Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 9 Days
Trip Facts
- Destination Annapurna Region Nepal
- Activity Trekking
- Duration 9 Days
- Trip Difficulty moderate
- Max. Altitude 3210m
- Best Time March to May & September to November
- Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
- Meals Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation 5-star hotel in Kathmandu & Pokhara & Tea house
- Group Size 1 - 10
- Transportation Kathmandu to Pokhara Tourist Bus
Trip Highlights
- Short and scenic country walks on the green hills of massif Annapurna Himalayas
- Trek amidst enchanting woods lined with giant rhododendron, pines and fir trees
- Exceptional views throughout the journey from the starts to an end of the treks
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu Himalayan ranges
- Savor the breathtaking waterfalls and terraced fields that line the trail, providing a gorgeous setting
- Stunning sunrise views from scenic Poon Hill with an array of snow-capped peaks
- Leave behind all your fatigue and discomfort from walking, thanks to the incredible hospitality offered by the locals
- Stroll through lush rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung villages.
- Enjoy the vibrant flowers that cover the scenery in the spring
- Enchanted stroll across the Modi River
Introduction
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with RP Adventures takes you around the green hills of the southern Annapurna Himalayas. One of the most popular and famous country walks to Ghorepani and Poon Hill is due to its picturesque location. Ghorepani is a lovely village amidst a beautiful rhododendron forest surrounded by glorious views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan peaks.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek traces the historic Trans Himalaya Salt Trade Route, which extends beyond the Upper Mustang towards Nepal and Tibet China borders. Mules and Horses are laden with goods from both sides passes through the Ghorepani High Hills. It was the best spot for watering the tired, thirsty horses and mules, hence, the name became Gode-Pani.
It means Horse-Water; later, it was mispronounced, and the name was changed to Ghorepani, a scenic hilltop. Located at the base of Poon Hill, the highest point of the trek of a few days duration, the walk to Ghorepani begins with an exciting short drive from beautiful Pokhara, a city of natural charm and beauty. It was lovely and interesting to follow the trail through several farm villages with views of cascading waterfalls.
The climb leads to Ulleri village and then on a gradual path to reach Ghorepani, where it gets cooler. At Ghorepani, stay in the comfort of nice lodges and then take an hour-long morning hike uphill to the famous Poon Hill. Placed on top at 3,210 m, it offers a breathtaking panorama of the Himalayan Mountain Range along with stunning sunrise views. Enjoying the spectacular sunrise and reflecting on the arrays of snow-capped peaks of Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna, and Mt. Manaslu.
Including a series of smaller peaks towards the northwest and east directions in the harmony of a tranquil environment. The adventure continues heading back to Pokhara, taking an alternative scenic route with ups and downhill walks. Reaching the lovely Gurung village of Ghandruk, where our wonderful treks conclude with a drive to scenic.
Best Seasons for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
- The best times and seasons for this wonderful Ghorepani Poon Hill trek are spring and autumn. The spring season begins in March and lasts until May, with most days being sunny.
- During this period, wildflowers such as rhododendrons of various species and colors are in bloom, making the hills lively. Afternoons can sometimes be overcast with occasional showers, and mornings and nights can be cold due to the altitude.
- The next ideal time for this trek is autumn, which starts in September and continues until November. Most days are clear and pleasant for views and walks, although mornings, late afternoons, and nights can be cold.
- You can expect snowfall above 2,000 meters sometimes. Those interested can also enjoy this trek during the wintertime, especially around the Christmas and New Year holidays.
- During winter, days are usually clear for views and walks, but mornings, late afternoons, and nights are very cold. Daylight hours are shorter, but it is still an enjoyable time for views and walks.
What to expect on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
- A lovely walk, although with a few hours of steep ups and downhills, through a beautiful forest. Lined with tall trees and bushes of rhododendron and pine trees, with constant views of the Annapurna Himalayas
- Exploring lovely traditional mountain villages adorned with the age-old heritage of both Hindu and Buddhist religions
- Amazing views of sunrise from Poon Hill with the world’s three of Nepal highest mountain ranges, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna Himal. Includes a series of peaks with the majestic Machhapuchare Himal and the famous Fish Tail Peak.
- Staying overnights from the start and at the end of treks in nice hotels in Pokhara by the Phewa Lake side
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu Airport, Pickup to Hotel – 1,300m
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara 08 hrs
Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul 1,070m – 01 hrs and trek to Ulleri – 05 hrs
Day 04: Trek to Ghorepani 2,850m – 05 hrs
Day 05: Morning Hike to Poon Hill 3,210m and Trek to Tadapani 2,600m – 05 hrs
Day 06: Trek to Ghandruk Village 1,950m- 04 hrs
Day 07: Drive from Ghandruk to Pokhara 850m – 03 hrs
Day 08: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu 1,300m – 08 hrs
Day 09: Departure your Homeland – 1,300m
Alternative Treks Around Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal, known for its stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It’s ideal for beginners and those with limited time. However, if you’re looking for alternative treks in the Annapurna region that offer similar experiences, here are some great options:
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 14 Days: A bit longer but offers stunning views of the Annapurna range, diverse landscapes, and a direct view of the iconic Annapurna Base Camp. A perfect choice for those wanting a step up.
- Khopra Ridge Trek – 14 Days: Experience spectacular mountain vistas and peaceful, less crowded trails. It’s a great alternative for those seeking solitude with breathtaking views.
- Mardi Himal View-Point Trek – 10 Days: A shorter trek with stunning views of the Annapurna range, perfect for those with limited time but still craving those epic mountain views.
Detailed Itinerary
-
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu Airport, pickup to hotel - 1,300m
On arrival at Kathmandu, Nepal International Airport, check the Nepal Standard Time, which is 5 hours and 45 minutes ahead of GMT. Outside the air terminal, our staff from RP Adventures will greet and receive you for a short drive to your hotel. The hotel is located in the hub of Kathmandu, on arrival, check into your lovely rooms. Then meet with other members of the trek for a briefing regarding Ghorepani and Poon Hill trekking. After collecting all the useful information and trek details, in the evening, a group welcome dinner in nice authentic Nepali restaurants is an introduction to Nepali foods and cultures.
Altitude: 1300mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 Star hotel in Kathmandu -
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara 850m - 08 hrs
This journey offers an interesting opportunity to observe the depth of Nepalese rural farm life. The drive takes you through many farm villages and towns, heading west to the beautiful city of Pokhara. Pokhara is blessed with the natural beauty of lakes, rolling hills, and the peaks of the Annapurna Himalayas. The hotels in Pokhara are situated by the famous and serene Phewa Lake, a great place to explore. Alternatively, you can opt for a 30-minute panoramic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Altitude: 850mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 Star hotel in Pokhara -
Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri 2,050m - 05hrs
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. The trail follows the Bhurungdi Khola through the villages of Birethanti and Tikhedhunga before beginning a steady ascent to Ulleri. One of the day's highlights is climbing the famous stone staircase of more than 3,000 steps, leading to the traditional Magar village of Ulleri. Along the way, enjoy beautiful waterfalls, terraced farmland, lush forests, and impressive views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) ranges.
Altitude: 2,050mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea house -
Day 04: Trek to Ghorepani 2,850m - 05 hrs
From Ulleri village, after a pleasant overnight stay, the morning walk leads along a gradual uphill path through a lovely, cool, forested area. It is a pleasant walk with a few steep sections to encounter before reaching the entrance to the Welcome Gate of Ghorepani village. Enter the main gate and then take a short climb to Ghorepani Deurali, which stands atop amidst a beautiful rhododendron and pine forest. The air gets cooler in this moderate-sized village located at the base of Poon Hill. After checking into your nice rooms, enjoy the grand views of the Dhaulagiri Himal range and the peaks of the Annapurna Himalayas.
Altitude: 2,850mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea house -
Day 05: Morning Hike to Poon Hill 3,210m and Trek to Tadapani 2,600m - 05 hrs
Rise early before dawn for a one-hour hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), the highlight of the trek, where a spectacular sunrise reveals breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Manaslu, Nilgiri, and surrounding Himalayan peaks. After enjoying the scenery, return to Ghorepani for breakfast before continuing the trek through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests to Deurali, then descend to Banthanti and follow peaceful woodland trails with small streams before a final uphill climb to Tadapani. Surrounded by lush forests and magnificent mountain views, Tadapani offers a peaceful setting for an overnight stay.
Altitude: 2600mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea house -
Day 06: Trek to Ghandruk village 1,950m - 04 hrs
From Tadapani, enjoying breakfast with morning grand views of snow peaks, our walks slowly come to an end. The walk from Tadapani leads through lovely dense woods and downhill, leaving the forest and reaching Ghandruk village. Arriving at the large Gurung village in Ghandruk, check into a nice lodge for lunch and make your last overnight halt. Enjoy the final day around the high hills of the Annapurna Himalayas; after lunch, explore Ghandruk. One of the largest villages around Annapurna Himalayan Hills, the museum provides information on Gurung history and cultures. The rest of the day, marvel at the scenic surroundings, including the peaks of the Annapurna Himalaya range.
Altitude: 1950mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea house -
Day 07: Drive from Ghandruk village to Pokhara 850m - 03 hrs
Morning from the lodge at Ghandruk. A short walk on the last day reaches the roadhead. From here, an exciting drive of a few hours takes you back to beautiful Pokhara by Phewa Lake. After a few hours of a good drive, we will transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for individual activities.
Altitude: 850mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 Star hotel in Pokhara -
Day 08: Drive to Kathmandu 1,300m - 08 hrs
The drive leads on a busy highway, following the Trisuli River for a few hours, and then the drive climbs on a winding road. Then, reaching the Kathmandu valley and back into the city, after an exciting drive, check into your hotels. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure for individual activities. (Options for a scenic short flight of half an hour to Kathmandu from Pokhara)
Altitude: 1300mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 Star hotel in Kathmandu -
Day 09: Departure your homeland -1,300m
We are dropped off at the airport by private transport on our final day in Kathmandu, Nepal, in time for our international flight. Our RP Adventures guides and staff will transfer you to the airport, bid farewell to the guide and staff, and then enter the airport terminal for the homeward-bound flight, concluding a memorable short adventure on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
Altitude: 1300mMeals: Breakfast
What's included
- Airport pick up and drop
- 5 Star Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara for 4 Night (with breakfast included)
- An experienced English-speaking trekking guide
- All Meals and Teahouse accommodation during the trek
- Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu drive by tourist bus
- All required trekking permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Fee and TIMS Card)
- Guide insurance with food and accommodation
- Basic Medical kits
- Sleeping and duffel bag, down jacket, trekking poles (should be returned after the trek)
- Farewell dinner
- Emergency Helicopter Evacuation Service Arrangement Only (should cover by your travel insurance)
- All required paper works and government taxes
- RP Adventures T-shirt
What's not included
- Nepal Travel Visa Fee
- Personal Medical and Travel insurance (Should cover helicopter evacuation)
- Guide, Porter and Driver tips
- Personal Gears (equipment)
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu
- All other personal expense of beverages (hard and soft drinks)
- All other things not mentioned in the inclusion.
Trekking Gears
The Annapurna Region is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal, attracting thousands of trekkers every year. It is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range, including Annapurna I, the 10th highest peak in the world.
Trekking in the Annapurna Region offers a variety of routes catering to different preferences and fitness levels. Some of the popular trekking routes in the Annapurna Region include: Annapurna Circuit Trek, Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, and Mardi Himal Trek.
To ensure a safe and comfortable trek in the Himalayan region, it is highly recommended to bring the appropriate equipment and gear to cope with the cold temperatures. The following is a list of essential equipment and gear for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, which can be purchased either in the Thamel market or brought from your home country:
The following basic checklist for trekking and hiking equipment should assist you in packing for our trips. Keep in mind the importance of minimizing the weight of your clothing and gear. Your packed trek bag should weigh less than 15 kilograms. Remember, this is merely a guideline and not everything listed is essential to bring.
- Lightweight thermal gloves
- Hiking boots
- 2 pairs of thin and 2 pair of thick woolen socks.
- Trekking trousers
- Waterproof (trousers / jacket)
- Base layer shirts
- Underwear (4)
- Sun hat or scarf
- Thin, lightweight (inner socks) (4)
- Head lamp ,spare bulbs, & batteries
- Small padlock to lock trek bag
- Plastic bags - for keeping items dry inside trek bag
- Small wash towel
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Sun protection (including total bloc for lips)
- Trekking poles
- Down jacket
- Water bottle 1 liters
- Hand wash
- Snow glasses and sunglasses
- Duffle bag or kit bag to carry to gear while trekking.
Additional Equipment Checklist
- Headband or Beanie
- Swiss army knife
- Lip guard
- Sun lotion
- Scarf or neck Band
- Rain jacket/ Umbrella
Map
FAQs of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 9 Days
-
How hard is Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Nepal is generally considered to be a moderate trek. It typically spans 4-5 days and involves uphill climbs, stone steps, and forest trails. Altitude can reach up to 3,210 meters, which may lead to altitude sickness in some individuals. Weather conditions along the trek can be unpredictable, with rain and fog being possible, especially during certain seasons. Accommodations are basic teahouses along the route. While the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is not as demanding as some of the higher-altitude treks in Nepal, it still requires adequate preparation, fitness, and awareness of challenges such as altitude, weather variations, and terrain. -
Why is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek so popular among trekkers?
Ghorepani and Poon Hill are popular treks for several reasons. Firstly, they are easily accessible from Pokhara. Secondly, the trek is relatively short, spanning only a few days. Another appeal is the comfort provided by mountain lodges along the route, coupled with the scenic views. The major highlight of this trek is the climb to the top of Poon Hill, which offers a sweeping panorama of Himalayan peaks, particularly striking during sunrise. Lastly, altitude sickness is generally not a major concern on this moderate trek, although there may be some steep climbs over a few days. -
Who are the main natives of Annapurna Himalayas?
The main natives of the Annapurna Himalayas are the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali people. These indigenous communities have inhabited the region for centuries, relying on agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade along the ancient Trans-Himalayan routes. They have a rich cultural heritage, known for their unique traditions, vibrant festivals, and hospitality, making them an integral part of the Himalayan landscape. -
Are electricity and Wi-Fi facilities available in Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
Yes, in recent years, electricity and Wi-Fi facilities have become available in some parts of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek route. In larger villages like Ghorepani and Tadapani, tea houses and lodges often provide electricity through generators or solar panels, and some may offer Wi-Fi services for a fee. However, availability may vary, and it's advisable to check with accommodation providers beforehand for the most accurate information. -
How are the lodge accommodation and foods on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
From Ulleri - Ghandruk the Accommodation is of tourist standard. But at Tadapani the lodges are with basic and simple, having common bath and toilets. All lodge restaurants offers continental, Chinese, Indian, Nepali or Tibetan foods served in a nice warm dining room.
What Our Travellers' Say about Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 9 Days
Best Trekk solo to Poon Hill!
Rajan is nice guy and very smart… Our 5 days trekking to Poon Hill were amazing! He also took me to the stores to buy/rent very nice equipment! Tks again Rajan!
Damian S
Brazil 2023-02-24
Mañicos por Nepal
Magnífica experiencia con Rajan tanto en la capital de Nepal como en el trekking por el valle del Anapurna.
7 días en los que estuvo siempre atento a todo lo que necesitábamos, hoteles, comidas, transporte,…
Nos ayudó con el cambio de moneda, nos llevó a mercado local y de turismo,…
Muy agradecidos y lo recomendamos a todo el mundo
Daniel B
Spain 2023-07-18
Poon Hill con excelente guía. Soluciona todos los problemas.
Utilizamos los servicios de esta compañía un grupo de seis amigos para hacer un pequeño Trek por el valle de la Annapurna. No éramos especialmente deportista y se adaptaron siempre a nuestras necesidades. Solucionó todos los problemas que pudimos tener a lo largo de los días que estuvimos en Nepal incluso más allá de los días que hicimos el. Te puede ayudar a encontrar transportes al aeropuerto y luego incluso en el destino. El trek que hicimos fue de tres días a Poon Hill y nos acomodó en buenos hoteles y con un trato exquisito. Consiguió todo lo que le pedimos y además lo hizo siempre de buen grado y muy amablemente.
Miguel C
Spain 2023-05-17
Travesía a poon hill
Realize un trekking a Poon hill y la verdad que mejor guía imposible, siempre atento a todas mis necesidades.
La travesía es muy dura, subes 2200 metros en dos días de solo escalera, si si lo que oyes… solo pura escalera. 😂 es el secreto nepalí mejor guardado. Pero Raja se encarga de que te encuentres cómoda todo el rato, es un gran profesional, lo recomiendo al 100%
Beatriz C
Spain 2023-03-15
Ghorepani / Poonhill great experience
I had a great experience doing the Ghorepani and Poonhill trek. My guide Santosh was really attentive and willing to help me with anything that I needed I would definitely recommend this hike and guide to anyone who is interested in doing a Nepal hike that is a little less intense!
Ethan G
2025-11-05Trip You May Like
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