Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Read our 30 reviews on Tripadvisor (opens in a new tab)- Duration
- 9 Days
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Max. altitude
- 3210m
- Best season
- Sep-Dec, Mar-May
- Region
- Annapurna
- Activity
- Trekking
Overview
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Highlights
- Watch one of Nepal’s most famous Himalayan sunrises from Poon Hill (3,210m), where the first light of day slowly spreads across the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, turning the snowy peaks into glowing gold. This viewpoint is known for offering one of the best short-trek mountain panoramas in Nepal.
- Walk through peaceful trails surrounded by dense rhododendron forests, tall pine trees, and oak woodlands. In spring, the forest becomes especially beautiful with blooming flowers in red, pink, and white, making the trail feel alive and colorful.
- Enjoy wide and clear Himalayan views throughout most of the trek, including Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Nilgiri, and several other peaks that stay visible as you move between villages and ridges.
- Experience a beginner-friendly trek that is still rich in mountain adventure. The route includes stone steps, forest paths, and gradual climbs, making it suitable for first-time trekkers with normal fitness levels and no technical skills required.
- Visit traditional Gurung and Magar villages such as Ghandruk and Ghorepani, where stone houses, prayer flags, terraced fields, and local hospitality give you a real glimpse into Himalayan mountain life and culture.
- Capture scenic landscapes at every stage of the journey, from green valleys and waterfalls to high ridges overlooking deep mountain ranges, offering constant photo opportunities along the trail.
- Stay in simple mountain teahouses each night, where you can enjoy warm meals, meet fellow trekkers, and rest in peaceful surroundings under clear Himalayan skies filled with stars.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Overview
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a short and highly rewarding Himalayan journey in the Annapurna region of Nepal, designed for trekkers who want spectacular mountain views without a long or difficult expedition. Starting from Kathmandu and passing through Pokhara, the route quickly moves into peaceful hill landscapes filled with forests, rivers, and traditional villages. This 9-day itinerary offers a well-balanced experience of travel, trekking, and cultural exploration, making it one of the most accessible treks in Nepal.
Throughout the journey, the trail unfolds gradually through rhododendron and pine forests, stone steps, and charming mountain settlements such as Ghorepani and Ghandruk. The experience reaches its peak at Poon Hill (3,210m), where an early morning hike rewards trekkers with sweeping sunrise views over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and other Himalayan giants. With comfortable teahouse accommodation, steady altitude gain, and rich natural scenery, this trek is perfectly suited for beginners, families, and travelers looking for a short yet deeply memorable Himalayan adventure.
What makes Himalayan Friendly’s Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek package different from other trekking companies in Nepal?
Himalayan Friendly offers a safe, well-organized, and truly personal trekking experience backed by years of real Himalayan guiding expertise. With a strong focus on small groups, experienced local guides, and transparent service, we ensure every trekker enjoys the Annapurna region with confidence, comfort, and full on-ground support from arrival to departure.
- 150+ successfully guided trekking journeys across Nepal, showing strong field experience across different terrains, seasons, and trail conditions
- 300+ happy travellers worldwide, reflecting consistent service quality and strong customer trust over time
- 8+ years of professional Himalayan guiding experience with deep knowledge of routes, altitude safety, and local culture
- Certified local guides trained in first aid and high-altitude safety management for secure and responsible trekking support
- Small-group and private trekking focus, ensuring personalized attention, flexible pacing, and a better overall trekking experience
- Transparent pricing with complete breakdowns and no hidden costs, so trekkers know exactly what they are paying for
- Fully customizable itineraries for beginners, families, and experienced trekkers to match fitness level, time, and preferences
- End-to-end support from Kathmandu arrival to departure, including logistics, permits, accommodation, and on-trail assistance
- Strong local network in the Annapurna region, ensuring reliable teahouses, smooth coordination, and better service during peak season
- Safety-first trekking approach with acclimatization awareness, daily health checks, and responsible trekking practices throughout the journey
- Highly rated on TripAdvisor and Google, built on consistent traveler satisfaction, trust, and positive trekking experiences
- Friendly guide experience where guides act as companions, offering cultural insight, motivation, and real-time trekking support
The Best Time for Ghorepani & Poon Hill Trek
For Ghorepani Poon Hill treks, for nearly all seasons of the year except the wet monsoon times. Which is July and August, the most favorable and best seasons are spring and autumn/fall. Spring season starts in March and ends in May, most days are bright with sunshine for longer hours. From early 6 am till 5 pm, but can get cloudy afternoon sometimes with chances of light snowfall. Cold morning, late afternoon, and night times, as well with an extra wind-chill factor above 1,500 meters. Spring is a lively time when wildflowers are in seasonal bloom, especially rhododendrons flowers of various species and colors.
The next best season is autumn/fall, from September to November, most days are fine and clear for views and walks. But much cold morning, late afternoon, and nighttime, chances of snowfall sometimes. But a pleasant season of autumn/fall for the Ghorepani and Poon Hill treks. Interested people can enjoy the trek to Ghorepani & Poon Hill during the winter times of December to February also. Despite the cold morning, late afternoon, and nighttime most days are fine with sunshine. But gets dark soon by 5 p.m. and sunlight reaches by 6:30 a.m.
Itinerary
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Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu 1,320 m and transfer to hotel.
Arriving at Kathmandu and Nepal International Airport, our staff and guide receive you for a short transfer to your hotels. Located in the hub of the city, after checking into your rooms. Getting refreshed from the flights then join with other members for trek briefing. The information and details of the treks are provided by our guide. The briefing includes information on the hotels, the Kathmandu city tour, and details on trekking. Evening a warm welcome dinner in a nice authentic Nepali Restaurant with cultural programs along with dinner.
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Day 2
Drive to Pokhara 860 m -06 hours and transfer to hotel.
The morning after breakfast at a given time by the guide, the journey begins with an exciting drive heading beyond Kathmandu Valley. As drive follows the main country’s highway to reach Pokhara city, located in Nepal Mid-West. An interesting overland journey of more than six hours, the road follows along the Trisuli River famous for a rafting adventure. Slowly the drive heads west with views of Manaslu and Annapurna Himalayas, as the road reaches closer to beautiful Pokhara. On entering the Pokhara city area, then a short drive leads to your hotels by the serene Phewa Lake. Check into a nice hotel in Pokhara, the renowned holiday destination in Nepal, as well as probably in the whole
Himalayas. A city full of beauty and charms with serene lakes and close views of the Annapurna Himalayan range. (Interested people can take a scenic flight of half-hour to Pokhara, at extra cost depending upon the trip package price).
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Day 3
Drive to Thirkhedhunga village 1,480 m -04 hrs.
Morning with grand views of the Annapurna Himalayas, enjoying breakfast at the Hotel. Then ready for the adventure to Ghorepani and Poon Hill, our guide receives the group for an exciting drive. The ride takes you beyond Pokhara Valley with views of Annapurna peaks. Then leave the main road for off trail on country dirt trail from the town of Nayapul to reach Bhirethati. A lovely neat village, as the drive continues uphill with views of beautiful waterfalls to reach Thirkhedhunga. A small village with several good lodges close to lovely waterfalls, enjoy the comfort of a nice country lodge. For first overnights in the rural village of Annapurna Himalayan range.
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Day 4
Trek to Ghorepani village 2,885m-04 hrs.
Morning from Thirkhedhunga, the first-day walk led to climbing up on stone steps for a few hours to Ulleri. A moderate-sized mountain village with views of Annapurna peaks. From Ulleri onwards to Ghorepani, after the long big climb, the trail follows on winding gradually up to Ghorepani. A lovely morning walk through a beautiful
forest of rhododendrons and pine trees. The walk then leads to a gradual climb to enter Ghorepani Village, amidst a lovely rhododendrons forest. This will be the highest overnight stop of the journey, enjoy the comfort of a nice lodge with views of Dhaulagiri Himalayas. -
Day 5
Morning hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani 2,640m-06 hrs.
An early morning hike, before the break of dawn to catch the sunrise from the high Poon Hill. From the lodge at Ghorepani takes an hour to climb to reach on top of the highest point at Poon Hill. Located above 3,210 m high, enjoy the glorious sunrise views over the chain of Himalayan peaks. From Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Nilgiri’speaks with Vara Shikar (Annapurna Fang), including Annapurna Himalayan range with Manaslu Himal. The view stretches as far as Ganesh Himal towards the east horizon with majestic Machhapuchare Himal, the famous Fish-Tail Peak. After a refreshing morning view of sunrise and mountains, walk down to Ghorepani for breakfast.
From Ghorepani, the walk continues with a climb through dense forest to reach the top of High Deurali ridge. Which is almost the same height as Poon Hill towards the west of this scenic spot Deurali. Enjoy the fantastic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayas, then the trail follows down to Bhanthati. A small settlement with some simple lodges and restaurants, an ideal place for lunch stops. The afternoon walk leads downhill to a stream, with an hour or less climb to Tadapani overnight. Check into a nice lodge, situated amidst beautiful forest, with close views of the Annapurna Himalayas.
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Day 6
Trek to Ghandruk village 1,951m-04 hrs.
Morning enjoy the fantastic views of the Annapurna Himalayas, after breakfast, a short walk of a few hours to Ghandruk Village. The walk follows on pleasant forested path, then downhill to a stream. After crossing a small bridge, with more downhill to Ghandruk village for lunch, and overnight halt. Ghandruk is a large village whose inhabitants are the Gurung, the main hill tribes of
the southern Annapurna Himalayas. After checking into a lovely lodge and enjoying a good lunch, then explore the village and visit the small Gurung museum. An interesting place to gather knowledge of the Gurung tribe’s cultures and customs of ancient heritage. The Gurung follow the Buddhist religion, as well ancient Bon sect of pre-Buddhism. Worship of nature, and mountain spirits, rest of the day at leisure marveling the views of snow peaks. -
Day 7
Trek to road-head and drive to Pokhara 860m-04 hrs.
From Ghandruk, after a leisure time for breakfast, and then enjoy the last day Short walk to the road-head. On reaching the motor stand, board a vehicle for an interesting drive of a few hours to Pokhara. The drive follows on winding downhill towards low warmer farm areas, reaching Bhirethati and Nayapul. From Nayapul reach the main Pokhara and Beni Highway, as the drive leads up and down to reach Pokhara. On arrival transfer into a nice hotel, afternoon explore the lakeside lined with fancy shops and restaurants.
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Day 8
Drive to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
The morning after breakfast depart from the hotel in Pokhara, for a long and exciting drive to Kathmandu. The overland journey leads on the same interesting highway through several towns and villages. After leaving the Trisuli River on winding up to reach the Kathmandu Valley rim, then enter the bustling city. On reaching the heart of Kathmandu city, then transfer back to your hotels. The rest of the afternoon at leisure for individual activities on the last day in Kathmandu and Nepal.
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Day 9
International departure for homeward bound.
Last day in Kathmandu, and in Nepal, after a wonderful experience on Ghorepani and Poon Hill Trekking. As time for your international flight, our staff will transfer you to the airport. Then bid farewell to the guide and staff, as you enter the airport terminal for a homeward-bound flight.
What’s Included
Cost includes
- Airport pick up and drop
- Two nights accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel (Beautiful Kathmandu Hotel) in Kathmandu.
- Two nights accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Pokhara
- Surface transfer to and from Pokhara by tourist bus then by private car to and from Nayapul.
- Three time meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Best available twin sharing accommodation during the trek
- An experienced English-speaking (trekking guide), porter to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, meals
- Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bags, duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip.).
- Farewell dinner at the end of the trek
Cost excludes
- Nternational airfare and visa fees (15 Days US$25 and 30 Days US$40).
- All drinks Soft and hard coke, beer, mineral water.
- Your Trekking gears
- Tips for your guide and porters etc.
Useful Info
Accommodation While in Kathmandu:
Himalayan Friendly provides the best accommodation in the comfort of a tourist standard hotel in Kathmandu. On a 3 Star category Hotels (Kathmandu suite home) in the hub of Kathmandu in Thamel. The most active and interesting spot for travelers an easy assist to all types of needful requirements. Likewise, facilities for ATMs, Money changing counters, and various trekking and mountaineering well-stocked shops and stores. Including international standard restaurants, café, bakeries, as well banks, medical pharmacies, etc.
One can upgrade the accommodation for 4 or 5-star deluxe standard hotels, on request. When booking with Himalaya Friendly. Which will be at an extra cost.
The hotel in Kathmandu is booked according to our standard itinerary days, in Kathmandu normally will be for 3 overnights. Please remember while in Kathmandu it will be on Bed and Breakfast basis. Includes welcome or farewell dinner only.
Hotel In Pokhara
Himalayan Friendly accommodates all clients in a lovely tourist standard hotel in Pokhara at Iceland Hotel. Located in a wide verdant valley, blessed with beauty and charms of natural wonders.
Himalayan Friendly has always been accommodating all the clients in the best comfort of a Tourist Standard Hotel. Which is Hotel Iceland, a perfect location and assist to the lakes and markets within easy reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the best beginner-friendly treks in Nepal. With moderate walking days, gradual altitude gain, and comfortable teahouse stays, it is suitable for first-time trekkers, families, and travelers with normal fitness levels.
What is the best time to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons for the trek. These months offer clear mountain views, stable weather, and beautiful landscapes, especially during the rhododendron blooming season in spring.
Can I or Can I not leave my luggage in Kathmandu whilst on the trek?
Trekking in Kathmandu? No worries! Leave your luggage at the hotel and enjoy a hassle-free adventure. The friendly hotel staff will keep your belongings safe and sound for free. So, say goodbye to heavy loads and hello to carefree trekking!
How difficult is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
The trek is considered easy to moderate in difficulty. Trekkers usually walk 4–6 hours per day on forest trails, stone steps, and gradual uphill paths, making it manageable for most travelers without prior trekking experience.
What is the highest altitude reached during the trek?
The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters (10,531 ft). Since the altitude gain is gradual, the risk of serious altitude sickness is much lower compared to high-altitude treks in Nepal.
What is included in the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek package?
The package generally includes airport transfers, accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara, trekking permits, teahouse stays, meals during the trek, transportation, and support from experienced local guides and porters.
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