Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 9 Days: Your Scenic Himalayan Escape

Price fromUS$ 750.00
Group discounts
2 - 4 pax
US$ 630.00
5 - 8 pax
US$ 580.00
Book This Trip
Trip Facts
  • Duration 9 Days
  • Destination Nepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max Altitude 3,210 m
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
Highlights
  • Watch the Sunrise: It is a beautiful experience to see the dawn of a new day over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre, from Poon Hill at 3,210 meters.
  • Panoramic Mountain Vistas: Close-up views of towering Himalayan peaks throughout the journey.
  • Cultural Immersion: Experience the Natural and Warm Hospitality of the Magar and Gurung Communities in Villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk.
  • Lush Landscapes: Walk through verdant forests, terraced fields, and vibrant rhododendron blooms (especially in spring).
  • Accessible Adventure: It is a truly rewarding Himalayan trek that suits most fitness levels.
  • Tea House Charm: Enjoy cozy overnight stays in authentic mountain lodges.

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Overview

Discover yourself through the iconic Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, an attractive trek of Nepal's fantastic Annapurna region. It is perfectly suited for those who want to see the most dramatic views of the mighty Himalayas but have no time for a long expedition; in fact, it is the best short trek in Nepal. Witness the golden sunrise illuminate giants like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri from Poon Hill's famous viewpoint. This classic route offers unparalleled views of the Annapurna massif (I, South, and III), the imposing Dhaulagiri range, and the iconic, sacred peak of Machhapuchhre. Traverse lush rhododendron forests, charming Magar and Gurung villages, and enjoy the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Ideal for beginners, families, solo adventurers, and anyone craving an accessible yet unforgettable short Annapurna trek experience. Let Yatri Trekking guide you on this Himalayan gem.

Advantages of Booking Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek With Us

Get the Poon Hill adventure booked with Yatri Trekking to make it a very smooth, enriching and most importantly, responsible experience.

  • Unmatched Local Expertise: Deep knowledge of the Annapurna trails, culture, and logistics from our Nepali team.
  • Multilingual Guidance: Fluent French and English-speaking guides for clear communication and cultural insights.
  • Commitment to Responsible Tourism: We prioritize ethical practices, support local communities, and promote environmental sustainability.
  • 24/7 Customer Support: We assist you before, during, and after the trek, even from Kathmandu up to the mountains.
  • Customizable Itinerary: Flexibility to tailor aspects of your trek to suit your interests or pace.
  • Exceptional Value: Transparent pricing, quality service, and well-organized logistics for an unbeatable experience.

Preparation for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking

A successful trek requires some preparation:

  • Physical Fitness: While manageable for beginners, good general health is essential. Prepare with regular light cardio (walking, hiking, cycling) for 4-6 weeks beforehand. Focus on building stamina for walking 4-6 hours daily on uneven terrain.
  • Trekking Permits: We handle obtaining the essential permits:
    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
    • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
  • Travel Documents: Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), visa (obtainable on arrival for most nationalities), travel insurance documents (see below).
  • Pre-Departure Checklist: Confirm flights, pack appropriately (see packing list), inform bank of travel, get necessary vaccinations (consult your doctor), and carry photocopies of important documents.

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Distance, Duration, and Altitude

DayRouteDistance (Approx.)Trek DurationAltitude (m)
1Arrival in Kathmandu--1,400 m
2Kathmandu to Pokhara (Drive)200 km6-7 hrs822 m
3Drive to Birethanti, Trek to Ulleri10 km (trek)5-6 hrs2,050 m
4Trek to Ghorepani9 km5-6 hrs2,860 m
5Poon Hill Sunrise, Trek to Tadapani12 km6-7 hrs2,630 m
6Trek to Ghandruk6 km3-4 hrs1,940 m
7Trek to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara10 km (trek)4-5 hrs822 m
8Pokhara to Kathmandu (Drive)200 km6-7 hrs1,400 m
9Final Departure---

Note: Driving times Kathmandu-Pokhara can vary; the increased number of road works between Kathmandu and Pokhara has led to a high density of traffic and, as a result, air pollution. The usual time it takes to travel there is 6-7 hours, which can now extend to 8-9 hours. We appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time. One other option would be to take the 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and vice versa, at a cost of USD 130 for a one-way ticket.

check our Pokhara Road Update for the latest conditions.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Cost for 2025 and 2026

Group SizeCost per Person (USD)
1 Pax (Solo)$750
2–4 Pax$630
5–8 Pax$580
9+ Pax (Group)Custom Pricing

The Best Season for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The ideal times for the Poon Hill trek are:

  • Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures, clear skies (especially mornings), and the magical bloom of rhododendron forests painting the hillsides red and pink.

  • Autumn (September to November): Stable weather, dry trails, crystal-clear mountain views, and comfortable daytime temperatures. Peak season.

  • Avoid: The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rain, leeches, slippery trails, and obscured mountain views, but Dolpo and Mustang, north of  Dhaulagiri, are spared because the rains from the south do not cross the barrier of the summits. Thus, these two regions are suitable for trekking even in summer. Winter (December-February) offers clear skies but freezing temperatures, especially at night and higher elevations, with potential snow.

Itinerary

Expand allCollapse all

Warm welcome, transfer to hotel. Briefing about the trek.

  • Accommodation Hotel
  • Max Altitude1,400 m

Scenic drive through valleys and riverside towns. Rest and explore Pokhara's lakeside. 

Note: Please note that the increased number of road works between Kathmandu and Pokhara has led to a high density of traffic and, as a result, air pollution. The usual time it takes to travel there is 6-7 hours, which can now extend to 8-9 hours. We appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time. One other option would be to take the 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and vice versa, at a cost of USD 130 for a one-way ticket.

Check our Pokhara Road Update for current drive conditions

  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude822 m

Short drive to trek start. Follow Modi Khola, cross suspension bridges, ascend stone steps to Ulleri.

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD

Walk through rhododendron forests (blooming in spring!), pass charming villages (Nangethanti, Banthanti). Reach Ghorepani, gateway to Poon Hill.

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude2,860 m

Early hike to Poon Hill for iconic sunrise panorama. Return for breakfast, then trek through forests to Tadapani with stunning mountain views.

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude2,630 m

Descend through forests to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk. Explore traditional houses, culture, and enjoy close-up mountain vistas.

  • Accommodation Lodge
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude1,940 m

Gentle descent along Modi Khola to Nayapul. Drive back to Pokhara. Celebrate your achievement!

  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsBLD
  • Max Altitude822 m

Scenic drive back to the capital. Free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsB
  • Max Altitude1,400 m

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.

  • Accommodation Hotel
  • MealsB

Not satisfied with this regular itinerary?

Are you thinking to plan your custom trip now.

Included
  • All ground transportation (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu, Pokhara-Trek start/end)
  • Teahouse/Lodge accommodation during the trek (twin sharing)
  • All standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
  • Experienced, licensed trekking guide and porter services (1 porter for 2 trekkers, weight limit)
  • All necessary permits (ACAP, TIMS)
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara (twin sharing, B&B basis)
  • Airport transfers
  • Guide/porter insurance, salary, food, and accommodation
  • First aid kit
  • Government taxes and service charges
Excluded
  • International airfare & Nepal Visa fee
  • Travel insurance (mandatory - see below)
  • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu/Pokhara
  • Personal expenses (laundry, phone, battery charging, bar bills, bottled water)
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Any costs arising from early departure, unforeseen events (natural disasters, flight delays)
Additional Information

Considering a longer adventure? Explore our Annapurna Base Camp Trek or the stunning Mardi Himal Trek.

Food available during the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.

Enjoy hearty and varied meals in the teahouses along the trail:

  • Staple Meal: Dal Bhat is the main dish, including lentil soup, rice, vegetable curry, and sometimes chicken or meat. It is very tasty, and you can eat as much of it as you like.
  • Other Options: noodles, pasta, momos, Tibetan bread, pancakes, porridge, soups, pizza, eggs, and potatoes in different styles.
  • Dietary Needs: There are a large number of vegetarian meals. You will get a few basic non-vegetarian dishes like chicken and canned meat at the lower altitudes. However, please do not forget to let us know if you are allergic or sensitive to any specific food items.
  • Snacks & Drinks: Chocolate bars, biscuits, peanuts, local snacks. Tea (black, milk, ginger, lemon), coffee, hot lemon, soft drinks, and bottled water (purchase along the way).

Accommodation during Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Accommodation is in traditional teahouses or lodges:

  • Facilities: Basic but generally clean and cozy twin-share rooms with simple beds, mattresses, pillows, and blankets (bring a sleeping bag liner for comfort/hygiene).
  • Bathrooms: All places have sharing toilet and shower facilities, with hot showers most often available for an extra charge. En-suite rooms are rare and will cost you more.
  • Common Areas: These teahouses usually have a warm and sociable dining room at the core of their space, often with a stove.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Difficulty

  • Rating: Fairly moderate. Among the simple treks in Nepal for beginners of average fitness.
  • Daily Walking: Four to six hours, mostly on well-marked trails.
  • Terrain: It is full of stone stairs, forest track, and a few ridges. There is no technical climbing.
  • Altitude: It goes up to a maximum height via Poon Hill at 3,210m, which generally has a low risk of AMS because of its very sensible acclimatization profile.

Travel Insurance for Poon Hill Trekking

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory.

  • Coverage Must Include:
    • Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization.
    • Helicopter evacuation (up to at least 4,000m - covering Poon Hill's 3,210m).
    • Repatriation.
    • Trip cancellation/interruption.
  • Recommended Provider: Consider specialized adventure travel insurers like World Nomads who offer tailored trekking coverage. Ensure you understand your policy details.

Risk of Altitude Sickness in Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

  • Altitude Sickness Risk: Low. The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill, at an altitude of 3,210m. Normally, a gradual ascent profile does not create major concerns except for very few people at risk of AMS below such levels.
  • How to Prevent It: Walk slowly, drink 3-4 liters of water each day, avoid alcohol and smoking. Ensure enough carbohydrates in your meal, and most importantly, listen to your body. In cases of dizziness, headaches, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, or shortness of breath, inform your guide at once. Under no circumstances should you ignore them.
  • Symptoms: Be aware of headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, or shortness of breath. Inform your guide immediately if you experience any symptoms. Never ignore them.

Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking Packing List

Pack light but smart! Essentials include:

  • Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots + comfortable camp/shoes/sandals.

  • Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers (thermal top/bottom), trekking shirts/t-shirts, fleece jacket/wool sweater, insulated down jacket, waterproof/windproof jacket & pants, trekking pants (convertible are handy), comfortable underwear & socks (wool blend recommended), warm hat, sun hat, gloves.

  • Accessories: Sunglasses (UV protection), headlamp/flashlight + extra batteries, reusable water bottles/hydration bladder (2-3L capacity), high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm.

  • Gear: Comfortable 30-40L daypack, trekking poles (highly recommended), sleeping bag (comfort -5°C to 0°C) & liner, quick-dry towel.

  • Essentials: Personal first-aid kit (blister plasters, painkillers, antiseptic, personal meds), toiletries (biodegradable soap), toilet paper/hand sanitizer, passport/permits/insurance copies, money/cash (small Nepali rupee notes), camera, power bank/battery charger (charging costs extra in teahouses).

 

Poon Hill Trekking Guide and Safety

Your safety is our priority at Yatri Trekking:

  • Expert Local Guides:  Experienced, Gov. licensed Local Guides are with very good command over trail, first-aid, and mountain safety.
  • Safety Protocols: Guides will monitor the pace, health, and weather of your group. They have been trained well in knowing the early symptoms of AMS and taking adequate measures.
  • Communication: Guides will carry the communication devices (Phone / Radio) for emergencies.
  • Immediate Assistance-Evacuation: The company has established procedures and contacts for quick assistance and then evacuation if required. Trekking insurance is very important for covering the evacuation cost.

 Ghorepani with Poon Hill Trek Booking Procedure

Booking your dream trek is simple:

  1. Contact Us: Reach out via our website contact form, email: [email protected], or WhatsApp. Let us know your preferred dates and group size.

  2. Confirm Details: We'll confirm availability, the final itinerary, and the total cost based on your group.

  3. Secure Your Spot: Make a booking deposit (typically 10-20% of the total cost) via bank transfer or other agreed secure methods.

  4. Receive Confirmation: We'll send your official booking confirmation and detailed pre-trek information.

  5. Final Payment: Settle the remaining balance upon your arrival in Kathmandu (usually in cash USD or equivalent).

  6. Prepare & Trek! Complete your preparations, arrive in Kathmandu, and start your adventure!

Ready to witness the magical sunrise from Poon Hill? Let Yatri Trekking guide you through the enchanting hills of the Annapurna. Contact us today to secure your dates for an unforgettable 2025 or 2026 adventure!

If you’ve been dreaming of a short and scenic trek in Nepal, Ghorepani Poon Hill is your answer. Reserve your spot with Yatri Trekking and experience the Himalayan magic. Explore our other Trekking Packages for more inspiration!

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 9 Days: Your Scenic Himalayan Escape FAQs

  • Yes! Two permits are mandatory:

    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30 USD.

    • TIMS Card: $10 USD (if booked through an agency) or $20 USD (independent trekking)

     

    Yatri Trekking handles both permits for clients during booking.

    • Rated moderate, ideal for first-time trekkers, families, and seniors.

    • Daily walking: 4–6 hours on well-marked trails with steep stone steps (e.g., the 3,200-step ascent to Ulleri).

    • Max altitude: 3,210m (Poon Hill), with low risk of altitude sickness due to gradual ascent.

    • Training tip: Light cardio (walking, cycling) for 4–6 weeks pre-trek boosts stamina.

  • Absolutely! Popular options include:

    • Shortened (5–7 days): Skip Kathmandu/Pokhara sightseeing. Start/finish in Pokhara.
    • Extended routes: Add Annapurna Base Camp or Mardi Himal \
    • Sample 4-Day Core Trek:
    DayRouteKey Activity
    1Pokhara → UlleriAscend through rhododendron forests
    2Ulleri → GhorepaniTrek to Himalayan viewpoint village
    3Ghorepani → TadapaniSunrise at Poon Hill (3,210m)
    4Tadapani → PokharaDescend via Ghandruk village
  • Pricing varies by group size (all prices USD):

    Group SizeCost Per Person
    Solo Trekker$750
    2–4 People$630
    5–8 People$580
    9+ PeopleCustom quote

    Included:

    • Permits, meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner), lodging (teahouses/hotels), guides/porters, transport.
      Excluded:

    • Flights, Nepal visa, travel insurance, tips, and personal expenses

    • Basic but clean twin-share rooms with shared bathrooms.

    • Hot showers/WiFi often available (small fee).

    • Cost: $5–$10 USD/night

    • Basic but clean twin-share rooms with shared bathrooms.

    • Hot showers/WiFi often available (small fee).

    • Cost: $5–$10 USD/night

  • Staple meals include:

    • Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, veggies—unlimited servings!).

    • Momos (dumplings), noodles, pancakes, eggs.

    • Vegetarian-friendly; limited meat options at higher altitudes 

    • Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots + camp shoes.

    • Clothing: Layered system (thermal base, fleece, down jacket, waterproof shell).

    • Gear: Headlamp, reusable water bottle, power bank.

    • Health: Sunscreen, first-aid kit, altitude-sickness medication (consult doctor)

    • Low risk: Poon Hill (3,210m) is below the high-altitude danger zone.

    • Prevention: Hydrate (3–4L water daily), avoid alcohol, ascend slowly.

    • A health clinic exists in Ghorepani for emergencies

  • Yes! Ensure coverage for:

    • Emergency helicopter evacuation (up to 4,000m).

    • Medical treatment and trip cancellation.
      Recommended insurer: World Nomads

    • Sunrise at Poon Hill: Panoramic views of Annapurna I (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m).

    • Cultural immersion: Gurung and Magar villages (Ghandruk, Ghorepani) with traditional museums.

    • Spring blooms: Rhododendron forests (March–May) transform trails into "natural gardens".

      1. Contact us via website/email.

      2. Confirm dates, group size, and itinerary.

      3. Pay a 10–20% deposit.

      4. Receive pre-trek info and packing guidance.

      • Bonus: French/English-speaking guides and 24/7 customer support included!


    • Best: Spring (March–May) for rhododendrons; autumn (Sept–Nov) for clear skies.

    • Avoid: Monsoon (June–Aug) due to landslides and leeches.

    • Winter (Dec–Feb) is cold but offers snow-capped views

Related Trips