Trip Overview
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most cherished routes in Nepal's Annapurna region, known for outstanding landscapes, cultural richness, and accessibility. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, hence making it ideal for travelers of all ages and experience levels.
The main highlight of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is going to Poon Hill, which is 3,210 meters above sea level, for an excellent vista of the sunrise. There, during sunrise, some of the world's highest peaks are set ablaze by the golden rays of the sun: Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Tukuche Peak. It is nothing short of magic; the panorama that Poon Hill offers is the chance for trekkers to bathe in the magnificent beauty of the Himalayas, full of grandeur.
The Ghorepani Poon HIll Trek passes through several quaint villages, mainly inhabited by different ethnic groups; however, the Gurung and Magar dominate these villages. Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages are important for a glimpse at traditional Nepalese hill life. The people's gentle hospitality, rich culture, and tradition link this dimension with trekking in the region. Upon reaching the villages, the trekkers can have lodging in local teahouses, delicious home-cooked meals, and interactions with the locals.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is famous for its diverse landscapes, including thick rhododendron forests, farmland with terracing, and alpine grasslands. It encircles the varieties of flora and fauna of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The rhododendron forests are vibrant during the spring season due to the blooming, which makes the trek all the more attractive. This trek depicts cascading waterfalls, green valleys, and quiet rivers.
One of the attractive things about Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is its ease of accessibility. Usually, treks start from Nayapul-a short drive from the famous tourist city of Pokhara. Well-marked trails and availability of comfortable teahouse accommodation make this trek suitable for all kinds of trekkers, including families with children and older adults. Its relatively moderate altitude, the trek's highest point at 3,210 meters, makes it less vulnerable to altitude sickness, hence giving better assurance for a safe and more enjoyable journey.
The best season for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is spring-starting from March to May and autumn from September to November. During these seasons, the weather usually remains clear, allowing great mountain visibility and very pleasing conditions for trekking. Spring is lovely because of the blooming rhododendrons, and autumn has crisp air with stunning mountain views.
Main Highlights of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Poon Hill
Poon Hill is one of the most popular viewpoints in Nepal, standing at 3,210 meters above sea level. It offers stunning views of Ghorepani Village, Mount Annapurna, Mount Dhaulagiri, Mardi Himal, and several other mountains. This spot is a short hike from Pokhara and is especially favored by groups of family and friends for its spectacular sunrise views.
Ghorepani Village
Located within the Annapurna Conservation Area, Ghorepani Village requires a special permit to visit. Aside from being a gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani is well-known for its side trips. Historically, it served as a rest stop for horses carrying trade goods. Still, now the area benefits from improved transportation facilities.
Mountain Views During the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The 3-day Poon Hill trek offers a variety of mountain views along the trail. Trekkers are treated to breathtaking scenes of over a dozen mountains. Notable peaks include:
- Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters).
- Dhampus Peak (5,244 meters).
- Nilgiri South (6,839 meters).
- Nilgiri Center (6,840 meters).
- Annapurna I (8,091 meters).
- Annapurna South (7,219 meters).
- Hiunchuli (6,441 meters).
- Mardi Himal (5,553 meters).
Ghandruk Village
Ghandruk is a village that showcases the culture and traditions of the Gurung community, which has lived there for over a century. Many men from Ghandruk historically served in the military of countries like Nepal, India, Great Britain, and the United States. Meanwhile, the women managed their homes and have recently shifted towards family businesses in tourism. The local people are actively involved in preserving and promoting Gurung culture, which has boosted village tourism. Visitors staying in homestays get to experience the Gurung way of life, customs, and hospitality.
Ghandruk is also known as the Stone Village or "Konda" in the local language. Its charming stone staircases and well-paved roads make trekkers feel as if they are walking on a path to paradise during their journey to Ghandruk.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Short Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive in Kathmandu. (1335 meters)
Day 2 : Fly to Pokhara (822 meters), drive to Naya Pul (1000 meters) and trek to Tikhedunga. (1550 meters)
Day 3 : Trek to Ghorepani. (2850 meters)
Day 4 : Climb Poon Hill (3210 meters) and trek to Tadapani. (2600 meters)
Day 5 : Trek to Ghandruk (1940 meters)
Day 6 : After Breakfast Drive to Pokhara.
Day 7 : Sightseeing in Pokhara and afternoon flight to Kathmandu
Day 8 : Departure
Itinerary
Cost Include
- All accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara on (BB)
- All Transportation by tourist coach.
- All Trekking arrangements (Trekking Guide & Porter)
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) in Trekking.
- Domestic flight arrangement as per program
- Accommodations in trekking on guesthouse.
- Trekking Permit & all entry permits.
- All services charge & Government Tax.
Cost Exclude
- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
- Personal nature cost, Beverages, Personal insurance & personal tips.
- Beverages & Drinks
- The cost not mentioned in cost includes.
Equipment list for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
This checklist is designed to help you prepare for a trekking holiday in Nepal, with additional notes for those attempting to summit a trekking peak. It's reassuring to know that high-quality gear, including outdoor clothing and sleeping bags, can be conveniently rented in Kathmandu.
Most treks will be in lodges or teahouses, which offer basic rooms with two single beds and mattresses. These lodges, with their cozy rooms and provided blankets, ensure a comfortable stay, making your trek a more enjoyable experience. A good-quality three-season sleeping bag should suffice. However, for trekking peaks, you'll generally set up base camp with tents, necessitating a warmer sleeping bag, a liner to enhance its warmth, and a sleeping mattress.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS | HEAD |
Debit/Credit Cards | Sun Cap |
PP Size Photo (2 Pieces) | Fleece Hat/ Warm Hat (1-2 Pcs) |
Insurance Paper And Contact Address. | Neck Gaiter (2 Pcs) |
Family Members / Company’s Contact | Head Lamp with extra batteries |
Address | Sun Glasses (UV Protection) |
Travel Insurance | Balaclava |
HANDS AND FEET | UPPER BODY |
Light Liner & Down Gloves | Thermal Top Base Layer (2 Pcs) |
Normal Socks (5-6 Pairs) | Fleece Jacket (1 Pcs) |
Trekking Shoes | Gore Tex Jacket (1 Pcs) |
Slipper (1 Pair) | Down Jacket (1 Pcs) |
Camp Shoes | Quick Dry T-Shirt (2 Pcs) |
Hiking Boot with ankle support | Wind breaker/Windproof Jacket |
LOWER BODY | PERSONAL EQUIPMENT |
Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 Pcs) | Down Sleeping Bag -10°C to -20°C |
Fleece Trouser (1pcs) | Headlamp (Rechargeable Batteries) |
Gore Tex Pant (1 pcs) | Trekking Pole |
Light Weight Quick Dry Trekking Pants(2-3 Pairs) | Rucksacks 35L - 45L/Day Bag |
Gaiters for trekking boots | Rain Pancho & Umbrella |
Under Wear (4 pcs) | Powerbank |
EATING & DRINKING | TOILETRIES |
Energy Bar | Hand Disinfectant |
Snacks | Wet Tissue |
Water Bottle | Tooth Paste & Tooth Brush |
Thermos | Soap & Shampoo |
MEDICAL/FIRST AID | MISCELLANEOUS |
Severe Pain Killer (Flexon) | Lip Balm |
Mild Pain Killer (Paracetamol) | Sunscreen |
Throat Lozengen (Strepsils) | Moisturizer |
Lubricating Eye Drop (Artificial Tear) | Quick Dry Towel |
Antacid Tab | Trails Maps |
Electrolyte Tab | Trekking Poles |
Handy Plast | Sun Cream (30-50 Spf) |
Blister Blast | Lip Guard (30-50 Spf) |
Crep Bandage (Elastic Bandage) | Sun Glasses (UV Protection) |
FAQ
Your safety is our top priority. We never compromise on safety, and our guides are well-trained and equipped to ensure your well-being, even in remote areas.
You should be in average physical shape before booking a trek. Any health issues or recent medical conditions should be disclosed when booking. Our itineraries are designed to give you plenty of time to get used to the altitude, and the pace will be set according to your comfort. If you're on regular medication, let us know before the trip begins so we can offer better support.
Yes, we aim to be flexible with our trip itineraries to meet our clients' needs. If our suggested plan doesn't fit your preferences, you're welcome to customize or adjust the itinerary.
Of course! A holiday should be quick to reach the endpoint. We can add extra days to your Trek upon request, with additional costs for guides, porters, lodging, and meals.
We provide backup support in case of emergencies, such as severe high-altitude sickness or accidents. You'll be taken to the nearest hospital or airlifted by helicopter if necessary. Please ensure your travel insurance covers medical and emergency evacuation costs, as you'll be responsible for these expenses.
No problem at all! Most mountain tea houses and lodges offer vegetarian meals. Our guides will ensure that your dietary preferences are met, and our cooks will take care of your meals during camping treks.
Most mountain lodges are basic, resembling guest houses or tea houses. In larger settlements, some lodges offer upgraded accommodations. The quality of lodging depends on the service package you choose.
Yes, most tea houses now have electricity, often through solar panels. You can charge your gadgets, but there is usually a small fee (around $1 to $3 per hour).
Most major villages now have cell phone networks. In remote areas without coverage or other means of communication, we provide a satellite phone with our guide so you can stay in touch with your family.
Yes, you can either leave them at the hotel where you stayed or store them safely with us at our office, free of charge.
Luggage should not exceed 20 kilograms. A porter will carry up to 20 kilograms; you'll have access to this bag at the end of each day's Trek. Carrying a day bag with your money and valuables would be best.
Tipping is not mandatory but is a nice way to thank your guides and porters. The amount can vary, but we suggest a minimum tip of 10% of your total trip cost for the entire local staff, based on your satisfaction and interaction level.