The 5 days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a popular trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region, close to Pokhara. Located just a short distance from Pokhara, it offers stunning views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain). With this adventure, you will walk through well-marked trails, passing through beautiful forests, terraced fields, and local villages. It is an easy trek for beginners but allows you to see varied landscapes.
During the trek, you will meet local people from the Gurung and Magar communities. Most of them live traditionally and follow Tibetan-inspired Buddhist culture, which can be beautiful to witness. Some popular villages we pass by, such as Tadapani, Ghandruk, and Jhinu Danda, are perfect for you to experience this culture. The major highlight of this trek is the short, early morning hike to Poonhill to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas. You can also relax in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda after a long day of walking.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is relatively easy, though it does include some uphill climbs, especially on the first day. It is well-suited for you if you are a beginner but still offers a good challenge with varying terrain. The best times to go are during autumn or spring when the weather is clear and the views are perfect. If you want a great trek with beautiful views and a chance to learn about local culture, book with us today. For more details or questions, contact us or read this article.
You’ll start your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with a drive from Pokhara (830 m) to Ulleri, which takes 4–5 hrs by 4WD vehicle. The road from Pokhara to Nayapul (1,070 m) is paved, but from Nayapul to Ulleri, it becomes a little rough, steep, and bumpy. Leaving early in the morning is best, so you’ll reach Ulleri by late morning or midday. On the way, you can see Annapurna South (7,219 m) and Hiunchuli (6,441 m) as well as terraced fields and small Magar villages.
Once you arrive in Ulleri, you’ll be at the starting point for your trek towards Ghorepani. The drive saves you from climbing over 3,000 stone steps at Tikhedhunga (1,480 m), which gives you more energy for the trail ahead. Before trekking, make sure your ACAP permit is ready, as it will be checked on the way.
Drive Time:
3 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
60 km (46.6 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,050 m (6,726 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Lunch, Dinner (L.D)
Place:
Ulleri
On your second day, you’ll trek all the way up to Ghorepani (2,860 m), which is a lot easier compared to the upcoming day’s trek. The trail passes oak and rhododendron forests, which bloom in pink and red during Spring (Mar–May). You’ll cross a few small streams and suspension bridges over the Hile River on the way. Small villages like Banthanti (2,100 m) and Nangethanti (2,430 m) offer rest stops where you can have snacks and drinks.
As you approach Ghorepani (2,860 m), mountain views start to open up. You’ll see Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Hiunchuli very clearly. Ghorepani is a busy village with plenty of teahouses and lodges. Arriving early makes sure you’ll get good accommodation and enough rest for the early morning hike to Poon Hill.
Trek Time:
5 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
10 km (6.2 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,860 m (9,383 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Ghorepani
You’ll start your day with an early morning hike at around 4–5 AM from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3,210 m) to catch the sunrise. From the top, you’ll see Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South, Nilgiri (7,061 m), Baraha Shikhar (7,847 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. The first sunlight turns the peaks into golden-yellow, which is absolutely mesmerizing. A small teashop is at the viewpoint if you want a hot drink before heading back.
After descending to Ghorepani for breakfast, you’ll continue to trek towards Tadapani (2,630 m). The trail first climbs to Deurali Pass (3,090 m), the highest point of today’s trek, then falls downward through rhododendron forest. During this walk, you can see the entire Annapurna range very closely.
After a few hours of trek, you’ll arrive at Tadapani. Its name means “far water”, a nod to the original water source of the village. You’ll stay at cozy teahouses for the night, where you can relax after a long day of trekking and sunrise adventure.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
11 km (6.8 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,630 m (7,742 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Tadapani
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
13 km (8 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
1,780 m (5,841 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Jhinu Danda
On your final day, you’ll leave Jhinu Danda and walk down to the pick-up point near the suspension bridge, where the vehicle departs. Jeeps are the most reliable option here, as public buses rarely operate on this route. The first part of the journey runs on rough, unpaved sections near the trailhead, so the ride can feel bumpy. Once you reach the main highway, the road becomes smoother and better maintained.
As you drive toward Pokhara, you’ll pass terraced hillsides and mid-hill landscapes for almost the entire route. The road distance is about 60 km which takes 3 to 5 hrs, so you may arrive at your hotel early. If you arrive early, then you can take a walk around the Lakeside area or go boating on Phewa Lake. We’ll arrange a farewell program to celebrate the completion of your journey in the Annapurna region.
Drive Time:
4 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
50 km (31 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
830 m (2,723 ft)
Accommodations:
Not included
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch (B.L)
Place:
Pokhara
We understand that everyone enjoys Pokhara in their own way; some prefer lakeside luxury, while others love cozy boutique stays. That’s why accommodation in Pokhara is optional on our trek package, allowing you to choose the hotel that feels right for you. But, if you would prefer us to handle the arrangements, we are happy to assist and can include the stay as an add-on upon request. Simply let us know your preference (3-star, 4-star, or 5-star) while booking the trip.
Dates for 2026
Our 5-day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in the Annapurna Region will start from Pokhara. We will take a drive through Tikhedhunga and reach Ulleri. Upon reaching there, our hiking journey began. We will trek towards Ghorepani, where we will tackle steep stone staircases. With a moderate level of challenges involved, we pass through terraced fields and charming villages.
The highlight here is the early morning hike to the top of Poon Hill (3,210 m), a 45 minutes uphill walk, where we will witness a sunrise over the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre ranges. After descending from Poon Hill, we will trek about 8 to 10 km each day, passing through Tadapani and reaching Jhinu Danda, where natural hot springs await to rejuvenate us. Finally, we will conclude our short hiking adventure here and drive back to Pokhara. In about 3–5 hours, we will finally reach Pokhara Valley.
| Days | Itinerary | Distance (km) | Duration (Hrs) | Elevation (m) |
| 1 | Drive from Pokhara to Ulleri | Drive: 60 | Drive: 3 | 2,050 |
| 2 | Trek to Ghorepani |
Trek: 10 | Trek: 5 |
2,860 |
| 3 | Early morning hike to Poon Hill & trek to Tadapani |
Trek: 11 |
Trek: 6–7 |
2,630 |
| 4 | Trek from Tadapani to Jhinu Danda & visit nearby hot springs |
Trek: 13 |
Trek: 5–6 |
1,780 |
| 5 | Drive from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara |
Drive: 50 | Drive: 4 | 830 |
The best time to trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C during the day and 5°C at night, which is manageable. Similarly, you will witness rhododendron forests in full bloom, creating a colorful and picturesque setting. However, the trails are quite crowded during the peak season.
Autumn offers clear skies, perfect for panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre ranges. Daytime temperatures are typically between 12°C and 20°C, with nights dropping to 0°C to 5°C. Additionally, when exploring Nepal during autumn, you can participate in the major festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, and also enjoy traditional music and foods with a lively and joyful experience.
Summer(June to August) and winter (December to February) are the off seasons for trekking, though trekking is still possible in these periods with extra preparation. Monsoon/ Summer brings heavy rains, making the trails slippery and potentially dangerous. Temperatures during the day range from 18°C to 25°C, but humidity is high, and leeches are common on the trails. The heavy rain can also block views, but mornings are often clearer.
Winter presents cold temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 5°C to 10°C and nighttime temperatures dropping to -5 °C or lower. Snowfall can occur, particularly in higher areas like Ghorepani. This can make the trail icy and challenging. The trails are less crowded and offer solitude, but you’ll need proper gear to stay warm and safe.
Monsoon/Summer is generally not recommended for trekking due to heavy rains, muddy trails, and high humidity. It can make the trek uncomfortable and dangerous, especially for beginners. Similarly, winter (December to February), while offering clear skies and fewer trekkers, is challenging due to freezing temperatures and snow in higher elevations. Without the right gear and preparation, winter treks can be harsh, and the trails may be slippery or inaccessible.
During the trek to Poon Hill, accommodations are provided by tea houses or small lodges that are scattered along the route. These simple guesthouses offer a bed, blankets, and a shared bathroom, ensuring basic comfort. The higher you go, the fewer accommodation options there are, but you can generally find places to stay in villages like Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk.
Most rooms are shared, but private rooms may be available for an additional fee. The facilities are basic but adequate, with warm blankets provided, and some lodges offer a heating stove in common areas. Hot showers are available in most places, though you may need to pay extra for them.
Food along this short trek in Nepal is simple but nutritious, mainly consisting of dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), chapati, and vegetable curries, which are staples for trekkers. You can also have international meals like pasta, noodles, pancakes, and eggs. As you ascend to higher altitudes, food options may become more limited, and the prices may rise. Though the food is simple, it is freshly prepared, providing the necessary energy for your trek.
| Meal | Commonly Available Items |
| Breakfast | Pancakes (plain, honey, or chocolate), toast with jam or butter, Tibetan bread, porridge (oatmeal, cornflakes), boiled eggs, fried eggs, omelets, tea, coffee, milk. |
| Lunch | Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), noodles (fried or soup), fried rice, momo (dumplings), spaghetti, chow mein, seasonal vegetable curry, tea, juice. |
| Dinner | Dal Bhat, soups (vegetable, tomato, garlic), pasta, pizzas, noodles, fried potatoes, roti with curry, dessert like rice pudding or fruits. |
To tackle the steep climbs, especially the stone staircase from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri, it is essential to build physical stamina. Prior to your trek, you can focus on cardio exercises like hiking, jogging, or cycling to improve your endurance. Include strength training for your legs and core, which will help with the uphill and downhill sections. Doing step climbing or walking on stairs will prepare your body for the steep ascents and descents you will face.
Although the altitude on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is moderate, reaching Poon Hill (3,210 m) may cause some discomfort due to thinner air. To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, you can take it slow and give your body time to acclimatize. Ensure you stay hydrated and avoid alcohol. Taking short breaks during your hike, especially on uphill sections, will help your body adjust to the elevation.
You should prepare for varying weather conditions by packing appropriate clothing. You should bring layers, including a warm jacket for early mornings at higher elevations and light clothes for daytime warmth. Good-quality hiking boots are a must for tackling rough and rocky terrain, particularly on steep steps. A rain poncho or jacket will be useful in case of sudden rain, especially in the spring or autumn.
The trek involves long days of hiking, so mental preparedness is crucial. You should be ready for the physical demands, especially during the early morning hikes to Poon Hill and the longer days of walking. You should keep in mind that the effort will be worthwhile as you witness stunning views and experience Nepali culture in the villages you visit. Stay positive, and take breaks whenever necessary to keep your energy up.
Hiring a guide for the short trek to Ghorepani can greatly enhance your experience. They help you in navigation and are also well aware of safety measures during emergencies. Additionally, they assist you in providing detailed information about the area, enhancing your overall trekking experience. To get a well-spoken guide, you can pay about USD 25 to 40 per day.
Similarly, if you want to lighten your load, hiring a porter is an excellent choice. A porter will carry your heavy gear, allowing you to focus on the trek itself. Porters typically carry around 15–20 kg of weight and charge around USD 15–25 per day. Not only does this ease your physical burden, but it also supports the local economy by providing work for locals.
For maximum convenience, you may choose to hire both a guide and a porter through a combined package. This option is often more cost-effective than hiring them separately and ensures that you have both support and comfort during your trek. A combined guide and porter package typically costs between USD 40 to 60 per day.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered a moderate trek, making it suitable for beginners with some physical preparation. The primary challenges are the steep ascents from Ulleri to Ghorepani, which can be physically demanding. You’ll need to pace yourself to avoid exhaustion.
The hike to Poon Hill is another challenge, as it involves an uphill climb in the early morning hours to catch the sunrise. Although it is not a long distance (around 45 minutes), the altitude (3,210 m) may cause some discomfort for trekkers who are not accustomed to higher elevations. The cold temperatures, particularly early in the morning, can add to the difficulty, but the effort is rewarded with beautiful views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
The rest of the trek involves relatively gentle ascents and descents, but you will still need to be prepared for hiking for about 5 to 6 hours per day, which can take a toll on your body. There are stretches of moderate uphill and downhill walking, but nothing too extreme. The trek’s overall difficulty is manageable if you have good fitness levels, proper gear, and the ability to adjust your pace to the terrain.
When trekking in Nepal, especially on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, it is important to be mindful of the baggage limit. Most airlines flying into Nepal allow checked luggage of 20 kg and hand luggage of around 7 kg. If you are hiring a porter, they will carry 15–20 kg of your gear, so pack light and only bring what you will need. For the trek, it is advised to pack a small duffel bag or backpack for the trail, with essential items like clothes, toiletries, a first-aid kit, and a camera. Keep in mind that any excess luggage can be stored at your hotel in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
All tourists traveling to Nepal require a visa. You can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at any land entry point. For most nationalities, a 30-day visa costs around USD 30 and can be extended if necessary. It is also possible to apply for an online visa before traveling, which can save you time at the airport. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. Carry passport-sized photos, as you may need them for your trek permits.
It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers the activities you will be doing during your trek. Ensure that your insurance includes medical evacuation, especially since you will be trekking in remote areas, and coverage for trekking at high altitudes. This includes accidents, altitude sickness, or other unexpected circumstances. Additionally, make sure your insurance covers trip cancellations, lost luggage, and personal liability. Always carry a copy of your insurance policy details, including the emergency contact numbers.
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