Poonhill Ghorepani Trek: 5 Days Itineraries | Cost | Highlights | Guide

Trip Facts

Duration:
5 days
Trekking Region:
Annapurna Region
Max. altitude:
3,210 m / 10,532 ft
Grading:
Easy to Moderate
Best Time:
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
Group size:
2-10
Accomodation:
Teahouses (local lodges) along the route
Meals:
Traditional Nepali, Tibetan, and basic international meals served at teahouses
Trasportation:
Flight and Private vehicles

Trip Highlights

  • Sunrise– Witness a breathtaking sunrise as the golden rays illuminate the Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri ranges from one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints.
  • Scenic Mountain Views – Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna & Dhaulagiri ranges, including iconic peaks like Machapuchare (Fish Tail Mountain) and Hiunchuli.
  • Traditional Villages – Travel through charming Gurung and Magar villages such as Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk and experience their unique culture, traditions, and hospitality.
  • Rhododendron Forests – Trek through lush rhododendron forests, which burst into vibrant red, pink, and white blooms in the spring season (March-April).
  • Convenient Access – The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Nayapul (via Pokhara) and ends with a drive back to Kathmandu, making it a convenient short hike for those with limited time.

Trip Overview

The Poon Hill Ghorepani Short Trek is among the beautiful treks of the Annapurna valley, providing dramatic vistas of the Himalayas along with exposure to the local culture. The 4-5 day trek typically starts from Nayapul through a drive on picturesque roads from Kathmandu, and provides you with the opportunity to walk through scenic villages, rolling woods, as well as flat meadows.

During the trek you will experience beautiful settlements at Tikhedhunga and Ulleri and Ghorepani which are surrounded by the tranquil landscapes of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Experiencing the sunrise from Poon Hill stands as the peak attraction of the route because trekkers will enjoy viewing magnificent snow-capped peaks during dawn.

New and experienced hikers along with family groups will find this expedition suitable due to its average level of challenge. Through the Poon Hill Ghorepani Short Trek you will experience an introduction to Himalayan wonders that includes beautiful vistas and cultural encounters together with stunning perspectives across mountain peaks accessible in an efficient time span.

Why Choose Dolpo Caravan for the Poonhill Ghorepani Trek?

Dolpo Caravan provides amazing local knowledge, with locals guides and porters. We promote a comfortable, safe and enriching experience cultural experience over the trek. We will promote sustainable tourism to create wider benefits for local communities & we're a staff that's committed to help local communities along the trail.

We may make specific arrangements to guarantee that each trekker has an unforgettable experience while respecting local cultures and surroundings.

Detail Itinerary

  • Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (6-7 hours). Enjoy the scenic views of rivers, countryside, and the Himalayan foothills.
  • Arrive in Pokhara and explore the lakeside area, or take a short trip to Sarangkot for panoramic views of Annapurna and Machapuchare.
  • Overnight stay in Pokhara.

  • Early morning drive to Nayapul (about 1.5 hours).
  • Start the trek from Nayapul to Tikhedhunga or Ulleri (approximately 4-5 hours).
  • Pass through traditional villages, rice terraces, and enjoy views of the Annapurna range.
  • Overnight stay in Tikhedhunga or Ulleri.

  • Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (approximately 5-6 hours).
  • The trail winds through lovely rhododendron forests, occasionally offering views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.
  • Arrive in Ghorepani and enjoy stunning views of the mountains.
  • Overnight stay in Ghorepani.

  • Hike to Poonhill (3,210 meters) early in the morning to see the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains at sunrise.
  • After breakfast, head back to Ghorepani and make the four to five-hour journey to Tadapani.
  • The route offers fantastic views of the surrounding peaks, including Machapuchare.
  • Overnight stay in Tadapani.

  • Trek from Tadapani to Nayapul (approximately 4-5 hours).
  • Drive from Nayapul to Pokhara (1.5 hours).
  • Rest and relax in Pokhara, enjoying the lakeside or shopping for souvenirs.
  • Evening drive back to Kathmandu (6-7 hours).

Cost Includes

  • 2-night hotel stay in Kathmandu (bed-and-breakfast).
  • Transportation: Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nayapul to start trek, and return after trek.
  • Trek Leader & Porter: Expert guide and porter (1 for 2 trekkers).
  • Accommodation: In local teahouses along the trek.
  • Meals: During the walk, we provide three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
  • Permits: TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
  • Staff Salaries: For guide, porter, and support team.
  • Farewell Dinner: In Kathmandu after the trek.

Cost Excludes

  • Nepal Visa fees.
  • International flights to and from Nepal.
  • Personal expenses (meals, drinks, souvenirs).
  • Travel insurance (mandatory).
  • Tips for staff.
  • Extra activities (sightseeing, optional excursions).
  • Personal gear (sleeping bags, jackets, etc.).
  • Emergency medical expenses (not covered by insurance).

Departure Dates

Join Our Fixed Trip Starting Date

TRIP DATES AVAILABILITY PRICE SPACE LEFT
Start date: 02-Apr, 2025
End date: 06-Apr, 2025
Book Now USD 450
Per Person
Book Now
No Departure Found

Equipments

Clothing

  • Base Layer (Thermal Wear)
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Down Jacket or Warm Jacket
  • Trekking Pants
  • Waterproof Pants and Jacket
  • Trekking Shirts
  • Warm Hat/Beanie
  • Sun Hat/Cap
  • Gloves
  • Socks
  • Scarf or Buff

Footwear

  • Trekking Boots
  • Camp Shoes/Sandals
  • Gaiters

Backpack and Daypack

  • Trekking Backpack (40-50 liters)
  • Daypack (15-20 liters)

Sleeping Gear

  • Sleeping Bag (rated to -10°C or 14°F)
  • Sleeping Bag Liner
  • Sleeping Pad

Trekking Gear

  • Trekking Poles
  • Water Bottle or Hydration Sys
  • Water Purification Tablets or Filter
  • Headlamp with Extra Batteries
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun Protection (Sunscreen, Lip Balm with SPF)

For more detail you can visit Dolpo Caravan Equipment List.

FAQs

The best time for trekking appears between March to May during spring and September to November in fall since weather conditions remain clear while providing magnificent scenery.

The Poonhill Ghorepani Trek is considered easy to moderate. It involves 4-6 hours of walking per day with gradual ascents, making it suitable for trekkers with basic fitness.

Yes, it’s perfect for beginners. It is less demanding compared to other high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp.

Teahouses serve Tibetan and Nepali dishes including momo (dumplings), dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, and soups like garlic soup.

Yes, in order to cover any emergency medical needs and evacuation if required, travel insurance is required.

Useful Information

Trek Details

One of the most well-liked short treks in Nepal is the Poon Hill Ghorepani Trek, which is situated in the Annapurna Region. Depending on how long you wish to spend at each location, the walk typically takes three to five days to finish.

The trek begins from Nayapul or Ghandruk, both of which are easily accessible by jeep or bus from Pokhara. At 3,210 meters, Poon Hill is the trek's tallest point and offers breathtaking surroundings mountains views. 

The two permissions needed to hike in this area are the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). In order to track hikers in the area and preserve the natural environment, these permits are necessary.

Trek Difficulty

The Poon Hill Ghorepani Trek is rated as easy to moderate in terms of difficulty, and it is accessible to most trekkers, even beginners. The trek is well marked, and one walks on stone steps, dirt trails, and some climbing uphill. There are some parts that would feel a little difficult, but these are manageable.

There are no walking technical requirements for the walk, so anyone of moderate fitness can do it. You will be walking four to six hours each day, not too long but long enough that the trip will be enjoyable and not tiring.

Distance

The total trekking distance for Poon Hill Ghorepani Trek is 30 to 40 kilometers, depending on the exact route you follow. The distance is spread over the period of the trek, with a daily trekking of approximately 8 to 12 kilometers.

You will be trekking through breathtaking forests, old villages, and mountain ridges, which transform the trekking experience into a rewarding adventure. The distances are not too strenuous, and the trails are relatively well-trodden, hence making it trekable by individuals of any level of experience.

Attractive Points

The Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges can be seen in breathtaking detail from the Poon Hill Ghorepani Trek. The pick of the trek is the sun rise view of Poon Hill, where one is rewarded with a breathtaking view of the snow-capped surrounding mountains. It is indeed magical to watch the mountains bathed in the first light of day.

Besides Poon Hill, you will also be hiking through Ghorepani, a quaint Magar village that is surrounded by stunning rhododendron forests. Spring (March to May) when the rhododendron is in flower and is viewed in multicolored splendor is the most beautiful season for the trek.

As you trek through the forests, you can also get glimpses of wildlife that live in the region like deer, monkeys, and a variety of birds. Ghandruk, another village on this trek, gives you a glimpse into the traditional culture of the Gurungs. The ideal combination of cultural understanding and scenic beauty can be experienced on this trek.

Accommodation and Food

Accommodation:

  • Mostly in tea houses and lodges
  • Rooms are shared with basic bedding
  • Shared bathrooms in most places
  • Hot showers may be available for an extra cost
  • Rooms are simple but clean, providing a comfortable resting place after trekking

Food:

  • Basic but delicious and filling
  • Most tea houses offer a variety of Nepali and international dishes
  • Common meals include:
  • Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables, sometimes meat)
  • Noodles and soups
  • Pancakes and momos (dumplings)
  • Western food options like pasta, fried rice, and eggs
  • Hot drinks available:
  • Tea, coffee, and hot chocolate
  • Help warm you up during chilly mornings and evenings

Is This Trek Worth It?

Yes, the Poon Hill Ghorepani Trek is definitely worth it, and it’s one of the best treks in Nepal for people with limited time or those who want an easy trek that still offers amazing views and experiences. It’s perfect for beginners and families because of its moderate difficulty and short duration. 

At Poon Hill you can observe massive mountaintop behemoths such as Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Dhaulagiri because this trek displays remarkable mountain scenery. While admiring the breathtaking landscapes with Poon Hill climbs you will experience the vibrant heritage of Magar and Gurung locals. 

Gallery

Review

Leave Your Review

whatsapp