Visit the UNESCO Heritage sites and streets of the valley.
Explore the city of Lakes, Pokhara.
Trek through beautiful rhododendron forests, especially vibrant in spring when the flowers bloom.
Witness a stunning sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from the viewpoint of Poon Hill.
Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of iconic peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre.
Experience the rich culture and hospitality of the Gurung people in traditional villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani.
Enjoy the thrill and satisfaction of trekking in the Himalayas, surrounded by breathtaking nature.
Overview
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a scenic trekking route that lies in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is widely known for stunning mountain views and cultural experiences. Though short in length, this trek provides one of the panoramas of the Himalayas. It is popularized due to Gurung culture and magnificent views.
The 9 days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and thereafter drives to Ulleri. The journey begins from Ulleri with a short trek to Ghorepani and through beautiful villages, green forests of tropical vegetation and terraced farmlands promoting a rich experience of Nepalese heritage and beautiful sceneries. You will experience the beautiful Annapurna range and other stunning Himalayan views. Take a morning climb up to Poon Hill from which you will be able to see beautiful sunsets before making your way towards Tadapani and next to Ghandruk which is a gorgeous Gurung community.
After mingling with the locals, you will proceed back to Pokhara and do some sightseeing like Phewa Lake and other destinations around the lake. Last, you will get a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, so you can go sightseeing the last places you intend to see before leaving. This excursion is a perfect mix of trekking, cultural experience, and the glorifying views of the Himalayas that make the memories special.
About Poon Hill
Poon Hill is one of the most famous viewpoints in the Annapurna region of Nepal, famous for its panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. It lies 3,210 meters (10,531 feet) above sea level, thereby affording any trekker or visitor to behold the awesomely towering peaks of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), among many others; especially at sunup, the time in the morning when the first beams of sunlight arise and cast on the snow-adorned summits.
Because it is so easily accessible from Ghorepani after a short, pleasant hike, it continues to be very popular among trekkers who undertake the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. It usually takes from 30 to 45 minutes to climb uphill, and most trekkers get up in the morning to watch the sunrise, considered for many the prime highlight of the whole journey. Not only pleasing to the eye but culturally so rich, as some traditional Gurung villages of Ghorepani and Ghandruk, a variety of them proximal. Poon Hill needs to figure in the itinerary of every trekker who wants to reach the Annapurna region for a perfectly harmonious mixture between natural beauty and its cultural offerings.
Outlined Itinerary
Day 01:- Kathmandu Arrival
Day 02:- Kathmandu Heritage Sightseeing
Day 03:- Drive to Pokhara
Day 04:- Drive to Ulleri, Trek to Ghorepani
Day 05:- Hike to Poonhill, Trek to Tadapani
Day 06:- Trek to Ghandruk
Day 07:- Drive to Pokhara, Pokhara Sightseeing
Day 08:- Fly to Kathmandu
Day 09:- Departure
Detail Itinerary
A cozy arrival in Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal, where you'll meet our representative staff waiting to further transfer you to your hotel. After all, take your sweet time for a rest or just acquaint yourself with the environment.
If time permits, one can go out into the nearby markets or have some local cuisine.
Max. Elevation:1355m
If the provided schedule isn‘t suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.
Meals throughout the trek- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Accommodations during the trek.
Kathmandu sightseeing by private vehicle and guide.
Government licensed holder and well-experienced guide.
Single porter for 2 clients.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
TIMS Permits
All government taxes.
Trekking equipment- if needed (Returnable)
Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Ulleri and return to Kathmandu.
Welcome, and Farewell Dinner at a fine dining restaurant.
Cost Excludes
International Flight Fare
Nepal Entry Visa Fee
Meals which are not included in the trip package
Personal Equipment
Personal Expenses
Tips for guides and porters
All expenses which are not listed in the trip package
Dates and Price
Group Discount Available
1 - 2 Person
US$ 1140
3 - 15 Person
US$ 1030
FAQS
Poon Hill is the highest point of the trek and lies at an altitude of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet), which is pretty manageable for most trekkers, though one need not be unaware of altitude.
Good to Know
Ghorepani Poon Hill in Annapurna Region
Ghorepani Poon Hill is one of the most captivating and accessible treks within the Annapurna region of Nepal, as it offers mountain scenery and culturally rich experiences. It takes about 4 to 5 days from Nayapul, passing through some beautifully set Gurung villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani, where it is highly possible to be saturated with local culture and hospitality.
The highlight of trekking includes early morning hiking to Poon Hill-3,210-m-high for breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, especially during sunrise when golden rays bathe the peaks. Pretty amazing trails with blooming rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and the most varied landscapes are fit for trekkers of all levels.
Comfortable teahouse accommodations and delicious Nepali meals round out the amazing views on an unforgettable Ghorepani Poon Hill trek to experience nature's wonder, adventure, and culture in this sacred heart of the Himalayas.
Why to trek at Ghorepani Poon Hill?
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is also a unique combination of beautiful natural scenery, rich culture, and easily accessible challenges for trekkers at every level. Here are a few reasons for choosing this trek:
Breathtaking Mountain View
The biggest highlight of Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking could be the wide panorama of peaks and landscapes around mountain ranges such as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Poon Hill's view comes right up to being among the best in the world, whereas at dawn, it shines golden.
Cultural Immersion
It passes through traditional Gurung villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani, through which one can experience the rich culture and warm hospitality of the locals. The interaction with the local people, cuisine, customs, and lifestyle adds weight to the trek.
Gradual/ Moderate
Ghorepani Poon Hill is comparatively easily reachable and therefore is an ideal trekking destination for every class of trekkers-from beginner trekkers to experienced families. It's possible to make the trek within 4-5 days, and there are teahouse accommodations right along the trails with appropriate marking of trails.
Diverse Flora and Fauna
This is the trek amidst rhododendrons and other forests that happen to be brilliant, especially when the flowers are in bloom. Highly biodiverse, it supports different kinds of wild animals and bird species; thus, nature lovers come closer to spotting those.
Ideal Destination for Short Treks
If time is gold, then Ghorepani Poon Hill can be your ultimate trek, as it offers brilliant views and a peek into the culture without requiring such long periods as many longer Himalayan treks do.
Photography Opportunities
The great mountain landscapes combined with the rich local culture and the magnificent flora make it a photographer's paradise, or as one might call it-a heaven for nature lovers.
Adventure and Challenge
The trek gives an essence of adventure while it winds through the beautiful terrain upwards to higher altitudes. A reward on the part of trekkers for their accomplishment is satisfying.
Community and Camaraderie
Trekking in groups or with fellow travelers creates a great sense of community and camaraderie. Sharing experiences, stories, and challenges alongside others on the trail truly enhances the overall experience of trekking.
Environmental Awareness
This is the region that aids in conservation through trekking in the Annapurna Conservation Area and helps the indigenous communities continue with sustainable tourism practices.
Best Season for Trek
The best time of the year for Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking starts in spring, from March to May, and in autumn, from September to November.
During spring, the temperature ranges from mild, with rhododendrons coloring the landscape vividly.
Meanwhile, during autumn, crisp weather and blue skies are alluring for sights of the peaks in the Himalayas, Dashain, and Tihar, local festivals.
Although cold and challenging, winter, while the monsoon season with heavy rainfall, spring, and autumn provide ideal conditions for a memorable trekking experience.
Permits for Trek
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
This permit is required for all trekkers entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, and thus for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. ACAP helps in the protection of the natural environment and thus conservation in this area. At the time of my last update, it cost approximately NPR 3,000, around USD 25 for foreigners, though foreign trekkers are advised to check the latest updates on fees.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card:
The TIMS card is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal and provides a record of trekkers' movements, which ensures safety. It helps the authorities track the trekkers in case of emergencies.
It can be received from the offices of the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara and through registered agencies that offer trekking services.
Trekking Equipments
Basic Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Equipment: Right trekking equipment is highly essential for comfort and amusement throughout the trek. The following is a comprehensive list of the necessary trek gear one needs for the trek:
Clothing and Footwear
Thermal tops and bottoms that wick away moisture for comfort and warmth.
Lightweight, quick-drying hiking Pants
Fleece or down jacket to provide warmth during cooler temperatures.
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Trekking Socks
A warm hat-beanie and gloves
Sun Hat
Buff or Scarf
Trekking Boots
Camp Shoes
Backpack and Accessories
A comfortable, 20-30 L daypack with the capacity to keep all things required for a normal day as well as an extended backpack (50-70L) for packing gear.
Refillable water bottle or hydration bladder of 1-2 liters. Also, keep a method of purifying water: tablets or filters.
Energy bars, nuts, and dry fruits are better options for snacks while going on a trek; they will keep your energy level maintained while trekking.
Personal Things
Basic first-aid kit, band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Toiletries; Biodegradable soap, a small toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, and some necessary things
High SPF-level sunscreen prevents UV rays.
Insect Repellent
Camera/Smartphone.
Power Bank
Headlamp or Flashlight
Miscellaneous
Dry Bags or Ziplock Bags
Travel Pillow
Lightweight Towel
Cash
Food, Accommodations, and Water
Food varieties, comfortable lodges, and accessible water sources are available on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.
Most of the meals are provided by teahouses en route, which serve local food items, including dal bhat (rice with lentil soup), momos (Nepali dumplings), noodles, energy bars, and chocolate. In general, breakfast includes porridge, pancakes, and eggs.
Basic accommodations are available in teahouses offering a dormitory or private room, warm blankets, and shared bathrooms. The latter can include hot showers at an extra charge. While comfort levels may be different, local hosts make it a friendly place to stay.
Water is readily available in teahouses, whereby trekkers can buy bottled water or fill up their bottles. It is always a good idea to bring water purification tablets or a portable filter to ensure one has access to safe drinking water.
In all, great food mixed with warm lodgings and accessible hydration options make the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek both memorable and enjoyable in the Annapurna region.
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