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Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

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Overview Itinerary Trip Info

Overview

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 stunning 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 (September to November) or spring (March to May) 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.

Trekking Trips Activity
Easy Grade

Highlights of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

  • Stunning sunrise views from Poon Hill with panoramic vistas of
  • Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
  • Trek through vibrant rhododendron forests and picturesque villages.
  • Scenic views of Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) and Annapurna South.
  • Relaxing in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
  • The peaceful village of Ghandruk offers views of terraced fields and traditional Gurung culture.
  • Breathtaking views of the snow-capped Annapurna range from Ghorepani.
  • Experience the warm hospitality of local teahouses along the trail.

Itinerary of 5 Days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Day 1 | Drive from Pokhara via Tikhedunga to Ulleri & Trek to Ghorepani Village

We will all meet up at Pokhara. We will pick you up from your respective hotel in the morning at 6 am, and then we will start our adventure of about 3 hours on a jeep towards Tikheldunga. Most of the section of the road is paved and bumpy, which can be quite a challenge. We will pass by many remote villages and distant views of the Himalayas. After arriving at Tikhedunga, we will begin our trek to Ulleri. The trail is steep, and we will climb a long stone staircase to reach Ulleri.

The trekking trail can not be as challenging as compared to another day’s trek. The trial offers you the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys, which makes it worthwhile. We will pass through small villages like Birketh and reach Ghorepani in the late afternoon. Ghorepani offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Our accommodation for the night will be in a cozy teahouse, and we will enjoy a warm dinner and rest for the night.

Flight Time:

6 Hours

Distance:

7 km

Altitude:

2,860m / 9,385ft

Meals:

B, L, D

Place:

Ghorepani Village

Day 2 | Early Morning Hike to Poon Hill Viewpoint 3,220 m, then Trek to Tadapani

On the second day, we will wake up early and hike to Poon Hill to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna range. The hike will take about 45 minutes. Considered to be one of the major highlights, upon reaching there, we will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. After spending some time at Poon Hill, we will return to our teahouse for breakfast.

Then, we will continue our trek toward Tadapani, passing through beautiful forests of rhododendron trees. The trail is mostly downhill but a bit rocky, so you must be careful while walking. Along the way, we will stop for lunch in a local village and enjoy some Nepali dishes. By afternoon, we will arrive in Tadapani, where we can rest and take in the stunning views of the Annapurna South and Machapuchare mountains.

Flight Time:

10 km

Distance:

6-7 hours

Altitude:

2,630m / 8,630ft

Accommodations:

Teahouse

Meals:

B, L, D

Place:

Tadapani

Day 3 | Trek from Tadapani to Jhinu Danda and Nearby Natural Hot Springs

Leaving Tadapani, we will trek towards Jhinu Danda. The trail will take us through dense forests and small villages. The path is mostly downhill, but it can be slippery in places, so we must be cautious. We will pass through villages like Kimche and Chere Danda before arriving at Jhinu Danda.

Finally, at around 1 to 2 pm, we will reach Jhinu Danda. We will see some hot springs in the area, where we can dive in and relax and soothe our muscles. It is a great place to unwind while also witnessing the beautiful natural beauty all around. After enjoying the hot springs, we will head to our teahouse for the night. The trek to Jhinu Danda is not too difficult, but taking breaks is important to avoid fatigue.

Flight Time:

4-5 hours

Distance:

8 km

Altitude:

1,780m / 5,840ft

Accommodations:

Teahouse

Meals:

B, L, D

Day 4 | Trek from Jhinu Danda to Siwa/Ghandruk Phedi, Drive to Pokhara via Nayapul

Today, we will begin our trek from Jhinu Danda to Siwa or Ghandruk Phedi. The trail is mostly downhill and will take us through forests and scenic terraced fields. We will pass through the village of Ghandruk, where we can enjoy views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountains. After reaching Ghandruk Phedi, we will take a short drive to Pokhara via Nayapul.

The drive is around 1.5 to 2 hours, and we will pass through the countryside, enjoying views of rivers and valleys. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we can relax, enjoy the beautiful lakeside city, and spend time exploring the area. The trek on this day is relatively easy, and the drive to Pokhara gives us a chance to rest after several days of trekking.

Flight Time:

5-6 hours

Distance:

12 km

Altitude:

820m / 2,690ft

Accommodations:

Teahouse

Meals:

B, L, D

Day 5 | Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

On the final day, we will drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The drive is around 6 to 7 hours, and we will follow the winding road along the river. Along the way, we will pass small towns, villages, and terraced fields. The road can be bumpy sometimes, but the hills and countryside views are beautiful.

We will stop for lunch along the way in a local restaurant before continuing our journey to Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu, you can relax and reflect on the amazing experience we had during the trek. Finally, we will depart our ways and bid goodbye. Have a safe flight back to your country. Namaste.

Note: Our package does not include the Kathmandu To Pokhara ride at the beginning of the journey.

Distance:

200 km

Altitude:

1,350m / 4,450ft

Accommodations:

Teahouse

Meals:

B, L

Place:

Kathmandu

Altitude in:

Distance, Duration, and Elevation

Days Itinerary Distance (KM) Duration (HRs) Elevation (M)
1 Drive from Pokhara via Tikhedunga to Ulleri & trek to Ghorepani Drive: 57 Trek: 7 Drive: 2.5-3 Trek: 4-5 2,860m
2 Early morning hike to Poon Hill & trek to Tadapani Trek: 10 Trek: 6-7 2,630m 
3 Trek from Tadapani to Jhinu Danda & visit nearby hot springs Trek: 8 Trek: 4-5 1,780m
4 Trek from Jhinu Danda to Siwa/Ghandruk Phedi, drive to Pokhara Trek: 12 Drive: 40 Trek: 5-6 Drive: 1.5-2 820m
5 Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu Drive: 200 Drive: 6-7 1,350m

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Route

Our 5-day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in the Annapurna Region will start from Pokhara. We will take a drive through Tikhedhunga. Upon reaching there, our hiking journey began. We will trek towards Ulleri, where we will tackle a steep stone staircase of over 3,200 steps. With a moderate level of challenges involved, we pass through terraced fields and charming villages. We will then reach Ghorepani, which is surrounded by rhododendron forests.

The highlight here is the early morning hike to the top of Poon Hill (3,210 m), a 1.5-hour uphill walk, where we will witness an unforgettable 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. The trail then leads us to Siwai before returning to Nayapul.

Finally, we will conclude our short hiking adventure here and drive back to Pokhara. In about 2 hours, we will finally reach Pokhara Valley. The other day, we will take an early morning ride back to Kathmandu and finally conclude our journey here in Kathmandu.

Best Time For Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Nepal

On-Season (Spring and Autumn)

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, Dahsin and Tihar, and also enjoy traditional music and foods with a lively and joyful experience.

Off-season (Summer and Winter)

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.

Season Not Recommended

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.

Accommodations & Food In The Trek

Accommodations

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

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.

Packing Essentials

Clothing

Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers
Warm jacket (down or fleece)
Hiking pants and shorts
Waterproof rain jacket/poncho
Hat and sunglasses
Gloves
Buff or scarf

Footwear

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
Comfortable socks
Sandals or camp shoes

Hydration & Snacks

Refillable water bottle or hydration system
Water purification tablets or filter
Energy bars, nuts, and snacks for the trail

Health & Safety

First-aid kit (bandages, pain relievers, etc.)
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Personal medications
Hand sanitizer
Electronics & Documentation
Camera or smartphone
Headlamp or flashlight
Power bank
Passport
Trekking permits

Other Essentials

Small, comfortable daypack
Trekking poles
Cash (Nepali rupees)
Wet wipes or toilet paper

Things To Know

Baggage Limit

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.

Visa

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.

Travel Insurance

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.

Some Safety Tips

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Go at a steady pace and take regular breaks.
  • Watch out for signs of altitude sickness, like headaches or dizziness.
  • Wear good hiking boots and dress in layers for warmth.
  • Apply sunscreen often to protect your skin from the sun.
  • Stay on marked trails and follow your guide’s instructions.
  • Carry a small first-aid kit with basic medications.
  • Be ready for sudden weather changes by packing a raincoat and warm clothes.
  • Follow your guide’s advice to stay safe.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place during the trek.

FAQs For Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Difficulty Involved During Ghorepani Poon Hil Trek

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, particularly the stone staircase from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri, which can be physically demanding. This section has over 3,000 steps, and the altitude starts to increase, which can make the climb feel more strenuous. 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 1.5 to 2 hours), 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 stunning 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.

Preparation Tips For Challenges

Physical Fitness

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.

Acclimatization and Altitude Awareness

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.

Proper Gear

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.

Mental Preparation

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.

Trekking Guide & Porter

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 to 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.

Why Book With Us

HCTreks, a trusted name in Nepal’s tourism, offers unforgettable Himalayan adventures with expert guidance and 24/7 support. From Everest treks to hidden trails like Upper Dolpo, we ensure your journey is seamless and memorable.

Expert Travel Guides

Himalayan Challenge Treks believes no journey will be safe and smooth without a good travel team. Thus, we are proud of our expert travel guides, who make our clients' expeditions remarkable. Likewise, our guides are highly experienced, government-licensed, and trained in first aid and emergency responses.  Trekking with HC's guide is like walking with a companion who ensures your safety and makes a journey memorable and extraordinary.

Safety First

The Himalayan Challenge trek ensures that your safety is our top priority. When you made a booking with us, you became our family member. And we won't let our family be in any trouble. Thus, from the beginning of the trek to the time you fly to your home country, we'll take care of every detail and get in touch with you. Similarly, our well-planned itinerary, acclimatization strategies, and emergency support ensure a smooth and safe trekking experience.

Customizable Trips

Himalayan Challenge Trek knows that even one coin's two sides are not the same, so how can two different clients be the same? Considering the fact that everyone is different and has unique preferences, we offer customizable trekking packages. This personalized option allows trekkers to tailor their itinerary to suit their preferences, fitness level, and time availability.

Eco-Friendly Tourism

Sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices set us apart from other trekking agencies. We don't just make you explore the Himalayas but also train you to protect nature for future generations. We take different steps to ensure that your journey in the mountains has a positive impact. For suitable and eco-friendly tourism, we follow a zero-waste approach to support local and organic products.

Competitive Price

HC Treks's top-notch service at a competitive price ensures that even tight-budget trekkers get the best value for their money. Likewise, we maintain 100% transparency with no hidden costs. We arrange itineraries that maximize the trekking experience without unnecessary expenses, as everything required is included in the package. Further, we offer group discounts and assist trekkers with rental gear to help them reduce costs. 

Route Updates

We believe that staying updated on the weather and providing updates to trekkers are crucial for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Thus, we provide daily weather forecasts and route updates, ensuring trekkers are prepared ahead. For weather updates, our guide monitors official meteorological sources and local reports, ensuring a safe journey and no interruption due to changes in weather during the trek.