Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal, offering breathtaking sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This trek is perfect for beginners and families who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without going too high in altitude. With its comfortable teahouses, rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and scenic mountain vistas, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a rewarding journey that fits within a week.

Trek Overview

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek starts from the lakeside city of Pokhara and usually begins with a short drive to Nayapul or Ulleri. From there, trekkers follow well-maintained trails through terraced fields, subtropical forests, and Gurung and Magar villages. The trail leads to Ghorepani, a vibrant village nestled at the foot of Poon Hill. The highlight of the trek is the early morning climb to Poon Hill at 3,210 meters, which offers an unforgettable panoramic sunrise over the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.

This short yet scenic trek is ideal for those looking for a gentle Himalayan experience without the risk of high-altitude sickness. It can be completed in four to five days, depending on your pace and itinerary.

Major Highlights

Short and scenic trek ideal for families and beginners
Stunning sunrise view from Poon Hill over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
Explore Gurung and Magar culture in traditional mountain villages
Walk through dense rhododendron and oak forests
Spectacular views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli
Comfortable accommodation in teahouses along the route
Easy access from Pokhara with short drive to trailhead
Opportunity to see local birds and Himalayan flora
Trek through Ghorepani, Ulleri, Ghandruk, and Tikhedhunga
No risk of altitude sickness due to moderate elevation
Can be done all year round with beautiful seasonal changes
Incredible photo opportunities of Himalayan landscapes
Suitable for solo trekkers, couples, and group tours
Cultural immersion in mountain hospitality
Relaxing end in Pokhara with lakeside leisure

Short Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri
Day 2: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani
Day 3: Early morning hike to Poon Hill, then trek to Tadapani
Day 4: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk
Day 5: Trek down to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara

Optional routes allow reversing the circuit or extending the trip to Jhinu Danda for natural hot springs.

Useful Information

Altitude and Acclimatization

The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters. This elevation is safe for most trekkers and does not require special acclimatization. However, staying hydrated and walking at a steady pace is always advised.

Permits Required

You will need the following permits for this trek:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ACAP

• Trekkers Information Management System TIMS card

These are easily available in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Accommodation

Teahouses and lodges along the trail offer comfortable rooms with twin beds and blankets. Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging services are available in most villages at a small extra cost.

Meals and Water

Meals include Nepali dal bhat, fried noodles, soups, pancakes, Tibetan bread, and eggs. Clean drinking water is available at lodges, but it is recommended to use water purification tablets or carry a filter bottle.

Guide and Porter

This trek is well-marked and can be done independently, but hiring a guide and porter can enrich your experience. Guides offer local insights and cultural connections, while porters help carry your luggage and reduce physical strain.

Packing List

Comfortable hiking shoes and trekking clothes
Warm layers for early mornings and evenings
Rain jacket or poncho depending on season
Water bottle and purification tablets
Sunglasses, sunhat, and sunscreen
Personal toiletries and basic medications
Camera and power bank for photography
Small backpack for day use

Best Time to Go

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek can be done all year round, but the best months are:

• Spring season from March to May when rhododendrons bloom

• Autumn season from September to November for clear skies and views

Winter treks are also beautiful with snow-capped scenery, while summer offers lush green landscapes but comes with chances of rain.

Difficulty and Fitness Level

This trek is rated as easy to moderate. Daily walking ranges from four to six hours on well-maintained paths. Anyone with average fitness and no health problems can enjoy this trek with minimal preparation.

Cultural Experience

Trekkers pass through Gurung and Magar villages, experiencing warm hospitality and mountain culture. Traditional homes, monasteries, and local lifestyles enrich the cultural aspect of this scenic trek.