The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Nepal is not too difficult, but it’s graded as moderate because of its steep paths, high altitude, and basic facilities. The weather at Poon Hill is usually good, so you can trek there at any time of year, and the trail is safe and well-maintained with the help of locals. This trek is one of the best short treks in Nepal, offering a wonderful experience and a chance to see traditional rural Nepali life.
The Poon Hill Trekking has become popular among beginners, women, solo travelers, individuals, and families. It’s a great choice if you’re reasonably fit and passionate about highland adventures.
Trek Distance
Driving from Kathmandu to Poon Hill covers approximately 272 km. The trekking portion is about 38 km in a circuit starting and ending at Nayapul. This trek usually takes 3-4 days and passes through villages like Tikhedunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. You’ll encounter the famous 3200 stairs between Tikhedunga and Ulleri. The rest of the trail winds through beautiful rhododendrons and oak forests until you reach Ghorepani.
Permits For Poon Hill Trek
Firstly, trekkers must issue a Tourist visa to Nepal. The permit can be received upon arrival at the entry points of Nepal, including the airport. As long as you have a valid passport, the visa is available for about USD 50.
Being a conversation area, you need a special trekking permit to enter the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek ( Annapurna region). Some areas of Annapurna have been under conservation to preserve the local wildlife from extreme invasion. Yes, you need two permits to trek in this region.
One is the TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System), and the other is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which helps fund conservation efforts in the region.
- TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): A TIMS card is required for trekking in Nepal. It enhances safety and security during Himalayan treks. You can obtain your TIMS card from the Nepal Tourism Board office or any Trekking Agencies in Nepal. The cost is Rs. 2000 for foreigners and Rs. 1000 for SAARC nationals.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): As a conservation area, you need a special permit to enter the Ghorepani Poon Hill region. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit costs USD 30 per person for foreigners and Rs. 200 per citizen of SAARC countries. This permit is necessary to support conservation efforts and preserve the region’s natural beauty.
Thankfully, MyEverestTreks does all the paperwork while you enjoy your time in Nepal. That’s why trekking with a Ghorepani Poonhill package is an easier option.
Accommodation and Food in Ghorepani
Did you know this short Poon Hill Ghandruk trek has become popular due to its comfortable accommodation? You can find great hotels, many teahouses, and facilities throughout the trekking trails.
During the trek, a teahouse with a basic twin-sharing bed is expected. The word “basic” means a bed, a mattress, a pillow, and a blanket—that’s all! Carrying your lightweight blanket/ sleeping bag is wise, especially for the winter trek.
Guesthouses in Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk provide much better facilities than other top trekking places in Nepal. Almost all lodges have in-room plugs, Wi-Fi, and a hot shower. The bathrooms are mostly shared.
Nowadays, Ghorepani has a star hotel with an attached bathroom. Tadapani has a few cozy hotels run by locals and remains very crowded during the peak season. Make sure that you book your rooms in advance.
All the accommodations will be shared in Kathmandu and Pokhara. You will stay in a 3-star hotel with a private bathroom and hot shower. All basic amenities are available in the room. You might also switch to other 5-star hotels around the valley alone. However, we can assist you with the booking process.
This trek is a popular trail in Nepal, ensuring various food options. You’ll have three meals throughout the day: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. For breakfast, you can choose from options like oatmeal, cornflakes, French toast, eggs prepared in various styles, pancakes, and more.
Lunch and dinner offer similar choices, with the popular dish being Dhal Bhat. Additionally, you can enjoy noodles, dumplings, soups, pizza, roti, curries, and various potato, noodle, rice, bread, Newari Dish, and egg dishes. With such a diverse selection, you will find delicious meals to refuel during your trek.
How to Prepare for the Ghorepani Trek
Starting on a trekking holiday can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. However, by taking a simple, step-by-step approach, you can prepare yourself for your chosen trekking adventure. You must look after two major aspects before leaving for the Trek: The physical and Mental.
Focusing on the physical aspects like exercise, nutrition, and adapting to different terrains and weather conditions will make your journey easier. You should exercise to build endurance and strength, whether hiking, jogging, or cycling.
Fuel your body with nutritious meals and snacks to provide energy for long days of trekking. Additionally, vary your training environment to simulate the challenges you may encounter on the trek, such as uphill climbs, uneven terrain, and different weather conditions.
When mentally preparing for a trek, remember to pace yourself and listen to your body’s signals to avoid burnout or exhaustion. Consistency and persistence are key, so maintain a regular training schedule to build mental resilience and endurance.
Know what to expect on your trek, including its difficulty level, so you can mentally prepare for any challenges or surprises. By adopting a positive mindset, staying focused, and being adaptable, you can approach your trek with confidence and determination, ready to overcome any obstacles that come your way.
A Typical Day on Trek
A typical day of trekking begins with breakfast at our place of stay, where we fuel up for the day ahead. After breakfast, we set off on our hike, which usually lasts 6 to 8 hours.
We pause at scenic spots to admire the natural beauty, snap photos, and adore the peaceful atmosphere. These breaks allow us to catch our breath and appreciate the stunning surroundings.
For lunch, we stop at small restaurants or tea houses along the trail, where we refuel with a quick meal before continuing our journey. As evening approaches, we reach our destination for the night – a lodge or tea house along the trekking route.
Here, we settle in, enjoy a hearty dinner, and relax, reflecting on the day’s adventures. After dinner, we rest up, ready to recharge for another day of trekking ahead.
Best Time For Poon Hill Trek
May is considered the best time for the Ghorepani Trek for several reasons. The weather during May is typically clear and stable, offering excellent visibility of the surrounding mountain ranges, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
Additionally, May marks the end of the spring season, when the rhododendron forests along the trekking trails are in full bloom, creating a colorful and enchanting atmosphere.
While May is an optimal time for the trek, spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) also offer fantastic trekking conditions.
Guide and Porter
We offer experienced and reliable porters and guides for your trek in Nepal. Our team is strong and knowledgeable, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. This short and moderate trek provides a comfortable trekking experience.
Please let us know if you need a porter, guide, or porter-guide for this trek. We are happy to provide friendly, honest, and well-understood support to meet your needs.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is crucial for trekking in Nepal. It guarantees your safety and covers any potential expenses during your journey. This insurance should include comprehensive coverage for medical and travel-related issues, as unforeseen accidents can happen anytime.
Given Nepal’s challenging terrain and high altitudes, having robust insurance coverage ensures that you will receive necessary medical treatment and evacuation if needed, providing peace of mind throughout your trekking adventure.
It’s important to ensure that your insurance plan covers all aspects of your trekking adventure. With adequate coverage, you can immerse yourself in Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences without worrying about unexpected emergencies. By prioritizing your safety through proper insurance, you can enjoy the wonders of trekking in Nepal with confidence and peace of mind.
Low Adventure and most Prominent Trek in Nepal
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is standout in Nepal for many reasons. It’s part of the famous Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek and means even if you’re short on time, you can still enjoy the beauty of the Annapurna region. Plus, since you don’t climb too high, there’s less risk of altitude sickness, making it safer.
What’s more, the trek is just stunning. The paths are pretty easy, with gentle slopes and some small staircases. As you walk through colorful forests and charming villages and reach viewpoints like Poon Hill, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains, making it a trek you won’t forget.
