.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card/permit.
- All required trekking permits and local fees.
- Government taxes and service charges.
- Basic first-aid kit carried by the trekking team.
- Trekking map and necessary trip arrangements.
- Farewell dinner after the trek.
- International flights and Nepal visa fees.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, Wi-Fi, and hot showers.
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
- Bottled/mineral water and alcoholic or soft drinks.
- Snacks and other personal food items.
- Emergency evacuation by helicopter or other means.
- Medical treatment and hospital expenses.
- Tips for guides, porters, and drivers.
- Extra accommodation or meals caused by delays, bad weather, or itinerary changes.
- Any services not specifically mentioned under the inclusions.
