Experience the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, a short and scenic trek in Poonhill Nepal, perfect for beginners and nature lovers. Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, trek through lush rhododendron forests, and explore traditional villages like Ulleri and Ghandruk.
Stay in cozy tea houses and witness the beauty of the Himalayan landscapes. This 4-day trek is one of the best short hikes in Nepal. Book Ghorepani Poonhill trek today!
Trip Facts
Duration
4 Days
Max. Altitude:
3210
Group size
2-30
Best Time for Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Activity
Trekking
Meals
B&B , B/L/D
DIFFICULTY
Beginner
LOCATION
Annapurna region, Nepal
Trip Starts
Kathmandu
Trip Ends
Pokhara
Why Choose Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
- Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Enjoy stunning sights of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and more.
- Explore traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk.
- Trek through lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and charming countryside.
- Ideal for beginners and families, with moderate difficulty and well-marked trails.
- Stay in cozy local lodges, experiencing warm Nepali hospitality.
- Spot rare birds and wildlife within the Annapurna Conservation Area
- A convenient and quick trek starting from Pokhara, with private and public transport options.
Overview
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular and accessible trekking routes. Ghorepani Poonhill Trek offers a great combination of natural beauty, culture, and breathtaking mountain views. Located in the Annapurna region, this trek is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The trek lasts 4-5 days, making it perfect for those with limited time.
The journey begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. From here, trekkers pass through lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and charming villages. These villages are home to the Gurung and Magar communities, known for their warm hospitality. The trails are well-maintained and easy to navigate.
Why Poonhill Trekking?
The main highlight of the Ghorepani Poonhill trek is the sunrise view from Poon Hill. Located at 3,210 meters (10,531 feet), Ghorepani Poonhill Trek offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Trekkers can enjoy views of iconic peaks such as Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Nilgiri. The sunrise here is magical, with the peaks glowing in the morning light.
Along the way, trekkers can immerse themselves in local culture. Ghandruk Village offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of the people. The trek also provides plenty of opportunities for relaxation in cozy teahouses.
The best times to do the trek are during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these seasons, the weather is clear, and the views of the Himalayas are spectacular. In spring, the rhododendron forests are in full bloom, making the journey even more beautiful.
Whether you are traveling alone, with friends, or with family, the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is a memorable adventure. It’s an excellent way to experience the beauty and culture of Nepal. Book your trek now and explore the magic of the Annapurna region! First Camp trek will ensure that your holidays in Nepal will be a lifelong memory for you to cherish.
{Read about the story of our guide Sushil’s experience in the Annapurna mountains: [Annapurna Stories]
Find out more about [Complete Guide to Teahouse trekking in Nepal].
Local Secrets: Beyond the Standard Trail
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The Best Apple Pie in the Himalayas: Ghorepani is famous for its local bakeries. Don’t just stick to the teahouse menu—look for the small, family-run spots that use apples from the nearby Mustang region. It’s the perfect high-calorie reward after the Ulleri stairs.
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A “Gurung” Cultural Deep-Dive: In Ghandruk, most people just take a photo and leave. We recommend visiting the Old Gurung Museum. For a few rupees, you can try on traditional Gurung dress and learn why this village is known as the “Home of the Brave Gurkhas.”
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Hydration the Local Way: Instead of buying plastic bottles, look for the Safe Drinking Water Stations in Ghorepani and Ghandruk. The water is ozone-treated and filtered, supporting the local community’s goal to keep the Annapurna region plastic-free.
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The Sound of the Forest: If you trek in April, keep your ears open for the Danphe (Himalayan Monal), Nepal’s national bird. Its colorful feathers are easy to spot against the red rhododendron backdrop if you walk quietly between Ulleri and Ghorepani.
Poonhill region is situated in midwestern region of Nepal that provides a lot of more trekking options that might interest trekkers. The most common practise is to combine Poonhill trek with Annapurna Base Camp Trek. But some other popular options in the region are:
- Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is short yet rewarding trek reaching 4500m and best for those who are short on time and want to be close to the mountain. - Khopra Ridge Trek
Khopra Ridge Trek and Poonhill Trek offer very similar ambience and views but Khopra Ridge trek is relatively less crowded as it is not as much popular are Poonhill Trek - Annapurna Circuit Trek
This is the best option for those who have long time in Nepal and want to enjoy best views. It is quite challenging trek compared to all other mentioned above but also the best one in the list.
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Itinerary
Altitude Gain
2,100m
Accommodation
Teahouse in Ulleri
Meal
B/L/D
Morning:
- Drive from Pokhara to Tikhedhunga (approximately 2 hours) in a private vehicle.
- Begin the trek from Tikhedhunga, crossing suspension bridges and stone-paved trails.
Afternoon:
- Ascend the famous stone steps to Ulleri, a traditional Magar village.
- Enjoy views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre along the way.
Evening:
- Rest at a local teahouse in Ulleri.
- Enjoy a warm Nepali dinner and prepare for the next day’s trek
Altitude Gain
2,850m
Accommodation
Teahouse in Ghorepani
Meal
B/L/D
Morning:
- Enjoy breakfast with mountain views before starting the trek.
- Walk through rhododendron and oak forests, with occasional glimpses of the Himalayas.
Afternoon:
- Stop for lunch at Nangethanti, a small settlement on the trail.
- Continue trekking towards Ghorepani, gaining altitude gradually
Evening:
- Arrive at Ghorepani, a beautiful village offering stunning mountain views.
- Rest and acclimatize at the teahouse.
- Dinner and briefing about the next morning’s sunrise hike.
Altitude Gain
3,210m
Accommodation
Teahouse in Tadapani
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early Morning:
- Wake up before dawn and start the one-hour hike to Poon Hill.
- Experience a breathtaking sunrise over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
- Spend some time capturing the views before descending back to Ghorepani.
Morning:
- Have breakfast at Ghorepani before continuing the trek.
- Trek through forests, ridges, and Deurali Pass (2,700m).
Afternoon:
- Stop for lunch at Banthanti, surrounded by dense rhododendron forests.
- Continue towards Tadapani, passing waterfalls and scenic trails.
Evening:
- Arrive at Tadapani and check into a teahouse.
- Enjoy dinner while overlooking the misty valleys and peaks.
Accommodation
Overnight stay in Pokhara
Meal
Breakfast and Lunch
Morning:
- Have breakfast and begin the descent towards Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village.
- Walk through lush forests, with occasional mountain views.
Afternoon:
- Arrive at Ghandruk and explore the village.
- Visit the Gurung Museum and interact with the locals.
- Have lunch in a local teahouse.
Evening:
- Drive from Ghandruk Village to Pokhara via Nayapul by public transport (approximately 2 hours).
- Drop-off at your hotel in Pokhara, marking the end of the trek.
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Package Inclusions
- All necessary trekking permits, TIMS Card, and documents for Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Accommodation in teahouses and lodges during the trek.
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary.
- English-speaking licensed guide during the trek.
- Private transportation from Pokhara to Ulleri and public transport from Ghandruk to Pokhara.
- Salary, insurance, equipment, and medical supplies for all staff.
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Package Exclusions
- Nepal entry visa fees, international air tickets, and airport departure tax.
- Personal travel and rescue insurance.
- Personal expenses such as bar bills, mineral water, cold drinks, laundry, phone calls, etc.
- Tips for trekking staff and drivers (tipping is expected).
- Hotel, food, and transport in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except for the trekking days).
- Lunch and dinner in Pokhara.
- Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu transport service.
- Other expenses not mentioned above in Tour Inclusions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time for this trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and pleasant temperatures, making the trek more enjoyable.
While it is possible to do the trek independently, having a licensed guide is highly recommended. They provide valuable local knowledge, ensure your safety, and help with navigation. A guide can also assist you in case of emergencies.
Accommodation is in teahouses along the trail, which provide basic facilities such as a bed, shared bathrooms, and meals. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and most teahouses have hot showers available (for an additional charge).
Phone signals are available at most villages along the trail, although they may be weak in higher altitudes. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi for a fee, but it's not always reliable, especially in remote areas.
Yes, it is essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking, medical emergencies, and potential evacuation in case of illness or injury.
Yes, ghorepani poonhill trek is beginner-friendly. As long as you are in good health and are prepared for moderate physical activity, you should be able to enjoy this trek.
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